Goodbye 2007. Review

I have experienced great joys in 2007. There were challenges which required a lot of patience. Three more days to go and all I can say is that I accept everything with all my heart and mind. I will treasure these experiences and then time to move on once again.






2007 Highlights



January

My favorite message was: "Rule in the midst of your enemies"

Mayor events: Baby shower of Josephine

First glimpse of Polo through 4D

Bad trip moment: Citibank experience



February

Gift of the year: Juan Paolo Andre's Birth

Favorite message: Ephphata (Be opened)

Tragic moment: Death of Chili, our dear fish






March

Greatest moment: Becoming a daddy and experiencing it the whole month

April: Major Event: Polo's baptism

Favorite message: Wait for the Lord with courage; be stouthearted and with for the Lord

Senti Moment: My memory of my dear sister when she was still here in Manila






May

My request: A Christian Mentor (nope. hasnt arrived yet)

Favorite message: And Behold I am sending the Promise of my Father upon you

Favorite Post entry: A miracle in May

Event of the month: First Mother's day celebration

My Favorite Picture of Polo:











June

My new found favorite mall: Bonifacio High/Serendra

Place to die for: Boracay

Event of the month: First Father's day celebration

Favorite message: Sit at my right hand until I placed your enemies under your feet



July

Event of the month: Birthdays of Josephine, Daddy, Kuya and Me.

First family outing at Subic

Polo's first swimming experience

Visitor of month: Ate Imelda and his son

Shocking moment: Cost of eating at Spiral Resto and paying for it

Favorite entry: Something about us

Revelation: My promotion



August

Praning moment: Polo getting sick

(just one post in August)



September

Country visited: The mysterious India

Frustration: My promotion

Milestones: Polo can crawl and sit

My poem: No one like you

Favorite post: A day is created (and always meant) to be beautiful



October

Favorite Message: Go on your way
Event of the month: DLSU UAAP Basketball champion again (and defeated ADMU bigtime as well then UE who never lost during the elimination bowed down to the Archers)
Career status: Getting impatient
Polo's moment: He received so many toys from his grandparents in US

November
Great learnings: A lot of nursery rhymes
What I've been waiting for: My promotion!!! Wipeeee
Favorite bible character: Eleazar
Relief: No more parking fees

December
Event of the month: 3rd Wedding anniversary and Christmas
Getaway place: Caylabne with the whole family who came in one at a time
Gifts of the month: Brand new Hyundai Tucson and my new pair of Crocs
Not so nice experience: Getting sick because of the stress
Accomplishment: Being able to write my 100th post!

Merry Christmas 2007

Polo's First Haircut

BEFORE
DURING
AFTER

Polo's haircut

Josephine and I really thought that his hair was already so uncool for a cute boy like Polo. His hair was growing on his the side if his tiny head but the middle part remains bald. It was really bad for picture taking unless he was wearing a hat. Yes, the folks kept on reminding us that we should cut his hair after he turns one. I'm sorry according to my discovery and national geo or even myth buster knowledge, cutting of hair after one is more of a culture/tradition or anything else. Yeah, so many people questioned our wisdom for doing so but we had to ask what their reasons are but nothing the APA can substantiate. The answers are more of a hand me down from our grandparents. His pedia actually gave us the go signal. We had to cut those hairs! I don't want Polo to have a bad hair day during his first birthday party. Look, he looks better! :)

Stressful Christmas

We had fun. I did. It was Polo's first Christmas after all. I just have been promoted. I have a new car. Full of blessing really. But here I am, 26th of December, sickly. Actually, even Josephine has colds (no please, i hope not Polo). I can say that this was the most exhausting and stressful Christmas ever! It drained my 34 years old body to its last calorie (though, my fats are still safe). Praise God for my new Hyundai Tucson! I find it easier to drive. Yup, I struggled at first but it is a lot better than the Honda City. So, that helped me coped with the monster traffic that we had to face everytime we visited Greenhills for our Christmas shopping.

Polo had to stay up late for how many days and it culminated on Christmas eve. I feel sorry for him. I could see and feel how tired he was. He wanted to sleep and rest but because of all the merry making, he had a hard time sleeping. To think that it would be noisier next week (New Year's celebration). But as I've said, in spite of this experience, we still enjoyed our Christmas with our Family. Praise God for all the blessings we received this year. Polo is the best of all the presents we received and we received as early as February. :)

Merry Christmas to all!!!
Let's all praise and thank God. He is the reason why we are celebrating this special day. Because of Him, we are saved. His gift was his own Son because that is how much He loves us. We've encountered trials and joys and he we are still. Alive and kicking!

pictures pictures pictures

do we really have to pose like this, mom?

Im with my cousin, ate Praise

Serious family (kuno)

I love swimming! where is daddy?

my cousins!

mommy!!! my cheeks are heavy!

Again with Ate Praise

Done swimming

with my cousins Kuya Isaiah and Ate Praise

where is my food?!!

Kuya is driving!

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..............

family picture

am I heavy?

can I eat this rubber ducky, mommy?

waz up?

what happened?

I can't wait to eat..

how does this works?

Celebrating our 3rd year wedding anniversary

At first, I really wanted to celebrate it with our close friends but the schedule was tough. We can not force them to join us. I realized over the weekend that maybe it would be best to gather the family first before others. Finance was a concern but a good (early) planning next year maybe could help. Dont jumped right into a should and should not or do's and don't about this matter. At the end, we had our family celebrating it with us in Caylabne. We all enjoyed the gathering and it wasn't that expensive.

November 30.

We packed our bags into our small car (maybe Ezekiel's final assignment-long driving) and headed to our Caylabne adventure for a 3 days 2 nights stay. Me, Josephine and Polo made a stop over at the Petron station for our Mcdo lunch. I think whether we need to stop or not I guess we would have to. I mean. It is like a tradition already if you are heading south. A stop over is always fun. It was also Polo's first time to go to south. And the picture taking has started! :)

It took us about two hours to reach Caylabne. Too bad Polo was sleeping and he failed to see the hill that we climbed to get to the resort. I thought we still had time to go swimming but it was really cold. We had our merienda and Polo had his and by the time we finished everything it was already getting dark. So we ordered our dinner even if we just finished our snacks and later on watched the cultural presentation of the staff of Caylabne.

Polo got tired and we went back to our room so he can rest and change clothes. As for me, I went to the break water to catch fish. It was really cold and I was all alone. At first I just caught small fishes and a lot of "sabit". I was running out of weights because of the waves and the rocks. That didn't deter me to pursue my goal. So I prayed that I may catch a Maya Maya or a Talakitok or a big Lapu Lapu. After I said my prayers, I caught a big fish, a Maya Maya! Whoa! Prayers work! I went back at our our room at maybe midnight already. Satisfied.

To be continued:
December 1, Anniversary day.

Few more days

For the first time in my life, I know nursery rhymes by heart!! hahahahaha! Thanks to Polo who has several DVDs of Barney. ( or I should thank Barney for correcting my nursery ryhmes and actually being able to complete the whole song). I love Barney! Imagine, I am a 34 years old daddy and yet it is only now that I was able to correct a lot or all of my nursery rhymes. I'm so soorrrrrrrrrrry my countrymen but I preferred playing outside our house thatI didn't have time memorizing these things. I grew up outside our house because I spent most of my time in the street playing with other kids. That would be tough for Polo to follow. He can't be me. I think I eat breakfast at 7am then goes out to play return at 12 for lunch then sleep a little (10min maybe) then play again until 7pm and sometimes I still manage to go out and still play before going to bed. That, my friends, was my schedule during summer when I was a kid.

