tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90258744244679421392024-03-19T16:06:26.910+03:003 Mini Ladies and a Mommyour life as an expat family in Qatar; teachings and learnings we share with each other as we grow as a familyMy Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-28127281769552117842016-02-18T10:52:00.002+03:002016-02-18T10:52:42.811+03:00Manny Pacquiao and the same sex marriage controversy he stirred<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's been two days since Manny Pacquiao sparked the same sex marriage controversy and it's been eating me up ever since. Not that they LGBT community really stopped from fighting for their rights, it's just that I guess when someone of the same stature as Manny Pacquiao verbalizes his/her stand pro or against, it would surely cause a stir. And then it made me think... and I've been thinking since then! LOL! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ok, allow me to express myself in Tag-lish (Tagalog-English) so I can better express how I really feel. To me personally, I feel there are 2 critical questions I need to look deep into myself and see how I stand. First, will I be turning back on my faith if I support LGBT rights, and second, what if one of my girls turned out to be gay? Does that make her less of a daughter to me? Will I disown her? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm not really an avid bible reader, so I just take those bible quotes on my FB, Twitter and Instagram like a grain of salt. But then again, I don't think that makes me less of a Catholic. And I specifically say Catholic because I observe a very big difference between Catholics and Born Again Christians. On my personal observation, Catholics are more practical in terms of their faith compared to the "Christians" who are more into the bible and their interpretations. So ok, the question on would I be turning back on my faith if I support the LGBT rights. I don't think so. Because I wouldn't even call it supporting LGBT, I believe I am supporting basic human rights. It just so happened that there is the term "LGBT rights" maybe they should really just stop calling it that, just call it human rights na lang. If you ask me personally, I would really be happier in an ideal world where men are for women and marriage is between a man and a woman. Kaso hindi nga ganon e. I mean as a Catholic that is what I believe in. But then again, who am I to force my beliefs on others. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but then no one is entitled to judge others. Ok, with regard to the "same-sex marriage", I don't support it, but I don't think I have the right to condemn it. Ang sa akin lang, hindi naman nila kasi push to get married in church. Civil wedding naman kasi ang pinag-uusapan dito, so di ba it's really just a piece of paper that a person gives equal rights to his/her partner as a spouse. Kasi bakit nga ba ang hindi? Like for example there's a gay couple na tinakwil ng pamilya nila, sinumpa even. That for the rest of their lives they never ever saw their families again. Who kahit gaano kahirap ang pinagdaanan nila is tiniis sila and for lack of a better expression "tinuring na silang patay". Yan ganyan ka-dramatic. So there maraming ganyan di ba? So to continue the teleserye, this gay couple, nagsikap and all and became successful, with no support from their families. They were really able to acquire properties and all. For example yung isa talaga yung mas magaling, and the other was the "supportive spouse", then this successful spouse died. Suddenly hala, all the family that disowned them in the past, they're all back to take everything. Since, they are the "legal" heirs. Kasi nga the other partner does not have any right under the law. So di ba? makatarungan ba yon? Matapos n'yo apihin at itakwil, now naman kakamkamin n'yo ang pinaghirapan nila with no support whatsover from you? Di ba? Yon lang naman ang sa akin. And I believe that's a basic human right. Yung maging patas ang batas para sa kanila. So I am not even talking about "sex" at all. Which I think is yon ang mga pinaglalaban ni Manny Pacquiao. Again, in that regard, I as a Catholic also don't subscribe to woman to woman romantic relationship, kaya nga lalaki pinakasalan ko di ba? But then my religion is my religion, my faith is my faith and I will not force it on other people's throats. Sa akin yon e. Whatever I do, tama man o mali pananagutan ko yon to my God. I am not going to justify it to any other person acting holier than thou. Not even to the priests. Priests are also just human. I respect them and honor them as leaders of my church, but I will not revere to them as I revere to God. So yes, by accepting LGBT and LGBT legal rights , I don't think I am turning away from my faith or my religion. I am giving them equal respect as human beings because I believe that is what God expects me to do as a human being. And that statement from Manny Pacquiao about being "worse than animals" is abhorrent. I guess if not for that hindi naman ako magiging sobrang affected. It's really just so low and I just can't accept living and raising my girls in a spiteful world. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now talking about my girls, what if anyone of them turned out to be gay? Of course, I will not deny it, will sadden me. But it will definitely NOT break my heart. I love my girls too much and whatever, whoever they are, I can accept (oh no that's not true, I already told them drugs, theft and murder are non-negotiable). Hindi naman kasi ako naniniwala that if they turn out to be gay e masisira ang buhay nila. Even if may anak akong lalaki, I am 100% sure ok lang din sa kin kung bading. It will not make him less of a person. Ang dami kayang gay na successful. Just so long as they continuously aspire to be the best version of themselves, whatever that may be, go! And sa mga kabataan na gay, specially those in their teens, sana lang don't use society's unacceptance as an excuse for you to not to strive hard and reach for your dreams, to be the best that you can be. Because at the end of the day, kahit gaano pa man kayaman or ka-powerful ang mga taong kagaya ni Manny Pacquiao, pareho lang ang lasa ng fried chicken natin. Pareho din lang ang amoy ng utot natin. At wag sila tatanggi, once in their lives umutot na rin sila in public! Sus! Chura! Makapagsalita akala mo hindi nagkasala sa tanang buhay n'ya! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Anyway, on a lighter note, bakit naman kasi same-sex marriage ang tawag don? Alam n'yo naman sa Pinas di ba "sex" is always taboo, para bang napakalaking kasalanan sa D'yos ang sex, whereas it's just part and parcel of life. Tawagin na lang kaya kasing "same-gender" marriage. Pagdating kasi sa mga ganyan, conservative talaga mga Pinoy e. Hindi maiaalis that there is a negative connotation on anything that has "sex" stamped on it. Oh well... what can we do. I believe it will take eons before the Philippines will finally be able to pass any all on the matter. Paano naman kasi, the Philippine government is run by politicians not public servants. Their biggest fear is loosing the more popular vote so.. yeah. Let's not even go there. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-11276521825253536392015-11-22T16:20:00.001+03:002015-11-22T16:20:12.929+03:00The Bane to our Savings: Kids and Birthdays!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhLJuxdRj8D_J-8rDxXtsgfLSeW0t1ggM-8C-0mWJ7GwiNHSBvHMlvZsMGNtdeDEksKzarWZCwTgggk-kqDF79Lfz1d_lKCxEzsA6g1tau_6gc_cEdsjsRrhRhtZJq95xLF6E6LDQ0sKF/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-11-22+at+4.16.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhLJuxdRj8D_J-8rDxXtsgfLSeW0t1ggM-8C-0mWJ7GwiNHSBvHMlvZsMGNtdeDEksKzarWZCwTgggk-kqDF79Lfz1d_lKCxEzsA6g1tau_6gc_cEdsjsRrhRhtZJq95xLF6E6LDQ0sKF/s400/Screen+Shot+2015-11-22+at+4.16.07+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Source</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's almost the year again and it's time to reassess where we are in terms of our financial accomplishments. Again, it's the same feeling. It's this tummy-wrenching feeling that we haven't really accomplished much, if not nothing at all. I've always been good at savings, on a month to month basis -- yes! And it pains me to see that at the end of the year, I can't seem to see where all those savings went. I mean on a month by month I am able to save 15-20% of our salary, it works to our advantage that my salary is split in 2 each month, 1st and 16th of the month. And then the Expat Daddy's salary arrives on the third week sometime the 24th to the 26th. So we are really able to manage our finances well, we were able to plan it very well that we are able to incorporate our savings into our budget. We kinda operate on a 0 budget monthly, which means that our income less our expenses equals to 0 at the end of the month, so if you look at it simply, its income - expenses = 0. Under expenses includes all loan payments and savings. After doing it for a few years now, I somehow know already where our money goes and find that a 15-20% savings goal is actually achievable. But then where do they go? How come at the end of the year, it feels like we haven't really accomplished anything? So I started analyzing our budget again and found that birthdays are the biggest culprit! And this events occur at the second half of the year. So all efforts made in the first half were also then wiped out altogether. Do you remember about my post on our Little Oyen's 7th Birthday? It cost us about 3-4 months of our savings. LO's birthday was in June. Then it was the Expat Daddy's turn on July, our wedding anniversary in August, my birthday in September, our Small Ate's in October, our Big Ate's in November and then eventually it's Christmas in December. So in short we are able to save only for 5 months into the year and then we wipe it all out in the next 7 months!!!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And then there are the kids unplanned expenses. Mostly to do with unplanned extra curricular activities. Like our Big Ate would want to attend an art class, or our Small Ate wanting to do violin lessons. or the two smaller ones wanting to take Mad Science classes. All this piles up really. And these are not cheap. At an average it costs about $300 per program of about 4-8 weeks. These were all outside of our regular budget. So where did we get the money to pay for these? Well it looks like from our savings. Or to be accurate me replace our savings item in the budget to these costs to keep our 0 budget plan monthly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So I don't know, do we consider these wants? Do we consider these luxury? I think we are threading a very thin gray line here. Well for others these may seem to be a cut out unnecessary expense, but for me I somehow think I need to invest on my children's growth as a total person, looking at not just academic excellence but also in other fields. I guess it would be easier to decide if we don't have the money to spend for these things. But the problem lies in the fact that there are funds to dip in to. And birthdays and anniversaries and Christmases are important too right? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am not even talking about our travels, because thankfully that is provided for by my company. Every year I receive an annual airfare allowance that we can use to fund our travels. But then if you really are going to be strict about it it's about almost a million pesos we blow away on travels. It's a windfall that could have been used for investments or savings. But then again, it isn't mine alone. This is an allowance for the whole family and so everybody has got a say how we spend it. Although somehow I was able to use some of the money for debt repayment and modesty aside I was able in full a 10 year mortgage in 3 years, from the airfare allowance and from other sources. It's still an achievement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But then when I think about it, it's not enough. We can do more. And I believe I owe it to our family to do better. I will. I will. I will.</span><br />
<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-71151514204144012272015-11-16T11:50:00.001+03:002015-11-16T11:50:55.275+03:00Embrace Equality, Embrace PeaceJust want to share this post I made on my FB account. Just my 2 cents. no judgement, no hate please. Sabi ko nga, naisip ko lang.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.4667px; text-align: left; widows: 1;">Disclaimer: unconventional thought. no hate. no judgement. </span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/naisipkolang?source=feed_text&story_id=10206183592282679" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.4667px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; widows: 1;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl" style="color: #627aad;">#</span><span class="_58cm">naisipkolang</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.4667px; text-align: left; widows: 1;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.4667px; text-align: left; widows: 1;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.4667px; text-align: left; widows: 1;">I just think ang problema ng mundo is that masyado itong maraming ipinaglalaban which brings chaos. Kung ano-anong fight for equality. But then, why do we have to fight for those? I mean, when you "fight" for your convictions, why do you have to shove it in other people's throats? Bakit kailangan ipilit. It's just ironic to me that when you talk about equality it always comes after the word "fight". </span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.4667px; text-align: left; widows: 1;">So how can you achieve that when your means to it is to "fight"? HIndi ba dapat embrace equality? Practice tolerance? Kung ano man paniniwala mo, irerespeto ko, pero wag mo ipilit sa akin na paniwalaan ko rin. Magrespetohan tayo. Kung Katoliko ako, hayaan mong maniwala akong ang kasal ay para sa babae at lalaki. Tinatanggap naman kita kahit iba ang paniniwala mo e, kung lalaki ka at gusto mo pakasalan ang kapwa mo lalaki (or babae), ok din sa akin yon. Kaibigan kita, kamag-anak kita, mahal kita ano man paninniwala mo. Wag lang pumatay ng tao ha! Wag mo na lang ipilit sa akin, magkaiba tayo e. The same way kung sa palagay mo ang mga animals ay hindi for human consumption. Ok, paniniwala mo yon e. Tanggap ko rin yon. Pero hayaan mo na ako kumain ng lechon at steak. Kung gusto ko maglagay ng Christmas decor at batiin ang mga kapwa ko Krisyano ng Merry Christmas, hayaan mo na lang din ako wag mo na naman ipilit sa akin na palitan yon ng Happy Holidays. Holiday din ang Independence Day. Iba yon. Binabati rin naman kita ng Eid Mubarak e. Hindi rin ako kumakain sa publiko kapag Ramadan. Dito ako nakatira sa Middle East, nakita mo ba ako nagsuot ng malaswang damit? Hindi di ba? At yan din ang itinuturo ko sa mga anak ko, ang irespeto ang relihiyon at kulturang Muslim. Hindi na nila kasi kailangan dapat ipaglaban yon. Mababait sila. Maniwala ka sa akin. Binigyan nga kami dito sa Qatar ng lupa para magtayo ng simbahan e. Naku kung makikita mo lang ang security sa simbahan nung Byernes para lang maprotektahan ng mga pulis kaming mga sumisimba. So di ba? tinanggap nila kami bilang Katoliko, bilnag Kristyano. Kaya sa palagay ko, ang equality, hindi yon ipinaglalaban hindi yon pinupwersa. Isinasapuso yon. Isinasagawa. And that's the only way para magkaron tayo ng kapayapaan at katahimikan.<a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/embraceequality?source=feed_text&story_id=10206183592282679" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl" style="color: #627aad;">#</span><span class="_58cm">embraceequality</span></a> <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/embracepeace?source=feed_text&story_id=10206183592282679" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl" style="color: #627aad;">#</span><span class="_58cm">embracepeace</span></a></span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-40876343379697922582015-06-09T11:07:00.002+03:002015-06-09T15:01:12.947+03:00LO's 7th Birthday, Pinoy Fiesta: Part 1 - Planning<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
Oh no! This is not good. So so not good! Our Little Oyen will be turning 7 on Philippine Independence Day, June 12 and since it's her 7th, it is a "family tradition" to prepare a big party for her. We did that too with our Ate's. And right now, I'm getting stressed. Well, not really stressed in the preparations, but stressed in the costs we are incurring! Goodness, I didn't expect it to be so expensive! Well, I knew we are going to spend some good money for the party, but what I didn't expect is that it will go waaayyyyy beyond the budget. Times had really changed. It's mostly my fault really. I mean with LO, she wouldn't really mind what kind of party we hold for her. I guess that's the advantage of having them in an international school, these kids just hold the simplest of parties. Unlike us Filipinos. LOL! </div>
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I remember our Small Ate's party when they just moved to their school, I just got a tray of sandwiches from Opera Cafe at around QR200 and that was more than enough for everyone. And in LO's birthday we just had fruit skewers and popcorn plus the pizza provided in the venue package we got. </div>
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This time, I guess I went over the top and I would like to strangle myself for it! Being Independence day, <strike>We</strike> I decided to hold a Pinoy Fiesta for her birthday. So naturally, fiesta to us Filipinos mean lots and lots of food right? So who's going to eat all those food if we prepare them? Guess we had to invite friends now eh... Well, inviting friends for me is still manageable. Maybe I can come up with 20 people tops and that already includes the entire Villamor clan here in Doha. But then.... there's the Expat Daddy. I told him I can prepare for the party but he'd have to make sure we had guests. Like what's a party without guests right? And invite he did. When I saw his event invite on FB, I almost feel of my chair! Hahaha! Would 150 not rattle you?! Oh goodness! Now I had to make my own adjustments. Admittedly, I am a bit thrilled at the prospect at holding a big party. Well, not really big but a memorable one just like what our Big and Small Ate had. I just thought those parties were magical --- even if we didn't have a Disney theme whatsoever. Surprisingly, the 3 girls have never really been big fans of princesses and Barbie. Well, that's an understatement, they actually find Barbie creepy and never really liked her. So Anyway. Our Big Ate had that Hannah Montana party in the Philippines where I opted for a mini concert/ dance party instead of the usual party games and shows. Our Small Ate on the other hand had her safari birthday here in Doha. Well, if it was really up to me that time, I would have wanted to celebrate it in the Philippines too. Oh my, how I wanted to have those real animals in the party... But the good thing is Jungle Zone was just perfect. We just had animal standees in the venue. It was wonderful too! </div>
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The biggest challenge I now face is how to actually hold a Philippine theme birthday party here in Qatar. I don't know how to source materials for this party. Early on, I conceded that if I really want to achieve the ideas in my head, I need help. The only way to do this is to get a party planner. Thanks to Facebook I manage to get one available on our schedule. It can be tough to prepare a party in Doha at a short notice. Venue for one is a major challenge, very much limited in my case due to the theme I had in mind. Well, I can't have a Pinoy Fiesta party and serve biryani rice catered by the hotel right? It needs to be truly Filipino --- and that includes food. And not just simple Pinoy food, I want to turn the venue into a plaza where there are palaro", "sari-sari" store, street food stalls. Oh geez, if we can really achieve it, the party will be awesome (crossing my fingers now) !!!!! </div>
