tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163936352024-03-13T12:06:32.281+08:00Thinking About Tomorrowreminiscing the yesterdays. living the today.Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.comBlogger393125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-15582924172264879952014-10-02T14:57:00.001+08:002014-10-02T14:57:28.769+08:00Night Prayers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Every time we'd go to the supermarket, as we enter the parking lot, I would ask the kids to pray for parking. The prayer usually goes, "Papa Jesus, please give us parking. Please give our car and all of the cars parking." - Piso's own words though I usually think to myself, "Not ALL of the cars, just our car!".<br />
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Last night, as I was putting them to sleep, I told the girls to say their prayers. Tapa promptly complied saying, "Papa Jesus, please give us parking,"<br />
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Hahahaha. Gotta love kids!<br />
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Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-53292406029232985712014-10-02T14:52:00.000+08:002014-10-02T14:52:36.355+08:00Throwback Thoughts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My main purpose in blogging again is to be able to write about things that I want to remember. Mainly, things that my kids tell me. They say that kids grow up fast - that is so, so true. And I want to be able to look (and read) back and reminisce about the things they did, the things they said, and the way they made me feel.<br />
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<i>Tapa at 3, September 2014</i> - Feeling sick, she said, "Mama, what happened to my voice? I'm croaking like a frog!"</div>
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<i>Piso at 4, September 2014</i> - I was away on a business trip to China for one week. When I got back, she said, " You know, Mama, I missed you and I love you more than anyone. When you were at the airplane, I rubbed your name and then I said, I miss Mama, I love her more than anyone." Photo below of the "name".<br />
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Love, love, love. It's in my life. </div>
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Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-69600985514112856922014-08-17T09:42:00.002+08:002014-08-17T09:42:49.203+08:00Resurgence<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After 3 years, I'm back. I can't believe how big blogging is now. Everyone seems to be a blogger, funny how that turned out. In any case, I'm back - not to join the "bandwagon" but I truly missed keeping a journal and now that I want to record memories, I figured, I should just log in and type away.<br />
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August started a little way too off-key for me. First, hubby got sick and had to stay home for a week. Then, Tapa got sick too. Now, it's me and Piso who's sick. Since I have been away for 3 years, I forgot to mention that I now have two very cute and <i>kulit </i>daughters. Piso is turning 5 and Tapa just turned 3. I embrace motherhood and I love what I do, really. There are times like today though, that I feel guilty for feeling tired and drained because I'm taking care of my kids.<br />
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Tapa has been acting up lately. She's been lying down on the floor, crying her eyes out. She has never been like this. This only started when she got sick. But she's all better now and I don't know why she's still throwing these tantrums. She refuses to eat and she keeps on saying, "I don't love you, Mama. Goodbye Mama, I will not miss you." And so I just ignore her because when I try to comfort her, she hits me! I swear, this is not my daughter. She has always been so sweet and caring but now this!?!?! (<i>And now you see why I started writing again, haha</i>)<br />
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It makes me wonder, is this the real Tapa? Please, dear God, let this be a phase. I'm thinking that she's still not feeling well somehow that is why she's acting this way. I couldn't help but cry last night then my eldest daughter, Piso told me, "Stop crying, Mama. Mamas don't cry".<br />
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Now that everyone's still asleep, I get to cry some more.<br />
