A Life in Bloom: July 2009

Random Questions

>> Friday, July 31, 2009

What did you wear today?
~ Just shorts and sleeveless top.

What’s one thing you want to buy right now?
~ A fully-furnished house, complete with walk in tubs. (A girl can dream, right?)

Where do you want to travel to?
~ Interesting places like Disneyland or EK.
Who would you go with?
~ My family, of course.
What kind of food would you eat?
~ Anything yummy.
What are you listening to?
~ The rain.
Is there any song stuck in your head?
~ Yeah. “Upuan” by Gloc 9 Ft. Jeazell Of Zelle..
What do you most feel like doing this week?
~ Scrap.
Get up. Walk to your living room. What do you see?
~ Books and TV.
Get up. Walk to your kitchen. What’s the first thing you notice?
~ The refrigerator. I’m thirsty!
What’s your favorite dance move?
~ The freestyle move. Is there such a move? Haha!
What are you thinking right now?
~ Just wondering when will the flood subside..
What’s the last thing you bought?
~ Groceries.

Thanks, Alpha!

Influential and Ambitious?

You Are Influential and Ambitious

When You Are Comfortable:

You are a glamorous, social person. You love being the center of attention and an object of adoration.
People see you as charming and charismatic. You are naturally dazzling. You are ambitious, and find it easy to get ahead in life.

When You Are At Your Best:

You are a strong person. You're driven and assertive. Success is yours, as much as you want it.
People find you to be clever and spirited. You're a bit saucy too... delightfully so!

When You Are in a Social Setting:

You are a practical, efficient worker. You know how to go after what you want, and you're not afraid to work hard.
People see you as a loyal, genuine person. You are down to earth, and upfront about who you are.

What Do Your Initials Say About You?

Paris Hilton’s New Pet | Paris Hilton Adopts a Cat

>> Thursday, July 30, 2009

Paris Hilton recently adopted a new cat and was spotted buying the cat toys and food at PETCO. And to emphasize (or do you think it was just coincidence?) her good intention, she even wore a Hello Kitty dress. Lookie:

The kitty is kinda cute and that’s so nice of Paris to adopt it. But I do think that dress is too much. Haha!

But still, that’s a kind act, Paris! Way to go!

Source and more photos here.

Early Halloween Party Preparations | Halloween Invitations

According to William Shakespeare, “Better be three hours too soon than one minute too late.” Thus, it’s never to early to prepare for your Halloween Party at this time. For a start, browse through the collection of Halloween Party Invitations at http://www.cardsshoppe.com/.

View your Halloween Invitation before buying with their patented instant preview features and ask for revisions at no extra cost. They’ll make sure that you’ll have the grandest and memorable Halloween Celebrations and Halloween Party Invitations.

For your Halloween Costume Invitations, try Cards Shoppe where your Party Invitations Halloween-style will surely be a blast.

Technorati Tags: Halloween,Holidays,Party,Invitations,Greeting Cards,Announcements

I am a chocolate addict.

That’s an obvious fact. My favorites are pretty simple: Hershey’s, Kisses, Toblerone, Cadbury, M&M’s and Twix. Dark and minty ones are OK and I welcome more brands and variety. Just no white ones. Those are for DH who still buys white chocolates for *me* despite his knowledge of my preferences so that he won’t feel guilty eating them when I reject them. What a smartie, eh!

Anyways, I did some chocolate shopping when we were at the grocery store two weeks ago. Here’s what I got:
choco
And let me say this: THESE ARE NOT ALL MINE TO CONSUME! :D

The Toblerone bars was *supposed* to be distributed equally between DH and me. But obviously, that did not happen. :D The Raisinets and two Tango bars plus the plain M&M’s were given to my parents. The Peanut M&M’s were DD’s. And the Goya box? Well, I told the sales lady to give the the Black and Mint ones but I discovered that this was what she took out of the cabinet and I only discovered it when we got home. *sigh* Moral of the story? You already know that. Haha!

Random Thoughts on a Rainy Thursday Afternoon

Sleeeepy. That’s how I feel right now. The weather is so perfect for sleeping and yet it seems that I was not able to sleep. DD is home. I allowed her to stay home this afternoon due to the heavy downpour.

I wonder when this rain will really stop. It’s going crazy, really. One moment you’d think it’s over and the next thing you know, it’s raining like there’s no tomorrow. I pity those living in low-lying areas. A lot of them are suffering from the nasty flood. Some friends belong to those groups and I can just imagine how tough their lives are right now.

I wanted to attend a thanksgiving party of an alumna who passed the recent board exam for nurses tonight. But the weather is not cooperating! She was one of the best student leaders when I began my work as a student affairs practitioner. I know she will be one of the most caring and hardworking nurses in her generation.

I should really get moving now. I have to prepare our dinner. This reminds me of a joke heard by DD on the radio.