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But yes, on the other end, it costs too much!!!! My goodness, living under the rock for too long really has its disadvantages. LOL! Of course you know I didn't have much friends here in Doha, which means we don't really get invited to a lot of parties. The parties I really get to see are from among my children's classmates and friends, and as I've said, they make do with Doritos and watermelons. LOL! Swimming in their compounds plus a slice of cake and pizza is a birthday party. So pulling all the stops just blew into my face. I thought the QR7,000 we budgeted would be enough. But just the venue alone is already 2,500. There are things included in the package that can't be removed so we had to take them. But then they didn't go with the party theme, so I had to get the same things that matches our theme. Like the cake, balloons, loot bags and other stuff. I had to get the same things from our party organizer too. I also had some stuff sent from the Philippines. Then I had to pay the organizer for the decors and other things. Then the food. This is where it really hurts bad. I cook and I can cook the food we wanted very well. But both the Expat Daddy and my mom agree that we don't want to stress ourselves from cooking. Considering the party will be in Gondolania and with the traffic and parking situation there, it will be so hard to cater the party ourselves, so we needed to get the caterer. Then the street foods, the caterer can't provide those and she referred me to another supplier. That costs money too, good money in fact. Then of course we had to shop for party clothes, well that's a given. Really, I cringe as I ring the numbers. When I consult with the Expat Daddy, he just shrugs and and say "It's ok, it her 7th anyway and we always splurge on their 7th's" Oh my. All the money we saved up in the past 6 months are all going into this party! Don't get me wrong I'm not blaming myself or anyone about it. I'm actually excited to see how the party will turn out. But then it's really just that I feel bad with the amount of money we are shelling out. It's "bank-breaking". I'm sure there will be others in Qatar who will just laugh at how I'm stressing about it. I've seen very extravagant parties on pictures. The ones our organizer worked on. And from other photos too. I'm sure they've spent a lot more than we did. But that's them. They have their own circumstances and we have ours. We can't compare. So I am just saying this on a personal level. Our own experience. Going beyond the budget just makes me cringe. But then what can I do, it's just 4 days more and I can't back out now. </div>
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So here's where we are right now.</div>
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Venue (Gondolania, Villagio) QR2, 500.00 (includes, venue, decor, children's </div>
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package for 20 kids to include food and</div>
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loot bags,party host, games, face </div>
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painting, theme park cards and cake)</div>
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Party Organizer (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/colours.sy?fref=ts" target="_blank">Colours Sy</a>) QR 2,500.00 (includes balloon decor (again), candy </div>
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buffet, loot bags for 20 more kids, set</div>
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of toys and sweets, cake corner)</div>
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Caterer (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/flamingoqatar?fref=ts" target="_blank">Flamin Go</a>) QR 4,000.00 (meryenda station for 70 persons, </div>
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kakanin station for 70 persons, </div>
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halo-halo bar for 50 persons)</div>
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Street foods (Venus) QR 1,000.00 (approximately, I'm still waiting for her</div>
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final quote) </div>
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Photographer QR 500.00 (includes roving photographer only </div>
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instead of photo booth so we can also </div>
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have an album for the event)</div>
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Shopping QR 1,000.00 (for party clothes, got lucky it's the sale</div>
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season :) )</div>
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Pinas items QR 365.00 (local candies, local toys and games, </div>
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and mini bayongs for giveaways)<br />
Miscellaneous <u> QR 500.00 </u> additional food items</div>
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Total QR 12,365.00 </div>
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Oh, and we didn't even have cake yet. Which reminds me... okies let me
contact the suppliers first to get an idea of the price. We usually just
have our cakes for free from my SIL but this time she isn't sure if
they can make it. So I have to look for an alternative. Wish me luck!</div>
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So there, we are 4 days to the party. Oh my goodness. I'm sure there will still be other costs that will come up leading to the event. I just hope there aren't much anymore. Reality bites really. I didn't even imagine it would be that expensive. I know, I know. Please don't judge me. I know spending this much money is not very wise, but I just can't help it. Seventh birthdays just excite me, I guess just as much as how the other parents get excited about it. The problem is I tend to just go overboard on this. I remember we spent Php280,000++ (QR22,600++) on our Big Ate's party in the Philippines in 2009. And our Small Ate, didn't spent much compared to these, but she had 2 celebrations. One for her classmates in Jungle Zone and another birthday dinner one for our family and friends on another date in Merweb Hotel. With her we spent only about QR7,000 (that's in 2012) I could have spent more if only I found someone who can do the party for us (I wanted to celebrate in the zoo!) </div>
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I hope to
be able to write reviews of our suppliers after the event and crossing my fingers that all
my reviews will be a rave. I mean with this amount of money, I expect
nothing less than the best! </div>
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-21054842887139777612015-05-13T14:51:00.000+03:002015-05-13T15:28:16.472+03:00Happy Mothers' Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7BRFIXvJaIkpia5Y55lWTLfpA084AYQ_19bBMVcE-czZwUfxrWZyYGFKBRSBlW03EkmgcVHO9MWSwxEukdhqsYwXQMU8reC90CV2DVeJfuBJ6usuvkJTzdOuSw-GagEa97GGyKwGORdy/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-05-10+at+8.39.18+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7BRFIXvJaIkpia5Y55lWTLfpA084AYQ_19bBMVcE-czZwUfxrWZyYGFKBRSBlW03EkmgcVHO9MWSwxEukdhqsYwXQMU8reC90CV2DVeJfuBJ6usuvkJTzdOuSw-GagEa97GGyKwGORdy/s400/Screen+Shot+2015-05-10+at+8.39.18+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hey mommies! Happy Mothers' Day!!!! (started this post on mothers' day but didn't get the chance to finish, so as late as it may be, I wish you all moms out there a happy mothers' day!)</div>
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Another year passed, another year celebrated. What makes mothers' day so fun in the recent years is the emergence of various social media platforms where we get to greet old and new friends around the world. It just becomes an online party for everyone. Of course for us moms, mothers' day is extra special, specially when we receive cute messages and cards from our kids.</div>
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In our case in the Middle East, Sunday is a work and school day so we get to "celebrate" in advance. Well, for us it's nothing really special. As we usually do after attending mass, we had lunch this time at PF Chang's which just opened sometime around the later part of April. Our first unsuccessful try was during my parents' anniversary dinner. We were then asked to wait for 2 hours. We we're there at 8:30pm so waiting for two hours is just not a possibility, it being a weekday.</div>
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So last weekend, we attended mass on a Saturday morning, so we thought of going back for lunch at PF Chang's (it just so turned out it's mothers' day weekend so can call it mothers' day lunch -- play of words. LOL!). We went to Villagio Mall to make reservations for our LO's birthday party next month. Other than that we don't really have anything planned so we decided to reserve seats at PF Chang's the moment we entered the mall, thinking that by the time we finished our reservations, our table would be ready. It looks like we waited for about 1.5 hours before they were finally able to seat us. Nothing really planned so we just went home after lunch. Then we went about our Saturday as usual. That is going to the supermarket for our weekly grocery shopping. In the evening, I reviewed the kids a little then prepared for our next day's breakfast and lunch delivery (hmm.... I'll share that small enterprise with you in another post).</div>
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The next day, mothers' day the two Ate's woke me up to greet me mothers' day. LO came into the room last. I shared this on FB...</div>
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That was really funny. Oh my, really if only I could share with you all anecdotes of the girls, you'd really find them so hilarious!</div>
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In the afternoon, as usual the girls called me in the office when they arrived home from school. They were asking about the baking chocolate they saw in the pantry and asked if they can have it. I said ok but leave some for our weekend rice crispy project. Little did I know that they were actually preparing for a surprise. Well not sure if it's surprise or shock. The moment I opened the door my mom immediately warned me of the chaos I'll find. Apparently the girls not only made cards but they also had a little kitchen experiment. So before they could present me with their "gift" I first asked them to clean up the mess they made on the dining table. Once cleaned they showed me the heart-shaped chocolate coated strawberries they made. I must say they're good. We finished them all off in a minute. And yes, I only had one they ate all the others. Then they gave me the cards they made. </div>
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From our LO</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTYn8Q_JNPLOgegW06olEJaypcxKZ5WFDIQFprDOjt89Jl9jPmBabYernWZU8LEJG4WS1iJoq30vvNsGbzPm-X2700lGEwBm2ltnCjx-o73f-8mbF_0crhVixietV51vJEwM3SI7Lr2pv/s1600/11246979_10205003592663426_5487795839105645567_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTYn8Q_JNPLOgegW06olEJaypcxKZ5WFDIQFprDOjt89Jl9jPmBabYernWZU8LEJG4WS1iJoq30vvNsGbzPm-X2700lGEwBm2ltnCjx-o73f-8mbF_0crhVixietV51vJEwM3SI7Lr2pv/s400/11246979_10205003592663426_5487795839105645567_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This year's winning message: Can you love me?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZA0-e2CLowQkTL4qxj_o4xLn4EscgwE0mRlWHothAHoDSBSJrWUWQlwNHrFPlghD-7CjsP-xCIXN56YqdN90hOHj0iaMN0ZIo7Cly3UyuPghyFUIYmmR48uphTbH9gi5fg0WMHOx9N-Y/s1600/11183351_10205003593463446_1330841781130832529_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZA0-e2CLowQkTL4qxj_o4xLn4EscgwE0mRlWHothAHoDSBSJrWUWQlwNHrFPlghD-7CjsP-xCIXN56YqdN90hOHj0iaMN0ZIo7Cly3UyuPghyFUIYmmR48uphTbH9gi5fg0WMHOx9N-Y/s400/11183351_10205003593463446_1330841781130832529_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Small Ate helped in printing the bookmark for her</td></tr>
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And these from our Small Ate and Big Ate</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmFilKRCaon41yPVcE0jmtKBWV1gJy7VjE28fLj8XeZYjHub5yaRev7HOPObc9wp1tjqxzdRaAo1zeLTot-bXpU58jWIDMzQE-B-Wtb4YHD-g-BDW0WnjJckHxkuCL38F5dKpvlNL6wEK/s1600/11226933_10205004028314317_8269918107191377773_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmFilKRCaon41yPVcE0jmtKBWV1gJy7VjE28fLj8XeZYjHub5yaRev7HOPObc9wp1tjqxzdRaAo1zeLTot-bXpU58jWIDMzQE-B-Wtb4YHD-g-BDW0WnjJckHxkuCL38F5dKpvlNL6wEK/s400/11226933_10205004028314317_8269918107191377773_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From our techie Small Ate and our artist Big Ate :)</td></tr>
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I just so love mothers' day. Every year the girls come up with something to surprise me and show me how much they appreciate me. These may be small things, but they mean so much and I will cherish and keep all these messages they are giving me when they were kids. So when they grow up and God forbids, we don't end up as close as we are right now --- or if they somehow found a reason to doubt how much I love them (just like LO's message: can you love me? LOL!) then I'll show all of these to them to remind them how much we love each other when their lives are not yet so complicated, demanding and stressful. I think it's important, when the day comes, we always have something to remind ourselves of the purest love we have for each other.</div>
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I so wish that my girls and I will have the same relationship as I have now with my own mom. I am 40 but my mom still remains to be the first person I turn to, good news or bad, problems or achievements. Well, I still even ask her opinions when shopping. As I always say, my mom is my best-est friend ever! :)</div>
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<a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/search/label/parenting" target="_blank">This is what mommies are here for</a><br />
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<a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2012/03/did-i-teach-her-to-do-that.html" target="_blank">Did I teach her to do that? </a><br />
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-7468360204111655682015-05-04T12:40:00.002+03:002015-05-04T12:40:44.441+03:00Dubai Escapade 2015: Day 1<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No we aren't in a theme park -- @ HIA departure area</td></tr>
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I had chosen a mid-morning flight for us just so we will arrive in Dubai
after lunch, just in time for check in. We left the house as early as
7am since we decided to drive for ourselves and leave our car at the
long term parking in the Hamad International Airport Complex so we won't
also need to be picked up upon our return. At this time, long term
parking is still free. There are designated bus stops within the parking
complex where we could take the bus to go to the airport. They said
buses arrive at intervals of 5-8 minutes. So not bad at all.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1D's biggest fan waiting for the bus to arrive :)</td></tr>
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We arrived in Dubai at lunch time and immediately proceeded to visa on arrival counter. We paid AED220/each, filled in the forms and lined up to immigration. The process was a breeze. Just . We took a big taxi going to the hotel since there is no metro station in Terminal 2. And what I also found out from this trip, is that for a big group, it is actually cheaper to take a big taxi than the metro specially for shorter distances. And it isn't really hard to get a big taxi. Well, not as easy as a regular taxi but they're there, a few minutes wait and you'll find them. Specially when you're in the bigger malls, they have a separate line for big taxis and when you queue up, there are mall staff sorting out groups of passengers.<br />
As per our planned itinerary which I posted <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2015/04/dubai-escapade-2015-planning-part-2.html" target="_blank">here</a>, we'll take our first day slow and just meet my aunt for dinner. Dinner at Asiana Hotel has been in my bucket list for the longest time. Unfortunately, just like any other families traveling with kids, you should always expect the unexpected. In our case, just as we arrived our LO informed us that she's having some no. 2 problems. We thought it will get better in time but as it progresses, it just got worse so I contacted my aunt to cancel our dinner arrangements. I didn't want to go far from the hotel with our LO's "poop problems". So we just decided to stay in for the night. As originally planned, ED and I went out after checking in to buy take out lunch and also go to the supermarket for port and pantry items. After a few hours of rest, LO said she felt better so we decided to explore the area. Turns out we were just walking distance from Burjuman, a high end mall. It was a good walk we had, but of course no shopping. They house mostly signature labels which wasn't in our plan. Oh but they have a Carrefoure. And when I say high end, they mean you pay AED1 to use their shopping cart! A friend of mine said it's the norm in their part of the world, well not in mine! In the Middle East, we're used to most things being free. :)<br />
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It was late so most of the shops were starting to close the only area which remains open is the top floor where the restaurants are. There is a Barrio Fiesta, that's where ED and I got our take out lunch earlier and some other restaurants. An American Diner, an Indian, an Arabic and a Seafood restaurant caught our attention, but since we weren't so hungry we just got doughnuts and ice cream from Baskin Robbins and Dunkin Donuts, and sat there for a few minutes. Then the "poop problem" striked. After a very long toilet time for LO we decided to walk back to the hotel. At this point I knew our problem isn't going away easily.... <br />
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-584044835717912332015-04-28T16:26:00.001+03:002015-04-28T16:26:53.889+03:00Dubai Escapade 2015: Planning Part 2 - Itinerary<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<i>(Planning Part 1: Big Ticket Items you'll find <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2015/04/dubai-escapade-2015-planning-part-1-big.html" target="_blank">here</a>) </i></div>
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This is our second visit to Dubai as a family. On the first year, we already managed to visit the most popular spots so it was quite a challenge for me to look for other places to visit, the "second tier" shall we say. Since my mom is coming with us, I have immediately marked the Dubai Miracle Garden as a must see. And of course, looking at photos from other friends who had been there, well, it truly is a must see!</div>
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After booking our hotel, I checked it on Google Maps to check its location relative to the places we want to visit. Oh I can't tell you how helpful Google Maps is in terms of preparing the itineraries. Not just in looking up locations but more so in studying the routes and travel times based on the detailed directions you could get from it. I was able to compare which routes take shorter times and I was also able to compare taking Metros vs. taking taxis. What I found out is that our hotel location is kind of far to the major attractions unlike our first visit when we stayed in the Deira area. Well Bur Juman is also a good place, we're just walking distance away from Bur Juman mall and metro station. But apart from that, there's really nothing much to see in the area. </div>
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We leave Qatar mid-morning and arrive in Dubai at lunch time. I told the girls that during transit, we won't have a chance to grab a meal so we'll have breakfast at home and then lunch after we had already checked in. No need to buy food in the plane, since they aren't really good and way too overpriced for its value. They all agreed, thank you God in heaven! </div>
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As we are arriving at lunch time, I made sure to check the nearest restaurants where the Expat Daddy and I can get some take away while my mom and the girls rest. Oh yeah, seniors and minors... they need all the rest they can get! LOL! From there I started planning the day and the days ahead. The utmost important for me is that they all get enough rest. My mom can't go on walking for very long periods and of course, you know how it is when the kids get tired. You would wonder why they always insist on traveling, really. For each day, I only planned a half day adventure and another half the day for rest. So we either have one major activity in the morning or the afternoon. And then some minor/ short trips half of the day or at night. In my planning, I have also included a budget for each trip. </div>
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Usually, I pre-book entrance tickets as much as I can. In this way I am also able to schedule payments in the months ahead of the trip instead of paying everything during the trip which could be quite a big pill to swallow. I'd cringe if I'll spend for example QR10-20 thousand in a trip. By staggering everything, I'd be able to schedule each expense and include it in a particular month's budget. Plus, one other advantage of that is since you have prepaid tickets, you save time by not lining up a long time to buy tickets. Just like what I did during our trip to Europe last summer. Oh believe me, when you're traveling to Europe in the Summer oh my goodness! 1-2 hours of lining up is the norm. </div>
