• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Momma 'N Manila

Growing through parenting

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Blog
  • Nourish
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Cheers
    • Guest Recipes
  • Advocate
    • Autism
    • Best Buddies
    • Down Syndrome
    • Special Needs
  • Gather
    • Crafternoons
    • Entertaining at Home
    • Events
    • Mothers Who Brunch
    • DIY
  • Review
    • 4 KIDS
    • Dining
    • Travel
    • Home & Hearth
    • Health & Beauty
    • Giveaways
    • Fashion
  • Nurture
    • Education
    • Parenting
    • Relationships
    • Yoga
  • MWB

Nurture

Thanksgiving – 40 Reasons to be Grateful

I started this month off with the best of intentions for my Gratitude Challenge. I have completed my gratitude challenge two years in a row and I thought that this year it would be a breeze to complete as well.

But there was a glitch in the matrix.

Typhoon Yolanda/Haiyan hit and I was in a funk for a full two weeks. I was paralyzed to write any entries. Wait, scratch that…I was paralyzed to PUBLISH any entries. Believe you me, I started a ton of entries that will never make it to the blog. Some were angry. Some were melancholy. Some were trashed after a few paragraphs. But really, I guess I was just overwhelmed with this thing we call life. I was going through domestic issues at home with the helpers, trying to meet the responsibilities of being a mom, self imposed deadlines of writing, and for about a week and a half I couldn’t do anything more than look through pictures and stories of the damage that Tacloban sustained.

I was angry, but I didn’t want to perpetuate any negativity. I was sad, but I wanted to try and remain hopeful in a situation that looked hopeless. And then I felt silly, sitting in my air conditioned room, typing at my desk, in my house which was unaffected by the storm…passing some kind of judgement, and crying for people whom I had never met. So, I did what I could, in a small way, packing what I know we could spare and what would help the victims if I donated. Somehow, packing up clothes and shoes, blankets and towels which we didn’t need, no matter how small, made me feel better. I had discussions about “having enough” with my kids…about entitlement, and about doing your part. I talked with Nino about things that we could as a family not just this time to help out, but in the future as if committing to something regularly with the kids as an activity to teach them to be responsible community members would somehow be doing my small part as a responsible community member too.

And then I exhaled…and I let go…I let go of it all. The negativity, the anger, the judgement (of the gov’t) and the hopelessness. Because I know that it would do me NO good to hold on to any of it.

So-now…my second post back after what felt like a really long hiatus, I NEED to be grateful. My 40th birthday came and went without a Birthday POST! It was only a little more than one year ago, when I started blogging to begin with!  Remember? That’s why I started all those give aways! To celebrate my birthday AND to celebrate my blogiversary!!!

Back home my friends and family are celebrating Thanksgiving. We aren’t having our Thanksgiving dinner until Sunday, but I wanted to share 40 things (because I’m 40 now) that I’m grateful for today, so that I’m with all my people celebrating today, in spirit.

If I'm going to own SuperMom, I need SuperDad by my side.

17 years later…my we have come a long way.

I’M THANKFUL FOR:

  • The LOVE AND SUPPORT of my Husband-Nino continues to support me in pursuing my interests and my growth as an individual, more importantly-I thank God we were able to find each other when we did. (Thanks Jo and Gerry) 😉

photo (7)

  • Laughter, specifically BELLY LAUGHS and most especially from Gellibean
  • Miguel’s sense of humor
Happy Walk 2013

Happy Walk 2013

  • Gellibean’s DESIGNER genes
  • Sorority Sisters’ Support (which stands the test of time and distance)
Boracay October 2013

Boracay October 2013

  • Walks on a beach of any kind…salt water too.
  • REALLY good coffee

IMG_7253

  • Dark Chocolate (OK…Chocolate of any kind.)
  • CARBS (I was hungry when I started this post.)
  • Smartphones with calendars (or anything that helps me organize my crazy life)
  • Angels
Sisters are tied together by heart strings.

Sisters are tied together by heart strings.

  • The love of my sisters who encourage me…and my brothers TOO!
  • The smell of crisp, clean, & fresh laundry

IMG_7843

  • The Safety and Sanctuary that my home provides
  • Diego’s raspy voice
  • Gia’s resourcefulness
  • Freshly Cut Grass
  • The SMELL of FALL
I can't wait till Gellibean figures out that Santa is the one bringing her all the treats on Christmas morning.

I can’t wait till Gellibean figures out that Santa is the one bringing her all the treats on Christmas morning.

