Our travels, short visits, history, reviews and more.

Shoes

2009-12-13T20:27:00.002-06:00

I see shoes everyday. Yes literally. In fact, a lot of customers would come up and ask me for advice about what shoes they should wear in certain occasions, or which shoe style and type would make their legs leaner and skinnier. I like my job, and I get to see nice and ugly pair of shoes all day long. I make them look pretty for the customers, and I make sure that they are all out on the floor. But do you want to know what is ironic? I don’t shop for my shoes there. I like surfing the internet for sure. I guess, I have enough of the shoes that are in front of me. I like browsing at the different Stuart Weitzman shoes online. Their styles are surely head turners.

Leaking

2009-12-04T23:22:00.001-06:00

Our faucet in the big bathroom had been leaking. I don’t know how it started, but we had turn off the water source for the hot water faucet. It had been leaking on and off, and it is better turning it off completely. I was telling Ryan that if we need to save from our water bill, we might as well invest in changing the faucet itself. It is so bad when it is cold outside, and we try to wash our face with cold water. My dad doesn’t even brush his teeth there anymore because it doesn’t have the cold water. He goes to the smaller bathroom. I better start looking at the different Grohe faucets that would match in our bathroom so that we can have it installed before next year.

Stockings and Santa

2009-12-04T23:00:00.000-06:00

I can't believe how busy I am. Yes... literally. Thankfully, Papa is doing all the wrapping for me or else I will not be able to wrap the gifts at all. Ryan, on the other hand, is also very busy. I have so much things to share but just terribly out of time. I don't even know where to start. Anyways, even if I am extremely busy and hasn't really done so much shopping, but I have successfully decorated Frankie's room instead of the living room. You see, we had our Christmas tree up in the living room. Unfortunately, Frankie kept plugging it and unplugging it. We have the switch off, but I don't feel comfortable when I am at work. It actually bothered me, so I decided to take the big tree in Frankie's room. I take Frankie in our room and sleep with us, so I know that he won't play with it. Yep, Frankie still sleeps with me. He is fine, but it is me who can't let go of my little boy. Ryan even asked me when will he be able to sleep alone and, I told him I don't know but it doesn't bother him which is good.

Frankie knows about Santa. In fact, he got his first goodies from Santa today. I hang his stocking by the tree, and this morning he got goodies from him. Apparently, Santa will be stopping by everyday before Christmas. Nothing much but little toy cars for .97 and candies with a Santa wrapping in it. We will see if he will get goodies from Santa tomorrow again for being a good boy.

Dark Circles

2009-12-04T22:11:00.000-06:00

Our final exam is only 1 week away, and I can’t wait when this semester is over. I am so happy that I managed going to school and working full time while taking care of my family. Hopefully I will get all A’s in all of my three classes, but if not a B will suffice. I can’t believe how much time and sacrifice I have invested in these classes. Those long nights trying to finish projects for school and had to wake up early the next day for work. I am sure, I will be having long nights again, but I am glad it won’t be that long anymore until next semester of course which I am already enrolled. There are dark circles under eyes for both of my eyes, but I couldn’t complain. I will soon be reaping the reward of my hard work soon.

New Mattress

2009-11-30T01:38:00.000-06:00

I was cleaning our bedroom the other day when I came across a sharp end at the side of the bed. When I took the covers, I was surprised to see springs coming out from the mattress. The worst part is, there are three of them sticking out. I don’t worry too much if it is just Ryan, and I but I am worried with Frankie because he slides down to the side of the bed. Actually earlier, before I left for work, he went down the side where the springs are and Ryan did not get a hold of him in time. Good thing, the sheets covered it good, and he wasn’t hurt, but he told me that he was “hurting” and showed his stomach. He must have felt a little pinch when he was sliding down. I think it is time for us to get a new mattress.

Traveling on Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T10:55:00.002-06:00

Yep, we will be going up to Chicago this Thanksgiving to be with the rest of the family. Papa, on the other hand, won't be able to join us because he will be going to Jenny's house to help out. After we all come home from Chicago, we will be going to have dinner at Jenny's house and of course have karaoke. I still have things to finalize for next week's school, but I will try to forget about it for a little bit and relax with the family. Laura, my dear friend from my previous job who was an English major asked me why didn't I ask her to help me with my edits for English. She came in to visit me yesterday at work. It was a big relief because I can now have someone to double check my papers. Yehey!

