tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54337237904055583212024-03-05T11:03:44.234-08:00Three Little PrincesStrawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-32274161189757382432013-05-11T07:34:00.000-07:002013-05-11T07:34:09.380-07:00Mother's Day Special: Foster Parenting and Adoption<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJM-QH-PkM1Qhyphenhyphen0Lt2netvTaw_vc90eZZ4Gxy_FV9nj05CktOUzpS8RrtAtbGQ7YjfDICzIvUTiSUI-3_BSHXEyIgWObbkGRq9fmxtc8iVJf9NRlYyoiF4Tef6pudpfGRi53SDUZn32_fb/s1600/MOTHER+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJM-QH-PkM1Qhyphenhyphen0Lt2netvTaw_vc90eZZ4Gxy_FV9nj05CktOUzpS8RrtAtbGQ7YjfDICzIvUTiSUI-3_BSHXEyIgWObbkGRq9fmxtc8iVJf9NRlYyoiF4Tef6pudpfGRi53SDUZn32_fb/s400/MOTHER+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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One of the most celebrated occasions around the world is the mother's day, where we give honors to all the mothers, may it be our sisters, grandmoms, teachers, friends, and every women who've given birth to someone to call them mother. Motherhood is not only achieved by giving birth to a child, it can also be achieved by taking care of a child, clothing him, bathing him, feeding him, giving him a mother's love even if the child didn't came from that woman's womb. This is called Foster Parenting or adoption. Foster parenting or foster care is temporary family care given to toddlers, babies, or minors who were abandoned, abused, neglected, or surrendered by their family to a child care institution. Adoption is the process of acquiring or assuming the parental care of a child, rights and responsibilities, and filiation from the biological parents. The <a href="http://www.dswd.gov.ph/" target="_blank">Department of Social Welfare and Development</a> sets some requirements, and assists the families who would like to be a foster family or those who would like to adopt a child. The would-be foster family should be licensed as required by the law.<br />
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Some married woman who are unfortunate to have their own children because of certain circumstances resort to foster parenting and adoption to fulfill the need of giving a motherly love to a child, to nurture him, care for him, and call him their own. There are a lot of children especially toddlers and infants, who were abandoned by their families in shelters, churches, and some were left to die out in the cold weather, in dirty and filthy garbage bags. These children were not only deprived of love from the parents but were also deprived of the right to live happily and become a part of the society.<br />
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Fortunately, there are families who are willing to give love to these less fortunate children, treat the children as their own and give these kids the feeling of having a caring and loving family permanently, or until the time when the children will be moved to their adoptive parents. <a href="http://www.homeforgood.org.ph/howtohelporphans.html#a2" target="_blank">Here</a> is a list of child care institutions that accepts volunteers and foster parents, should you feel that you have the "calling" and compassion to the orphaned children, or if you would like to donate and give help in keeping these children in proper care.<br />
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Every one of us, especially women, married or not, have a "Child care experience" or none, could be a mother to a child. It is true that the children are the hope of the future but it's in our hands, to shape the children's character and how will he become the hope of the future. Our guidance, love, affection, and nourishment will be the most important tools in rearing our children to become a good citizen of the country, to become moral and compassionate individuals, and to become the best parents for their own children. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL!<br />
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credits: <a href="http://www.qsl.net/du1rmf/how.html" target="_blank">http://www.qsl.net</a>, <a href="http://www.homeforgood.org.ph/howtohelporphans.html#a2" target="_blank">http://www.homeforgood.org.ph</a>, <a href="http://www.dswd.gov.ph/" target="_blank">http://www.dswd.gov.ph</a>, <a href="http://mygirlmylife.wordpress.com/tag/foster-parenting-in-the-philippines/" target="_blank">http://mygirlmylife.wordpress.com</a>, <a href="http://kikicreates.blogspot.com/2011/04/mothers-day-gift-ideas-and-giveaway.html" target="_blank">http://kikicreates.blogspot.com</a> (image)Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-27685311650498919682012-08-12T09:12:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:48.713-07:00PARENTING 101: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPQUPt1UAbJaNprXMtYqCJZSVw8QoyrIc2pMMAYnjlq0msSXRk6Xpu3M4UfJO6CZqSXw1Iwq9BnrPqBQPVL0WOsJg-DxDkRPDQ_Fo3ahCNBm7BmCgbQukNymYVHM4dRky_h98_rDvKT2x/s640/ptsd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPQUPt1UAbJaNprXMtYqCJZSVw8QoyrIc2pMMAYnjlq0msSXRk6Xpu3M4UfJO6CZqSXw1Iwq9BnrPqBQPVL0WOsJg-DxDkRPDQ_Fo3ahCNBm7BmCgbQukNymYVHM4dRky_h98_rDvKT2x/s640/ptsd.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><i><b><br /></b></i><i><b>Post Traumatic Stress Disorder</b></i> is a set of characteristic symptoms that develops after being directly or indirectly exposed to a traumatic or terrifying event where a physical harm was threatened, witnessed, or actually experienced. It can also occur after an unexpected or violent death of a family member or a close friend, or after a serious harm or threat of death or injury to a loved one. the people with PTSD often avoid any situations that will remind them of the trauma, but often re-experience the affliction through flashbacks, memories, nightmares, or frightening thoughts especially when they are re-exposed to events or objects that remind them of the trauma. They also feel the <i>Survivor's guilt</i>, the feelings of guilt of having survived the event in which friends or family died.<br /><br /><u><b>Causes:</b></u><br /><br /><ul><li>Assaults such as Rape</li><li>Fire</li><li>Physical or Sexual abuse</li><li>Senseless acts of violence (school and neighborhood shootings)</li><li>Natural disasters (flood, earthquake, volcanic eruption)</li><li>Car accidents</li><li>Military combat (often called "shell shock")</li><li>Witnessing another person experiencing these kinds of traumatic events</li><li>Diagnoses of life-threatening medical illness</li><li>Psychological/mental abuse</li><li>Negligence</li><li>Friend's or family member's suicide</li></ul><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><u>Risk Factors:</u></b></div><div><ul><li>Severity of the trauma</li><li>Social support</li><li>Levels of cortisol, norepinephrine, and epinephrine - Important for the "Fight-or-flight" response of the body to stress</li><li>The distance of the child to trauma</li><li>The parent's reaction to trauma</li><li>The number of traumas that the child experience</li></ul><div><b><u>Signs and Symptoms:</u></b></div></div><br /><i>Re-experiencing the event </i><br /><ul><li>recurrent and intrusive (unwanted) memories of the event </li><li>distressing dreams or nightmares of the event </li><li>acting or feeling as though the event were happening again (flashbacks) </li><li>distress and fear when reminded of the event </li><li>physiological reactivity (feeling jumpy, startled, or anxious) when reminded of the event </li></ul><i>Persistent avoidance of any reminders of the event </i><br /><ul><li>avoiding thinking about or talking about the trauma </li><li>avoiding activities, places, or people that are reminders of the event </li><li>no memory of an important aspect of the event </li><li>lack of interest and participation in activities (due to wishing to avoid cues of the event) </li><li>feeling detached or estranged from others </li><li>limited range of emotions </li><li>sense that they will not live to graduate college, get married, have kids, etc. </li></ul><i> Persistent feelings of anxiety or physical reactivity </i><br /><ul><li>difficulty falling or staying asleep </li><li>cranky, irritable, or angry </li><li>problems paying attention or concentrating </li><li>overly aware of noises or other cues that remind them of the event (smells, visual cues) </li><li>exaggerated startle response </li></ul><b><u>Treatment:</u></b><br /><br /><i>Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)</i> <br /> CBT is the most effective approach for treating children. One type of CBT is called <u>Trauma-Focused CBT </u>(TF-CBT). In TF-CBT, the child may talk about his or her memory of the trauma. TF-CBT also includes techniques to help lower worry and stress. The child may learn how to assert him or herself. The therapy may involve learning to change thoughts or beliefs about the trauma that are not correct or true. For example, after a trauma, a child may start thinking, "the world is totally unsafe." <br /> Some may question whether children should be asked to think about and remember events that scared them. However, this type of treatment approach is useful when children are distressed by memories of the trauma. The child can be taught at his or her own pace to relax while they are thinking about the trauma. That way, they learn that they do not have to be afraid of their memories. Research shows that TF-CBT is safe and effective for children with PTSD. <br /> CBT often uses training for parents and caregivers as well. It is important for caregivers to understand the effects of PTSD. Parents need to learn coping skills that will help them help their children. <br /> Psychological first aid/crisis management <br /><br /><i> Psychological First Aid (PFA)</i><br /> Used with school-aged children and teens that have been through violence where they live. PFA can be used in schools and traditional settings. It involves providing comfort and support, and letting children know their reactions are normal. PFA teaches calming and problem solving skills. PFA also helps caregivers deal with changes in the child's feelings and behavior. Children with more severe symptoms may be referred for added treatment. <br /><br /> <i>Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) </i><br /> EMDR combines cognitive therapy with directed eye movements. EMDR is effective in treating both children and adults with PTSD, yet studies indicate that the eye movements are not needed to make it work. <br /><i><br /> </i><br /><i>Play therapy </i><br /> Play therapy can be used to treat young children with PTSD who are not able to deal with the trauma more directly. The therapist uses games , drawings, and other methods to help children process their traumatic memories. <br /><br /><i> Other treatments </i><br /> Special treatments may be needed for children who show out-of-place sexual behaviors, extreme behavior problems, or problems with drugs or alcohol.<br /><br /><b><u>The Parent's Role</u></b><br /><br />Most kids will need a period of adjustment following a stressful event, so during this time, it's especially important for parents to offer support and love, and to monitor their kids carefully. <br /><ul><li>Let them talk about the traumatic event when and if they feel ready. It's important not to force the issue if kids don't feel like sharing their thoughts. Praise them for being strong when they do talk about it. Your child may prefer to draw or write about their experiences. Either way, encouragement and praise can help your child get their feelings out. </li><li>Reassure them that their feelings are normal and that they're not "going crazy." Support and understanding from parents can help kids process difficult feelings. </li><li>Some kids find it very helpful to get involved in a support group for trauma survivors. Check with your pediatrician, school, or local library to find groups nearby. </li><li>Get professional help immediately if there's any suspicion that a child has thoughts of self-harm. Thoughts of suicide are serious at any age and require prompt and effective intervention. </li><li>Help build self-confidence by encouraging kids to make everyday decisions whenever appropriate. PTSD can make a child feel powerless, so parents can help by showing their kids that they have control over certain aspects of their lives. Depending on their children's ages, parents might consider letting them decide things like what's for dinner, what to wear, or select a weekend activity. </li><li>Tell them that the traumatic event is not their fault. Encourage kids to talk about their feelings of guilt, but don't let them blame themselves for what happened. </li><li>Stay in touch with caregivers. It's important to talk to teachers, babysitters, and other people who care for kids with PTSD. </li><li>Do not criticize regressive behavior (returning to a previous level of development). If children want to sleep with the lights on or take a favorite stuffed animal to bed, it's perfectly normal and can help them feel better. </li><li>Also, take care of yourself. Helping your child cope with PTSD can be very challenging and may require a lot of patience and support. Time does heal, and getting good support for your family can help everyone get past difficult life events.