Somewhere down the Road

2012-01-27T17:42:00.000-08:00

somewhere down the road.

2012-01-27T17:41:00.000-08:00

Registered!!! yup

2012-01-13T12:59:00.000-08:00

am ma na , am ma na , am ma na try harder...hehehe

'nyhow, got an amazing phone call this morning from hubby. He asked so" what name you want on your bib"? I said, ummm...ummm.. my name? he said "It's not going to fit in there , You can only have 11 characters on it.

I said with puzzled in my head thinking I only have two letters in my name. So I said to him, I only have two letters! he replied "oh yeah, your whole name will fit in. Then I said "wait a minute" are you putting your name on it? He said, "No", am not putting anything on it, just my number. I then said, " you no fun". I want to change my name to my nickname instead. And what's that he asked?.. Beng, my mom and my family calls me that.. so then he said, alrighty.

He calls me again and asked? did you run today or bike? Nope, I have not I replied! Are you going to be able to do this Los Angeles Marathon now that WE are signed up?..and I yell on the phone, woooot wooot... LOL...me too excited hon, I exclaimed!!

I promised starting tomorrow, I will train harder....

So yeah, We are officially will be in CORRALS..Yeah..!! can't get out now! that is what I said to him...LOL.get it? I will be in corral C while he is in B...

We are going to run separately, again. No sweat from me. I like taking my own pace..

Christmas Holidays 2011

2011-12-26T17:18:00.000-08:00

Glad that event is done!!

At first I didn't want the Christmas tree but then again my son was asking a week ago "when are we getting the tree up" he asked his father. Father said, mom is sick and not up to putting up the tree. So I wobbled myself to the shed and pull out the tree and by the afternoon on Monday last week, son came home and happy to see the tree being up..

Me with the Christmas tree I wasn't planning to put up..

We spent our Christmas eve at my friend's new place. I love her decor. I love the color she picked for her table.

Sally's new place with her boyfriend. I was happy to see her at her new home..

Pat made such gourmet dinner. The scrumptious appetizer I love, boiled shrimp with different herbs he throw in it. The dinner was some new york steak, well done. Baked small potatoes, carrots, parsnips and some and turnips sprinkled with his favorite fresh herbs.

Christmas Day.. the boy was excited to see what we got him. He actually want a gaming computer. Well, he didn't get that in a box but father and him is actually shopping right now for it. It's not cheap gift he ever asked, $1,300.00 and up... all I asked the father to make sure that his grades stays good.

He's opening the stocking and funny child put them all back in the bag and pretended he didn't know what's inside then went to the kitchen for breakfast..

A very nice and warm sweater from Noah. He likes clothes this year looks like, base on his gestures. Wearing them will be a different story if you know what I mean. He is 13 yrs old..

Happy to get a very nice lovely card from his great uncle Donny with 70 dollars Best Buy gift card.

Dinner time.

Happy to get a 50 dollar bill from his cousin Irene.

Happy to get this warm nice sweater from his lovely, thoughtful sister with some other shirts and long sleeve shirts.

Herb opening his gift from my daughter and her bf.

My gift from my friend Sally, an electric blanket. I will never get cold in the house anymore when watching TV.

Me and my daughter.

Me and my kids. We almost have the same smile ...sort of..

We had so much fun celebrating the Christmas night together. I almost lost my voice from laughing way too much. Geri and her bf didn't leave until midnight. The most fun Christmas we all had ever had.

Other Topic

Today marked my first day going out on the road running again. Took more than a month off of it, was away helping my niece plus I got really sick. I made 6 miles or so for an hour running around the neighborhood. It was difficult to breathe. I felt as if I just started running. The weather was sunny and warm but very dry. I didn't sweat that much plus my mouth was dry. I was using my VFF. Not much back problems. I really missed listening to my mp3 and running. It's funny feeling. I never thought I can like running but I guess I know I am now. It's a good thing, isn't it?

Feeling much better

2011-12-22T14:03:00.000-08:00

So, it has been two days now that I have finished my 10 days antibiotic and I'm feeling good. Though I have so much to do in the house to prepare but ain't doing any of it as yet. hmm perhaps I should be doing it instead of blogging, but I need to vent..

Things I need to do before Christmas:

CLEAN THE HOUSE. That is a biggie for me. I also need to clean the outside since it's been so dirty from all that wind that was here two weeks ago. Cleaning outside can take ALL day for me.
WE NEED TO go Costco... yes, we need toilet paper and other things I WANT to pick up!
WE NEED TO GET GROCERIES... and that needs to be done tomorrow!!
I need to bake some goodies just so I have some.
Need to pick up some gifts for my cousins that are coming on Christmas Day..

I guess that's all but all those above needs to be done by SATURDAY.

Christmas eve is going to be fun. me and my family are going to my friend's house for the first time. She is very excited to show her new place... and me too excited to see her new place..I'm interested to see how she decorated her new place...she's been busy shopping for it.

Oh some new fun news: I got new phone. I can now text and talk forever!! huh. hubby got me this Boost Mobile with internet on it..yah.. finally!! He wants to get him one for him too...and even Matt is jealous about it..hehehe

I'm happy that I was able to talk to my Aunt.. my dad's sister and only sister living. She arrived here in Los Angeles on Tuesday accompanied by her daughter Ate Vina. She sounds very happy. I wish her all the best. I will see her and the rest of the family on Christmas Day here at my house.

I was able to send some Christmas cards this time. I really thought I wasn't going to do since I was sick but somehow I was to maneuver my time and found the right photos to put in it.

And also I was able to put our Christmas Tree yesterday. That really made my son happy. I guess it's only appropriate that i have one since he's only 13 yrs old. He was really excited about it. He even told me last night to turn off all the light so WE can enjoy the beautiful tree.. I have never heard him say this ever since..! So that is a good sign, after all I wasn't feeling all so good about anything.

Have a good Holidays. love lots..

Good and bad things happened

2011-12-17T11:02:00.000-08:00

Let me start by the good things.

Went to celebrate Thanksgiving with my Father-in-law this year. He's been doing good. It's his first Thanksgiving without MOM. He misses her very very much, we can tell.
Was able to do gym while there, Christiansburg. After the 3 days pass, we just ran around the track. I was able to do my speed training which was almost awful. Didn't make much difference but I tried. I think that type of training must be almost everyday or some sort to see the difference. I guess I can go to Cal State school near us to do that training.
We drove back to Maryland. We stayed at my niece. My niece made dinner to accommodate us and her in-laws and it was yummy. She made some chicken cooked in oven that was marinated with some vinegar that Herb likes a lot. I should make them one day.

I had to stay back with my niece for at least 11 days to be with her during her labor. She gave birth to a very healthy boy, 9lbs.2ounces. She ended up having a C-Section. She tried for the normal birth but baby was just big. But everything went well with the surgery. With-in 30 minutes she was gone from my sight to the surgery room, baby came. Her husband was the only one allowed being in there or otherwise.

I am lucky to have the opportunity to be at her labor or sort of. I never had been at this end of the situation, so in ways it's good experience.

Now the bad part of things.

I had been sick, really sick. I have had sever UTI infection. I started having it from the time Herb left for home. I ignore it thinking it will go away since I kept drinking water. Towards the end of my stay there in Maryland, I started getting chills at night. I thought it was just from being so tired and no sleep. But when I was on the plane that really sucked. I was so cold and had no blanket to use. I survived the 5 hours flight home. Got home and husband wasn't really expecting me being sick. So after he prepared lunch for both of us which was so sweet of him, I went to sleep. I got chills and took Tylenol.
3 days after my arrival home, I decided to go to the Urgent Care in Pasadena. In there they told us that I have infection. Hours later they gave IV with antibiotic plus the morphine that I really need. My stomach was just untouchable. We were there for hours, but happy that I went and that I have meds.
I lost all my muscles in my body. I have not been in the gym for a month now and not able to run either. But I will take this opportunity as resting really good. When I'm ready for it then I will put all my force to get back to where I was.

Christmas is in few days and I have not shop for anyone. I need to get stuff for my friend and for my daughter and her bf. Hopefully Herb can find time to do it.

We will be going to Cristina's party later today. My friend offer to take Matt but Herb rather to take him with us. It's nice of her to think about it and offer.

Herb was able to sent money to Neneng yesterday for their x-mas. I was frustrated yesterday trying to find out to get to her. But I was able to get in contact with her and that was fixed.

I had not been out to attend to my plants and that. I am still in recovering mode. I felt I need myself to get completely better before I do anything.

My daughter was able to spend a day here with me. I felt better having her to come over..hehehe. sometimes you just have to have someone around that you don't see everyday to change your mood. I had lunch with her. She pulled white hair off my head. She thought it was grouse but I wanted her to do it since my head was itching bad...hehehe.
She was also able to enjoy my Thai soup for our dinner. It was good to hear from her that she had a great day and so was I. Matt was happy to see her as always. Herb was just happy to see everyone was happy.

She was proud that she was able to pick her little brother from the music lesson in high school ground where she spent 2 yrs of high school. Matt is participating in Honors Orchestra and is held after school in high school.

I think that is all I need to blabb this time. I do have lots of pictures to share but I don't have energy to do any of cropping and that..

2011-11-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday mom!

This house is never the same since you left. After our dinner last night, I watched Herb going around in circle around the kitchen. I was puzzled when I saw him over my shoulder while I was washing dishes. I asked him, "what is that you are looking for" then he turned around and looking so sad and blurted, "it's sad Beng, she's not here anymore".. then I turned around and gave him a hug.. we both got quite for a little bit then we resumed.

Donny was over . Dad made the dinner, again.

This morning we woke up early. Herb had a lot of things to talk about to this guy in downtown. He came back with a lot of knowledge about properties, retirement and stuff that Dad want him to know about. So that was productive. Also he said that he went by you to say hi. He really missed you. It's like nothing can describe his sadness that you are not here. He's got difficult time accepting and I really understand. I don't think there is something out there to make him at peace. He was telling me that he didn't get a signal or anything like that from you that you are okay or some sort. He is looking for something that I can't describe.

We went to the gym today. It's blustery day. After we were done with the gym, we went to some store and picked up some stuff we need at the house. We went by the shop to pick up Matt. He was there while we were gone to the gym. Dad has internet there now and that's what entertained Matt there the most besides meeting some new faces that supposedly to be family member.

We went to Kabuki tonight to celebrate your birthday. Donny was our designated driver although he has some saki..! It was hilarious watching him eating salmon sushi...hahhaa.. Herb kept telling him that he is not eating sushi so that is why he needed to eat that salmon. You should've seen his face.. it wasn't his cup of tea..!! but though he love the dessert part. He ordered Mochi. It's an ice cream round stuff that the waitress told him that it's better to eat them with bare fingers..LOL.. and they did. Donny was something couldn't believe that Matt can eat sushi and I believe that maybe why he tried a piece..!

We went by Starbucks tonight after the big dinner. I am not sure why uncle Donny had to go that but I was going along with it. He got me and herb coffee, him a decaf coffee and Matt with his hot chocolate with a slice of some chocolate cake. It's yummy.. he had me try some.

Happy Birthday Mom. We love and missed you so much!

We went by you on our way home. Dad made beautiful pink roses flowers for you and we delivered it to..heheh.. it's blustery there too.

Herb was really sad. He doesn't talk too much.

Missed you mom , terribly

2011-11-20T20:06:00.000-08:00

We are back to celebrate Thanksgiving here with Dad. We came by at your place yesterday when we arrived in Christiansburg. I hope you like the Persimons we brought you. They are very yummy and soft just the way you like 'em.

We were silent standing next to you for a while. We really missed you mom.

Did you see Herbie got the FIAT?. For some reason I wasn't clued in about the story of FIAT and Herbie, until dad told me and Matt about it yesterday. Then it all came back...he told me about his love affair with Fiat a while back. This time, dad didn't have to get Herbie.. he got the almost brand new one from ALamo, Friday morning.

