anything and everything

Are You Ready For The El Clasico? My late post...

2011-12-12T23:30:00.000-08:00

I think that all Madridistas are thirsty for a win over Barcelona and tomorrow...

That was supposed to be my intro for my blog update last Friday in time for the El Clasico the next day but then I wasn't able to finish it...had to write my articles first as well as the reports before I could give a take on one of the most exciting matches of all time.

Friends, and blog readers, know that I have always been a Madridista...long before Azkals came and even when Manchester United was on everybody favorite football team. While I am still a Madridista, I have opened my heart and my loyalty to 2 other teams: the Philippine Azkals because I am a Filipino and I am proud that we now have a National Team, and FC Schalke 04 because Raul my ultimate football fave is now with Schalke. I felt bad when he left and felt let down by what I felt was set down by my own team to one of their legends but still I held on. Real Madrid hasn't been winning much the past years so much so that the younger generation knows more about FC Barcelona and Messi...but like I have always said...I am a Madridista for life. And it lives on as my son is now a Madridista too.

As you all know Barcelona won 3-1 and as much as I hate it, there are other games/matches in the league and there's the Copa...in triumph, in defeat, Hala Madrid!

Spain Wins Davis Cup for the Fifth Time

2011-12-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

After a long drought for Rafael Nadal, it was quite nice to see him help the Spanish Armada - together with Feliciano Lopez, David Ferrer, Fernando Verdasco, Marcel Granollers, and team coach Albert Costa - win the Davis Cup for Spain against Argentina.

Below is the video of him against one of his bffs Pico Monaco on the first day of Davis Cup, which of course he won. It was great to see him play so passionately again...the past matches have been plagued with illness and the likes and I am always gutted to see him so sad. He has admitted though that the next year will be better for him....which the fans are all waiting for.

On the very last match of the very last pro tennis event on the calendar he played against Argentina's del Potro. He was in a position to clinch the win for Spain and he came through. The game was not all win for him as he played at the first game of the match without a win in the service game. It was only when he was down 6-1, 2-0 when he roared back to even the match and then whent down again until he won the fourth-set tiebreaker.

What I noticed again is how gracious Rafa is in defeat as well as in triumph. This is one attitude that I have observed over and over again which I have tried to impart to my son. As his teammates celebrate his win, and therfore the win of Spain, he went to console del Potro and the Aregentina team, even kissing Pico on his cheek. Such a sweet gesture for one of the best tennis players in the world. Wish he could teach that to Nole.

An hour after the victory of Spain, their fifth world team crown, Rafael Nadal announced that he will not be playing in 2012 since it is an Olympic year. He said:

'Next year I will not play. Next year is a very complex year. It's an Olympic year.
'I have been, for many years, one of the players that plays the highest number of games in a year, and I don't want to over play.
'So next year, since it's an Olympic year, my participation in the Davis Cup is impossible.
'Thank God Spain has a good level of players, and there are many good players that will replace us that play really high-level tennis.'

Then we will just see you at the Australian Open next year and hope you get that No 1 slot from Nole again.

Happy Birthday JSM!

2011-12-01T21:11:00.000-08:00

On the first day of December, fourteen years ago, I got an early Christmas gift. Up until now, and most likely until the end of time, it remains to be the best gift I ever got. Can literally say he was a big, bouncing baby boy but boy was he also expensive. He is what my beloved ob-gyne calls my miracle baby since a year before that I had a miscarriage and an operation to remove my left ovary was done. Only a small portion of my right ovary was free from ovarian cyst but my doc painstakingly removed the worse off it which took her almost four hours to do. As of my last check up before I reported back to my office back in 1997 I wasn’t fertile enough to get pregnant. But the good Lord had other plans for me and gave me this blessing.

The past 14 years is something I cherish, it wasn't always smooth sailing and there are some things I regret but the one thing that I can say I don’t regret 100% is having my son. So anything related to that fact may be a little painful but if it hadn’t happened then I wouldn’t have my son. Not bitter, just saying….

Poems have been a way for me to show you how much you mean to me, I remember I sent you a Valentine's card when you were younger and I asked your teacher to give it to you. Gone are those days...I don't think you would appreciate it if I do that today. But if there is one thing I really am grateful is the fact that you have remained

Last year I shared with you My Wish by Rascall Flatts, today I give you a lovely poem by Susan Polis Schutz:

MY SON I HOPE THAT ALL YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE AND I LOVE YOU

Dreams can come true if you take the time to

think about what you want in life ....

Get to know yourself.

Fnd out who you are.

Choose your goals carefully.

Be honest with yourself.

But don't think about yourself so much

that you analyse every word and action.

Find many interests and pursue them.

Find out what you are good at,

and dont be afraid to make mistakes.

Work hard to achieve sucesses.

When things are not going right

dont give up -- just try harder.

Find courage inside of you to remain strong

Give yourself freedom to try out new things

Don't be so set in your ways that you can't grow

Always act in an ethical way

Laugh and have a good time

Form relationships with people you respect

Treat others as you want them to treat you

Be honest with people

Accept the truth

Speak the truth

Open yourself to love

Dont be afraid to love

Remain close to your family

Take part in the beauty of nature

Be appreciative of all that you have

Help those less fortunate than you

Try to make others lives happy

Work towards peace in the world

Live life to the fullest

My son dreams can come true

and I hope that all your dreams become a reality

I love you.

Reminders For My Teenage Son

2011-11-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

The other day I had a discussion with my 13 year old son about his blatant disregard for my instructions and the PDRRMC Advisory 2:

“Even in the absence of signals from Pagasa and in view of emerging consensus that the rains are likely further accelerate, for the safety and health of our community, we hereby order the EARLY DISMISSAL OF CLASSES in Kinder, Elementary and Highschool, private and public, in the entire province of Albay. School administrators and teachers should advise their students to no longer report in the afternoon. Parents are advised to fetch their children from school. This is an early dismissal, not a suspension, thus classes automatically resume tomorrow without need for lifting.

I came home from the office earlier than he did and so I talked to him. He was silent and at first I thought he understood why I was very mad about it. But then when he replied to me with three suggestions including transferring him to the school in our town so he would not be able to hang out with friends in Legazpi, that’s when I knew he wasn’t getting my point. And I was relentless in my desire that he understand it was not because he hang out with friends in Metro Gaisano but rather that he did despite my instructions and the advisory. There is a big difference. Any other day would have been ok but doing so despite the advisory from the governor meant that he (and the other studes) did not understand the ramifications of what they just did.

Let me remind you:

The PDRRMC Advisory 2 of early dismissal was not so you could go out with friends. They were sent out as soon as needed to ensure that you (students) would be safe at home in case anything bad or untoward happened due to the bad weather. Honestly as soon as I texted you to go home, and trusting you that you would follow, was one worry off for me. I was assured that if in anything bad happened all I had to do was take care of myself because you were home with Pappu and everyone else in the family. (Yeah right…and I also had to ask him how I would be able to trust him to do the right thing and follow clear instructions the next time?) I had to ask you several times, what if Padang happened all over again. Or worse, what if something like 9/11 happened in the Philippines? There was a reason and a basis for that weather advisory which you guys should have pondered on.

My colleagues told me that there were so many students hanging out at the mall that afternoon and well that still didn’t make it right. They could not have understood why there was such an advisory and how their parents might have worried had they known their kids were at the mall and not at home. Yes, I should have checked but then I trusted you and you have never disobeyed me like that. My son, you are basically obedient but then I also understand that you are a teenager and I know this is the time when you will be trying out your wings. I don’t want to brag but so far nothing major, major has disrupted our lives (well other than your father not being there) and we have little skirmishes but not outright disobedience.

Time and time I have told you: The only thing that I ask of you is for you to follow my instructions and not to ever lie. And to remember that it should never be wants over needs. Something like "Expect me to get mad if you did something wrong but lying about it so I don't get mad would get you more in hot water than you already are, because somehow I will learn about it..(mother's have eyes and ears in places you wont expect) and knowing that you kept something from me or worse lied about it is a worse offense."

Thank God you understood me, realized that I wasn't just being a Hitler on you and that my love for you is the reason why I got mad. This is certainly what I hope for us in the future:

Children do know that we love them but when we reprimand you, you think we just got angry for the sake of being angry...or just being Asian Parents (check out this word at UrbanDictionary) and that's not positive for you kids these days.

Communication between parents and their children is very important. And since you turned 13, I no longer read messages from your phone but every now and then I check your online accounts not to snoop but more for security, I hate it when you add people you really don't know and see things you shouldn't. Not a prude but you are still a minor. Trust is what I always remind you of, to lose my trust by your blatant disregard for my instructions, advises and the law, would be tantamount to a jail or martial law...so its better that we have a good relationship based on trust. Unconditional love does not entail me closing my eyes and ears just so we don't quarrel. I rather we argue loud and clear than leave you undisciplined, unruly and possibly a menace to yourself.

25 Manners You Should Teach Your Kids

2011-11-08T01:11:00.000-08:00

While reading some parenting articles, I read this one article about manners that I knew I had to blog about it. Kids are easy enough to teach manners, it's actually following it up that sucks. Because when they see somebody else doing something really gross but funny they tend to do the same thing...that is when it's crucial to say it is wrong. If they get away with it even just once then they will do it again.

Parents tend to let them get away with it, especially when they do it in public and some people find it hilarious. Make no mistake about it, there are people who find it really funny when a kid burps so loud, well, this still falls under manners right?

Seriously though, at my age, I still tell my dad where am going and how late I will be home and I expect my son to do the same thing...for me that is simple courtesy. And up until now, I remind my son to say thank you (he does say thank you normally but sometimes when busy he seems to forget). Not reminding him to say tabi (please) or salamat (thank you) is like making him feel that it's normal for people to do it for him when what I want him to learn is that when people do things they go out of their way to do it and deserve to be thank for that, no matter who they are, no matter the age.

You just don't say 'please', 'thank you', 'excuse me' to your parents or the elderly but to everybody, even those younger than you. And when I say everybody it means everybody, no matter what the station is life is....respect does not mean only for the rich and the executives. Even those in cheap work clothes like the jeepney drivers, Metro Aides, your household help and everybody you meet.

It's why I always say thank you when paying my fare and one thing I have been wanting to see in other people. I mean it is not my obligation to get your fare and pass it towards the driver so at least I deserve a thank you.. don't you think? And even the driver in cheap work clothes deserves a thank you.

Manner #1

When asking for something, say "Please."

Manner #2

When receiving something, say "Thank you."

Manner #3

Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.

Manner #4

If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.

Manner #5

When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.

Manner #6

The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.

Manner #7

Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.

Manner #8

When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.

Manner #9

When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.

Manner #10

Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.

Manner #11

When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.

Manner #12

Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.

Manner #13

Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.

Manner #14

Don't call people mean names.

Manner #15

Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.

Manner #16

Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.

Manner #17

If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."

Manner #18

Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.

Manner #19

As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.

Manner #20

If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.

Manner #21

When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.

Manner #22

When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!

Manner #23

Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.

Manner #24

Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.

Manner #25

Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.

“Children are natural mimics who act like their parents

despite every effort to teach them good manners.”

(Author Unknown)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Things We Can Do In Support

2011-10-20T22:50:00.000-07:00

Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Things We Can Do In Support via HubPages

As October is just around the corner, my FB inbox is getting filled up again with messages from women friends asking me to update my status which of course keeps a lot of men friends guessing what’s with the intriguing status. Who wouldn’t be with such a status as this?