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So anyway, we thought of going back to the Atlantis, this time for the Aquapark. The girls actually wanted to swim with the dolphins but then the price is a whopping AED800+ each. Oh goodness, I'm not paying for that! I told the girls they can swim with the dolphins when we go back to the Philippines instead. But then I decided against prebooking it as I thought it may not be worth it if its too hot and the girls will only spend 2-3 hours in the park. Good thing I did that actually because on the day of our planned visit to the Aquapark, there was a terrible sand storm. We wouldn't even be able to go at all! That's AED750 saved!</div>
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So this is how our itineraries look like. I've included times and points of interests also a target budget for each activity. Unfortunately, it seems that the metro station that Google Maps had pinned was wrong since that's too far from the hotel we were staying. The nearest metro station to our hotel is Bur Juman. I wonder how that happened. So anyway rest seems good. But of course as expected, when you travel always expect the unexpected specially when you have kids. In our case, the moment we arrived our LO had a terrible case of constipation so from that point on our itinerary has been blown out of the tracks. Then the very bad sandstorm followed thereafter. But I'm not saying that we weren't able to do the things we wanted, its just that we had to do some adjustments and rearrangements. But most of them still happened. </div>
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And talking about the unexpected, I also made sure that I purchase travel insurance. Some people woudn't bother, but then my interest in personal finance taught me of the importance of insurance. I mean, anything can happen just when you least expect it. Yes it will cost you money and if nothing really happened then you paid for nothing. But then, that's what insurances are for right? You purchase it with a prayer that you will not have to use it. I just wanted to make sure that we are properly covered just in case of any emergency. Emergency medical coverage is very important. So people, don't scrimp on that. When you travel make sure you are insured for any eventuality. And with that, also make sure that you bring at least 2 copies of your passports and in our case copies of our Qatar residence permit and ID. Just so in the event you lost your passport, it would be easy to go to your embassy and request for a travel document. </div>
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One thing I also did was talk to friends living there so I have at least an idea if my plans were feasible or not. Like the One Direction concert for example a friend was able to let me know that there really isn't a need to go there very early since the girls have platinum (VIP) tickets. True enough the left the hotel only as the doors to the venue opened. So when they arrived, it had just been a breeze getting in. </div>
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You will also see that I included our budget for meals and transportation. That is very important because these little incidentals actually cost a lot of money if put together. An AED200 meal may not be so much but if you have like 8 of those, that's AED1,600 right? And the transportation also, make sure you allot enough for that too. Because, because, if everything had been planned and budgeted well, no matter what goes in you way while on a trip, you won't get rattled because you're ready for anything. </div>
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Well, in my case, the big smile I had as we left Doha has turned into a bigger smile when we come back because I had kept my plan and budget. No credit card charges yahoo!!!!</div>
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-52362945168491785132015-04-27T15:01:00.001+03:002015-04-27T15:01:33.673+03:00Conversations with LO @ 6: Judgments and discriminationOn my Facebook account, I often post anecdotes about the girls. Usually funny quips or insights I get from them. Most of the time it's about our Little Oyen. Actually she had already become popular with my FB friends because of it. And I think most of my FB friends already feel a sense of connection with her and feel that they know her very well. What I can't do most of the time is post pictures of her on random posts, because she doesn't like that. Actually, she doesn't like me talking about her with anyone. Something I really have to train myself more to. I mean moms would agree that at all times, our favorite topic of conversation would be about our kids right? We just love talking about them, we can go on and on and on....<br />
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E ako pa ba? I don't really have any other life apart from my family or more so apart from my girls. So yeah, you can probably say my life revolves around them and I have so much animated stories to tell. I post it on FB because I felt it's the best way for me to document them. Well, I don't keep a diary and I don't know.. I have this wild dream that someday I'd be able to compile all of it into a book and give it to them as a gift. Wouldn't that be wonderful? Unfortunately wala akong talent in those scrapbooking things, or taking photos or videos of my kids. But I do have these sorts of stories. I hope I can just blog all about them para it's a better read ano?<br />
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So anyway. I can't forget my last day out with the LO last Saturday. It was her last day from art class. She requested if she can bring her most favorite toy, Bay Max. Her Iya gave it to her as her prize for doing a good job in the VCUQatar fashion show which she did three nights in a row. I told her she can't bring it to class as it might distract her and the other kids from their work but she said she won't bring it to class, she'll just keep it in the car. Although as we got to the museum, she asked if I can just keep it outside for her while I wait. I don't see anything wrong with that so I agreed. So Bay Max and I sat outside waiting. Then for after class, our initial plan was to have a picnic after the class but unfortunately, there was a slight sand storm so we opted against it. On our way home she asked if we can eat out. Oh that's another thing she loves, eating in restaurants. Magtataka pa ba 'ko, e may pinagmanahan naman! LOL! In the end we decided to eat at Applebee's because it's the only place we both agreed on and she said it's near our house anyway.<br />
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As we sit, this very "friendly" server tried to make conversation, kasi Kabayan. And I can also see she really is extra chatty with the other customers. I don't mind, ma-chika naman din ako with strangers. LOL! But LO isn't. The lady was trying to talk to her. But I guess from the first question pa lang, sablay na.<br />
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Applebee's lady: Ay, bakit ganyan yung toy mo? Sino yan? Di ba pang boys yan?<br />
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Oyen: Toys are just toys. They're neither only for boys nor girls. You can play with anything you want.</blockquote>
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Oo nga naman. Well even with McDonald's happy meal, it's the same for her. She picks the toy she wants without thinking for a second if it's for boys or girls. Well, all my girls actually call McDonald's toys as they are. If it's LPS they'll say they want an LPS or if it's Superman, they'll say they want Superman. They don't ask for "girls" or "boys" toys. They ask for whatever toy they wanted. And I agree. I mean, they're just kids. Bakit kelangan i specify if a toy is "only for boys" or "only for girls" di ba? And then that's where judgements are created. Like if a boy plays with a "girl's toy" then other kids would laugh and label him "bading" or if a girl plays football with boys for example they''ll be labeled as "tomboy". Then that's how they'll start thinking "it's bad" for a girl to play with boys and it's bad for boys to play with girls. At an early age labels are already created and when you don't fit in a particular label, you don't belong. That's the easiest way I guess to teach kids to become judgmental, don't you think?<br />
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It's actually one of the biggest things why I am so thankful for the blessing of being able to send them to an international school. They're school fortunately has the right balance in terms of mix among different nationalities. So kids are all so different and the community they have in school is what makes them all the same. It's very inclusive that even if my kids are among the 4 Filipinos in school, they don't feel they are any different from the others. Because, there might maybe 10 Indians, or 3 Malaysians, or 1 Japanese, probably 20 British or whatever the numbers are. I still remember last year when our Small Ate's bestfriends are 2 Danish, 1 Scottish and 1 Indian. They just get along so well that the color of their skin or their hair doesn't really matter. So yeah, I really really love their school for instilling in their students that all kids come in different size, shape and color but they all are the same. No one is better than the other. As early as now our LO realizes that it's bad to discriminate others. It's even funny one time when she had to ask what chubby means, and she said "Mei-mei, I'm not being racist or anything, but does chubby mean fat for persons?". As if she had to thread that thin line which allows her to voice the question without being judgmental. Cute!<br />
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I really pray that the girls continue to grow up culturally sensitive, just by being that I can hope they can contribute into making this world a better place to live. I mean how cool would it be if all of us become more accepting and tolerant of others. Where people can be true to themselves without fear of being judged or discriminated. Can you imagine a world without bashers and haters, specially online where anything you post is judged by others. Well I guess from now on we should add tolerance as a virtue. Woudn't that be nice? :),<br />
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-27683536620490303652015-04-26T16:16:00.000+03:002015-04-26T16:16:46.112+03:00Dubai Escapade 2015 : Planning Part 1 - The Big Ticket Items <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Last April, our kinda big family had another opportunity to visit Dubai. This time it's for our Ates' chance to see the One Direction live in concert. Ok, I'm not going to be defensive now. Yes, we spent a considerable amount for the trip, what with airfare, hotels and all for the entire family. But this is just one thing I wanted to give the girls as "childhood memory". Let's talk about that another time. Anyway it was actually May last year when we purchased the tickets. Yes, the tickets were sold a year ahead, just like how they did it in the Philippines. When we first heard that they are doing another world tour and first one announced was the Philippines' stop, I was kinda disappointed. Mainly because I knew that there is no way we are going home to the Philippines in March just for them to watch the concert and then be back again for our original vacation plan in December. So I already told our Big Ate pointblank that she isn't gonna watch. But then just a week after that announcement, the big news came that they will also have a Dubai stop. So, yaay! to that. It also came at the right time since our airfare allowance was released in April so I had time to incorporate the trip into our vacation budget. I mean getting the tickets out of the way is a big relief. So May 22, 2014, at exactly 7:30am I joined the long line of parents and others in purchasing the tickets at Virgin in Villagio Mall.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The things we do for our kids!</td></tr>
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Although it was a non-seating concert, I decided to purchase the Diamond tickets worth QR990 (AED1,000 in photo), more for the value than the cost --- this is something I always tell the girls, when you purchase something, think of its value to you rather than its cost. Some things may be expensive but then it could be of a very good value to you, something that makes a difference. Not everything that is expensive has a good value (like luxury designer bags for example (for me at least), but that's a story for another day). So anyway, I decided on the "value of the tickets" based on the following:</div>
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1. How much more we're spending for it. Since we will be spending good money for airfare, hotel, food, local transportation during the trip, might as well give the girls the experience of a lifetime by giving them the best seats in the house. I mean what's the point of even going to Dubai to watch the concert if the girls will only get to see them via the wide screen right? Well they can just watch you tube videos in that case.</div>
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2. They're kids, specially the Small Ate. I can just imagine how hard it would be for her if she had to queue for a long time with the majority of people. Plus how hard it would be for her to fight her way in to get a glimpse of her idols. And mind you, she's the biggest fan! </div>
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3. Little Oyen is not coming. Well, she's 6. She doesn't really care about One Direction. It may even just be a vague memory for her when she grows up. So we decided that we won't spend AED1,000 for Oyen when it doesn't really have that much value for her. Hence, since she's not coming, I also won't be as the Expat Daddy and I decided that he will go with the girls to the concert since he would be the better person to protect them while I stay in the hotel with Oyen. So instead of spending AED2,500 for all 5 of us watching, we'll instead buy 3 diamond tickets for the 2 Ates' and Dada. So just a difference of AED500. </div>
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That's what I meant about value. Weighing all the factors in we thought that's the best way to move forward.</div>
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Now that the tickets have been purchased, I then have to prepare for everything else. I know most "financial gurus" would tell me why I will purchase those tickets a year ahead and if I had instead put it a financial instrument it could earn in interest. While that may be true, the tickets were sold out in a matter of days. So really if we wanted to watch then we purchase the tickets then. So it's really a matter of do you want to watch or not? Anyway, one other advantage of having the tickets locked in is that our trip to Dubai has been firmed up as early as a year before. Now I have a year to plan for everything else and from the moment I purchased the tickets, I started monitoring Booking.com and Expedia for hotel and airfare. </div>
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For the hotel, as customary requirements are 2BR apartment with full kitchen and wifi. Mainly because we wanted to be able to cook, breakfast at least. We wanted to make sure we have full tummies before we set out for the day and of course one of the things the Expat Daddy and I look forward to when traveling to Dubai is the very cheap price for pork! Another thing is that hotels normally don't allow 2 adults and 3 children in 1 room and even if they do I can't imagine how we'd fit in that case. I at least don't want to put the kids in another room separate from us. And of course, apartments are so much cheaper than 5 or 4 star hotels. </div>
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It was in Nov 2014 when I finally found the lowest rate for hotel. I was able to book at Rose Garden Hotel in Bur Juman for AED533 ($145) per night +10% tax, 10% service charge and AED20/night city tax. It was actually the best rate I found so far since May 2014. It was a promotional rate actually. Other reasons I booked it is because the booking may be cancelled until 2 days before check in with no cost. Plus it can accommodate 4 adults + 2 children with no extra charge. My thought is since the booking can be cancelled, if I ever find one that has better rates, but still meeting our requirements, with good reviews and with photos that look promising, then I'd cancel and book elsewhere. But you know what, until two days before we travel when my booking is locked in, I never once found any other hotel or apartment with a better rate than Rose Garden. So I guess really made a good deal after all! (Review on Rose Garden Apartment Hotel in another post)</div>
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For the tickets, of course the go to budget airline is Fly Dubai. During our first trip to Dubai we flew with Emirates, only because I still had unused miles so I was able to fly for free. We only had to pay for the Expat Daddy and the girls. This time, with no free miles we decided to go with Fly Dubai. Of course for the rates, it is in fact the cheapest airline you can fly with within the region. But just like all other budget airlines, the cost is only for the flight. If you have luggage or if you want to eat during the flight, you'll have to purchase them separately. But for a one hour flight, I think we could do with no food. As for the checked in luggage, I opted not to purchase on our way to Dubai but purchased a 20kg check in luggage on the way back. That is because I did not want to discount the fact that we "may" shop for "something". LOL! Which turned out to be a good idea really because in fact the girls got themselves stuff so we checked in one of our suitcases. Oh yeah, it's just one 20kg for the 5 of us, not 20kg each. Well, you know how hard it is pack soiled clothes, they are just more bulky than when they were freshly laundered and ironed. </div>
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But here's the catch, I DID NOT GET THE CHEAPEST AIRFARE AFTER ALL!!!! Yes you read it right, as hard as I meticulously planned, we did not get the cheapest airfares. Because just about 2 weeks after I have purchased our tickets in mid January, Fly Dubai went on sale in the first week for February at 50% off for travel dates between Feb 8 and May 31. Grrrrrr!!!!!!! The tickets we purchased were non-refundable and non-rebookable. So yeah, it hurts ---- a lot!!!!! I was too scared that the rates will rise that I did not wait a little longer. Oh goodness. But on the brighter side of things, when the ticket prices went on sale my mom decided to join us. So Yaay!!! It's her first time to go on a "tour". She had been to Dubai a few times before with colleagues but those were for the Arab Health conference so she wasn't really able to see much of the city. We all loved the idea that she's able to come. And yes, I also got her additional 20kg checked in luggage for her return becaues she shopped a lot!!!! So there from that point on, I will remember it by heart. Fly Dubai goes on sale on the first week of February.</div>
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Ok... I guess that's about it for big ticket items. </div>
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concert tickets QR2,970 paid in May 2014</div>
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hotel QR2,630 paid upon check in on April 2015</div>
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airfare QR3,234 paid in January 2015</div>
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So you see, having enough time planning the trip gives me the advantage of planning our budget so that we don't have to shell out the big amounts in one go. All of these purchases were months apart and we were able to save smaller amounts monthly in order to cover these planned expenses. Now the only thing we need to worry about is our daily expenses --- oh wait, did I mention my mom is coming with us? LOL!</div>
