My Houston trip – Part 1

My Houston Trip (March 22-29, 2009)

When my friend Malou invited me to visit her in Houston, I didn't think twice and took up her invitation. It was supposed to be a mini reunion for us as 3 other high school friends would join us there since it was Spring break. While everyone was so enthusiastic in the planning stage, I was the only one who actually made it to Houston.

We arrived in Houston at 12PM, 20 minutes earlier than schedule because of a medical emergency on the plane. It happened few minutes after take off when the attendants were serving snacks. Of the many passengers on board the plane, I was the luckiest being served my snacks and the attendant was telling me to be very careful my coffee was too hot when someone shouted for help and all heads instantly rotated 3 seats behind me. That very moment, the attendant rushed to the cockpit in panic, leaving me soaking in hot coffee, ouch! I choose to be in immaculate white blouse that day but my tan jacket complimented the new abstract blouse design – thanks to the coffee. While people were busy reviving the guy behind me, I was busy drying myself off. The pilots must have flown the aircraft in full speed to get us there so early, and the paramedics were waiting, thank God, the man was responsive. We were not allowed to get up yet until all the paramedics have disembark so I turned on my phone to see the time (it serves as my watch too), it rang before I could even see the time and as if on cue, I heard someone say "Welcome to Texas". That was Omar in San Antonio.

My host – the Delarosa family planned meticulously for my arrival. Cesar and Malou took a leave from work so they can take me to places of interest. The three adorable Delarosa girls (Angel, Katkat and Bridget) were as benevolent as their parents, making sure I enjoy every minute of my visit asking me "Tita, are you enjoying your visit so far?" Isn't that cute?

As I got out of plane Malou was already waiting in the baggage carousel and grabbed my luggage while Cesar and the Delarosa girls were waiting outside, my welcoming team. As planned, we went straight to St Paul Catholic Church in Nassau Bay where Malou's brother Fr. Al, was celebrating a mass, but we waited in his residence just across the church because it is a Spanish mass and we couldn't understand. By then we were getting hungrier so we decided to leave and went to Clear Lake and found a really nice Filipino restaurant by the water. It was already 2PM and the restaurant was still crowded but I was happy that finally, seeing the wide selection of Filipino foods in the buffet table, I felt at home in the US for the first time. Not only the food but the whole atmosphere in the restaurant makes me feel homesick. The waitresses and the cooks are Filipinos but the guests are a mix of different cultures, I think we were the minority. Isn't it a joy to see people of other culture enjoying the food that you grew up with? Our food is a testament to our culture, tradition and belief. For me to know that a foreigner embraces our own food and devours crispy pata, sinigang, dinuguan, pinakbet, pancit with gusto is an honor. Eating truly is a universal language, you need not speak to be understood. Afterall, were not supposed to speak when the mouth is full, haha.

Next, they took me to Kemah Boardwalk, a fun place with rides and adventures, themed restaurants, shops, a marina and more. Since it was Sunday, the place was packed with people. We stayed for a while in the rides and watched people scream their lungs out while being dropped 140 feet to the ground on the drop zone. Funny how people pay to torture themselves like the ones we saw on the Inverter, a ride that flips people and takes them upside down in a manner that turns your insides out. I refuse to take this ride especially after a sumptuous meal of sinigang na bangus, calamares and crispy pata.

It was fun watching those crazy rides but we remember that we need to go to mass still so we left in a hurry to fulfill our religious obligations. Fr. Al was already in the altar when we came but the celebration was just starting so we haven't missed much. It was the liveliest mass I have ever attended in the US, the music ministry was just so amazing you feel like you are already in heaven. I've been to Charismatic mass and concerts in the Philippines but never here in the US, I feel so blessed. We stayed a while after the mass to catch up with Kuya Al but all seems to be really tired to even go out for dinner so we just went home and heat the left over at Cesar's kitchen.

It's just my first day of adventure in Texas.

Just an update

It's almost 2 weeks now since we came back from Maine and I apologize things have been hectic on my end but I know there is always time to update my blog and that time has come. Before I fly to Houston tomorrow, I suppose you need to hear something from me.

I always look forward to trips to Maine. For one, it is our home. There is really no place like home. 9 days was our longest stay so far but always too short to enjoy the many winter recreations one should experience while in Bethel. Skiing and snow boarding are two of the things that my husband finds relaxing and looks forward doing while were home but the scores of chores that needs our attention consumed most of our days.

We did not ski and ride but we accomplished a lot in this trip. Our skating rink like drive way had been paved and shoveled of the snow that has accumulated during the winter season. Since we rented the house and made the basement our home, we managed to add little bits of pieces to it to make it habitable. This time our newest addition was the running water in the bathroom and it cut short the exercise that we have been doing since – that is lifting a bucket of water from the furnace room to the bathroom. Good exercise, you have to see my arms..haha.

2 weeks after our Maine visit and were back here in Arcadia. The weather is smoldering hot but hey, we're in Florida. It won't be called Sunshine State for nothing. At least my plants are getting back to life and I am starting a new herb and vegetable garden again. Wish me luck in the green department.

Tomorrow I am flying to Houston Texas for a week and I will keep you updated.

 

Let is Snow!

Were back in Maine for 9 days since friday. I just couldnt believe the mountains of snow that greeted us starting at the airport up to the roads leading to Bethel. It was raining torrentially that aggravated the condition of our driveway that was already becoming a skating rink. Greg has been shovelling since we came and been sanding our steepy driveway. Today, we are getting 12 inches more of snow. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! When will it ever end? I'm already looking forward to Spring.

No Reservations in the Philippines

It is one of my favorite shows unfortunately since we moved here in Arcadia, I have developed a whole new world that I became detached to the outside world so I missed the episode....sigh!

Sigh no more for these I found. Come, taste and experience the food of my country, the Philippines:

Natural hydrating facial mask

Here is a simple, natural formula that I have tried on myself to alleviate skin dryness that is my perennial problem especially on cold weathers. If you're not allergic to any of the ingredients below, this concoction has been very effective and I recommend it to anyone with same problem as mine.

Beat skin dryness with this simple hydrating mask that is available right in the kitchen.

4 tbsp powdered milk

2 tbsp warm water

2 tbsp honey

Washcloth

Combine all ingredients and stir until smooth. Spread mixture on face avoiding eyes and mouth. Wet washcloth with warm water and rest it over the mask for 10 minutes, rinse off mask using the washcloth and pat dry. Voila! A softer, younger looking skin.

Planning a trip?

I love to travel. Since I came to the US, we've travelled quite a lot and in our quest for adventures we've stumbled upon many misadventures as well. Misadventures, simply because of lack of planning on my end. While I love to travel, I detest the fact that I have to start scouring the internet all over again. It is my role to plan our book a flight, find accommodation, find nice restaurants and places to see. The process takes too much of my time. I wish there is one place that will tell me all information I need related to the trip. I know, I know. I may be too lazy to browse, but I think I haven't found the right place to look. Now, I know. On our next trip, I will be wiser.

Travel Today offers top rated accommodations in most popular cities and top destinations in the US. They also included information on the proximity of the hotels to restaurants, places of interests, schools and the description of the room available to suit your needs.

If you are planning a trip to Ohio, Travel Today will guide you with choices in Columbus Ohio hotels. Reading from the information listed, Crowne Plaza Hotel in downtown Columbus is one of the most convenient places to stay, considering the proximity to the City Center, shopping and restaurants.

I wish I've known this site earlier. Planning will be easy if one site does all.

 

 

A heartbreaking story

 

Here is a story that will surely crush your heart to pieces. A story so familiar that even with no names, people from my hometown could easily guess the characters in this story.

I could still recall the very first time I saw mother and son in the early 80s. They were squatting in a nipa hut that had been erected to be a hang out by the owners and neighbors in times where weather is unbearable. She happily recalled her days and shares stories about her life in London and her memories were collaborated by a photo album that she carried around. And his boy right beside her all the time, tagging along where ever she goes.

She now resides in the "kampanaryo" of the Virac Cathedral where she claims her own.

