What A Saturday!

This must be my worse Saturday ever! I even need to blog about  it because my rants will not fit a shoutout box (lol!). Last night, I was already gushing with disappointment. Well for the past weeks the garbage people changed their time for garbage pick-up from mid-afternoon now, early morning. "I can't believe that I need to wake up early just to take out the trash, ON A SATURDAY!" If only we could take it out the night before, but sadly, it's not allowed in our place. The homeowner's association won't allow it, and there's penalty for it. What can I do right?

So, I'm all awake and ready to face another day. The sun "was" up. After preparing breakfast, I started with my laundry. In just a few minutes, my washing machine stopped, error was detected, and it started raining. In other words, something went wrong with my washing machine, I didn't even finish my first batch of laundry, then it started raining hard. I was like "Come on, Give me a break!" I just can't believe that all these are happening on a weekend.

Facts of life, there's no such thing as a perfect day. Might as well laugh it off. A few hours ago, I was really grumpy. Now, I don't see the point on being cranky at all, it will ruin the rest of my day.  Found it pretty hilarious later on. It's one of those days that you just can't control or predict on what's going to happen next.

Went to my kitchen instead, prepared a good meal for lunch. Now, I see hope for the half day remaining to be awesome. Have a great weekend!

Great Finds: Summer!

I rarely share stuff on my latest finds on my blogs. But sharing on the personal side adds color to my site. Well, at least once in awhile, but not too much of it though.

This post has something different in it.

1. I found a pair of native slippers at KULTURA Mall of Asia for only php99. It is made out of "banig" I don't actually know if I'm describing it right. The slippers are very comfortable, the fit was perfect, considering that I didn't have the chance to try before I bought it. It's a great  pair in substitute for my Havaianas this summer.

2. It's very seldom I fall in love with the color purple. But I gotta make an exception. The size and the design of this Kenneth Cole bag are enough to convince a person to buy it. When I first saw it all I blurted out was: "gusto ko niyan!" ( i like it!)... 

The color is nice for summer.Perfect for roads trips, as a carry- on, mommy bag, school bag for the kids and even as a shopping bag. Just take it anywhere you go. All we need  now to complete the set is to go and take that dream vacation of ours ;)

3. I also bought a new pair of sunglasses. I always make it a point to have at least 2 pairs. When our car went under water  during Typhoon Ondoy, it ruined both my old sunglasses in the car compartment. Good thing my sister-in-law sent me a new pair. It's a very nice set actually.  To preserve it, I finally bought a second pair so the other one can rest. Now I have choices again. The price and the brand? Let's just put it this way, when it comes to protection, I spend.

Summer is one season when I consider to do some major shopping. Change of clothes to lighter ones, more colors to add, big bags, and nice slippers. All these (shopping) on different occasions and as needed only, and most probably stuff that I can still use all year long.

Learn The Success of Our Awesome Planet

Who doesn't know Anton Diaz? Every Filipino blogger should know Anton Diaz. I came across his site mid of 2007. I was actually looking for a restaurant and the link led me to Our Awesome Planet. It is a great source. An awesome site full of family stories and adventures.  Reminds me, his site was one of the reasons why I embraced blogging. Food, family, life in the Philippines... As a Filipino and as a reader, I am very proud of what he has accomplished and  for the difference he made. It made an impact to me from being an ordinary reader, net surfer to now, a blogger. To be honest, it's my  goal to meet him in person. I keep wondering what life is before, and being a very successful  blogger turned pro-blogger  like Anton Diaz. 

I found out about this event through my brother. He posted it on his Facebook profile. On how he knew about this event and his connections? Let's say, he gets invites all the time.

My brother is not a blogger by the way, but since childhood, he's been into creative writing and he's been doing compositions. He sure is a writer by heart...