Momisms: The Things Moms Love To Say

2011-10-20T01:22:00.000-07:00

A list of funny things that Moms say!

A little birdy told me
Always wear clean underwear in case you are in an accident
Am I talking to a brick wall?
You’re the eldest, you should know better!
Just wait until your father gets home.
You will always be my little baby.
Are you trying to poke your eye out with that stick?
You’d forget your head if it wasn't stuck on your shoulders.
You had best take that look off your face before I take it off for you.
You could grow potatoes in those ears.
Just who do you think you are talking to?
When you have kids of your own, you’ll understand
Do you think money grows on trees?
Were you born in a stable? Close that door.
Some day you will thank me for this.
I've had it up to here with you.
I’m going to give you to the count of 3.
I don’t care who started it – you are going to STOP it!
I can’t believe you did that!
Don’t put that in your mouth, you don’t know where its been.
Did you flush?
Not under my roof you wont!
Stop picking.
Because I said so, that’s why!
I will always love you, no matter what.
You cant find it? Where did you leave it?
This is going to hurt me more than it will hurt you.
If the wind changes your face will stay like that.
Eat your carrots, they will make you see in the dark
If you don’t stop crying, I will give you something to cry about.
Beds are NOT for jumping on.
If you swallow gum it will stick your guts together
The car can’t start until the seat belts are buckled
If all your friends jumped off a bridge, would you?

I saw this on my notes and remembered they were part of the post I did on parent's teachings. As a mother I can understand why some Moms do say these things but still most of these are things I heard when I was young and still don't understand why it has been said or where it came from and what it really meant. Take for example the phrase "Because I said so, that’s why!", everybody has heard this one time or another from his/her mom, it's almost like an edict, don't ask for any explanation, it just is!

Although we all try to limit saying these things BUT then there are times one is forced to because the situation calls for it. Then again it comes to a point when they learn to question where these phrases are coming from. My son is now 13 years old and there are times I repeat myself...he teases me about it and I keep explaining that if he had only done what I have asked him to do as soon as he was told then there wouldn't be a need to repeat (over and over and over again - redundancy but he said that is what I do). The good thing though is that our relationship is close enough that he is able to tease me about it...according to him I revert to these momisms when I no longer know what to say sometimes because I have actually moved on to another "fault" but just had to have the last word.

RIP Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T01:58:00.000-07:00

Probably my favorite line in his speech to the 2005 Stanford University graduates in the commencement address. Something that we all can learn from.

Lift You UP Blog - Always there for You: MISS BUS STOP CONTEST WITH GIVE AWAY PRIZE

2011-09-29T23:26:00.000-07:00

Just got invited to vote on Miss Bus Stop Contest but unfortunately I can't decide yet which one to choose as I feel that I would love to wait for a bus here anytime. I will wait for other representatives, am just truly sorry I cannot share any nice enough bus stop here in the Philippines.

I never really had much experience with bus stops since the system of transportation in the Philippines is quite different and less disciplined if I must say. Bust stops in the Philippines are either bus terminals housing not only several transportation buses going to different places but also food stalls and even supermarket so one can buy 'pasalubong' for their friends and loved ones. Or they are random bus stops somewhere in the middle of nowhere or in between stores. The one thing that those working in the corporate world doesn't like about is the fact that when riding the less expensive non-air conditioned bus or jeepney you don't seem to be in control of the passengers and a lot can happen. In fact you may look and feel good in your new corporate shirts and reach your office looking like you just got off your bed. Usually these yuppies ride the more expensive air conditioned buses, taxis or brave the MRT.

waiting for the bus to arrive

We have been so used to riding jeepneys which has also become an icon of sort for the Philippines. These jeepneys run their own routes and you just have to wait anywhere they pass so you can ride their jeeps and go to your destination. These jeepneys go around their own routes over and over again picking up passengers and unloading passengers when they reach their destination.

Image Source: film.queensu.ca

Image Source: Art Car Central

If you are interested, check out James OH's blog and choose the best bust stop for yourself. Click below to see more:

Lift You UP Blog - Always there for You: MISS BUS STOP CONTEST WITH GIVE AWAY PRIZE

While doing this update I saw two bus stops that I would love to have on my door step...uhmmm, lazy me loves these two:

London Bus Stop

Image Source: elistmania.com

Vancouver Bus Stop

Image Source: InterestingEmails.com

No to Inappropriate and Anti-School Messages on Plain T-shirts

2011-09-19T20:07:00.000-07:00

Retailers and some online clothing stores never learn.

Just a few weeks ago, in time for back-to-school shopping, JC Penney was forced to yank a sweater that read their “I’m too pretty to do homework so my brother does it for me”. There was an online outcry and concerned parents, furious moms and disgusted customers made use of petition website Change.org to produce thousands of signatures from people and forced them to take it off their shelves.

Cited as not giving kids today appropriate messages but rather sexist messages, these retailers should have learned especially since kids, tweens and teens are their clientele. But no, some have to do it again and force parents and customers to file a petition against them.

The recent perpetrator of these inappropriate messages on their cheap t-shirts is Forever 21, a California-based chain of stores that sells inexpensive clothing to teens. The cheap tee shirts retail for $12.80 and really look good with jeans to give teens a relaxed girl-next door look.

Unfortunately the message on it is not only sexist but in fact stupid and inane. The shirt reads “Allergic to Algebra” again sending our kids the wrong message. It seems to say that girls are bad at Math and that’s okay. There has always been a perception that guys are better at math than girls but that is so long ago and so not true. While some say that these messages are an intrinsic part of today’s in-your-face fashion especially since there really are people who never did like Algebra. But then you don’t see cheap t-shirts with these messages in the men’s section.

One doesn’t see muscle shirts that read Allergic to Algebra. It is only the girls who are targeted with these dumb messages that seem to reinforce the perception that girls can’t do math, that it’s okay not to be smart or being smart isn’t attractive or cool. And worse the perception that learning to put makeup deftly is more important than being good in school. Some says the messages is actually anti-education as it seems to say education is not important especially when Forever 21 other shirts read “Skool sucks” and “I love school” on the front and “not” on the back.

These cheap tee shirts have definitely ticked off women, even those who never liked Algebra. And some have even made their comment made known. A commenter Lenish shared: “It’s one thing to be bad at math, it’s quite another to brag about it and think it’s cool. It’s not possible to be a master of everything, but if you want to brag, brag about what you are good at, not what you suck at.”

And PrincessJingles posted: “The last thing the young women of our world need is another reason to think being dumb is cool. … Shame on you.”

One shopper posted a photo on Reddit.com, a social news website, of a mannequin clad in the offending shirt with a green Post-It note attached: “SMART girls are cool. Don’t buy this top.”

Again, parents have a lot to say about what their children wear. Yes, tweens and teens would like to wear what is on trend and its easy enough to do when there are so many online clothing stores out there to choose from. But then we certainly pray that we gave them enough guidance not to choose these crappy messages on their cheap t-shirts.

Image Source: Google Images

Remembering 9/11: The Legacy of Marie Rose Abad

2011-09-12T22:59:00.000-07:00

The Americans in the US were not the only ones paying tribute to their loved ones who perished in the different events that made up what we call the tragedy that changed the world, Sept 11.

Maybe unbeknownst to many Filipinos, there was one American married to a Filipino who died that day. And her legacy lives on in a once squalid and reeking with garbage slum in Manila turned into an orderly village that bears her name with 50 brightly one-storey colored homes built in her memory by her husband.

As the world pays tribute to their fellowmen in the US, residents of Marie Rose Abad GK Village offered roses, balloons, and prayers for their benefactor.

According to her Philippine-born American husband Rudy, he had it built in her memory in 2004 as a tribute to their 26 years of marriage and her unfulfilled desire to help the poor in the Philippines. This she saw when they first came here in 1989. After having described to her the Philippines as a paradise, they were appalled to see the squatters, the shanties and the poverty. And she vowed that she would find a way to help which he fulfilled. After drifting for almost 3 years, having lost his other half, he decided to contribute $60,000 for the construction of a village for destitute families in Manila’s Tondo slum.

For Rudy, September 11 transformed him and taught him about suffering. The tragedy opened his eyes and made him want to do something far and beyond. He has become an advocate of philanthropy and continues to urge rich Filipinos to help the poor beyond giving alms.

Rafa Nadal Remains To Be My Champion

2011-09-12T21:09:00.000-07:00

I am gutted because Rafael Nadal did not win the 2011 US Open but at the same time proud that he really did well on the match. The Rafa of old was back and I am so happy for him. Though some do question the timing of Noles medical time out we cannot accuse him of doing it to stop the trend Rafa was on...he was serving and being good at it as usual. We have to admit that Novak Djokovic played brilliantly.

As one reporter described it and I quote:

Djokovic’s style will never be quite as mellifluous as Roger Federer’s, and neither does he have the pugilistic quality of Nadal

At the moment, though, he is a more complete player than either. He has become unbreakable – an agile and beautifully balanced athlete who has developed a near-mystical faith in his own ability.

The certainty of his vision is uncanny. We saw it in the semi-final, where he faced match point on Federer’s serve and whipped an untouchable return crosscourt. And we saw it again yesterday.

Rafael Nadal remains to be my Champion. He may not have won the title today, he may have lost to Novak 6 times over the year but I remain a believer. He is still my RAFA!

Remembering 9/11: Where were you in Sept 11, 2001?

2011-09-12T02:09:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago, on Sept 11, it was late at night or should I say almost early morning and I was watching TV alone when suddenly CNN broke the news about the Twin Tower attack. I was shocked that it could happen to a country like the USA. Then when I saw the tower collapsing, I felt it was crumbling, people jumping from the tower and people looking up at them in shock and horror knowing that they couldn't help.

I have not always agreed with some of the US policies that affected our political will and human rights but on that day I wasn’t thinking about imperialism and ideology…I wasn’t an activist rallying for change. I was just a human being shocked by the capacity of people to hate that they can do something so horrendous without any qualms. Maybe they had, but I didn’t see it the first time they hit the tower, nor the second time they did, or when they tried to hit the white House or the Pentagon. They didn’t have qualms about killing some 2,819 innocent people.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Why the video and the pictures of the chairs? The video is because I love what former President Clinton said about the passengers of Flight 93. He commended the passengers because being citizens did not give them the mindset like a soldier who are ever ready to give up their lives in the hope of saving others. But they did because if they didn't then the plane would have gone directly to the White House. And what these passengers gave was an 'incalculable gift'.

The tribute in Bryant Park was 2,819 empty chairs on the lawn facing the site where the World Trade Center once stood, one chair for every life lost. As one noted 'The number of empty chairs captures the enormity of the lives lost and the stark emptiness of it just drives home the point that I hope is never forgotten. 2,819 people were here one moment and gone the next. 2,819 went to work or boarded a plane one morning ten years ago thinking it would be another ordinary day and they never came home.'

No to T-shirts With Sexist Messages

2011-09-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

Been wanting to write about a lot of things but time has been running really fats for me…at the end of the day all I want to do is stretch out on my bed, put up my legs, and pray I get to sleep the soonest. But alas it isn’t possible with several kids wanting this or that. I have only one son but have several nieces and nephews.

Yesterday though I saw this girl wearing what I thought was a one of those simple plain t-shirts only to realize there was a slogan on the front which was quite small I had to stare at it to read. Then I saw her looking at me, I guess waiting for my reaction which of course she didn’t have to wait for long.

