My Journal -- June, 2006

June 1, 2006

Six-thirty when I got up to boil water for our hot coffee. We then had a scanty breakfast of small bread, with coffee-milk.

Flor arrived before we finished our breakfast. I had to go to Meralco-Masinag for their reconnection payment.

I did not water the tress (only the veggies).

Nine, I and Hanna and Flor left Mj alone, who would supposedly washing clothes and same stuffs. Hanna was with us because Yoshimi, her paternal first cousin, will visit their common granny in Bautista.

Past ten, I was in Masinag already. Eleven, I was in a jeep to Paenaan. I shopped for Hanna's needs --- diapers, Alactamil and bath soap.

We're excitedly waiting for Yoshimi till five, when Hanna and I go home here. My bag was filled with stuffs like Hanna's things, viand, santol and mangoes, magazines, mirror, etc.

I was not ashamed of cuddling Hanna without her mother.

Almost six when we arrived. I then immediately water the trees and plants and full the drum and buckets or pails.

Haay! It's tiring! Yet it never made me tired. In fact, I am doing it with gladness in heart. It's all for us, especially for our baby--- Hanna Margaret.

"Lord Jesus, praise Your Holy Name. Thanks for Your goodness and faithfulness. Thanks for the blessings. God, help Mama in money matters. Give her strength and good health. I wanted her to be happy if she is living. Give us our daily bread. Forgive our sins. Protect us from bad elements that surround us, day, and night. Amen!"

 

June 2, 2006

Six-fifteen when I got up. I then prepared our breakfast because I have so much to do in the field.

Past seven, I was in the field. I finished the field works after I had watered my veggies. Maybe it was nine. I helped Mj instead in Hanna's bathing.

Ten, I was cooking mongo guisado. I forgot that we were waiting for either Espinosa or Calove to visit us. Thus, when the former came, I was really surprised. It gladdens me. They (Tatay, Tyo Boy and Tiyo Ruben, not to mention Nanay) would make well-motor concrete house, so that it will not be robbed.

Two something when they left. Of course, they left us leftover cooked rice, adobo, soft drinks and P100. They confirmed that Sunday will be their next visit. They also left us with mineral water and Nawasa water.

After a few minutes, the rain falls. I thanked God for I don't need to water the plants this afternoon. Then, Mj and I do something productive. We letter-cut alphabets, which can help Hanna's development.

When the rain has stopped, I took the chance to go out and till a plot for corn seeds, Arturo gave me.

Six and something, Mj was so afraid of strong wind, while I was joking. I knew God will protect us.

After our very early supper, I made a Garfield mobile. Mj liked it. She said, "In fairness". Then I pursued the alphabet letter cutting.

Hanna Margaret is my priority now. I will do everything just to make sure she will be a smart kid as she grows. I will practice all my art knowledge to create an educational masterpiece that will contribute to her delight, to her knowledge and to her fun.

"Lord God, praise Your name. Thank you very much for all day achievements, blessings of health, wisdom and life, and protection. Please, help me in tilling the ground tomorrow. Help me in planting. Make my plants grow in their natural sixes. Bless us continually and pardon us again. Amen!"

 

June 3, 2006

Hanna was the first to wake up. I greeted her a Good Morning. However, when I got up to start a fire, I was annoyed by safety matches. It hardly made fire. Thus, when I went to the field for the routines, the sun has already shone.

Minutes to go before nine, I stopped my field works due to the terrible heat of sun which made me sweat horribly.

Then, I helped Mj in bathing Baby Marge. We only used calamansi on her bath, in lieu of Lactacyd-- which was already unfilled. I noticed Hanna's turning brown. We thought, it was due to the well water.

Past ten, when I was starting to make a fire in our furnace, Espinosas, Immaculatas and Gregorios arrived. It surprised us. I thought, as they said, they would be here on Sunday, not on Saturday. Yet, it made me glad.

Tatay pursued the well-motor house. He also repaired the doghouse.

The best thing about their visit was their 'pasalubongs' to Hanna such as baby bath, diapers, can of Bonamil, Ceelin, dress --- not to mention the foods.

Mj told her parents about the strong wind last night. She was so scared and worried about the 'luna'. She thought it will fly our house up. I hope Nanay will make a way/move for this matter. We really need a kitchen.

Three, after our hotdog-sandwich snacks, they left hurriedly that their car might be caught by the rain or stuck in the mud.

Four, after taking a bath, I did the usual works. I have planted some of the sweet corn.

Six, before the rain falls, I went home. I then blamed myself slightly for I had watered the plants though I have seen the dark clouds.

Then, I made a bamboo bank.

Seven (past), after my dinner, I estimated and listed Hanna's upcoming first birthday non-food expenses. I have estimated P4000 for it. And, I have thought of ways on how to save or to earn.