Fiat

We stayed at my niece that day and night to get some rest. We really don't know why we pick evening to travel since we get beat up the next day. But I am happy to be able to stay at my niece's house and see how happy she is to have us around. She prepared such dinner that night that I felt guilty about. she prepared the dinner while I was getting some sleep. I hope she can wait on me on Friday so i can also be there with her to welcome her first born.

Irene at less than 2 weeks before the due date.

It's never going to be the same here from the time you left. It has been difficult for all of us here but mostly Herbie and Dad. We had a group hug yesterday next to you. I know, we sometimes seems to be mute, but nothing seems to come out of our mouth but tears instead. We could easily used a blanket. We really missed you terribly. I hope that you are having fun with grandma and grandpa.

Dad was showing me his new toy, walnut cracker. I'm sure he would've love to show it to you too. He told me today how much he loves you....i cried silently..

I want to tell you that Herb and I did another marathon. I did very well and so as Herb. He was so proud of himself I also want to tell you that Matt is doing so well in school. He makes sure he's got good grades to carry him in high school and into college and wants to be like his papa. I know you are so proud of Matt. He has got some extremely great traits from you, the math. He loves math. Him and his papa has got something to talk about for sure.

We had good dinner again at the house tonight. Donny came and entertained all of us as you probably know. Dad really makes good ham. I remember you telling us how great cook he is and that you are so proud of him... we surely missed you at the table tonight. Matt love grandpa's ice tea, I guess they both discover something else every time you leave them alone that makes them bond.

I was talking to a friend of mine that just lost her mom less than a month ago. She is very sad. All I can give her is my (phone) honest support. It's good to cry together even if it's only the phone. I can relate to her sadness.

Updates on my DnC.

2011-11-11T09:22:00.000-08:00

I hope to find a bit of confidence to go outside today. Talking about getting things done on your body on this day and age, I have to admit, I think twice about it. Since that D and C surgery on Monday, am a bit worried.

I had been bleeding since that day. But though, am due for my period. Now my problem is that, the look of my blood isn't what I'd get during normal periods. It's red red.. really dark red. I hope this will go away soon.

I had been feeling dizzy with a slight headache. I have been doing the stationary bike for a little bit of cardio for two days now. I skip going to the gym. Just want to be on a safe side. The nurse said i can exercise if I feel like it. So I hope I find that piece of confidence in me today.

It's Veteran's Day today. Kids are off school and some people are off from working too. Hubby had to go in today.

Soccer

2011-11-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

It's almost the end of the season and seems like didn't get enough. But all that good things has to come to it's end.. yes..

My boy had to goalie for the whole entire game today. They didn't have enough kids in today. some of the movie I took today. They lost ...again.. he gave what he knew how ...so no say from me.. other than they had lots of fun and they tried..

i will figure out some photos to share and video as well..

Matthew loves being a goalie. U14

Services approved!!

2011-10-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

I got it.. everything is going nuts with me. or maybe not at all..Still haven't found the reason for missing two months period. So onto the next level they're going to search.

First my GYNO. My health insurance just approved a service that she will perform on me, Monday the 7th of this month. It's a HYSTEROSCOPY, Surgical with BIOPSY ENDOMETRIUM.. I suppose to be put to sleep for a bit. I mean maybe 30 minutes with partly awake. I will meet up with her this Thursday to go over what she is going to do during the surgery.

On same day I'll see her for that prep surgery, I will also see my Colon doctor. Capsule Endoscopy. Supposedly I will digest a capsule then they will attach some sort of chords and a chip on me to monitor this capsule that's going through my little intestines. Yes, I felt like a robot just thinking about it.. Then in late afternoon I will have to go back to see him to detach the chip that collects all that data and will be analysis .

I am hoping my general doctor will decide or come up of a solid conclusion. It's like non stop going back to doctors this past two months. But I must say that with all this and that I have to do, is all for myself. And so therefore I need to be patients with them doctors..I am grateful for such privilege I have been giving. Not that we don't spend arm and leg to some insurance company but had I have no insurance I wouldn't get any of this attention. So God I thank you for giving me a husband that is able to provide such thing to me and his family.

Happy Halloween to you..!! me will have treats and no more tricks.

Lea Salonga

2011-10-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

http://indayfe.blogspot.com/p/lea-salonga.html

Long Beach Marathon

2011-10-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

some photos..http://www2.brightroom.com/83329/3797

Long Beach Marathon Expo

2011-10-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

Somehow we had doubts in doing this marathon. 26.2 miles

A bit far from our house. Husband would prefer to just take a taxi going and in this case it would cost us $90.00 plus tips and only one way.
Son has soccer game that would end at 5pm and have to travel back to home and get him shower then take him to my friends house for the night.
The course isn't one way.. have to turn around from the half then go back to get the other half.
We are experiencing back problems from being silly trying some new fad in town, Vibram Five Fingers

They are nice to run with but somehow we been switching back and forth with the regular Nike+ shoes and our backs aren't accepting the change. We have arch problems too. We both ran with those things hanging in our chandelier in our living room on Wednesday when it rained hard. I did 8 miles and maybe more from him.

So, yesterday I ran 15 miles for 3 hours with regular nike shoes and got backache the whole entire night. ugghh..

Woke up this morning and decided that we are going to the expo. I guess when husband said that he knew me well, then it's set.. huh!

This is cool shirt for half and full marathon. I will post the medal later on.

We are somewhat happy that we decided to go there and register for it. We are now ready even our backs aren't so happy. But we have one more day for it to relax and hopefully by Sunday we are so ready.

I so regret.

2011-10-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

Some of the things I wanted to share about facts and things I need to remember while running, assuming we are not going to get hurt before Sunday, October 09, 2011.

Station 1- Mile 6.5, Marina Green, on S. end of Linden

Station 2- Mile 9, Olympic Plaza, East of the pool in parking lot.
Station 3- Mile 12/14/23, Nieto & Appian Way (Will Rogers Mini Park).
Station 4- Mile 15/21.5, Anaheim St and Park Ave
Station 5- Mile 16/20, Atherton St and San Anseline, (Whaley Park).
Station 6- Mile 18.5, E. Campus Dr., CSULB Campus.
Station 7- Mile 24/11, Ocean Blvd. & Grand Ave.
Finish Line- Shoreline Dr and Linden Ave., Northeast corner.

Just to say a little note of my run today. I planned to do my 15 miles today rain or shine. Supposedly not to rain TODAY until later this afternoon according to yesterday's forecast..

Woke up this morning to rain banging on the roof!! ahhhh.. said to myself, not today..

I asked my husband, " I thought you said it wasn't going to rain until later today"? he replied, "that's what Mark Kriski said yesterday..." I uttered while fixing us fresh coffee, 'I guess I will have to run just like we did on Los Angeles Marathon'..it sucks!!

Got home from walking son to school, got myself a cup of coffee and fixed me some rice with chicken left overs .. by 9:18 I was out the door. I had my jacket I wore on LA marathon, cap and decided to put on my KomodoSport Ls.. I didn't really want it get wet by had to try how it feels in the rain.

It was nice to run in them VFF with the rain. It stays on the floor. On 6 mile, i felt something in my right foot sticking to me. I ignored and kept going. Mile 8, I decided to come by the house to get fuel. Open the side door and had my gel .. closed the door and decided to look into my foot. Well, the part that I felt something was sticking had little red dot on it. I looked for little particles that perhaps hanged on the lining but couldn't find. So, I put them shoe again, and it really didn't feel good to go again.

So, into the back door I went in. Took shower and sat down, very disappointed at myself. I guess I should have put another shoes and finish the plan.. now I regretted not doing that.

I may have do to it again tomorrow but then again, I would only have two days to somewhat relax. I will see what I decided tomorrow.

Another topic...
My girlfriend from Dhaka called me last night while I was out getting groceries with husband. Husband and I dropped son at the soccer field for their late practice. Anyways, I was happy she called me. She told me what her daughter has been up to and so her son too. Both of her kids are living far away from her to take their education. So nice to talk to her. She also share that she may have Sciatica. Her husband thinks so. She also said that she enjoyed her facial session she had the other day.

Gotta go now.

Almost a reminder day.

2011-10-04T18:21:00.000-07:00

I wasn't going to do any running today. But husband wants to do running after we got back from the gym and so running we both went.

I used my KomodoSport Ls for the run. I wanted to see if my shins are still irritated since it was uncomfortable yesterday the whole day. Only one shin that had problem.

I went out to do only 5 miles. I didn't feel the pain I had yesterday, Only the usual pain on shins that goes away over the night. So not sure if I will use my Komodo tomorrow for my long run 15 miles is the plan.

The reason for having doubts is that I get pain around my waist after the run compare to the Nike+ shoes. Since I have not use my Nike shoes for at least 2 weeks now, I found it the other day when I put them on doing only 5 miles, my toes are suffering from being pushed together and created uncomfortableness.

So that really leaves me of "what to do now"..VFF vs Nike+.. I guess I'll find that out tomorrow bright and early. Supposedly to rain at noon or something. So I will have to be pounding them concrete right after I walked my son to school.

While I was running, it drizzled. Had flashback of the Los Angeles Marathon that went crazy. And then I started thinking what if it rains on Sunday for the marathon. hmmm.

Getting things done.

2011-09-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

I plan to do my long run on Wednesday but ended up doing it TODAY. I have to get my endoscopy done on Thursday and tomorrow I can't eat solid food the whole day plus some the next day.

Anyways, I got my long run out of the way so I am done for that this week. One more long run next week and I will be ready for the Long Beach Marathon in October 9.

I know I want to use my Vibrams for the Marathon and that is what I have been using for my short and long runs. I did pretty good last weeks run with it. But today, somehow my feet kind of feeling sore here and there but I got through the 15 miles.

I did a long run with my regular Nike+ shoes two weeks ago. That was good run.

I need to figure out how to attach my nike plus thing on my Bikila since I will be using it for my marathon. I seen people made themselves something like a little Velcro on top of their shoes.. hmmm.. I need to figure it out.

Had to rearrange my schedule of running and the gym. So many doctors appointment these days for me and I hope it will end soon. Meaning to find out what's all this test they sent me to places and I swear to GOD, whatever He gave me I know I can deal with it.

I also hope to remember sending money before Friday to my sister for their consumption.

Success

2011-09-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

Big success today with my VFF. I had been wanting to do long run in them and today was the day. Finally, I had two days rest for my shins to get the rest that they needed for today's event and it payed off.

I was able to do 15 miles and some in them within 3 hrs and 6 minutes. I stopped at the house every time I made the 5 miles mark and took maybe 5 minutes rest.

I had consumed :

3 of 16 ounces of water
8 ounce of gaterade
2 energy gel
a banana

I am now tired and my feet are up on the recliner. We will bike to Pho place which is about 20 minutes ride one way in a little while, maybe in 30 minutes.

I tried to run on some grass with them today and felt so better compare to concrete. I am impressed with how my feet acclimatized within months of practiced.

I am hoping to do the marathon with them in October 9, 2011.

Long run and something else.

2011-09-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ran another 15 miles today. I've noticed that I'm a bit faster this time. I ran it under 3 hrs which makes me wanted to do a lot better. My Nike + told me ..2:47 minutes. Though I paused it twice when I went by the house to get me some energy gel. I was keeping tab on my time anyhow and overall I had it under 3 hours.

I believe it has something to do with Vibram Five Fingers that I have been using lately. I'm certainly happy with that and hopefully shins can recover from it's uncomfortableness.

Had myself a can of coke, two bottles of water and two energy gel. And oh, two bananas also. Well, I digested them in different times through my run and after.

I managed to clean some stuff on the other side of the house that really need it so badly. I wanted to change how it is back there. I want to put rocks instead of greenery since it's really a time that I have to put out and I don't really get to enjoy it. Hopefully I will get to do that somehow with the schedule that I have. It's hard to find time to do anything since my training is really a must.

I yet have to make really time for swimming.. ahhhh.. too many thing to do and no time..

My weekend was fun. Daughter was able to spend time with us. We talked and talked and didn't have enough time to look around with photos she wanted to see. There's always next time..

She brought me Birthday cake.. a beautiful one.

She got her brother lots of shirts which he likes .. better than x-box stuff..