Read on and be sure to have tissue paper handy. This will surely break your heart:

 

A Son's Story
By Pablo Tariman
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 10:03:00 01/16/2009
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/features/features/view/20090116-183729/A-Sons-Story

THE story of Tarik Hamayon Khan, 32, can put the plot of most telenovelas to shame.

The only son of an OFW from Bato, Catanduanes, who worked in London for many years, Tarik was born on December 4, 1976 in England and was baptized at the St. Thomas More Church in Swiss Cottage.

Before leaving for London, Tarik's mother worked as a cook, household help, and later as hospital attendant. Among the big families in Manila she had worked for were the Velascos and Rochases of Forbes Park, and the Roceses who owned a publishing house.,

It was in London that Tarik's mother met his father, Tarik Hamayon Khan, a British national of Iranian descent. All those years she was in London, she sent money to her brothers and sisters in Catanduanes, with instructions to build a house for her and her son.

After many years in England, Tarik and his mother returned to Bicol, hoping to find a new house where they could retire. It didn't happen. Instead of building the Khans' dream house, their relatives diverted the money, which had been sent them regularly, also dividing the household items sent by ship among themselves.

Tarik's mother had a hard time coping with this betrayal in the family. Mother and son had to move from one lodging house to another, and ended up in the town plaza and church patio when they ran out of money.

One time his mother gathered religious images and hurled them at the waves, while sobbing bitterly at her fate, Tarik recalled. Then 4, he embraced his mother and pleaded with her, "Don't take it so badly, Mommy. You still have me!" At about this time, the young boy realized that his mother had descended into madness.

Tarik was later adopted by a couturier, who took care of his early schooling. He was in good hands until he was run over by a Manila-bound bus while on his way home from school. The boy ended up in the Orthopedic Hospital where he stayed for several months until his guardian could no longer foot the hospital bills. He couldn't even take the boy back as he had no legal adoption papers.

Tarik ended up in foster homes and found a German foster dad who sent him to a good school. But the past haunted the boy, turned him rebellious and restless, until the foster families tired of him and he wound up in a shelter for migrant children managed by Fr. Ben Villote.

But one family who never gave up on him was the family of Mrs. Carmencita Protacio Herman and Dr. Tony Protacio of the Protacio Hospital in Paranaque, who became his parent-figures.

Explained Tarik: "The Protacios, particularly Tita Baby, have been the most patient of all people in dealing with me. They just never gave up on me. I've been the worst a person could be, and yet they continued to shower me with love, always understanding, and always hoping that someday I would change for good. They somehow knew that the rage in me was caused by a wound that simply needed to heal. It was their love that saved me."

One year before finishing his college studies, Tarik quit his part-time job, left Manila and went back to Albay. He found his first foster father—couturier William Urbano, known in the city as Willi de Legazpi—who gave him his birth documents. Tarik decided he would start all over again.

He intimated: "In the past, I was always in search of my life's meaning. I had so many questions and found very few answers. Suddenly, it dawned on me that one way to fix my life is to be at peace with my past. So with only P500 in my pocket and nothing else, I took a bus bound for Bicol, which I consider my home. I discovered that my hatred for my past was not justified, and that my past was not to blame for everything that happened to me. In Bicol, I fell in love with the place, with the people, and with a girl. I soon got married."

These days, Tarik has his hands full with several jobs that keep him busy. He spends three days in Manila and four days in Bicol, where he chairs an organization that provides research services to call centers, as well as human resource, training and consultancy services related to online and other e-business services. "We provide jobs for fellow Filipinos, allowing them to earn substantially without the need for them to go abroad," he added.

What did he learn from his past that radically changed his life for the better?

Shared Tarik: "I learned that life is not perfect, nor is it fair. I realized that I could not go on forever hating my past and blaming it for the monster I've become. Instead, I could start embracing my wounds and learn to play the cards that I was dealt with. Life now has more meaning for me. I am now able to understand fully why 'bad' things in the past had to happen."

(Author's note: For personal reasons, I cannot divulge the name of Tarik's mother, who makes it a point to watch classical concerts on the island. The first time I saw her, she was watching a voice recital in a civic hall in Catanduanes. She entered at the exact time soprano Luz Morete was singing "Awit Ng Gabi ni Sisa" by Felipe Padilla de Leon which was inspired by the madwoman in Rizal's "Noli Me Tangere."

She entered with flowers and vines in her hair and wearing clothes made of handkerchiefs she had found in the church after every mass. Tenor Gary del Rosario once paused in his rehearsal when he realized that Tarik's mother—gawking at the concert hall windows—knew the melody of the German lieder he was singing. For all the sadness she went through—a missing son and a lost love—I now know why Tarik's mother savors every poetic line of Schubert's Serenade. But that's another story.)

Spring break: An experience of a lifetime

 

With only six weeks more to go and winter will be over. It was such a cruel winter and thinking that spring is just lurking around the corner what better things to do to shake off those winter blues away? After hibernating for so long, get a life, after all that is what spring is for – the beginning of new life.

If you are looking to experience a great spring breakaway, check out these Spring break vacation deals that offers the lowest price ever. One of their promises is that if you ever find a final price that is lower than their price, they will beat the price. That is a good deal.

One thing about this travel company, XtremeTrip is that they mostly cater to college students and therefore the packages are best suited to give the young travelers the experience of a life time. They have chosen the most student friendly vacation destinations on Spring break like the Bahamas, Acapulco, Mexico and Florida among other places with prices affordable to students. Enjoy your Spring.

 

Asparagus for cancer?

Here are some interesting facts about asparagus a friend emailed me this morning. I blogged here before about how I love asparagus even if I still don't know the benefits I get from eating this vegetable, I am already a fan. If this article is indeed true, I am happy that I have developed a liking already.

 

Here is the content of the email and I am copy pasting for your perusal.

`Asparagus for cancer' printed in Cancer News Journal,December
1979.

I will share it here, just as it was shared with me: 'I am a
biochemist,and have specialized in the relation of diet to
health for over 50 years. Several years ago, I learned of the
discovery of Richard R. Vensal, D.D.S. that asparagus might cure cancer.

Since then, I have worked with him on his project. We have
accumulated a number of favourable case histories.

Here are a few examples:

Case No. 1,

A man with an almost hopeless case of Hodgkin's disease
(cancer of the lymph glands) who was completely incapacitated.
Within 1 year of starting the asparagus therapy, his doctors
were unable to detect any signs of cancer, and he was back on
a schedule ofstrenuous exercise.

Case No. 2,

A successful businessman 68 years old who suffered from cancer
of the bladder for 16 years. After years of medical treatments,
including radiation without improvement, he went on asparagus.
Within 3 months, examinations revealed that his bladder tumor
had

disappeared and that his kidneys were normal.

Case No. 3,

A man who had lung cancer. On March 5th 1971, he was put on
the operating table where they found lung cancer so widely
spread that it was inoperable. The surgeon sewed him up and
declared his case hopeless. On April 5th he heard about the
asparagus therapy and immediately started taking it. By August,
x-ray pictures revealed that all signs of the cancer had
disappeared. He is back at his regular business routine.

Case No. 4,

A woman who was troubled for a number of years with skin
cancer. She finally developed different skin cancers which were
diagnosed by asking specialist as advanced. Within 3 months
after starting on asparagus, her skin specialist said that her

skin
looked fine and nomore skin lesions. This woman reported
that the asparagus therapy also cured her kidney disease,
which started in 1949. She had over 10 operations for kidney
stones, and was receiving government disability payments for
an inoperable, terminal, kidney condition. She attributes the
cure of this kidney trouble entirely to the asparagus.

I was not surprised at this result, as `The elements of Materia
Medica', edited in 1854 by a Professor at the University of
Pennsylvania , stated that asparagus was used as a popular
remedy for kidney stones. He even referred to experiments, in
1739, on the power of asparagus in dissolving stones. We would
have other case histories but the medical establishment has
interfered with our obtaining some of the

records. I
am
therefore appealing to readers to spread this good news and
help us to gather a large number of case histories that will
overwhelm the medical skeptics about this unbelievably simple
and natural remedy. For the treatment, asparagus should be
cooked before using, and therefore canned asparagus is just as
good as fresh.