Discover the success secrets of

a pro-blogger and Internet marketing maven, Anton Diaz, founder of

Our Awesome Planet. First session starts on April 7!

www.mavensecrets.com/
www.ourawesomeplanet.com/

W0W

Just months ago, I told my husband that this is one game I don't want to play. Well, it looks complicated compared to the other Warcraft games. Aside from that, it might eat up most of my time getting the most of what we paid for. But then again, W0W brought a new level when it comes to online gaming. Since I finished all campaigns from Warcraft III to Frozen Throne, my husband expected that I will get the hang of W0W too. If I will not try, I will never know right?

Over the weekend, we made a deal. I'll try playing W0W and see if I'll like it, but he needs to treat me to the new Pizzeria near our place :)

And so it began. I was given a 10 day trial version, in 2 hours I leveled up to 6. I chose to be part of the Horde. A lady Tauren- HUNTER.

-photo source-

The following day, after getting my approval to play W0W, my husband bought me the real game online. For every player, one must have an original copy and have it registered online.

Yes, I enjoyed playing W0W. My husband was right all along, he knows me too well :)

Loving Red-Orange

Tagged! A high school-blogger friend of mine Isa of Scribbling Angel tagged me to share something about fashion. I am not really a fashionable person. Especially for the fact that I stay at home all the time. Most likely, you will find me wearing jeans, shorts, a t-shirt, slippers or rubber shoes.

But one thing I consider in looking smart, elegant and fashionable... that is keeping a lovely pair of high heels.

Loved this elegant pair of red orange shoes... It was originally a choice between charcoal gray and maroon... But fell in love with this pair in an instant when I saw it.

Anything stunning that can be worn with almost everything truly captures my heart♥ and boggles my mind.
Have an awesome week everyone. A Happy Monday to all!

photos: SE P990i

Great Finds: Magic Touch Lights

When electricity is out, darkness sets in especially at night. And it's the last thing we all need in this world right? Last night at around 5:30pm, the whole of Quezon City stopped as power supply was cut -off without giving any notice. Right now, the Philippines is somewhat undergoing some crisis in terms of power and water supply NOTE: at some parts of the country.

I wasn't really expecting a brownout anytime. Usually, the people concern would give an early notice if they'll cut power supply and up to what time. Had to coordinate with my parents through cellphone regarding this matter. What were the reasons and how long will there be no power.
Learning our lesson from Typhoon Ondoy that left us with no electricity for almost a week, we made sure to equip our family with tools that will safely provide light and that will add a little breeze in case we run out of power.

Once again, these Magic Touch Lights from Edmarks came in handy. Started using these the day after Ondoy left, preparing for the next Super Typhoon (Sept 2009).

The small black light come in pack of 3s for a very good price of Php300

You can double-tape it on your ceiling, on your wall or just simply place it on your side table. One black light can make a room light up but dimmer than your usual fluorescent. Just push the center to turn it on and off. 3 AAA batteries as source of power. Of course, function will vary on type of batteries used.

If I'm not mistaken, the round White Light costs around Php350 each. But it's the brightest. We have one hanging on our bedroom wall and another in the living room. It can literally light up like there's a real light bulb on. Like the black light, there's a push button to turn it on and off. 2 D2 batteries as source of power.

If you want total safety and a relaxed mind away thinking about possible accidents a mere candle can bring, I think these gadgets are for you.

You're safe and comfortable.

A mini-fan that is pretty breeze-full (if there's such term) at Php 300+. Obviously, when lights are out, the little boy messes with whatever is functioning at the moment. Please excuse the pen writings on the fan :D

You can purchase all these from any Ace Hardware Store.

Love Ace Hardware! daming abubot pang-bahay :)

Our Favorite Corner

Our Favorite Corner in Our New Home

It takes hands to build a house, but only hearts can build a home. ~Author Unknown

A warm light, some scented candles and flowers are enough to make everything fall right into place. This is also the corner where my husband plays his music. The corner where we derive inner peace and relaxation. The corner that makes us glow all the time...