"Lord God, thank You for Your kindness. Thank You for the blessings. Thank You for the changes. Thank You for the hope. Bless us always, Lord Jesus. Make us healthy. Save us from harm, calamities, illnesses, and accidents. Pardon us, then. Amen!"

 

June 4, 2014

I had a sleepless night last night. However, I didn't stay long in the blanket this morning. In lieu, I got up to prepare myself in doing filed works. Thus, after breakfast, I started the said works--- which I finished at 8:50. I have done a garden plot for the corn.

Hanna is always on priority list. I was helping Mj to take care of her. The former has been so fully loaded, as if! She couldn't make Hanna Margaret quiet while doing her chores. Yet, my assistance is a must.

Ten-thirty, after waiting for visitors, I went to the store to buy viand--I'm with Hobee. When I came back, I saw Mj's distorted face. i told her about it and it annoyed her. It made us war (again). In fact, I don't like that face. I wanted to tell her that it "uglifies" her. But I couldn't.

We took in our lunch without conversation. We did our chores without talking to each other.

She washed clothes. I created bamboo merchandiser, after cooking gulaman. I then attended Hanna and waited till she finished it.

Four, I went back to the field-- planted sweet corn, cultivated trees and watered the plants and fetched water for domestic use. But we are already conversing.

Six, while I was making a fire, Jano and Gie arrived, not in the gate but under the barbwire. It was a surprised visit.

Then, we had a snack--- pancit canton, bread and juice. Good thing, they brought something to eat and something for Hanna Marge.

Jano was promoted, I mean, was "regulared'. I think that was the reason why he visited us. Anyways, I'm gald to his achievement. And I think he liked, they liked our dwellings and he was surprised when my 'amigo', who had once asked me if he could park his van in our premise, shouted that "Pasyal ka 'dun minsan!"

Jano and Gie confirmed their sponsorship of videoke rental for Marge's birthday party. It almost gladdened me.

They left at 7. I then cooked our dinner --which was longganisa pasta.

"Lord God, thank You for being there always to bless us, to protect us and to pardon us. Thank you for my achievements today, for the foods we ate today, for Mj and mine's fight today and for the couple's visit. Thanks for the opportunity of having a new friend. Just forgive me of judging him as plastic o user. Please change Mj's attitude. I want her to be calm and submissive. Pardon us. Amen!"

 

June 5, 2006

I woke up with a smile in my face. I got out Hanna from the mosquito net while I was boiling water. We have both sunbathed under the morning sunshine at 7AM.

After breakfast, I started to do a garden plot for sweet corn. I was forced to postpone it due to two reasons --- (1) terrible heat and (2) Hanna Margaret's bathing. I had to assist Mj to bath our baby, who's so mobile.

Ten-thirty, after waiting for a visit, I prepared our lunch--- while doing bamboo racks for Hanna's toys. I have made two. Mj liked it.

Four, I again prepared the plots for eggplant, bell pepper or pechay seedlings. I was waiting for the sunset so I could water the plants. Mj and Hanna were happily conversing and looking at me.

Five-thirty, the sun was already out of sight. I told Mj to buy viand and match. She declined with a grimace. It made me irksome. Thus, while watering the plants, I thought of a way on how to teach her a lesson. I have planned to go to Bautista, but I would only jeopardize the situation. So, I decided not to cook dinner at all. It was already seven when I came up the house. I ate three pieces of Hansel, as my dinner. She did not talk. I pity her not.

I then pursue alphabet letter cutting, and I have made shapes-and-colors mobile, which was made from art papers.

Past nine, I remember that Lassie had not yet fed up. So, I fed her with rice-and-soy-sauce meal.

"Lord, exalt Your name. Thank You for the happiness we felt, for the fulfilled works I have had, for the good health we experienced, for the good weather You gave and for the love we shared to each other. Give us want we need, God, not only tomorrow but every day. Pardon me and Mj. Amen!"

 

June 6, 2006

I had a sleepless night last night. I was pestered by ants. I also was disturbed by so many thoughts of real life.

Yet, I still got up early. Frankly, I was so hungry due to 'dinnerless' evening last night. Thus, I went to the store and bought breads, the fastest way to resolve my problem.

Mj and I were still on war. We did not talk to each other. I did my parts and waited her till she finished her chores before I went to field.

Ten-thirty, after waiting for Calove's or Espinosa's visit, i left the house. I would go to Bautista because Mama told me that June 6 is the birthday of Tito Nonoy. According to her, she will cook for him. I might have viands for us here.

However, when I was in Bautista, I saw Mama downhill. I reckoned it was postponed or something. And it was true.

I could see and learn that Mama was on financial crisis too. She has no money to buy water.