I have corresponded with the two leading canners of asparagus,
Giant Giant and Stokely, and I am satisfied that these
brands contain no pesticides or preservatives.

PROCEDURE:
1) Place the cooked asparagus in a blender and liquefy to make
a puree, and store in the refrigerator.

2) Give the patient 4 full tablespoons twice daily, morning and
evening.

Patients usually show some

improvement in from
2-4 weeks. It
can be diluted with water and used as a cold or hot drink. This
suggested dosage is based on present experience, but certainly
larger amounts can do no harm and may be needed in some cases.

As a biochemist I am convinced of the old saying that `what
cures can prevent'. Based on this theory, my wife and I have
been using asparagus puree as a beverage with our meals.

We take 2 tablespoons diluted in water to suit our taste with
breakfast and with dinner. I take mine hot and my wife prefers
hers cold.

For years we have made it a practice to have blood surveys
taken as part of our regular checkups.

The last blood survey, taken by a medical doctor who
specializes in the nutritional approach to health, showed

substantial
improvements in all categories over the last one,
and we can attribute these improvements to nothing but the
asparagus drink... As a biochemist, I have made an extensive
study of all aspects of cancer, and all of the proposed cures.
As a result, I am convinced that asparagus fits in better with
the latest theories about cancer. Asparagus contains a good
supply of protein called histones, which are believed to be
active in controlling cell growth. For that reason, I believe
asparagus can be said to contain a substance that I call cell
growth normalizer. That accounts for its action on cancer and
inacting as a general body tonic. In any event, regardless of
theory,asparagus used as we suggest, is a harmless substance.

The FDA cannot prevent you

from using it and it may do
you much
good.. It has been reported by the US National Cancer
Institute, that asparagus is the highest tested food containing
glutathione, which is considered one of the body's most potent
anticarcinogens and antioxidants.

The kid in me

When I learned that Aunt Peggy's newest hobby is making clothes for dolls, my initial reaction was more of a surprise but when she invited me to have a cursory inspection of her collection, I became impressed. Aunt Peggy is the Block Captain on 6^th St. South here in Craig's and my friend Nikki's aunt. She's passed retirement age that's why I can not help myself but be surprised. She also has a collection of dolls that she adorns with the clothes.

Collecting dolls, clothes, miniature cars, airplanes and dollhouses have become a passion not only for the kids but for adults specially. Last night, I have been surfing on the net for a doll to give Aunt Peggy for her birthday this Saturday when I found the dollhouse miniatures website that has the collection every miniature hobbyist will love. As I browse, the kid in me is definitely alive because I was tickled by the contemporary ranch dollhouse kit. It is exactly what I have envisioned for a retirement home. I also found the 4 piece blue/white bathroom set, miniature oak double bed and brown leather living room set to complete my house, I mean my dollhouse. I want to get them for myself and have completely forgotten that I was there for Aunt Peggy's gift. I think I found a new hobby. check it out for yourself and see what brings out the kid in you.

How far will you go in the name of love?

I just finished reading The Choice by Nicholas Sparks, the same man behind The Notebook, Nights in Rodanthe, Message in a bottle, A walk to remember and many more. Although I have seen some of the movie adaptations from his books, this is my first of his books. I grabbed it at Craig's library and once I started reading I can't stop.

The story centers on Travis and Gabby. Travis is an easy going bachelor who seems to have everything in life except a stable relationship and Gabby, a redhead that becomes his new neighbor. To make a long story short, despite their constant squabbles they found love in each other. They got married and started a family. It is a feel good story, a perfect love, a perfect marriage until one day something totally unforeseen came along.

I was in this part of the book when my husband surprisingly came in from work and found me in one corner of our very humble trailer wiping surreptitiously the tears in my eyes with the hem of my shirt. I saw panic in his face thinking something was wrong in me. "For goodness sake, what happened to you?" "Nothing, I was just reading this book". "What's cooking for dinner?" OMG, I was engrossed with the story that I didn't even realized it was time to report to domestic job once again.

Anyway, to continue with my story, Travis and Gabby were involved in a serious accident. Miraculously, Travis only suffered a broken bone but unfortunately, Gabby went an extended coma. 12 weeks in coma and Gabby had showed no signs improvement so Travis had to make a choice - a very difficult decision that involves life and a love so hard to let go of. Will he consent to discontinue her life support system or spend all his money paying a nursing home with a very slim chance of hope of recovery? What if she wakes up one day? Then it is too late.

It is a very heartbreaking story. What if it happens to you? What will you do? Even with the living will, it is very painful to let go of the person you love so dearly. God gave us breath and let God take it away.

How far will you go in the name of love? I will go as far as it takes to prove that miracle still happens

Chat to the world

I'm sure everyone is aware what chatting is and most everyone have used chatting as a tool of communicating to loved ones, friends, colleagues and business relations. It is free, with the internet of course, convenient and in real time. Chat enables you to connect with people via chat room, video or even teleconferencing, if available. I confess I have spent a great amount of time in the chat rooms to see what is happening on the other end of the world where I left my friends and family. That is why I am really a big fan of the internet.

The Latter Day Saints (LDS) had launched a free chat called LDS chat City for its millions of members all over the world to chat with one another. Join other members who'd signed in already and if you are looking for someone to connect with of your own faith, this is the perfect site to check. Register for your free account and start making friends from all around the world and broadcast your video cam for them to see. You'll find different interesting people in this site to share your thoughts, discuss the scriptures, a support group or anything that are of interest to you.

Check it out and start making friends in the four corners of the world.

Gasparilla Invasion in Tampa

We got an invitation from Nelson Construction, one of the contractors in my husband's project, in the "Gasparilla" party last Saturday in Tampa. They sponsored a tent where Nelson's employees and guests could watch the parade in front row seats with sumptuous food and endless supply of alcohol and beverages.

Gasparilla started in 1904 when the mystical legend of Jose Gaspar came to life. Gaspar and his scar-faced, eye patch-wearing band of pirates soon became well known to Tampa residents as Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. Donned in the garb of high seas pirates they stormed downtown Tampa and demanded that the mayor surrender the city.

Each year the siege is repeated. The pirate ship 'Jose Gaspar' sails into downtown Tampa with a flotilla of hundreds of boats. The pirates blast away with pistols and cannons as they prepare to start the invasion. The captain and his Krewe capture the city (with little resistance) and share their wealth of trinkets, dabloons and necklaces with the enthusiastic crowd along the parade route.

Give me beads! Give me beads!

That was the chant coming form the crowd as thousands or perhaps millions of beads keep flying by for the crowd to catch. Southwest Airlines distributed loot bags and I was able to fill 2 bags of beads. I could have more but I gave every other catch to my little friend Luke, who is only as tall as the fence separating us from the parade. Poor Luke, the pirates are too busy looking for boobsies to throw their trinkets to. So I decided I should share my loot to him. One for me, one for Luke and he went home a very happy kid with 2 loot bags full of trinkets. My husband said to me while we were driving home: "I didn't know you get crazy over beads". OH darling, you don't know me still, I am a beady girl. You'll be surprised what I will make of those beads.

Thanks for the good fun, Nelson Construction.

Blue Grass night

Last night we had another cold night in the low 30s after a week of smoldering heat. John and Nikki Kieffer invited us to a barbecue in their camper as we listen to the Blue Grass festival in the camp. There is a Blue Grass festival going on in Craig's blue grass ground that started Thursday until today, the second and the biggest for this year. Unlike the first one 2 weeks ago, this one is well attended as evidenced by the RVs and campers parked in the blue grass ground. The music is better too. I'm not a fan of blue grass but if you live in Craig's Park, there is no way you can escape from the ear splitting sound. The music becomes part of day because it continue playing from 11am to 11 pm. Several bands came to play and entertain the many people who drove to the camp including the residents.