She also got Herb a slice of Tiramisu.which we like.

KomodoSport LS.

2011-09-10T19:31:00.000-07:00

This is my 3rd pair and wanted to use it right away.

And using it for the first time and putting 10 miles on it, does hurts all my toes. I felt the tightness right when I started and ignored it. I said to myself that my feet just needs to stretch them since it felt a bit tighter.

At mile five I stop by the house to clipped them toenails and put some clothes in the drier and load more in washing machine. All that took ten minutes and my body was able to "rest".. and off I went on the road again. As soon as was out there, I completely wanted to stop since it really was bothering now. I had to kind of curl my toes and try to run .. I felt so dumb but I was able to sustain and get 5 more mile in.

I like the shoes, just different feel which a bit tighter. It has more protection under my toes so it won't rub, I guess.

So today, I went to run with the older one and certainly like the newer version.

But I guess my shins have complaints.. they aren't happy right now. So I will have to give it a rest to heal faster. It's not bad but enough to annoy me. I will be at the gym and on that elliptical thing.

First soccer game today and went fine . The weather was awesome, not hot, not cold. They tied it but I don't think it's counted as yet. There will be another game on Saturday and will be same, not counted.

Turned 47 and sick ..

2011-09-05T19:46:00.000-07:00

Plan was, be at the beach with daughter and son to celebrate my 47 years of life.. didn't happen, I choose to stay away from getting more sick..

So, I have been sick for few days now. I believe this is due to change of weather. I'm having colds and feeling feverish type. Been taking Tylenol to help out. Unfortunately, the virous just have to take it's course.

Yesterday, I didn't do anything at all. I wanted to sleep in the middle of the day but too hot do it.. we have fan but not like it on me.. yeah, I'm kind of weird but that's me...

Husband went to the gym alone and sad. We usually go together when he's home. I wanted to get rest while he was gone for 2 hrs, but just couldn't do it.. Keep getting up off my recliner to get some hydration.

When he got home he asked if I want to run and gave him hard time about it. And so he went on again on his own. and hour later he was done.

So after he showered he asked if what I would like to do since it's my birthday. I said, I really want to have hot soup. So off to the Pho we went..I love Vietnamese soup even if it's hot outside..

While biking, I keep thinking, I wish I didn't say I wanted soup. Because, now I realized I'm really tired on the bike. The bike ride wasn't so long, only 25 minutes one way. He lead the way and our son is in the middle. So I can't really complain now, we are almost to the restaurant.

Got to the restaurant, I was unhappy. Husband said, what was wrong, I said, nothing, just tired..

So 45 minutes later on the bike again we were. Really, it makes a difference when you have a bit knowledge on how to bike along with people in your way and not hitting them or you hit a pole. My son was learning a lot about it while riding with us on weekends or on days he's off school. He loves to ride with us. He would do some funny things while on his bike like, no hands on handle bar and pedals faster..that always makes me happy seeing him do that.. it tells me that he enjoys it.

Went by the Sav-on to get half and half for our coffee since we're out of it.

Oh, I forgot, while we were on the way to the resto, we saw this huge rainbow.. it was nice //made my day a little bit happier.

Got home and relaxed. But it was difficult for me to relaxed. I was very miserable to be sitting with. So I decided to go to bed early.. and it was good to be in bed and just don't think of anything else..

Today, I pushed myself a little bit. I went to the gym with husband. We wore our VFF for the first time to the gym. I told him I didn't want to but he insisted and we did. I felt kind of weird though I've seen people wore theirs. So, I guess just have to do it and get used to it.. Might as well I guess since husband bought 3 pairs for me and 5 for him and still using the first pair I ever have..

We went to Albertson's after the gym by bike. Got our dinner and went home.

As soon we got home, we ate some of the food we brought.. just a little bit.. and then off to the road we went with our VFF. I was very sluggish. after 3.5 miles, I came home to stop. I told my son before I left for the run that I will get him in an hour to run with me. So he noticed I came home, he got off the computer and puts his shoes on. And while getting his shoes, he saw me hunched over the sink. He said, you really tired mom?, I replied, yes. He said, " you don't have to run with me, you can just relax..But then I said, I need you to run..and he nicely said to me, " I can run with papa.. " in a minute trying to catch my breathe, his papa came home from running. He's done with 8 miles and more already... And his papa said, I will go out there with you guys..I yell back.. " I am slow and are you going slow for me and us.. " and he said yes..

So off we went .. a mile and half later we came home, and of course, I was way later than them.

Matt went in the swimming pool while I was getting some watermelon .. and we ended our day just like that.. not much.. but enough that we did something physically even though it was hot and humid and me sick.. I hope tomorrow I'd feel better.

Facebook no more

2011-09-02T14:24:00.000-07:00

I didn't wake up mad or angry this morning. But somehow, problems in my email accounts that made me decide it's time to shut it off.... Facebook no more.

My emails have been hacked apparently. I had no idea that someone or somebody been sending emails to all my contacts until a good friend of mine told me that I need to stop sending her naughty things..so I investigated and found out that she was telling me right..

So today, I have deactivated my accounts. I may come back there but will be thinking making a new account. Not too sure right now as I have so many things in mind.

I now have reason enough to myself to do such thing, no facebooking. It's addicting thing to do that it's almost unproductive to me.. if I think about it. It's a source of "loosing precious time" .. I used to play a lot of games there and I damaged a crock pot that my daughter gave me for Christmas. I've cracked the pot where I had to trow it away.. I've had cuts on my fingers because my mind was hooked into games. All I can think of..' my farms needs to be harvested..."... what a fool I had been..I felt so stupid if I think about it..

So now I can use those times into a productive one. Like I need to work on my...

exercising.
I want to do good in swimming.
My flowers needs my attention.
I need to work on my pace in running so I can shed some time off of my first marathon.
Need to do some painting around the house.
Need to move Matthew in another room so we can use his room as an exercising room and to put our Triathlon bikes in too.
Need to make balikbayan boxes for Christmas.

...and so many more.. Though I will missed my acquaintances in there, but they can still reach me if they are interest..right? by phone or emails.

chao for now.

Training for the Long Beach Marathon

2011-08-31T17:44:00.000-07:00

I did my long run today. I have not done any long runs since the LA Marathon in March. Though I have maintained my gym and short runs.

Yesterday, I wasn't in good shape to do running at all, but I did my weights and stuff. Plan was to run when we get home but I felt sick. So instead of putting my shoes on, I told my husband that I'm going to bed, this was in the middle of the day. I thought to myself that if I don't feel so good then I should get some rest and going to bed and try to get some sleep is answer to my dilemma.

So last night, my son had his first soccer practice and it was very late at night. I mean it was from 8 -9:30 pm and had to drive at least 20 minutes if there was no traffic. The school was just re-open yesterday so he kind of had long day. But he love his new team and coach even though the coach kind of run him down by having him to show examples with him. I was in the car for this whole time they were practicing. I wanted to be rested since I am thinking of doing a long run today. And it certainly payed off.

My 15 miles in. I stopped by the house twice to get some GU and water . It took me 3 hrs and 6 minutes plus probably the minutes I took while stopping at the house which was 10 minutes total. I'm happy with my time. I am not rushing for any reward other than staying fit. This is my goal for life.

It's an activity that I decided to do since my husband is into exercising. So this morning I had to decline his invitation to go with him at the gym. Just told him that I am not going to the gym today. He got home and asked me how many did I do, I said, 15 miles.. then he goes, what motivates you to do that.. I said, the long beach marathon, I thought we are going to do it.. then he said, yes, we're going to do it..

So, I made the dinner, and washed them dishes, water some plants and now I'm blogging. I have to do more watering in front of the house. I have some flowers there that needs water plus the grass.. husband always made fun of me watering the grass. because we have sprinkler, but I like not wasting water and plus I get to see people going by and that..

My battery is dying so I guess I have to say goodbye. until next time again.

Confused as ever.

2011-08-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

Let me start just like this. For two months now, I have been confused as to why and what my body is going through. I haven been having the symptoms of what Husband and I have gathered from the internet appears to be the menopause IS here.

Missed two months of menstrual period.
Been having the hot flashes, at least that's what I think it was. I would be feeling so hot and sweaty then it will go away in matter of minutes. Comes the chills afterwards. That happened so often in an hour for at least a month..
I had been feeling dizzy once in a while.

We thought that we could be pregnant too. So we did what we had to do, pregnancy test. We bought two packets of those pregnancy kit and all the four sticks told us that NEGATIVE! Still got worried because my weight somehow was up. I know when I say 3 lbs maybe shouldn't be a big deal but totally want to be on the safe side.. so, to put that to rest, called the doctor and had blood work done on Wednesday..August 17, 2011.

I wanted to have this confused silly self recorded for many reasons. For one thing, I am very forgetful and I need something I can go back to read or something to refer to..

So, had to call the doctor yesterday to find out the results of the blood work. There were 6 little tubes that the girl filled up with my blood and had all my name on it. Plus I had also the "urination" cup to filled in. She made me read all the labels to make sure it was my name which I think is very safe and I like it that way.

Doctor told me this with my husband had his ear close enough to my cell for him to hear too.

You are not pregnant..
The test didn't look you are in menopausal stage.
You are Iron deficient. And tell me what is happening with you.. I replied " well for one thing, I have missed my period for two months now".. he asked me to pause and he said, the test looks as if you lost a lot of red blood which a woman would be going through when she has periods.. " What appears or seems like that we need to look at more other test to see what is happening. We cannot ignore this missing stuff.. I understand that you have an appointment on Sept and we are not going to wait that long. I want you to call us back on Monday. " I said, okay.. and thank you for your time.. and we hanged up.

So, with that notes, we are hanging. I don't know what to think of this.. I started thinking family health history to sort of have an idea what I may have.. but I can't find one..

Hubby went online to find out things and came up with a lot more confusing stuff. I told him and we agreed that we are not going to speculate more since there is nothing we can do right now. I don't want to worry anything. At least we know we are NOT pregnant and way more enough for me to know.

Funny all that was happening. Last night, I had seen little blot of red spots in my undies. Wore a very light pad for it and tada.... this morning I am officially having my period.. So here I am blogging it.

I don't think I will be doing any running today. I will take everything easy. Not sure if vacuuming is consider as light work.. HUH.. but whatever, I will have to clean the house. Cobwebs are everywhere now in the house, so hate it.

bye for now.

I'm frustrated and missed you mom

2011-08-16T18:07:00.000-07:00

So nervous all day today. Two days ago, hubby went to get another set of "pregnancy kit" for me as I'm worried about my weight. This is the second set he bought. One last month and showed negative to both sticks.

Today, I used the second stick of the second kit and came back same as the other 3's negative. I know that I maybe going through menopause stage but this is not how I should be celebrating..huhuhu.. I am nervous that I maybe pregnant. With 4 test done already, all are negative I should not be worry.

I called in to see a doctor this morning and receptionist did not write my call back number properly. I was waiting all day to get a phone call from my doctor, didn't happen. I had to call her back 10 minutes before they close just to make sure if I had given her the right number and she said " no, you didn't give me the right number to call you back." !! I was shaking and didn't know what to say to her other than saying yes to her saying that I have to call back again tomorrow to do the same thing over again.. WTS!! I said to husband. So he got on the phone and called the doctor's office and spoke to the receptionist. He told me that she didn't write my number down at all..again, WTS.!!! I waited all day here and couldn't think of running because I want to know if I will be carrying another life!!..I'm so stressed out.

I thought that if I write my feelings down this will help me get through my day. And for real, I really hope so. Husband is gone and running while I'm whining down my misery.

My head spins like roller coaster in Knotts.

I gain at least 3lbs for the last two months.
I have maintained my diet so what's up with the 3 lbs. I have my numbers where I want them to be so I better watch it like 24/7... yes, because I can.
Been exercising like I always have, and that's why I can't understand why my weight is up..
Yes, the last month I had my period was in 3rd of June and lasted for 7 days and very light. that means I have not have my period for two months now.
Experiencing hot flashes..

