From Within My Fontanels

For a Very Brief Moment, My Heart Skipped a Beat...

2012-01-31T08:08:00.007+08:00

Yesterday, at around 2pm, the phone rang ...

Ros: Kar, phone call for you (mouthing, I don't know who it is, I did not ask the lady's name)

Me: Hello, Good afternoon.
Lady (formal voice): Hello, good afternoon, is this Karen?
Me: Yes? Who is this please?
Lady: Hi Karen! This is Henri...
Me: Henri Olmos? Hi Henri!!! pause.....How are you? pause...
Henri: Hi karen. I'm fine and you?
Me: I'm fine...... pause....
Henri: um, Karen, Mihali is alright. He is here in the clinic (Henrietta or Henri for short is the Ateneo College school physician and she was my grade school and high school classmate) .... He is alright....just some scratches....
Me: Mihali? (Chest CONSTRICTING, Heart THUMPING and managing to keep voice calm and steady) (I knew Mihali had used the motorcycle) Did Mihali have an accident?!!! (heart beating loudly in my ears and beads of perspiration building up on my brow and my kili-kili (armpits) Is he alright? What happened....?
Henri: He is alright. Yes, he had an accident.....right outside Gate 2. Just some scratches on his arm..He is OKAY. Here, he will talk to you.....

Calm conversation with Mihali then back to Henri.

Henri: Karen, Mihali didn't want me to call you because he didn't want to stress you out because you're already stressed out daw as it is. I told him, I have to call you and will tell you not to get mad at him. So, don't get mad at him ha, promise!! Don't get mad at him when he gets home. ok?

Me: hmmm ok...yes, yes, i won't get mad at him (thought balloon: bahala daddy niya magalit sa kanya )

This is the note I emailed to Henri:
Henri dear, I realize this is the 2nd time you've called me on my landline and both times they were for Mihali (1st time was last year because we had to take him to the ER due to severe abdominal pains).... parang, I'd like to get a phone call from you inviting me for a beer, perhaps??? para ma-iba naman (for a change) ???!!! para di ako ma stress out tuwing marinig ko name mo sa phone (so i don't get stressed out every time I hear that it is you on the phone)??!! hahahaha Thanks for taking care of my son!!!

Admittedly, it was a pretty 'stressful' day and as I am wont to do when I am feeling down, I wrote a short message to my sister, Chesca:

I had a pretty stressful day...1. intriguing email re the firefly brigade.... 2. Call from Ateneo doctor - Hali had a minor spill on motorcycle - he is okay... 3. News of Raul's death....husband of Nancy Pe, remember him? So sad and so sudden.

Chesca's brief but wise response:

Yes I remember him.
Sad,
Stressful.

Triage it.
Firefly Brigade is kulangot (booger) in the scheme of things.
Comfort Nancy
Be grateful for Hali's being okay
and for Rosar's being alive.

Hugs Kar.

As usual, she has managed to assuage my stress. Thanks, Ches!
I truly have so much to be thankful for.
My heart is now calm.

Highlights of 2011

2012-01-10T08:42:00.010+08:00

I can't believe just how fast the days have been going by!!
I was just getting used to writing 2011 and having the words "twenty-eleven" roll off my tongue and here we are now, already 10 days into the New Year!!!

So before the year actually takes off (as if it hasn't) let me just share the
TOP 5 HIGHLIGHTS of my 2011 listed chronologically:

1. Preparing for and celebrating Rosar's Surprise 50th Birthday (March 23). The photos gathered for the video spoke volumes of what a great husband and father Rosar is...
See video presentation here and photos here

2. The WHOLE FAMILY BIKING 150kms from Quezon City to Infanta, Quezon Province (April 21). A great family bonding experience and adventure where we only had ourselves to rely on to push, motivate and inspire one another to reach our destination. (No SAG vehicle --Support and Gear). It was awesome to see the children's smiles and happy dispositions despite the heat and the distance.
See photos here and here

3. Celebrating our 23rd Wedding Anniversary with a LIBRENG KAPE (Free Coffee) Special for cyclists (October 8). It was a unique and simple way to share our blessings with people who also share our passion for biking whether by choice or by force of circumstance...

See photos here

4. The 1st Crisostomo Family FUN Mini-Triathlon (December 24). 150m swim, 10km bike ride and 3km run held in the campus of Ateneo. "Health is Wealth".
I always say: We're rich in love and health.
See photos here and here .

5. A Family Trip to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte with my cousin, Pearl and her children December 26 - December 29). The opportunity to relax and bond with one another: to see more of the beauty of the Philippines -- truly this was a treat and a blessing. (thanks, Pearl).
See photos here and here

LIFE IS GOOD!
A wonderful husband, great and smart kids, good health, time to bike, an abundant supply of hugs and love from family and friends ...what more can I ask for?

As my good friend, Marge points out: "You have an almost perfect life... " "Almost perfect...?" I ask. "Yep, you could do with a little more money"... (hahaha, I agree! She is right :)

She says this as I lament over exorbitant expenses for house repair and termite extermination...

Life certainly isn't perfect but it is those 'little' imperfections that make the good times stand out, rendering me more appreciative of what I have, who I am, and who I am with.

I am grateful for the goodness and blessings of 2011!!
Here I come 2012. I am ready.

This year...
I shall continue on my path of simple joys and happiness...
I shall de-clutter. Give-away. Donate. Throw and /or Sell
I shall give the termites less to chew on and myself less to lament about.

“When you don't have anything, then you have everything.”
― Mother Teresa

LIFE can only get BETTER! whoohoo!! :)

The Holstee Manifesto: Lifecycle Video

2011-11-12T13:21:00.000+08:00

Okay, so my feeling-techy-friend told me I could simply press share and it would automatically come out in my blogspot and not have to make my readers/friends navigate away...here I am testing it...looks like it works...I really don't mind posting this again... it is 2-fold...
There are times in my life when I feel like this could be me shouting out this message to the world and on other times, the world shouting out this message to me... it works both ways.

A Post for Today's Lucky 11.11.11

2011-11-11T23:11:00.001+08:00

A friend sent me this video via email with the message: "This has Karen written all over it..."
(thank you for this)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDmt_t6umoY

I love the message:

O - Boy

2011-08-28T15:43:00.004+08:00

We are in the middle of a 4-day weekend and our plans to bike up to Baguio as a family were foiled primarily because of Juancho's retreat which we did not know was scheduled smack in the middle of these promising 4 days. Secondly, it is just as well, as there is a storm hovering about the region.

Initially we had considered asking Juancho to ride home from the retreat with a friend so that we (Rosar and I) could still go off biking.However, Juancho expressed his desire for us to be present during the Mass and the class salu-salo. As parents, his wanting us to pick him up and be with him was priceless. I hope as he, Hali and Aneka grow older, they will continue to be as sweet and as loving as they are today.

Here is the Palanca I wrote for him:

Dearest Juancho: my sweet Choy-boy

Imagine, you are now 17 years old and a graduating high school senior, at that!! I cannot thank God enough for giving you to me not once BUT twice! It is still so clear in my mind the day you were born and the day you were “re-born”. Many times, I check on you as you sleep. I pull the covers up and run my fingers through you hair thinking, “how quickly time flies”. My baby is now a young man.

Thank you for being such a sensible and sensitive young man. I remember, we were talking about how you were a ‘little monster’ when you were small and I apologized to you for the way I disciplined you (washing your mouth with soap and spanking you). You said: “No, Mommy – I should say “thank you” to you for doing what you did, or else I would never have learned and continued to be a bad boy…” You even said: “ I like the way you raised us” and kung puwede, could I help you take care of your children when you have your own.” What a compliment and tribute to me – thank you for your kind words. That meant so much to me as a mother.

I want you to know that am so very grateful to HIM for the gift of you. You are such a talented person, very artistic, very intelligent, with a good sense of humor and quite kind-hearted. Remember, that’s why you’re called O-Boy – because you’re OUTSTANDING! Be sure to always use your talents – FOR THE GREATER GLORY OF GOD and for the good of mankind. You are such a wonderful son to me and dad and kind brother to Mihali and Aneka. I love the way you and Mihali do “stand-up” comedy, you guys are so in-tandem, (hahaha) I see and observe how willing you are to help and share your talent in creating / drawing things on the computer for Hali, Aneka, your classmates. I can also see that you are a good cousin to Aljero and Ava (and the rest of your cousins like Julia and Oni etc.) and a helpful and generous friend to others. I know that you know that Dad and I are very proud of who and what you are.

Today, you are having your retreat. Take advantage once again of this opportunity to listen as God speaks to your heart. Pray to HIM for continued wisdom and guidance as you enter into a new phase of your life. Pray that the transition from high school to college will be smooth and that HE will always be with you as you make choices and decisions. Ask for HIS help that you will always do your best in every thing that you do. I know sometimes, you get impatient and easily frustrated with yourself so try to keep this in check and pray for this intention. Know also that Daddy and I are always here for you if you need help or advice. As Lolo Mario and Lola Baby always say, “Pray, pray, pray” because prayer is very powerful.

Please continue to also pray for our family that we will continue to be one in spirit; bonded together by the love and joy we have in our hearts for each other. Continue to also pray the prayer we all used to pray for others: “Please bless the poor, the sick and the dying and for all those who have no one praying for them…”

I LOVE YOU very very very much, my dear, dear Juancho! Stay happy and May GOD bless you always!

~ always in my heart and never tiring of your hugs and kisses….

MOM

Aug. 26, 2011

Karen Kicks

2011-08-17T19:38:00.005+08:00

As if I have the time...but for a reason
I now also have a Tumblr Account:
A 5-Day Chronicle of Social Media and Me
Check it out...
But only if you have the time.

A Birthday, Tsingtao Beer, Basketball and a Very Naughty Dog

2011-08-13T18:30:00.013+08:00

While watching a very exciting basketball game between Ateneo and FEU, I turned to Rosar and said : "Hey, d'you remember it's Paeng's birthday today...?"
He said: "Oo nga 'no! (oh yeah, that's right)"
I said:"Let's have a BEER
He would have been 21 today!!"

There's always a good reason for a drink, don't you think?
Remembering Paeng's birthday is one.
(click remembering Paeng's bday and here for more thoughts on Paeng)

The game was so riveting, we didn't see the dog eat the raw meat we were going to make into adobo for dinner. Another reason to have a beer : to calm upset nerves and be thankful that there was still more meat in the freezer to cook.

Anyway, about that game: after trailing behind FEU throughout the game,
Ateneo managed to tie with FEU going into overtime.
Well, Ateneo won over FEU: 74-67!
zero losses 1st round ; zero losses 2nd round.
Again, yet another good reason to have a drink.

There is always a reason to celebrate...
Raise your Tsingtaos, guys!

Cheers!

Happy Birthday Paeng!
I love you forever.

Twilight...

2011-07-26T23:00:00.007+08:00

Directionally challenged, I found myself in the vicinity of her neighborhood.
On impulse and driven by a mixture of guilt and conscience, I turned into her street.

I rang the doorbell with some trepidation. I had heard of the slight dementia
and final release on the extended use of the postiche.

I heard the cautious turning of the gate latch and there she was
tiny and looking somewhat - frail...her hair, snowy white.

Her smile was immediate. Recognition evident on her face.
Happiness verbalized and felt in her lingering, tight hug.

She talked excitedly amidst the gloom of the home, illumined only by light pouring in from the window, the daily news spread open on the table, surrounded by antiquated familial objects ...

She offered some ice cream
the only indication that current still ran and was uncut.

We exchanged mundane pleasantries. She asked about the children, and family overseas.
I asked about her...her well-being, her day to day activities. I apologized for being remiss.

Her mind seemed to be alright . Coherent. She mentioned people thinking otherwise
because she talked to herself and her dearly departed (and who else would she talk to?)

In the short time I was with her we spoke of illnesses and she talked twice about
how different family members ailed with problems of the liver...broken only by a 15 minute interval.

Otherwise, our conversation flow was normal.
She told me who brings her food Mon-Wed-Friday and Tues-Thurs-Saturday...

She spoke of her youth, of her father coming home with class cards for medical school ---
giving her no choice...without subtlety, directing her life's path...

There she sat before me, in the flesh, one in her own comfort zone of discomfort
the very impersonification of the unanswered questions I had about the mystique of life in general...

Perhaps, I stayed a tad too briefly with promises of returning
but it was time for me to go. I had to.

Of late, I 've been pensive...lost in thought...thinking
troubled by the what, the when, the why....the how...

I came away slightly more troubled that afternoon
but with more clarity about what should and shouldn't be...

She said my visit made her happy.
She said "it was like being with Mario." ( I know, I look like my dad)

I know for sure that I should visit again.
I know.

I should.
I will.

Aneka at 23

2011-07-22T22:44:00.001+08:00

ilovemysweetbabygirlAnekawhoiscelebratingherbirthdaytoday.Ia
msoveryproudofherassheissuchawonderfuldaughtertobehold.Ihopeandpraythatallherwishescometrueandthatshecontinuestoradiatelovejoypeaceandhappinesswherevershegoes.stayawesomemychild...

Channeling Martha Stewart

2011-07-11T20:35:00.012+08:00

In the beginning of the year, (forced by circumstance) I found myself in the throes of deciding whether I looked upon cooking as an obligatory chore that just had to be done or if it was an enjoyable activity that I planned and looked forward to doing... What do you think?