Well, it was a great night, we barbecued ribs, corn, and Nikki made her fried rice, Thai style of course which was really hot and spicy enough to wake up your senses during a freezing night like last night. Another couple from the park Norma and Jerry joined us for the marsmallow grilling.

We had fun.

The Journey Back to Juno

My husband asked me to come with him on his trip back to his head office in Juno Beach yesterday for a meeting with his management regarding his annual performance review. It was our first trip back since we moved here in Arcadia and after almost 2 months of living here, I felt I missed our old place for the first time, so I came. On our drive down, we were trying to make sense of our 300 miles (one way) drive down where management could just give him the news through any hi-tech means available. But they wanted it to discuss with him in person. Hence we were there.

We arrived a little early so we decided to pass by Jupiter Bay, the complex 6 miles from Juno Beach where we stayed for 9 months. The sight of our old home made me sad, I love that place, so close to the beach and so close to where I used to work. Everything in there just suits our needs. We drove around the pool where my husband used to swim after work, by the sugar cane restaurant, by the tennis court. Everything there was well maintained, the gardens were all green unlike here in Arcadia and its surrounding areas, because of the 4 nights of frost last week, vegetation is turning brown. Anyway, we had very good and happy memories of Jupiter Bay and in my emotive mode it gave me some tears forming around my eyes. Life is a constant move and Jupiter was part of it.

After dropping him in his office, I drove back to Jupiter to see some friends I haven't seen in 2 months and picked up supplies I couldn't find here in Arcadia. There are just so many stories to tell and updating to do before I realized it was time to pick up Greg again. I drove back to Juno Beach and waited 5 minutes in the main entrance before I called my husband that I was there. He instructed me to meet him in the Engineering building which was 3 buildings away from where I was waiting.

I saw him waiting by the engineering entrance with heavy boxes in his arms and by the picture I was seeing I felt gloom engulfed my whole being. Earlier, we were talking about people being fired by reasons of economics and that even if he has to deal with some difficult issues, were still thankful he has a job. We were joking that maybe this is his time. And then I saw him with boxes, what will I think? OK, I immediately struggle to find words to comfort him, I was braced for the worst and I was determined to be the strength in moments like this. After he loaded the boxes at the back of the car and I vacated the driver's seat, I asked him about his meeting and his performance review. Unceremoniously he said, it was good! They gave me a favorable review. I told him what I thought when I saw him carrying those boxes and he laughed out loud almost peeing in his pants. And the boxes? It turned out it contained all his supplies here in Arcadia..haha.

OK, I over reacted. I trust my husband and I know he puts 101% effort in his work even working Saturdays and Sundays but all those news about massive lay offs just freaks me out because we are not ready in case it strikes us.

Frosty nights in Arcadia

We had three frosty nights in a row here in Arcadia and the surrounding towns and never I've imagined that the so called Sunshine State could be this cold in this time of the year. The most affected were the vegetation and I lost most of my outdoors plants to frost saving only my potted herbs which were brought inside for safety.

What do I do with those wilted and dried hibiscus, san franciscos, bougainvillas, and a host of other plants I don't know the name? Do I cut them, uproot them or just leave them alone and let nature take its course? Shirley, a neighbor in the park came to me this morning after seeing how badly my plants were damaged and told me not to ever think of cutting or uprooting the plants. They could still survive. I could still see life near the roots but from the top down the roots, it seems to be so dead. I hope they survive and life goes on after winter.

We are still bracing for more frosty nights here in this part of Florida.

The pearly white smile

I've always been so conscious of my teeth that's why I make it a point to see my dentist at least twice a year for check up and if my dentist recommends restorative procedures, I'd go for it right away with out wasting any time. I followed my dentists' advice and I thought that all I needed was a good dental regimen. But after years of drinking coffee and tea I noticed a big change in my smile, it no longer has the same glow as I had before. My once pearly white teeth had turned yellow and I'm afraid if I continue neglecting them and do nothing, it will start turning gold. Unfortunately, that kind of gold that you can't sell or put down for collateral, it is a shame. No amount of cleaning or brushing would help to improve the discoloration and everyday it is my challenge.

Then I read about an ultra whitening smile enhancer product that guarantees results after 14 days and after reading Celebrity Sexy White reviews, I was convinced that this is just what I needed to restore my pearly white teeth. At first I was a bit skeptical but out of the many satisfied customers who were happy with the results, it must be worth a try, if only for the promise of that beautiful pearly white smile I was once upon a time wearing.

 

I’m back

I have been in a long hiatus in the blogsophere since we move here in Arcadia that I think I have neglected my blogging obligation. I know some of you have been coming back to see what's happening in my neck of the woods but I was lagging for 13 days already. Thanks though for always visiting. Haven't blog in days and I don't know where to start. I checked back with PPP and was surprised with the changes they have made since I grabbed an OPP. It seems that PPP has come to face the moment of truth and the truth was surely inevitable. I understand if ever PPP changes their policy regarding blogging minimum payment, I know somewhat this is expected as everybody is affected by the economic crunch especially the advertisers who thankfully are still willing to pay even if it is extremely minimal. But even so, life goes on and here I am blogging once again. I am back and will be bringing you happenings in my neck of the woods.

Understanding asparagus

Funny how many of my friends I spoke with after Christmas complained they are gaining weight, my husband included. Long after the festivities are over and the Christmas table had been cleared the proof is now coming out and the guilt lingers on. That is exactly how my husband feels after ingesting those turkey, gravy, stuffing and hams. All those grease accumulating from Thanksgiving to Christmas to New Years are now evident and might require hard work to shed off.

So we declared a war against foods that require us to change our wardrobe or anything that will entail cost for that matter. After all this is a very economically challenging year so any unwanted expenses are not welcome. I wanted to stuff our refrigerator with only the healthiest stuff our body deserves. But first I need to plan and make a list of things I need for a week. More than that ends up in the garbage and therefore not in conformity with my economic strategy. And most of the time my idea of economics is lacking the quality of ingenuity as it is the same stuff all over again. That means, my trips to the grocery involves the same meat, fish and veggies I picked up from last week or month. This goes to show that we have the same menu as the week and months on. Boring!

That was my constant dilemma before I discovered Life123. A site that offers answers to practically all questions about health, beauty, food and drink, money, family, relationships etc.

Going back to my economic goal and healthy regimen, I am a lover of veggies and I love broccoli, carrots, cauliflower but I specially adore asparagus. It contains an enormous amount of antioxidant and rich in trace minerals and folic acid. But my cooking knowledge of this veggie is very limited to boiling and grilling. Little did I know that there are many ways to prepare asparagus. Life123 opened that to me. Just pop a question such as how to cook asparagus and it will offer all the information you need in many different ways.

    

A blessed and peaceful 2009

I stopped forwarding chain emails a long time ago. But I got this by email from my sister-in-law and I thought it deserves a space in my blog not for the promises the message guarantees but for the beautiful prayer it conveys.

It is a prayer of St. Theresa, who happens to be my favorite Saint. Let us reflect on the life of St. Theresa In case anyone is not aware, Saint Theresa is known as the Saint of the Little Ways.  Meaning she believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. She is also the patron saint of flower growers and florists. She is represented by roses. May everyone who receives this message be blessed.

St. Theresa's Prayer:

May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are
exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite
possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you
have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.

May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence
settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing,
dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.'

My dream birthday party

As a kid, I never really had a big party on my birthday. It was always very simple, not really a celebration but an observation of the day I am getting older. It usually starts at school where classmates sing happy birthday out of tune. Well, we were kids and don't really care where our voices go, to the east or to the west, the singing is more important and that was my gift. At home, my mother would prepare either spaghetti or pancit, a type of noodles that symbolizes longevity, always present in every birthday celebrations, and fried chicken. The feast begins with only family in the dining table. No fun-fare, just simple treats to observe the day I am getting a year older.

If I could still make it happen, and God allows me to live longer, I would like a children's party on my 50^th birthday. I've been dreaming about that for years and the reality of this dream will complete the days of my childhood. All of my friends, if they are lucky enough to be alive by then will be my most honored guests and will be required to dress like kids. Oh, they probably wish they are dead! But I know it will surely be fun.