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-63431134352593222052015-01-19T15:32:00.000+03:002015-01-19T15:32:04.159+03:00Smart Money Moves: Dream shoes, availed!<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Ok, so I am not exactly talking about Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, or Jimmy Choo not even Valentino (although the Rockstud is really my ultimate dream). It's just this pair of blue loafers I have been lusting over at Stradivarius for the longest time. The regular price? Just QR150 ($41) really.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I've read, although belatedly, of various tips on savings and how to avoid splurging while shopping. For me there is only one mantra I follow when it comes to personal shopping, may it be clothes, shoes or accessories, it's that anything above Qr100 I don't buy. And I've lived with that for a very long time. Never mind the concept of inflation that everything eventually costs much more throughout the years. Still. I just go look for things within my budget. However, when I moved to my current job, I've made little adjustments specially with my work clothes. Just thought that with the salary we receive, we just have to look the part. I don't want to come to the office looking so shabby and give people second thoughts on why I got hired! Right? Hmmm... I thought I read somewhere about power dressing at work... </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Well so anyway with the adjustments I've made, it doesn't include however the things I just "want" to buy. All of it still belong to the under QR100 category. So even if I drool every time I see those pair, I just had to put it back the rack as it's something I just want and don't need. Bye-bye shoes! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">But yesterday was a different story. I had errands to do so I went to the mall. Lo and behold, the shoes are only QR99!!!!! Yaaayy!!!! See, truly patience is a virtue! I had totally given up on it, but I guess if it's meant for you, it is meant for you. Agree? :)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What about you, do you have any recent smart money moves recently? Share!</span></span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-61052507030961561952015-01-18T14:52:00.001+03:002015-01-18T14:52:42.131+03:00Smart Money Moves: How I got my Iphone 6 (64GB) for QR79 ($21+)<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Disclaimer: This smart money move is specific to my current situation and may not apply to everyone. However, I am just so proud of myself for it!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Ok, so finally I was able to purchase a "status symbol" mobile phone for myself. Let me just say that I'm the type of person who would not shell out that ridiculous amount of money for a gadget for myself. But that is not to say I have not bought expensive stuff for my kids or have not allowed the Expat Daddy to buy one for himself. That's one thing I actually want to change --- I'm so kuripot with myself. Even if I know I can afford it, I just find it so hard to part with my hard earned money for expensive material things. In my life, I have only bought a mobile for myself twice. First was a Blackberry when the Expat Daddy had to return the one issued to him from work. I was just too comfortable with it that I wanted the same one. And I bought that when I got my airfare allowance from work. Let's just say that that was just less than 2% of the windfall I got at that time (well that was maybe 2-3 years after that particular model came out so it wasn't so expensive anymore, but still). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">And then this, my happy purchase Iphone 6. How I got this for QR79, let me tell you. I'm sure you'll also be proud of me! Ok so I actually had an Iphone 5 which I had given our Big Ate when she moved to secondary school. She needs a phone and their school is kind of "techie" so having a smart phone is essential. So anyway, I gave her my phone and used the Expat Daddy's Iphone 4 instead (By this time the Expat Daddy already upgraded to Iphone 5). So why I gave the Big Ate the Iphone 5 and decided to to have the Iphone 4, well that's just me being a mom. (Of course you know how moms are. :) ). Ok, a bit more back story, where did that I phone 5 come from in the first place? From the Expat Daddy. It was a surprise gift out of the blue. As surprise as surprise can ever be. Because he knows I would never allow him to buy me one. But for the longest time, he had been convincing me to buy a new phone since that Blackberry had already started to konk out on my after a year. So there. I hope I made the picture clear. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">And so in 2014, there had been a change of phone policy here at work, that was when I was in the process of being issued a phone --- a Blackberry. During that time, they have been reviewing the policy and decided that it would be beneficial for all concerned that those eligible will just be given an allowance instead of a phone with line under the company's name. So anyways those eligible employees are also eligible for QR2,000 ($550) phone unit allowance. For us to purchase our own phone and be entirely responsible for it. When that policy was implemented, wow! I saw almost everyone with new phones. But by then my phone was just barely a year old. I still consider it new. I'm not getting another Iphone 5, or upgrade to Iphone 5s. That's just so wasteful. So I told myself I'll wait when the next Iphone will come out. And shortly thereafter, it did. At a price in Qatar of around $850. At that time I knew I was going to get it but I didn't have the heart to shell out the money for the difference! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">And then I learned about my credit card's rewards. Boy was I so happy to learn how much I have already accumulated. Still not enough but getting there.... So I patiently waited until the day arrived. Yesterday, the Expat Daddy and I trooped happily to Lulu Hypermarket (because that's the only place where I can redeem my points) and purchased my phone. But before that, I first deposited the QR2,000 to my credit card (deposited because I don't owe money from my credit card) so I can use the card again to accumulate new points. Plus, I intended to put my purchase on 0% installment for 6 months!!!! Woohoo!!! See, since I already purchased the phone, I can already reimburse the QR2,000 from the office, while I actually paying for it in 6 installments. Since I don't carry a balance on my card I don't pay interest. So I'll get the QR2,000 in cash, earn points from that QR2,000 while I pay only QR330 per month. So where is the QR79? The total cost of the phone is QR2,999. I was able to redeem QR920 from the credit card so charged QR2,079 from the card. Well actually I wouldn't really have to pay anymore if I chose to get the 16GB phone which is only QR2,799. But the Expat Daddy advised that for merely adding QR200 ($55), I will get 4x the capacity of the phone I initially planned to get. So since I would only be shelling out QR79 from my own packet, I am just too happy to argue anymore! And you know what, out of that QR2,079 I charged on my card, I already gained QR104 back on my rewards. If you really think about it, I even have QR25 change from those transactions! Is it a smart move or what?! (Now for my cartwheels!!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">So yeah, I am overjoyed. Not for my new phone, but on how I was able to acquire it with my frugality and financially aware mindset. What I really just want to say is that there really an advantage in thinking things through and not giving it to your materialistic urges. There is a way to acquire the things we want without having to dent our budget and scrape our pockets. Just remember people, if the purchase affects your life, then you can't afford it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">What about you, have you had any smart purchase this year already? Share!</span></div>
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-41856241053926865372014-02-18T12:41:00.001+03:002014-02-18T12:41:09.645+03:00Conversation with the Expat Daddy: Retirement<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yesterday was our 159th month-sary since the Expat Daddy and I became a couple. Since the beginning we never failed to greet each other every month, sometimes we got the chance to celebrate. Sometimes with gifts, but that was never the norm. Although we really make it a point to greet each other. Actually throughout the years, it has always been a contest between us on who would be the first one to greet the other. More than anything, it was really the greeting part that we make a tradition instead of the celebration. At least it doesn't cost anything right? With or without budget we get to celebrate our month-sary by greeting each other. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But since it's Valentine's month too, I thought we both deserve a break by playing parents on Valentine's day and attending to our kids' needs. A little treat won't hurt, and I really should shake that guilty feeling whenever we treat ourselves minus the kids. Yes, I should do that....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So anyway, since I am so into wealth management these past year, I couldn't help myself but strike a "future planning" conversation before we go to sleep. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Me: Labs, Ano sa palagay mo magiging buhay natin sa Pinas if mag-retire na tayo? Ano gagawin natin non? </span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(What do you think would be our life back in the Philippines when we retire? What are we going to do then?)</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Silence....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Me: Labs! Ano? Pa'no tayo mabubuhay non? Ano pagkakakitaan natin? </span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(What? How are we going to live? What would be our source of income?)</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Expat Daddy: Ano ka ba?! Ang tagal pa non! Basta, mabubuhay tayo. Yung mga anak mo, papadalhan nila tayo. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(What?! That's too far away. Surely we'll live. Our kids, they'll send us money!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> Me: Ano? OMG, you mean aasa tayo sa mga anak natin? Ayaw ko yon! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Really? Goodness, you mean we'll depend on our kids? I don't want that!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Expat Daddy: E di magtatanim tayo. Yon kung ano man kitain ng lupa, yon ang pera natin. </span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(So we'll plant. Whatever we gain from the land, would be our money.)</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Me: So sa Aparri tayo titira? Farmers, ganon? Oh my, ayoko tumira don! </span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(You mean we'll live in Aparri? We'll be farmers? Oh my, I don't want to live there!)</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And since I wasn't getting the answers I was looking for, and I can see that the Expat Daddy is starting to get frustrated with the conversation, as I once mentioned <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2014/02/welcome-2014-and-bit-of-look-back.html" target="_blank">here</a> he's not interested in preparing for the future and believes that the future would take care of itself, I decided to just make the conversation lighter to keep our good moods.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Me: Ok, alam ko na. Alam ko na ano contribution mo sa paghahanda natin sa future. Simple na lang ang role mo, ok? All you have to do, is bumili ka pa ng maraming insurance. Around 20M. Yon sakto na yon. Bumili ka ng 20M na insurance then mga five years before tayo mag-retire. Wala ka gagawin kundi umupo sa isang sulok at magsigarilyo ng mag-sigarilyo until matunaw ang baga mo. So, pag namatay ka, may 20 million ako. Then I'm all set to retire! HAHAHAHA!</span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Ok, I know now. I already know what your contribution to future planning will be. Your role will be simple, ok? All you have to do is to buy lots of insurance. Around 20 million. Yes, that's enough. Just buy 20 million worth of insurance then five years before retirement all you have to do is to sit in one corner and smoke cigarettes until your lungs melt. Then, when you die, I have 20 million! Then I'm all set to retire. LOL!)</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Oh he loves it! He actually laughed harder than me. And that's maybe one of the things I love about the Expat Daddy. He gets my jokes no matter how sarcastic they are, he doesn't feel insulted at all. And I on my part don't really mean to insult him. To me that really was just that, a joke. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But then, that short conversation really opened up "Pandora's Box" as you may say. I mean at our age retirement is no joke. I know it will just come in a wink of an eye and we really should be paying more attention to it than before. I am turning 40 this year and we've only got exactly 20 more years before I at least retire. And since I have been learning a lot about personal finance and wealth management lately. I somewhat have a clearer picture of what would happen and what we need exactly to prepare for it. What I just notice is that as years past, things have really changed a lot. What my dreams are maybe 20-10 years back are totally different than today. I think I am more realistic now. And I have adjusted the plans accordingly. Like for example, now I think real estate would not be a very good investment for us since I can see our children less likely going back and living in the Philippines. I think we have more than enough real property right now and adding more would not be a good idea if we would only depend on ourselves to manage them. Also, as I get exposed to a lot of real properties in the Philippines which people find so hard to sell, since they have only left it to caretakers. I observed that most owners are based overseas and no plans of moving back to the Philippines and have no particular interest with those properties. Such a waste! I think as you raise Expat Kids, the less likely they would be moving back to the Philippines. It is a different life you have exposed them to and probably the kind of life they would want to keep as they get older. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Then as you can see, there's really not much contribution I can get from the Expat Daddy right? But that's not a problem at all, that's what I'm here for. I guess that's really how God matches people. He finds someone who will complement you. See obviously I'm more of a planner than the Expat Daddy, but he is more of the survivor. And I'm so glad to have a life partner that can be responsible for our survival when the need arises. He maybe be right. When push comes to shove, we can just live in Aparri and become farmers. We already have a house there, so shelter will not be a problem. Farming would be enough to produce food for our survival, plus an excess to provide an income. So I guess I believe him that we're all set when the time comes. I just really hope that we get to work until the age of 60. By then the kids would have been finished with school and by God's grace, be gainfully employed to take care of themselves. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thinking about it, what I really just want to happen when we retire is that all of us (each of the kids included) end up capable of taking care of our own selves independently. What I really want is that the Expat Daddy and I have enough to sustain us up to the end of our lives including paying for our own living and medical expenses. And by living expenses, I mean to live comfortably. While on the other hand, we wouldn't have to support any of our children. I hope that the good education which we may be able to provide while living in Qatar would also be good enough to sustain them. So they each can live independently and be able to help each other when they need to. And I really really really pray that those occasions when we would be needing help from each other will be very very RARE. Not that I don't want us to help each other out, but my wish really is that we wouldn't need to. You know what I mean! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What about you Expat Mommies, how do you think your family's future will pan out? Have you been preparing for it already, maybe you'd like to share some tips? :)</span><br />
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-39553875772760317712014-02-17T11:45:00.001+03:002015-01-18T15:12:35.267+03:00Welcome 2014! And a bit of a look back.<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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Didn't want to open the year like this, but sadly, I welcomed 2014 5kgs. heavier. Sigh.... What can a girl do, when you're on a month vacation in the Philippines! You guessed it right, it's just a month full of eats. I was actually telling the Expat Dad that we've been very good sticking to our vacation budget. Only thing is, almost half of that budget was actually spent eating out! LOL!</div>
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I hope to tell you more about our vacation next time, in the meantime, how's the year been treating you so far? Surely you've all had a blast during the holidays --- oops! and through past Valentine's Day. Oh well, this post has been sitting in the drafts for quite a while now. I really should be posting more. I have so many ideas but just couldn't put them in writing. </div>
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So anyway, going back. As has been for the past 2 decades, my no. 1 resolution is to loose weight. I once posted an anniversary greeting to my new year's resolution on my Facebook page, and it garnered a lot of laughs. Funny yes, but sad too. But you know what, it also has its own advantages. Because it saves me a lot from shopping. I mean whenever I try to shop for clothes, I always get discouraged since most don't really look good on me so I ended up not buying. Hence, SAVINGS!!!!! LOL! I'm trying to laugh it out but really isn't a joke. I really end up not buying anything, kinda sad sometimes...</div>
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On a more positive outlook though, I mentioned we came home to the Philippines for the Christmas break. It was a long awaited vacation, since the last time I went home was in 2010. So I told the Expat Daddy that we won't be making any big travel plans. I just want to stay home and relax. Unfortunately, I forgot that we have 3 homes in the Philippines, and at least 1 entails a long journey. So we ended up not going home to the Expat Daddy's hometown in Aparri. Would you believe I haven't seen our house there for about 6 years now? Sigh... I really have to put that back in our bucket list.</div>
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So the entire month we were shuttling from Batangas to Manila as we need to fix our condo unit in Taguig to have it ready for leasing. Well, that part was fun!</div>
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Although there were too many holidays during the break, I still feel pretty much accomplished during our vacation. Here are just some of my happy accomplishments:</div>
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<b>The Condo</b> - We finally got our condo back! Yaay!!! For more than a year I have had this problem with my previous tenant who had refused to pay the rent. It's a long story and I may or may not be able to tell eventually, but to cut it short, she finally moved out! Thank God! So now we have the unit back and it feels really good to finally have back our house. Sigh... all good intentions don't always turn out well really. So be very careful with the people you deal with. Don't be so trusting just because you thought you were "friends". Not all "friends" mean well. So make sure that you also protect your own interests.</div>
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Well, the story didn't really just end there. I was also able to file and Estafa case against the person. She had given me cheques as payment against the rent only to find out that those cheques were on a closed account. So I am still chasing her for those unpaid rents. But the good thing is all has been filed in the court already, in my presence. So that's a good thing.</div>
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What I am also happy about is that with our vacation budget, we are able to take some amount to buy the needed furniture to fully furnish the unit. This will be useful when we start sourcing for new tenants. We are also able to update our payments for association dues, insurance and real estate taxes. These other things I'm happy to say was about a year of backlog. And now I have already left cheques for payment of 2014's monthly association dues (see below). So my father no longer has to bring the payments to Manila, which would take an effort and also additional expenses.</div>
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<b>Cheque/ Current Account</b> - Yaay! This is also one more thing I was happy to accomplish while on vacation. I have long been meaning to open an account but it was really so hard to do that in the Philippines with all the bank requirements. My biggest hindrance actually is in providing 2 valid Philippine ID's. I only have one which is my passport. They don't allow Qatar issued ID's. So for the longest time, I really couldn't manage to do it. Good thing, for my amortizations, the Real Estate companies accept my father's cheques. I have provided him an SPA to do that. But at least I manage to pay the amortizations with no hassle.</div>
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Some or actually most banks require you also to have an active account with them for at least 6 months before they allow you to open a current account. Fortunately for me, I made sure that I kept my Asia United Bank savings account active all throughout the years since 2010. I have used it to save some money monthly. Money I intend to keep for future investments and as my "emergency fund". I'll talk about it some more in another post. :)</div>