Eleven, I prepared the cashew nuts to be 'adobized' by me. I have cooked it around four-thirty.

Five, I left Bautista. I was with a knapsack of borrowed tools, plants, toys, cloths, sweater and so on, and a plastic bag of reading materials I collected, credentials and whatnot.

Here, after a few minutes of attending Hanna, I talked to Mj about what happened last night. I pulled down the red flag and told her what I have got today.

Five-thirty, I watered the plants. It was already seven when I went up. I hadn't done all I wanted to accumulate today like planting the corn seeds.

"Lord God, thank You for Your name still reigns. Although, today is 060606 or 666-- the number of Your enemy, so as ours, You did not let us fall. you protect us. Thank You for the help. Please, God, give Mama a good and easy life. I want her to live abundantly. Please, tell Jano to prioritize her. Please, bless us tomorrow. We need a visit. We only have P52 on my wallet. Protect our lives always. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen!"

 

June 7, 2006

I had a nice sleep last night. Thus, I got up early--- happily. I started a fire in a jiffy.

After our breakfast of toasted pandesal (in a pan) and coffee, I made two garden plots for the corn seeds. I have made it for almost an hour and a half. But I minded it not because yesterday I saw the sweet corn sprouts in the plot. It made me glad. Seeing your plants grow is such a joy for a farmer like me. It gave me strength and will to plant more.

While resting at nine, Mj and I talked about the possibility of losing the opportunity to join the celebration of Neiczel's first birthday. I said, she must leave today, but she wanted to go on Thursday or Friday. In the end, we agreed upon that we will not go there anymore, and we will just hope for a visit.

After I had cooked "mongo guisado" as our lunch, I started to make door-barrier of Hanna. I've found out that I could do carpentry somehow. In fairness, it's good!

One, while resting, my in-laws arrived to do the grass cutter. I thanked God for it.

Few minutes after Espinosa's arrival, Calove arrived. The house was full-packed and cluttered. But it's okay! I knew they brought something to eat.

The grass cutter was already repaired. Thus, Ka Sonny told me to try it. So, I did! It made me shiver at first. I couldn't control it. But, after two or three voluntary stoppages of the motor, I got it. I was being seen by everybody. It made me conscious. I also had wounded mango tree's bark. Good thing, Ka Sonny has not noticed it.

Tiyo Ruben and I were commanded by Calove to water the coconut trees they newly planted and we planted recently in his brother's lot. It was so hard, but I couldn't decline.

After that job, I also watered the plants in his property. Thanks, God, Tiyo Ruben helped me.

It was already six, when Calove left. My in-laws had left earlier (at 4:35). They left us pancit and breads. They also handed down to Mj our 'sweldo' for June.

Mj and I fought over a piece of unopened banana cake in a plastic. I said, "Don't eat that I might not have breakfast on Friday", and she said, "You're so stingy!" It made me ignite. "I'm not!" What I was trying to say was that I do not want to be hungry because I am working hard here. I told her to be considerate even a little for I am a thin man --who needs healthy food. Is that hard to understand?

Thus, we did not talk to each other---- again!

I made colorful art paper numbers for Margaret's learning. I want her to be an intelligent girl.

"Lord God, praise Your holy name. Thank You for their visit. Thank You for all the things happened today. Thank You for the strength and vigor You bestowed me. Thank You for I have learned to operate the grass cutter. Thank You for the healthy plants I planted. Thank You for forgiveness. Bless us again, Oh, God. Pardon me and Mj. Amen!"

 

June 8, 2006

One AM, I was still awake due to something like-insects bothering my sleep. My right ear was sounding. It made me uneasy and sleepless.

Five, I got up. I knew Calove would be here today to pursue grass cutting. I wanted to cultivate my veggies so that he would easily notice them. But half an hour ago, he came with Tiyo Ruben and Tiftif. They brought pandesal, banana, Cheese Whiz, and sliced bread. It surprised me. Thus, I immediately started saving my plants from being cut by the cutter.

Seven-thirty, he commanded us to water the coconut trees in his brother's lot. It was a separate job that needs extra pay. But it's okay.

I have killed a finger-sized 'sawa' on the way through Ka Eddie's lot.

We worked though the sun rays were terrible. Calove wanted intently to finish the grass cutting.

They go home at exactly eleven. Mj and Hanna came with them. Good thing, they left me unopened sliced bread and opened bread spread. These would be my lunch today.

I rested after they were gone. However, ants were biting me so I couldn't sleep well. Thus, I got up and refreshed myself. Then I did something new. I did cement work in our CR. I could see the nice outcome while doing it. Then, I pursued Hanna's door barrier. Later, I washed the crib, the boots, and my sandals. Finally, I did field works and waterworks.

I realized that even my 'mag-ina' were not around I could still not rest all day. I am busier when they're not here.