I gave her what my son calls my ‘tiger look’ or the ‘stare that could kill a thousand ships’…oh yes, my own son has different names for it. Going back to the girl…how would you as a mother or a woman feel when you see a girl wearing a t-shirt with ‘Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful, hate me because I have huge boobs.’ I did not give her a look because she did have a bigger boobs than me but what she has can already be seen, there is no need to advertise it in such a way that gives more people to stare longer than necessary.

And so I had to research about it and to my dismay there are stores that sell those kinds of shirts and no, this isn’t the first time and yes I am not alone. There have also been negative reactions over it and worse in Australia they had this store which sells baby clothes with ‘negative’ slogans on it. I just wonder why parents would buy their kids t-shirts that just demean us women. Am not simply talking feminist and the like but there are slogans that eggs on the much talked about sexualization of the young girls which I blogged about before. And there are t-shirts I would not like my nieces to wear or slogans I would not want to see on my son’s girlfriends shirts.

Demeaning slogan!

Harmful!

Take a look at some of the mild ones I saw that parents should ban from their children’s wardrobes. I don't dare put some of the really, really wild ones. The black one has the acronym WIFE on it with meanings like Washing, Ironing, F!****ng, Etc as if that's just the jobs of the wife. The last one is the worse for me because it belittles what hell the sexually abused experiences with a slogan like: It's not rape if you yell SURPRISE.

Again this goes back to the topic I wrote about in my old post about provocative apparel, the one that tackled about the sexualization of young girls. Again, I have to reiterate that it is up to the parents to make sure what their children buy and wear. Parents are the ones who buy or give their money to their teens to buy and I do believe they still have the right to challenge their children's choices.

There are simple and cheap shirts in other good online shopping stores like Amazon and the like. Here are some examples:

District Threads Junior Womens Heathered Jersey Ringer Tee

District Threads Junior Womens Tick Stitch Tee Top

It's so nice to see young girls wear what is best suited to them...not act and look more mature than I am and wearing just enough...not too much that they look old and not too little that they show a lot of skin. Maybe, they would think I am a prude but I would rather see a young lady enjoying herself at being teen rather than on make-up, beauty tips, sexy clothes and boys. There is a proper time for that and too much too soon wont make them mature but just maybe they would face problems earlier than usual.

P.S.

As I was writing this blog, I saw on the news about the victory over JC Penney and American Apparel's as they decided to discontinue sale of controversial t-shirt with a message that reads: “I’m too pretty to do homework so my brother has to do it for me.” Consumers, particularly parents, started making noise and one member of the online petition website Change.Org started a campaign with with the message: “Stop selling clothing with sexist messages for girls.”

Image source: badideatshirts, amazon.com, uniformpoint.com,

What You Are Today Is A Tribute To Your Teachers

2011-08-04T00:57:00.000-07:00

Very recently Matt Damon gave a speech thousands of teachers, parents and others who attended the Save Our Schools march on the Ellipse near the White House to protest the Obama administration’s education policies that are centered on standardized tests.

While this has nothing to do with the education here in our country, I just had to commend and thus blog about Matt Damon’s stand. I also do not feel it is right that the salaries of teachers, whether here or in other countries, should depend on the results of the standardized tests of the school children. While I certainly hope that children all learn to read and write because their children were concerned about them learning we have to agree that children have different learning capabilities. There are different ways to teach a child and one style would not work for all.

Children’s learning process does not run the same way. Some may learn fast while others need special attention. Some may learn easily in groups while others may want individual teaching. And Matt is correct in saying that not everything we learn can be tested. The same way that we let our children go their separate ways, to follow the path they love, to develop their passions, and to learn and to love learning to the best of their ability, the way they know best, is how I see teachers should do it, too.

I would rather see my son criticized for being different as long as he believes it is right. I would love to see my son passionately defend his ideas; no matter how different it is with the norm, than simply follow because everybody is doing it. I will champion my son for standing up to his rights, for fighting for the rights of other people rather than be silent so as not to make ripples or disturb the status quo. The ability to empathize and to know what you believe in and to stand for it, what is important, what is right, and most importantly to think for yourself is not something that can be learned by memorizing the abc’s and 1 + 1 but by learning the whys and the hows’, by discovering own strengths and weaknesses, and by knowing that you have a responsibility to your fellowmen, and that you can effect change if you stand for what us right. I know that if there is one thing I would love to know is that I have taught my son to treat his fellowmen equally - not to kowtow to big names and not to shun those in cheap work clothes.

Teachers are parents, too, and I know that they became teachers because they have a passion for teaching. And the result of their passion is one thing that cannot be measure with standardized tests. The incentives, the bonuses, the basic salary and most importantly, the job security should not be based on the result of the school children’s standardized tests.

Here is the complete text of the speech:

I flew overnight from Vancouver to be with you today. I landed in New York a few hours ago and caught a flight down here because I needed to tell you all in person that I think you’re awesome.

I was raised by a teacher. My mother is a professor of early childhood education. And from the time I went to kindergarten through my senior year in high school, I went to public schools. I wouldn’t trade that education and experience for anything.

I had incredible teachers. As I look at my life today, the things I value most about myself — my imagination, my love of acting, my passion for writing, my love of learning, my curiosity — all come from how I was parented and taught.

And none of these qualities that I’ve just mentioned — none of these qualities that I prize so deeply, that have brought me so much joy, that have brought me so much professional success — none of these qualities that make me who I am ... can be tested.

I said before that I had incredible teachers. And that’s true. But it’s more than that. My teachers were EMPOWERED to teach me. Their time wasn’t taken up with a bunch of test prep — this silly drill and kill nonsense that any serious person knows doesn’t promote real learning. No, my teachers were free to approach me and every other kid in that classroom like an individual puzzle. They took so much care in figuring out who we were and how to best make the lessons resonate with each of us. They were empowered to unlock our potential. They were allowed to be teachers.

Now don’t get me wrong. I did have a brush with standardized tests at one point. I remember because my mom went to the principal’s office and said, ‘My kid ain’t taking that. It’s stupid, it won’t tell you anything and it’ll just make him nervous.’ That was in the ’70s when you could talk like that.

I shudder to think that these tests are being used today to control where funding goes.

I don’t know where I would be today if my teachers’ job security was based on how I performed on some standardized test. If their very survival as teachers was based on whether I actually fell in love with the process of learning but rather if I could fill in the right bubble on a test. If they had to spend most of their time desperately drilling us and less time encouraging creativity and original ideas; less time knowing who we were, seeing our strengths and helping us realize our talents.

I honestly don’t know where I’d be today if that was the type of education I had. I sure as hell wouldn’t be here. I do know that.

This has been a horrible decade for teachers. I can’t imagine how demoralized you must feel. But I came here today to deliver an important message to you: As I get older, I appreciate more and more the teachers that I had growing up. And I’m not alone. There are millions of people just like me.

So the next time you’re feeling down, or exhausted, or unappreciated, or at the end of your rope; the next time you turn on the TV and see yourself called “overpaid;” the next time you encounter some simple-minded, punitive policy that’s been driven into your life by some corporate reformer who has literally never taught anyone anything. ... Please know that there are millions of us behind you. You have an army of regular people standing right behind you, and our appreciation for what you do is so deeply felt. We love you, we thank you and we will always have your back.

The Miracle That Is the Philippine Azkals

2011-07-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight the Philippine Azkals will play against Kuwait for the second round World Cup Qualifying match at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila. Everyone is praying for a miracle, especially after Kuwait’s 3 goals in the first round.

As my son and nephew has been saying, the Azkals need 4 goals and they should not allow the 95th-ranked Al-Azraq to score any.

Three factors could help the Azkals today:

The boost from the return of Aly Borromeo and Stephan Schrock on the field. The first round showed us how important effective defenders are.
The twelfth man. The profound impact of supporters and fans on how a team performs has long been acknowledged as effective, and in the case of Azkals it certainly helps.
They have played against Kuwait before and have studied how the team plays and work together, and most importantly the team has learned their lesson from the first game and can correct the misconceptions and errors in the first.

While everyone is rooting for Azkals, with some “haters” on the side, and everyone praying for a miracle which is a win over a team that has been playing longer than ours have been, let us not forget that the Azkals have already performed a miracle. And that is to teach and unite our basketball loving countrymen into loving another sport. For a country deeply rooted in basketball, a sport made for tall people, we have made inroads in associated football. Every now and then we take notice of other sports, like baseball, volleyball and tennis, but we always go back to the one true love that is basketball. Seeing the number of Filipinos at the Rizal Memorial Stadium and the millions that tuned in on their TV screens is proof that we have embraced futbol. It took a long time but betcha it’s gonna stay for good.

I definitely pray they make more goals tonight not only for the glory of our country or for the adoration of the fans but more than ever, I pray they score for the team, for the players. They have worked so hard for this and they deserve it.

But, whether they score a goal or not, for me they are already winners. They have already won the hearts of the Filipinos, the adoration of the fans, the respect of other football teams and players.

Win or lose, they deserve our support. For sure, as the team continues to develop and evolve, as we continue to supply the Philippine National Football Team with talented Filipino – homegrown or not is not the issue – players, as the PFF financially supports the team with trainings, equipment and a home stadium to spend their trainings, we’ll get there.

And one of the best ways to show that is to continue our love affair with the game. Teach our kids the beauty, the hard work, the teamwork, the sportsmanship of the sport. Let us start them early because our physique is definitely more designed for futbol. The smaller size of Filipinos makes them nimble and quick which are a plus for a sport like soccer.

With that, I want to share the trailer of Happyland, an Indie film directed by Jim Librian that tackles the sport football. It is a story of the Tondo kids who are footballers dreaming to be international players and how they form a team in slum area of Tondo in Manila. Something all kids can do if they are really determined.

A Mom's Thoughts on Sports and a Black-eye

2011-07-20T19:38:00.000-07:00

For the first time in 13 years I came home to see my son sporting a shiner. And as much as I wanted to fuss I couldn’t…I wouldn’t dare insult my son. Just waited for him to show it to me and tell me what really happened. Oh I so wanted to rush him, to ask him to give me a blow-by-blow account but I kept my lips sealed. I wanted to kiss it and make it well but I stopped at just a touch at his cheek while asking if it hurts. His teammate was telling him to make excuses for what happened and he answered with: Why should I? My mom knows I play soccer and she has always said this is part and parcel of the sport. I remember seeing Fernando Torres of Liverpool once sporting a black-eye, too.

Well yes so I always say that…he plays basketball and soccer which are both contact team sports albeit limited-contact meaning there are rules that specifically prevent intentional or unintentional contact between players and penalties can be incurred when it happens. I constantly remind him of that so he is prepared that this can happen but should be avoided at all cost. Seeing him with a swollen though not yet a black-eye made me realize that I wasn’t totally prepared to see him with one. All I could think of was how painful it could have been or worse if it actually got broken, just like what happens in boxing. I can only imagine how Aling Dionisia feels when watching Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao getting himself hit in the boxing ring.

Forgive me for the melodrama but he is my only son and I have tried my very best to ensure that he is kept away from harm’s way without cosseting or mollycoddling him. As he has told me often enough, he is no longer a baby. Spent part of the night looking at him while he was sleeping and though I may have said my poor baby several times (which btw I couldn’t say while he was awake) it also made me realize that he really is grown-up. Going over his story made me realize he kept the story short and succinct, most likely without the gory details, but more on what the nurse said to do – the ice pack on the first night and hot compress on the next day. Maybe he didn’t want to worry me too or to dwell on it much. Like I said…he really is now grown-up.

