2010: The Last Half

Since my last entry, a lot of things happened to our girls. Amber and Ina are enrolled in a progressive preschool since June. While Amber is still enjoying the company of her new friends and teachers, Ina opted to just stay with Nanay's special school of hugs and kisses. My husband and I couldn't be happier when we chose My First Step since it is a school where our girls can still have fun while learning.

October was the month when the girls had their birthday celebration party together. It was a Dora-themed party as per our girls' request. My planning and organizing skills were put into test and based on the happy faces of those who came, one would say it was a success. I never thought planning a 130-guest party was going to be stressful and budget crasher. I was given two months to prepare it all by myself and most of the decision-making was with the approval of the celebrants, of course. The smiles and excitement in my daughters' faces made all those sleepless nights worth it.

December was unforgettable not only because it's Christmas time, it was also memorable because it was the month for Amber's first Kumon awarding. After a year of attending Kumon, Amber was awarded a Gold medal in Math and a Bronze medal in Reading (after 6 months ofbeing enrolled). We were so proud of our eldest because she was the youngest Gold awardee for Math. I have to admit, it isn't easy teaching and guiding Amber through her homework because of her age. Sometimes I thought of letting her stop because of the many fights we have whenever we do her sheets. But these things I have to go through as she is young afterall. At 5, it is understable that she still doesn't realise and understand the importance of what she's doing now and learning about things that is 3 years advanced for her age, I sometimes feel for her.

Christmas in the Philippines is always a family thing and celebrating it with relatives is something that is always precious and memorable. As early as November, one can sense the rush, the excitement, the jolly atmosphere wherever you go. That's the Christmas spirit, Filipino style. It is never the same when you're in another country and that I can vouch for.

2010 was a year of discoveries, milestones and more memories for the girls. The year ended with new hopes, anticipation and bigger things to happen. Bring it on, 2011.