Night. I diversified into electrical. I opened our tower fan to clean and be dusted. I found out that the dust was so thick. I reckon, the age of the fan. I did a tremendous cleaning. In fact, my nostrils turned black. I spent more than two hours on it. But it's okay. At least, we could now be free from cough that might be caused by it.

Only this nine-forty PM, I remember that it was exactly one month now when I first sleep here alone. The only difference was that we've already moved in.

Prayer Concern Tonight: Successful birthday celebration tomorrow and economical marketing by me tomorrow, as well.

 

June 9, 2006

I got up early-- at 5. And I lay down again till six.

Today is Neizcel's first birthday. On this day too, is Aileen's birthday. And, this moment, my batch mates were preparing for our 4th Alumni Homecoming ---which for the first time I couldn't attend or join.

I've done my chores at 8:30 and at 9, I left the house hurriedly. I kept all the things red spot to the thieves.

Ten and something, I was already in Bautista. I told Mama that she will be fetched on Saturday. She gave me 1 kilo of rice to be ground for Hanna.

Eleven, I was marketing in Gate 2. I bought two cans of Alaska so that I could start my business.

Twelve, I arrived at Espinosa's residence. When Mj asked me if I closed the door, I remember, I haven't, but I said 'Of course!" in a jiffy. It made me nervous and uneasy. I announced to her that I would go home at two.

Two, I left their house. They tried to stop me but I still went on. I knew it was supposed to be a special opportunity, but I thought nervously of our dwellings. Robbers might spot it open.

Three, I got angry secretly due to a very long wait. The jeepney driver waited so long to full-pack his vehicle.

Four-thirty, I arrived home. I thanked God for nothing has gone. I thought if i will tell it to Mj or not.

I, then pursue Hanna's door-barrier. It was my first time to put 'bisagra' or to use it in carpentry. However, it turned out fine.

Seven, I cooked yema. I did it till eleven. I would not mention how hard and how sleepy I was while doing it. Also, I realized that cutting the plastics was wrong. Thus, the yema came out or squeezed. Therefore, my supposed income was considered reject.

I slept besides the yema. I haven't prayed due to tiredness and sleepiness.

 

June 10, 2006

I wonder why even though I was all alone in this house, I still rise early. I could not do "sleeping-all-day".

Today is our official one-month anniversary of living in here. It's been so fast.

In one month stay here, we already adjusted ourselves in everything. We were only three, yet we survived from those boring days.

In one month stay, I have already planted several veggies and ornamental plants, I have already cultivated the trees, I have beautified the surroundings, I have tried carpentry, masonry, culinary, agriculture, etc, and I have already fenced the lot with 'cacaote' trees.

In our one month stay here, Mj and I underwent already in ups and downs: in sadness and happiness and in war and peace.

Although, we were only receiving P2000 per month, I could say that it's okay. at least, we're now on our own. Hanna Margaret will grow that we're together.

The only bad side here is that we are turning "negro at Negra." Maybe, it's due to terrible heat or due to the water coming from the well.

Today, I could see the outcomes of my hardships. The squashes are already crawling. The 'sigarilyas' started to creep. The carabao grasses were spreading. The sweet corns grow faster. The 'monggos' were all healthy and sturdy. I've cultivated few chili peppers and eggplants. The ornamental plants started to live their lives here. Haay! What can I ask for? TV? Hmp! Ref?!

Flor came to borrow P300 from me. According to her Tai-Jen we're moneyless. I gave her immediately. She left afterwards with my yema amounting to P140. Her income will be P10.

I did not cook rice. I only eat sandwiches. Mj did not arrive, that's why.

Two when they arrived. Tai-Jen and Yoshimi were with them. They brought things from our house----cashew, santol, dresses, blocks, carpet and many more, while my in-laws brought mineral water and foods.

Taiwan's reaction about our house was that it's small and we are just playing 'Bahay-bahayan'. That's true! But it's better to have a small one than nothing at all.

"Lord God, thank You for You're so great and kind. Thank You for this house. Thank You for the opportunity of doing a micro-business. Please, bless it. Bless Taiwan and his family. Give them their dreams. Please, God, help me in raising my vegetables. Make it fruitful and productive. Help me in watering and all of my duties here. Please, fatten Hanna in her new drinks, which is 'boiled-ground-rice-and-formula-milk'. Pardon us, in Jesus' name. Amen!"

 

June 11, 2006

For the first time in history, we all three woke up at seven. however, it made me worried that I might not do all my chores before sunshine becomes prickly.

At nine, I have done everything I wanted to do. I have also watered the plants in Calove's brother's lot.

Four, I got back to the field. There, I have transplanted few of my bell pepper and eggplant seedlings. I also planted seven cashew seedlings, which were given by Mama.