For tonight's dinner: POT ROAST cooked in one of my favorite beverages: BEER!! (and no, I did not take a swig before pouring in the bottle).

My 'pakner', Chari is in town for a visit. Her first time back since moving to Rochester,NY three years ago...Imagine her surprise upon seeing me in the kitchen - COOKING!! --- "OH MY GOD!!, Kar? Is that really you?!!"
!

I know, right? Even I am surprised. (Rosar thinks it's a miracle).
So ok, miracles still do happen.

I realize, wait. no. correction: I know I have been holding myself back on certain things...on stuff...
I really should just get a move on. Continue on this path of discovery.
It is never too late to change...
It is never too late to do anything...
Just keep on trying...
Just keep doing what you can
because you can...(sshh, that's me - talking to myself)

I am the new baroque-style Martha Stewart...
next channel, please?

Bed Weather

2011-07-11T09:11:00.003+08:00

on a
Monday morn
and I am
a piece
of malleable
metal
taking in
the pounding
of the rain
curled up
stuck fast
to this
magnetic field
called a bed.

Need
to steel
myself
to get
away
from this
pull of
gravity.

and now
I am up.

Thieves in the Night

2011-06-27T17:10:00.002+08:00

I could really kick myself sometimes.
I heard a noise last night (actually this morning - it was 1am) and even peered out through the front glass sliding doors.
Well, I did not see anything and for some unexplainable reason, I did not do what I normally and regularly do, which is to step down into the tutorial center and double check the locks of the front door.

As I lay down snuggling into Rosar's side, I was thinking that when the bedroom door is closed, I cannot hear what is going on in other parts of the house. I had barely closed my eyes when Mihali burst into the room, switched on the light and blurted out: "Mom! Dad! Someone's trying to get into the tutorial center!!".

Oh My Gawd! There really was something / somebody out there. Of all times to break away from routine,it was on a night when thieves were behind a wall working on pulling out the air-conditioning unit. Aaargh! I felt so irritated with myself!!

Rosar and I bolted out of bed and went to check...we were met with a gaping hole in our wall where the air-con used to be...however upon closer inspection, the unit was still dangling from its cord outside the window. Apparently, the thieves couldn't pull it out of its socket. They must have heard Mihali moving about and decided to abandon their devious plan to 1. steal the unit and 2. enter the house through the gap where the unit used to be.

It is barely a month since the tree-falling-on-our-roof incident and now this...I am beginning to feel slightly cursed...

However, I know I have to thank my lucky stars (I am very grateful to God) for keeping the family safe. Nobody was hurt and nothing was taken from us except perhaps the feeling of being secure at home.

*A woman whom I have never seen (i have to admit I was/am also very suspicious of) came forward that night as we were standing outside, she came out from the shadows across the street, walked towards us and described the 3 intruders as being skinny, young lads... i don't know...t'is just sad...that's all...that they have to be thieves in the night...

*Thank you to our friend, Ramon E., for caging in the aircon unit...now, Rosar and I can resume sleeping back in our bedroom...hmm, or not ...maybe we should continue camping out in the t.c....

My Golden Boy and other Golden Moments

2011-06-03T19:44:00.012+08:00

Sometimes, I need to be reminded of the treasures in my life to get me out of a funk. (A late post)

The love of my life turned 50 last March.

The kids and I gave him a surprise birthday party.

To get him out of the house we started out the day with an early morning family bike ride up to Antipolo...

The plan was to have other bikers join as we passed. Well, we were kind of too fast. They followed behind anyway. He had an inkling about the bike ride though (snoop that he is :)
The kids bonded a bit to kill time while the house was being prepped by some friends.

Click here for more photos of Rosar's Suprise Birthday Party.
The kids prepared a video for him filled with lots of treasured moments...video to follow when internet is better for uploading...

Stages of Change

2011-06-01T23:47:00.006+08:00

Isn't it ironic that within the Stages of Change some things remain constant? One can go through a whole process of change...then undergo a relapse (which is considered normal) start all over again ...making it almost cyclical... Clearly, change is the constant.

Contemplation is a curious thing. It can either make or break you.
For some people, thinking helps them make sense of things of what goes on in life but for others, thinking of the things that should make sense in life makes them go bat crazy... Does that even make sense?

On most days I wake up to my world wearing rose-tinted glasses...
Today, I needed my sun glasses to hide behind the cloudy gray skies hovering over my brow.

This will pass. Things will clear up. They always do...
In time.

Stages of Change with variables of constant...

The Sky is Falling...

2011-05-09T11:36:00.001+08:00

I had a pretty interesting Mother's Day...
A whole gamut of family bonding "activities".
- lunch courtesy of ME cooking Bulgogi...
- emergency re-cleaning of roof gutters (Mihali , Rosar ) due to sudden downpour
- mopping up floor (Aneka, me, Juancho and Aljero
- Pizza dinner courtesy of Aneka
- family movie time care of Mihali's download of Couple Retreat

and the All time clincher to end the day: The Sky is Falling and Other Bedtime Stories...
The unbelievable and unexpected happened!!The Santol Tree fell on the roof!!! prompting me to write a short note...
.

Dear Chicken Little,

You were right all along, the sky is falling. It started at half-past midnight, and pulled a tree down on its way, making it land on my roof with a loud, lightning and thunder like - KABLAM, then bouncing off and making it shatter my window sending shards of glass a-flying, thus making me jump off my bed and now I am off to tell the King... I pray He grants me an audience and hears my prayers...

Am looking forward to flying a kite soon while the gusty winds still blow...
Till then...

I remain,
A Firm Believer

Happy Mom

2011-05-08T21:06:00.004+08:00

I woke up today and on top of my usual morning hugs and kisses, I got greetings of "Happy Mother's Day! --- --- --- ok, I admit, I was expecting a tad more than just that....ok, I admit, I even got grumpy!!...

Alright, I just scrapped and deleted a whole paragraph because all I really wanted to say is that this note is one of the things that made my day:

I realized that I was feeling grumpy for the "ordinariness" of the day when it suddenly dawned on me that my normal / ordinary days are actually always special days.

My children hug and kiss me everyday. They tell me everyday that they love me and have verbalized and written that I am the BEST MOM ever ...making every day feel like Mother's Day!

I am a happy mom!

Message from a Firefly

2011-04-17T14:17:00.000+08:00

Adolescence is that period in a person’s life when one experiences changes from that of being a child to that of being a young adult. It is a period of radical changes.

The Tour of the Fireflies is 13 years old. The child of all our hopes and dreams has grown in leaps and bounds and is now a teenager. It is that same child that we nurtured together that pushes us to plod on in the hope that through our pedaling we will be able to breath clean air and live in a greener environment.

Like teenagers, we stand firm and push steadfastly for what we believe in – we continue to push for the advocacy of the bicycle as a sustainable mode of transportation that is Earth-friendly; we continue to stubbornly make demands for road sharing and ordinances that encompass the safety of cyclists as we do our part as responsible citizens caring for the environment.

This year’s tour, aptly entitled Bicycle Revolution will have thousands upon thousands of bike enthusiasts, biking barkadas, cycling organizations take to the streets; a critical mass of cycling revolutionaries biking together for a worthy cause for it is in REVOLUTIONS where heroes are made.

Mabuhay and ride strong CYCLING HEROES!!

Karen S. Crisostomo

Tour Director

13^th Tour of the Fireflies

April 17, 2011

A Blue Moon is No Longer Rare

2011-01-31T19:59:00.010+08:00

Aperitif: Corned Tuna (straight from the can) and San Miguel Pale Pilsen

I have been cooking meals on a daily basis these past 8 days...and counting... (My helper, Lin had to suddenly go home because her father died - taking me totally by surprise and leaving me so unprepared)

Comments:

Mihali: Mom? You cooked?

Aneka: Wow! Mom cooked. I love coming home to mom's meals.

Juancho: "Mas madalas na pala ang blue moon ngayon" (Blue moons are occuring more often than not, nowadays)

I am still deciding if I enjoy the chore... all I know is that I appreciate their ohs and ahs... I know, they're good kids.

Recently had old-time family friends, Stephen Labrador and Bunny Sevilla over for dinner.They sampled my home-cooked meal: Baked country style pork belly and mashed potatoes washed with San Miguel, Red Horse,and Tanduay Ice.

The Verdict: One fine evening well spent.

More photos from Steve's and Bunny's camera to be posted...

Best Christmas Gifts: LOVE and HAPPINESS

2010-12-26T11:32:00.000+08:00

Flushing Toilets et al...

2010-12-06T10:38:00.001+08:00

With the advent of Anamarie's leaving, I began re-acquainting myself with the house. A sudden flurry of cleaning/clearing/ sorting: desks, cabinets and drawers and anything else I would spot incurred. - the effect of being O.C. and ADHD combined. (I just had to do it while I still had help - sounds bad I know).

Somewhere along the way, the things on my long, over-due "to do" list of fix/clean/sort/throw away were begnning to glare and stand out...
- fix blue bathroom toilet flush and sink faucet
- fix kitchen sink
- have gutters and ceiling repaired
- repair electrical outlets

I finally called the carpenter and the electrician cum plumber cum roofman.... For 5 days, I had two men sawing, hammering, nailing...doing repairs around the house... after which, I said: OK. ENOUGH. I need peace and quiet PLUS I need to put up my Christmas decorations. Paint job will just have to wait till Summer.
Now...
-I actually get a kick at the sound of the toilet flushing ... (am still comfortable though using a bucket to flush).
- My hand still gropes and reaches for the valve beneath the sink to make water run out of the faucet.
- I walk around and cluck-cluck proudly as I see the electrical outlets that no longer look like monsters spitting out spaghetti, worm-like wires
-and strangely enough, I find some sort of comfort as I gaze up at the wooded quilt-like patchwork that is my ceiling...

simple joys I know...
place SIGH of CONTENTMENT here.

Life after Anamarie

2010-11-19T10:03:00.002+08:00

After having Anamarie around for close to 11 years...the thought of not having her around was making me walk around with my "clouded" look. To have to cook, clean, do laundry, plan meals, and do other nitty-gritty stuff aka housework???!!
Now, I really don't mind cleaning BUT cooking - I can follow a recipe and all and come up with not bad tasting meals but much to my chagrin, it is just not my thing. Now I may sound like some spoiled baby brat BUT as my sister , Chesca likes to point out: that is my reality.

It has been 19 days since Anamarie left.
Here is a note I wrote to Chesca:

This positivity thing is working...
I was worried and anxious about Anamarie being gone...
We managed beautifully for 14 days, then Lin came along...
God is good. He has blessed us once again with a gem.
Lin is good natured, hard-working and has initiative. (This 5 days into her employment - this is me knocking on wood).
I thought I would not be able to find another "Anamarie" but it seems I have.

And life goes on...

How was your day?

Pinay WoW: Philippine Women on Wheels

2010-11-10T23:43:00.011+08:00

I biked to work today.
Just trying to do my part in reducing vehicular emissions and live up to the battle cry "I Bike for Clean Air!"

I did not wear my usual cycling attire but wore instead my rather modest casual 'office' attire.

This is in line with Pinay WoW's vision: (click on link for photos)
"A call for all Filipinas who believe in cycling and non-motorized transport as a lifestyle, to join and link arms. Together we will tackle the unique issues that women face, with grace, fashion and passion"(~Ethel L. Fortuno) --- not that I haven't been doing any tackling before this - I'm just trying to be more fashionable on my bike and even more passionate about the stuff that makes up my life... right now - it is trying to make Quezon City (Manila) a bike-friendly place...I dream of bike lanes .... and other stuff...t'is good to dream...to think positive... our thoughts become a reality...they'll come true one day...someday... you'll see.

photo credits: Debbie Nakpil Rodrigo

Twenty Two - Whoohoo!

2010-10-08T22:02:00.009+08:00

22nd Wedding Anniversary!
6:55 am Mass
7:15 am Breakfast at Manang's
8:15 am Coffee at McCafe
10 - 11:30 am bonding time
11:30 am Lunch at Sbarro's
after lunch till 2pm walkabout..
2:00-6pm more super-bonding time
6pm Dinner of Crispy Patang pampabata
8pm 70's Bistro : The Jerks
10pm Intensity 10 Earthquake
WHOOOHOOOOO!!!

Karen: What can you say are the highlights of our 22 years?
Rosar: Today and everyday is a highlight
Karen: In a nutshell, describe our 22 years...
Rosar: WILD!!! How about you, how do you foresee the next 22 years?
Karen: Even WILDER!!!!

* Rosar: You know what, Kar?
Karen: What, Ros?
Rosar: Everyday feels like an anniversary 5 Tips for a Woman

More essentials:
- simple joys (food and drink = pulutan and lambanog)
- laughter
- holding hands, hugs and kisses
- open communication
- good, happy children (just like Aneka, Mihali and Juancho)
- acceptance
- LOVE <3 <3 <3
Love you, Rosar! Happy Anniversary :)

7-Eleven Race Results

2010-08-24T23:41:00.008+08:00

From the 7Eleven 500 Tour Uploader, here are the race results...