Netbooks

2009-11-25T23:48:00.000-06:00

My sister Resty asked me to help her look for a laptop that she could use for her second gig. While working as the manager in an engineering firm in Cebu, she also does lot descriptions on the side for the government. It started when she met an engineer that works for the government. Her job can be stressful sometimes, but she liked it. It allowed to her do something that she enjoys and is related to her profession. I suggested to her that using one of the netbooks might just work since she doesn't need a high capacity computer where she can store a lot of files. She can easily save it in a jump drive. I may have to convince her and if not then a laptop will do. I remember her telling me about practicing her autocad skills and with that she would need a bigger GB.

Any Computer Will Do

2009-11-20T11:55:00.001-06:00

I can’t begin to think how important a computer is to one’s life. Well, at least to me, it is where I talk to my family and communicate with them. It is also where I make money online. I have said before that I really need a new laptop. I am stuck in papa’s room right now using Ryan’s desktop because papa and Frankie are both watching “Bob the Builder” on Netflix. I am not picky with computers though. As long they work, portable, and I can use to access the Internet then I am good. It doesn’t have to be new. In fact, a refurbished laptop will do. They are checked, and they worked as new anyway before they are sold. The only difference is they are way cheaper than the new one. As said, anything works for me.

I Think We Are Set

2009-11-20T11:31:00.002-06:00

Ryan and I shopped for Frankie and his cousin's last week for Christmas. I told him that since we got 30% discount through the mail, plus my 15% off employee discount then we get $10.00 Kohl's cash every $50.00 so might as well take advantage of it. Ryan stopped by during my lunch and we shopped for a little bit. The bags are still hidden in my trunk up to this point. I asked Ryan to give him two of the toys already, and he just smiled and said ok. So, Frankie now are enjoying his Thomas book and the Diego puzzle. I am not sure if we are all set. Like last year, we thought we were set but Ryan went shopping and got some more for Frankie, but it is ok because the look on his face when he opened his presents were priceless.

I got 20.00 Kohl's cash the last time and it needed to be spent this week and early next week. So after I write this, Papa, Frankie and I will be heading to Kohl's to spend the cash. I decided to give it to him so that he can get whatever it is that he likes. I suggested to him the short pants that are only $3.00 and if we get some of those then I am sure a lot of people back home would love to have one. I better get ready.

Alternative

2009-11-20T11:29:00.002-06:00

I was so happy to meet up with my old team in the break room last night, and we talked about a lot of things especially on the things that I missed after I left. I asked one of my co-workers on how he is cooping up after the death of his father. He said he is glad that everyone is moving on because it was even painful to see his dad struggle and in pain and, there was nothing they could do. I was so pleased to hear that everyone else in the family had accepted that he is in a better place and now they have to take care of themselves.

I would hate to see any of my family sick let alone if it is the killer cancer. I don’t know how would I react about it. Sometimes, you just have to let it go and move on. I am just lucky that I am in the United States in case I need some medical help. There are also places where one can arrange medical travel Mexico or to any parts of the world. It is always nice to have choices and alternatives especially when it comes to surgery and cure.

Cleaner

2009-11-20T11:15:00.002-06:00

My friend moved to the Philippines last year and sold everything that they have. They have a house over there and were planning to settle there for good. Although, I hate to see them leave, but it was something they both were looking forward to do. One of the many things that she gave me that I really liked was the steam cleaner. It was old and she said they also got it in a garage sale but it still served its purpose. I don’t use it as much for the floor, but I liked using it for the couch especially when it gets dirty with Frankie.

Frankie sometimes eats on the couch while watching his favorite shows, so the steam cleaner can really clean it good. The only problem I have is how big it is. It looks like a regular vacuum cleaner. It is heavy too because I had to put water and the soap in it as I go clean. Unfortunately, it looks like it is in its last leg though, so I will probably get one that is smaller and easier to maneuver. I hope Santa is lurking in my blog.

Managers

2009-11-20T00:37:00.002-06:00

When I applied for the position over shoes, I told myself that if I get this job I will never let them down. I know I am so blessed to be given a full time job out of so many people (almost half of the store applying for it). I promised myself that I will do my best all the time and treat people fair as I have always been. The first few months was a challenge. My immediate superior was out all the time, and all I did was rely on some of my co-workers for training. I searched the computers in the training room to see if they have stuff that I can read about shoes.

By then the old supervisor still works there, but we don't meet because we had different schedules. Some of my co-workers said that he needs to show me things but my immediate superior strongly disagreed because he thinks that he wasn't doing a good job. The store manager promised me and the area supervisor for training and that didn't happen. I was so keen with everything. I learned it little by little, day by day with the help of the people that worked there. After a few months I saw a big improvement. It looked great and so organized. Every time the district manager visits us there, she always compliment how everything looked. Not only that my sales are also really high. I really didn't do anything special but help customers as they come in shoes. I have met a lot of people and some stop by just to say hi. I can't even keep up anymore.

