I woke up 3:30 in the afternoon yesterday and immediately called my mom. My sister J was already in the airport and they were just waiting until my sister had checked in. She took the 6pm flight to Dubai yesterday and as of this writing, she should be there already with my other sister S.

We had a mini-despedida dinner with her close friends the other day. Everyone enjoyed the food my mom prepared and had chats with each other.

It was our sister's birthday last June 2, and we all went out to dinner. I love family dinner because there's always a new place we could go, and this time we tried at AMICI in Tomas Morato. We just texted and messaged each other online on where to go, and I was surprised that it was an Italian resto. While waiting, me and my sister ordered food ahead of time.

This is also a despedida family dinner because me sister S will going back to Dubai the next day and other sister J, will be going there too on Friday because of work. It's tempting for me to resign and work there as well, but looking at the little angel kept my feet on the ground. So that option is still undecided yet. But who knows right.

After that scrumptious dinner, we went to SM North, the block to have our photo session at Peek-a-boo. We are such a photo addict. I can't wait to get my hands on those photos!

The night was not over. After the photo session, we went to Starbucks at West ave to have coffee, sang happy birthday and eat the birthday cake. It was already 11pm went we decided to go home. We said our wishes, hugged and kissed each other and said our final farewell. But it's not really goodbye... It's see you later.

I received a text message from my sister A the other day, asked me if I'm available for a girls night out. She said, my sister S (from Dubai) was available and my other sister J too... and what do you know... it seems like everybody was available too yesterday. So I called the office and told them that I was sick haha. I'm not the kind of person who would ignore the opportunity to be with my sisters (family). I would not miss this in the whole world! Besides, I've been working hard these couple of days and I need a break. We went to MOA and ate at Don Hen. Their buffalo wings are the best.

While waiting for the food to arrive, we looked at some pictures from my sister's trip, the wedding and the party she attended. Dresses, shoes, make-up--yes, it's all girl talk! Good thing, I brought lappy with us.

After dinner, we hurried and watch the last full show of Sex and the City. Oh my! I admit, I cried three or four times during the movie. Okay okay! Make it five times! It's a good movie. To all of you, SATC fans, this is a must see movie. There's one thing I noticed, there were cuts in the scenes during the movie.

Of course, after the movie... picture taking! Unfortunately, I only have several shots on my cam. My other three sisters has more shots. Good thing, the hubbies (the hubby and BIL) were there to join us. They were our photographers!

This is a two-week overdue post. But it's better late than never. Anyway, this is our much awaited zitros family outing for this year. And we truly enjoyed our stay there, even if it's only two days.

May 2 @ exactly 4AM, we left our parent's house with our swimming gear and at around 8AM, we were already there at the site. We had breakfast and lounge around the area. Moments later, we were on the beach. We were all excited, especially me because it was the little angel's first time to see the beach. Proud mother as I am, I was like a papparazi constantly taking pictures of her trying to get her first reaction.

At first, she thinking how the waves worked but somehow she figured it out and enjoyed the sun, water and the waves.

The hubby brought his swimming gear and once he hit the water, we can't find him anywhere anymore. That whole afternoon was cloudy, so I enjoyed a good swim.

The water in the kiddie pool was up to the little angel's chin but she was never afraid. She was even active to walk around and do her swimming moves...

After a few hours in the water, we went back to the hotel room to have a quite nap. The hubby and the little angel was fast asleep that I had a hard time waking them up at 5pm. Then we all went to the beach again to catch the sunset.

I bought the underwater camera so we can use it during occasions like this. So we took so many pictures near and under the water. Good thing the hubby brought his swimming gear--snorkel and fins, we were able to see a whole new world down there.

~ Dubai Treats! ~

I got a handful of gifts from my sister S, who is in Dubai right now. Instead of the usual chocolates, she got me cereal bars for healthier option--naks; Dove lotion which I requested and couple of herbs for my kitchen. The camel doll is for the little angel and the red Dubai bag will be very useful this summer for outings!