I hope tomorrow will be better day for me and hubby. We are both sick in our stomach. We plan to do the Triathlon together next year. Now that our son is teen, the window of getting back the sort of " freedom" isn't so far away. I really want to enjoy our time together as we can't get back what passed us. I would love to see some places with him and just enjoy the time.

PS..
Dear mother in law, we missed you so dearly. It had been 11 days since you have gone . We always talk about now nice you were to us and what happiness you have brought to your siblings. I remember you coming down the escalator of LAX by yourself and was so happy to hugged you. You we're so excited to see Los Angeles, where your only baby made it A HOME for him and his new family. You were so excited to hold your only grandson. You came to his birthday party we had for him at his school and he was so proud telling his friends that you are his grandma.

You always sent us many boxes from the retailer in Christiansburg, full of clothing for all of us here. You never missed sending us birthday cards, and other special occasions. You always gave Matt the toys he wants and games he wants.

Herb and I were so happy that you and my mother came together to be with us in our home here in Los Angeles. We were so proud of you and mother too. This really was a real treat for me and herb since both our mother's came together. I remember having our first dinner in my backyard with little flowers I was able to plant. We had salad, rice, soy sauce, fish soup and some soft drinks. Oh so many good memories we were able to share.

Our trip together with my own mother to Las Vegas was really a highlight of the meeting. We walked miles and miles and only me that complaint..that's no joke.

We will visit you when we come there to see dad this thanksgiving week. I hope all is well with you and the friends you may have found and many families too..

love you.. from all of us here..

Pregnant at 46..?

2011-07-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

Well, not sure if I want a baby at this age. Listening to a baby crying in the middle of the night and whatever goes on to have a baby and with having a baby isn't what husband and I are planning to do. So to save ourselves from wondering and pondering and talk about the "what if's " every single night had to come to and end.

I never thought that I will do pregnancy test at this time of my life. Husband went to go get the kit from the store and I had to do the peeing part. That wasn't hard to do. In two minutes we got an answer..

Not sure if you can see the negative sign but that's what we got. So one question that left us almost gone insane for two weeks now had been answered and we are quite pleased with the result. He is now able to smile at me. We gave each other big hugs and big smile too.

So now, I am left with all that fun.. standing in front of a fan and make myself happy for a little bit when hot flashes wants to remind me that I am on my way to not bearing babies anymore..yah! that's right. aren't I so happy with it.? hmmm. of course!

Husband and I want to do stuff when our son can be left alone which is right around the corner. I won't count how many more years because when I do, time seems to tick slow..

I still kept my appointment with my guy doctor. I will be seeing him in the middle of September.

Things are looking up.

2011-07-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, for the most part of this entry will be that part.. A happy part..

Yesterday, was my very first swimming lesson. yup, Not that I can't swim a little bit or swim under water for a quarter of a minute, but I need to know more than that. The goal is to be able to swim a mile without stopping in the middle of an open water.

I had expressed my concern me getting drown to my son and husband. Dialogue went like this..this was during getting our bikes out to go to the swimming pool of the city which was 5 minutes bike time or less..

Son said, " are you afraid mom" ? of course, I said..
Son tapped my shoulder and said.." don't worry mom, I know you will be able to stand on your two feet and if you are nice to the coach, she or he might put you in the deeper end.." I said.." what do you mean deeper end..? my eyebrows went up!
Son said... "the deeper end of the kiddie pool mom." and we laughed hard. Father said, what's going on.. I replied, " son said I will be put in the kiddie pool area because I am really nervous. then he said, yeah, for sure you won't drown..
Son said.. " seriously mom? you are that afraid of drowning..that's why they have lifeguards on the site"..to help you out ...ONLY if you are not coming up within 1 minute..LOL>. "

They know I can swim but not much. I've drank many ounces of chlorine pool water trying to do the freestyle and still can't get it down.

So yesterday, I learned how to do breast stroke. hmm. I wonder where or how this name came about.. Because the coach saying " you don't have to bring your arms way down, just kind of above your chin.".. I paused my thought there and concentrate on what he was telling me..

It was 45 minutes session and I said to the coach.."we're done already".. and he said yes..but if you come in early tomorrow, you can that end side of the pool to practice. So today, I am looking forward to do more..

3 more days for my son's summer camp and I won't hear no more complaints about .."oh it's too early to get up".. or seeing him sneaked back into his bed after eating his breakfast..He is looking forward for sure.

And that means for me, more time to do..

gym
running
gardening
photographing
Facebooking????????? read peoples' stuff...
ah...chatting..
eating..??? hmm.. this must be moderated!!
ooo..blogging.. :-)
aha...need not to forget..practice swimming..yeah..

Life Changes

2011-07-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, there are so many things I want to blab about me and what's going on inside and out of myself.

My body aches here and there. My tailbone hurts very often.
My shins are tired from runniing but I want to run as much as I can to prepare for some Triathlon.
I get tired so often these past few weeks.
My period hasn't come as I have passed the one month mark. ( a little over a week lapsed)
I have been disturbed during my sleep with warmth heat coming out of my body ..it lasts for 2 minutes or less then I get sort of chill.
I am sometimes irrirated by being asked.." what do you want for dinner".
I don't like to be ask ...what are you going to do today? are you going to the gym today? did you eat? what did you eat? are you going to take shower??/ darn it!! I have so many issues lately I realized.
I don't apologized easily. I been like this for a long time though.
I don't want to talk to people unless I want and need to.
I want to throw stuff I don't use everyday. husband thinks I'm nuts.
Hollycow, I even deactivate my facebook accounts.. yes, accounts I said.
I haven't done my swimming lesson..husband getting on my nervves about this. No, I won't make it to the triathlon in September in OC..
I seem to not have enough room to listen to husband's complaints about people in general. but then again, here I am complaining. I don't undertand myself anymore..
I suppose to call and make appointment to my doctor for evaluation why I'm like this.
I do not want to have another child at this age..47 in another month.
I'm tired supporting my family in the Philippines.
I hate to think I have to see a doctor..that eventually I will have too.
Motorcyles are collecting dust and cobwebs, big time. husband mentioned that if it's not being used might as well sell them, and I said nothing!! that wasn't my idea to start with.
I hate cleaning the house, but that's my job!! I don't get payed but get to have shelter, food and other suriviving supplies.
I thought my girlfriend has tons of issues but I think I have more than her..ha! girlfriend if you read this don't call me to laugh at me okay..LOL.. but I'm pretty sure we will laugh together with our issues..LOL..
I felt like I want to scream for no reason! now after writing this down, it made me think I am really out of myself.

Yes, I noticed a whole lot is changing within myself. Perhaps based from reading some information on the internet, I may be going through pre-menepausal stage.!! ha!! I will be seing my guy doctor to tell me " you are getting old".. yes, I am prepared to hear that but for the meantime, I want to be not talk to..yeah!

PS. I couldn't resist not looking into FB.. Dang!!

Made a visit to family

2011-06-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

Off we went to see Matthew's grandparents on his last day of school, June 10, 2011. We stayed there for 9 days. With those days we were able to do some activities in between visits..

We biked one afternoon after doing the gym . Matt enjoyed biking on trail. The trail is paved and it goes under the trees, crossed a busy road, passed many farms and crossed an old bridge which looked very nice from a far but driving on it was hilarious because a nut flew out of Matt's bike from too much bumping..LOL. I was only able to take pictures on our way back home using one hand. I wasn't planning on taking photos while driving the bike but my company didn't want to stop for anything. I said to myself that if this camera falls off of my hand , I'll blame my boss for not asking ME if I want to take pictures!! huh!! So, that's why I didn't get to take photos of cows we went by, the road we crossed over and other beautiful paths we crossed..!!

Another great afternoon after the gym, we drove to Radford so Matt can do some running with his papa. In Radford, there is this peaceful awfully large park with running/walking paved path along side the river. They only made one loop which is 1.5 mile. Matt wanted to play basket instead. So off to Wall mart we went to get basket since the park where they ran had hoops. Came back to the same place and the 3 of us played basketball for a while.

Another busy afternoon, this is again after the gym, we hiked up to some falls in the middle of the trees and mountains. The hiked was 2 miles up and 2 miles going down of course. The going up was all inclined. I kept stopping to take pictures. Uncle Don came to show us where the falls were. When we got to the top of the mountain where the falls was, I really thought I was in Hawaii. It was BEAUTIFUL.

And one good morning, my niece and her husband drove to see us. We went to see the Virginia Tech which is nearby and took photos.

Reo Speedwagon

2011-06-08T17:14:00.001-07:00

June 3rd of 2011. It was Friday and Matt had half day of school and decided to take the bus from our home to the Greek Theater. We had second front row seats in a pit area. I like Greek Theater compare to Hollywood Bowl for two things. One is that the stage level isn't so high for the seated people to see performer. Second was that the pit area isn't so far away from the stage.

When Reo Speedwagaon came , the front seated people went up againsts the stage and so did I. I had my hands on the stage just like other people did. I had so much fun. Herb and Matt stayed with out seats. .

Rick Springfield is a very handsome man at his age ..61 yrs. he is a cool dude that people likes to see perform. I was amused watching my son watching Springfield on stage having a good time with his guitar and roses. Apparently he loves strumming a bunch of red roses at time on his guitar. Something I never seen before.

Something of him I found.

Memorial Day Weekend 2011 run down.

2011-06-01T19:22:00.000-07:00

I had been absent from blogging. Just too many things to do. When I think I might have a time after the end of the day, here comes hubby sitting next to me and talks to me while I'm trying to think what to put in my blog and I end up leaving my blog and pay attention to someone who needs attention, darn it!.. Life can be so fun and can be annoying just depend how you take it, yah..!!

I'm still running. But I haven't done any long runs, just between 4 and 8 miles at least 4 times a week. Today I did 7 miles and yesterday I did 5 miles. And the rest of those days in a week I'm at the gym doing stuff.

Matt still runs with his papa every other or so days. I guess his father wants him to be prepared for next year and for his soccer activities in the fall.

During the long weekend holidays, my first born came over and spent two days with us. We're just happy hanging out the backyard. She made us thin crust pizza..umm for Saturday dinner. So good and crunchy!! We ate the whole big 'ol plate she made. Doesn't that look so yummy?

I like this kind of holidays. I get to have my kids with me. They come and make me laugh, like this one. Matt was trying to be somewhat sponge bob. huh.

So proud of my husband to have prepared our dinner on Sunday. He ordered two dozen of fresh oysters. We picked up his oredered on Sunday morning after we did our gym and running stuff. He amused me. He opened up the whole 2 dozens of oysters and man, I tell you, it was yummy!!

We also had fresh albacore sashimi. I just cooked regular rice to go with our seafood. All of us enjoyed our late lunch. ummm.

Sunday afternoon though was kind of rough. The wicked wind I have ever seen in my life appeared that afternoon while we were out backyard. Didn't get to take pictures how much debris fell into the pool and had to clean. Kind of the center attraction for the day.

Monday, the Memorial Day just kind of quite. Hubby and I got to spend quality time alone the backyard. It was lovely day after that wicked wind..

Lazzzzzy run.

2011-05-16T17:52:00.000-07:00

I have more energy running in the morning. Afternoon runs for me are the hardest. I find myself telling myself to find excuses like this afternoon, it's windy! huh. It's true though, hubby even said that it's not nice running out there. He ran at noon for 45 mins while I was gardening.

I told Matthew this morning while we were walking to school that he is going to run this afternoon with his papa for 2 loops. A loop is 1.5 miles. "It's time to crank it up", I said! He replied "oookayyy.." kind of long word for him to say. He's been running for almost a month now 3 times a week for only a loop at a time. He's been running with his papa.

So, on our way back home from school, walking, I gave him an option to run with me or with his papa. He picked to run with me. So, I said, maybe in 20 minutes after we get home, "fine" he said.

So, when we got home, I went to the backyard and finished re-potting plants. Got in the house to get ready and looked at Matthew, boy, he's already ready for a run. He had his new running shorts on that his papa ordered for him. It gives me such a good feeling when I talked to him with something then give him time and actually don't fuss with me, I say, good job!