Women were categorized not by age group but by bike type: Road Bike and Mountain Bike

I ranked 5th in the mtb category...
[my hybrid bike was inadvertently mistaken for a mountain bike due to its handlebars]

Under road bike, I would have ranked 9th...

At any rate... Top 10 placers get medals - That's me leaning on my silver cane posing with my 7eleven medal around my neck - Whoohoo!
Grade 2 Groin Strain have pain/walk with cane - Boohoo!!

In Heaven there is More Beer

2010-08-13T20:33:00.014+08:00

I asked Aneka to scan Juancho's drawing of Mario Rafael because today is his 20th birthday. Along with the scanned image she sent me this note:

" I love you, mom.
I am always grateful to Paeng for saving Juancho that day.
I would not know how to cope if ever we had lost Juancho.
I love our family, including Paeng.
I can't believe he is already 20.
Thank you for giving all of us such a wonderful family. <3"

-sigh-

Cheers, son :)
Happy Birthday!
I love you forever <3

Mario Rafael Silva Crisostomo
August 13, 1990 - August 15, 1990

"Mala Hierba Nunca Muere"

2010-08-11T12:05:00.027+08:00

Kar! Rosar called out, almost admonishingly. He wheeled up, dismounted quickly and helped pick me up from the warm, hard asphalt. Then in a calmer tone: “Kar, you’re bleeding.” “I am? I don’t know where I am bleeding from.” I said trying to sound chip as I dazedly looked down at myself. My legs were wobbly and the sound of my helmet bouncing on the road twice was still echoing in my ears as he and I moved to the gravel shoulder off the hi-way.

Rosar and I, along with some other Fireflies had registered to join the 7- Eleven 500 Race held last Sunday. Despite the rain that morning, almost two thousand cyclists showed up to bike the 60+km from Alabang to Tagaytay. The last 23 kms. of which were long uphill climbs.

I'd been steadily pedaling uphill and was thinking “ok, just 10 more kilometers to the finish line.” when I decided to reach down with my left hand for my water bottle. Simultaneously, another cyclist overtook me from the left while glancing to his left towards the small store where other cyclists had stopped to rest. Next thing I knew, our handlebars had snagged as did our front wheels…

Ooops uh-oh! Oh-no! Wham-kabang! And we both came crashing down. I remember thinking as my helmet smacked the road that that could have been my head making that sound… I immediately sat up, my right cleat still stuck to my pedal; watching my water bottle rolling away. As I was helped up by Rosar and another cyclist, I turned to the guy I had collided with and asked: “Are you alright?”, “Sorry, so sorry. Are you ok?” He didn’t seem to hear me as he was busy checking on his very expensive bike.

Rosar had been looking me over, beginning with my helmet-clad head moving downwards. “Put pressure on it” he instructed. The knuckle of my middle finger had gaped open, dripping blood. I had stretched my arms out to him for inspection. My left hand hurt and my fingers were slightly bent as if still holding on to the grips of my handlebars. I thought I might have broken some bones. This is not good, I thought to myself as I started feeling woozy. “Keep it together”, “don’t lose it,” As I am wont to faint at the sight of blood.

I squeezed. Ooops, out squirted more blood. “Put pressure on it, don’t squeeze it” Rosar said. I immediately clamped my gloved right hand on to my left hand and clasped both to my chest, breathing deeply while beginning to squat down by the side of the road.

A soda drink later, with swollen betadine-smeared knuckle wrapped in band-aid (thank you good-samaritan cyclist Rick for helping: buying betadine and band-aid), and after the knock-out sensation in my head had somewhat subsided, I motioned to Rosar: C’mon, Let’s go! And off we pedaled to finish the last leg of the race still able to clock in pretty good time.

It was only after crossing the finish line, upon dismounting that I realized I was beginning to lean on my bike for support and wince with every step to claim my finisher t-shirt. A couple of hours later, I was holding on to Rosar and to anyone else to help me as I walked.

Really, the power of endorphins to get one through is amazing BUT once it's done and gone – It is HELLO PAIN!! How are you doing?

I woke up the next day with an uber sore left shoulder, a gashed slightly swollen left elbow, swollen left middle finger, and left-side groin aching where the top tube of my bike had hit hard. I couldn’t walk without buckling or leaning on something or somebody!

Ironically, I felt achingly happy!

Happy because I finished the race…

Happy because I was practically unscathed.I knew it could have been far worse.

Just stupidly happy for finishing... my 1st bike race

click here for photos of the 7ELEVEN 500 Race

Lessons learned from my spill:

- Look before you drink.

- Watch your back, you never know what’s creeping up on you...

- uphill crashes are better than downhill spills

- Keep on plodding, you’ll get there one way or another.

- A smile in pain is a grimace in disguise.

-Grimace and the world grimaces right back at you. It lets you know that you are not hurting alone.

"mala hierba nunca muere" - thanks for reminding me J9

Swedish, anyone?

2010-06-28T22:21:00.005+08:00

There's something about a massage that is just so soothing...so relaxing...
I finally used the gift certificate Aneka and Jum gave me for my birthday. I had been saving it for a time when I thought my muscles would be needing it most...like after a long ride, or a marathon, or I don't know... just saving it for the right day.

Well, last Thursday seemed like the perfect day. A no-reason-to-have-a-full- body-massage day. So, accompanied by my friend Malou, off we walked to the spa. Yep, we walked. The spa happens to be practically next door. OK, 2 doors away...Nice place. When we were kids, we called it the Ilocano lot...well, now it is called Pure Harmony Spa.

When you fit your face in the hole of the massage bed, you find yourself looking down into a built-in aquarium on the floor...little fish swimming...but I am rambling...

I really just wanted to share that I had momentarily (for an hour, to be exact ) forgotten about the stuff that has been bugging me... which is why I sort of felt like I needed a massage..to stop thinking about stuff..not that I even know for sure what it is that is bugging me - but I am close... like almost there... sigh - well, actually I do know but am reluctant to verbalize it or let alone put it down on paper... soon enough.

I often recall what a friend once passed on to me...
"I’ll repeat something you might consider tattooing on your forehead: What we fear doing most is usually what we most need to do. As I have heard said, a person’s success in life can usually be measured by the number of uncomfortable conversations he or she is willing to have. Resolve to do one thing every day that you fear." - Timothy Ferriss

Anyway...
Here are two photos taken after the massage...Me - looking satisfied. Malou and I - both reluctant to leave the surreal sanctuary of the place... to go back to reality (as the cliche goes)

To celebrate our relaxing massages, we capped off the day with after dinner vodka, white wine and passion margaritas ;) Yep. Back to reality, right?!

WHATEVER WEDNESDAY

2010-06-23T11:04:00.010+08:00

Early this morning, I woke up, kissed Juancho off to school then hopped right back into bed (this after telling myself I was going on an early morning bike ride up to Antipolo today...) then woke up again 3 hrs later to kiss Mihali off to school ...thinking wryly, oh my day is off to a great start...

I have a bit of a body ache due to a bike and run I did Monday afternoon. I am guessing ( I know) it is because I went into my run with absolutely NO stretching what-so-ever! The good news is, it is bearable.

To give my aching legs and feet a break, I went out yesterday to a parlor and treated myself to a foot spa topped with a pedicure and a manicure to boot!!! So this morning, as I write this nonsense, I peer over my laptop screen every now and then to admire my manicure and my cute little toenails painted RED :)

What is on my agenda today?
- currently watching (yes, I am multi-tasking at the moment) a movie (Extraordinary Measures)with Aneka
- should get a university car sticker
- should attend to car registration for a limping car
- should write stuff
- should clean up stuff
- should bike and run (maybe do some stretching first)
- should use my body massage birthday gift certificate
- should meet up with a friend later

and do whatever else comes to mind on this Whatever happens Wednesday... keyword here is SHOULD...

Dislocated

2010-06-17T21:19:00.004+08:00

Rosar dislocated his shoulder for the nth time. This time, while playing basketball. No physical contact ... he was merely reaching for the ball.

Unlike most times, he could not put it back by himself. So I took him to the hospital.(Thank you Rainia for driving us) With the aid of a painkiller and a doctor... after two clicks, the shoulder was back in place.

Strangely enough, for nearly a month now, I have been feeling dislocated myself... like my head is not screwed on properly...twisted out of sorts...

Maybe I just need a painkiller and a doctor to get me back on track...I wish I could be back in place in two clicks ....

You can have THIS...

2010-02-02T22:58:00.003+08:00

It doesn't take much to get Rosar laughing...
I think that is a good thing.

Last night, I went to bed ahead of him and burrowed deep into the covers. He followed shortly and as he climbed into bed, he looked over at me curled up on my side with my back to him and asked in rapid succession: "Hey Kar, you sleeping? are you asleep? why are you sleeping already?"

With one fluid motion, I rolled over and flung the covers back off from me and said in a girlish Bob Barker voice: You can have THIS...!!! I can't imagine why but THAT had him laughing till he had tears in his eyes. He said: I think you're trying to kill me. It was now my turn to laugh.

You know the saying, laughter is good for the soul... I always like to remind him - "I make you laugh therefore I am good for your soul".
I guess we are good for each other. period.

A Thistle

2010-01-22T14:12:00.008+08:00

I am not quite sure if this tortuous sound of silence is deafening or if this deafening sound of silence is tortuous... all I know is that it is like heavy metal pounding in my ears...

I am sad. today. obviously. So I holed up. the whole day...

January 23, 2010

ps: Last night, he held out his hand holding a container with left-over chocolate sponge cookies from a son's field trip and said: "peace offering?". I rolled over and looked at him. quietly. Got up. Stood on the bed and wrapped my arms around his neck.

End of tussle.

Reminder: Never end the day angry.

I am happy. today. So, no longer holed up.

WINNERS!!

2010-01-18T22:59:00.009+08:00

Ateneo High School sponsored a FAMILY FUN RUN last January 10.
Aneka, Mihali and Juancho all won medals.

My children are winners! Not just because they run like the wind; not just because they're awesome at ping-pong; not just because they are environmentalists in their own right, but simply because they have good hearts.
I see the genuine love and concern they show for each other and for others. It is truly heartwarming.

It is every parent's wish that their children grow up to be good and successful people. HAPPY people. We sometimes wonder how they will turn out to be as adults...what their life will be like...At times,(perhaps I should say- many times) we even worry about the future, THEIR future.

Right now, I feel confident that these three will do JUST FINE.
Just thought I'd share...I am very proud of them...

and yes, Chesca - unahan na kita -
I LOOOOOVE THEM!

PS: I almost won a medal, too! (came in 4th)...and to this Rosar says: phew, I'm so glad you didn't or else I'd be the ONLY one without a medal!!

Congratulations Mihali for passing the Ateneo College Entrance Test. I NEVER doubted you. :)

Jampacked January

2010-01-15T20:36:00.006+08:00

I thought I was Super Woman and could keep up the pace with life in the fast lane...But NO!!

It's Friday night and Rosar asked if I wanted to go out.

I looked at him and for a change, I slowly shook my head.

Now THAT's a FIRST.

2010 started out with a B A N G!!
15 days into the New Year and I am (well , I was) on a roll.
Balancing what makes up my life. Spending good time with family and work...taking time to bike and run in the evenings...meeting up with good 'old' friends...clearing/cleaning/ sorting stuff...

LIFE IS GOOD! (despite the termites I found while cleaning up!)

note to self: slow down and get some rest.

photos of January 2 here and January 7,8,9,10 and 13 here

Cleaning Up

2010-01-02T11:37:00.002+08:00

Trying to start the year right...

Cleaning up the over 6000 ++ messages in my inbox is taxing and yet interesting as it gives me another opportunity to review the "past".

I found this nestled somewhere in the month of May. How it escaped me is a puzzle. Thanks Marge for 'nominating' me.

http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=UQfuLPXYGl65nuBcHBveEzE0MDAyMDc5&referred_by=16632153-Z.Dp3nx&p=moveon

The Royal Family

2010-01-01T11:40:00.001+08:00

FIRST FAMILY PHOTO FOR 2010!
Looks like it's going to be a good year :)

Dancing King and Queen

2009-12-18T10:35:00.006+08:00

The holiday season makes me go crazy!!
Every one and everything seems kind of wild...
gifts to wrap, parties to attend...

A happy, schizo kind of crazy wild :)
Enough to make me feel like dancin'!!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Life is Like a Game of Chess

2009-12-12T08:56:00.012+08:00

First, there are all these jumbled up pieces strewn around then slowly, deliberately, one must pick up the pieces...one by one. Placing each in its own designated black and white square...moving forward or backwards as needed...sometimes giving each step careful thought and other times moving with wanton care...

I started out the year with resolutions - resolving to be more organized and time conscious, spending less sedentary online time, even conducting a Time and Stress Management Workshop where I made the realization that it was more about managing the self than anything else.

As usual, the year practically zipped by - "faster than a speeding bullet" as the cliche goes. I found myself managing myself and the stuff that makes me ME on a day to day basis...moving from one square to the next trying hard not to sweat the small stuff.

Despite the feeling of extreme sadness and the void my Dad's passing left in my heart and life, I believe I have been ironically happy for most part of the year. Looking back, I wonder how I made it through. All I know, is that he would have been happy for me and with me.

Truly, life is like a game of Chess, you win some, you lose some. It is wisdom gained from experience in fast-paced slow motion...

My Life RUNNETH Over...

