My World of Life's Adventures

Kids Love it

2012-02-17T19:27:00.000-08:00

Guest post written by my buddy Judy Guerrero

I think the kids like the Dish Television less than I do, and I got it for them! I really love my Housewives shows and I know that’s terrible to say, but I’m a housewife and I can totally relate to some of their little dramas! There are other shows on, too, that sort of reflect that same lifestyle and my newest guilty pleasure is called Texas Multi Mamas and it’s all about all the kind of redneck women in Texas who have twins or more. I think it’s just the funniest thing seeing grown women fight about things like the fact that one didn’t get invited to a party or that the other spilled the beans that she met her husband while being a Hooters waitress – I mean, my life is all laundry and PTA so I can’t really say I’ve got the SAME struggles but there’s always something. Someone didn’t make cupcakes for their kid’s birthday or didn’t get the teacher a good enough gift…

Skin Rashes (Again!)

2012-01-25T18:19:00.000-08:00

Tuesday last week, I got this tiny red spots popping out on my skin that started on the left side of my back down to my legs. The one on my back was itchy, and I only was able to take a look at it on the mirror when I went for a shower. They were very red and streaky! The red streaks were due to my scratches and they were irritating. I put some anti itch ointment on the itchy spots, and it seems to be relieving it.

The spots on my legs and thighs were not itchy and they are the same ones that popped out in the summer of 2010.

Anyway, I went to the doctor for a check up and gave me a short term treatment of Prednisone and anti allergy meds called Periactin good for a week. I am feeling better now, and the spots are going away.

The only thing that I am not sure of is what's causing those spots to appear since the doctor said it was not petechiae. If it's an allergy reaction, I am not sure if it is due to food, detergents or cleansing chemicals I use. So, I think I need to observe the detergent I am using, and at the same time cleansing chemicals.

I should have taken a shot of the rashes so I can share it, but I was so overwhelmed and got alarmed a little bit, so it didn't get through my mind taking a photo of it. They are nasty looking...LOL!

Generosity

2012-01-19T19:36:00.000-08:00

Guest post from: Mohamed Simon

When I turned on the news last week through Direct tv richmond, I was captivated with a story about a woman who had recently lost her husband. Upon his death, she received a large sum of money from his estate. As a wonderful tribute to the man that she grieved, she made a decision to go into random K-marts and pay off people’s layaway accounts. Her generosity sparked other people’s generosity, and these random acts of kindness spread across the country. It’s funny- hate can breed hate, but love and generosity can do the same. This story truly inspired me to pay my blessings forward. Not for show or for the appreciation from others, but for genuine care and compassion for another human being. The funny thing is, it doesn’t take much. Sometimes a kind word, a smile, or just holding the door open for a mother struggling with her bags of groceries and a toddler in hand can make all the difference in a person’s day. These small acts of kindness just may inspire others to do the same.

Blogger's Bad Glitches! :(

2012-01-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

I should say, if anything catches up any glitch due to downed servers due to maintenance, etc...I can still hang up unto it, but NOT for blogger!

I have 5 active blogs hosted from blogger, and considering that these blogs are ALL income earners, I couldn't just afford to let them undergo bad glitches. I couldn't imagine myself sitting in front of my PC the whole day trying to figure out what was happening one day when all of a sudden ALL of my .com domain blogs were no longer accessible. I found out later that the problem seems to be on my end which means anybody can access them normally in another location, except for me! Oh well, that was partly a good news so all those unpaid posts can still be accessed for further checking so that I can be paid! :)

On the other hand, I still have to get them back to normal because I need my URL posts for every paid blog post I will submit. Considering that I have one pending paid post to be done the next day, I need to work double time in order to get it back to normal.
Ah...research here and there paid off, finally!!!! Whew!

I had to switch all my .com blogs to their blogger sub domain, which made me so hesitant at first because what if I can't switch them back to their .com? I took the risk anyway, but I had to start working on the one that is the least active blog, although that one has a Google page rank 1 (PR) already. I was just thinking the PR will get affected with the switching, but so far, it is still there!

It was just a good feeling to see them get back to normal seeing them online. But that glitch was strange to me and up to now, I don't have any idea what cause them to went "mixed up"!

Ahhh...blogger, you made me crazy for a day!

Actos Cancer Lawyers

2012-01-11T10:23:00.001-08:00

I don't have diabetes and thus I have not tried this drug product called Actos. Many diabetic patients have been reported to be using this product particularly for Type II diabetics. Actos with a generic name of Piogliatazone is manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceuticals.

But Actos is not for everyone with diabetes. Bad reports that have been received by liability lawyers are too overwhelming where many Actos users have been diagnosed with bladder cancer, one dangerous side effects of the drug that seems to have gone unnoticed by many users.

I don't have any idea yet what is the stand of FDA, the manufacturer and many medical experts as to a massive recall of this product from market shelves. But the fact is that many lawsuits are being filed nowadays with many Actos users claiming for liability injuries and damages from the manufacturer. If you think you have a case similar to this, you maybe entitled for a compensation.

When It Is More Blessed To Give Than To Receive!

2011-12-29T10:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas and other special occasions are NOT the only time for giving or "sharing our blessings." It is being done everyday! You see, blessings come in various forms, and we give and share in various ways. For me, I see giving and sharing blessings as a chain of constant, continous link that always leads to a good cause. It means, giving should be non-stop that passes from one to another. It is because "giving is a kingdom principle, and it brings MORE BLESSINGS to the giver than the recipient."
One who shares his/her blessings doesn't expect any payment or exchange in return from his/her bretheren. Of course, God is always watching, and He knows whom to give His blessings to those who deserve. On the other hand, the recipient can pass on the "giving link" to another. I bet you know what I am trying to say, right? ;) The reason why I mentioned earlier that giving should be a non-stop link.

The Bible practically points out a lot of scriptures about giving. One scripture that stood out for many is in Acts 20:35 : - "It is more blessed to give than to receive". You don't need to be a Bible scholar to find all those scriptures, but it is just vital to read our Bible from time to time, because it is the Word of God.

On the other hand, in many instances, it is sometimes sad to see and feel that many who receive would just be contented to accept. They would make up stories that they are incapable of giving anything...because they are poor, they don't have money, they are too weak, sick, disabled, etc...True Christians can always see things worth giving to other people. Fake ones would only be sticking to one golden rule: "What is yours is also mine, and what is mine is only mine!"

Beware of those people who would only love you because you give them something, particularly material things...especially "MONEY"! Beware behind your backs that those people whom you choose to share your blessings with, would be saying things against you, and yet they can bring you the sweetest smiles when you are with them face to face!
There are more people who need our blessings to be shared that are more deserving than for people who are hypocrites. Not unless you want to give just for the sake of a show! Not unless you want to give and share because you are guilty of something?

Beware of people who only want to be with you because you give them money! In other words, they see you as a walking ATM on the road, and that wherever you are they would be happy to be with you.

On the part of the "giver", I don't see anything wrong with people who are generously sharing their blessings in public. Each has his own perspective why one chooses to do it that way. It's only God who knows what the real intentions are. Public sharing/giving is NOT condemnable, either. It pleases God's eyes when we do good works as a RESULT of salvation but NOT the MEANS for salvation. (Titus 3: 5, 8).

Watch out what the Bible says in Romans 4:5. "A person cannot WORK FOR his salvation." And it is being supported by a passage at Philippians 2:12. (This time, read your Bible! :))

I am delighted and very thankful for our Lord, that we have been graciously blessed in many ways. We believe it's because our blessings are shared to those who are deserving! We keep quiet whenever possible when it comes to sharing. We would sometimes prefer to be called "anonymous donors", and we want to maintain it that way. But there are times that we have to share our blessings publicly...when the need to do it arises. God works in mysterious ways through people whom He chooses to give blessings to those who truly need!

I hate to tell this again, but I just feel like telling it again. I don't have any intentions of hurting anybody if you get hit, but if you do, I think there's no reason to get bitter. I am not even perfect that sometimes I tend to get hit by those things I write. ugh! Of course, there's no reason to get bitter or get mad because if I need to be rectified of the mistakes I did previously, I always let myself stand corrected.

Why are there people who tend to get bitter and tend to be "demanding" whenever they feel they haven't felt any of the blessings we are sharing? I will answer that. It is because I felt they are more blessed than those "others" I choose to share our blessings with!
Why are there people who get so upset when they haven't been visited and even more upset when you visit them without giving any monetary gifts? Or shall I say they don't need your presence when you don't have money in your wallet?
Why are there people who are already blessed enough to live a good life and yet when they see other people who have something better still want to get theirs and claim it as their own?

I felt when I and my family was struggling to survive, we didn't ask any demands of any other means to people who should be there for us when calamity strikes! We prayed instead. When people would be getting together for special occasions, and we are left behind, I kept quiet and didn't complain. I felt happy and prayed for constant happiness for them. When I was going in and out of the hospital, I didn't bother asking other people to help me on my hospital bills because I know nobody can't...(and won't!). I prayed and I understood. When my mom was sitting on a corner crying because she didn't know what to do, I knew she needed somebody to help her so bad...but nobody cared! I prayed that God would comfort her. When the shelter that we occupy starts to leak and the bed I sleep at night would be drenched with raindrops, while others are sleeping so tight on their homes with tightly secured windows and doors, I didn't say anything and didn't complain. Instead I prayed for hope. My mom didn't mind being ignored while living alone in a place she called home while she struggles to walk so bad and can't barely make it for a few distances because nobody would say "are you okay? When I aired my grievances to my mom and asked "Do we still have a family?"...she calmly would say "Don't turn your heart into a stone, pray for our family instead!" I did and I am still praying for all of them because I love them. " And yes, during those times, I was still counting my blessings day by day!

Thank God, He really puts people in the right place at the right time when all we need were support, prayers, spiritual nurturing, love, patience and understanding. These are the people who are part of whom we share our blessings with! Probably, they know who they are so I won't be name dropping :).

I always feel proud to hear when a family would stand up and initiate the practice of sharing and giving. We always pray for people who are kind hearted and want to encourage anyone from the family not only to be thankful and stop there! Move and start sharing to others as well. Don't let ourselves stick to receiving.

How about you? Are you counting your blessings and sharing them because you are saved through grace by our Lord Jesus Christ or you just want to share only for a show?
I know where I stand and I know where I am coming from, as much as I know my family who raised me up not to become greedy, but only to live within what God would provide for us.

Stay at home Mom

2011-12-20T05:55:00.001-08:00

Thanks for the post from Al Mills

Being a stay at home mom means we now have to save money like never before. We need to work hard as a family to make sure being on one income is enough for us but it’s totally worth it considering I get to be home with the girls during the day. I know once they start school I may look into a part time job but for now I’m happy just being here with them in their greatest time of need. So we’ve been saving left and right to make the transition easier and we’ve been cutting back in places you wouldn’t expect. I love having so many options – I went to http://www.giveadish.com/ to get a better TV deal and I’ve been talking to the grocery store about a layaway program. I even sold my new car and got a used one to give us a few extra thousand in cash! My husband’s been really happy with the arrangement and I know that it won’t be long before I get to tell him I’m pregnant again!

Our Friday Movie Date!

2011-12-17T15:46:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, there are really lot of unexpected surprises I get out of online surfing ;). For instance, yesterday, I visited my bookmarks and thought of checking what's new from my favorite theater showings. I then saw the Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol at the bottom of the theater schedule and it shows it won't be shown until the 20th of next week. I tried watching the trailer anyway, and I discovered there are initial IMAX screenings dated for December 16, (Friday) which was yesterday. I tried asking my husband if we could go watch it at the IMAX theaters in Columbia, MD since he was coming home early anyway. So, luckily he said yes, but we have to buy tickets online. Good thing we called because the previous showing slots for that day were getting sold out. So, I hurriedly got the tickets online for the 7PM showing, and luckily, it was still available.

We arrived at the theater at 6:30pm, and the line was already long, lol! I stayed in the line, while hubby went to get our drinks and popcorn. It was perfect when we came in because we belonged to the early seaters going in. So, we were able to get a good seat at a perfect angle!
We love the movie shown through Imax!! It was really, really worth it!

That was our Friday movie date that wasn't planned and it happened as smoothly as possible without any hassles! Whew! Thank you, beloved!

We Will Miss You Hi-Dee!

2011-12-06T19:55:00.000-08:00

It's been 5 days since "Hi-Dee", my mom-in law's doggy passed away! She was 11 years old when she died on December 1st. That dog gave us a lot of memories and as for mom and George, she was the constant bundle of joy! She was treated like their own daughter and had always been a baby to them. I know the feeling!

The last time they called us, we can feel the grief surrounding them, and by just mentioning Hi-Dee's name to them is just a pain. So, we thought that we should avoid talking about her until both of them can completely recover. They are still currently in the grieving process, and I know it takes time before they can completely accept it.

To know more about what happened that day Hi-Dee showed the signs of leaving us, read it HERE.

Blu Electronic Cigarette

2011-11-17T14:59:00.000-08:00

If you can't seem to quit from smoking, there is still one smart option to choose, and that is to probably try electronic cigarette from Blu.

It has a big difference comparing it to your regular cigarette brand that you use because you can smoke it without any second hand smoke, there is no tar and tobacco, odorless and even no ash. Cool, isn't it?

This is one good thing when you use it in places where people are around you such as in the airports, bars, coffee shops, etc...

Besides, you can save more than 50% cheaper than any ordinary cigarettes.

If in case that you are not contented or it doesn't satisfy your taste, don't worry because your money won't go into waste ;). There is a 30-day money back guarantee.

Our Philippine Trip Update

2011-11-07T04:58:00.000-08:00

I haven't been posting much these days, although I would always love to catch up sharing our updates and what we are currently doing, our plans and more. But anyway, since I can still have the time to do it, it would be nice sharing another post with you guys!

Our trip to the Philippines was fun! Although it was shorter (2 weeks only, instead of the usual 3 weeks), we were able to make all of our plans worked. Thank God for the successful house warming of our new home there. It was good to see old friends once again, and some church family friends as well. We had fun hanging out with our family even for just few days before we left.
It was like too short for me to enjoy, but I still am thankful that God allowed us to see family once more. The only difficult time to bear is the leaving part, but there is that thing we always look forward to...to come back!

And yes, we are going back in March 2012. It would still be 2 weeks, but I shouldn't be complaining. We are still full of so much blessings. I should be thankful!
It is one big thing I always look forward to...our Philippine trip.

We are planning for a family Boracay trip next time. We hope it would all work well, God willing! The kids having fun would be more than enough happiness for us!

ON the border

2011-10-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

Guest post written by Kevin Beach

I was watching my favorite morning show on Direct TV this morning and they had a segment that highlighted a new reality television show called “Border Town Loredo” . The show is a totally new cop show idea. Basically it follows a narcotics division in a border town in Texas. The situations are really dangerous. We hear a lot about how dangerous the Texas border cities have become, but now we will actually get to see just how dangerous it is. We have a friend from Texas that insists that the violence along the border is just as bad as we see in the media. He said that his parents moved from a border town in Texas to Dallas. They felt like the area was getting really dangerous and that the school were not as good as they were in Dallas. It seems like the border officers face life and death situations everyday. It is really a service that these officers are doing for our countries trying to stop heavy drug traffickers. I am going to be watching the show!