I did a lot of things. I had a lot of outdoor activities. I can not imagine my son doing all these! One. I am a safety first person. Second. I dont think children are still playing outside. Well, Polo and I can always share play station. I can not imagine Polo climbing to the top of a tall tree or crossing a river even if a lot of people died in that river. Or seeing him torture frogs to death. hahahahaha.. no no no no.. He will be different and more cultured/refined I guess. Is it good? I guess so. Everything that life offers is always good. Blessing. What ever happens I just want to share Polo my relationship with God. Above all. That will be the first thing that I will teach him.

Praise God I will have a new car. Thank you thank you Lord. Ezekiel needs a lot of fixing. I will let kuya take care of him and at least he can restore our car to its original state. God gave me that car five years ago. It is His gift to me and I am sad that it has deteriorated so much. Though, I know that it is something expected. Basta, kung ano ang puedeng ayusin ayusin. I dont know if I want to sell Ezekiel because of its sentimental value but I guess we have too. I will ask God and let's see. :)


Hi Marieli!

Basta never hesistate to tell me anything or ask me anything. I am your brother and time nor distance will never change that! :)

96th Entry

Happy birthday to my Dad! (Yesterday, November 21). May God bless you with peace and joy and of course good health as you enter another decade.

I remember exactly last year, Josephine and I found out that we were going to have a baby boy! I immediately called my parents to tell them the good news. They really want to have a baby boy Agustin. Ok. They did. The youngest carrier of our surname.

Incidentally, yesterday Polo celebrated his 9th month birthday. It was simple. We had no money to buy the cakes we used to buy so we just bought Ube macapuno roll! That was enough for Polo of course. He was so happy yesterday and I really am touched whenever I see him like that. Anyway, the only people there to witness his 9th mo bday were me, Josephine and his lola Annie. He is now eating like pacman as if his belly has no limit. Go go go.. big boy!

Speaking of birthday. BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIN TIN RACHO!!!!!! yipeeeee..yahooo..yipeeee... NOVEMBER 16. I will take note of that. so next year I will not forget it anymore. Special mention ha!!! I pray that you will meet more people and gain more friends. Otherwise they will miss a good friend if they fail to meet you! I hope that you will find "The One". uuuuuuuuuuuuyyy... it can mean a convent as well.. hahahahahaha.. Oh well, oh well.. madame.. baka magkaroon na ako ng bagong car.... kaya sana e makasabay ka uli sa amin.. pero mga next month pa.. :) O ayan, special ka na ha! isinama kita sa blog ko.. :)

Yes! I will meet one of my goals this year. Salamat! this one is simple. To be able to post at least 100 entries! I am just 4 entries short. Dami ko pala nasulat this year. Makulay. I guess it is because of Polo.

Eleazar

" At our age, it would be unbecoming to make such pretense;many young people would think that the ninety year old Eleazar had gone over an alien religion. Should I thus pretend for the sake of a brief moment of life, they would led astray by me, while I would bring shame and dishonor on my old age. Efen if, for the time being, I avoid the punsihment of men, I shall never, whether alive or dead escape the hands of the Almight. Thereforem by manfully giving up my lifenow, I will prove myself worthy of my old age, and I will leave to the young a noble example of how to die willingly and generously for the revered and holy laws."
from 2Mc 6:18-31

Amazing how Eleazar hold on to his principles even if it would mean his life. Amazing as well that his sentenced was carried out even at his age. Two principles colliding. Can I do the same? Literally, it is something I can not answer. To die over principle. Wow. He died not because of pride because 1. He wants to be a good example to the youth. 2. Because of his love to God. It is easy to say that I will die for Jesus but will I ever have a chance to be confronted by such an agonizing and terrible situation. I am living in a country where we can tolerate any religous belief. I guess I do face lighter situations.... I admit that I fail at guarding my love for Jesus in small things. How will I be entrusted with more then? Whether I do it or not, Jesus remains the same. He still loves me dearly. He still blesses me. He he still with me. Hirap hirap hirap. All I can say Jesus, you are still in my heart and mind. I may not be as mature as I should be in my relationship with you but I want to remain with you. I know my dearest friend that you have stood by me. I acknowledge your presence and sometimes I admit that I deny it.

Eleazar, the first time I read his story. It made me think and be inspired. He died a long long long time ago (BC) and yet his reason why he chose to die is something that is admirable until now. I know you are in heaven for a job well done. I hope that in my life time, I will be able to meet a man like you. Someone I can emulate and be like one someday. To do my best for my God.

It is a new day!

Outside, the rain is pouring it all to us. Not really strong but a long continuous rain since this morning. Gray weather. It is really dark and cold. Gloomy ey! I heard someone said it's a BED weather. If you ask me, yeah.. it would have been better if we can just stay in bed for the whole day. Ok. Whew... no can do.. :) But at least it is already Thursday!

It is a new day indeed for me. Time to clean up some mess. Some for keeps others straight to the garbage can. No time for sorror but only for rejoicing. Change of point of view! A paradigm shift! Enjoy it a bit then I will have to pack on my new clothes, tools, ideas, equiptment and then continue the journey. Ok. I still have to celebrate! :) But unlike this rain I dont think I want to pour everything. It isn't the end of a journey yet. I just arrived in a comfortable station, a milestone. Stick the flag then leave.

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Our newest helper left this morning. She just stayed withus for one night. I thought she would spend a goodtime with us but unfortunately just like the rest she decided to leave. Wow! I dont get it. What is wrong?!! In less than a year, I think 9 helpers have already entered and left our house. High turnovers. A lot of them just spend a night then the following morning they tender their resignation because of so and so reasons. Maybe valid but really frustrating! I just wish them well but for those who left and not being able to get a decent work. You just wasted an oppotunity and I am not sure how sincere you were with your intention to work. Oh well. That's life.

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Matt and Nathan went to the apartment of Matt's long lost father. There was tension at first and then later on Dad of Matt shared his reasons which made Matt to let go of his suspicion and his defense. Clever. Dad called Matt in a room and when Matt entered it became a prison cell. Inside, he was confronted by his problem with his ex-wife which maybe was his fears/concerns and Nathan followed him inside the room but was greeted by his deformed burnt image. Both of them were fighting their symbolic concerns only to realize that they were actually fighting each other and that Matt's Dad tricked them. :) - from Heroes season 2.

Ok. I guess we do that. We unknowingly fighting a ghost of our past.

Good bye parking fees!

Php110, Php115, Php160 and upto Php19o. The the cost (range) of parking fees which I have been paying since 2002. Five days a week! Good bye LKG, metro parking, ayala parking PBComm. I got my car pass last Monday and I kept the last ticket I paid (Php160). I could save as much as Php3,800 per month in parking fees. Praise God. Thank God.

Gasoline allowance will eventually follow. Additional savings approx. Php6,000 per month. Significant savings. I just have to keep my receipts. No matter what the price of gas will be, I am allowed to fill up my car up to 200ltrs of gas. Whew!

Now, what about sky way toll fees. :)

There are a lot more blessings and I am happy. Lord, please guide me/us how to be good steward of your blessings. thank you.