2009-11-25T18:15:00.029+08:00

The Running Crisostomos: Healthy and Happy
(more photos here of the Ateneo Sesqui FUN Run)

Whoaa!! It is nearly December and it is only now that I am posting snippets of these important events that define me... that make me embrace life...LOVE life...time really flies when one is having FUN!! I am blessed to have the opportunity to wear so many hats...here are a few...

September: Cheerleader
for our three talented and skillful Varsity Blue Paddling children (more photos here)

uber proud parents - The Cheering Squad

October 8: Loving Wife
Celebrating 21 years of Blessed BLISS with the Adonis of my life

still madly-in-love
October (xxx days) : Gracious Hostess to long lost cousins (Anthony Pengson and Benjie Silva) and friends of our children. Sharing endless stories over countless home-cooked simple meals at the dinner table...

The half-way house
October 25: Miss Earth Beauty: Winner 1st Prize Best Costume

Winning One liner: HEALTHY is SEXY!!
(more photos here)

with the Miss Earth Beauties

ENVIRONMENTALIST
October 26: Bi-Modal Transportation Advocate (tester and member policy maker - Firefly Brigade together with Padyak and Tiklop Society) LRT Bike 02 Project (more photos here)

October 31: Boogey Woman (HALLOWEEN 2009) (more photos here)

Creepy Crisostomos
November 8: Local and International News-maker:
LRT Bike 02 Launch

newspaper photo taken from The Jakarta News and some photos with Senator Pia Cayetano

(more photos here)
(GMA Channel 7 Interview of the Silva-Crisostomo family here)

November 22: Clean Air Advocate (photos here)

November 24: Non-Motorized Transportation Advocate
(more photos to follow)

Super Sonic AIR WAVES

2009-11-14T15:37:00.006+08:00

LISTEN (and watch)
November 12, 2009
Interview on 99.5 RT Rhythm of the City
FOLDING BIKES allowed on the LRT
(Tina Ryan and Neil Almighty's Show)
with Fireflies Bene, Tina, and Brian

part 1

part 2

Making the NEWS ...Marking HISTORY

2009-11-09T22:27:00.008+08:00

*The family that bikes together...
stays beautiful and happy together
*(juancho not present during launch because he was doing parish work that morning)

Watch the Silva-Crisostomo Family get interviewed on the evening news (24 Oras/GMA 7)

http://www.gmanews.tv/video/50513/folding-bikes-now-allowed-inside-lrt-trains

This page requires a higher version browser
For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Check out these photos of the meeting with the Light Rail Transit Authority (LTRA) leading to the launch of Bike O₂

Achieved Happiness

2009-09-16T07:54:00.007+08:00

I was asked which one I'd choose...happiness or achievement (or was it success?) Whatever.. I said "HAPPINESS". Why? Just Because.
Alright, perhaps I chose happiness because for me it actually was not a toss up between the two but rather of having BOTH. Whichever one you start with, you'll get the other and vise versa. The two are so related that a person who sincerely pursues one will attract the other. I thought, if I set out to achieve something or be successful then the accomplishment of that would make me HAPPY. If I pursue achievement that really matters it will make me happy. And if I pursue happiness, I will find myself achieving things that matter to me and the ones I love. So there.

Which brings me to another question I've been asked. (Don't know why I get asked but I do) What is success? (followed by - Are you successful?) Let me answer the follow up question first. YES. I believe I am successful. Why? (well, now, I shall go to that other question...what is success?) Success is finding happiness in what one sets out to achieve. Some people equate success to material gain or earnings and yet after 'attaining' the goods remain unhappy...what am I saying?

My son, Mihali, wrote us (Rosar and me) a letter just last Sunday.There he stated: "...you have been my idol. I look forward and ask myself if I will be able to be as good / great as you. How do you do it? How DID you do it? We are not rich financially but we're HAPPY. If there is a parent I would like to be like, it would be you..." See, now that is a simple taste of success - must I say more?

sigh ok I know I am rambling...I have been bombarded with questions these past few days...(the voices...) What is life? Where is LOVE? (no don't sing it, please) It does not fall from skies above.

I've quoted this before and I shall quote it again:
"Where there is LOVE, there is LIFE." Mohandas Gandhi.
I have a LOVE-LIFE. or a life full of LOVE.
At any rate, maybe I will watch the movie, Paper Heart when it comes out.

I'd like to document love in the making. (no - not lovemaking - that would be X-rated! or hmm now there's a thought... )

Rosar, pictured above, is someone who continues to show me the simple joys of living in true happiness - a real success story.

Ah love, ahhh my life...

The Buzz

2009-09-09T10:38:00.009+08:00

Caught on yesterday's NEWS...

"Greenpeace and civil society activists bike together to deliver a letter on Climate Change to the European Union office in Makati Tuesday." - Joe Galvez

That's me in the orange jacket...

tik tok tik tok is what it said on our jerseys as we rode through the drenching rain...
Time to change...time is running out.
http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/en/

Isn't time a constant? It just keeps going and going and going.Time stops for nobody.
note to self: Time to ...
- get organized
- write that TO DO List
- do whatever will get written on that TO DO List

In my "busy-ness", I have been procrastinating, putting off stuff that needs to be done. Perhaps I should practice saying NO more often? The Germans would say:
O nein, O nein, O nein.

09 - 09 - 09 oh nine oh nine oh nine!
A good date to get some blog movement going on here. It certainly has been a while.

"When I am dead my dearest, sing no sad songs for me, plant thou no roses at my head,,, just plant calachuchi... he, he heeeee" - Daddy

2009-06-03T12:44:00.009+08:00

Has it been 40 days ? It seems just like yesterday that we were together... I traveled hundreds of miles...crossed oceans... to be with you and then you were gone...so quickly! and now I am back home.

Since I've been back, I've been spending a lot of time looking at our photos... over and over, again and again...checking my email and watching out every now and then for that green dot next to your name to light up...wishful thinking, I know.

I've been going over our past chat sessions. I found this dated Feb. 18 - my time - (it was 11pm of Feb. 17 Rochester time) meaning at this very point that we were chatting, You did not yet know about the cancer. WE did not yet know you'd be going so soon.
You had asked me about my most memorable incidents with you...

marioredsilva@gmail.com

details Feb 18

11:00 AM me: ang dami-dami dad

11:01 AM of course - our soujourns to K-mart along Katipunan rd

buying chicken from the suking tinderas

and me being mabagsik

11:02 AM the blagadag-blagadag along the service rd in Katipunan

and how the pothole got bigger and bigger

Mario: Oo nga I was going to say, what virtue or characteristic, but I said incident na lang.. and yes, regarding my sisters, ako na lang... yes, I agree with you I admire you very, very much.. you are not only mabagsik, but you also dance very well.. like me....

me: and of course the kamatish and red egg that we would have on our planned picnic sa may banda UP.11:03 AM sabi nga ni Tita Nena Baretto

ikaw ang pinak magaling nyang nakasayaw ng boogie

uyyy

Mario: Oo nga.. yes, na yes, the pothole first bugudung lang and then wagadang na.. and yes the kamatish, I wish we could still do it... walang hiya... when I talk to you I feel that i want to live forever... yes, tell Nena that she dances very well too... magaling ang leader kung magaling ang kasayaw...

me: naks

Daddy !!!!!

11:05 AM waaaaahhhhhhhhhh

how about you with me?

what virtue or characteristic

would you use with me?

or sige - what did I inherit from you?

sa palagay mo?

11:06 AM Mario: buti na lang we can communicate. ikaw, your virtues are endless and you are malambing. and you dance very well, and you can feel very much, and you can love very much, and you are everything... there are so many things that remind me of you.. beautiful things.

11:07 AM me: I know I got my friendliness from you

and also my pagka Hotsie-patootsie

Mario: When I am dead my dearest, sing no sad songs for me, plant thou no roses at my head,,, just plant calchuchi... he, he heeeee

11:08 AM me: hahahahahahhaa sige you like calachuchi?

11:09 AM Mario: no i do not like the smell.. i like sampaguita and rosal, and what is that white flower that smells so sweet.....

me: ylang-ylang

dama de noche

11:10 AM Mario: Naku.. you say dama de noche... yes, and ylang-ylang wow.. it makes me feel so romantice "Dama de noche, ang sarap ng halimuyak...."

me: true

Mario: There is a song dama de noche.. my mother used to sing...

-sigh-
I miss our chat sessions. I miss the walks down memory lane with you...how you would always be so sentimental. I miss how you would always compliment me and lift my spirits up. I miss your humor and how you could always make me smile.

Dad, I miss you.

This photo of you and me looks like Heaven is smiling down on us.

Derailed

2009-05-23T10:31:00.005+08:00

I feel like I've been run over by a train...

Way to Go

2009-04-25T08:55:00.001+08:00

Karen: "Dad, you are such a funny man".
Dad: "I know. I will die laughing with a smile in my heart".

Dearest friends,

I am so very glad and blessed for the opportunity to have been able to
spend time with dad and the rest of the family (I have been here in
Rochester, NY since March 12) To be able to to talk to him, reminisce
and thank him for everything. The timing of our family get together
could not have been more perfect. It was great hearing him tell stories
and give off his witty one liners all the way up to his last few days
and this is despite the pain he was going through. He could always
manage to make us smile and laugh. The process of his dying was truly
an enriching lesson in both life and death for all of us. He showed us
- his family and friends - the right way to go: Faith and trust in the
Lord, with so much love, laughter,courage and dignity.

He died at 12:10pm (April 24) as we were praying the Rosary around him. Holding on to him, his hands, his feet, his legs, his head - making sure he knew he was not alone - with Ave Maria playing in the background. Peaceful.

(Dad would have celebrated his 80th birthday this coming May 10).

Viewing will be on Monday and Tuesday 6-8pm April 27-28 at Miller
Funeral Homes, Rochester, NY and funeral Mass will be on Wednesday,
April 29, 2009 at 10am at St. Jeromes's Church, Pittsford, Rochester,
NY.

Please check out this link: http://millerfuneralhomes.com/Default.aspx?RD=4538

Thank you for including dad and all of us in your thoughts and prayers. Please continue to do so.

Comforting WOW (words of wisdom)

2009-04-17T16:49:00.004+08:00

It is 4:50 am. I am sitting by dad's bedside. I look, I see, I feel, I know his time with us is limited. very limited. I know he is ready...am I?
I seek words of comfort. I find it once again from the love of my life...

From: Rosar P. Crisostomo
Subject: Re: Dad
To: "Karen Crisostomo"
Date: Monday, April 6, 2009, 7:23 PM

Dear Kar,

We continue praying for Dad: for greater faith in our God who as living God and God of the living is victorious over death. We continue praying for his family and friends: for stronger faith in our Lord and greater love for Dad. We continue praying in thanksgiving to God for giving us Dad who is indeed a blessing for all of us.

24 Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.

25Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life.

26 Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me. (Jn 12:24-26)

According to the footnote of this biblical passage, Jesus becomes accessible to all through his death. He resurrects and sends the Holy Spirit and therefore makes himself present to all in an extraordinary way (unlike his former earthly presence).

I would like to think of Dad in a similar way. His impending passing away affords all of us his loved ones a unique kind of presence, perhaps a unique kind of presence, a kind of presence that only death can make possible. Physically (or materially), he will be gone and yet his presence among us becomes more intense, more loving, more effective, probably the kind of presence that Jesus has among us after his death and resurrection. I am certain that Dad will unceasingly be praying and interceding for us in heaven with God. He will continue to love and protect us as a truly loving father/husband/ friend would.

Kar, just a few rambling thoughts about Dad .....

I love you.

-osang

Better to Taste than to Smell?

2009-03-09T12:44:00.001+08:00

I landed in the "Land o' Milk and Honey" with a lot of trapped gas in my tummy. Despite all that, I was immediately whisked off to dinner with in-law relatives where scrumptious Filipino dishes were served. My bummed tummy had me taking miniscule portions, making my gracious hosts believe I was such a disciplined eater.

Shortly after dinner, while the group was deep into the swing of Wii, I unashamedly asked if I could use my hosts computer and promptly excused myself announcing that it was time for me to have cyber sex with Rosar which caused quite an uproar.

Come bedtime, I lie face down with my ass up in the air. For a full hour or so, I burped up acid gas and in spite of my position, nothing substantial passed through.

I guess this is what I get for being such a tight-assed - uh- lady :))

Very Special thanks to Rino, Cathy, Rodnard, Nika / Jeric, Tammie, Jheylen / Dana, Sherwin, Sheena, Derwin / Madette, Eric / Tita Tonette, Tito Dan, Dennis, Mark for letting me "pollute" fresh CA air with my gas. Hey, gas is expensive right? I gave mine up for free.

Thanks for making my brief CA stay very memorable :)

February in a FLASH

2009-02-28T06:59:00.000+08:00

P.S. 25 Random

2009-02-11T21:07:00.005+08:00

All this "tagging" - and "25 Random" makes history as a "meme" that has everyone worldwide suddenly becoming 'introspective' and in retro - going public.
(See: Want to Know More About Me? Here are ‘25 Random Things.’ - NYTimes.com by DOUGLAS QUENQUA Published: February 4, 2009 )

And yet, there were a few friends who decided to share privately.

Let me share segments of a letter I wrote to a friend...