</li></ul><div>x</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Source: <a href="http://kidshealth.org/" target="_blank">Kidshealth</a>, <a href="http://ptsd.va.gov/" target="_blank">ptsd.va.gov</a></b></div><div>Credit: <a href="http://ptsdinchildren.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">PTSD in Children</a></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-57508626997862912372012-08-11T09:00:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:48.805-07:00PARENTING 101: Child Depression<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.tumblr.com/3uof8cy/AIkm1cdv4/picture_134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://static.tumblr.com/3uof8cy/AIkm1cdv4/picture_134.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Depression in Children often are not diagnosed because it is normal for children to be moody, feel sad and lonely especially in some situations where they feel disappointed, rejected, and unappreciated. The feeling of sadness often lessen and will be totally diminished with time, but when these bad moods interfere with the child's ability to function, lingers for weeks, months, or longer, or they always have angry behavior, that must be the time to seek professional help.<br /><br /><b><u>Symptoms:</u></b><br /><br /><ul><li>Having bad moods or irritability that persists for a long time</li><li>The feeling of "being in the dumps"</li><li>Low Self-esteem</li><li>The Feeling of Hopelessness and Helplessness</li><li>Social Withdrawal</li><li>Changes in appetite</li><li>Changes in sleep</li><li>Lack of energy</li><li>Inability to enjoy the things that use to bring pleasure</li><li>Inability to concentrate</li><li>Feelings of guilt or worthlessness</li><li>Aches and Pain that don't respond to treatments</li><li>FREQUENT THOUGHTS OF DEATH AND SUICIDE</li></ul><b><u>Causes:</u> </b> <br /><br /><ul><li>Lowered levels of neurotransmitters in the brain</li><li>Genetics/Hereditary</li><li>Death of a loved one</li><li>Separation/Divorce of parents</li><li>Breakup with girlfriend/boyfriend (teens)</li><li>Stress (School, Home)</li><li>Chronic Illness</li><li>Bullying</li><li>Disability</li></ul><b><span style="color: red;">SUICIDAL WARNING SIGNS</span></b> <br /><br /><ul><li>Many depressive symptoms</li><li>Social Isolation</li><li>Talks of suicide, hopelessness, helplessness</li><li>Increased acting out behaviors (sexual, behavioral)</li><li>Substance abuse</li><li>Increased crying or reduced emotional expression</li><li>Focus on morbid/negative themes</li><li>Giving away possessions</li></ul><b><u>Treatment:</u></b><br /> <br /> Consult a pediatrician first to rule out any physical illness. If depression is suspected, your pediatrician may refer you to a <i><b>Psychiatrist</b></i>, a medical doctor who can diagnose, perform treatment, and prescribe medicines; or a <i><b>Psychologist</b></i>, A health personnel who can diagnose and treat depression but unable to give prescription. It is important to seek medical advice immediately because early detection and diagnosis is important in treating kids with depression. The psychiatrist or psychologist can perform a complete evaluation and start a treatment plan that may include counselling, medicine, or both. The counselor might prescribe some sort of group counselling where the family works with the child in therapy.<br /><br /><b>THE PARENT'S ROLE</b><br /><b><br /></b><b> </b>As a parent, it is our responsibility to ensure that our kids are always happy and comfortable with their lives, but there are things that are beyond our control. It often make us feel guilty and frustrated because our child's depression maybe caused by the things that we do or didn't do. These are the ways that we can help our children cope with depression.<br /><br /><ul><li>Make sure that the child adheres to the medicine and treatments</li><li>Incorporate physical activity in the daily activities of living to alleviate the symptoms of depression</li><li>Talk and listen to the child. Let him express what he feels and offer love and support</li><li>Accept the situation and never tell the child to snap out of it</li><li>Watch out for suicidal warning signs at all times</li></ul><i>Discipline</i><br /><br /><ul><li>Don't shame or punish the child, it can make the child feel less confident</li><li>Allow the child to make mistakes. Overprotection can be perceived as lack of faith in the child's abilities</li><li>Don't expect the child to do exactly as you say all the time</li><li>Don't force your child down the path you wanted to follow. Avoid trying to relive your youth through your child's activities and experiences.</li></ul><b> </b> My heart goes out to all the kids who suffer depression because of the situations that they shouldn't have experienced at this very young age. Enough of the embarrassing, enough of the bullying, enough of the rejection, these kids deserve to be loved, deserve to be accepted, and deserve to be happy.<br /><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div><div>x</div><div><br /></div><div><b>NOTE: </b>The owner of the image here is a kid who suffered from depression because of her disability (she has a clubbed foot). As of now, she's recovering from her depression, she's into continued counselling which helped her a lot, and thanks to her mom, she seek for professional help when she have noticed that her child was feeling depressed. You can check out her blog <a href="http://staystr0nglikeaskyscraper.tumblr.com/itgetsbetterandhereisproof" target="_blank">Unbroken Skyscraper</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Credits: <a href="http://medicinenet.com/" target="_blank">Medicinenet</a>, <a href="http://kidshealth.org/" target="_blank">Kidshealth</a>, <a href="http://depressedchild.org/" target="_blank">The Depressed Child</a>, <a href="http://staystr0nglikeaskyscraper.tumblr.com/post/15650931459" target="_blank">Unbroken Skyscraper</a> </div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-85344424880398176292012-06-30T03:58:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:50.428-07:00A Dream of a Vintage Wedding Postscript<div style="text-align: center;">In continuation with my yesterday's post, here are another inspirations for a vintage wedding. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0040621/large_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="619" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0040621/large_image.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">low loose bun with a crystal vintage-inspired hairpin</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0102335/image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0102335/image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sugar Rose Cake</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0061198/large_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="619" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0061198/large_image.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pink and Red Tulips and Roses Bridal Bouquet</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0100548/image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0100548/image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Classic Ford Model A</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0071410/Image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0071410/Image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A Vintage Gramophone for music</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br />Hope you've enjoyed this round of vintage wedding inspirations. till next time!<br /><br />Credits:</div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-53366546854502547112012-06-28T09:04:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:50.519-07:00A Dream Of A Vintage Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://isa2.stylemepretty.com/wp-content/submissions/uploads/erin@stylemepretty.com/9513/IMG_5523$!600x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://isa2.stylemepretty.com/wp-content/submissions/uploads/erin@stylemepretty.com/9513/IMG_5523$!600x.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Photography by: <a href="http://threenailsphotography.com/" target="_blank">Three Nails</a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black;">One of a woman's dream is to have a perfect wedding. This is one of the important milestones in a woman's life because this is the day that she will enter the family life with the man that she love and she want to spend her forever with. This day should be the perfect and the best day of her life and this should be the day where she is the most beautiful woman in the world.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">My husband and I tied the knot in a simple civil wedding but we are still planning to have a church wedding ceremony after a year or two, and for me, this is the perfect time to plan for my dream wedding: <i>The Vintage Wedding. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've searched for vintage wedding ideas for the invitations, venue, wedding favors, make-up, music, and of course, the wedding gown. Here are some of the inspirations for my dream vintage wedding. These are the minor elements of the wedding. I will post the major elements of a wedding in the coming days. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ohsobeautifulpaper.com/wp-content/uploads/typepad/beautifulpaper.typepad.com/.a/6a00e554ee8a22883301310fd73a4e970c-500wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="626" src="http://ohsobeautifulpaper.com/wp-content/uploads/typepad/beautifulpaper.typepad.com/.a/6a00e554ee8a22883301310fd73a4e970c-500wi.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A vintage-inspired wedding invitation with mad lib rsvp card | <a href="http://www.paisleyquill.com/" target="_blank">Paisleyquill</a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0076812/Image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0076812/Image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tea-dyed escort Tags </span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0085383/image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0085383/image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Vintage Books Centerpiece (I want this because I love books!)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/wedding_prod/photos/favors_542_10_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/wedding_prod/photos/favors_542_10_m.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Heart-shaped mint candies in bride and groom tin can for wedding favors</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0101946/image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0101946/image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A tightly curled fiddlehead fern with peacock feathers boutonniere for the groom</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0088464/image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0088464/image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Vintage Guestbook Inspiration: Antique display table with gorgeous stationery for guests </span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0068808/Image475x475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.theknot.com/ImageStage/Objects/0003/0068808/Image475x475.