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Lately, I felt being paranoid about so many things. I know that I am a positive thinker especially if my back is against the wall or if I am put in a corner. I can fight my self out of a desperate situation. But I realized that if things are doing great for me, I tend to think that something will happen bad! That, what I aspire for will not be given to me. Weird. For example, this promotion. I knew there is a great chance that I will be promoted this year. God reminds me to be careful with my thought, to relax, to trust Him, to allow Him to unfold before my eyes the blessings he has for me. Yet, I was always afraid. Afraid that I might do something wrong that will jeopardize my promotion. Afraid that people might see why I should not be promoted. Afraid that I am not really qualified. Afraid that there will be a major organizational changes and will affect movement................................ see, how horrible my situation was!! I had to bear it for several months. Lies and lies were entering my thought and imagination. Every delay was like a sounding cymbals inside a small cave. How I wanted to run. How I wanted to escape the moment! God knows all about it. Praise God. His love endures all things. He was there in all the scenarios I mentioned. He was holding my, embracing me tightly to calm me. God's love was so evident. It was His grace that lead me to read His words everyday and helped stay focused.
God, thank you thank you. Not by my strength. There are a lot things to do still. Why I have this attitude? I know I know the answers in my heart. But it wouldnt hurt if I can hear people giving me their thought about it. Why I think like that and how to overcome it! I am sure that this will manifest again one day and I am tired. I need help.

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Polo got sick last weekend. It is so hard because you know as parents we want him to be ok and yet it wasnt the case. Last Saturday night, his temp kept on souring until it reached 38, 39 and then the dreaded 40C. Pressure cooker! At 5am we decided to bring him to the ER. We stayed in the hospital for 6 long hours. Polo was sick, not getting enough sleep and irritable plus seeing him in pain when the doctor has to extract blood from him. AAAAAAAAAAAAhhhh!! Too hard to bear! The verdict. He has a slight ear infection caused probably by colds. The doctor gave a prescription and we immediately bought amoxycylin and paracetamol for his fever. Ok. Polo improved and started to giggle and smile after awhile. BUT after a day, he has rashes all over him! Allergic reaction to his medicine. again. So his pedia recommended for us to give Polo antihistamine and a really expensive antibiotic, zithromax.

His rashes are gone. No more fever. Today is the last day for him to drink antibiotic. We will bring him to his doctor today just to be sure that he is in pink of health. (draw back. almost all people in our office are in Macau now. Then two of the the coordinators are on leave today. I will have to go to the hospital later.. grrrrrr...) Peace. :)

8 more 2 go

Let's rest and be at peace. Blessing should carry along peace and not bitternes nor resentment or anger. Blessing is side by side with peace, love and joy. Right?! Right! That's my decision. Starting today I will just enjoy. No room for such things in my heart. I am grateful and really blessed that everything has turned out like this.

Christmas has started and I think it is also the time to open our hearts with its meaning, its spirit. Yep. Christmas is peace. It is getting cold outside (for us tropical people anyway) but Christmas this year will be totally different than it was last year. No no.. Jesus didnt change his birthday nor the celebration but we have Polo in our arms this year! I'm so happy that Josephine and I are blessed with this adorable, sweet, funny, cuddly little boy! True true. Polo is the greatest gifts we have received in our three (3) years (just a few more weeks more) marriage. No one or nothing could ever replace him. He is gift number 1. Imagine our Christmas actually started as early as February! Polo will turn nine months two weeks from now.

So Polo, how are you doing? What can you say about your life right now? Are you happy? hahahahahahahaha... well, someday Polo might be able to come across this blog. Someday. He will be surprised that his life is actually documented by his mom and dad. separately pa. He will find his pictures posted in the cyberspace. Dont worry, son, lahat is artistically done! Great!

Time to plan for our wedding anniversary celebration. We realized that we spent our first two anniversaries in Tagaytay. This year....hmmmm.. might be in Caylabne where we celebrated Josephine's pregnancy! Polo was still in her tummy but now.. he can swim with us, fish with us.. Cant wait for December 1. Three weeks to go! We to plan plan plan and plan!

I am nearing my 100th entry!!! yehey! Starbucks planner..here I come!

Untitled

For me feeling inadequate is not a serious matter. I acknowledge that there are still a lot of things to learn. In every aspect of life. I have achieved nothing. Not that I am putting myself down. Or not accepting the blessings and gifts that I received in my life. No. I say this because what really matters in my life is knowing and following Jesus. Then everyting follows. I am made complete because of His love alone. I sometime feel sad and unappreciated but the thought of having Jesus at my side is already an assurance that I am doing fine. When I turn my sulking face to him and receive His smile. I am ok. It is the same feeling whenever I sleep and seeing Josephine and Polo beside me. Or holding my wife's hand without really saying anything. Or to hear her laugh and see that she is doing fine. Or carrying Polo until he falls asleep. That feeling of assurance keeps me going. I have not stopped I realized in spite of the challenges I faced everyday. Not because of my own strength and will but more so because of His presence in my life. If I tired, Jesus lifts me up. If I feel hopeless, Jesus would just put His arms on my shoulder and I am fine. Different strength when I I rely on Him. Seriously. Is the race over? a big NO! Until my final breath I will continue to do what must be done. As much as possible according to His ways.

See now. I feel a lot is on my shoulder. So many demands around me. Yet, I can not seem to ask for what I want now. Who came in? Jesus. It feels good that in moment like this Jesus let me feel Him. Ok. I will do the obligations imposed on me. I dont care because I am ok with Jesus.
My life for the past 15 years is all about Jesus. I'm not a good witness though. But personally, I believe in Him and His guidance. It will not change by His grace. It has been challenged a lot but His firms hands do not allow me to drift off. He is with me everyday and in every way. I am not alone after all. There is much to know about His love. My friend. My mentor. My coach. My everything.

So much to do to feel depressed! There is a new road ahead and I will not rest yet. Not just yet.

Jesus words became a reality

The Gifst and the Calls of God are irrevocable!

My friends sent me a message this morning and congratulated me as they gave the good news. After a long long long wait God has finally made people moved and formalized everything! Praise God. I thank him so much for this year! Polo of course is the greatest blessing of all. It was a promised fulfilled! Today... another promised He has given.

What does this promotion means to me?

A lot I guess. Not just the increase in salary or perks but somehow it is connected in how I feel about myself for quite a long long long time. You know, after what happened to me in college where my confidence/esteem/self worth fell to the ground! God helped me restored it. It was all my own doing and I have forgiven my past a long time ago. I decided to move on and I found it extremely difficult. I made a mistake and I knew then that I have chosen an unusual path. It was possible to cross it but it wasn't easy. I paid for my wrongdoings. Slowly, Jesus lead me to the right place where I should be. Following and trusting Him aren't that easy either. So here I am. Done. Not that I have achieved my dreams already but God has shown me the fruits of His mercy to me. Thank you Lord. I will praise and worship you all the days of my life.

Nothing is impossible with Him and when He promise something, claim that it will happen because it will. We only have to prepare.

Thank you Lord!

Sunday Sharing

I thought I was about to die. An hour and half of light badminton was like hard labor. Prison punishment. No Kidding! I huff and puff and after just a few minutes I was out of wind. Bad. Really bad. We used to play 4 hours or more when we started playing badminton years ago. But now. My oh my!!! One year without exercise or anything affected my endurance. How will I be able to get back in shape.

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How did I spend our four days rest? Four long days!!! I rested most of the time. I want to and I need to. It is unlikely to have this long rest without applying for a vacation leave. And VL is really intended for out of town activities! Rest doesn't come as much as I want it to. Guess what?! I think this year is my healthiest ever. I got a flu only once and nothing more! Good! Good.

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Tomorrow is the day! I mean THE DAY! what will happen? I dont know. I will just expect for the best and nothing else. No plan B! Just one single thing in mind! It is a big thing! There is another opportunity though. I am excited to explore it since it is something that I wish to happen. Seriously. I read the challenges briefly and I think I can handle it. Though, I of course fear something because it is a risk and unknown. Lets see. I acknowledge I have to ask God about this and His guidance. Amen.