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Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-16951474965995990072011-06-19T12:14:00.002+08:002011-06-19T12:16:03.658+08:00Surprise!Just checking in. It's been over a year since I last posted. I celebrated another birthday last week!<br />And in a few weeks.....<br /><br />:)Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-21799090304667580332010-06-14T15:20:00.003+08:002010-06-14T16:02:45.127+08:00Birthdays and other things....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/TBXh_1-5IOI/AAAAAAAAA50/04IKGbltEhA/s1600/Capture.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 208px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/TBXh_1-5IOI/AAAAAAAAA50/04IKGbltEhA/s320/Capture.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482536608332325090" border="0" /></a><br />This week I celebrated my 31st birthday. 31 years...where did time go? I feel like everything just passed me by. I had plans about my life, plans about where'd I'd be at this age. I had plans of making it big in the corporate world. But I am not in control. I thank God for giving me an accepting heart - to trust in His plans, to accept them, and to enjoy them!<br /><br />This birthday is very much different because this year, I celebrated my birthday with my hubby and my daughter. It was touching to receive a card honoring your hard work as a parent. I cried when I saw my daughter's name on the card (written by Hubby, of course). It feels good to be appreciated :)<br /><br />On another note, summer has finally arrived here in the Middle East. It's soooo hot outside. Last month, I could still go out and walk to the supermarket. Now, I can't even step out the door. The air is so hot and heavy and thick. I miss winter.<br /><br />To top it all, we're moving apartments and I have two weeks left to pack everything! Aaaarggghhh. These are the moments when I wish I have a nanny who can look after my baby.<br /><br />Sorry if my thoughts are scattered as I write this post. I have a few minutes to myself so I decided to blog for a while. The next posts would have more substance (hopefully). Just wanted to express myself so I turned to blogger. :)<br /><br />Have to say goodbye for now and must attend to the task at hand - boxes and bubble wrap, here I come!Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-23969110224698879612010-04-08T20:05:00.005+08:002010-04-08T20:18:56.076+08:00On being a Mom<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/S73JCuRgb1I/AAAAAAAAA5s/0LJyjnHhFgc/s1600/DSC04577.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/S73JCuRgb1I/AAAAAAAAA5s/0LJyjnHhFgc/s320/DSC04577.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457739372061290322" border="0" /></a>My friends would always tease me that I am the perfect Mommy. Girls dream of their wedding day, I dream of becoming a Mom. I praise God that my husband and I have been blessed with our little angel. My life has changed.<br /><br />I enjoy being a Mom but I have to admit that there are days that I just want to scream my head off and leave. I never realized that taking care of a baby would be a full time job. Yes, I have waited for this moment but I was imagining raising my baby in Manila where help is easy to find. Living abroad, taking care of a baby, taking care of a husband, and running the household....it just isn't easy. But when these moments kick in, when I just want to cry, I look at our little Pi-so (that's chick for Ilonggo, she's our little chick!) and when she looks at me with her big eyes and gives me that beautiful smile, my heart melts and I whisper "I'm sorry" for thinking about giving up.<br /><br />Being a mom now, I have new found respect for housewives everywhere. Working moms, stay at home moms - all mothers! It doesn't matter if you have a nanny or a housemaid to help you out. I think it's all the same. When I look at Sofia, I still get teary-eyed sometimes - to be responsible for a person's life, this little baby that depends on you so much - it is a gift from God and I am forever humbled that He has entrusted me with this precious gift.<br /><br /></div>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-92072833059150161042010-02-24T17:10:00.007+08:002010-04-08T20:24:28.326+08:00hello 2010!It has been ages since I last blogged. I have been so occupied with my wife and mommy duties that I completely forgot about this blog. Plus, I have been busy uploading pictures in Facebook too!<br /><br />I missed blogging and writing down my thoughts. I rarely find time to sit down in front of my laptop as the little angel is awake during the day longer than when she was a newborn. She turned 4 months this month. 4 Months! Time flies. I can't believe that I have been taking care of a baby for 4 months now, and still breastfeeding! Whew!<br /><br />Here's a most recent picture of my little angel. Her smile just warms my heart. =)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/S4Tt80dnxVI/AAAAAAAAA5k/ESAOsPsqECM/s1600-h/DSC03612.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/S4Tt80dnxVI/AAAAAAAAA5k/ESAOsPsqECM/s320/DSC03612.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441735878901220690" border="0" /></a><br />I will try to regularly post once again, at least to update my family and friends about what's happening in our family =)<br /><br />Super late post but anyway, Happy New Year everyone! Here's to 2010! This is OUR year!Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-71849492386996912002009-12-02T04:20:00.008+08:002009-12-02T04:33:24.239+08:00Happy Birthday, Pangski!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV9MCxLPNI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/eEAccEUDGZo/s1600/DSC01360.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV9MCxLPNI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/eEAccEUDGZo/s320/DSC01360.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410368173210549458" border="0" /></a><br />Today, we celebrated hubby's birthday as a family (yipee!). It has been a great year. We thank the Lord for all the blessings....most especially for our little angel.<br /><br />Here's the birthday cake that Sofia and I surprised Cesar with!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV8AxGZXwI/AAAAAAAAA4w/PKtqyAg7TLE/s1600/DSC01370.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV8AxGZXwI/AAAAAAAAA4w/PKtqyAg7TLE/s320/DSC01370.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410366879977529090" border="0" /></a>Look-alike niya yan!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV8LPkZW-I/AAAAAAAAA44/QXipfNZgSF8/s1600/DSC01391.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV8LPkZW-I/AAAAAAAAA44/QXipfNZgSF8/s320/DSC01391.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410367059955112930" border="0" /></a><br />And here's our little angel....she's growing up so fast!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV8fsXK85I/AAAAAAAAA5A/4z1sLlguhnM/s1600/DSC01380.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 193px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV8fsXK85I/AAAAAAAAA5A/4z1sLlguhnM/s320/DSC01380.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410367411281654674" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV85t3w0VI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/XNqe_2uwlgc/s1600/DSC01383.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 195px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SxV85t3w0VI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/XNqe_2uwlgc/s320/DSC01383.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410367858363388242" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">I want some cake, Mommy!</span></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></span>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-51161786221007937142009-10-21T12:13:00.003+08:002009-10-21T12:19:57.120+08:00meet our little angel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/St6L5SvHzAI/AAAAAAAAA4o/L-TKPnratkM/s1600-h/Big+Pic+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/St6L5SvHzAI/AAAAAAAAA4o/L-TKPnratkM/s320/Big+Pic+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394903220034718722" border="0" /></a>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-19774924577712900992009-07-04T19:14:00.002+08:002009-07-04T19:20:49.463+08:00i'm still alive!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/Sk8677N5QxI/AAAAAAAAA4g/AjUeK9bFgXQ/s1600-h/4976_93053902978_671702978_1931574_2741754_n.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354563283149472530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/Sk8677N5QxI/AAAAAAAAA4g/AjUeK9bFgXQ/s320/4976_93053902978_671702978_1931574_2741754_n.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I have been in hibernation for the past 2 months, mainly because we couldn't get internet in our new apartment here in Bah. So here's a quick post just to let everyone know that I'm still breathing and hopefully, by month's end, I'll be online!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>God bless everyone! See you soon! =)</div>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-75141584621738239442009-04-13T09:47:00.005+08:002009-04-13T22:17:27.731+08:00Happy Easter!It has been quiet on my side of the world. I put off blogging for a while as I ponder about God, life, love, and family. Plus, there was sooo much to do, packing up again (yes, we're moving again), going home to Manila, leaving hubby behind in Bah :( , numerous errands, and finding out that we're pregnant!<br /><br />We thank God for this wonderful blessing and we just can't wait to hold our little bundle of joy in our arms - 6 months to go!<br /><br />Happy Easter everyone! Let's celebrate Jesus' resurrection and thank Him for giving us the hope of eternal life!Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-61733254700245268552009-02-26T16:30:00.002+08:002009-02-26T16:37:02.248+08:00'nuff said.