Today I could help but ask if we needed to see his doctor and he said he didn’t need to. He had his sunglasses to cover the ugly swollen eye though he was a little shy about it coz it really wasn’t that sunny…his worse luck. He rode his cousins’ service and not a public jeepney, making me think he didn’t want people to see him and think he got on a fight. And I believe he also told his girlfriend last night and was assured it was just okay.

Ah sad is the day when he now worries what his girlfriend thinks and not his mom…but that is life…guess I have to get used to it.

Japan's Nadeshiko: A Picture of Hardwork, Resilience and Teamwork

2011-07-19T23:05:00.000-07:00

Japan players celebrate with the trophy after winning the final match between Japan and the United States at the FIFA Women's Soccer World Cup in Frankfurt, Germany, on Sunday. (Michael Probst/Associated Press)

Women's World Cup - so okay I was really rooting for USWNT or the US Womens National Team and they played really good but then again Japan played even better obviously.The victory of Japan brought great joy and pride to a country that has suffered and which continues to suffer from the effects of the devastating earthquake and tsunami which has killed a lot of its citizens. According to the players they were inspired by the resilience that their compatriots have shown as they continue top struggle with the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami. In the same way that the victory has inspired the survivors making them more optimistic with the future.

On the other hand, there has been a lot of negative comments from some Americans that brings to mind the relationship of Filipinos with football. While some, like me, have been soccer fans for quite sometime now, a typical Filipino knows the ins and outs of basketball. This is a country where you will see a basketball court in every town "plaza" and in every school or a basketball ring in every street intersection. The US has American football and baseball and basketball and they find soccer or associated football a little wimpy. Well, to each his own.

Still I say congratulations to USWNT and Japan's Nadeshiko for doing a really swell job. The US Women's National Team handled their defeat with grace and can hold their heads high because they did everything to take home the cup. Japan's Nadeshiko gave not only pride by becoming the first Asian country to bring home the cup but also gave their fellowmen, especially those in Northern Japan, courage. Even the Prime Minister said so in his congratulatory message at the start of the Parliament session.

And it is but right that Honare Sawa, skipper of the team, was given the Golden Boot for having scored the most number of goals in the competition. She was also adjudged the best player of the tournament and thus was picked out for the Golden Ball. And Goal.com also recognized her as:

World Player of the Week: Homare Sawa - Japan

Goal.com World Player of the Week #113: Homare Sawa

Club: INAC Kobe Leonessa

Country: Japan

Age: 32

Role: Midfielder

Achievement: Inspired Japan to Women’s World Cup triumph

Mexico Defeat Uruguay to Win FIFA U-17 World Championship

2011-07-10T23:07:00.000-07:00

Mexico won the Under-17 World Cup final on Sunday, defeating Uruguay 2-0 with goals from Antonio Briseno in the 31st minute and Giovani Casillas in second-half stoppage time. Team captain Briseño volleyed home a Carlos Fierro cross while Casillas poked home an insurance goal to give Mexico their second victory in two weeks.

The first being the senior side’s second straight CONCACAF Gold Cup title won by defeating United States 4-2 in California. The second victory within 2 weeks for Mexico football was this 2^nd under-17 World Cup championship amidst the boisterous crowd at Azteca Stadium in Mexico.

GK Richard Sanchez

I believed though that goalkeepers also play a crucial role in a team success. Because what good is a defense if the competition is able to score for every goal attempts they make. I remember reading once that any football team with designs on success needs a strong backbone which is formed by the goalkeeper. In this case, the FC Dallas ‘keeper Richard Sanchez did a great job of containing the attempts first by Uruguay striker Rodrigo Aguirre who he met in a head-to-head collision, then in the 61st minute Aguirre’s substitute made another attempt which would have been the equalizer and the last was when he was able to make a save when Elbio Alvarez took a rip from 20 yards.

First goal by team captain Antonio Briseño

Scorers against Germany (Gomez) and Uruguay (Casillas)

While Biseño gave the first goal for Mexico, the second goal by Casillas certainly made the day for nearly 100,000 fans at the Azteca. It may not have been the prettiest goal but it was perfect as a goal with Uruguay still searching for the equalizer it definitely put the final result beyond doubt.

Team Captain Antonio Briseño leads by example: character and leadership

Biseño though is a pretty good captain as seen when one who wears the same team uniforms as him fell in pain. Instead of celebrating with the team, Biseño immediately went to Gomez who was lying in the ground in pain, alerted first the referee and then Mexico’s coaching staff, who had all been celebrating the goal. If football captaincy is all about character and leadership, then Antonio Briseno fulfils the job requirements to perfection.

But the man of the hour is midfielder Julio Gomez. His two goals against Germany gave them not only the chance for the finals but also gave him the Golden Ball. The first goal had him going head to head against another player when his teammate Jorge Espericueta sent a corner kick directly into the German net to bring them to a draw at 2-2. And though he was advised by the medical team not to play anymore, he knew he didn’t have any choice because that would leave the team down to 10 players. And though he told his teammate that he(Casillas) had to hit it because he couldn’t because of his injury, when he was given the opportunity he toom it via an overhead kick that went thru.

During the final game against Uruguay, he received the biggest roar when he finally entered the pitch, head still bandaged, mid-way through the second half. Like the fans, the media also gave him the biggest roar and voted him the adidas Golden Ball winner as tournament top player by a wide margin.

"You always dream of scoring important goals, but this one tops them all,” Mexico U-17 hero Julio Gomez

TEEN AZKALS: The Future of Philippine Football

2011-07-07T01:28:00.000-07:00

While all eyes are on the Philippine National Football Team or Philippine AZKALS as they prepare for the next qualifying game against Kuwait, the next generation members of the team called Teen AZKALS will be competing in the ASEAN Football Federation Under-16 Youth Championship 2011 in Vientiane, Laos from July 7 to 21.

The Philippine Azkals’ goal to qualify to the FIFA World Cup remains a question, as the long road to World Cup will entail them to compete with several national football teams including Kuwait who has been playing for a long time and is ranked 101^st to Philippines 159^th in the world. The Kuwait has appeared once in World Cup and 8 times in AFC, and has even won the AFC Cup in 1980. Even manager Dan Palami admits “the chances are quite slim but that is all they need to attain victory as long as they train with their heart.” And certainly the Filipinos are rooting for them, but whether they do qualify or not, the Azkals has brought football to the hearts of a country that has always been into basketball.

The future Azkals is also here. The Teen Azkals is composed of under-16 years old football players from different high schools in different parts of the Philippines. The team is led by head coach Tomasito Glenn Ramos and manager Alvin Carranza.

If given the proper support, I believe that the Teen Azkals can go a long way. The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has channeled some of their budgets for the further development of the players since these kids are the future of Philippine Football. If we do well in giving them the necessary support in trainings, mentoring, complete sports gear, and many more, the Philippine football will reap the rewards in the future. If properly trained, this may be the team to propel us to World Cup.

So I say let us all support the present, the Philippine Azkals, and the future of Philippine football, the Teen Azkals.

AZKALS Make Their Mark In Philippine Football History

2011-07-03T23:29:00.000-07:00

At last!

After so many years of rooting for Los Blancos (and recently, FC Schalke 04 becoz of Raul) and by default to Spain, I can now support my own team, the Azkals, our very own Philippine National Football Team.

We were watching the game last Sunday inside my sister’s bedroom since I do not have a TV inside mine, and though the TV in the living room is bigger, it seemed more natural (and excitingly noisy) to watch together. So one can only imagine how crowded it was with 4 adults and 5 children ranging from ages 6 to 13 and all of us shouting, getting all excited, and giving their own versions to some of the moves. Since I started watching late coz I had to finish something I thought the Azkals were wearing their home team uniforms which is the white so I was lost for a few seconds. I know that they wore the blue soccer kit in Sri Lanka because that is their away team uniforms. My son was teasing me that it was okay for me to cheer for the white team if I really wanted to but then I wouldn’t be cheering for Aly then, he knows who my favorite is among the Azkals.

My sister is new on football and so she really doesn’t know the game and the players. So aside from asking what goes on she has to ask who the players are every time the player is captured on cam. So from her hubby down to the kids they have to give the names. The funny thing is that at first it was just me and my son who could recognize the players at the end of the game, even the other kids knew one from the other. My sister definitely knows one player even when it is not a close-up shot, and that player is none other than Emilio “Chieffy” Caligdong.

Yes, Chieffy may not be as handsome as Phil or James Younghusband, as big as skipper Aly Borromeo or Angel Guirado, dramatic as Stephan Schrock but he is definitely the local hero of Azkals. It was his first goal in the 19^th minute of the opening half, amidst the torrential downpour, that set the tone for the game. And from then on a goal came from Phil on the 43^rd minute to make it 2-0, and then on the 56^th minute Angel Guirado made a beautiful goal to make it 3-0. I say beautiful because it was poetry in motion from the pass that James Younghusband made to midfielder Angel where he had to evade Sri Lankan goalkeeper Fernando in something like a feint to make the goal. Though I find it really funny that again, just like when they played against Blue Wolves, I did not see Chieffy make the goal. As usual, I was in the bathroom, doing my thing, when the people inside the room shouted as one…and I almost slipped so I could hurry out. And the kids were urging me to go out every now and then, as if the Azkals didn’t want me to see them making the goal, duh!

There might be names that stand out but each member of the team is worthy of an accolade. They each played their role and made beautiful music together. Defender Stephan Schrock, Midfielders James Younghusband, Paul Mulders and Manuel Ott’s footwork is wondrous to watch, the way they dribble, and keep the ball in their possession, and make a pass is unbelievable. Also noteworthy are the different moves that skipper Aly Borromeo, Anton del Rosario and Rob Gier did to ensure their defense, they sure didn’t let up and so Sri Lanka was able to make only 2 goal attempts. Neil Etheridge made sure no goal attempt by the Sri Lanka Brave Reds gave them a score. I had to emphasize this though, that although each one has their particular role in the game, team work is still essential in the game. And compared to the first game, the Azkals have found a way that they can help each other out; found a way to complement each other, so that they can make their contribution and mark in the Philippine football history.

And to their detractors, they proved they are not just handsome faces, they are real football players.

This last portion is for my sister:

No.	Pos.	Player	DoB/Age	Club
1	GK	Neil Etheridge	7 February 1990 (age 21)	Fulham
22	GK	Eduard Sacapaño	14 February 1980 (age 31)	Philippine Army
2	DF	Rob Gier	6 January 1980 (age 31)	Ascot United
3	DF	Jason Sabio	30 June 1986 (age 25)	Rocket City United
4	DF	Anton del Rosario	23 December 1981 (age 29)	KAYA FC
11	DF	Alexander Borromeo (captain)	29 June 1983 (age 28)	KAYA FC
17	DF	Stephan Schröck	21 August 1986 (age 24)	Greuther Fürth
6	MF	Roel Gener	27 June 1974 (age 37)	Philippine Army
7	MF	James Younghusband	4 September 1986 (age 24)	San Beda
8	MF	Manuel Ott	6 May 1992 (age 19)	Ingolstadt 04 II
9	MF	Paul Mulders	16 January 1981 (age 30)	ADO Den Haag
12	MF	Ángel Guirado	9 December 1984 (age 26)	Ronda
13	MF	Emelio Caligdong	8 September 1982 (age 28)	Philippine Air Force
15	MF	Ricardo Becite	13 April 1986 (age 25)	Philippine Army
19	MF	Nestorio Margarse	3 May 1976 (age 35)	Philippine Army
10	FW	Phil Younghusband	4 August 1987 (age 23)	San Beda
14	FW	Misagh Bahadoran	10 January 1987 (age 24)	Global
18	FW	Nate Burkey	7 January 1985 (age 26)	KAYA FC
23	FW	Ian Araneta	2 March 1982 (age 29)	Philippine Air Force

Teenager Issues and What Parents Can Do

2011-06-07T00:42:00.000-07:00

What is happening in our world when our children are behaving as if life can easily be snuffed for a measly amount? I know that we have become materialistic but is that we are teaching are children too? That they can easily sell any of their vital organs in exchange for the latest gadget? Or that they can take the life of another person simply because you want to play videos? Who do we blame in these cases, the parents, the government, the media, or society? Are we as parents so busy with work, with friends, with our constant shopping, and has no time for our children?

