A True Positive Mind

new year ends

2012-01-21T10:44:00.007+01:00

I normally post during Christmas and New Year but since I'm really really inactive on the blog sphere I haven't greeted anyone here. So I am greeting everyone a very belated Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year (anyway it's Chinese New Year so am not yet late for some lol) . Let's therefore brace 2012 with lots of hopes, a happy heart and more positivity.

Our new year was a bit of a disaster. How about you ? No fireworks, no good food only sick people. We were supposed to spend the new year with friends in the French Alps and expected to return home January 2. Unluckily, our three kids were sick all at the same time. You heard me right! We urgently needed to go home 31st of January as we didn't want to contaminate everyone. Home at 8 o'clock in the evening and we all bid farewell to 2011 tired but at least it was only gastro and not something worse . We all went to bed at 10 o'clock exhausted. Me, contemplating that whatever happened last year good or bad I still consider them great experiences as I often learn from it. I consider learning is always "good" because it signifies wisdom. Keeping in mind that I need to expand my awareness and perspective, make a new track and change what is necessary, and be more patient.

And what about 2012 ? Well, I don't want to be anxious about what 2012 has in store for us. As I as often do, I live each day, stay optimistic & spontaneous, and be the master of my life !

more on moving home

2011-11-29T14:26:00.007+01:00

Moving home to most of us is one of the most stressful in our part of life….that means BIG changes. Social circle, school, job, kid’s activities etc. But I still consider myself lucky to move just down the block, thus only small changes. We have preserved almost everything like kid’s school, social circle, activities, my husband’s office which is an hour and a 15 minutes drive stays the same. It makes our home moving uncomplicated because we have anticipated almost everything since it’s not a question of changing world of work or company. From choosing the place where to live although we have considered looking somewhere which is completely out from the town we’re in. The packing which I started 6 months before the D day. Along with de-cluttering helped me to unburden all the old stuffs and could finally bid goodbye to them. My kids were really cooperative while de-cluttering their toys and that’s less job for me.

A big turmoil that is as we often stressed out thinking if things will get inside the house depending how wide the windows and doors are. Trying to gauge whether stuffs will fit in. I was surprise that moving went very smoothly, unfussy and stress-free. A stroke of luck, we have 3 entrance to new abode so we have choices where to get ahead of our stuffs. Having an easier access is something vital in a house. Grateful to many friends who came to spare free time to help us move our stuffs. And to my so called “second family” in my second home who kept my two big kids during the move. While I look after my baby and continue doing my last packing. Moving stuffs came very handy despite of our massive canapés. Friends were very supportive from A to Z. Moving turned out perfectly well.

grateful too all of them

a friend who brought his own company truck to make the move faster

Just to give you a brief hisrotry of home, it was built during the 1950’s and it is called “La Village de Picheney” . During that time there was an aluminium factory in that district. The employer built 12 houses for his of employees with families. The factory has been closed since 1988, if I am not mistaken. And so houses were sold from one person to another. According to the old owner we are the 4^th holder of this house so that’s one good thing as we can see house is taken care of.. Our home is just fit for a brood of 5. The house is very functional, we have 3 big rooms, 2 toilets, bathroom, laundry area, big salon, a veranda, a garage, a garden enough to enjoy a nice meal during good season and a stock area. Plus we have a very rich apricot tree.

our new home

About our location and setting, home has an easy access to local community such as “Maison de Quartier“, commercial areas but we are still isolated from the heart of busy stores. Accessible to highway, transportation, football field and parks. Parking is very easy except if one of the neighbour celebrates and have visitor then it could be a bit harder. And since we love trekking we have a nice trek to do right on our nose. We haven’t explore it yet as we are still into fixing, arranging and improving our new abode. Along with juggling to manage three kids, activities, and errands.

So dear bloggers, sorry I cannot visit you or haven’t got enough time to update my blog but I am still here. I know, I am a bore!

step by step

2011-03-08T10:15:00.003+01:00

Buying a house is not like buying a pair of shoes that if it doesn’t fit you right you could bring them back to the store. It’s the major and vital financial decision in life. It could be lengthy, complex, exciting and stressful… name it ! It’s a maze of legal work, bidding, opting for a good mortgage arrangement. Most importantly finding the right home of your choice. More than anything else, financial situation is important to purchase a house. However, being emotionally & mentally prepared are also the keys to start an important project and seek for a home you can really afford. With all the aforementioned, now I can say we are ready !

I then started to check real estate magazines and internet for houses, apartments or even lands for sale in our district & neighboring cities. Our house hunting didn’t take long as we personally opted for direct selling. First, we needed to look at our budget that will fit into our financial condition. Second, real estate is costly so our friend who is an agent/owner recommended us to wait until the housing prices plunge. Third, we still have 4 years mortgage to complete the payment of this flat (but that’s another story) to keep or sell. Those are many reasons why we have waited to squeezed in for the meantime but not for so long.

Plus, we have already rubbed off the idea of buying from real estate agencies, reality is to keep us away from over exuberant cost as housing market still seems pretty bleak. I was surprised that the whole process only took us a year to finalize everything from searching for the perfect home in the right neighborhood, to verify our financial means, to moving and settling in.

Thanks to our financial consultant all is being scrutinized from bank statements to appraisal, financial budget and calculating future monthly mortgage. Plus, we asked if it’s possible to keep the flat as an investment without out having to worry about financial stability if we have them both. We make sure our credit history is as clean as a crystal water. Good news, we were pretty much able to pay the rest of the credit to make this flat ours. Finally, a good benefit that will help us keep a good eye on fixed asset or long term investment..

We are tremendously grateful for some professional help that we received from my husband’s childhood friends :

Guillaume - Real Estate Agent, from guiding us the entire procedure so as to avoid some of the most frequent risks, the pros and cons of home-buying. He will also take care of this flat to look for a renter.

Xavier - The Architect, who helped us to check the house’s condition like public safety and building codes. What to avoid and to get rid of some little things that are useless and gives us some pretty good ideas for future repairs.

Jérémy - The Notary who takes care of all the legal works such as signature witnessing, deposition, confirmation of acknowledgment, oaths and affirmation and to journalize everything.

That’s what I call team work! After several months of visits we finally found a home that suits our taste especially our budget. In no time, we will move to our new home and things will be more easier and comfortable for everyone. I can’t wait to be home soon.

room sharing : a good delimma

2011-02-17T08:59:00.011+01:00

Our first born child (a boy) was the motivation why we bought the apartment of two bedrooms since November 2002. After 2 years and 4 months to be exact, I gave birth to our second child (a girl) and we are still living in that same apartment of 65 sq. meters. It is located in the city but off from busy streets. My husband wanted us to move to a bigger place after having a baby girl. He was thinking there wouldn’t be enough space for them. Told him why not share a room besides they are still young? I said to him kids of not the same sex in the same room is not bad at all. Siblings are suppose to share whatever things they have and sharing a room is one of them. It promotes a closer sibling rapport. They would learn, develop and adapt themselves in different situations along the way. I was joking about it too, that he married a Filipina and so we should live like an authentic Filipino family. I do not see anything wrong with it. I grew up with my brother and sister in the same room and it was a no big deal. We liked it all together even if we fought over something. It was a joke but it is true! Sharing spaces is part of a Filipino way of family life. Of course, there’s always an exception if you belong to a rich family then you’ll have your own private room. Apparently, he agreed with my point of view and we didn’t move since then.

April 2010, I gave birth to our third child ( just for the record it’s an unexpected or should I say "SURPRISED" pregnancy). And we are still living in that same 65 sq. meters flat with our three kids sharing one room and we are all happy. We choose to wait a little bit to move to a bigger place as we don’t want to be in a haste. We both don't like rushing to get things done! Most especially we do not want to buy a house because of pressure that we get mostly from our entourage.

Certainly, I admit that family is growing therefore we absolutely need a bigger space as the flat starts to be small for a brood of five. I admit, sometimes staying at home all day in that small flat is a bit tedious. But we are getting used to it, it’s just a matter of finding interesting stuffs to do to forget about the space problem. Good thing, we love outdoor activities and so during weekends we are mostly out and enjoying.. Active children need activities throughout their free time. During bad weather we still manage to do other indoor activities like playing chess, drawing, assembling puzzle and sometimes playing Nintendo DS (but this has a limit). We also have a big garage in the basement’s residence and they get to rollerblade and bike there. We also found a new sports that kids love so much and during bad weather you will find them there. Of course, they also watch television, some cartoons and interesting documentary about dinosaurs, natures and animals and all about earth. They love that kind of program.

On the other hand, we are perfectly aware of the upside and downside of room sharing. My son who is an 8 years old urgently needs his own space to do his homework. Otherwise,he couldn’t concentrate because my daughters could be noisy sometimes while playing. Above all, he is growing and the only boy, thus, privacy matters could make sharing principally complicated. Honestly, I am proud to say they never really squabble because they share a room but it’s more of fighting over a toy or asking who will arrange the mess. Obviously, they both do the tiding up….no choice they only have one room. That’s one advantage of room sharing! We discussed all about these pros and cons, and it motivated us much more to buy a house with a bigger space for our children to value privacy and solitude. Besides, they already know the importance of cooperation and sharing, to negotiate and compromise.

For eight years, we are fortunate to have lived in this flat as it is near a public park and not buildings & commercial zone. Grateful that we are not confronted of dirty streets, noisy stores and not having to struggle to find a parking space. Plus, we have a superb terrace just enough to stay and enjoy a fine day and gaze upon the verdant green cliffs, trees and plants right on our nose. Nice neighbours, there may be one or two bad apples but not everyone. I will surely miss this flat !

the view from our flat

mon voisin est un grand malade

2011-02-11T20:21:00.009+01:00

Ca faisait un bail je n’ai pas écrit en Français et c’est drôle de me retrouver devant mon ordinateur taper, fouiller et rectifier les mots en Français. Déjà pour pouvoir mettre à jour mon blog c’est assez difficile mais bon c’est comme ça. Il m'a fallu beaucoup de temps, déclic et de courage pour me lancer….et tiens, me voilà ressuscité !

Ce n'est pas dans ma nature de me plaindre, mais aujourd’hui laissez- moi me plaindre bon sang ! Je vais vous dire pourquoi ? Mon voisin d’en bas m’énerve car le dernier fois il me demandé de me garer comme il l'aurait souhaité. Moi, je n’ai pas hésiter de le faire autant. Oui, je me tais car j’avoue ça m’a énervée et puis il y avait mes enfants avec moi. Je ne voudrai pas avoir la dispute et me causer plus de problème car ça sera plus mon voisin dans pas longtemps, hélas ! J’ai toujours respecter les consignes dans la résidence, car il est vrai qu'il est très important d'avoir de bons rapports avec les voisins. Mais alors là, je n’ai pas envie d’avoir une relations amical avec cet homme. Lui, qui se gare toujours juste devant le bâtiment sur un marquage jaune au niveau de l’entrée et il s'est permis de faire une réflexion. J'ai faillit lui dire que le marquage jaune au sol ne sert pas à grand-chose si tout le monde se gare comme vous. Mais bon, je n’ai pas osé de lui dire, j’ai préférée me taire.

cet homme se gare la !

et moi je me gare juste ici en respectant le marquage au sol

En revanche, pour se faire remarquer et quand je trouve l’occasion je me gare à proximité de l’entrée…je le fait ! J’en suis carrément sûre qu’il ne va pas aimer, je m’en fou ! C’est pour lui montre que j’ai tout les droits de me garer où je veux non en respectant lau même temps le marquage au sol? Et si la prochaine fois il me fait des réflexions, je vais lui faire comprendre. Si quelqu'un veut être respecté par les autres, il le faut une vie digne de respect en comportant ainsi, mais malheureusement ce n'est pas son cas.

Translation :

It's been ages I have not written in French and it's funny to find myself in front my computer typing, searching and correcting words in French. To be able to update my blog is already quite difficult but it's like that. It took me a long time, to click and courage to start myself. ... and hey, here I am risen!

It's not in my nature to complain, but today let me complain, dammit! I'll tell you why? My downstairs neighbor annoys me because the last time he asked me to park my car as he wished. Me, I did not hesitate to do so. Yes, I admit it made me angry but I didn't say anything because my children were with me. I would not want any hassle and cause me more problems because it will be my neighbor not for so long, alas! I always follow the instructions in the residence because it is true that it is very important to have good relations with neighbors. But then, I do not want to have friendly relations with that man. He, who always parks in front of the building on a yellow mark in front of the entrance and he allowed himself to give me instructions. I almost tell him that the yellow mark on the ground is useless if everyone parks like you. But hey, I did not dare to tell him I prefer to keep quiet.

However, to get noticed and when I find the opportunity to park, I park near the entrance not in front... I will! I am totally sure he won't like it, I don't care! It is to show him that I have every rights to park wherever I want right and respecting at the same time the lines? And if next time he'll call my attention, I'll make him understand. If someone wants to be respected by others, it takes a life worthy of respect, but unfortunately this is not his case.

way too late post

2011-01-03T12:00:00.006+01:00

Exploring the neighbourhood regions is also interesting. The South of France has its exquisite scenery, with good food and great weather. Of course the French Riviera and Gorges du Verdon represents a lot of tourists every year. Municipalities like Orange, Arles, Ardèche, Aix-en Provence are a must sees. Big cities like Marseille, Toulon and Alpes Maritime, are a great sites to visit. The Provence is dotted with lovely little towns. Since our drama queen is asking for a visit, my family of five never says no.

Summer is not complete and won’t be a perfect getaway without having to sunbathe, getting to swim either in a pool, beach and lake. We went to spend the half of the day at Lac St. Cassien (Lake St. Cassien) with Makis. It is one of the tourist spots in the Alpes Maritime. A lovely dike of 66 metres high and produced to have an artificial lake. It is a 5 kms long, placed in water during the 1966 and it’s located near the highway which is only 12 km west of Cannes. There are lots of exciting water based leisure like boating, canoeing, fishing. There are also affordable restaurants & pizzeria to choose from.

Afraid that parking would be difficult as there were lots of tourist we went there as early as we could around 10 in the morning (well not too early). Luckily, we found a parking slot just beside the lake. We have rented a deckchair with sunshade to at least protect us from the sun especially for my Chiara. Only Makis loves sunbathing while I start to detest it meaning I didn’t even go for a swim. Just by being with my family, a friend and the sound of natural running water would always bring simple pleasure in my life. The kids have enjoyed swimming at the lake with their father. While I and Makis enjoyed catching up, looking at those tourist wondering how they could keep up their silhouette after pregnancy. How teenagers look like an adult compared to us who’s nearly our 40’s lol !

We have also visited the neighbouring village named Cabris which is 10 minutes by car from Makis's place. It was a nice short stroll into Cabris. Picture taking is a must as the village is undeniably beautiful! We have enjoyed the warm welcome of the Maravels, good cooking of Makis what else ! Thank you again Makis & Alex and until our next visit to your new home !

FAKE

2010-10-18T14:36:00.011+02:00

This morning I went to my first appointment at Kinesitherapy for my perineal re-education. While on my way to the clinic, I have witnessed a violent manifestation proximity close to my children’s school. They are probably 100 to 150 hundred students on the street manifesting…I don’t know what they want ? They have put fire in the garbage bins….Alright, there is a strike every week in Marseille, I am aware of what they are protesting for those who “REALLY” know what they are fighting until certain demands have been met by the government. But these students are just there to attract attention and most especially to bother people. Les petits voyous “hooligans” who’s there just to have fun and create a big mess.

Although, there were police officers to secure the area still it was quite stressing as I walked on the street with my 6 month old baby. I wouldn’t be afraid if I am alone…I could run whatever happen. Good thing firemen came rapidly to stop the conflagration made by these morons.

Done with my re-education, I went on my way and an old woman angrily told me “C’est les petits merdeux de la ville qui a fait tout ça ! ”. (It’s the little hooligans of the city who did that” ! I told her I might go on my way as I have a little baby with me. She advised me to leave as it’s dangerous to stay especially for the baby. I went to the car and made a U turn to stay away from them. Took another road, unfortunately they started to leave the area the same time I did ! We met on the grand boulevard, students marching on and so I was driving all along with my 1st gear. They were in the middle of the street marching on as if they are the only person on earth and just won’t let me pass. One of the students looked at me and smiled making a thumbs up sign. I didn’t do anything but I was absolutely furious inside!

As I drove along I was on my guard ! It was my first time to see with my own two eyes delinquent students smashing telephone booths, they broke all the shaded bus stops made of glass, they threw arranged plastic garbage in the middle of the streets….seriously it’s killing me ! They aren’t manifesting at all, they are destroying everything in sight. Fake strikers exist !

I have nothing against strike but I am against their means. To block total mobilization isn’t the best solution…it’s an economic loss ! I am hoping it will end very soon. If not for my husband’s stable job we are absolutely leaving France !

Babies eyeball

2010-09-15T10:41:00.009+02:00

Every year we used go to Corsica to spend summer vacation in the mountain house to disconnect ourselves from the demanding life in the city. Unfortunately, this time we’re not going due to personal reason. As for me, it’s not that bad at all as we get to visit friends nearby Marseille. And since the weather is finally getting pleasant, we've been spending more time doing outdoor activities plus our social life is at long last rejuvenated. We are often invited by friends who throw pool parties over their place.

Our first summer escapade was to visit Kala & Lila. Since they are back in France, for a year or so we were able to meet up with her and to see Lila in person. Issirac is where they have stayed together with her very nice in-laws. It’s a region of Languedoc-Roussillon in the South of France in which we never really get to explore. A two hours drive from Marseille which is nothing. I was happy to see lavander fields on the way. Didn't had the chance of taking picture as finding the country house was extremely tedious plus our super GPS shortly after turning it on went down, darn ! I was anxious already as we were lost in the middle of nowhere. Added to that, my Chiara was crying all the way and Mayumi all puked at some point because of that winding road. It was like lost in the Sahara dessert trying to find our way without any clue. Husband started to freak out while I kept my calm to avoid aggravating the situation. Lastly, I kept my spirits up by thinking happy thoughts & objectively dealing with the situation.

Furthermore, on the way there were no signals thus the conversation with Kala were cut off every now and then. We couldn't wait for the last straight line to reach the country house. Finally, we have decided to stop in one of the villages and gave Kala a call. Goodness gracious, we have established the contact and thanks to ubiquitous cellular phones we were lost and found…. just in time! Father in law was nice enough to pick us up where we stopped. Well, those are just details. The best part was the rest of the day was spent with a very nice conversation with Kala and her in-laws over a nice lunch. A long nap for Chiara and a quick one for Lila. While the kids, hubby and Kala’s father in-law enjoyed swimming at the pool. Kala and me were able to catch up and chat about everything.

Chiara meets Lila

Thanks for lending me your bob hat Lila !

Kala and I also did a short swim with them. Taking pictures of everyone is indispensable. But will post few of them. Though it was a short meeting we had a great day indeed ! And it was my first time to see harvested fresh truffes by Flute (the truffe hunter) and to have met pretty Lila !

Worth its salt

2010-06-08T11:07:00.006+02:00

Three years ago, when I approached turnarounds, when I needed to pay at the tollgates, when having to and obliged charging car fuel…I COMPLETELY PANIC ! I don’t know but driving, drove me crazy. I was grumpy as there are a lots of things to do at the same time. It’s like multitasking but the only multitask I know is when I work at home or in the office. And driving is another story so if I fail, I’ll bleed like a stuck pig ! From anticipating, controlling, braking, shifting the gear, how the hell am I going to do that ?

Driving in Marseille is a long ordeal, a vast milestone in my years. Just when I imagine I am behind to the short strokes somewhat surprising draw closer. After three lengthy years of driving, manoeuvrings and holding on with only 6 points in my license as an apprentice, I am now a certified driver (normally experienced drivers have maximum 12 points). No more "A" stick at the back of my window car. No more aggressive tailgaters, not anymore betwixt and between an attempt to make a choice whether to pass by turnarounds, paying at the tollgate is just a piece of cake. I can say that driving is like clear as a bell.

In between years, I admit to break one of my tail lights after driving a month or so which is normal for a new driver. I got an infraction once and I paid 35€ for that. Apparently, I parked on the sidewalk lane (sidewalk is very large and doesn’t bother any pedestrian). I stopped there for only 10 minutes. well the police didn’t accept my explanation even if I am 8th months pregnant. I supposed, odds seem stacked against me that day.

What’s funny about this, I was thinking to take off my “A” on June 12. My husband asked me “Why June 12? I remember you need to take it off early this year.” I kept on ignoring him and continue to keep my A. Out of the blue, I took the yellow paper copy (Certificate of License) a proof that I have passed the Permit B. Husband is right ! Darn, I should have taken it away 4 months ago. And so two days ago, I proudly took it off and I can finally say hello to 12 points and goodbye to my panic attacks !

growth & challenges

2010-06-02T09:47:00.004+02:00

Philippines is known to be a “third world country”. The term 3rd World is I guess outdated one, meaning nations which were not a branch of the Soviet or American slab at some stage of the Cold War. It came out on the latter that poor countries are considered a developing nations. I just wish that they will stop using this expression. And they will give us a chance to prove that we are indeed making our way to greater evolution. Not only the Philippines but most of Asian countries or other countries in this category who try to step forward at their own means. Let’s just take a good example of the eternal communist countries (mainly China) have imprecise the line between communism and capitalism. Apparently, they are everywhere and ruling the market. I’ve read that Chinese starts to silently invades Africa . Communist China is quickly preying the gigantic natural resources of sub-Saharan Africa. According to what I have read, an in-depth report that oil, copper, timber, precious metals -- China has swooped in to secure long-term deals.

I am still hopeful ! It's time Philippine economy to prove its worth. Arroyo said “Right now, we’re not Third World anymore,”. “At $1,400 we are now Second World, a middle class country. We’ll be able to achieve, if we are able to continue the trajectory of one-percent decline in the poverty level, we can reach hopefully the First World status by the year 2020.” I would like to believe her but why wait until 2020 ?

