Sharing of interests, stories of where I've been and what I did. Insights, thoughts, learning that may be applicable and helpful to anybody in this world!
Once a year I always post the same greeting ~ Happy Teacher's Day to all the teachers out there and most especially my mother!
Even Google reminded me but again as mentioned in my previous facebook post, I don't need to wait for the Teacher's Day to greet them!
Mama dedicated 23 years (not sure if this was the exact number) of her life to teach. Majority of her students were at the collegiate level, there were some high school students. They say and we all know this..
"Be Proud you are a Teacher, the Future depends on you"
And this is so true -- without them, without their time, we are all nothing. Without their perseverance for us to learn, we will not instill discipline in ourselves -- we will not be working now and we will not be successful!
This image says a lot!
Remembering the award that Mama got when she reached the 20 year Milestone as an educator and I thank Canossa College for recognizing her efforts. More in this blog --> Mama Inday's Award.
Again, no amount of "Thank Yous" would be enough to thank all our teachers, my mother, on the amount of time and effort they have put in just to see us graduate! Theirs is a noble job maybe not so many people would like to pursue!
If you want to be a Teacher -- I challenge you to continue it -- its not even a job -- it needs a lot of dedication.
If you do not want to be a Teacher -- I challenge you to be nice to them -- make it known to your kids, to your relatives, friends that they should be respected and appreciated!
To all my teacher relatives and friends -- here is a BIG KUDOS to all of you!
I am not saying that I am famous and that people wait for my blog every so often. This is for my self fulfillment and to say to myself that -- "Yes, I can maintain my own blog site!" I was out for almost three months -- simply because I got lazy to write -- yes I got lazy because a life changing event happened last February 22, 2016. Our family were grateful to all of you who expressed your love and sincere condolences when Ciolo joined our Creator. It was February 22, 2016 (Monday) at around 4:40pm when Ciolo slowly lost his breath.
Sunday night, Ciolo was in our room (where he really sleeps) and Noel was wiping his nose because we thought that his shortness of breath was brought about by his colds. We can clearly hear how he breaths and we felt like he was having asthma. We thought that maybe he was cold and thus we placed a blanket around him, thinking that the air-conditioned room might be too cold for him.
Monday morning, we asked Mama Lena to bring Ciolo to our trusted vet because we want to know if he was sick or if he has colds. So that medications can be given and Ciolo would feel much better.
While we (Noel and I) were driving for work, we were talking:
KL: mamayang gabi, sa sala na tayo matulog para wala ng aircon si Ciolo
Noel: Okay
We'd rather sleep outside our room, rather than Ciolo be outside alone (to avoid the cold room).
Monday 8am, I was asked by Mama Lena to call her. They were already at the vet clinic..
Mama: Andito na kami Kay Gabieta
KL: Ano daw sakit ni Ciolo?
Mama: Wala daw sakit, matanda nalang talaga si Ciolo
KL: Oh eh bakit may sipon?
Mama: Mahina na si Ciolo, kung gusto daw natin bigyan ng pain reliever at i-observe or patulugin na si Ciolo para wala ng pain
KL: Teka hindi pede patulugin, teka tatawagan ko si Sweets
-------
Connected the call to Noel
Mama: Noel, bibigyan ng pain reliever every day or patulugin na
Noel: hindi pede mawala si Ciolo ng wala Ako sa bahay, paki bigyan ng pain reliever at observe
Noel: malakas si Ciolo, naglakad pa kami last week niyan, malakas si Ciolo, kelangan lang ng gamot
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I was not sure what to think about. Every time Noel tells me that Ciolo is strong I believe him because he knows Ciolo more than anyone from us. I know Ciolo is strong and I know he wants to be strong for all of us.
Monday 3pm, Mama texted and mentioned that ciolo is having deep breaths. I don't know what to think but my initial response was "Uuwi po Ako agad!"
I told my lead:
KL: Liz, pwede ba Akong umuwi ng mga 3:45, meron lang problema Kay Ciolo.