A son was asking his father the difference between "dinner” and “supper”. The father responded by saying, “When we eat out, that’s dinner. When we eat what your mother prepares, that supper.”

I did not find it funny. Do you?

P.S.

These are my random thoughts upon waking up from a rainy afternoon nap. Though I wonder if I was able to really nap at all.

Gold Investment

What makes gold valuable? Its rarity, of course! Furthermore, it is durable and does not wear out when passed from hand to hand. Gold is considered as a unique investment even by our forefathers. From the times of ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans up to our times, the beauty and magic of gold never failed to fascinate man.

One woman I know has been investing on gold jewelries. She claims that it’s a good investment because gold’s value never depreciates. She also considering buying gold bullions in the near future and she very sure that Monex can greatly assist her in this venture. And why Monex? Because true to their dedication to customer service and satisfaction, Monex has become America's trusted name in coin and bullion trading for over 40 years.

Katie Holmes Escapes Car Explosion in Australia

Katie Holmes, wife of Tom Cruise and mom to Suri, narrowly escaped serious injury when a car caught fire on a movie set in Australia where she is filming “Don’t be Afraid of the Dark. She was inside the car when it’s battery exploded last weekend. It sparked smoke and fumes prior the explosion.

"Don't Be Afraid of the Dark" is a remake of a 1973 TV movie. Katie Holmes plays a woman who is stalked by wicked gnomes.

Twitter Users Show Support to Pres. Aquino | Yellow Ribbon for Pres. COry At Twitter

As millions of people around the world pray for the well-being of former President Cory Aquino, thousands of Netizens also do their part to express sympathy and support to the world-renowned democracy advocate.

At Twitter, I joined many users in supporting President Cory by adding a yellow ribbon on my avatar. The steps are so easy.

1. Visit this site and log-in.

2. SUPPORT THE CAUSE!

When you support this cause your avatar will be overlaid with the twibbon above and a support Tweet will posted on your behalf saying: “Support Yellow Ribbon for Pres. Cory, add a #twibbon to your avatar now! - http://twibbon.com/join/Yellow-Ribbon-for-Pres-Cory”

Here’s how my Twitter avatar looks like right now:

Spooky Halloween Invitations

>> Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Aside from the costumes, games, favors and food, what’s another equally important thing to prepare for a spooky, fun and exciting Halloween party? A scary Halloween Invitation, of course!

Invitations Halloween – themed abound but you are looking for a Ghost Invitations, you say? Well look no more because http://www.invitations-shoppe.com creates unique Halloween Party Invitations just for you! Aside from their New Styles Trends Halloween Party Invitations, they also take pride of their same-day printing and shipping of your approved order.

Technorati Tags: Halloween,Holidays,Party,Invitations,Greeting Cards,Announcements

Michael Jackson’s Doc Gave Him Drug Prior His Death | Michael Jackson and Propofol

Though toxicology reports are still pending, a law enforcement official who spoke on condition of anonymity told The Associated Press on Monday that Michael Jackson’s personal doctor, Dr. Conrad Murray, administered a powerful anesthetic to help him sleep and authorities believe that this caused the King of Pop’s demise.

Police investigators discovered propofol and other drugs, an IV line and tanks of oxygen at Jackson’s bedroom during a search after his death.

Supposedly, propofol is only administered in hospitals because it is one powerful anesthetic. It depresses breathing and lowers heart rates and blood pressure. Instructions on propofol’s package warn that patients must monitored continuously and that equipment to maintain breathing “must be immediately available” to provide artificial ventilation and to administer oxygen.

Dr. Murray’s laywer, Edward Chernoff claimed that his client “didn’t prescribe or administer anything that should have killed Michael Jackson. Furthermore, he refused to comment on “rumors, innuendo or unnamed sources” when asked to react on the officer’s statements.

SOURCE.

Tuna Lumpia Recipe | Tuna Spring Rolls Recipe

As promised, here is my own version of Tuna Lumpia (Tuna Spring Rolls Tuna). DH swears that this is yummy and I believe him. :) I prepared 20 pieces for the three of us (plus our laundry girl) during lunch time and I believe I ate six! And before sleeping that night, I fried the remaining rolls for our midnight snacks. Don’t ask me how much I consumed that night. Let’s just say that if I keep on doing this, I will be needing the help of the best weight loss pills in the world. Big Grin

OK. Here are the ingredients. Pardon me for there are no measurements. That’s how I cook. Haha! I just go by how much I think I will be needing.

Ingredients:
A can of tuna (I usually buy Century Tuna, Guisado)

An Egg, lightly beaten

Onion, chopped

Ground pepper

Salt

Cornstarch (just a dash)
Cheese cut into strips

Lumpia wrappers
Oil for frying

Procedure (Very, very easy. Trust me.):

1. Mix all the ingredients together, except for the last three.
2. Place one tablespoon of the tuna mix at the wrapper and add a cheese strip or two on top. Roll the wrapper towards the middle. When half-rolled, take the sides and fold them inward. Brush the edges with water before sealing it completely.