Philippines is a country rich in natural resources like other Asian countries which are now gradually developing. So I just hope they will realize and be fair that third world countries too have a clear sense of progression.

My Koh-Lanta experience

2010-05-20T10:50:00.008+02:00

My first thoughts concerning the labour included an epidural no doubt ! Five days before the supposed expected delivery, after a long push with extreme pain and no anesthesia I finally gave birth to a healthy baby girl on April 12. I couldn’t believe myself that I can go all natural with the birth as I had epidural for my two previous pregnancies. Scared that I might not be able to deal with the pain but I did or because I didn’t have a choice. It was too late to get an epidural as the baby was ready to come out. One thing for sure I pushed myself to the maximum limit. I ended up crying and screaming that signifies a “point-of-no-return” ! Good thing, my husband gave me the strength and supported me from A to Z. The medical group were extremely efficient in dealing during the delivery. Though, husband had an inkling that it was a forced labour when they saw it was a big baby of 4.640 kilos and measures 51 cm. It has been said that whether a woman carrying a big baby should undergo cesarean depends largely on the caregiver's or OB's management, not my pelvis. Plus, the theory goes that for all babies suspected to be big should get a cesarean to avoid shoulder dystocia. I appreciate their honesty of telling me they had difficulties of her getting out because the shoulder and arms are large. Nothing serious, she only had several red marks on her arms.

Fortunately, everything went well and didn’t have any complications. Two things that troubled me were my basin and coccyx, it suffered too much which started during my 7th month pregnancy until my delivery since the baby is big. I underwent therapy and thanks to Osteopathy, I can walk normally. Here's the picture of my little sumo, more of her soon together with her Kuya & Ate !

Third time's the Charm

2010-02-12T11:00:00.000+01:00

Things....time......everything goes by really fast. I just cannot imagine that I will be admitted to hospital in 2 and a half months time. Restarting all over again from breastfeeding, sleepless nights, changing diapers to potty training and vice versa. I can see myself from now how will my journey could turn up side down and days could be shorter since I have two kids who go to school, bring them to their extra curricular activities plus taking care of a newborn baby. Bottom line, this job requires to be thrice organized than I was and to follow a srtict time management, well those are basically the keys to accomplish more or at the very least we could do everyday. Become more efficient with my time so as to avoid stress at the end of the day.

First the good thing about this is, I am glad that my daughter already accepted the idea to eat at the canteen. Meaning, I will have the rest of the day from taking care of the baby (my Me and baby time) , doing the household chores and getting some errands done. Before it was so hard for her to accept it but when we tried to explain why, she in return completely undesrtood the situation.

My children are topsy turvy most of the time like most of the kids. They can be lazy. Second, when they started going to school I have already trained my children to help me a little bit at home. To teach them to be autonomous. Giving them easy duties to get done, like arranging their toys, throwing the rubbish such as (plastics, papers, etc) in the garbage and sorted it our already as we have separate garbages for the recyclable and soiled ones. Every after meal, they are capable to arrange plates and won't wait for me anymore. In the long run this will be one of the biggest time management that helps me during the day. It became a habit for them. An organization is a skill learned over time and I am personally grateful to my parents for this as I am doing the same practice and instilled in the same manner to my children.

Wish me good luck for the coming of another baby and that I will be able to make everything in order. This is going to be a tough job but with the help of my husband and children they will make it easier for me !

Thank You 2009.... Cheers to 2010

2009-12-31T19:00:00.000+01:00

Back then, I used to have a list of resolutions every coming of the New Year. Looking back from the past and and more importantly contemplating and moving forward to changes. Honestly, I did a lot of change but sadly some of these resolutions remained unchanged. Tough right, sometimes skeptical of even making the effort. That was long time ago and I haven't thought to make a list since then. Having a New Year's Resolutions is not at all useless. It's good though somewhat disappointing if ever I may not achieve all of them. Especially after having promised myself to do every changes. It really sucks !

Now, I go for spontaneity and be realistic ! I live each day, tries to correct all these wrong actions, I don't aim higher or lower neither perfection but just enough for me to reach them. I still have a long way to go, but each day I endeavour to amass more courage and conviction. I am thankful for 2009 even though it's been both the best of times and worst of times around the world. I wish everyone a Happy New Year and may this year 2010 will be even better full of hopes !!!

Giant Virus

2009-11-27T09:48:00.007+01:00

The world has been debating about the vaccine for H1N1. The virus which is extremely increasing in which lot of people are against it ,others are for, some are confused. I belong to the confused one. I am not against vaccines but I need further explanation, I call for more proof, I require assurance especially that I am 5 months on the way. After exchanging conversations with friends, moms from school and a lot or reading thru surfing from the internet I have decided to get vaccinated. I have also received a go signal from all our doctors (Gynecologist, Generalist, and Pediatrician). Without their consent, I am probably perplex until this very moment.

How it happened :

Saturday, I have received a letter from the Social Security for a free vaccination of H1N1. The letter says that vaccination will take place in order of priority and a predetermined schedule. The priority populations are those persons 2 to 64 years with high risk factors, pregnant women, people close to infants under 6 months, the professional early childhood up to three years, infants 6 to 23 months with risk factors suffering from severe chronic disease. Finally, I went Monday morning together with my husband to proceed with the procedures. I was the only one who received the letter but a nice woman proposed to my husband to take the shot since we have waited for 2 long hours. Now, we are both finally vaccinated. We were surprised because we thought that there will be few people but I can tell you the queue were unstoppable. We have waited for 2 long hours to get vaccinated. As for our children, there is a campaign that vaccination will be done at school premises, therefore we are waiting for that and the letter that will follow from the Social Security.

Concerning about the signing of a paper to make the State liable-free of any inapt honestly, I have never come across it neither my husband with different vaccine injected. The only paper I signed was to act in response to the questions concerning if I have a history of allergies from drugs and vaccines. If I am under treatment of any sickness and the sorts. For pregnant women, the vaccine appropriate for us is called Panenza without Adjuvant likewise with children. Example wherein Canada approved the use of Adjuvant-free.

In the end, they gave me the necessary documents like the certificate of vaccine against H1N1 with my signature in it, the kind of vaccine they injected and a notice of information for the vaccine users.

The Effects :

The doctor informed me that vaccine may cause fever, soreness and redness in the area which I didn’t have until today. The only thing I felt was mild numbness which I think is normal for an after-effect. I was thinking if in any case there will be a long term effect I supposed the medical services is present and will provide us the necessary treatment in the future.

I have read that medical researchers worked on this treatment for the H1N1 virus (or swine flu) that employs a diverse approach. Instead of disabling the virus with a drug, they're generating a vaccine that triggers and manoeuvres a patient's own immune system to attack the intruder.

I am not convincing anyone to do the same. Besides, when you receive the letter it is not obligatory yet for the moment. But in time it will probably become a mandatory for everyone, I just don’t know. This is to share my experience on how it went for me. If any case, if there will be an after effect we can always contact our doctors. Or if you want more information’s please check the following website EMEA European Medicine Agency and Agence Française de Sécurité Sanitaires des Prodiuits de Santé (French Agency of Sanitary Safety of Health Product).

A miracle, an accident, a blessing, whatever you call it

2009-11-12T14:10:00.005+01:00

Eight years had passed when my Gynecologist told me that I have the risk of not having a baby. It tore my heart apart and I started imagining things. WHAT IF ? That is the big question I have had most of the time. During the day, I found myself alone mulling over whether I will be a mother someday or not at all. Then we’ve waited and never lose hope. We have lived the life of a newly wed couple. Visiting Marseille was the first thing we did. Going to cinema almost every week, inviting friends over for dinner, organizing a party, hiking, doing sports and we did everything that interest us. I have also concentrated on studying French Language as a part of my integration in France to be occupied with something useful.

I almost forgot the sad scenario of my life. My husband has been supportive and I am really grateful for that. He once told me that “Life of a couple doesn’t evolve to being a parent. Having kids is not an obligation, it’s by choice and life should continue” ! He continued telling me that there are happy couple without children. This is not to assure me but he wanted me to see life’s reality. I find that the subject of having kids or or not is one of the great "taboos" of our existence. There are people who love kids but they don’t have one…. It's called childfree by choice. And why are there priests, devoted singles, monks and nuns? Because they choose a vocation and they’re happy about it.

But personally, we wanted to be parents but it was not coming. So I’ve learned to let go. I went on with my life. Be a good wife to my husband. I busied myself as best I could and protect myself from depressing thoughts. I had worked my way up to improve my French which took all of my energy. Learning French has also given me tremendous effort to appreciate this complicated language.

We wanted to be parents and we always believe that there are solutions to this right ? If worse comes to worst we will eventually consider the In-Vitro Fertilization. And if IVF won’t work adoption will be our second recourse.

Years had passed. One day, I went to my Gyne for a yearly check-up. Particularly because I felt a sharp pain from my lower abdomen. I didn’t think of anything else because that’s me when I normally have my monthly period. But when I went out from the clinic I had the biggest surprise of my life…..I was 2 weeks pregnant ! I cannot believe it but I was. Over the past 2 years after we got married, we had our first child and we named him Sébastien. In most situations, I know our waiting time appears to be relatively short compared to many. After 2 years and 3 months to be exact, I gave birth to another baby. Our second child is born and we named her Mayumi.

Husband keeps on bugging me for a third child. It’s not that I want it but I think we really are lucky to have already both. I did not stop taking my contraceptive pills and despite of that things had happened for a reason so consider it a blessing. When it rains, it pours ! blog about this to officially announce to friends that I am 4 months on the way for the third time. That is the reason why I am out of the circulation for a couple of months. The first 3 months was not easy but I feel better now. Now that I am back, I think I need to put a little life on this deserted blog. I believe in the saying, “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle”.

This is how the baby looks like, taken on the 11th week of my pregnancy

Push to the limit !

2009-08-03T23:59:00.001+02:00

I tried to convince my husband that I will not drive in Corsica. Since I had my licence I never get to drive here as it could be stressful….stressful, and have aggressive, crazier drivers than in Marseille. For some great reasons that roads are not only twisted but also very narrow. Add to that quite dark roads without no lights in the mountain side could be really exhausting and dangerous especially at night. Some part of the roads have lights only when you enter in the rural area. Along that winding roads will be in total darkness. When I mean dark just imagine yourself blind ! This is a not to exaggerate things.

Image from goolge.com

We went to Bastia to spend sometime at the beach since we’ve gone to rivers three times already during our first week in Corsica. Later that day we have to meet up with hubby’s childhood friend who’s apparently organizing a karaoke every Friday night. Obviously, we have stayed up late. My intuition serves me right since yesterday morning when we left the house that I will definitely drive during the night going back to the mountain. So husband was slowly preparing me mentally since then. Trying to ask me if I would feel comfortable to drive around. My answer was I will be stressed out but I will try my best that we get back home in one piece. Do I have a choice ?

At exactly 11 in the evening we decided to leave the karaoke party. Leaving the city of Bastia driving was still okay like most of the big cities as we’ve got a clear vision. Husband was still in good shape and capable to drive around the city. As expected he did not hesitate to ask me to drive for 15 minutes as all of a sudden fatigue has set in. He only asked me for 15 minutes of sleep for him to recover. That took me a special kind of angst when he stopped the car in the midst of darkness and gave me the wheel right just in time to drive in that narrow, dark and winding roads of Corsica. He was trying to tell me that it’s okay if I am afraid he’ll continue driving. I told him I’m not scared but I will admit I am starting to stress out !!! Of course, I would rather obliged myself rather than let him drive under fatigue which could be detrimental.

I took the wheel and drove. I was all by myself while everyone else is asleep. Husband was asleep in just a matter of seconds. The only sound that keeps me awake was the severe snoring of husband and son and the awful roads I have to take. As I drove on our way back it was constantly uphill, downhill, twisting, dark roads back to the mountain. I don’t simply care if the pet peeves find me slow. And because of a number of crazy drivers on the road even at night I kept my calm and tried to focus myself. It was difficult to drive particularly when approaching those blind curves or going towards the inside of a fairway with obstructed visibility as there were drivers who tried to tailgate me. Normally, the maximum speed is 70 km/hr but I was driving at the speed of 60 during that zigzag roads but one thing I am sure of that wild drivers were driving fast enough like a serious racer. Some parts is at 90 and 110 km/hr on the departmental highway is long and straight . I have used my head light (high beam mode) when I found myself driving alone and needed to changemy headlight to low beam mode in case there are cars coming from the opposite lane or for those who tried to double take when they got the chance. A forgotten 15 minutes has long gone !

My driving all went well! I have realized that driving in Corsica is not that bad at all it only demands constant attention and prudence twice more than I do. Finally, we’ve arrived the junction after 45 long minutes of driving in the dark going to the village itself. From the junction I've tried waking him up to pass the steering wheel and he did. He said thank you to me and complimented me because we have reached the carrefour successfully within the expected time-frame. He was expecting that it will took me more than that. From that moment, I immediately found myself relieved from everything. Husband drove for another 15 minutes and finally got home in good time, tuckered out and glad to be back. I want to kiss the ground and thank the heavens we got back all in one piece. ...

Can we be friends ?

2009-07-17T14:04:00.004+02:00

A lot of social network sites have been cropping up like mushrooms such as Friendster, Facebook, MySpace and so on. But I’ve been loyal to Friendster and Facebook as I have found a lot of my long lost friends. I admit it’s real fun. Had open myspace but it's inactive and do not have twitter.

I've been too lazy to blog, thus I enjoy surfing and try to find friends in Facebook. In one week, I saw 5 friends and we’re re-connected. We even exchanged mails to catch up. One day, I was chatting with a very good friend from college about reconnecting with friends. The thing is, it’s not only friends but suitors and Ex’s I was trying to locate…to be honest hahaha ! Well, I am just so curious to find out what have they become nothing more nothing less. So I told my friend that I found her ex. Her ex and us were good friends during University days. Well, it’s not my business to any further extent if they will invite each other. But my friend asked me if she’ll invite him so I told her why not? But she was hesitant because she does not want to create any problem between the couple. Goodness gracious, that was long time ago…15 years is not yesterday ! I would understand if they just broke up recently. Plus she did not even remember how they broke up. In addition to that, she’s into a long time relationship and her ex is married with one kid. I don’t see any problem….well for me in that matter. After all, there is life after break-ups so do not be a prisoner of that I advised her. Do not put malice in inviting him. She just asked my two cents and that’s what I think. Well both of them are grown ups individuals. Their objectives in life have changed. They’ve been together only for 2 years during their time (as far as I know) and clicked. Separated with no hurt feelings. I guess, becoming friends worth a shot thru social networks.

I don’t know, but personally past is past except if the break-ups were striking and painful. Then, forget about inviting your ex’s. It’s just a matter of determining what intensity of break-ups a person have had from the past. What do you think about this? Is it really possible for them to become friends? I am curious to know your sides !

Mimmmmmiiiii !!!

2009-07-10T19:33:00.007+02:00

Scene 1 : Stick it on!

One morning I went to lie down beside my daughter’s bed while she was still sleeping. I’ve waited for her to wake up so I can have my morning hug. After awhile she woke up and I’ve had my dose of hug. Suddenly, she pointed up to her bed and told me “Regarde Maman” with a smile on her face and yet sleepy. I looked up and saw 5 stickers pasted on the headboard. I was fuming mad as those are not stickers!!! Mimmmmiiiiiii (with a high pitch tone)! How many times did I tell you that these are not stickers! These are stamps! You know perfectly well what are these as I have already explained to both of you. I took them off immediately and fortunately they were slightly stick on to the headboard. So there was no punishment. I just explained her again not to touch or get anything from the drawers. Well, I have understood as the stamps are designed depicting Walt Disney design. Blame it on the Post office!

Scene 2 : Cut it off!

At that same day, later that afternoon. I saw my daughter trying to play something in our sofa. I got curious as she was really concentrated on something. I was in the dining table and ask her what was she doing. I went to see what it was….she was playing with our sofa back rest cover in which there is a fissure in it. And I was surprised because it was the only cover which has a bullet hole. Therefore, I asked both of them what happened. Sébastien looked at me and said “C’était la faute de Mimi” (It was Mimi’s fault). I looked Mimi and asked her how did it happen? Mayumi was avoiding me when I tried to look at her with my big eyes. My first thought was Mayumi, again? So I asked Sébastien, telling me that Mayumi cut it off with the scissors (the scissors I bought for them). Mimmmmiiiiii (the same banana)! I asked her why did she do that ? And so what will I expect from a 4 year old kid. Her excuses “Parce que j’en ai envie. Et puis je cru c’est un papier ! “ (It’s because I just want it. And then, I thought it was a paper). Nonsense !! Again, I need to repeat all over again especially to her that whenever they need to cut something they need to ask my permission. Telling them that it’s not prohibited because it’s part of learning but I need to be advised. I asked her to go to her room and stay there not until I asked her to come out. That was her punishment ! tsk tsk tsk !

Kids do the darndest things as we always say !

well merited

2009-06-27T14:04:00.001+02:00

Four days to go and summer break starts for us . It's not in my character to brag but I feel like bragging today! It's not a secret at all that parents like bragging about their children. Or probably, I am just proudly bursting with pride as a parent. Last week we have received our kid's class evaluation report and we were indeed happy of their performances at school. This year will be Sébastien's last year in kindergarten. Next school year will be the start of another challenge as he will enter CP (Cours Préparatoire) Preparatory course or the equivalent for Grade 1. First class of elementary school in French school system. The preparatory course is crucial for the students as it begins in a formal learning of reading. Of course, it may have started in big section of maternal level which is not mandatory in France. Despite this, the first non-mandatory schooling helped every students to prepare themselves to enter the Preparatory course which compulsary. I know things will be different and harder but we're there to give them the full support they need. While Mayumi has to stay in kindergarten and will be on the next level called Moyenne Section (Middle Section) still in the kindergarten stage.

Translation : écrire (writing), comprendre (understading or comprehension), lire-identifier (read-identify), Mathematiques (mathematics)

On Mother's Day !

2009-06-08T12:49:00.006+02:00

Aside from hugs.... kisses.....poems....emails.....e-cards.....etc and for the personalised gifts and cards I got from my lovely kids that made me ecstatically happy. This made my day.....received from a very good friend thanks a lot !!!! Happy mother's day to you too Hilda !

......And A Video !

A story that makes a lot of sense

2009-06-04T13:03:00.014+02:00

I have an inspiring story to share coming from a good friend (she’s like a big sister to me) whom I met when I arrived in France. She has been living here since 1980 and have had irregular status together with her 2 sisters when they first came to work in France. Her status has been regularised only after 10 years of working and hiding from the authority. Just imagine, 10 years of not seeing your family back home….undeniably complex.. Many times she has missed important birthdays and special occasions but she has compelling reasons for that. She has finished her degree back home. After graduation she worked with different companies but salary was not enough and she was not happy about it. Working abroad is a way out to earn a decent salary. And because they have encountered financial problems unfortunately, their business went bankrupt therefore she moved overseas together with her sisters in search of better opportunities. An option to grab with their eyes closed. It’s true that there is a big language barrier in France and the only job available is to work at home. Once she told me she’s happy earning a lot of money but money is not everything but it does provide help to our families. It’s all about losing almost what she has learned. The skills are the most important compensation and not the currency. It’s a matter of choosing where you want to be on the curve. That assessment to a great extent will have an impact to abilities to keep hold of one’s talent.

I told her there is nothing wrong with that as long as she’s happy about it and enjoying what she like. Besides, domestic is a decent job which pays well. But the thing is, she had many options available..…an opportunity to change its phase but overlooked them. I told her though it's never too late to be what you might have been. She told me a lot of stories of Filipinos working at home in France who are humble enough to accept the job as domestic helpers. They have a degree, name it ! Teachers, engineers, nurses, dentists, sales executives, computer graduates etc. Unfortunately, diplomas are not accepted in France and still need to undergo formations, trainings and get the equivalent of their diplomas and to speak French fluently. But still their dreams does not stop there.

Despite how she bitterly admitted she was wrong to have missed her chance somehow her sisters were right about moving somewhere else. She proudly shares, her sisters did not wait for that regularisation instead they have considered other countries to look for better opportunities. At the moment, her sisters are working in a hospital as a head nurse and the other one is working in a big supermarket as a Supervisor somewhere in Canada. They’re living the life of their dreams. Good salary, better standing and most of all the importance of continuous learning for growth rolled into one. Consequently, she has a lot of friends who started working as domestics and later on left France in search of enhanced opportunities in other English speaking countries. I told her that these are the people who’s dream is to change their fate and live the life they've always wanted. An established vision that leads to setting goals, long-standing goals. And the largely enthused is the one who most value the objectives.

Everybody has dreams….and she has so I told her to go for it ! She has plans and she wishes to put them into action very soon. Life isn't like a rail train -- there are no permanent trails leading towards the future. If you fail on the other side why not run and try the other side, where the grass is probably greener !

Panic in Boracay

2009-05-26T00:38:00.006+02:00

An hour late from Manila to Boracay. GREAT ! Okay, fine I am used to delayed flight anyway as long as we’ll wait under a good condition. The waiting is finally over…. we’re then off to Boracay. The escapade started to get hard...damn hard! Arriving Boracay….POWER FAILURE…twice GREATER….take note during our stay and until when…I don’t know! Poor tourists. We were accompanied directly to our hotel room to put our stuffs then off to find a restaurant because our uncontrollable rumbling stomach were complaining. A few steps away from hotel we have found an authentic Filipino restaurant. Good quality service, clean and easy on the pocket. The plates are in an ideal form, the original native plates and banana leaves to complete that extra ordinary service. Delayed flight and power failure, are unimportant as we have compensated ourselves with that scrumptious lunch we have had. Good thing, everything was arranged for us by our tourist agent from ticket to hotel pick up/transfer and breakfast included. On that part, it was excellently well arranged.

