Total Visits

Showing posts with label Daily Blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Daily Blog. Show all posts

Thursday, June 14, 2018

After 20 years, Yahoo Messenger is finally shutting down


I am being sentimental. Twenty years of service and Yahoo Messenger is shutting down. After the death of Friendster, it is the next casualty of the evolution in messaging platform. The news came as a crashing blow but there was really nothing surprising about it. With the increasing number of Facebook messenger users, it was bound to happen.

The 20-year-old app finally capitulated to the competition and will bid its goodbye to the virtual world of technology on July 17, 2018. It will be a sad farewell to one of the pioneers in this platform which paved way for the improvement of communications of friends and families all over the world. I believe that the rise in popularity of emoticons in Internet forums could be attributed to Yahoo Messenger. After all, who could forget the smiley that used to greet us in opening the app?


It is therefore with a sad heart that I remember the five unforgettable features of Yahoo Messenger.

1. The BUZZ- The ‘buzz’ button that shakes the window message whenever you press it is on top of the list. There’s this feeling of urgency and excitement whenever you hear that ‘buzz’ sound combined with the moving box. Facebook messenger doesn’t have this and I doubt if it could replicate this YM’s feature.


2. The ‘OPENING SMILEY’- The opening smiley is a welcome respite from a long day of work and you’re trying to get in touch with your friends and family. Well, it becomes a sad emoticon whenever the log in is not successful. Again, current communication platforms do not have this feature.

3. The YAHOO MUSIC- This feature allows you to choose different music by theme or genre. I remember working long hours while listening to jazz and country music. You could even show your contacts what music you were listening to! 

4. The STATUS- Long before Facebook asked you ‘what’s on your mind?’, YM already allowed its users to let your contacts know about your day and whether you’re available or not. It also has the option to keep your availability hidden by showing that you’re offline even though you're technically NOT.

5. The Emoticons- Yahoo Messenger has it all. From celebration, daily greetings, to sad emotions. And it definitely deserves a sad emoticon right now.

Yahoo Messenger was my first taste of modern instant communication. It’s a cliché’ but it’s the truth nonetheless that not everything has a happy ending, and not everything has an ending. Some things just kind of dribble away or cut off abruptly. Yahoo Messenger might be joining its virtual friends in Technology heaven but the memories will be left forever in the hearts of its loyal users.

at No comments:

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Why You Should Be Proud as an Introvert

I was in first grade when my teacher brought me in a room full of kids rehearsing for a dance. Apparently, she was expecting me to join them and prepare for the End of the Year program. I was standing at the corner for more than an hour just staring at them much to her chagrin.

When I was in high school, a teacher told me that my younger sister has better ‘Public Relations’ and she advised me to mingle more with my schoolmates. In my last year of high school, I won as president of the school government organization. How did I do it? My sister campaigned for me in the entire school.


Growing up, I could not understand why speaking came naturally for my younger sister and whenever we’re with a group of people, she fits in perfectly. I, on the other hand, stayed quiet and never initiated a conversation.

I hated delivering speeches or being at the limelight. Still, I won awards for public speaking and even became president of Public Speaking Society back in college. However, it takes a lot of mind conditioning before I could do it.

One day, I stumbled upon the word that best describes me- an introvert. I used to think that it was sort of a deficiency but through the years, a deeper part of myself made me realized it is not.

I am an introvert and it’s perfectly fine if I didn’t like speeches or initiating conversations. It’s not because I could not do it. Discernment comes first- should I say it or not?


I am an introvert and it’s definitely okay if I don’t prefer working in a group. It’s not because I could not do it but I thrive more working by myself.

It’s okay if you don’t see me mingling me with the horde of unknowns. Believe me, I enjoy the company of friends but I’d rather spend some quiet time ‘observing the world.’

I am an introvert and it’s probably not the best thing knowing that I live in an extroverted society but I gather my energy from within and I am focused on inward turning than seeking out external stimulation. The world of an introvert is just more meaningful, more peaceful, and closer to the unknown utopia.

Yes, it’s okay to be an introvert. As Ghandi puts it, “Speak only if it improves upon the silence.”

at 9 comments:

Friday, June 08, 2018

The Truth About Suicide

Missed hugs.
Missed kisses.
Missed words.
Missed kindness.
Missed life.