Work is important but not everything. Real friends will be there if you need them, they also have a life and you don’t need to constantly be together. Shopping is not only expensive but also time-consuming when what you get are frivolities and not essentials. Why not take the time to bond with your children and do some things together, instead do some online clothes shopping together? That will give you the time to get to know each other, specifically his or her likes.

I was horrified to hear that a 17-year old Chinese teenager, Xiao Zheng, sold his kidney so he could buy an iPad 2. He could not afford to buy it but then a broker contacted him online and offered to help Zheng sell his kidney for 20,000 yuan (about $3100 or 132,794 Philippine pesos).

On April 28 Zheng went to Chenzhou City in Hunan Province for the kidney removal surgery arranged by the broker. He was paid 22,000 yuan after his right kidney was taken out at the Chenzhou No. 198 Hospital. He was paid 22,000 yuan or 146,074 pesos after the surgery. When he came home with the iPad his mother questioned him where he got the money to buy the new gadget and was forced to admit he sold his kidney. Upon hearing this, the mother immediately informed the police. Unfortunately, they could no longer locate the broker and when the hospital was questioned regarding the surgery the police were informed that they had no knowledge of the surgery though they did admit having contracted the urology department to a business man. In fact, the hospital is not qualified to perform an organ transplant and because of this, Zheng has since had post-surgery issues.

That night, I immediately had a talk with my son. We have always had these kinds of talk since at 13 he has access to a lot of things online and I have been very particular with him about the need for privacy and security. I certainly pray I have impressed and inculcated my son not to be too materialistic…and though he also wants to have the latest he knows that it is not the priority in our family. But I only get to be with him for 12 hours and most of them are spent sleeping. So when I read things like this, several cases of suicide pacts between friends, killing to feed a video game habit, teen drug addiction, it breaks my heart.

My knowing these things is not enough for me. There is a great need to share and talk it out with my son and so far he gives me sensible answers to the numerous what-ifs I give him. Discussion starts with me giving him that what-if this thing or that thing happens to you, what would you do? This allows me to get his grasp of the situation, how he views things, what he values more, and what he will do in a situation. Then we will discuss the why’s in case he still has questions or needs clarifications. And the one thing that I try to impress on him is the importance of talking it out with me or anyone in the family no matter how trivial he may think it is. Or even if he thinks I may get mad because at the end of the day we lose more by not knowing the important issues and how important the issue is relative.

According to the welcome page of Talk to Them: The relationship between parent and child is one of the most rewarding and challenging parts of life. We all want to have healthy, happy children, but sometimes it can be difficult to know how to help our children be healthy, happy teens. Often, parents think that when it comes to their child’s decisions about relationships, alcohol and other drug use, their opinions don’t matter. Luckily, that’s not the case! By talking with your child, you can influence your teen to make good decisions and avoid risky behavior that can short-change his or her future.

Talk to Them is one website where a parent can get a lot of help and tips how to make it easier to talk to your children. Talking with them need not be a production, it can be brief but an ongoing conversation….let me reiterate, a conversation and not dictation, a recurring dialogue between parent and child that will build a close and lasting relationship. Our teens want us to talk with them and listen. Let us not talk to them only when they have done something horrible. It gives them the idea that we will only take notice when they do bad things. I am not saying this because I don’t make mistakes. I am not perfect but in fairness I am constantly trying to be a better parent – a single one at that.

My Son's Sabbatical From Basketball is Over with Miami Heat on Finals

2011-06-03T01:11:00.000-07:00

Friends and readers know that my son has always been a fan of the King and recently took a sabbatical from basketball to play soccer. But I have noticed that ever since Miami Heat has been doing good at the start of the season he has been taking notice of NBA and the King again.

He is back to following the games schedule as well as playing at the basketball court with his cousins every afternoon. There is no doubt he is back in the game because the other night I woke up with him standing on his bed and making motions like he was playing. I had to go and put him back on his bed because he was still asleep. And when I was telling the whole family about it, he was laughing coz he really didn't remember doing it.

Unfortunately for him, Miami Heat lost in Game 2: Final Score: Dallas 95 Miami 93

Well, I guess that is meant to make the finals more exciting...fans will be flocking to see the games more to see who will take the title.

2011-06-02T01:05:00.001-07:00

Kid Playing with the Otter

2011-05-31T01:11:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to update my blog but my work has been pretty hectic that I haven't been able to do so. I promised myself I would write about our Clan Reunion but after a few start had to forego for the rush tasks...whew, some took time coz it really was not my forte.

Had to embed this though because I needed to share this video of a really cute kid in red t-shirt running around...at first you would think he is just running but then you will notice the otter racing along with him. Coincidence? Nah! See when the kid suddenly turns around, the otter does the same thing and the kid turns around again abruptly, like he was faking it out, and so does the otter. Love hearing the kid's laughter and of course the people around him found it really funny, too. With kids these days so focused on the Net and videos it is nice to see the fun there is still in visiting the zoo as well as the innocent fun a child could have with an animal.

As summer is almost gone here in the Philippines, I wished we could have had the time to visit the zoo (there is only 1 zoo in our place)but then the kids were all busy with their sports activities like soccer and basketball. My niece and nephew joined the soccer clinic that was sponsored in our town and though they did not have a complete sports apparel they still enjoyed playing. And they love the fact that they received a shirt from our town's football club. And of course with the hot days of summer swimming was something they really asked for.

Of course, I fervently hope that someday they will also have the time to experience what the young kid did...I just wonder if they would feel the same enjoyment the kid had with the otter. See for yourself how the otter raced with the little boy in red.

2011-05-09T23:10:00.000-07:00

James, Wade, Bosh too much as Heat beat C’s in OT for 3-1 lead

By Dan Devine

There are those who'll tell you that this is narrative harmony — that when one blue blood crashes, the other's got to burn.

They'll look at the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics both losing crucial Game 4 contests in the conference semifinals — losses that sent the Lakers home and put Boston on the brink — and they'll talk about windows closing and chapters ending, singing songs of fading glory. They'll make this sound almost sweet — a simulcast Bob Ross sunset for two exiting champions.

But that's not what this is; not really, at least. What happened in Dallas on Sunday afternoon was one team with all-universe shooters and an abiding belief blitzing the scattered shards of another out of the playoffs. What happened in Boston on Monday night was the best players on one team making more good plays at important times than the best players on another.

It's not an epic poem or a moral-packing fable. It's basketball. And in Game 4, the Heat played it better when it counted, riding their Big Three to score a 98-90 overtime victory and take a 3-1 lead in their best-of-seven second-round series with the Celtics.

Forty-eight hours after allowing the Celtics to score at a blistering 120-points-per-100-possessions pace, Miami weathered its own offensive struggles (just 44.3 percent from the floor and 17 turnovers) by putting the clamps on Doc Rivers' squad. The Heat held every Celtic not named Paul Pierce (notes) to a combined 40 percent from the field, grinding Boston's Game 3 efficiency into a sluggish 94.7-points-per-100 gruel and taking a hard-fought, defensive contest to earn a split at the TD Garden.

Miami now heads back to the American Airlines Arena, site of Heat victories in Games 1 and 2, looking to close the series out on Wednesday.

"What we're going to face Wednesday will be our greatest challenge of this season," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said during his postgame press conference. "It will be the toughest thing we have [had] to do up to this point ... to put away a champion."

(Coaches get caught up in that stuff, too.)

LeBron James (notes) led all players in both points (35 on 12-for-28 shooting) and floor time (50 minutes, 17 seconds) in the win, adding 14 rebounds, three assists and three steals. Dwyane Wade (notes) added 28 points on 8-for-18 shooting, nine rebounds and four assists in more than 45 minutes of work.

"I looked at [Game 4] as probably one of the biggest games of my career coming into the game, knowing what was at stake," James said during a postgame press conference. "... We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to come out and just try to do whatever it took to help our team win this ballgame. We did that."

Pierce was the Celtics' lone offensive bright spot, scoring 27 points on 10-for-20 shooting, eight rebounds and three assists. Ray Allen (notes) chipped in 17 points on 5-for-12 shooting in a team-leading 45 minutes, 11 seconds of playing time.

Boston had an opportunity to win Game 4 and knot the series at two after James turned the ball over with 19 seconds remaining in regulation. What Rivers drew up in the Celtics' huddle failed to come to life on the court, though, and a 15-foot jumper by Pierce in isolation against James found iron.

"Yeah, we didn't execute the play — I'll just leave it at that," Rivers said after the game. "It's a play we've run several times, and we just didn't execute it. [It] was supposed to be a pick-and-roll with a flare and none of it happened, which was unusual for us."

Boston seemed to run out of gas at the end of the fourth quarter and Miami capitalized, dominating overtime. James shook off his late-fourth-quarter turnover to hit a jumper, notch an assist and draw a key (and controversial) offensive foul on Pierce in the frame's first three minutes, as the Heat scored the period's first six points.

The power forward matchup, viewed by many as the series' pivotal head-to-head battle and a bellwether for both teams, saw a 180-degree reversal of fortune from Game 3. Coming off a poor performance that he himself attributed in part to nerves, Chris Bosh (notes) got the better of Kevin Garnett (notes), posting 20 points on 8-for-17 shooting and 12 rebounds — including a huge tip-in of a James miss to give Miami a 95-90 lead with 24 seconds remaining in overtime — to go with two steals and just one turnover in just under 45 minutes of run.

"We said going into the game, and coach said as well, we need 12 rebounds from Chris, and he got 12 rebounds," Wade said during his postgame press conference. "And he got the biggest rebound of the game with that tip-in. He really stood up to the challenge."

The moment seemed cathartic for Bosh, who screamed and pounded his chest after hitting the basket to put the Heat up five.

"You know, honestly, that kind of emotion, I think, is always needed and it's just how I felt at the time," Bosh said after the game. "It's just so intense, just going through that whole time — you're tired, you're into it, but it was a one-possession game up to that point, and that kind of gave us a little bit of a cushion at the time."

The Heat pulled away in the final 20 seconds, as the Celtics missed two 3-pointers and Miami made three of four free-throws. In all, Miami outscored Boston 12-4 in the extra period.

Garnett, meanwhile, was unable to replicate his Saturday night success. While he was his typical active self on the defensive end and led the Celtics with 10 rebounds, Garnett struggled with his shot throughout, hitting just one of 10 field goal attempts to finish with seven points. Asked if he thought Garnett looked more reluctant on Monday than in Game 3, Rivers said, "You know, I don't know."