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But yes, with the savings account that remained active and regularly funded in the last year. I was able to open a checking account easy peasy! It took me all of 10 mins. to do it with AUB. I sssoooooo lllloooovveeee AUB! I know they aren't as famous as other banks and they don't really seem like your usual retail bank, but the customer service is SUPERB! Hands down! They are all so helpful and and attentive to the customers' needs and the staff really go out of their way to assist. And since I already have an account with them, they just ask me for a copy of my new passport, since the one they had on their records is already expired. And that's it pancit! They required Php15,000 to open a checking account, which is fine by me, since I also already planned for it. And, that's done!</div>
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One thing I was not able to do though, is to apply for an online banking. This was due to the long holidays prior to the New Year and I did not get the chance to print the forms required for the application. What I just don't understand is that why can't I do it while I'm already there in the bank, right? I mean, they could have those forms available and maybe set up one PC for customers' use so they can process the online banking application right then and there. Right? Oh well, this is one thing I should make sure to accomplish as soon as possible.</div>
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<b>Mutual Fund Account</b> - This is one other major CHECK! Yaay! I have been meaning to open a Mutual Fund account for years now. But I can't seem to do so. Again, major problem is that SunLife requires you to be physically present in the Philippines in order to open an account. In the years past, although I really wanted to open an account, I felt I still do not have enough knowledge to do so. I was scared as I am not quite aware yet of the investment scheme and also I don't know how to go about opening an account. But this time, things are different. Thanks to the many local financial bloggers they were able to explain things like these to non-financial people Expat Mommies like me. I felt I have now enough knowledge and have reached the deadline actually of opening an account. I am not getting any younger and I should really start preparing for our retirement. But by I, I meant the Expat Daddy and I. On these matters, the Expat Daddy just follows my lead. We he's always been the "fun parent" and I am the "serious one". So anyways, I opened the account with merely Php10,000 investment. Yes not a very big amount. Well, we are on vacation mode right, so I don't really want to put away most of our money. That was really my intention, to just open an account with minimal investment and then add on to it to grow as per our annual plans and monthly budget. The plan is to add at least Php10,000 monthly. And that's where the checking account comes in. The money will be set aside on a regular basis monthly but my investments will be put in on a quarterly basis at Php35,000. Since my father will be the one managing this, I don't really want to make it too complicated for him. So I have already left the Sunlife forms dully filled with the cheques attached to them. Put them in an envelope labeled with the dates on when they need to be paid in. That way, the instructions are clear and my father wouldn't be so inconvenienced doing it on a month to month basis.</div>
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<b>My Expat Daddy's Insurance</b> - Finally! Finally! Finally! Well it isn't much since we didn't really planned for it during our vacation yet. But still, 1M is 1M right? I just really wanted the Expat Daddy to to do it as a first step for him to plan for the future. Oh did I tell you the Expat Daddy doesn't really "enjoy" planning? He lives for the moment and believes that EVERYTHING will work out in the end no matter what. He believes all problems gets solved eventually and that we will never die of hunger. Pretty basic isn't it? LOL! So there, while we were at the Sunlife office, the agent we talked to was actually an insurance agent and was offering us insurance options. In my case, I wasn't really interested in getting an insurance yet. Maybe because I'm still burned with my Prudential Pension Plan that went down the drain. I talked about it <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2013_04_01_archive.html" target="_blank">here</a>. And since I also have a life insurance provided by my employer, I feel that that isn't my priority at the moment. On the other hand. I believe the Expat Daddy needs an insurance. He isn't provided one by his employer, unfortunately. But I know 1M still wouldn't cover it and we still need to get more. But that's good enough for now. I just want him to at least have a "project" where he will start setting aside money. Who knows maybe, when he actually sees the benefit of what he's doing he might want to invest further. In the meantime, I don't want him to feel that investing and protection is such a burden. I just want him to feel that it so easy to save! When he's used to his quarterly payments, and maybe next year we can maybe up it more to really be able to come up with sufficient protection.</div>
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In my case, after 2 months of evaluation since we came back from our vacation, I finally decided that I would like to get a Term insurance primarily for protection. The Expat Daddy's insurance is VUL. Well, I didn't really want to get VUL, but since that was a spur of the moment decision and since the premium payments are not so big. We just went ahead with it. But in my case, since I am the primary breadwinner and that I need to take into consideration my children's education when something happens to me (since their education is currently paid for by my employer), I know that I need to get a much bigger insurance value. Enough to take care of them for a few years. Ok, ok. Maybe I need to better explain my position in a separate post... so that's that for the meantime. I'm just happy the Expat Daddy is finally insured. :)</div>
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<b>Big Ate's Derma</b> - You might ask why it's a big deal? Well because our Big Ate has been suffering from a bad case of acne since she was about 9. Yup, too early right? And we have been trying to bring her to a derma to somehow get a recommendation for a medication. Unfortunately, no derma would touch our Big Ate's skin. They said she's too young. And I agree. But my concern really is that now that she's 11, she's at that age where she's starting to get conscious. And children can also be "mean" at times. I just don't want her to suffer any insecurities because of it. Or well, our Big Ate is a well loved member of their class and I think everybody's been so nice to her. But it's just that, I don't want her to really grow up insecure. She may not be vocal about it, but I know she's concerned. And I should really take the lead in helping her. Thank goodness there is a dermatologist clinic in the Town Center within our community. She's so nice and I feel confident she really knows what she's doing. She gave us medications for Big Ate's acne but also recommended for us to see and Ob-gyne and endoctrinologist for our other concerns. She said that it may be some hormonal imbalance in her system. So that's our next goal. I hope we can accomplish that here in Qatar and no longer wait for our next vacation. Well, this may seem trivial but my children's wellness are of my primary concerns so I'm also truly glad of this accomplishment.</div>
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<b>Prudential Pension Plan</b> - Well this one isn't really my own accomplishment but my father's. You remember my post <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2013_04_01_archive.html" target="_blank">Future Planning Gond Bad</a>? Yes, I still regret that but I don't feel too bad about it anymore. Charge it to experience as they say and one of my biggest learning is to truly look for a reputable company to manage your investments. That's why I chose to go with Sunlife. There is about a handful of financial management companies that have sprung up this last few years, but I feel wary about their reputation. I went with Sunlife even if it isn't the one which gives the most return, but I am assured that there is a lesser risk with Sunlife. They have been around for the longest time and many other local companies have already closed down and gone bankrupt but Sunlife still stands. So there. But going back, my father managed to get back some of my money from Prudential. Although it didn't even come up to about 30% of my total investment, I'm still glad my father really worked on it and got something in return. Well, better than nothing, which was how I have already put it. We were able to use the money to pay for a couple months amortization and have the condo repaired. I'm also just glad that this is also done and over with. At least I can put this chapter of my life of bad investments to rest. Charge it to experience... That's what I'm doing.</div>
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<b>A Date with the Expat Daddy</b> - OMG! This is quite embarrassing. Would you all believe that it was the first time I had a real date with the Expat Daddy, like just the two of us?! That's true! Of course we have eaten out a lot of times. We've had lunches and dinners alone throughout our marriage, but we had a chance to go out and have some drinks FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME! LOL! Geez! After 14 years since the first time we met. We were finally able to go on a night out! We also couldn't believe that was the first time we've done it. And we are both so happy. No, we were no longer worried of "strict parents" but we were actually worried of "strict kids" LOL! Although I must say we did have a good time, and I don't mind doing it again. But the how? That's what I don't know the answer to. All I can say is that was truly fun!</div>
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Ok, so does it look like we had a full vacation? Yes we did! I have been trying to accomplish these things in between our lunches and dinners hahaha! OMG! There's really so much that had changed since I went home last. And just from trying out all the new restaurants we want to experience, there is just no time to do everything else! LOL! Of course we didn't forget to try our favorite ones from years past that's why we weren't able to try out new ones.</div>
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It also looks like it's a good way to close the year and an even better and brighter opening for 2014! I believe that we are right on track of really having a full year ahead. And hopefully part of that will be sharing with you our hits and misses. What about you Expat Mommies out there, how have you welcomed this year and what plans have you made? Care to share? :)</div>
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-60679019026680291602013-10-10T12:15:00.000+03:002013-10-10T12:15:18.994+03:00Eid Al Adha 2013<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's the time of year again. Everyone's looking forward to the week-long holiday coming up next week. This year we are lucky enough to have 4 days off instead of the usual 3 days. Yaay! But then, 4 days means we still have that 1 day to report for work sandwiched between the the previous weekend and the incoming holiday. Oh that Sunday's a bummer. For most of my colleagues, I hear they've already filed for a leave for that particular Sunday. Most would be leaving for a short break from today since the school will also be closing today for the holidays. Sounds too exciting. But unfortunately in my case I still have to report for work on Sunday. The boss is coming back from a 2 week trip and so we have a lot of catching up on work to do before the holidays. When I think about it, I don't mind really. I mean, it is my choice not to take that leave. We don't really have any trip planned anyway. I'm just glad that I won't have to wake up early since the girls will be off from school.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Oh did I tell you that I have officially declared today as the start of the sweater weather? I even celebrated it with a Starbucks latte and a Chicago steak sandwich. Not surprisingly, the roads are all clear today, most probably since most everyone had already taken off. So I arrived 20 minutes earlier than usual and thought of officially ushering in the winter with a Starbucks coffee. Don't know why, just felt celebrating the long break even if it hadn't officially started for me yet. :)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYueZjnTjoIk51qspgsNHtL14VRvHLcaeLf6svWHNYZl_SND0E5HYu-QX_6H6HKkVbS7j7JGzS9aQ7PHT4D8WkIsW6Uq2Nt6prCLRlU4hbBWWm6sU69x8yImg2Iu81hFfzj0Y9F0FvtqK/s1600/1374980_10201170178470467_467502653_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYueZjnTjoIk51qspgsNHtL14VRvHLcaeLf6svWHNYZl_SND0E5HYu-QX_6H6HKkVbS7j7JGzS9aQ7PHT4D8WkIsW6Uq2Nt6prCLRlU4hbBWWm6sU69x8yImg2Iu81hFfzj0Y9F0FvtqK/s400/1374980_10201170178470467_467502653_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pampa-good vibes to usher in the sweater weather.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And so here are some of our plans for the Eid break, this will be fun!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Park Day </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now that the weather is sooo good, it should be nice to go back to our weekly park outings on Friday Mornings. In the past couple of years, we usually go to either Aspire Park, Al Bidda Park or the Hamam Park. This year, we will most probably spending more time at the Hamam park, with all the road works happening in corniche, I don't think it wise to spend more than an hour just to travel to the park. And I have just read in the papers how the security in Aspire have strictly been implementing the "No sports gear, no entry" policy in Aspire. I mean, my kids just want to run around and I, my mom and Yaya only wants to laze around, sit and probable enjoy our breakfast and dinner. So Hamam park it is for us. For those who also wants to visit Hamam but not sure where it is, it is located in Markhiya. Just off that last round about going to Landmark. It is a very big park with 2 huge play areas for kids. One with a rubber mat and the other a sand pit. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We usually go to the park early mornings to avoid the crowd in the afternoons. Hamam is one of the more popular parks in Doha so it tends to really get crowded during good weather. Also, we loved having breakfast in the park. So our usual routine would be preparing breakfast at 6am and be at the park by 7. At around 9am it's usually time to go home. One thing the girls are looking forward to this time is the chance to fly their kites which one of our friends had given them. They have been urging us to go to the park for a long time, but I don't really see the point for trying when there's no wind to make the kite fly. So I think now would be the best time. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Logos Hope</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyB68NpiZntymJTE2XzTvVJFDRH7LJc1elWT31WcGV_rTJvug6hHmskMFQlTYROSF9-2MLH08Ly97unff2WI9TQqnAbz0L38Snu8A_BRj6FO5Ggk_XBgSKcm52lhk6RtOIX8fbza224lY_/s1600/579170_10151908513344860_2038974918_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyB68NpiZntymJTE2XzTvVJFDRH7LJc1elWT31WcGV_rTJvug6hHmskMFQlTYROSF9-2MLH08Ly97unff2WI9TQqnAbz0L38Snu8A_BRj6FO5Ggk_XBgSKcm52lhk6RtOIX8fbza224lY_/s400/579170_10151908513344860_2038974918_n.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After years of waiting, it's back!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yaay! After years of waiting, it's finally back in Doha. Our LO had already been here before. I think back when she was just around 3yo. But the 2 Ate's haven't. So they are extremely excited for this. I'm not sure how the 2 Ate's come to learn about this, but our LO can still vividly remember her experience. I think it was one time when she asked me that we should go back there that the 2 Ate's heard us talking. After that they have wished for the same experience. And now is the time! Yaaay! I'm also excited myself. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Smurfs and Ben 10 at the Gate</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGdmV6zPk0Na3YSkFZYtUOB2lU1JW6gccadegHTwNQjuhPCBHnTdcwx2ijrrMhVQNV8pLzLWmvMdGYyylM7Fi8Dcc-Nq91KQvljw_J388S4F2UPy-s3dO1x7kyGOBgHSJ37Yl3ffsbBlQ/s1600/1383886_643972162300799_1296359358_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGdmV6zPk0Na3YSkFZYtUOB2lU1JW6gccadegHTwNQjuhPCBHnTdcwx2ijrrMhVQNV8pLzLWmvMdGYyylM7Fi8Dcc-Nq91KQvljw_J388S4F2UPy-s3dO1x7kyGOBgHSJ37Yl3ffsbBlQ/s400/1383886_643972162300799_1296359358_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Not sure about this, but what have we got to loose right?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This event I received an invitation on Facebook. I don't really know the person who invited me but I'm just grateful he did. This is one more activity we can add to our list. We have a very short list this year so anything we can add to it is very much welcome. We also missed the Barney Show last time since we went to Dubai. I just hope that the mascots would at least look like the Smurfs and Ben10 a little bit quality on the costumes and not the ones who goes around several malls during events which do not really have a tiny resemblance with the characters.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So there these are just a few, I'll speak to the Expat Daddy if there would be chance to go on an overnight camp in the beach. That would be lovely! In the meantime, I will continue to scout for other activities which would not break the wallet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We'll we're in Qatar, entertainment here are not necessarily expensive. :)</span><br />