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NBA season has started. I am controlling myself so I won't again spend my energy watching and knowing what is happening in the NBA. Of course, I am still a Lakers' fan. Kobe Bryant rules! I also like Houston Rockets! T-MAC!! and then New Jersey Nets. Kidd, Carter and RJ. It has just started so I dont know yet. I like howw the Lakers played vs the Suns the other day and the fact that Kobe didnt have to do everything. Arriving at 4 am had obviously affected how the Suns played.

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My number one mall before was Greenbelt! Because of the open space and its clean surrounding and its beautiful building. Before, I even spend some Sunday mornings in Starbucks. 7am or so. Just being there. Silent. Writing my journal or simply to relflect. Then, I would leave at lunch time. Now, I am captured by Bonifacio Heights. Its structure is different from any malls. There is an open space where people can walk, children can play, or just sit there and think about life. Then if you get hungry, it is easy to just pick a restaurant and eat (expensive though). Krispy Kreme! Yummy. But if we need anything especially for Polo, we buy it SM!! Heheheheeh.. The prices are reasonable and all the things that we need, it is for sure in SM! There is one near our house. : )

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Our rooms (here in PQue and Marikina) are cluttered! I am choking whenever I see the mess we have. What do I need to do? 1. Check our wardrobe and find out what we can donate. Too much. If I dont use for months then it is bye bye time. Except for the seasonal clothes. As if, we have several seasons in the Philippines! hahahahaha. What about the other stuff? Shoes, bags etc., I really want a clean, organized, big room. One day. Right now, I must learn first to make our rooms liveable and breathetable(?). When I am stressed, it doesn't help me to be in this kind of surrounding.

In other news

November officially came last Thursday. Everytime November is mentioned we only talk about All Souls day and All Saints day. Just two days. It's also the birth month of some of my friends and of course my Daddy. Speaking of which, let me share my family pictures aside from Polo.

I have not seen my parents and Marieli for like five years already. Too long. I really hope our plan to visit them will push through.

Mariel is all grown up. A smart kid! Keep it up. Dad has lost some lbs and I guessed he decided to have his hair like this so as not to make his gray hair obvious. Mom gained what Dad has lost. Think for your self. :)

I'm not sure if she will agree but Mariel does looks like Kuya. Oh, wait I have their pictures together.

I should have edited this picture and zoom in so the resemblance will be more obvious. But I dont have time for that.

Aside from a good education, the greatest gift my Dad gave me was showing (by example) how to love faithfully, truly, sweetly a wife. He loves my mom and we know it because he isn't afraid to show it to anyone. I mean then and now they are still sweet and they still laugh together and of course holding hands while walking.

My other sister, Michelle and his husband Deo Dandy. So far Josephine and Dandy are the only new daughter and son of Dad and mom. I hope a new one will follow soon.. ehem ehem...

We still have not experienced being complete. Dont know if it will happen or when it will happen.

I have to introduce Polo to them so he will grow knowing the people who love him. Not just us.

Few Words

10 months have passed and here we are. How fast things are are?! Polo has turned 8 months and has showed significant changes. Growth spurt! Go! Go! Go! Oh, aside from Christmas we should plan for Polo's first birthday party! What a happy child he is! Happy Happy Happy. The nearest celebration we will be having is our wedding anniversary!! Wohoooooo! Wohoooo! 3 yrs. Wonderful years. Beautiful years. Josephine, my beautiful wife. Loving mother!

1. God
2. Family
3. Career
4. Friends
5. Others

Five important parts of my life. Time to re-group. Time to think! Time to plan.

Oh no! I have to go to a meeting now!

Polo working

"This is where we live, Earth. Why is this star smiling at me?"

"Yup? Is there something I can do? I'm busy but let me check my schedule"


" Hmmmm... how will I make this thing fly? Let me see... e=mc2, the gravitional pull and the weight of the object.... mass x volume.... oh, I just need a strong arm!"

"Hep hep hep.. i have nothing to do with this mess. Daddy just gave me these toys!"

" Ok. For now this is ok, being cute and all. I hope Daddy will wear wings as well."

Talking to my self

Tell me about the star that seems to be so far away
I see it but how just like you can I touch it
Or one day own one of those glistening gems
I don't get tired. I want to listen to you
I want to have my own stars!
Hang them on my wall and be my light.
Not just for myself I am telling you but for others too!

That's too big! Maybe you can but I dont think I can
Do you think so? I already have my own stars?
Who gave it to me? Oh yeah, you are right!
God did! I have my loving wife Josephine and my heaven sent Polo
Definitely, I see them alright especially if I feel lost and alone

Go on. It is good really to talk to you.
You enlighten me. Inspire me. Move me.
So tell me, what about those stars? Can I still reach them?
Do you think so? Apart from my stars, I can have as many as I want!
Wow! Not really. I am a simple man.

I want to travel with my family. See places of different interest.
Expose my child to the whole world.
A simple house where light can easily come in.
Surrounded by plants and plants where we can unwind.
A library of my own and maybe
Just another car to bring all we need where ever we go

A good education for my son and send him where we think is best for him
Additional degree maybe for me about the world
About people and cultures and arts
I like that

Sponsor less fortunate children to go to school
Move me here move me here because I think I can do this now!
I can give him food, I can give him clothing maybe
But education will bring him/her somewhere and improve his life
I want to help and be instrumental to them

If I want I can. Thank you. Be with me. Nothing should stop me from pursuing these
What makes me complete is something I should focus on
Like what you've said. Discipline and faith in God.
Excitement instead of fear
Goals rather than difficulties
Bridge instead of walls

There is hope. It is enough. One day. It can make me happy.
One day. Just one day. No need to wait for tomorrow.
Or ponder too much on yesterday. One day is today.
Now. Now is the life that I should live.

I will capture my star. Now. Place around it a tight rope.
Not to trap it but to let it carry me to other stars.
Thank God. I am. Really!

A few minutes to spare

I only have to wait a week and I will know. It is near so near that I can't help but get excited. Oh, I hope it will turn out the way I want it to be. I read an article by Jack Canfield and it was like the article was referring to me. Yes! I have so many things that I want to do, tasks that I need to finish, Plans that remains plans until now and much much more. It is true. These unfinished business are really pulling me down. Like balls in a chain that tightly clamps my feet into the ground. Cant move up, sideways, or whereever. Just stuck.

In fairness, not all the things in my life is considered stagnant. I mean. Yeah, there are just some plans that I want to happen but nothing is happening. One. I guess I have to list it down. 2. I need to know what I need to do. 3. Deadline. step by step, Marvin. Little steps will eventually lead me to where I want. Ok. But of course without the chains then I can lift my feet farther.

Long weekend!!! Oct 29 is election day (again). No work. October 31, half day most probably. Nov 1 and 2 are holidays. So we will be back by November 5. Yahooooooo! But then again. I am sure there will be a lot of things to do by that time. I will just have to check my emails at home.

I guess it is the best time to review my plans, create plans, prepare for next year, clean clean clean.... :)

Not Another Promise

"Go on your way" from Luke10:1-9

Has someone made a promise to you but you've been waiting for it to happen? How long can you handle it? Is it a test of one's character? How long will you be able to function without being distracted? Think think and tell me about it. I need to know.

I am a patient person. With circumtances, with people or practically anything. I can wait hours without really getting upset (provided I am not hungry). Let me wait in Starbucks, I can spend the whole day sitting and reading or blogging and I will not be angry. See. I am patient. So when something bothers me already, it is really streches my patience to its limits. Waiting not only what I mentioned above but basically in anything.

