Installing Stairs On A Deck

When it comes to building stairs that go on a deck, you probably don't give a lot of thought into what they look like as long as the color of the steps matches that of the deck's surface. You can learn how to build a deck by reading information online or by hiring a contractor to help complete the work.

Before you start the building process, you need to make a plan of how you want the steps to look and how many steps you want to include from the floor of the deck to the ground. You should also think about how many people will be using the steps. If you plan on entertaining, then you might want to consider wider steps so that more than one person can stand on them at a time. If the deck has a simple design without a lot of additions, then you should consider steps that are of the same plain design. When you look at how to build stairs for a deck, you also need ot think about whether you plan on adding other details, such as a rail or a cover.

When you get the materials to make the steps, it's best to get something that is weather proof as you don't want the wood to splinter. You should also think about staining the steps, as well as the deck, so that you have a uniform appearance. The height of the steps might need to be adjusted once you start to place the pieces of wood depending on how much space you want to see between each one. Something to think about is that small children and pets can easily get underneath the steps if there is a wide space.

The risers should be placed first. These are the sides of the stairs. You want to make sure you have a sturdy base for the sides as this is what will hold each step. Cut each step so that it securely fits between each end of the riser. Measurements should be exact as you don't want steps that are too short or too long. It is sometimes best to attach the steps to one riser before adding the riser on the opposite side so that each step is the same length.

US State of Mind

I've been on break for about 2 months now. At some point I knew that I'll eventually make an update for my blogs. Just in case, you can still reach me thru email for both my sites. I check most of the time, it's just the posts that are limited because I'm on vacation with my family.

As much as possible I want to make our vacation stress free and enjoyable. It's our first to travel as a bunch, we poured so much time and money in this so yes, I/ we wanna make the most of it. For the location we're at and in which I thought of saving as a surprise, here it is:

We've been here in the United States since June. We went to several states for the past 2 months, Florida, Georgia, S&N Carolina, Virginia, New Jersey and New York. If you're going to look at the map, we basically traveled almost the whole of east coast and we just drove from one state to another.

I chose NYC to represent this travel  because of it's iconic reputation that greatly represents the United States. It was our main goal to be in New York and it gave us the most memorable experience on this vacation.

It was the middle of summer, but at the time of our long walks and exploration it did not feel hot and sticky, everything was pretty cool. It's like Philippine weather during the 'ber' moths minus the humidity, with clear skies, plus a much cooler breeze would blow once in awhile as we go around. For me, it was just right to enjoy the city.

Our travel to NYC was very important to all of us especially to my eldest son. The reason to reach NYC was to fulfill one of my son's dreams and we were able to give it.  Both our boys are happy, we're happy and fulfilled as parents.

Frankie is very fond of tall buildings and other architectural designs. A visit to the Empire State Building, the World Trade Center site and the One World Observatory was his dream. If there's something he'll spend time on online, that is to watch videos about  the said structures or to research on skyscrapers and construction per se.

 View from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building

View from the top of One World Observatory

There's more to tell than just our humble adventure to/ in NYC.

I'll leave you with this for now...

What's Better Than Vacation? Try a Stay-cation!

This summer, you don't have to travel to have a wonderful vacation experience. In fact, you can save yourself all the stress of packing, driving, and navigating to instead have a relaxing and incredibly fun time all while staying close to home. This is especially great for families who want to save money on their holiday, or for people who hate long plane or car rides. Do a little research on the events and opportunities in your own community and you can have a stay-cation you'll remember for the rest of your life.

For families or individuals who love nature, your local stay-cation will be easy to plan. Pretty much every place in the United States of America is close to a National, State, or Local park. Go online and look for the nearest hiking trail, park, or nature preserve and take a visit. Pack a picnic lunch and a camera to document your experience. Science has proven that time spent in nature leads to less stress and better health. Take advantage to the natural beauty that's right outside your door.

If you're looking for some indoor fun, consider local museums and historical locations. Every town has a history, and most town have a historical center just waiting for a visit. You may have to go to your local library to find out about the secret treasures that are waiting in your area. Another tip is to visit a hotel and check out the flyers that are displayed in the lobby. This will show you all the local adventures and attractions that you may have missed.

Finally, consider attending a local event or activity going on in your area. Check online and in newspapers to find out about county fairs, concerts, or lectures. Consider attending a healing ministry event, such as those by Joshua Media Ministries, if you've been feeling unwell. Local colleges and universities often have a lot to offer as well, including visiting speakers and authors. You can even see celebrities at local bookstores or other speaking engagements. Alternatively, try out an exciting experience like riding in a hot air balloon or going to a nearby amusement park.

You don't have to spend a fortune or travel far away to have a break from the stress of life. Look outside your front door for ideas and inspiration. You deserve a break!