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Brown Program Booklets displayed in a vintage wooden box</span><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Credits: <a href="http://theknot.com/" target="_blank">The Knot</a>, <a href="http://projectwedding.com/" target="_blank">Project Wedding</a>, <a href="http://ohsobeautifulpaper.com/" target="_blank">Oh! so beautiful paper</a>, <a href="http://paisleyquill.com/" target="_blank">Paisley Quill</a>, <a href="http://stylemepretty.com/" target="_blank">Style Me Pretty</a>, <a href="http://threenailsphotography.com/" target="_blank">Three Nails Photography</a></i></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-33566792869755315852012-06-27T09:25:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:50.612-07:00Frugal Mom<div style="text-align: center;">When us, women start to build a family and rear children, there are a lot of things that we have to give up. One of those things is buying expensive stuffs for ourselves. I'ts not a sin to pamper ourselves sometimes but we can't help but think of our kids first before we buy something, especially if we're on a tight budget. We tend to just shrug off the urge to buy the thing that we wanted because we want to provide first the things that our family needs and put ourselves in the least position on our priorities. Though we have extra money to buy our stuffs, we still feel guilty if we choose ourselves first among our children's needs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Because of this dilemma, I've thought of a <i>frugal</i> way to pamper myself with the things that I fancy especially clothes, shoes, and handbags. My remedy for this is visiting a local <i>thrift store/vintage store</i> or commonly known as <i>"ukay-ukay"(in the Philippines).</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yeah, this may seem off but its not really that<i> icky </i>to use the things that were previously owned by others or <i>"pre-loved" </i>by others as it will feed our personal needs without feeling guilty, it is practical, and we can contribute in saving mother-earth, too. With proper cleaning and disinfecting of the things, it will be good enough to use it again plus, the things in the thrift stores are unique, we could actually find designer and original items, 50-80% below its original price (i actually found some c:)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">These are some of the things that I bought from different thrift stores I've visited around the metro. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjla5ueNHWZTPOqsfl1wL08_OgZOn6v8BYfWw2kbES2b2gV8eE3J-8tI3dbrYV5WU2i0Et5ibaYGzdsnM4xglTGrHtP8i9WDZDOM88V0h5bdobUzHYTH5wU8C0s8AKUuL4aSWdFIZJpvaU/s1600/270620125342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjla5ueNHWZTPOqsfl1wL08_OgZOn6v8BYfWw2kbES2b2gV8eE3J-8tI3dbrYV5WU2i0Et5ibaYGzdsnM4xglTGrHtP8i9WDZDOM88V0h5bdobUzHYTH5wU8C0s8AKUuL4aSWdFIZJpvaU/s640/270620125342.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDZ-Dr9X1sH-XgQ4KavcL6o29us46HO7Ps79rFTRDnnjZMBT4dCW-yVfJ3cuSbLz1OTA716-ir2Dugr8L5Gfm7h5IJcMCLbVC0sAxoQU43xO030PbuJHEFmstQoEeDyUV2QpdhfXhprw/s1600/270620125344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDZ-Dr9X1sH-XgQ4KavcL6o29us46HO7Ps79rFTRDnnjZMBT4dCW-yVfJ3cuSbLz1OTA716-ir2Dugr8L5Gfm7h5IJcMCLbVC0sAxoQU43xO030PbuJHEFmstQoEeDyUV2QpdhfXhprw/s640/270620125344.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzKRn_rGlHdwZhWM7FVk-IWo322fpbT7t0T3CYq3XOgFIzi4ERSJgM5d_GkUc6dB3gtyv93JKfOJb8q_ttlnqE4gsh-YGnJu1qcw1KDmLQ49gmQ7LmNS8o0xEI-jGKfVdNsPhkCeVhRM/s1600/270620125345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzKRn_rGlHdwZhWM7FVk-IWo322fpbT7t0T3CYq3XOgFIzi4ERSJgM5d_GkUc6dB3gtyv93JKfOJb8q_ttlnqE4gsh-YGnJu1qcw1KDmLQ49gmQ7LmNS8o0xEI-jGKfVdNsPhkCeVhRM/s640/270620125345.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBkL4VxfwdNDWWXHaTML9vEPJArps2Kh8fBMteRPZKHilPGjWX2PGlBJZ9hveo1qsSXMc0JroMu90vNfL-ki_sT6_yG6D90ZlosYg-4221UC-QHUN_aCgf2i1TD2GJJ_Ko9jyYfHQWAk/s1600/270620125349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBkL4VxfwdNDWWXHaTML9vEPJArps2Kh8fBMteRPZKHilPGjWX2PGlBJZ9hveo1qsSXMc0JroMu90vNfL-ki_sT6_yG6D90ZlosYg-4221UC-QHUN_aCgf2i1TD2GJJ_Ko9jyYfHQWAk/s640/270620125349.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSvU1UwNPKIY4Ud8DDM8SFV4_grc7MJJ46mltQOk2CPikjKe7FeTwgzIOMHIpCbqG-jXadI8hIUoJj5eaYIsQ51f3fm-UYcLJnaiqc-gcLpXl-6rBBiUIKIynGPypYWe7ocDGp1qAiAw/s1600/270620125350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSvU1UwNPKIY4Ud8DDM8SFV4_grc7MJJ46mltQOk2CPikjKe7FeTwgzIOMHIpCbqG-jXadI8hIUoJj5eaYIsQ51f3fm-UYcLJnaiqc-gcLpXl-6rBBiUIKIynGPypYWe7ocDGp1qAiAw/s640/270620125350.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPM4P81gjGq94Yoar6Vs6_IKn8We7d_zUp8EHr7k1RMvnsTncs2EXRyMP0Df8RYMk_vfFeCWO-Ft4fPAtrXnoPATtxmCyq_hsasNQ-fxZ7Vdgx4jca69LW_VXE5-Jc1CoSo8PyazwZ-gE/s1600/270620125351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPM4P81gjGq94Yoar6Vs6_IKn8We7d_zUp8EHr7k1RMvnsTncs2EXRyMP0Df8RYMk_vfFeCWO-Ft4fPAtrXnoPATtxmCyq_hsasNQ-fxZ7Vdgx4jca69LW_VXE5-Jc1CoSo8PyazwZ-gE/s640/270620125351.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAHq9nFGEb-5PYzufSyX7aBdhdmr7X7FVLQrIPsfxpyy4Hz2Abo0EpX8Z_1Pzglul2iAVU5zJEaeZBukXruUg6hmsX_PRKoSq1_lsJiuPfbyhRPamfN76DPFFHtLrhgZZ9PC4axozhhE/s1600/270620125353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAHq9nFGEb-5PYzufSyX7aBdhdmr7X7FVLQrIPsfxpyy4Hz2Abo0EpX8Z_1Pzglul2iAVU5zJEaeZBukXruUg6hmsX_PRKoSq1_lsJiuPfbyhRPamfN76DPFFHtLrhgZZ9PC4axozhhE/s640/270620125353.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezkygqA9AIHnQIhO2PcJBlJGT_uqZk5VG4SLNd5tcUB66e2SSO8J4imQ5QOeWRKnXRpZcjrCV-7tE9PXNzNyqwiioYrpL4eUsqWe85PyFmtRmKhDF4YLTXzJPGX86vltphcbVTt0-2EI/s1600/270620125354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezkygqA9AIHnQIhO2PcJBlJGT_uqZk5VG4SLNd5tcUB66e2SSO8J4imQ5QOeWRKnXRpZcjrCV-7tE9PXNzNyqwiioYrpL4eUsqWe85PyFmtRmKhDF4YLTXzJPGX86vltphcbVTt0-2EI/s640/270620125354.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-30698532982290391442012-06-23T10:00:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:50.704-07:00Tips For Good Study Habits For Our Kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTOcA42yRGoDs7LjY96i0a8xIk4V1V5ksflGaY7GqpanzwlsxJ_DF3tVPfTBtUb0Gy68VkBlM7uftx4YpuoAmUgxcX7s6AzJiMkg5P3mEbk5sYV1dyDQkvgi81DzH83gw5fWS87VvfG8/s1600/150620125264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTOcA42yRGoDs7LjY96i0a8xIk4V1V5ksflGaY7GqpanzwlsxJ_DF3tVPfTBtUb0Gy68VkBlM7uftx4YpuoAmUgxcX7s6AzJiMkg5P3mEbk5sYV1dyDQkvgi81DzH83gw5fWS87VvfG8/s640/150620125264.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Giving our child a full and good quality education is one of the crucial aspects in rearing a healthy and successful individual. It is important that we develop effective study habits for our child and assist him in his studies to improve his academic performance and enhance his learning abilities. We should check our child's work and study with him so we can monitor the things that he learn and provide him with necessary information if he have some questions that are not tackled in school. Studying with our kids also creates a bonding moment with our kids which helps in their school performance. Here are some tips in creating a good study habits for our kids.<br /><div><br /></div><b>1. Standard Study Time. </b>Set up a regular time for studies and consistently, strictly implement it. This will establish our child's studying routine and homework habits. We can use an alarm clock or a bulletin board indicating a reminder of the study time.<br /><b>2. Standard Study Place.</b> Choose the study spot that is away from distractions like noise and television. We should also keep away things that could distract our child like some handheld gaming devices (psp, nintendo DS, etc.) and toys. Dont use the bed as the study spot because it may interrupt the child's sleeping habit since the bed is used for sleeping.<br /><b>3. Standard Procedures.</b> Help our child to plan the things that he needs to accomplish. Write down the things that should be done (homework, essays, research, reviews) so he can track the things that he needs to do and the things that he have accomplished. <br /><b>4. Do the Homework. </b> Some parents have the urge to just do the homework for their kids to get it done correctly without explaining to the child the procedures and the answers to the homework. We should guide the children in doing the homework so they would learn the answers and they'll have the idea what the homework is all about. We should teach the children some strategies in solving the problem and guide them to the answers.<br /><b>5. Have a Break</b>. Allow breaks between the study hours so the child could refresh his memory and will not lose focus. Long hours of study could be so boring and blocks concentration, and sometimes, it makes the child feel sleepy. Give at least 5-10 minutes break then resume after.<br /><b>6. Be Organized.</b> Teach the child to be organized and clean with the study table so his school stuffs will be accessible to him whenever he needs it.<br /><b>7. Instill the importance of education</b>. Talk to the child about the possibilities and opportunities when he did well in school. If his dream is becoming a doctor, tell him that he can make this dream come true if he will study hard.<br /><b>8. Make learning fun.</b> We can play word games and puzzles with our child after he have finished everything that should be done. This will make the child more enthusiastic with studying and it also help in the child's learning ability.<br /><b>9. Standard Sleep.</b> The child should have enough sleep because it is important for effective studying and memory. A child with lack of sleep will have poor school performance and dull memory.<br /><b>10. Acknowledge. </b> Acknowledge the child's effort after he finished everything that should be done. This will give the child a positive point of view about studying and will make him more interested. This will also boost his self-confidence. Proof read everything and help the child correct the mistakes if there's any.Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-38573397999282650632012-05-24T10:41:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:51.626-07:00Sleek ReviewI've finally got one of my dream palettes, the <a href="http://sleekmakeup.com/" target="_blank">Sleek</a> I-divine palette in acid. Sleek is actually a UK brand and is not available in the Philippines BUT you can find a lot of online sellers in Facebook and Multiply which distribute the brand, from blushes, lip paints, to eye shadow palettes including this one. This is really my favorite among the others and i got mine from <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HOTBoutique.byCarmella" target="_blank">Hot Boutique By Carmella</a> in Facebook. I love how the shadow sticks to the skin and stays there for hours. It is not easily erased by oiliness or sweat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZoV_crUASf_vGMyRw6QAchIv14vI13W6K3WUC0D11W1qmoaVdUEsG64yHC4ecddEGSKW7wqBAu7R2cbU-cfs-6mQcarJHpZ-mXc-SFpysmym8mp85YxRZVff_V6bhj6sH0HNeLezPtM/s1600/sleek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZoV_crUASf_vGMyRw6QAchIv14vI13W6K3WUC0D11W1qmoaVdUEsG64yHC4ecddEGSKW7wqBAu7R2cbU-cfs-6mQcarJHpZ-mXc-SFpysmym8mp85YxRZVff_V6bhj6sH0HNeLezPtM/s640/sleek.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The colors make me <a href="http://www.facebook.com/coloryourlifepink" target="_blank">Colorgasm</a>! *drool*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijRmRodDflAbD1D4on82nXKaAeebrU4ufe8YD72NuqNsh9cnF9BZNaeJbfb4HGzlXIGBOf1soKAZF3eb1tETI1-rfZr61APuTv4MZy_LetY4pULZ7-dwD_S9Y7GZwodgfiwO1JUnKupc/s1600/240520124859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijRmRodDflAbD1D4on82nXKaAeebrU4ufe8YD72NuqNsh9cnF9BZNaeJbfb4HGzlXIGBOf1soKAZF3eb1tETI1-rfZr61APuTv4MZy_LetY4pULZ7-dwD_S9Y7GZwodgfiwO1JUnKupc/s640/240520124859.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Swatches</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTAH5d75jOowysnxS5NcVI_0qGI9ENSZctL2qcP-4AILvv7Tlsge3wosCZ4Sz-62QS0pGMi7T36ctDKpe5IqO3UQxE-Y0p6u89-BYtw5hT_DchOM4r6buTJKdZ1pVj2SKDfDjOv4Vbc6A/s1600/230520124827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTAH5d75jOowysnxS5NcVI_0qGI9ENSZctL2qcP-4AILvv7Tlsge3wosCZ4Sz-62QS0pGMi7T36ctDKpe5IqO3UQxE-Y0p6u89-BYtw5hT_DchOM4r6buTJKdZ1pVj2SKDfDjOv4Vbc6A/s640/230520124827.