Interpretation, Please!

2011-10-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

Imagine when you are somewhere in a country that doesn't speak English widely! That would be so hard to think about because without any knowledge in a country's language, you will be stuck!

Take for example, China. It is a country where you have to learn a Chinese language through speaking, reading and writing. If you are just a visitor, those are not learned in one sitting. Besides, I think there is no need to learn all those, unless you decide to stay in China for good ;).

Nowadays, the Chinese people are catering to more people all around the world when it comes to business. You can actually prove this with China sourcing, that is continously gaining a fast growth, right? So, you could just imagine how an interpreting service could do a vital job in meeting your needs for proper interaction with businesses you do with China.

In China, the importance of Chinese-English interpreting is highly needed. Thank goodness for Rosetta Translation ;). It has gone a long way providing its expertise in offering one of its range of interpreting services in Shanghai and Beijing and even in some parts of the country to meet the needs of many business clients that come from all parts of the world.

In Chinese interpreting, you can either choose various modes like telephone, liaison, consecutive, simultaneous or whispered simultaneous interpreting that fits your needs. You can then get your free quote online as to how you would want the service be done for you. Isn't that cool?

Thanks Rosetta Stone!

Plans & Current Updates!

2011-10-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

I missed posting on this blog for a while. As much as there are so much things to be done, there are also a lot of things going on in my mind that I sometimes tend to procrastinate that even posting our updates from time to time is neglected. {sigh!} Blame it on me!

Anyway, 3 weeks more to go before our big and loooong trip to the Philippines! There are so much things to look forward to in this trip. One will be our housewarming party which has been postponed once due to time constraints. God willing, this will be pushed through this month.

Meanwhile, we are still currently having some more house repairs here being done. Mostly are done outdoors, so we don't have to worry about being in the house all the time. We have been previously on trips, both for work trips and pleasure trips in the weekends. The latter is always being much appreciated because it is purely for relaxation and fun visiting some places :).

I find it challenging to get so caught up with many things and sometimes I would end up not doing anything but sit in front of my PC and doing nothing, lol! Household chores, preparing trips in between, then annoying headaches at times, shopping, another trip coming, etc....ahhhh!
I am also doing good with my paid blogging opportunities nowadays, so I was just focused on those blogs posting paid opps. rather than in here.
Hopefully, as I would get the chance to hang out and post here more often, I would be able to gain a PR here! That way, I don't have any reason not to post, lol!

Got to go back to work. Both chores in the house and online are still waiting for now.
Til my next post again folks!

Actos Injury Lawyers

2011-09-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

I have been hearing about Actos lawsuit for patients who happened to be using an oral diabetes medicine called Actos.

It has been known from a recent study that this drug can lead to harmful side effects such as heart failure and increased risk of bladder cancer, thus can lead to an Actos lawsuit that can be filed by patients that have been injured by Actos drug.

If you happened to be one of those that are harmed by this drug's side effects, you can have product liability claims with the help of credible and well-experienced injury lawyers.

O'Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath can help you as your Actos Injury Lawyers if you think you have a case. A case evaluation is free if you get in touch with them either by phone or online.

The Last Day Of Summer

2011-09-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of summer. Although it seems Fall came in a bit earlier, it was not too cold enough for me to bear, except that when we arrived Wilkes-Barre, PA it became so cold in the mornings (in the 50's). I wouldn't wonder why since we are up here in the mountains! :) That's quite understandable and thank goodness, I was perfectly prepared in my packing as I bought jackets with me.

This week was entirely cooler and you wouldn't think it was still summer. Now, it's rainy here in Wilkes-Barre, PA. I suddenly miss home. We've been here for 5 days now. It was a good thing to think that the neighborhood is quite ideal for me. So that while hubby is at work, I can go to the mall which is just a walking distance from our hotel (Quality Inns & Suites), and the neighborhood is surrounded with restaurants, convenience stores and the mall of course. I went to the mall several times without the hubby, and I was able to still find some summer tops that I was trying to get for our Philippine trip next month.

I am not yet ready for summer to go, but nature does its own way the way it should be, lol. Anyway, it would be a great time to plan for an early fall foliage trip again if hubby's schedule would allow it. But I think there should be no problem if it will be in the weekends. I would surely not miss much about the pretty fall colors before we go to the Philippines. I think the peak of the fall will be the time we will be leaving for Philippines. But either way, it would be both something to look forward to on the fall foliage trip and the Philippine trip.

Goodbye summer...I'll surely miss you til next year :(. Hello, Fall! I would surely be able to see your colors once again. I hope you would allow us to see your true colors before we leave.

So Much Things To Do!

2011-09-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we were out of hurricane "Irene", then came the raining non stop for a week. There were floodings in some part close to our area within our county, thank God we had the sunshine today! It was a bright day and still has the warmth of summer. I know we are on the last week of summer.
Sooner, fall is here. How I wish summer will be extended :(.

Since last week, we started getting a repair guy to fix our window screens, cut the tree in front of the house close to our garage door, and let somebody fix the piece of sidings on the right side of the house. We also had let the repair guy remove some of our back fence and extend the rest of the ends on the neighbors' fences, and the back porch has to be repaired as well.
So many concerns, and yet next week, we will be away for 5 days going Pennsylvania.

We hope everything should be all done before we go home to the Philippines in October. Whew!
We are looking forward to be just having R & R there and no stress for a while ;).
We'll see you soon, family!

Topamax Birth Defects Lawsuit

2011-09-10T10:27:00.000-07:00

Topamax may not be good for everybody. Although I have read some articles regarding some people who claim that they didn't encounter any harmful effects of the drug, much more that many people have been victims of the harmful side effects.

The drug is not approved by FDA according to my reads and when used by pregnant women, it can lead to serious birth defects and abnormalities. Topamax is an anti-convulsant drug used to treat epileptic seizures and sometimes being given to patients for migraine headaches.

How about those that are victims of the drug? What will happen to them?
You will be glad to hear that there are injury lawyers that are open about it and are willing to help the victims by filing a Topamax lawsuit. You can call them for a free consultation and free case evaluation as well.
Take note of them at the address posted below.

O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath – Personal Injury Lawyers – 808 West Avenue, Austin, TX. 78701 – 512-494-9949

Hurricane Warnings!

2011-08-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Irene has already started her fury in North Carolina, smashing the coastlines. We couldn't probably feel her strength until late tonight. I am always praying for safety of all and for us at home. I hope we still can get a slighter pressure considering that we are not close to the bay...am crossing fingers!
Some are losing electric powers now, and I hope we won't...or if ever, it won't be that long. My gosh! I can't live without internet, lol!
I'm keeping my phones and 2 ipads well charged up!
C'mon Irene, just leave fast!

Paypal's Alert Email

2011-08-23T19:30:00.000-07:00

The other day, I got an email alert warning from Paypal telling me that my account will be on hold temporarily for any outgoing transactions until I would be able to change my password and check entirely that my account hasn't been used for any anomalous transactions.
It was kinda alarming as well, and I felt so concerned when I ordered something online and I can't get my item I bought...whew!
Anyway, I posted the detailed experience I got. If you want to know what happened, please read it HERE.

Go Modern Furniture

2011-08-22T16:55:00.000-07:00

One of the most exciting part of moving into a new house is when you are into that part where you choose and buy your new furniture that look best for your home. Of course, I had that feeling when I moved into our home last year.
Bonaldo Designer Furniture is one of those online shops where you can get to choose very elegantly designed furniture for your home while you are in London. If you love to have designs that are ultra contemporary and yet timeless, it's the ideal place to go to.

It would be nice to have those simply yet exceptional quality sofa beds that are comfortable enough to be used daily either as sofa and beds. They are made of high quality materials consisting of thick spring mattresses making the products tough for long duration of time.

Quite an endless choices to choose from on all kinds of home furniture. Take a look at them!

MY Shop

2011-08-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the guest post by Kristofer Bartlett

I do hair for a living and it’s always been my passion so there’s really nothing wrong with the way I do business, in my opinion. My dad keeps sticking his nose into things and telling me what to change and who to fire but the way I see it it’s my company that I built from the ground up and I don’t have to take orders from anyone. I recently made a lot of improvements to the salon like adding Www.SatelliteStarINTERNET.Com internet and getting a security alarm to protect everything at night and it set me back a pretty penny. My dad wasn’t too happy about that decision but I think I’m being a really savvy businesswoman! I think he’s just outdated in the way he sees things and I could teach him a thing or two about what it takes to survive in this economy. I love him to death but if he doesn’t butt out soon I may lose more than my temper with him!

An Act Of Kindness

2011-08-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, I and my husband went to Big Lots store to find some stuff I could add for my "balikbayan box". This is one of my favorite stores to go to when it comes to buying some cheaper items and yet are still good qualities. Most of the items here are also sold in bulk, and in cheaper prices, just an ideal place for sending items in bulk as well ;).
Then it was time to check out at the counter. We were next in line to an elderly couple who seem to be adding every cents carefully with the salesclerk, just to be sure they don't overspend their meager budget. We saw them with their items bought at 50 cents each and one item which was a book was priced $5 bucks. The book was mixed with those 50 cents items and it so happened that it was only misplaced on that area. They thought it was also priced at 50 cents. The male told the clerk he couldn't afford the book at $5 bucks so he put it away. The book has a title called "freedom"...(yup, my eyes caught them.)
My husband then went to grab the book back and I thought he's gonna get it for himself, but then asked the old man if he wanted the book. I saw the old guy gave him a forced smile. The hubby paid the book and gave the book to the old man saying "I want you to have this book". The old man was a little bit surprised I think while the salesclerk said...awww, you have a good heart sir!" The old man then said "thank you sir" giving a shy smile, but had excitement in his eyes.
I suddenly felt so touched, and I felt my eyes are getting blurred. I told myself...no, don't cry, that's embarrassing, LOL! I just felt so happy and proud seeing my husband helping others and seeing them happy. That day, my admiration towards my husband has grown more, and the love I have for him became bigger and stronger. For 7 years that we have been together since we got married, this man I chose to be with has the most generous heart and has the feeling of happiness and fulfillment helping others. And I don't wonder why God has been so good to him. He has been giving more than enough blessings to him so he can give it back to others.

My thankfulness to Him is endless and I will never get tired thanking Him and counting my blessings as well. It's because the most precious blessing He had given me is also a continous blessing for others.

To God Be The Glory!

Philippine Trip Update

2011-08-03T23:16:00.000-07:00

It would be really something looking forward to for our Philippine trip this year. Our dates are set and submitted for booking with our travel agent which means we already are sticking on the dates. We are currently on the process of finalizing payments and some paper works needed to be filled out for submission at the travel agency.
Hhhmmm... it seems these paper works are now the SOP for travel companies nowadays, as required by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration). I remember doing the same paper works last year as well.

We are set to leave on October 22, arriving Philippines on October 24 and coming back on November 4. It will only be a shorter trip for us this time (2 weeks) so we can be able to go back for our March 2012 trip.
I hope everything will move smoothly with all the plans on our housewarming there. I guess we have to do an early planning this time. Invitations are actually done already and included them in one of our balikbayan boxes. Two of the boxes have already been sent, so hopefully it would be received there before we arrive.

Meanwhile, I still have to update our Caribbean cruise as well. I have been lagging behind on our recent trip updates. So, I think I need to double my time posting updates before totally forgetting all the dates and all...{sigh!}
We are also seeing another big trip next month in the west coast...perhaps San Francisco and some neighboring cities. No confirmation yet but just in case, we know what to expect.

Oh boy! How could I be able to do all computer works at the same time? I still need to check the photos and trip dates during our weekend trips previously. There are so many work to be done. Trip updates, paid blogging, website updates...ahhhh!
Okay, so I need to calm down!..lol!

Guess what? I don't think I should be pressured. I don't have any boss, remember? :)

Zoloft Lawsuit

2011-07-09T17:14:00.000-07:00

Just a friendly reminder for all pregnant women out there who happened to be taking antidepressants. Did you know that the antidepressant drug called Zoloft may cause birth defects to your unborn baby? There has been some studies about this, so I'm sure many mothers out there don't want to risk their babies having birth defects that would make them suffer later on all their life because of it.

Are you familiar with the Zoloft Lawsuit as well? If you think you have a case, then you know what to do and where to go for help, right? You deserve to be compensated if proven that you're a victim of Zoloft's harmful side effects.
The address is posted just right below this post if you need help.

O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath – Personal Injury Lawyers – 808 West Avenue, Austin, TX. 78701 – 512-494-9949

My Apple Babies

2011-07-02T09:09:00.000-07:00

My Ipads 1 & 2, ipod classic and Iphone 1 (32GB)

Every time Apple gadgets are being released to the public, the competition from other brands made more Apple products even stronger and incomparable! I am not making a paid post for Apple (although I would be all willing to if they pay me, lol!), but I am an Apple user, from my Ipod to Ipad2 ;).

But anyway, since Apple Iphone and Ipad were made out to the public, many competitors started making their own "copycats", taking the chance of what other features they could add that Apple can't. But technically, Apple still tops everybody else.

There's nothing to argue about when you have Apple. In every product released for the first time, it wouldn't be perfect...and no gadget (even to other competitors) are 100% perfect for the first time it is released. Apple upgrades gets better and better every time they have ones. And taking one step at a time is always a success!

Homemade chocolate Valentine's Day treats

2011-06-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

Guest post written by Rachel White

I love chocolate candy, so when holidays come around and there's even more candy available, I go kind of crazy and buy a lot of it to eat. It's been the same for Valentine's Day this year, as soon as they put out some of the holiday themed candy at the grocery store, I bought several bags of it. But I also got kind of inspired when I saw on a TV talk show where someone made homemade Valentine's Day candy, so I decided to make some too.

I tried to track down a recipe for those peppermint dark chocolate truffles that I saw that talk show host make on TV and when I was online looking for it, I came across the website www.get.wildblue.com. After I looked through most of the website, I decided to switch over my home internet service to the internet provider.

Well, I did track down a truffle recipe like what I wanted to make and I've bought all the stuff for it. It definitely isn't the simplest dessert, or at least it appears that way from the recipe, but I think they'll be so good that they'll be worth the work.

It's Officially Summer! ;)

2011-06-23T05:59:00.000-07:00

Since I got this blog moved from friendster to here, I haven't been able to visit it as much as I could. So, it's been more than a month since my last post and I thought of getting another post done before this blog would be forgotten, LOL!
There are so many things to tell about my updates.

First, God is so good that He allowed me to get back my pageranks (PR) from Google. My 3 blogs have been earning with PR's 1, 2 & 3 respectively. Since I regained PR's, my blogs have been overwhelmed with paid posts since September last year. The posts can really make me busy in a day and would sometimes be exhausting. But as many would say, "strike while the iron is hot!" because page ranks can become unstable...like here today, gone tomorrow.
They are still here for 9 months now, so pending posts are still waiting.