So, out the door we went. I said to him, " you can run on your own since I run very slow". Off he went. Dang, that boy ran like his father, fast!! I felt ashamed but, him and everyone else knew that I run slow. As I was running, I was thinking that kids respond well when you prep them ahead of time. Prepping him a day in advance really works out for all of us. Less fussing, and things goes smoothly.

I planned to do more than 3 miles today but like I said, it's windy! I should've worn my wind blocker and perhaps get more miles in., but oh well, I love sitting on my recliner and blog about nothing. LOL. lazy ass.

This photo below was from Friday run. It was nice sunny day and I was able to get some good miles in. I like my hair tucked in even if it's hot. I don't like a strand of hair keeps popping in and out of my face.

I'm in..

2011-05-09T16:06:00.000-07:00

So, I'm a new owner of this fad thing, Five fingers Bikila LS by vibram..too cool and weird. Husband ordered one for me even though I insisted NO!, I don't want to look like a frog!! He did it anyways. Order came and tada, ~~~it didn't fit!! hahaha. I laughed too hard that made him so unhappy. LOL . He was too disappointed since he already had a pair and knew how to measure my feet. Huh!..So we had to drive down to The Road Runner Store in Torrance to exchange it. I needed two size down. Dang, those things must be fitted precisely!!...and he also got another pair just like mine.

So after getting an 8 mile ran yesterday, I said to him, "Okay, I will try to be a frog today" and he was happy. I had to take time to get my new painted toes in every compartment there is available..LOL.. some of my toes just didn't want to be separated from the other, LOL. So here's my new buddy. I am not sure how often will I get in it compare to my nike plus shoes.

When I was running, it felt as if I'm running in bubbles, very funny feeling. I ran maybe 1 mile with it though I could've done more but didn't want to overdue my toes.

Mother's Day yesterday was absolutely the best day ever! I did my run and my daughter came over to hang out with me and the rest of family. I made chicken barbecue that my family loves. I also made Pansit, (Filipino dish) and for the veggies, I decided to make eggplant salad. Oh it was yummy. For dessert, my first born brought me a basket of her very own carrot with apple muffins. Oh it's delicious!! told Matt he can only have one a day..LOL. She brought a dozzen of them though.

Despicable Me was very funny. The mean man at first became a soft hearted man at the end of the movie and that's why I cried!..that's the reason why I'm not a movie lover, I cried on almost everything I watched!!

Then the second movie on Blu Ray we watched was Little Fucker..oh that was hilarious!

As a family, it's been a long time since we watched movie together so yesterday's movies were such treats for all of us.

Just before my girl had to go home we shot some photos and this is what I got.

Los Angeles Marathon 2011-my version

2011-04-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

Sunday, March 20th of 2011 was the day that thousands of runners won't forget and so as hundreds of spectators as well as volunteers. We were prepared to run the race but never prepared to run 26.2 miles in torrential rain

We got up at 4:30 am. Most of our stuff were ready the night before. Our clothing for change after the race was packed. Our meds, credit card, a little bit of cash, medical card all fitted in tiny little pouch that we tie up to our waists, were ready. By 5 am the taxi arrived to take us to the Dodger Stadium. I didn't get to take photos of me preparing for the race but I kept it in the safety box in my heart and what memory chip I have.

Taxi dropped us off where we wanted to be dropped off. We walked up to the stadium. It was very windy and cold, but I had my spirit so high that I it didn't bother me. How funny because, when I get chilled, I complain and whine and you will be annoyed if you are hearing me..LOL.. hey, I just being honest cause, that is what hubby said..The walked up the hill was at least 15 minutes. We both had our old shoes on since it was a bit raining. We changed it when it was time for us to stand in the line for the race.

Before the race, tons of people were hiding from the cold wind in the Dodger Stadium including us. I didn't take any camera since I was going to rain and I wouldn't have time to take photos anyways. Gladly to see those pro photographers from the Marathon. There's a whole bunch of them walking around taking pictures and certainly they took ours too.

Too much excitement I felt when standing by the crowd. It was something I will not forget, since it's something I really wanted to do and it was my very first time. While standing in the crowd, I started to get rid of my extra belongings . I gave this lady my extra gloves I brought and my raincoat. Hubby tossed his away. The lady was happy to have the raincoat and gloves and I was happy that she was happy..hehehe.

Off the gun went and tons of excited people started pounding on the ground. Hubby and I and the rest of the crowd jogged it since you can't really run with elbow to elbow people plus a lot of clothing, debris on the ground. Had to be really careful not stumble with the debris. We passed the starting line at maybe 4 minutes into the jogging and the road opens up. We are now out of the coral. After a quater of a mile passed the starting line, I looked over to my left side saw bunch of guys peeing on the side of the little mountain and I thought to myself, what the heck are those people doing there. They must have drank a lot of liquid while standing and waiting and didn't get to the restroom before the gun went of.. it was funny sight I must say, something I wasn't expecting to see..

As soon as we passed the starting line, that is when the rain started to come down. I kissed hubby and said " I will see you at the finish line" and off he went.

Passed a lot of people standing with their umbrellas giving the runners some uplifting words. Some runners replied back with "thank yOu's""... A lot of volunteers amazed me. I really felt happy even though it was pouring and cold and just soaked. I had not even one moment regreting to run it. I cried many times during my run thinking a whole lot of things had happend in my life. It happend for a reason. I had been through hell and back and this is nothing , and kept going. 46 yrs and only this time that I have done something that I'm proud of and I'm on my own. What if my body gave up on me , I will not finish, and thought of my kids and husband and my family back home that I supported financially. If I passed out on the ground what will happen to them.. so many funny thoughts but that's what keeping me pounding on the ground even harder.

That is my friend, Sally in gray coat having a nice smile even though it was windy and cold. That is what I call dear friend. She's standing with my son Matthew, her son Mason in red sweater, her middle child, Noah in front of the camera and the one that's busy texting is my first born, Geri.

I thought of calling my friend to tell her not to come since the rain is really hard. I thought of her and my kids also while running. I said to myself, if they are here, I must cross the finish line for their hard work to be worth while. I need to make them proud and so pounding on the concrete I kept. 5:37 hours later I crossed the finish line. I found out that hubby's time was 3: 37 hours. The man was flying..hehehe. So that means he was shivering with my kids and my friend in the "family meeting" tent with tons of people waiting for their loved ones to arrive from the race.

I've used some of my energy gel maybe total of 5. A bottle of Gatorade (12 oz) I consumed at 15 mile. From then on, I grabbed a small cup of water every other mile. With the rain, I didn't need that much of liquid. Funny thing is, I didn't have to use the restroom until I got home. I guess that energy gel liquid that Herb bought at the expo was the best. I started taking it from mile 6 and every hour from then on. It was an absolute help to get through the finish line without having too much cramps.

http://youtu.be/bzzuOPr2KoQ click on that link and will take you to some video of the marathon.

http://youtu.be/OD7fHIVPvow
The rain didn't stop. My hardest part was at almost the finish line where it was blowing hard wind with the hard rain. I thought I was going to be blown away to the side of the street and will take time to get to the finish line but luckily I stood up pretty good. As I passed the finish line, I somehow wanted to sit down but had to find my family and friends that are waiting for me somewhere. I didn't turn on my cell phone since it was pouring rain. I walked about maybe another mile and a half to get to the place where I could retrieve my checked -in bag to get dressed. As I was standing in the line, I decided to turn on my cell phone so I can make phone calls. I kind of hide my cell under that plastic bag I got when I crossed the finish line. As I was making a call, hubby tapped me on my back. He got my bag already. So to the portapottie I stood in line. After 10 long minutes waiting for my turn, I got in. Trying to get undress was a work plus getting dress with wet body was a real workout., frustrating and annoying . My whole body was shaking. The phone was ringing. Someone was knocking on my door asking me how long more am I gonna be in there. But all in all, I got through it and came out, partly wet again. My body just didn't want to stop shaking. I guess when you are not exerting energy, you really get cold quickly and shiver forever since it was really windy and pouring rain. Oh was I ever so happy to see my friend gave me a big hug. She helped me put another jacket on me since I was disoriented. My kids came hugging me and trying to keep me warm.

It was an exhilarating moment for me for sure. I will do it again.

That is me in purple with blue cap to the left of the photo, smiling, well I really was..

I just passed the finish line and my arms were so tired to lift it up higher..

This is my favorite photos of my buddy, Herb. I now have my very own Sports Illustrated magazine for life. Hahaha.

You can see the rain pouring on this photo but amazingly, tons of runners kept going to finish the race.

Big smile. This is his second marathon. But this one is a memorable one for both of us since we did it together and trained together. I just couldn't keep up with him.

My daughter took this photo of us. I was just going to slammed myself on the couch after I showered but she insisted because the moment is fresh and can't be turn back. Looking back, she's absolutely right. I'm glad she was there for me to tell me what to do. I just didn't have energy to even think of anything. Herb on the other hand, put away the wet stuff, cleaned my mess and ordered pizza for the dinner.

I am so proud of her also for coming to the race by herself and waiting soaked with the rest of the spectators.

My day was absolutely filled with happiness, gratitude, appreciation for thousands of volunteers who were committed for the day, blizzard or sun, they were there helping out or just simply yelling and giving the runners a boost.

Inspired and surprised.

2011-03-02T18:23:00.000-08:00

Surprised day but not really. I have been wanting to hear from hubby everytime he gets home.. I have done my slow long run today.

Hubby has been my inspiration for me to do this. I have set my goal last year that " will join the Los Angeles Marathon in 2011" no matter what and is partially now happening. I have been asking him as to when is he going to register us for the race, time is running out.. Today marks 18 days left before the race. So, he was supposedly work from home but instead he said he needs to go to into work. I said to him whatever, it really doesn't matt since I'm not going be here most of the time today. So he left for work but had to stopped by the gym to get his cardio in.

So at 1 pm is when I got back in the house from my run. Took the shower right away and while in shower, I heard someone walking back and forth in the house. I yelled " hon is that you" and he replied "yes beng" . For a moment there I got scared since I locked all the doors when I got in since I'm alone. Done with shower and now into settling in the reckliner to relax. So, he asked me if I ate already after my run and I said no! So he asked me if I want him to make me something to eat and of course I wouldn't say no.. that would be stupid since I'm really tired.. So he handed me a bowl of something he made. It was an ACAI thing he bought last night and he added some oats crunchy thing plus soy milk. So, I settled in my reckliner to eat my lunch and he was sitting accross from me.. While eating, he handed me a paper.. and I said "what's this"? it took me a few seconds to realized it was a copy of the registration for the marathon. " I'm in, I'm in.." I utterred.. and I realized him too.. I said, did you register too? he said yes.. So now I'm excited and all to do the rest of that goal.,

Another 15 miler today accomplished!! I am somehow slower than the last time I did my long run. I am not sure what's happening but that shouldn't matter since I anticipated my time to finish is in between 6 and half hours. If I come less than that, man I will just be so impressed with myself. I was going to run somewhere than my regular route but endeed up doing the same route anyways. It wasn't that cold today but I was in layered as always. I'm afraid to catch some cold before the marathon. Amazingly there were no dogs trying to eat me today. Though I have ran into a bunch of bees.. I was really scared . I stopped and look around where they were going and realized they made a nest thingi on a tree next to the walkway. So I changed running road thing. I ran on the road instead on the walkway thing.

My shins somehow bothers me just before the 2 miles. When that happens, I just walked it and ran when I think and feel I can and just do same over and over until it goes away which made me wonder why.. but for now I'm okay about it since I got through with the 15 miler.

I'm excited to get all that goal finished. I'm certainly don't have to ask hubby about registering anymore. I can now focus on training.

another 15 miles in

2011-02-23T18:54:00.000-08:00

Cold and windy during my run. I should've known by now as to what not to eat before the run, food tasted rotten in my mouth while running. Chihuahua was trying to scare me again. Had to really push myself after 8 miles. Very tired now and really felt like throwing up.