A Happy Father & Daughter Relationship

It was a cloudy Friday morning and I met with my dad at the newly opened Novotel in Cubao, Quezon City. Apparently, my dad booked a 2- night stay at the said hotel and he is giving one night for me and my family, the other goes to my other sibling. Upon check- in, we were welcomed and greeted warmly by the front desk personnel named Michelle. As my dad and I were filling up forms, the both us were also conversing, our usual father and daughter bonding. We make jokes, we talk about funny stuff about each other.  With this, Michelle noticed this warm relationship I share with my dad and even acknowledged that we're blessed to have such wonderful relationship.

My father treats me and my other siblings equally... but we all have our own ways on how to be a good daughter and son to him and our mom.  We don't abuse his kindness and as much as possible, we think of him and our mom first more than ourselves. My dad "was" a strict father. There were times when I would make up lies just to go out or break a curfew... But him being strict and all, I'm thankful for that, because I wouldn't be where I'm at right now, happy and most of all, I have this sense of contentment and peace inside me if it weren't for that  stage in my life .

I carry and apply my parents' life principles with me in my own journey as a parent. At the age of 37, my father continues to teach us, his children life's lessons and he and my mom are our guiding factors on becoming better parents and beings. 

Sabi nga nila, " Habang  nabubuhay kami, we will never stop supporting all of you." We will always be here for our children". Support doesn't have to be always monetary. There's a lot a parent can give to his or her children that money can't buy. It is something that can define us both here on earth and even the afterlife,  that's our values, what people will remember us for.

I'm happy that Michelle noticed this blessing I share with my father and also same with my mom. Again, I'm truly grateful for this gift I share with my parents and siblings. It makes life more colorful each day. For every family gathering or event we look forward to, for the blessing of wisdom that each could share with the rest. For the laughter and tears of joy we share... and the list just goes on and on.

It's my first time to be away from them this long... it's my first time to miss Father's Day...

Importance and Benefits of Spring Cleaning

Spring in the air, it's the perfect time to clean up around the house, and keep an eye out for any potential household dangers.

 Here are some benefits when it comes to cleaning our homes regularly:

1. Make room for new items.
2. Once we start digging through piles and piles, we discover memories.
3. We keep those harmful dusts away and we stay safe from sickness.


In our country we do general cleaning all- year round. Personally I go through our things almost every quarter of the year because I have allergic rhinitis. I sneeze again and again almost every morning. I'm sensitive to some scents, to dusts and I even get similar reaction if I'm drizzled with a little rain. But no worries, I can play around it with some over the counter medicine and I'm good. But you see, why wait for these allergens to activate when we can avoid it. Prevention is important.

Though we just moved in our new home, we still brought some of our old things with us and these things are also subject for disposal. Now that we're bound to stay abroad for a couple of months, I have to inspect and see what I can give away or throw out to make room for new items and of course, to keep my home clean while we are away.


These allergens, dusts, molds, etc. are harmful to our health especially when inhaled often. It causes several diseases like cancer, asthma and skin infection of sorts and these are just some. It affects our body inside and out. Making time to clean not only once can prevent potential household dangers. To safeguard ourselves while cleaning, it is important wear disposable mask, a heavy duty pair of gloves and even a coat so we don't get exposed too much.

Think before you toss. There are a number of toxic materials and substances that must be disposed of properly.

Asbestos — Many homes built before 1970 contain asbestos. Asbestos, a deadly fiber that causes mesothelioma, was used in insulation, floor tiles, home siding and roofing. Linings around ventilation pipes, furnaces, hot water heaters, and other piping were also commonly made with asbestos. Since asbestos is still legal, it may be in newer homes as well. Asbestos becomes dangerous when it’s disturbed in some way, releasing its fibers in the air. Actions like drilling and patching, along with natural deterioration, are a few ways asbestos can get released.The American Lung Association recommends that you hire a certified asbestos professional to take any samples, minimizing potential exposure to you and your family. If asbestos is detected, it’s imperative you hire a certified professional to remove it safely.

Others:

1. Motor oil — It’s illegal in most states to pour motor oil down a drain or on the ground. You must place it in a clean plastic container and bring it to a location that will take care of it for you.
2. Electronics — Old electronics contain heavy metals like cadmium and lead. Donate or drop them off at a recycling center. Some big retailers will recycle old electronics, including Best Buy and Apple.
3. Paint — Oil-based paint and other paint-related products are classified as household hazardous waste (HHW) and should be returned to the point of purchase or donated or taken to a local HHW collection facility.
4. Batteries — No battery is recyclable. Fore more information on where to dispose of a certain kind of battery, call 1-800-8-BATTERY.
5. Light bulbs — When broken, fluorescent light bulbs, including compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, release a small amount of mercury. Take them to your local HHW facility.
6. Smoke detectors — Ionization chamber smoke detectors (ICSDs) use a small amount of ionizing radiation to detect smoke. This is a radioactive material classified as hazardous by the Fire Protection Agency and must be mailed back to the manufacturer via ground mail. Or, bring it to your local HHW if the manufacturer won’t accept it.
7. Mercury thermometers — If broken, mercury thermometers can release 500 milligrams of the neurotoxin mercury. Bring to your local HHW facility for disposal or find an exchange program that will give you an electronic one. 

