The Drive to Drive
***Maybe this is the motivation that I badly need.***
My husband is on holiday in Thailand and I didn't think it would be this hard. Like, I went back home and he looked after the kids and all **with no problem**. But it hit me hard and came to realize that it's not the same with me.
I don't drive. So we have to walk to school and I have to take the bus to work. The first day of taking the bus was in the morning and I didn't know that it was a holiday so the bus time is different. I only realized it after one and a half hours of waiting at the bus station. I phoned my boss and he ended up picking me up from Bangor to Comber. It was freezing at that time. The next day I had a cold and itchy throat which later on resulted in a tickly cough. I feel awful but still have to go to work. Glad the first week, the kids are still on holiday.
I'm thankful that when the kids are back to school this week, our neighbour can take Tia to school (morning) as her daughter goes to the same school. And after work, I have to lift her and we have to walk home. Oh, Tia wasn't impressed. She doesn't like walking. She keeps complaining and asking why we have to walk. But of course, Mommy knows her weakness. And sometimes I'm being outsmarted when she asks for a drink with a snack or ice cream and slushie. Oh, she's cute!
I have no problem with Jigz as he is happy enough to walk. He's my big boy and helps me out when I needed.
And now I'm motivated to take driving lessons. I fill in an application for the provisional licence for a start. And now looking for a driving instructor near us.
*I got used to being a passenger that I didn't think of learning how to drive as I always think I have a husband who can drive me around. But I was wrong. I should learn to drive because I need to. And I can imagine if I learn to drive, I will be off to somewhere wherever whenever I want lol.*
One thing, when Daddy is not around and Lola allowed them Coke, they are rejoicing! A picture to send Daddy of how happy they are without him. 🤣
*My husband sorts things out before he goes but it didn't go according to plan and I just handle it like a Mom. :)*
Thank you for reading.
Thumper and Happy Easter
**Happy Easter everyone!**
Tia and Jigz had an exciting egg hunt yesterday. Tia once again said,
"This is the best day ever!"
That's her tired after hunting those eggs lol. She had a hard time finding them so she's having a rest.
Even Lola have to help Jigz find some sweets and I was laughing so hard because it was just in front of him and he cannot see it.
And that's them ready to eat some sweets. That will do them for a week lol.
Thumper
Some of you must be asking how's Thumper now? Well here's the update. It shocked me when I come back home.
She Got Babies now!
How come???
Isn't he our wee boy? Lol.
At first, I thought Thumper is a male bunny. That's what I've been told for if she's a female, Jigz would name her Elizabeth lol. Don't ask me why.
So when I was away back home in the Philippines, our very good Thumper caused trouble again always wanting to go far. Still goes back to the garden but she loves his wee walk.
People of course are concerned and they are posting on Facebook about him. You know already how hard it is to catch him. So this time my husband made a blockade and was able to catch him.
To our surprise Thumper was pregnant and when I come back here she is already with her babies.
A typical woman. Hahaha. She must have a boyfriend somewhere in the fields. And now she's officially a Momma.
And lol, we have a new cat as well and her name is Star!
Star and her mysterious tail.
Thank you for reading.
A Wee Day Out
It's Easter Holiday and Tia and Jigz are over the moon. They can stay up late at night and get up whenever they want. And as Tia says, "Yes, no homework!"
Before their holiday, I attended Jigz's Parents Teacher Consultation. I book an appointment with up to 5 of his teachers and everyone is happy with how he settling into his first year in college.
It's music to my ears to hear all their praises for my son. That's a proud moment for us parents. I'm overjoyed and one happy Momma. I can't forget when his P.E. teacher shake my hand and said,
***"Thank you for raising a well-mannered child".***
How good it feels to hear those words. That's my reward. That's my trophy. And Jigz deserves a treat.
We went to Wetherspoon as Jigz said he don't want anything but a pepperoni pizza and hot chicken wings. So it's his wish our command.
See they both love their pizza!
I love their Grilled Chicken and Peppercorn Stack.
And the husband's very British food, fish and chips with mushy peas.
And a dessert to keep them happy!
One of our favourite desserts in Wetherspoon are brownies with ice cream, chocolate fudge cake, and Daddy's Bramley apple.
After that, we went to the shopping centre to do our weekly shopping and picture taking is always required.
Take a picture of me, Mommy!
Jigz said he's too big now for this lol.
We got them easter eggs for Sunday and they are looking forward to the hunt!
We went to the graveyard after shopping to clean Dad's grave. Tia told Lolo how much she missed him.
We don't know where to go yet but if the weather gets better this weekend we will take them to Newcastle or Portrush for a fun day with Lola. Oh, I should ready my 2 pence lol.
Thank you for reading.
Family Walk into the Woods
Clear nights have just begun. The clock has changed and it moved forward for the British Summer Time. This is the time of the year that children especially my Tia don't want to sleep at night because
*"It's not dark yet"*.
So at 7 pm, we took the kids for our first family walk this year. Still chilly but heading on better days.
Look how excited they are!
Yes, that's the Scrabo Tower!
Off they go!
Can you hear Tia saying,
***"Mommy, take a picture of us!"***
**And then pose.**
While walking, we saw some trees that had been cut for safety purposes.
*And yes that's Tia having a rest already. Get up. You're not tired yet!*
Let's see some views. And here's my model for today's article with their heart heart.
Some people are walking with their dogs, some are running and some are just like us having a good time.
Jigz loves dogs and dogs love Jigz. Now, whose dog is that?
The beautiful view is at the top.
And that's us.
That's not the end of the walk. Let's go to the Scrabo children! Exercise your legs.
Tia, Mommy said to exercise your legs, not to sit every time you see a bench.
We had a good walk and home at 9:30 pm after a quick run to the shop. More walking this summer. And our van will be getting ready for our summer road trip. We are all excited about it!
Thank you for reading.
Wondering if anyone experiencing the same as I can't upvote posts/comments.
Is it the same on your end?
A Pleasure Walk at Kiltonga Nature Reserve
**We are lucky to live in a beautiful location where nature lavishes us with its charm. People enjoy a good walk and be it for pleasure or to keep fit, there's always a place in here for us.**
Today after taking the kids to school, me and my husband had quality time together. It's been a long time since we had our long walk because of the cold season and now we are in spring and the weather is changing for the better now. No. That's a lie.
British weather is so temperamental. The sun could be shining early in the morning and it would be raining later on and snowing tomorrow and the sun will show again after a few hours. And yes, we are used to it. And sometimes, still not.
Back to our walk, we went to Kiltonga Nature Reserve. It's a lovely place where everyone can truly appreciate it.
*Even the wee boy is having a great time feeding the birds and swans with his grandad. Some giggle you hear when the birds are all gathered for the feed.*
It's very relaxing even if you're just sitting on one of the long benches and enjoying the scenery. Old people came here often for that.
Some birds I sighted like this blackbird.
Mallards having a rest.
This is also a great place to walk with your dogs as many are walking about with their lovely pets.
You see most of them in groups and enjoying a good chat while walking with their dogs. Such a great place for catching up with friends and going out for fresh air.
Just look at the stunning work of nature. It's so peaceful.
**And more people spending some quality time.**
Can you see yourself sitting in front of this lake? It's mesmerizing, isn't it? It feels like it is recharging your body and soul.