Went back to hotel and get some relaxing moments. Later that afternoon we have strolled around the vicinity to check what possible activities we can hold during our 4 days trip. Just beside the hotel we have found a great diving shop managed by a French-German origin. We have also asked from our hotel receptionist for other activities like island hopping and snorkeling. The hotel offered us P1,800k for a day of island hopping and the use of snorkeling gears for free. Island hopping which turned into a total nightmare as it was windy and had big waves. For those who knew me, the motion sickness is becoming a handicap everytime we travel. Imagine me taking 2 tablets of Bonamine which unfortunately did not take effect. So will spare you that disgusting details. The second day was spent in swimming, relaxation or just simply enjoying the white long stretched white sand beach.

I have heard a lot of good ratings and reviews from Locals and Foreigners about Boracay. I’ve been to a lot of beaches in Quezon, Batangas, Cebu and Bataan Provinces and it was my first time to visit Boracay. It’s true that Island of Boracay is a mixture of crystal blue clear water, sugary sand beaches and abundant landscapes which becomes an ideal sanctuary that will certainly captivate every tourist’s expectations. I won’t over describe Boracay anymore everything has been said and proven. The thing is, I was quite disappointed of my first experience in Boracay when I saw few plastic bottles and other stuffs floating on top of the water surface. If I can remember, before we boarded on the boat from Caticlan we have paid 50pesos for Environmental fee per person whereas kids are free. The amount was not that big though but I was probably overrating Boracay. Just to get some information, I then asked the caretaker of the hotel. He was honest to tell me those were caused by typhoons. Now, that is comprehensible. A lot comes from Caticlan where some people does not care about the environment which apparently affects the beautiful island of Boracay. I must admit that it will be difficult to clean the water of the island if there’s always this thug mentality of the people. It’s not impossible to clean but it’s just unfair for those who respect the environment ! We went farther until to that famous Grotto of the island to swim and snorkel. But to my surprise we were advised by snorklers not to go near the Grotto because there are a lot of broken bottles. I also blame the tourist for irresponsible behaviour that is. I was also a witness of this disorder when a woman who’s obviously living in that island (she was wearing a halfly-cut jeans and t-shirt while swimming telling to her child they need to go home) smoking in the midst of the beach. When she’s done smoking she just flicked the butt under our noses into the water . What can I do, I just threw her a killer glance and she just ignored me. That night, even we had have this impression we still appreciate the beauty of the island itself. The white sand beach, the hotel, the service, the people, the nature are irrefutably great. It’s just sickening to see some of them having primitive attitude and that there is more and more unconcerned of what pass off around them. They don’t obviously realised the chance of living to a some kind of paradisiacal island. Okay enough of my whingy, yet heart-felt rants.

Once and for all another journey that turned almost into a mishap. One night we were dining in one of the restaurants between Station 1 and 2. I am sure you can imagine the tourists everywhere. My son asked me to accompany him to the toilet which I did. My daughter asked me the same thing wherein I told her to wait patiently because Sébastien is still inside the toilet. I even asked her to play while waiting for her brother which she did. So before I went to check out on Sébastien she was beside our table playing with the sand and I asked hubby to look out on her. When I came back, asking hubby about Mayumi he told me that she followed me to the toilet . So I went back to check on her if she went to the same direction (still Sébastien inside the toilet). Asking if he saw her sister and he said no. A mother’s instinct is rarely wrong I don’t know why but I had this bad presentiment. I hastily went back to the table and told Bernard that Mayumi was not there. GREATER and GREATER…. Mayumi went in a different direction. We asked the waitresses and waiters if they saw our daughter in which they confirmed she was playing sand a while ago. But at that instant she was nowhere to found. We panicked as we decided to go in separate ways in search for Mayumi. I asked Sébastien to stay put and not to move until we get back. I saw my son crying because he was upset about losing his sister. I also asked the staff to keep their eyes on him. We were running mad in search for my daughter. I started to pray….pray really hard! It was not easy as it was crowded and it was quite dark. 5 minutes….. 10 minutes….. had passed no traces of Mayumi. My heart was thumping so hard I thought I was going to die. It scared us really bad thinking that someone took her because she was alone. Intrusive thoughts started to disturbed us. Hubby decided to positioned himself out from the crowded place. He went off near the seashore as it would definitely easier for him to see the people from there. Hélas, he saw Mayumi trying to find her way back to the restaurant with her stuffed toy tucked in her arms. Husband ran swiftly into her direction and when their eyes met he took Mayumi in his arms and securely embraced her. Husband nearly wept over her from the fear of losing her. As soon as I saw them with my hands still trembling it was like I just woke up from a nightmare. What was funny, Mayumi had no apprehension, no sense that something was amiss at all. As if she did not understand what was happening around her. She only understood after we have explained that we were looking for her thinking we almost lost her. Back to the restaurant, Sébastien wiped away his misty eyes as he gazed at her. He ran to meet us….rushing out to hug his sister tight and said “Tu m’a fait peur… Je ne veux pas te perdre parce que je t’aime ma souer ” ! (You scared me ... I do not want to lose you because I love you my sister). End of panic !

Exclusively for singles

2009-05-15T11:05:00.002+02:00

Festival d'amour aux Phillipines
envoyé par nocommenttv. - L'info video en direct.

I didn't know about this tradition until I read it from Le Monde. The street festival which is the Feast of San Roque dates back from 18th century, when the citizens of Valenzuela initially gave gratitude to their patron saint, San Roque. Women from different barangays (neighbourhoods) of the city come simultaneously to dance in a street procession which lasts day and night.

The legend says it that if a woman wishes to find a boyfriend or a husband she needs to join the street dance before her wish could be granted by San Roque. Thus, this Saint's Day serves to separate single women who are searching from those who are already taken. Apparently, much easier for men to select the woman of their dreams ! As anticipated then, the parade of dancing ladies is the source for grand animation and the ambiance is always joyful.

So singles out there men and women, foreigners and locals...visit Valenzuela Philippines and find your luck !

Spring framework

2009-04-27T12:26:00.002+02:00

We have many reasons to celebrate. First, it was Mayumi's 4th birthday though we haven't celebrated it yet as we were still in the Alps. I plan to do this when I come back from one week hiatus. Second, Sébastien already obtained his première étoile (first star) a month ago. Then we took the advantage of the time before the spring break end. We asked him if he wanted to pass the test to get the deuxième étoile (second star) and he was fine to take the challenge. They both took ski lessons for one week. The training started from 9 in the morning to 12 in the afternoon. The test will be held Friday morning of 24th of April. Those hot and gloomy afternoons spent in diverse activities like swimming, promenade while observing the marmots and hiking by the use of snow shoes/rackets.

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It seems so fast, time has passed and the big day has come. Friday came and we are really happy to announce that Sébastien and Mayumi passed the test. Sébastien had the second star which is advance for his age. Third, Mayumi jumped from one level to another Poussin to Ourson (instead of Poussin to Piou-Piou) likewise advance for a beginner. That day has passed eventful since they got their medals .

For the meantime, enjoy the the pictures because we're off to London tonight !

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See you when we get back ! Have a happy Spring break to everyone !

The Trip : Part 4 Ending of Marinduque Travel

2009-04-21T22:47:00.005+02:00

After that little misadventure we went back to the Monastery safe and released ! We thought that a good shower will do to make us feel better. Afterwards, Manang called us telling that my Auntie is waiting for us in the parlour. It was an unforgettable encounter as it was the first time I have introduced my husband and kids after 15 years or more. Certainly, it was time to catch up for the lost time. Well, I won’t go into details for the catching up moments otherwise this post will take eternity. I’ll ask you to let your imagination run free this time. But I will tell you one thing, before when I was still an adolescent I remember visiting my Auntie in Monastery of St. Claire in Sariaya with the whole family and relatives during big occasions. It was completely different as we can only hear her speak and see her hand while talking behind a curtain. This time, their vision has changed…I was surprised…was happy to see her face at long last without barriers that separate us. After spending long hour’s chit chatting it’s time for her to return to their prayer session. As for us, it was dinner-to-bedtime.

Next day, there was a Sunday mass at 6 in the morning. Of course, I was the only one who was able to attend the mass. Though we have a Filipino priest in Marseille, attending mass in the Philippines is still something different. The ambiance is still what I am longing to feel again …..it is more solemn, peaceful and more young people!

After the mass, I have waited for my little family to wake up for morning breakfast. I can tell you the hospitality was definitely something we can be proud of. It’s truly a familiar quality of Filipinos that made us a stand out. Knowing that we are not the only people or country that could be warm and as friendly, but our approach is known to be extraordinary to foreigners. A true hospitality that comes naturally from the heart. How we maintain the image and will stay as the Archipelago of Smile.

This is a typical breakfast prepared but not as many as these during normal breakfast at home. After that superb and mouth watering breakfast we were received in the parlour by my Auntie including the rest of the sisters (mongha) or nuns with their superior. Auntie introduced them to us and the conversation went on smoothly. They were even teasing my kids. Like they want to hear them speak the French language and try to speak some Tagalog words like “Kumusta po?” Salamat po.” While interviewing my dear honey on how does he feel to be in the Philippines? Did he like the little ballade we did around Marinduque? Or how integrated I am in France? Etcetera. A beautiful and happy conversation with the nuns. It’s just so sad that we needed to leave before 12 noon to get ready for boarding back to Sariaya.

The parlour wherein they usually welcome their families and visitors.

That day was definitely unforgettable as we had the chance to go inside the parlour and embrace my auntie and the other sisters before leaving. Well, except for my husband who stayed outside the parlour and contented himself to thank them for their hospitality…obviously you know the reason. They have given us packed snacks and drinks for the travel. Some religious souvenirs which they themselves have made. Surely, the happiness remains imprinted as we embraced them to bid not goodbyes but see you next time. Even the rest of the nuns were happy to have been visited and connect to the world.

Off to Balanacan Port we have kept wonderful memories and will surely visit her again on our next vacation. This time going back to Sariaya will be different as we took a bigger ship. Although it took us 5 hours but then it was safer to cross the island.

Arriving Tayabas, there was my family impatiently waiting for us and the stories that goes along.

More on my next posts....Boracay, Palawan and Tagaytay trip.

The trip Part 3 : Marinduque Province

2009-04-17T12:08:00.000+02:00

It’s time to continue to post about our last year’s trip in the Philippines. I’ve talked about them arriving NAIA and spending some time in Manila. And I blame Makis for making a brilliant post about Philippine gastronomy . Now, I am greedy hankering after about foods and everything about Philippines. In between my “golden week” spent in my province of Quezon we headed to the Province of Marinduque to see my Tita Lucy (an Auntie from my mother side) who is a nun and whom I haven’t seen for maybe 15 years or more. We were accompanied by a driver to go to Port of Tayabas, Lucena City. Going to Marinduque could be reached by many ports from Lucena City, on to the Mainland. Balanacan Port, Cawit Port or Buyabod Port are the ports of call for Marinduque Island . We took a small ferry in crossing the island and will take us 4 hours to arrive to Balanacan.

When husband saw the ferry he was extremely worried but I never even hinted anything as it was not shown in his face. Probably, to avoid scary thoughts I just knew it when we arrive to Balanacan Port safe and sound. Basically, the ferry is really small and could probably cater 40 passengers. It was not air-conditioned only electric fans which are not actually a big deal for us. And even if the spaces between chairs and backrest are narrow which are obviously made for Filipino sizes we were okay and have never heard my kids complain. While husband is laughing because he does not fit at all. But what bothered husband were the close windows, no way to escape in cases of emergency. Although there are life saver jackets but still it could be detrimental to passengers. The only escape would be the main entrance of the ferry which is undeniably daunting ! We were supposed to take the big ship but arriving to the Port we were just in time for the small ferry ready to cross the island. Plus, we didn’t want to waste the opportunity to leave earlier than planned. With tickets in-hand, we quickly boarded to the small ferry. Although ferry serves a wide variety of choices of pack lunch like rice with chicken, rice adobo etc. we have kept ourselves busy eating sandwiches Mom prepared for the travel, skyflakes and boy bawang, my kids love eating those a lot.

At 3 o’clock we landed to Balanacan and needed to ride jeepneys, tricycles or some sort of local taxi like L-300 van going to the Monastery of St. Claire We were offered for a van because we have kids but opted for a tricycle. Don’t blame me for that, kids insisted for it. They find it completely extraordinary, which is true as this is an ingenious creation of the Filipino people. It was a 45 minutes tricycle ride along the curving roads from Balanacan Port going to the Monastery. The view was just remarkable….everything is just green! Finally, we arrived to the Monastery and welcomed by the caretaker Mang Pido asking us how much we paid for the tricycle. I told him we paid for P200. He wasn’t happy about it saying that normal tariff would be P150. I told him it’s okay I don’t mind to pay P50 more just consider is as a tip. But I do understand his reaction because he wants driver to be honest and avoid taking advantage of tourists. If there is tip given it would be the passenger who will decide and not by adding some charges on the normal tariff.

He took our bag and brought us to an air-conditioned room with 2 queen size bed. We were like in a 3 star hotel, kinda surprising. I have never seen Monastery like this. We headed down to the parlour (as they call it) to wait for my Auntie. Finally, she went out smiling. Excited, surprise....we were both going through mix emotions. We have talked around 15 minutes to welcome us for the time being. She just excused herself from the prayer session and will get back after talking to us. Proposed us to rest a little bit but we would rather explore the island.

The other caretaker Manang accompanied us during our short escapade. A very young tricycle driver who speaks a little bit of French with us. Driving their own tricycle during weekends but an Engineer student during weekdays.

Our service to go around the island.

This is the Boac, Marinduque Cathedral.

After that small tour from the Cathedral this time we were way off down the beach. Do not be surprised as we did not end up going a white beach. We just would like the kids to swim since the weather was quite hot and humid. We asked them to stay near the seashore and do not go too far because at any given moment it would soon be a high tide.

Now, this is quite terrifying part of this little promenade on the beach. An adventure almost became a misadventure. We were sitting around 50 meters away from kids. I just asked husband to take a look of the pictures taken. In that split of seconds, we saw Mayumi gasping...spluttering.....and apparently in trouble. While Sébastien tried to calm her and reached her hand as she gasped for air. Husband sounded like a tornado to me as he ran to off swiftly to their rescue. Obviously, Mayumi wanted to follow her brother who went just a little bit farther and since she's smaller she almost drowned. Whew, that was close!

The story does not end here. More on my next post

Ma racine de solitude

2009-04-10T14:09:00.004+02:00

Je n’oublie pas ces jours
Il est temps de méditer
Une pause éphémère
Au milieu de brouillard
Purifiez mon âme
Changez mon regard
Seras Vous me pardonner ?
Malgré le ciel sombre
Une simple bougie et une prière.
Le monde s'éclaire.

Aujourd'hui c'est Pâques,
Quelle que soit la religion
Pratiquant ou non pratiquant,
Fêtons parmi nous,
Une occasion unique
Rendrez gloire a notre Seigneur !

Joyeuses Pâques à vous tous !

Translation :

I don't forget these days
It is time to meditate
A short break
In the midst of mist
Cleanse my soul
Change my gaze
Will you forgive me?
Despite the dark sky
A single candle and a prayer.
The world brightens up.

Today is Easter
Whatever religion
Practicing or non practicing
Celebrate with us
A unique occasion
To glorify our Lord !

Happy Easter to everyone !

Reality Check : SIMPLIFY

2009-04-05T19:14:00.008+02:00

Life is not complex, we are complex ! I believe that life is not really difficult but it’s rather us who make things complicated. It’s either you choose between good or bad, straight or not. We have the tendency to presume things. Long enough and too ahead of the actual life condition. Most of us tell one thing, yet does another thing and most of the time contradictory of own decision.

I was 28 when I had to make the biggest decision in my life. I had to choose between my family, keep my job, my friends and everything that concerns me and the matters of the heart. I have chosen the call of my heart even if it means that I would live very far from family, being jobless, living abroad and not being able to speak the language. In short, was an impasse and no turning back. I admit, it was not an easy choice because I am not certain what will be my life in the other side of the world. And I am sure I am not the only one in this floating ship. But at least, I made a decision. I never doubt myself or the man I love. I guess, I strived for simplicity so as to overcome life’s hurdles. At present, I have a fine life because I confronted the fear and assumed my decision. I choose what I wanted for myself without asking too many questions. Stop the what ifs, the I should have done this phrases, otherwise the worst thing that will happen to me is to live unhappily. I have focused my entire self on what I want to do, what I want to become in my life and not on welcoming the fear of not doing something….sure it takes a lot of guts.

I guess, things are not really complicated especially in choosing what you want and what you need for in life. It could be complicated if you have doubts from the choices you make then it will apparently become a problem. At some point in time, I also learned a few exceptions that there are also things or situations beyond our control and we cannot just choose. The only thing we can do is wait for that chance to come. But if you have a clear choice without getting into difficult condition ….then jump and do not falter.

It is wiser to settle your satisfaction based on your life’s experiences. Only you, who knows what will ultimately make you satisfied. So then, next time you’re faced with a big decision in life, do not search further because you know exactly what you want. Provided that you never allow a decision cost you something special. Screw material things – those are secondary and it’s not you. If a decision costs you material things, jobs, positions or whatever, you’ll get over it. Nevertheless, if it costs you someone that you love or would like to have, get ready to make a cut out of big “L” and tape it to your forehead…. L for loser ! Waking up one day telling to yourself why are you so darn stupid to let that chance but you blew it. Or regretting that should have done but you did missed out on a great opportunity. That is surely pathetic !

I probably took the standard deviations in my life in a lost forest but I chose the one less complicated and that has made all the difference .

La sagesse de 6 ans

2009-03-29T00:32:00.006+01:00

A la télé, Il y a une semaine en regardant les infos nous avons appri l'enlèvement d'un enfant de 3 ans et démi dans le Sud de la France à Arles. Elle s'appelle Élise avec une mère Russe et un père Français depuis Vendredi dernièr et untrouvable jusqu'a aujourd'hui. Visiblement, l'origin de cette enlèvement est la mère Russe car le couple se déchirent pour la garde de l'enfant. La fillette a été enlevée par deux hommes et une femme alors qu'elle revenait de l'école avec son père qui a été violemment agressé.

C'est vrai que c'est souvent le cas de rupture du mariage et ce n'est pas facile pour tout le monde. Bref, mon mari juste pour donner un exemple m'a dit "Voila, les circonstances pour les couples qui se séparent. Je pense que c'est qui se passera si un jour on doit se separer" ! Mais attention, çela ne signifie pas qu'on le pensent aussi fortement. C'est juste une triste verité dans la vie. Donc, ce genre d'échange n'est pas hors norme malgré tout.

Sans savoir, que notre fils (il était à table entrain de diner) avec toutes ses petites oreilles sont à l'ecoute et prendre les choses trop au sérieux . Notre fils ainé nous a dit " Moi, je ne veux pas que vous vous séparez.....parce que je vous aime tous les deux! " C'était exactement ces mots qui nous a tellement scotché! Pourquoi ? Car il ne choisit pas entre nous. Il peut aussi dire que si nous nous séparions, il vivrai soit avec Papa ou Maman ni personne. Et là, je le vois sur son visage creusé par l'inquiétude et la peur en nous regardant dans les yeux. Ensuite, nous avons l' assuré que cela ne se produira pas. Tout en expliqant que le mariage est beau si les deux partenaires doivent travailler dur pour éviter l'autosatisfaction. Que parfois, la vie de mariage a beaucoup de complications. Il y a des problèmes mais il faut regler une façon efficace au fur et à mesure plutôt que de les laisser s'accumuler, d'attaquer l'autre ou de vouloir avoir le dessus à tout prix.

Nous avons été tous les deux profondément touchés par ces message lucides et sans la moindre hésitation. Une petites phrases pleines de sagesse !

Translation:

On TV, a week ago while watching the news we have learned the abduction of a child 3 and a half years in the South of France in Arles. Her name is Elise with a Russian mother and a French father since last Friday and untraceable until today. Clearly, the origin of this kidnapping is the mother because the Russian-French couple are into separation and after for child's custody. The girl was abducted by two men and one woman as she returned from school with his father who was violently assaulted.

It is true that it is often the case of marriage breakdown and it is not easy for everyone. In short, my husband just to give an example said, 'Look, the circumstances of couples who separate. I think this will happen if one day we are going to separate! But beware, this does not mean we are strongly thinking of it. It's just a sad truth in life. So, this kind of exchange is not unusual after all.

Without knowing that our son (having dinner) with all his little ears listening and taking things too things seriously. Our elder son said "I do not want you to be separated ..... because I love you both! " It was exactly his words that stuck us! Why ? Because he did not choose between us. He may also say that if we separate, he will live with either Mom or Dad or anyone. And then, I see his furrowed face caused by the anxiety and fear as we look in his eyes. After we have assured him that this will not happen. While explaining that marriage is great if both partners will work hard to avoid complacency. That sometimes married life has many complications. There are problems but we must settle effectively rather than leaving them to accumulate, to attack the other or want to gain the battle at all costs.

We were both deeply touched by his clear message and without any hesitation. A small phrases of wisdom!

Learn to identify

2009-03-22T17:34:00.011+01:00

The whole world got scared of made in China products "black hearted goods". I think it is necessary to differentiate which one is made in Taiwan or China and vice-versa. The first 3 digits of barcode 690.691.692 is made in CHINA and 471 is Made in Taiwan.

It is our right to know simple things when buying to be alerted. The government and related departments never educate the consumer public.