Do you have your dream birthday party but never had the chance to realize it? Celebrations.com will help you realize that dream. And if you are planning your kids' party, check out their site and pick up some kids birthday party ideas to help you make that dream party a sure success.

Nikki

My new friend is the only friend I have in my age bracket here at Craig's which is mostly inhabited by 60+ residents. Nikki is originally from Thailand but grew up here in the US. I met her first at Walmart when we both grabbed the same bed sheet one day after a very cold night in Arcadia. The next Sunday, Greg and I attended a Church service at the recreation hall and Nikki and I both get in the hall at the same time screaming "You again?". Do you live here? She lives in the South, we live in the North but we are on the same street. Then we became friends and the rest was history.

I have never met anyone as thoughtful and as generous as Nikki. She would literally empty her house of anything and give it to me. Example: One day, she came by the house, I mean camper with wicker tray she picked up from the mall. By mall, I mean, it is the place at Craig's where you dump anything you don't need but might be useful to some, we call it mall. The next day, she came again with 2 Japanese umbrellas which I still have to find a place in the house. Last night she went to Tampa and got me vegetables: kangkong, broccoli leaves, basil, lemon grass, young coconuts and many more. When I offered to pay , she refused and said, its for me for free, pasalubong from Tampa.

Nikki, I know that thank you is not enough for all the things you did for me. I cant think of anything I know you will like, so I made this tom yum specially for you, I know my Tom Yum is not as good as yours, but I may I present to you my yummy tom yum, hope you like it. Thanks a lot!    

Beauty in the hands of the experts

For beauty is a characteristic of one's appearance that provides a perceived attributes of substance and satisfaction, many people strives to be beautiful inside and out. Whether you are born with it or not, beauty is a thing that everyone else can have. They say: beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, how about, beauty is in the hands of the surgeons?

Nothing is impossible these days. If you are challenged in a certain area in your body and are not happy the way it looks and function, you want to look great, MYA (Make Yourself Amazing) cosmetic surgery is there to help achieve your goals.

I have nothing against cosmetic surgeries. In fact I know many people who have benefited from these procedures, not just for aesthetic purposes but for medical reasons as well.

MYA is an innovative one stop cosmetic surgery center that offers over 100,000 cosmetic surgery procedures such as breast enhancement, breast reduction, breast uplift, liposuction, body reshaping, facial surgery, and many more. They take pride in their selection of trusted and experienced medical specialist renowned in their field as well as a network of national consultants all over the UK.

Being beautiful is not limited to women only. MYA has services that cater to men who want to look great and feel great. Check out their selection of cosmetic surgery for men and you will be amazed with the endless possibilities of how to look great and feel great. Call 08000141014 now for free consultation. Beauty is never too far behind.

Tom Yum Yummy

I first tried Tom Yum at Sukothai in Glorieta upon the insistence of my friend Arnold who swears Tom Yum is food for the gods. Well, I liked it very much that when I went to Phuket in thailand, I embarked myself on the search for the yummiest tom yum ever. Of course, in Phuket, everything I tried made up for the best tom yum ever. Yesterday, a new friend in the park, Nikki originally from Thailand, gave me a paste, a bunch of lemon grass, and galangal (a root of the ginger family) not really sure. In the Philippines we call it langkawas. I never knew what they were for, but I thanked Nikki for her kindness. When I read the directions in the paste, I knew that those were the ingredients for tom yum. So I drove to Walmart and got myself the freshest shrimps, tilapia and clams. Needless to say, my lunch and dinner consist of tom yum and probably will be the same for the days to come until the big pot of tom yum runs out.

A good bed is the key to a good sleep

Sleeping is probably my most favorite activity of the day, oh, next to eating. Why not? It is the only time our body and mind are in complete surrender, no worries just total relaxation. Seriously, we need sleep, just as our body needs nourishment, we need rest. And I make sure I get all that. It is during this time that our body regenerates tissues and hormones necessary so that our body and mind function properly. We need enough sleep for health and well being.

Millions of people all over the world do not get enough sleep and suffer from sleep deprivation. Fortunately, I never had any problem sleeping. My husband does. There are many factors that affect the quality of sleep. One of them is stress. Stress is the primary reason of my husband's sleeplessness but something that can be remedied by creating a relaxing environment at work or at home. That is why, it is very important to make the house organized and clutter free as possible specially the bedroom. It is the oasis for which we retreat ourselves at the end of the day. Most importantly, the bed must not only be comfortable to the body, it must also offer an appeal to the senses. Speaking of beds, check out Time 4 Sleep's wide selection of comfortable beds with mattresses in various entrancing designs for a better sleep. They also have wide selections for beds for children with different themes to suit kids' tastes. With Time 4 Sleep bed a good night sleep is never too far behind.

Ellumbranitis

 

Got this comment from Ellumbra, a rather unexpected guest, but thanks for visiting anyway. My response in red.

Just been reading a comment of yours, QUOTE "sorry to say this, but he is a nut case." UNQUOTE - on World Of Filipinas - I'm sure that you and Cleo had a lot to talk about, eh? Rumours, hatred mongering? You are good at fabricating stories. Just because I commented on WOF I am now guilty of rumor and hatred mongering? And you implicated Cleo, just because you saw a link in our blogs. Next thing we know, we are part of the conspiracy…hahaha!I just thought I'd ask you some questions, if you don't mind.
Did you read the story really thoroughly? I actually sat through the whole day reading your blog before I realized I was wasting my time. You are the scammer, Mr. Cumper. You wasted my time.
Why have you jumped to the conclusion that I do not have in my possession a video, depicting a fake scar being smudged? Is it just wishful thinking? Better come up with convincing proof.
Are you aware of what has been happening since you left your comment? I have better things to do, so please stop begging for support. No one believes your story.
I can assure you that my sanity is not in question - I'm just a thorough sort of person, tidying up all the loose ends - your rather flippant comment is typical of those who are rather contemptuous of foreigners in the Philippines - well - in quite a few cases, I'm certain that contempt is justified - but there are always exceptions to the rule.
Just as I have been very careful to stress that my story is about a small minority of criminals - people who drop casual comments should be equally careful to make sure they have a finger on the pulse of what is really going on - not just jumping on the bandwagon, because it's an opportunity to realease some of that contempt and hatred.
May I suggest you have another good and thorough read - check out all that's been happening since - I'm sure that you'll see the light - once you have put your partiality aside. Don't waste my time Ellumbra. So much have been written about your story, and I'm not jumping on the bandwagon. You better reassess where you stand.
Thank you - Happy New Year. May you find the illumination!

Your trash is someone else’s treasure

Do you want to get rid of something you don't need anymore? Is your new year's resolution to de-clutter your home and make your life more organized by eliminating those unnecessary things that are just gathering dust in the corner?

Don't throw them away. Your trash could be someone else's treasures and might help other people better their lives. Anything you consider junk like old clothing, shoes, toys, accessories, tools, could be of value to many people. So the next time you throw your junk, think again, you could change a life by donating them to your favorite charity.

Even that old car, SUV, truck that has been sitting in your garage could save a life, Goodwill is now accepting vehicle donations and is more than happy to help you channel your unwanted vehicle to families struggling to make life easier. Donating your vehicle to Goodwill allows them to reach out to as many people with disabilities and disadvantaged get jobs and make a difference in their lives.

Here's how to donate and make a difference:

1. Call their 24 hour hotmail anytime at your convenience or simply fill out the form and one of the car donation experts will call you within 24 hours with the pick up information.
2. Goodwill provides convenient and free pick up service of car donations nationwide at absolutely no cost to you. And for people in the DC area who wants to donate, there is the Washington DC car donation you can go to.
3. They evaluate your donated car to determine your options and provide the best possible tax deduction for your donation.

Call toll free 1-877-GWCARS-9 to have your vehicle pick up free of charge.

 

 

 

 

A glimpse of last year

Come with me as I take you down memory lane and recapitulate the year that had just gone by. It's been an interesting year for us since the onset, we can never complain. There were surely misadventures but thankfully misadventures are still considered part of our adventures, the ones we could always look back and have a good laugh. Good things outweigh the not so good that we are so thankful about.