Visit: How To Spring Clean Safely for more information.

Also with this, let us make ourselves aware of these ways we can prevent diseases like Cancer.

Cancer Survivor's Day: This day falls on Sunday, June 5th. It's a day to celebrate those who are fighting against cancer. This is the perfect opportunity to recognized loved ones in your life and their courageous battle. We'll also be taking part in a Twitter chat on Friday, June 3rd in honor of the day (hosted by the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance!Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance!)

My Partners for Summer 2015 & 2016: Neo and Cath

If you noticed, I'm missing a post for summer of last year. 2015 has been a busy year for me and my family as we had the interior of our new home done, we did an early move- in, a total adjustment with our new community.

Let me do a quick story about my partner that kept me company last summer, actually for the whole year of 2015. 

It was a gift from husband back in 2014, a black Longchamp Neo made in France.

To notch it up a little, I was hopeful that Longchamp would come up with a body bag with a structure of a Le Pliage but still reasonable. Aside from having a strap, I was also hoping that it would be available in black so I can own a basic black Longchamp bag.


To make my story short, I did found something and my husband saw that I was viewing the Neo on Longchamp's website. Then lo and behold, a medium, black Neo. I'm a big Le Pliage user, it delivers everything I need of having a fashionable yet functional tote bag. The Longchamp Neo strap made it easier for me to run errands, go from one place to another with my hands full.

As to how he got it? he told me not to ask anymore hehehe!
Definitely, it took a lot just to get this bag and quite expensive as well, because back then, at the time I was looking, the Neo was not yet released here in Manila. Now it's easier because we have a Longchamp store in Greenbelt, but I go to Rustan's (much closer to our place) for Longchamps,  they have the Neo and I want my next to be in Pebble.

******
2016!

Summer is officially over and it's time to share my partner for 2016.  I went back to Cath Kidston and my order arrived via "Royal Mail" ( well it's just the citipost). Even if we have Cath Kidston stores here in Manila, I still opted to order mine direct from cathkidston.com and had it sent to our address in the U.S. I like it direct because the online shop offers discounted items up to 50% off.

Anyway, when I went to a Cath Kidston shop, I browsed and saw that they sell the tote bag that I like for 6,000+php, (sale price is at 4500+php). But when I went online, my large Kingswood Rose Trimmed Tote was on sale less than $50 (USD). For $100 (the price of one bag), I got  3 different items instead: a large Kingswood Rose Trimmed Tote, Kingswood Black Canvas and Leather body bag and a lovely hearts zip purse.

After the spots and dots, I've always wanted to get the nostalgic floral print from Cath Kidston. I found the Kingswood Rose design elegant, sweet, it has that classic feel and look. Aside from that, it's a tote bag, I just have this thing for totes. I find my totes useful for trips and of course to hold as much important things that I can for the whole family.

It is easy to clean, it's durable and maintains its original form. It doesn't have a zip closure though just a zip pocket and an internal slip pocket.

When in Manila, advisable to bring for trips to friendly places just to be safe. Anyway, having this tote bag is fun and easy. Personally, even in a crowded area, I never worry, I just stay extra vigilant and I secure my money and phone in the zip pocket. The zip pocket can fit the size of a zip purse by the way.

I recently saw that the new releases has a zip closure, perfect for travel, might just get one.

The Trip Worth Waiting For

How can travel define a person? I guess it depends on his/ her dreams, goals and of course, the travel companion. There were times when my husband would tell me to proceed and explore new places even without him. You see, my husband's work requires a great deal of his time as a global manager for one of the biggest global law firms. He is entitled to go on a certain no. of leaves but his role for this company is very important globally,  it's tough to find that window to go on long vacations. I always tell him, that I will never go anywhere else without him. Since we got married, in everything that we do, it was done with both of us in it. I don't care if it's a trip around the world, for as long as it's not with him and my children, a trip will never be as fun and memorable. My family is my life, and they make it sweeter.

It has been 12 years... 12 years full of love, laughter, unforgettable moments and learnings. My husband and I went through a decade filled with discoveries that nurtured our relationship even more. We waited and waited... true enough in God's perfect timing everything was easy.

Finally, we have arrived at the moment when we get to try  something new and different not just as individuals but as a family. We're about to fulfill another dream... the dream to travel as a family. I'm very happy that our 12th wedding anniversary is going to be extra special, definitely outside the country. Months away from the busy life we have here in the Philippines is surely worth waiting for and  it took us 6 months to prepare.

Travel does wonders to each of us, regardless of location and how it's spent. Near or far, travel makes us better beings, it pulls out our greatest strengths and fears and it brings us to a certain high where all we can think about is to explore and be limitless.

A new experience, a path to discovery and awareness. The most important for me is the impact of this whole new event to my children. My kids are at a stage where they like to discover and recreate, it's the perfect moment to make those thoughts come to life right before their very eyes.

As to where we are going? Let me hold that as a surprise...