"First of, let me say THANK YOU for sharing. I slept on this one as your thoughts (and this exercise) stirred long dormant memories of my own "experiences " in life. But to be quite honest as I began my own list, I actually thought to myself and asked how random is random when we start filtering what we want to share with others? I had a hundred and one zillion other things to share BUT 'couldn't' or didn't... you know what I mean?

The power of our being human is that we can put our brains on 'selective memory' mode and are able to propel ourselves forward towards what and how we would like things to be in our life. Plus our experiences further strengthen us and make us who we are - in other words - building on our character.

This exercise in sharing, strengthens bonds of friendship. I know it did for me with you. HUGS!"

PS: I love you

25 Random Things You May Not Know About ME

2009-01-28T22:00:00.007+08:00

(photo courtesy of Volt Lim)

My grade school / high school friend tagged me with this. It made me think...ok what will I reveal? Here are bits and pieces...

25 Random Things You May Not Know About ME

1. I was born with ‘Cleidocranial Dysostosis” (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cleidocranial_dysostosis) I only discovered its scientific term when I was already 27 years old. I always just thought I was flexible and that I had a soft head. I passed this congenital disorder on to my 2 sons. We are textbook cases (so I’ve been t old). Houdini, me, and my boys? We could all be straightjacket escape artists or find jobs with the circus. One for the Guinness Book.

2. The wailing sound of a siren never fails to evoke a moment of sadness in me. I practically gave birth to my son, Mario Rafael in an ambulance. He died after two days. He was premature and had weak lungs.

3. I have always believed in angels. My youngest son, Juancho had a near-fatal drowning incident and Mario Rafael appeared to him as an angel. It was an affirmation of my belief in angels and also a comforting thought to know we have our very own personal guardian angel watching over us.

4. I had the biggest crush on the best friend o f one of my older brothers when I was in grade 4. This infatuation lasted till grade 6. Now (34 years later), whenever he visits my brother and we skype and chat via webcam, I still make sure to powder my nose, fluff my hair and re-apply lipstick!! oh and his monograms are still stuck in my girlhood closet. Rosar knows all about this and lets me be kikay!!

5. I can draw. My forte is portraits. I’d like to have a n art show one day. I hope not as late as how Grandma Moses did.

6. I love singing (I wish people would love my singing). I would like to take vo ice lessons one day and sing in a band.

7. When I wake up in the morning and Rosar is not next to me, I look for him and when I find him, I climb on to his lap like a little girl and sit with my arms clasped around his neck with my face burrowed on his shoulder.

8. I give HUGS and KISSES abundantly. We are a mushy family. The words I LOVE YOU are uttered often on a daily basis

9. When I was in grade 7, I had a crush on a boy named Tito Bauza. I recently discovered that he had passed away more than 10 years ago. I was saddened b y the news. (his monograms are also still stuck in my girlhood closet)

10. When I was 18 years old, I asked Fr. James Reuter (same priest who officiated for my parents) if he could be the priest at my wedding. He asked me when. Without any thought or calculation or goal - I just said: “5 years from now”. It really happened. I got married when I was 23. Oh, and I also had not yet met Rosar then and neithe r did I have a boyfriend when I said that.

11. I don’t mind drinking water from the same glass that I just drank my milk in. (un-rinsed glass = murky looking water)

12. I learned how to drive when I was 14 years old.

13. I had my first cigarette puff when I was 10 years old. Thanks Teddy and Stephen.

14. On my first date with Rosar, we biked, we talked, we drank a long-neck bottle of lambanog and we kissed. Nearly 23 years later…we are still biking, talking, drinking lambanog, kissing and more…….woohooooo!!!

15. When I was in 3rd year high school, I told my homeroom teacher I was NEVER going to be a teacher. I have been teaching for 22 years. I am called Teacher Karen by many. I have taught practically people of all ages: from pre-school to adults. (I ventured into corporate training 5 years ago).

16. I thought I was close to DEATH twice. 1st time was when I got chicken pox. I felt super duper sick and weak like my heart was stopping – I told Rosar then that I had not yet gotten ‘round to changing the beneficiary names in my insurance card and that my parents’ names were the ones still listed . The 2nd time was while I was giving birth in an ambulance – I remember praying and then I started crying with the thoug ht that Aneka would grow up without a mother. Mahirap pala talaga mamatay ang masam ang damo in other words Only the GOOD die young!

17. I feel queasy at the sight of blood or a wound. Even just helping to put Rosar’s dislocated shoulder back into its socket makes me feel faint.

18. I wanted to work with the U.N. but got as far as wor king with the UNHCR. I got so enamored working with the refugees – I forgot my original goal. My refugee experience is still by far the best job I have ever had.

19. I never cut class when I was in high school. Seriously.

20. I held hands (under the table) with a guy I liked while Rosar was sitting on my other side. Hey, Rosar was just my boyfriend back then!!!

21. I was kissed by a priest. I was stunned however it did not make me hate priests or lose my faith, it just made me realize that they are vulnerable and human, too.

22. I 1st came out on TV when I was in grade 3 for our field trip to The Ariel con Tina Show. Being one of the smallest in class, I was in front, Ariel interviewed me and asked what my favorite subject was. I was also interviewed twice on TV for a morning show. First was with Jeanne Young and the second was with Plinky Recto. Both for topics regarding tutoring children and their study habits.

23. I was operated on 6 times. An imperforate d hymen discovered when I was 14 yrs old, removal of cyst in the external part of my neck – in the throat area when I was 16 yrs old, 3 Caesarian Sections – 23, 27 and 29 yrs old, an episiotomy when I was 25 yrs old.

24. My lungs collapsed during the operation for the cyst removal, making a 30 minute procedure last 2 hours because I was being revived. REALLY, ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG!!!

25. I am really a shy person inside. I work hard at suppressing that shyness. I auditioned for the part of Crispin in our Nolifest - I made myself cry and got the part. I still want to come out in a play, be an actress but that is where my shyness draws the line.

Getting Into the GROOVE

2009-01-19T15:30:00.009+08:00

It is the 19th day of the New Year.
Already. (Happy Birthday Jimmy)

I made myself a "new" new year's resolution. To use TIME wisely which is tantamount to my saying: STOP all this social networking stuff on the computer.
ok ok I meant LESSEN... MINIMIZE...
Even blogging which explains this 1st entry so late into the year.
I have to admit, kicking a habit is difficult. very difficult.

I just finished conducting a TIME and STRESS Management Workshop last week-end. The irony of it all was that, due to my sporadic and selective obsessive compulsive nature, preparing for the workshop was stressing me out and I was being true-to-form working best under time-pressure. No matter how much I tried to squeeze the creative and intelligent juice from my brain earlier on in last ditch efforts to tweak the program design here and there - it just wouldn't give until crunch-time. It finally spurted just days before the workshop. A couple of zits and a few wrinkles later - I believe I was able to successfully come up with perfect activities to use as a springboard for sharing and imparting knowledge.

Realization: It is not so much about time and stress management - it is for me, more of a matter of SELF-MANAGEMENT. Time is constant: Each day consists of 24 hours. What we do with it and how we "spend" it, depends entirely upon us.

Time spent with FAMILY and FRIENDS is without doubt time well spent.
Pictures of Christmas 2008 and January 2009

Rewards of Celebrating LIFE to the MAX

2008-12-15T07:46:00.002+08:00

My first blog entry for this year was entitled "Life is a Beach."
There I stated:
This year, I've decided that I will live life by the saying:
"Life is too short to worry about its (life) being too difficult so BE HAPPY because there is truly a lot to be happy about!"

A Happy and Healthy Family
The gift of laughter
A Walk on the beach with your best friend.
Holding Hands
Hot tequila kisses

Somehow, Disney got wind of it and kept tabs on me. They hired a PI and had me followed. They observed that I had added on to my list of things to be happy about: hugs, cuddling sessions, bike rides and simply basking in the warmth of family and friends. Well, it seems that they were satisfied with the results and decided to make me an honorary Disney hero as one who CELEBRATES LIFE.

Check this out. Nobody told me so I was surprised when I saw this on the news.

Firefly Brigade's 3rd Santa Christmas Gift-giving Ride

2008-12-05T13:12:00.002+08:00

Start:	Dec 2, '08
End:	Dec 20, '08
Location:	Kamias Headquarters

Support the Firefly Brigade's Santa Gift-giving Ride on December 20.

We go around the Metro (mostly QC) and distribute Xmas Goodie Loot bags containing rice, canned goods, candies and toiletries. We distribute them to Kariton Families (NMT ang mode of transpo nila:) and the families who live along the streets we usually pass by when biking to work or school.

The Ride usually starts at 4.pm and ends around 7.pm We head back to the Firefly Brigade HQ in Kamias for a simple get together and thanksgiving dinner.

Our target is to distribute at least 130 packs to our less fortunate kababayans.

Join and support this ride!
--------------------------------------------
Requirements to join this ride...
* Bring 1 loot bag containing: 2 kg rice, 2 canned goods or foil packs, 2 mami
packs, 1 pcs laundry or bath soap
Additional/Optional: New or slightly used small toy/s, pre-owned or new
clothing, blanket, trapal or rain guard)
* A willingness to load and re-load at least 2 lootbags in their backpacks
during the entire gift-giving session.
* A jolly disposition... and willingness to ride in Xmas costumes....

---------------------------------------------
Our Loot Bag Solicitation List....Please ask friends to donate/contribute any number of pieces from the list below. Donations maybe brought to the Firefly Brigade Office (169 Kamias Road near corner Langka, QC Tel 386-3926 Mobile 09063231200) Until Dec 18.

3 Cavans of Rice or 150 kilos of Rice
300 pcs of Mami Packs
300 pcs of Canned goods or Foil Packs
(Foil packed food products preferred para mas madaling buksan)
300 pcs. laundry or soap bar
Candies
Pre-owned/New Toys and Clothes

OPTIONAL:
Bread Products (small loaves of bread)
Luncheon Meat or Ham Products (we actually got more than 130pcs donated last year!)
Cash (to buy other food products that we might not be able to solicit)
New/Pre-owned Blankets

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dates to Remember:
Deadline for Donations: December 18, 6pm
We start packing on December 19, 1pm
Briefing: December 20 3.30pm
Ride out: 4.00pm
ETA back at FB HQ: 7.30

Beachbumitis

2008-11-17T21:46:00.010+08:00

life's a beach

contemplating simple joys & pleasures

next to Ricky - who is also contemplating... the texture and color of the sand? either that or testing the surface before laying down to sleep-off lambanog

I want to go back to the beach!

Mabuhay INFANTA - A Road Trip by BIKE

2008-11-04T23:54:00.011+08:00

(October 31, 2008 5AM): "What is this mysterious spell you have cast on me that is making me even think I WANT to DO this?" I asked, cupping Rosar's face in my gloved hand.

Having voiced that thought balloon, we (Rosar, Aneka, and I and our friend, Ricky) went on to bike 150km to Infanta, Quezon Province - traversing the beautiful Sierra Madre Range (the mountains of Rizal, Laguna, and Real).

It was a fantastic road trip BY BIKE.
click here and here to see why I'd like to do it AGAIN :)

Halloween Nights

2008-10-30T07:00:00.000+08:00

Halloween is...

My youngest sister, Chesca's short walk to Meng's Sari-sari corner store for Tarzan Bubble gum dressed in a CLOWN COSTUME and a powder-white face
My eldest brother, Jimmy - dressed as a SCARY MONSTER in a white sheet and an eerie light beaming from beneath his chin, illuminating INVERTED EYELIDS (mwahahahaha)
My brothers' (Ayo, Teddy & Peter) rendition of the haunted house with ice-cold clammy hands gripping little girls' ankles and pillows falling on our heads as creaking doors opened ever so slowly to reveal skeletons behind doors
Dad's scary stories..."One day, there was a little boy and SUDDENLY there was a knock (tok tok tok) and there in the doorway stood a BIG EYE (tinuninu)
not going to the cemetery but waiting for the dead to visit us instead
everyone ROASTING HOTDOGS AND MARSHMALLOWS over hot-red charcoals at midnight

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Halloween the Silva way - unorthodox traditions that live on

5 Tips for a Woman

2008-10-24T17:31:00.006+08:00

As our wedding anniversary month comes to a close - let me share an email that has been circulating around:

Five tips for a woman....

1. It is important that a man helps you around the house and has a job.

2. It is important that a man makes you laugh.

3. It is important to find a man you can count on! and doesn't lie to you.

4. It is important that a man loves you and spoils you.

5. It is important that these four men don't know each other.

ANNOUNCEMENT: It is possible to find them all in ONE person. I know I DID.
I love you Rosar. Uhm, dear - Please be sure to wear your helmet all the time.

BLISSFUL MUSH

2008-10-08T01:25:00.010+08:00

"Where there is LOVE, there is LIFE" -Mohandas Gandhi

Today, Rosar and I celebrate 20 years of blissful mush - the secret to our family's wonderful and happy co-existence.

Check out what else makes us tick, click here!

Fighting Spirit

2008-10-02T08:13:00.011+08:00

For the past two consecutive week-ends, Rosar and I watched and cheered as the children competed against the various school teams that played at the UAAP 71. As parents, we went through their trials and tribulations; feeling with them and for them as they'd win and lose.
We'd tell them:
"Think POSITIVE.