I have another big gift from my dad. And because it's so special--it deserves a solo post which is coming up...

I got an IM message from my sister that our parents are safe and sound at home. Yes, there are back from their 16-days vacation in Dubai. I can't wait to end my shift so I can go there and feast on the pasalubong... er I mean welcome them home!

All of the sudden the Internet connection speed here is back to normal. I can upload 20 pictures in less than 2 minutes. Maybe they did some maintenance 2 two weeks, I dunno. Now I finished uploading the photos in less than an hour. Whew. It saves a lot of time really. Now I have more time to chat, blog and all.

I was browsing my mom's friendster photo gallery because she said, they uploaded couple of shots from there. And this is what they have been doing there....

To the best mom and grandma in the world--Happy Happy Birthday to you Mamsie! Enjoy your vacation there in Dubai. You may not be with us now but I'm sure you're having the time of your life with Papsie. Let's just celebrate your birthday again, when you get home next week. Pasalubong!

Von Voyage! My mom, dad, sister A and her husband will be going to Dubai later this afternoon to visit my sister S there. Wow vacay! I really need a vacay right now. They will be back after two weeks. Pasalubong! Kahit 5-string bass guitar pede na...

Oh how I wish the hubby and I would take a break and take the little angel on a family vacay of our own.

Remember our new zitros member born last November 8, 2007? Well, she has grown so big and chubby already. Look at the wonders of breastfeeding. This is her first picture below...

Okay so here's the birthday update. First of, the kids enjoyed the pool while me and my mom prepared food together with the helpers. When the guests arrived, they were 'aliw' to watch the little angel and her cousin Amandine in the pool. I bought them this kiddie race car each to keep them busy. And it worked. They actually loved it!

At 7pm we were ready to eat! I prepared Spaghetti, Lumpiang Shang-hai, Grilled liempo, Toge/tokwa (veggies) and Puto/Kutchinta (from Bulacan). My mom cooked her specialty--Beef Caldereta and Sweet & Sour Shrimps. And a good friend of mine-Kuya Ed brought his special "Thai Rice". Everybody loved it!

After that scrumptious meal, me and my friends set-up the instruments for a little jamming. While the others set the table for some booze. Too bad I missed those "kwentos" because I was busy playing hehehe. Aimzster of "Marry me Amy" was there to share her talent. Way to go girl!

We left the place at 9AM the next day. I felt like sleeping all day after that, but we still went to Trinoma to check something, but this something deserve a different post. Me and the little angel had a DQ treat. Yes, it's pecan cluster! Yummy! Thank you to all who came.

Today, we salute a great man that passed away a year ago. He was role model to all of us. He came from a poor family and earned his way until he finished his school with flying colors. He was able to provide shelter, food and education to his family up until to his grand children. His passing was painful but yet it's nature's calling that he needs to rest. As we remember his achievements, lessons, precious moments and reputable image--we are all happy that he is now at peace. His ways will always be alive in our hearts.

I'd like to share again the quote that *T* shared at my hours of weeping.

*"When you are joyous, look deep into your heart and you shall find it is only that which has given you sorrow that is giving you joy. When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight."*

** Picture taken from their Golden Wedding Anniversary with our +Mamang.

This post has been long overdue. This is because of my busy schedule, time constrained and a very slow computer. Yes, this computer is starting to give up. I'm still hoping that it will last for several months until I earn proper funds to get a new one. Enough of the crappy computer and here's my late post of the little angel's second birthday party.

We started decorating the backyard around 9 in the morning. The balloons were already ready the day before so we could just put them in place that morning. Equipped with 2 yayas and my SIL's yaya, I was able to finish the venue within 2 hours. I felt a huge relief when the zitros arrived at 1PM. I know they will fix the place, arrange things and make my visitors comfortable.