Liz: Okies Sige
Immediately after that I packed my bags and went down, Noel was already waiting for me downstairs.
While on our way home, Noel and I was discussing and we were convincing ouselves that Ciolo is strong and he will be strong for us. He will wait for us until we get home.
Monday 4:50pm, Mama sent a text message asking where we were? If we are already near? I replied "SM Angono na". That is 5 minutes away from our house.
Monday 4:55pm, before reaching our gate, Mama was already waiting outside. I alighted and helped with the gate. While Noel was maneuvering his car, I glanced into Mama and she was already crying
KL: bakit (with a surprised look)
Mama: wala na si Ciolo, di na kayo naintay (crying). Making sure that Noel doesn't see her cry
KL: hindi pwede
After parking, Noel went inside and immediately called Ciolo
Noel: Ciolo.. Ciolo..
He does this everyday and that day was not any different
Then he was told about Ciolo. Ciolo was there near the kitchen sink lying. Noel immediately went there and started to talk to Ciolo and whisper some things. I didn't even went near them (Ciolo and Sweets) because I can't afford to see both of them. Ciolo lying there lifeless but soft and Noel simply staring at him and not saying anything. To me it was extreme sadness.
I was staring blankly onto the computer and just waiting for instructions. I don't know what to say, I saw Sweets carried ciolo to our room, lied down the floor with ciolo in his chest, I immediately went out of the room as I cannot afford to see them in that position. I went back to stared blankly at on to the computer.
Papa already dug a place at our backyard for Ciolo. Mama was already talking to some people if we can bring Ciolo to our public cemetery. Noel said no, that should not be the final resting place for Ciolo, he should be cremated.
While I was staring blankly on to the computer, I started to look for Pet Crematory. Never have I thought of researching on this matter and I still want believe that Ciolo was gone. I called some numbers but to no avail, I continued searching.
Initially I called Pet Valley in Cavite but no answer. I called another place in Quezon City but the number was unreachable. I tried to call Pet Valley once more and finally someone answered. It was Doc Manny and I while talking go him I know my voice was unclear, I can't speak straight and I still can't believe that I am talking about Ciolo.
We were given options.
Either we send Ciolo via our vet but it will take seven days to get Ciolo back.. I said "we cannot wait that long". Or we can bring Ciolo the following day so that there will be some ceremony and prayers. Our decision was to put Ciolo in his final resting place that night. Dr. Manny mentioned "Whatever the family wants".
It was 6pm and we drove all the way from Angono Rizal to Silang Cavite. We arrived at 8:30pm (I didn't imagine we can take that ride in such a short period of time -- traffic cooperated with us). When we arrived, someone is already waiting for us, stood near the car and waited for us to alight.
He asked "Nasan po ang aso?" and then we gave Ciolo to him, then i said "Ano po ang gagawin nyo sa kanya?" "Aayusan lang po." he replied.
We waited at the reception and then we were told that Ciolo is ready.
It's as if Ciolo was just sleeping -- has was like in a mini bath tub surrounded by bougainvillea and white towel. He was still soft (as if sleeping).
We were told that we can view Ciolo as long as we want, once we are ready then we can ring the bell for the next steps.
We looked at him, offered a prayer and let him go.
Then when you ready to let him go, he will slowly be taken up to the creamatory. What made it even more dramatic was the sound effects and the dim lights. Yes, up to that last minute I was crying to say goodbye to a very special family member, Ciolo.
After more or less an hour of waiting...
Ciolo in his Urn, his paw print and some hair.
Deep breaths for me -- there is Ciolo.. no more barking, no more cuddling, no more kissing and hugging.. they are all just memories now!
Ciolo was the first pet I have ever met and I am thankful that he gave me the opportunity to love animals and to believe that they are really man's best friend.
I will remember Ciolo as this bubbly young fella, who never failed to give us smiles and unconditional love!
We miss you baby but you are in heaven now where you feel no pain and you watch over us.
You all know that I am coming back -- yes that is definitely correct. This time, I would like to share how the wonderful gown of Louise came about. Before I start, let me give you a glimpse of how the top looked like!