***Kiltonga Nature Reserve is a lovely place for walking. Plenty of seats for resting. Nice place to sit and read or for socialising. We had a great time!***
Thank you for reading.
Unplanned Trip to Taiwan
**You don't always need a plan, just go.**
And so we did!
One night while I'm in the Philippines, I'm having a conversation with my sister when she told me how she missed her partner that is working in Taiwan.
And so I told her, let's go to Taiwan! Everything seems to give way as she has 4 days off school and without a plan we booked the next day's flight.
This is my first time in Taiwan and it's my sister's first international flight. We're taking my 1-year-old niece so I'm beyond excited!
Common, baby! We still have to check-In.
You need a lot of patience when you're at Manila Airport. And you're never too early as you'll never know what the queue is like here.
Immigration
Welcome to the most challenging part for first-time International travel! I experienced it myself and now it's my sister's turn. Passing through immigration was never easy for security reasons but if you're not prepared and lose your cool, it's gonna be a tough one. I'm nearly offloaded on my first time!
Immigration ask my sister who, why where and ask for different stuff but she came prepared. I already gave her some pointers lol. And glad she got a copy of her partner's Employer's Contract and we are good to go.
Mask On!
Have to keep our on throughout our flight except when we're eating.
And just like that touchdown Taiwan!
I thought it was only at the airport but I didn't know that we have to wear our masks all the time in Taiwan. Yes, wherever you go.
Moment of Truth
I was fuming. As my future brother-in-law told us that it's not cold so I just brought 2 jackets (the one I'm wearing and the other I let my sister use as she didn't bring any) It's only to help me through the night and t-shirts, dresses and glad I have one long sleeve!
But lol as soon as we went out and the freezing wind welcomed us haha I run back inside. I need a coat! I don't have a coat and that's not a good thing.
Food trip!
Our first food trip in Taiwan?
The hot pot!!!
Let's order.
And that's them, together again. And since we love seafood, prawns are a must.
Oh, it's so good and cheaper than back home. You can have unlimited rice, noodles, drinks (hot or cold) and even ice cream!
After that, I told them I need a coat. My sister is used to the cold but not me lol
And so we took a train and went to the shop.
Xinfeng Station
There are so many electronic companies here wherever you go. Taiwan is famous for its industrial companies. It's the leading producer of ICT products and most of the factory workers here are Filipinos.
Filipinos are everywhere making you think you're still in the Philippines. Look at them all waiting for the bus to go to work!
And yey I got a coat!
And that feels so much better. I can smile better lol.
Funny Story
My sister, baby and I went out to buy food when we saw street food and lol I can't try their barbeque. And so we tried different ones.
And here you go..
**The one I thought the barbeque is the bum of the chicken!**
Lol, good thing it's my sister who had the first bite. 🤣
Hi-life
Not far from our accommodation is this Hi-life just like 7-eleven where you can get anything and have a good range of food and drinks. When we don't know what to eat we just go to Hi-life. I love their big yakult!
Also at that time before we left, my previous company was celebrating the company anniversary at Sheraton Hotel in Hsinchu and lol I went to see them and got included in the company picture.
And yes, seize the moment and have your picture taken. 🤣
Thank you for reading.
Snow in Spring
It was lovely and warm back home in the Philippines when I went home. I used to complain a lot about our weather there but I missed it since I live here in the cold part of the world. It's not the worst but our weather here is always unpredictable.
While it snows in most parts of the UK during winter, we don't get it here. But to my surprise, it snows when I come back and lol it feels like Christmas again. Snow in March, in Spring. March is always the coldest month.
It started snowing at night.
Tia and Jigz were so happy to see the place all white when they get up in the morning. They started throwing snowballs at each other while waiting for Daddy to ready the car which is covered with snow
And here's the three of us!
They weren't happy to go to school in this condition because they want to build a snowman. So I told them they might still be able to when they come back.
My husband take me to the Scrabo Tower but cars are queued up and looked like they weren't able to make it to the top so I took the liberty to have my photos taken.
Scrabo is so beautiful in white. The place looks majestic. I love it.
And there's my friendsheep. They weren't impressed with me hahaha. They stop what they're doing and lol stare at me. Wonder what they're thinking.
The view from here is breathtaking. That's Strangford Lough.
And the kids came home from school and even though the snow already melting it didn't stop them to make their Snowman.
Lol, the Snowman looked like it catch a cold and was tired. Oh, the story of my life!
And that's the snow that didn't even last a day. I wouldn't want it anyway as my body's tolerance to cold is low. I'm good to see it from time to time and appreciate it. It's not good for my bones lol.
Thank you for reading.
Story Time: Flights and Home
I was so excited to go home after 3 years. I have 3 connecting flights before I reach my final destination.
Belfast City to Heathrow
Heathrow to Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi to Manila
More than 24 hours of journey from home to home. I'm looking forward to it. You know how positive I am.
First Flight.. Delayed!
Yes. It's delayed for two hours. And my next flight from Heathrow to Abu Dhabi has only 2 hours of waiting time so yes I started panicking at that time. As soon as we board I talked to the staff regarding my concern which they can't do anything about as most of the passengers have the same problem and they can't move my seat as the flight is full. Okay, inhale, exhale. I will make it!
After an hour we landed at Heathrow Airport and I just feel that I should be running in front but lol no I can't just do that. We still have to take a bus to go to the terminal and everything seems to get delayed that day.
As soon as get to the terminal, I rushed to security as you have to do everything again. I have already been told that I should hurry up as my flight is already boarding.
After passing security I pick up my hand luggage and other stuff. I have to take off my shoes and coat. As soon as everything is clear, I run as fast as I could as I heard the announcement about the last call regarding my flight. I run. I run as if I was in a marathon. I didn't bother to tie my laces or if I look stupid. I need to make it. And I did Hooray!!!!
The lovely attendant gave me a glass of water as soon as I got on my seat. I run out of breath. Oh, my sweat at that time. I'm the last one they are waiting for and boarding was complete.
**Abu Dhabi Airport**
Third and last flight. This is the longest. And I don't care for this is the last. Abu Dhabi to Manila. And finally landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Mabuhay!
I keep looking at the map and this feels good knowing I'm nearly there.
Bought some more pasalubong in Duty-Free before going through Immigration. It's a long queue but I'm used to it. Then went to the baggage carousel for my baggage.
I'm tired. Exhausted. I just want to get my bags and go home. I'm excited to see my sister who's going to pick me up. So I wait patiently for my bag. Until the last bag and I'm left alone. My 2 bags didn't show up.
Where's my bag?
I went to the Baggage assistance. Many were there some are complaining about their missing items or why their bag was opened. I was told to fill up the form and that they will call me if there's an update with my bags and will deliver it to my house once they got it. Nice. Very nice. So I'm going home empty-handed. My pasalubong is in there!
So the time that flight was delayed and I have to run and I made it. My bags did not. They were left at Heathrow.
Instead of stressing myself out, I went to see my sister and lol and I've got my food ready.
Jollibee Bida ang saya! I missed this burger. We don't have it here. Not the same taste.
Look how happy I am lol.
It took 3 days after I got my bag. I don't know what happened but the other bag was damp and the clothes are wet but still okay. I'm happy enough to get it so no more complaints.
