Friday, October 31, 2008

Hunting for hunting toys

Last Thursday was my 3rd trip to Arcadia, a small town between Tampa and Orlando, soon to be our next home. It was voted the most peaceful small town in Florida, I was told. Coming to Arcadia makes me so excited always. It reminds me of the place I grew up, a town called Virac in the province of Catanduanes in the Philippines. Like Catanduanes, Arcadia is also heavily reliant on agriculture. It is home to three rodeos and we are happily awaiting to see what a rodeo is. Not that we don't know what it is, but we haven't seen an actual rodeo.

Along the way, we have been discussing about what to do once we move. Greg is a type of person who has to do something after work, or he will be dead bored. I started dreaming about aerobics, yoga, swimming and all manners of physical activities when beside the road a wild boar attracted our attention. We are so amazed at how abundant wildlife in Arcadia, not just the crocs, the deer, and the turkeys but wild boar as well. Then the light bulb suddenly went on Greg's and declared, "I am going to take up boar hunting".

So that's how it came about and today, I am frantically looking for a place to buy the stuff he needs for his new hobby.

Here's good news for hunters and adventurers. NikonProGear has widest selection of top of the line hunting products such as: trailblazer ATB binoculars, Nikon riflescope, rangefinders, digiscoping attachments and many more. They are also giving away $20 or $50 gift cards when you a Nikon ATB binocular. Buy now and get free ATB pro gear. The offer runs until December 31, 2008. Visit Nikon hunting.com for more information.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Wise shopper

Even during tight economic times, it is difficult to not fall for the next great deal and dig at the mall. When you see those screaming red SALE letters you can't help but fall prey to the trap. Still came home with bags of new goodies who know if you really need and will ever wear.

Yesterday, with our new hair straight from the parlor, we rummage trough the shelves of Stein Mart on US 1 in search for anything on sale. I don't really need anything but Maricel wants to look at the jewelries so I went to the home section and found a nice set of Asian inspired candles. I thought of my sister and her house, those candles just found a home. I felt a pang of hunger so I suggested we find a place to eat. Maricel mentioned a place that according to her serves a healthy meal, so I said that's the place. She drove to Boston Market. We each ordered ¼ roasted chicken and 2 overcooked side dishes. I kept coming back to the water station to wash away the salt. If that is healthy to her we sure have different concepts of what healthy is but that is not important, we had fun.

We had more shopping after at Ross and TJMax for more bargain hunting. It takes a great measure of restraint to keep oneself from the temptation of falling into the trap of shopping just because it is on sale. It only makes me wiser each day.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Online degrees

I have gotten myself enrolled in an online course which I'm sure will be a good addition to my credentials. By next week I will be taking my final test and my certificate will be on its way, oh well, assuming that I pass the test which I am preparing for right now. It's been a long series of lessons but I took it easy at my own pace. Learning has never been so relax if it gives you the flexibility to study at your own leisure something you can never experience in a conventional classroom. I will surely take another online course after this one. At Edvisors, you'll find directories of schools offering online degrees for undergraduate and undergraduate students and experience the education so convenient and easy.

Changes I wanna make myself

With my progessive prescription eyeglasses, long hair tied at the back, I'm so tired of looking like an old librarian. I have been dreaming of changing my looks for months but i can't get hold of Jackie, the hairdresser. Fortunately last week, Maricel, a friend got a hold of her and I am seeing her today. At last, I can be the look I've always wanted. Since I came here, I can only recall having 2 haircuts in all, it is very difficult to find a person you can trust to cut your hair. When I was in the Philippine, I went to Manila to get a haircut, which is just a plane ride away until I became comfortable seeing Elena, our local hairdresser who I've been missing since I came here. I will let you know my new look when I get back.

Relocation made easy

I've been talking about moving for the past few months. We will be moving to Arcadia Florida, that's between Tampa and Orlando early December for a short job assignment for my husband. Relocating is never easy and relaxing for me specially that the task of packing and planning is burdened upon my shoulder. I've been moving a lot that I have mastered the art of packing. With our impending move, I kept my fingers busy browsing online who, where and which to call for help.

Thank goodness I found Relocation.com, moving will never be the same again. It is a site that helps moving easy by providing many lists of interstate moving companies you can trust to move your valued possessions. They will also help you calculate the cost of your move and gives you an idea of how much to budget. At relocation.com you get all the need you help so you have an easy and relaxing transition.