  • Santa Claus (the joy that he brings and the wonder he represents)
  • my faith and spirituality (which continues to grow with my children)

IMG_2783

  • My parents

IMG_8219

  • The opportunities that have been presented to me in the past year
  • Fresh baked cookies (especially if from Gia)
  • The beauty of a sunrise…the dawn of a new day, the opportunity to do something different…
  • The power to choose, most especially because I live in a country where many women don’t have choices
Gelli's seizures helped me realize how important it is to be healthy. HEALTH IS WEALTH.

Gelli’s seizures helped me realize how important it is to be healthy. HEALTH IS WEALTH.

  • the gift of GOOD HEALTH.

IMG_2526

  • High speed internet! (he he he…especially for blogging!)
  • CHEESE. All kinds. melted, shredded, blocks of it.
  • MUSIC, and the ability one song has, to transport me back to a time and place in my life…
  • FAMILY. Aunties, Uncles, cousins, sisters, brothers, MY LOLA and MY NANA, distant relatives too…they have all helped somehow shape who I am today.
  • DIY projects that express my creativity
  • HUGS AND KISSES
Flowers in all shapes, all sizes and all colors

Flowers in all shapes, all sizes and all colors

  • Freshly cut flowers…colorful flowers…
Some friends you hold so close to your heart even if there is so many miles that separate you.

Some friends you hold so close to your heart even if there is so many miles that separate you.

  • Friends. (new friends, old friends, SoMoms, Co-parents, neighbors, childhood friends, BFF’s too)
  • The community of SPECIAL NEEDS parents, both ONLINE and DSAPI
Pahiyas 2012

Pahiyas 2011

  • The ability to visit the many beautiful places here in the Philippines, especially the festivals.
  • Road Trips where we can drive with the windows down
  • Comfort Food
  • YOGA
  • This LIFE. Every day is a gift. I don’t forget that.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related


« The Picture Company-Family Photos Made Easy
December Happenings »

Comments

  1. Chesca says

    November 30, 2013 at 1:24 pm

    I’m so thankful that I met you this year Mish! I’m learning so much from you 🙂

  2. michelle says

    December 1, 2013 at 11:27 pm

    Thanks Chessy! I’m so grateful to have met you this year as well! It was been such a great learning experience spending time with the #SoMoms. We have bring so many different things to the table. Let’s get together the next time you’re in the South? Please?

  3. MrsC|PatriciaCuyugan (@MrsPCuyugan) says

    December 17, 2013 at 11:49 am

    This is a great list, Mish! I’m glad you and I got to know each other this year. 🙂 Looking forward to more neighborly neighbor stuff in the future.

    • michelle says

      May 6, 2014 at 3:16 pm

      Thanks Pat! I’m looking forward to nurturing our friendship as well 🙂 Here’s to being neighbors!

Hello and Welcome!


Hi! Here is where I share my thoughts on yoga, cooking, crafting, raising a special child, exploring, eating, playing, and living in Manila.
READ MORE

You can also say hi or email me at mish@mommanmanila.com

Twitter

Tweets by @mishaventajado

Pinterest

Recent Posts

  • Our Dental Experience at Affinity Dental, One Bonifacio High Street
  • Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • A Grapeful Summer with Taste Australia
  • Suite Treat Mommy Weekend at Marco Polo Manila

Archives

Categories

Recent Comments

  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • Angelie G. Y. Melsbo on LUMOS RAY Projector Review

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @mommanmanila

mommanmanila

It’s December 1st! Is there anything more delic It’s December 1st!

Is there anything more delicious than the smell of Christmas and the new found freedom as we anticipate celebrating the holidays with our families again?

@festivalmall has hosted a series of musical shows since November 5th that include Ace Banzuelo and Silent Sanctuary. Check out Michael Pangilinan on December 10th, too!

With Santa visiting, Christmas parties, arts and crafts and lots of promos, you can even enter for a chance to win a Toyota Fortuner!

Best of all-I love it when the places we know give purpose to their celebrations. Thank you #FestivalMall for partnering with @dsapi1  this holiday season. 

Thank you for sharing all the different ways we can celebrate the holidays with you!

#tistheseason #seasonofgiving #downsyndromeawareness #aintnothingdownaboutit #upsyndrome
I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Th I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Through this learning exercise with @usapeecphl, I have learned a bit more about these little birds that have bigger breast parts, and thank you Chef @ivoryyat for showing me how easy it is to prepare Greek Lemon Roasted Cornish Hens with Roasted Potatoes.
 
Clean and fresh flavors are perfect for these smaller birds that are rich in protein with zero carbs. Try the recipe in the comments section. I’m sure you’d enjoy it as much as I did!
 