This blog has no page rank, (yet), and hopefully in God's due time, it can have one too! But good thing is it is still earning! So, it's also an income earner.

Next update. It would be 29 days more to go before our Caribbean Cruise trip for 4 days. It would be my first so I am excited! :) I haven't started the packing yet, but I was able to get done with choosing our shore excursions online. These are all prepaid, so that it will all be a breeze when we are on board. We don't need to be shelling out money and credits left and right on the ship from time to time, except perhaps for some tips.

Next is our Philippine home. It has been declared official...we are extending another room, yey!! The agreement and estimates have already been done together with our contractor. I actually decided to have a canopy in front to protect the maindoor from rain and too much sun. I will be posting some photos for our house updates soon. The canopy is done (thank God), and just above it will be where the proposed room extension is. Hopefully, this will be the last of all the constructions that has been done, lol!

And finally, our trip to the Philippines this October. We've set the dates, but the hubby has still to submit the dates at his work for approval. We haven't got the ticket yet, since we are still figuring out if we can be able to drop by Hawaii for hubby's training session. It has to be approved by his company first since they have to come up with a budget for that, so it's kinda like we are still hanging.

So, these are all for the moment. I can probably catch up again for more updates after a month :). For the moment, I should be back to work and blog, blog and blog, with some household chores in between. I can feel I am a "jack of all trades" in my house, LOL!

Ciao!

Cold Therapy Injury Law Firm in Texas

2011-05-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

It must be a nightmare having an experience of cold therapy injuries. Who should be happy anyway? And what if you happened to be one of the victims? If you think you have a case about a cold therapy lawsuit, cold therapy lawyers from O'Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath Law Offices can help you sort things out.

The firm is based in Texas, so you should be more lucky enough to seek their help if you happened to be Texas-based.
Start fighting for that right today! Feel free to contact them online for a free case evaluation or get in touch with them through phone at 877-494-9949.
Consultation is free.

O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath – Personal Injury Lawyers – 808 West Avenue, Austin, TX. 78701 – 512-494-9949

Blog Imported From Friendster!

2011-05-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

So, finally this blog has a new home for good! Thank God, I was able to import all my entire blog from friendster (this blog). I wouldn't regret doing this thing because I have been thinking of shifting this blog to other blog host site ever since before but I don't know how.

When friendster, (a social networking site) announced that they will be shutting all blogs, profiles and photos, I just did the importing right away since they helped me with all the proper steps and guide on how to do it. Of course, blogspot is really my favorite {wink}! I have been maintaining 4 blogs with them and even got my domain names with it. Another thing, I feel more convenient and more comfortable posting with blogspot...easy and just a breeze.

I hope I can be able to build a good stability of this blog with blogspot, including a page rank sooner, lol!

Refurbishing yard sale patio furniture for my home

2011-04-23T13:34:00.000-07:00

Guest post written by Cynthia Wilson

If I can find something for a little less, I definitely take advantage of it and take the deal. Sometimes that means that you have to take what you get and fix it up a little bit. i was going to yard sales a few weeks ago and I found this really unique set of patio furniture. It did need a bit of work but it was such a great deal and a whole set, that I decided to take it and see what I could do with it. The price was that good that I could afford to eat the loss if the patio furniture was beyond use or repair.

But thanks goodness, the furniture is actually going to work. First I cleaned it pretty thoroughly and then I used some flat black paint to coat it and give it a more modern look. While I was online trying to find soem chair cushion patterns to use, I ran across the site get.wildblue.com. I looked through it a little bit and after that I decided to change over my home internet service to the provider.

I saw these really lush looking cushions with some patio designs that I based my makeover on my furniture on and basing my cushions off of that.

Current Updates!

2011-04-22T14:54:00.000-07:00

So, our next trip is set in July, - a Western Caribbean cruise...yey! It will be 4 nights, 5 days and will be departing from Miami, FL, which means we have to fly down there and then board the carnival ship on the departure date. We shall try to visit part of Miami and Key West, FL which is part of the itinerary, before the departure for Cozumel, Mexico. It should be fun doing it in the summer, much easier to pack clothes that way, lol!

We are as well eyeing to go Hawaii for a day or two before flying to the Philippines this October if hubby's training would be approved there. Cool!...something to be looking forward to ;).

Then, in October of this year, we will be going home again to finally schedule our housewarming. We are trying to work on dates when the kids are off school so we can hang together. Perhaps, a week with them would be good already, and hopefully we can set a schedule within that date for the housewarming party. I ordered invitations made special {wink} for people who will be around and can make it to attend our event. We aren't planning it to be a big event, just some few friends and family members are enough. The entire vacation would be a mixture of fun and making tough decisions in many things, which include some concerns on our dad's grave, and some decisions that have to be made.

On the other hand, hubby would be able to witness how "All Soul's Day" is being celebrated in the Philippines. We don't celebrate that in the US, but Easter Sunday is somewhat recognized :).

Would you believe our Philippine trip for next year is already planned as well? No exact dates yet, but it will be March 2012 where the kids are graduating...they made it, (yey again). Their tito Craig might get the chance to go up the stage for the graduates! Then their tito Craig would be treating them for a boracay adventure. Then, the planning would be tough because it would be a peak season. So, the earlier the better for the planning.

Well, this would be all for the meantime. It's just more on the updates of our plans.

So far, so good!

Happy Easter everyone!

When Money Goes Into The Wrong Pockets!

2011-03-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

I was dumbfounded the first time my husband told me these; - "Filipinos are so sweet, happy people but when it comes to money, their personalities suddenly transform into greed."...then he quickly added; "of course, NOT ALL of them do that. I married a Filipina because of her astounding positive qualities than any other woman would have." So, there was a relief on that part for me, lol!

I am not against his first statement, and I couldn't disagree on it...why? It's the truth!

It's heart breaking to hear such a negative feedback from other people who happen to be in and out visiting our country for many years, particularly if you hear one referring to your countrymen, race, family, relatives, etc... It's also disheartening if you know somebody, a friend, a co-worker, a family relative, classmate, etc..!

But the fact mentioned in the statement is mostly true to many people in the Philippines. I wonder if that statement could be an effective criticism done constructively and wake them up! I myself don't even know the exact reason why this behavior exists so strongly, but I might as well state some ideas coming from my keen sense of observation...eyes, ears, nose, mouth, sense of touch, and the extra mental telepathy! hahahaha!

So, how would you react when your money goes into the wrong pockets? or being mismanaged? Why is it that some people can take the chance of getting/accepting money from people who happened to trust them and wouldn't mind breaking that trust? Is it because Philippines is a poor country and thus most people are desperate? or is it just because they were born and raised being greedy? One thing bad about people that I know which leads them to greed is that most of them want to live above their means. I see that mostly to people in the Philippines. Of course, I am not singling out my country...greedy people are all over the world! It so happened, they became so populated in the Philippines! Is this the strong pull of influence of crab mentality? Why can't just they learn to live below their means or at least live within their means? It's just like " I wanna show them I can afford, even if my financial status couldn't." or shall I say; - "Pedro just bought a new house, so I wanna buy a mansion to show I'm better off."

I grew up with a poor family, but the thing I can be proud of is that no matter how difficult life was, money wasn't a big issue! My parents were not perfect, but they raised me away from the temptation of being greedy. Money wise, I was trained to save wisely and keep what's mine, and respect what others have. Being trustworthy is one vital trait that I've learned not only from my parents but from other concerned friends as well. Whatever is entrusted to you, you take care of it, and let it be that way.

I feel good that when it comes to money, my husband and I consider it as a delicate serious matter. When we talk about it, we don't debate, no disagreements. We don't even think of whose pockets will this money go? We don't use "my money" or "your money". It is OUR money.
I can say I'm so much blessed with a good husband with good financial stability. But we are living within our means. We have been so much blessed with many "extras" in life, but we still spend wisely.
I still search for coupons when I shop, I still go and mob with the crowd on the discount section of a store. Call me frugal, but worth it. It's the way how we live within our means!
I don't need to be so much interested accepting money from others putting it in my own pocket instead of taking the money to where it should be used.

If you are the one doing the bad behavior, how would you look at yourself when it comes to trust? Just imagine when you would hear people talking about you being NOT trustworthy, and greedy when it comes to money. For sure you won't be happy about it...who does, anyway? But if it's the truth, you deserve it! (forgive me for being blunt, but I'm just stating facts.)
You maybe helpful, sweet, friendly, kind, (name all the positive traits) but what do those do when you can't even earn trust from others? It's like you're covering yourself with fancy decors to hide your dark side. Not even your religious actions can save you from that. Only God sees the real truth and beware!

Of course, money is only one material thing, and we can't bring it with us when we die. Many people would say "that's just money", but it doesn't mean you have to grab somebody's money and be greedy, put them in your pockets and spend them all then make up stories. It's ridiculously none sense, don't you think?

"Money is the root of all evil"...and you being the devil's advocate, you like that?

Talking about trust, it's not being given to you. It's not a simple concept gained overnight, as a poem would say. It is gained from others through your actions rather than asking them to trust you.

So, just imagine when money goes into the wrong pockets...it's disaster! It ruins your personality and credibility if you're pocketing a money that's not yours. You might not be confronted by people whom you've done wrong, but someday, God will!

Yun lang po...thank you!!!

Spam Comments?

2011-02-15T03:13:00.000-08:00

It's really ridiculous! My email is always flooded with spam comments. Well, it's nice to read comments that are somewhat related to my posts, but most of these comments I'm receiving are from people who only want to promote their products. Sorry guys, but your comments wouldn't even reach the published status from my posts because they don't really look sensible enough to read!

I do blog about products and promote them, but I don't promote them as comments in a post that are even too far and not connected with the idea of the post.

There are lots of free applications out there to promote your sites or products without spending your time writing and promoting your products to any blog's posts that are not even closely related to the posts. You are just wasting your time commenting on gazillions of blogs out there just to promote your link, only to be deleted instantly because it just doesn't make any sense!

Just a warning message to everyone who gives spam comments on my posts! You are wasting your time doing it because they will be automatically deleted anyway.

Just imagine when there are comments about educational thesis, writing thesis, blah blah...on one of your posts with a title of: "Spending My Christmas With My Family". I don't even care to read that comment because it is not even related to the title of the post. Dang! When will these people understand what they are doing?

Anyway, thanks for the comments, but NO, THANKS! LMAO!!!LOL!!!

The Sunshine State

2011-02-15T03:12:00.000-08:00

Guest post written by Julia Krimp

This spring is going to be very exciting for my husband Mark and me. We are going to move out of New Mexico after 10 years and move to the east coast. Mark and I have had great business runs in the past five years, but somethingÕs calling us to moveÉand we both really want to go to southern Florida. While we get plenty of heat in New Mexico, there is still something very attractive about Florida to us, and we are going to start a new chapter of our lives down there. Mark has always loved the Florida Keys, and often talked about retiring down thereÉguess itÕll just be a little early! We are far from retirement, but it would be nice to be close proximity to them. Being close to the water in southern Florida is going to be paradise.

Before we go, Mark and I still have had to do a few things. We have been getting the house ready to put up the market. We searched for sears vinyl siding New Mexic0 online and found some help for the exterior. The inside just needs a little paint and it will be fine. ItÕs just about time to start our new lives in Florida!

So Little Time, Too Many Things To Do

2010-10-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid am getting caught up tangled with many things to be done before I would finally leave for Philippines! I am just counting the days and it's kinda funny how I would write down chores that have to be done each day until the last day I am at home.

Who said the life of a plain housewife is boring? Not for me! I got so many things to do, and still I work online as well. I could go to bed as late as 4AM to finish all work online, and upon waking up the next day, I start my day with household chores. If I get stubborn, I can just sit back and relax while watching TV or playing games on my iPad while getting sip on soda or lemonade and eating my favorite food. That's the good thing when you can control your time. I do it responsibly though. I can do multitasking through early planning ;).

Now, I have to get back to work! Dang!

Fight For Your Right

2010-10-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

Are you one of those patients from Depuy Orthopedics who had recently announced a recall of their hip replacement systems last August 26, 2010? If yes, are you one of those people who experiences pain and swelling from your hip replacement surgery done by the said company?
Don't ignore the pain, and seek help as soon as possible because it might be due to a defective Depuy hip implant.
You can actually file a liability claim through Depuy lawsuit if you have a proven case against them.
Hip implant problems are not simply ignored and with that said, there are several injury lawyers that are ready to help you pursue and fight for your liability rights like O'Hanon, McCollom & Demerath group.
Don't waste time. Check the site to get your free case evaluation online to know if you have a case.

O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath – Personal Injury Lawyers – 808 West Avenue, Austin, TX. 78701 – 512-494-9949

Blogging All The Way!

2010-10-05T12:26:00.000-07:00

It's now a little more than a month when Google updated page ranks and two of my blogs got PR3 and PR2. Since Google gave back to me my lost PR more than a year ago, I was flooded with paid opportunities through my email. In a matter of 3 weeks I got $400....pang shopping! LOL!

I know this page rank thingy is not permanent. Google updates every 3-4 months so I guess I would just "strike while the iron is hot!" as they would say ;).

I got 2 of my blogs active for earnings once again, with some non-paid posts in between. Well, it's quite tough when you run out of posts at times, so that's the challenging part. Then I would end up posting ads rather than what the blog is all about. Whew! Let's see when will Google takes back what they gave me. In that case, I am always ready to accept the consequences.

Now a Dual Citizen!

2010-08-27T05:31:00.000-07:00

Thank God, my oath for the retention of my Filipino citizenship was done! It was quite a long wait since I applied in May. They told me it would only take a month wait before I could be scheduled for the oath, but it took 3 months! It's entirely different dealing with the Philippine immigration as compared to the US. Although US immigration can be discouraging at times, everything is done in a manner where you would know what to expect.
The ceremony was so quick and smoothly done, so it was a breeze.

Our photos can be seen HERE.

Rare Gold Coins

2010-08-27T05:30:00.000-07:00

If there is something you would want to think about investing, think about gold coins. Why? Due to the fact that they are more stable than the paper currency and more valuable over time.

Start learning more about investing before you can proceed about gold investment, with the U.S. Gold Bureau which can give you valuable information that would lead you to make the right decisions. It would probably be one of the easiest investment decisions you can make because the U.S. Gold Bureau will be with you through the entire process.

You can get your free investor's kit online on their homepage and start learning the basics, and avoid the common mistakes most new investors usually commit.

An oath to be re-"Filipinized"

2010-08-21T00:11:00.000-07:00

After 3 months of waiting, I got my final schedule for oath next week at the Philippine embassy in D.C. Originally, they scheduled me for August 11th, but the date didn't work!