3. Heat skillet and pour in the cooking oil. You will know that it’s ready when the oil starts to smoke. Start frying and remove once they turn golden brown.

4. Use paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your home-made sauce. I prefer Del Monte Sweet Catsup or the Del Monte Sweet & Spicy Sauce.

P.S.
You may want to experiment and add vegetables to make this recipe more healthy and nutritious. I tried adding shredded cabbage last Saturday and DH commended it. :)

Weekend Recap

Hello! How was your weekend? Ours, as always, was relaxing.

After a month of absence, DD finally went to attend her ballet class last Saturday only to find out that her teachers were on a trip. She and her Dad ended up eating at Jollibee while waiting for me. I visited the school that morning too, to check some documents submitted by an organization. Very late and disputable, if I may say.

Anyways, I did miss chatting with my officemates but DH has been calling and texting me every now and then. It’s not that he missed me, silly! It’s because we had to meet at the mall and buy groceries. And so we did. I prepared Tuna Lumpia (spring rolls) for lunch. I will post my recipe later. In the afternoon up to the evening, DH and I watched The Unit and NCIS. And before calling it a night, I prepared fruit salad for the following day.

Sunday, we were supposed to attend Mass at the University Chapel. But we woke up to a rainy Sunday morning. A neighbor was complaining about their house being flooded. I prepared spaghetti again. This time, we added celery, to the dismay of DD. LOL! But she still ate them when served. Friends came later in the afternoon but I was busy discussing *important* stuff with some friends. Work came unexpectedly that afternoon and I gladly started on them.

So there. It was a good weekend, despite the rain and flood, mainly because I was with my family. :)

E.L.F. Cosmetics and Heels.Com Coupons

>> Sunday, July 26, 2009

Staying at home for two months makes me miss prepping up daily for work and making sure that I look good before leaving home. I miss wearing make up and I think I need to shop for shoes too!

Early this year, my Twitter friends shopped at E.L.F. (Eyes, Lips, Face) Cosmetics. I wonder if they’re aware of the E.L.F. Cosmetics coupons which can found online. I will put those coupons one of these days to build up my make up stash before September 2009.

And now, let’s go to shoes. I recently discovered some Heels.Com coupons which are going to be useful when I buy these:

ZBCBG116_MAINTHUMB

ZLUI056_MAINTHUMB ZBCBG097_MAINTHUMB

Totally fab, right? Right! If there’s one thing that makes me look forward to going back to work, it’s wearing these fab shoes!

A Certified Hoarder

>> Thursday, July 23, 2009

I confess. I have the tendency to hoard office and school stuff – notebooks, notepads, pens, ball pens, markers, punchers, scissors, even box cutters. I don’t understand the reason behind this compulsion. I was never deprived when I was younger. I like the process of choosing and looking at them at the display. I think I will use them. And I use them, of course. But then, I have this one large drawer full of school and office supplies which I bought since time immemorial and they can last me a lifetime! And as a proof of my addiction, here is my poor, over-stuffed pencil case and it’s contents:

There are five colored pens, three signing pens, one ball pen (I am actually missing three more), two pads of papers with adhesives, the maroon one is a screw-driver actually, a mechanical pencil, mechanical pencil refills, a highlighter, an eraser, a card-reader, a 2G USB and a ruler. I don’t get to use them ALL in a day but then, I feel secure when they’re all together inside my bag whenever I go to work. And yeah, aside from these, I also have more stuff inside my drawers at the office. :D

Philippine Holidays for 2010

Listening to the news this morning somehow made my day as the announcers well, announced the Philippine holidays for 2010 as declared by the president GMA. I have told you over and over again that I live for the weekends and holidays, right? Right.

Anyways, on with the list legal holidays in the Philippines for 2010:

January 1 – New Year’s Day
April 1 – Maundy Thursday
April 2- Good Friday
April 9- Araw ng Kagitingan
Labor Day -May 1
Independence Day – June 14
Ninoy Aquino Day – Aug. 23
National Heroes Day – August 30
All Saint’s Day – November 1
Bonifacio Day – November 29
Christmas Day- December 25
Rizal Day-December 27

Per PGMA’s holiday economics, some holidays were moved to Mondays nearest to the date, the Independence Day for example. Moreover, December 24 (Christmas Eve) and 31 (last day of the year) are traditionally declared as holidays too.

So there. Plan your vacations and staycations as early as now!

Filipino Style Spaghetti Recipe

>> Tuesday, July 21, 2009

I was supposed to prepare spaghetti last weekend just because. So we bought the ingredients along with the diet supplements which is sworn to be effective by one of my friends. But then, my husband and I suffered from colds so I had to put that plan on hold. Yesterday was a local holiday and I was feeling a lot better. But then, my husband had to leave for a meeting and will be coming home tomorrow so tomorrow, it will be.