In those 3 days since I don't have any of my things I decided to go to the shop and lol I know I'm smiling in the picture but I'm so shocked by the price of basic needs in the Philippines. It's only 1 bag with soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, fresh milk, bread, etc, and this cost Php3500 already! Like I know everything went up but I didn't believe that it was this high. It's too much.
First food trip with family. And then we went to have our family picture taken.❤️
Mask. They still wear masks though it's not mandatory they still wear them back home for safety purposes.
After that it's like an everyday food trip at home and whenever wherever.
Oh we love our food. And yes we use our hands. Sarap magkamay!
And that's my story for today. Snow naman tomorrow.
Thank you for reading.
Coming Back in March
First time tonight after two long months since I open my read.cash account. Coming from a long holiday back home in the Philippines that seems not enough for a wintery spring here in Northern Ireland. I have loads of stories I'm excited to share. I have loads of people I am missing and articles and stories I'm longing to hear.
It's been a long time. It feels like I'm new here. But I'm happy as I'm typing this. I missed the sound of the keyboard that I haven't used since. I choose to be inactive from social media. Now it's sharing time again. I have had lots of experiences in the past two months.
Family
It's lovely to see and be with my family again after 3 years. I surprised Mama and Papa lol and they were so happy to see me home.
I attended my cousin's wedding. I went to Baguio. I went to Taiwan. Oh, loads of happenings.
And lol one of I can't still move on is my missing delayed bags from my departing flight and coming back. I'm so lucky to have it back but I'm fuming when my bags are damaged. Both of them. I won't be able to use them again. So yes, I'll be writing about that.
Yesterday was Mother's Day so belated happy mothers day to all the lovely Mommas out here. And Tia also celebrate her 7th birthday yesterday. Oh, she's getting big and so is Jigz.
**Thank you for reading, lovely people. Lovely to see you all again.** ❤️
Happy New Year, Everyone!
Hello lovely people! Happy New Year to everyone. I know we are all looking forward to a better year in our lives and our crypto account, lol.
Christmas is over. The Christmas tree, Santa and all the decorations inside the house has been taken down and were all put-away today. But surely time flies and they're not going to stay in the shed for too long.
I'm busy. I am. Because I have to go home this month. And my body and mind are all over the place. I'm happy that I'm going to see my family in the Philippines. But I don't know how my family especially the kids cope without me. With the price of flights, I am the only one flying. So they'll all be left here.
The other day, I talked to Tia and told her that I have to go home cause her Lola, my Mom is not well at the minute. And the first thing she said was,
***But who will cook for me?***
***But I'm going to miss you.***
You know, she was teary-eyed and I hug her and show her how she can call and video calls me when she misses me. I even teach her how to send me a voice message and tried it right away. But still, she's not happy and I know she won't.
I told her that Daddy, Jigz and Lola will help her with whatever she wanted to eat and need.
Today, I teach Jigz how to cook rice. This time I let him cook it himself because he will not survive without rice.
Also today, I teach my husband to cook ***tocino***. He loves it and so he needs to learn how to make it. Tomorrow, I have to teach him how to make Chicken Pastel or what they just called "White Sauce."
Mum, already telling me that she's going to miss me when I go home. She's sad but told me I have to see my family.
I have to make a checklist for the kids. I even make a Device bin. That they are not allowed to use their gadgets phones or Nintendo without doing at least 3 things I have on the list. I don't want them to be constantly on the screen when I'm away.
I'm packing my things and what to bring home. My sister just gave birth and the other one is any time now so I'm excited to meet my new nephews. I laugh coz my sister just wants "Sudocrem". It was 3 years ago since the last time I went home so it's been a long time.
Pasalubong
Homecoming gift? I told them I'm going to bring onions. Loads of onions! I've heard how expensive onion is in the Philippines now and I'm not joking when I told them that I'm bringing onions. And they laugh. No chocolate this year, just onion hahaha.
But kidding aside what's our favourite pasalubong?
Chocolates
Perfumes
Shoes
Clothes
Soaps
But those will never be enough. And what do we really need when we are about to go home?
MONEY!
Loads of it. 🤣
***Let's summon all the good fortune this 2023! Oh Crypto Market, keep it, Green!***
Cheers!
Wishing you all a lovely Christmas! I know you are all full smile. 😊
Happy Birthday to Me
**I meant to write this last night but I wasn't able to, so let me share my day with you.**
*I'm grateful for another year, for the gift of life. Thank you, dear God. And I am grateful for the lovely people who I'm sharing life with, my family and friends. I am blessed.*
I received my first birthday cards 2 days early. My kids Tia and Jigz can't contain their excitement and just want to give it earlier on. And so did Mum.
My husband kissed me at midnight and greet me happy birthday and Jigz gave me a present. They've been waiting for me. They didn't sleep. He bought me a woolly hat and scarf with his own money. He sell his sweets to his classmates and made a profit and he bought more at the shop and sell it again until he got money to save to get me something. Very sweet!
While Tia is huffing as she got no present for Mummy but reminded her that the card she gave me is lovely and that's the best gift to give Mummy. She smiled and kiss and hug me right.
Even my family back home had a small celebration for me. I'm not gonna lie I missed the Filipino birthday celebration.
Missed the Jolly spaghetti!
And this is my birthday selfie!
I work. I went to work and have a subway breakfast!
I came home to this.
And my husband prepared a delicious roast beef dinner! Oh, now I'm hungry again.
The gravy is so good! He's a very good man and I'm spoiled yesterday with treats.
And he knows I love strawberry pavlova but he couldn't find one in any shop so he made one himself.
Oh, I love that. I appreciate his effort.
And it was already bedtime when he surprised me with a cake lol while singing happy birthday.
The sweetest part of my birthday. Sweeter than the pavlova!
I got my presents early as I told him just buy me underwear, a new bra and knickers will be great. And lol I'm wearing it now. Happy days!
Another year down and a lot more to come. My heart is full. My face is filled with smiles. Now let's all look forward to a lovely Christmas! ❤
Thank you for reading.
Tia Has Chickenpox
It started with a sore head. Tia told me her head is sore. After school yesterday as soon as she saw me she started crying.
"Mummy my head is so sore," she said.
And then her teacher approached me and said that Tia didn't tell her that she was not feeling well and had just been upset when about to go home.
At home, I gave her Calpol. She told me she didn't tell anyone that her head is sore. But told her, if that happens again she must let the teacher know so the teacher can call me and I can pick her up.
After that, I let her rest and she falls asleep right away. Their class went out for some outdoor activity so I thought she was just foundered.
At night she got the temperature. So I keep giving her fluid and Calpol. The next morning she got spots. I thought it was only at her face then I check her body and there was more on her chest and back even her legs. She got rashes.
I phone for her Doctor's Appointment right away as I don't want to guess what it is. I was just praying it's not chickenpox. The Doctor confirms that it was chickenpox upon seeing Tia and that nothing they can do or give aside from Calpol.
There is also a breakout in school and usually, it's really at her age that they get chicken pox. She could have also got it from the fair. That we are not sure of. My Papa used to say better to get it when you're young than when you're old.
