Alex’s 2nd Ballet Grand Recital

In three day’s time, our little ballerina will be invading the Meralco Theater for the annual grand recital of their school. She has been attending ballet at Pink Toes Northridge since September 2009 and this is her second grand recital. Since then, I have seen how she has changed: her moves, her discipline in dancing, her attitude towards her co-ballerinas, she has changed a lot. Though she still has a lot to learn and many more rooms for improvement, what she has accomplished so far is something I am really proud of.

I am so excited to see her and I am sure her dad is anxious too. Her performance last year was great. She was waving at the audience even when she cannot see the faces. She was laughing out loud at the stage as she dances. I wonder what is in store for this year’s recital.

The next days will be grueling for us due to long practices as the big day comes near. We will all be tired at the end of the day. But I am sure, come Saturday, we will hear loud applause and proud bravos from the audience.

Stay tuned for the video. ;)

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Walking and Climbing with Kids Soon

Before I got married, I became interested in climbing mountains. I found that I was able to climb and walk quite a few, which made it easier to get around if I was going on holiday somewhere like the Lake District. When my time became occupied by my family life, I found that my opportunities to go on walking holidays were limited, especially as our children are still young. Fortunately, when they get older, I know that I will be able to explore mountainous regions once again, and next time, I could take my children with me.

One of the best places to go walking with the family is the Lake District in England, United Kingdom. Much like the mountainous areas of the Philippines such as Mount Pinatubo, there are a number of great walking routes and fantastic scenery to boot. If you’re looking to go on vacation there for a few days or more, perhaps staying at one of those cottages in the lake district could be perfect.

If you’re looking for a starting point where better than Windermere? The lake of the same name has a great view wherever you are, and is close to some great towns such as Windemere and Kendal. There’s plenty for the kids to do in those towns such as exploring shops, local museums and even playgrounds. Some of the mountains are just as great to climb as Pico de Loro.

If you’re looking for a challenging walking route for all the family, then the Lake District is full of them. For example, a trek around Ullswater or Buttermere is full of unexpected hills and streams, and if you think that Tarak Ridge is tough, then similar challenges will come your way when exploring the Lakes. We’re unsure about when to go, but ideally, we should save a trip to the Lake District for a special occasion such as out 10th Wedding Anniversary. If that doesn’t test our love for each other, then nothing will!

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My Top 5 Things to Bring to the Beach

Goodbye cold-windy days, summer is definitely here already. The heat is scorching and everybody must be thinking of the pool or the beach. If you are going on a road trip this summer, whether to the pool or beach, and you have kids in tow, here are MY top things you should carry with you.

1. Sunscreen/Sunblock

Sunscreen for children and adults differ so make sure bring one for you and another for the kids. Some use different products for the face and neck, but we don’t so I guess that is ok. Look for a sunblock that has high SPF for better protection.

2. Toys for Children

Bring out those pails and shovels that you hid last year. Other than swimming, my children enjoy building sand castles so this is a must.

3. Reusable Water Bottle

The heat can dehydrate us. Bring reusable water bottles for everyone so we do not have to go back and fort to the hotel to get water.

4. Changing Clothes

This is bring a lot most of the time. Children will say they want to get out of the water and when they are already changed, you will find them beside the pool again. And process goes on and on.

5. Easy to Eat Food

Crackers, sandwiches, biscuits, anything that will not spoil in the heat. When children get tired of swimming, they will either eat or sleep.

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