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-72199874835177261582013-10-07T10:47:00.001+03:002013-10-07T11:08:04.092+03:00Where's the Fun in Shopping Gone?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Photo taken from <a href="http://blog.credit.com/2013/07/make-most-financial-windfall/">Credit.com </a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I don't have friends. Well, I do. But not ones I interact with on a day to day basis. I have my colleagues who I enjoy talking to in the office, but after work we have our own lives to live. I also have my lifelong close friends who I get to talk to sometimes on Facebook. Not on a regular basis, but of course our friendship hasn't waned because of that. We still are close friends. And so, having said that, you would not doubt when I say that I don't have text mates and callers. If not for the internet on my mobile which serves as entertainment, I can live without it really. I'm very easy to find! LOL!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The only text messages I receive on my phone are promotions and bank transaction reports. So imagine my surprise last Thursday when I received a transaction report on a Thursday night. I was just home and not touching my ATM or credit card. I am not really expecting anything. Then I saw it, "Your Salary has been credited...." And I was like "what are you talking about?! I just received my salary a couple of days ago!" The first thought I had was that we may be receiving our salaries early due to Eid holidays, but when I checked the full amount, it doesn't amount to my salary. Not as much but good enough to shop with. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So I immediately contacted my colleague from the HR department to see if she has an idea what the money is for but apparently even they are not aware of that payment. So at the end of the conversation, we both decided that I shouldn't touch the money yet until I know what it's for. And that's a weekend. It's hard not to touch money on weekends! LOL! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After some more thought, I had a strong inkling that it was our merit increase. I knew it is coming at around this time of the year so I really had a strong urge to touch the money. It's mine, no matter how small it is, it's a windfall nonetheless. Ok, ok, to be perfectly honest, it isn't really a very small amount since it's retroactive from July, so that was 3 month's worth of increment. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But then thinking about it again now... shopping wasn't really the first thing that came to mind. I mean, to be perfectly honest about it, I really didn't think about spending the money and to date, it remains untouched in the bank. Why? How? What happened to me? It's a windfall for Pete's sake and I deserve to be pampered and happy after all my hard work right? Wrong.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Because that amount, no matter how small, can change my quality of life. I know I can be so happy shopping with it, but then that's only short term gratification. And I'm sure, the moment I got home I'll feel guilty about it knowing I can put the money to good use. I don't know what happened to me but I no longer derive happiness from shopping and I must admit I'm no longer fun to shop with. Even my girls know that. Often times they get disappointed when they ask me to buy something and my first question to them would be "What do you need it for?". Yes, I think that's how my brain was set up already. Before I buy anything, I ask myself first "What do I need it for?". If I can't answer it, then I don't buy it. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When it comes to the kids however, there's a tiny bit of an exception. There are certain toys that I know they really love. In those instances I let them have it. What do I need it for? I need it to be a loving mom with happy kids. Of course I haven't forgotten that they're still kids, and there's nothing wrong in giving them something they will truly enjoy. But I know what they are. Believe me, I know. So there is still no mistaking that I will only buy them the toys that will give them long term gratification, not just something they saw in the shops at that moment. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And as for that small windfall... I will use it to pay our Big Ate's school application and visa fees for her residential field trip. Those two things I have already budgeted for the next salary, but I see no harm in paying it in advance and therefore also move a step ahead of the miscellaneous expenses I have already forecasted. Did it change my life? Yes! Because the extra money can support my start up emergency funds and could help me avoid a huge negative in the budget which I am anticipating when my Tatay is finally scheduled for operation. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And that's where my fun lies. That I've put my money to good use and geared towards my goal of financial independence in the future. :)</span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-66217451973183494192013-09-19T11:07:00.000+03:002013-09-19T11:07:10.659+03:00Back To School<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are now into the 2nd week of school and so far we're doing good. Well that is if discount the worst ever doha traffic we have been encountering daily. What used to be a 15minute school run is now 45mins to an hour drive. Grabe the Shamal highway, there are days na it is literally turning into one big parking lot! You would really need to muster so much patience and creativeness in order to reach the school na kahit paano good vibes pa rin. It isn't easy mommies, I'm telling you. But this Doha traffic could really turn you into monster, if you just give in to the stress. Buti na lang the girls are so cooperative and before school starts I have already sat with them and talked to them that since now 3 na sila who needs to get ready, we need to wake up super duper earlier than before. Compared to last year na they could sleep in until 6:00am/ 6:15am, now hindi na pwede, dapat 1 hour earlier. And we need to be out the door at exactly 6:30. Tama naman because if not, naku for sure super stress specially with our Big Ate who really hates being late. Ooops! Yes, I know, hate is a strong word, I shouldn't use it. Hehe! But you get the drift. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So anyway with that, s'yempre adjust din our sleeping patterns. If during the summer they are allowed to stay up upto 10:30pm on weekdays (weekends no limit) now, 9:30pm they have to be sleeping na. At dahil it's important for me that they still get their minimum 10 hours of sleep, we are now back to the afternoon naps after lunch. Fortunately, they get home at 2:00pm so after lunch and some rest, they can take their naps na from 3:30-5:30pm (or more). I wake them up na lang after I got home from work and have rested na rin myself a little bit. I don't know, but I really believe that enough sleep talaga is the secret to grow up tall. Well, that's just me, wala namang scientific study yon. And everyone's saying that my kids are tall daw because the Expat Daddy. Which could be true too, pero ako, I'm really convinced that enough sleep can also be big factor. Palagay n'yo?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So there, the two Ate's didn't really took any adjusting since they will also be joining the same class as last year. It was our LO, I'm a bit concerned with. But it looks like she's adjusting very well. Yesterday, they had to come to school wearing costume of what they wanted to be when they grow up. She wore this...</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our little doctor</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> She didn't really want to be a doctor. She wants to be a pony! LOL!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Me: ano ba Oyen? ilang araw na tayo, you still can't decide. What do you want ba talaga to be when you grow up? Tomorrow na yon, wala ka pang costume.; LO: what? i already told you many times! I want to be a pony, like rarity and rainbow dash!</span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And today, she's running for office. She wants to be an eco-warrior. This is her application form. I hope she wins! :)</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today is her big speech day :)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our SA is also running for an eco-warrior post. This time she's not interested to run as a student councilor and so I asked her;</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">me: SA, you're not running for student council this year? I thought you want to be a councilor?; SA: oh that was only last year. now I don't like anymore. student council only get to have fun a little. they always have to walk around and check if other kids are breaking toys.</span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh thank God I think she has her principles in place. If you're not ready for the responsibility, don't take on the power. Ain't that right? At least as long as she has this in mind. I'm sure she'll never be a corrupt politician. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our Big Ate is not interested in running for any office. That's still one thing I need to motivate her too, I think. I mean she's so smart, but she still doesn't have the proper motivation to step up. Even if we have been boosting her confidence religiously, parang kulang pa rin the self confidence. Maybe I should really find ways to motivate her to step up more. Sayang naman her wit and intelligence kung ise-secret lang namin di ba? :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ay there's one thing I want to share pa pala with you dear mommies, I asked BA what they did in school today. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">BA: oh we had to introduce ourselves to our class adviser because he's new. We have to say where we're from, our interests and the person we admire most. I said it is you. Because you're super smart, you're strong, and kind. You help everyone, even the people you don't know.</span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">O di ba naman? Nakakataba naman talaga ng puso if you hear that from your child? Finding out that your kid admires you. I probably am doing something right. That really made my day! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All in all, I believe the girls are heaving a great time. Now our BA is so excited for this year's school trip. They'll be traveling abroad for 5 days! Oh no! That's a brand new reality for the Expat Mommy so I really need more time to process it. Geez! The girls really are growing up so fast! Oh my! Dahan dahan naman mga anak, di pa ready si Mei-mei! :) </span><br />
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-75634096217252338742013-08-29T15:54:00.000+03:002013-08-29T15:54:46.716+03:00Project 57: Balik Alindog Program 2013, Wave 2, Day 8<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Day 8! Would you believe that?????</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wow! I can't even believe it myself. For the longest time, I am eternally on Day 1 of my weight loss program. And finally, here I am, overcoming 1 week. Yaaay!!!! Oh yeah, I have a title for this little loosing weight project that I have, yes that's it Project 57, 57 for my target weight. When I started, I was 12kgs. away from that goal, right now, I'm 2kgs. nearer. Ok, you do the math! LOL!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But I'm not setting the success in stone pa naman mga mommies ha. This is a work in progress and I'm not sure how long I can stay on this plan. But one thing's for sure, I am more resolved to make this successful compared to before. Just like what I always used to say, my real problem is not really the discipline in exercising or dieting, it's really the motivation and the resolve to do it. Yung why, yon ang hinahanap ko e. Why am I doing it, for what? I think at this point, I have already found it. Because now, I have made this a learning process more than a weight loss process. Instead on focusing on my weight and stressing myself on how much I need to loose, I am more focused on my research on effective ways to do it. Like for example, I am more conscious now on the amount of calories I take in. So whenever I plan for my meal, I check for the calorie content of the food first. Alam n'yo ba mga mommies, that by cutting back on rice and coke alone, I am reducing my daily calorie intake by 1,258? O di ba ang saya! Yes, 8 days na without rice and coke mga mommies! So how it affects my weight is bonus na lang. :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Basta, what I am trying to do lang talaga is to limit my calorie intake to an average of 500 per day. Like one more example, yung coffee. I really can't go about my day without coffee e. Most days i drink around 3 cups per day, e ang coffee pala with milk and sugar is around 40 calories, meaning in a day 120 yon. Now i skipped coffee early morning at home and after lunch in the office. I have also asked our assistant to serve me half a cup na lang instead of 1 full cup in the morning. That way at least may coffee pa rin, but limited na nga lang, from 120 that would be 20 calories na lang di ba? So mga ganong bagay lang naman and I lost 2kg in one week. Yaay!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But before I forget, I've made myself more active na rin these days. And this is thanks to the Expat Daddy naman. Serious din s'ya sa Balik Alindog program ko! LOL! Everyday he makes it a point to bring me to the park so I can walk. I have been doing this na for the past 4 days. Again, iniba ko ulit yung mind setting ko on this one. Hindi weight loss, but what I really wanted is to be able to run. As in takbo. I have been walking for an hour na e. Then I try as much as I can to jog. One hour kasi is about 20 rounds sa park. In the last couple of days, I tried to level up na, mixed it with jogging a bit. and instead of 20 rounds naging 25 rounds na sya in an hour. So sana eventually maka full rounds of jogging na ako, mas mabilis mas madaming rounds di ba? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I guess kasi that helps e. Kasi yung mind setting na loose weight loose weight napaka-general. Di ba naman sabi nga make your goals SMART. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. So yan ang mantra ko mga mommies. No crash diets, no pills, no unbelievably ridiculous regimens. Slowly but surely lang. I don't even rely on being able to loose 10kg in in a couple of months, I know impossible naman yon. But I have made a chart din just to record my progress. I'll share it with you kapag I have at least a month's entry na. See in a month I was thinking nga of loosing lang around 2-3kg lang e. Kasi alam ko at the least yon lang talaga ang achievable, considering my age and my lifestyle. Ok na rin yon, that would still be about 6-9kg in 3 months. Pero, kung sakali yung 5kg nga masaya na ako e. I think ok na yon. But I also think achievable din naman yung 10 mga mommies. Focus lang talaga and keep your mind away from the weight loss itself. Parang derivative na lang yon. What I've done or what works for me is to compartmentalize my goals. So on the diet part, the goal is to limit my calorie intake to 500 per day. And on the exercise side naman, is to be able to run the full 10 rounds sa park. E of course naman, hindi na maiiwasan ang pagpayat d'yan, di ba naman? :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ooops! Wait wait wait, wag rin nating kalimutan yung final target outcome ko, it's to be able to wear my favorite at pagkamahal-mahal na Seven jeans. Size 27 yan mommies. Yun na yon!</span><br />
<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-72837174967314008712013-08-26T10:35:00.001+03:002013-08-26T10:35:20.362+03:00SOCO: Lalaloopsy is Dead!<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kung ang kamatayan ni Lalaloopsy is newsworthy, ito siguro ang headline na gigising sa atin mga mommies today:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4V3HSqwkyBQxDX8QRyXgumdtouoKTQu-BOH1Or0O1fa7x_lm9AmefNjBKydku-ybPmKwraRQwINpiRFlWPof4nZTB4BqevksQnrIDzbkRO84vJNZEH22mL4IbYpMUXynLLUOsdUE9UTZ/s1600/971959_10200894320054179_352783927_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4V3HSqwkyBQxDX8QRyXgumdtouoKTQu-BOH1Or0O1fa7x_lm9AmefNjBKydku-ybPmKwraRQwINpiRFlWPof4nZTB4BqevksQnrIDzbkRO84vJNZEH22mL4IbYpMUXynLLUOsdUE9UTZ/s400/971959_10200894320054179_352783927_n.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Lalaloopsy natagpuang patay, lumulutang sa isang baldeng tubig!"</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yesterday, is the 4th day of my Project 57 (more about this on another post) and the second day of the active workout part. Finally I was able to walk for an hour at the park. S'yempre pa, as always, the girls are with me. We got home late since we got invited for pizza by another family, our park buddies. So we arrived home at around 9:30pm. I immediately asked the girls to take a shower and prepared them for bed. Ok naman, nothing out of the ordinary. Until after I finished with everything and took a shower myself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During the summer kasi, we are keeping this tub of water in the bathroom. The water tends to get so hot kasi, even without turning on the heater. So what we do is we save water on a covered tub. Imagine my surprise when I removed the cover! Ayan, si Lalaloopsy lumulutang lutang sa isang baldeng tubig! Hahaha! She must have been there since the afternoon pa siguro, or morning. Wala na! Kung tao s'ya, she really couldn't be revived anymore! My gulay! Oh well, no investigation required. From the moment I saw it, alam ko na kagad kung sino ang salarin! You guessed it right mga mommies, walang iba kung hindi si kulit! Just one of the antics of our Little Oyen! LOL!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You know the moment I saw this, the first thing that come to mind? We really can't have another baby!!!!! My first thought was, it wouldn't be impossible that our Little Oyen wiill play with him/her and snatch the baby from under my nose, then matagpuan ko na lang na lumulutang sa tubig! LOL! Well yeah, that's a bit exaggerated, but at this point, I really don't know what this little girl can't do! Her imagination really runs so wild and the worse thing is that, she believes she could get away with almost everything!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nakakaloka! But at the same time, nakaka-aliw din naman. So I guess it's partly our fault din, kasi nga we always get amused with everything she does, and even if we reprimand her, most of the time I guess she can see the twinkle in our eyes and at that moment she already knew she got away with it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Haayy... I can say this little one is really a handful. But one thing that works to my advantage is, I know exactly what she's afraid of --- she doesn't want to become a big sister! So whenever she's being extra naughty, yon ang panlaban ko. I just tell her that if she doesn't stop we'll have another baby and make her an Ate! And with that, I won! LOL!</span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-55266120736892396152013-08-25T14:10:00.000+03:002013-08-25T14:13:48.814+03:00Conversation with the BA @ 10: LostOur Big Ate has been wanting to buy grocery items she finds in the internet, which are not readily available in all supermarkets in Qatar. So just to indulge her, I told her we can visit Megamart so she can check if she can find some of those things (Apart from the Ben & Jerry's ice cream she always ask for). Fortunately, we were able to find Arizona Tea which is top most on her list.<br />
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Since we also needed to buy her digestive tea, I thought of buying green tea instead (nakakapayat daw :)), t'was only then I realized, ang dami palang green tea flavors! LOL! I've always been a coffee drinker and I didn't know na just green tea alson ang dami palang pagpipilian! So I took my time choosing, suddenly she blurted out "Mei-mei, faster! Gosh mei-mei, too much first world problem!". I was like, what?! My gulay the words that come out of her mouth. Well, I didn't really mind. I mean I've always wanted them to feel free to say anything as long as it doesn't disrespect the person they're talking with. I mean, wag lang naman bastos, di ba mommies? I just want the girls really to grow up knowing how to speak their minds. It's important kasi I think e, the same way that I make sure that they don't feel guilty about their feelings. I'm the type of mom who let their kids cry. I don't stop them. E sa masama ang loob nila di ba? They have the right to their feelings, I believe. There is no right or wrong feelings, di ba naman? So ok, after hearing that, natawa na lang talaga ako. But I also thought, if that was me kaya talking like that to my mom, ay siguro nakurot ako sa singit! LOL!</div>
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And so anyway, to cut the story short, our Big Ate went home happy. She was able to find most everything she's looking for. On our way home this is how our conversation went.</div>
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<i>Me: Ate, do you remember the time when I lost my job and didn't have a proper replacement? Was it hard for you? We're you affected?</i><i>BA: Hmm... not really. </i><i>Me: So you're ok with it. Like it doesn't matter we're you still happy event if you were not able to buy the things that you want just like these?</i><i>BA: Yeah. I don't mind. I was still happy.</i><i>Me: So you mean it's ok if we didn't have money? You don't mind not having money?</i><i>BA: Well, Mei-mei. I said it's ok, back then. But it doesn't mean I want to go back there again! It's like getting lost and ending up in a road full of lions. And then finally you are able to escape. You don't want to go back to the lost road again, do you? It's like that Mei-mei. I can handle it, but it doesn't mean I want to go back!</i><br />
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LOL! Oo nga naman! Who would want to go back to the hard life? Right. Well my only consolation is, I knew that if ever the time comes again, that life will not be as comfortable, when we have to struggle a bit again. I will be comforted with the thought that the girls (I hope the two little ones feel the same) wouldn't really mind. And their happiness do not lie on material things. Material things are blessings but not something that can alter their outlook in life.<br />
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Thank you God for giving us children who are not materially dependent and who, at this early age, already know what's important in life.<br />