Well, I haven't done my long run for more than two weeks. Due to some issues with myself plus didn't have that time that I would need. So for it to happen I made sure I made time for it. However the weather may have been, had to put my on my shoes, jacket , gloves, sunglasses and mp 3, and started pounding on the concrete hard. After 3 miles, I started sweating and started to feel the cold and wind, but that didn't stop me. I thought of stopping which I always have these "maybe I need to stop thought reason" while running. I'm not sure if that is normal to happen but everytime I'm on the run, I thought of these things, my legs hurt, my neck hurts, my stomach is feeling weird..but at the end, my goal to join the marathon prevailed. Mybe the question should've like, "what do you think while running"..hmm.

Ate my rice this morning with some leftovers meat stew. It didn't feel good while running. I kept burping the stew and felt yucky in my mouth from the start of the run. So now, I really need just rice and maybe banana to go with it and freshly brew coffee. For some reason, I have not learn lessons as to what NOT to eat before the run and perhaps the night before. Many times I'd start burping like petrolium before I'd go out the door. I think that is acid but I'm not really sure. I'm running out of time as to what really IS good to eat before the run. Think, look and find to resolve the issues..hmm. fast. very fast.

AFter 8 miles, I had to stop by the house to get some water in my mouth. Somehow I felt so thirsty. I'm into sunflower seeds, roasted and unsalted. Well, hubby bought both salted and unsalted. I like the salted better. So, last night I ate unsalted and I added salt to it. It's yummy alright and today I knew why I was really thirsty. Mile 11, had to go by the house again to get some drink. This time I drank some water, and some coconut juice that's in a box. It's so yummy and few bites of CLIFF BARS. I wasn't feeling hungry but felt the need of energy boosts. I ran some more after a few minutes break so I can get my 15 miles in. I felt really tired after the 13 miles. I felt the pain in my lower back and decided to walk once in a while. I noticed that if I walk and then try to run again, I felt more tired.

I hate to get bark at specially those little chihuahuas. It's out again today. Well this time he was alone and as soon as I heard a dog barking through my mp3, I stopped and turned around. I shhh the dog and I went on to do my stuff and somehow it stopped following me.. thank goodness.

I may have drank too much liquid today. That maybe the reason why I felt so like throwing up. Now that I have eaten my dinner and is relaxing, I felt recovering well. My feet are up and I'm recklining..huh, watching tv while blogging.

my run today. took me forever but all worth while.

Tokens of Affection

2011-02-17T14:06:00.000-08:00

Beautiful and colorful cards, bouquets of flowers, Hallmark singing/funny/ awesome cards, phone calls, hugs, love letters, a trip to a movie theater, walking hand in hand along the windy, cold beach, are very important to each and every single human being to feel. It is so important that there is designated day for all of us to take a moment and think how you can outdo yourself to impressed your love ones and that can be very expensive...

All of the above are different types tokens of affection that we often give and get from the people we love but most importantly, from our better half.

We stand infront of the card section at Target or Hallmark for more than 10 minutes trying to find that perfect card to give and if you're like me, you will have to come back to look for that card again since 10 minutes just isn't enough, or sometimes you just don't find it and just make your very own one.

We call our love ones but mostly we call our parents since they don't live with us and to let them know how much they mean to us and then exchanged words of love over the phone.

Some people maybe still into snail mail. I missed those type of things, writing your own words for someone to read to let that person know how much you care and put them in the mail, then wait for the reply for weeks..LOL... kind of exciting while you're in a process of waiting. But I'd prefer the internet for it's faster.

For this year, no walk hand in hand by the windy, cold beach, no dozens of roses or pot of orchids, no chocolate bars or cards for hubby and I to exchange but we are cool with that. Instead, hubby had tickets for the "Twin Spirits" and a necklace for me. I was able to give him the most needed love and hugs. I sound cheap but hey..umm..ummm.. k.. I can put price tag on them too if he wants me too..LOL. you know what I mean.?? or maybe not.. just forget it.

Okay, for real I just want to be with him, to laugh with , cry with, and get mad with. Combine all those mentioned and he's got a woman whom he's able to confide all that troublesome adventures in life he's experienced yesterday, now and tomorrow and with no doubt, wants him forever.

Every year we celebrate our Valentine's Day differently. And this year was something to remember. Went to the show and was also able to attend the party after the show which a few meters away from the Mark Taper Forum in Downtown Los Angeles. AT the party, we were able to meet or just look at some celebrities. Like Joh Lithgow whom narrated the story of "Twin Spirits". He was talking to people but I had no chance to have a photo with him. One other popular person that attended the show and party was the Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr. I tell you, that man isn't friendly at all, naughty boy and very comfronting type of person.

Sting and Trudie were there and we were able to get a not so good photos but enough to satisty my husband. My experiences with Sting having our photos had been excellent. He is a very nice guy but for sure if you push his button, he will throw you off. When we were leaving, we tried to say goodbye to him and my husband got a handshake from him and I got a very nice warm hug. This is the second time he gave me a hug. I couldn't believed myself that I extended my right arm to his shoulder after experiencing the Mr Robert Downey Jr moment. Anyhow, it was a lovely night. My first born came over to watch her little bro while we were gone. So with that, it was some night to remember for me.

The Twin Spirits was played by Sting and his wife Trudie.

More info about the story can be found in here. The Twin Spirits.

Interesting day,OMG, those Chihuahuas.

2011-02-09T15:54:00.000-08:00

I was mentally prepared to run my longest run today. Little animal comfronted me. I had to go home after 2 miles. Baked some bread.

As I've done and practised, mentally prepared myself to do the run the day before. In that way, at least I've one preparation down.[haha] Then the second thing I've done always, eat rice before the run.[haha], all that carb..I tried pasta and other things, my body didn't respond well during the run. Been trying a lot of different other things just to get to know my body and how it respond to what physical activity I was trying to do. And the rice got the medal..LOL..woho, cheap stuff.

For real, I was going to do 18 miles today. I didn't get far, disappointed at myself. First off, I got out the right foot, [haha], I did. I was in the right feelings as I went up the hill. For two weeks now, somehow I've changed the way I ran up the hill, kind of tiptoeing up until I get to the level part where I comfortably dropped my heels down on the ground and on I'd go. Perhaps half of a mile into my run, cell phone rang. I answered it while running. Very short conversation with my girlfriend and she'd call me back since I'm on the run..hmm... on and keep running I did.

At about 3/4 of a mile, all of a sudden this little Chihuahua came out of someone's lawn. I didn't see it coming since it came from behind me. So now I heard it barking. I turned around and tried to stare it down and that didn't work. I tried to tell hush, and still barking at me. Now I'm getting mad, because I got scared. ONce in my life before I was bitten by the German Shepherd while I was pregnant with my first baby. Since then I built a fear of dogs although I was raised with a whole bunch of German Shepherd.

So to add some more fear about dogs, months ago while running in the same neighborhood, different street from where I was today, a Chihuahua came to bark at me and then the second one came to help out barking at me and then two more joined the gang. WAs I ever so scared that I cried myself there trying to get rid of this animals away from me. As I stood still there in front of 4 Chihuahuas, I was angry and terrified. I looked around to find where's the owner of this loose animals that seemed to want to eat me alive. But I didn't see anyone. I stood there for 2 long, terrifying minutes, and someone was calling some names and the dogs started to go away from me. Man, I wish those people that have those type of animals be sensitive enough to keep their animals in leash or inside of their gate.

So back to one Chihuahua that wanted to eat me alive this morning. I tried to stumped my foot on the concrete thinking it will scare him away but instead that made him really upset where he got closer to me and barking furiously. And the more I stumped, the angrier, barking and closer to me. And the phone rang while I was thinking how to get rid of that little animal that thinks he's an elephant. Hubby was on the line and I said to him, " I need a stick or something to spray".. I said, this is annoying because, it rattles me inside plus, I really look dumb and stupid. Then he said, " will get some this weekend".. okay, I repllied. So while talking to him, the animal went away and crossed the street. I felt relieved as I watched it crossed the street and yet angry inside. Maybe I was angry to cover up my fear..hmm..

And so, on to running again. 1.5 miles in. I was going up and down a little hill, not so much to worry about my running. I was still in deep thoughts about that Chihuahua. And all of a sudden, I started feeling my shins hurting. I went on for few more jog and seems like it's getting worst, so I decided to walked it. Gave myself 2 minutes walking then on to run again. Well, I didn't go far from that pause and feeling the need to pause again, so walked I did. Well, I started walking up the hill and called hubby to report the shins situation. Told him, am going home and to get on the bike instead since this can cause me big problem if I don't take a moment to relax..irritation is what I don't need at this time of my training.

So home I came and got on the stationary bike for an hour. While on bike, still can't get rid of that fear of that little animal issue out of my head. Took shower and decided to make Whole Wheat Banana Bread.

My first time making it Whole Wheat Banana Bread. Copied a recipe from the net. It didn't call for milk, not that I don't like milk but it's weird. With the regular recipe, it calls for 3/4 cup of milk. I finished the baking and cleaned the kitchen. I'm writing this while it's baking. I guess I have been here for 45 minutes and oven is ringing. It's on the cooling rack right now and will have a piece after dinner. Hubby was excited to try it too. When Matt came in the house from school this afternoon, he said, Banana Bread mom?, and I said, yes bud and hope it taste as good as it smell.

Wrapped this up, I will search later as to what I can do about my shins to heal and what caused it. I will certainly get some sort of sticks to carry with me when out running in the neighborhood. And will tell later how good my new found recipe of banana bread.

Must follow..

2011-02-07T09:11:00.001-08:00

This should help me really good..

15 miles

2011-02-04T14:04:00.000-08:00

15 miles-- check, backache-- check, feet hurts--check, feeling drained--abslutely double check!!!

Yes, that 15 miles had to be in by today!! I need to show to hubby I can do it,..he is not registering me until I have something to show to him that I can do it..huh!! but now, not really sure if I have more energy for another 13 more miles. Though I have at least a month more to train. So if I have the courage to do this long run twice a week, I might gain more endurance, I'm praying that i will.

That 15 miles took me 3 hrs and 6 minutes. That is way tooo long pounding the concrete...and it hurts to think about it.

Like I have been experiencing, the first 2 miles are always the hardest but realized it today that when I hit the 10 miles, I started feeling my back hurts. I wanted to stop but I had to tell myself, got to go, got to go..! so went I did. Though I walked when I really had to which I did few times.

My feet are certainly feeling the beat too. One of my toes had turn black already but it doesn't hurt. The other little toes are hurting and I'm hoping it will go away soon, like in about 30 minutes since I have to put a pair of shoes to walk and get my little pumpkin from school..

Now, I am more drained than the other day, Tuesday was the last one that I did my long run. Not sure why, but the thing with running is that, everyday is different. I may have lots of energy somedays and other days I won't. That is some discovery that if you don't do it, you won't feel it.

Happy that I struggled through get that 15 miles in. I now have to heal some parts of my body that hurts. I will be taking things easy. Hubby said we will go out for dinner tonight, so that takes away of me cooking. I should be able to walk from car to the restaurant..LOL.. without the wheel chair..LOL..

13.4 miles

2011-02-01T15:28:00.000-08:00

My first long run since I had my biopsy, 13.4 miles. Everything hurts now.I told hubby I can't do anything this afternoon, meaning cooking/ eating out and other things.

The second 13 miles I have done so far. One just days before my biopsy and now, two weeks after my biopsy. Things a healing pretty good. It's A big push to do this now. I am supposed to do long runs at least 13 miles according to hubby once a week. He wants to know and see if I have the resistance and endurance to do it and maybe more.

13.4 miles took me 2:49 hrs. A little bit okay to me since I am not going for anything but finish the run. But hubby said, must think of how much you will be hurting doubling that time. So, I need to programmed something in my head about that.

I had almost the same amount of time on my first long run. I don't think I can go anymore faster than that. I will just focused on resistant and endurance for the long run. I walked some part but maybe worth 5 minutes alltogether.

The part that I hate the most is the afterwards effect. I felt drained and wants to sleep. I'm cranky and husband hates that attitude!!I have taken tylenol to eased some pain and feels good right now but my brain doesn't seem to want to do anything but sit and maybe sleep. HUH Hopefully I can have some smiles for hubby when he gets home which is soon.