After the mieryenda, the kids were asked to sit and watch the balloon twisting and magic show done by the clowns. These guys were referred by a fellow blogger, kathycot--who also celebrated her daughter's first birthday in Cavite. Trusting my new found friend online, I booked these guys one week before the birthday. And after the birthday, we are one satisfied customer. These guys did great!

I prepared a simple pabitin with tons of gifts! Yeah, I wrapped everything to prevent the kids from picking what they want hahaha. Every gift is a surprise! And do see the Cinderella piñata hanging beside the hubby? It's recycled from last year's party!

The visitors had a great time and I thanked them for coming and sharing that special day with us. But before they leave, a special gift from the little angel was waiting for all the kids who attended. The little angel loves to give.

~ With superfriends Malen and Ruthie ~

The little angel and I spent the weekend at my parents house. And we were able to visit her pedia in the Saturday afternoon. Thank God the little angel is healthy. She had her vaccine shot too. I may start giving her new prescribed milk this week since she's already 2 years old.

My sister J and I watched Sweeney Todd on dvd but unfortunately we both fell asleep. I was the one who fell asleep first--no doubt about that. Then my sister woke me up and asked me if I closed the laptop...? huh? I was asleep. But who did it. I looked for the little angel who was beside me and she was wide awake. So we were guessing she did it. Maybe she thought closing the laptop since there was no one watching anymore hahaha.

My sister A and Amandine was able to join us Sunday after lunch. So just stayed home and let the kids play. I was amazed how the little angel can interact and cope with Amandine. They played the little angel's toys--Polly pocket toys, they ran around and chase each other, and they even played Doctor-doctor. How cute. I was able to finish the movie, since they played it again while the kids were playing but we had to cover their eyes and ears because some scenes were NOT kid-friendly.

Now we're back in Bulacan and I'm off again to the office later tonight. Time flies so fast.

I'd like to reserve this post to say *Thank you* to everyone who made the little angel's 2nd birthday party a success! To my dearest family, who never had any second thoughts in lending a helping hand. Not to mention financial support too. Through here I could acknowledge their hard work and appreciate the time they spent.

From left to right order....
* For the Hubby ~ who never complained on what I want and what need for the party. Very supportive haha!
* For the Little Angel ~ who never fails to amuse me everyday!
* Oh that's me holding the little Angel.
* For sister S ~ who gave moral support during those time I needed someone to talk to (or to chat with). She's there, always in the right time... buzz away sis! Thanks also for sponsoring the clown!
* Sister G ~ For doing a good job in video taping the event, ran errands and assisting the little kids.
* Sister M ~ For doing the invites and Thank you card layouts. I know how (super) busy she was during those times when I badly need those files. She still finds time to make them even though she has a deadline to meet. But that didn't end there, Thank you also for picture-capturing the event. Oh yeah, please put all the pictures in a dvd with the re-sized files in a separate folder! She likes it when I'm demanding... tsk!
* Sister J ~ Thank you for the banner layout. Again, another busy bee sister. My rugged doll and baby stereo plug band mate!
* Sister A ~ Being the eldest in the team, with 2 daughters to take care of and an Architect job on the side with tons of projects, she still finds time to squeeze in. I sincerely adore her for being brave and strong. Thank you for the lending the video cam and for the tarp print (yeah it's free).
* Amandine & Aiverine ~ Thank you for being so adorable! hehe!
* Wabs ~ ever mabait brother-in-law for lending the Amandine's whole set of playground!
* Mamsie ~ To my mom who never fails to give support. For the taking the day off from work just to accompany me at the 168 mall, twice! For always reminding me to get some sleep. And thanks also to sponsoring the sorbetero ice cream cart! Yummy!
* Papsie ~ Thank you for bringing your new PA yesterday and being in charge with the sound system. Kiddies songs and Jazz music filled the air while we enjoy the party. Me and the little angel very much appreciate the time you gave (and gas... not mention the traffic) in getting the playground from Las Piñas (my sister's place) and brought it here in Bulacan. From south to north with love.