"We have to get him down [on the post] more; we tried," the coach added. "I think he was looking to be a passer, to me, more than being an aggressive scorer. And that was that."

Playing with a heavily wrapped and very sore left elbow after dislocating it in Game 3, Rajon Rondo (notes) turned in a muted 10 points and five assists. He said after the game that he "had a little trouble going left," and that he'd definitely be in the Boston lineup on Wednesday.

With the definite exception of Delonte West (notes) (10 points on 4-for-7 shooting, including a huge 3-pointer to tie the game at 81 with three minutes remaining in regulation) and the possible exception of Jeff Green (notes) (7 points and improved defense and energy), both benches were non-factors.

After doing precious little in his Game 3 return, a glacial Shaquille O'Neal (notes) played three-and-a-half inconsequential minutes. Heat forward Udonis Haslem (notes) made his first appearance since Nov. 20, 2010, heaving a horrendous brick, picking up two fouls and earning a technical foul in 2:46, which is at least efficient garbage. Glen Davis (notes) still cannot post up James Jones (notes), and Mike Miller (notes) still cannot throw a ball into the Atlantic Ocean.

And yet, on a night when Miami got nothing from its reserves, it got 83 points from the three guys it paid to bring another NBA title to South Beach. Come Wednesday night, they could be one step closer to that goal.

"That's our goal — our goal is to win the next game," James said. "Our home floor, our home fans, they have been waiting for this opportunity for a long time. We're going to come out with the same game plan from the last four games and give our fans what they want to see."

State of the World's Mothers 2011 - Save the Children

2011-05-09T20:44:00.000-07:00

State of the World's Mothers 2011 - Save the Children

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

She can deal with stress and carry heavy burdens.

She smiles when she feels like screaming, and she sings when she feels like crying.

She cries when she's happy and laughs when she's afraid.

Her love is unconditional.

There's only one thing wrong with her. She forgets what she's worth!

WHAT ALL CHILDREN WANT THEIR PARENTS TO KNOW

2011-05-02T00:35:00.000-07:00

First saw this poem at the clinic of my son’s pediatrician, liked it and remembered to bring something so I could copy it the next time I went there because the poem said it all. Parents want the best for their children but we are not equipped with how to properly rear our children and yes, we can only follow what our parents did with us. The question is do we remember all the rights things that they did? What about the wrong things we promised we wouldn’t do when we grew up? Both my parents were good people but of course they each have their own limitations and grew apart. The best thing that I can do is get the best from all of it I order that I can provide the best for my son – emotionally, mentally, spiritually, financially and physically. That was my motto for a long time.

With so much to do and so little time, we tend to forget what is more important. We become so focused in being able to provide the best financially, give our children all the best and the latest, send him to the best school so that he may wear the same private school uniforms you did, get him the latest techie toy and many more that we forget it is not money that our children want. Here is a poem that gives us an idea about what is really important in our children’s lives and helps us create what the author says are special moments, small and memorable moments that gives the most impactful experiences for our children.

WHAT ALL CHILDREN WANT
THEIR PARENTS TO KNOW

Teach me to love and care for myself
Through your own positive example.
I'll learn from all of your actions,
And grow to have good self-care.

Notice me often,
Taking joy in my very existence.
I'll grow up knowing I'm special,
And help others to feel the same.

Listen to me with empathy,
Have an open and loving heart.
I'll know I'm seen and heard,
And grow to be a good listener.

Acknowledge me often,
And tell me what you appreciate.
I'll know that I am worthy,
And learn to acknowledge others.

Laugh and have fun with me often,
Be affectionate every day.
I'll play and enjoy my life,
And bring more joy to others.

Teach me to be disciplined,
And correct me with kindness.
I'll lead a life of dignity,
With the pride of self-respect.

Allow room for me to grow,
To make mistakes & have opinions.
I'll learn to be independent,
And trust in my own judgment.

Stay interested in learning,
And following your dreams.
I'll pick up your enthusiasm,
And be inspired to do the same.

Be honest and authentic,
And live your highest values.
I'll learn from your experiences,
And grow to have integrity.

Teach me to be of service,
And honor the differences in others.
I'll learn generosity of spirit,
And embrace all walks of life.

Focus on what's going right,
Have faith in troubled times.
I'll learn to be optimistic,
With gratitude for each new day.

Love me without condition,
Throughout my ups and downs.
I'll know that I am cherished,
And bring more love to the world.

by Diana Loomans & Julia Godoy

via DianaLoomans,com

Reserve Your Cup

2011-04-24T20:49:00.000-07:00

Reserve Your Cup :: Opportunity

Every so often an opportunity presents itself. This is that time.

This new opportunity is for people interested in participating in and developing a real, long-term business. It is a business based on a unique product used by millions of people every day. So if you are looking for a short-term, get rich quick scheme — unfortunately, this is not for you.

In today's challenging economic environment, financial independence and financial security can still be attained. The dream is still alive and the best time to get involved is when a brand new business is just launching.

This business will officially launch on June 1, 2011. We anticipate tens of thousands of people to 'reserve' their spot during this free, pre-launch event. You need to reserve your spot, too. We will be launching simultaneously in more than 15 different countries. Don't make a simple, yet costly mistake, by letting someone else ask you to join six months or a year from now.

Some highlights of this new opportunity include:

o Fast start bonuses paid weekly

o Unilevel payouts up to 14 levels deep only requiring two legs

o No structure requirements — all volume-based requirements

o Rank advancement bonuses totaling millions of dollars

o Global bonuses

o Ownership in multiple contracts

o Exotic vacations

o And more!

The business opportunity we have developed will be easy to understand and explain to others, fair to everyone involved and extremely lucrative to those who take action. We promise when you see our revolutionary compensation system, you will be excited and thrilled to have joined first.

Reserve Your Cup :: Opportunity

Real Madrid, 2011 Copa del Rey Champion!

2011-04-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

No to Provocative Kids' Apparel!

2011-04-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

Just this morning a friend of mine sent me a Skype message with a link. Typical of me, I started reading an article by LZ Granderson for CNN. The title read ‘Parents, don't dress your girls like tramps and because I am a parent’ and feel the same way I read on. While he was describing what caught his eye at the airport, I was thinking he was talking about a 16 year old teenager.

He was describing an 8 year old girl to be wearing a halter top that showed her midriff paired with a tight sweatpants that rested just a little low on her waist with the word “Juicy” written on the pants backside. Her lips were pink and shiny from the lip gloss with her long hair braided ala Bo Derek in the movie 10 and wearing dangling earrings.

While I was trying to picture his description, I really wasn’t that happy with what I was getting. While we want to make sure our kids look okay, trendy, cool but as a parent I do not feel it’s proper to let them wear skimpy outfits that show a lot of skin. Okay, am a little conservative that I don’t even consider it right to see young ladies wearing a top that shows half her body so you can just imagine how I would feel if it’s an 8 year old.

I should not be surprised since Abercrombie recently came up with a push up, padded triangle bathing suit top. They might have changed the name to striped triangle and the because of the public outcry but the damage has been done. For Abercrombie and other retailers to produce these products we are sending a message to little girls that suggest something is wrong with their bodies and for them to be more “desirable” they need to wear this padded bra. Women are desirable, kids are cute! No question about that. The fact that little girls want to wear these things because it’s the hot and trendy thing is something that parents need to look into especially if they want to wear one because they want to be attractive and desirable.

In 2007, the American Psychological Association Task Force released a report examining the sexualization of young girls via the media. They looked at media such as television, movies, music videos, video games, magazines and products such as toys and clothing. According to the report, the sexualization of girls can undermine their confidence in and comfort with their own body, cause mental health problems including eating disorders, low self-esteem, and depression, and have negative consequences on developing a healthy self-image. What is worse is that these provocative outfits are often equated with sexual availability and though some kids do not intend to be sexy still these clothes may send the wrong message or may be misconstrued.

I definitely agree with the author when he says that although it’s ok to blame retailers but it is still the parents who are responsible. For one, not all online clothing stores carry provocative apparel for kids. Second and more importantly, it is up to the parents to make sure that when their children go out of their house whether to simply be with friends or go out on a party they are properly clothed. Parents are the ones who buy their children clothes, not the kids, and that gives them the opportunity to choose the right clothes for children. It can be trendy and fashionable, without being provocative, so that your children still wear them. Now if they insist on wearing skimpy clothes then it is just but right to impose rules. It may be hard for parents to say no to their children’s request for these latest on fad outfits but then this is also the right time to explain and help them understand the consequences that dressing provocatively can have.

Let us remember that we are parents and our role in life is to provide our children the proper guidance that would make them productive members of the society. I have always told my son we can be friends and that means I listen to him and his ideas, we go out together, we play, we argue, we can do so many things together but there are rules to be followed on some aspects in his life that I believe calls for it and I will insist on that. Am doubly glad he is a boy and at 13 may be a little fashion conscious but still one cannot go wrong with pants, shirts and polos…well, I still don’t want his underwear showing and his pants falling off his butt but other than that we’re cool.

A Parents Teachings

2011-04-06T20:42:00.000-07:00

I was reading a blog This slice of life... about the nettle season when I went to read the other posts. I found the mom-isms really funny because I could relate to it....yes, funny it may be but more often than not it comes out of my mouth, too. The reason it's funny is because though it may sound true (or is it?) sometimes there is really no logic to it. It feels like it was said perfectly at that time for that particular moment or specific time but when you think about it you wonder where it really came from.

Then one of the comments from Granddad made me really laugh and goes like this: "If you fall out of that tree and break your leg, then don't come running to me!"...See where's the logic in that?...of course if the kid breaks his or her leg, he or she would not be able to come running towards you. When I was told that as a kid, I remember answering "of course I wont because I will be flat on my back" and Amy in her green hospital scrubs would be there to tend to me (she was the nurse I run to when my cuts and bruises needed tending and I didn't want my mom to know, the hospital was just a walk away from our house)...but did I learn anything from it? No, no, no because I also heard myself telling my son that when he was climbing over the balcony grilles.

I left a comment on that blog and told her we learned the same things only it's in Tagalog. This is entitled Mga Turo ( Teachings) and has been shared many times over, something to laugh about:

Naaalala nyo pa ba ang mga turo sa atin ng mga magulang natin nung bata pa tayo?

1. Si Inay, tinuruan niya ako ng HOW TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.

"Kung kayong dalawa ay magpapatayan, doon kayo sa labas. Mga punyeta kayo, kalilinis ko lang ng bahay."

2. Natuto ako ng RELIGION kay Itay.

"Kapag yang mantsa di natanggal sa carpet, magdasal ka na!"

3. Si Itay, tinuruan niya kami ni Kuya kung anong ibig sabihin ng TIME TRAVEL.

"Kung di kayo tumigil ng pagngangawa diyan, tatadyakan ko kayo ng todo hanggang umabot kayo sa isang linggo!"

4. Kay Inay ako natuto ng LOGIC.

"Kaya ganyan, dahil sinabi ko."

5. Kay Inay din ako natuto ng MORE LOGIC.

"Kapag ikaw ay nalaglag diyan sa bubong, ako lang mag-isa ang manonood ng sine."

6. Kay Itay naman natuto ng FORESIGHT si Kuya.

"Siguraduhin mo na lagi kang mag susuot ng malinis na brief, para pag nakascore ka sa syota mo e di kahihiyahiya."