Six, I cooked our dinner. While doing it, I pulverized carabao's manures. I also burned some of them like 'katol' I found out that it was smoky. It's good!

"Lord Jesus, bless Your holy name. I thank You for everything. Thank You for Hanna liked her new am-milk drink. I wish it will make her healthy and chubby. Bless us tomorrow through Calove's brother. Forgive me. Amen!"

 

June 12, 2006

Today is 108th Philippine Independence Day. I could still remember the 100th. Jano, Rodea and I went to Luneta Park where thousands of Filipinos celebrated the centennial year of our freedom from the foreigners. we watched free concert of unknown bands in Roxas Boulevard. Then, we danced and slammed with them till the end.

Also, this day is Polot's vespera of Saint Anthony De Padua Feast. I wonder what Efear was doing and how he celebrates it.

Today, also is the day when Mj loses her calmness. She became high-pitched when I called her to tell her something important. She forgot that I was the one who was more tired than her because I watered the plants plus Eddie's coconuts, not to mention the heat I was feeling. I told her, "What if we exchange positions." So that she would know how it feels to be shouted without reason at all.

Thus, I did not talk to her. She must be sorry and apologize.

I started reading "Ang Ating Pang-Araw-Araw na Pagkain" or "Our Daily Bread" in English. I have read today about a good teacher. The writer used Titus 2:7 and said that a good mentor not only knows how to get there.

Tonight, after our supper, I started Hanna Margaret's scrapbook. However, due to material scarcity, I had to leave it unfinished. But I’m hoping to realize it soon.

"Lord God, bless Your holy name. Thank You for strengthening me. Bless us always. Give us what we really need. Make us grow even we are here in suburb area. Pardon me, so as Mj. Amen!"

 

June 13, 2006

I woke up early to start the beautiful day. I cooked pasta for breakfast. After eating it, I set myself in doing my usual chores.

Mj and I were still in warzone. I was waiting for her to apologize.

Nine, I was done. I prepared avocado to be eaten by us. I gave Mj but she did not take it. Thus, I got it back. I knew she likes it most. After a few seconds... boom! We're talking to each other again, as simple as that.

Two, after having a nap, I re-do the makeshift kitchen outside/ downstairs. Before, it was like a squatter's kitchen. Now, I don't know. But I could say that it turned out nice.

Three-something, Mj directed me to cook adobo cashew. So, I prepared for it. Unfortunately, I have accidentally chopped my finger. It was so hurt. Yet, I still pursued it. We both love cashew nuts.

"Lord God, thank You for being there for us. Thank You for the uncountable blessings. Bless us always, Lord. Bless Sia's Family. Bless, Mama, Taiwan, Jano and Flor. Keep us away from harm, sickness, accident, or bad elements. Forgive us. Amen!"

 

June 14, 2006

From the time of waking-up till the time I had to stop working due to tremendous sun rays., I was actively working--- nonstop. I would stop to see Hanna. It's so nice to see your daughter while you're working. It was the brighter side of our lives here. I could attend Hanna while doing chores.

While doing my routines, I was thinking of our next menus. I was so worried that I might fail to budget our P500 weekly allowance. I must not exceed at that amount. It was so hard for me to budget a very unreasonable budget.

We're supposed to do marketing on Friday (July 16) but today, I found out that we are already out of stock. Therefore, I must spend more than the allocated budget. Besides, buying our viands at the sari-sari store nearby was killing us. Their 'panindas' were so expensive.

Past twelve, I left the house. I went to Bautista. There, Flor remits P100 and three packs of yema. Mama told me that tomorrow is Taiwan's 'sahod' day. So, I could have my P300 back. That's not really my intent. I was there for my yema. I wanted to know if it was doing better. Unfortunately, it wasn't. It disappoints me.

Past three, I left Bautista. I went all the way to Veterans for marketing purpose. Lani doesn't know me, at first. She asked me why, I was so thin, like what Mama had asked me too. She then learned about our lives there. As a result, she offered me to sell my products to her. It gladdens me.

Thus, when I arrived home, I water the veggies in a jiffy. I would love them much more now that I have a buyer.

Night, while we're taking our dessert, I told Mj about what Mama had told me about her proposal. The latter wanted a simultaneous celebration of Hanna Margaret's first birthday and Yoshimi's christening. But it wasn’t... If I could say it.

Then, I taught Mj how to make a paper stars.

Prayer Concern Tonight: Tai-Jen married life success and happiness.

 

June 15, 2006

Last night, the rain fell. I must be thankful to God that I would not water the plants today.

Last night, I mean, a while ago (It was 2 AM), I was wide-awake. I was thinking of something. Thus, it made me sleepless. I had to drink milk just to fall asleep.

However, I woke up early in lieu of sleeping up to 'sawa.' I had to make garden plots for my seedlings.