Driving Tips

I have been driving for almost 15 years now. I'm proud to share that within those years I have never encountered a situation or anything that might have hurt me, my passengers and the car itself. And not a record that I got caught for not following traffic rules.

Driving is a skill, basing it on my experience. It's easy to learn how to drive. But the principles behind the wheel and the techniques to become a good driver are sometimes hard to understand for some. It took me 2 years of practice driving around our village before my Dad permitted me to get a License and drive in the open. Within those 2 years of practice, I was also taught on how to handle certain situations. The right attitude once you get on the road and the safety measures to take. From the right way of seating down the driver's seat, the proper footwear to be used, the do's and don'ts while in traffic, road signs, road rules and how to beat tardiness. If you think it will take you a little longer to learn all these principles, I suggest you still go for it just be patient. The road is like a game board. You'll never know what will happen next, it is very unpredictable. You don't just go out and drive your favorite car "your way". Most of all, lives are at stake. Once you lack knowledge on at least one of the basic rules, you lose.

Why am I making this blog? Our new place is not accessible to public transport. I have been driving by myself all the time or with my little boy since we moved. Running errands, bringing my son to and from school. Nothing really against it. As long as you have a car of your own, it's a-okay. But I saw the risks of driving alone. Thank God, for all the days and nights I come home safely.

Here are some of my personal ways on how to drive safely as possible.

Safety--- includes prevention from getting robbed, car-napped or hold-upped.

• I make sure that the night before, I'm able to sleep well and my things are all fixed for the following day. That includes Emergency Nos. City Map, Driver's License and Car Registration.
• Once inside the car, make sure all systems are working. Tires, clutch, breaks, accelerator, car horn, headlights, wiper and be aware of unusual sounds.
• Wear your seat belt and make sure you're comfortable with the shoes you're wearing and how you're seated.
• Don't text or use your cellphone while driving. Pull over to a safe place if it is really important.
• I leave for my appointment 1hour and 30 mins before the given time. Prevents you from rushing.
  
• I leave 30 minutes earlier if my destination is just near.
• Being ahead of time gives you a relaxing drive
• When you're relaxed, coolness sets in, you give way for other vehicles
  
• When you give others a chance you set their mood in that same manner. So it is going to be like a chain reaction. Hopefully.
  
• If a vehicle or a driver speeds it's way pass you or cutting you from a very dangerous point, take time, breath, and think that the driver is just in a hurry because he needs to use the toilet :D
• Change your route every 2 days or everyday if possible. Bad elements may study your everyday activities. Maybe subject for robbery and car-napping.
• Look at your side mirrors and rear view mirror
  
• Listen to a soothing music
• Never place your bag or any valuable in front or any place where people can view it from the outside
• Never open your door or window for anybody. Even if they say your car is busted, you have a flat tire. That's why you double check before leaving.
• When caught in a risky situation, stay alert, honk the horn and go to the nearest Police Station or to the nearest place full of people

photo source

0o0o

The Land Transportation Office of the Philippines have more tips to share:

Defensive driving is often defined as preventing crashes before they occur, it is the demonstration of an attitude, awareness and driving skills such as:

· Stay alert and keep eyes moving so that you can keep track of what is happening at all times;

· Look for trouble spots developing around you;

· Have a plan of action if the other driver does the wrong thing; and

· Know that the law requires drivers to protect each other from their own mistakes.

A Defensive Driver must:

· Be able to keep a safe driving record.

· Have a positive attitude on road safety.

· Be physically and mentally fit to drive.

· Have received proper training before driving.

Factors that affect Driving:

*Attitude *Behavior *Right Mental Attitude

More Tips Here

Thank You Lappy...

When all else fails, I turned to the one I have been ignoring for a very long time. This laptop has been with us for 2 years now. Not that I really ignored it. I was taking care of it by not exposing it using the internet. It has been properly stored for months.

It served it's purpose--- for backup!