00-13: USA & Canada
20-29: In-Store Functions
30-37: France
40-44: Germany
45: Japan (also 49)
46: Russian Federation
471: Taiwan
474: Estonia
475: Latvia
477: Lithuania
479: Sri Lanka
480: Philippines
482: Ukraine
484: Moldova
485: Armenia
486: Georgia
487: Kazakhstan
489: Hongkong
49: Japan (JAN-13)
50: United Kingdom
520: Greece
528: Lebanon
529: Cyprus
531: Macedonia
535: Malta
539: Ireland
54: Belgium & Luxembourg
560: Portugal
569: Iceland
57: Denmark
590: Poland
594: Romania
599: Hungary
600 & 601: South Africa
609: Mauritius
611: Morocco
613: Algeria
619: Tunisia
622: Egypt
625: Jordan
626: Iran
64: Finland
690-692: China
70: Norway
729: Israel
73: Sweden
740: Guatemala
741: El Salvador
742: Honduras
743: Nicaragua
744: Costa Rica
746: Dominican Republic
750: Mexico
759: Venezuela
76: Switzerland
770: Colombia
773: Uruguay
775: Peru
777: Bolivia
779: Argentina
780: Chile
784: Paraguay
785: Peru
786: Ecuador
789: Brazil
80 - 83: Italy
84: Spain
850: Cuba
858: Slovakia
859: Czech Republic
860: Yugoslavia
869: Turkey
87: Netherlands
880: South Korea
885: Thailand
888: Singapore
890: India
893: Vietnam
899: Indonesia
90 & 91: Austria
93: Australia
94: New Zealand
955: Malaysia

This may be petty but it will help you to be aware. China milk poisoning incident and white rabbit candy (found traces of Melamine ) made everyone afraid to look at the daily news event. Everyday, the reports may vary. No one can clearly tell us what to eat and not. Just let us consider this and please remember the following bar codes. Just to be fair and honest, I still buy China products but I try to be vigilant in choosing them.

The BUZZ

2009-03-16T19:21:00.007+01:00

This an inkling on daily life and social encounter as a mother or a half stranger in France. I know this or I may sound a raging lunatic, irritated, pissed off whatever you call it. But it’s been 4 years my son is going to the same school and nothing has changed. What I mean by change? I always see this group of mothers who assemble together every morning....talking non-stop! I know, it’s not my business and I should mind my own. But my concern and probably partially my business is that why not do their early rumouring session and park their cars somewhere else? This is to give way to other parents who are in a haste not to be late at work after bringing their kids to school. Since narrow streets in Marseille are common these mothers make parking more complex. Parents are often oblige to park their cars further away and walk their kids until school premises. If only this crowd will disappear parking just in front of the school will help parents to avoid cramming and wasting time turning around just to look for a parking lot. Many parents let their children get off the car right in front of the gate and let them get inside the school to gain time.

Not only that, more often they stare at you from head to toe and I find this very complex situation with a lot of tension in each other as we exchange glances. Stare that’s isn’t normal. I don’t know if it’s intimidation as they cast envious glances. It could be normal for them but they are not for me. I don’t know why but it’s very an uncomfortable feeling. I’m not being paranoid but I have the notion they’re talking about me or someone else. Here are some reality about human beings which may surprise you. Staring at those who are different is an ordinary response for many of us. If someone is extremely tall we stare at them. If someone is wearing a plunging neckline or provocative clothes we stare at them. If someone has a handicap we can’t help looking at them. We human beings are snooping individuals. We gaze at stuffs which intrigue us. And only the curious minds have something to discover. If the object of our interest is another individual indeed they are different to us. And because I am Asian, I am certain that I am one of the bits and pieces of their interest. I remember a Mom (African Black) who sends her 3 children to the same school. At first, we just say Bonjour to each other. Since we come across everyday we became sort of friends. She confided to me, that she’s not happy about how these people look at her just because she has a handicap child. And this and that, I won’t go into the details as it’s exasperating .

Oh Man, do I sound I extremely dislike them? Yes, I don’t like them when they block the way to the entrance just to check out the latest gossip. I hate them when they stay around the area while others are having a hard time to look for a parking space. I hate them when they stare at people and envision yourself in a surroundings where there is a continuous sound of vibration— bbbzzzz! It’s pissing me off ! Manners such those can be avoided and is considered boorish and infuriating. Do they really have a life ? The gate is already close and still session is not close. They seem to have nothing better.

Exercise or Operation ?

2009-03-10T16:35:00.002+01:00

Frustration is an emotional reaction to situation where one is hindered from arriving at a personal objective. I am speaking about this because of self-disappointment. There’s something else that I’m incredibly passionate about and I am capable but not enough able to accomplish for the moment. Certainly, we all have our strong interests. We all have passion in life…work, kids, hobbies, movies, music, collectors item and many more. Mine is sports ! Occasionally, my desire to do something extraordinary in an extraordinary day is not just right., then comes frustration.

We went to Alps last week and sadly, there were no surf monitors available because it was during peak season. Then, I tried snowboarding by myself and I can tell you I have managed to do it well. The problem is my cross ligament injury. When I tried to get up it was then I felt my unstable knee. Before, it was only my left knee which is feeble. Now the right knee goes as well. And so I feel really disappointed because I can’t finally do snowboarding. It says that “Better snowboarding techniques come from mental and physical training”. I have the mental but I don’t have the physical power. I had have rigid trainings during my younger years plus was also pushing myself to the limits and give the best in me. After college, I got a job and needed to work thus, I cannot come to trainings regularly until I finally stopped. I reintegrated myself back to favourite sports. When I arrived in France, I was searching for a club to finally re-do the sports after 4 years of inactivity. I was mentally ready but not physically capable and it was there I had my cross ligament injury. I saw few doctors already in the past. Some advised me to operate but I did not entirely agreed as it could become worse after the surgery. Added to this, after surgery I needed to do re-education or physical therapy for 6 months or more. If I will undergo operation, who will oversee things at home? Driving my kids at school and do all the chores? Well, it’s not that complicated I can hire someone to do this for me. What I am afraid is the aftermath of the operation. What if things will turn into catastrophe?

A lot (friends who had have the same problem and Doctors of Kinesitherapy) recommend me to exercise which will lead to increase strength in subsequent work-outs and ultimately greater muscle gains. I agree more, great method and worry free. I just hope that I will regain my physical stability. I hope things will be over and I can enjoy things the way I want them. Did you have the same problem? I will be more happy to hear your opinion.

2T's = tips and tag

2009-02-20T09:35:00.007+01:00

It’s a known fact that milk and dairy products are good for building bones. But didn’t you know that limestone (Calcaire in French) which comes from tap water is the best for building bones? As I was watching E=M6 (it’s a French program mainly directed towards research, new technology and hard sciences). Limestone is rich in calcium carbonate. We know of more recent years that calcium content in water is considered almost as well as that contained in milk and dairy product. So if your water is rich in limestone, is good for your bones and helps prevent Osteoporosis. Check the water supply in your place if it is not rich in other elements are less good for health (nitrates, lead pipes etc.) and if it’s hygienic.

Cutting without crying…..Monster Onions! Yes, I speak about onions that we use for cooking. The matter has reached a juncture, when cutting onion turn out to be a constant nightmare. We always cry in cutting them.

“When an onion is cut, the ruptured onion cells release enzymes which break down nearby sulphur compounds into oxides and acids. These re-form to make a gas. This gas moves into your eyes and then mixes with your tears to form sulphuric acid.–from Alton Brown in a Good Eats Moment”

You could end up cutting onions like her ! Images from here , thanks !

There are no realistic way to resolve this but we can drastically diminish the crying moments. So to avoid tears, peel onions under running water. You can also place them in the freezer a few minutes before you peel them or dip them in a few very hot water. Or trim off the ends, put onions on kitchen paper in the base of the oven and microwave on High mode for a minute. You will be able to get rid of the skin more easily and won't cry when you chop them up.

25 Random Things

Rules: Once you’ve been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it’s because I want to know more about you!

Thanks for this tag Mahalia and Nao but I won't tag anyone but if you want to tell more about yourself please feel free !

1. Blogging is my therapy, it’s not that I am insane I just like writing them down to express, to rant, to laugh, to cry and learn. Silly, dilly what kind of fool am i ?

2.I love reading books to my kids before they go to bed. Now that my kids are into school they correct my pronunciation thus I learn French at the same time.

3. Love washing our cars.

4. Love doing outdoors sports even in the cold winter!

5. I love practicing my French writing when I write my blog.

6. I am a fan of martial arts since I was a kid.

7. Since I am a stay at home Mom I am very enthusiasts in surfing the net for employment submit my CV, we’ll never know.

8. I hate pressing of all the household chores.

9. Love chatting with family and friends.

10. I love dancing.

11. I know I am not a good cook, I don’t have a magic touch but I like inviting friends over for lunch, dinner or organizing party ! IRONIC and I love to experiment in the kitchen. Terrified ???

12. I am not good in tennis and golf is boring me.

13. My favourite colour is blue, well many says it’s the colour for men but I don’t mind I am not very feminine either.

13. Instead of drinking Coke I replace them with sparkling water, Badoit or Perrier is perfect.

14. I miss the Philippine Mangoes !!!

15. Addicted to Chippy and Boy Bawang !

16. I am not an artist myself but I dream to be one.

17. I am persuaded that I will learn to snowboard and I am working on it....patiently!!!

18. I was once in the newspaper for winning the Regional TKD sports competition held in Zamboanga.

19. I am a positive thinker.

20. Have motion sickness and I cannot live without my Nautamine.

21. I hate smoking and gambling !

22. Hoping that customer service in France will improve !

23. I am not a computer geek but I'm figuring things out by myself.

24. I love my province Sariaya Quezon.

25. I want to travel around the world if the budget permits of course.

26. I love to learn another language, either Spanish, Italian or German (this is a give away)

Une phase ou une excuse ?

2009-02-13T13:43:00.010+01:00

L’autre fois mon mari a eu une conversation très intéressants sur un sujet a propos des ados. Donc, je sais que c’est un peu tôt de parler de la vie des adolescents car nos enfants sont encore petits. Mais quand je vois où nous vivons ça serra pénible comment vaincre l’appréhension, stress et une certaine peur quand cette période de transitions arrive. Nous connaîtrons plus certainement des moments difficiles comme tous les parents. En parlant de ça nous serons sans doute voudrions avoir les moyens plus sûr et d’être rationnel pour s’améliorer les relations avec nos enfants.L'adolescence est une phase de conversion, de transformation corporel et intellectuelle parmi la vie des jeunes enfants pour s'apprête à mener une vie d'adulte. Quelquefois, cette intervalle se passe avec des cas de mésintelligence avec le milieu ou des moments de rébellion de l'enfant, qui ont la difficulté d’accepter les changements ou qui peuvent contrarier leurs envies. Généralement, on identifié cela la "crise de l'adolescence" !

Je ne suis pas d’accord si la crise s’accompagne chez des ados de l’ignorer ses parents, d’être agressive vers son entourage, qui ne respecte pas certaines règles, comportement de défi, l’objection aux parents….bref dépasser les bornes sans cesse dans tous les sens ! Je suis passée par l’adolescence et j’ai aussi tout essayé à boire de l'alcool et à fumer (sauf la drogue) comme approximativement tous les ados, mais heureusement je n’ai pas vraiment accrochée. La seule explication j’étais motivée de tenter à fumer c’est par la curiosité. Savoir pourquoi ça fonctionne à merveille chez les jeunes. Je n’ai pas encore trouvé la réponse qui me convient. Quel est l’intérêt de fumer? Personnellement je ne vois que du négatif :
1. C'est cher
2. Nous mourons plus jeune
3. Nous mettons en danger les personnes que nous entourent a cause du tabagisme passif
4. On est souvent malade
5. Fumer ça pollue la terre

Parlons l’alcool, j’ai pas mal sortie dans ma vie de l’adolescent mais j’étais la seule personne qui ne bois pas. Je déteste la bières, déjà l’odeur me dégoûte. Les autres boivent mais avec modération ou plutôt des cocktails. J’ai appris à boire du vin avec le temps pour les grandes occasions ou quand nous avons des invités ou que nous sommes invités seulement en France. Et puis quand on boivent du vin c’est bien pour la santé avec modération bien sûr ! Je ne parle pas de la drogue car vous connaissez déjà les réponses. Malheureusement, ceux qui disent "Il faut que je fasse le même comme mes copains sinon je ne serai pas vraiment à la hauteur". Franchement, j’ai constaté que les ados sont cruels et superficiel. Ils ont incapable d'être soi même. Lorsque on est dissemblable on est seul et exclu. C'est la sombre réalité ! Quoique, certains vont connaître une adolescence fracassant et d’autres vont apparaître inaperçus.

La question se pose est-ce que la crise d’adolescence est-elle un passage exigé ? Ou c’est juste une excuse pour tous ceux qui veulent faire comme disent les ado pour être à la hauteur ? Est-ce que les critères retenus doivent être acceptés par l’ensemble pour être bien accueillir dans un groupement ?

Je ne jugerais personne dans cette histoire mais j’essaye de comprends. Comme le dit en Anglais ‘Been there, done that’. En fait, je n'ai pas eu cette impression d'avoir peut être un adolescent très extraordinaire !

As always the translation is here. Sorry there are some wrong words translated but it'll help you understand the post, thank you !

the Amazing R !

2009-02-06T21:03:00.005+01:00

The latest Filipino singing sensation in You Tube. Behind the name Rin (Erin Paula is 20 years) a pure Filipino. Rox or Roxanne, 21, half-pinoy half-white. They both live in California, USA. Guys look at them, they enjoy singing in the bathroom !! They should make a career ! You can check them out here. And they made it to Ellen Degeneres show!

The Red Carpet Eyeball

2009-02-04T19:14:00.004+01:00

This is a good way to start off my February post. I started blogging 2005 and since then I have already met some bloggers that I became good friends with. Others remain a virtual friends and I am glad that they became a part of my activities on a daily basis. Sometimes we receive comments from spam’s, anonymous or just from a simple lurkers. I am sure you will agree that we always have visitors that doesn’t comment but they always visit us and I would say even non-bloggers. I remember when I blog about the panorama of my beloved province and I received a comment under the name of Joanne who lives in California. Since then, she often visits my site and I am flattered even though I may not be a good writer. Thru my blog she also pays visit among other links I have. It was really a good start of a nice encounter. From then on, we started exchanging emails and chat from time to time whenever we can. Since we have some things in common, a French husband, the same province, same age but not the same height. You know, chatting with her seems I have found my long lost friend from high school. I then encouraged her to blog and good thing she was open about the idea. Now, you can check the late blogger in her. Thus, the next step after that online chatting we plan of meeting up when they visit France. Their European tour was supposed to be October last year but because of some changes they’ve push through last week of January this year. Finally, this year the moment of truth drew closer. The long-term EB program took place last Thursday. Joanne told me that they will roughly stay 24 hours at St. Raphael since her in-laws has a flat there. instead of going to a hotel room. I just hope I didn’t create inconveniences to them coming from Switzerland going all the way to the South of France just because of an EB. I wanted to invite them over my place but I didn’t want to bother them since traveling from US to Europe is pretty tiring.

A stroke of luck, I was planning to visit Makis at her place which is 200 kms (1 ½ hour drive) from Marseilles. I emailed Joanne if it’s okay if I tag Makis along with me and she was twice excited to meet up with us. A number of good reasons to get thrilled : meeting up with Joanne and Xavier and driving going to Makis’s place as it will be my first time to drive that far ALONE without the kids ! And so driving going to Makis’s went just fine although the road was long and driving alone sometimes sucks. It was also a bit scary because there were a lot of big trucks on the highway but it was not a hindrance at all it was rather become a personal challenge. But at least, the weather was on our side…it was just a lovely time all day. We called each other what time and where to meet them. Meeting halfway was uncomplicated since Makis is starting to get familiar in Cannes. We decided to meet with them in front of Palais des Festival. They’re coming from St. Raphael and the easiest place to meet up is in Cannes which is a very famous landmark.

At long last, here we are face to face! We embraced each other as if we knew each other for a very long time. I am glad that we have finally met altogether. We just went around the centre of Cannes to choose where do to the random chit chat and have lunch. Let me share of our “make love to the camera shots by Makis” ! I was really glad that Makis was there as she’s bubbly and funny enough to make us laugh out loud because of her spontaneous humour .

Who will believe that blogging and internet as a whole will make a lot of sense. I think if not for internet we will never meet wonderful people behind those blogs. What is good with internet we get a lot of eyeballs at social network and even create community buildings. Thanks to internet it’s certainly a way in realising to have a concrete human contact. The meeting was short and I know 5 hours is certainly not enough but we really had a grandiose time meeting each other.

P.S. And thanks a lot again to Joanne and Xavier for the wonderful lunch. We supposed to treat you guys but anyway we're looking forward to meet you again either in France or in the USA.

The Choir

2009-01-26T15:51:00.007+01:00

I've been wanting to write for some time to share this wonderful concert that took place May of 2007 in Marseilles (I know it's far too late) performed by the Manila Chamber Singers. They have had a European tour that year and Marseilles was one of their destinations. The concert was held at the Church where Filipinos and Spanish attend. I had the chance to meet with all these very talented young people from UP Diliman and here they are singing acapella:

Fantastic show isn't it !!! Many of us have attended and few French people as they were not advised earlier. It was absolutely one spectacular event for us Filipinos to see these young people who came all the way from the Philippines to Europe for a free concert. As a sign of gratitude, a lot of us bought their CD's they promote so as to compensate their expenses and some souvenir handmade by the choir. We also toured these young talents within Marseilles. And before they said goodbye a beautiful song was dedicated to us.

Hey guys hope you will come back to see us !

I just can't wait to see them perform once again ! Even if Marseilles doesn't have all these big Filipino artists in concert like Piolo doing a concert or Gary Valenciano, these young talented ones are worth watching ! Together, they have performed music that gave a tremendous joy to Filipinos abroad !

Make it a habit

2009-01-15T21:32:00.005+01:00

"La vie est belle mais ça dépend de qui". (Life is beautiful but it depends on whom.) This is the exact words of Jacques yesterday when I was watching 66 minutes. Jacques is 50 years old, one of the many homeless in the “Bois de Vincennes, Paris” . He lives in the midst at the park with a tent to live with. A comforter maybe 5 times thicker to protect from the cold winter but not enough to escape from freezing weather of Paris. Since he became a homeless he has this grave bronchitis and has become worse because of the situation he is into. Like every homeless people who lives in parks, riversides with their tents and huts, or live in side street with their card-board Jacques chose to put up his little home in the woods. He prefers to set up a tent in the woods rather than living in the sidewalks of Paris as it is difficult probably because of constant police control.

As temperature falls to -6°C the only thing he does together with other friend is to put a fireplace. Sometimes, no food to eat. Talk and laugh all together to forget that life is unjust. He said that they need to sleep earlier around 8 in the evening because the fire is not sufficient until the night. I can't help it and got teary eyed when he said that his future is behind him and that there isn’t hope anymore. And he let them pass. Sometimes, he thinks to put an end to his life to avoid this miserable situation. That is the only solution so as not to suffer anymore. But then again, when he’s clear-headed enough, he still thinks that maybe tomorrow will be another day. Or everything will pass one day. Briefly he seems to bend forward to that reflection.

In fact, his interview aired on the television last winter and a lot of people got so touched and so the situation gets better for Jacques. Thanks to that reportage he now receives help from a lot of people like receiving goods almost everyday. Accompanied with some children’s drawings and letters that he keeps and see life on a different phase.

So let’s make gratitude a habit even for simple things. Say your Thanks out loud. Stop complaining there are worse things out there. Be Grateful for the challenging and difficult times, too because that what make us stronger.

Image from Europe1

Marseille sous la neige

2009-01-08T17:05:00.024+01:00

Enfin, je suis là après une longue vacances. Je suis donc vous souhaiter une trés Bonne et Heureuse Année. Espérons que cette année sera meilleure pour tout le monde malgré la crise financière mondiale nous sommes confrontés. Surtout d'avoir une bonne sante car c'est primordial! Je vous parlerai de la suite d'une magnifique journée pour tous au moins ou peut être une galère pour ceux qui ont resté sur la route toute la nuit.

Il s'agit d'un paysage normal de notre hiver, printemps, l'été et l'automne.

Et ça, c'est quand Marseille sous la neige ! C'est beau et c'est rare !

Ce nes't pas une blague ! Le coin le plus chaud de la France est sous la neige heir. J'ai rarement vu Marseille comme cela. Mais selon mes voisins la dernière fois où il a neigé à Marseille c'était en 1962 et Février 1987. En surfant, j'ai découvert des vielles images grâce à ce site. Ces photos ont été prises Janvier 14, 1914.

Le Square de la Bourse

Vieux Port

Le Canal de la Douane

Vieux Port et Pont Transbordeur

Un coin du Parc Borely

Click for translation some words may not be exact but it will help you understand the subject !

Christmas Spirit

2008-12-22T21:45:00.004+01:00

As soon as we arrived from our vacation the first thing my kids asked me is our Christmas tree. They kept on bugging me to start decorating as they are eager to help me put the ornaments and Christmas lights. They are really waiting for this moment as they've seen Christmas decorations during our Philippine trip. I decided to get them in the garage. Voila, finally it's up after our 2 days arrival from the Philippines. But this photo you are looking at was taken only today that's why there are already wrapped gifts.

Our Christmas tree with presents already

This ornament is made by Mayumi from their school artwork

These 2 ones are their little stuff toys that they would like to be a part of decorations

At the bottom of our Christmas tree I have put the artwork of Sébastien that you see from your left (a candle shape green and silver color) and the red card with the star that goes with. The Christmas card with a silver Christmas tree was made by Mayumi together with the green box with cookies and chocolates inside. Those are very special ornaments that I will keep and will always be a part of our Christmas tree .

Socks I have put near the entrance

The Star as a sign of Nativity

This little cute one was given by grandparents 3 years ago and it's always there attached to the branch of the Christmas tree hiding behind the glistening lights. Isn't it cute !

This is the 2nd Annual OTWOMD Christmas Tree Blog Parade 2008 Meme created and conceptualized by OTWOMD of Bluepanjeet.Net The purpose of this meme is to enliven the Christmas spirit by showing to the world our very own Christmas trees. They say that it is on the Christmas tree that best describes how a person celebrates his or her own Christmas.

This meme was originally conceptualize in order to:

Promote the spirit of Christmas around the blogosphere
Spread awareness of the true meaning of the Christmas Tree
Encourage the family members to have a bonding around the Christmas tree
promote Christmas cheer and camaraderie among bloggers

Well, I think it's too late to tag someone here. But I am still curious how Joanne decorated her Christmas Tree as I saw great Christmas decoration in the US.