Today, we've been happy and contented in terms of food I have cooked adobo cashew, pork less tofu adobo and pasta. However, this six, when I saw our makeshift kitchen which is secreting rainfalls, I pity myself. I could remember our condition in Polot. Then, I spoke my grievances to Mj, which was supposed to be intended for Calove.

Then, while making paper stars, I asked Mj if she really wants to go abroad. She replied, "Oo, na parang ayaw." I told her again what good future for the three of us waiting if she will determine herself. In the end, I offered myself to be her companion in Canada. She will see, she said.

"Lord God, thank You for You're always there for guidance. Thank You Lord for the rain, food, happiness and fulfilment today. Lord God, bless us. Please, I want to know if Calove is really willing to give us easiness in life here. Please, give him a sense of kindness, understanding and gallantry. Please, help Mj in deciding whether she will go abroad or not. Please, touch Kuya Nick's heart to help her. Pardon me for I forgot that You are always to guide us. Amen!"

 

June 16, 2006

Quarter to six, I got up. The fogs outside were so low. I thanked God that I would not water the plants this morning due to rainfalls last night. Thus, I only made garden plot for my eggplant and bell pepper seedlings.

Tomorrow is Hanna Margaret's 11th month birthday. I could say that she's exactly what she must be.

We taught her today how to cry (without tears, huh). If you command her to 'cry', she will wrinkle her eyebrows as if she is really crying.

We wanted her to be an actress. So, she must learn how to act.

Twelve-fifteen, my in-laws surprisingly arrived. They haven't had a lunch. So, they cooked viand in a jiffy.

Immaculata couple was the sponsor of their or of our food. Me-Ann cooked spaghetti.

Three-fifteen, they left us. They left us with left-over food such as pork chops, spaghetti, cream, spaghetti noodles, spaghetti sauce, Bicol Express and alamang and meat loaf. Mj and I were blessed again. We have had also drinking water.

Then, Hanna and I took asleep till five. I watered the plants afterwards.

"Lord God, praise Your name. Thank You for sacrificing Your life for us. Thank You for the blessings. Thank You for the speedy days. Tomorrow is my little baby's birthday. I wish Mama will be here. Bless us in Jesus' name, I pray. Amen!"

 

June 17, 2006

For the second time, I woke up very late at 7. However, it doesn't matter. I would not water the plants today.

I greeted Hanna a Happy 11th Month Birthday.

Today, we're celebrating our baby's birthday. I cooked spaghetti and rice cake. Alas! No one visited us here. They could have tasted my cooking. My spaghetti was super-yummy. In fact, it made me go thrice in our CR, today, due to its sauce which has a cream on it. It might be due to a creamy chocolate-sauce of the rice cake.

All in all, I was so happy, today. I could see development on Marge's physiques and brain. She could now understand English command like 'lay down', 'give it to me,' 'cry,' etc. She's jolly and hyperactive. I just wish she will have a crowning glory.

Prayer Concern, tonight: Hanna's upcoming first birthday celebration and my house in Polot.

 

June 18, 2006

Again, I got up at seven. yet, it's okay that I would not have to boil water for our milk because I already did it last night.

Eight, after letting Mj do her usual chores, I went to the field. I never thought that Mj was mad at me. So nine, I discover that she felt anger towards me due to what I said hours ago. I ate avocado with Hanna but she's still quiet. Thus, I let her be.

The afternoon was so warm, I couldn't sleep.

Four, while I was doing cashew chopping, Mj talked to me. She told me the reason of her irksome it was that I told her that she only knew sex.

Eight while eating the "adobong kasoy, Mj gave me a note, greeting me a "Happy Fathers' Day'. Her message doesn't vary from her past messages, notes, or letters. She's asking for apology. But, still doing it again ---all over again, again and again and again.

"Lord God, praise Your kindness and sacrifices. Exalt Your name on high. Thank You for everything from food to water, from good health to safety, from happiness to fun. Bless us always. Please, take away the disturbing thought of Polot or my house in Polot, in my mind. Pardon us. Amen!"

 

June 19, 2006

Today is seems-to-be a 'nakakatamad' day. We all got up at seven after sleeping back.

I still watered the plants though it drizzled last night. I think they were not enough to fatten my plants.

Mj told me that Hanna's milk is good for tomorrow morning.

Two PM, while resting and letting little Hanna fall asleep, Mj opened up. She suggested that what if we will not make baby Marge's first birthday party a grandeur. She means, we'll make it simple --with clowns. I disagree. We ended up in misunderstanding. In one hour, we didn't talk to each other. Then, she agreed with me. I told her that the money that her uncles will be sent to us is exclusively for Hanna and not for an appliance, she wished to be bought. The money will be used all for Hanna. I strongly told her that I will never ever take any centavo for my personal use. I merely want to give her the best birthday party a rich father can give, although I have no money to do it.