It's giving Tia a hard time. The spots are all over her body. Her scalp is so itchy. I reminded her not to scratch it. What I do is:
Cold compress with a towel
Aloe vera Gel
Sudocrem
The doctor said I can use calamine lotion. Today I washed her with water with baking soda as per the doctor's advice.
I put the aloe vera gel in the fridge so it's nice and cold to help with the itch. Then I make her drink plenty of fluids.
Some blisters are huge. And when I say it's all over her body, it's everywhere, even inside her mouth and the private part that is breaking my heart because she is in so much pain. I have to keep doing the cold compress than the calamine when it's really itchy.
The doctor said it will last for at least a week. My Tia still smiling and laughing. But when it takes its turn she cries so loud that tears running down her face. My poor baby!
All of us in the house already had chicken pox. It is highly contagious to those who never had it.
**Does anyone know any remedies for chickenpox that might help her rashes dry faster or better stuff for soothing it?**
Thank you in advance for any advice.
Fair in the Square
**Hey hey, it's Friday, Hooray!**
Last night we went to Comber Fair Market. It was held at the Square. This time there are more stalls, about 50, and there are many things that the kids and kids at heart will enjoy.
As anticipated it is crowded and families from near towns also come to enjoy this event. We've never had this since Covid so all are pleased to see something different.
You can feel the atmosphere and it's freezing but all are enjoying the night.
My Tia spotted the rides right away. They've got a tenner from Lola so they have money to spend. Mum couldn't come as she knows it will not be easy to push her about in the crowd and that it will founder her.
So many cute munchkins out today!
Jigz tried riding the bull coz it looks so much fun watching it. Let's see if he is going to last.
And he falls! The bull wins!
There are so many rides here and most of them cost £3 which is not bad for minutes of happiness.
There's also this duck fishing for the prize. It's always small lol.
Everyone is out and so are their classmates. Tia keeps seeing loads of her friends at school and she's delighted. Jigz even went with his friends.
Food Stalls
The reason why I came, to be honest. We all love good food! This is the season of eating.
Lol, even ice cream in winter.
And Tia's favourite of the night and the first time she tried toasting marshmallows!
And that's her happiness.
There's also the band with Santa's gang. Some lively good songs they are playing and the kids want sweets from Santa.
Some songs played aside from Christmas songs are
The Gambler
Sweet Caroline
West Virginia
Of course, people sing along with them!
Santa's trousers fell off! And we all laugh when we saw it. Sorry, Santa! Because of inflation, I think he loses some weight and needs to eat more. Or maybe he is on diet?
Here is our square. Some of the small trees are decorated with different schools including Tia's.
And the star of the show. The lighting of the Christmas tree. That's a huge and better Christmas Tree this time. Oh, it's lovely!
We had a wonderful night. It was really good! We even continue our grocery shopping after that. The kids were so tired after!
**I hope you enjoyed it.**
Thank you for reading.
Weekend Foodtrip and Monday Galore
*Hello lovely people! Did you have an amazing weekend? Yes, that's me asking it on a Monday night. I can't remember anything else aside from I keep cooking and eating.*
**Oh, food, I love you so much!**
To share what we made. Here's Tia's request to make Turon. It's a Filipino snack or dessert and every Filipino love this!
Mommy, can we make a banana on a wrapper, please?
And what I did is I gave her what she needs and let her do it. From cutting the banana, and sprinkling sugar to rolling it into the wrapper, she did it all. Don't worry about the knife, it's not very sharp!
Tia did well and she is so proud of her turon. Sorry I wasn't able to take pictures because it didn't last long.
And then I make lumpiang Shanghai. I was laughing as when my husband saw me cooking it he made a remark saying,
**"Why it is small now?"**
Hahaha. Simply because I want them to take time eating it. But didn't work out. They just get 5 at a time coz it's too small. Then repeat. They love it!
This lumpia is most of the time the star of our feast no matter what occasion. This is also the one everyone wants to take home.
That's Saturday and then yesterday I crave Palabok so I made one. It's quite complicated coz there are so many things to do but it's worth it.
This is my kind of noodle!
Monday
Then today when the kids were off to school me and my husband are out as well. Happy days!
Do you know what we did? You know that Tia got loads of coins. 1p, 2p and 5p and so I gathered everything and bring it to the coins machine that I saw at the shopping centre. I got so excited. And mind you it's very satisfying to watch.
And at the end, we've got a total of £8.52 from those pennies! Hooray!!!!
I will put it in her bank.
Then we went window shopping while we are out. And yes it's Christmas time again. As you can see Santa Claus is all around the shops.
There is so much stuff on sale because of Black Friday and here my husband told me I can get anything I want. But there are too many lol.
*So I don't know how it happened but when we get out of the window shopping my husband was carrying a big box after.*
And inside is him.
**Welcome home, Santa Claus!**
We will find a good place for you in a week.
Ho ho ho ho!
And lucky enough I got myself snow boots. Because I can feel that it will be snowing soon. Have to keep my feet warm!
But lol surprise surprise! Maybe I was carried away when my husband told me that I can get anything I want and I'm very good at doing as I'm told so I grab a pair of these without double-checking the size!
And lol I was laughing hard and I couldn't believe myself getting a boot in different sizes!
Sadly, I went back to the shop to exchange it for my size but there were no more sizes available. Someone must take a different size as well by mistake. And so I have no choice but to get a refund instead.
Lesson learned: Double check the size before buying.
I really want a knee high-leather boots but it's quite dear so I choose those boots as they were cheap. But not meant to be. So I decided I will treat myself to very nice boots that I like. It will be my birthday soon so that will be my birthday gift to myself! Or Santa might bring me one.
**Have you experienced buying footwear in different sizes just like how I did? Or is it just me, lol. 🤣**
Thank you for reading.
Tia's 1970s Disco Costume
*Let's bring back the memories of the 70s. A challenging decade of soaring inflation, cultural change and technological innovation. Most importantly the era where the rise of disco began.*
I know nothing much about the 1970s (I'm an 80's kid 😅) and I even have to Google about it because Tia has to dress up in the 1970s disco costume for their school's 50th anniversary. And it really brings back the memories of reading and listening to the playlists that the school send to us parents.
The Costume
Getting a costume is not so hard because you can get everything now online. It's quite dear if you get a brand new one on ***Amazon*** and for a 1 time only event I choose to get one in ***Vinted***.
Just like who sold it, her daughter only uses it once and I only paid £5 for it so that's a good bargain.
We were really excited as yesterday while doing the shopping I get her things to go with her costume. It's freezing and it's very light these clothes so I need to get her covered to keep her warm.
Too excited that the night before she tried it out and lol she don't want to take it off.
She got lovely glasses on! I got that long sleeve turtle neck and thick tights underneath her trousers.
**Hippie Look**
And that's her this morning! Oh, she's so cute. Don't mind her Momma as she just wants to be in the picture.
Some additional accessories like that dangling flower earring. For the first time in 6 years, this is the first time I take off her stud.
My husband said the fur coat is the 1970s thing too so we put it on. I can see Elton John on her lol.
And she was practising the dance **Don't Stop Me Now.** She was a bit shy to show us the choreography so she goes to her room and danced.