7. Si Inay naman ang nagturo sa akin kung ano ang ibig sahibin ng IRONY.

"Sige ngumalngal ka, kung di bibigyan talaga kita ng iiyakan mo!"

8. Kay Inay ako natuto ng science of OSMOSIS.

"Punyeta, itigil mo ang kadadakdak at tapusin mong kainin ang inihanda kong hapunan para sa iyo."

9. Si Inay ang nagpaliwanag sa akin kung ano ang CONTORTIONISM.

"Tignan mo nga yan dumi sa likod ng leeg mo, tignan mo?!?"

10. Si Itay ang nagpaliwanag sa akin kung anong ibig sabihin ng STAMINA.

"Wag kang tatayo diyan hangga't di mo natatapos kainin lahat yan gulay mo!"

11. At si Inay ang nagturo sa amin kung anong ibig sabihin ng WEATHER.

"Alangya, ano ba itong kuwarto nyong magkapatid, parang dinaanan ng bagyo!"

12. CIRCLE OF LIFE, ang paliwanag sa akin ni Inay ay ganito:

"Malandi kang bata ka, iniluwal kita sa mundong ito, maari rin kitang alisin sa mundong ito."

13. Kay Itay ako natuto kung ano ang BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.

"Tatadyakan kita diyan, huwag ka ngang mag-uumarte diyan ng parang Nanay mo!"

14. Si Inay naman ang nagpaliwanag sa amin kung anong ibig sabihin ng ENVY.

"Maraming mga batang ulila sa magulang, di ba kayo nagpapasalamat at mayroon kayong magulang na tulad namin?."

15. Si Itay naman ang nagturo sa akin ng ANTICIPATION.

"Tangna kang bata ka, hintayin mong makarating tayo sa bahay...."!

16. At si Itay pa rin ang nagturo kay Kuya kung ano ibig sabihin ng RECEIVING.

"Uupakan kita pagdating natin sa bahay....!"

17. Si Inay naman ang nagturo sa aking kung ano ang HUMOR.

"Kapag naputol yang mga paa mo ng pinaglalaruan mong lawn mower, wag na wag kang tatakbo sa akin at lulumpohin kita!"

18. Kay Inay din ako natuto ng WISDOM.

"Pag umabot ka na ng edad ko, saka mo pa lang maiintindihan ang lahat."

See the English version below for those highlighted in red, some may not be the exact translation but it's almost the same thing:

1. My mother taught me to APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.

"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning."

2. My mother taught me about RELIGION.

"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."

3. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.

"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"

4. My mother taught me about LOGIC.

"Because I said so, that's why."

5. My mother taught me about IRONY.

"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

6. My mother taught me about STAMINA.

"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."

7. My mother taught me about the CIRCLE OF LIFE.

"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."

8. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.

"Stop acting like your father!"

9. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.

"Just wait until we get home."

10. My mother taught me about GENETICS.

"You're just like your father."

11. My mother taught me about FEAR.

"One day you'll have a child who'll do the same things to you."

(source for English version: This slice of life...)

Soccer Practice Under The Sun

2011-04-04T01:39:00.000-07:00

Summer vacation has officially started here in the Philippines and so my son is already in summer mode. Last Saturday, he asked permission to practice soccer in school. Yes, he still asks my permission and for a 13 year old that is quite something else. Anyway, he said it was supposed to be a practice in the morning only and will be home by lunch.

Lunch came and went but still no son. Okay, maybe the practice went on in the afternoon. My father was asking already if he texted that he was going to be late and I had to reply no, since he had not sent any message. Dinner came and went, still no Sijent. Sent several text messages, called him up and his phone rung but got no answer. I was forced to text one of his teammates since my father kept asking me the situation. It's a Saturday and there would be less jeepneys available blahblahblah. I was getting worried but texting his teammate is always my last recourse...a good thing I took those numbers. Good thing he replied (and I thanked him for that, bless that boy!) to let me know that Sijent and other teammates ate before going home and took my worries off.

Told myself that I would not meet him angry or what (and I was true to that) and boy was I shocked. He was dark and sunburned by that whole day of practice under the sun. He could only tell me, he need new sports wear, a long sleeved soccer jersey at the most. And so I need to search for one if I do not want to see my son burnt red and aching since they will be practicing 3x a week.

Only Option Left for the Azkals : WIN ~ Philippine Azkals Online

2011-03-25T00:45:00.000-07:00

Only Option Left for the Azkals : WIN ~ Philippine Azkals Online

Check out this article by Ryan Fenix, where he shows us the accurate standing and what the Azkals needs most...and that is a WIN!

Azkals Finally Meets Myanmar White Angels

2011-03-21T20:13:00.000-07:00

After winning over Mongolia Blue Wolves with an aggregate score of 3-2, the Philippine Azkals were able to join the group stage of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge Cup where they will play against Myanmar, Palestine and Bangladesh.

The first game against Myanmar was yesterday, March 21st and fans were totally disappointed when it was not aired live so they had to make do with getting the latest information over Twitter. At least the tweets showed the updates though as Dyan Castillejo tweeted it was kind hard for them too since internet was not working that well. The one thing that was a problem in Mongolia that resulted in having a winter team wear for Azkals was not a problem in Myanmar since we almost have the same weather. The absence of Neil Etheridge was not felt in Myanmar but it certainly made you want to see him in action again.

For a comprehensive report and analysis of the game, please see other sources such as Craig Burrows and Ron Moore's PinoyFootball.com. Their latest foray was in their analysis of the Myanmar - Azkals match:

MATCH INSIGHTS: PHILIPPINES 1 - 1 MYANMAR

Azkals win on 3-2 aggregate score, advance to meet Myanmar

2011-03-15T01:53:00.000-07:00

Azkals win on 3-2 aggregate score, advance to meet Myanmar

By Odi M. de Guzman, GMA News 03/15/2011 | 02:54 PM

The stingy Azkals defense came into play in the second half as they denied Mongolia any more goals to seal their advance in this pre-qualifying round where they go up against Myanmar next on March 21.

Despite the 1-2 loss to Mongolia Tuesday in the 2nd leg of their AFC Challenge Cup pre-qualifying match in freezing Ulan Bator, the Azkals enjoyed an aggregate 3-2 lead courtesy of their 2-0 win during the 1st leg in Bacolod last month.

The aggregate lead was enough to get the job done for the Azkals to advance. They will be playing Myanmar next.

At the end of the first half, the Azkals trailed Mongolia's Blue Wolves 1-2 in the 2nd leg of their 2012 AFC Challenge Cup pre-qualifying match in Ulan Bator, Mongolia.

Despite the freezing temperature, the Azkals - came out smoking as James Younghusband scored at the three-minute mark but the Blue Wolves equalized right back with a goal from Donorov Lumbengarav at the 22nd minute.

The Blue Wolves drew their 2nd goal at the 33rd minute when keeper Ed Sacapaño blocked a free kick but Mongolia's Bayasgalan scored on the follow-up.

The match was played in freezing temperature on artificial turf in the Mongolian capital. —GMA News

(via GMA News)

Azkals lose to Mongolia but advance to AFC qualifiers - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

2011-03-15T01:45:00.000-07:00

Azkals lose to Mongolia but advance to AFC qualifiers - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

AZKALS Ready For The 2nd Leg Against Mongolia Blue Wolves

2011-03-14T01:41:00.000-07:00

Image Source: Life's My Trip

Despite the very strong earthquake in Japan that destroyed lives and infrastructure, the Filipinos are still as focused as ever with the second leg of the AFC Challenge Cup where the Philippine National football team duels with Mongolia Blue Wolves. Fans were worried about the situation of the Azkals especially because they were in Japan when the earthquake occurred. It’s a good thing that members of Azkals also kept Filipinos informed with their situation and continuously tweeted updates. Simon Greatwich and Jason Sabio were not able to join them in Japan but had to make do with sleeping at the airport.

The trip to Mongolia took longer than the usual travel time, almost 24 hours, since the major earthquake caused a big disruption in transportation services. Finally, around 4am Sunday the Azkals arrived Ulan Bator and met a chilling response. Not from the fans but from the Mongolian climate which was around -20 degrees Celsius. Mongolia’s temperature was the reason they had to do their training in Baguio and Japan as they needed to acclimatize themselves. The training in Japan certainly helped according to coach Hans Michael Weiss and Philippine Football Federation (PFF) President Nonong Araneta. The Azkals might have lost the friendly game with team from Kanto University but they certainly learned something from it which would be of great help in their game against Mongolia Blue Wolves.

In every news report and the Azkals tweets it is obviously the weather that concerns almost everybody. Captain Aly Borromeo even tweeted that he went out to check the pitch and it almost turned into ice. One can just imagine how cold it is.

According to Inquirer:

“It was freezing out there, we couldn’t stay put,” Borromeo told the Inquirer in an e-mail after checking out the artificial turf at the playing venue. “We had to keep moving. I think we will be okay once we get warmed up. It would really help tremendously if there won’t be a wind chill and that the sun would come out.”

While they are resting they can wear thermal gear but while playing that would be impossible to do. The only thing they can do is sweat it out in their sports wear, which is possible with the winter football sports gear they will be wearing.

I believe Chieffy Caligdong when he said that they will just try their best to overcome the cold.

The game against Mongolia is set on Tuesday, March 15, at 1pm which is said to be the hottest time of the day in Ulan Bator. The Mongolians need at least 3 goals to prevent the Azkals from advancing to the AFC group stage. Coach Weiss is confident that the Azkals can overcome the challenge and so are the fans.

The Mongolians need to win by at least three goals to prevent the Azkals from advancing to the AFC group stage, but the Azkals’ coach Hans Michael Weiss is confident they can survive the challenge.

For those who are wondering how in the world the Azkals can play under the cold temperature in Mongolia, here is the explanation. The type of sports wear they will wear for the game is not like the usual jersey they wear, it's definitely not football shorts. It is actually high tech winter football sports gear made for them by their usual sports wear outfitter Mizuno but this time these are equipped with the Japanese outfitter’s revolutionary “Breath Thermo” and “Thermal Plus” technology that will keep the players really warm. The fabric is supposed to self generate heat and also converts the moisture generated thru physical exertion into heat. And though it has long sleeves it will still be lightweight and will not restrict the movements of the Azkals.

Here is how it looks like:

Image Source:http://www.inquirer.net/

For the first picture, I would like to thank Patti of lifesmytrip.com which is where I got the picture of the team. She blogged about her being at the first game held in Bacolod City. Lucky her!

Today at 1pm the Philippines will be glued in on their television to watch the live telecast of the 2nd leg of the AFC Challenge Cup. Go, #Azkals!

Azkals versus Mongolia AFC Leg 1 - WINNER

2011-02-09T18:45:00.000-08:00

Nothing could make Filipinos than to see one of our own win in any sport or event. Last night Filipinos showed their support to the Philippines National Football Team better known as the AZKALS.

When I arrived home, my son was trying on his new school uniforms, last October I blogged about getting a new pair of pants, this time around I had to get him two school polos because 2 of his old ones (which btw was made for him last April). He was trying it on at home because he just asked his uncle to get it for him since he was waiting for the football game between Azkals and Mongolia’s Blue Wolves to begin.

