Happy New Year 2014!!!

Posted on January 1, 2014 by Marjorie

Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu!!

The year that was has some heartaches for me, where friendships are concerned, from the first month and right to the last month. But the inner struggles somehow gained me wisdom – that the friendships were blessings right at the time that they should be in my life. That probably the friendships weren’t meant to last. That I should be thankful that at some point in my life, I had their friendships and that those friendships blessed me (and hopefully them too). That probably, we have to move on, to be better persons. Someday our paths may cross again; and who knows those friendships might yet be rekindled. But until then, I would just have to be thankful for the time we’ve been together – be it in laughter and tears, joy and sorrow. And with these experiences, I am yet reminded again to cherish and nurture the relationships I have now.

And yes there are lots to be thankful for too! Me going back to work (and be being able to wholly take care of Yui for eight months! What career mom wouldn’t be thankful for that? It’s like getting the best of both worlds), Yui going to daycare, Yui celebrating her first year in the Philippines, Hubs’ overseas business trips and safe arrivals, us finding our perfect place paving the way for yet new beginnings, good health for us and our loved ones, good food to enjoy with love ones, and so much more other blessings besides. I welcome the new year with a grateful heart, Lord. 🙂

Now, the new year! The new year has lots of exciting NEWs for us. And with this is our fervent prayer that our decisions be guided by Him and that it be according to His plans for us and that these NEWs will see us with more love and laughter. We’re excited to receive the blessings you have in store for us this year, Lord! 🙂

Lost bag at Drugstore Charley

Posted on December 30, 2013 by Marjorie

We went out the house late this afternoon to go to the biggest bookstore in my husband’s hometown (where kids have the whole BIG third floor to explore books fit for their age). On the way, we dropped by Charley’s to (mainly) buy diaper wipes for our daughter. The drugstore was considerably big so we sat Yui on the store’s baby cart and hung my bag on the cart’s built-in hook. Then we shopped around. After shopping, I gathered Yui up, hubs carried our shopped goods, we hopped unto the car, and Otosan drove us to the big bookstore.

We were already in the bookstore however, when I noticed that my pink bag was missing. And with a sinking heart, I realized we left it hanging on the baby cart hook. My phone and wallet was there – which contained my residence card. Thankfully, Hubs was able to keep the receipt of our purchase which Otosan used to get the number of the store (a reminder yet again – keep receipts!). He called up the store and asked if they’ve seen a pink bag hanging on a baby cart.

They confirmed yes, they’ve seen it and they’d kept it (A sigh of relief from us). Otosan asked them that we are a bit far from the drugstore and that if it’s possible that we can just pick up the bag later on our way home. And they confirmed yes on this.

More than two hours later, we picked up the bag – with nothing amiss on it. With a big sigh of relief, I exclaimed how relieved I am that I lost my bag in Japan. If it has been in some other country, it would have been gone for good. And what a headache it would have been!

Kudos Japan and I hope you’d keep this country as safe as it is now (or even safer!)

travel wardrobe

Posted on December 26, 2013 by Marjorie

I used to do this for myself before – planning what clothes goes with what on which day whenever I/we travel. But, well, things change when you become a Mom. It’s all for the baby now. And with it being winter and we’ll be dressing up in layers, mix and matching clothes for your doll – er, baby – is so totally fun!

As for what the Mom will wear…well, there are a couple or so clothes in the closet. I’ll just grab some and throw them in the luggage. Whichever, whatever (as long as it will keep me warm!) will do.

Merry Christmas 2013!!

Posted on December 25, 2013 by Marjorie

It’s almost 2am in my part of the world and technically it’s already December 26. But still.
Here’s to wishing everyone had A Merry Christmas!!

The Christmas cakes sold here in the country is just so crazy expensive!! Makes me miss more the traditional (cheaper) food we have in the Philippines. And since I’d rather buy wine than an expensive cake, I bought Fujiya purin/pudding instead for our special dessert. And I’m really happy with this purchase because aside from the free cups (I bought one each for me and hubs), it tasted really close from the traditional Filipino leche flan. Happy!

True, the festivities and Christmas spirit is truly different and truly remarkable in the Philippines. Hubs and I and Yui may experience it again (first time for Yui) hopefully in the very near future; to experience the facet of Christmas that’s very festive. Till then, we will maximise the facet of Christmas that’s more laid back and intimate – like smiling back at your daughter who was giving you a happy grin after giving her a spoonful of delicious (and nutritious) meal; like getting a bear hug from your husband after finishing off most of the tasks for the night and greeting each other Merry Christmas; like hubs putting back the plastic decoration on my Christmas chicken after reheating it. All those. Subtle Exchanges. Of love.

Love, the very reason why we have a baby in the manger who, when grown up would sacrifice himself because of love.

And my heart is even more filled with gratitude. For all the love sent my way.