The picture was still vivid which seemed like it just happened yesterday. Blood from a slashed wrist as a result of attempted suicide by a family member. In between sobs and painful words, she expressed her desires to end her suffering. Yet, I could not understand. I don’t think I ever did or I ever will. And there the problem lies, the lack of understanding.

Suicide is a very sensitive topic that no one wants to discuss, but it is a prevalent problem that needs to be addressed. A recent study shows that over the last 30 years the suicide rate in young people has more than tripled.


What drives a person to end his/ her life? It is easy to make judgment that the problem that precipitates it is probably so mundane. However, I always believe that people who were driven to end their lives were lost in the abyss of confusion, pain and anger in an unfathomable depth.

It is REALLY a sad situation.

A person might have everything including success, fame and wealth- Kate Spade, Robin Williams, Anthony Bourdain, to name the few- but nobody is spared from the sad reality of suicide.

According to the WorldHealth Organization (WHO), an approximate of one million people die from suicide, which represents global mortality rate of 16 people per 100, 000 or one death every 40 seconds. It is predicted that by 2020 the rate of death will increase to one every 20 seconds.


That ‘family member’ who tried to end her life several times surpassed that period of struggles in her life. She got a degree and faced the demons that plagued her for so long but I am still at a loss of completely understanding the battles she fought.

Although the truth remains that 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a mental illness at the time of their death, we can still make a difference by being a sincere listener, offering a gesture of humanity, and giving a gentle smile. We don’t know what each person is going through and a small act of kindness might save a life.

Farewell to the beautiful souls who perished during the times when their hearts were clouded with sadness and despair.

If you or a person you know is thinking about suicide, here's a number you can call:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Call 1-800-273-8255
Available 24 hours everyday

at 20 comments:

Thursday, June 07, 2018

Kris Aquino vs Mocha Uson

Two topics that are highly profitable in the world of blogging but I don’t normally write about- religion and politics. The current trend suggests that people nowadays are so divisive that they do not engage in intellectual discourse. When your views differ and you express it either in social media or personal discussion, it would mean losing your friends and family.


Photo Source: https://www.dailypedia.net/2018/06/netizens-react-on-kris-aquino-vs-mocha-uson-social-media-war/ 

However, the much discussed Kris Aquino-Mocha Uson fiasco goes deeper than politics. The fallacy is not lost on the way perspectives are taken in both sides. The two do not enjoy a highly respected past- Kris with her controversial relationships and Uson with her provocative dancing and singing jobs while grabbing private parts of men. But, who cares about the past? Apparently not Uson since she does not fare as well either at the present proliferating fake news which spreads faster than the worst epidemic in the world.

What is the truth?
In a time of universal deceit- telling the truth is a revolutionary act. Was the kiss accosted to the late Ninoy Aquino bears the same malice or intent the current president gave to the OFW? By using the old video of Aquino moments before he was shot death, did Uson show the real picture of the comparison? The truth of your answer of course will set you free.

What is just?
No matter who or what you support, I believe in supporting first what is just and fair. Was it fair to use an old video of the person who could not defend himself anymore since he’s dead? Your answer would show how fair and just you are.

What is the real discourse?
The real discourse is not the personalities involved. It is the callous disregard of the dead person who could not defend himself. It is the illogical comparison of two situations bearing no similarities at all. It is the abuse of position since Uson is a government employee paid for by the taxes of the Filipinos. 

“But you can't make people listen. They have to come round in their own time, wondering what happened and why the world blew up around them. It can't last.”
― Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451

at No comments:

Wednesday, June 06, 2018

New Jersey- New York- Philadelphia- Canada Trip (Part 4)


Summer 2018 was made so special with our road trip across three states, two countries, one iconic landmark, and one nature's wonder.


Our last day was equally special since it was my birthday. David disappeared after we got back home from the mall the night before to get flowers, cards, and gift for me. We were filled with excitement because our last destination before heading home would be Niagara Falls.