If it does affect me, I turn to God to help me. Aaaaaaaaaaarrrgghhhhh...... too difficult to bear.

I seldom doubt people and when I do, I know and feel that I am doing something wrong, Me. Always a benefit of a doubt. That's me. I still of course say something bad against people from time to time but I do feel bad about it afterwards and I try my best to correct it. Ok. Some people will also push me to do otherwise. Not easy. But hey that's life.

I hate being late. Hate it. hate it. hate it. I do not want to be late but I can tolerate people being late. As for myself, there is this standard that I always want to meet. Always. Just imagine how I feel when ever I am late or we are late in any gathering. Sad.

What else. I dont like noisy people (so, I hate my self.. hahahahaha). Noisy in a way that the conversation is so about him/her. As if he/she is the most superior of us all! I guess no one likes that. I do not like women laughing wildly. No matter if it is high pitched or low tone. Basta. It is annoying.

Honestly, I am afraid of giving promises because I believe that it is something that I should fulfill. Like, when I was India. I promised a vendor that we could meet/dinner after the day's event. Then, I realized that it would have been better to join the group instead of meeting with that vendor. I tried to cancel it but the vendor stated the article of commitment. So, I acknowledged and I gave in. Was the meeting worth it? maybe not that much in terms of business. But I guess it felt good that I fulfilled my promise.

Promise me? be careful. I will believe in it.

For another Mar in NJ

Dear Marieli,

My not so little sister anymore. I understand your sentiment and observation and I guess it is a by product of really being too far from each other and for the time we have not seen each other. When you left, I knew that it will be like this. I definitely have not lost my connection with you. I guess you were so little then while I was already grown up. You know what I mean. As I've said in my previous post, I still miss you and think of you but it is just hard to bear knowing that I can not do anything especially now that I have a family of my own. This doesn't mean that I have already distanced myself to any of you. This is the reason why I try as much as I can to stay connected to you and our partners. That's why even if it costing me to call you guys especially on special occassions, I still see to it that I call.

Don't get me wrong. I have not really explaining here but only I want to reaffirm to you that whatever happens, where ever we are, time and distance will not be able to separate us. You are my sister. As I've said before, we hope Josephine, Polo and I will be able to visit NJ next year. I hope. I hope. I also want Polo to have a good connection will all of you. Because we are family.

See you soon.

Blue Gloomy Day

Maybe I had another exhausting weekend and that's the reason why I notice somethings which I try not to focus on or dwell on in normal days. Rewind. Let me share what exactly I am feeling and not what I am thinking. 1. Frustrated 2. Disappointed 3. Sad. 4. Angry 5. Exasperated. I know these will go away maybe tonight or tomorrow. You know. I feel stuck. Don't mis interpret me. Josephine and Polo are part of my innermost circle. Excluded and immune from my craziness. But no one else has the same previlege. The greatest joy of life right now is going home with Josephine, seeing Polo and closing my eyes knowing that they are doing fine.

I am totally annoyed waking up in the morning and hearing tensed filled discussions. I hate it. I am a silent morning person. As much as possible I do want to be greeted in such a way like today! Annoying.

The weight of waiting is starting to be painful. It hurts not to know what and why nothing is happening. I can be angry but what good will it do to me. Nothing. Right now I am telling you it is a ton-heavy-burden that I am carrying. Good thing I listened to Hillsong London last week. "Jesus, I surrender. My hopes and plan. I place my dreams in Your hands. In your hands. Because I know who I am with you. No shadow of doubt. It is Savior's love for me..."

Amen to you Jesus.

Houseband and loving every minute of it

Mommy Annie got sick last week. Coughing, felt weak and then fever. This of course meant that she will not be able to take care of our little boy. At the same time, we got worried that Polo might get sick also(so far, no sign of that.. yes, my superboy!). No choice but for one of us to take a leave. Jopay didn't report for work last wednesday then it was my turn to be a hands on daddy the following day. My only concern was how to give Polo a bath. I just realized that I have never tried that before. It was always Josephine and I only assist her.

While I was worried, I was at the same time excited. It was something new and bonding time for the two Agustins. I was planning to do a lot of things actually includingworking but i left my laptop at the office or catching up with my books and of course to watch Game 1 of DLSU vs UE championship game. I was only able to watch the game but the rest naaah.. Polo wanted m unconditional attention. I gave him that. I was happy, very happy I had time like that with Polo before he grows up. He smiled at alot, cry a little and we both laugh and laugh. It wasnt hard at all. I will treasure every minute of it. Polo knows if I'm there because he knows that I will not be able to resist him and would carry him after a few cries only (but he doesn't cry with his lola). I let him sleep on my chest and no I dont really feel his weight.

Yesterday, it was my turn again to watch over Polo but this time his Lola already intervened. She's doing better so she wasn't able to resist Polo anymore. I wanted to work but I just relaxed. I dont get to relax like that but only for a short moment. I still spent time with Polo and still gave him bath with his new toys which he didn't like at all. :)

Again.........AND NEVER SHALL WE FAIL! ANIMO LA SALLE!!!!

Between Now and Then....what?

The question is, "Marvin, what are you goind to do?" I remember the time when I had no work for almost eight long months. Difficult indeed. I looked for a job but it was so elusive. I literally was able to enter all the buildings here in Ayala, walked and walked until my good shoes smiled and holes came out. Seriously, holes! Physically, mentally and emotionally tiring. Sometimes, there was an urge to sign a job order but within me I knew it wasn't for me. Thank goodness I followed God. I'm telling you, it is better to have a stressful job now that to be vacant for quite a long time without a job and of course money. Honestly, I was frustrated to God because at times I swear I could have accepted a job already but you know after praying His instruction was crystal clear. It wasn't for me. I can now say, God was right. : )

Anyway, the lesson is, I cherished that moment of my life. I have learned to respect and appreciate what was happening to me then. Today, it will be the same thing. Yeah, I've been waiting. I will wait but I will not focus on the waiting or what I am waiting for. It is going through the days and capturing all the things that are happening and do it properly. It is the Lord speaking right now and sharing to me some important life lessons. I decided to silence my self and instead listen to Him during this time and follow Him. After all, it is his gift. I do not want to missed out anything! Lord, continue to open my eyes. Let me see for myself everything as I wait. I understand now and still Lord, I offer it to you. I know from the past and I've seen your work. You are not yet finished with me but even then I am doing fine now.

Thank You

Weekend Tidbits

As usual, same story. We were busy last weekend. Before it was just us but now Polo is part of the equation.

Saturday.

We had to go to Marikina for our Laundry so our day started early. We left at 8:30am and arrived in Marikina at 9:30am. Bad weather, bad for laundry. The hassle of putting all our soiled clothes in the car plus stuff for the weekends was stressful enough then we had to take it our again. We ate breakfast and Polo for the first time didn't like what he ate. Papaya. He ate it but after awhile he just vomitted. Good bye Papaya. Then, it was bath time for us three. Polo first and you know how it is giving bath to a baby. At around, 12 noon we left Marikina and went to Marikina Valley Hospital to pick up Dr. Joanne and we all went to attend a Financial Management lecture (Polo was present also and the nosiest : ) ).

The seminar ended at 6pm because we still had a one on one with one of the lecturers. Then off we go to Dr. Jo's house in Cubao for her to get clothings since Tyrone was still in the hospital. After that, we visisted Tyrone but only for maybe 20minutes. We went home in Marikina with Princess. What a tiring Saturday!