<h2><span style="font-size:100%;">The Five Love Languages</span></h2>My primary love language is probably<br /><big style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);"><b>Quality Time</b></big><br />with a secondary love language being<br /><big style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);"><b>Acts of Service</b></big><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);"></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Complete set of results</span></span><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td>Quality Time: </td><td width="20"><br /></td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Acts of Service: </td><td width="20"><br /></td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Physical Touch: </td><td width="20"><br /></td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Words of Affirmation: </td><td width="20"><br /></td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Receiving Gifts: </td><td width="20"><br /></td><td>3</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youthnetsouthampton.org.uk/breakout/lovelanguages.php" target="_blank">Take the quiz</a>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-12981465670629131752009-02-11T14:32:00.003+08:002009-02-11T14:49:17.826+08:00my first sand storm<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SZJz7jxtJ_I/AAAAAAAAA4I/mJbZpq8MMkc/s1600-h/DSCI0432+%282%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SZJz7jxtJ_I/AAAAAAAAA4I/mJbZpq8MMkc/s400/DSCI0432+%282%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301427178421692402" border="0" /></a><br />Everything looks "orange-y". Very strong cold wind. I wanted to go out but hubby insisted I stay indoors. Oh well, I hope there are some great movies I can watch. Looks like this will be a long day!Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-50968889801257702162009-02-04T12:37:00.002+08:002009-02-04T12:42:50.321+08:00pre-hearts' day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYkcIIhV_sI/AAAAAAAAA34/U1R49MGpTIo/s1600-h/DSC01832.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYkcIIhV_sI/AAAAAAAAA34/U1R49MGpTIo/s400/DSC01832.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298797362629967554" border="0" /></a><br />For Valentine's Day, Sweetcorn gave me something that glitters.....<br /><br />Nope, it's not jewelry, but it is gold - 10 grams, no less!<br /><br />How practical! Something I can (wear) carry around and something that grows in value. That's my hubby - always thinking of the future.<br /><br />Advanced Happy V-Day to everyone!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYkcSZR9V-I/AAAAAAAAA4A/6V_YOLFPFFs/s1600-h/DSC01851+%282%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYkcSZR9V-I/AAAAAAAAA4A/6V_YOLFPFFs/s400/DSC01851+%282%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298797538927532002" border="0" /></a>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-17919953088269493842009-01-28T14:36:00.006+08:002009-01-28T15:13:14.038+08:00new year, new adventures<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYAFHFEFkUI/AAAAAAAAA3w/xHDtWV1BCMM/s1600-h/good+times.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYAFHFEFkUI/AAAAAAAAA3w/xHDtWV1BCMM/s400/good+times.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296238780964245826" border="0" /></a><br />Hello, world! I have been hibernating the past months. Been so busy fixing up the world and battling government issues....ha!<br /><br />Seriously, I have had limited internet connection the past months. Plus, I have been taking care of so many things in Manila (banking, sss, insurances, etc.) and before I knew it, it's time to fly to the Middle East. But I will be back in a month's time, so my dear friends (especially you <a href="http://www.bluevelvetrope.blogspot.com/">Tet</a>), we have to meet up!<br /><br />2009 marks the year of Peppercorn! We have a whole new country to explore, new adventures to experience, new friends to make, and more importantly, a really cool apartment to live in!<br /><br />I am now here in the Kingdom with my Sweetcorn and one word to describe this place: FREEZING. I have to wear layers and layers of clothing to keep warm. I have to enjoy this cold weather though because summer's coming and once it gets hot, it's really, really hot.<br /><br />We have been staying mostly indoors since I got here, fixing up the place and unpacking the boxes that came from London. And just like before, I leave you with some BEFORE photos:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYAEEeLob3I/AAAAAAAAA3g/ZyRedxus13o/s1600-h/DSC00049.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYAEEeLob3I/AAAAAAAAA3g/ZyRedxus13o/s400/DSC00049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296237636655542130" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYAEX2w_VHI/AAAAAAAAA3o/KL8mJbKs5pc/s1600-h/DSC00051.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYAEX2w_VHI/AAAAAAAAA3o/KL8mJbKs5pc/s400/DSC00051.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296237969672197234" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYADkOsJqTI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/LqrBwZ8Ny5o/s1600-h/DSC00046.