I am wishing everyone a Blessed and Joyful Christmas in spite of global crisis. I am sure we could surpass this difficult event that is happening around us.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !!!

It's not all about gifts

2008-12-20T23:53:00.024+01:00

My husband attended a two days seminar. There were among other 25 Cadres (25 Managers) who were present. This time he was on his best suit made by my Uncle especially for him. When suddenly, all his colleagues gazed at him as if it was their first time to see husband wearing a suit. Suddenly, colleagues started to praise him. Wohoa, t’es bien là dedans! (You are good in that suit). J’adore ton costume ! (I love your suit). Superb ton costume! (Your suit is excellent.) Then it was pretty awkward for him with all the compliments thus, he smiled at them and said , “Arrêtez,.vous me mettre mal à l'aise!” Stop, that’s enough you make me feel uneasy.

Well, I am not surprised since he has few suits that he bought many years ago and the style starts to get old-fashioned. Just to give you recap from our Philippine trip. I asked my uncle who has a tailoring shop that makes especially made suit only for men. We personally chose the fabrics and colours. We had 2 suits and 1 Barong for husband made in the Philippines. From now on, I will not include suit in my list of shopping. It is not practical to buy a custom made suit that doesn’t make the person stand out except for those signature ones. Husband went to the seminar sharp and renowned. I am proud of my Uncle’s talent that made hubby feel confident.

Before the seminar ended, the coordinator asked them a quick and simple question what do they think of Christmas ? Some says. “Ah, c’est les cadeaux! (It’s about gift ). Others says, C’est que pour les enfants. (It’s only for children). Husband said, Partage (to share). Everyone was teasing husband. “Oh c’est mignon!” (Oh that is cute). Ca c’est Bernard, tout ça! (That’s all Bernard is). Before husband left the coordinator thanked husband for his presence especially for sharing his thoughts about Christmas. He secretly told husband while shaking his hand " Enfin, tu nous as mis à un certain niveau" ! (Finally, you have put us at a certain level).

It is surprising how people think about Christmas. It should not be about gift receiving nor it’s only made for children, it’s for everyone! Other view Christmas as merely a decoration . But there is a much more profound meaning behind those Christmas trees, glittering lights, and beautiful ornaments. Christmas is for the young and old, poor and rich, black or white . Christmas is all about sharing and giving. Whatever your beliefs are Christmas will always be a wonderful occasion of the year.

The Trip - Part 2

2008-12-15T16:12:00.004+01:00

Who says there’s nothing interesting to see in Manila. I am not talking about the big malls which is the easiest place to go. And because my husband does not support to stay in Manila our plan to hang out for 2 days was religiously followed. Morning of our arrival we went directly to my parent’s house before going to the hotel near their place for easy access. My father passed by Fort Bonifacio Global City and I remember this place late 1987. Fort Bonifacio used to be a part of armed forces base camps where Ferdinand Marcos incarcerated hundreds of his opponents. My vivid memory from many years ago of Fort Bonifacio was the military headquarters, the detention hub, barracks, army bureaus and training fields which are now long gone. At present, it turns out to be the location of an expansion of the economic quarter. The rapid construction of residential buildings, offices, trading businesses and a dozen schools are rising in hasty progression. I observed that in spite of global crisis economic is trying to improve its state.

At that same day, I knew that my brother (who lives in Cebu) will come together with wife and daughter to meet up with us. The last time, we went to visit them in Cebu. Normally, Filipinos love to go Malling just to eat and not spending to much, to get away from the heat , window shop, people watch and I would say, because it’s a less expensive way to do during free time. Moreover, the Philippines was reportedly the second largest market of karaoke and almost all Filipinos indulge in that activity. Manila is known to be a capital of nightlife of the Philippines, thus for dancing crowds who loves loud music, disco and bar hopping too are one of them.

However, among the things mentioned we didn’t do anything not even malling. Now, don't ask me how big Asia Mall is !! Since Ate (elder sister) took a 2 days off she had a brilliant idea of inviting us to Club Manila East located in Taytay Rizal. It was our first time to discover an enjoyable resort proximity of Manila. Generally, to find a resort it could be out of Manila. It was a sort of an advance Christmas get together of the family. Okay, I have to tell you that the resort prohibits bringing food inside as they want to maintain the cleanliness of the vicinity which is comprehensible.

The moment we saw the resort we were undeniably impressed because of its cleanliness and architectural construction. It’s not exceptional but satisfying to see. The amenities include 19,000 square foot giant wave pool for surfing, it is a business and leisure resort, with 70 air conditioned rooms and fully furnished bungalows. They also have kiddie pools and fountains and waterfalls, adult pool with a giant 3-looped slide, the kayaking area, lap pool, covered pool and the bean shaped pool. If in case you are within the Manila area try to visit this place. Overnight accommodations are available at a very reasonable price of P2,900/night.

Given that bringing food is not allowed we went out to the nearest fast food restaurants and had the food taken out. We just assembled everyone at the parking area and had lunch there. Don’t worry, the parking is a private area with closure. It’s clean, few cars and guests since it was not a peak season. Probably, we only spent 30 minutes lunch break and then get on with our gears and swimsuits. These 2 days stay in Manila was such a memorable period of my vacation with family. Time maybe short and brisk but eventful ! There's much to appreciate every details whether it's a comedic and silly jokes or the beautiful sunset.

On the third day, we went to Sariaya, Quezon Province to visit my other relatives. I consider Quezon my first home as I spent half of my childhood there. I don’t recall how many summers, holy weeks and family get togethers I spent during my early years but I can only tell you that memories are still alive and unsullied . Those recollection gives me comfort and eternal bliss throughout our stay. When I saw my children playing non-stop with other kids I can’t help but remember my beautiful childhood souvenir. Souvenir that I can go back on and on. Climbing the Mango trees, picking up guava in the forest, asking chicos or caimitos from relatives were absolutely delightful and amiable story of my early days. Not to mention, playing all the local games of my epoch until the sunset which I enjoyed every bit of my youth. Enough of that, I feel old when I talk about my younger years .

Though there was communication barrier, my kids managed to play as children do. We had an enjoyable stroll at the village. Merely talking with the neighbours on how the village has changed a lot. Before there we few houses near my grandparents house. At present, new houses are springing up like mushrooms after the time and so the population is definitely expanding. Eating buko (young coconut) and fresh fruits like Pomelos and bananas were one of the highlights of the day. Sorry, I wouldn’t be able to shares pictures of foods because we were spontaneously promenading and did not consider to bring the camera arrghh!

In between days, our feet brought us to Province of Marinduque as I would like to see my Auntie who’s in the Monastery of St. Claire. I’ve been wanting to see her from our previous vacation but the time didn’t permit us since we needed to take the ship going there which a bit risky because of heavy rains. Imagine, I haven’t seen my Auntie over the past 10 years or so.

This post is lengthy. I think I need to continue on my next post. Hang on there .

The trip

2008-12-11T11:45:00.008+01:00

I know it’s been a while that I have not updated my blog. It’s not that I disregard the existence of this blog, it’s just difficult to beat the jet lag. And still thinking where to start what we have left at home. The house is in a terrible muddle. Nevertheless, all are now in place and I have some time to write about our trip to the Philippines.

We supposed to leave April but since we have had a lot of renovation made the last time it is necessary to checked out on the budget. So we decided to pushed through theoretically December but it is out of question that we pay 5,000€ for the ticket . It was a way too expensive for us. Good thing, husband has a lot of benefits from work and fare ticket is one of them. The company has a list of agencies in which all employees are entitled to have a less 30% from the ticket valid every after 2 years travel anywhere. I would say, not bad after all. We have checked around 4 agencies and compared the ticket fare. We were able to get the less expensive for 3,700€ for 4 tickets, back and forth and we flew with KLM. Fortunately, it was with KLM because the individual televisions definitely helped us to get occupied while travelling. If in case you what to know, the kids managed to sleep even if they were tempted to watch all the cartoons series and films.

Who wants to wake up at 3 o’clock in the morning? No one, but we are talking about vacation here. Along with that, I don’t know if the kids like getting up in the middle of the night. You know those weekends when you want to stay at home in the couch drinking a hot cup of your favorite tea. However, when I woke them up they were so excited to leave. I have never seen them whining nor crying. Normally, when they know the need to wake up early they are very cooperative. Leaving France at 4AM is not really encouraging especially when it’s freaking cold outside. We left at exactly 4 in the morning and thanks to our friend Laurent who proposed us to accompany at the airport otherwise we didn’t have a choice to take the taxi. Lucky us, he’s really nice to offer us a ride.

From Marseille to Amsterdam the trip was okay. The kids managed to sleep a little bit. We had to wait 5 hours before the flight to the Philippines. Luckily, it was a direct flight and no stopovers. In that 5 hours at Schiphol Airport, we had breakfast, enjoyed our lunch and shopped at duty free to kill the time. Concocting a trip is never easy but we were able to plan ahead of time. We have made the complete itineraries and couldn’t help imagining and anticipating the trip. I could already feel a magic moment being home. I knew this was the great instant for some serious enchanting moment. But before my imagination went off rambling into that perfect trip, it was time to get on board .

Arriving Manila, the kids were fuelled up as they have been sleeping almost half the flight. At the NAIA, we only spent 20 minutes to claim the luggages, passed thru customs for verification and everything went okay. When we went out from NAIA I thought I was just dreaming when I saw Dad waiting for us outside. I took a few belly gasp and said wow, am I really HOME?? Then, I looked around and heard Tagalog speaking, people waving, OFW's with all their big boxes of Pasalubong for the family, smiling faces, the sun though we had a rain showers, good customer service. And because my son Sébastien asked me “Maman c’est ça les Philippines?“ (Maman, this is Philippines?) which I proudly answered “Oui” mon fils !” (Yes, my son) “Ah je sais! Parce que il fait chaud ici !”. (Ah I know! Because it's too hot in here!). Now I realized it was not a dream this is indeed real !

Surprises await you…..

A postcard for all

2008-11-01T22:50:00.009+01:00

Dear everyone,

By the time you read this we are boarding on a plane.....destination PHILIPPINES ! I will be away not so long, not too short but enough to enjoy my family, friends and my country. I will soon be back and share our precious moments of HOME ! I won’t be able to read emails or do blog hopping until I return but if I could get a chance I will surely leave a trace ! Until then friends !

I will definitely enjoy the beach, the sun, the sand. Sitting on a hammock while sipping on margaritas and watching the sun set. ...

See you soon,
Haze

Tag : 4 things meme

2008-10-28T17:00:00.004+01:00

this is Calanques Port-Pin

Another fun tagging from Leah, thanks and sorry for answering it a little bit late.

Here’s the rule:

Click copy/paste, type in your answers and tag four people in your lists! Don’t forget to change my answers to the questions with that of yours.

Question # 1. Four places I go over and over
My answer : Calanques of Marseilles, St. Baume, Luminy, Parc Borely

Question # 2. Four people who e-mails me regularly
My answer : Ate, Vic, Bev, Che

Question # 3. Four of my favorite places to eat?
My answer : Leyen (Jap Resto), La Femina (Couscous Restaurant), Miam Miam (Chinese Resto) & KFC Lol with no gravy :(

Question # 4. Four places you’d rather be?
My answer : Philippines, Italy, Australia and Japan

Question #5. Four TV shows I could watch over and over.
My answer : Faites entre l'accuser, DECO, DH, NCIS

Now, I am tagging the lucky 4 Bernadette Anne, Major Tom, Wil & Joanne.

Tag : The Name Game

2008-10-25T23:50:00.004+02:00

After those not so good incidents (the Cetelem, the parking, the hacker and the problem of internet connection for 1 week) let’s go to the lighter side of life. That’s how I see my further existence even though I am confronted with exasperating situation I should be able to forget, laugh and go on as if nothing happened. Well, sometimes it is undeniably difficult to overlook what had happened but I am trying my best …my utmost best to be Zen. And because there is a beginning and an ending for all, I can say I am done with it. I am sure that there’s worse out there…I hope not ! Nevertheless, I will surely not let it pass without creating any trouble by having the capacity to solve the issue diplomatically and without stressing toooooo much (but I did, I swear).

Now , I’ll be doing a tag and pardon me for the late response Mahalia, just got busy and with all these unavoidable circumstances on the side, things aren’t just like the way I wanted them to be. It’s all about names and where did I get my kids’ name. In fact, it was my Honey who wanted to have a Filipino name for our children. When we learned that it will be a boy I hastily got a pen and a paper to list them down. Okay, I must admit it was not easy. I have checked sites to look for possible names unfortunately, there was no names that is pleasant to our ears ! Accordingly, we finally decided to name our first child Sébastien Dominique Angelo.

Sébastien - because Honey’s uncle from Corsica who was extra nice when he was young and that village people adored him because of his extraordinary kindness.

Dominique- it was her mother’s name (deceased when he was 16 yrs. Old)

Angelo- because I have always adore this name and I love collecting angels.

As for my second pregnancy, from the time we knew that I will have a baby girl I have checked my English-Tagalog Dictionary to look for Filipino names for a baby girl. Good thing, it was an easy choice ! The funny thing was Honey is in love with the name Liwayway or Liway and Luningning. I told him that names are okay but we could still find names beautiful than those (it doesn’t mean those names aren’t beautiful, they are). I just want to be more original. And so, in the end I found from my Tagalog-English dictionary Mayumi (modest or demure) that’s what the dictionary says. And Patricia for her second name after my Inay’s name (my Mom’s Mother). Well, we wanted to have both Filipino names but for Sébastien it was hard to find one. At least one French name and Filipino name anyhow that’s how typical mix cultures are.

Even though, a lot of new parents of mix cultures or France is their adopted country worry about not having a French name (family living in France) because it is a major obstacle particularly when looking for a job in France. There are a lot of cases that applicants who do not have French names doesn’t have equal opportunities compared to those who have French names. It is sad but it is true. Take this an example, a lot of Arabs and African origin change their names to have an equal opportunity. They no longer brag as regards to their ancestry in public to spare themselves from law and employers' discrimination. Dozens have opted for the new link of existence to escape from the cruel reality. With their new name, it gave them a job and put them on an equal balance with colleagues, who knew nothing about their past.

However, I personally don’t put too much weight on this. As long as we send our children to good schools, educate and give out the best in them. I believe not having a French name would not definitely a hindrance in the future. Education is their lifeline and the future will not depend on their names ! I just find it ridiculous if they judge applicants because one doesn’t have a French name therefore no job will be available! Or to some parents who want to name their kids according to their wish but hesitant of what the future entails (just because they don't have a French name). They are still little to put too much pressure on their names. And, changing names is not a solution to the problem…in France, égalite (equality) should be extended to everyone. The French democracy has 3 key philosophy: liberté (liberty), égalite (equality), and fraternité (fraternity). If society are firmly described by their rapport to the State, the logic makes sense.

Internet HIJACK !

2008-10-08T13:47:00.008+02:00

After a week, I am quite released after the hacking incident. I was able to talk to my family and friends who have been chatting with the hacker pretending to be me. Good thing, they got my message before they could be trapped. Some got it late but very very few were deceived. And the only thing that hacker wants is a globe prepaid cards. Now, I can conclude that hacker is a Filipino. Probably, a young person who doesn’t have anything to do during the day except spending all the time in front of the computer. Playing games, learning new tricks which includes violating one’s privacy. And once privacy is violated he can get money and information out of it by using one's Yahoo ID.

In the Philippines, loading cellular phone is through prepaid cards. If you do not have a line you can ask someone or a friend to charge your cellular phones through one’s cellular phones. For the benefits of those who live abroad and not familiar with this prepaid. This is how it works :

A P500.00 Globe Prepaid Call & Text Card will not work without a Globe Prepaid SIM Card. It is non-refundable and irreplaceable. The worth on the card must be used within two (2) months from first use.

How to load prepaid: 1. Dial 223 and press SEND. 2. Enter the first ten digits of the PIN and press #. 3. Enter the last 6 digist of the PIN and press #. 4. A voice prompt will then confirm that the reload attempt is successful. This is what happened to my young cousin who lost 5k by reloading hacker's cellular phones.

Okay what is a hacker? This is to signify "a clever programmer" or "somebody who tries to smash into computer systems.As I searched for an explanation, according to Raymond he listed five possible characteristics that qualify one as a hacker.

• A person who enjoys learning details of a programming language or system
• A person who enjoys actually doing the programming rather than just theorizing about it
• A person capable of appreciating someone else's hacking
• A person who picks up programming quickly
• A person who is an expert at a particular programming language or system, as in "Unix hacker"

Now, how to track hackers and avoid them. Talking about my own personal experience what they do is :

1. Buzz you.

2. Sending you “Musta na?” (How are you?) Unfortunately, this is very ordinary so be very careful.

3. Nasaan or sino kasama mo? (Who’s with you or are you with someone?)

4. Anong oras na dyan ? (What time is it there?) Sometimes, this is common especially when you have many friends abroad. Time difference is important in catching up.

5. Sira yung webcam ko eh invite mo naman ako. Check ko lang kung okay. (My cam is not working please invite me. Will check if it’s okay.) If you are not sure ask the person first to invite you while chatting. Take note they can record images from your webcam, hacker did it to me. You will notice if the image becomes smaller, that is a good sign of hacking!

6. Meron daw kasing 1 hr. maintenance ang Yahoo dito. (There is a 1 hour yahoo maintenance here) If they know your abroad they might use it against you. So do not store important information in your inbox like bank accounts, address, telephone numbers and vice versa. It would be safer to keep it with you. My friend stored a lot from her inbox even her bank accounts, the bank called her that someone is impersonating her. Good thing that banks has an strict SOP otherwise you're dead !

6. Oi, share ko sayo latest pictures ko. (Hey, I will share you my latest pictures) So don’t get excited (like I did and thinking my friend is preggy and tries to surprise me) Do not open a file, check the source if it’s with “https”. Second, check the existence of a security device known as padlock on the lower right side of the site from your computer.

7. Favor naman o ! (This is how all my friends told me but hacker didn’t do it with me). So be very cautious about doing favors!

8. As Makis has just said….Try to break the habit of having one username & password for everything. When your password is phished, they will have access to your Yahoo email & get information, giving them more list of contacts. They might probably try your phished password to Friendster, Facebook, Multiply etc to get more contacts to scam.

These are examples of messages I got from friends. This is not to convince you that hackers, crackers etc but to warn you they are for real !

OH MY GOD HAZE.. BUTI NA LANG YOU SENT THIS MESSAGE. SO HINDI IKAW ANG NAGPABILI SAKIN NG 50 PCS NA TIG 500 NA GLOBE PREPAID CARD..SABI KO NA NGA BA EH SOMETHING’S WRONG..VERY STRANGE.. ALAM MO BA NA NAG CREATE PA SYA NG BAGONG YAHOO ID GIRLCUTE3245 KASI DAW SHE WANTS TO HAVE ANOTHER ID ASIDE FROM HGGIRALDI.. SINCE NAGKAKAKUTOB NA NGA AKO I ASKED HER.. IS THIS REALLY YOU HAZE? SABI NYA YES I WILL SHOW MYSELF ON CAM.. PRIOR TO THAT I ASKED HER.. OK HOW DO I CALL YOU? SHE IGNORED MY QUESTION, INSTEAD SHE SHOWED HERSELF ON CAM NA IKAW ANG NAG APPEAR?? BUT STILL NAG DOUBT PA DIN AKO KASI THE WAY SHE SPEAKS IS REALLY NOT YOU.. WALANG ATE RISE.. SO DEMANDING AND IN A RUSH.. NAGBIGAY PA NG MOBILE NUMBER DUN KO DAW I SEND MGA PASSWORDS NG CARDS..THEN NAG TEXT ULIT THIS MORNING ASKING "NAKABILI KA NA? " TALAGANG DI AKO MAPAKALI SO I DECIDED TO GO ONLINE.. YUN NA NGA.. HAAAY.. MUNTIK NA..THIS IS HER MOBILE NUMBER 09279475929.. I WOULD LIKE TO REPORT THIS NUMBER NGA EH.. I'LL SEE WHAT I CAN DO.. THANKS FOR WARNING US..TAKE CARE. ATE RISE

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Hi Hazel,
Yes nakausap ko rin kahapon yung Hazel and Jenni. Pati si Ellen and Jenny (colleague in the office) nakipagusap din sya using your account. Akala ni Ellen ikaw yon. Si Rey naman ang nakausap din nya was someone pretending Jenni. Please give me or send me na lang sa ym your new ID.
Take care.
Ate Emilie

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hi haze.. me nakipag chat nga sa kin kanina kala ko ikaw, nag send ng pic but i cant open it, then view pa web cam ko... mejo nagtaka na nga ako kung bakit parang sobrang strange dahil sobrang eager na makita ako so i stopped the web cam and log off... tingin mo na hacked na nun ang email id ko?...
gosh who do u think is doing this.. it’s a Filipino kasi tagalog ako kinausap eh...
cheers...
Aimee

Thanks to Raqgold for blogging about this and I am asking you to please spread this message to warn everyone especially those unaware that phishing is for real.

For me hackers and crackers are the same because they are invading one's privacy. Just for an additional infos :

HACKER,( n.): 1) A person who enjoys exploring the details of programmable systems and how to stretch their capabilities. 2) One who programs enthusiastically. 3) A person who is good at programming quickly. 4) An expert at a particular program, as in "a Unix hacker". 5) [deprecated] A malicious meddler who tries to discover sensitive information by poking around. The correct term for this sense is "cracker".

CRACKER, ( n.): One who breaks security on a system. Coined by hackers in defense against journalistic misuse of the term "hacker". The term "cracker" reflects a strong revulsion at the theft and vandalism perpetrated by cracking rings. There is far less overlap between hackerdom and crackerdom than most would suspect.

I GOT HACKED SO BE CAREFUL !