Polo had his first nightmare that night. Poor little fella and Josephine as well because she herself was frightened by that experience.

Sunday
We had to wake early again to attend mass. Same preparation. After the mass, we went back to the house to eat just a little and Princess and I went to Araneta to watch UAAP. It was exhausting of course because of all the walking, standing and shouting! We went back home at maybe 730pm then I had to put our clean clothe again in our car while raining (good thing I have a Caesar's Palace waterproof jacket. We left Marikina at 9:30 pm and arrived at PQue at 10:30pm. Wow! I slept at 12 midnight to wake up early the following day.

Oh, Polo had his first bukol (he is ok dont worry and his pedia knows about it already) last sunday.

Animo La Salle

That says it all! Oh, it isn't clear.. ADMU 60 - DLSU 65! What a season for our Archers. Ateneo wasted an opportunity when they played poorly and lost to NU. DLSU grabbed the chance and had a twice to beat advantage while Ateneo had to play their hearts out vs. UST and then had to beat La Salle 2X. Imagine that mountain they needed to climb. Yeah, maybe mentally they were positive and sure that they could do it. But man, this isn't a movie! When they lost to NU for me they already lost it all! Yeah, we will give them their 3 wins vs our 2 wins against them. Brag about it (just like someone I know). Hey, we are here for a higher purpose (always!!) this is not just about beating Ateneo or any other school. I think one should play the UAAP to be champions. *Sigh* and I guess to play in the championship is the only way to accomplish it.

Anyway, it was great being in Araneta last Sunday even if we were seated in the bleachers. We took it. Though, in games I've seen over the past years I think that was not my number 1. For me it was the championship game against UST in the late 90s(?). Last game, winners take it all. We were leading (almost) all throughout the game then suddenly UST grabbed the lead in the last minutes. In fact, I think there was only 6 seconds remaining or so and UST was leading by 3 points. We were celebrating before that lead then there was silence.. even from the UST crowd. Wow... Aldeguer got the ball and sprinted to La Salle court and with a second remaining threw a Alleluia shot.. Unbelievable, it went it!! There was total pandemonium in the Cuneta Astrodome. He was even fouled. He could have won it right there and then if only he made the FT. But he missed it and it was overtime and La Salle got the momentum and eventually won. That was the greatest game for me. Back in La Salle that evening, we heard him talking to his mom (celfone) and telling her that La Salle won. Ren Ren was beside him and they were really really really happy!

Franz Pumaren vs. Dindo (an archer himself)Pumaren. It was like Joel Banal (ADMU) vs Koi Banal (FEU). I think I will not be able to watch it live anymore. Thursday, we have work and on weekends, I will watch Pacman. : ) Can't have more activities over the weekend otherwise someone will knock me out. :)

..........and never shall we fail! Animo La Salle!

Another First

October in 3 days. How fast! Last year, we were busy preparing for Polo's big day. Now, we are preparing for his "walking" ground. As mentioned, he has crawled and has learned to sit. What's next? Walking! :)

It was my our first time to see fear in Polo's eyes. He was scared of a toy we bought from McDonalds. A small "dog like" robot. When I wind up this robot and let it walk, Polo was staring at it which I thought was just his way of showing his interest. We were actually expecting him to go after the walking robot. When I let that toy walk to him, Polo let out a shriek and he climbed hurriedly to his Lola Annie's arms. My dear boy was afraid. At first, we still tried to orient him with that toy and we thought he will be fine with it after several minutes. We were wrong. He was still afraid. Tsk Tsk Tsk.... bad robot!

Oh well. That's life Polo.

Again. It will be October. Christmas will be just around the corner. I've already started playing Christmas music but I will not forget my promise last year and the years before. We will be more ready this year for our Christmas shopping. No more cramming, please!!!! I dont think Polo is ready for Greenhills yet. Well, he can stay outside but definitely, I will object in bringing him inside the tiangge. We will be happy waiting inside Starbuck's for Josephine to finish her shopping!

Sunday will be a Big Day for both La Salle and Ateneo. I will try my best to watch it live at Araneta! I have not watched a single live game this year and I am fortunate to at least still have one last chance. Maybe I was happy a little bit when DLSU lost yesterday. But on Sunday, I will be happier if at the end of everything, La Salle will stand victorious and on its way to its nth Championship game. :) Animo La Salle!

Pressure pressure pressure.. That's what is like with me this past weeks in my work. I'm telling you. I am pressured with every project I have now. I'm telling you I am not sure at times how to move because of the pressure I am feeling. I am just so glad that Josephine and I are always welcome with a wonderful smile from our son, Polo. Best remedy to handle pressure though I still hope that my promotion would be made official. : )

A day is created (and always meant) to be beautiful

"Go into the country, bring timber and build the house"

I have allergies. I have rashes in my upper arm and I think this is the first time that this ever happened to me. It hasn't subsided yet even if I already took anti-histamine and it has been there since yesterday afternoon after eating a spicy noodle soup (though, I only sipped). It is still itchy until now and red like a slice of watermelon. get the picture. At least it isn't spreading and it is just contained in that area.

Low resistance. Better than getting a flu again. Polo will not get this allergy.

I really really really miss attending prayer meeting and woshipping God with all my heart and pouring to Him all my concerns and everything. It has been a long time since I've attended one. I thank God for His grace though that I can still read His words and able to attend mass and sometimes He would let me feel Him. His presence. I would be overwhelmed and be quiet. My heart is looking and searching for you, Jesus.

The other night while carrying Polo I started singing whatever songs that enter my mind and of course I hard difficulty in getting the lyrics right (no, not because of age but I am not really good in lyrics nor nursery rhymes) so I decided to just look for a cd and sing along instead of forcing myself. I chose to play praise music. We started dancing and Polo was smiling then Josephine joined and right there and then I felt God in our midst. He was with us because we were having fun while prasing God through our songs and dance. Kodak Moment!

I'm telling you, at times I would feel lost and unaware of His presence and this situation would made me sulk and depress. When I start feeling bad or wallow in pity or feeling struggling to be positive, Jesus would just impose himself. If people consider me "makulit", Jesus is better than me. He would let me forget the challenges I am facing and will help me instead smile. At the end, He would re assure me of His love, support and most of all His assurance that I will just be ok.

Also, while cooking last weekend, an unwanted thought was lingered in my mind (I love cooking and for me whenever you cook it must be done with love. no negativity please) I was greatly tempted to entertain it and add more which for sure will make me feel bad (again, I was cooking so I dont want to feel bad). All of a sudden, I just prayed and prayed and prayed until I got excited more in my cooking. I realized that whenever I feel negative, it would be easier to pray to cancel the negative thought instead of welcoming it and ruin a beautiful day.

Yeah, it is extremely hard to realize this everyday especially if you are struggling but I guarantee that during this time the Lord is already embracing you. It is up to us to embrace him back, feel his embrace or just be angry, sad, depress, defeated etc., etc., The Lord is victorious and He is good. Always. Amen

No One like You

Jesus keeps me hopeful
Allowing me to go through a day
Even if I do not know nor I understand
I am able to go on

I asked myself many times
Have I failed? Am I with no tomorrow?
What will the future be like?
I fear the answers

At night, I struggle to find peace
I am comforted to see my family beside me
My wife and my child
I am just doing fine

That's what Jesus whispered to me
Everything changed as I listen to His voice
It helps me sleep
Morning comes and I know in my heart
Jesus is with me.

I am ok.

Here I am

I've been busy for so many weeks and I really never had time to update my blog. I denied myself of some rantings that could have spared me from some stressful situations. I wasn't able to freely express myself and be relieved with tensions that have slowly occupied my brain and heart. A month and half! That's long. I really hope I can meet my goal to end this year with at least 100 posts.