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My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-23049488954117266922013-08-01T11:48:00.000+03:002013-08-01T12:01:05.387+03:00#ThrowbackThursday No.1<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggspmC8aPITtRyL5tvRcg1C-g1qTmmpmUiupMGpTDeE6uMsmI1HfjiU75FxPjCzlHRSHL4ehqO9ijvLNKtd5GCFTp0Ve9QsB6VLzm4_oU4tYUq9r_T5c14ToUEEnrBxw3pC8jC2PvSZNxi/s1600/2665_1104418124572_7531361_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggspmC8aPITtRyL5tvRcg1C-g1qTmmpmUiupMGpTDeE6uMsmI1HfjiU75FxPjCzlHRSHL4ehqO9ijvLNKtd5GCFTp0Ve9QsB6VLzm4_oU4tYUq9r_T5c14ToUEEnrBxw3pC8jC2PvSZNxi/s400/2665_1104418124572_7531361_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I miss our Big Ate's two silver front teeth :)</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This photo was taken during our Big Ate's field trip in Museo Pambata when she was in Advanced Casa SY2008 at the Integrated Montessori Center in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. I miss our short family relocation to the Philippines... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What I remember then? Our Big Ate as always, was biggest in the class. She joined in July (Thank God, she was still accepted). Her best friend was Sofia, the granddaughter of the school's owner. Her teacher was Teacher Inah (she's also now in Qatar, through me. But, nevermind...). Our Big Ate graduated with Little Einstein Award, she's not qualified to compete for top academic honors since she was a transferee. Her learnings in this school is impressive. I will forever be grateful and will always love IMC for what they've done for our Big and Small Ate. :)</span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-76851395989158561912013-08-01T11:24:00.002+03:002013-08-01T11:49:34.392+03:00Is it really August Already?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcjoIQ7PXSHXqQENbYUi7fDCKfGMcOhowMS44CDrRKAri8Ix0qYQbyJ5aFrEfsrIG0u_aRTobTkYsALJiOY3XZWhtP9bd9g7zkU7JVuZ63jdXfx9VtGane1kNxdiHppUwHbMspXVNcUkq/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-01+at+11.18.55+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcjoIQ7PXSHXqQENbYUi7fDCKfGMcOhowMS44CDrRKAri8Ix0qYQbyJ5aFrEfsrIG0u_aRTobTkYsALJiOY3XZWhtP9bd9g7zkU7JVuZ63jdXfx9VtGane1kNxdiHppUwHbMspXVNcUkq/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-08-01+at+11.18.55+AM.png" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Really, where did the days go?</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Geez! I can't believe it's already August! At the beginning of each month, my first thought would always be, so what happened to last month?! Well, that is in terms of my Project 57: Balik Alindog Program 2013. LOL! Last January, I knew I was so determined to loose weight. I've always been going to the Recreation Center and the Clubhouse to check the month's Health and Fitness Program. I make sure I make a schedule for myself to join some group exercises and visit the gym. What happened? So it's been 8 months already, and nothing! Nothing happened! LOL!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, when it comes to days and months passing, I always equate it to my resolve to loose wait. And now it's becoming pretty close to failure. But who knows, something might happen in the next four months, or am I just really waiting for a miracle which isn't in God's priority list? LOL! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the other hand though, August means we're pretty close to Christmas! Yippee! For me, I've always divided the year in two parts --- Christmas Season and Not Christmas Season. :) Christmas Season begins in September for me. And maybe to most Expat Families around the world who loves timing their vacation to the Philippines during the Christmas Season. Yes, Christmas will always be more fun in the Philippines! Right? So September, as the beginning of the "-ber" months is the time when we plan our vacation. For most of us, our vacations would only be about 3 weeks to a month, so we have to make it "sulit", and with proper planning surely we make the most out of it, in terms of time and money management. So I guess after the planning of our Dubai trip which I posted <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2013/07/dubai-escapade-2013-part-1-planning-my.html">here</a> and <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2013/07/dubai-escapade-2013-part-2-sites-to-see.html">here</a>, it will be time to start planning for our Pinas vacation in December. Of course more than anything, I have to make sure we don't super indulge and go way beyond our budget. I don't want to find myself suddenly buried in debt. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">August... eight months into the year. What have I really accomplished? Why do I feel like the months just passed me by? Am I just to hard on myself, feeling I haven't really accomplished anything? Hmmm... maybe I should set more goals next time. Maybe I should give less focus on my Project 57. Hehe! I need more success stories, I should set more goals outside of loosing weight! LOL! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpK8-syrhSB1Hst3PjgWEmBp9-QswtzjAl29DvW-WRnlaQPJSqdaOfh1mg0JVGs0pB7hA3yiGq-NHQXjPXsCUlZ_bU5KQBhfpf34RTprD677KZugT_Ce6Hjtzda5Il0nwfIOzzlJAqLlv/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-01+at+11.19.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpK8-syrhSB1Hst3PjgWEmBp9-QswtzjAl29DvW-WRnlaQPJSqdaOfh1mg0JVGs0pB7hA3yiGq-NHQXjPXsCUlZ_bU5KQBhfpf34RTprD677KZugT_Ce6Hjtzda5Il0nwfIOzzlJAqLlv/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-08-01+at+11.19.53+AM.png" width="387" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Let's start creating new dreams, shall we?</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What about you mommies? Do you feel the same way? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-62538921187879796652013-07-31T15:06:00.002+03:002013-07-31T16:41:22.378+03:00Dubai Escapade 2013 Part 2: Sites to See and Budget Planning<h4>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>For a quick backgrounder, please read <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2013/07/dubai-escapade-2013-part-1-planning-my.html">Part 1</a> of this series. :)</i></span></h4>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One drawback I think we got from the girls going to an international school is the lifestyle they assimilate into. LOL! If before they don't mind staying put for the summer, this time a new world and a new reality have been opened up before them. Kids! And so, since our plan to travel to the Philippines is still in December in time for Christmas, the Expat Daddy and I have agreed that for the summer, we can have a short break to Dubai. Well, I guess I also owe it to them since they actually have their own money for travel coming from the travel allowance I will be receiving for them. So technically, this is not money coming from my pocket. It really is theirs to use in the manner that it was allotted for. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Considering our work schedules, the Expat Daddy and I agreed to schedule the trip from August 4-7 just before the Eid Al Fitr. Before Eid, because the prices are cheaper plus, I actually wanted to rest during the Eid holidays to prepare for the coming school year. I'd really just want to relax during the 5 day break. Right after Eid would be a busy time for me at the office and I couldn't take a leave during the time, then right after that, they'll be back in school. So I think we really chose the best time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I mentioned the places we intended to see in my <a href="http://3miniladiesandamommy.blogspot.com/2013/07/dubai-escapade-2013-part-1-planning-my.html">earlier post</a>, but just to give you a little bit more details, here goes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Day 1</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdxloQdPEqOYDdb_Ue0bGkw7mTm08PGjbH-k0dPaXRR2klmk5wasAP4hBik6tr-_FapCl5XQZ7ZxCq0Yf3prdpRqoa-_YCz7YbEC9e1apprR-W50gMpp3ywdWTA2TD6ovA63KeFJTeYG5/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.05.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdxloQdPEqOYDdb_Ue0bGkw7mTm08PGjbH-k0dPaXRR2klmk5wasAP4hBik6tr-_FapCl5XQZ7ZxCq0Yf3prdpRqoa-_YCz7YbEC9e1apprR-W50gMpp3ywdWTA2TD6ovA63KeFJTeYG5/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.05.27+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Burj Khalifa Tower Observation Desk (Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/ObservationDeck/ObservationDeck.aspx">At the Top</a>)</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJT5fbumbyPOhcsmAwAa7csKZmqf-6-S3Vv2ZJepI9l9gZmTVqxaYT5BOy6edkqB5r8e0Rt8Gd4SmZxGqpaeiP0aPkmmetWbIHKvcZ7QeMBkht1r5YFQ9i55YS2A-3NF_SPimHAPaKLTss/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.10.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJT5fbumbyPOhcsmAwAa7csKZmqf-6-S3Vv2ZJepI9l9gZmTVqxaYT5BOy6edkqB5r8e0Rt8Gd4SmZxGqpaeiP0aPkmmetWbIHKvcZ7QeMBkht1r5YFQ9i55YS2A-3NF_SPimHAPaKLTss/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.10.43+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride (Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/DowntownDubai/TheDubaiFountainLakeride.aspx">At the Top</a>)</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For our
first day since we are arriving at lunch time, I'm hoping we could take our
lunch at Asiana hotel, just hoping their restaurants are open. I have already
taken their no. so I can call them immediately when we arrive. If not, then
we'll have room service. In the afternoon we'll be visiting the Dubai Aquarium
in the Dubai Mall and then head on to the Burj Khalifa Tower and cap the night
with the boat ride to watch the dancing fountain. Wherever I can, I have
already purchased our tickets online, to save time and avoid long lines, if
ever. Also, I found out that there's a chance you pay more when you purchase
your ticket for the Burj onsite. Our Burj tickets cost us QR560 ($243) and the
boat ride QR325($89). For the Dubai Aquarium their online reseller have much
higher cost so I did not book it anymore, we'll just purchase when we get there
this will cost us QR305 ($83) for combo tickets (these prices are for a family
of 5, 2 adults and 3 kids).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cost Day 1 (Based on internet published rates): </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Entrance Fees - QR1,190/- ($327)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Food - QR 600/- ($165)</span></div>
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<u style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Transportation (Metro) - QR 100/- ($27)</u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TOTAL QR1,890/- ($519)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To get to the Burj Khalifa from our hotel, we will be taking the Metro from the nearest station to our hotel, the Al Fahidie Station. The Al Fahidie is on the green line of the metro so from there we'll get off at Bur Juman (next stop) to transfer to red line and then on to Dubai Mall. The good thing about it is that the station is just by the mall. Not sure if there's a tunnel connecting it to the mall, but I know the mall has its own station. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Day 2</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For our second day, we will be visiting the Atlantis in the morning, go back to the hotel for lunch and a bit of rest before going out again the Mall of the Emirates for Ski Dubai. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I opted for only the Lost Chamber for QR410 for this trip and scrapped the Aquaventure which is the Aqua Theme Park of Atlantis because it would be too hot for us to enjoy frolicking in the water at midday. We can maybe do it another time, when we have the opportunity to visit during a much cooler time of year. We will be going back to the hotel for lunch since we expect all restaurants to be closed due to Ramadan. And I'm sure in any case that a restaurant is open at the Atlantis, it would surely be way beyond our meal budget, by the way I have budget QR300 ($82) per meal when we have to eat out. Also, I'm sure the girls would want to rest for a while before heading on to our next stop. That's just how they are. We just go out the whole day, surely they'll be cranky come 5pm! </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyN4Kqy7huy1sdWNhhBXFqZTmyqMKwOA5x9kTfnysDxmD9uYrl11EV3TapYAn-yMrvT2SRx3nZRrXKhZUt_ML9dedrlRCiD7d7ty3NnsaWyXXCesMD1xCPP5ioIE-cYaHtr50bPno_KKx/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.15.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyN4Kqy7huy1sdWNhhBXFqZTmyqMKwOA5x9kTfnysDxmD9uYrl11EV3TapYAn-yMrvT2SRx3nZRrXKhZUt_ML9dedrlRCiD7d7ty3NnsaWyXXCesMD1xCPP5ioIE-cYaHtr50bPno_KKx/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.15.12+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lost Chambers (Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.atlantisthepalm.com/marineandwaterpark/thelostchambers/themyth.aspx">Atlantis Website</a>)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, I couldn't purchase online tickets for the Ski Dubai so we'll have to do that when we get there. From their website I chose their Power Pass which includes the Penguin Encounter. We'll then have dinner at the Mall, visit some of the shops and then head back to the hotel. We couldn't really stay too late outside as the girls should really be getting enough sleep to prepare for the next day. We have a very packed itinerary but rest is non-negotiable :)</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWOgGFWC5sDMNkcXBoStXJ0oVLqhAk_-CcY6mr3n41utKo7hyphenhyphenZp4Zxmqc098_re8FTURmRBFmaEQqCMPvnTOjDHixHeQ6P0a3zVPD8Ai6XjJNevvwDY1PlNmjmskWgbzbZL6aksXTXkNw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+1.51.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWOgGFWC5sDMNkcXBoStXJ0oVLqhAk_-CcY6mr3n41utKo7hyphenhyphenZp4Zxmqc098_re8FTURmRBFmaEQqCMPvnTOjDHixHeQ6P0a3zVPD8Ai6XjJNevvwDY1PlNmjmskWgbzbZL6aksXTXkNw/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+1.51.12+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Photo from their website (<a href="http://www.theplaymania.com/skidubai/pricing">Ski Dubai</a>)</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cost Day 2 (based on internet published rates)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Atlantis Entrance Fee QR 410/- ($113)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ski Dubai Power Pass QR1,500 ($412)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Transportation QR 150/- ($41)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Food (Dinner & Snack) QR 500/- ($137)</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TOTAL QR2,560/- ($703)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To go to the Atlantis, we will have to take the metro again from Al Fahidie to Bur Juman and then from Bur Juman we get off at Nakheel Metro Station 1 and from there we take the taxi to Atlantis. Not sure yet if we'd like to try the monorail, but from reviews I've read, most don't recommend it. We go back to the hotel the same way and then take the same trains and get off at the Mall of the Emirates Station for Ski Dubai in the afternoon. So easy right? :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Day 3</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On our third day, I am not really sure about our morning plans. I wanted for us to include some cultural trip so I have included the Dubai Museum and the Bastakia Quarter and maybe include a walking tour provided by the <a href="http://www.dubai-online.com/sights/smccu/">Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding</a>. But I'm not sure, it still depends on the weather. If this doesn't happen then our morning will maybe be a mall day after all. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97QBi6zRWODav5CGAL33CsgyInZT5WWnsQ0lO8AuM5XXZIoFPlk7oLAwjy85P2-aGVVY4oI6rjLbM0QpbO8ZIJHIt6q8I2Trvh40kG0vGCfcJ1BkDpY3mTrF6PX5E_7HEgWWpyQQbmyFG/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.00.23+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97QBi6zRWODav5CGAL33CsgyInZT5WWnsQ0lO8AuM5XXZIoFPlk7oLAwjy85P2-aGVVY4oI6rjLbM0QpbO8ZIJHIt6q8I2Trvh40kG0vGCfcJ1BkDpY3mTrF6PX5E_7HEgWWpyQQbmyFG/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.00.23+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Photo Courtesy of Dubai Online (<a href="http://www.dubai-online.com/sights/bastakia-quarter/">Bastakia Quarter</a>)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The afternoon is also a little bit tricky since the Mirdiff City Center is a little bit far from the Rashiyida Metro Station. We can either walk a few minutes to transfer to a bus F10 which will take us to the Mirdiff, or we can take a taxi from the Metro station. I guess it will depend really on how convenient the bus ride will be. If not so then we'll just take a taxi from the station. Oh, I can already hear the vote of the 4 of them! LOL! We're going to Mirdiff for the <a href="http://www.theplaymania.com/ifly">iFly</a> and <a href="http://www.theplaymania.com/little-explorers">Little Explorer</a>. Again, I could not find how I can pre-purchase the tickets online, so we'll have to do it onsite. Yes we want to fly! Well, the Small Ate and I that is, so we will only be paying for 2 at QR430 (118). Our Small Ate and Little Oyen will also be visiting the Little Explorer, entrance fee is QR260 for two. Adults are free. The Expat Daddy doesn't know it yet but he'll chaperone while the Big Ate and I do a little bit of shopping. :)</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8KYEwk1nYNj_JOpH4rGg5MGHt_9HA01XynW_LF1pfmbFQh1EiwqCTFrcsraSPeFj53sQoI5GvJNStMus7Rr-o2Fwy1Oe8xcSWrVrlics7PCA1bXRnPLGawJBIxxwoVowgBpZcmNUHiQi/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.22.13+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8KYEwk1nYNj_JOpH4rGg5MGHt_9HA01XynW_LF1pfmbFQh1EiwqCTFrcsraSPeFj53sQoI5GvJNStMus7Rr-o2Fwy1Oe8xcSWrVrlics7PCA1bXRnPLGawJBIxxwoVowgBpZcmNUHiQi/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.22.13+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yes we want to fly! (Photo courstesy of <a href="http://www.theplaymania.com/gallery/ifly-dubai">iFly</a>)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the evening, I/we plan to have a short stop over at the Wafi City Mall to watch the Light Show. It has 2 runs during the night at 9:30 and 10. So I thought we can just take our dinner there. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEict-V9NTPB2cfPX08dpsm2RAcKbwvxTjBKeOqO-IQjei89CIqbZnbyeVw47Dz7N_KPdQQPpqDf3T9Qrj6QFntFeMQ0mdv5ihdL8XxZy9L2oAc_N1T8cg9rG4I8dmm9fH8Ah2sk741RuX7L/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.33.05+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEict-V9NTPB2cfPX08dpsm2RAcKbwvxTjBKeOqO-IQjei89CIqbZnbyeVw47Dz7N_KPdQQPpqDf3T9Qrj6QFntFeMQ0mdv5ihdL8XxZy9L2oAc_N1T8cg9rG4I8dmm9fH8Ah2sk741RuX7L/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+2.33.05+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.wafi.com/entertainment-in-dubai/light-and-sound-show">Wafi Dubai</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cost Day 3 (based on internet published rates)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bastakia Quarter Walking Tour - QR200/- ($55)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">iFly Flying Experience QR430/- ($118)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Little Explorers - QR260/- ($71) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Transportation - QR150/- ($41)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Food (Dinner & Snack) - QR500/- ($137)</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TOTAL QR1,540/- ($423)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To go to the Bastakia Quarter and Dubai Museum, I think we will just be taking the taxi this time. It's very near anyway and not worth the inconvenience walking and getting on off the Metro for this one. For the afternoon trip, we'll take the same route Al Fahidie to Bur Juman and transfer trains to Red Line going to Al Rashiyida Station. This is the nearest station (not so near) to Mirdiff City Center so we'll maybe have to take the taxi or bus from the station going to Mirdiff. We will be staying at Mirdiff until around 7pm and head to Wafi. So coming back the way we came, we'll transfer trains at Bur Juman since the nearest station to Wafi is Dubai Healthcare Metro Station which is also in the green line. The only advantage to this is that from Wafi we no longer need to transfer to go back to the hotel. We can head straight to Al Fahidie from the Dubai Healthcare station.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Day 4</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We don't really have nothing much planned since we need to be at the airport by 3pm anyway and we are checking out at 12noon. So, hopefully the pool will be open by then (I learned they're renovating) so the girls can just swim early morning. Then we head to Spinney's to buy foods we can take back home. Then we head home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So total travel costs, let's see:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Airfare QR3,220 ($885)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Airport Visa QR 500 ($137)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hotel QR1,095 ($300)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Day 1 QR1,890 ($519)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Day 2 QR2,560 ($703)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Day 3 QR1,540 ($423)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Incidentals QR 500 ($137)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Others QR1,000 ($274)</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TOTAL QR12,305 ($3,380)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Right on target! That's really how much I have set aside for the trip from the beginning. Well, just a little bit over, but of course we need that little wiggle room to not stress about money during the trip. And again, we are doing it for the girls. For their personal enrichment. Things like these are also important for the well being of children, so they grow up well rounded individuals. So I guess I'm happy about my planning, I just really hope we stick to this planned budget. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Isn't that full packed? Now I'm thinking maybe we should have made it a 5 day tour, just like what my colleague said. She told me 4 days is not enough. I didn't believe her, but now I'm thinking maybe she's right. There are still lots of things to see and do in Dubai, but I thought there will always be a next time, anyway Dubai is just one cartwheel away! :)</span></div>