The scenic views from Philadelphia and New York to Canada were indescribable. Walls of rocks, beautiful trees, and pristine lakes kept us entertained. As always, we just followed the route from Google map so imagine our surprise when the map ended right in front of a residential house!

After a little bit of research looking for the proper route, we finally arrived at our destination. Niagara Falls was the most beautiful place that I have ever been. Even when we were still at the car looking for the parking area, we were already so overwhelmed with emotions. It was the perfect way to celebrate my birthday with the person I love so much. The three falls are part of the Niagara River, which forms the U.S./ Canada border all the way from the city of Niagara Falls up to Lake Ontario. American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are on the American side of the border, and the Horseshoe Falls is on the Canadian side. We opted to see the Canadian side.


The temperature was almost 95 but whenever we stood right at the part where the mist was, it dropped to about 60F. We felt sad that we were able to stay for about 30 minutes only. We had more than six hours of drive on the way home and it was getting late.

The Port Huron border was packed with cars and we were at the bridge for more than an hour. I felt bad that my husband was the one driving the whole time of our travel. He was beyond exhausted and when a deer jumped right in front of the car when we were near Grand Rapids, I could not believe how fast he stopped! We were both shaken thinking of what could have happened if David was not able to stop. It was past 11:00 p.m. and he was driving since 7:00 a.m. Thankfully, we arrived home safely closed to midnight.

For most people, traveling is all about that adrenaline rush brought by the excitement of seeing new places, meeting new people, eating new foods, and basking on beautiful surroundings. Traveling is not a panacea but it does give you a clearer perspective about life in general. For me and my husband, it is our time to talk and enjoy the moments uninterrupted by technology and worries of life. Plus, don’t forget the joy of seeing a very dear friend.

Part 1:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada.html

Part 2:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_6.html

Part 3:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_54.html

Part 4:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_84.html

at No comments:

New Jersey- New York- Philadelphia- Canada Trip (Part 3)

 
 New York Brooklyn Bridge during night time.

Philadelphia downtown where we met Mich. 

The main reason of our travel was to meet Mich who was in the U.S. to attend a convention. She was sent by the University where she works. Even though fate brought us far from each other, we continue to enjoy this special bond that connects us. We used to spend hours just talking about anything and everything.

There were no words to describe the moment that I hugged her again. It was so special that my best friend met my husband for the first time. The moment was made more beautiful with the fact that we were in a beautiful city of Philadelphia. Although I enjoy traveling in different cities in the U.S.A., I always relish the time that we go back home but Philadelphia was different. It has this blend of old and new which makes the city more welcoming and I actually felt right at home.

King of Prussia Mall considered as the largest mall in United States in terms of the area for lease. 

We had breakfast at one of the restaurants at Readers Market. My husband said the biscuits and gravy he had was the best he ever tasted. The place is a historic indoor market which has about 80 vendors offering a wide variety of cuisines from all over the world with some operating the same way back in 1892 when it first opened. Nothing could be better than spending the first hour of seeing each other after seven years in a very special place.


It was raining so we decided to spend the rest of the day at King Prussia Mall and TJ Maxx where we tried to catch up with each other’s life in between shopping and laughter. Needless to say, I was dreading the time that we would drop off Mich at her hotel and say our goodbyes. Although I was glad to spend the whole day with her, I wished it was longer. 

Filed under: 
at 2 comments:

New Jersey- New York- Philadelphia- Canada Trip (Part 2)


At the Liberty State Park where we had a good view of the iconic Statue of Liberty. 

All geared up after being well-rested the night before, we drove on the way to Liberty State Park where we planned to ride a ferry and see the iconic Statue of Liberty. However, when I realized that the view of the statue from the park was good enough, I told David we didn’t need to ride a ferry to get a closer look. It’s known for a long queue and we knew that we won’t have enough time to see other places if we stayed there for so long. Visit to New York was limited since we needed to head back to Philadelphia in the afternoon to meet my friend who would be arriving from Italy.

The drive to New York was crazy. Traffic was bad and tolls were confusing. Instead of stressing ourselves of missing the turns and paying several times in the same toll, we chose to just enjoy the ride. I also find it ridiculous to pay $15 in Lincoln tunnel. It was worth the drive though because we were able to enjoy the beautiful day at Central Park.