2008-10-02T23:41:00.002+02:00

It was Tuesday morning when I chatted with my friend. She buzzed me and ask me “Musta na? “ (How are you?) I answered her with thrill as we haven’t seen nor chat for a long time. I told her “Mabuti naman and you ? (I am fine and you?) And she asked me where my kids are. I told her they are at school. She told me if I want to se her recent photos. I was really enthusiast to see her pictures. Me, thinking that she would really like to surprise me or I made this idea that she is finally pregnant so I was eager to see her. She sent me a file and open it through Flicker and asked me to view my webcam and so I did. She even told me that Yahoo will have a maintenance for 1 hour. And because she also would like to check if her webcam is working. After a few seconds she turned it off and so was I. I felt nothing so strange.

I continued cleaning the house, went out to pick up the kids and got disconnected. When I came back I couldn’t access to my yahoo email and messenger. Probably this is it, Yahoo is on maintenance or maybe we are having a signal problem which happened few times. I tried to reconnect over and over but I failed. Makis called and asked me how I was. She asked me if I am irritated with the internet. Thus I told her yes I am irritated because I cannot access to my yahoo account. She then told me to just try because it happens to her too. I told her that my friend told me that Yahoo will have a maintenance and I asked Makis if she could access through her email and messenger and she said yes. She did not encountered any connection problem and while I discuss with her about my friend that after I opened the file but failed to view them, I got disconnected. After brainstorming with Makis she ended up saying that I was probably HACKED! She was right ! Shocked and stressed out I tried to recover my yahoo address but unfortunately the hacker was more rapid than me. Makis told me that I was so strange during the chat because and was insisting for a webcam ! That, she needs to open the file I sent by signing in. After our conversation we then realized that we are a victim of phishing.

I immediately closed my blog, changed all the necessary passwords and addresses. Send an email to friends to warn them. All the while I thought I was chatting with my friend I was already chatting with the Hacker. And Makis was chatting with the hacker thinking that it was me! I had the confirmation when I called the sister of my friend in Paris and confirmed that my friend is having a problem with her email therefore she was hacked. The reason why the hacker was able to contact me by using my friend’s YM. It’s unbelievable!

I slept 1:30 in the morning after sending all warning messages to families and friends. Unfortunately, I had a cousin who was fooled by this hacker pretending to be me. My cousin is still young and never understood what happened to her until my sister saw my message and called me at 6:00AM France time (Manila time 12Noon) . The hacker made my cousin believed that it was me. She lost 10 globe cards worth 5 thousand Pesos. Until now the hacker is using my email and YM address and contacting all my contacts. Good thing, my friends knew me well and as for my family they were alerted right after my cousin was tricked. Many of my friends are emailing me and sending me a message thru my Friendster telling me that hacker is persistent in negotiating globe cards in buying them and will double the price when he gets the merchandise.

This is an example of my friends responses to my warning :

Hi haze,
Nakausap ko yung person na naghack sa Yahoo mo. Mukhang pinoy kase nagtatagalog. Sabi ko na eh! He was asking me if I could buy him 30 pcs globe cards then he'll pay me double the amount through . it was weird. It didn't sound like you cos the person was in a hurry. sabi ko, urgent ba?? Nako, nag gudbye nako kase I didn't feel right. I thought that somebody probably was using your ID. ang kapal nya, leche. Ano ako, tange?? Biro mo, nakipagusap pako. Sana wala pa sya nabiktima. yaiks!!

ate,
Last part na ito ng conversation namin lam ko hindi kaw kausap ko agad eh...
Vincent: antayin mo daw c bevs mag online siya usap daw kayo
Hazel Giraldi: ok cge
Vincent: wag ka daw magoaffline
Hazel Giraldi: huh?
Vincent: standby lng
Hazel Giraldi: ok
Hazel Giraldi: buzz nya na lng ako sabihin mo
Vincent: maganda daw yan offer mo
Vincent: 1000 USD for 25K worth of prepaid cards
Vincent: tubong lugaw
Vincent: kaya standby lng
Hazel Giraldi: oo pero every 2 months lng un
Vincent: 22K PHP ang tubo
Vincent: standby
Vincent: wag kg
Vincent: wag ka gagalaw
Hazel Giraldi: ok
Hazel Giraldi: ill wait
Vincent: yeah just stay put
Vincent: dont even think about moving
Vincent: or blinking
Vincent:
Vincent: gotcha
Hazel Giraldi:
Vincent: ano nga ulit names ng kids mo ate?
Vincent: hello?
Vincent: jan ka pa?
Vincent: wala na?
Vincent: yoohoooo?
Hide Recent Messages (F3)
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Send an SMS Message (Ctrl+T)
Vincent: o ate y di ka na ans?
Vincent: busy?

TO BE CONTINUED.....

It's just another manic Monday

2008-09-22T23:02:00.008+02:00

Everyone says that Monday is not a good start of the week. The fact that the most depressing day falls on Mondays are not premeditated but a stroke of bad luck. And yes it happened to me in this particular day. Today (yesterday) I normally pick up the kids from school at 11:30 and so I leave the house 10 minutes before that time. Where I normally park the car is hardly no spaces and are always full but I luckily found a location and started to do my maneuver. Suddenly, a woman inside a car stopped parallel and facing me. She saw me trying to park the car. Apparently, I parked just in front of her doorstep which I know is really a parking for everyone (it’s actually a sidewalk) but no prohibition of parking. She looked visibly discontented seeing me while she mimicked “putain” (whore) ! That was easy reading her lips from afar. She was talking to me from the inside of her car by a sign language trying to pin point that I need to get off from there and leave the parking because she lives there. I moved backward to give her a space but she insisted that I leave. I left without saying a word and started to look for another parking space.

I went to school and saw a middle age woman that I often talk with who lives not far from that b*”tch. I wanted to make sure of something before I confront that woman. I asked her If that certain street is a private parking or if the landlord has a certain agreement with the Mayor’s office that no one could park the car except for the owner. Because as a stranger though naturalized French I am not particular with the law. She told me it’s not private and that everyone has an access to it except for those who have interdiction signs. She even told me that she had witnessed that I was forcefully asked by that woman to leave the parking. She confirmed that we have an equal rights to park the car. It is communal ! Now, that was clear. She even told me that people are just complaining because it’s in front of their house and because they are egoist and they don’t have the right to forbid you from parking there. She added that the woman should have asked me nicely if she wants to park the car in front of her house and if that won’t bother me. If only she asked me politely I would easily give way but it was not the case. An arrogant individual who care less and who does not have respect for others.

After knowing that I was deprived of my right I was fuming mad. I took the kids and before I went home I knocked on that woman’s door to clarify things and to express myself but she never opened. And I can confirmed that she doesn’t have a sign of interdiction like some other proprietors who have their own prohibited parking signs. Since I know where she lives I took her home address, the plate number, the mark and colour of her car in any case I will encounter her I could probably discuss the matter with her without being an uneducated person like she did and will not go down to her level. I just want to express for what I know is right.

I parked my car in front of that white house but parking is not prohibited at all by the Mayor's office in our district. It's indeed a public parking in the sidewalk. I remember blogging about driving in Marseilles and saw this picture where the woman exactly lives.

I was thinking I was probably a victim of racism, I hope not ! What is really irritating is that I park my car everyday because it’s the only street that is near my children’s school. I calmed down (not 100%) after I talked to my husband who is in Paris and will be back on Thursday so I feel really alone with my ranting. Nevertheless thanks to some friends Makis, Kala, Hilda, and my neighbour whom I often talk to, it means a lot. I was able to release the raging anger I’ve had from my Monday bad luck !

The secret to being filthy rich

2008-09-18T18:34:00.010+02:00

Opting for staggered payment without interest when purchasing big items in France is one of the best way to save money. Many would set out for it since there is 0% interest in most of the items which is financially undemanding. Few would pay cash as they can afford it. However there are big items that we purchase like cars, house and lot, vacation house and the likes we would compare the most excellent offer on credit systems.

We bought our apartment through bank credit with very low interest. And it was 3 ½ years ago when we bought our car payable within 4 years and we have plump for consumer credit. We inquired from Aramis in Aix en Provence as my husband was referred by a friend to check with them (car distributor) of their affordable and interesting tariffs. We got the car and were financed by Cofica-c.u. (a filial of Cetelem French Company that specializes in consumer credit with reasonable interest).

Husband was double checking our accounts, budgeting, stock markets etc. when he found out that we were charged for an additional .48 cents. You heard me right .48 cents, a very small amount and we know it perfectly. The increase is nothing but is there something wrong if we ask why? I think it’s our utmost right to know the reason. Husband called Cofica-c.u to know why we have an increase just for the records. Okay, Honey was answered by a lady which is apparently unhappy of his inquiry. And before he was able to contact the right company Aramis gave him a number to contact but unsuccessful. He was able to contact other numbers but he was passed over to another company from another to another. He started getting really pissed off, I feel like its pretty freaking unfair that they gave incorrect numbers so Honey ended up checking the internet and finally got the right contact. In totality he dialed 5 numbers before he could get to talked to the right person including the waiting time. This is how the conversation went :

Husband: Bonjour Madame we bought a car Peugeot Partner with Aramis and you were financing it. I found out that there is an increase of .48 cents according to our monthly payment. I just want to know why just for the records.

Cetelem Lady: (in a sarcastic tone) Oh it’s funny it’s the first time I encounter a client who asks why there is such a SMALL INCREASE (stressing on the word SMALL increase).

Husband: (calm) It’s not about the amount, I just want to know what is the reason. I know it’s a small increase but if you don’t explain to me why then I wouldn’t understand. (He felt that the lady started to get irritated by raising her voice as if she doesn’t need to give an explanation) Okay calm down, in any case I think it’s my right as a client.

The lady explained it’s because of échéances (expiration). And since from the start they have made wrong calculations regarding billing system. I was thinking how could they make such an error and just asking us to pay without any notice. So we have the right to demand an explanation to clarify things. I wouldn’t get into details as this would complicate things.

After hearing the lady's explanation my husband understood well and he was okay with that. It was not a problem at all once it is clearly explained. What we are trying to emphasize here is that they must adhere to the policies and principles because we are. We are good payers who never miss to pay the amount including the interest rate. If you look at it they will charge us for an additional .48 cents monthly without any supporting reason. If you will give them a chance to do this without informing clients then it will be a jackpot treasure! Probably some clients would not pay attention of this little amount but they do accumulate big value beyond the credit. You will feel the increase if the numbers are big….then it is something. These types of policies do accumulate from small amount to big cash value. And because without prior notice this is clearly has a little scruple vis-à-vis to their clients about the matter. How to ask them without getting misunderstood? Or what is this, some kind of rip-off? Or mere misunderstanding? We have made a simple calculations.

50,000 (clients)
X . 48 (cents monthly increase)
--------------
24,000 € (monthly gains)

24,000 €
X 5 (years of payment)
--------------
120,000 € (total gains)

When you see these numbers I guess we have the right to ask why. We have opted for to pay the car through “prélèvement automatique” (automatic deduction) from our bank account because of its practicality and so as to avoid future hassle and everything is documented. I could now confirm to Makis that France in (some way) has nothing to do with courtesy and this experience is running down in the same category. Now, tell me if they get .48 cents from every clients, I would say that small cents is definitely a simple way to being rich! So be attentive on your bank debit and ask for explanation there's no harm by asking queries anyway.

Une drôle de reflection...

2008-09-12T14:42:00.011+02:00

Les conversations avec nos enfants ça nos donne parfois a réfléchir. Surtout quand nous avons les enfants en bas âge et nous pouvons pas lire ce qui se passe dans leurs têtes. Voila une simple conversation de la vie quotidienne.

Scène 1 : Les enfants se battent sur un jouet.

Maman : (fatiguée, avoir mal au ventre et mal à la tête) Les enfants s'il vous plait j'ai besoin un peu de calme.

Mayumi : (malade, elle crie et se dispute avec son frère) Non, c'est à moi ce jouet. Tu es mechant, tu n'est plus mon frère. (La verité c'était le jouet de son frère)

Sébastien : (toujours calme et il essaye de récupérer son jouet) Mayumi c'est a moi ce jouet. Tu me le donne, ce n'est pas a toi!

....Pendant ce temps là Maman prepare le dîner avant Papa arrive.

Papa : (arrive de travail) Bonsoir les enfants. Ca va Maman ?

Maman : Ca va mais Mayumi me fatigue ! Elle n'arrête pas de crier. Je me sens pas bien donc je n'ai pas beaucoup de patience. S'il te plaît ça serra bien si tu pourras parler avec eux.

Papa : (calm mais il parle avec l'authorité) Les enfants s'il vous plaît Maman est fatiguée. Elle a besoin de se reposer. Arrêtez de vous disputer sinon vous allez directment dans votre chambre!

Mayumi : (avec un geste à la main typiquement Français) Mais moi aussi je suis fatiguée !

Vous avez constaté ? Vous voyez même les enfants savent crier quand ils sont fatigués ou même quand ils ne se sentent pas bien. I'l n'ya pas que les parents que pouvent s'exprimer comme j'ai le fait. Nous les parents ont vite fait de convenir que lorsque nos enfants agissent mal sur un sujet c'est tout de suite faux. On fait parfois les choses sans réfléchir!

Scène 2 :

Comme je leur a dis souvent s'ils veulent donner quelque chose à nous ou à quelqu'un qu'ils doivent remettre gentillement et de ne pas jeter les choses. Un jour Sébastien m'avaist demandé d'avoir son jouet. Et moi toujours aussi deborder avec les ménages aimerais gagner du temps donc j'ai pris son jouet et au lieu de le donné je le lancer sur lui.

Sébastien : (un peu surpris) Maman il ne faut pas jeter les choses.

Moi : Ah oui, c'est vrai! Tu m'excuse mon fils car je suis presser mais tu as raison! Je voudrai gagner du temps mais ce que j'ai viens de le faire n'était pas vraiment approprier. Merci de me rappeler !

Parfois les parents, nous avons toujours des leçons à donner aux enfants mais quelquefois ou peut être même souvent on trouve des excuses pour ne pas avoir tort! Ce n'est pas parce que ce sont que des enfants qu'il sont tort...C'est faux au contraire ils peuvent avoir raison. Je trouve cela normal, se n'est pas parce nous sommes parents que cela nous donnent tout les droits à dire de choses. J'ai beaucoup appris en tant qu'une mère qu'il y a des limites pour tout et je voudrais leur inculquer des notions de justice et le respect. Tout ce qui améliore nos relations avec nos enfants, d'être a leur côté, à les comprendre fait une grande différence.

Here we go for the English translations. Some words could be inappropriate or grammar is incorrect but this will help you understand the post, please bear and thanks !

Free English courses

2008-09-02T14:40:00.008+02:00

This morning France is really making it's way to improve their education system. I heard on the radio that according to the Minister of Education Mr. Xavier Darcos the students will be offered possible rigorous seminars in English-language ability during school vacations in February and summer. Mr. Darcos reiterated that young and old are not proficient in speaking good English is considerably a "handicap" in today's world and for International competition! He tells that while affluent families pay for their children to study English courses abroad, he is offering them for FREE to everyone right here. He proposes as well an English courses for 2 hours at a daily basis accompanying education in high school after 16h. Mr. Darcos comments are extraordinary in a country where politicians and people have often tried to conserve the influence of France. I heard previously that France wanted their Language to be an international form of communication but it will be impossible because French language is so much difficult and expensive even for little courses. This will only be accessible for those who are able pay expensive courses. In the end they drop the battle.

Now my choice to speak with my children in English will serve them best in the future and of great advantage.

Ja ich will !

2008-08-27T23:45:00.002+02:00

As promised I will tell you about the wedding ceremony we attended last month. Two days before leaving for Corsica we went to a bridal celebration of mixed races, a French and German couple (thanks to them I met Kala). We left Friday as my Honey is on RTT (réduction de temps de travail) to get ready for the wedding the next day since the celebration was neither in Marseilles nor in Aix-en Provence. So the less haste the better right? Friday was an ideal time to leave home and it took us 7 hours to get to Auberge (An Inn) and not a Hotel. It would be complex to find a good hotel as we were in the middle of nowhere and it sounds as if there is one. As we took our destination the scenery are captivating and totally different from Marseilles. All along the way as we drove we found the environment warmer, with lush green trees, cleaner atmosphere…a heavenly splendid place. I wasn’t able to take pictures of the panorama as we thought we were not on the right track. The GPS lost his way so I needed to assist my Honey and looked for the direction meticulously. Arriving at the Auberge, the owner was extra nice. One of her employees took as to our room and we were also extra surprised to see the type of the room. It was too small with one queen size bed and another single bed apparently for the kids . Can you imagine we were like sardines and the room tariffs are by far too expensive. The carpet looks like it needs cleaning and well overdue or probably it is clean but very old. We have our toilet and bath but no door to close instead it was a block curtain that serves as a shutter. At least we were provided by clean towels, soap but no shampoo good thing I bought something with us! That night everyone took a shower before having dinner at their restaurant. Now, I cannot say anything against the restaurant as we did eat and that was a nice dinner. After a tiring day we finally had the chance to sleep and that the key way to recuperate is to get them.

The next morning, we strolled in the village and we found 3 “hotels” near the area and with the same services, I guess just the look from the exterior! Ah, the inconveniences of traveling. At 3 in the afternoon we prepared ourselves and get ready for the ceremony at 4:30 PM. They got married in the Region of Bourgogne, one part of France that I have never visited despite of the famous wines they have. Its capital is Dijon where Analyse and family live. I am certain in the future I will really love to visit this place if Analyse will tour me for free LOL ! The exact festivity took place in the Department of Nièvre at La Maire de Montapas (Mayor’s office of Montapas). It was the only wedding celebrated at that day. The ceremony was in French but was translated into German for the bride’s family and German friends. It was truly lovely to hear translation in German and everyone was giggling including the wedding couple and the Mayor’s representative! Indeed a joyful ceremony. At the end of the ceremony everyone’s busy taking the usual shot .

The reception was held blissfully that escorts to the enchanting beauty of the pristine loveliness of Chateau D’Anizy. The place is quite and ultra-romantic for wedding. In short, a place for peace, calm and beauty just perfect for a nature enthusiast.

Delicious appetizers were served....picture taking and picture taking once again. Discussion here and there, in French, German and English whew ! While dining in we have learned that a couple was also staying at the same Inn, totally unsatisfied and disappointed as well! We just stayed until 1 AM though we would like to stay late up night and go dancing but we needed to get back to our hotel room and get enough sleep for the next day will be another day. Sunday, preparing ourselves for an early departure coming back to Marseilles as much as possible to catch up the ship leaving at 8:55 PM for Corsica. There was even a brunch the next day (Sunday) but we were already heading our way back home. Anyway, that's the schedule and at least we were able to stay for the reception.

For the meantime, I will let you enjoy looking at the photos because I need to pack and get ready for tomorrow's departure for another wedding ceremony. A 3 days fcelebration which will be held in the Alps .

Please keep them away

2008-08-22T10:52:00.004+02:00

Accidents happen everyday in just a split of seconds. Where do you usually keep your hair dryer? And how about storing household cleaning products? Some of us, we keep our hairdryers in the bathroom for facility of plugging into the outlets. Others keep them in their drawer’s bedroom which I think is safer. Some households products are in the toilet for accessibility or store cabinets of the kitchen which is really recommended. Parents have many chores to oversee at home and this may seem very little to think of or somehow being taken for granted but we can certainly avoid terrible circumstances.

One time I was watching news and I heard a terrible accident. I will not get into details as it was a horrible incident. A woman was drying her hair while her three kids were taking a bath in the tub. Suddenly the phone rung she ran to answer it immediately and forgot to unplug the hair dryer. One of the kids took the dryer and played with it. Unfortunately, they've got electrocuted and no one survived.

Here are some friendly reminders and precautions that can help you avoid under difficult conditions :

1. Please keep hair dryer, curling irons and other electric appliances away from sinks, bathtubs and toilets.

2. Store household equipments and medicines only in the drawers and out of reach of children. If your filing cabinet have locks it would be safer to lock the storage cabinets.

3. Place fire extinguisher in case of flames. (We still need to purchase this)

4. Use covers for electrical socket if possible.

5. Keep matches, lighters and candles out of children sight.

6. Stock up household cleaners in their original containers with lock and double check if they are tightly close.

7. Do not leave very small children unaccompanied in a tub or in the kitchen.

8. Make sure someone knows CPR, it's a big help.

9. Lastly educate our children to avoid such accidents.

Let us stay safe and be more vigilant to keep our children safe at home even from small things . It may seem rather petty that a simple hair dyer could cause an accident but it can save life.

The challenges of my mothering in a foreign country

2008-08-07T15:29:00.010+02:00

This is a post I made from PMN long time ago and this is my way of advertising that our site Pinoy Moms Network (PMN) is now working! According to our administrators the site had experienced some technical problems and they were able to finally fix it. All is well, BRAVO and thank you for your time and patient in fixing them! We are still in Corsica and while I am busy working out on some things I will leave you with this long post !

I speak from experience that raising kids in a foreign land is a tedious undertaking. I knew from the beginning that I would raise them differently because they had two origins. Therefore, they would have two different cultures, two or more languages, religions and everything that would go with it as a product of mixed marriages.Talking about culture, I believe that as a stay at home mother I play an important role in instilling good values and discipline while husband is at work. This does not necessarily mean that my French husband has nothing to do when it comes to disciplining our children. On the contrary, he is a big help as I couldn’t do it by myself alone. The father serves as a neutralizer when I am losing my patience. It is a matter of teach and learn relationship at home having diverse cultures. I will take this as an example; my husband does not agree that spanking is the solution to discipline our children not a part of their culture. For him the best punishment is to send them to their room and they cannot go out until they are called. This depends also on the gravity of what they did. Or they are not allowed to watch their favorite cartoons.