Hubby is very nice to me. I cannot complain. He'd bring food home on this times that I don't feel like standing in the kitchen slicing food and try to cook them. Mind you, he is on bike most of the times going to and from work, so my food choice has to be something not watery, so it won't leak on his backpack. [hehehe] Today, he will bring chicken sandwich from Vietnamese restaurant. That should be more than enough for dinner. He is proud of me that I am participating into healthy stuff, just like him. I guess I have no reason not doing it since Matthew do not need much of my attention, 12 yrs old, can do things on his own.

I hope to gain more endurance for more long runs as the days for marathon is just right around the corner. And also I hope NOT to get injure before the marathon or else..:-(

Back on training again.

2011-01-26T13:07:00.000-08:00

A little bit apprehensive to do it but went anyways. Didn't want to overdo myself plus didn't have all that energy.

I'm back on training again. I've been to the gym two days this week though. I didn't do any lifting weights or anything like that. I know that I will try to do it next week.

I managed to do crunches and that twist thing for adbomen. Didn't do much of it since I am not really 100% sure. I did an hour and some 20 minutes of cardio though and biked back home with hubby.

Also, I ran today. I did almost an hour of it which equals to 4.7 miles. I had it in my head last night that I will run today but for some reason, I didn't have all that energy when doing it so decided just to do an hour of it. Good enough for me since it's my first run since the biopsy.

I usually have that "ready" feeling when I programmed it the day before. But for some reason, it wasn't there. Perhaps, I'm a little bit apprehensive doing it. Didn't want to hurt myself since I will be the one to suffer the most. I really don't want to injure myself since I have marthon in my head to do.

Hopefully next week I get back those normal, excitement feelings and to be ready for it. I'm looking forward to it.

Well, it's been a nice, warm day today. I will try to do more gardening outside since I'm done running already.

That's me getting ready for the run.

Feeling tired

2011-01-20T14:33:00.000-08:00

Didn't sleep much last night. Woke up with seeing flashing lights on my night table. Got a phone call from neighbor at 6 30 am. I did 2 hours on bike.

Went to bed late last night, like 11:30 pm. I couldn't close my eyes. I kept looking at the clock. 1:00 am still wide awake. Told hubby that I can't sleep and that I need to get that extra comforter I put away yesterday. I didn't put it back after I washed the sheets thinking it was warm enough but at the end of the day, winter was back! huh. I'm forgetting, we are still in winter, duh! Anyways, I found the comforter and asked hubby if he wanted some on his side and he said, "no".. all for me then..!! So I tried to close my eyes again thinking 'now I will be warm and should be able to sleep' but instead I looked at the clock, it's almost 2am. Hubby said, didn't you take Claritin today? I said, "yup, I did earlier today." So now, I can't wonder why I can't sleep. Shortly after 3 am, my eyes got tired and closed. Somehow, I was woken up and seing hubby's head hovering over me and I asked, "what's the matter", he replied, " I was looking at the clock". and I asked "what time is it?" he replied, "the clock is broken". and I said, "oh".. Since he wanted to know what time it is, he got up and got his cellphone. "It's 3:30 am." he uttered, "okay" I said. We went back to sleep. At sometime, he looked up his cellphone, AGAIN, and said, "beng it's 5 am." and I said, "okay!!". I am now feeling irritated since I haven't got any sleep and he kept telling me what time it is. We both went back to sleep until he looked at his cellphone again and said, " it's 6 am beng"..I said, "you want me to get up now?" he said "no".. just thought I'd let you know what time it is. At this time, I can't sleep anymore since I'm thinking I need to get up in 30 minutes. I was thinking 'maybe I can farmville before he get's up'. But I just lay there until 20 after. We both got up and made our bed.

When we got up I said, "the power must been back shortly after six am." Then we proceeded making our bed. Done making the bed, haven't washed our stinky mouths, the phone rang! I then got this anger in me and uttered, "who calls me this early"!!!. Hubby ran to look at the phone and it's the neighbor he said. I let the phone rang, rang, rang then it went to voicemail. I then went to the kitchen to make coffee. After making the coffee, I asked hubby if I need to call the neighbor back and he said, yes, you should let her know that you are awake.

So I redialed and said, good morning neighbor,and she said, " did I wake you up"? I said " no!" she went on to tell me that she wanted to wake me up because she didn't want matthew to get late for school since the power went out that maybe our timer didn't go off. Well, it's nice of her to be thoughtful this way but I had no sleep so therefore I am very cranky!! Thanked her for calling us and hung up the phone.

I was battling if I need to crawl back into bed after I got back from walking Matt to school but endeed up getting on that stationary bike after my breakfast. I punched in for one hour with cardio. After 5 minutes on it, I felt very tired, can't seem to pedal to my regular speed. I kept going anyways until I finished. After that, I reset the timer again on the bike to do one more hour. I struggled the whole 2 hrs. I finished alright but didn't get the miles and calories that I used to have. For an hour workout, I usually get 14 miles on it and 320 calories.. But since my body didn't get enough sleep, I only get 13.5 miles with 266 calories and the other hour was not much of a difference. I was more than happy with it anyways.

Overall, I am learning about my body everyday. I am writing this to remind myself. If I need to be successful in marathon, I need to pay attention as to what I take, day to day basis. Sleep is very important. I must get at least 8 hrs of it to have a productive day. Maybe I need to get to bed by 10 and dream good stuff...

Good news

2011-01-18T19:25:00.000-08:00

Doctor called me tonight. Hubby told me that I can go at full throttle with my marathon. Felt so good to hear from him with such wonderful news.

Been waiting over the weekend and finally heard from him. Phone rang @5pm and hubby picked it up since I was outside clipping some dead flowers outside. He usually don't pick up the phone but since my hands were busy, I said "pick it up" and he did. Doctor Cabasso was at the other end of the phone and hubby gave me the phone and said hi to him. I then said, got some good news for me there Dr? and he replied, yes! actually I have good news for you. While dr. was talking to me I signaled hubby to pick up the other phone so he can hear what the dr. says and he did. So both hubby and I are now listening to the good news. Doctor said "it's not cancer...it's just some scarring.." and so on reading the medical terms to us that none of us understands but we listened anyhow. He then added... "that is not a final reading as yet. There's more testing to do and nothing serious about it. I just want you to know so you don't worry too much. It's just scaring and nothing there to worry. I will let you know in a couple more days." At this time, my heart was jumping and thinking ahead. At the end of the short conversation with the dr. appropriately I addressed my greatefulness of his effort and concern.

So, we hung up the phone and hugged each other. But then I uttered to hubby, "opps not so tight, still not healed you know. He then said to me, " sorry but you can NOW go at full throttle with your marathon miSS Beng". I warmly said to him, yes and will start planning ahead. After a while talking to each other, I went back outside to finish up my work since it's getting dark and finally got to whelled down the "greens" trash can down to the curbside for tomorrow's trash day.

A good size of weight lifted off my shoulder tonight. And for sure hubby too. I can now plan things normally, huh, as if I have something to do, but you know what I mean. It's so different feeling, like anxiousness type when you are waiting and not knowing what is coming, but there's only two things that you know can happen and that is yes and no. But yes, it's negative!! yeppey dippy doo..

So onto doing more training for my marathon. I'm so happy that hubby have this stationary bike that he used to rehabilitate his knee couple of years ago. I was on it yesterday for 1.5 hrs. And today I did and hour and fourty five minutes and felt so good. At least I can do this to retain my resistance until my wound is completely heald. The bike is low impact on my body so I am happy with it.

Finally, we are so happy with this benign news. I can now plan for my training and for other things that are exciting, like cleaning up the house and make room for my Canadian friend and her family that is coming over during the marathon week..yeppey dippy doo..!!

good night all and take care of each other.

Mammogram check up!

2011-01-15T11:47:00.000-08:00

In November of last year, had my regular mammogram checked. In December, they called me back in to get more pictures of my right boobs. Then they told me to make appointment for Biopsy.

Annually is when they recommend you to get your mammogram done, I made a regular appointment and that was done in November of last year. That would mark as third mammogram I had done. I usually don't hear anything from the Dr. about it so therefore I assumed all went well.

Two weeks after the regular check up, I got a phone call from the dr's office. They want to take more closer photos of the right boobs. So I made an appointment again. Lucky enough they have space for very soon appointment. That was done in the middle of December. So, this time I was hoping they are wrong as to what they were looking at.

A week after that, I got a phone call again from the Dr.'s office. They want me to make an appointment at the hospital for the biopsy. Now I'm startled! I had to pause for a little bit to gather myself. I said to myself, did I hear "biopsy"? and Yes, I did. So the lady at the other end said to me that sometimes it's nothing but it's better to have what doctor said done.

So the biopsy was done yesterday. I wasn't really worried about it since I don't have backgrounds in my family having breast cancer. Hubby went with me to the hospital. He was more worried than I am. I don't blame him. And to me that is so sweet of him worrying about my health. But hey, I love him too. We take care of each other for better and for those darm worsts days of our lives..hehehe.

The procedure was just for 45 minutesand plus the 15 minutes walk through of the procedure. Herb left the surgical room and I layed down on this hard bed with hole in the middle to hang my boob down. The nurses were really nice. There were two of them plus the surgeon. One of the nurses offered nice warm blanket for me. I had robe for the top part and bottoms stuff remained. I had one position which was very uncomfortable after 5 minutes with it. But had to be still for them to do the work. That possition perhaps remained for way more than one hour.

My boob was compressed for a long while. They numb the part where they were going to put the needle in. The compression part was really sore to me. My boobs are very tiny.>. poor herb< that's all I got..LOL. The surgeon took samples and came up to me after she's done with it and looking at the pictures, "I'm not 100% if I got the right stuff and we might have to do it again. " instantly I said to myself, oh you darn doctor.. So I will prepare myself again for same thing. Okay,let's be possitve that nothing is there.

The surgeon had left and I thanked her for helping me. She said 'you're welcome"..now the nurses had to clean the work area and my boob. One girl was resposible to make my boob stopped from bleeding. 12 minutes into holding the tiny little hole, it wouldn't stop bleeding. 15, minutes and into 30 mintues and she's getting tired. Meanwhile, I was thinking , oh my OMG. it better stop or I'm going to pass out. Luckily, after 40 minutes trying to stop from bleeding, it did.

So, nurse told me to get my stuff and follow her to another x-ray room. I took my things and followed her. She need to take more photos of the boob to see if where they worked on looks okay. Since my boob got more compressed after they made a hole, it bleeded more. I tried to look down on it and all of a sudden I felt passing out. So I asked her if I can sit down and she sat me on the chair. She gave me water and changed the band aid on my boob. I sat there for at least 5 minutes and looked at my phone for the time and it was an hour past of what they told us. So, now I'm thinking Herb must be so worried since I didn't call him. The nurse asked me if I'm ready to go out and I happily I said, "yes".

So, out we went and saw Herb kind of teary. The nurse explained what to expect and left and so were we. She was very compassionate. She told me I can call her and that she put the number on that paper she gave me. I thanked her of course. As we were walking down to the entrance area, Herb ask me what happened?, told him the story of bleeding didn't want to stop.

Herb kept holding me to comfort me, he's so sweet. We went home to get Matt and went out to get sushi for dinner and came home to relax.

To end this story of my mammogram, I hope they see nothing there for them to call me in for another surgery. But if they do, I will just have to do and deal with it rather than be sorry. I am 46 yrs old now and I will take no chance for something like that. At least I'm here in US where Herb's insurance is really good and will take care of us when we get sick.

take care..

Beautiful day not to run

2011-01-13T13:53:00.000-08:00

Two days already from my longest run, my legs are still sore. My toes are also sore. Blisters on my one toe is not so bothering and ran today anyways. I biked yesterday for an hour.

It's been 2 days only ago that I did my longest run for the year. My leg muscles are still sore. I find myself holding on to something when trying to get on the floor to put my shoes on. I am hoping this will go away as I'm determined to run. I took tylenol to ease some pain on my muscles and it helps. I didn't take anything before going to bed last night but had to get up to the bathroom at 2 am and found myself really sore so had to take two.