Greg took up a job for FPL early last year. From our humble abode in Bethel, Maine, we gathered our most precious earthly possessions that summed up in 2 bags then we moved to Florida and joined the glitzy neighborhood of Jupiter Bay. It was a merry mix of fun and excitement as well as tension and hullabaloo.

New friends arrived in the picture and one thing led to another. I believe that fate plays a role in my daily life. I dialed a random number from the phone directory to find me a reputable driving school to help me get back my driving confidence. Of all the driving schools in Jupiter I found A Treasure Coast Driving School more non-comical than Comedy Traffic School so I dialed the former. It is such a small world we live in, someone by the name of ED, my would- be instructor called me to confirm the time of my driving lessons. Somewhere in the corners of my tongue must have given it away and Ed asked me where I was from originally and I said I am from the Philippines. He said, no way. Where in the Philippines? I said, from Bicol. Oh, really? Where in Bicol? And our worlds keep getting smaller and smaller. It turned out that his wife is from Sorsogon and he immediately arranged for us to meet in person. The rest was history. Judy and her friends Veegie and Tim Hammill soon became part of our Jupiter days. We had fun with these guys and that marks the beginning of my social life in Jupiter.

My other social life involves going to Publix everyday where I was able to know most of the people working there. It is a short walk from Jupiter Bay and going there everyday makes up for my daily exercise. Then I crossed path with a nice Filipina who literally leaped when she saw and recognized me as a Filipina. Her name is Maricel. A short introductions and exchange of information (she is from Sorsogon as well), she introduced me to her boss Dawn and that was the beginning of my aborted career at Sally Beauty Company. Unfortunately, I had to leave Sally to relocate to Arcadia. Tears were shed but good memories remain. We still keep in touch.

Then Greg had almost a heart attack, and after a catheterization, it was diagnosed to be a myocardial bridge, not really a heart attack, but a condition he was born with. Nothing can be done but still an episode that shook us both.

We've travelled a lot last year. We've been thinking of going to the Bahamas but that too was aborted. But we had a great time when we were stranded in Philadelphia on a bad stormy day, our luggage lost and no warm clothes to warm us. That was a trip from West Palm to Maine that we never expected to go so terribly wrong so we put all our jackets in the luggage. When get to Philly, flights were cancelled that we have to stay overnight in a run down hotel denied of our belongings. Stranded in the middle of a snow storm in our tropical attire (we came from West Palm, we tell everybody who wonder to justify our lack of proper attire). Then we got ourselves a $3 hoody from a CVS 2 blocks away from the hotel. We look like homeless people running from corner to corner.

The next day, we took the train to Boston as taking the plane would be impossible. It was a great ride.

Travel was the theme for last year. We've been to Binghamton and Canandaigua in New York. It was a great visit with family.

The year culminates with us moving again, this time to Arcadia. A very small town in the interior of Florida. We've got an old RV so we live in an RV park with all the amenities of a great community like heated pool, golf course, and all manners of entertainments. We love this place so far.

The day after Christmas, Greg jumped on a plane and as I am writing this blog, he is still in some kind of a "high" from that experience.

Today is a new day. One could only hope for a better life, new experiences and new adventures for the new year.

Happy New year everyone.

Christmas is here

A good time is coming I wish it were here, The very best time in the whole year; I am counting each day on my fingers and thumbs The weeks that must pass before Santa Claus comes When the first snowflakes begin to come down, And the wind whistles sharp and the branches turn brown, I won't mind the cold, though it numbs my fingers, For it reminds us of the day, when Jesus was born in the manger!

Gift ideas for pet lovers

Are you looking for Christmas gift ideas for pet lovers?

I really find it hard to find a perfect gift for everybody. I specially find it hard to go out to the malls and wander aimlessly in the malls rummaging for gifts ideas especially if you're looking for something special or a specialty shop which is not always easy to find. That's why I love the conveniences offered by the internet. With the internet, shopping is always easy and everything is at your fingertips.

So, if you are looking for gifts to give pet lovers this Christmas, consider value Pet Supplies.com. They have everything a pet lover will surely love. I will give you some suggestions: one of the company's best sellers are the bully sticks all natural dog chew treat, the LitterMaid automatic self cleaning cat litter box, Pet-Tabs, be good rawhide holiday stockings with 7 pc LG dog chew treat on sale right now for $5.49, squeaky dog puppy toys and treats, and many more.

If I only found this website earlier, I know special people who are pet lovers I'm sure will appreciate a gift for their pets. But we already got them gifts that are distinctively Floridian. Next time I think of a gift, I will surely think of valuepetsupplies.com.

Express delivery

Christmas is only 2 days away, have you completed your shopping yet? I did, online. Funny, I ordered an electronic at amazon.com last December 17^th and according to the seller, their delivery schedule is full and my order might not be delivered until after December 24^th to December 30^th so I have to choose the delivery method which is 15 dollars more than the regular. December 17^th is 9 days 'til Christmas so I chose the regular, I don't mind if it came late. Yesterday, I found a card that says I have a package waiting at the box. When I checked, it was my order! Good thing I didn't pay extra. These companies know that ground shipping only takes 3 to 4 days in the US but will trick you by telling you that their delivery schedule is full and then you have to pay extra shipping for express delivery. Not me!

Best Austin Office Space

Finding the best location either for residential or for commercial purposes could be very draining and frustrating sometimes. I know because I've been in that situation every time we relocate. The problem is more magnified especially if you don't know the place and every trip seems like finding a needle in a haystack. So you have to go to the expert to save you time and money.

Don Cox Company is an expert in office and industrial real estate presenting a resume of over 70 years of experience in the industry. If you are looking for Austin office space, Don Cox Company will assist you in finding the right place, the right location, the right rate for lease, provide analysis of floor plans and layouts and they have the trained staff who understand each tenants' unique space requirements and are ready to cater to all their needs.

For free customized search, simply fill out the "locate space now" form on the website and it will provide you a list of available office or industrial space with in 24 hours. It is as easy as that. You don't have to wait longer and thus enable you to set up your office in no time at all.

Don Cox Company is absolutely the number 1 tenant representative firm today.

Sky diving at the Space Center

We are going sky diving at the Space Center after Christmas. Greg's son is into sky diving and he'd been jumping off a plane regularly. This Christmas he will be coming over and the two had planned on jumping at the Space Coast of Florida. Greg is talking me into jumping too. The feeling of doing something for the first time is more scary than exciting to me. Part of me tells me I want to try but part of me is too scared. This could be a one of a lifetime experience and if I decide I want to jump it would probably my first and my last.

To prep me for the forthcoming jump, I watched videos of how people did it for the first time. They all share my feelings at first but the feeling of extreme pleasure at landing is immeasurable. I think I would like to try it. Ayeee!!!!

Turn your credit cards into cash

The collapse of the US economy have made it so hard for the small and big businesses that suffered tremendously and even more so hard to recover from the fall. Massive government bailouts have been reached in an attempt to save some industries and prevent massive layoff that further deteriorates the already horrific economy. We've seen it on TV how automakers begged for bailout to save them from bankruptcy and these are supposedly big companies crying out for help. What about those small businesses who are also greatly affected by this economic crisis but have no avenue and are too small for the government to notice. Do you think they will also go to the Senate and cry bailout? I don't understand why taxpayers' money will bail them out for the bad decisions they have made, but I won't go into that.

If your business is suffering and you need to restructure and save it from bankruptcy go to a bank or a lending institution that could help you out and stand up again. These banks or lending institution could be stringent and may require collateral and voluminous papers to prove that you are in the right business or that you are eligible to a loan. And if you really need cash quickly and hassle free, go to Merchant advisor, they have your needed business cash advance, business funding, check processing and credit card processing that will turn your credit cards into cash in 24 hours.