Last Tuesday our regional manager came in together with the district manager. He grilled me with so many questions and I answered them all. He was impressed with the improvement and the sales of course. It really feels nice to be recognized and be told that you are doing a good job. Until such time that I still have this job, I will do my best regardless if I am taking so many classes or not because I would always be thankful for the chance and the trust.

Health Savings Account

2009-11-19T13:40:00.002-06:00

I have now accepted the fact that everywhere I go there is no insurance that could provide my father a healthcare while living here for less than two years. As I mentioned before he is a legal immigrant and most companies require two years of residency. I had searched the Internet, high and low to find something that we could use for him but there is none. I guess I will have to wait till he had been living here for two years to take advantage of a health insurance and pray that nothing happens to him within the one year that remains.

I have opened up a health savings account through work that when I take papa to the doctor, I just have to use my health savings account to pay for things. It is so convenient and not just for Papa but for the entire family. I used it to pay for co-pays as well us when I pick up our prescriptions. It is a must have for every family. Also too, I may have to tell my friend who just moved to North Carolina a few months ago about the HSA. They are currently looking for health insurance after the move. Maybe they have Blue Cross North Carolina over there too just like we have Blue Cross in Illinois. Being healthy always goes hand in hand with a good health insurance.

Pets

2009-11-18T23:37:00.002-06:00

What pet would you like to have? I am not really a pet person. I grew up with dogs in the house and with our neighbor’s cat wandering in our house occasionally. I hate cats and I am allergic to them, so, that is one pet that I would never get in the future. If there is one pet that I would like to get, it would be a dog for Frankie. I think pets are so much work and sometimes they are just like kids. I can’t imagine those people who have horses to take care as pets. It would really be a lot of work. What is even awesome is there are equestrian apparels that one can buy to enjoy a moment with their horse. I am sure that would be a wonderful experience.

Wellness

2009-11-18T12:12:00.000-06:00

I just got off from taking to my friend Jenny over the phone, and we agreed to enroll ourselves to a program. She is taking her theraphy there now, and she saw the facilities they have. She asked me about it and without any hesitation I said yes. It is only $30.00 a month and they have spa, gym, sauna, and pool among other things. Plus they also have childcare which is $3.00 for two hours. Although, I can leave Frankie with Papa but it would be fun for the two boys to play at their play area of course with someone watching while their mommies will exercise. I am so excited. I will surely make the time for this. I need to tone down a little. I don't need to look like when I first got here but at least I don't want to look like a porker either. Jenny and I agreed that we can start this December right after finals. On the other hand, I am still doing the Kettleworx at home three times a week, but I also want to try doing it outside the house. It will be fun.

M Initial Pendant

2009-11-15T23:34:00.002-06:00

On my first Christmas here in the US, Ryan gave me a Gold Initial Pendant. I would never forget it. We were both exhausted from work, we came home and went to bed right away. Around midnight, we woke up and I decided to get up and make us something to eat. We just stayed in our bedroom for dinner because Ryan was too tired to get up. We opened our gifts; however, I didn't get Ryan that much because he kept reminding me that he doesn't need anything. He got me a few things that I really wanted and one that I really loved. As I was about to lay my head on the pillow, I felt a sharp object sticking through the pillow case. I checked what it was and I was surprised to see the letter M initial pendant. It was so beautiful. Ryan got it for me because he knew that I have a necklace that my Dad gave me before I left the Philippines. I have it in my jewelry box and wear it occasionally. I considered it as one of my most treasured gift.

Two In A Row

2009-11-15T22:31:00.000-06:00

Our Dada started his new job last Monday. He is on a second shift and so far he is doing well. He is under training for a month and basically learning about what he is supposed to be doing. He just needs to get the hang of it, and I am sure he will be alright. He is a very intelligent person and it would be a piece of cake for him. The company already had plans for the Christmas party and they are going somewhere for that.

On the other hand, he is also still working at the old job on first shift because they asked him to stay until such time that he will be layed off. His supervisor and manager really liked him, but they really do not have the choice because he is in the union. They are doing the bumping right now, and I have not heard anything about someone getting his job yet. I told him to give this a week and if he can't handle it because of the lack of sleep, he needs to quit the other job. That is the second priority and I don't want him screwing up the other job. He has a future in there and the benefits are really awesome. Hopefully, I will be able to convince him to get rid of the old job rather than waiting till they get rid of him this weekend. No matter what happens, I am glad that Dada got it covered. There was a this laboratory in Batavia that also wanted to hire him but it was quiet a drive so he settled in the one closer to home.