There are many ways to cook spaghetti sauce but I will stick with the Filipino Style Spaghetti. However, I will be altering it a bit by adding chopped mushrooms and a dash of oregano as a garnish.

Anyways, here is the Filipino Style Spaghetti recipe which I found on the net:

Spaghetti Ingredients:

1 kg. spaghetti noodles
1/2 kg. ground beef
1/2 kg. ground pork
1/4 kg. hotdogs, diagonally sliced
1 kg. tomato sauce
3 pieces laurel leaves (bay leaves)
1/4 cup brown or white sugar
2 green bell peppers, diced
2 onions, chopped
1 head garlic, minced
3 tablespoons of cooking oil
1 cup of water

Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated cheese

Spaghetti Cooking Instructions:

Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
In a sauce pan or wok, sauté garlic and onions in cooking oil.
Add ground beef, ground pork, laurel leaves, bell pepper and a cup of water. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Add tomato sauce, salt and pepper to taste then let simmer for another 10 minutes
Add brown sugar and hotdogs. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve with the cooked spaghetti noodles and grated cheese on top.

New Expiry Periods for Globe and Touch Mobile

Here’s a good news for Touch Mobile and Globe subscribers:

In compliance with the National Telecommunications Commission, Globe and Touch Mobile are implementing new expiry periods on regular prepaid load which were purchased starting July 19, 2009. The expiry periods are:

P10 and below – 3 days
P11 to P50 – 15 days
P51 to P100 – 30 days

P101 to P150 – 45 days

P151 – P250 – 60 days
P251 – P300 – 75 days

P301 and above – 120 days

Per Globe and Touch Mobile’s advice, they will continue to apply the longer expiry between two combined load credits for the benefit of their consumers.

Wanted: Online Storage

>> Monday, July 20, 2009

I have been enjoying free web-hosting for my blogs. But recently, I have thought of paying for online storage just to be sure that my blogs’ contents are safe and are in good hands. What I am looking for are affordable pricing, data insurance, allows me to access my files anywhere and gives me total control on accessing my files. These and more, I think I found at myotherdrive.com. They provide solutions both for home and business. Just last year, they even held a promo where new subscribers got a chance to win a Nintendo Wii just by signing up. Cool eh?

A Free Digital Scrapbooking Template

>> Friday, July 17, 2009

Hello! Someone got busy and was able to come up with a free digital scrapbooking template at her blog. Check it out here and let me know what you think, OK? By the way, here’s the preview:

folder
Happy scrapping!

Best Prescription Eyeglasses for Kids

>> Thursday, July 16, 2009

KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA As a mother of a child entering the big school, I now worry if she will be needing a pair of eyeglasses any time soon. Aside from her favorite story books, she has to read 7 to 8 text books daily.

Good thing there are $ 8 Rx eyeglasses at Zenni Optical. They are not only affordable but also fashionable. Knowing kids these days, you can’t force them to wear something which are out of fashion. Moreover, I know it won’t be tough to convince my daughter to wear prescription eyeglasses if she sees Zenni Optical on TV!!! We all know media’s effect on kids these days, right? And here’s more: a famous blogger just gave a High Five to Zenni Optical because of the quality and affordability of their eyeglasses. Way to go, Zenni Optical!

QOTW #54

Yay! Yen’s Questions of the Week is back! And boy, I did miss it! But I missed my friend Yen more. :p

1. How have you been?
:: I am good. :)

2. What do you wish you knew more about?
:: Business and financing stuff.

3. Is there a luxury item/indulgence that you would like to have, but just could not justify the expense?
:: A new high-end mobile phone and long camera lens.

4. Is it easier for you to forgive yourself or to forgive others?
:: It’s easier for me to forgive others. But forgetting is a different story.

5. How do you get your daily energy fix?
:: Eight hours of sleep the night before and a cup of coffee during breakfast.

6. Have you ever found a method of chopping onions without shedding tears? Tell us about it!
:: No secret here. But I do try to stay away from the variety of onion that triggers crying.

7. How many different countries have you visited?
:: No out-of-the-country trips for me yet.

8. Did you choose your life or did your life choose you?
:: I chose my life!

9. How do you prevent hypocrisy?
:: Just by avoiding people who are hypocrites. Haha!

10. Have you ever loved anyone who didn’t loved you back?
:: I don’t know. I think they all loved me back. Or they just made me think that they did. Haha!

Beautiful and Wonderful

What is Mesothelioma?

For many of us, mesothelioma is a strange word. I, for one, have encountered this word just late last year. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells which line the lungs, heart, and stomach. These cells play an important role in our bodies by protecting the said these organs through producing a lubricating fluid that allows these organs to move smoothly. Malignant mesotheliomas arise from the cells that surround the surface of the pleura or the peritoneum.