Many reasons why I love Bethel Maine

A lot of people reading my blog ask me why I am not changing my location from Bethel Maine to Florida. While we are exploring the depths of Florida for a couple of years, we still consider ourselves Mainers. We have a cute, nice house up in the mountain village of Bethel Maine and we try to make it a point to come home at least once every 2 months. Last Thursday, we had plane tickets home to take care of some loose ends and to ski but due to the snow storm in New England, we decided to cancel our trip.

I love Bethel. The moment I set foot in this place I instantly developed a love affair with the place not discounting the very reason why I was here in the first place, that is the first love affair...haha. There are so many good things I love about this place and you'll never ran out of things to do that makes boredom a strange word in the dictionary. Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall you will never be bored.

While most people dread the winter, it is one of my favorites. Bethel is a winter haven and people from New York, Boston, Connecticut, Rhode Island or even as far as Florida flock to this town to enjoy skiing and riding at the Sunday River or Mt Abrams, Bethel's premier mountain ski resorts.

 

Here is an article from Bethel Maine website that is worth sharing with you, so you know what I am talking about.

Bethel is a winter wonderland!  Whether your idea of a great winter getaway is relaxing & snuggling up in front of a fire with a good book, or shushing down the ski-slopes, the Bethel area offers something for everyone.  Named "the greatest ski town in the universe" by Ski Magazine, the Bethel area offers alpine skiing and snowboarding at Sunday River Ski Resort, Mt. Abram Resort, and Black Mountain of Maine. 

Bethel is Maine's Nordic ski capital with three ski centers:  Carter's Cross Country Ski Center, Sunday River Inn Cross Country Ski Center, and the Bethel Inn Nordic Ski Center, offering 120 kilometers of groomed trails for skiing and snowshoeing, rental equipment, instruction, special events, and races for all ages and abilities. 

A snowmobiler's paradise awaits with hundreds of miles of beautiful, groomed trails.  Spectacular views can be found in Grafton Notch State Park and the White Mountain National Forest.  Rentals and guided tours are available as well! 

So, who wont fall in love with such a beautifull place that offers all fun and excitement? Come and visit Bethel, I'm sure like me, you'll be awed by the prestine beauty and serenity of the town during Summer and Fall while taking part in all the fun and excitement on winter.

Perfect holiday gift that lasts a lifetime

Holiday shopping is fun but the fact that shopping malls and shops are packed with holiday shoppers, that changes the tune. I have not completed my shopping yet and Christmas is just around the corner but I don't want to be another crowd in the mall – so I looked online. One good thing about online shopping is that there is an unlimited selection of ideas you can choose from and you can hunt for great bargain without leaving the comforts of your home. Most online stores ships with a certain minimum amount of purchase for free and that translates to a lot of savings in terms of money, time and gas.

Some people spend so much time finding the perfect gift for their loved one. Let me give you some holiday gift guide that is perfect for everybody. Why not give watches from The Watchery.com? Timepieces are timeless – it is the perfect gift to give your loved one of any age and gender.

The watchery.com offers a big selection of brand new, high quality, brand names and luxury watches at manufacturer's prices complete with certificate of authenticity. It is about time to get your lasting piece with their Mega Holiday Sale promo, they offer up to 90% off on select brands. Shop now while supply lasts.

This Gucci watch is on sale for $219 a savings of 75%. Check out more sale on the site.

When smoke gets in my eyes…..

....it gets to the smoke alarm as well.

Bacon is my favorite breakfast, especially if it is super crispy. Hmmm, don't tell me it is bad in general, I already knew that, but it is still one of my favorites. Yummy! For some reasons foods you know are bad for you are usually those that you crave for.

Early today, I fried 2 strips of bacon. I must have had the fire on high and immediately the smoke alarm went off, in full blast! It was 6:am and still quiet time in this place so the sound reverberated as far as the four corners of the park and through the golf course. I could hear our neighbors yell "what is that"?.

"I'm just testing if the smoke alarm works". "Its ok, go back to bed and sorry to disrupt your sleep".

It happened many times when we were in Jupiter Bay. Smoke alarms must love me..haha.

Asian chat

Are you bored? Check out the new online forum for Asians: Asian Chat City. It is a site where you connect to other Asians all over the world for free. Get instant access and visit the Asian chat rooms and avail yourself of the free live webcam chat rooms while you meet other Asians and other people all around the world. Check it out!

Line Dance is fun

I blogged yesterday about line dancing. There were about 25 people in the hall and it was so much fun. It reminds me of happy days in Virac. I realized I am no stranger to this dance. We've danced it before with Boboy the choreographer but we call it square dance. Why? I have no idea, I was just one of those who follow the leader and never questions. Line or square dance? Perhaps it depends on the steps you make no matter if you stay in line. If you make square steps then it's a square dance. I really don't know. What I do know is that it was fun and I will be back next week.

 

 

Mobile marketing

Pepperjam™, the country's leading internet marketing agency and now a Mobile Marketing Company launched the Pepperjam Mobile powered by M3 Mobile Marketing. Recognizing the role of mobile marketing as an important tool for direct marketing today, its mobile division is proud to deliver its innovative solution to its clients targeting customers and delivering valuable information through text messaging. It is a full service program that includes list building, design, management and deployment. M3 mobile marketing is powered by 2.2M engine capable of sending and receiving millions of messages everyday with secured server networks to protect important mobile database.

With the fast growing number of mobile phone users all around the world, mobile marketing can be the next best instrument to communicate messages, advertising and promotions to the intended market. Mobile campaigns can easily be tracked using proprietary live, web reporting system so you know customers' buying activities and how much money spent.

It's not the only expertise they offer to Pepperjam™ clients. They also offer extensive professional consultation and management services in the areas of search engine marketing, affiliate marketing and online media marketing.

Pepperjam™ was ranked 54^th fastest growing privately held company among the advertising and marketing companies in the US and the second fastest growing company in the State of Pennsylvania is a sure testament that the future of ecommerce marketing is in the hands of the experts.

Line Dancing

As I have told you, there are so many activities in store for the residents. Last Sunday, there was a non-denominational service that we have attended inside the park. The residents are very active and the choir master invited me to sing with the choir. I will see, tomorrow is the choir practice, if I make it home at 5:00 then I will join the practice. Today is line dancing. I have no idea what is it, but I was very curious to learn what it is. So I am signing up for tonight's line dancing. Tomorrow I will tell you what it is.

Maintenance free lawns

I always wanted to have a house with a lawn. It makes your surroundings green and relaxing. Even if we live in an RV park, we also have our own lawn. The management maintains the greens while residents are free to add anything to it like plant flowers, trees or whatever you wish to add. We are in a corner lot so I have more space to plant around. I planted herbs around and soon I will be adding zucchinis and tomatoes. I've seen many residents with plastic plants around their RVs they almost look real and definitely add color to the background. For people who are always on the go, plastic plants are the easiest that needs no maintenance and caring.

Same goes with the lawn. There is an easy, inexpensive way to have your lawn that is guaranteed green all year round saving you lots of time and money. Easy Turf is an artificial grass company that has the green solution for the residential, commercial and professional landscaping. At this time of crisis, an artificial grass is just what you need providing you with the greens while saving you money in terms of water and maintenance. Easy turf offers artificial grass in Los Angeles CA that looks and feels real and is maintenance free.

Happy RV dwellers

After months of endless house hunting from those beautiful Victorian houses we dreamed of living one day to the modern Mediterranean apartments located in town, we end up in a RV park. We never have thought of living in an RV or an RV park. One day, as we drove to Greg's project site, we noticed rows of RV parks, on SR17 so we decided to nose around and see what's going on in this side of the fence. We drove around and we liked what we saw. Retired people just having fun, playing golf, shuffles, bocce, horseshoes, bowling, pool, bridge, jam sessions, dancing, people driving around in their golf carts, it is just a picture of a carefree community. We have never considered RV on our list, but when we saw that life could be fun here, Greg asked me if I will live in an RV. Why not? I am very open and like what we always tell ourselves, life is an adventure.

We started checking other RV parks but we like Craig's the best. It has a heated pool, a small size golf course slash blue grass ground, pool tables, bocce and never-ending activities to keep residents busy. I think I really like it here, it is like seeing ourselves 15 years from now in the lives of the seniors.