Interested in U.S. Cornish Hens? You can buy them in stores near you. #CornishHen #USCornishHen #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ad
@gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @pura @gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @puratosph products that they sent over the other day. Ready to use Bavarian Cream made these Cream Puffs easier than ever. I think we have to figure out how to temper our couverture better…

#workinprogress #wasdelicious #giabaked #puratosph #gavinosph #anyonecanbake
@mommymundo always has a way of bringing together @mommymundo always has a way of bringing together just what we need, no matter the time of year. Loving these photos of my first boy that were snapped @expomom.

Anyone else thinking about #HolidayPhotos? I am not one of those moms that has it all together before Christmas. It’s usually a mad dash for us at the end of the year, but if it’s anything that the past few years has taught me, it’s that the little things are what makes the Christmas special.

Many of us haven’t been together with the extended family or even our immediate family in so long. That means it’s the perfect time to document.

@nextbymetrophoto will be hosting one last Christmas Marathon family photo shoot before the end of year. Check them out or shoot them a message. They have some cute set-ups.
****GIVEAWAY ALERT*** 10 things I LOVE about @sed ****GIVEAWAY ALERT***

10 things I LOVE about @sedahotels listed here and on FB!

1. Each property has a Signature Dish. If you can’t make it to Bacolod, you can still enjoy Chicken Inasal in any of their properties.

2. Clean Design. So easy to work and play in a space that is light, modern, and clean in design. 

3. Beautiful views. Every chance I got, I would sit outside at @straightupatseda. 

4. Spacious Rooms and Residence Stays. Staying in the Three Bedroom Premier was perfect for our family. 

5. Attentive Service. Everyone was pleasant and accommodating.

6. Centrally Located. If you are thinking of fun things to do in Makati and want a home base, Seda Residences Makati is near a few of the museums, parks, and malls.

7. Work with ease. Internet service is uninterrupted. Meeting rooms are available and easy to book.

8. Relax and Play. From mid-day tubbies with Gelli to, taking advantage of the pool, or the children’s room, the little girl had more than enough things to keep her busy!

9. #FamilyTime. Spending an extended amount of time outside our own space led to laughter, fun conversations, and opportunities to try new things. We were comfortable and rested in the space we were in, which meant more opportunities for us to connect.

10. Homegrown with a Purpose. A Filipino brand that understands the importance of both work and travel, each property is important to the city & province location. Environmentally aware by adopting Mayumi, a Philippine Bald Eagle. 🦅

Want to win your own staycation at #SedaResidencesMakati?

Up for grabs is one night in a ONE BEDROOM DELUXE for two persons with breakfast!

Here’s how to enter to win:
1) Follow @sedahotels 
2) Follow @mommanmanila & @kitchen143 
3) Tag a friend (or more) who love(s) staycations too!
4) Comment why you should win this staycation treat!

Plus points for people who share this post in stories and the winner will be announced on December 6th.
Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work. Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work.

@kitchen143 is something I really do love. Sharing a little bit of my kitchen with viewers and followers brings me joy. Even better when I get to work with chefs whom I can learn from and friends who like to spend time in the kitchen too!

#Thanksgiving
Thankful for the gift of music. Wish I caught mor Thankful for the gift of music.

Wish I caught more mini moments from We Will Rock You.

Such a great musical!

@sedahotels 
#sedaresidencesmakati 
#sedaat10
Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. @gelliaventajado j Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. 

@gelliaventajado joined our family and led me to @bestbuddies. 

Thankful for all the ambassadors who were able to spend time with us. And for @smlpeeps  and @asurionphcareers for helping make magic happen on Saturday afternoon for #Friendsgiving.

#Thanksgiving #bestbuddiesph
Thankful for women who share their faith with me. Thankful for women who share their faith with me. 

#Thanksgiving
Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at this time of year? Whole turkeys require serious commitment to cook. #IYKYK But because U.S. Poultry is now available here in the Philippines, that also means preparing turkey is a tad bit easier.
 
Frozen U.S. turkey products are available and ready to cook for people who want to dabble with flavors for this bigger bird but aren't sure how.
 
Thank you to Chef @ivoryyat for putting together a medley of my favorite fall flavors. This combination of apples, sweet potatoes, and maple syrup perfectly compliment  the roasted turkey leg and remind me of flavors and scenes from back in New York. 
 
@usapeecphl l has the highest standards that follow USDA requirements which are certified safe before shipping to the Philippines. Get them in stores near you. 

#ad #Turkey #USTurkey #Thanksgiving #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ServeTurkey #EatTurkey
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2023 · Blog Design by Fancy Girl Design Studio

Copyright © 2023 · Divine Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

 

Loading Comments...