Approximately 2000 new cases are diagnosed each year. It is one rare disease with an incidence of one to three cases per 1 million persons per year.

Apparently, heavy exposure to asbestos causes malignant mesothelioma. Moreover, there are reported cases of mesothelioma in family members of asbestos workers and people who reside near asbestos mines. Symptoms include shortness of breath and pain with breathing, with malaise and weight loss.

Unfortunately, as of this moment, there is no effective treatment for malignant mesothelioma. Average survival of persons suffering from mesothelioma is one to two years. But thanks to emerging treatments and early diagnosis, there are patients who have lived longer.

God Wants Me to Know (7/16/09)

And today’s message is:

“Suzanne got a message that on this day, God wants her to know...

... that when the sun rises, it rises for you.
Yes, for you. Just for you. Only for you. You are it, everything, the whole universe with all the billion galaxies and stars. The separateness you feel is only a mask you have put on to enjoy this human form. Under the mask, your shape is All. How far can you now feel your Self expand? To your parent?... to your child?... to your friend?... to a stranger on a street?... half way around the globe?”

Wednesday Happy Thoughts 7/15/09

>> Wednesday, July 15, 2009

It’s Wednesday once again and I am one happy participant for this week’s Wednesday Happy Thoughts. Happiness then are:

1. Lots of online tasks!
2. A vacation despite having no baby to attend to.
3. The word “negative” on my biopsy result.

4. The 7 days of paternity leave spent by DH with me.
5. DH being around. No official trips for 2 weeks now! Woot!
6. Birthdays of the persons sooo dear to me!

7. Online friends

8. Facebook

9. My laptop.

10.Spybot.

A Wedding Like No Other

One of our online friends is a professional photographer. Most of her engagements are weddings. She is one lucky girl to be paid by doing what she loves. Moreover, she travels a lot too since many couples these days choose destination weddings over tying the knot at the church.

Speaking of destination weddings, Karisma Hotels is one that offers unique destinations for the biggest day in your lives as a couple. Saying “I do” in one of their award-winning beachfront resorts will not only make the day memorable for you and your spouse but for your guests as well. They offer unique ceremony settings, value-added packages, free wedding planning services and ultra chic honeymoon suites.

Untitled-1
Tying the knot at Karisma Hotels will certainly be a wedding like no other. It will THE wedding that will set your friends’ standards when they begin planning for their own weddings.

Surprisingly!

Now, now, don’t be fooled. I myself, am surprised by the result! Haha!

You Are Not a Snob

In general, you're a very open minded and kind person.
There really isn't a snobby bone in your body. You are very accepting.

You're not afraid to be who you are... you're proud of your individuality.
In truth, you think that snobby people aren't good enough for you!

Are You Snobby?

Lechon Kawali Recipe

Since I am on leave of absence from work, I have all the time in the world to put my culinary expertise into good use. Not that I am an expert. Haha!

For tonight’s meal, I am planning to prepare Lechon Kawali (Crispy Pan-Fried Roasted Pork) and Corn and Crab Soup. But don’t be fooled. We don’t have corn nor crabs. What I have is my trusty Knorr’s Corn and Crab Ready-to-Cook Soup! It’s one of our family’s favorites, actually. So easy and quick to prepare. Plus it’s oh-so-yummy!

But my main dish, which is Lechon Kawali, will be prepared from scratch.

lechon-kawali

Here’s the recipe I’ve been following:

Ingredients:

1 1/2 lbs pork liempo (pork belly)
3 garlic cloves, crushed
2 laurel leaves (bay leaves)
1 teaspoon peppercorns or 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
salt
water, for boiling
oil (for frying)

Sauce (optional):

3 tablespoons soy sauce
5 tablespoons vinegar
1 shallot, minced or 1 small onion, minced
1 garlic clove, minced
chili peppers (optional)

Cooking Instructions:
Cut the pork belly into serving pieces then combine with the garlic, peppercorn,laurel leaves, salt and water in a pan.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 35-45 minutes or until skin is tender.
Drain, cool and air dry.
Deep-fry liempo pieces in batches until golden brown and blisters appear on skin.
Mix all the sauce ingredients and serve lechon kawali while it’s hot.

Recipe and photo courtesy of pinoyrecipe.net.

Power Options

A famous preacher and life coach once said that to be rich, one has to be familiar with the terms used in finance, investment and business. That’s what he did! He read books, attended seminars and sought the advice of mentors who are experts in the field. He became acquainted with terms like stock exchange, personal finance, preferred stocks, options and more.

For a beginner like him and like most of us, it is important that we get the best help that is available so we can succeed without risking our hard-earned money. Power Options is one company that helps beginners in the field of trading options. They offer free consultation with their expert coaches plus a 14-day free trial where no credit card is required with easy tutorials to get started and free coaching sessions. A good start for newbies like us, don’t you think?