Let me share with you where it started... First I was not thinking of a ball gown, instead I am only thinking of a tutu skirt because I am thinking that it would best fit the simple event that we would like to celebrate. Initially, I recommended this one:
And yes, I was so ready to order! Another yes, that's how stingy I am! Louise did not mention that she didn't liked it, she told me that she doesn't want sleeveless top (she sure knows which part of the body to emphasize!). And so the search continues -- and I am still thinking of how to pull it off without spending too much. Louise drew something and she specifically mentioned that she doesn't want sleeveless.. okie I get it!
Alright, so this is what Louise wanted and have imagined in her head (maybe several times) but I can't seem to figure out where are we going to find this kind of gown. Definitely not in SM, not in any other malls, I am sure we need to get a couturier. Still in search of the perfect gown to wear, one night, our Tita Baby visited us and we opened up about this debut and she recommended a gown where she found to be elegant and beautiful. This one --
Okie, so a Rajo Laurel gown specially made for Alex Gonzaga when Tony and Paul was wed! Okie sa suggestion ha! It was really good but I know how expensive it was so I was left with a blank space in my face! What's next? Find a couturier -- someone who can deliver this design but not as expensive.. I was actually praying -- "Please Lord Guide me and bring me an angel who can pull this one off + with a cheap but elegant deal". I started scouting (in San Pablo Laguna) and after several questions and stuff, I was able to find the perfect person to take on this gown, ate Maan Ortega! Initially, Louise was thinking that the color of her gown would be orange, simply because that is her favorite color but when we consulted Kuya Alvin, he told us that it would be great to stick to this color palette and just tweak the design based on the body type of Louise. Aminin, hindi naman ganito ka sexy si Louise --- After some months, we were off to the first and only fitting --
This was the raw gown -- still didn't have the bead and lace work on it. Louise lose a bit of weight -- excited?? Then three days before the event, we got the final gown!
Words cannot describe how elegant it looked like -- I am very thankful that we listened to Kuya Alvin's recommendation and trusted the skills of Ate Maan that they can pull off this beautiful gown inspired by Alex' Gonzaga's gown (made by Rajo Laurel). It looked perfect on Louise, she is the star of that night, the Princess!
Another good thing about this event was the venue! Four months ago, my mother and I was scouting for a venue for this event and honestly we scouted to a lot of venues. Of course I had to consider several things in choosing a venue and here are a few: 1. Cheap - this is the hardest part! Haha 2. Even when cheap, very presentable and with good quality 3. Accessible 4. With a great hostess that I can talk to with my recommendations
Good thing, Papa Gary remembered where we had our JS Prom when I was in college. At first, I can't recall the place but Papa was patient in picturing the place and so I remembered! I remember Papa mentioning about the stairs where we had our pictorial, he also mentioned that it was the location where Erika had her 7th Birthday Celebration.
Let me share with you how the place looks like -- these shots were taken during the photo shoot of Louise last January 3 (a separate blog shall be posted on that).
At the background (on the left) that's the venue, on the right was the room that we rented.
Aerial Shot by Ralph
One of the things that struck me the most and I highly salute Tita Milette on this one, was how the stage was set up!
It was a newly built backdrop and Louise was lucky to have a first dip in using it! Can you see the intricate design there -- it was wood! Behind that was a spotlight where the color of the lights can be changed. Of course we chose orange spotlight. If you will notice, there are 6 white standee there (i dont know how they are called). They were beautifully decorated with the DIY pompoms that I created (separate blog post on that one to follow) by JWs in-house Florist (Kuya Toffer). Before you enter the hall, you will be welcomed by this frozen inspired ark as if you are entering into a magical kingdom! Indeed it was!
Then there was a beautiful red carpet entrance for the celebrator.
Another unique thing about JW Reception is that they had a non-traditional candle holders. Beautiful!
A closer look.