These are their playlist for the kid's disco:
YMCA - The Village People
Block Buster - The Sweet
Crazy Horses - The Osmonds
Waterloo - Abba
Blame it on the boogie - The Jacksons
Rasputin - Boney M Shang a Lang Bay City Rollers
I love to boogie - T Rex
You’re the ones that I want - John Travolta & Olivia Newtown-John
Mama Mia - ABBA
Dancing Queen - ABBA
Teenage Kicks - The Undertones
I feel love - Donna Summer
My Sharona - The Knack
Rock the Boat - Hues Corporation
He’s the greatest dancer - Sister Sledge
Jean Jeanie - David
Hot Stuff - Donna Summer
Do you recognized the songs? Surely! Ohh great hits of all time most of them. And I love Abba.
I'm sure they are enjoying the day with good music with their teachers and classmates. It's also good that the new generation is introduced to the 1970s era. To show them what we used to dress at that time and what kind of music we listen to. The old songs are different from this modern music. Classic. They are far too good!
Glad she let me take one picture at school.
Enjoy, my sweetheart!
It's Friday, yey! I can't wait to have a good rest. It sounds so good already. I'll be working until 9 pm so the rest is something I'm looking forward to.
**How's your week?**
**Is Friday sound good to you too?**
Thank you for reading.
Is it Really on Sale?
Good morning lovely people! It's a beautiful cold Wednesday. How cold is it this morning? Oh, freezing! Tia said she will be Frozen Tia because it's too cold that she doesn't want to get up to go to school.
"Maybe tomorrow," she said.
Lol. But she managed to get up but still complained.
I'm at work now and look at the temperature inside Ards! 5° C!
I don't start till half 9 so I have time to walk about the shops.
Window shopping.
All advertising their Black Friday deals. Some offer great discounts perfect for Christmas Shopping. I think this is what it is for.
I love Superdrug when they are on sale as the Perfumes are cheaper! I know how much the normal price so I know I'm really getting it at a bargain price.
Is it really on SALE?
***Who doesn't love to go shopping when they know their favourite brand is on Sale?***
***Who doesn't appreciate the red tag?***
But is it really on sale?
Some. Some are not. I know we get so excited when we see the word Sale. Last year upon checking their price tag, it was not even discounted.
They made it sound like a bargain and put a red tag on but when you peel that tag the real price reveals itself and sometimes the original price at the bottom is cheaper than the red tag! So be wise.
Sometimes they marked up all their items a month before the so-called Sale.
Oh, look Christmas Tree is up and it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Though it already feels like it is!
I don't think ours will be up as they think it's too early. Maybe the first week of December. But if I'm at home, Christmas starts in September and lol Christmas Tree is already up for some. We are that excited!
I love getting a bargain and I have fun peeling off the red tag to see if I really save. ***Have you done it as well?***
***Did you get disappointed?***
***Or did you rejoice and feel so proud of yourself?***
Oh yeah, carry on Bitcoin Cash. Love to see it green. Isn't it just beautiful when it is?😁
And it would be nice to shop with plenty of money. It would really be a Merry Christmas. Hahaha. I know the feeling is mutual.
Thank you for reading.
I Should Learn to Drive
**There's always something coming. It can be good or bad. Most of them you are not prepared for but you have to deal with them.**
Saturday
My husband accidentally fell into a hole and twisted his right foot. It was dark at that time and he didn't see it. He is in pain and he can't move. He said he heard his ankle crack.
We have to drive back home. I can't drive. I help him to get back in the car. It took us ages. He started hopping on one foot. But it's sore. Even hopping on the other foot hurts.
I told my husband I will call for an ambulance so we can get it checked. But he doesn't want to. He knows what it is like in the hospital nowadays.
He barely managed to get in the car and tried his very best to drive. I can see him biting his lips and we are just stuck in the middle of the road as he can't move. It's pin and needles taking over. I was really scared were in the middle of the road. I tried to be calm and told him to try to park on the side of the road.
The good Samaritan
We are parked outside the house and the owner comes to see what's wrong as they see us through the window. We're not far from home.
We know them. They just had a baby. We don't really want to bother anyone. The man offered to drive us home but my husband don't want to as the police are around the place and we can cause him trouble.
The wife came and offered to drive us in her car and we can just leave our car outside their house. We have no choice. My brother-in-law is nowhere near.
We are so grateful for the lovely couple. They didn't think twice to help. God bless them.
We get home. My brother-in-law will lift the car. I run to the house to get the crutches. I'm glad these come in handy at this time. Tia and Jigz come out and they were worried to see Daddy.
Tia keeps asking,
*"What happened, Daddy? I'm so worried now."*
Tia gives Daddy a hand. Jigz runs and gets a chair and bean bag so Daddy can rest his foot.
I gave him Ibrufen. Took his shoes off and saw that they started swelling. He told me his going to soak it to warm water. I get the Epsom Salt and added it to the water. Then I got the bandage wrap it around to stop swelling after.
It's not broken just stabbed. It will take a week at least to heal. An ordinary sprain is already unbearable how much more is this?
Sunday
I have work. I get up early to cook. Get everything sorted. I have to take the bus. But I forgot that it's Sunday and I missed the bus time. I have to go 2 hours early if I have to take the bus. So I have no choice but to get a taxi. And I was shocked as the taxi cost £13 for 15 minutes. My hour of work just went for the fare.
I don't blame the taxi. Petrol is dear now. And they have to make a living as well. I just wish I have another cheap option. But I missed the bus plus I cannot drive so I have no choice.
**Sunday Night**
I'm not well. I got a bad cold and my head is sore. Not a good time to not feel good when my husband isn't. So I didn't entertain the thoughts and carried on. I took cold and flu tablets and take vitamin c.
But I had trouble sleeping as my nose is blocked and I can't breathe properly.
Monday
This morning we have to get up early as Daddy can't take the kids to school we have to walk. The kids knew that we have to.
It's raining again. They didn't complain and we enjoy our walk. Glad it's my day off.
I should learn to drive
It made me realize that I should try to learn to drive. Because I need to. If my husband can't do it then I should be able to. It's hard when you depend on your husband and an accident like this happens. There's always something.
I should really give it a try and not just say "I will not be able to learn how to drive." I doubt myself in driving. But now I realize if I can drive, I can go anywhere and it will be handy for our family.
Have to start reading this book.
I also download this app.
**I should and I will learn to drive.**
My husband is getting better. He said he will try to walk today. He has to move it about. I am his left foot in the meantime.
***Please be careful and look after yourself. Accidents come with no warnings and you can't really be fully prepared.***
Thank you for reading.
What's at the Auction?
I love watching **"Bargain Hunt"** on tv. There are two teams and they were given £300 each and what they have to do is to buy 3 things to sell in an auction. They can keep whatever they make on top of the £300.
Of course, finding an item to make a profit needs some skills with luck. You'll never know really until the hammer is down if it will be a loss or a profit. It's quite exciting!
**An auction is a public sale in which goods of different sorts or properties are sold to the highest bidder.**
So yesterday I don't know how we end up at the Auction house after doing our shopping. My husband lifts Tia from school first so she went with us. Jigz finish school late.
I just knew were getting petrol here then he decided to have a look at what's for auction. You can view the items a day before and on the day of the auction. It started at 5 pm yesterday. My husband sometimes see tools or machine he likes and bid for them.
I love gypsy rings and they have beautiful jewellery in the auction. I was tempted but no, no budget for wants yet.