We were surprised that we easily found a free parking area right in front of the park. Interestingly, Central Park is bigger than Vatican City. It contains several lakes, theaters, ice rinks, fountains, tennis courts, many playgrounds, and baseball fields. It was so amazing being surrounded with trees and giant sculptures of rocks amidst the city with skyscraper buildings. Central Park makes New York such a nice place to live knowing that you could just walk there and breathe some fresh air. Of course, David enjoyed playing with the pigeons and he ended up having a bird poop on his shirt.

The next stop was back in New Jersey for some taste of Filipino cuisine. Jollibee makes the visit in different states complete. As always, it was full packed mostly with Filipinos.


After enjoying the delicious lunch comprised with palabok, chicken, peach mango pie, halo- halo, and hotdog, we headed to the two-hour-drive to Philadelphia. Unfortunately, I booked the wrong hotel. Hilton has several hotels and I chose the one about thirty-minutes from where Mich was staying. King of Prussia where our hotel was located was breathtakingly beautiful though. We were so near the King of Prussia Mall known for being the largest mall in the U.S. in terms of leasable space. Mich and I decided to just meet the following day since our hotel was not as near to hers as we initially thought.

We ended the day shopping and enjoying the rest of our Hilton complimentary cookies in the comfort of our room.


Part 1:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada.html

Part 2:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_6.html

Part 3:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_54.html

Part 4:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_84.html

at No comments:

New Jersey- New York- Philadelphia- Canada Trip (Part 1)



Oftentimes, we get wrapped up in the daily mundane of working and paying bills that enjoying life becomes secondary. David and I however have always discussed seeing new places and creating memories by traveling. As a matter of fact, in the short time of my stay here, we have visited places near Michigan and our recent travel was the farthest so far.

To wander in an unfamiliar place with the person closest to your heart is the most beautiful feeling in the world. Knowing that the reason for our travel was also to meet a very dear friend added to the excitement.

We left Friday at 4:00 a.m. anticipating the thirteen-hour-long drive. Our first destination was NewJersey known for having the most diners in the world. Fifteen minutes after leaving the house, my husband realized that he didn’t have his phone. We frantically searched the car but it was nowhere to be found. Missed calls however indicated that the phone was just somewhere in the car. Finally, I told him to check the car’s roof and of course it was there! Fifteen minutes on the road and his phone was on top of the car!

The travel was quite uneventful but it was filled with picturesque sceneries that stretched as far as the eyes could see. We also savor the moment of just being able to talk without worrying about anything.


There were many road repairs making the travel longer so we were exhausted by the time we arrived in our hotel. Our plan to meet a friend in New York upon arrival did not push through since we were both so tired.

If there’s one spectacular thing about New Jersey was that you got to enjoy New York’s beautiful view without enduring the crazy traffic of the former. Right across our hotel was the Hudson river offering a waterfront view of New York’s skyscraper buildings. My husband and I were just too exhausted though to do anything except to grab dinner so he had his pizza and I had my Japanese cuisine.

Part 1:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada.html

Part 2:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_6.html

Part 3:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_54.html

Part 4:
http://www.ninabuenanichols.com/2018/06/new-jersey-new-york-philadelphia-canada_84.html

at No comments:

Tuesday, June 05, 2018

The Best Ways to Deal with People Who Hurt You

Through the years, I had this important realization. The greatest human frailty is simply being human- weak and more often than not, acts on impulse emotionally not rationally. I used to be deeply affected when people are rude or they say mean words. Through the years however, I managed to be more of in control how I react on situations. I perceived it as simply toughening up with the harsh realities of the world.


1. Breathe. Negativity was just hurled. Instantly, the air turned hostile. Taking a deep breath several times while reminding myself to cool off always works. I think just by simply doing this, I get the moment to reflect on what just happened and if it is worth to say or do something.

2. Pray. A long time ago back in Naga City, a very dear friend told me not to pray for the other person who act unkindly to me but pray instead for myself. I pray that I may be enlightened and not harbor ill feelings. I pray that I may find forgiveness in my heart. I pray that the pain would not last for a long time. I pray that I would be strong enough and be kind enough to understand what that person is going through.