Everybody was on their seats waiting; I don’t think they even checked on the news channel to get the latest update. The problem with me is that I am a pretty noisy when I watch, whether it be basketball, soccer or baseball or volleyball. So you can just imagine the kids looking at me every time I would shriek each time they missed a goal or something else happening. But the worse thing was that I went to the bathroom for a few minutes and missed left wing Emil “Chieffy” Caligdong’s brilliant move that earned the Azkal’s the first goal. That was what I call a real miss and had to settle for the replay. Found it really funny when he pointed to his name on the back. It was like he was saying remember that name and expect more in the future. My son said he has the right to be proud because aside from the fact that he is a pure Filipino, a local, he was just a substitute before. But boy did he show ‘em.

The second goal was made by current football heartthrob Phil Younghusband. They will start practice in Baguio so that it would they can get use to the temperature in Mongolia where the next game is.

Btw, day before their match against Mongolia, the Philippine football team was featured on the front page of fifa.com. I think even the world is starting to notice.

THE RP FOOTBALL TEAM STATEMENT

2010-12-09T22:29:00.001-08:00

Click on the photo to view the whole statement.

Philippine National Football Team Wins Over Defending Champion Vietnam

2010-12-06T18:05:00.000-08:00

The Philippine national football team shocked the 40,000 Vietnam fans and stunned the defending champion when the former won 2-1 in the recent ASEAN Football Federation Suzuki Cup at the My Dinh Stadium, Hanoi. Considered to be the underdog, the weakest team compared to the other teams, the Philippine football team certainly gave everyone a surprise.

It certainly was a team effort but names that stand out are Chris Greatwich who scored the opening goal in the 38^th minute, goalkeeper Neil Etheridge who repeatedly fended off attempts from the Vietnamese team to make a goal and the goal that sealed the victory was made by Phil Younghusband with 10 minutes remaining to the game.

Now, they are a force to reckon with as they battle with Myanmar on Wednesday. Winning over Myanmar would advance them to semi-finals and a chance to win the Cup.

The Philippines has always been a basketball nation and who are just starting to appreciate associated football is definitely giving the enthusiasts, like my son, reason to play and excel more.

Top 5 Nurse Gifts Ideas

2010-12-01T17:36:00.000-08:00

Top 5 Nurse Gifts Ideas

For my son on his birthday - My Wish by Rascal Flatts

2010-11-24T23:27:00.000-08:00

My Wish

I hope that the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
And each road leads you where you want to go,
And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,

But more than anything, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,
All the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
And you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
And you always give more than you take.

But more than anything, yeah, and more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

This is my wish
I hope you know somebody loves you
May all your dreams stay big!

Cheering For Real Madrid

2010-11-15T00:22:00.000-08:00

My son, an avid fan of Miami Heat, has taken a sabbatical from basketball. He has changed his sportwear uniforms from basketball jerseys to soccer uniforms and spike shoes. It started when their school has the intramurals and he wanted to play basketball. Unfortunately, as he is in his first year and not as tall as the older students, he was not chosen. Since I am an associated football fan I have long been encouraging him to try it out. This time with no sport to play he enlisted in the soccer team. Since then he has been playing soccer, changed his wallpaper with Real Madrid’s logo. His FaceBook account now has Raul Blanco Gonzales, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo and many more as pages he likes. Since I am a fan of El Siete when he was still in Real Madrid, I have been always been a Madridista, I still am. But my allegiance is and always will be with Raul so now that Raul is in FC Schalke, I root for Schalke. But because he has always heard and seen me as a Madridista, by default, my son is Real Madrid fan. Now he uses my account on e-Madridista to get the latest update, download wallpapers and all that stuffs.

The main difference between basketball and soccer is that in basketball height plays a crucial role. Of course the skill is something that can be learned on both sports. But I have been insisting that there is no harm in trying out new sports. One would never be able to really discover where his strength lies if he does not try. And I want my son to be able to know his strengths and weaknesses, his abilities and limitations, and most of all where he is happy. I think that is all what a mother wants for his son. So, whatever sportswear uniforms he wears, I will support him. And have tried to instill in him loyalty to the team, love for the sports, doing his best, and learning from wins and losses.

Just yesterday he asked my help to get the different home and away uniforms of the Los Blancos. To show him that I really did it, here it is:

The Different Teamwear of Real Madrid

(HomeKit, Away Kit, UEFA Home Kit, UEFA Away Kit)

It's been awhile...

2010-10-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

It's great to be back...it has been more than a year since I last updated this blog...I really have not been consistent. There has been a lot of changes..for one my son is now in high school and he's now growing..a bit taller than me although I dont admit it to him...lol, as if he cant see for himself..but he is longing for the day when he can look down on me...or I should look up to him while were talking.

Proof that he is growing is the fact that I have to get him a new set of school uniforms since his pants are not as long as the typical uniform pants the kids appreciate. His polo uniforms are also getting shorter. If he continues to grow I think I would have to change all his things...including his casual tees...though I find it really lovely that my t-shirts are now smaller than his....here he is in his school polo.

6 Trendy T-Shirt Styles

2010-07-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

6 Trendy T-Shirt Styles

Live fully

2009-07-02T19:50:00.000-07:00

I shall pass this way but once; any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show - let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again."

While cleaning up, I saw this passage again after such a long time. I remember that when I was in college I used to carry a piece of paper with this quote or passage, it was actually from my father and it meant a lot to me. I used to tell myself to smell the roses and I did, I used to care and I was happy most when I was helping out others. I used to think that I will always be like that, I will treasure every moment with my family, cherish the job I had that allow me to help empower my "kababayan"....but it was not to be.

Our life right now is so fast-paced that even eating is considered to be so much time-consuming...hence, the fast food where you can just order food, eat and leave as soon as you're done without any worries about the dishes, somebody's going to do it for you. We work very hard to get to the goal we want for our family and your young children...only to realize that they are now over 20 and they don't know you. You missed the small moments when they were young that will forever be gone because you can never take back the time. So, let me ask you, who were you working so hard for?

Everything is a rush, rush, rush...you want to finish school and leave your house to work and be independent. You were working hard and playing hard that you never had the time to visit your parents or even call them just to say Hi. And now you're here....and they're gone. When was the last time you said Thank you or I love you or I'm sorry for that matter?

There are so many memories to be made...and few of them will make an indelible impression on our brains...because we didn't savor each moment, not when it was there. Only when it's too late...then you wish for it.

Whether you are a daughter or son, a mother or father, a sister or brother, a lover.....live fully. Appreciate what you have right now....kiss your son or daughter while they are young because time will come when they wont let you, go to their Little League where they can show off to you, hug them every time, any time...show them that they are truly loved - this will make them grow-up positive and with self-esteem. Let them be kids with muddy hands and feet, let them explore...they are kids just but once, let them be teen-agers, you know how it felt because you were once a teen-ager. Give them the chance to do the things they really want to do, grow up the way they want to and simply give them chance to soar in their own time and in the way they know how. If you have guided them pretty well, they can never go wrong.

Don't take your wife, husband or lover for granted. Enjoy the silly and stupid moments or ignore it especially if it does not make a huge splash on your relationship. Hug them, love them, kiss them like there is no tomorrow, like it's the last time you are going to because it might just be...you never know where life takes you.

Smell the roses or the daisies...appreciate life..live it to the fullest...help others when you can because you never know when that help has a ripple effect...you don't choose who to help, you just do.

Like I said, I held this passage dear to me....but I forgot what it meant and I let some things pass me by, I enjoyed my life but still there were things I wish I could have done better...I regret some things. And then my son came...I did not want to lose those few moments which I can never recover...and looking back at his pictures...I am glad, doubly glad, I was there for him. In time he will grow...and leave me for college and for work and for his new family but I have the memories I made with him to hold on to. I know that when the time comes I will be strong enough to let him go and soar wherever, whenever, however he wants to, God willing.

2009-05-30T06:51:00.001-07:00

MagMyPic

2009-05-27T06:01:00.001-07:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

Dream Come True: KRIS ALLEN is the 2009 American Idol

2009-05-25T04:38:00.000-07:00

After more than a hundred calls via my cellphone, I was able to contribute to Kris Allen's victory in the Season 8 American Idol. I kept myself updated with the voting process and that is why I was able to copy the instructions from Kris Allenation blog. And much to my surprise and of course delight, I found out that I could vote using my cellphone. And thus while Gizmo was down, I use my cell to call the toll-free number given for Kris Allen...(btw, these numbers are still stored in my phonebook). When it was getting hot, my 11 year old son took over for me and I went to my PC to try Gizmo again. My niece then decided to try and use her fone to also call the numbers for Kris....and she was able to put in 87 votes...she would shout every time she got a call thru. And so the next day, we were all crossing our very sore fingers that Kris Allen would win....and he did.

For the 2nd year in a row...I won, lol.

How to vote overseas, multiple methods in the US

2009-05-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

Tips for Voting on American Idol:

If you are calling the number (1-866-IDOLS-XX):

* The phone lines tend to jam up directly after the show finishes and oftentimes you'll get a busy signal. Don't be discouraged, keep voting and your calls will likely get through as the voting period progresses.
* If you have a cell phone and a home phone, try calling for both. You don't have to talk with anyone to vote, so you can just continue to re-dial on either phone for the duration of the two hours.
* It's a toll free number, so you shouldn't have to worry about phone charges.

In addition to calling, you can Vote 3 different ways online (maybe all at once if you're so inclined.)

If you're living abroad, or if you can't make the call from a phone you can call for free ONLINE by following the directions below:

* You can use Skype (works for International and US)
* or Gizmo5 (works for International and US):
* or Dial Idol (works for only US residents):

Try testing the softwares with Google's Toll-Free number:
1800-466-4411

American Idol numbers are also toll-free so if you succeed in calling Google, you would also be able to call in to vote for Kris.

For this post, I would like to thank my reference for anything KRIS....the # 1 Kris Allen fansite

VOTE VOTE VOTE for KRIS ALLEN

2009-05-18T06:04:00.000-07:00

When I first saw the results night on the final 2, all I could remember was that Kris Allen was in the final 2. When I saw the replay, it was just then that I realized that he was really the first one to be safe. Everything is being done to make sure that Kris Allen wins the game....I really hope he wins....regardless, we all know how good he is and I definitely will buy his album.

2009-05-16T23:13:00.001-07:00

Falling Slowly (american Idol Studio Version) - Kris Allen

Kris Allen: "Falling Slowly"

2009-05-16T22:27:00.001-07:00

Want more American Idol videos? Click here.

KRIS ALLEN: The New American Idol?...i hope

2009-05-16T22:24:00.000-07:00

A year ago I blog about loving David Cook over David Archuleta despite all the hype about the younger David. This year, I love Kris Allen over the obvious favorite Adam Lambert. Am certainly praying he is the American Idol for Season 8.

My son, a future priest?

2009-03-16T01:21:00.000-07:00

My friends were talking about a mutual friend, about her being in God’s grace as she has 2 sons who are priests. I told them it was the dream of my aunt to have any of her 3 nephews to become priests, unfortunately, nobody did. She told me she still prays for one especially as she has more grandsons than daughters. And so my friends began convincing me to send my son to study in the seminary. They would like to sponsor my one and only son to become a priest. I guess any mom would be so lucky to have one. And so I told them that I would ask him if he is interested. I mean, I cannot decide for him….I can only pray it is what he wants, too.

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2009-02-12T21:49:00.001-08:00

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Applications Engineer (Dallas, Texas, United States)

2009-02-12T21:30:00.000-08:00

If you have experience with 400Hz power power distribution in ships and commercial facilities we want to talk with you!

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