Bangor Auctions
Look what's inside and lol, wondering which one are you going to bid on and how much.
**Look at these lovely paintings!**
***Tia said,***
***Mommy, did she forget to put her clothes on?***
I laugh hard. She must have been warm!
**Then these figurines lot that I love to have displayed in our house.**
**And look how cute are these lot!**
**Birds of a feather flock together.**
**There are many chairs that Tia keeps on trying if it's comfy enough.**
**Some fabric couch**
**Elephant Pot Stand and Chinese M.O.P (Mother of Pearl) Table + Tools**
**Wedgwood Dinner Service**
I didn't see any Royal Alberts this time. I love dinner sets. And hopefully, I will have a big kitchen in the future. Tia and Jigz promised me so.
**Boorinwood Accordion**
**A lovely portrait print**
Many bidders are checking out the lots. Soon the live selling will start. Bidding will be up! You can put in a bid early as well.
We never go near my husband as he only goes to see the tools and then walks around. I've been to these auctions many times and I enjoy watching the live selling. I accidentally lift my number once and lol I make sure I never do it again unless I'm bidding.
This time my husband just bid online after seeing what he likes. He sees these petrol garden mulchers and 50-litre compressors that will be handy to have though we already have them. One is never enough.
**And we were outbid!**
It's better if you are there to increase the bid as they don't do live online selling. Next time we will watch the live selling and bid in person. For the fun! 😁
***So which one are you going to bid for?***
Thank you for reading.
Back to Our Night Walk
For the first time after a long time, we get back to our night walk. My husband is complaining that I'm getting lazy to walk. I told him because it's cold to walk. And it's raining. But then again I'm complaining that my knees are getting bad again. *Nirarayuma ako! Rheumatism at my age lol.*
So last night after he told me he will treat me pizza, I said yes. Oh di ba, marupok! Matakaw na nilalang. Food is a good motivation too lol.
The funny thing yesterday is my husband lifted me from work yesterday and we went straight home. We already get off the car when we remember that we didn't lift Tia from school. Hahaha. Poor Tia!
Poppy Day
But we're not late so it's okay and as you can see she's very happy. She got bubbles, given to them by the teacher and she got a poppy as it will be ***Poppy Day/Remembrance Day tomorrow 11th of November.***
**It is to remember those who lost their lives in battle. Why Poppy? Because these are the flowers that grew on the battlefields after World War One ended.**
Night Walk
Going back to our night walk. After dinner and doing homework with the kids and having their me-time, I let them watch tv or have their phone for an hour and a half before they go to bed. And that's when we go walk for at least 6 miles. We walk around the town. It's dark now before 5 and drizzling rain started to give me chills.
There's the street view.
Can you hear him shouting, hurry up! 🤣
And here we passed Tia's school.
6 miles in 1 and a half hour. Good job!
And going to the best part and the reason why I walk.
Pizza!!!
Yum yum! Love Margherita.
And the funny thing in every walk he has to eat really well that he ordered Indian last night. Hahaha. Why walk to burn calories and put them back?
I guess that's to balance it out. 😂
Have a lovely Thursday! It's shopping day today. So it will be a long day for me.
This is me talking about food because if I talk about the bloody market I will feel depressed. Buy the dip and it dips! So when is the right time to buy? Oh, lucky me!
Thank you for reading.
Back to School Tuesday
One week's holiday come to an end and the kids are back to school today. It seems like I have also been on a break on my account and sorry about that. But I can tell you I just didn't sit back and relax but worked harder at home and work. You know Christmas is coming and expenses are waving!
Not even Christmas yet and I got bills to pay for the kid's phone needs a new screen. They don't have an expensive phone and they don't need one so I'm not buying them new phones. Tia keeps hiding her phone and she hides it under Lola's chair cushion. For days we couldn't find it and it's just there. She remembers it and started crying because her screen was broken.
Jigz's phone was dropped in Turkey. It hit pretty badly on the concrete and broke the glass, not just the screen protector. So happy days. £75 to get it fixed and I send Jigz first for repair as Tia can use the tablet. Jigz needs his phone for his Google Classroom so aside from playing his games that also serves a good purpose.
I will lift it today and hopefully, it's all good. And Tia hopefully for next week. Momma needs to work first! Have to work work work as mostly everything skyrocketed when it comes to price and the bills and we were nearly out of oil again. Oh, we just have to save and spend over and over again. It's getting tough really.
Oh, I hope Crypto will be all green this Christmas! That will be a good present for all of us. It dips again but surely it will be up the next day. Fingers crossed.
Thank you for reading.
Some Memories of my School Days
I can still feel the metre stick striking my hands and I can still hear the teacher counting from 1-10 or to 100 while doing so. I can feel the pain of every hit but I couldn't remember what it is for. Surely, I did something she wasn't happy about.
***Napitpit na naman!***
I can still see the eraser flying to one of my classmate's heads. I'm relieved it wasn't mine. It was a good throw with all the chalk powder garnishing his/her hair to wherever it reached. Some classmates are lucky to get hit by the sudden throw. And no, you don't talk back those days. You are not allowed to. You keep it to yourself.
You will never forget these words if you're from the Philippines. Also I'm sure I know you know how it feels. 🤣
Napingot/naapatse
Napadipa sa labas
Nakurit
Napaskwat
Oh, I missed our blackboard that is colour green. Why did they call it blackboards anyway?
And no one wants to be the cleaner. Everyone going home and you will be left to clean the classroom.
I remember biting the end of the pencil because I need the eraser badly. Just a wee bit more. There's more. And the size of the pencil doesn't bother me even it's so small that I can barely hold it in my hand. Oh yes, I experienced that.
I love the surprise test and the unexpected recitation. But those who don't study hate them the most. I still think of our class bullies. Oh, I'm sure they still exist.
Unlike now that we have the internet to help with homework, back in my day we have to go to the library and research for the answers to every subject we had. It's hard work. Sometimes we just copy each other's answers. Sometimes they just copy from me. I got paid too sometimes.
I'm not the smartest in school but I do well because I have to. I need a scholarship from Elementary until college. I rely on it so I have to study hard. I know I have to get good grades. But those days money speaks more than brains.
Those parents who give gifts and do teacher favours, their children get better grades. Before I was frustrated with the system but until high school, it never changed. Do you want extra grades? Buy me some paint. Or buy me food at Wendy's. I don't have money to buy the teachers anything. But I'm proud that I earn my grades with pure hard work.
They surely are trending if that happens now. And glad that you are not allowed to hit students now. And school bullies get dealt with accordingly.
I miss the food on the tray that goes rounds in the classroom only if I have money in my pocket. I miss the hot sopas (creamy soup) or the tastiest pizza at the cheapest price!
Remembering back on those days. I have some teachers and classmates I never forgot. Some memories stay in my heart and head. Some good, some bad. Some broke my heart. Some teach me good lessons. But all lead me to where I am now.
Thank you for reading. ❤
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Happy Halloween!
The kids especially Tia and Jigz are excited about tonight's trick-or-treating. It's the sweets that count!
Unfortunately, Momma forgot to get them a Halloween bucket and their not quite happy about it. So we went to the shop. It's dark now at 5 o'clock as the clock changed yesterday.