Here's to 'Team zitros'! Kudos and Cheers to everyone!

~ Zitros forever ~

I wasn't able to post anything here from last night, because I was too busy preparing. Then when I woke up this morning, I realised I had so many things to do. After breakfast palang, we were soo busy fixing the venue which is our backyard! We decorated balloons, pabitin, piñata, play area, tables and chairs, I finalized my loot bags, prizes, was busy texting and receiving cell phones and many more! Anyway, more pictures and stories to come. But all in all, the little angel's birthday was a success! Thank you Lord.

I have a feeling that I'm gonna be busy for the next couple of days. There's still so many things to do at home, in preparation for the little angel's birhday next week. I've already confirmed friends who are coming, and I'm excited! And I really appreciate what my sisters have been doing for the party. They never fail, not a single occasion! haha. My sister A sent out our pictures from our recently Pic-A-boo session last Christmas 2007. Those pictures will be an add-on to the birthday banner. Here's a picture I love the most... Zitros sisters with nieces on their wacky hats. Wow! Our family is indeed growing.

We woke up early on a new year's day to attend mass. I thank God for this new year. I packed some things for the little angel then we went straight to my parents house in QC for our ever family tradition--the exchange gift. The family exchange gift started yearsss ago and we are still doing it now. It keeps getting better and better every year I tell yah.

~ Showing off our gifts. ~

After our lunch and exchange gifts, we went again to Bonifacio High Street late afternoon. We had our early dinner at Italianni's. See more pictures *here*. My sister A and I always wear the same blouse pattern. We didn't know. The first time we were here, we were both wearing this orange blouse and now stripes but different brands of course. Old Navy on hers and mine is Liz Claiborne.

~ In front of Italianni's @ Bonifacio High Street ~

Okay okay... so here's the food. Pepperoni pizza has been the family's favorite ever since pizza was introduced to us. The hubby loved the fresh salad. I didn't had the chance to take more pictures because we were already feasting on it haha. The little angel loved the pizza and spag.

~ Pepperoni pizza on the left and fresh green salad on the right. ~

I was trying to get a good shot with the little angel when my sister M did a wacky pose behind us. BTW, my sister M is the official photographer of the family.

~ Pa-cute little angel.. ~

My sister S boarded the plane bound to Dubai last night. This Christmas has been truly a blessing for us. Thank you sister S for all the pasalubong, gifts and lunch/dinner out. Mom and dad are truly proud of you. Go and follow your dreams. We are always here to support you. And oh! Sorry sis, I don't have a decent of picture of you. But don't worry, I still think you look nice :D

~ See you soon! ~

Here's another zitros dinner adventure in Mini Shabu-shabu @ Bonifacio High Street. I was thinking of asking the hubby to go to Bonifacio High Street in the next couple of weeks because I heard it's a nice place. Good thing my sister chose this place to have our zitros dinner. I think everything is there--good food, shops, cafe' and a nice place for kids to run and play. I brought my ever reliable digicam so brace yourselves with some mouth-watering scenes from last night's adventure.

To start off... we left the house before 6pm to meet the 8pm call time. Yeah, it's kinda far away from our place considering the traffic too. And I don't wanna be late. After my usual cosmetic re-touch in the car, I played with cam. I placed it on top of the dashboard and see if I could get a picture of us. And yes I did but it's not one of those perfect shots. Why? Because the little angel was just plain stiff without any reaction at all. And the hubby was furious because we still don't have our seat belt on.


We met with the rest of the zitros at mini shabu-shabu. It's all our first time to eat there except for my sister S. She's the one who ordered and gave instructions on what to do. I was so surprised when the food arrived at our table. Everything is raw. Oh no. Oh okay--we have to cook them first. I laughed when my mom said, "I thought I will not cook tonight..."
















Of course, I did a great job in cooking the small feisty meal for the hubby. He liked it. I admit that I had a great time dropping everything I liked in the small cooking gear attached on the table. The only thing cooked that was served on our table is the big plate of crab and lobster.

