"Lord God, thank You for Your gift of life. Thank You for giving our li'l baby. Thank You for giving her good health and hyperactivity. God, make her a smart girl. And help me in my daily chores. Protect me always. Make my plants healthy and insect-free. Forgive us in our sins. Amen!"

 

June 20, 2006

I tried to get up before seven. So, I did. Eight, however, I was doing my chores.

Ten, after taking a rest, I cooked, for the first time, 'puto'. Mj was delighted to the result. It was so yummy. Thus, we're determined to have 'puto' in Hanna's upcoming arty.

Then, three, I cooked pancakes, for the first time (again). The taste was so good. In fact, Hanna liked it. The only problem was we have no 'shansi'. I decided to include 'pancakes' in July 16 celebration's menu.

The whole day has been so colorful for the three of us. We bonded in my foods.

"Praise Your name, oh Lord. Thanks for the cooking talent You gave me. Thank You for the happiness due to the foods You prepared for us. Thank You for the hope. Bless us tomorrow, Oh Lord. Continuously, provide us with our basic needs. Then, help me in budgeting and please, let me have a savings though we are facing in a great crisis due to a loose budget. Bless Mama, her siblings, my friends, my in-laws and may relatives. Protect us all and forgive our sins. Amen!"

 

June 21, 2006

I was so lazy when I got up. I must be thankful to God that it drizzles. So, I don't have to water the plants. He penalized me then. He didn't permit me to make a fire. The result? We did not have hot milk in our breakfast.

'Milklessness' in the morning made me irritable.

Eleven, Caloves arrived. I now have seen Ka Sonny's brother and sis-in-law. They stayed for ten or fifteen minutes only. Tita Lo gave us bag of goodies. It consists of used brassieres, used clothes, Spam, Nescafe in glass, instant noodles, chocolate wafer and candies. She also gave us P100. We're blessed today. It was an answered prayer.

Past 12, I left home to do a marketing job. But I went first to Bautista.

There, I packed up the things I own-- which are my collections. Then, I shredded santol.

Mama left me alone. Thus, I have had a chance to talk to Rodea. It's been a very long talk. We almost tackled all--from personal to rumors, serious and not. I couldn't still resist myself not to converse with her. I could say that it's because she's fun, witty, and time-consuming. Thus, we have consumed two and a half hours -- at least with a sense. I had promised her, too, to help in asking Mj to give her a mini-skirt and a dress for her ''GRO-rial career".

Past five when I left Bautista. I was so worried that MJ was worrying too.

Six, I had finished marketing job in Veterans. I thought I have bought everything we needed for two weeks.

Mj hit my head to her anger. But it was okay. It's my fault.

I then quickly cooked and did my evening chores. We had our supper at eight and something.

Prayer Concern, tonight: The stoppage of Bulusan Volcano's eruption and safety of the Bicolanos.

 

June 22, 2006

Although, I have only five hours sleep, I woke up very early at 5:30 AM. I cooked pancakes for breakfast. Then, I started the day by tilling the ground and making plots.

My whole day was as happy as yesterday. I enjoyed the life of a father. I could attend Hanna Margaret in all of her activities.

"Lord God, forgive me for I didn't pray last night."

 

June 23, 2006

Six-thirty, I woke up and cooked 'puto' for the second time. It was yummy, milky, huh! I also tried 'rice puto'. It wasn't perfect but I reckon I've got it!

Past eleven, while cooking, Mj and I had a misunderstanding about planning on how many viands we must cook for upcoming banquet. She wanted three but I only want two, so that we could think of other menu which is really for kids. She's thinking of 'Maiuuwi ng sinuman.' I said, it will be a party. So, we must feed them, not give something to take out. In the end, she agreed upon me.

After lunch, we continue the written planning. I was using food magazines, recipe booklets and other to search and choose best recipes to be included in the party. We're finished by three.

Five, I told Mj to take over the cooking, that I usually do from the very start. And she followed me. It was my joke, in fact. I taught her how to fire timbers. She did it. And, she has cooked the rice, dried fish and am. I kid her that I did it so that I could leave her for at least a day or two.

After dinner, we continue planning.

Prayer Concern, tonight: Success of my plans.

 

June 24, 2006

I woke up early due to Hanna's early waking up for milk. I then cooked macaroni-beef soup.

Past 8, when I water the plants because I let Mj to wash clothes.

Today is "San Juan Day." I remember Papa.

All day, I spent my time thinking and planning for Hanna's upcoming party. There were times Mj and I clashed due to wrong ideas and thoughts to each other. Yet, we're happy all day long. It was after supper when we fought due to her foolishness in fire and in cooking.