Ok. What's up with my dear life?

1. I'm not yet (officially) promoted to the next level of my career. Too long and I'm still waiting. Too stressful and it is beyond my control. Well, too happy and I will wait for the right time to come. I am a patient person. I know that. Sometimes, I get frustrated and disappointed because nothing seems to be happening. As I mentioned, for me it is important not only for its corresponding compensation and perks but it is a milestone and at the same time an appreciation of what I have been contributing to this company. I've been acting and handling this position for more than a year. People treat me as one and I have the confidence to act like one but at the end of the day there is a huge discrepancy. I'm still not one. My prayer "Oh Lord, you can move this mountain and I know You will. As I wait, may I not lose focus on You and Your promises for me and my family. May I still continue to praise you in everything. Amen."

2. Polo is now 7 months old and he did surprised us with his milestones. He can crawl and I am so happy to see him being able to reach and get toys far from him. Less frustration on his part. Then yesterday, he wowed us all! He was able to sit upright without any assistance. I think Polo even surprised himself. I saw his face when I let him sit facing me. No one was touching him and he was worried. Slowly, he learned to trust himself and there he was smiling at us and happy that he can sit. When got tired, he just fell down on his pillow contented and smiling. Polo, you earned 10 stars! (Highest). Two milestones in a span of two days.

3. I went to India. Ok. I apologise. I really tried to enjoy New Delhi. But maybe I can't. I think To appreciate India, you have to stay there for 3 months. Not to work but to explore this magical country. I only was able to grasp limited experience in my 3 days stay. Most of the time inside the sanctuary of the hotel. There was a conference that I had to attend. I guess my initial reaction was normal. I have seen other countries and I can not help but compare it. Oh, Philippines is much better for me but India has a rich historical/cultural background that attracted me to listen to an Indian. Awestruck. But I was not happy with my experience. First, the airport nightmare. I had a bad stomach for about a day after a night of tasting India's food. Then, exhaustion caught up with me that I had a hard time talking to people in a dinner event (Nope. I was able to eat anything). The following day, I was able to join a mini tour of New Delhi. I liked the Qutab Minar. Interesting history. I also wanted to spend several mintues in Indian Gate unfortunately, we can only take picture from the bus and from a far same with the Lotus temple but it is a modern structure. It didn't create any spark of interest to me. The others like the government houses which the tour bus just passed by were not at all amazing or amusing. Then we went to a "Kamish(?)" carpet store. At first the story of how the carpets are created would somehow lead you to sit and listen but after a while, I realized it was just a sales talk. We spent around 30minutes in that place. I can not and will not buy a USD15,000 carpet. I don't even have USD100 at that time. Forget it. So if we removed the government houses, temple and that carpet store tour, we could have probably visited other sites with greater significance.

Too bad. I had to leave that same day. I took a bath then went to the straight to the airport and waited for two hours to board. Then I waived goodbye to India. Who knows I will have another chance to visit and embrace this unique country.

I will share the pictures in other posts.

3. I spent five hours in Changi Airport (Singapore). I wanted to relax and you know this airport for me is so clean and efficient that it helped me to unwind. I also met up with my good friend Gericel and just updated ourselves with what's happening with us. Great to see her. Even though, it is still two hours to go, I had to say goodbye to Ge. Because I still have to buy pasalubong especially for my little boy.

I guess that's about it for today. Got to continue my acting here. :)

Polo is still a baby

Started this post: August 7

I've been excited how much Polo is growing by leaps and bounds. How his motor and physical milestones have been manifesting. How tall he is vs his age group. Then, I would go back to reality that my son is still a five month old baby. He should be treated and looked upon as a baby and nothing more. I feel it whenever he cries and yup it is true a cry can pierce one's heart. My son seldoms cry. I mean really cry. Most of the time as I have mentioned before Polo would just smile or laughs. Sometimes, he would also express his boredom or frustration but not really crying as in crying. Wow. His cries are as powerful as his smiles and laughters. Honestly, he seldoms complain lying down or just sitting on his bouncy chair or carrier kaya I don't mind picking him up whenever he cries and quickly stops crying once he is in his daddy's arms. We would listen to his night music and a little bit of slow dancing and then off he goes to wonderland. I could place him right away in his crib or on our bed but I most of the time would just like to cherish these precious "kodak" moments.

Polo was earlier diagnosed to have a "suspected asthma" which greatly alarmed us. Wow! Not Polo our dear baby. I was so worried that I paused for awhile before was able to say anything. My mind just started to wander and got me to a cold and bitter world that I knew I had to stop myself from lingering in that place. Stop. I listened and asked the doctor about the things we needed to do in order for it not to progress or something. 1. Medication 2. Clean surrounding from any allergens including his stuffed toys (we already bid them farewell). 3. Pray that it isn't Asthma after all.



We bought the prescribed medicines and it was a costly weekend for us really. Thank God that we had enough to purchase a nebulizer and the medicines.



The following day we noticed that he pooped more that than he used to. I wasn't home and when Josephine shared it me I panicked again. Diarrhea is not good especially with babies. You know, we can't read their minds the only thing we can do is observe their behavior and their physical well being. No confirmation from Polo if he feeling this way or that. I was in Marikina but I readied myself to bring Polo to his real Pedia (the one we consulted the day before was the Pedia of a friend because Polo's doctor was attending a seminar). While driving, I called the doctor who prescribed the medicines then she said that it was actually normal and expexted but should not be more than 7x. Polo didn't reach that number. I ended up watching The Simpson's instead. But we still should have went to see Polo's Pedia. Because.......



Sunday came, Polo had rashes all over his body and he was really irritated maybe because of the itch basta he can't be pacified quickly. Worry worry worry.. what if it affects his breathing and he might choke because of the allergic reactions. We tried calling the doctor but she wasn't answering the phone. I had to leave our bedroom to relaz myself because I can feel that I was panicking and I am not really someone who easily panick especially in emergency situations (I know, I have experienced some life threatening moments already) but this, man and considering that Polo's condition isn't really on the top chart as something very dangerous.

Sick Baby Polo

Totally new experience for us. So, this is how it is to see your own child getting sick. Polo has cough and colds since Monday (too bad, I think he got it from me). All we want now is for him to get better and we really mean and feel it. One, Polo can not talk yet so it is hard to know exactly what he is going through. Second, we can see how he is struggling everytime he coughs. The thing is unlike in adults "ey just drink this and you feel better". We can not give him anything but wait for the virus to pass away. Though, we will go to his pedia tomorrow so he can receive medication or for our own peace of mind (if you know what I mean).



Yeah. I heard and read it somewhere that sickness can actually develop his immune system. Will it, really? Seriously? I told Polo that life is really like this sometimes you will get sick just like anyone. We are here to help you as much as we could to make it easier and more comfortable.



I have to get well too. I also have been sick since Friday. Cough and colds. Good thing no fever or flu or anything more serious. I feel ok then after awhile I would feel weak. Yeah, stress in work will is directly proportional to getting well. (Did I state it right?). The more stress, the more you will get sick. Too bad too bad.



Tomorrow is already a Friday. Thank God. We will go to the doctor and I will have my rest tomorrow until Saturday. Laundry day. I guess I will be on my own this Saturday in Marikina.



Everybody is getting sick actually. Here in my office there are about seven sick people (including myself). Some have to take a leave already. It isnt just me or us. July is really a month of sickness because of the weather. It rains almost everyday but the sky would quickly clear and the heat of the sun would dry up and cause havoc on our physical well being. That explains why I always get sick on July. All along I thought it was because of my birthday, that I am cursed. I guess, the weather is more reasonable and logical explanation.