Always give your BEST. Remember to have FUN while you - FIGHT "

Amidst the busy-ness of being avid fans of our children and their teammates, I found out that my mom is sick.I wrote to her:

Dear Mommy,

Your short note took me by surprise and left me speechless and pensive. I always had it in my mind that I'd have you til you were 91 years old ( just like Lola Minnie) and that my children still have a good decade or so to enjoy their grandmother.

Please be strong and put up a good fight. Let the fighter in you (the one who we used to see and hear arguing with teachers, defending and standing up for our rights) resurface. Our combined prayers and your strong connection with God can beat that cancerous polyp.

I love you.

I realize I'm not a kid anymore. (it's about time, Karen) Here I am giving advice to my children and to my mom. Like I know what I'm talking about. Well, I do. Really.

I should listen more to my audible voice; to that more sensible side of myself and follow my own advice instead of those little inner voices that keep bugging me.

For more UAAP 71 Table Tennis pictures check out the following sites:
http://iandv23.multiply.com/
http://karenkix.multiply.com/photos/album/35/UAAP_71_Table_Tennis_Round_2
http://littleanix.multiply.com/photos/album/107/UAAP_Table_Tennis_Tournament_2008

Ode(meal) to my Mom

2008-09-15T14:58:00.007+08:00

When we were kids, thinking about what to prepare for meals was a "chore-some" ordeal for my dear mother. It is one of the many traits I share with her. In our own time and in our own way, we have both found a solution to our 'concern' regarding meal preparation.

Here's a picture of the plates (what's left of them at least) we used to use when we were kids. I remember them fondly ladened with hot steaming oatmeal for breakfast every morning. The plates are a reminder of the rowdy, happy family meals we used to have.

Today is my mom's birthday.
I am wishing that all her wishes come true.

Happy Birthday MOM!
I LOVE YOU!

I want you to know that I couldn't be who I am (ehem- great mother, loving wife) without you as my model

Maryknoll High School 1982

2008-09-10T01:34:00.011+08:00

September is Homecoming Season for Maryknollers.
Here's a video clip that was prepared for our 25th last year.
Maryknoll High School 1982

Fun and Care-free - That's me!
video courtesy of: Chary Dino

(video of me and Aneka dancing courtesy of Lorraine H. Saavedra - thanks Lorraine!)

Chore d'oeuvres and more

2008-09-03T14:14:00.019+08:00

2 weeks. We managed by ourselves. I'd say beautifully. Of course I found myself voicing out stuff to the children like:
- So now you know, it's not magic.
- The house doesn't get clean or stay clean by itself.
- Cleaning up afterwards is a daily thing - it's the same way you check on your e-mail everyday or take a bath everyday or eat everyday...it just needs to be done. If you don't do it, who will?
- Well, this is how it is in the States...and then I start to wonder...hmm

I am grateful for:

having responsible children who can be counted on to do their chores
having understanding children and a husband who do not expect fancy meals on the table; who show/express appreciation for the effort I put in as I whip up my ham-cheese omellettes and what- nots...
the opportunity for everyone in the family (including myself) to appreciate even more the gift of Ate Anamarie's loving and helpful presence in our lives these past 8 years
Ate Anamarie - she's back

The truth is I am ecstatic she is back. Please, who am I kidding? Another day and I would have curled up. I could feel it (it?) creeping and catching up on me.

At any rate, Juancho's evaluation of our 2 week situation - "There was unity and teamwork"
Mine: We survived.

Just One Shot

2008-09-01T10:06:00.007+08:00

I believe I've always had an adventurous streak; willing to try almost anything - practically never backing down from a dare...

One such instance was when I was around 11 years old. My sisters and I had gone over to the Hensons (Lizette - Peggy's best friend - 12 yrs old, Paul - 10 years old - only boy, Elaine- Chesca's best friend 9 years old, and Malou - 5 years old; the youngest and still too little to really join in) for a play-date. Free for all play. We exhausted all sorts of games, both indoor and outdoors. By mid-afternoon, we were all tired and wondering what to do next when we chanced upon Paul holding up a shot glass filled with a rich, golden colored liquid. He had a bottle of brandy on the counter next to him. He challenged us to "take a swig". I bravely stood up to the challenge and with aplomb, quickly downed in one gulp the SHOT which turned out to be full of PATIS! (fish suace -yelch!). The expression on my face and my salt-puckered lips entertained us for some time till we went on in search of other interesting things to do.

Looking back, I realize that "IT" must be in my blood; A predisposition to take on challenges in life head-on with my soft head...that and a hereditary propensity to enjoy life (hic)

CHEERS to September 1 celebrants: Malou Henson

Cheryl Antonio

HAPPY BEER-DAY! May the challenges in life become opportunities for all your wishes to come true!

Photo with Malou and Lizette Henson, July 2008)

Stack 'em up

2008-08-27T15:03:00.005+08:00

When I was in high school, I was usually the person topping the human pyramid during class cheering competitions. Naturally so, because I was considered "light-as-a-feather". Being small had its advantages. This memory comes flooding back with happy thoughts of 'my high school days'.

I just recently attended a mini-reunion; a quickly planned get-together of 9 ladies. Our guest of honor, Marivic Salvador-Purugganan was in town, (visiting from Massachusetts) because her 10 year old son, Steven - THE 2008 World Cup Stacking CHAMPION was promoting Cup Stacking as a sport. Seeing is believing...it is almost like the video is on fast forward. He is so AMAZING!

Congratulations Steven! Congratulations Dan & Marivic (great coaching)

It was FUN catching up on each others' lives.
Great food; wonderful company.
Such beautiful women.

(Standing from left: Butch, Joy, Ria, Annie, Milet, Eileen, Patricia, Marivic and ME :)

Oh Nana!

2008-08-21T00:01:00.006+08:00

"The Filipino is worth dying for" - Ninoy Aquino (Nov 27, 1932 - August 21, 1983)
I was 2nd year college when Ninoy Aquino was assassinated. 25 years and the struggle for true democracy and peace goes on.
Here is a picture of my old college notebook (some things you just can't let go of)
On a lighter note, my good friend Nana is the niece of Ninoy Aquino. I just recently touched base with her once again. (a couple of years of catching up to do). When I think of Nana, I remember...

Isda...isda...isdaaaa...
This is one of the first words Aneka learned to say as a baby.
Living in the coastal town of Morong, Bataan for the first three years of her life, this was not surprising as fish vendors yelled out their wares while walking up and down the streets.

One morning, I thought my ears were playing tricks on me as the vendors' shouts of "isda" began sounding like "Kaaaren" over and over again. I decided to find out what was going on. As I stepped outside, I saw Nana draped over my gate looking tired yet relieved to see me.

"Wow,Karen! Finally, I found you. Look, I'm here." Stunned, I said: Nana! What are you doing here?!! How did you get here? I asked, looking around for her car.
"I took the bus", she said. I was dumbfounded. Back in high school and college, Nana was always either chauffeur driven or driving her own car. But there she was, standing at my gate asking me if I knew where to find slate (she is a landscape architect) and if she could spend the night and borrow clothes as well. She had gone off in search of suppliers - rock suppliers and someone mentioned Morong to her and so she thought to herself: hmm, Karen lives there...

Armed with a sense of adventure and a slight "ditziness", with nary an address nor directions march on she did in search of slate and uh - me.

It turns out, my ears were right. She really was walking the streets of the sleepy old town of Morong yelling out my name, hoping to find me, wishing to high heavens I'd hear her. I did. I am glad.
Nana, me and Aneka 1992
Refugee Camp, Morong Bataan
It's my turn now. I asked. I searched. And I found.
Here's Nana. Still the same.

Nana L.A. California 2008

Trổi Oi! Superfriends!

2008-08-13T13:14:00.012+08:00

"The best years of our lives…” This is how most of us who worked at the Philippine Refugee Processing Center (PRPC) describe our ‘refugee-camp’ experience.

All hired on March 14, 1987. Most of us were fresh grads; young adults ready to take on the world; hired to teach English as a Second Language and American Culture to the Vietnamese, Laotian and Cambodian refugees bound for the USA. Most of us thought we’d stay 10 months – the duration of the specified contract. Some did; others stayed up to the closing of the camp which was some 6 ∕ years later.

There.we danced not caring who was watching... we sang SOMEWHERE OUT THERE and TOMORROW with blending voices making sure we could be heard by everyone and anyone who cared to listen. We drank ourselves silly ...More importantly, we treasured each moment spent together. We lived happy, carefree lives.

Whether it was 10 months, a year or 6 or so years that was spent at the refugee camp, a strong bond of friendship was formed that lives on to this day.

Birthday greetings to very dear friends:

Charisse - Aug 12 Raul - Aug 15 Jeannine - Aug 17 Pindie - Aug 22

CHEERS!!!

with the Wicked Witch Pindie Cast of Sex and the City with the kabits Rosar and Raul

And to my dearest Paeng - Aug 13 (Continue being our Guardian Angel)

Dream Come True

2008-08-08T23:17:00.005+08:00

I can finally tick off some items on my 'Bucket List':
- sexy-lead role in a movie
- Co-star with the leading man of my dreams
- be on a billboard

I was not exempt from the intrigues and conflict of who-will-get-the juicy role...

Coming Soon:
Ang Diyosa ng Pag-ibig at si Adonis

(Photos courtesy of Volt Lim)

A Time for Everything...

2008-08-06T09:16:00.011+08:00

A time to share ... a time to laugh... a time to learn...

It is review week. Exams are just around the corner. Time to buckle down. Prepare. It is always good to be prepared. There is a time and a place for everything... Things happen - at times we don't understand ...whatever it is...there is always a reason - Good things will happen - all in its own good time.

I've had time to relax and reflect. I am coming to realize that there are aspects in my life where I am "coming full circle". I have a lot to be thankful for. A lot to smile about. Life is good.

Today, I received this e-mail (thanks Cathy G. ) Live life with no excuse and love with no regrets. When life gives you 100 reasons to cry, show life that you have 1000 reasons to smile. Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear.

Great men say, "Life has to be an incessant process of repair and reconstruction, of discarding evil and developing goodness. In the journey of life, if you want to travel without fear, you must have the ticket of a good conscience."

It jives so much with personal resolutions I've made...

(photo: Angela and Mitsu at BrightMinds Learning Center - model students)

Tatay Ompo

2008-08-02T15:13:00.008+08:00

Early in our marriage, Rosar and I tried to visit Nanay and Tatay as often as we could. One Sunday, as we were getting ready for Church, Rosar asked me to iron his shirt. I obligingly began a task I was not too adept at. I thought I was making good progress, adjusting the shirt on the ironing board every now and then, not noticing, however, that every time I would put the hot iron down on the side, I was putting it on top of its own wire. Pretty soon, a loud WHAM BANG! was heard and the lights went out.

Tatay's strong, loud voice cut through the dim room:" Anong nangyari?" (What happened?)
I answered in a timid child-like shaky voice, continuing the movement of running the iron over Rosar's shirt: "Di ko po alam" ( I don't know).
I was about to place the iron once again on the side of the board when to my horror, I saw that the iron had several, black holes gouged deep into its flat side. With a deep-sinking feeling in my stomach, I beckoned to Rosar to show him 'the wreckage' -- Tatay must have seen the destroyed iron too because he started gruffly muttering: "Hay Rocha...ang plantsa... (Rosar, the iron...mutter grumble mutter) I believe I heard him saying "ang asawa mo...(your wife...)"

I had always found Tatay to be a gruff man.

Through the years, as we visited Tatay, I watched as my children fearlessly climbed up on his lap or sat next to him as he taught them how to stick chicken innards as bait for their fishing lines; he would crack open crabs and shell the shrimps for them, egging them to eat more and eat using their hands, laughing at their ignorance and yet looking on with joy and pride in his eyes as they talked to him; asking him questions.

Tatay was not the demonstrative or affectionate type. I held back on kissing him in greeting - even if it was my nature to be malambing. I feared that he would duck or hedge if I even tried. One day, I mustered up the courage to do so. Once. We were leaving to go back to the city and after the children had hugged and kissed him, I bent down to kiss him as well. He merely grunted in acknowledgment. I am glad I did albeit with some trepidation. I was able to be myself and show affection to him because a few months after, he died of a heart attack.

I think Tatay's hardened and at times cynical nature was more of a cover up for some of the fears and frustrations he had in life. He had a soft spot though: his family. I know he wanted only what was best for them. If Tatay were alive today, I would kiss and hug him tightly. I believe he (together with Nanay- of course) did a fine job of raising his children. A very fine job, indeed.

Today marks Tatay Ompo's 10th death anniversary. We all miss him. He is remembered in our prayers.

In Our Twenties...

2008-07-31T17:29:00.014+08:00

Here we are, in our (ehem) 20s - or multiples thereof...

With Anamae (take note of how she obligingly stoops- she really is very considerate)

Anamae and Erica
Beautiful women- inside and out

Happy Birthday to you two.
May ALL your wishes come true.

I LOVE YOU BOTH.

With Erica (matching crazy minds)

The Search is On...

2008-07-30T10:06:00.007+08:00

Looking out to make good use of God-given talents and time, the past week has been quite interesting and might I add, affirming.