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SYADkOsJqTI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/LqrBwZ8Ny5o/s400/DSC00046.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296237082741156146" border="0" /></a><br />The AFTER pictures are posted <a href="http://peppercorn27.multiply.com/photos/album/43/">here</a>. Check them out!Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-6400514228149792222008-12-24T20:12:00.001+08:002008-12-24T20:14:45.279+08:00Happy Holidays!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SVInpMpWl7I/AAAAAAAAA1k/CXCnZUiNyvU/s1600-h/xmas08-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SVInpMpWl7I/AAAAAAAAA1k/CXCnZUiNyvU/s400/xmas08-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283328901581805490" border="0" /></a>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-62419689960844979022008-10-20T08:46:00.005+08:002008-10-20T08:59:28.030+08:00fast forward: day 20<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SPvXmPXW-sI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/dcQuypk8CGU/s1600-h/moving-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259034041844693698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SPvXmPXW-sI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/dcQuypk8CGU/s400/moving-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Everything's packed! Yahoo! <div><br /></div><div></div><div>I was a bit overwhelmed. There was so much to pack. We really had to prioritize and in the end, decided to let go of some things. It costs so much more to ship than to buy those things anyway. We packed the piano last. I guess, we're really ready to go.</div><div><br /></div><div>I feel a bit sad, leaving our first home. But I know that God will take care of us. We're excited to find out what He has in store for us - in Bahrain. </div><div><br /></div><div>We thank Him for giving us the opportunity to live in the UK. It was fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, a new adventure awaits! </div>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-69708788175442696142008-10-01T02:03:00.007+08:002008-10-02T00:38:25.029+08:00day 1I have to start packing. Seriously. I only have 20 days to sort and pack everything. One big shipment to Manila. And another big shipment to a another country - our soon to be home for the next 3 years ;). I don't even have boxes and bubble wraps! And to top it all, I got sick. I'm still not used to cold weather.<br /><br />I am in panic mode. I decided to start my "sorting" today but I was so not in the mood. Instead, I ended up spending the whole day cooking!<br /><br />There's the slow cooker beef brisket....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJrAjiwA0I/AAAAAAAAAzw/J4sDVy0cddU/s1600-h/DSC01630.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251877772752585538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJrAjiwA0I/AAAAAAAAAzw/J4sDVy0cddU/s320/DSC01630.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Sweetcorn's favorite : Baked Beef and Potato Casserole<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJrUlbbGMI/AAAAAAAAAz4/L-RlhIRLWkU/s1600-h/DSC01634.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251878116856109250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJrUlbbGMI/AAAAAAAAAz4/L-RlhIRLWkU/s320/DSC01634.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I took a break after these 2 dishes but I still didn't feel like going through our things and listing down which goes where. And so I ended up cooking 2 more dishes! Whew!<br /><br />And so, I made seafood bihon....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJsCUG4rtI/AAAAAAAAA0A/jw11RV7C-jM/s1600-h/DSC01631.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251878902480547538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJsCUG4rtI/AAAAAAAAA0A/jw11RV7C-jM/s320/DSC01631.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />and finally, some Butternut Squash in Coconut Milk (fondly called Ginataang Kalabasa)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJtYFoJ24I/AAAAAAAAA0I/mwLWeYfgq2k/s1600-h/DSC01632.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251880376062303106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SOJtYFoJ24I/AAAAAAAAA0I/mwLWeYfgq2k/s320/DSC01632.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />So there. I seriously have to start packing. We have enough food to last us the whole week!Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-39740942201313109722008-09-18T06:23:00.004+08:002008-09-18T06:36:14.808+08:00T.W.M.A.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SNGEzi6b91I/AAAAAAAAAzo/O-eB9S6Sl5A/s1600-h/Tower+Bridge+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247121061943441234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SNGEzi6b91I/AAAAAAAAAzo/O-eB9S6Sl5A/s400/Tower+Bridge+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SNGEDvaiDGI/AAAAAAAAAzg/9KWdYTrCrJo/s1600-h/DSCI0438+copy.