Sitting Up

2009-11-09T12:07:00.000-06:00

Gone are the days when I don’t have to worry about my belly. Now when I sit down and slouch, I see a belly sticking out. I wish I can just staple this away and look like the way I used to look before I had Frankie. How do you burn belly fat anyways? Some people say that it is so easy to lose the belly fat by working out or doing sit-ups, but I don’t have any time for that. I wish it was that easy for me. Besides, people had different metabolism and respond differently on exercise. Excuses right? I will try to be on the floor doing some sit ups when I get a chance.

Memories

2009-11-09T11:59:00.000-06:00

My grandfather in San Fernando used to own a little shed in the back of the house. It wasn’t that big, but it was where he would keep all the corn in one section and his tools for farming on the other side of the shed. We used to play inside his shed, and he used to yell at us to get away from there because we might get hurt while playing inside the shed. I really do miss it so much. I am not even sure if my grandma and her children kept it after grandpa passed away. It is so different here because the sheds looked like metal buildings. Although they looked very durable, but I guess I still miss the rotting smell of my grandpa’s shed and the memories my cousins and I used to have while growing up.

A Project For Frankie's Room

2009-11-09T10:31:00.006-06:00

Papa, Frankie and I have spent most of our summer in Monee reservoir. We really liked it there. So away from the noise and the city. It surely reminded us of the Philippines. In one of my classes, we were taught how to do a collage but not just your ordinary collage. It is little pieces to create a big masterpiece. I did one in class and I encouraged Papa to help me make one for Frankie's bare wall. We did. It was about to rain so you can tell that the colors of the clouds were changing. It looks nice in person though and I am sure Frankie will treasure this as he grow up. Of course, his Tatay and Mama did this for him.

Looking Young

2009-11-04T10:36:00.000-06:00

I had helped so many elderly women at work and there is one thing that always, never fails, I noticed, and that is how young they looked. It might be with how they took care of themselves or they must be using one of the best wrinkle creams in the market. One of these days I will ask one of them. There was this lady, and we were talking about something while I was checking her out. I can’t remember what was our conversation but somehow it came to how she looked. She smiled at me and said,” I am not that young as you thought I am.” I was so surprised when she told me that she was 65 years old. When I see her again I will definitely ask her.

Accessories

2009-11-04T10:20:00.001-06:00

I was working in my department about a few days ago when a customer came up to me with his son asking where the wii accessories were. I directed them to where it was supposed to be, but we only carry a few accessories. As I was going to back to the office to get something in my mailbox, I saw them again and asked them if they found it. He told me that we didn’t have that much of a selection. I suggested to him that checking online might be the best thing to do since we are not a game store. He agreed and walked away promising that he will check online.

Black Friday

2009-11-04T10:06:00.002-06:00

There was a big sign in the break room saying that we couldn't take off on Black Friday which happened to be my birthday. My birthday always fall around either Thanksgiving or Black Friday, one of the busiest days of the year. I already asked our HR if I could work in the morning so that I can spend the rest of the day with my family. She did not promise but she said she will look into it. Even if the clientele of Kohl's were so different that where I worked before but still I really don't want to be there for the clean up, but I am sure they will have a lot of people for recovery just like they always do. I really don't want to be there in the evening. Hopefully, I will get to work in the morning or even stay home. That would be really awesome. I wonder if I can use one of my three personal days. We get three personal days after working there for a year even if you are part-time or full time. I may have to look into that.

TV

2009-11-03T22:49:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, I decided to move the TV and the DVD player into Frankie’s room. He didn’t have any tv stand in his room, so I put it up in one of this dressers. Unfortunately, the dresser was not attached to the wall, so I made sure that I was always in his room when he was up and playing. I didn’t feel comfortable about it because I was too afraid to leave him in his room. I was scared that he might climb up the dresser and have the entire thing fall on him. I will never be able to forgive myself. I realized that he is not ready yet to have his own TV in his room. I placed it back in his grandpa’s room and it is ready when he is.

Electric Fireplace

2009-11-03T22:41:00.002-06:00

One of the many things I was hoping to have in our house, when we were doing the house hunting process, was a fireplace or a basement. The basement later faded out when I realized that the water could get in the basement when it rains heavily but nothing had change with really wanting to have a fireplace. Unfortunately, there were houses that we liked, but it didn’t have any fireplace and vice versa. So now we are settled on a house that didn’t have any one. We have another option if I really insist of having one. We can just get an electric fireplace and we can put in our living room. That would save us a lot of money in the long run from the gas bill. I should look into that.