I responded to an ad: "We are looking for a freelance writer (Manila, Philippines) Please send resume and samples of your writing..."

Their response:

Hello,

This job involves PORN related writing as well. If that is not an issue, let me know if you have samples of:

- Slogan type of writing.

- Short less than 300 words

- Summary text

- Longer text over 1000 words (blog type of style)

Regards,
Alenka

Hmmm, T'is a gift, I know. At times, I do a kin myself to Samantha of Sex and the City -sigh-
Thanks BUT no thanks. Next please...

I was tipped off for a need for a part-time job teaching English Literature at a prestigious school beautifully located in the boondocks. I got interviewed. I did an on-the-spot demo on Introduction to Chinese Literature. The classroom and the interaction with the students brought back a flood of memories of my very first job in a remote and obscure town.

The school was willing to accommodate my Monday to Wednesday - mornings only schedule- It was tempting however logistically it would have been impractical considering the distance and the continuous increase in gas prices.

After weighing things, it was with regret that I informed them to put my CV on hold and that I would consider the position next school year.

NEXT?

Celebrating 20!

2008-07-22T13:56:00.010+08:00

Snuggling in bed with my 1st born today, I cradled her in my arms breathing in the sweet fragrance coming from her soft beautiful curls.

I whispered in her ear "you will always be my baby girl". She moved in closer and basked a while longer in the warmth of the moment.

Then she sat up excitedly in bed and over girlish chit-chat began to devour her "Breakfast-in-bed", item number 2 on her birthday wish list.
~~2. Breakfast in bed -- hot pancakes cooked with butter drizzled with chocolate syrup and a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top + hot chocolate.~~

We laughed over a few anecdotes of when "she was a baby" and afterwards, I greeted her again: "Happy Birthday, sweetie pie! I love you very, very much and I'm so very proud of you. I want you to know that you are the daughter every parent dreams and hopes to have."

Celebrating life with Aneka is certainly a joyful dance to behold.

Sept 2007 Mother-daughter Dance
Maryknoll '82 Homecoming

On the Gears of Love

2008-07-12T01:00:00.010+08:00

“Push the right, pull the left. You’ve still got 2 more gears.” He called out from behind as we slowly pedaled uphill on a hot, sunny day. The azure sky with scattered spartan puffs of cotton acted as a majestic backdrop to the endless stretch of concrete ahead.

“How are you doing, Kar?” he asked cheerily, coming along side me as we began to climb the long, winding incline of the cemented highway leading up into the mountains.

This is Dejá vu… a hundred times over. A recurring scene from a movie that continues to play in my mind’s eye - as if someone's finger was on the replay button…

I turned to him one evening and asked: “Do you know how I know you love me?”
Accustomed to the inquisition, he looked at me with raised eyebrows over the horn-rimmed glasses perched on his nose. “Hmmm, how?” he asked half-mindedly as he continued to check the test papers stacked on his desk.

“You’re always behind me, patiently and tirelessly coaching me about my gears, when I know you could easily speed off into the horizon…” My voice trailed off.

He looked at me and asked: “Do you want to know what I’m thinking while I’m behind you as we bike?” It was now my turn to raise my brows expectantly. He continued:“I’m wondering when you will finally understand your gears and why, up to this time, you still can’t get it.”

We looked into each others eyes knowingly then we both burst into laughter.
Truly, LOVE MAKES EVERY RIDE WORTHWHILE.

Rosar and I went out on our 1^st date on July 12, 1986.
Our mode of transportation: bicycles
It’s been 22 years since that 1^st date.…and the passion lives on.

(Photo credit: Joey Rico for photo of Kissing Lovers in Paco Park)

The Brighter Side of Dark

2008-07-08T18:38:00.006+08:00

Invasion of privacy.
Broken into.

Twisted aluminum screen
and cut iron bars.

Nothing taken.
Everything intact

Signs of the times?

Sad to think
others have to revert
to this.

Could have been worse.
Perhaps.

Our little home in Antipolo was broken into. The bright side - nothing was taken and ever since the break-in, Ros and I have been going up practically every night. Most times, by bike...it's been keeping us fit. I've also finally experienced having a flat where much to my surprise and chagrin, Ros made me fix it. Now I know what those hooks are for at the end of those levers. Ah, you learn something new everyday.

Remembering June 12, 1986 . Independence Day

2008-06-12T20:27:00.010+08:00

The morning sun highlighted the young man’s brown, curly hair as he stood on the corner across the dusty bus station teeming with hopeful travelers, mostly students taking advantage of the holiday to get out of town. He had a smile on his face as we approached and seemed unperturbed by the absence of a bus. He looked on with a certain air of familiarity as people hustled and bustled around him preparing to scramble for seats on board the first means of transportation that would come along.

He wore a shirt that read “This is my favorite beer-drinking, popcorn eating, TV watching T-shirt” partnered with a pair of draw-string shorts that had the words “run jump play” faintly printed all over and bare sneakers without socks. Perhaps the stand-out accessories that gave off the impression of his being a dayo were the huge Carrera sunglasses on his semi-aquiline nose and the duffle bag slung carelessly on his shoulder.

I looked away as he smiled once again in my general direction, wondering how I was going to get to Manila that day. Summer was almost over. I was fresh out of university and had volunteered to teach English and prepare the senior students for their college entrance exams in a private high school in the rustic town of Infanta, Quezon Province 140 kms. East of Manila. After a month-long stay, I was headed home to get some things. I had been offered a regular teaching position and somehow, without much thought, agreed to do so for a semester.

My thoughts turned to the old jeep that was slowly making its way through the throng. It stopped a few feet away and I was caught in the wave of the mad scramble for seats, pushed unceremoniously, I found myself on board feeling like a sardine packed snuggly in its tin can. My co-teacher, appointed to escort me that day was laughing at my disconcertment. He then turned to the guy next to him and matter-of-fact made the introductions. “She’s the new teacher at MC”. The young man smiled in acknowledgment and by way of small talk said: “I know. I have seen you around town.” It was the guy with the brown, curly-hair and the beaming smile. Apparently, he was not a stranger to the place as I had first thought…

It’s been 22 years since I met my beloved Rosar in a jeep.
Independence Day will always be remembered with fondness.
I like to celebrate it as our Interdependence Day.

1986 2008

On Moving and Mooning

2008-06-07T10:43:00.009+08:00

Moving can be heart-rending for both the people moving away and the ones being left behind.

Personally, I had mixed emotions. Happy, excited and yes anxious for Jimmy and Chari - their long wait was finally over and at the same time feeling sad with them and for myself. The celebration of special events together was always something to look forward to. Even the daily grind of just living was always easier to bear knowing that they were "just there".

Moving can bring on momentary chaos, insanity and impulsive moments of losing oneself - like uhm... mooning! The Nuguid-Silvas have made the move. We will surely miss them...

Cousins Group Shot Nutcases both

Ouch! We are going to miss the hugs!!

Photo shoot with Kamias Survivors

This is it guys! Life... in a box!

hmmmm... hankies... foot powder - tough decisions!
Bah! Whatever... here goes!! Life is too short...enjoy the view!

10th Tour of the Fireflies

2008-04-21T09:26:00.005+08:00

10th Tour of the Fireflies
April 20, 2008, Tiendesitas, Pasig City
Photo from Getty Images by AFP/Getty Images - Daylife

It was a great tour!

Considered the biggest cycling event in the history of the Philippines.

It made news both locally and internationally.

Now, it would really be great if the message rings loud and clear -- simple-Bike for Clean Air!

The last 2 photos that made the news!
courtesy of Getty Images

Women and Cycling: Confessions of a Female Cyclist

2008-04-14T21:20:00.016+08:00

The 10th Tour of the Fireflies is just days away...April 20, 2008
This year's theme: I BIKE FOR CLEAN AIR AND LIVABLE CITIES
I've been biking. Am helping Mother Nature and helping myself.

More Bikes, Less Smog.

Just doing what I can...

Here are a few reminiscent thoughts I've had whilst on my bike:

5AM. My alarm boisterously goes off which is unusual because I don’t normally need one to wake me up. WAIT!! I didn’t set it… or did I? It’s a weekend. No need to get up early. As I reach over to snuggle with my beloved (Rosar), my arm hits the still-warm spot where he should be lying. I stumble out of bed to find him all geared-up, discussing the day’s ride plans with some early Fireflies. I ask him their ride-destination for the day. His answers vary from week-end to week-end: Test-routing ride, Antipolo, Mang Vic’s, Garden Cottages, Radar, Sierra Madre, Batangas, etc. I get dressed.

Before every bike ride, I run through my mental checklist: 1). Helmet:√ 2). Gloves√ 3).Shades√ 4). Cellphone√ 5). Money√ 6).Water√ 7). Lipstick√ 8). Bike:uh Rosar? 9). Tires:uh Rosar? I admit that I am still dependent on Rosar to change a tire or fix a dislocated chain because he has always done so (sweetly) for me.

I am aware that women are considered a minority in the world of cycling. When people see a woman on a bike their heads turn because it is not the norm. Through the years, I have gotten used to being watched as I struggle through the winding ins and outs of bumper-to-bumper jeepneys, race between huge passenger buses, huff and puff up treacherous hills beneath the tortuous, scorching heat of the sun hunched over the handlebars, enduring long distances while thinking that I could be home doing a zillion other things that are less strenuous, tiring and ‘dangerous’. I ask myself: What am I doing here? Why am I doing this? WHY?!

I just recently discovered cycling as a means to re-distinguish myself. I am an extraordinarily different woman cyclist. I feel challenged and more empowered as I conquer my fears of distance and endurance with the knowledge that I CAN DO IT and persevere. I see each ride as a unique gift and a blessing which I continue to accept with an open heart. A good ride allows me time alone with my thoughts, tests my patience, fills me with hope, lets me relinquish my child-like sense of adventure, and lets me check and test just how physically fit I am. I simply enjoy being in the moment, enjoying the feel of the wind and the rays of the sun (or moon beams) on my face and basking in the sense of freedom and the prevailing, continuous cycle of love that keeps going and growing.

Perhaps LAST but not the least of my yet-to-be-confessed confessions: Rosar and I went out on our first date almost 22 years ago. We talked. We laughed. We got to know each other. (ah yes, we kissed) and we were on bikes. After almost 20 happy years of marriage, 3 teenage kids to boot (who also bike) – we are still talking, laughing, discovering new things about each other, (yes- still kissing) and still biking.

So WHY do I bike?
I am content with the so-called simplicity of the activity. More importantly – I am ecstatic being with my beloved who finds me extraordinarily beautiful, smart and (ehem) sexy – as I spend time with him sharing his passion.

Funny Valentine!

2008-02-14T00:37:00.001+08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!
Happy Birthday to me!

Whoohoo! Yeah!!

Warning: Parental Guidance is advised. R-18

http://www.jibjab.com/sendables/preview/tc5o5Ja6E0SdRAgrEd3WHQbL

Special thanks to Kiddo!

7 Year Stitch

2008-02-12T16:08:00.000+08:00

My birthday is on February 14.
I am turning 43.
7 more years, I will be 50.
50 is when I am allowed to have the so-called 'midlife crisis'.
(This is according to my beloved who believes I will live to be a hundred.)

There are many things I want to do before I hit 50.
I am itching to hop to it and yet am not quite sure what "it" exactly is.
And then there's the 'tension of opposites.'

"Have I told you about the tension of opposites?" he says.

The tension of opposites?

"Life is a series of pulls back and forth. You want to do one thing, but you are bound to do something else. Something hurts you, yet you know it shouldn't. You take certain things for granted, even when you know you should never take anything for granted.

A tension of opposites, like a pull on a rubber band. And most of us live somewhere in the middle..."
Sounds like a wrestling match, I say. "A wrestling match." He laughs. "Yes, you could describe life that way."

So which side wins, I ask?
"Which side wins?" He smiles at me, the crinkled eyes, the crooked teeth.

"Love wins. Love always wins."

- Excerpt from: Tuesdays with Morrie p.40

So maybe, I will only live till I'm 86 years old.
Seems to me that I may be mid-life-ing after all.

All these yet unanswered questions of being running through my head...
of contentment and discontent
of joy and sadness
of knowing and not knowing
of doing and not doing
of being and not being...

BUT if truly "Love Wins" then I know I'm on the right path to being a winner.
There must be a reason for being born on the Day of Love.

If it's one thing I am sure of about myself -- I know I can love.

What's in a Name?

2008-02-07T22:19:00.000+08:00

What Karen Means

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life.
You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip.
People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.
You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.
You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.
You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.
You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.
You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.
You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Although I Faint at the Sight of Blood

2008-02-05T10:08:00.001+08:00

You Should Be a Doctor

You are practical, sharp, and very intuitive.
Optimistic and energetic, you are a problem solver who doesn't get discouraged easily.
You are also quite compassionate and caring. You make people feel hopeful.
You're highly adaptable and capable. You do well with almost any curve ball life throws at you.

You do best when you:

- Are always learning new subjects
- Use your knowledge to solve problems

You would also be a good therapist or detective.

What Should You Be When You Grow Up?

Life is a Beach!

2008-01-12T16:03:00.000+08:00

The 12th day of the New Year...
My first entry for the year.

I enter the year 2008 with a dollop of misgivings, some feelings of regret for the past year, and yet with a prevailing sense of HOPE and INSPIRATION for what's to come.