These are just some of the highlights about JW Reception Hall. Here are some more including my recommendations: 1. They have their own Mobile System and DJ -- I never had an issue with the Mobile system and DJ BJ. DJ BJ was very professional and we just need to tell him what to play and he will take care of it. Certain costs will apply -- but all worth it!
(From Left) Marvin, DJ BJ, Ralph
Photo taken from DJ BJ
2. Cocktail tables -- If you want your guests to have pica pica first (outside the venue) then these tables are available.
3. Registration Table -- they have an available registration table and you just have to beautify them to be enticing (that's what we did). 4. Photo-booth Area -- they accommodate Photo-booths and they have a specific area for that, an additional fee of Php 1000 shall apply for the usage of electricity. 5. Rooms -- they have two available rooms that you can rent on the day (24 hours) of your event. 6. In house Caterer -- I can never stress enough how happy I was with the food. I highly recommend them! I have a separate blog post on that. 7. Attendants - very friendly and accommodating waiters and waitresses, they were all very helpful and hospitable. Ad hoc requests were made and they duly obliged! 8. Hostess - overall in charge for the place and the caterer was Tita Milette, I cannot describe in words how blessed we were that we had Tita all along (from planning stage until the end of the event). She was very helpful, accommodating, patient, open minded and kind!
9. Letter Standee - they have available Letter Standee -- yes no extra charge and it made the stage looked very special. One request though is to take really good care of it!
10. In-House Florist - I never requested for a florist because I know I can take on the decorations. Tita Milette recommended one because she knows that her ideas can be executed well and I must admit that it was indeed carried out very well. I bought flowers for the bouquet because I was thinking that I can pull it off. Upon realizing that I can't do it, I asked Kuya Toffer to do it and it was beyond simplicity and beautiful that I have imagined.
11. Garden - for pictorial purposes they have a well maintained garden that you can use.
Aerial shot by Ralph
Aerial shot by Ralph
You may opt to have a garden wedding here or even a bohemian inspired event. What else? I am not sure if I am missing anything else as my emotions are still ecstatic as the day of the event itself. I highly recommend JW Reception Hall. Not only if you are choosing for quality service but if you are choosing that your event be MEMORABLE! Xoxo
In any occasion like weddings or debut it is (almost) always critical that the master of ceremony will be as energetic as possible.
Let me lay down the reasons why we should have a great host for any event:
1. You want your program to flow smoothly as planned
2. You want to ensure audience participation
3. You don't want your guests be bored to death
4. You want your celebrator to enjoy his/her/their event
5. You want your event to be remembered
Best way to achieve these goals is to seek the best service a host can give! Why should I look for hosts from Manila or anywhere else when we have one here in our hometown!
Thanks to Mama for pointing out how special Sir Gali is and how great he is in this craft! A great decision that I will never regret!
Sir Gali and our coordinator (day itself) tweaked the program that I created and I found it special because they know how programs flow and what will help me and the guests! Just brilliant!
Who would have thought that the professional host that he is, still reviews the program flow and execute them flawlessly! Just great!
With your help Sir Gali the event was so lovely, lively and entertaining! Thanks for giving a sample of your beautiful voice when you sang a few lines for all of us!
Until the next event!! I hope that's Christening!! Xoxo
Another great thing about this event was when Louise became the star of the night. They say that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder but things can get even more beautiful if we highlight what's beautiful! Okie fine what do I mean?? Louise is already beautiful -- syempre Mana sa kapatid! What made it even more exciting was when she was made even more beautiful with the help of our trusty Hair and Make Up Artist, Menard!
Thanks to Mika for referring Menard to us and we really definitely made the right choice!
Louise was so beautiful, great job to you Menard!!
Another shot to highlight this beautiful work!
Menard was also the one who made up Louise during her photoshoot!! Watch out for a separate post on that one! Again Menard! Thanks for making Louise at her best!!
One of the best things about any celebration is the time where the family and friends share the meal that was prepared by the celebrator.
One can never over emphasize the importance of dinner time (eating time) to any occasion and it becomes more special and memorable if the food that was shared was extremely good to the palate.
I can't stress enough how happy I was with the food!