Prayer Concern, tonight: Success of my planting efforts and endeavors.

 

June 25, 2006

I cooked 'puto' at six. Mj and I still didn't talk to each other. I did my job. She did hers, till I was eating our lunch (pansit canton with camote tops). She talked to me due to the menu.

It rains this morning. I thanked God for I wouldn't water the plants anymore.

Three, I went to Bautista. There, I told Mama that we badly need the P300 they owe me. They have no money. Instead, Jano gave me, after a few sermons.

I left Bautista at past 5PM with bag of pants, foods given by Mam and Jano and many more.

All in all, I was glad and contented.

Prayer Concern, tonight: The realization of banquet in Novaliches, in which Mama and I will be the cook and helper, respectively.

 

June 26, 2006

I got up early. I then fried the left-over rice and 'tuyo'.

Before our breakfast, Mj and I fought over a childish reason ----again! So, we're quiet till Espinosa's arrived.

Tiyo Roming and Lusi were with them. I've learned that they're fleeing from a possible capture due to their support to the NPAs.

They left at 12. Then, I planted two banana trees in Tito Jun's lot. After it, Mj and I sew the 'luna' for our sala, not to mention how we talked to each other for peace.

Today, I have accomplished so many such as bag, made from old pants: and a hanging lampshade, made up of floral cloth and bamboo. They're nice!

Prayer Concern, tonight: Realization of our kitchen.

 

June 27, 2006

Every morning is seeming to be an exciting day for me. I'm so excited to Hanna Margaret's upcoming first birthday. Every hour seems to be so long for me. In fact, I was doing a calendar countdown.

Although, my thought is busy in planning, I still manage to do my usual chores. in fact, I've discovered this dusk that a mango tree has a flower. I have also transplanted other plants. Then, I was starting anew the scrap book of Baby Marge--- which was more beautiful and looks expensive.

Six, I was fascinated that Hanna could recognize and pronounce 'carabao'. She says 'bao', pointing to it. Smart girl!

Prayer Concern, tonight: Less and minimal expenses to be spent on our baby's party.

 

June 28, 2006

I happily started the day by doing kitchen works before undertaking the field works.

Ten, I cooked our lunch.

One, I was resting. I couldn't sleep because Hanna Margaret was playing.

Quarter to three, I prepared hot cakes, our recent favorite food. Then, I did my usual chores in the field after I had cooked our supper. I also beautified our surroundings by planting ornamental plants. I took a rest at six thirty.

"Praise Your name, Oh, Lord. Thank You for everything You've given us--- good health, so-so wealth, happy life and never-ending safety and protection. Thank You for I had already planned the menus, programs, games, and what-not for Hanna's upcoming party. God, please, make it spectacular and grandeur one. Help me in expressing my gratitude to the people who helped us all the way. Please, pursue the making of our kitchen. Forgive our sins. Amen!"

 

June 29, 2006

Quarter to six, I cooked pancakes for breakfast. Hanamishi liked it so much.

Nine, I told Mj what I was feeling. My vision was blurred, especially the far sights. I reckon, I'm now a far-sighted blind. She joked that it was due to a natural physical phenomenon for the aging man.

Eleven, I was cooking our lunch. Twelve, I announced that I was going to Bautista. One, I left the house. Mj was so worried that I might be late.

On the way, I met Ivan. (I named him Ivan because he has a van). He asked me if I knew how to drive because his friend was looking for a family driver, with a salary of P7000/month. Alas! We had also talked about my salary here in Calove's property. I told him a white lie. I could see his willingness to help me out of this low-paying boss.

Two, I was in Bautista. Jano was there. I then related our conversation a while ago. He declined and recommended Jun Baka.

We cooked hotcakes there. After eating, I secretly told mama about my problem. Thus, she ran out to the store to owe Hanna's milk and diapers and our basic needs. It totaled to P179.

Four-thirty, I went home with those goods. I also have bihon guisado, piece of maja and pancakes for my mag-ina. Mj was so happy with it.

After dinner, Mj and I pursue the making of Hanna Margaret's scrapbook. I did the design and the captions to be written and she did the writing.

Nine, I was so sleepy. I didn't know if I thanked God before I have fallen asleep.

 

June 30, 2006

I got up early though my body wanted to lie down still. Then, I cooked 'puto' for our breakfast.

Mj and I were expecting for a visit. They promised to start our kitchen here. However, eleven o'clock ticked but they're not yet visible. Thus, I cooked our lunch.

Two-thirty, I made 'pulvoron'. It's yummy despite of being milkless and margarineless. In fact, Hobee liked it.

Today, I have done several things. I was pursuing the scrapbook and doing letter-cuttings for Baby Marge's birthday banner.

Prayer Concern, tonight: Espinosa's visit tomorrow.