It's just so difficult to deal with their system as there are no clear rules to follow, and everything just leaves you hanging without any idea on what to do and how long is the wait. Contacting them is horrible...nobody answers the phone but a voicemail system. You're lucky to be talking to a real person but couldn't give you helpful information.

I then requested hubby to do the calling. We then both discovered that in order to speak to a real person on the phone is using the US government phone, lol! My hubby uses his work phone where in it has a caller ID that reflects the "US government". That solved the trick..LOL!

And so, he was able to talk to a guy and my case was put on for re-scheduling. Then, I received a call from the embassy last Wednesday at home that they are putting me for a schedule next week (can't divulge date yet). I will tell the exact date later after I'm done with the oath. It was a good thing hubby's schedule had no conflicts on the given date, so we'll be driving there next week.

After this, I should be done dealing with all the immigration issues.

I was an "Americanized" Filipino 4 months ago, then sooner I will be a re-"Filipinized" American, LOL!

I would soon be called "KANOY". Yes, soon to have my dual citizenship for my two beloved countries that I consider home :).

Our Updates!

2010-08-11T04:19:00.000-07:00

I feel it's been ages since I updated my last post. It has been a rough and tough, topsy-turvy kind of activities lately for me. Anyway, it's nice to be back once in a while. I always wish I can update my blog(s) almost daily. But it's not easy doing it with 5 blogs :). I have 4 blogs where I could post everything...from a simple daily chores to a paid ad post! LOL! Although this blog is mostly personal and more private, I still post some paid posts which I'm sure you wouldn't mind anyway coz nobody wants to read it, hahaha! If you see some paid posts in between, and you don't feel like reading it, it's easy...don't read it ;).

Our House:
So, our house is done! Like, a roof and 4 walls standing, you know, lol! But we still need to work on the interior aspect...like putting cabinets, water pipeline installation, floor tiling, etc... This is really one burden in the pocket as they would say, but it is our investment where we could be in it when hubby wants to stay longer in the Philippines.

As we went further with our expenses, we actually decided to give up on this because of so many loopholes in their service (PARC REGENCY). But the thing was we paid more than the amount of the down payment required and they wouldn't refund our money back!

Our house is now fully paid!...that's the only thing we are glad of. The interior construction is our current focus right now, after which I can do the interior designing later or perhaps hire one depending on how I feel once I get to see the house myself. I still have to prepare myself talking to the people there, and I hope I won't get any high blood pressure because every single step we would do for the house is always problematic! (haayzz, kalokah!)

So, the complete conclusion of the update would probably be when I get there and fix more things I need to do.

Our Trips:
Unexpectedly, we will be having a big trip coming next month in California for 5 days. This is of course a work trip by hubby. He will be training leaders of SSA in 5 big cities there...5 cities in 5 days! Imagine! So, it's like "one day here, drive there" for the next day. I wonder if we will be checking in with 5 different hotels as well? LOL! that would be challenging but fun ! The 3 cities are like 3 hours drive away from each other all the way from Los Angeles up to San Rafael.

I didn't expect any more trip coming so most of my summer clothes were already packed in a box and sent to the Philippines 2 weeks ago. It would still be warm in CA in late summer, so I don't want to be packing bulky sweaters and boots on our trip! So, I did some shopping (a little bit, lol!) for some summer wears for the trip.

Then, after the California trip, I would be focusing entirely on my Philippine trip (since I will be traveling alone). I will be traveling light which means no luggage to carry because I hate carrying heavy things when I do long trips. Of course more than half of my luggages were already on their way to the Philippines, so hopefully they are already there once I arrive Philippines.

Family:
It's difficult fighting for it if you know you are alone. There's no such thing as perfect in a family. In this world, we are always bound to be trapped and do crooked things but no matter what, you are always there striving to protect, care and love them! But this time, I felt all alone...perhaps I am praying all alone as well! God wants us to help ourselves. Praying for people won't help if that person you are praying for doesn't even pray for himself.

I am not judgemental. I don't judge wrongdoings. We are all imperfect. it's only Him up there who can judge us. I pray for them, to get back on the right track and move on because I love them. How I wish we would all do the same thing. Why do we have to keep hatred in our heart because of a certain mistake one had done in the past? Why do we have to do another mistake over again where we already know the consequences in the end?

Ahhh....my mind is tired.

Heart is aching! :(((((

Always stare at a spectacle.

2010-08-06T02:38:00.000-07:00

Always stare at a spectacle.

Booking Our Florida Trip

2010-06-17T16:00:00.000-07:00

Next month, I will be flying to Orlando and will meet a classmate-friend I haven't seen since 1990 after we graduated from college. It's been 20 years! So I thought, it would be nice to bond. So, then, I started working on our trip itinerary, found a cheap hotel close to Disneyworld and got flight schedules from Southwest.

We are regular customers of SOuthwest airlines. Everytime we fly with them, it's just smooth and hassle-free...and no baggage fee!!! :). Both I and hubby are members of their miles rewards program. So, this will be the second time that they gave us a free round trip ticket to any destinations in the US. So, we were thinking of just using the one FREE RT ticket and pay the other RT ticket which is like more than $200 to Orlando. After booking our ticket with SOuthwest, my husband told me he only paid $55 for the one RT ticket because he found out that according to the Southwest lady on the phone, I have a free RT ticket that was expired! I was thinking that I am not yet qualified with the miles rewards program and I was just thinking all the way that only my husband is the one being qualified because he would always receive it from his email. They never emailed me so I didn't bother. Well, of course, we requested them to email me my miles update as well. Since my miles reward was expired, we paid $50 to re-activate it, then $5.00 for the tax insurance. Much better deal than the $200 worth of ticket. YEY! LOL!

So, we're all set for July. Yahoo!

Gold Coins With US Gold Bureau

2010-06-16T17:01:00.000-07:00

If you are considering a good investment to safeguard your savings, why not buy gold eagle coins? Come to think of it. One of the safest ways to own a gold is owning the American Eagle Gold Coins which are perfect in protecting your family's wealth and can also serve as a family's legacy collection.
Today, you can be rest assured that when it comes to gold investment, the United States Gold Bureau is the only gold authority that you can trust.
Start checking them online or by phone at 1-800-775-3504 and you will be guided all through out in each step on how to invest in gold, learn all about precious metals and much more investment related facts.

Our "Tests of Time"

2010-06-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

After 2 months of procrastinating, I finally got the time to sit down and starting to catch up on all of my posts here. It was actually not merely for the reason of procrastinating on what to post, but at times, there are unexpected "challenges" that pop up along the way, making your body, mind and soul weary.

Although some "challenges" are really tough to handle, they are always expected. It's just a matter of how should we face them, and how we accept them no matter what are the consequences.

It so happened, I got some of the "challenges"...ALL were tough! I am only human, I get worries, and drain me out. I seek to pray, and become tired and weary of crying out loud to God. Thank God for a kind-hearted, loving and understanding husband. If not for him, I would probably still be out of nowhere! Such a great inspiration, and he helps me with a lot of prayers and daily devotions to God.

A mother that suddenly becomes ill 9,000 miles away, and our finances being challenged and went more than half way drained are such tough "challenges". I called them "tests of time". That time I felt I was melting and about to give way, but my husband calmed me down. Well...blame me! I am really a worry-freak!...and I am still trying to overcome this through prayers. So help me God!

Then, we felt we have to start to save again for our house construction in the Philippines. We're only half way done, and there are still lots of things to be done, financially. But my husband and I mutually agreed...family comes first! As long as God would allow our finances to extend help for love ones, so be it. A life of a loved one is way much more precious than money. My husband would only consider the help as "extra blessing" from God...I agree, because we are truly blessed! And amidst those blessings are "tests of time."

Last week, I got sudden rashes outbreak on all over my body. They were not hurting or giving me any pains, etc. But the outbreak was alarming and fast, and those tiny pinkish dots has spread all over my legs, extending up to my back and stomach, and partially on my arms with some reddish streaks. (I became frantically worried again, agh!) making me ran to my doctor. Since he figured out it wasn't an allergy, he ordered laboratory blood works to rule out any diagnosis. They called today, and the results were normal. Thank God! I'm feeling much better.

Of course, finances are always on the look out at times! We need to work for it, and pray for it.

Ah...challenges!

"But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God and made Him my refuge, that I may tell of all Your works." - Psalm 73:28

Be excited when you face new tests. Close the door to the mindset of dread. Decide early to enjoy every challenge that faces you today, knowing that God will be with you to make your path straight and to prosper in everything you set out to do.

Where's My Philippine Passport?!

2010-04-17T11:34:00.001-07:00

Okay, so, the other day, I thought of calling the Philippine Consulate in Washington D.C. to inquire what has been happening since it's already 7 weeks after I renewed my passport. I dialled the number posted on their website, and after pressing the number designated for passport, I heard a 10-15 minute recorded message of a lady reading the requirements of applying for a passport and it's like taking forever for her to finish all reading those. After which I was rerouted to a voice that says Mr./Miss "somebody" will now answer your call...and at the end part..."IS NOT AVAILABLE" at the moment. Please leave your message after the tone...Beeep!!! Well, I tried 3 times, and I got earaches listening to those recorded messages to no avail.

I tried dialling the customer service by pressing the 0, and Ola! a lady finally said hello?... So, I asked her how long further should I wait for my renewed passport because I was already waiting for 7 weeks. She said there has been a delay in the processing and most January applicants haven't even been turned in yet. I applied in February 2010. So, I asked her again how long will I still wait? She replied, "wait a little bit more"....My goodness gracious! Nobody could even check it if the actual passport has already arrived.

I emailed them and told them my concerns...until now, no response yet. Sounds familiar? NAH! This is just the first few steps on how to handle the Philippine immigration service. Only in the Philippines!

Regency Beauty Institute's Unique Approach to Cosmetology Education

2010-04-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

After more than 50 years, Regency is still considered to be the fastest growing beauty school in the US. Since it expanded in 2002 in Minnesota, it has grown ultimately to almost 30 campuses in 9 states, including Texas.
For sure, Texans who want to achieve their dreams to cosmetology education can now go to a cosmetology school in Texas and experience regency's unique approach on their learning program, that values creativity, self-confidence and excellence for the students.
Regency Beauty Institute is equipped with upscale and stunning facilities, expert faculty, powerful training systems with Salon Partners network that includes industry partners that seek to hire graduates. These are noble qualities not to be missed, don't you think?

What A Good Week!

2010-04-16T03:40:00.000-07:00

This week has been pretty much kind to me..lol! Last Tuesday, I received back the original copy of my Naturalization Certificate from the Department of State in a separate envelope from the mail. This document was needed when I applied for my US passport, so the lady at the post office where I applied said the original copy has to be sent in to the Passport Center for checking. I was a little bit concern about how safe the mail would be for my certificate, because in case that will get lost, I will have to pay $500 in requesting a new one plus a wait for another year! Well, it got through safely back to me...thank God!

The next day (Wednesday), I received my US passport from the mail, oh, la la!!! I ordered expedite service and the fastest one was 2 weeks :).

On the other hand, I am still waiting for my Philippine passport that I renewed last February. They told me it would take 4-6 weeks processing...now, it's been more than 6 weeks! Oh, my gulay!!!! Only in the Philippines! Now, I am done with USCIS. It's time to tackle the Philippine immigration, much tougher this time. :(

Spring Has Come!

2010-04-03T13:19:00.001-07:00

Thank God...no more snow, no more freezing cold, and the trees are starting to show their colorful beauties. Yesterday, it was in the mid-70's and sunny! Of course, I was loving it and it was almost like an early summer, lol! Hubby started to sweat like crazy although it's still in the 70's. Both of us are not happy during winter, I happened to love summer, and he loves the spring and the fall. I like spring and fall because of their colorful effects, but there is probably that "it" factor that summer has, the reason why I still love it no matter what...my hubby would say it's because I am a tropical person and I grew up all my life in a warm climate! That's true!

Anyway, I am happy on the temperature getting warmer, lol! This week would be in the mid-70's. We dressed up our swing at our back porch and it's an ideal place for me to sit or lie down there to catch the breeze and colorful trees surrounding our home.

Happy Easter everyone!

Gold For Investment

2010-04-03T13:19:00.000-07:00

Owning gold as a type of investment can be risky and dangerous if you happened to have no knowledge about how the gold market works nowadays. As much as possible, we don't want to commit mistakes when you buy gold bars as an investment. Of course, who wants to? If you think you need to educate yourself before going into gold investment, the United States Gold Bureau would be the right one to go to. Isn't it just a good feeling if you can just move on into your investment with great confidence and avoid those nightmare of mistakes you have been hearing about owning gold? Move on to that next important step when you're considering one. Sign up for a free one year subscription to "The Gold Monitor" today.

Getting My US Passport (Part 2)

2010-04-03T07:19:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday (April 2), I went to the local post office for my appointment for my US passport application. Everything has been done quite smoothly, without any hassles. It was a good thing, hubby came with me because he acted as a witness for me.

We went inside the office and we were taken into a small cubicle. There, the lady asked me if my photos have been taken, I had couple photos in my hand, but I don't like the way I look, so I told her I want to get another more recent photos, so she did :). Just after a minute and she's done with the photos, all cut and ready!

I gave her my application form which I already filled up online and printed it, and my Certificate of Naturalization. She asked me my driver's license, but I told her I only got an LP, and it wasn't acceptable, agh!!! She asked me for any other ID like a state ID, but I don't have one. So, fortunately, I got a very good option...my husband!, LOL! He signed an affidavit as a witness, and a little bit of informal swearing, and after reading the swore in statement, he signed the affidavit, and presented his US passport. It was another good idea that I brought his passport as well. The lady photocopied the bio data page of his passport, returned back his passport and my Learner's permit (which was useless), but she retained the original copy of my certificate of Naturalization. She said the original copy of my certificate will be sent together with my application and will be returned back to me together with the passport.

After everything was done, we went to the cashier and I requested for an expedite service. She gave me a tracking number, then summed all the expenses. I asked her how long is the wait for an expedite service and she said it might take a week or a little more than that.

That ends the business transaction for that day! Whew! Hopefully, I can receive my US passport within a week...keeping my fingers crossed.

Getting US Passport!

2010-03-31T11:27:00.000-07:00

Well, yes, I should say, I am done dealing with the USCIS. The next step on my list...getting a US passport! And it doesn't need to deal with the USCIS, lol. Locations in getting one isn't that difficult to find. Many passport facilities have been scattered everywhere including post offices. It so happened that we have one close to home, (only 3 minutes drive). I was thinking I can just walk-in but it is by appointment basis. Anyway, I got my appointment on Friday and prepared everything that is needed. I hope I can get it soon by the expedite service.

Meanwhile, I am still waiting for my Phil. passport that I renewed at the Phil. embassy in DC. They said it takes 3-5 weeks before I can receive it...it's already been 4 weeks since last Friday. Although I won't be using my RP passport in going out of the country, I desperately need that when I travel back to the Philippines so I can get my dual citizenship done there. I'm keeping my fingers crossed, the Phil. passport would arrive safely back to me.

So, still, the journey goes on...