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I tried to imitate the Nicki Minaj Super Bass Look Using the palette and I'm Really impressed with the palette's intense hues. When I applied it i thought it was kinda light and unnoticeable but when i took a photo of it, the colors are so intense, i was really surprised and excited!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am looking forward to creating more looks with this gorgeous palette. For now, I'll practice more on "super bass" look and will keep you guys posted. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-32963671881536254892012-05-15T11:22:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:51.718-07:00Carl's Summer Class<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've enrolled Carl last month in Special Education Institution in Pasig City, a school run by the government for special children who can't afford to go to a private special school. I'ts great that there's a school like this for poor Filipino special children so they will have access to the kind of education that they need. The tuition fee for a year is only 300 pesos. The shoes, notebooks, books, and PE uniform are all provided by the government. The school accepts Hearing impaired children (just like my Carl), Autistic children, children with down syndrome, and children with learning disabilities (dyslexia, to name one). The teachers are graduates of BS education with special education major, and are all friendly and approachable. The school has a security guard and never let the children go out of the school premises if not picked up by the guardian. This Summer, the kids are taught how to write, to perform activities of daily living, to do some house chores (within the scope of the child's capacity), and to socialize with other children and the society. I'm planning to transfer Carl in a private school if our budget permits but as of now, I'll just let my son enjoy this school and the privilege of studying for a very affordable price. I'm so thankful that there are teachers that are willing to give education to these children in exchange for a modest salary. You are like an angel to parents who have a special children because without you, who will impart knowledge to the child aside from us parents? KUDOS TO ALL SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8m9Xx7EMefTvs_Jg5evUuCQEyevW5HJVFxGQtWpAJnJtxLE867Q3yoMGlzBO23XrY9GWHlz-o7OF4DYjlxHWojltDboZg3ZOBdS1Cpvsx8V8cSJdaq3RTNGYVXT7IPwAq35jg85Clvjo/s1600/120420124110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8m9Xx7EMefTvs_Jg5evUuCQEyevW5HJVFxGQtWpAJnJtxLE867Q3yoMGlzBO23XrY9GWHlz-o7OF4DYjlxHWojltDboZg3ZOBdS1Cpvsx8V8cSJdaq3RTNGYVXT7IPwAq35jg85Clvjo/s640/120420124110.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48aF1ybRjoh7aC1DVlQ7GeTqHxnXAXVIY0xakxu6RivgyY3iw45leWEcDcclv-iTMA2V33dTMm4XEx0uondAqoob_qZZDko3Ej0eRVGdMm22g4W7rw86Pw9rit4MvccgWg-Omz1FhPnQ/s1600/120420124111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48aF1ybRjoh7aC1DVlQ7GeTqHxnXAXVIY0xakxu6RivgyY3iw45leWEcDcclv-iTMA2V33dTMm4XEx0uondAqoob_qZZDko3Ej0eRVGdMm22g4W7rw86Pw9rit4MvccgWg-Omz1FhPnQ/s640/120420124111.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwoTOTKPX1UKztahda8gCSGkhfQsPIKp0SrAXIcWBJh2TQoeEst46mcs64w3J6UwvPPEWTtn0HkMXRjbYdCknVk9jfUIXvZn2symB_fT9FnxQJ0UCO7FX5FrItTWmoryuBVzWBJouYIU/s1600/kuya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwoTOTKPX1UKztahda8gCSGkhfQsPIKp0SrAXIcWBJh2TQoeEst46mcs64w3J6UwvPPEWTtn0HkMXRjbYdCknVk9jfUIXvZn2symB_fT9FnxQJ0UCO7FX5FrItTWmoryuBVzWBJouYIU/s640/kuya.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-71727662382999855932012-05-13T01:58:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:51.919-07:00The Modern Day Sisa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v641/ocabirtaniger/Noli-Me-Tangere-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v641/ocabirtaniger/Noli-Me-Tangere-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Sisa is the fictional character from Dr. Jose Rizal's Noli me Tangere (Touch me not) written way back in the 1800's. The book was written as a way of protest against the spanish friars in our country. Sisa, one of the popular characters in the book, is a mother of two boys, Basilio and Crispin, and the wife of the abusive gambler Pedro. Sisa is described as a mother who considers her sons her only treasure. She would often anticipate when they return home as she would prepare their favorite dishes. She remembers each son's features and when alone, remember moments when her sons were with her. The children were working as sacristan in the church when apparently, they were accused as thieves and later, they were nowhere to be found. Sisa then succumb to insanity. She roamed about and was recognized by the limping Basilio. As she has not recognized her son, a chase ensued and ended when Basilio fell off the tree to catch his mother. When she finally recognizes her son, Basilio had fainted. When Basilio woke up, Sisa had died.<br /><br />Today, a lot of mothers are agonizing, crying in pain as they lost their children due to kidnapping. There are news that there are people lurking around searching for women who have newborn babies. They would offer the woman some cash and groceries, and "help" the woman in carrying the child. When the woman is unaware, that's the time the suspect would runaway with the child, leaving the helpless mother alone. Another story also states that there are men in a van who are looking for children playing on the streets. When the children's parents are unaware, they will get the child, ride in the vehicle, and drive away. Based on the police investigation, the kidnapped babies were possibly being sold to couples who have no children. Other children possibly were kidnapped by the syndicates to be made as beggars on the streets.<br />No one could possibly explain the pain of losing a child except the mother for she carried her child for nine months, showered the child with love and affection, cared for the child, built dreams and aspirations for the child, and of course, because that is her child. A mother, without all the riches in the world will still be rich because of her children's love. She considers them as her treasure, her valuable possession, just like Sisa who've gone insane because her children were taken away.<br /><br /><br />Credits: <a href="http://wikipilipinas.org/" target="_blank">wikipilipinas</a><br /><br /><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-45531750056945556002012-05-06T00:47:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:52.011-07:00Summer LoveIn time for the summer, I played with my palette to create a look that suits the summer season. I used mostly Golden hues, orange, bronze for the cheeks, and golden bronze color for the lips, mostly from sephora palette. You can wear this during the day or night, when you go clubbing. :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUPlWJIy9nn99E6G5Nf5iyNk8eu1XQA1LfgfEVYvjsHF4Zit4t2eyF_kJjXsaf9lMjxOWtrEnYdhMDoSOGGLmQ5pMmQbZLsDGV9QkQQoTO8MgacsojArBiBDDiCG-eJFX4_PYMU2MTcE/s1600/060520124752_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUPlWJIy9nn99E6G5Nf5iyNk8eu1XQA1LfgfEVYvjsHF4Zit4t2eyF_kJjXsaf9lMjxOWtrEnYdhMDoSOGGLmQ5pMmQbZLsDGV9QkQQoTO8MgacsojArBiBDDiCG-eJFX4_PYMU2MTcE/s640/060520124752_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7XAb0mJ_530rY2PJaT_4nLGyPEYsJc474YwC9Nm6m_3GtQo6qSeC4T-IC1xfGeawDBN-Hdd5A631v0D4_is6DVodY9Lhsqcke3k1Tl2LN3pCVgXRQiokoRcK7iMRpTJUMwKEP2F_YyZE/s1600/060520124747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7XAb0mJ_530rY2PJaT_4nLGyPEYsJc474YwC9Nm6m_3GtQo6qSeC4T-IC1xfGeawDBN-Hdd5A631v0D4_is6DVodY9Lhsqcke3k1Tl2LN3pCVgXRQiokoRcK7iMRpTJUMwKEP2F_YyZE/s640/060520124747.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-5287270806487611802012-04-26T00:35:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:52.102-07:00DIY Braided BraceletMade of Ribbons, Glue, Buttons for the lock, and some love :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35QuNLP3FaZOIfzQloQdRDP2x_emlx97kLymsr8MOmz_LkxFjlTOB2m98eYROQH2m5zH52HRoHqeM7XxcvscSvE1tNQIRw_1lPZcFP5FyE-uh55_cMTjPxle_8_8rWQ209pmJMyKiPtw/s1600/240420124352_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35QuNLP3FaZOIfzQloQdRDP2x_emlx97kLymsr8MOmz_LkxFjlTOB2m98eYROQH2m5zH52HRoHqeM7XxcvscSvE1tNQIRw_1lPZcFP5FyE-uh55_cMTjPxle_8_8rWQ209pmJMyKiPtw/s640/240420124352_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-81265476924338185742012-04-18T00:27:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:52.193-07:00DIY Earrings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crocheted Earring With Crystal Detail </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikOXRzSt22mpHf_qac8XnRp5-D8qTHweypUGnveksW-MmKO2yAfw_ve8eMDySjGNYdaSmi5LbZLTS9c9lyKXD9FmVgZlGPpJZ4vLsqRbey8wr_WGQaNHsYi-EyFNzaEJjpsnYQ0V8Mhxg/s1600/180420124192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikOXRzSt22mpHf_qac8XnRp5-D8qTHweypUGnveksW-MmKO2yAfw_ve8eMDySjGNYdaSmi5LbZLTS9c9lyKXD9FmVgZlGPpJZ4vLsqRbey8wr_WGQaNHsYi-EyFNzaEJjpsnYQ0V8Mhxg/s640/180420124192.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-86233098809668288132012-04-10T00:22:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:52.284-07:00MamonlukMa Mon Luk (1896-1961) was a pioneering <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_Filipino">Chinese Filipino</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chef">chef</a> and entrepreneur. He established the popular <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_cuisine">Chinese</a> restaurant that bears his name, Ma Mon Luk.<br />[<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ma_Mon_Luk&action=edit&section=1">edit</a>]Life<br /><br />Born in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guangdong">Guangdong</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China">China</a>, he was a grade school teacher in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guangzhou">Guangzhou</a> when he decided to emigrate to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines">Philippines</a> in 1918. According to legend, he migrated to the Philippines in order to earn his fortune and win the hand of a girl whose wealthy <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantonese_people">Cantonese</a>family looked none too kindly on his poverty. Arriving penniless in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila">Manila</a>, Ma Mon Luk decided to peddle <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicken_soup">chicken noodle soup</a>, utilizing egg noodles. He soon became a familiar sight on the streets of Manila, plodding down with a long bamboo pole slung on his shoulders with two metal containers on each end. One vat contained his especially concocted noodles and strips of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicken">chicken</a> meat, while the other stored chicken broth heated by live coals underneath. With a pair of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scissors">scissors</a>, he would cut the noodles and meat to serve to his customers. Among his frequent customers were students from the various schools and universities in Manila, whom he would regale with tales about China. Ma Mon Luk himself called his concoction "gupit", after the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tagalog_language">Tagalog</a> word for "cut with scissors".<br /><br />Ma Mon Luk soon opened his first restaurant in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binondo">Binondo</a>, where he introduced his equally famous <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siopao">siopao</a>, a steamed pork <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dumpling">dumpling</a>enhanced by a secret sauce. Ma Mon Luk nonetheless continued to peddle his wares on the streets, advertising his restaurant by giving away free samples. By the 1950s, Ma Mon Luk and his mami were nationally known, and Ma Mon Luk became the iconic Chinese restaurant, sprouting many imitators who failed to equal its success. At one point, in the mid 1990s, there were at least six Ma Mon Luk restaurants in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metro_Manila">Metro Manila</a>, but as of 2006, only the branches in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quezon_Avenue">Quezon Avenue</a> and Quezon Boulevard in Quiapo remain open.