A Filipino couple who’s been living more than 20 years in France told me that in school, educators are teaching the children that once their parents lay their hands on them they should immediately call the police to report. As if we don’t know the distinction between outright violence and disciplinary measures. Generally speaking, we Filipinos have our own way and spanking is one of them as a form of discipline (according to research studies ). Honestly, the first thing I do is to talk to them diplomatically but sometimes it doesn’t resolve things–and the result is that they will do it again. Then scolding follows but children tend to disregard thinking that Mom loves me so she will not punish me and spanking doesn’t imply that we love them less. Now, comes Monsieur Palo (Mr. Spanky, as what my hubby calls it with an action of his hand raising). Spanking differs from beating a child. I know that we have all different strategies and tactics but personally spanking doesn’t mean physical aggression as long as we know the limits. We all know that there’s a BIG difference between physically aggressed and physically reprimanded! Now, tell me do you know anyone that haven’t been visited by Monsieur Palo ? I think we should just show them that we have the authority and be firm whatever punishment is necessary and they also have the right to reason out if needed!

Language, I am perplexed! My husband prefers that I talk to them in Tagalog but I prefer talking to them in English first because this is a big plus when they will start schooling. Since English is not a second language in France and at school they emphasizes more on European Languages (Italian, Spanish & German).

Just to reiterate, it doesn’t mean that I don’t like my mother language, of course I do! It’s just that I would like them to learn the international language as is it the easiest form of communication. I was telling him that I don’t think when you go to neighboring countries you could converse in Tagalog. While deciding what language to use we have encountered problem in the past with our son Sebastien, he talked very late. I don’t know why? Some says because he’s a boy and that boys are late speakers. Other says because he was confused what languages to use since there are three languages at stake. As a first time parent we didn’t know what to do, we were afraid. My husband (as an only child and inexperienced when it comes to kids) almost decided to ask help from a Pediatric Psychology. I myself by the way has 3 siblings and experienced when it comes children and telling him that it’s just normal that he will speak a bit late. We asked the pediatrician and we were advised to speak first in one language. When he’s able that would be the time to gradually introduce him to other languages. This is also to help him avoid stressing out while growing up. I think we were just very demanding at that time because we have seen children from mixed marriages who spoke two or more languages, we were impressed! After reflection, why do we put so much pressure on him? He is just a child. He is just starting to learn and he will all have the time for that. The reason why he started pre-schooling at 2 years and a half to learn how to socialize with other children of his age. Fortunately, we have good results he improved a lot. Having a second child is less difficult because our daughter has already an example. She looked up to his brother and we can call ourselves experienced parents. At present, our children speak French but we are now starting to communicate with them using basic English and some Tagalog words. I assure you children are like sponge. They could quickly and easily assimilate things around them.

Okay now we go to religion, so far we haven’t got any problems about this. It’s true that we are more religious and practitioners than of Europeans but this doesn’t signify that we are better Christian compared to them. Our goal for them is to become a better person and not turning them into some priests or saints. Moreover, I would like my daughter to call her brother Kuya or Ate including the children of my Filipino friends (addressing an elder person with respect).

On the French part, I simply ask my children to call Tati, Tata, Tante for Aunties and Tonton, Oncle for- Uncles� if they permit so. I have already explained to them that it is a part of my culture. As a respect, I will not insist my children if the frenchies prefers to be called by their first name because I have a great consideration in the French culture as it is their culture too. Being a parent of mixed nationalities we made guidelines to balance things at home. To help us improve as a parent of two wonderful children.

1. We see the good side of both cultures and try to merge them.

2. Learn and respect what are important from each culture and cultivate them.

3. Most especially no criticizing of each culture. It will not help. This will make the children confuse and later on take sides.

4. Punish with a loving and forgiving heart. Stop over reacting when they make a mistake. Give them a chance to explain.

5. Do not get angry at the same time. To avoid the feeling of being unloved.

6. Do not forget to praise and congratulate them! This is important because they learn and gain confidence.

7. We start talking to them about racism. That people are not the same. Colors, cultures, languages, religions, weather and vice versa. And that there is no perfect country!

8. Lastly, if you want them to speak other languages talk with your partner. Both should arrive on unanimous accord. (this is always not the case that a husband or wife will agree)

My other ME

2008-07-30T15:18:00.010+02:00

I don’t know if you have some difficulties in pronouncing my name HAZEL (Hey-zhul). On the other hand, when I arrived in France my name became AZEL (ah-zel) some would call me ASSEL (but I am not one & I assure you I don’t create hassle) and because French doesn’t pronounce the letter H! I didn’t know that French and Kapangpangan’s have in common. In Pampangga they don’t pronounce the letter H until I became friends with my friend C who is an origin of Pampangga (we’re both working in the Hotel Industry). One night, we were watching a film at home and in that particular scene there was a snake and she was screaming really hard while watching and pointing her finger on the television to warn the actors as if she could be heared by them “ Naku ingat ka sa a-as!!” (Oh be careful with the???). At that time I didn’t get it and inquisitively asked her what was about a-as after all? She smilingly told me that in Pampangga they don’t pronounce the H so she was referring about Ahas (snake) ! Thus, the next time she asked me to pass the ANGER she is talking about HANGER (a hook or rod used for hanging clothes)! I jokingly told you her you should be calling me AZEL then! She grinned at me explaining that for names of person and places will be particularly different. They could pronounce the H without technical hitches. Ouf, I was released then my name will be pronounced properly. This is because the Kapangpangan’s writing method had only 14 characters compared to the 26 calligraphy of the modern alphabets. They did not have the letters “f,” “v” and “h” and had only one character for “d” and “r,” one symbol for “e” and “i,” and one symbol for “o” and “u.” And that is also why they have trouble pronouncing “V” and “F”. Next time do not be surprised if a Kapangpangan says Ello and Good-Vye!

Going back to France I am okay when they call me AZEL or ASSEL. I understand why they drop the H letter because it’s the rule. I asked them why and got a simple explanation that it is a silent H so it would be inflexible for them to articulate with aspiration. I will bring you further on how they pronounce my name or call me as they want them to call me. A comical story I encountered on my first visit to Corsica and at that time I am no speaking French so everything was translated in English by Honey. He introduced me to the village people and to his distant cousins. And so I met his cousin P which is now 81 years old (she doesn’t look her age). A typical Corsican woman and warm by nature. She speaks French as well as the native language Corsu. Honey told me that she speaks robust Corsican accent which sometimes difficult to understand. Then we have kissed cheeks to cheeks as a sign of Hello in France.

Scenario:

Honey : Voila P, c’est mon épouse, Hazel. (Voila P, it"s my wife Hazel.)

Me : Ravie de vous connaître P, enfin ! (I am glad to meet you P, finally!)

P : Comment tu t’appelles déjà ? (she approached me closely so she could hear me right) (What is your name again?)

I had probably repeated thrice articulating my name. Unfortunately, my name is not frequent in France therefore it’s tough to remember and pronounce it. She looked at me with confusion. And P was trying really hard remembering my name but apparently my name is tough for her to remember.

P : Oh la la, c’est trop complique pour moi. Je ne peux pas me souvenir de ton prénom, désolé ! Alors, je t’appellerai ISABELLE ! Comme ça c’est facile. (Oh la la, it's to complicated for me. I would not be able to remember your name, sorry! So, I will call you Isabelle! Now that's easy.)

I was surprised too perkily that I couldn’t express since I didn’t understand a single word she said……only ISABELLE. I was like why is she talking about Isabelle? I have understood after Honey translated everything she said. I smilingly told her, it’s not a big deal Isabelle is fine! And we laugh altogether.

Whenever we go and visit her she calls me Isabelle. At times I have the feeling that I am another person behind this beautiful name!

Should I or shouldn't I ?

2008-07-26T21:55:00.004+02:00

I don’t know and I don’t care of what my neighbours will think everytime they see me clean our car inside the residence. Well, I know that vacuum creates an irritating sound however I don’t wash the car early in the morning or during nap time. I am not that insensitive on others wanting to have a quite environment. Knowing that Frenchies often complains because of the LITTLE noise a person could create nevertheless I still insist on cleaning our car. I have kids who eat inside the car obviously the presence of bread crumbs is frequently visible. I clean the car once a week and I think there’s nothing ghastly about washing a car even inside the property. There are some neighbours who would joke and ask me to clean their car “un coup de chiffon suffit et je serai content!” (One touch of sponge and I will be happy!). Or they will tell me that husband is quite lucky that I do the cleaning. While the truth is they wanted to pass a message on me that they want their wife to do the same (and because I am the only woman in the neighbourhood who consistently cleans a car). Others would throw out a killer glance on me and apparently unfriendly probably want to ask me why shouldn’t I just go clean my car at the car wash centre and stop making noise with my non-silence vacuum. A mischievous looks as if I am causing destruction and a penchant for wreaking havoc. Why should I? I know that a car wash centre exists but we are paying our monthly dues amongst the proprietors of the habitation so why not use of the benefits that goes along with it anyway. One way is by utilizing the water in cleaning the car to compensate from the costly monthly fee. It’s just fair enough and I am not the only one cleaning the car by the way. There are very few neighbours that will approach me discreetly telling me that washing a car don’t cost that much and the vacuums are more dominant! I will just plainly reply that it’s not about paying it’s about how I wanted my car to be washed without queuing and waiting without making any effort and to tell you honestly I love washing my car, that’s it!

Non-stop

2008-07-20T18:03:00.002+02:00

Just got back from a 7 hours travel from the Region of Bourgogne and stayed two days there for the wedding celebration of our friends. It was a great wedding and will tell you more about it. For the meantime we are re-charging the car to put our stuffs and by the time you read this we will be boarding on the ship heading to Corsica. And yes we didn't have much sleep for 2 days but then tonight finally we will surely sleep well since it is a night travel. See you soon and happy vacation to everyone.

Everyone meets everyone

2008-07-17T15:17:00.004+02:00

It’s been four months since my last EB with Hilda and daughter Mayumi and I was talking about wondering who will be the next. Eventually a long-time plan of an EB between Makis and Hilda took place. Moreover, we also met another blogger Lynneth and family who apparently spending a grandiose vacation in the South. Makis had a good idea of proposing Lynneth to meet up with everyone. After my first encounter with Hilda this time will be Makis meets Hilda, Hazel meets Lynneth and Hilda meets Lynneth(just to be giving you the exact details) . I live in Marseille, Makis lives in Carry, Hilda lives in Lambesc and Lynneth will be coming from Frejus thus we decided to meet halfway. Typically an EB take place in restaurants, bars/ cafes or someone’s place but this time is just wonderful. Hilda proposed a picnic at the park in Aix-en Provence for a change out of the ordinary.

We went to Parc Jourdan and it was already 1:00 in the afternoon that our growling stomach started to whine. And looking at the KFC we just bought on the way to Aix made us ready to famishedly devour the crispy chicken once we find a nice spot at the park. Just a bit disappointed though there’s no gravy and rice to complete the KFC Pinoy style. Okay I must admit that we were really hungry and that Hilda who lives in Aix is not familiar with the park so we ended us picnicking in the "terrain de boules de Pétanques" (Playing field of Pétanques). We didn’t even have the courage to look for a nice spot with a large area of lush green grass surrounded by trees and flowers where we could really sit back, relax and eat agreeably. Particularly for not waiting Lynneth’s and family, sorry guys we were really starving it was past one already and kids are undeniably worn-out. I know we could have gone further to verify but we discovered it later after a satisfying lunch we had under a tree and beside a bench just to put some of our stuffs. We were re-charged!

With the energy we have after dining we moved from one place to another. We went out of the play field of Pétanque heading near a fountain in search for a fresher atmosphere. Since we were still waiting for Lynneth’s & family the kids enjoyed playing near the fountain and the three of us were contented chit-chatting. While Makis never stopped in checking out if there is possible area for the kids to play with. Finally, it’s just a question of going up, take the stairs and hélas there you could see a spacious, clean and peaceful garden as well as a play pen to enjoy with. At around 2:30 Lynneth’s and family arrived, introduced each one of us. And we would like to thank them for the gifts they have given to Basti and Mimi and Little Mayumi… indeed a very kind gesture. They had a pleasant lunch while we started a fine exchange to get to know each other. We savoured Hilda’s mouth watering dessert altogether. Kids play freely at the playpen. When it was the time to leave David's been sulking because he wanted to bring Sébastien with him back home. It took us little time to pacify him. Oh poor David, don’t worry if we pass by Paris we will never miss to visit you. Looking at David, we never stop bugging Lynneth to have a second baby brother or sister for David to enjoy with. Thanks for the pictures Makis, they're wonderful !

The journey was too short to talk about everything but it was indeed wonderful to have met everyone. Then again thanks to the power of blogging .

Basti

Mimi

David

Mayumi

Le permis ça se mérite!

2008-07-10T00:24:00.005+02:00

Ca ferra un an j’ai eu mon permis de conduire plus exactement depuis le 13 Février 2007 (17 mois). Eh oui les temps passe vite! Tous les jours je me sens de plus en plus à laisse mais parfois je ressens des petites appréhensions. Disons conduire ce n’est pas facile surtout lorsque nous sommes confrontés avec des gens qui conduisent mal, qui n'obéissent pas la code de la route pourtant qu’ils connaissent les règles. Mais personnellement, avec toutes ces expériences ils sont vraiment utiles vu que j’apprends d’avoir :

La confiance en soi : Elle est très important de prends confiance dans ma capacité disons avoir ’La Positive Attitude’. Assurez vous tout le monde peut apprend à conduire et d’être confiant peuvent nous aider à s'en sortir. D’être pessimiste n'a jamais acquis une bataille !

Le réflexe : L’expérience de la route se procure en conduisant constamment. Sans parler de mettre la ceinture et les clignotants…c’est automatique !

La prise de décision : Sans la moindre d’hésitation face à des situations difficiles et parfois différents. Ce n’est pas aussi facile à prendre surtout face a un problème général…les comportement des gens sur la route mais je vis comme une épreuve que je devrai surmonter en permanence.

Se comporter avec courtoisie : Pas beaucoup des conducteurs ont la politesse parfois ils ont plutôt egoist. Je comprends c'est la circulations! Mais quand on est confronté à une condition farfelu il vaut mieux de rester zen et rationnel. Se disputer avec les gens ne sers a rien !

Suivre les règles : Tout simplement pour plus de sécurité et éviter tout risques que l’on peut rencontrer en conduisant.

La première fois j’ai passé l'épreuve j’ai raté car j’ai hésitée ce que l'instructeur m'avais demandé de le faire en arrivant du rond point donc les modalités de prise de décision ne sont pas encore établie en moi. Pas de tout confiante. Aucun réflexe néanmoins je suis courtoise mais cela ne suffit pas! Donc avec la conduite accompagne j’ai appris tant des choses. Même j’ai loupée ce n’était pas aussi mal que ça! J’ai l’ai eu deuxième coup car j’ai tellement travaillé après avoir échoué.

Let GOOGLE translate this for you. Some words may not be the exact translation but it helps, thanks.

Koh-Lanta season 8

2008-07-04T15:18:00.009+02:00

I have talked about in my previous post just last year about the TV reality in France. The one I was religiously watching was La Nouvelle Star which ended last month. I was actually rooting for Benjamin because I like the way he performs unfortunately he did not make it to the finals . I find the regulations of the game a bit peculiar. The contestants perform and will be judged according to their performance. There are professional judges (i.e. singers, composer etc) but their judgment does not count because in the end the crowd will have the final say. Unfortunately, it’s the name of the game! In fairness to Amandine she also sings very well and I think the crowd preferred that a lady wins this time because in the last two consecutive shows winners were both men. But I still go for Benjamin, a true artist himself.

Summer is equivalent to TV Reality in France and they are budding like flowers but quite non-sense like Secret Story (equivalent to Pinoy Big Brothers ) and L’Ile de la Tentation (Island of Temptation) which are starting to be on television screen by now. I have talked about them on my preceding post and I never really watch a single episode of the show. I only talk concerning my favourite TV reality shows like Koh-Lanta (the French version of Mark Burnett's Survivor). This is a contest of adventure. Last year season 7 was held in the island of Palawan and I also did not agree of Kevin winning the adventure, I voted for Gregoire who once failed (just once) while Kevin lost many times during the adventure. Anyway, it’s like gambling either you loose or win!

Rules of the game:

Part 1
THE "COMFORT" GAME
The Games are Comfort with a gain to improve the ordinary Adventurers on the camps.

THE "IMMUNITY" GAME
The victory in the game Immunity preserves the entire team or the candidate's elimination after the Council.

THE COUNCIL
At the Council, all contenders of the team will have a secret voting with a ballot. The name of the eliminated person is written on the ballot from the team which will be immediately excluded from the adventure.

Part 2
"LA RÉUNIFICATION"
The Reunification includes the remaining candidates of the two teams into one (yellow and red team combined). From that moment, everyone plays for him and pulls individual benefit of his victory in the Test Comfort or immunity.
When reunification is effective, candidates are eliminated in an isolated island until the last Council, where he will designate the winner between the two finalists. The ultimate outcome of this Council will be announced live during the last broadcast in Paris.

I only talk about shows concerning good shows and because tonight, July 4 Koh-Lanta season 8 will be held for the second time in the Philippines . The exact place of shooting is in the Island of Caramoan in the Region of Camarines Sur. I was quite surprise normally they transfer from one country to another after every season. I’ve also learned that French adventurers, productions and crews stayed there for 3 months now for the shooting. They've built a number of cabanas during their stay. These cabanas will be a supplementary tourist attraction once the competition shooting ends.

I am excited for tonight to discover more my country and the beautiful islands behind the noisy city of Manila !

OBLIGATORY

2008-06-30T18:04:00.007+02:00

The decision was made on February 13 by the Interministerial Committee on Road Safety (Comité Interministériel de la Sécurité Routière or CISR) to obliged users to be accustomed of vest retro-reflective safety and triangle of pre-signalisation (Gilet rétro-réfléchissant de sécurité et d’un triangle de pré-signalisation). This will be mandatory to help reduce the number of road deaths. The non-compliance with these new obligations will be liable to breach of the 4th degree (fixed fine of 135 euros, less than 90 euros). Reasons of using the vest retro-reflective safety and triangle of pre-signalisation is intended to reinforce the safety measures of drivers in all circumstances of emergency stop. The driver needs to be visible by other drivers during car breakdown. The vehicle in trouble must be reported immediately. As for the triangle pre-signs should be at any time aboard inside the vehicle. The driver needs to position it on the way as soon as he gets out of the car and with a distance of at least 30 metres for better signalisation of the obstacle and don't forget to put on your warning/emergency light because we can be definitely seen day or night . As far as I know when purchasing a new car it is already provided with warning triangles and yellow vest so I am already equipped.

With radar installation the quantity of road death decreases. In addition to this the struggle against drink-driving, the administration persists on its road to prevention. This time the usage of the aforementioned will take effect on July 1, a triangle of pre-signalisation and a retro-reflective vest will be mandatory inside all vehicles and not in the trunk. Let’s support this project to facilitate the safety and diminish grave accidents and deaths on the road. And to complete the campaign a slogan was created to remind all the users including reducing the risk of mowing pedestrians “C’est jaune, c’est moche, ça ne va avec rien, mais ça peut vous sauver la vie”.. (It is yellow, it is ugly, it doesn't go with anything, but it can save your life).

Le_Triangle obligatoire le 1 Juillet 2008
envoyé par pavelou

Certified B_TCH !

2008-06-24T18:53:00.008+02:00

A childhood friend of honey likes inviting friends over to his place. He cooks very well. He interests in so many things. At 35, he started learning piano, tap dancing at 36, and perfecting his English (before I knew him he speaks very limited English). Now he will be assigned in

South Korea

where the company sends him and now learning Korean Language. He is really impressive and now speaking the basic Korean. Anyway, I will not be talking about him I am just really astound on how he lives his life.

Okay I’ll be talking about how he organizes his dinner invitation. Whenever he invites friends for a dinner there would always be a “theme” and invites one month in advance. One day he invited us for an “International dinner” last time it was a Piano dinner therefore almost of them play piano. For us why International? Because we are French-Filipino couple, there was the French-Chinese couple, there was a French-American lady and there was the typical French couple. It was interesting because the conversation was in French and English (Chinese woman speaks a little bit of French) so everyone were obliged to speak English. During the conversation the French guy told me that she has seen many Filipinos in Hong Kong. When they visited a church it was an English mass therefore it could only be Filipinos inside. And he was shaking his girlfriend with his elbow for her to agree of what he was saying. The girlfriend nodded to confirm but I was not happy how she said it! “ Ah oui on a vu beaucoup des Philippins qui sont tous employés de la maison ! (Ah yes, we saw a lot of Filipinos who are all house employees). In short, katulong (maid). “Excuse me ! A person who’s obviously has a superiority complex over the others. She gave me an arrogant impression as soon as we met. Why? Because during the discussion since it was a sort of international acquaintance she was bragging that she speaks German. That it is not a difficult language. That this is the translation in German blah blah blah! She wants to be noticed and get everybody’s attention! What a big head!

The story didn’t end there. Oh I didn’t want to get snare from her arrogant manners but I wanted to correct her. Instead I calmly went on the conversation and avoid being defensive. I contemplated on how am I supposed to retort this without sounding big headed. I asked her how would you know that everyone is working as domestic helper? But she was kind of avoiding my question by flipping her hair and could not look at me eye to eye during the conversation. Then I started to elucidate why Filipinos work abroad is because of wanting to have a better life and support the needs of the family. It’s all about attitude called sacrifice, hard work and determination. I didn’t exclude the truth about getting a job in the

Philippines

is really tough. There are fewer opportunities with low salary and compensation. However, for a Filipino to productively find a good company that pays well is rare and with no government aid. Filipinos abroad are not only working as helpers. There are also Filipino professionals working in

Canada

USA

Australia

, Asian countries, in all English speaking countries even in European nations. My advocate actions came out that any kinds of assault will almost certainly tag along by retaliation without being excessively aggressive. I’ve stand out extremely proud. I told them there are perhaps 1,500 to 2,000 Filipinos in Marseille and working as house-helpers but they’ve got their diplomas back home as engineers, teachers, nurses, doctors, dentist, architects etc etc. They went to Universities like you did and we speak the English Language since kindergarten. They are humble enough to accept any job that comes on their way and never complain.