We did more picture taking after eating but I don't want to post my shot here. Because you'll see how messy my area was and the oily face I have haha. So here's a shot of my sisters instead.


We stroll along the park in the middle of the place after that full meal. We listened to some Christmas music which made the lights dance along with it. It got the little angel in the mood to do some of her dancing steps too. But after that, she just ran and ran and ran. And me? I was chasing her all the time considering I was wearing a skirt. Oh man. We definitely liked the hanging rock. Too bad we were there at night so our shot was a bit dark.


The night will not be complete without our Starbucks tea, frappes, hot chocolate and some desert overload. I bought two double dozen deals from Krispy Kreme--assorted and the classic glazed. We did ate some glazed donuts but we were full already so I was able to take home more than half so we can feast on it later on New Year's eve. My sister J bought some Cupcakes by Sonja. When I opened the box, it was a treat! I liked the presentation--very classic plain light blue box. And the cupcakes were really good. How I wish I could make pastries like these.
















My sister A liked the one on the paper bag. It was big slice of brownie with walnuts on top. I really love moments like this with them. Eating, talking, pictures taking and all.

















We called it a night when the kids were giving us their mommy-I'm-sleepy gestures. So here's our last wacky photo before going home. Too bad I was the one holding the cam. See more picture *here*


My sister S will be leaving on January 1 for Dubai. So we were making the most of everything while she's still here. We are not sad because she's leaving again, but we are extremely happy she's here to share the Holidays with us. We thought this Christmas would be the first time that we'll lack one zitro member, but I guess we were wrong. Let's see next year.

We just got home from my niece's baptism in Las Piñas. I got out from the office at 6 the morning and my dad, sister G and the little angel fetched me and then we went straight to Folks Arts to have a stroll. A lot of kids were jogging with their parents. Other parents took off their kids' shirt so their backs would be exposed from the sun. My dad says it's a good remedy from coughs especially with phlegm, which the little angel has now so I did the same. The little angel and me jogged several laps and then I removed her shirt leaving her with only her diaper with panties and a pair of Barbie rubber shoes on. She didn't complain since they were a lot of kids doing the same too. I must say it was a good exercise for us. Warm sun and fresh air. Then we had a quick breakfast at Mcdo in Macapagal area.

We arrived at my sister's house in Las Piñas around 9:30AM. Me and the little angel took a 2 hour nap. We got dressed around 12nn and went to the reception area which was held in the covered court of the subdivision, walking distance from their house. We were still early because they were still in the church. Good thing they were balloons around for the little angel to play with. Our lunch was catered by Conti's with a very delicious cheesecake and mango cheesecake for desert. I think I has 2 slices of each cake.

My attention was on the violin quartet which played beautiful music. The little angel and I enjoyed just standing nearby and listening and attentively looking at them. Maybe she wants to play too. I know she will, someday.

We left the reception area around 4pm and I was so sleepy because of all that running. I took a nap until 8PM and then my dad dropped us off here in Bulacan. Sleepy as I am now, I still want to post an entry and keep this blog updated as possible. Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures to share because I forgot to bring my camera in the reception. I'll have to wait for my sister M to upload the pictures taken from her EOS.

I was feeling a little relaxed after our check up from the her pedia last Friday. The doctor said, a lot of kids now are getting the same--fever, coughing etc. It could be the weather. I am constantly monitoring her now and making sure she takes her medicine on time. Hopefully she'll be well these coming days.

My sister will be going back to Dubai this coming Monday night. We're sure going to miss her again! And oh yeah, my niece's baptism was suppose to be on January 6 but since my sister will be leaving soon, they moved it to today. Everything went very well, to think they only had 48 hours to prepare. Galing! They say it's not bonggaticious enough because of the time constraint but everything was well organized. My sister's MIL really knows how to host a party.

My eyes are starting to drop. I really need to hit the sack now. I'm very sleepy, as always.