I didn't think that my toes were hurting the other day after my run, until this morning when I walked Matt to school. Maybe it had something to do with those tylenols, huh.

I had blisters on my one toe and since it wasn't that bad I ran today. I did 6.5 miles. I think it's really good. But though like I said, took tylenols for pain. I was going to do the bike but since it's beautiful day today, I took advantage of it. I could've done more had I started earlier..hmm I was busy on the internet playing games. I need to quit playing them since I have training to do..need discipline.

Even I was in pain yesterday, I pushed myself to go on the stationary bike. I had to do it. I can't just say I'm sore and therefore I need to relax. I guess when I set the goal last year, I just had to push and push until I'm satisfied.

Overall, such a beautiful day, couldn't pass it not to run even if it hurts. :-) I did enyoy my 6.5 miles and will do it again.

Well, that's it for now.

will keep this blog

2011-01-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

I have decided to just keep one blog for all my whinney, misery issues. The Bravejournal somehow makes it difficult for me to upload photos. While here, it's easier.

It's new year now and I want to get rid of things I don't use and many of them are those bravejournals site. I will keep this particular blogspot for me to keep track of things and what not.

It's been difficult for me to upload photos in bravejournal. I am not sure if they want me to pay but I just couldn't upload any photos. I will not delete my entries there since I have pages of photos. I'm disappointed that I can't upload anything into it, but that is life, not everything is free..

I find it easier here to do anything. They made it easy for bloggers I guess and since it's easy, why keep not keep it instead of plenty and can't do much..

-----------------------------------------

another topic.

I have something to share here. Today marked it my painful day , yet. I made my very first half marathon on my own. I now know how it feels to do the half marathon, everything hurts and yet proud of it. There's 67 days to go before the Los Angeles Marathon. I really want to be part of it. I can only hope that mentally and physically I will be ready for it. I have been training for a year now. I go to the gym to do upper strength to help me out get resistance.

I will find out tomorrow if all my body aches. But though, I have taken 2 of 500 mg Tylenol right after I was done jogging. Well, I call it jogging since I am really slow. My son told me that I look weird when running. But I don't really care what I look like jogging as I just want to be part of LA Marathon and finish it before they'd close the road on me.

For 13.75 miles today, it took 3 hours. I had to pushed myself the last 3 miles. My back started to hurts and so when I needed to stop, I stopped and walked for a little bit and jogged again. 3 hours is what I predicted for me to do it. But it will be completely different when running with thousands of people. So mentally I need to prepare myself for it and bathrooms stops maybe plus water stops and so on..

I need to say chao for now. Gotta make salad for dinner.

(Guitar) Minuet 1, Andatino in C, Andante

2010-09-24T13:35:00.000-07:00

Matthew's summer recital.

2010-09-21T15:27:00.001-07:00

Motorcycle Safety class

2010-08-05T08:47:00.000-07:00

Decided to explore and more adventurous these days. Hubby and I took the class and surely it was loaded of fun. Hopefully we can get our own bikes very soon.

2010-01-14T15:24:00.001-08:00

Recital2

2009-08-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

Recital

2009-08-06T11:28:00.000-07:00

Phoebe came

2009-08-01T17:23:00.001-07:00

St. James Infirmery

2009-05-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

My spring colors of 2009

2009-03-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

Collage

2009-02-08T17:41:00.000-08:00

Aura Lee

2009-01-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

Matt has been learning to play acoustic on his own using my guitar. This one he learned for few days and I was amazed..

Happy New Year to all.

2009-01-10T20:44:00.000-08:00

He asked if he can play my acoustic guitar and i said yes. not so good and not bad either.

2008-12-30T20:26:00.000-08:00

Summer like

2008-11-14T12:48:00.000-08:00

Can't believe the temperature is summer like here in California although, we are in the middle of November. Not complaining by any means, just to share I am enjoying it. It is hard to get away from here when the temperature is like this, in high 80's.

I was able to do some yard work for days now and just enjoying it. Trimed some fall flowers that just finished their show and transplanted some of the dwarf, yellow Chrysanthemums.

I love them as borders. They really give me big time show for months. They get crowded if not split in fall.

Below picture is white Chrysanthemum. It is tall and good for background cover. It needs stakes for it to stay up when it's blooming and the flowers stays for weeks or even months. I love them.

This picture below is my Sweet Basil. I bought it from the grocery store, when I needed fresh basil for my Pizza. I bought the one that was in a package that says "live basil". I got home, used them and there were leftovers. I decided to try and stick it in the ground since it had roots. Well, there it is, smelling good when you run your hands through it and the freshness stays on you, makes you feel hungry. I drink my morning coffee sitting next to it.. love it.

The Police soundcheck in Hollywood Bowl

2008-05-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

my man lost his lyrics at some point during the soundcheck on Tuesday at the Hollywood Bowl..

Sting was very nice to us that day. I asked for hug and generously reached over to my cheek and gave me two kisses.. It's wierd feeling when you felt someone's beard let alone Sting's beard!! aaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh... was in heaven!

What You Love The Most About your Husband/Partner

2008-04-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

What do I love the most about my hubby/partner? hmm..

Well, there's too many and I guess that is why it asked, THE MOsT.. yeah?

Here goes:

1. He is very thoughtful and generous. Sends money to my mother. And when going home, he makes sure everyone has something from us.

2. He is clean and picks up after me or Matt most of the time. Yup! sounds like I am lazy but I love that kind of personality where If I am tired, he picks up after me.

3. He CAN prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner.

4. He calls his parents almost everyday and tell them he loves them..oh yeah.

5. He is my friend. I confide in him more than I can confide with my siblings.

6. He wont let Me go to bed pouting...haha..

7. If I'm cooking, he'll wash dishes for me so I don't have to stand in the kitchen for the rest of the Day!

8. He does laundry and folds them too..

9. He is very passionate and very caressing person, love that.

10. I guess the most is that, he let me be who I am when I am with him.

Ten years had gone by, some fights here and there which had led me to believe that our love and care for each other made our relationship even more stronger, like the berlin wall...or the great wall of china..hahaha.. well, that is how I feel, kind of tough and hard as a rock..oh boy..para bang bato galing sa ilog..LoL.. yong makintab ba.. haha.

I am the best pouter ever or maybe not. I will never forget when mother told me that if I ever pout again, I have no food to eat. So, when I was scolded bad, I took a pan, put some rice in it, took [posporo] don't remember the english name for it right now, and left home. That happend when I was probably 10 years old. I took some clothes with me and went to hide somewhere in the middle of the banana field. And finally when i was old enough, I left home! yeah..I am bad...so for hubby, thank you for putting up with me. I know I can be really bad ass. opps.. I think I have to end my misery here for now.. I am going on and on and on..like the energizer bunny!

Thanks Amor for this tag.

some ochids i have

2008-03-21T20:23:00.000-07:00

My orchids

Orchids

and more of orchids<

June Orchids..2005

Fake Friends Vs. Real Friends

2008-03-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

I got this in my inbox a long time ago.. thought I'd have it here for me to read..to remind me...

FAKE FRIENDS: Never ask for food.
REAL FRIENDS: is the reason you have no food.

FAKE FRIENDS: bail you out of jail and tell you what you did was wrong
REAL FRIENDS: Would sit next to you saying 'Dawg ... we screwed up... but that was fun!'

FAKE FRIENDS: never seen you cry
REAL FRIENDS: cry with you.

FAKE FRIENDS: Borrow your stuff for a few days then give it back
REAL FRIENDS: keep your stuff so long they forget it's yours

FAKE FRIENDS: know a few things about you.
REAL FRIENDS: Could write a book about you with direct quotes from you.

FAKE FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that is what the crowd is doing.
REAL FRIENDS: Will kick the whole crowds butt that left you.

FAKE FRIENDS: Would knock on your front door
REAL FRIENDS: Walk right in and say 'I'M HOME!'

FAKE FRIENDS: Are for awhile
REAL FRIENDS: Are for life

Six quirky things about me.

2008-03-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

Oh girl.. me again.!! tsk. tsk.. I now have to announced to the whole entire world how oddly I maybe..nutz. Watch out Mira, I will get you somehow.. But first, my friends, my idols--boy, you didn't hear me said that.. idols.. hahaha.. what am I saying, friends and families around the globe, if you are nossy enough to scroll down to see if your name is one of my FAV... [haha] then you are IT!!..

The rules:

Link to the person that tagged you. Post the rules on your blog. Share six unimportant things/habits/quirks about your self. Tag 6 random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs. Let these random people know that they are tagged by leaving comments in their blog. Let your tagger know when your entry is up.

6 Quirky Things about myself:

Husband thinks I am odd that i dipped my PANDISAL in my coffee and eat it...Yummy.. it's good and makes me feel like I am having my breakfast with my Inay.. [smile]
I can swim under water but can't float... weirdo!..that is why I sit around by the pool or hang around by the pool like toads.
I kickboxed for fun.
I drove people to the curve when my buttons were pushed while I am on the road!! Do Not cut me cut me off or you will find yourself in the corner. I drive cautiously mind you.
I laugh very loud... [hahaha] I am very ashamed of this one because I can be really loud and husband thinks I am crazy deaf..or some sort.. but, hey,, I just want to express myself.. like madonna said in her songs..
I only know 6 chords when strumming guitar.. hahaha.. you think I can play good huh..you got fooled.. when I play, I only same thing over and over and over again..!! now..I am done and let's find out whom I can tag.

TAg!! your it.... Liza, Rechel, Vie, Babs, Agring , and last but not least.. Amor
Mira.. it was fun..and I will now go to your site and tell you I am done.. and then tell my FAVorite fans that they are IT!!
have fun you girl.. this really made me think.. am I really that stranged??? I don't think so..! but....whatever..

Tag from Mira..

2008-03-05T08:44:00.000-08:00

4 Jobs I've Had (in order)...

thnk I am going to fail in this question, but I'll attempt anyways and see how it goes..

Nursing some people you don't expect to be nursed! [when hubby got sick, oh I wished I worked in somewhere else. lol
cook to my family.
driver for my kid..
chapperone to see sting..

Well, I am sorry if these don't sound "jobs" that you brings home a pay check. I have been a stay home mother for so long. I acutally worked at JO-ANN Fabric as a cashier or cut fabrics for people. It was a summer job. I loved it but not enough money to cover the expenses when hubby takes care of Matthew to see movies and that. They'd spent more money than I get payed for 4 hours. so I had to justify.. family won!!! yeppey. So that was the experienced I had two years ago.

4 Movies Watched Over and Over -

Pretty Woman
Nothing Hill
Top Gun
Christmas Vacation

Everytime I watched a movie specially the funny ones, I laugh myself to death that hubby gets deaf. hehehe.. I like to express my happy moments...he likes it or not.. it's not going to kill him ..right? or maybe not..

4 Places I Would Rather Be -

Big Island, Hawaii
Pearl Farm Resort in Davao.. to chill and do nothing but stare at the blue clouds. yup, I am tired being here..
Mall- to shop until dawn.. hehehe.. well. hubby likes it when I come out the mall and see me empty handed..hehehe.. and I would say, watch, I am not done yet!
Last but not least, Home Depot or Armstrong.. again to shop flowers..

4 Things I Look Forward To This Year -

Going to Philippines in July!! yeppey.. I need to get away from my nest and be in the warm place and of course to hang out with dear a dear friend who will have a big party for her daughter.
Oh.. not sure if I really look forward for this one but.. interview for citizenship.
Go to more "Police" concert here in around Los Angeles area
And for sure I would love to see the good report card of my son who is in fourth grade.

Mirs, I have to say that I have done my homework. I hope I did well. But if not, oh well. hahaha.. that is all I can do. Now my problem is whom should I tag with this. It seems like all of my "bloggers friends" have done it already.. hmm.. this might be another homework for me to think about huh.. But do I really need to?

2007-05-18T16:18:00.001-07:00

I am still getting to know how to get around this new website