We went to different shops and everywhere we go is sold out. The last stop is at the shopping centre.
Jigz got lucky to find one at Asda while Tia got a canvass bag just at Poundland. I promised not to forget it next year.
It's raining at that time. It's been raining for a week now and never stops. The wind at night is quite scary.
The butler is asking if any of you wants some treats?
And here's more for those who have sweet tooth. Come take a pick.
Let's do some fortune-telling. Lend me your hand or let's just look onto this crystal ball.
Not you, spider. Go away now!
Tia hate that big spider.
Or maybe Granny, the Witch can tell us? Or if you want some apples, she can give you some?
Oh, there's more outside. There's the ghost rider! Do you fancy a ride?
Tonight is Halloween. And tomorrow Christmas starts. Hahaha. Santa is waving. Christmas tree will be free again from the shed.
Oh, wait there's more. Daddy bought some fireworks and sparklers. Imagine, they want £200 for a box of fireworks! Ridiculous.
And Tia having fun with the sparklers. This feels like Christmas to me as back home in the Philippines we only have this lusis for Christmas. The only thing we are allowed.
I'm glad it stops raining. And I hope it won't be slashing when we go out. Jigz is already away with his friends. I will be out with Tia shortly. She's ready to fill up her bag!
**Happy Halloween everyone! 🎃 And I'm wishing you all a fun-filled evening.**
Thank you for reading.
Bunny Update
So yesterday after getting Tia from school we went everywhere to get things Mum needs. We've done some Christmas shopping but the main agenda is to find Thumper some friends because he is really lonely hopping about the garden alone.
My husband and I prefer adopting one or two from an animal sanctuary for the same price that you'll buy from the pet shop. And we went to the Assissi Animal Sanctuary in Bangor but it was closed. We were told that we can check out the available rabbit from the website.
They have cats, dogs, guinea pigs and rabbits for rehoming. They have loads!
And we have chosen to fill up a form to adopt the angora rabbits with lovely names Amelia and Eleanor.
**Aren't they cute?**
Now we just have to wait for their response if we can adopt them as they make sure they rehome pets to the right people. There should be a suitable place for them. I think Thumper will be happy to have them in our garden.
Then we have our Plan B if ever we can't adopt from the sanctuary. We check out the Pet Shop and these are available.
**For £45**
There's also this rat, I mean gerbil that Tia wants to take home. But it's a no for now.
And I'm sharing the dinner I made yesterday. My family's favourite chicken pastel and is made with love. Oh, I just love colours when I'm cooking.
Lol, it's a big pot! Just in case.
And that's all ate! It's a thumbs-up from them all. Tia said it was super delicious! 😁
What I'm going to cook later? (An everyday question to myself as if you ask them they will only say "anything!")
I hope we hear from the sanctuary today. I'm quite excited to welcome them into our home.
Thank you for reading.
Cuteness Overload with Mum and Thumper
The weekends had been amazing. It's simply family time. We are in the last week of October. My goodness, that's fast!
Yesterday Mum got her covid booster and flu jab. And she was impatiently waiting for it. She gets up by 8 just in case the district nurse came in early. But she was told that it was between 9 am to 3 pm. The nurse came by 2 pm and lol she just can't wait to get the injection and get done with it.
I don't know how she can smile and how to be happy like her when getting an injection. Lol, she's a laugh!
She told the nurse,
"Carry on, injection doesn't bother me. I'll just take it."
She's been told that her arm will be sore and will feel under the weather but only for a couple of days. And when she get up this morning she was complaining that her arm is sore and she was not well. She said she wasn't able to sleep last night. But lol she's still laughing while telling me so.
And she said,
"Good thing it's not up my arse!" Hahaha. Oh, she's a laugh. I love my Mum.
That's her now checking out her boyfriend. It's lovely to see him again. Bring out the sweets!
Just like how cute they are last year.
And today when the kids are off school I went to the garden and have a moment with Thumper.
As usual, he's at his favourite place. And I call him out. He's like a child that can't be bothered to get up so he wiggles his way out.
When we pick Tia up we will go to the shop and look for his mate. It's boring to be alone.
Glad the sun is out now. But look how wet the grass is. My boots are soaking not long standing here.
And Thumper came to me and it's the sweetest. He keeps munching the grass though. He loves it. Maybe treat him to some dandelions later. I think that's his favourite!
He let me stroke him and lol he loves it!
And there he is falling asleep. It must be good. He looks like a pup to me.
Later again, Thumper. I have to pick Tia up from school now. Then see if we can get a mate for you, my sweetfur. Tia will be delighted or maybe surprised to have the butler inside the house again. But lol the sweets on the butler's tray will make her thrilled even more.
And that's sweetness overload with Mum and Thumper. I hope they made you smile. 😊
Thank you for reading.
Fish and Chips on a Tuesday
It's Wednesday already but let me shared my Choose Day!
Yesterday morning I was at JD Sports to get my husband a beanie hat because he keeps wearing one that I don't appreciate. Lol, yes there are those things.
After getting one I went to TK Maxx and look for a beard trimmer or electric razor or whatever you call it because I clean it the other day and I forgot where I put it because it's everywhere. (Maybe it's in Ballygowan Dump for all he knows!) And there are so many choices I got this one.
But my boss saw it and told me that it's the wrong one coz that's not for clean shaving it's only for beard trimming. So I have to return it and get a refund because they don't have what I need. I'm just going to bring him to Boots to get what he needs and tell him that his one is missing in action.
After work, my husband went to Bangor and get some tools and spray that I know nothing about.
Why men have to keep buying tools? Lol. They say, that's their make-up. 🤣
And I'm starving already as I haven't eaten anything. So he asks me what I want to eat and I say as long as it was not KFC and McDonald's it's okay. So he said we will just get to the Chippy.
When we get into Tim's Chip Shoo we decided to just eat in. And glad we did coz the food is far nicer straight from the fryer.
While waiting, some interesting stuff hanging in the shop entertains us.
And lol that marriage rules are a good reminder. They are bang on! Remember that.
Look at how big the fish is and my goodness it's so meaty and fresh! I also got mushy peas.
And oh I love my cup of tea. I finish the whole teapot.
That's the British way.
Fish and Chips together
Vinegar and salt
Not going to work for Filipinos.
It should be Fish and rice lol
Then chips and ketchup
**I used to wonder when we were back home why my husband keeps dipping his french fries in the gravy. And I thought it was disrespectful to the ketchup lol.**
**Then I came here and was shocked when I get chips with gravy. And that's the way they eat it. They even shake malt vinegar unto it.**
**Just recently that I tried and appreciate it.**
And this is the first time I eat fish and chips this good. I eat the whole fish and left some chips which my husband thinks is great. He said I must be starving lol. We take out fish supper for Mum and chicken popcorn for the kids. They love chicken popcorn!
And then went home and get sorted out what Jigz need for his Halloween Disco.
And my Tia is not well and badly coughing. At night time it gets worst and she's sick all over the bed. Poor baby! She will get better very soon.
*And that's my Tuesday shared. I hope Rusty got fed lol coz he is no power as we can see and feel. I hope Rusty like Fish and Chips hahaha.*
Thank you for reading.