The exchange was quite tough when I started enumerating their problem in general. Telling what I thought about France, got the inkling apprehension that it is an open country and in a way with restructured standards. Unfortunately it’s not the case the way I see it after 7 years have proven me wrong. Firstly, because of the language barrier and this is a big cause that hinders us to work in companies. Secondly, our diplomas are not acceptable though I was acquainted with the need to get a formation so as to get the equivalent in France. That would mean a long way to re-start from scratch and go over a long process of assessment. Except for those who will be expatriated and the company pays for everything like taking French courses. Unlike in other countries we can even submit our CV by mail, thru internet or go as a tourist and apply when in place. Thirdly, there are some companies who seem to check on origin instead of looking on the field of competence, working experience and qualifications beforehand and let them speak for itself. As a result, no future interviews will come on their way and still stuck at apparently inescapable impasse.

In your case when someone is jobless there would always be government sector that helps you get back on track and setting things right the way you need it. There’s always the RMI (Revenu Minimum D’Insertion) a social welfare program which idea draws on assured minimum earnings. The government will always have the public obligations that render service to the people whether financially or medically. Like the Securité Sociale (SSS), CAF, CAT. Yeah right spoon feeding and still French complains and yet resulting to strike. The French guy did say a thing but not to disagree with me instead he confirmed of what I’ve just said. He said I was right, “nous sommes toujours là pour se plaindre, on est des râleurs et jamais content“ ! ( We are always there to complain, always whining and never happy! )

Whilst in the Philippines, Filipinos need to work on their own, look for a solution and stop depending on what the country could do to us. Let’s accept the sad reality that Philippines will not grow to any further extent as long as there is corruption. It will be the job of the Filipino people to work and fight against the poor system.

This is not about a battle of the brain, a comparison of people, or a sort of competition of what country is better. This is about holding back people like her to see other nationalities to be constantly a subject of an automatic stereotype. That when they see a Filipino it will be automatically branded as helpers and prostitute because they are with white men that I refuse to believe and could not accept as true and unjust! Stereotype is never equal and will always result to unlawful discrimination. Her boyfriend has ended the conversation by asking me questions about Boracay and other tourist spots to visit. I know I have proved her wrong. I just don’t want her to look down on people like she has always a greater knowledge than others.

Bonne fête Papa !

2008-06-15T21:10:00.003+02:00

La dernière fois j’ai écrit un article pour mon Père pour fêter la fête pères. Cette fois-ci je pense que mon Mari à aussi besoin d'attention et de tendresse. En France, c’est la Fête de Pères donc tous les enfants sont visiblement occupés à faire leurs cadeaux. En fait, ils ont déjà fait leurs cadeaux depuis l’école avec un coup de pouce par leurs maîtresses pour terminer un merveilleux travail. Aujourd’hui, les enfants ont offert leurs cadeaux à leurs Papa.

Sébastien a offert un verre avec une lettre B qui signifie (Bernard) tandis que Mayumi a fait les deux verres avec les poudres en couleurs. Et ce n'est pas tout ! Il y a aussi des petites poésie.

Mon cœur me dit
Qu'aujourd'hui, c'est fête
Mais quelle fête?
La fête des mamans? Non!
La fête des rois?
La fête d'un roi!
Mais lequel?
Le roi de mon cœur
C'est mon Papa à moi ! Je taime...Mayumi

*************************************************************************

Quelques mots pour Papa....

Papa tu es le plus fort, le plus beau et les plus gentil
Tu es un Papa gâté, un papa câlin.
Tu es mon amour, mon roi et mon cœur.
Te je fais de gros bisous, Papa je t'aime....Sébastien

Bonne fête a tous les Papa !

It may not be the exact Translation but it will help you understand the post. Thank you and Happy Father's day to everyone and to my wonderful Dad !

Double BIG T !

2008-06-13T13:15:00.005+02:00

I was given an award by HILDA and I would like to THANK her for the wonderful attention and appreciation. Well, amongst the great chef I am the only one who isn't :D !

I was tagged by LEAH and was given this symbolic friendship award. A big THANK YOU ! I would personally pass this on to everyone because you have been a part of my blog life and I am glad. However I would give this symbolic friendship flower especially to JOANNE because I finally convinced her to enter in the blog sphere. She discovered my blog and commented few times (now she's a regular blogger), we exchanged emails and chatted from time to time. We plan to meet later on for their future travel to Marseilles and impatiently looking forward to it. (Leah I wanted to have the same yellow flower but was unsuccessful so I opted for this).

[Glitterfy.com - *Glitter Photos*]

Keep the symbolic friendship going and blog on !

Definitely not a "Bidonville"

2008-06-09T15:47:00.009+02:00

While I was surfing I have stumbled upon a blog site where he commented that Marseilles is a "Bidonville" (shanty town or of a low economic or social class). Well, I would definitely not like to influence but I hope he will change his wrong impression about the place. I must say that am proud to have live in the South of France especially in Marseilles which is the oldest city and its second largest metropolitan district in France. The city is situated in the perimeter of Mediterranean Sea so obviously there is the Port Authority of Marseilles which is the second largest in the entire Europe preceded by Rotterdam. The Port of Marseilles is once a trading place during primordial Greek empire around 600 B.C. Presently it is one of the busiest Ports all over France. Bourgeoisie isn’t really the term to be used by some. Since it is the oldest city therefore they have kept the antiques images of architectures and buildings. Some of them are renovated but some are not restored yet so it’s not aesthetically clean. I think it's everywhere, travel will mean inconveniences. As we always say we cannot have everything right?! Personally, locals or tourist consider Marseilles as one of the nicest city though the region is not considered as a dirty-free place to visit but you can still find many areas that are clean. Marseillais (the inhabitants) are very warm people (except when they drive), they could be a pain in the neck!

However, we have everything in the South. We don’t have the Eiffel Tower, Champs Élysées or La Defense but we are blessed with beautiful nature and sun. I understand better why a lot of Tourist even locals from other regions are enthusiastic to visit Marseilles especially during summer. I will tell you why, it is because we have them in just a steps away.

La Place de la Joliette - The Joliette docks were built in the 19th century and presently did a huge interior renovation to beautify Marseille. You could also visit the Docks des Sud. The Docks des Suds in Marseilles is the old port warehouses hosting the festival each fall musical "Fiesta des Suds", is completely renovated after it was ravaged by fire. Thanks to PAM for the free tickets we get to watch good concerts every year.

Le Vieux Port - The old port is the major tourist district and its streets are ruled with restaurants and cafés. One of the most animated plaza in the city. The Theatre National de la Criée is very popular tourist spots and is worth to visit. Furthermore, the Basilica of St Victor is famous close by as the 'key to the port' (church where I got married). You can also ride the city train for a city tour until Notre Dame de la Garde.

Image taken from http://images.google.fr

Frioul – it is an island traversing the Mediterranean sea of Marseilles from the Old Port and is accessible by boat from the port. There are 3 islands “ 'If, Ratonneau, and Pomègues” that constitute the archipelago which is visible from Le Pharo. The island of If is the smallest amongst the three. Chateau D’If (castle) was built by François 1er and renowned by Alexandre Dumas. Ratonneau and Pomègues, are correlated by a dam of 360 m from the 18th century. It is known as the driest place of France. Locals built a second houses and spend most of their time during summer therefore there are hotels, restaurants and bars that will cater for you.

Le Panier - Situated near Vieux Port, this popular district, takes you around the Provençal pedestrian lanes having multi-coloured construction. The Clocher des Accoules, la place des Moulins, la Vieille Charité and la Major are amongst the tourists spots to witness out for.

La Canebière - This is the most famed boulevard in town. When you go downtown you will spot shopping lanes such as Rue St Ferréol, the Musée de la Mode, the Musée de la Marine, l'Economie, Centre Bourse and the Opéra house. Normally in France shopping stores are close during Sundays but in this area you could easily find shopping stores which are often handle by Arabian and African proprietor.

La Plaine - Otherwise well-known as Place Jean Jaures, this vast plaza has a market going on every Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and is a very hectic during that time. I remember living there for 3 years and used to go shopping or just roaming around. You have great choices of products from the cheapest to the most expensive, from original to fake items. In the nearby streets, there is an open option of restaurants, bars and pubs regularly visited by the local citizens like the l'Intermédiaire or the Bar de la Plaine (we were living in this district before).

Palais Longchamp - is a fine place if you want to obtain fresh air. The place has also few museums to explore too. Musée Grobet-Labadie, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Muséeum d'Histoire Naturelle-the natural history museum are also great for tripping out.

Endoume - A desired spot by the neighbourhood, this district is where you can find the gigantic Notre Dame de la Garde about 1 kilometre from Vieux Port. The name La Bonne Mère (means Good Mother) came from the colossal figure of the Virgin Mary on top of the Church tower. An important place for pilgrimage.You can also grab one of the big telescopes for one euro at the top of the church to see the whole Marseilles.

La Place de David – There you will find the famous replica of “David” statue sculpted by Michael Angelo in 1501 to 1504. This statue was offered in 1903 by the marble-sculptor Jules Cantini adorns the roundabout Beach Prado. You cannot miss this one because it is in the turnabouts itself. All along this Avenue de Prado there is the Stade Velodrome where football games are being held. There are great restaurants, pizzeria and bars to take pleasure in just sit and relax while enjoying the beauty of Mediterranean Sea.

Le Parc Borély – This is just in the vicinity of Place de David in the 8th district of Marseilles. This is one of the biggest Parks in Marseilles measuring 17 hectares. You will find a lot of variety there such as the Chateau Borély, a vast Jardin Anglais (English Garden) Jardin a la Française (French Garden), Botanical Garden, a traditional garden offered by the Chinese from the city of Shanghai last 4 years ago. There is also the newest Mini sculpture of Notre Dame de la Garde made only last year. (Mosaïculture Notre-Dame de la Garde). A lot of activities to do like, jogging, biking, (bringing your own bike is ideal or renting will do) roller balding. Parks for children are everywhere and cool places to hang out and practice sports, or even for just a place for relaxiation.

Le Point Rouge – When you reach the David turnabouts it is located in the southern harbour of Marseilles, constructed between 1964 and 1972 with an 8 meters draught in the port before 1800 and places to dock. With an easy access day and night without danger. From the port you would be able to cross between the cliffs of Cassis and Camargues.

La Corniche - The Corniche or cornice is a very famous word even in other countries like Dubai. This is an elongate boulevard that links the coastline between the Palais du Pharo, the Old Port, and ends at Prado beaches in the south. This became a place for resorts, hotels and apparent symbol of affluence for brokers who built extravagant mansions in flamboyant luxury. Beautiful landscapes dream, aquatic scenery, and rugged mountains, bourgeois villas and exercise yards manner "CA". During the summer, in the morning the sun shines offers a panorama open sea on the horizon. It could be an extraordinarily stunning sight during sunset.

Les Calanques – The last but not the least which can be found along the coast to the southeast of Marseille and also accessible between Les Goudes of Marseille and Cassis (known city of VAR). According to Wikipedia Calanque (from the Corsican word of Preindoeuropean source Calanca (plural calanche) with signifies "inlet" Occitan Calanca too) is a geologic structure in the shape of a profound gorge jagged sides, naturally of limestone in branch submerged by the ocean, a Mediterranean Fjord. This is a popular site for many tourist and locals similarly (such as the Corniche des Crêtes and Cap Canaille) visioning stunning landscapes.

Image taken from http://images.google.fr

There are still some undiscovered areas but I am sure to explore them in the future. I must admit that the most visited country is Paris, France (this is according to world tourism ranking) but I guess some other cities like Marseilles, Lyon, Bourgogne, and Pay Basque and the rest of other regions are worth visiting too!

Soutenons nous !

2008-06-04T14:45:00.007+02:00

C'est le printemps, et on peut dire aussi que c'est la saison des grèves à Marseille (ou devrais-je dire dans la plupart des pays Européens). De toute évidence pour s’opposer avec fermeté contre l'augmentation du prix du pétrole. Malheuresement, les cours du pétrole flambent inexorablement. Les pêcheurs Espagnols, Portugais et Italiens se sont mobilisés à aquérir la relève des protestations de leurs collègues Français, appelant à une "grève illimitée" Vendredi tandis que Bruxelles a jeté un message d'ouverture. Tout le monde manifeste pour la solidarité internationale et refuser la misère! Aujourd'hui ce sont les pecheurs qui sont en gréve, demain les chauffeurs de taxis,les agriculteurs et puis Le Port Autonome de Marseille!

Ca fait 3 semaines les pêcheurs français sont en grève
Les pêcheurs Portugais, ont commencé il y a cinq jours et décident de poursuivre la manifestation au moins jusqu'à mercredi.
La grève a affecté le Royaume-Uni, où les pêcheurs Britanniques étaient beaucoup très probablement à manifester mardi matin à Londres pour réclamer une assitance d'urgence d'etat, soutenus par une dizaine de pêcheurs Français
Dans d’autres pays Asiatiques comme les Philippines souffrent car le prix du riz ne cesse pas d'augmenter. Néanmoins le pétrole n'est pas exclu!

J’espère que nous serons nombreux a lutter contre la vie chère!

**** For those who have commented, sorry was lazy to make the translation. Now here's the translated one, thank you :D!****

It's spring, and we can also say that it is the season of strikes in Marseilles (or should I say in most European countries). Obviously to firmly oppose against the oil price hike. Unfortunately, oil prices soared inexorably. Fishermen Spaniards, Portuguese and Italians were mobilized to acquire protests made by their French colleagues, calling for an "indefinite strike" Friday while Brussels has laid a message of openness. Everyone manifesting for international solidarity and to refuse misery! Today it would be the fishermen who will be on strike tomorrow would be taxi drivers, farmers and then The Port Authority of Marseilles!

It's been 3 weeks French fishermen are on strike
The Portuguese fishermen, began five days ago and decided to continue the demonstration until at least Wednesday.
The strike has affected the United Kingdom, where British fishermen were very much likely to show Tuesday morning in London to demand an government emergency assistance , supported by a dozen French fishermen
In other Asian countries like the Philippines are suffering because the price of rice does not cease to increase. But oil is not excluded!

I hope that many of us will fight against an expensive life!

My good samaritan

2008-05-30T23:35:00.006+02:00

This morning I went to grocery store to buy some things and ingredients that are missing in the kitchen cabinets. I went to my car and discharged the items in the compartment when suddenly a thin, ragged looking guy approached me asking for money. I was surprise to see him because the my thinking busy mind was gazing to my grocery items if I didn’t forget something. I told him I didn’t have money which is true because I am using a card or cheque everytime I pay the bills. He didn’t insist instead he went away talking alone. Apparently he’s a mentally bothered guy. Just a few seconds later another man came near me aging around 45 to 50 year old wearing khaki slacks and neatly tucked chequered short sleeved shirt with his cellphone. He then started talking to me that the moment he saw the guy came towards me he was alerted if in case the guy harasses me. I was thankful it was not the case. However I was still grateful of his good intention and his presence of mind. Exchange of words started. He told me that we should really be very attentive whatever is happening around us. Terrible things happen nowadays and vigilance is crucial. He even advice me to look around before going to the car, compartment etc. He is right! I have always been alert whenever I withdraw money, or go to a crowded places but at that time I was off my guard. He shared to me what happened to her sister who was unfortunately a victim of harassment & probably raped. Her sister was imprisoned in the car compartment for 3 days by some crazy people. He didn’t finish his story instead he told me to take care of myself. Before we parted ways I thank him again for what he did to me. He just simply answered me with a smile “Don’t worry, it’s normal. Just please be careful the next time.” I can feel his sincerity. He waved goodbye and he sounded relieved!

"Fish Mucus and Foot Fungus"

2008-05-26T22:30:00.007+02:00

I am sure you are probably thinking what is this title all about. After talking about talented Filipinos on my previous post I will talk about the intelligent students from the Philippines. After the Blond and Blue Eyes of Patricia Evangelista, an 18-year-old communications sophomore at UP Diliman who bested the 2004 Best Speaker award in the International Public Speaking competition conducted yearly by the English-Speaking Union (ESU) in London. Now here is another Philippine's pride under the name of Gian Carlo Dapul a 16 year old an incoming senior student at the Philippine Science School who recently won as the Best Speaker last May 9 held in the United Kingdom in this prestigious yearly competition of ESU. Gian Karlo Dapul vanquished other participants, as well as college rank students, from 30 countries of almost 60 contestants at the ESU’s head office in London. His five-minute dialogue entitled, “Fish mucus and Foot Fungus” centred on how scientific study could provide a cure-all for many of the world’s problems. He won honour not just because of how he delivered his speech but because of his confident approach in answering to queries from the board of judges. The finals were held at the US Embassy in London. He was the last speaker amongst finalists from

Thailand

Poland

Bulgaria

Argentina

Lebanon

and

China

. In November, Gian will receive a certificate at the ESU Awards Ceremony at Buckingham Palace by His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Most likely, the Queen herself will be there as well, since the English Speaking Union marks its 90th anniversary this year.

CONGRATULATIONS GIAN CARLO DAPUL ! You made every Filipinos proud. I am sure that there are a lot of Patricias and Gians out there who will continue to make us proud ! A proof that even if the Philippines is considered a third world country we can also make it to the top.

More on his video interview from GMA News.

Happy Mother's Day !

2008-05-25T15:10:00.004+02:00

Just got back from Paris with Makis and we finally got our double nationality. Now I have all the reasons to be merry! In France we are celebrating this wonderful occasion of Mother's Day. These are the surprise gifts that are just waiting for me until I get home. A gift offered by my children which they made at school long before mother's day. Those are very precious because they made it by themselves with a little help from their teachers. Of course, I understood when my son told me that he has a secret for me but he won't tell it because it is a surprise and his teacher told him not to do so.

This is a heart shape made out from flour or we call it here pâte a sel "salted dough" offered by Sébastien with his beautiful little right hand engraved on it.

While Mayumi gave me this beautiful Tissue dispenser made out of wood with flowers and butterflies to complete the decoration.

I just love them. Simple and yet PRICELESS, aren't they ? To all the Mother's in the world, especially to my loving Mommy and Ate....my warm greetings to you all !

Where in the world are we going ?

2008-05-20T18:43:00.002+02:00

When I look at the journal I feel sometimes terrified. We are all witnesses in the happenings around the world. The cyclone happened in Myanmar which killed thousands of people. China’s earthquake buried thousands of Chinese. Recently, a tropical storm “Cosme” (international name ‘Halong’) hit northern Philippines with 130 kilometres west of Iba (capital of northern Luzon).

Between the natural catastrophes and human havoc, I am quite skeptic. When I heard what had happened regarding the scandal in Austria about the devilish act of Josephe Frizl to her daughter. An act that is unimaginable. Her daughter imprisonment in a cellar with an incest case. Please click for the full story. This happened moths ago but I will let you read the full article. After this I was contemplating on how we will be able to escape from this human made tragedy?

I will talk about this shocking case in France. The incident happened between adolescents. It's quite unbelievable but it happened. This is really worrying parents. How to explain the inexplicable? A lot of concerns are being raised. The academy of inspection wants to start a campaign to warn the people about the danger of internet, violent films/video and cellular phones. But according to Joël René Dopunt (Inspector of Academy in Yvelines) that society changes... parents change....children change....society changes....everything change! Therefore, it is necessary that the education evolve. I completely agree with Mr. Dupont. My points of view is that we should have the flexibility to adapt to changes in the world, the need to anticipate, the need to react rapidly in every consequences at our own thinking disposition. To remain vigilance. We just need to fight ceaselessly what's going on in the world. It's the reality, the world that we are living in !

Joke of the day!

2008-05-17T23:45:00.007+02:00

Honey was looking at our old pictures with the kids this morning. I remember when I was pregnant with Mayumi Honey took a picture of me while I was taking a bath. So can you imagine a nude woman with a big belly? Of course when I saw him taking a video I was embarrassed even if we are already a couple. He showed some of my pregnancy photos and videos to the kids. He looked at Mayumi saying that it was her inside my big belly. Mayumi caught by surprise and the conversation went like this :

Mayumi : with a raising voice looking his Papa with her two big eyes. "Maman m'a avalée!" (Maman swallowed me! )

Sébastien : (confirming) "Eh oui Maman t'as avalée" (Oh yes Maman swallowed you).

That was a big laugh afterwards he explained that I was not a monster!

Another one is when we were watching a documentary film about animals. Mayumi saw a mother pig nursing her 10 piglets. And I told her :

Me : Regarde Mimi tu as vu la maman cochonne, et cochonettes qui tété ? Ils ont mignone hein ! C'est comme toi quand tu était toute petite. (Look Mimi have you seen the mother pig nursing its piglets? They are so cute ha! It's like you when you were too little.

Mimi : Mais non Maman! Ils dede ! trying to correct me ! (But no Maman, they dede ) she used "dede" the tagalog word for breastfeeding !

Another big laugh! At home there will always be things that make us laugh especially when we are confronted with two or more languages :D !

Talented Filipinos!

2008-05-10T23:31:00.012+02:00

It's the season of reality show in France. I am not a fan of reality shows but I like watching this star search program of La Nouvelle Star (The New Star) and yes they can sing too. They have also created this portion Les Inoubliables (The Unforgettables) suddenly when hubby saw some videos he told me "On est vraiment nuls, on ne sait pas chanter" ! (We are really hopeless, we don't know how to sing). Telling him that some could sing but you see this segment is done on purpose. And here I am bragging about talented Filipinos who are really exceptional. It's in the blood. We love singing and it's really a part of our culture.

I even went to You Tube just to prove him that we are really good! I showed him all the videos of my favorite singer Josephine "Banig" Roberto and explaining the history of her fame! In fact, in my own time it started with Regine Velasquez singing her winning piece in your eyes in Bagong Kampeon a Singing Contest way back in 1986.

Since I am living out from home for 7 years I am still up to date and after seeing Sarah Geronimo's performances who won at the age of 14 in a reality singing contest, entitled "Star for a Night" (2003) on IBC Channel 13 I never stop checking you.tube for some updates. Now I have discovered another talented child under the name of Charice Pempengco, another star is born, now let us hear her sing ! I think I have the right to brag, Honey was impressed!