Farm Town = Dead Mouse

Do you remember me blabbering about Farm Town? And then later declaring that I am taking a leave from playing that game? Well, well, I am proud to say that I have been successful so far. I opened it yesterday but the zest to play vanished. But aside from the fact that I have plenty of tasks to accomplish which are due tomorrow, my dear old mouse is on the verge of dying.

I was telling some friends just last week that my mouse refuses to work when I play Farm Town but it does fine when I am not. Mai commented that, “Farm Town = Dead Mouse”. Haha! Later on, the ‘attack” became frequent that I decided to give it up because it has become a nuisance. And pounding a mouse on the computer table to get it to work agian is not a cool thing to do. Or maybe it only aggravated the situation. Haha!

As of now, I am using DH’s small mouse which I absolutely love! (And I hope he reads this so he’ll buy me a new one. Haha!)

Random Questions #26

1. What are you looking forward to in the next next month?
:: Accomplishing the tasks I assigned to well, my self! :D

2. Where's the last place you went besides home?
:: The hospital, just yesterday, to get my biopsy result.

3. Would you ever change for a boy/girl?
:: Nah. I love being a girl.

4. Is there anyone that you wish was out of your life?
:: No one.

5. Were you happy when you woke up today?
:: Yeah. Very looking forward to a productive day. Plus I got company since DD’s school declared a holiday.

6. Happiest moment of 2009 so far?
:: Every single day that I am with DH and DD. They are my life and being with them is joy.

7. Have you ever asked a boy for advice?
:: Always. From DH and my boss.

8. Do you have a gay friend?
:: Do you want me to count them? Haha! Yeah, a handful of them actually.

9. Do you lie about your age?
:: Nope. Why should I?

10. Describe your life for the past month in one word?
:: Blessed.

Thanks, Chikai!

The Search is Over

Almost daily, we see and learn about vehicular accidents happening almost everywhere in the world. Most often, it is caused by irresponsible motorists who drive when drunk. Unfortunately for some victims, they have to endure the consequences of such irresponsible acts. Some even has to rely on cervical collars for a long time, especially when they get neck injury due to the accident.

I read that it is tough to find a cervical collar that fits and is comfortable. Thanks to Allegro Medical, people who are looking for one does not need to look further. They offer cervical collars which are lightweight, safe, sturdy and easy to use. And aside from cervical collars, they also offer a wide variety of medical equipment and home health care supplies, exercise and fitness equipment, nutritional dietary supplements, maternity/baby supplies and outdoor gear. Indeed, it’s a one-stop shop for your health and medical needs!

Tocho Recipe

In between blogging, I do check my Facebook account. No playing of games though. LOL! Just recently, I just read Kaje post re her search for Tocho recipe. Hmm… This got me curious. What’s Tocho? Thanks to the Internet (like Kaje who is also grateful for technology), I quickly found it and learned that it’s a Filipino dish with milkfish (or bangus) as it’s main ingredient. It looks easy to prepare and sumptuous too! I should try this one of these days.

Anyways, here are the ingredients and instructions on how to prepare this dish.

Ingredients:
1 kg bangus sliced diagonally

3 tbsp MAGGI Savor, Classic

cooking oil for deep-frying

4 pcs tokwa, cut into cubes

1/4 cup sliced ginger strips

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, minced

4 cups minced tomatoes

1/3 cup tahure

1 cup water

1 pc 11g MAGGI Shrimp Broth Cube

2 tbsp tausi (black beans)

1/4 cup vinegar

Procedure:

Marinate bangus in MAGGI Savor for about 10 min.
Pan-fry in hot oil until browned. Set aside.
In the same pan, fry tokwa until golden.
Set aside.
Leave 2 tbsp oil and saute the ginger, garlic, onion, and tomatoes.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine tahure, water and MAGGI Shrimp Broth Cube.
Pour into the sauteed mixture.
Simmer for 5 min.
Stir in tausi and vinegar.
Simmer without stirring for 10 min.
Add in fried bangus and tokwa.
Serve hot.

Thanks to pinoyrecipe.net for the ingredients and photo.

Today, God Wants Me to Know That…

“Suzanne got a message that on this day, God wants her to know...

... that you can only give away what you already have inside yourself. True giving happens when you are overflowing from the inside, and cannot help but share. When there is so much love within you that it has to flow to others or you would burst open. There is no thinking involved, no willpower in such sharing. It just flows out. If you have to force yourself to be kind, to love, to feel compassion, you've missed the first step of filling in your own Self with these emotions.”

This is one of my favorite applications at Facebook. I usually check it out daily and most often, it gives out a message that is so true and timely. And today, I can only agree with what is being told me. One can never give what one never had.

Fashionable Fashion Jewelries

I gave up jewelries for a long time. Except for some earrings and my wedding ring, I have no other jewelries in my possession. Recently though, my mom gave me a beautiful watch. The simple and elegant design matched my taste. It reminded me of the jewelries offered by Holsted Jewelers.