Lessons of change

I am taking an online course on Administrative Assistant Application at Glendale Community College. It has been a long 12 series of lessons we need to digest. Today they released the last and the final lesson which is about Change Management.

It talks about well, change..haha. Well, I believe there is a song that says, "change is the only permanent thing in this world". True. Let me read the material first and I will get back here and tell you Glendale's version of Change.

Change seems to be a very interesting topic to dwell. Everybody talks about change. You hear it on TV almost everyday, in every conversation on the streets and even at work. I've heard a lot about change. I heard the shouts of change in the early 80s when I was in College in one of those schools close to the Palace. Almost everyday the streets in Mendiola roars with anger clamoring for change. "Tama na, palitan na, magresign na !!! (That's enough, let's change, resign now!!!). That was the roaring sound of change emanating from the streets of Mendiola. I never like the smell of tear gas so I never took part in it. And even though I wasn't part of the rallies, I secretly supported their fight for the selfish reason that classes were always suspended which means more TV time back in the dorm. It was a very radical era I grew up with.

Many Presidents stepped up and down but the sounds of change grew even louder and furious. Did they ever get the change they wanted? Leaders changed but situations just got even got worse. I wonder where change should start. I don't think it is in the leaders anymore. I think change is now in the hands of people. Why don't we be the change we want to see? Let's change the ways. Let us stop electing officials with selfish motives. We have the power to change and let's exercise that power by electing the right kind of people into office not the one who lure with money to get money, our own money. Let's elect officials who could motivate people to bring about the change they wanted. After all a government is the people and not the leader who runs the government.

Change is never changing. Please throw me an aspirin.

It is such a relief that finally my lessons are all over, except for my final test which I have from today 'til Nov 7 to take. Oh yeah, I'm not in a hurry, lets take it in the last minute to give me time to read the materials one more time. Argh!

Friday, October 24, 2008

Seeing is believing

Is there any thing anymore these days you can get at a fraction of a price? Nothing I could possibly think of especially during this changing economic times where everything goes up but the pay check. But did you know that there are cool, fashionable, inexpensive prescription eyeglasses for as little as $8? Unbelievable but true.

To see is to believe, then, lets find out at ZenniOptical.com and discover the assortment of styles that suits every one’s personality and style. I wear prescription eyeglasses and so is my husband, we got our first pair for a fortune at a local optical shop inside the mall. That was 5 months ago. Then I found ZenniOptical.com and tried one for myself. If I could get it for that price, I want to have my own collection and wear new one each day. I could also buy my husband several sets so he has one in his office, car and home. It is very affordable you can’t afford to pass the opportunity to own at least a pair. How could it be possible knowing how the economy runs today? Well, they only sell directly to the customers. And by selling direct they eliminate middlemen and advertising cost making their eyeglasses very affordable which really makes sense to me.

Read this story from the Chicago Tribune.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

"If you have nothing to do.....

"if you have nothing to do, dont do it here"

One of my job descriptions as Marketing Specialist for CatAg back in the Philippines was to travel. It was such a job that I simply loved to love. I love travelling even if that means travelling to remote places no automobile dare go. My dependable all terrain land rover will surely deliver me anywhere, I was born shock proof. I was one of those fortunate enough to have seen most part of the Philippines, thanks to CatAg.

Anyway, in one of my travels, I saw that slogan written in a 2X5 feet board nailed to a tree in a Barangay I cant remember anymore. Of the many places I've been it is very hard to remember besides I have to admit that my memory is slowly getting retarded. It seems that there was a slogan making contest in that place and all constituents submitted their entry because most of the trees are nailed with slogans. That slogan was the winner, it stucked in my mind. Until today, after many years and the CatAg project has long rested, I still remember that slogan. So I declared that to be the winner.

I have great admiration for that little barangay, everybody is busy --- making slogan.

Well, I think I have nothing better to do.I better go to bed.