3. Forgive. Concealing negative feelings toward others would be more detrimental to one’s self emotionally, spiritually and physically. Forgiving is not forgetting. It simply means choosing not to dwell on the why’s. I have no control about how others would behave toward me but I always have control about my own behavior. By forgiving, I refuse to be carried in the abyss of negativity.

After doing these three steps, I still find myself sometimes broken hearted, hurt, and deeply offended. That’s just another human frailty. However, at the end of the day, I remind myself that by following these steps, I choose to be in control of the situation.

at 6 comments:

Monday, June 04, 2018

How to Handle Separation Anxiety?

The first few days of school could be both exciting and traumatic for parents and kids. It is a period of big change that when not handled properly might bring so much stress to the family. After all, who would want to leave their kids screaming on top of their lungs because they didn’t want to be left in school? It is then followed by that nagging feeling of guilt the whole day anticipating the pick-up time.



Although there is probably nothing that you could tell a child to stop him from crying, there are some ways to handle the situation before it goes out of hand.


1. Establish a Routine
For kids, it is all about routine. The more stability you give, the better it would be. If you drop the kids off at a certain hour, stick to it so the child would not keep on wondering what is the next thing that would happen that might make him feel more anxious. Making the drop off time earlier than the other kids might help, too. Chaotic environment with so many kids worsens that feeling of separation.

2. Give Special ‘Security’ Stuff
A new place will always be overwhelming for kids. Allowing your child to bring something familiar would help to calm his/ her fears. It may be a stuff toy, a necklace with your picture, or anything special that you know might help to pacify him/her.

2. Be Positive
Talk with enthusiasm about meeting new friends and playing with cool stuff to build up excitement. Do not make going to school like something that the kid should dread. Taking that leap into something new is difficult for anyone even with adults. When you are nervous, your child could feel it and build up his anxiety.


4. Say a Short Goodbye
A fist bump, a kiss, a hug, or a combination of everything is all part of routine. Once you say your good-bye, do not linger because the child would feel your hesitation. Saying the same phrase every day might also help.

5. Make a follow-up
During pick-up time, make sure to follow-up from the teacher how your child handled the separation. Some kids snap out of the anxiety as soon as their parents leave. Others however can’t cope well and spend a long time crying. This would give you an overview of how the day went and plan for a better start the next day and lessen the guilt of leaving your child behind.

There is no exponential secret to make the first few days of school easier for our kids. However, there are always ways that we could try to make going to school an enjoyable experience.

at 6 comments:

Saturday, May 05, 2018

Pay it Forward

 
Each act of kindness has a ripple effect throughout society and can affect people who we do not even know.


Early start on a beautiful Saturday. Larry with Dad and David.

I once heard that to do good must be a vocation of every person. When my husband and I decided to get married at Jakarta, Indonesia without any family members around, we relied on the grace of having good friends who helped us with everything we needed. The same thing was true during the processing of my papers coming here. Hence, when the time came for us to be able to do something for a friend, we knew we got to do it.

I met Larry, our neighbor, when I was in Indonesia talking to my husband through video call. He was still strong and working then. Unfortunately, it didn’t last for long. He was only in late 30’s yet he was inflicted with illnesses including diabetes. At this age and already on a wheelchair, my husband and I knew that it is undoubtedly hard and painful for him. Yet, he stayed strong and tried to fend for himself without asking anyone for help.

The house before painting it.

So, David and I decided on painting his house for him. My husband would come from whole day of work and continued to work on his house power washing and caulking. At some point, I needed to remind him that it was already 9:00 p.m. and he was still out working. Finally, the house was ready to be painted. Last night, we were off on our regular Friday date night buying the paint for his house.

We’re so thankful for Dad who drove all the way here to help, our neighbor also bought wood to cover some bad area, and Alex came as well to help in painting. Above all, I am so proud of my husband who worked tirelessly on this project. I am blessed to marry someone who would stop at a stranger to buy him some food, or jumped out of the car to help push another person’s car.

The look of happiness on Larry’s face made me believe how the good nature of people can bring so much joy to others. The collective effort of small group of people created so much change through act of kindness.

Larry, our neighbor, looking at the newly painted house.