Their wide assortment of both classic and cutting-edge designs made them one of the best in the jewelry industry. Moreover, one can choose from their wide assortment of jewelries – from fashion jewelry sets to personalized jewelries. They put value on workmanship and detail. And there’s more, they also consider your budget. Wants to be fashionable but on a tight budget? Worry no more because there are jewelries which are under $50. Wants to splurge? There are luxurious items at $100 or more! With Holsted Jewelers, you can never go wrong. It’s quality and elegance in prices that you can afford.

Preparing for Exams and Our Struggle to become Good Parents

It’s been a while since I last posted something about DD here. Well, she is home today since her teachers joined the protest rally condemning the terroristic acts that claimed the lives of the innocents here in the city. This gives the pupils one whole day to review their lessons since tomorrow is their first day of exams. I can’t say that helping her prepare for exams is a breeze. It’s not. It is both draining for her and the one helping her review as she tends to get distracted with so many interesting things around her like her story books and crayons and many others.

Just last month, she declared that she wanted to become a janitor! Haha! I can only guess that she finds big school tough. She was placed in the first section where pupils are expected to study really hard and excel. After a month in the big school, I can say that we are still adjusting. She as a grader and us, as parents of a grader. Wes has to serve as an audience during her studying sessions. He encourages her to read her lessons aloud. I do the question and answer later. She finds it difficult to read in Filipino (of all subjects!) because she grew up reading English story books. Oh well.

It sometimes gets frustrating but I always have to remind myself (and DH) that she’s just a kid. And that she will outgrow this phase too. I found some useful resources here and here which I intend to print and post on the refrigerator’s door to remind us both. It’s tough being a parent as there is no school to prepare us to becoming one. Thus, I am grateful for those who untiringly share their experiences and wisdom so we can learn from them and help us become the best parents that we can be.

As a parting shot, here’s a recent photo of DD wearing her school uniform. If there is one thing that spares her from being punished, it’s her cuteness. It works with me. Sometimes. LOL!

Frame by Ida Designs

LaToya Jackson Believes Michael Jackson Was Murdered

It’s one shocking news after another.

The world mourned when the news regarding Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, died earlier this month. And recently, his sister, LaToya Jackson claims that her brother was murdered as a part of the conspiracy to steal his wealth which is worth $1 billion dollars. Apparently, $2 million worth of cash and jewelry was taken from his home after his death. Moreover, The News of the World quoted her saying that she is aware of who is responsible for Michael Jackson’s death and is determined to see them brought to justice. Reportedly, she also claims that her brother was only pressured to perform in the 50 shows in London.

Online Learning for busy Adults

My boss at work (because I also have one here at home and that’s DD. Hehe.) has been encouraging me to pursue further studies. It’s not that my MA is not enough. It’s just that I have to keep on learning so I can do more and be entrusted with bigger responsibilities which he wants me to handle. All right. But with the absence of a helper plus a girl who is still adjusting to grade school, it is difficult to attend regular classes after office hours or weekends.

Good thing there are university online that can accommodate me and my special needs! One of the best in this field is Capella University - the leading provider of master’s and PhD degrees for working adults. Cappela University currently serves more than 23,400 students from all 50 states and 45 other countries. Furthermore, it is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)

“This blog post was based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com.”

The Blast That Was

I know this is one late post but it was a shocking and horrifying experience that I chose not to dwell on it. Last July 5, 2009, we were fortunate to wake up late as a family. Or else, we could have been there.

While having our late breakfast that day, DH received an SMS from one of his officemates telling him that a blast happened at the Cathedral of Cotabato City. We began to panic since many of our friends usually attend the 8:15 AM mass. I began texting some friends and relatives. Later on, I received a heart-breaking call from Mamitz, our matchmaker and long-time family friend. One of Papajof’s (her husband) nephews died on the spot. Their family was about to disembark from a PUJ in front of the church when the bomb exploded. The boy’s name is Prince. His siblings, Andrei and Pia were also hurt. Prince was buried last Saturday while Andrei was discharged from the hospital last Sunday.

I feel for the children’s mother. I was hurt when I lost my chance of being a mother again. How much hurtful could it be to lose a child whom you have cared for and nurtured and loved for about 11 years? I look at her and see the pain in her eyes. I know she is trying to be strong for her two children. I know too, that Prince’s death will forever leave a hole in her heart. But I pray for strength for Angelie. And acceptance too. I know that it’s a long shot. But time heals and prayers can do wonders.

Just Because I Wanted to Become a Scientist?

Your Gift is Intellect

You are a big thinker, and you're always playing with new ideas.
You are curious about the world. You enjoy learning and developing new theories.

You enjoy researching, analyzing, and solving problems. Thinking hard feels good!
You're the type of person who finds most mental tasks to be easy. You love to stretch your brain.

