Sunday afternoon

Like father, like son.

Hina Matsuri

Last year I did a post on Hina Matsuri (click to read), or Doll's Day which is held on March 3rd. This year, our building owners have placed a magnificent display in our lobby. In addition, I've bought a small one for our home. Have a look!

Book Review: The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins. A lazy vacation provided me the opportunity to finish the second novel in the Hunger Games trilogy. The first novel, the Hunger Games was selected for book club. Because I could barely put it down, I had to read the second, Catching Fire. Now, I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the third, Mockingjay, this fall. Futuristic, the story takes place in the country formerly known as the United States of America, now known as Panem. Collins best explains how she came up with the idea by describing an evening of channel surfing that involved a reality television show and actual war coverage. Once you read the novel, that description is spot on. Here's hoping the author's creativity continues, and the third novel is just as thrilling as the first two! Lionsgate has acquired the rights to film production, but from what I read, we won't see it until 2011.

Playing Games

Let the games begin!

That is, four rounds of the matching game of Memory yesterday by the pool. Roo was victor in three of the four, with the fourth a tie game. He's quite good at this one and I can't help but wonder if a child's brain isn't more agile than an adults? We played many card games on this holiday and I'll admit I'm thrilled to do so. Up until now, Roo has been content to watch. The thought of losing or the stress to win was always too great. I've read and learned from other mothers that this isn't unusual in a four or five year old. At that age, winning is everything. While winning is still important, it's apparent that he's learning to cope as evidenced by his verbal outlay of emotion, for example, "it's ok if you have 2 sets (of Go Fish) and I only have 1 set because I won once already today". Or, the expression he's picked up for when one doesn't come in first, "lucky last". From what I can tell by reading, children are emotionally mature to handle winning or losing at around the age of 8, with the concept beginning to develop around the age of 6. While I'm not sure he's ready to engage in a round of cards with his peers, I'm happy he's finding it within himself to play within the comfort zone of Mom & Dad.

The thrill of winning! Utter elation!

The Victory Dance. Hmm...this may be future material for the end zone!

On the Beach

While Ryan went on a small tour of the area's historic sites, Roo and I played on the beach. Our first attempt at a race car track in the sand was stunted when the waves inched their way up on the shore. In the water, we dropped old pieces of bread (provided by the resort) to watch the hungry fish quickly gather around us. Snorkeling, we got an even closer look at their stripes and color markings.

We stayed cool in the shade, playing the Memory card game. Ryan returned at 2pm, surprised to see us still on the beach from the morning. Content to hang out in his chair, as long as we're talking, I can't help but think Roo's growing up. "Relax by the pool" wasn't in his vernacular a year ago. An even though the conversation is repetitive ("What's your favorite Lego Power Miner? What's your least favorite Lego Secret Agent set?"), I treasure these moments of conversation.

Water Shiatsu

Yesterday I experienced at Chi spa the most amazing therapy, water shiatsu. Floating in a warm pool, aided by floats on each leg, the therapist supports your body such that you can achieve weightlessness and complete relaxation. Ears plugged, eyes closed, and soothing incense baby your senses. Smooth, rhythmical moves stretch muscles and awaken the spine. In fact, the most gentle spine opening I've experienced. Water Shiatsu is one of the signature therapies offered by some, but not all, Shangri La Resorts. Delightfully indulgent, I feel fortunate to have received this unique treatment.

More Fun in the Philippines

What we've been up to:

Rounds on the chip and putt 6 hole golf course. Roo is enjoying the chance to swing an iron and is thrilled when his ball catches some air.

Drinks and

play by the pool. Roo has made progress with his swimming. He has been practicing holding his breath, putting his face in, and floating. Oh yes, and squirting Daddy.

Karaoke.

And, if you can tolerate the excessively loud music and polar temps, the race car in the game room. Honestly, I'm not sure I've seen Roo as pumped as he was after playing this game. We played tonight, and I'm certain he'll still be talking about it in the morning!

The Filipino people here are so friendly. And happy. In fact, so much so that they have me pondering their secret. Is it the tropical weather? The breeze? The sun? The juicy mangoes? Riding in a jeepney? Their Catholic faith? Regardless of the reason, the rarely missed positive greeting or expression makes one feel like a welcome guest!