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247120240665562210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SNGEDvaiDGI/AAAAAAAAAzg/9KWdYTrCrJo/s400/DSCI0438+copy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div></div>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-80680138317864652212008-09-18T06:05:00.002+08:002008-09-18T06:10:48.720+08:00What's going on?It's funny how life (how God) throws surprises your way. Barely 6 months in the UK, my passport on hold by the Immigration Office - making me unable to work, unable to travel - then wham!<br /><br />Sometimes I still get overwhelmed - making grown up decisions sure is hard! Especially if you're married then you have to think of your partner too. Decisions will not only impact you, but his/her life as well.<br /><br />I don't know what God has in store for me - for us. All I know right now is that I'm putting my faith in Him and I'm offering everything to Him.<br /><br />May His will be done.Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-59207440706028692572008-09-09T06:26:00.001+08:002008-09-18T06:04:32.223+08:00Missing Manila<span style="DISPLAY: inline">Umaga na, sumisikat ang araw<br />Muling lumipas ang isang gabi<br />Ayoko nang dumating pa ang bukas<br />Pagka't tayo'y magkakalayo<br /><br />Pagdating ng araw at di na makita<br />Ala-ala ko sa'yo<br />Isang awit na galing sa puso<br />Alay ko sa'yo<br /><br />Marami nang dinanas sa buhay,<br />Marami na ring minahal<br />Ngunit ibang-iba ang nararamdaman<br />Kapag kapiling ka na...<br /><br />Pagdating ng bukas, maaring wala ka<br />At wala na ring iba<br />(Ikaw pa rin sinta)<br />Ito lamang ang tatandaan:<br />Mahal pa rin kita...<br />Mahal pa rin kita...</span>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-22281918796226342472008-08-17T05:09:00.002+08:002008-08-17T06:54:21.303+08:00two-gether!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SKdaN7NI1XI/AAAAAAAAAmM/QJMONKPz8cc/s1600-h/anniv.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SKdaN7NI1XI/AAAAAAAAAmM/QJMONKPz8cc/s320/anniv.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235252287119086962" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://kimbsdesigns.blogspot.com/">Credits</a><br /></span></div><br />This month marks our 2nd year anniversary. Yey!<br /><br />I'm so happy to be stuck with you, Sweetcorn!<br /><br />This song says it all....<br /><br />Saving Grace<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by Pete Murray</span></span><br /><br />I got you<br />You know I heard you say<br />You blossomed into a beautiful day<br />Your sunlight keeps shining in my face<br />I would see it even in deep out of space<br /><br />And all in time<br />I know I will see you again and again<br />And every night I'm going to hold you and hold you and then<br />Before the light I will rescue and then we'll begin<br />To start it all over again<br /><br />I love it<br />And how you clear my way<br />Guide me into a brand new day<br />In your eyes you know I've found my place<br />You see you - you are my saving grace<br /><br />And all in time<br />I going to see you again and again<br />And every night I'm going to hold you and hold you and then<br />Before the light I will rescue and then we'll begin<br />To start it all over again<br /><br />Don't ever want to miss you<br />Don't ever want to forget you<br />The way you areā¦.today<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"></span>And all in time<br />I going to see you again and again<br />And every night I'm going to hold you and hold you and then<br />Before the light I will rescue and then we'll begin<br />To start it all over againPepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-11849433550437297452008-07-23T17:20:00.006+08:002008-07-23T17:48:40.348+08:00cutting downLiving in the UK means bigger expenses, especially for the "pamper" stuff like hair cuts, pedicures, massages, etc. And so, in an attempt to save some money, I volunteered to play barber and give hair cutting a try. After all, I can't imagine shelling out almost 10 pounds for something we could get for less than 2 back home. But then again, we have to make some adjustments, I guess - these things we just have to accept. Especially after how my hairdressing attempt turned out.... <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Before<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SIb5kPJ9ENI/AAAAAAAAAls/mqg85fo7Cks/s1600-h/DSC01617.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SIb5kPJ9ENI/AAAAAAAAAls/mqg85fo7Cks/s400/DSC01617.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226138818548928722" border="0" /></a></div>He said, just cut it short... and so I did. I must say, I loved every minute of it! I couldn't stop laughing. It took me almost 2 hours to finish.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">After</span><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SIb7-ADtN5I/AAAAAAAAAl8/fmMqgrAdc30/s1600-h/DSC01619.