Good thing, Mommy Josephine isn't following the latest trend. She is strong and patiently taking good care of his boys. Praise God she isn't sickly like me. Exercise Marvin exercise! That's my body shouting.
-------------------------------

We had a seminar last week (while I was sick) and one of the activities asked us to draw what make my life happy right now (or something like that). Top of mind for me of course is my little family. The three of us. Josephine, Me and Polo. So that's what I wanted to draw and share to the group.

Here you go. I am sharing my masterpiece that any Juan Luna or Van Gogh will surely be envious of my skills as an artist.

Hahahahahaahahaha. I draw like a preschool kid. Hmmmm. Come to think of it, I like how I represented myself. A simple boy. But look at Polo!!! hahahahaha.. My child is just a five month old baby not five years old. I am so sorry my Josephine. Better visit your hair stylist. hahahahahaha. I have a good visualization on how I want it to be but...... the artist in me prevailed. I hope this can end up with "Tin's list of great work of art" in case she decides to start one.

Yeah, Mariel start laughing. hahahahahaha.. This is better that any of your anime. :)

Some Subic Pictures

Going for 5, 29 and 34

Polo will be a five month old baby this Saturday, July 21! Wohoooooooo! Yipeeeeeee! I will then be 34 on Sunday, July 22. Wow! I'm old! hahahahahahaha.. My dear wife will be 29 on Monday, July 23. Good for her.. still in her 20's. Last year.

You guess it right. It will be a celebration for the Agustin's! First only celeration of bday's since next year we will no longer have to celebrate Polo's bday by month. The celebration will start on Saturday. It will be for all the July celebrants. Daddy Dante (22 also) and my kuya ( 23 also. I hope he will be able to join us). We will have a big lunch celebration. The following day, Josephine, Polo and I will go to Subic for our regular family Get away adventure. It will be Polo's first out of town!

I can't concentrate. Got to go!

The Principle of Success by Jack Canfield

Last night, I came to a chapter where there is an exercise. Nothing new. The instruction is to write at least 30 things that I want in my life to happen. Career. Finances. Properties. Investments. Relationships. Hobbies. That was easy. Mentally, I imagined how much (at this point of time) salary will make me comfortable or would satisfy me. I imagined that for me, leaving in a clean, modern 3-bedroom condo is something I hope to achieve. Spacious, with Balcony and it should be here in Makati. The best part of it, is that I dont need to pay for it and that while we are staying there we are at the same time already planning for our real home. My eyes were closed and I can smell the fresh scent of our condo, the wide LCD screen TV. Wow. Then, I saw three cars and all of them are Honda's. I went on with my imagination.

While going through the exercises, I felt good at first then it was like I reached a certain peak which made me to slow down. Just like in driving, I drive as fast as 130kph. That is the fastest speed I am comfortable with. Beyond that would make me nervous because maybe I am not sure if my car will be able to handle the speed and I too would be able to react appropriately if there is danger. Anyway. I slowed down and got nervous and it was like the bubbles are starting to burst. Came the thought that maybe I am wanting too much and it is something impossible. Not in this lifetime. Not when the tools I have are not enough to help me dig my treasures.

I started feeling bad so I stopped. I opened my eyes and read more of this book. Lo and behold, there was another instruction which I failed to read. "Do not limit yourself, your list." Just allow yourself to imagine what it is that you really like without "ifs" "but" "only" etc.,

I've been through this exercise before and I am aware that I can freely dream of what I want and yet I always end up maybe bursting my own bubbles. See. There is a transformation to me now and it is due to happen. It will happen this month and the coming months.

Bo's teachings last night also caught my interest. It was about addiction and how come we keep on being addicted into whatever it is. Be it substance, eating, sex, smoking, working too much and other addictions. The bottom line of all this addictions is that there is something that we want to be loved. If you dont know how it feels, you will search for it and turn on to something to substitute that feeling. SIMPLY, BO AFFIRMED THAT GOD LOVES US. It is new every morning. It hit me. Yeah, I can not ignore it because even though I know that God loves me, it was different last night. It was an affirmation, a commitment from God. Only He can fill up what we are endlessly searching for. He is the only one who can make us complete.

Going back to Jack, with this renewed spirit and a guidance from this good book, I know I will be ok. I will go back to my Vision of what a good life means to me. I will not be angry. I will not feel hopeless. I will no longer feel like a victim. Just like in the first reading today. God instructed Moses to rescue His people and Moses really felt inadequate. God said, "Do not be afraid. I will be with You". That for me is pure love.

I excited to make my list.

Books Books Books

I can not help it but I now have several books and some of them I have not managed to finish just yet. Last week, I started a new one. :( BUT I am happy that I have a new one and it caught my interest right away. It's Jack Canfield's, The Success Principles. I have finished chapter one but the book is really thick so good luck to us all mankind. Hey, give justice to the tree!


I have spread my wings and ready to soar. Really? Yeah. Control my own destiny (with God of course) but I shouldn't feel trapped because of someone, somethings, etc etc., Wohoooo hooooo hoooooo... Though, I have just started with my plans and nothing is materializing yet. I know it will come. It will. Once it is here then I will see.

I want to have a mini library. I really have many books and magazine. Where to place them? NOWHERE!! Basta, I will have one in my own house. Gee. We will have a place we can call our home.

Janitor fish, a menace when allowed to breed on their own.

Still about Family

Oh yeah? I do not have a problem Tita! and you?

This is my impression of my Blue teddy

I will be a famous celebrity one day. Just like my dad!

See. I can clap using my feet

Grrrrrrrr... finally my Mom bought me my Teether!


All I can say is that my loyalty belongs to my family first. Top of the pyramid (but not higher thean God). I will go where my God wants me to go keeping my family in mind and I am sure that God would want me to start everything my family. That's my current role or vocation now. A husband and a father. A provider.

There is no such thing as starting all over again unless you finish what you have started. If not, it will follow you where ever you go and so you have to go back again. Life is a process, a long continuous activity. Should not be a vicous cycle. It shouldn't be stagnant either. Life is meant to move.

I decided not too talk or dwell into my current situation. Not here in my work place. I have to divert my attention into something else. Something more creative and inspiring. Something a more mature person would do.. hmmmmmmm.. maybe look for another job? hahahahahahahahaahahaha.. You think so? If you are mature and you are really fed up and tired and starting to feel annoyed and disappointed with a lot things and still so many things to do, making tough decision, expected to perform so and so.. but at the end of the day.. you feel that you are not being treated fairly.. what are you going to do? ha? mature person???

Mature Person (MP): "Marvin.. this is the mature person speaking"

Marvin (M): Ha? Whadda?! Why is your voice like that?So creepy,Man!

MP: Ok ok ok.. that's beside the point. I will modulate.. ehem ehem

M: So, what's the answer to my question the mature one!

MP: The anwers are with you already you do not need to look far

M: Huh? Please not that I am lazy but I am really stressed and too damn tired to think now!

Answer me since you just pop out here and then you are giving this crap?!!

MP: OH! that's why you are not like me yet. Grouchy! impatient.

M: Go on now.

MP: Let me see. Here's how I see it. You are not happy...

M: Yeah, as if i do not know

MP: Are you going to listen or what? You feel like _________________

______________________. _________________________._________
___________________________________________________

MP: Then you should ______________and___________________.

M: Alright then. Thanks and you can go back to your old self. Your tone just got higher than the empire state building.