Fresh coat of paint to the whole exterior.

To all the people who did something good for us, we are paying it forward. Kindness is free, spread it.

Update:
Unknowingly, the day we painted his house was actually his birthday. Sometimes, things work in mysterious ways and it will be done through YOU.

at 21 comments:

Saturday, March 17, 2018

I Can Only Imagine Movie Review


I Can Only Imagine (Movie Review/ Reflection) 

The old lady beside me was wracked with an onslaught of sobs. My husband was sniffling and so were the people in front of us. It’s been a while since I watched a heavy-drama movie and apparently, I Can Only Imagine has moved a lot of movie-goers in an unbroken stream of tears.

I knew the song long before the name of the singer. The titular, I Can Only Imagine became my source of comfort during the really low point of my life. The lyrics speak through the core of my soul offering both solace and assurance when I thought that I lost everything.

Movies adapted from books are fairly common and I think it’s a bit odd that a song would be the heart of a movie. I expected it to be a bit tedious and desperately sentimental but the movie far exceeded my expectations. The characters gave in-depth justice to the roles they played and while obviously based on a Christian faith, the movie succeeded in conveying the message without overwhelming the audience with Biblical references. While trying to convey the message of abuse as the source of deep pains and hurts, there’s no overpowering graphic images of violence yet the emotions were tender and poignant.


Finley as Bart Millard impressively brought us into his painful journey that gave life to the lyrics of the song. Surprisingly, Quaid as an abusive father was the reason of the first tears I shed. The scenes were relatable and one could surmise it does happen in real life.

While the song was mainly about a promise when the time to face God comes, the movie was undeniably a journey of forgiveness. More than the lyrics, what really got through me was the celebratory tone of the music despite of all the pains and sufferings Millard went through in the hands of his father. It evoked feelings and memories long buried inside.


Millard’s journey through forgiveness is certainly a beautiful story that’s worth your time. My husband and I were thankful that we spent our Friday night watching it.

“Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel 
Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of you be still 
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall 
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all 
I can only imagine 
I can only imagine.”

at 2 comments:

Sunday, March 11, 2018

We Beat the Odds!

The struggle started early morning realizing that Daylight Saving Time has started. Meaning, we lost an hour of sleep. It was so tempting to just stay on bed and sleep in but we reminded ourselves that we missed church for three weeks and it would not be a good idea to miss it again today. So, off we scrambled out of bed trying to wake up.

While at the shower, I heard my husband and I knew something was wrong. The truck’s tire was flat and he forgot his air pump at work! The car was not a choice since he just found a leak on it. Needless to say, we had more reasons to stay home.


Somehow, David found a way and we made it in church on time. Our experience however reminded us that life would always be full of vicissitudes. It’s easy to take the easy way out by simply staying at home and taking care of the problems of the cars but I’m glad that we were able to figure out a solution without getting overly stressed. We feel immensely blessed by the church service and seeing family and friends.

We beat the odds and ended our day with this yummy treat!

At night, David cooked the best steak ever as if we didn’t just go through something nerve-wracking this morning!

at No comments:

Saturday, March 10, 2018

Saturday Mess

There’s nothing worse than going on a vacation during the previous weekend and getting sick at the middle of the week. It would not be surprising at all for the house to end up such a disaster that I needed to spend almost my whole morning cleaning up the mess. My husband is pretty good in helping but since he needed to work, I dealt with all the clutter. It did not help that I am such an OC that every little nook and corner, including drawers, appliances and furniture must be thoroughly clean. This is the American life. No helper at all to do all the household stuff.


While having dinner before our movie date, David reminded me to take my antibiotic. Though without fever anymore, I still need to finish my dosage. Of course, I would do anything silly to get away with it since I hate taking medicine.

Me: Beb, you said you’ll take a bullet for me, right?
David: Of course!
Me: So, can you take the medicine for me?

The rest of the time we were preparing to leave the house was spent laughing because of what I said. Yeah, I ended up taking the antibiotic. The trick did not work with my husband.