<br /><br />Ma Mon Luk died on September 1, 1961 of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esophageal_cancer">throat cancer</a> and is buried at the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila_Chinese_Cemetery">Chinese Cemetery</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila,_Philippines">Manila</a>. He is succeeded to date by 3 Mamonluk generations.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PM4GN-U1OrauNlmaVkRhseTiHkXlg9Z-3wkcT4YHtGlIPK2OZnaNxcIgobLiHilPvPTKjEbalGm0bj0ulfjXvE81yEdSv4a_FSEPo77usyYEYLpbq8iZxwZZ_NGAfdwcXBD03JPJqEA/s1600/090420124069.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PM4GN-U1OrauNlmaVkRhseTiHkXlg9Z-3wkcT4YHtGlIPK2OZnaNxcIgobLiHilPvPTKjEbalGm0bj0ulfjXvE81yEdSv4a_FSEPo77usyYEYLpbq8iZxwZZ_NGAfdwcXBD03JPJqEA/s640/090420124069.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Famous Mami of Mamonluk</div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-17822332259625852302012-04-08T21:31:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:52.376-07:00Holy WeekWe've spent the holy week at my husband's hometown in Pasig City, where the residents celebrate the occasion traditionally. There was a procession of the saints, a mass held everyday, way of the cross, visita iglesia, and the 7 last words. These are some of the saints included in the procession.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVEh8YMsZ_1dhqQgVCxLFdPnuM5rehfkFQVh8IK0v6EJ3kfJoM290i66Bl2texgD13LjmokWODSsycR2kEYjp_g1zHFUJbh8ryee-G4G3YIJ9DAp00BuD-EpuuNz6pX5oWXS1FlGCuGQ/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVEh8YMsZ_1dhqQgVCxLFdPnuM5rehfkFQVh8IK0v6EJ3kfJoM290i66Bl2texgD13LjmokWODSsycR2kEYjp_g1zHFUJbh8ryee-G4G3YIJ9DAp00BuD-EpuuNz6pX5oWXS1FlGCuGQ/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrb2EEid7p5MJiPTGyK_cjG18FWJa71DI1ef5Gl96-gdGbkRpg1g6aVdt3fmv2qCTQsNBPJFeC_uuhKWgmoWMTJ472-blkbsv07BSG7zI4L4dgnOv379Y8X6HDD7FwU87VXh0_gzT5oQ/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrb2EEid7p5MJiPTGyK_cjG18FWJa71DI1ef5Gl96-gdGbkRpg1g6aVdt3fmv2qCTQsNBPJFeC_uuhKWgmoWMTJ472-blkbsv07BSG7zI4L4dgnOv379Y8X6HDD7FwU87VXh0_gzT5oQ/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfKHMP4mS68TegW_f80t7vUPcAN9XMLzaA_wCJ3tR9OOpL6xWApMfimtWuoO_Crea4bV4U2AUx1vvOVVKtpgoFlKuNgmXK5m55h6efqJ5pU740lfv1Z1rkX6JuY6J9kJTVC2_INiAdKQ/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfKHMP4mS68TegW_f80t7vUPcAN9XMLzaA_wCJ3tR9OOpL6xWApMfimtWuoO_Crea4bV4U2AUx1vvOVVKtpgoFlKuNgmXK5m55h6efqJ5pU740lfv1Z1rkX6JuY6J9kJTVC2_INiAdKQ/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2M0zbCK4cHWCpJevNRCqmmQykYKHuhvLg20-EAwZHGRGu72CTqUSi5n9o7nS84AhTD2mV61PrPSbeW_GX0EDTA_A6ytw3c8RZoF1AAXw6FyzsigJEOChmFE4aF1P0Ed8MmKMWGsEnRBc/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2M0zbCK4cHWCpJevNRCqmmQykYKHuhvLg20-EAwZHGRGu72CTqUSi5n9o7nS84AhTD2mV61PrPSbeW_GX0EDTA_A6ytw3c8RZoF1AAXw6FyzsigJEOChmFE4aF1P0Ed8MmKMWGsEnRBc/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-17919909356435499992012-04-03T21:06:00.000-07:002013-05-08T10:05:52.559-07:00And We Tied the Knot.Yesterday was one of the greatest moment in my life. After eight Long years of being together, We Finally tied the knot in a simple Civil wedding. But before that, there were a lot of things that we've prepared to finally get the schedule of our wedding. First, the marriage licence . It is obtained at the local registry office (that's inside the municipal hall) by giving the Birth certificate, and attending to a series of seminars, but since we're living together for five years and we already have children, we directly went to the hall of justice, gave out our birth certificate, cenomar or certificate of no marriage, an affidavit of parent consent (for me since i am only 24 years old) and an affidavit stating that we are living together for five years. Included also were the birth certificates of our three children. After checking our requirements, we were given the schedule of our civil wedding. For our reception, we went to a local restaurant, The Seafood Island which is located in Market! Market! Taguig and reserved a total of 40 seats for our guests. And everything was all set! The wedding day came, and it all went well as we planned. We are planning also to have a church wedding, if the time and budget permit but for now, we will cherish this moment and treasure it every waking hour of our lives.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVUr7NPFAOs1NuIx5CNU_fPfF76dm5XPcfhA0opkWybwMEZuVpDpX3YHTXBTcU5kjLnl6xnROcaD1AXxfa-JHrRFGbufstNS8dS0dGRzajXbv9sb1ogr1piSC2X-Du9qOQwPp3_QcNhbE/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVUr7NPFAOs1NuIx5CNU_fPfF76dm5XPcfhA0opkWybwMEZuVpDpX3YHTXBTcU5kjLnl6xnROcaD1AXxfa-JHrRFGbufstNS8dS0dGRzajXbv9sb1ogr1piSC2X-Du9qOQwPp3_QcNhbE/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-66440958474988131752012-03-04T08:49:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:53.667-07:00Roughhousing with the kids!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJS2YFVuJkCIZRjdzhskzVAJejgO3gbx92qg5BaLsnpLJoX27HpX6VytmXzBLQaRrm83s6JVdpZa74ciMuQdQ0sv-OWyZbyKjQ8qREjehhluWIzalpe4cgn09A3XUzLiMcZZJJGh7H6s/s1600/rough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJS2YFVuJkCIZRjdzhskzVAJejgO3gbx92qg5BaLsnpLJoX27HpX6VytmXzBLQaRrm83s6JVdpZa74ciMuQdQ0sv-OWyZbyKjQ8qREjehhluWIzalpe4cgn09A3XUzLiMcZZJJGh7H6s/s640/rough.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Being a mom of three boys requires A LOT of energy because male children are more energetic than female children. The girls just play house and barbie quietly with their girl friends while boys run around, play wrestling or other kinds of boys' play. As a mom, i also play with them through roughhousing, though its more appropriate for a dad to roughhouse with the kids well in my case, i'm the one obliged to play horse or wrestle with them as their dad is working abroad. I enjoy it though especially when i hear the kids' laughter, it really relieves stress.<br /><br /><b>THE BENEFITS OF ROUGHHOUSING</b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><i><b>Roughhousing Boosts Your Kid’s Resilience. </b></i>Helping your child develop a resilient spirit is one of the best things you can do as a parent. The ability to bounce back from failures and adapt to unpredictable situations will help your kids reach their full potential and live happier lives as adults. And an easy way to help boost your kids’ resilience is to put them in a gentle headlock and give them a noogie. Additionally, roughhousing helps develop your children’s grit and stick-to-itiveness. You shouldn’t just let your kids “win” every time when you roughhouse with them. Whether they’re trying to escape from your hold or run past you in the hallway, make them work for it. Playtime is a fun and safe place to teach your kids that failure is often just a temporary state and that victory goes to the person who keeps at it and learns from his mistakes.<br /><div><br /></div><i><b>Roughhousing Makes Your Kid Smarter. </b></i> Psychologist Anthony Pellegrini has found that the amount of roughhousing children engage in predicts their achievement in first grade better than their kindergarten test scores do. Roughhousing actually rewires the brain for learning. Neuroscientists studying animal and human brains have found that bouts of rough-and-tumble play increase the brain’s level of a chemical called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF helps increase neuron growth in the parts of the brain responsible for memory, logic, and higher learning–skills necessary for academic success.<br /><div><br /></div><b><i>Roughhousing Builds Social Intelligence. </i></b>Roughhousing builds social intelligence in several ways. First, when kids roughhouse they learn to tell the difference between play and actual aggression. Dr. Pellegrini found in a survey among school-aged children that the ones who could tell the difference between play and real aggression were more well-liked compared to kids who had a hard time separating the two. The kids who mistook play for aggression often ended up returning their classmates good-natured overtures with a real punch in the kisser. The ability to differentiate between play and aggression translates into other social skills that require people to read and interpret social cues. Roughhousing also teaches children about taking turns and cooperation. You might not recognize it, but when you horse around with your kids, you’re often taking part in a give-and-take negotiation where the goal is to make sure everyone has fun. Sometimes you’re the chaser and sometimes you’re the chasee; sometimes you’re pinning down your kids and other times they’re pinning you down. Your kids wouldn’t want to keep playing if they were constantly on the losing side. Everyone has to take turns in order for the fun to continue.<b><i><br /><br />Roughhousing Teaches Your Kid Morality. </i></b>When we roughhouse with our sons and daughters, they learn boundaries and the difference between right and wrong. If they start hitting hard, aiming below the belt, or becoming malicious, you can reprimand them and then show by example what’s appropriate roughhousing behavior. Also, roughhousing teaches our children about the appropriate use of strength and power. As I mentioned earlier, when we roughhouse with our kids, we often take turns with the dominant role. Because we’re so much bigger and stronger, we have to handicap ourselves. The implicit message to your child when you hold back is: “Winning isn’t everything. You don’t need to dominate all the time. There’s strength in showing compassion on those weaker than you.”<br /><div><br /></div><b><i>Roughhousing Gets Your Kid Physically Active. </i></b> What better way to teach your kids to live an active lifestyle than by getting down on the carpet with them for some vigorous roughhousing instead of everyone vegging out in front of the TV? All that running, tumbling, and tackling helps develop strength, flexibility, and coordination in your child.<br /><div><br /></div><div>CREDITS: <a href="http://artofmanliness.com/">Art of Manliness</a></div><div><br /></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-74399838346045770452012-03-02T05:29:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:53.759-07:00Changing the drill bit of the electric hand drill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpY3Hxugptds3U_MT4qkvfby3Wa12MDXIxTaSYV8wg7Hn9CxBSh3owvhHX3eOk-IcwKBt16gTZl2ko3NVHrsu5p7niqMjK-0LsC_-h8JIcoXUnduAbVsCk1hEKHzku7DBchaUA3ypVL5M/s1600/020320123486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpY3Hxugptds3U_MT4qkvfby3Wa12MDXIxTaSYV8wg7Hn9CxBSh3owvhHX3eOk-IcwKBt16gTZl2ko3NVHrsu5p7niqMjK-0LsC_-h8JIcoXUnduAbVsCk1hEKHzku7DBchaUA3ypVL5M/s640/020320123486.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Electric Hand Drill</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAqHYkYZ99xPGIWxPmXayiTONcsHF8ITQpnW94TvXI_-rb3XXkrVuBmR7xaIWUbDcjalZoEmZRELpPUjRd9LCiSxZP7e3fvqSRWYN9_yJgcsGyPyyTvUVep0lhYpLeQDFo7P9xWmkoDs/s1600/020320123490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAqHYkYZ99xPGIWxPmXayiTONcsHF8ITQpnW94TvXI_-rb3XXkrVuBmR7xaIWUbDcjalZoEmZRELpPUjRd9LCiSxZP7e3fvqSRWYN9_yJgcsGyPyyTvUVep0lhYpLeQDFo7P9xWmkoDs/s640/020320123490.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Chuck Key</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEQ5dWZASCe_FNeUgNubPHCWxbLQRg506us-uj6pE37LqXAoSnE8OVb8vBy8Je4BXcUVhKPZjN_3vMrln2moJxhVXgw2B7qWid5WSCFktCUpCoMW1t6F7C1aabGMdkzfeuCxW98rDKos/s1600/020320123491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEQ5dWZASCe_FNeUgNubPHCWxbLQRg506us-uj6pE37LqXAoSnE8OVb8vBy8Je4BXcUVhKPZjN_3vMrln2moJxhVXgw2B7qWid5WSCFktCUpCoMW1t6F7C1aabGMdkzfeuCxW98rDKos/s640/020320123491.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Drill Bits</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNSy2jG136yg-MpyYMNnyrDfmSBHtU0Q6DlyYfml_J4oHfXVjXveCVWknyKAr-yYz1zID91lIOuV4RE5Rn3QMOMUwBvRuB0XhyCx6sCaZm0uOQx-v46tEdOGseYTY8uz7Snpgwcem858/s1600/020320123493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNSy2jG136yg-MpyYMNnyrDfmSBHtU0Q6DlyYfml_J4oHfXVjXveCVWknyKAr-yYz1zID91lIOuV4RE5Rn3QMOMUwBvRuB0XhyCx6sCaZm0uOQx-v46tEdOGseYTY8uz7Snpgwcem858/s640/020320123493.