Making Doughnuts with the Kids
I was so excited when my husband bought this waffle maker. He got this from Lidl's. It's not for me but the kids. I think it's a good thing that they can make their doughnuts/waffles at home instead of buying them. It will surely be fun!
So we had an unboxing going on. Basically, I let them do everything when we start and I just tell them what to do.
Good, this is 3-in-1 *(parang kape lang!)* with 3 interchangeable plates so we can make doughnuts which is what we are looking forward to making.
Jigz is going to the leisure centre but helps Tia out first before leaving and told her sister to save some doughnuts for him.
He changes the waffle plates to the doughnuts. And I started telling them the ingredients.
**These are the basic ingredients that we use:**
Flour
Egg
Milk
Vanilla Extract
Sugar
Baking Powder
Vegetable Oil
And just sugar + cinnamon powder for coating. I didn't put too much sugar on the batter.
There's an instruction book and makes it easier for us to make it. Next time I will try different recipe. Maybe Google can help me out.
Jigz started measuring the flour. I used the self raising flour.
While Tia started cracking the eggs and whisking them. She likes doing this and I can proudly say that she can cook eggs now. But I watch her when doing so in case she got burned.
Then putting all the ingredients together. Those are the eggs, vanilla extract, sugar and milk. Then sift the flour to the mixture and I added baking powder.
When the batter is ready Tia started brushing melted butter to the plates so it won't be sticking. Jigz is already gone as his friends ring him. So it's just me and Tia continuing the doughnut making.
Tia tried her best to put the batter on the plates evenly. I wasn't able to take picture but I have to help her as the batter is quite thick for her to mix. She started making her sugar coating with cinnamon powder. She said it's like making churros. That's the last thing that we've made.
And lol that's my Japan-Japan wee girl!
She's always camera ready.
And this is our first batch. It's only small doughnuts. And very cute!
And there's the chef ready to coat. Happy yarn! Look at that smile. 😁
How about wacky?
And what's the verdict, Tia?
It's a thumbs up for her! And lol don't forget to save some for Kuya. She said she will cook more!
And that's Tia and Jigz's doughnut. Next time it will be more artistic and with a different coating. Tia wants some chocolate icing with a sprinkle and Jigz-like jam doughnuts. I love custard-flavoured ones.
Do you have a waffle or doughnut recipe that's kid-friendly? My children would love to try them! 😊
Thank you for reading.
Thumbs Up to a Job Well Done!
Tia told me yesterday,
**When I grow up I want to be like you, Mommy. Because you're always cleaning. I want to clean too!**
Hearing from my messy daughter it's music to my ears. Oh, please I hope that she will learn to clean when she gets a little bigger. That's while I'm having a break from house chores.
At weekends I'm into cleaning as usual. This time my agenda is to tidy up the lane. My husband is working and I know this is gonna be a hard job but I did it anyway.
I didn't get the kids though they want to help I say no. It's because it's on the lane. And some cars are just come flying if they didn't know that we're working down here. And I can't watch them so better if they are in the house.
So I start bleaching the patios and garden paths. The unwanted plants, moss and weeds are everywhere. I think I used all the bleach in the house. Nearly 10 bottles I think coz I also did the front house. And I just use a bucket to do this coz I don't know where is the power washer. So I can tell you my muscle was working hard this weekend.
Then off to the lane and started my job. That's the time when I told myself, "I shouldn't start this." Lol.
***And it's*** *****required***** ***to wave at every car that passes me and I felt like a celebrity. Take note, wave with a big smile! And from time to time I have to talk to all the people walking past me and most of them are walking with their dogs. I hope I don't find a bag of sh*t in here. 🤣***
I can tell you that I work 5 hours just for this part. And you know the hardest part is when I'm lifting all those piles of weeds and dried leaves. The shovel is heavy too! I can't find the other one. My husband will be laughing at me.
And I'm not even done with half of the lane and I already filled our brown bin.
Now I went to get the wheel burrow and carry on the job. We have an extra brown bin that I can fill. Now taking this bin back to the house was a struggle lol. But I did it! 😂 I nearly fell but lol at least no one sees me.
And I took a break and have a cup of tea then make our dinner. Before I continue my work.
And I had to eat as I'm starving. Just a quick one!
Then off to the lane again. And oh Tia gave me a hand on the hose so I can brush the patios.
And now it's better looking and I'm so satisfied. Just a bit more bleach or the one that my husband uses to spray on then it will be great.
The neighbour who just passed me told me I did a great job. I'm just at the right time when I finish and the rain comes on. I'm glad as it can clean off the dirt I left.
And that's me on a Saturday. My husband gave me a thumbs-up! And today when I woke up my whole body is sore. But I'm used to it now. Also today I made doughnuts with the kids! I'll share it in my next article.
**How's your weekend? Are you glad it's Monday tomorrow? I have to work tomorrow. I just remember that. And parents-teacher consultation after. It's never-ending. 😁**
Thank you for reading.
When Taking a Nap Turns to Sleep
*I felt so recharged this morning. But I don't know whether to laugh or cry because I woke up and realized that everything wasn't ready for the kids.*
*And then I remember last night, around 8:30 pm when it was Tia and Jigz's bedtime I told myself I will have a 30 minutes nap. Because I was knackered!* ***Then lol I woke up at 6:30 this morning. 🤣***
*No snacks, no packed lunch and lol where's the uniform? It's still at the dryer. All the clothes are still at the dryer. Hahaha.*
So you can imagine my morning rush. It was chaos. Lol
Because it was Thursday yesterday.
My busiest day of the week. After my busy work (sold nearly £1000 worth of carpets in 4 hours), I did the weekly shopping. But I injured my thumb while lifting the heavy carpet that is hanging. The hook fell on my thumb and with the weight of the carpet on that side it felt like a hammer! I had to scream in my head in pain. I pretend it was nothing in front of the customer. And upon checking, it cut my nails, blood and purple after. It's really sore! I just wrapped it with plaster.
Then went to my usual shopping Asda, Lidl's, Poundland and almost every shop trying to get Mum her Frosties because that's the only thing now that she eats for breakfast.
Then went to Smyths to get some things for Christmas. So many toys! I see too many and this is the happy place for the kids but not for the parents on a tight budget.
The aisle of pink. It's always it's gotta be pink. Girls love it!
Tia loves these toy shops and lol who's a child isn't?
And board games. Jigz wants one of these.
We got what we wanted and told my husband I need something to eat. I'm starving so we go to the nearest KFC. And I had a rice box.
Then I just take home chicken and chicken popcorn for the kids. I phone Mum and she doesn't want anything.
Then after putting away the shopping and the kids are fed. We do Tia's homework. There's spelling, math and book to read. There's a test every Friday so I'm sure she will do well today!
And after that, I do the washing and cleaning. It's nearly 8 when I finish then put it on the dryer. Then kids bedtime. And then I take a short nap. Then I woke up this morning after that supposed nap. Lol, the longest nap I've ever had. It was 10 hours! 🤣
Oh, I feel great!
I was about to write this yesterday while doing Tia's homework but sadly, read.cash is down.
And lol I was feeling bad when I bought some Bitcoin Cash at $115 then it dips! I wished I could have waited and bought dipper than $115. I missed that opportunity again. Sad. But it's getting back up again. So power! We need that for Christmas. 😁
Thank you for reading.
@tired_momma