The movie, Wrinkle in Time, was beautiful and a review is coming soon.

at No comments:

Friday, March 09, 2018

Wedding Anniversary Dinner at Red Lobster

I finally went back to work after missing two days. One of the kids asked me to lift him up then he cupped my face with his hands, kissed my right cheek, turned the other side and kissed it, too. I thought that was it, but, he took my hand and kissed it also, hugged me and said, “I love you, Ms. Nina. I missed you.” Fourteen years of teaching and I never had a welcome similar to this. Although the day was a bit crazy, I was definitely happy to see the kids. 


My husband picked me up in the afternoon and we decided to have a late anniversary dinner at Red Lobster. Normally, my husband would say no to anything seafood but I assured him they also offer steak. Lo and behold! We were both satisfied with our meals.

Red Lobster's Seaside Shrimp Trio. 

I got the Seaside Shrimp Trio which includes Walt’s favorite shrimp, hand-crafted garlic shrimp scampi, and shrimp linguini Alfredo.

Red Lobster's NY Strip Steak. 

My husband of course favored the 12 OZ NY strip seasoned with peppercorns, grilled on a wood fire, and served with mashed potato and fries.

We ended our Friday night shopping for his work materials and buying chocolates for my niece.

at No comments:

Thursday, March 08, 2018

Not So Gentle Bug

Being sick is no fun. My husband spent the previous night trying to lower my temperature since the medicines didn’t seem to work. I would take fever medicines and after an hour or two, my temperature’s high again.
When he woke me up this morning, my ear was extremely painful but my temperature was finally down. I hate taking medicines and I remember that the only time I got scolded when my father was still alive was because I would not take any medicines. I would force myself to throw up after taking it or secretly kept it in my pocket. Nothing really changed much. I still hate it. Having a very patient and caring husband makes things easier. He makes sure that I take them on time.

After sleeping about six hours today, I woke up feeling a lot better. It’s definitely not a gentle bug but I am blessed and grateful that my husband’s here to take care of me.

Thank you to all the family and friends who greeted us on our anniversary.

at No comments:

Wednesday, March 07, 2018

My Husband is the Best

Flowers from the best husband in the world. 

This is supposed to be a very special day to celebrate with my husband. Three years being married fill us with beautiful memories and inexplicable love. But, as fate would have it, I am stuck in the house with on and off fever and extreme pain in my right ear.

Not to be deterred by the circumstances, he went out of his way to make me feel better by constantly checking on me while he was at work. He also came home with a take-out from Asian Buffet since I was too sick to even go out for dinner.


Thankfully, we had an early celebration at Chicago last weekend and he even gave me flowers and cards in advance! At night, he was up so late trying to reduce my fever by washing my face with towel. Though we spent the night not exactly as planned, I’ve felt so much love from my husband and this is definitely the best wedding anniversary I could ever ask for- unconditional love and care.


at No comments:
Location: Montague, MI, USA

Tuesday, March 06, 2018

A Touching Surprise!



My husband surely knows surprises. I came home from work not feeling well so he ran at the store to grab medicines and of course he came back with these beautiful flowers and card!

Our 3rd year anniversary (tomorrow) reminds me of so many reasons why I made the decision to marry him. More than his thoughtfulness, he showers me each day with love and care more than any wife could ever dream of.

He’s probably the only husband in the world who wakes up early each day just to prepare my breakfast and lunch! He helps me with household chores without qualms- doing dishes, laundry and folding clothes, and even sweeping/ mopping/ vacuuming the floor!


Three years ago, my dreams and priorities were different. I’m glad they all changed because my heart is finally home- in the arms of my husband who loves me unconditionally.

Happy 3rd Year anniversary, Beb and looking forward for more travels with you. I love you to infinity and beyond!

“You are the answer to every prayer I've offered. You are a song, a dream, a whisper, and I don't know how I could have lived without you for as long as I have.” -Nicholas Sparks-

at No comments:
Location: Montague, MI, USA
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Translate

Click to Subscribe to My YouTube Channel

Click to Subscribe to My YouTube Channel
Free English tutorial videos.

Free Worksheets, Flashcards, and Other Educational Materials

Free Worksheets, Flashcards, and Other Educational Materials
Visit my educational website and download English worksheets, lesson plans, spelling flashcards, writing prompts and others.
PRIVACY POLICY