Protect Your Savings With Gold Coins

2010-03-31T11:26:00.000-07:00

Getting into a sensible and safe investment needs a lot of serious considerations and decisions. Perhaps, for many, little would they know that owning gold nowadays is still the safest way to protect one's wealth and money. Why? It's for the fact that gold has been considered to be one of the most valuable commodities for many centuries due to its indestructible and valuable nature and design. Today must be a good time to buy gold bullion in order to protect your savings.
Of course, it's just a normal feeling to be hesitant investing into gold considering the constant fluctuations happening in the marketplace nowadays. Nobody wants to lose his/her hard earned money by making a decision you are not sure of and ending up in a big mistake, right?
But no matter how straightforward the process is, careful consideration is always a safe thing to do. The idea of "not placing your eggs in one basket" can be a good warning sign, but no need to worry about it. That's the reason why The United States Gold Bureau is here to assist you with the entire process and further helps understand the ins and outs of the gold market.
It's just sensible enough to say that getting physical gold such as coins and bullion can be a perfect way to protect your savings for later use.

At Last....A US Citizen!

2010-03-26T13:49:00.000-07:00

After a few more months of struggle dealing with the US immigration, I was finally scheduled for a citizenship oath today at 11am. Just in case anyone wants to know my citizenship timeline, I had my citizenship interview on February 2, 2010 in Baltimore and thank God I passed! They give same day oath right after you pass a citizenship interview, but in my case, they gave me a pending oath because my fingerprints were not readable by FBI, and so the USCIS requested me to submit a police clearance to them after which they would schedule me for an oath. Quite disgusting and a hassle! I had a month and 3 weeks wait for my oath schedule since the police clearance took time to get it, plus it was all delayed due to a week of snow storms aggh!!!

Anyway, all is well that ends well!

Here's my Citizenship Oath Ceremony Experience:

I and hubby left the house as early as 9AM for my 11AM oath ceremony. It takes an hour drive going there, plus traffic, so we just thought of getting there as early as we can. We were there at exactly 10:10AM. We proceeded to Room 101 and waited at the seating area. At around 11:05AM, we were told to go to 7th floor at the naturalization oath room wherein we were properly seated. It was good to know that members of the family who are with the oath takers are seated together, so I still had my hubby beside me :). It was probably another 20 minutes for getting in line in the room to get our packets and mini flaglets, and checking of our naturalization certificates for any errors on our names and data, etc.

While on the line, a lady was checking our answers at the back of our oath notice letter where a series of questions will have to be answered basing on what happened in between the citizenship interview and the oath. They are particular if you have traveled out of the country in between those occasions, and if there are any changes that happened as well, such as got married, divorced or widowed, had crimes, etc...In my case, nothing had changed, so I was good to proceed. They asked me to surrender my green card with them, checked my certificate for any erroneous entries, (so far, it was all correct), then got my packets and flaglet.

The ceremony started with the singing of the National Anthem...of course I sang!, I know the lyrics, lol!

Then an immigration judge came in and gave us a short talk regarding on being a US citizen and swore us in on our oath of allegiance. After that, we recited our pledge of allegiance and listened to Pres. Obama's message on a video.

That was the end of the ceremony! The judge congratulated us one by one, while they are distributing our naturalization certificates. That was the mess there, because it was noisy and I couldn't hear whether my name was already called and here comes the judge chatting with everybody else, LOL!

Well, anyway, I got mine at last, and had our photo opps. I wasn't able to get a photo opp with the judge, he was too quick to leave, lol!

And to sum it all...I am no longer an ALIEN!!! I am now a proud American citizen of the land of the free!

Passed My Citizenship Test! BUT...

2010-02-02T06:57:00.000-08:00

Today I had my interview scheduled at 8:20AM in Baltimore. We arrived there just on time and after passing through a long line, we immediately proceeded to Room 103. I then proceeded to the reception window and gave my appointment letter. After 5 minutes, I was called in.

The interviewing officer told me she will be swearing me in before I'll take my seat. She told me to raise my right hand and swore me.

She then asked me to show my passport, green card and driver's license. She then asked if my passport is the most active and current, and I said yes.

She started checking my application form and began asking and re-confirming everything I filled up on there, afterwhich she gave me the reading, writing and civic tests.

The first was Reading test. She gave me a sheet of paper and told me to read it loud item no. 1 which says; - "WHAT DAY IS COLUMBUS DAY".

The next was Writing test. She let me wrote, "COLUMBUS DAY IS IN OCTOBER."

Then for the Civics, she asked me the following 6 questions which I got them all right.

What does the president's Cabinet do?

We elect a U.S. senator for how many years?

How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

Name one branch or part of the government.

What did the Declaration of Independence do?

If both the President and Vice President can no longer serve, who becomes president?

She then told me I passed the test and gave me form N-652, Naturalization Interview Results.

Now....the BUT part! She told me that my second fingerprinting was still unreadable by FBI and so I need to submit to them a police clearance before they can decide on my case. I told her, this was always the case that I had to go back 4 times to the USCIS just to do my fingerprints again and again...:(. She said my case is not uncommon, and many had been like mine.

It was encouraging to hear from her when she told me she doesn't see any problem with my papers and they are all OK.

She then gave me Form N-14 together with the instructions on how I can obtain the police clearance. That was all about it. I was in the room for 15 minutes.

Well, what can I say? I still thank God, I passed!!!! I am still looking on the positive side as I just had to submit a document in lieu of unclassifiable fingerprint. My fingerprints are quite unique.. Poor precious little fingers! LOL. whatevah chuva chu-chu!

Now, I need an appointment to go to bed soooo bad! hehehe... I need to get that good sleep! See ya'll later.

A Gift of Surprise!

2009-12-27T17:22:00.000-08:00

This Christmas, it was so overwhelming to receive gifts from my family. I used to receive at least 15-20 gifts every christmas. This year, I got 20 gifts from hubby alone, and another 10 from mom and George.
Anyway, every Christmas, it is always a tradition for me and hubby to open our presents (those gifts we give each other) at home under our Christmas tree. Another batch of gifts opening will be after our family dinner at mom and George's house.
So, at home, after I finished opening the 19 gifts, hubby told me to open the last one which has the most unique shape and was actually wrapped with weird things. I thought there is one thing in there that he would used to give me, like the regular girly stuff. Well, I was surprised to know it was no ordinary thing. It was a double heart diamond pendant with gold on the sides and with a dainty necklace. Hubby took a video of me opening the gift. You would probably know how surprise I was when I uttered the word REALLY??!!! That was after I saw the price...LOL! I couldn't divulge the price. I would rather consider this gift with a sentimental value :).

If you want to watch the video clip, you may click it HERE.

Our Cousin's Visit!

2009-11-13T16:24:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday (Veteran's Day) we got the chance to hang out with our cousin (actually hubby's first cousin) who happened to visit us here in Maryland all the way from Washington D.C. where she currently works as a foreign service officer trainee. They had holiday off on Veteran's Day, so she decided to come over and see us. Although it was raining the entire day, the rain didn't stop us from hanging around our area, and had a late lunch together as well :).

Hopefully, Tanya will soon to be a US diplomat...a rare job only smart people can get through (as hubby would say). She really deserves to be one! She speaks many languages and well-travelled, what can we say? {wink}. I would always both compliment them that their family is a generation of smart and intellectual people, and they would both be smiling lol! It's a fact they couldn't deny...they have high education and degrees, with good stable jobs!

We are getting excited to be witnessing her "Flag Day" ceremony on the 23rd of this month in D.C., because this will be the day she would know what country will she be going to. She said it's exciting but at the same time a bit tensed! Anyway, that's basically how her job would revolve in the first place. She loves the job and she's almost there!

Thanks for the wonderful time with us, Tanya! As always, our home is open for you when you feel like visiting us ;).

God bless you!

It's Thanksgiving Month

2009-11-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

What could I say? Time flies so fast, and now it's thanksgiving month and my birthday month! {grins}...I would always tell hubby, right after my natal day, everything would all be christmas preparations...shopping, decorations (which means I'll have to carry a 90-pound christmas tree back inside for set up and decorations), and of course my fave....gift wrapping :).

But let me set aside talking about christmas for a while. I love the thanksgiving celebration. But for me, it's always a daily routine saying my thanks to Him up there. There are many things we should be thankful for. There are always blessings being given to us, big or small. Sometimes, there are pains that we have to go through yet it's a blessing. Well, some might not agree, but if you're sensitive to what God is telling you, you'll certainly understand.

Have a happy advance Thanksgiving, everyone! Count your blessings always and be thankful! That's God-pleasing! :).

Jack O'Lantern - Pumpkin Carving

2009-10-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

Last night, we started carving one pumpkin for our jack o'lantern :). I was thinking it's a bit hard to do the carving, but it was done in a few minutes. We are not good in designing faces, so it's just the usual jack o'lantern with missing teeth! LOL! We put a scented candle inside and took photo. Not bad! I'll set this aside for the Halloween on our doorstep. I bet there will be more kids running around the neighborhood for their trick or treat. I am not big in this event, but kids will be knocking on our door for sure!

Fingerprinting Done!

2009-10-24T02:18:00.000-07:00

I am suppose to post this update earlier, but anyway, better late than never :). So, last Saturday, my fingerprint appointment was done. This is a requirement for my citizenship application which I submitted last September 18, '09.

My schedule was at 3pm, and it was cold and rainy that day. Since it was Saturday, we didn't have to worry about parking. Thank God, Baltimore wasn't that busy. When I arrived at the center, there were only a couple of people there. It wasn't even 3 o'clock yet, but the lady at the counter allowed me to go ahead and fill up the form. At 2:15pm, my number was called and I was done at 2:20pm. How cool is that? hehehe...

My only concern is the possibility of a retake. Sometimes, there are instances that FBI can't read the fingerprints, so they send notices for a retake. Now, that would be a hassle! I am praying there should be no more retakes!

It's just a relief to see that at least the process is moving. I'm almost there. I would be much, much more relieved to get all the immigration things completely done once I'm through with the citizenship and get my US passport...God willing!

Monaco's Finest Rare Coin

2009-10-23T08:45:00.001-07:00

For almost 40 years of experience as a trusted leader in precious metal investments, Monaco Rare Coin, - a part of Monex Group of Companies is proud to offer its valued customers their finest rare coins available such as the certified rare silver coins.

Coin collectors must check this! Silver dollars used as early as in the 17th century are available only from Monaco Rare Coin. There are several types that you can choose from, or better yet enlarge your collection and get the entire collection ;).

You might also want to check on their internet specials. Start browsing more informations on today's best coin values - weekly "top picks".

Rare coin experts such as the Monaco Rare Coin won't let you down. They can help you guard further possible market pitfalls and offer you a unique expertise in the precious metal investment industry.

Our 5th Year Wedding Anniversary Celebration (Update)

2009-10-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

I checked the weather today for Harpers Ferry tomorrow and it says it will be rainy. As planned, we will be driving to the place tomorrow (Oct. 24), but there might be a change in the plan. If it would be a thick rain, then we'll just have to skip going there tomorrow and will go Sunday instead.

I don't want to ruin the trip. It will be more on sight seeing so, I guess I would better enjoy doing it when the clouds are clear and sunny.

We'll give you any update guys and we'll see how it works.

Keep yourself warm...it's getting cold!!! Bbrrrrr!!!!

Our 5th Year Wedding Anniversary

2009-10-10T01:10:00.000-07:00

On October 24 will be our 5th year together as husband and wife. Still happy and full of love for each other, still receiving so much blessings, and still lots of R & R's ;).

As early as this time, we already thought of going somewhere to celebrate it and that would be in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. As usual, hubby is requesting me to do the itineraries. The place is historical and we heard there are lots of scenic drives that we can do down there. Sounds interesting! We thought of going back home same day as it will only be an hour drive from home...so why not?

Time to web search!!!

Virus Infected!

2009-09-30T07:01:00.000-07:00

Howdy ya'll? It's been a while. I'm just a bit concern about my FS account. I won't doubt somebody out there who can't seem to do something right is trying to hack account by trying to download a virus on my PC. I bet many of you sometimes experience this. If you don't have a powerful anti-virus software to detect it, your PC will soon crash.

This past few weeks, I've noticed that everytime I sign in, my anti virus would suddenly pop up and says "virus detected and is denied." That means, my pc is still safe, but what it does freezes my pc and I have to turn it off as I can't even reboot it :(. I'm not sure if this is my anti-virus software reaction to the attempted virus download, or the virus (or perhaps a bad spyware with the virus) itself.

Sometimes, I just thought of closing my FS account since I am now more active in FB. However, I still have my blog here, and it's still earning! {wink}...well, I just can't afford to take my blog off when in fact it's an income earner for me. Besides, I still can continue posting my rants..."cenya na po if may natatamaan ako minsan", but I don't even spare myself being righteous if I know I am wrong! Anyway, back to the story...LOL!

I am also concern about viewing friend's profiles...friendster is just crazy! I wonder if the team is aware of the virus problem or I am just the only one being affected and am ranting alone? ugh!!!!

"Ay naku, friendster team, kayo na ang bahala, ako kawawa!"

The Ravens Mania!

2009-09-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

Today, I am supposed to be having my parking practice. And guess what? It didn't happen because I figured out, Ravens are playing! And, with that, you can't ever let hubby move anywhere as he is stucked infront of the TV!

Well, I managed to drive up to the grocery store to buy basic needs, and went to the video store real quick to return the tape because hubby forgot to put the dvd tape inside the DVD case when he returned it yesterday, LOL!

We had spaghetti for dinner, and I gave him a bowl...he finished his spaghetti bowl in a snap!!!! and went off running back to the TV!

hahahaha...funny day.

Your Luxury Family Vacation

2009-09-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

Have you checked Karisma hotels and Resorts yet? You would be awed about what they offer for you and your family. Well, no wonder because Karisma hotels are always known to be family-friendly and considered to be a luxurious get-away vacation for many families.
Kid friendly resort, that is, how would you like your kids to be having fun at the splash water park, or let them enjoy strolling down the white sand beach with you, etc. There are so many various activities to be done for kids, teens and adults, so that your trip itinerary plans requires zero planning :).
Azure Sensatori hotel for example has guaranteed family connecting suites. It's because it's designed for families. Feel free to check on their famly highlights as well. There are at least several top reasons why you need to spend your vacation at Azul Sensatori hotel...it's an all-in-one place of a luxurious vacation that brings you good memories to hold on until you go back home.
Book your family vacation today!

Rude People On The Road!

2009-08-19T00:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, it was my first drive in the neigborhood at its peak of busy traffic. I usually drive late in the evenings and traffic is just moderate. I was just used to it. So, that day, I got out to drive as early as noon time, and so, I got the busiest road ever...a helpful experience :).

While I was trying to change lane, I turned my blinker on,I boosted my speed to allow ample space for the next car behind me on the next lane I am going before I can shift to the said lane. My goodness!...this car doesn't want to give way and continued to speed up to the max! So, she gave me a super loud HONK! which says don't come my way! Hah!....sooooo rude! I had to do a slight swerve back to my lane. She passed on me and gave me a mean look. The driver was still in her early 20's perhaps, or younger and probably a teenager.