To live in a RV park you must have an RV. The problem was that we didn't own one and the fact that we don't want to spend a fortune for an RV, we thought living here was impossible. As we drove around, we spotted some RV homes for sale and we agreed on the amount we are willing to pay. There are expensive ones but there are also affordable ones and through sheer patience we found one that is with in our budget, in very good condition and is right there on the spot next to the heated swimming pool. It was a real deal. We bought it the next day.

We are here now and are now the proud owners of a rundown RV in the corner of 3^rd St.

Galco holster: Perfect Christmas gift for the sporty man

I had dinner at the Crab House in Jupiter on my last night in Jupiter with friends Maricel and Allan. Allan is Maricel's friend who's passions include fishing and hunting. I have never met him before that night but I have been getting fresh fish from him: pompano, marlin, tuna, and that small fish you make sardines (I really don't know the name)for free!!! That night I had the opportunity to thank him for the fresh fishes that he'd been generously supplying us. It saved us a lot of money as Greg and I both love fish so much. Besides, Jupiter is an affluent part of the Palm Beach so everything is expensive, fish included.

Anyway, we had a great time and I enjoyed just knowing how Allan's other passion affects his life – hunting. It helps him regenerate his energy and foster camaraderie with his buddies. Then it reminded me of Greg's new found interest in hunting.

I have been blogging about how Greg wants to take up hunting as soon as we get to Arcadia. Allan knows the place well and he advice that we are moving to the right place as far as hunting is concerned. We are in Arcadia now and Greg still haven't gone hunting yet. We are still in the process of finding a place to live so that will wait a while. But as soon as we have settled and moved to our own place, hunting will come sooner.

Here I am still looking for hunting tools and gear to get ready for the big event. I found lapolicegear.com to have the complete selection of just everything you need. A holster to hold his gun might be just the perfect gift for Greg this Christmas. And what else is good when you get a free Galco hat and free shipping when you buy this Galco holster? Sounds a good deal to me.

Foods that boost your immune system

Bored and alone, I tried calling friends hoping to have lunch and catch up on the latest happenings but most of them are either sneezing or down with flu and refused to pass the virus on to me. Me too.

What do I do to make me impermeable to illness? Some power foods will help us boost our immune system and help us resistant to illnesses.

You may not want to hear this, but your parents were right. That broccoli and spinach you hated as a kid is, in fact, good for you. Very good for you, in fact they are part of the super foods that help boost your immune system. It isn't brain surgery; what you eat can boost your immune system and make you healthier. Studies have shown and proven that eating the right foods, like these super foods, can boost your immune system, help reduce your risk of contracting cancer and heart disease, and even increase your energy levels.

The good news is, foods that boost the immune system can also be tasty. Here are a few of those foods that you should have in your refrigerator now:

Broccoli—OK sure, they look like little trees, but these little veggies are full of phytochemical sulforaphane, which is known for its anti-cancer properties. These are a fantastic boost to the immune system because they are a rich source of beta-carotene, fiber and vitamin C. Blueberries—Much easier to swallow than broccoli, these blue wonders have an exceptionally high, one of the highest, antioxidant capacities. This means this delicious fruit is a pro at fighting cell-damaging free radicals that can cause cancer and heart disease. They are also great at treating urinary tract infections since they help prevent E. coli bacteria from latching on to the cells in the urinary tract. Green Tea—has tons of antioxidants that are believed to help prevent cancer and heart disease. Along with giving a boost to the immune system, this tea contains polyphenol which has been shown to prevent the formation of tumors. Green tea ingredient epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), also known as polyhenol, is not only believed to fight human breast cancer cells, but it can also be soothing. Flaxseed—it can boost the immunes system and serve as a natural laxative since it is a great source of soluble and insoluble fiber. It also contains plant lignans that are thought to reduce the risk of developing hormone-sensitive cancers like prostate and breast cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids, which protect against heart disease, are also in flaxseed. Garlic—this may not be the best thing to eat on a date, but it's another story if you want to help prevent heart disease. Garlic contains allicin which is thought to possibly lower cholesterol. This also helps boost the immune system. So hit your local supermarket if you don't already have these items in your home. They can be served with any meal and some may be eaten several times a day as a healthy snack to boost the immune system.

Get connected anywhere, anytime

I've been travelling a lot, so I know how important communication is specially when travelling abroad. One thing I couldn't do without is a cellphone. These days, it is equally as important as those credit cards and IDs in your purse. But then, most local cellphone providers won't work in other countries, so you need to equip yourself with phone cards that will surely work in most countries including the Philippines.

GetMeCallingCard.com is the largest online phone card retail store that provides quality prepaid calling cards with low rates for domestic, long distance and international calling.

For people like me in the US who needs to connect with family in the Philippines or anywhere in the world, communication is easier with GetMeCallingCard.com. With rate as low as 6.4 cents per minute, talk time is longer than usual. Click here for more details in calling the Philippines.

Artichoke

I've never had a fresh artichoke before. Well, I had canned baby artichoke at the salad bar at the Crab House and I like it but I've never been crazy about it.

When we went to New York last week for Thanksgiving, we were seated beside a very nice lady who resides in Palm Beach and is visiting her children in Pennsylvania. She is 83 years old, still very sharp but having difficulty moving and was travelling alone. Greg, being a gentleman helped her throughout the flight like her Nanny.

ON the same flight back to West Palm, she was our seatmate again. Chivalry must be Greg's last name, all the old ladies in that flight loved him! Why not? He carried their bags. Anyway, out of gratitude perhaps, this nice lady from Palm Beach gave us fresh big artichokes.

Clueless what to do with it, I went to the internet for consultation, and typed "how to cook artichoke". I was amazed by the endless possibilities to end up at the plate. I chose the simpler one, just boil them in water but put a little twist in it. We smothered a generous amount of Greek vinaigrette marinade on top and it was awesome. I think I am beginning to develop a liking with artichoke.

Corporate events management

Peak Performance Services, Inc. is a Company based in Pennsylvania with service offices in New Jersey and Massachusetts that offers their services worldwide. They are a corporate travel company that specializes on incentive travel, group tour and meeting management, events too large for large companies to handle themselves.

Why waste your time? Let Peak Performance manage the planning of your corporate events while you sit back and relax and focus your time on other more important aspect of the company. They have a group of highly trained and qualified staff as well as the management capabilities to handle and implement excellent corporate incentive travel, meetings, and other programs designed and customized to meet the client's needs.

Peak is not just any of those many corporate travel companies out there. Group incentive travel programs are their specialty. Many companies reward top performing employees in the company with travels. It is a good way to encourage employees to achieve their full potentials and encourage others to be productive as well. Peak works with the company plan tour excursions, cruise incentives and entertainment. Peak helps plan a trip that benefits both ways. Their design is geared toward team building and motivation while employees feel valued and are likely to be loyal and productive.

Check out the site and let Peak Performance put you to the peak.

Freezing In Arcadia

Last night was our third night in Arcadia. I thought being in Florida I am exempt from those thick jackets and warm overcoats so I left them in Maine. Last night the temperature was 35 degrees and with only a hoody, I was freezing outside. I didn't know it gets so cold here too. It is freezing even in the Sunshine State!

We bought a small grill so we grill every night in front of the hotel. It is always like a cookout in our unit every night. I guess our cook out will go on until we find a house to move in. Rental houses goes quick, we saw the one we really like Monday night and when we called last night to finalize the deal, it was gone. Now, I'm back to step one. Looking, looking, looking for a house to rent.

Business Loans

If you own a business and needs to expand but needs additional capital expenditures, Merchant Advisors offer you options. Merchant Advisor has over 20 years experience in the payment processing industry with a wide array of payment solutions including ACH processing, credit card processing and alternative small business financing through their cash advance solution designed to meet the needs of both medium and enterprise level companies. They offer low interest rates, hassle free, and processes applications with in 24 hours and accept credit cards as payment option. Take a tour of their website and see if they have everything it takes for your needed business expansion.