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My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-16140617211103505332013-07-31T13:09:00.000+03:002013-07-31T13:09:08.822+03:00Dubai Escapade 2013 Part 1: The Planning, My Choices<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And why am I writing this part, you might ask? Well, it's simply because half of the joy I will derive from the experience is the happiness I feel when I have made a perfectly laid out plan! :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember the last Management Bootcamp I attended from Georgetown University, I found out that my character is Rational. Somebody who takes so much time planning and making sure that everything's in order. Ok, I don't think I really captured that perfectly, so maybe another post. But yes, plain and simple I love everything to be well planned before I carry them out into action. I want to make sure that there are no loopholes in the plan. I want to make sure that in the event that something unexpected arises, I have a way to get through it. In short, I love making a script of my life. I think most moms are like that though. I mean most of the time we drive our family's life directions so we have to make sure we never get lost right?</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEZu_gTPeMwrvZe0AxVBqLTx66Jq3SPRiq-iBc6BapRyGJgauGVZS4UjGs4WW2WJVSbSmIYDTWKmNPQngbcOg99caCct7dw3WCHjQjskIQIwHnkjFxgjnenlRUvznFV2rHl6P0KNcUTw_/s1600/1002305_520663737986838_91661679_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEZu_gTPeMwrvZe0AxVBqLTx66Jq3SPRiq-iBc6BapRyGJgauGVZS4UjGs4WW2WJVSbSmIYDTWKmNPQngbcOg99caCct7dw3WCHjQjskIQIwHnkjFxgjnenlRUvznFV2rHl6P0KNcUTw_/s400/1002305_520663737986838_91661679_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Yes, I'm taking all this printouts for the trip. This will keep me sane! :)</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This trip is no different. Although I've been to Dubai already once before, it was a business trip so I wasn't able to really explore the city. And that was eons ago. Dubai is not the same Dubai I'm sure. And you know what's another advantage of planning? You get the best value for your money. Research and planning can save you loads when going on a trip. Let me tell you the ways. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQujEczyp_vy3wTuffmv-aHtemX0kAC05fYqu-eV_H4LLy2lEN_6k1PkFUc1qkA3Z25kEHRSxUcGzAvsmZhnXlPxJehVF1JR8HANHrFRyqBMnKcJzRbwRmTN-UoQmuNLaUoH4asiQbTCw2/s1600/1002330_520069474712931_620622114_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQujEczyp_vy3wTuffmv-aHtemX0kAC05fYqu-eV_H4LLy2lEN_6k1PkFUc1qkA3Z25kEHRSxUcGzAvsmZhnXlPxJehVF1JR8HANHrFRyqBMnKcJzRbwRmTN-UoQmuNLaUoH4asiQbTCw2/s400/1002330_520069474712931_620622114_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Not yet complete,but I'm sure you get the drift :)</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Airfare - Fly Dubai is the budget airline to Dubai. When I first made our initial plan, our airfare cost is QR3,260 (around $900) for a family of five. Being a budget airline, there is no child fare in their rates. So ok, we're good with that. But I did not book immediately, when I explored other options, I found out that I have enough points in my Skywards card from Emirates to take me to Dubai and back. And those points are expiring in September! We are loyal Emirates flyers and we loooovvvveeee the Emirates. So it was actually sad for me that we're not taking Emirates this time. But when I found out I can have my airfare free only paying for taxes amounting to QR260 ($71), I immediately checked how much it would cost for the the Expat Daddy and the girls. QR2,960 ($813)! Yippeee! So in the end we were able to save pa a few Riyals. And we're flying Emirates! Woohoo! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hotel - When it comes to hotel online booking, my go to place is <a href="http://asiatravel.com/">Asiatravel</a>. Why? because, I already tried to compare prices with other popular sites, and they really offer lower rates. Plus, I'm a very loyal person, once you've given me a very good service the first time, you'll be sure I'll come back for more. And as always, I've had only good experiences with Asiatravel. For this trip, I chose Fortune Grand Hotel. Well, I really really hope that it's as good as what their website projects. I mean I know sometimes the photos they include on their website are very old ones, right when the hotel is just new. But still hoping for the best, this looks like the best option for us. My considerations were, I wanted a hotel apartment, since it is Ramadan, I'd like to make sure we're covered in terms of food. I want to make sure that we are well fed, without breaking the bank. All restaurants are closed during the day and for sure, hotel restaurants, if ever they're open would be very expensive. I have only budgeted for extravagant meals during dinner when we're out :). So for a 2BR apartment the rate is QR304 ($83) not bad right? For a Deluxe apartment I thought I snatched a good deal. I mean, I did not choose the cheapest, but still it was good value for the money. And the other advantage, it's walking distance from a Metro Station. And why the Metro, here's why.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Local Transportation - Yes my mode of transportation of choice is the Metro. Why because I feel safer than taking taxis. Even when I was single and working in Manila, I've always been wary of taxi drivers. I don't know why, I just felt that if the man on the wheel is planning something, I have no escape. Ok ok, bad thought and I shouldnt' be talking about that :). So the Metro because, it is efficient we will avoid the traffic. Plus as I've said our hotel of choice is just minutes away from the station. And there is a Metro station at the Terminal 3 where we will be arriving at. So from the airport we arrive shortly at the hotel safe and sound. And again, loads cheaper than taking the cab! Another thing, most of our destinations during the trip also has a Metro station nearby, so it would really be just from one station to another! So cheap, so efficient! I really just hope this works out, for my sake or else I'm sure I won't hear the end of it from the girls, who hates inconvenience! LOL! Btw, I made sure I checked from Asiatravel that I have picked the right stop. Thank you again Liana, for being ever so helpful and answering my tons of questions! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Food - As I've said, we'd be preparing our own food at times that's why I chose a hotel apartment with a fully equipped kitchen. Why, because there are "certain foods" we'd like to eat while we're there. Purefoods Tender Juicy for breakfast is one of those. Plus, our fave pork sinigang and lechon kawali. It's cheaper, we're happy! But we also do love eating out so we'll do that during dinner when the restaurants are open. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tour Destinations - We, ok. I chose these spots to visit because of the kids and because it's summer. We can't really do much outdoors and the good thing about Dubai is that most of the attractions are within the Malls or hotels so we can escape the scorching heat of the Sun. Look! I even prepared our itinerary! LOL! I'll tell you more about the sites in another, post. I'm sure I've been talking too much already. :)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkLEXU0oc5EJ9PXCLZy_biJoOVYBoElJ-1xSLq-HrBhr4IIZK47-H1v980JfS3qGwt3QcUGeSwyKS8a34dknAA1cy2PdF4Ve0CHbQ9bCd0l7czkkA25CwatiGticIXTCEWP11A2g-FKsS/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+12.31.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkLEXU0oc5EJ9PXCLZy_biJoOVYBoElJ-1xSLq-HrBhr4IIZK47-H1v980JfS3qGwt3QcUGeSwyKS8a34dknAA1cy2PdF4Ve0CHbQ9bCd0l7czkkA25CwatiGticIXTCEWP11A2g-FKsS/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-31+at+12.31.55+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Yes, all four days are accounted for </span></i><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For Day 1, we'll be visiting the Burj Khalifa with a boat ride to watch the dancing fountain on the side. Then we'll also see the Dubai Aquarium. Day 2, we'll go to the Atlantis in the morning and then Ski Dubai in the afternoon. Day 3, it would be a cultural trip to the Dubai Museum and Bastakiya Quarter in the morning and then to iFly at the Mirdiff City Center in the afternoon. We'll then go to watch the Light Show at the Wafi Center at night before finally turning in. Yes, I know, there's just no room for shopping. It's because we don't have a budget for that! LOL! The girls have their savings which they have kept for this trip so since most of the destinations are in the malls, they can do a little bit of shopping with their own money. As for me, I just have too many obligations and this trip is already a big dent on the already stretched out budget. But hey, I'm a mom and I just want to give the girls the best growing up experiences. I want them to grow up with very rich experiences which they could take with them as they grow up and I believe traveling as a family is the best way to do it. We bond, we experience, we grow. :) </span><br />
My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-87309988363683338952013-06-09T09:20:00.005+03:002013-06-09T09:20:42.364+03:00Surprise Flowers and Iphone 5, the story of our 10-year Marriage<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last Thursday, I had the surprise of my life when I found these in the car. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0K-Nj33-8xr1SYMNL1YgDdEi2ACO98yoKo4fRjqSNW-3S16PpbB2Cs_ZbBmF8BGDCggCH6eq8pLlYeOB-gM1TfUNW3Zt69wvuVigF4DfZFO2VNIJnt0ggfEXlnFeUjSYlIi5AjiDTNGo/s1600/945085_10200424952360280_1990396141_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0K-Nj33-8xr1SYMNL1YgDdEi2ACO98yoKo4fRjqSNW-3S16PpbB2Cs_ZbBmF8BGDCggCH6eq8pLlYeOB-gM1TfUNW3Zt69wvuVigF4DfZFO2VNIJnt0ggfEXlnFeUjSYlIi5AjiDTNGo/s400/945085_10200424952360280_1990396141_n.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Actually, the Expat Daddy was picking me up, so obviously I already know these were from him, right? hehe! Every Thursday, our routine is that we'll meet up so he can take the car and pick up our Small Ate and then they'll drop me off back to the office. He'll then drop off SA home and come back for me after office. Last week was no different as routine goes. So you can imagine how surprised I was when I saw this as I reach the car. But before that actually, the impatient me was kind of irritated when I saw there was no one in the car waiting for me. I was like, where did he go? I just want to get in the car and leave! And then the flowers and the phone, oh and that two page letter there. Yes, it wasn't just a note it was a front and back letter. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So ok, it wasn't really the movie/ teleserye reaction he got from me. He knows me, he'll never get that. The best I could come up with is a wide grin. As I always say, ganon talaga ang Royal Blood, we don't show our emotions in public. hehe! When I posted these on my FB page though, it was very popular. So many likers in both my and ED's page. And, what's funny was that most of the likes came from other mommies, all over! It just goes to show that a little kilig goes a long way! I had the strong urge to tag the daddies, pinigil ko lang sarili ko! hehe!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, I guess it's about time to let the secret out, mommies. I'm not always that lucky, hehe! Minsanan lang yan. Both ED and I are not "gifting" people. Well, ED used to be, nahawa na lang ata sa pagiging kuripot ko. And that's exactly the story behind the surprise. ED knows I like Iphone, but not enough to part my hard earned money with. And that's how I am since we got married. So worried about the future that all I ever want to do is save save save. I'm sure most of you mommies agree with me di ba? But somehow, ED has a point too. I mean after what we've been through in the last 3 years, and after loosing all our savings to investments gone bad prior to that, I'm starting to think that ED is right, that we should also enjoy our money from time to time. Since as I've said, they're hard earned. And we should enjoy the fruits of our labor right? Right! My only problem is, I can't make myself believe that. I always feel guilty if I buy something for myself. I can spend so much for the girls and I don't mind whatever ED wants to buy, but for myself... that's another story altogether.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The phone story. Don't get me wrong mommies, I have a nice phone naman. A Blackberry, this.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9S1saREIJh84tr3Rdpl9wnGSpzxlmNCfXxcIAjAu8QvblWiePg8YbcrHzk2GDPXH9zpW1j0XUT-0W05InB7YMAm3iodOl_HRCVa9pHr5JAcu3QA6ak83sruy2OlOxz3Zk5pE1OfrtO8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-06-09+at+8.49.25+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9S1saREIJh84tr3Rdpl9wnGSpzxlmNCfXxcIAjAu8QvblWiePg8YbcrHzk2GDPXH9zpW1j0XUT-0W05InB7YMAm3iodOl_HRCVa9pHr5JAcu3QA6ak83sruy2OlOxz3Zk5pE1OfrtO8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-06-09+at+8.49.25+AM.png" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">nice naman right? The only problem with it is that it always hangs and more often has no signal. I used to have a black one, also from ED, with the same problem. So imagine ED's frustration when I had to replace the black with this. Yes, I'm stubborn that way. And also, I felt that if I really had to buy, I would only raise my budget up to this. And so I had turn away from the Iphone. That's more than double the price! My goodness! We already have so many I's in the house we don't need another one. But ED thought differently. The only problem is he knows there is no way to convince me to buy a new phone since the Blackberry is just about 2 months old. And so as always, he took matters in his own hands. Hehe!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And the flowers? Oh I think that's an afterthought. Hahahaha! He knew that giving me the phone alone will also give me a heart attack at the same time. So he had to cover it with flowers. As I would be overwhelmed with the flowers, and would be giddy with the kilig that I wouldn't mind receiving the phone too. Haha! Baligtad no? Yes, I would have been happy with the flowers alone. But no, the flowers are not the gift. Kumbaga sa war, the flowers are in the line of fire. To protect the phone from getting hit. Hehe! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And for added defense, the letter. That was how we were when we were just starting out. We loved giving giving letters to each other. What I love about the ED's letters is his presentation. No, he doesn't have any stationeries. He makes them up. Like he'd cut and burn paper. Use magazine pages, roll up a used brown envelope. The works. Maybe I should show them to you one time. They're like so nice talaga kasi you can see the effort he'd put into them. I loved those times. The time when we didn't have money yet and we had to find innovative ways to gift each other. I'm sure you mommies are like that too, no? We get touched more when we see more effort than more cost. Tama ba? Kaya I was really touched, after all these years he remembered. And of course the content din of the message. It's too personal so I won't share it na lang. But, it's a testament that after a decade I still believe that I have married a good man. Someone I can depend my life on. We may not be rich but we're living a full life. And best of all, our love hasn't wavered in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. That's what marriage is all about right mommies? </span><br />
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<br />My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9025874424467942139.post-59504587249683482492013-05-05T08:48:00.000+03:002013-05-05T09:08:19.171+03:00Graduation Week and my Weight Loss Woes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZNb-LztC8HeCyICK8oZLRDgq-Uq8Op-DdsOP3gqfquNZlymP72iTEHpUqy7DW6AMmKUod0lmhXnHGVjWB6WZsnh3fRyCVVAxp7EZqeeiqxUPNmG9fPRamfE8hkM1kZVBGI75E9lrcbM5/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-05+at+8.49.10+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZNb-LztC8HeCyICK8oZLRDgq-Uq8Op-DdsOP3gqfquNZlymP72iTEHpUqy7DW6AMmKUod0lmhXnHGVjWB6WZsnh3fRyCVVAxp7EZqeeiqxUPNmG9fPRamfE8hkM1kZVBGI75E9lrcbM5/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-05-05+at+8.49.10+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is going to be a busy week for all of us here at Education City as the universities are all holding their graduations this week. Ours will be tomorrow. I'm kinda nervous actually since this would be my first time to assist in the graduation and I am tasked to assist our VIP guests coming from the US. This morning pa lang, ngaragers na ako since today our guests will be in campus for some pre-graduation activities. E since last week, I've already planned na what I'm going to wear. I'm so excited na kasi I really liked the dress, plus yesterday I bought pa a cardigan to go with it. Feeling ko kasi parang di match if I'll wear a blazer with it e. Last night, I asked pa the Expat Daddy to wake up early. When he asked why, sabi ko kasi he needs to zip may dress. Hehe! But then my worst fears came true. When I was going to wear it na, lagot di kasya! E kaya nga in-assign ko si ED to zip it for me e kasi alam ko, it would be a challenge! Kaso... wala hindi rin kaya ng powers n'ya. Nakakalungkot lang kasi the whole week last week nagdiet na nga ako, no rice. Except for the cheat days weekend. Haay... siguro kelangan na alisin ang cheat days hehe! Today on FB i wrote this on my status..</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>"Kung dumating na ang panahon na UK14 na ang size ng damit mo, siguro panahon na para... sa US sizes ka naman tumingin. size 10 ka lang don. sige kain pa!"</i></span></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHrvw-ke3Yc5idgYtq8v7ovogYLwFJrd3iUlZgj-BssnRbyy8v6voNeDHhgXojfs_hMVC_wMufGwD5QfTU35-evF4BIAk6DFWVolkMhM7cG2MP3iiY4PoCLDzA1W8T1sYZSgXKbjxtpcW/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-05+at+8.50.52+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHrvw-ke3Yc5idgYtq8v7ovogYLwFJrd3iUlZgj-BssnRbyy8v6voNeDHhgXojfs_hMVC_wMufGwD5QfTU35-evF4BIAk6DFWVolkMhM7cG2MP3iiY4PoCLDzA1W8T1sYZSgXKbjxtpcW/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-05-05+at+8.50.52+AM.png" width="235" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hahaha! Patawa lang ano? E kasi naman di ba, bakit ba ang hirap talaga to loose weight? In the past years I've always put it on top of all my resolutions every New Year. Pero this year I stopped na, I know naman kasi that wala na pag-asa yon e. Siguro ganon talaga when you're getting old ano? My goal was to loose at least 5kg this year. Anong petsa na?! Mangyari pa kaya yon? Since January I've been planning to visit the gym. Pero mga mommies naman, tell me if this is not a sign na it isn't a good idea. First time na motivated na talaga ako to go, nagkasakit si ED, si Big Ate at si Little Oyen. So pano naman ako mag-gym when half our our family is sick di ba? Ok, after a few weeks ok na, so set ulit. In fairness this time nakarating naman ako sa gym. The schedule for the day is yoga. Hay sus! pagdating ko don to register for the class, cancelled daw. E kasi daw yung dad ng instructor died and she'll be away for the entire month on emergency leave. Ok, so one month na walang group classes. I'm not the one who really knows her way around the gym, so group classes lang talaga ang carry ko. Ok, so let's just wait until she gets back. Tama. Last month, go na go na ako ulit. At alam n'yo na what happened. Yes, chicken pox happened. Hahaha! Haay... hopefully this month na talaga. Tomorrow. Dapat tomorrow e. Swak sa after office ang schedule ng group classes tomorrow. Kaso yon nga, I have to assist in the graduation which would last until mga 7pm siguro. So wala na naman. Will try again on Wednesday. Sana naman this time matuloy na.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pero di ba nga sabi, pag gusto may paraan, pag ayaw may dahilan? Parang true nga yon ano? Kasi ang daming dahilan. Ang dami KONG dahilan. Maybe it's time for me to really work on it na. Masama na ito. I used to be an 8, now I'm size 14 na. Mali. Maling-mali.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now that the students are graduating. I promise I'll graduate na rin from this size, but instead of leveling up, I promise to level down. This is war --- war with the bulges! Hahaha! I'm thinking of documenting this. Kayo mga mommies, would you like to join? Tara, career-in natin to!</span>My Expat Mommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11404288193513506392noreply@blogger.com0