Hubby said that was okay, and I didn't do anything wrong. It was just that some people are like that and I have to get used to it...Of course, driving extra careful is always a priority....and extra patience!!! But I was pissed off!

Hubby said I got the experience of meeting rude driver on the road, and road rage shouldn't be tolerated as well. He is right!

Ging's rumbles and rants ended on the right lane crossing the intersection of Johnsville and Sykesville roads! LOL!

Drive safely!

Disappointment Caused By Bitterness = BAD Attitude!

2009-07-25T03:38:00.000-07:00

This post should have been done earlier, but due to time constraints, I wasn’t able to do it. It was still fresh on my mind few days after we arrived from our Philippine trip, and the fact that it was only relayed to me when we arrived here in the US was a difficult thing to give my own side of the story. I just couldn’t let it out of my mind until I could post and share my sentiments as well.

By the way, I love all my family! That includes all the entire relatives of both my parent’s mother and father sides. Although families are not created to be 100% perfect, the LOVE will always be there. No matter how we have conflicts and petty quarrels, the harmonious love is still there. There might be some pain and struggles, but the love remains. There are serious wrongdoings that has been done, you feel so much upset, but in the end, you still love them. That’s the way I was raised.I am not sure how many families of my relatives still believe and maintain the harmonious, and unconditional love and should be on their priority list. (Of course, God will be on top J).

Well, I am not perfect either. I have been stubborn and “crazy” but I chose to walk on the right side. Thank God, He gave me a husband who is leading me to the right way of life.

There is always an important reason every time we go to the Philippines for a vacation...to visit our families. Of course, it’s always the direct/close family members that seem to come first...I can’t deny that.We have been always wanting to see every member of my BIG family (as my hubby would say), but there has been always a challenge beating the limited time we have.

Our last visit to the Philippines was not exclusively to visit family but to attend to some important matters over family legality issues. In that case, it was one top priority! We were lucky enough to visit my cousin Senia’s family since our nephew and niece (yen and waky) wanted to see their “lola mins” (they call her that way). Their “lola mins” took care of them while they were still small. Thank God, they have decided to come back to Iloilo for good...so, the “reunion” happened. And speaking of the kids staying in Iloilo, we are still continuously praying for a heavenly wisdom for the jury that the kids’ wishes will be granted by court.This is a sensitive case to tackle, so I won’t be sharing it online. In one way or the other, we thought, their “lola mins” has the right to know what is really happening. She has been an “auntie-mom” to the kids for a while. (until now, I guess).

For those other relatives that we weren’t able to visit, we are sorry. There will always be a time for all ofus to gather. It will be in God’s perfect timing! So, please don’t cast out your disappointments but instead be open-minded enough to understand.I wonder why this should be a “big issue” to some other relatives L. Before you condemn us, perhaps, you should try “paying a visit” to my mom and she can give you updates.

There have been several members of our family who have been blessed enough to work abroad. I have heard and saw them visit Philippines, back and forth, but we were not “disappointed” to say “they didn’t pay us a visit”.We hear (and see) relatives who celebrate “fiestas” , birthdays, weddings, etc. and we are not invited (perhaps, forgotten on their list), and did you hear any word??? Did you see and hear us being disappointed? We still include you in our prayers! Before my mother went to Cavite to take care of the kids, she would always wish at least a niece or a nephew would come by the house to see and “visit” her. NOT even a niece or a nephew who is just close to her would bother dropping by. She wasn’t disappointed.But all these, we understood, because we all have our priorities on the list.

By the way, when we visit our families, we don’t give money! We are not rich. Just to clear things out. We don’t want anybody thinking about money when we pay for a visit. I know there are (not all) who think that way. All we want is to be with families and strengthen the bond of love. If somebody would only think of money, then I will tell you, for sure, you don’t deserve to be part of the family! Sorry for being blunt!...but it makes sense, don’t you think?

To all our families, you are all cordially invited to my house warming on 2011! ALL will be invited...as long as you’re a relative. Just bring you birth certificate to prove you are one. LOL!!!! (just kidding.)

Try to overcome envy. It would only make you bitter. Envy + bitterness lead you to disappointment. And that means “BAD ATTITUDE”. We don’t tolerate bad attitudes in the family. Not even a “crab mentality” attitude because it’s a bad attitude!

Hope you’ve said your prayer today! God bless!

Fun in the Sun!

2009-07-22T02:10:00.001-07:00

We just arrived from our Rhode Island trip the other day, and I can say we really had fun! It really put "smiles" on our face because lately, I and my hubby had been teasing each other with the words "Lady Ging" and "Duke Craig". LOL!

Well, the fact that we visited 7 mansions, it's a no wonder why those words seemed to just be spoken out of nowhere, hehehe...

The mansion tours inside are incredible!!! The only downside of that is NO photography inside! :(. If ever allowed, I should have at least more than hundreds of photos stored in my camera already. Well, it's part of the National Historic Preservation rule, so visitors can keep coming :). I was really tempted to attempt to click my camera, but...NO WAY! Video cams inside the mansions are everywhere! Any person caught taking photos will be prosecuted. Well, I don't want to ruin my vacation spending the rest of my days in jail. So, behave na lang me, hehehe...

There are mansions that allow photography inside such as the Astor's Beechwood Mansion. It's kinda a private mansion, and I guess we were able to get 4-5 photos in there. It's not as fancy as the other mansions are, but it can give someone a glimpse on what is inside.

The Marble House (which is a mansion, by the way) is so far the most beautiful to me. Inside are all marbles, full of gold architectural designs on all ceilings and walls. The designs are inspired during America's Gilded age as they call it. Of course, mostly are like castle designs, and many are like Victorian designs. These were built in the 18th century, so just imagine the designs you'll see like that one in ancient Rome! :).

But of course, we spent most of our time outside, the longest one when we did the "Cliff Walk". This is a long walk (3.5 miles), and we didn't even finished it. Too bad! It was tiring, and you can't find any refreshing stand at all. Our drink was all gone, and we still had to walk more than a mile away, and the heat was scorching, and I was super thirsty! If you love to walk or jog, this is the best place to do it. You get an exercise and an excellent view of the ocean! Just be sure to bring at least few bottles of water or soda with you. You'll be mostly along the cliff side, so refreshment stands are far, far away!

More soon! :)

Best Coin Dealer

2009-07-22T02:10:00.000-07:00

For people out there who are considering a good investment, perhaps, it's time to check this coin dealer, - the Monaco Rare Coin. Let's face it. In today's economic climate, a wise investor will consider at least converting part of his/her paper assets into rare coins and precious metals. Take note, it can give you attractive returns, a superb opportunity because today, the prices of these hard assets are at a fraction of their all-time highs.

At Monaco, it's a guarantee that you will find the finest rare coins available due to the fact that Monaco Rare Coin is active in all aspects of the rare coin trade all in the international market, auctions, collector and wholesale markets. Investors can have immediate access to a huge various range of investment-grade coins, that can value to more than up to $10 million!

Monaco Rare Coin is an established expert, the reason why it is considered as a trusted leader in hard asset investments for almost forty years. No wonder, it is also America's trusted leader when it comes to precious metals.

Driving Updates (again)

2009-06-25T01:00:00.000-07:00

I am now through with the 6 hours from the school. Hubby insists I continue to work on with the tutor, but I am thinking it is impractical now because we need to pay him 50 bucks for 2 hours. Just imagine if I just continue driving (which doesn't actually need a lot of lessons once you get used to it on the highway) with the tutor twice a week, that's expensive! My driving tutor gave me the tips on parking techniques, and all I have to do is enhance it.

Ah, what can I do with hubby?....too lazy to be with me to do the practice. I understand him anyway...he's a workaholic, and already dead tired when he comes home from work. I did try few times doing the parking, and I think that is the only part I need to continually practice. I don't have a problem driving on the road, winding or not, narrow or wide, and straight, etc...lol!

Sometimes, I feel it's just too unfair that many states don't even give a test on parallel parking, and getting a DL is just a breeze, while Maryland is just too crazy to test new drivers on parallel parking. I am aware of the reasons, and who am I to be on the contrary?

Driving Lessons Update

2009-06-19T14:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I finally had my appointment with my driving tutor for the first 2-hour lesson. He picked me up at home and drove me to a nearby school parking lot and from there, I drove around the parking lot for a warm up and just to get used to with the car. The car was the school car where I had my 36 hours classroom lecture. It was a bit old and I had to adjust the side mirrors manually. I don't like doing it, but on the other side of it, the car has a "student driver" sign at the back so I felt more comfortable with it so that other cars would know and be considerate enough when I will be on the road, LOL.

I felt it was a good start for me, and drove for 2 hours on a long windy, hilly, some bumpy road around he neighborhood, and went as far as I don't know where I was, lol. The instructor said he wouldn't let me drive on the highway yet since it's my first lesson.

Thank God, I passed. Originally, the plan was that I will pay him just for the tutoring and not a part of the free 6-hours on the road lessons from the school since I felt am not yet ready to be graded and assessed since I haven't been driving for more than a year since my last practice :(.

My hubby was about to write a check for him, but the instructor said it's not needed because I did good and therefore, he is crediting it from the free 6-hours road lesson from the school. I was surprised but thankful at the same time. That means I still have 4 more hours for the road lessons before I can finally get that school driving certificate to present it to MVA for my final driving test. Lots of blah-blahs needed, but I got no choice anyway but to follow the SOP's.

Now, I felt my adrenaline suddenly went down, and I suddenly felt so exhausted and weak...and my behind is so sore!! LOL.

Gosh, how long can I be like this??

Become Better at Piano

2009-06-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

Sight Reading in piano is one of the most important skills any pianist can possess, aside from accompaniment skills. It takes a lot of practice to have these skills in order to be considered efficient. To become an efficient piano or music sight reader, there are rules that will help you improve and speed up your sight reading abilities. Sticking with these rules will lead you on a way to a better pianist. Check it yourself at yokewong.net.

You no longer have to frustrate yourself reading piano music. Whether you want to be better on your overall piano sight reading, or you are slow on piano sight reading, there is always a course ideal for you. If you are interested in getting one course to help you, call toll free 877-287-1528.

A House We Will Call Home!

2009-06-16T14:45:00.000-07:00

Please don't kill me, lol! as I am really lagging behind on all my posts. But as I've mentioned previously, I am going to share updates on our house that we are buying in the Philippines.

It was actually a very tough challenge and a lot of difficulties for me lately one week after we arrived from the Philippines. Hubby caught the bug (definitely, not the swine flu), and passed it on to me. He had a flu shot last fall, and I didn't, so he recovered faster and there was the poor me struggling on the most terrible cough I've ever had for 2 weeks. I was diagnosed with bronchitis and pharyngitis, and had to take antibiotics for 10 days! Ha! that wasn't as easy as it sounds because I have to swallow a tablet as big as a marble! LOL!

Anyway, I'm feeling much more than better now.

Back to the topic, here is the story. While in the Philippines, we had been visiting some houses in many of the housing subdivisions in Iloilo (my hometown). I was actually surprised to see many housing real estate companies in Iloilo this year which was a good thing for us to look for more options. We finally managed to choose one house that I and hubby thought will be a good one.

The house is a single attached 2-storey home with 3 bedrooms upstairs. We got this choice because of its unique house finishing that's unique from the rest. The house will be made with CPAC two-toned tawny brick, much more durable than the regular hollow blocks that they put for the wall and foundation.

Currently, we are now paying the installment plan without interest for 18 months. Since we put a downpayment of more than the required DP amount, we will be paying much more smaller for the remaining loan after 18 months. We had the option to pay the remaining loan for 5 years, but we are aiming to pay it in less than that, God willing :).

More or less the house would be finished late of 2010, or early of 2011. It gives me excitement to think about the house, and I was tasked by hubby to do the interior designs and getting the things needed inside. Sounds like a good yehey next time we visit Philippines and staying on ou new home instead of staying in a hotel for 3 weeks! Of course, planning a house warming would be exciting as well :).

So far so good. I will post updates from time to time.

Our RP Vacation Update

2009-05-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

It's been a good feeling to get back to the blogging world! Haven't been around for a while. Although I have been in constant struggle to update my blog(s), many things are keeping me busy since I and hubby arrived Philippines on April 18, '09. I missed doing the posts, but that's just nothing compared to the quality and quantity of time you spend with your family, isn't it?

Weather: It's been a rainy weather since we arrived. From Iloilo to Manila, rain is just almost daily usually in the afternoon and late evenings. There's a good thing to that...hubby wasn't sweating too much, LOL!

Family: Meeting with my family is the best this year! Why? I saw and was with my siblings seeing us complete. It was one of those few ones where I consider it the most memorable! We had fun in the beach, at home, at the dinner table, good chats, some more outings, etc...We're looking forward to have one like this next year, God willing.

A place we call home: We reserved a house and lot last week in Iloilo. It was tough actually looking for a good one - nice neighborhood and flood free areas, the construction quality and good deals on the price. We have some plans now, but we kept praying for it. I am excited to share about the house, but I won't until we start our payment midweek of this month. This is a BIG investment on our savings since we are thinking of paying the downpayment half of the total price of the house. The total contract price: 2M Php...now you got the idea how much we'll be paying for the down. I'm keeping my fingers crossed! :) It's a 3-bedroom house with a wide porch on top. ..just ideal for a couple. We can manage to accept visitors once in a while, hahaha! Oh, by the way, I got carried away, I already shared almost all about the house :)).

Meeting Friends: I guess, I am gaining more friends both internationally and locally, LOL! I can't imagine myself being invited at the Manila US Embassy for a visit! I am looking forward to meeting some of them on Thursday. Hubby has some co workers assigned there and wanted to meet them as well. Hubby has been a good asset of the group in relation to his job. That has been a blessing ever since :).

Two more days, and we'll setting our feet off the Philippine grounds. It would be nice to be back home soon!

To all the mothers out there, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! Hey mom! I hope you liked the card and the gift we gave you! We love you. Mwah!

We got a new look! :)

2009-04-12T04:54:00.000-07:00

Everytime I go to the Philippines for a vacation, I make sure I've got to cut my hair shorter than the way it is here in the US. I love my long hair here as it is always a good warm protector during cooler times. But having my long hair in the Philippines would be a disaster for me! My hair seems to be highly reactive to warmer climate so whenever it is exposed to a tropical temperature, it becomes so nasty...I couldn't imagine having hair as thick as a rough grass LOL!

So, here are some good news...I (and hubby) are finally done with our hair appointment last Saturday with Daisy (my friend-hairstylist). And once again, I finally was able to convince hubby to color his hair as well :). We both had been growing a "salt and pepper" hair color and many say it's a good color for a natural hair. It was a good complement, but we wanted to have a slight change, and so it ended up a BIG change for me, LOL!