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SIb7-ADtN5I/AAAAAAAAAl8/fmMqgrAdc30/s320/DSC01619.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226141460196046738" border="0" /></a>He's not so happy about the outcome, huh? You see, I made a few mistakes (hahahaha) and since I don't want my husband to look like he's got hair humps and bumps on his head, not to mention a really weird zigzag design, I decided to take it all off. A way out for me, I guess =)<br /><br />In a few months, when it's time for another haircut, I'll volunteer to...well...pay the bill. =)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp2.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SIb88ceRkJI/AAAAAAAAAmE/A5wM_NLmFyw/s1600-h/DSC01618.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SIb88ceRkJI/AAAAAAAAAmE/A5wM_NLmFyw/s320/DSC01618.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226142532975562898" border="0" /></a>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-50797604632652936712008-07-02T15:36:00.006+08:002008-07-02T16:01:50.388+08:00hello, world!4 weeks in the UK and I'm still a bit overwhelmed about everything that's happening. So this is what it's like being "married". Don't get me wrong, I would strongly recommend marriage. I just realized that it's hard work as well as pure fun. I feel like I've grown up the past weeks. I'm actually taking on adult tasks! Hahaha.<br /><br />I have learned that caring for someone is really...what's the word? a BLESSING? an ACT OF LOVE? I can't find the right description but basically, caring for someone makes me feel closer to God.<br /><br />I miss Manila and I miss my family and friends. But I know that God has big plans for me and sweetcorn. We're both excited!<br /><br />I haven't blogged much because I've been busy fixing up our place. Just to give you a sneak preview, here are some before and after shots:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEFORE</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp2.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGszHxaS6SI/AAAAAAAAAlE/0bYTj5V-Ldc/s1600-h/apt+june08+%2810%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGszHxaS6SI/AAAAAAAAAlE/0bYTj5V-Ldc/s400/apt+june08+%2810%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218320801854581026" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">AFTER<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGszcYNDXRI/AAAAAAAAAlM/9OjDmWOWGYA/s1600-h/apt+june08+%2823%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGszcYNDXRI/AAAAAAAAAlM/9OjDmWOWGYA/s400/apt+june08+%2823%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218321155865402642" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEFORE<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp2.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGs0cF2BNgI/AAAAAAAAAlU/ATb4-2DtAnI/s1600-h/apt+june08+%286%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGs0cF2BNgI/AAAAAAAAAlU/ATb4-2DtAnI/s400/apt+june08+%286%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218322250448582146" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AFTER<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGs0-pu2iAI/AAAAAAAAAlc/7Ijpw1IfSPM/s1600-h/DSCI0067.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SGs0-pu2iAI/AAAAAAAAAlc/7Ijpw1IfSPM/s400/DSCI0067.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218322844197750786" border="0" /></a><br />I'm putting the finishing touches then we're ready for that housewarming! Like what I said, marriage is hard work! ;)<br /><br />Got to go! I'll be checking in again soon with stories of our UK adventure!<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span></div>Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16393635.post-10469204020326840032008-06-06T22:59:00.005+08:002008-06-10T15:12:55.374+08:00off to a great adventure!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SE2mgr5jCwI/AAAAAAAAAk8/fYuYyhVnhjQ/s1600-h/DSC01520.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210003424407653122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3ZEuZhwOJgM/SE2mgr5jCwI/AAAAAAAAAk8/fYuYyhVnhjQ/s400/DSC01520.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />In the spirit of Ate Shawie's latest movie, I packed my bags, and now I'm here in London.<br /><br />I got my visa last May 30 then I was off to London last June 3! I'm sorry if I didn't get to say goodbye to you, my dear friends. As it turns out, this will be a short trip for me. I'll be back in November...so basically, I'm just taking a vacation.<br /><br />God answered our prayers. I just wanted to spend my birthday with Sweetcorn. Thank you for small miracles.<br /><br />Now life begins! =)<br /><br />P.S. my globe number's on roaming so I'll expect birthday greetings =)Pepperminthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09413555475216050928noreply@blogger.com2