What's Your Gift?

Learning About beauty

It’s official. I hate my hair color right now. Good thing my hair style and texture and length are still OK. Thanks to the current shampoo that we use, I guess. I should be visiting the salon right now but nah, I am too lazy to do that. Besides, I am just staying here at the house most of the time. However, that should not be an excuse, right? Being a stay-at-home wife/ mom should not prevent us from looking good and feeling good. Right? Right.

Anyways, DH and I were bugging our hairstylist (for 7 years!) to go for a formal schooling on his field. He is one of the best in the city and we think that he can do more if he is formally trained. However, his standards are so high with regards to beauty schools. It should be a beauty school indianapolis campus or nothing. Well, we can’t argue with him here. It’s a cut above the rest! Their unique approach to cosmetology education does not only benefit the salon community and their students but the general public as well. Their graduates are considered the cream of the crop and sought after throughout the United States.

5 Things I Can’t Live Without When Going Out with My Kid

>> Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Litzie asks: As a Mom, What are the top 5 Things You Just Can’t Live Without When Going Out with Your Kid/s and why?

1. A comb. (I have a fashionista girl for a daughter and she refuses to have her hair cut shorter.)
2. Extra hair accessories for her.

3. A hand sanitizer.

4. An extra hankie for her.

5. A bottle of water.

On (Farm Town) Leave

I know I listed some tasks to accomplish during my 2-month leave of absence and one of them is to finish a photo book or two. I am almost done with the first one. I mean 50% done. But thanks to a virus caught by my laptop, I had to stop. Another culprit was my addiction to Facebook’s Farm Town! I had the perfect excuse to play when my laptop was infected by a virus. But now that it’s healed, it’s time to scrap. Seriously. So as my public declaration (and I should seriously abide by it), I am now declaring that I am on official leave of absence too, from playing Farm Town, to be able to be more productive. So help me God. :)

Hassle-Free Life Insurance Application

>> Monday, July 13, 2009

What’s keeping you from securing a life insurance? Is it the tedious process of getting one? Like you need to undergo medical exams, blood tests, urine samples and more. How would like to avail of life insurance no medical exam required? That would be so nice and convenient, right?

Thanks to wholeinsurance.net, your concern is a thing of the past. Recently, they made their no exam life insurance policies available online. All you have to do is fill-out the form and they’ll send you their quote! Easy as that! No more months of waiting for your application to get processed, no more needles and unnecessary visits to the hospital. Aside from that, their helpful customer representatives is a just a call away for any inquiry or clarification.

Shaun the Sheep

One of our family’s favorite bonding activities is watching cartoons. And one of our favorites is Shaun the Sheep. He’s a cute and unconventional sheep belonging to a flock that is being herded by a smart dog named Blitzer. They are all being owned by the Farmer. Among the herd, two more interesting characters include Timmy, the youngest among them. He’s adorable and cute and easy to spot, thanks to his pacifier. And then there’s Shirley, the biggest among them all. She needs to be pushed around to get her moving. And she eats almost anything.

It is amusing to see how Shaun and Blitzer save the day as they think of ways to solve the problem at hand, most of the time creatively and intelligently. It is a show where there is minimal talking, mostly grumping and barking and whistle-blowing but it’s fun and entertaining!

Photo from here.

Move It!

>> Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Moving out of my parents house has been one of the best decisions we ever made. It made DH and me more responsible as parents, couple and as adults in general. Initially, it was scary but it was all worth it.

When we decided that it’s time to move, we had to bring a lot of stuff. We were not aware that they were that plenty! Fortunately, two very good friend of ours offered their pick-up truck so we need not hire a Moving Company to do the job.

On the other hand, when another friend moved from her parents house, she too, was lucky to find Humboldt as their movers. Humboldt is a reliable moving company that made sure her moving is as stress-free as it can be. Their efficient, professional and service-oriented staff gave importance to the security of safety of her belongings which are mostly gadgets, books and furniture. For her, choosing Humboldt is indeed, a very wise choice.

On Leave.

I am on my second week now. Of maternity leave, that is. Without a baby. Our Philippine Labor Code mandates that I go on 2-month maternity leave so even if I don’t really want to (because of the demands of my work) I have to. Plus DH insists that I need to rest. So OK.

I can’t say that I was able to accomplish much since my leave began. I set a few goals to be accomplished before the duration of my leave of absence ends. One of those few is to finish the birthday photo book of DD (to be printed by ARTSCOW, of course!). Plus our wedding photo book. I know I can do the birthday book but I don’t know about the wedding one. LOL! You see, I have to *save* the photos from the magnetic photo albums. (No one knows where those negatives are!) Then scan them. So good luck to me!

Anyways, back to what I can accomplish, I am almost 50% done! Meaning I already have 10 pages accomplished. Woot! I added a few kits to my stash last week so that should keep me inspired. :)

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