I usually have a trim for my hair (at least 2-3 inches), but this time, I told Daisy to cut my hair half. I was surprised that half was really long and hubby was really surprised with big eyes and suddenly asked me why that long! Hubby always loves my hair long, but I told him my hair grows fast. By the time we'll be back home, it's gonna be long again...whew! at last he accepted my reason. Besides, it would be hot there, and he knows I hate having long hair in a hot climate.

Another good news, my hair that was cut will be going into a good cause. It will be donated to a goodwill agency (forgot its name). So, not bad, right? I'm now a hair donor! LOL!

4 days more to go and we'll be stepping the Philippine soil once again. It's always been an excitement seeing our family first and foremost and seeing friends as well :). As always, we are requesting you to pray for our safe trip going there and back.

Happy Resurrection Day! God is alive and always be!

I'm Now a Lawful Permanent US Resident! :).

2009-03-18T02:37:00.000-07:00

First and foremost is my big thanks to Him up there who continues to answers our prayers and constantly gives us more than enough blessings with our lives daily. Thank you Lord!

When I came here in the US to finally join my husband, I was granted a conditional permanent residence for 2 years. Of course, we still consider paper works as hassles since we keep on submitting the same documents, forms, etc...and yet the payments continue to increase! Plus, we can't just imagine long months of waits before we could finally get a result...well, in this case where you don't have any choice but to follow the law is a tough hurdle. But in the end of each final step of struggle, it is all worth it.

Dealing with the US immigration involves a lot of paperworks, not to mention some interviews...I consider this as a battle - just like fighting for my marriage and relationship with my husband, which is really the focus, anyway.

It took me 9 months to wait before I received a letter of approval last week (March 11) from the USCIS congratulating me about being a permanent US resident, and will be a green card holder for 10 years! But on the other hand, the wait is not yet over until I have the 10-yrs green card in hand. (letter says I have to wait within 60 days).

Of course, the approval is as well an automatic eligibility to take the US citizenship or Naturalization test. So, in this case, one more final step to get that test and I'm done. This means, it's one more step of doing the same routines..fingerprinting, submitting paperworks and forms, etc..., wait another several months, before getting the final result! {{sigh}}....it's one more FINAL step of long waits but I wouldn't be minding it since it would be the final hurdle with USCIS! :).

By the way, I will be eligible for citizenship on August 30, 2009 onwards :). Isn't that cool? (Yay).

Philippine Domestic Airlines Online?....My Goodness Gracious!!!

2009-03-06T02:11:00.000-08:00

Thank God, after spending so many hours trying to book 5 people online, I finally managed to get our domestic airline tickets late last night (e-tickets). My special thanks for my husband's coming in to the rescue so these could all be done!

I hate name dropping, but this time, I thought it might be of good help to some who would be thinking of purchasing their tickets online from either of the Philippine domestic airlines online. No offense meant to the airlines I would be mentioning, but I am just sharing an experience.

Since we will be travelling during the peak season, I and hubby just decided to get our domestic air tickets earlier, so we decided checking the airlines' air fares, schedules, etc. We were glad it says on their websites we can book and pay online, so that's super cool...much more convenient for us.

I first worked with Cebu Pacific (which has a good price by the way) for a Manila-Iloilo flight. The first attempt to book and pay failed because our credit card was declined. Here comes hubby to the rescue, called our credit card bank, which gave him an answer that the anti-fraud unit is now authorizing the transaction. I tried booking again 4 times, still failed 4 times, hubby called bank again 4 times, with 4 different answers...and hubby's face was turning red!!oh-oh..I said this is not good! There were bad argues on the phone and hubby was so pissed off, so that he decided to just give up using the card and close the account...(sorry Chase).
Second option....I tried calling on Cebu Pacific's phone (call center) so we could just book and pay via phone, and I was on stand by for more than an hour!!!where all I could hear are commercial ads of Smart and Globe played gazillion times! Where in the world are those people at? Sleeping? They just lost another sale of at least more than $200 for that...why? we gave up and decided to go for another airline.

This is our second story: I and hubby decided to just then shift to Air Philippines, another domestic airline. We remembered buying our tickets online last 2007 from them, and it was okay. Just a bit more expensive than Cebu Pacific, but if we could just buy tickets without any problems, we won't mind about the price.
So, I then started booking 2 round trip tickets (I and hubby) using credit card, (byt the way, this time we are using another credit card, not Chase!) and it was okay. The hassles came in when I started booking 3 one-way tickets for Iloilo when the fillable form asked that any of the 3 passengers should be one of the credit card holders which obviously would be impossible because these 3 passengers are my family and I am buying the tickets for them. Anyway, since I couldn't reach any live person on their phone, (as usual...in the Philippines, a hotline number NEVER works!) I put one of their names on the credit card so that the tickets could go through the booking system. They went through indeed and were confirmed! I know the consequences of what I did, so I asked for hubby's rescue again, LOL!

First, hubby had to call the credit card bank and explained to them that a transaction with a different name on it might appear on the billing, and the bank said it would be okay since hubby had called them earlier to notify them about this international transaction. Furthermore, at that time, the lady said they haven't receive the transaction yet, but we won't be worrying about it anymore since they were informed about it.

Second, we called the reservations of Air Philippines. Hubby volunteered to do the call and he was on standby for 30 minutes! Thank God, we had this earphone that you can just stick it into the phone so you could be hands-free! :). Finally, the operator answered. Of course we had to tell him about what happened on the credit card with the different name on it. The guy told hubby he still has to check about this with his superior and so hubby was put on hold for another 20 minutes. The guy returned, and this time I got the chance to speak to him:

Operator: Hi mam are you Mrs. ____?
Me: Yes.
Operator: How are you related to Mrs..Ms. and Mr?____?
Me:They are my family, and I am the credit card holder. I am buying the tickets for them.
Operator: Well, mam, putting one of your family's name on your credit card is not allowed since she is not a card holder.
Me: I know it wasn't. But since I can't reach anyone on the phone, and your website is not equipped with an option of ordering tickets for people that are not card holders, I had to do that. Sorry for doing it, but I will be travelling together with them, so I'll be carrying my card with me just in case you wanna check. Are there any advices and recommendations you can give?
Operator: Mam, we should not be allowing it, but we would allow this case only for this time. But mam, pls. don't do it again? Then, you have to make a certification letter explaining that you are the credit card holder, to be presented on your check-in...blah,blah,blah!
Me: Thank You. I appreciate you giving me the information and warning. Thanks for the time and answering our queries. Bye.

Whew! Our phone transaction, including the stand by hours was 1 hour 20 minutes.

After more than an hour, I received the e-tickets on my email.

End of our ordeal! :)

Are You a Gold Investor?

2009-02-27T04:01:00.000-08:00

Many centuries ago, during the time of ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians, people have been always fascinated with the beauty and magic of gold, perhaps due to the fact that this precious metal has the power to change men's lives and its ability to protect wealth, and the ability to diversify investments as well.
If you're into gold investment or planning to buy gold, check Money Precious Metals (the source is on the given link). You can purchase gold or other precious metals directly from them with a guarantee of investment security and flexibility.
Monex offers you a service of excellence as well and can offer extended market hours because of their constant communications and connections with major markets such as in London, Zurich, New York, HongKong and Chicago. Their expertise in world wholesale markets make Monex companies offer competitive retail prices to customers.
You might want to check their current live prices online as well and compare them to other firms if you wish. But one thing is for sure with Monex. It is the only company to offer you trusted investing.
Call them for free if you are interested, - 1-800-444-8317.

Chapped Lips!

2009-02-27T03:29:00.000-08:00

This is just one of things I hate about winter! Why? My lips become dry and scaly, so that I couldn't even put a lipstick on them because they just look worst! I got a lot of lip gloss and moisturizers in hand, and I even have a medicated balm, but they just don't work. They can relieve and just give a temporary protection for a few minutes.

I spend most of the time facing the mirror and pulling off the scales from time to time. I think I overdid it one time and my lips were bleeding. There are times that I am not aware, it's already bleeding!

Gosh, it feels so uncomfortable having it. I hope winter can just be gone in a few seconds from now, and skip to summer LOL!

Winter, winter go away, come again after another decade! :)).

Our Philippine Trip

2009-02-27T03:20:00.000-08:00

Now that our trip to the Philippines is officially confirmed and booked via Cathay Pacific, I can say this is really it!...LOL!

We just receive the ticket itineraries last week from our travel agent friend, (thanks Dion) who did an excellent job in booking us to the most convenient flight, talking about looong hours of sitting on the plane.

I had to request her to book us in a shorter hours, to which she booked us from Baltimore to LA (I can withstand 4-5 hours in this), LA to HK, HK to MLA. The route from LA to HK would now be much shorter for a wait compared to New York - HK route (this one is so far I think the looooongest wait just sitting on the plane) which we had the last time we travelled to the Philippines.

Although the total length of our trip will still be the same, (at least 9,000 miles) halfway around the globe, LOL! - the hours of sitting on the plane are staggered, which means we can have enough time stretching our knees and relax.

And oh by the way, hubby is a member of Marco Polo Club (a sister company of Cathay), so we would be treated for a free snacks and beverages at the lounge area while waiting for our flight. I had been there twice, and it's really a good place where you can even take a nap, free internet, etc...it's like a small home where you can sit in the living room and watch TV or read the papers, how cool is that, huh? :).

I am starting my countdown as of today! :).

I Wanna Be in Cancun!

2009-02-26T06:34:00.000-08:00

Aside from Europe, I had been wanting to visit and see Cancun someday - hopefully, sooner than expected! :). Besides, I have heard many beautiful stories of people and friends visiting this place. Of course, I can't hide the fact that I always love to be in the tropics. Whether I would be splashing down in the beautiful crystal waters of the white sand beaches or just close to the water with a pretty sunset background, - that would be a nostalgic experience I wouldn't forget.
I consider myself a frequent traveler, and one aspect of getting a good trip experience is proper planning. I do plan trip itineraries whenever I and hubby want to go for a trip.

I came across a website called Karisma Hotels that offers cancun vacation packages. Most packages are offered with a favored collection of Gourmet Inclusive resorts located along the white sand beaches of Riviera Maya. I can actually do online reservations, but I am still currently checking some options on where is the best to go. El Dorado Royale is awesome, while Azule hotels are also good equipped with pretty scenic spots. Who knows? We can do the trip anytime late this year! :). If not, there's always the next time to do further planning.

Undergoing Theme Change...

2009-02-24T01:42:00.000-08:00

As usual, I play games of trial and error when it comes to this. That's how I learn things as they go. The downside is it would take all your time doing it and if your patience is not long enough, you'll just give up. Of course, I wouldn't recommend this to those who has jobs that are taking their days mostly, not unless you love doing it anyway! :).

My mind freaks from time to time when I am not contented the way a certain thing looks. Just by taking a good example is this one...blog tweakings or just plainly customizing a site or a blog. I continously search for other better options that I think I like, and I am running out of it since WP at friendster is so much limited in features :(.

I guess I need to stick on the famous quote..."be content!". :)

Okay, for now, I am not saying am sticking to this theme, but expect a little "chaos" once in a while. Rest assured the posts won't be affected though. After all, that's the essential part of this blog.

Now, I need a good header for this. I'm still critically looking for a good photo of me that fits! I am just trying to be extra careful because customizing this header is a li'l bit tricky. It transforms photos into a horrible state, LOL!

But I'm needing a break! I shall return! :)).

Blog Tweaking

2009-02-21T16:32:00.000-08:00

I did a little bit of tweaking on this blog. I thought it would just be as simple as it is, but it was somewhat challenging, but I ended up with just a simple outcome. Wordpress has a lot of limitations, so widgets are stubborn, particularly html codes.

Anyway, I thought of changing my theme background, plus uploaded a new custom header. I tried to put animations on it, color tone combinations, photo effects....yikes! doesn't suit my taste.

Well, I finally thought of removing all animation effects and just uploaded a resized custom header on one of my photos. So far, this was the best photo I can fit in the custom header. I had a lot of better choices, but the resizing effect looks horrible...I look like an alien! LOL!

I think I had too much animations on most of my blogs/sites. So, this time, I am trying to make it as simple as it is. My eyes are even getting tired of looking at animated objects nowadays.

Have a safe and good week end to all!

This Is Making Me Crazy!

2009-02-04T16:33:00.000-08:00

The other day, as I opened my email, I saw several paid blogging opportunities waiting inline in my inbox. I then check one of the sites which the opportunities are coming and they are all to be posted on my old friendster blog link which I deleted several months ago. I deleted the old blog because there's nothing I can do to change it to a free subscription. The choices I had was to either stick to that paid subscription or delete it in order to start another new one with a free subscription. I thought of giving up the subscription because it wasn't worth what I was paying, so then I deleted it.

Today, when I checked my email again, there are several more coming sponsored paid posts waiting and are all to be posted on the same old blog I used to have. This is a strange thing, so I checked the pagerank of the old blog link and I found out it has a Google Page Rank 4!!! Waaaahhh! I hate this...and it's making me crazy! Why? The waiting paid posts are almost $80 bucks for 2 days offer.

Google is making me crazy! That old blog has been a paid subscription for many months and never had any page rank at all, and when I deleted it, they gave a PR4?? It could have been another "site of gold" for me, but I can no longer retrieve that blog! Poor me!

If you are into the paid blogging world, you know what I'm talking about, but if not, just ignore what I'm saying, LOL!

But to give you some ideas, (you might end up trying to be a paid blogger) here's what you need to know:

If you maintain a blog that are constantly updated, try checking its Google Page Rank. (Just type and search the word google page rank checker on the web) and once you find it, type in your blog link in the box and submit.
Google page ranking comes from 0-10. The higher the number your blog gets, the higher your page rank (PR) is. The higher your PR, the more and higher paid ads you'll be getting. Now, don't ask me how Google page rank is being calculated because the answer is I really don't know! The calculations sound too complicated to understand. Perhaps, only a few knows how it works.

Now, I guess you know what I'm trying to imply. It just makes me crazy rejecting those paid ads because the blog is already deleted and had been dead several months ago!

GGGGGrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!! I'm really mad!

Our Updates!

2009-01-16T05:42:00.000-08:00

I guess this is not yet too late to greet you all a Happy New Year! My apology for the long hibernation, but this part of the season is still a busy time for me and hubby. Now, our updates:

TRIP:
We are preparing for our upcoming trip on January 27 til the 29th for San Antonio, Texas. As usual, we are requesting your humble prayers for a safety trip for both of us. We are not confirming this, but this might be the last trip we will do this year regarding hubby's symposium trips at work. SSA-headquarters is changing to a new symposium leadership training topics and hubby's not sure if he will still be needed in the symposium since he already moved out from the Office of Training. We'll keep you up to date regarding this.

The other piece of good news is that we already set up a date for our 3-week vacation to the Philippines in April this year ...(yay) :). The dates are yet to be confirmed as to hubby's work schedules.