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The clamp gear and the Chuck cap</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_cjx_3MqgM2bqZEGe65wtbj7iF2tGeG26PlksAO0I-yfKEeQktm_G6ry0JTwDi1mdrx_XJHfMOt9I2nsKefytU1L8KLtmi-reTqZpL_zr9l3Ydmv22bhiPmW1WxFEDfP7R0aDi2zmCNw/s1600/020320123494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_cjx_3MqgM2bqZEGe65wtbj7iF2tGeG26PlksAO0I-yfKEeQktm_G6ry0JTwDi1mdrx_XJHfMOt9I2nsKefytU1L8KLtmi-reTqZpL_zr9l3Ydmv22bhiPmW1WxFEDfP7R0aDi2zmCNw/s640/020320123494.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The chuck key is used to loosen the bit slot</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9XUrwPLGfZZi6YcnITZofcx9P-1O0UhwZa1gOmU8ivb9YRRvnZuTd8yWhh1tA3R6Q7s2pDPRE0xji3zpDvZMaHdgeSzaq8NOUSwnzBszeubnY21qKOm9GSmy4t4kpf4tH_3PACJfwVA/s1600/020320123497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9XUrwPLGfZZi6YcnITZofcx9P-1O0UhwZa1gOmU8ivb9YRRvnZuTd8yWhh1tA3R6Q7s2pDPRE0xji3zpDvZMaHdgeSzaq8NOUSwnzBszeubnY21qKOm9GSmy4t4kpf4tH_3PACJfwVA/s640/020320123497.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">insert the drill bit in the slot and tighten the bit slot using again the chuck key, turning it counter clockwise</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuEUOtk6ka3AQLVaTGfmIYC56YzTua9PkBtCmpXJn6DTVNv7zOA_3yGlkb-1olLuHJI3vWdLnkZ2SiS1gm8FV-3GArtu7zE0-EkltUHFslcHHh05oUqi2KgGgQiHKiVE8SuAGMkk60sU/s1600/020320123498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuEUOtk6ka3AQLVaTGfmIYC56YzTua9PkBtCmpXJn6DTVNv7zOA_3yGlkb-1olLuHJI3vWdLnkZ2SiS1gm8FV-3GArtu7zE0-EkltUHFslcHHh05oUqi2KgGgQiHKiVE8SuAGMkk60sU/s640/020320123498.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">voila!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAA1XrePpY6vwjtTacDgdT7549sr1lMzPQWtmwgbuda6xc7cPMV3fOTLY6PB_4g_1lRYl8__zBppsgXp5tptjk4Zm49njE4JXFEACdqvFHiXQfah2SJEJlhdl0Ga6qKOX0e1KBE8d0lgU/s1600/020320123501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAA1XrePpY6vwjtTacDgdT7549sr1lMzPQWtmwgbuda6xc7cPMV3fOTLY6PB_4g_1lRYl8__zBppsgXp5tptjk4Zm49njE4JXFEACdqvFHiXQfah2SJEJlhdl0Ga6qKOX0e1KBE8d0lgU/s640/020320123501.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After minutes of pounding the nails (and my thumb >.<) I've finally hung my modem and router. :)</div><br />There are times that we, moms, have to do what "only dads can do" like drilling a hole in a concrete wall! I had to drill a hole in the wall and put the nails in order to hang my DSL modem and my router to make my workspace organized and of course, to prevent the kids from playing with the gadgets, especially the cords but I had no one to do it so i had to do it on my own. The apparatus to use in drilling a hole is the Electric Hand drill tool. I'm kinda familiar in using it so i tried to drill a hole in the concrete but the hole that i made was bigger than what i intended and i just realized that i had to replace the drill bit that is installed in the hand drill. I didn't know how to change the drill bit until i stumbled upon an instruction in the internet courtesy of <a href="http://ehow.com/">Ehow</a> so i want to share to you moms what i have learned. :)<br /><br /><b><u>Instructions</u></b><br /><br />1. Decide which bit you will be attaching. This will depend on exactly what application you are going to be using the drill for. Do you need to screw drywall onto wall studs? Do you need to bore a hole for a door handle? Or perhaps you need to drill a pilot hole for a furniture project. Choosing the proper bit is important for making the job go smoother and easier.<br /><br /><div>2. Find the chuck key and locate the clamp gear and chuck cap. You will have to use the chuck key in order to break the drill's hold on the current bit. The chuck key is usually found attached to the cord near the plug end. It is a piece of metal featuring a thin handle and a round, grooved head that resembles a gear. On the front of the electric hand drill you will see a set of grooves that resemble those found on the chuck key; this is the clamp gear. There will also be a series of holes immediately in front of the gearlike grooves; this area is called the chuck cap.</div><div>3. Insert the tip of the chuck key into one of the holes on the chuck cap. The grooves on the chuck key and the clamp gear should fit together.</div><div><br /></div><div>4. Turn the chuck key counter-clockwise. Use the handle of the chuck key to get proper leverage. Like the gears in a clock, the turning chuck key will force the bit slot of the drill to open. Sometimes, a little extra force is required if the existing bit was really tightened down. Once you break the hold you can easily loosen the drill tip by turning the chuck with your hand.</div><div>5. Remove the current drill bit and open the chuck wide enough for your new drill bit. With the old bit removed, you may have to open the tip up even wider depending on the size of the bit you will now be attaching. If that is the case, just keep turning the chuck to open it wider.</div><div>6. Insert the new bit and hand tighten the chuck to hold the bit in place. Use the chuck key to further tighten down the drill's hold on the bit by inserting it as you did earlier and turning it clockwise. That is all it takes to change electric hand drill bits!</div><div>CREDITS: <a href="http://ehow.com/">EHOW</a></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-2308881393096476822012-03-01T04:32:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:53.852-07:00Childproofing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCTqO5i4MJh-WpfSfsxeEJpjphMU8KXgG9Ic1OHLe8To3Sn_BBJpZQDS4xolAad5qSkVzcTuHypn6qlHz7_YKEFVeYlAlnqmpdH6eH1ZGBdoRpSD9-Px9hfscAl1Q9VxaloWStQVzDHM/s1600/bibi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCTqO5i4MJh-WpfSfsxeEJpjphMU8KXgG9Ic1OHLe8To3Sn_BBJpZQDS4xolAad5qSkVzcTuHypn6qlHz7_YKEFVeYlAlnqmpdH6eH1ZGBdoRpSD9-Px9hfscAl1Q9VxaloWStQVzDHM/s640/bibi2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />A lot of Moms including me, protect our kids from harmful things around them. We protect them from stranger abduction, germs, dirt, and accidents outside our home. But we sometimes overlook one of the important places that should be safe for our children - our home. According to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, About 2.3 million children are accidentally injured every year and more than 2,500 are killed, and children between the ages of 1 and 4 are more likely to be killed by fire, burns, drowning, choking, poisoning, or falls than by a stranger's violence. The best way to prevent accidents and injuries is supervision inside and outside of our home, but even the most watchful parent can't keep the kids out of harm every second. Here are the tips to childproof our home.<br /><br /><i><b>Prevent Falls. </b></i>Falls can happen in the stairs, open windows, or if the child climbs up in the table or chair. The best way to prevent falls in the stairs is to install safety gates in the child's room so the child wont be able to access the kitchen, bathroom, and stairs.. The gate shouldn't be easily dislodged by the child but easy for the parent or guardian to open. Keep furniture away from the window to prevent the child from climbing the window sill. The window should be installed with window guards which fits snugly but not too tight so that in case of emergency, it will be easy to remove the guard from the window.<br /><br /><b><i>Prevent Fires.</i> </b>In case of a brownout (which normally happens here in the Philippines), lighted candles and lamps should be placed where the child can't reach them, and away from flammable things like pile of papers, near the curtain, and things made of rubber and paper. The electrical wiring should be checked to prevent short circuits. Low quality Christmas lights can cause fire so be sure to check the ICC (Import Commodity Clearance) mark to ensure that it is tested first for quality before purchasing. Keep away flammable materials such as gas, matches, and lighters from the reach of children.<br /><br /><i><b>Prevent Poisoning.</b></i> Lock all cabinets and drawers that holds poisonous materials like insect sprays, detergent, bleach, cleaning products, medications, and other potential poisonous substances. There are also hidden poisons which have direct contact with our children. The toys which our kids play may contain lead which is enough to poison our kids. Lead poisoning can cause learning disabilities, kidney disease, brain damage, delayed growth, and other problems.<br /><br /><i><b>Prevent Drowning.</b></i> Infants and toddles can drown in a few inches of water. Never leave a bucket of water unattended or put a lock in the door of the comfort room to prevent the child from entering and peering into the toilet or bucket of water because if they do and lose their balance, they may fall head first which may result to drowning. Never leave the child unattended in the bath tub and supervise the child while inside the bathroom. ALWAYS keep an eye to the child while in the swimming pool.<br /><br /><i><b>Prepare for Emergency.</b></i> It is important that we have a knowledge of first aid procedures if emergency arises so we can save the child from impending death. First aid supplies must also be available at our homes.<br /><br />CREDITS: <a href="http://babycenter.com/">Babycenter</a>, <a href="http://kidshealth.org/">Kidshealth</a>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-34632680770271754412012-02-25T22:59:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:53.944-07:00Potty Training for Toddlers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW3g5BthoAFxcLT1P_H70VBpk-jBZ815NjW2LIZ6vd4En_XTsdCWO3cfKcUET7U3cbytbeIwgmh-80HL-WHhBwhQQvqVD55LgvvjSqW1x1WSoYqICU6bAsLI2Qzn0G7qC97G-6RGDkjs/s1600/260220123384_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW3g5BthoAFxcLT1P_H70VBpk-jBZ815NjW2LIZ6vd4En_XTsdCWO3cfKcUET7U3cbytbeIwgmh-80HL-WHhBwhQQvqVD55LgvvjSqW1x1WSoYqICU6bAsLI2Qzn0G7qC97G-6RGDkjs/s640/260220123384_1.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br />I'm quite having a problem in potty training my youngest kid because he don't want to wear diapers anymore but he doesn't know how to tell me when he's gonna poop so I end up cleaning his poop in his underwear and on the floor. (smells so gross, really.) My two older kids have been successful in potty training and now they go by themselves in the comfort room to poop. Now I'm reviewing some info's about potty training and there are several sites online who give information about the steps in potty training and here are the steps that I find useful and that I've already proven to be useful.<br /><br /><i>The Child's Readiness.</i> A child may show readiness to start the potty training as early as 18 months of age to 3 years. The signs are: staying dry for up to two hours, uncomfortable with wet or dirty diapers, being able to follow simple instructions, asking to wear a regular underwear, or asking to use the potty chair. We should tell by the child's facial expression or stance if he is going to urinate and poop. We should also not pressure the child to learn right away for it will be counter productive.<br /><br /><i>The Right Equipment.</i> The potty chair should of course be appropriate to the child's size. We can let the child pick his potty chair and let him put a name on it, or decorate it so he can get used with the potty chair. Whenever he show signs of urinating or having a bowel movement, take him to the chair and explain to him what he should do.<br /><br /><i>The Routine.</i> Establish a daily routine in the potty seat. Let the child sit at least once a day, every morning, afternoon, or anytime of the day that he usually poops so he will get used to the potty seat. Tell him that removing the pants before using the toilet is also done by mommy and daddy and other siblings because its a grown up thing to do. If he feels a little scared in using the potty seat, don't push it, just give him some time and then when he's willing to sit there, then he's ready to try again.<br /><br /><i>Demonstrate.</i> The child will learn to sit in the potty seat by seeing his other older siblings do it, or if parents demonstrate and explain how to use the toilet. hand washing after using the toilet, wiping the potty seat before using, and flushing the toilet. Children learn by imitation and by seeing this routine everyday, he will get used to the routine and learn to use the toilet. <br /><br /><i>Encourage and Appreciate.