Now, even if my main computer got completely paralyzed, I am still enjoying my regular surfing ang updating over the net.

Thank you Lappy! You're truly making me Glappy!

PC Update: Early today, as my husband went through our infected computer. A box came out stating the type of virus that got our computer and possibilities how it was acquired. Accordingly, the virus may have entered either thru email or an open window with an ActiveX download. I remember opening a site from Entrecard yesterday that exactly had this Active X pop-up box. I personally confirm that I did open an infected website as I was doing my EC drops. This is the worse virus we have ever encountered. I immediately gave my husband my go signal to reformat and install Kaspersky 2010. Many have told us to switch to Kaspersky (malupit daw kasi). We had to buy a new anti-virus for this case, oh well, it's already Feb that's minus 2 months. As of the moment my computer is already free from any viruses, but I still don't wanna touch it until everything is back to the way it was with my games and essential programs.

I would like to give my hugs and kisses to my other half for pouring time fixing the computer all day and night.

0o0o
To Zoan of Luckyzoan thank you for this Sunshine Award.

Life Then and Now

Just a little scoop of what I discovered for the past 3 days. I am happy to share that now, "we are indeed living a normal life".

Then--- it has been very stressful moving out.

But knowing that we are transferring to a place that is healthier for the family, Now--- I think it's all worth it.

Then--- we always miss the sound of the rain falling, the regular sunshine in the morning.

Now--- We enjoy the sound of the birds tweeting in the morning, the cool breeze from our bedroom window and we haven't even installed our AC yet.

Then-- I bring my son to school riding a tricycle.

Now--- I drive him to school and I pick him up after 3 hours.

Then--- pets are not allowed.
Now--- we can have all the pets we want. Took Boo for a walk around the neighborhood.

Our new house isn't as big and it's really nothing fancy. It's a 2 bedroom place with enough space for our kitchen appliances, storage, 2 small living room area to choose from, and of course space for our computers and laptops.Windows, windows, windows! Finally real windows for some sunshine to grace us in the morning, where fresh air can just breeze through anytime.We had a small house blessing yesterday, together in celebration of Valentines Day and the Chinese New Year.

Kung Hei Fat Choi!

My family were our first visitors.

Please excuse the clutter, we still have some repainting to do and more furniture shopping to replace the old ones.The love birds celebrating Valentines Day together
Dolf and Me with our Mom and Dad (sorry for the banana behind us lol!)Looking weird, tired, stressed... but HAPPY!
Thank You Lord for blessing us with a new home...

Will Hibernate Soon

Good Day my dear friends and visitors!

Both Sweet Nothings and From My Kitchen and Beyond will temporarily be inactive for a few days. Will be moving to our new place tomorrow. And will officially be applying for a different broadbrand that will cater to more than 1 mbps and with 4G technology. It's nice to have a hassle-free connection.

Smiley Face

Hopeful before the week ends, I will be back on track blog hopping, dropping ECs, preparing for another Red Ribbon contest, sharing life's wonderful blessings from our new home and plans for the next coming months.

I am very happy to where we (my family) are right now. Friends and family has been very supportive with this move we are making. They say, you get to learn more once you get out of your comfort zone. We needed this transfer because we are aiming to get a permanent home in 2 or 3 years. It's a process that will require so much time and money. But definitely, it is something my husband and I discussed thoroughly and something we thought about very carefully. With God's Grace and with hard work and patience we will be to hit this mark sooner than later.
Have a wonderful week everyone!

Smiley Face

Of Roses and Kisses by Red Ribbon

Red Ribbon's Valentines Treat to all the love birds out there... The best Valentine idea I have ever known. Bringing Roses and Chocolate Kisses in one whole yummy package.

Beautiful sugar roses and creamy Hershey's Milk Chocolate Kisses top this pound cake with chocolate chip filling.