OUR FAMILY PORTAL SITE:
I had to cancel our former family portal site and moved our site to a new host. Call me silly...but probably because my mind keeps on getting more active as it was, I discover more things that need to be done, talking about website making. I later on discovered that I really needed more features that I really wanted for a family site, giving me the reason to change it. At least now I know I'm getting worth the payment :). Please visit us at http://craigandging.net. We are continously updating it, so check us up from time to time :).

My FACEBOOK:
I had been keeping my profile silent for two years in here. Now I am just starting in making it more active once again. I like the cool features, better than two years ago, LOL!. Please join me in facebook...angelnoah_1121@yahoo.com.

WEATHER:
Winter season is making me sick! I just checked the weather updates today and it says 9F!!?...I just become so lazy (and depressed?) when it gets too cold! Don't wanna go out, don't like moving much and all I want is to sit and sleep :)). I'm still struggling to overcome the "laziness" effect of winter on me. Why I hate going out? I don't wanna wear 4 layers of clothings and go shopping for just 2 blocks away from home, come back and takes me time to remove the layerings :(.

Hope the year 2009 will create more blessings and happiness to all of you.

Ciao! :).

Celebrating Christmas 2008 (Part 2)

2009-01-02T03:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas was not only challenging for me, it was a season of catching the worst "bug" ever since I came to America. The bug celebrated Christmas with me until New Year. So, that means I had been "barking" from time to time for more than a week, LOL!

Thank God, I am feeling better now. I was deprived of sleep for the past few days because of the cough, but I now am getting good sleep for the new year 2009 :)).

Anyway, after Christmas, we thought of going to Longwood Gardens (one of our favorite place to hang out) in Pennyslvania to watch the Christmas lights. We didn't expect it was much of a challenge to get a parking spot that night of December 26th. Our parking was far away from the garden where a bus had to pick us up. But the Longwood Gardens staff did a wonderful job! Kudos! :).

We enjoyed the beauty of the garden lighted with sparkling colored lights at night...no wonder, one of the staff told us they receive at least 15,000 visitors every night for the holiday season! Whew!!!

We went home early afternoon of December 27th, and I was knocked down on bed! LOL!

It was all worth it. I trully enjoyed the spirit of christmas as well. Thank you Lord...we are so blessed! :).

Celebrating Christmas 2008 (part 1)

2008-12-29T05:45:00.000-08:00

Haven't been around lately...I'm sure some of you knew the reasons, and for those who were unaware, you will know as you read along! :).

Anyway, our christmas preparations was tough and both I and hubby were so much in pressure to beat the deadline for only 10 days to complete everything before Christmas day!

Honestly, we didn't have any rest coming home from our 8-day trip in California, Nevada and Arizona respectively. We arrived back home on Dec. 13, and completely settled down morning of Dec. 14, and catched up for church in the afternoon, still on our jet lags. We still didn't have any single christmas decor at home...not even the tree was up, not started our christmas shopping for gifts, etc...

Monday (December 15), I started to get panicky, hubby had to go work, (he had tough day there), and the house turned into a mess for all the preps I did, while we decided to shop nightime, and the weekend. (Thank God, all was done smoothly).

Our gift wrapping session was done separately. (I did mine upstairs, and hubby did his own down the basement). I couldn't join him since he said he'll be wrapping things for me :). Our wrappings were completely done exactly at Christmas eve! Yey! at least we beat the deadline! LOL!

The next day was exciting. I woke up 11:30am and hubby said it's time to open gifts! As usual, excitement comes with me at this time of the year :). We usually start it with a brief bible devotions and prayer before opening our gifts.

The Gifts:
I gave 12 gifts for hubby...(thank God, he loved all of them :)). And I had 13 gifts from him. Usually, the first part of the day is I and hubby taking turns in opening our gifts under our tree at home. The second part will be a traditional Christmas dinner at mom's house after which we take turns in opening our gifts as well. Both I and hubby gave 22 gifts for mom, George and Jesse. They are giving us many presents every Christmas as well which make most of our day exciting!

I received 12 gifts from mom, 8 gifts from George, 1 from Jesse plus gifts from hubby... It's more than 30 gifts!!!!Overwhelming, isn't it? That's how Christmas is in the family! The fact that shopping for clothes is getting expensive nowadays, it's as good as I had shopped for clothes for the whole year! ...all gifts! at no extra cost!

Thanks a lot mom and George!

Hope you had all the merriest Christmas ever! HAPPY NEW YEAR one and all!

"Christmas Rush"

2008-12-21T15:27:00.000-08:00

It's already past 1 in the morning, still tired and exhausted from a non-stop work for our christmas preparations.
We only had 10 days to prepare everything before Christmas since we came back from our trip.
So, I had tough days, from setting up the christmas tree, getting the hanging ornaments back to their hanging spots, (I had 3 days digging the box for this), shopping for gifts, gift wrapping....more shopping, more gifts, and more wrapping until wee hours in the morning {{{yawn!!}}}! I also included some things for our next balikbayan box :). I want to get it completed before we go home to the Philippines on April and at the same time be able to be there when the box arrives!
Thank God, we had half of the gifts given away! It's nice to feel and know we are sharing our blessings...a great fulfillment :).

I am still less than halfway done.
Please help me pray for good health. It seems my body is reacting towards stress. I got this sore throat that becomes unbearable during the night that makes me cough...disturbing.

Hope you all have a blessed Christmas!

Glad to be Back Home!

2008-12-15T03:40:00.000-08:00

Finally, we arrived back home safely last Saturday night at 9:30pm (Maryland time)...very tired and exhausted from a long trip. We had a connecting flight in Denver to Baltimore. It was quite a hassle tracking out the time since we left California. I only adjusted my watch when we reached Baltimore.

We thought we could get that sleep we were wanting when we reached home, but when hubby turned on the TV, Pacquiao-dela Hoya fight was on for a replay! Good thing was there was no commercial ads, so it was as good as watching the live fight! We went to bed around 3:30AM...and both dropped down like dead!!! LOL!

Well, there are so much things waiting to be done for christmas, which means I would be super, dooper busy for christmas. I still have to let the tree up and put up holiday decorations, wrap gifts, do laundry, etc...I still am having jet lags, but I need to start doing something and I am not sure when can I get back to my blogging job. I missed some blog opps since I was on trip, but that's okay, I enjoyed it and was worth it :).

More photos to share as well, but I'll find time for that :).

Hope everybody is having a good time this Christmas!

God bless!

We're Back in Anaheim!

2008-12-08T16:20:00.000-08:00

After spending 3 nights in Las Vegas, and a 1 day tour in Grand Canyon, Arizona, thank God, we arrived Anaheim safe and sound tonight. The trip is long (by bus), but we had fun the fact that all we did was eat, drink, watch movie, hop off at bus stops for quick stretches, and did some quick shoppings too! :).

Our Grand Canyon tour was great! It was a 17 hours tour, but seeing one of God's masterpieces is all worth it! It was cold up there, but we were both well wrapped and warm. Can't wait to share lots of our photos, but I am still in the state of grogginess, quite tired and sleepy.

I missed my online neighborhood for a day and a half, LOL!

Anyway, hoping I can share the photos too soon. Time for me to take my beauty rest...hubby is already snoring!! :)).

See ya'll next time.

Our New York Trip - Nov.29,'08

2008-12-01T13:33:00.000-08:00

We finally did our New York trip last Saturday. The cold was unbearable, almost close to freezing. Although, we were well-wrapped, the fact that we were in the outdoor for the whole day is still very cold.
We were able to visit ground zero (the twin towers/World Trade center), which is now a busy construction site, and the Statue of Liberty in Ellis Island. There are so much places to visit, but a one day visit isn't enough. We spent so much time waiting in long lines that took us more than an hour wait just to board the ferry going to Ellis Island where Statue of Liberty is. Perhaps, it was because it was on a weekend. Our wait was actually longer than our visit to the statue that only took us to 20 minutes to see it. Then, we had to hurry back to the bus stop on time, and getting a cab was a real challenge...heck! It was difficult to get one. We were at the middle of the street waving for a taxi, and we ended up chasing the empty cab just to get to our bus...
Anyway, that was fun and a good experience.
On to our next trip on December 6. CALIFORNIA-LAS VEGAS-ARIZONA. That would be another story folks! :)

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Snow Flurries Today - Because It's My Birthday!! :).

2008-11-21T02:36:00.000-08:00

I actually woke up super late today! I had to work on the new church website with a new domain, so it is always challenging :)....as late as 3 AM!

Before I woke up, the first words that came out from my mouth..."thank you Lord" for giving me another bountiful year...it's my birthday, and it's snowing!"

My husband greeted me early in the morning with a birthday song (with his own tune..LOL!) and a cake on bed! I guess I was blowing the candles in a wrong direction, because I was really super sleepy!...so we decided to have another second candle blowing tonight, with photos :)).

Thank you Lord!

Another Early, Surprise Birthday Gift!

2008-11-18T07:25:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I received this at our doorsteps...it's the key lighting piano that I once saw in Skymall magazine couple of months ago. Of course, somebody took note about it (again) and sent it to me :). I told hubby how I wish I can play the piano well as I love to listen to music. Thank you again beloved...:)).
Now, I still don't know how to play it, but I am working on it. I still have to refresh my mind on the basics as I had some piano lessons before wayback 2 decades ago...hahahaha!!! Good thing is that it can teach you the proper fingerings, plus it has a song book with musical sheets, just in case you want to play some songs there. I always love listening to people who know how to play the piano...still wishing I can play that well.
Now, I have to find time to work and practice on some songs. Another leisure time added for me which isn't bad...I won't get bored! :).
See ya later folks...I can't wait to press the DO, RE, MI...:)).

Your Friend's List As Per Friendster's Customer Support

2008-11-17T00:42:00.000-08:00

Recently, I contacted friendster's online support center. Below is my letter that I sent. of course, who doesn't get pissed off? I closely track all of my friends' updates, and just imagine if things are suddenly messed up without even having a piece of information and explanations being given!

My Letter:

Hey Friendster team,
What's up...it's been 3 days since your site is unstable, inaccessible, temporary maintenance, whatever!!!
DON'T LEAVE YOUR SUBSCRIBERS HANGING OUT HERE! WE DESERVE TO BE INFORM WHAT'S HAPPENING AND WHY OUR PROFILES ARE MESSED UP! IF THIS IS SOMEWHAT LIKE A CRAP, FIX IT. BUT BFORE YOU DO IT, GET SOME PEN AND WRITE A LETTER OF NOTICE TO YOUR SUBSCRIBERS SO WE KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT!

Friendster Customer Support's Response:

Hello ,

Thank you for contacting Friendster Customer Support.

Over the past several days we’ve been upgrading our service and you may have experienced site issues, discrepancies in counts or even friends missing from your friends list.

If friends on your friend's list are missing, please be patient; they are not permanently deleted and are still in our database (we're just having problems displaying them). We are working on restoring your entire friend's list and should have the complete list back within the next several days.

Thank you again for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience.

Regards,

Madison
Customer Support

My suggestion is that, don't add your friends again. Your friends are all intact. Just that the displayed numbers on your friend's list is not working well. If you try clicking the VIEW ALL on your friend's list, you'll notice that they are all there.

Thanks for the support team for that information. Now, at least we know what's happening. The only thing that wasn't done properly is that there was no information dessiminated to all subscribers regarding this, which can make things more worst! Some became panicky, irritated, (name it)...myself included.

Hope everything will get to be done sooner! :).

Where did all my friends go???

2008-11-14T04:24:00.000-08:00

Since last night I had a hard time accessing my friendster page. It appeared later that it was of "temporary maintenance."

However, when I tried accessing it again today, I noticed that almost all of my friends on my list were gone. Am I the only one having this glitch? It's ridiculous! For 200+ friends, gone???

I wonder what's the friendster team has been doing lately. I hope it's only a glitch. I can't just afford to lose another vital links (friendster has already lost my 200+ some links on my blogs.

5WITS - Boston's Most Interactive Entertainment Experience

2008-11-10T01:49:00.000-08:00

If you find yourself roaming around Boston, - and you love to take a mind-bending adventure of sights, sound and action, visit 5WITS - located at Brookline Ave.

The 5WITS premier show called "TOMB" is just like stepping into a simulated Indiana Jones movie setting wherein you find yourself solving puzzles and mind boggling games inside a 3,000 year-old tomb using your wits.

This is a 45-minute adventure, but might take longer depending on how fast you are in solving a given task.

In the setting, you'll find yourself trapped by the spirit of an ancient pharaoh, facing ingenious challenges that must be completed. The bigger your group, the better teamwork!

Our experience:

It was a little bit more tough for us since there were only 2 of us (me and hubby) plus our guide.

Take note: - a guide will always be with you just to be sure you won't be trapped there forever!

We were taken to 5 chambers (I hope I counted correctly) one at a time as we solve mind boggling games. I will tell you the details later once I've already posted this on my travel blog.

So far, I tried counting the tasks and we had 9 tasks as much as my mind can recall all of them. It seems when you fail in a certain task, there's an option (simpler one) given just for the sake of completing it, so you can move on to the next. Without completeing any task given in a certain chamber, you can't move on and thus, you will be trapped.

If you want to know more, you can find them online as well. www.5-wits.com

From there, you know more what to expect, including the ticket prices and driving directions.

Try it!...it's one of a kind.

Stepping Into The Prime of Life

2008-11-06T00:49:00.000-08:00

Two weeks more, and I will be into what they call the prime of life.

As much as I am getting old(er), it seems I'm already starting to feel some annoying symptoms. I know I have a lot, but I continue to pray and lift my hands all up to Him above. I continue to be a Christian soldier who fights for anything worth fighting for including health problems and sickness.

It's now a week since I started to have this vertigo that annoys me. I got it when we were in Boston. Everytime I lie down and get up from bed...everything spins like crazy!

I hope we can get a doctor's appointment sooner. Please help me pray for a complete healing and fast recovery.

Attempted Hacks on Our Credit!

2008-11-02T11:39:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, immediately after we arrived home from Boston, there were pending voice mail messages on our phone. Hubby checked on them and 2 messages came from one of our credit card provider telling us that there has been some suspicious activity that had occured same day (Saturday) on one of hubby's credit card accounts. He immediately called the number and we discovered, somebody had ordered items from eluxury.com and another from snapfish. The credit card representative told us the transactions happened at 1:00AM of Saturday. Hubby asked me if I ordered those, I told him not at all, because I never used his credit card in ordering things.

The total amount of the transactions was more than $1,000!!!

Thank God!...our credit card anti-fraud protector works! My husband said to me: "Looks like we have to eat our own words". I readily agreed because last time, hubby had a bad argument with the same credit card provider because they withheld our purchases, thinking that it was a fraudulent activity. Hubby warned them of cancelling his account with them. Now, we know they are just doing their job, for our own good and security.

For those who have credit cards, better get an anti-fraud detector service with just a minimal fee. Our accounts has it, and just for a minimal fee, it is all worth it to protect you from any attempted hacking.

Be safe and advanced Happy Thanksgiving! :)