</i> Encourage the child to use the potty seat whenever he has the urge to poop or urinate. If there are "accidents", handle it gracefully and tell him to tell you early next time when he has to go to the toilet. Appreciate and praise the child for every successful use of the toilet, and appreciate also every attempt that he made in using the potty seat.<br /><br />* I'm gonna have an update post on this next time for other useful tips in potty training.<br /><br />CREDITS: <a href="http://babycenter.com/">Babycenter</a>, <a href="http://keepkidshealthy.org/">keep kids healthy</a>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-85238211792166059542012-02-24T00:07:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:54.036-07:00Care for Children During Hot Weather<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3ceZqjCeTHGgFoCMBnhhkuC4GcbwGUMqUO-OFP_qLcW-LahYNILgSg6BjYIjBWTwQFLC1KeIOnL38O0uQskDY6ifZgtJkQ2o909aDjGe6v-rUwMBiVFtgmYcYafK3HPNZ3Epfrqfjcs/s1600/sun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3ceZqjCeTHGgFoCMBnhhkuC4GcbwGUMqUO-OFP_qLcW-LahYNILgSg6BjYIjBWTwQFLC1KeIOnL38O0uQskDY6ifZgtJkQ2o909aDjGe6v-rUwMBiVFtgmYcYafK3HPNZ3Epfrqfjcs/s640/sun.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>We now begin to feel the tropical weather and that means summer is just around the corner. The time for beaches, Pools, and summer fun is fast approaching and summer means EXTREME HEAT. Children, though they enjoy the summer season, should be watched out carefully during this hot weather for they are more susceptible to <b>Dehydration.</b><br /><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>WARNING SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION</b></div><div><ul><li>Sunken fontanels (in babies)</li><li>Sunken and dark eyes</li><li>Tired and lethargic</li><li>Irritable</li><li>High temperature</li><li>Vomiting or diarrhea</li><li>Dry and hot skin</li></ul><div>Another condition a child can suffer if exposed longer under the sun is <b>Heat Exhaustion.</b></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>SIGNS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION</b></div><div><ul><li>Headache</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Generalized discomfort</li></ul><div>The worst condition a child may suffer under extreme hot weather is <b>Heat Stroke</b>, which is more serious and can lead to brain damage and death if not treated immediately.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE</b></div><div><ul><li>Red, blue, or mottled looking skin tone</li><li>Rapid pulse</li><li>Headache</li><li>Chills</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Lack of perspiration</li><li>Temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit or higher</li></ul><div><b>WHAT WE SHOULD KNOW/DO</b></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><i>Hydrate the child often.</i> Child are more susceptible to heat stroke because Children’s thermoregulatory systems warm three to five times faster than an adult’s. Breastfeed the infant often or offer drinks to young children. WATER is the best.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>The child's clothes should be appropriate for the hot weather. </i>Light-colored cotton loose fitting clothes should be worn by the child so air can flow freely to the skin, cool the heat and absorb perspiration. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Use Sunscreens</i>. An spf 15 sunscreen should be used to areas not covered by the clothes to avoid sunburn. Apply the sunscreen 20 minutes before going out and reapply often. A chemical-free sunscreen made with zinc oxide or titanium oxide is advisable for kids since it only sits on the top of the skin and blocking the sun's rays. Sunscreen is NOT advisable for use in infant younger than 1 year old. Appropriate clothing to cover most skin areas in an infant should be worn when going out. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Care inside the car</i>. Never leave the child inside the car especially during the hot weather because the car's temperature is hotter than the outside temperature, and can increase rapidly. Travel during the coolest part of the day. Open the windows while traveling or use the air conditioner. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Open windows.</i> An open window can be a danger of falling for small children so install a safety window guard and move furniture away from the window to avoid injury and falls.</div><div><br /></div><div>Immediate action. When early warning signs are recognized, act immediately. Give the child fluids and keep him cool by proper ventilation (air-condition, electric fans) and seek professional help.</div><div><br /></div><div>CREDITS: <a href="http://babycenter.com/">Babycenter</a>, <a href="http://primetimeschools.com/">Primetime schools</a>, <a href="http://kidstraveldoc.com/">Kids Travel Doc</a>, <a href="http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/">Better Health Australia</a></div><div><b><br /></b></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-44700889277656830982012-02-23T08:45:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:54.128-07:00Aggressive Behavior in Children: Is it Normal?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPl9rQ5DR3qJMX08VqP0XGtFWaT8XlmVu1aPnuGFbEXRxoL9pZc2McrY16NdmG_cIDjJrTcBEjFRuqtQ8MLVSW2lXBOEeQY5wnHyqgrN0jhnBxuo4QlqoUmhTRC0-crEBoPZ5up8tN5EI/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPl9rQ5DR3qJMX08VqP0XGtFWaT8XlmVu1aPnuGFbEXRxoL9pZc2McrY16NdmG_cIDjJrTcBEjFRuqtQ8MLVSW2lXBOEeQY5wnHyqgrN0jhnBxuo4QlqoUmhTRC0-crEBoPZ5up8tN5EI/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Another problem of parents especially of moms is the AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR of children - especially the biting and hitting. It's kind of shocking especially when our kid is playing with other kids and then our kid began hitting and biting and we end up apologizing for our child's behavior. Its really frustrating because it feels like we can't do anything to change our child's behavior.<br /><br />AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR IN CHILDREN IS NORMAL<br />Its a normal part of our toddler's developmental process as they learn the process of self-control. Since they still have limited language skills, a strong will of autonomy, and developing muscle impulse, getting physical is their way of expressing what they want. Though its normal, we should not set this aside. As early as possible, we should correct the behavior by educating them to express what they want without getting aggressive.<br /><br /><b>What we should do</b><br /><i>Longer our patience</i>. Show the child that we can control our anger and talk to him calmly. Yelling and screaming at our child will only give him new things to try. And remember, the child imitate what elders do.<br /><br /><i>Stop the behavior immediately.</i> Once we saw our kid is about to become aggressive, we should step in and remove the child from the situation. Give him a minute or two of time out so he can calm himself down and then explain to the child the consequences of what he has done.<br /><br /><i>Be Consistent.</i> We should respond to another episode the way we did the last time. That way, the child will remember that if he did bite or hit again it means he'll have another time out or he'll be out in the action. He'll come to expect a consequence if he misbehaves.<br /><br /><i>Tell the Child that its wrong to bite and hit.</i> When the child finally calm down, explain to him that its ok to be angry but its bad to hit and bite. We should teach the child other alternatives in expressing his feelings like talking it out.<br /><br /><i>Appreciate. </i>We should appreciate the child's effort and praise the child's good behavior. That way, he will continue to express himself in a good way because he is receiving praises by for example, lending the other child his toy or asking another child for his turn to the toy.<br /><br /><i>Monitor what the child watches on TV. </i>We should guide the child while watching the TV because some programs may include hitting, shouting, and other kinds of violence. The child should only watch programs which fits his age. If other cartoon programs have some form of violence like hitting and spanking, explain to the child the situation and that it is still bad to hit and shout to anyone.<br /><br /><i>Seek professional help. </i>If our child seems to be aggressive more often, upsets or frighten other children, engage activities that will annoy or hurt others, or if everything we say have no effect at all then its time to talk to our pediatrician who may recommend a child psychologist or counselor to determine what really makes the child behave this way. We should help the child through it and work with him patiently.<br /><br />CREDITS: <a href="http://babycenter.com/">Baby Center</a>, <a href="http://empoweringparents.com/">Empowering Parents</a>, <a href="http://thebabycorner.com/">The Baby Corner</a>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-87621388208294194002012-02-22T09:21:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:54.220-07:00How to Handle Temper Tantrums<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEC8GYvSDpYf5rCkVu4dNTr7b2U8_oTB17KMPXdygiXQJzyb1lk21IsBDMtoe9D46f54UfDibWnbtrk3HswMvyAMvl5aLLUixnXT2cIDc8BBLUdehnW0CDzGD4U-smBwwZY965c3rehlM/s1600/bibi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEC8GYvSDpYf5rCkVu4dNTr7b2U8_oTB17KMPXdygiXQJzyb1lk21IsBDMtoe9D46f54UfDibWnbtrk3HswMvyAMvl5aLLUixnXT2cIDc8BBLUdehnW0CDzGD4U-smBwwZY965c3rehlM/s640/bibi.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />One of the problems we, moms face is our kids' Temper Tantrums. Its kinda unpredictable especially when we were out, We thought that it was a very fine and peaceful day until our kid began crying, kicking, and screaming, throwing every stuff which comes his way, at times, lying down the to the ground. Tantrums can be very frustrating but we can treat tantrums as opportunities for education. <br /><br /><b>Causes of Tantrums</b><br />There are several causes of tantrums which are very familiar to parents: The child is hungry, tired, or uncomfortable. Tantrums are often the result if the child can't get what he wants or if he can't get the things or the parents do what he wants. It also happen because toddlers have the sense of autonomy and want things his way.<br /><br />Here are strategies for handling Temper Tantrums as written by Dr. Robert G. Harrington, PhD of University of Kansas.<br /><br /><b>Prevention for Parents and Teachers</b><br />It is much easier to prevent temper tantrums than it is to manage them once they have erupted. Here are some tips for preventing temper tantrums and some things you can say:<br /><br /><div><ul><li>Reward children for positive attention rather than negative attention. During situations when they are prone to temper tantrums, catch them when they are being good and say such things as, “Nice job sharing with your friend.”</li><li>Do not ask children to do something when they must do what you ask. Do not ask, “Would you like to eat now?” Say, “It’s suppertime now.”</li><li>Give children control over little things whenever possible by giving choices. A little bit of power given to the child can stave off the big power struggles later. “Which do you want to do first, brush your teeth or put on your pajamas?”</li><li>Keep off-limit objects out of sight and therefore out of mind. In an art activity keep the scissors out of reach if children are not ready to use them safely.</li><li>Distract children by redirection to another activity when they tantrum over something they should not do or cannot have. Say, “Let’s read a book together.”</li><li>Change environments, thus removing the child from the source of the temper tantrum. Say, “Let’s go for a walk.”</li><li>Choose your battles. Teach children how to make a request without a temper tantrum and then honor the request. Say, “Try asking for that toy nicely and I’ll get it for you.”</li><li>Make sure that children are well rested and fed in situations in which a temper tantrum is a likely possibility. Say, “Supper is almost ready, here’s a cracker for now.”</li><li>Avoid boredom. Say, “You have been working for a long time. Let’s take a break and do something fun.”