I remember my dad giving something similar to my mom last year, but it's just a cake in a heart shape. No Kisses or other designs. This Valentine Treat from Red Ribbon tops every Valentine gift idea. I can't wait for Feb. 14... I intend to have our own as my husband and I celebrate our 6th Valentines Day being married.

To personalize your cake, order should be made before February 9. Comes in one size only. 6" dia Junior for Php330. It will be made available in every Red Ribbon store shelf by February 12, 2010.

Total Stress Relief---Go Have Time For Yourself

I started my day early by preparing pancakes for breakfast. But I can't say it's all well, because I'm very stressed and tired from sorting and packing our stuff. Not to mention that I also take my son to and from school everyday. Plus, my husband has his own batch of tasks to finish too.

My mom visited us this afternoon, that made things lighter. It's something to break the ice. And good thing, I have a Red Ribbon event that helped end my day differently.

Total stress relief--- with Peachy, Iris and Mommy Vivian

A little treat from the Red Ribbon Management (something yummy will soon be unveiled).

When I got home, my dad helped me load some things in the car, which lessened our baggage and clutter a bit. Slowly, everything is falling into place. I think now is the perfect time to take a break. I think I've done enough not only for today, but for the past 2 weeks.

My son is sleeping, it's just me, my cold bottle of beer, my home- cooked tuna pasta and my blogs to think about.
On Saturday, life moving out continues and it will go on until we completely transfer to our new place early next week. I will be offline for quite sometime, starting next week because I will be switching to a new broadband company. By the way, we were able to find a house in one of the most exclusive subdivisions here in Quezon City, so yehey! God is great!

A Blessing In Disguise

Today, God showed some light on us once again. Early this morning I called the building owner of our chosen new place. I'm suppose to make an appointment in order to finalize the deal, fix the terms and contract. To my surprise, the wife who is a doctor was the one who talked to me. I started with a nice greeting and followed by some refreshing thoughts of our last visit 2 weeks ago. As I was asking for the availability of the unit we liked, she started ranting about some issues with regards to the division, the first come first serve agreement, and the price increase she had to make. Why is she ranting? I only asked if the unit was still available.

I became very irritated that I had to raise my voice a bit to remind her that "hey you're talking with a client". Raising my voice didn't really stop her, she went on and even asked questions to who I will be sharing the unit with, questioning if were capable of paying on time and she was even pushing for some unit changes that will eventually lead to another price increase.

First of all, we will not get into a deal or anything we cannot afford. Second, it doesn't go that if I'm a housewife, our income is not going to be enough. Third, the mere fact that I have the luxury to stay at home, the ability to always pay on cash and live without relying so much on some credit card. I think I don't even have to explain, and for me, "that's how life should be".

The most irritating part was when she told me that she doesn't prefer having kids around, especially the small ones because they have the tendency to color the walls and stuff. That really turned me off. In an instant, I turned down our every intention of going for that place.

Yes, the place was perfect for us. That condo was brand new, it is right beside a church, a SM Save More supermarket, still near Cubao, accessible for all types of transportation and most of all, it is near my son's school and it doesn't flood. But if the owner is going to be so selfish and cold-hearted, I would probably prefer an old apartment with a very, very nice landlord.

With what happened early this morning, we're back to square 1 and we only have 1 week to go. It was very disappointing, but we handled it very well, we didn't feel bad because we know something better will come up.

Here's the catch of the day. After lunch, we went to Meralco, from there, I asked my husband to drive me to the bank, then we took a shortcut at some back street near Cubao. On our way, I saw a sign 'condo units available'. So we stopped and checked, and to our surprise, the unit was very big, exactly what we wanted and for a very reasonable price. Security is guaranteed, it doesn't flood, it is owned by a company so it is well managed, still near Cubao and my son's school.

I guess our first option was not really meant for us. Mabait talaga si Lord. Nakailang lipat na kami pero He never fails to make it a point to answer my family's every need. And we are very thankful for this wonderful blessing.