I would like to think that I am stronger, more experienced and more determined to continue living life to the fullest...nothing can stop me.

This year, I've decided that I will live life by the saying:
"Life is too short to worry about its (life) being too difficult so BE HAPPY because there is truly a lot to be happy about!"

A Happy and Healthy Family
The gift of laughter
A Walk on the beach with your best friend.
Holding Hands
Hot tequila kisses

Letter to a Son

2007-11-18T01:36:00.000+08:00

October 3, 2007

Dearest Mihali,

It is that time of the year once again when you must set aside your academic and extra-curricular concerns and recollect your thoughts; think about the past, the present and the future and how and where our Lord fits in, in the bigger scheme of things going on in your life.

How quickly time flies! I’m sure you notice how much I keep reaching out to you…to hold your hand..to hug you…to kiss you or have you kiss me…It is because I feel and know that time and growing up are two things that cannot be stopped. So, perhaps, (unconsciously or consciously?) I am trying to hold on to your childhood – to that time when you needed me sooo very much. I know you still need me now – but the degree of dependency has changed. You are growing up to be very independent and that is good. I truly want you to continue spreading your wings…to go out into this world with your chin up believing in yourself. Know that you can achieve and be the best that you can be only if you believe you can do it and if you call on God to be with you every step of the way.

Hali, use this time to reflect. Reflect on who you are, – both positive and negative attitudes. Enhance the positive and eliminate the negative. Think about your responsibilities – have you been living up to them? There are many aspects to your being a person – a son, a brother, a student, a classmate, a sportsman, a friend… Think about how you spend your time playing out these roles. Do you waste it and let it slip away or have you been using your time wisely?

Hali, I see your dedication to ping-pong…that is good. When you play, it is all heart and soul…please also do the same with your studies. Study with the same passion and fervor that you have for ping-pong. Discipline yourself to study hard and to play hard. Balance it out. Value the learning that you get both from academics and from the sport. Grab the opportunities you have now and make the most out of it.

I hope you remember the things I’ve been saying; trying to instill in your heart and mind…Be the best that you can be - don’t settle for mediocrity…do your best always and God will do the rest…do things always for HIS greater honor…always honor and respect dad and me…love Juancho and Aneka always…be good…be good to others…be willing to help…think of others…be honest…PRAY PRAY PRAY for guidance, for wisdom, for an abundant showering of blessings – I believe if we ask, we shall receive – always in accordance to HIS will.

I’ve said this time and again…I am VERY PROUD of you. I am so blessed to have you as my son. I BELIEVE in you and most importantly – I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!!! I want you to know that. You will always be my baby in my heart (hehehe).

God bless you my dear, wonderful, handsome, intelligent and talented Mihali.

Love always,

Mom

I wrote this letter to Mihali last October 3, for his viewing pleasure during his class recollection.

It truly feels like time flies. -- all three of them seem to be growing up so quickly!!

I am glad they still allow me to smother them with kisses and to cuddle with them in bed.. I am happy that they reach out to me and tell me how much they love me... Oh, my heart overfloweth with love!!

I know, I am blessed.

What?!! September is almost over?!

2007-09-26T18:13:00.000+08:00

Ok, so the -ber months are rolling in...
Christmas carols are blaring in the malls..
signifying the swift approach to the years' end

BUT wait! It is still September...
Happy Ber-day Greetings to dear friends and family:

Cheryl Antonio

Malou Henson

My beautiful dear Mother

Hope all your wishes come true!

Happy Maryknoll High School ’82 Homecoming to me!

Now back to work...enough procrastination

Para kay K9

2007-08-17T10:40:00.000+08:00

Mahal kong kaibigan
Ngayon ay iyong kaarawan
sana'y iyong matunghayan
lahat ng pangarap sa iyong kaisipan

Bumabati ako sa 'yo
angkin ang ganda't talino
kaya't magkumare tayo
dahil sa'ting pagkapareho

Sana'y sa hapag-kainan
masigabong kitang kakantahan
tayo'y muling mag-iinuman
malayo ka kaya kami na lamang

Sana'y ring iyong maibigan
itong munting tula-tulaan
ng di mo ako masabihan
sa trabaho ko'y subsuban

Nais kong iyong malaman
mabait at matalik kong kaibigan
Sa araw na ito ika'y sa aking kaisipan
Bumabati ako sa 'yo "Maligayang Kaarawan!!"

nag-mamahal,

KaladKaren aka KangKong

At Seventeen

2007-08-13T00:18:00.000+08:00

At seventeen you could possibly have been…

A handsome charmer like your dad
Aneka’s sparring younger bro
good-natured, hardly ever mad
role model to Hal and Juancho
curly-haired, lean, athletic lad
Sharing the music of Ne-yo
A son who’d never make me mad
Singing, dancing and saying yo

At seventeen you could have possibly been…

An intelligent graduating senior
Training for ping-pong way past six
Everyone’s buddy with friendships galore
struggling through Trigo and Physics
Someone’s knight in shining armor
leading Comm Arts English projects
Lobbying for peace and not war
Skillfully managing the mix

At seventeen you could possibly have been…

Gaining milestones in life experiences
Happily celebrating your day
Sharing warm bear hugs and kisses
In your own unique and special way
Achieving great heights of success
While all around everyone would joyfully say
More power, love and best wishes
To you dear Paeng, Happy Birthday!!

You will always be in my heart…

Mom

Interview with my diva-sister

2007-06-16T17:13:00.000+08:00

With the Vamp

Dear Chesca,

Am so sorry this took forever...

I'm not quite sure if this is the right time to answer your questions as I have been experiencing mixed emotions, traversing some rough roads in my "professional" life's journey. I know that for others, whatever I'm experiencing is considered "the norm" or "minor" and all part of the "dog eat dog/ welcome to the rat race/ this is the real world" shindig and that worst things could be happening however I am not 'others'. I am who I am and would like to think that I can make a difference in this so-called corporate world. I am thinking that my answers may be tainted at this point in time...

However, let me proceed as I'm hoping this interview will redirect my mind to more pleasant thoughts as I dig into my inner self...or will it?

Here goes:

Open persona that you are, it is my honor--no make that challenge-- to interview you. here are your questions:

1. What would you rather be KNOWN as a smart person? or a good friend?

I would like to be known, remembered, thought of, referred to as a good friend.

I think it takes a smart person to know how to handle friendships properly. Timing is of essence. To be there for friends at the right time; to say and do the right thing at the right time;...to be able to keep and be friends even if time (and space) have kept you apart...I believe all that entails intelligence of the heart and mind...I'd like to think that my friends experience my friendship as such thus referring to me as "a really smart, good friend."

2. What part of your life do you wish you could do over again--whether it is because you would like to improve it or re-live it?

When one mentions parts of life, I find myself categorizing my life into sections and that it is comprised of so many different dimensions and aspects. For example:
- Childhood/Teenage years/Early Adulthood/Adult.

- Single/ Married
- Student/Professional and so on and so forth.

It is not so much parts of my life that I'd like to change but certain times in my life that I wish I could change and that would be those times wherein I had been impulsive; If my impulsiveness has led me to wrong others including myself/ my self-worth which eventually leads to my and other people's unhappiness and turmoil of peace of mind then I regret the moment and have feelings of remorse . I know I cannot turn back the hands of time..what's past is past. I can only learn from it and move on. (There are times when moving on happens in slow-motion which is the pits)

Re-live?

I'd like to re-live my life from the moment I met Rosar to the present - this includes refugee camp-life to being married; Why? Because those moments are precious...exciting...a lot of firsts...if you know what I mean...first date, first kiss, being in love, having a fun job, getting married, starting a family-the kids, watching "us" grow together, the ups and downs...maybe just the ups never mind the downside...

3. Aside from your family (which is a given with you) what are you most proud of?

I am proud of my resiliency..my capacity to keep my head up/afloat in the face of adversity

4. would you rather be considered a great poet or a great artist?

Hmmm, tough question as I'd like to be considered as both however my art form in both the literal and visual arts needs honing and brushing up...perhaps to fulfill a lifelong dream of putting up an art show of my own -- I'd like to be thought of as a great artist.

5. If you could wake up tomorrow to a completely different life, what would it be like?

The completeness of different would be the quality and/or standard of life. If I could, I would...I continuously work on what I'd like life to be like that I may wake up one day to that completeness which is lacking...and then again, I ask myself...am I wanting?

Thanks Ches! Interview me again with a different set of questions..it makes me reflect and ponder and...of course, expect my responses to take forever again. Who knows, I may surprise even myself :)

love,
Karen

Adonis of My Life

2007-04-13T17:28:00.001+08:00

Why do I love Adonis?

Let me tell you why...

I love him because he is:

Realistically Romantic

Outrageously Orgasmic

Sensationally Smart

Admirably Awesome

Reassuringly Reliable

Belated Happy Birthday Rosar for March 23!!

I love you.

Boracay, April 4, 2007

Elaine: Tribute to a Friend

2007-02-23T05:21:00.000+08:00

Elaine was Chesca's best friend.
She was also my running partner every MWF back in college.
Today is her birthday.
She would have been 40 years old.
Happy Birthday Elaine.
I miss you.

Spirited lady, lady of will
With beauty and intelligence
Our hearts you did fill
Your very essence
Like the wind that blows
On a hot summer day
Refreshing, as cool water flows;
Simple for it's nature's way
Heaven sent from Olympus
Down to earth
Holder of laurels with nary a fuss
A true winner with so much worth
You lived life to the fullest
Now; never in the past
Always being the best
First; never last
Molded to perfection
This last race you've won
With boundless energy
Forever you will be
Our triumphant Elaine;
Our loss, His gain.

K.S.Crisostomo
December 12, 1997

Mirror Image every 11 years

2007-02-14T05:45:00.000+08:00

I have always looked up to Charissa. I've always admired her --
She's kind, smart and pretty. She's hardworking and generous.
I hope to grow old with her; like her.

A few realizations: We both...

- got married at 23

- are happily married

- have husbands who adore us

- have great kids

- love what we're doing

- are passionate about life

- coo-coo in our own little way

- are survivors

- are doers

- are achievers

Happy Birthday Charissa!
I love you!

I'm not very good with numbers but this much I know, when I was just a little girl,I figured out that our ages were reversible numbers every 11 years.

Karen's/Charissa's age
01 10
+ 11 years
12 21
+ 11 years
23 32
+ 11 years
34 43
+ 11 years
45 54
+ 11 years
56 65
+ 11 years
67 76
+ 11 years
78 87

From Within My Fontanels

For a Very Brief Moment, My Heart Skipped a Beat...

Highlights of 2011

The Holstee Manifesto: Lifecycle Video

A Post for Today's Lucky 11.11.11

O - Boy

Karen Kicks

A Birthday, Tsingtao Beer, Basketball and a Very Naughty Dog

Twilight...

Aneka at 23

Channeling Martha Stewart

Bed Weather

Thieves in the Night

My Golden Boy and other Golden Moments

Stages of Change

The Sky is Falling...

Happy Mom

Message from a Firefly

A Blue Moon is No Longer Rare

Best Christmas Gifts: LOVE and HAPPINESS

Flushing Toilets et al...

Life after Anamarie

Pinay WoW: Philippine Women on Wheels

Twenty Two - Whoohoo!

7-Eleven Race Results

In Heaven there is More Beer

"Mala Hierba Nunca Muere"

Swedish, anyone?

WHATEVER WEDNESDAY

Dislocated

You can have THIS...

A Thistle

WINNERS!!

Jampacked January

Cleaning Up

The Royal Family

Dancing King and Queen

Life is Like a Game of Chess

My Life RUNNETH Over...

Super Sonic AIR WAVES

Making the NEWS ...Marking HISTORY

Achieved Happiness

The Buzz

"Greenpeace and civil society activists bike together to deliver a letter on Climate Change to the European Union office in Makati Tuesday." - Joe GalvezThat's me in the orange jacket...

"When I am dead my dearest, sing no sad songs for me, plant thou no roses at my head,,, just plant calachuchi... he, he heeeee" - Daddy

marioredsilva@gmail.com

Derailed

Way to Go

Comforting WOW (words of wisdom)

Better to Taste than to Smell?

February in a FLASH

P.S. 25 Random

25 Random Things You May Not Know About ME

Getting Into the GROOVE

Rewards of Celebrating LIFE to the MAX

Firefly Brigade's 3rd Santa Christmas Gift-giving Ride

Beachbumitis

Mabuhay INFANTA - A Road Trip by BIKE

Halloween Nights

5 Tips for a Woman

BLISSFUL MUSH

Fighting Spirit

Ode(meal) to my Mom

Maryknoll High School 1982

Chore d'oeuvres and more

Just One Shot

Stack 'em up

Oh Nana!

Trổi Oi! Superfriends!

Dream Come True

A Time for Everything...

Tatay Ompo

In Our Twenties...

The Search is On...

Celebrating 20!

On the Gears of Love

The Brighter Side of Dark

Remembering June 12, 1986 . Independence Day

On Moving and Mooning

10th Tour of the Fireflies

"Greenpeace and civil society activists bike together to deliver a letter on Climate Change to the European Union office in Makati Tuesday." - Joe Galvez

That's me in the orange jacket...