</li><li>Create a safe environment that children can explore without getting into trouble. Childproof your home or classroom so children can explore safely.</li><li>Increase your tolerance level. Are you available to meet the child’s reasonable needs? Evaluate how many times you say, “No.” Avoid fighting over minor things.</li><li>Establish routines and traditions that add structure. For teachers, start class with a sharing time and opportunity for interaction.</li><li>Signal children before you reach the end of an activity so that they can get prepared for the transition. Say, “When the timer goes off 5 minutes from now it will be time to turn off the TV and go to bed.”</li><li>When visiting new places or unfamiliar people explain to the child beforehand what to expect. Say, “Stay with your assigned buddy in the museum.”</li><li>Provide pre-academic, behavioral, and social challenges that are at the child’s developmental level so that the child does not become frustrated.</li><li>Keep a sense of humor to divert the child’s attention and surprise the child out of the tantrum.</li></ul><b>Intervention for Parents and Teachers</b><br /><br />There are a number of ways to handle a temper tantrum. Strategies include the following:<br /></div><div><ul><li>Remain calm and do not argue with the child. Before you manage the child, you must manage your own behavior. Spanking or yelling at the child will make the tantrum worse.</li><li>Think before you act. Count to 10 and then think about the source of the child’s frustration, this child’s characteristic temperamental response to stress (hyperactivity, distractibility, moodiness), and the predictable steps in the escalation of the temper tantrum.</li><li>Try to intervene before the child is out of control. Get down at the child’s eye level and say, “You are starting to get revved up, slow down.” Now you have several choices of intervention.</li><li>You can positively distract the child by getting the child focused on something else that is an acceptable activity. For example, you might remove the unsafe item and replace with an age-appropriate toy.</li><li>You can place the child in time away. Time away is a quiet place where the child goes to calm down, think about what he or she needs to do, and, with your help, make a plan to change the behavior.</li><li>You can ignore the tantrum if it is being thrown to get your attention. Once the child calms down, give the attention that is desired.</li><li>Hold the child who is out of control and is going to hurt himself or herself or someone else. Let the child know that you will let him or her go as soon as he or she calms down. Reassure the child that everything will be all right, and help the child calm down. Parents may need to hug their child who is crying, and say they will always love him or her no matter what, but that the behavior has to change. This reassurance can be comforting for a child who may be afraid because he or she lost control.</li><li>If the child has escalated the tantrum to the point where you are not able to intervene in the ways described above, then you may need to direct the child to time-out (see “Resources”). If you are in a public place, carry your child outside or to the car. Tell the child that you will go home unless he or she calms down. In school warn the child up to three times that it is necessary to calm down and give a reminder of the rule. If the child refuses to comply, then place him or her in time-out for no more than 1 minute for each year of age.</li><li>Talk with the child after the child has calmed down. When the child stops crying, talk about the frustration the child has experienced. Try to help solve the problem if possible. For the future, teach the child new skills to help avoid temper tantrums such as how to ask appropriately for help and how to signal a parent or teacher that the he or she knows they need to go to “time away” to “stop, think, and make a plan.” Teach the child how to try a more successful way of interacting with a peer or sibling, how to express his or her feelings with words and recognize the feelings of others without hitting and screaming.</li></ul><b>Post-Tantrum Management</b></div><div><br /><ul><li>Never, under any circumstances, give in to a tantrum. That response will only increase the number and frequency of the tantrums.</li><li>Explain to the child that there are better ways to get what he or she wants.</li><li>Do not reward the child after a tantrum for calming down. Some children will learn that a temper tantrum is a good way to get a treat later.</li><li>Never let the temper tantrum interfere with your otherwise positive relationship with the child.</li><li>Teach the child that anger is a feeling that we all have and then teach her ways to express anger constructively.</li></ul><b><div><b><br /></b></div>When to Get Help</b><br /><br /><i>For parents.</i> If, despite the use of these interventions, the tantrums are increasing in frequency, intensity, or duration, consult your child’s doctor. You should also consult your child’s doctor if the child is self-injurious, hurtful to others, depressed, showing signs of low self-esteem, or is overly dependent on a parent or teacher for support. Your pediatrician or family physician can check for hearing or vision problems, chronic illness, or conditions such as Asperger’s syndrome, language delays, or a learning disability, which may be contributing to your child’s increasing temper tantrums. Your physician can also direct you to a mental health professional who can provide assistance for you and your child.<br /></div><div>CREDITS: <a href="http://kidshealth.org/">kidshealth</a>, <a href="http://www.nasponline.org/">nasponline</a></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-90967283295972455782012-02-17T07:47:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:54.592-07:00Snoring in ChildrenI only had snoring problems with my husband until i had my youngest child. When he was a baby, i never heard him snore but when he turned 18 months old, that's when his snoring started. It was never a big deal for me before until the snoring became persistent. I was kinda alarmed and researched for this condition and so i learned that snoring in kids is not really cute and is NOT NORMAL.<br /><br />Snoring happens when the air that enters the nose was blocked by several structures in the throat. The sound is the result of the rubbing structures in the mouth and throat as the air passes. There are some causes of snoring like colds, allergies, obesity and obstructive sleep apnea.<br /><br /><b>Obstructive Sleep Apnea</b> is the leading cause of snoring in children. It is due to the enlarged tonsils and adenoids which blocks the passage of the air and cause the snoring sound. The child with OSA have disruptions of sleep with pauses which lasts for 10 or more seconds and happens several times in their sleep. The child usually wakes up feeling grumpy, irritated, and tired. The child may also have growth and behavioral problems, and may have poor performance in school. Some children with OSA may be misdiagnosed with ADHD because of hyperactivity and restlessness as a result of disrupted sleep.<br /><br /><u>How to manage snoring?</u><br /><u><br /></u><br /><b>Proper sleep position. </b>Proper placement of the child's head may lessen the snoring. Elevating the child's head while sleeping could help clearing air passages.<br /><br /><b>Alleviate the Allergy.</b> If allergy is the problem then remove all the things which trigger the child's allergy (cats, dogs, stuffed toys, flowers, dust). Also, a PRESCRIBED medication for allergy from the pediatrician may control the allergy.<br /><br /><b>Lose Weight</b>. An obese child should start to lose weight slowly by having a proper diet and exercise.<br /><br /><b>Treatment for OSA.</b> If the problem is an enlarged tonsils and adenoids, you should start discussing with your doctor for the best treatment for OSA. The usual treatment for OSA is Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy (surgical removal of tonsils and adenoids)<br /><br />One of these days, We will visit my children's pediatrician to have him examined for the cause of his snoring and seek treatment before the condition becomes worse and may affect his growth and development.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvfmij0f-HRKfvDrsJDzT_cWNXDCWv6_W-vDQEFS6RF1hGopgE6RD8xwCWJDSDRBHZb5OxublogObzs9vnAP7yY6X7zFTkMAoIrb6mnlrnGvEu29bLSK0r8Ym0KMv8mUPPMn5fVWGQ1A/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvfmij0f-HRKfvDrsJDzT_cWNXDCWv6_W-vDQEFS6RF1hGopgE6RD8xwCWJDSDRBHZb5OxublogObzs9vnAP7yY6X7zFTkMAoIrb6mnlrnGvEu29bLSK0r8Ym0KMv8mUPPMn5fVWGQ1A/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />CREDITS: <a href="http://www.about.com/">about</a>, <a href="http://www.babyzone.com/">Babyzone</a>, <a href="http://www.whattoexpect.com/">Whattoexpect</a>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5433723790405558321.post-54052157756138214012012-02-16T09:26:00.000-08:002013-05-08T10:05:54.684-07:00German MeaslesDuring the first trimester of my pregnancy, i contracted the Rubella Disease or commonly known as German measles. As someone with a background in medical studies, i knew the possible effects of this disease to an unborn child, which my 4 year old Carl have today. But what really is Rubella? what is its causes and effects? what are the methods to prevent the disease?<br /><br /><b>Rubella</b> is a common communicable disease in children and young adults caused by the rubella virus. Its name was derived from latin meaning "little red". It is called<b> German measles because</b> it was first discovered by German physicians in the eighteenth century. The incubation period is from 14 - 21 days. It is acquired/transmitted through the respiratory route (can be passed along by the breath of a person sick from rubella).<br /><br /><u>Signs and Symptoms </u><br /><br /><ul><li>Enlarged Cervical and postauricular lymph nodes (lymph nodes behind the ears)</li><li>Low grade fever</li><li>headache</li><li>runny nose </li><li>sore throat</li><li>cough</li><li>joint pains</li><li>Faint pink to red rashes which develop on the face that spread down to the trunk and extremities 1-4 days after the onset of the first symptoms.</li></ul><br /> Prevention for the Rubella Virus is usually given as part of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) Vaccine. The first dose of the vaccine should be given to children at least 12-18 months of age and the second dose at 36 months of age as recommended by The World Health Organization. It is also recommended that adolescent girls should be given another shot of the vaccine so that they wont contract the disease when they got pregnant. There is no specific treatment to rubella because this disease is self-limiting however, management of the symptoms are done to minimize discomfort. Isolation of affected person is usually done to avoid transmission of the disease.<br /><br /><i>Congenital Defects caused by Rubella</i><br /><br /><ul><li>Congenital heart defects (Patent Ductus Arteriosus is the most common)</li><li>Severe to Profound bilateral hearing loss</li><li>Unilateral or bilateral congenital cataract</li><li>blindness</li></ul><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2hRsDO4CSvSxAvZgsR5IXzwlsT9b1l5oU4VKADR4k-OuXPM7CoLrPFLM1dYtVPTVHoNG3CzfC5rqJ9qxiKlv_JRpiiGp2ux4ODnYSQcV4EN-wznTwm1-fkFmfGexxW_85kRzKsxEkJc4/s1600/r7_rubella2007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2hRsDO4CSvSxAvZgsR5IXzwlsT9b1l5oU4VKADR4k-OuXPM7CoLrPFLM1dYtVPTVHoNG3CzfC5rqJ9qxiKlv_JRpiiGp2ux4ODnYSQcV4EN-wznTwm1-fkFmfGexxW_85kRzKsxEkJc4/s640/r7_rubella2007.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The rashes from Rubella are usually faint pink to red in color which spreads from the face down to the trunk and extremities.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Credits: <a href="http://www.wikipedia.org/">wikipedia</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Pathophysiology-3e-Sue-Huether/dp/0323023681/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1329412841&sr=1-2">Understanding Pathophysiology, 3rd edition</a></div>Strawberry Fieldshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05453750880669645879noreply@blogger.com0