Lucky or Not- Solar Eclipse January 15, 2010

I got really disappointed I thought I missed it. Well, I over slept this afternoon. When I went online, some friends Plurked that it was still ongoing. So I immediately went to our condo's rooftop hoping to capture this wonderful event. It was very cloudy and the wind was very cool.

I do consider myself lucky and blessed. I was able to experience 3 Celestial Events for the past 6 months.
1. Solar Eclipse July 22, 2009

2. Just recently, I was able to capture the rare "Blue Moon"- A Lunar Wonder January 1 & 2, 2010

And as we begin 2010, I was able to witness a new one. To my surprise, today's eclipse was also the longest Annular Solar Eclipse for the millennium. I was able to view it wearing my sunglasses and through my camera's lens. But it didn't manifest on my shots. I used an improvised filter, but it didn't work.

I may not be successful taking the picture of today's Solar Eclipse, but I am grateful to witness it with my own eyes, and was still able to take a spectacular image of the sun.

"Photographing an eclipse is possible with fairly common camera equipment. In order for the disk of the sun/moon to be easily visible, a fairly high magnification telephoto lens is needed (70–200 mm for a 35 mm camera), and for the disk to fill most of the frame, a longer lens is needed (over 500 mm). As with viewing the sun directly, looking at it through the viewfinder of a camera can produce damage to the retina, so care is advised." -source-

The next total event is the solar eclipse of July 11, 2010.

Ezy Rollin' with Ezy Roller

The holidays are over, but gift- giving is considered good all-year- round. My son is very fond of any toy with wheels. He actually received a new bicycle for Christmas. But it doesn't stop with a mere bicycle. Because every time we would go to a toy store, he would always get a free try with something similar to an Ezy Roller.

Ezy Roller is a three-wheel cart without pedals, a chain, or batteries. Instead it glides forward controlling it using your feet. Every part of this roller is very solid and sturdy. From the tubular steel frame to the canvas seat. It rolls on non-marking polyurethane wheels and bearings. Suitable for kids aged 3-14. Kids at this age are very restless, they want to try everything. It's the perfect toy for every growing child. Unlike rollerblades, Ezy-Roller has a handbrake built in and top speed is about 12mph. You can buy them in Pink, Red and Turquoise Blue.As for me, I want to redo our bedroom and own some personalized pillowcases as decorative pillows. I have read so much on personalizing pillowcases. It brings the usual bedroom look into a whole different level. All you have to do is to match it the right way.
This Chocolate Minky Dot pillowcase actually matches our covers and comforter. Great gift for friends and loved ones, especially for newlywed couples. When you travel by car these pillowcases will look nice. I mean, if you're going out on a fun road trip, might as well bring something colorful and fluffy right? For the kids, a nap mat will answer their every need. Nap mats are padded and lined with nylon and cotton with a ribbon trimmed, soft, fleecy blanket.It rolls up and has a Velcro closure with carrying strap. It has a soft fleece blanket attached and a removable foam pillow. All items are great if we're going to talk about comfort and style.

A Lunar Wonder

Once in a blue moon, we witnessed one on New Year's Day and the day after. While having dinner January 1, 2010, we were astonished by the the sight of the great moon. I had struggles on taking pictures and wished that I have a telephoto- zoom lens.

A "blue moon" is also used colloquially to mean "a rare event", especially in the phrase "once in a blue moon".


Two full moons in one month:
* 2009: December 2; December 31 (combined with a partial lunar eclipse visible in some parts of the world)
* 2012: August 2, August 31
* 2015: July 2, July 31

The next time New Year's Eve will fall on a Blue Moon (as occurred on 31 December, 2009) is after one Metonic cycle, in 2028: at that time there will be a total lunar eclipse.-source-

2009 bridged us a magnificent entry for 2010. We're very grateful for these welcoming experiences.

According to popular definition, a blue moon is the second full moon in a month. But don't expect it to be blue – the name has nothing to do with the color.