Heritage Web Design

Today’s downhill economy has seriously propelled many businesses on a roll even the major players has become vulnerable to the changing times. But not Heritage Web Solutions. Thanks to the over 970 million internet users who have made internet business a way of life thus making the internet one of the leading industries today. The advent of information technology has revolutionized the way we look at the whole picture. The world has virtually become smaller, communication faster, information readily available at a click of the mouse. The internet has become an eyewitness to the changing transactions all over the world trying to resuscitate our dying economy. Internet does not recognize boundaries, nor time and distance, it is always there in real time. Just imagine the families and loved ones for whatever reason they may have are separated by distance, internet is one thing that keeps them together. That is one of the many wonders of the internet.

Heritage Web Solution, a Utah based web solution company that specializes in hosting and design of affordable small and medium size businesses. Together with their experienced, topnotch graphic and layout designers, they produce custom made, original designs suited for your business that will surely give an edge over your competition. In today’s business battle, having your own website that is custom fit for your needs is a sure win. A Heritage web design is definitely one of a kind that will not just make your business stand out from the rest, but customers are also given access to custom flash graphics, assistance to ecommerce development, traffic driving and support. A heritage web design will help you set a place of your own in the world wide world.

The Economic Report Show has an upcoming episode featuring Heritage Web Solution recognizing its great contribution to the internet business industry.

Here is the full report:

“The Economic Report” show to feature Heritage Web Solutions

October 22, 2008, Deerfield Beach, FL – The producers of The Economic Report are pleased to announce that Heritage Web Solutions will be featured in an upcoming episode as part of the show’s Business and Technology series on The Power of the Internet Supporting the 21st Century Business Environment.

The internet has revolutionized the ways businesses market themselves. It is essential for businesses, both large and small, to have an effective web presence. A company’s website essentially serves as their electronic store front, communicating the company’s identity to website visitors.

Today, there are approximately 970 million internet users thus making internet marketing the most effective way to appeal to customers from around the world. Websites overcome the limitations between countries and continents thus making a company international. Having a website also means that a business is open and reachable at any time and allows for quick customer response time.

But, it isn’t as simple as just setting up a website. The only way for a company to be set apart from other online competition is unique website design. Businesses turn to internet technology companies for the development of a professional and search engine friendly, website.

Utah-based Heritage Web Solutions specializes in designing and hosting affordable websites for small and medium size businesses. In business since 2001, Heritage designs all websites to custom fit each company, giving each client a unique, original and authentic design. Customers of Heritage also have access to custom flash graphics, Ecommerce development and assistance, database creation and management, traffic driving resources and more.

“As a global community, we are evolving into a technology-based world,“ said Brad Stone, Managing Partner, Heritage Web Solutions. “Rarely we pay cash or write a check anymore. More of our purchases are made online, or at least we research online before making a purchasing decision. Our checking, savings and credit card accounts are maintained and paid for online. Our socializing has moved to FaceBook, YouTube and MySpace. Our communications are emailed, texted or Skyped. Breaking news can now be fed instantly via RSS feeds to our computers or cell phones instead of waiting for the six o’clock news. The Internet is very much a main part of human society today.”

For more information, please visit www.heritagewebdesign.com

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Simple energy saving tips

Here is more energy saving tips to help us in these crucial times. Let's take a look in our house. You might be using up power unnecessarily without you knowing it. Those electric appliances even if they are turned off could eat up energy. Plug them off and you'll save up on electricity bill. At stand by mode, the usage could be minimal, but if summed up altogether, the difference could be great.

I don't think it takes so much time and effort to turn off and unplug every electric appliance when not in use, including the lights. Take rounds every night before retiring to bed to make sure everything is unplugged. It may not seem much but it is one sure way to save money on electric bill.

Reverse phone look up

Are you trying to find someone but don’t know where to start? No matter who are you after, the services by reverse phone look up will walk you through and help you find the person you want to connect with. Simply enter the area code and the seven digit phone number and the system will search the data base and you’ll be able to get the information you want. With nationwide phone lookup, your reverse phone search is almost assured to produce successful result.

Hand massage

It is not only the feet that have nerve connected to the organs, the hands too have connections. Study the picture below and see the images that corresponds to the organs. I find this helpful specially if you are looking for an alternative to conventional wellness.

Convert your turntable into digital

USBTurntable

My father in law has a collection of old vintage turntables, he even passed on some to me and I love them. He even gave us his antique victrola - and it still works perfectly. Blends well with our basement motif. I am so happy to be the bearer of good news. You can turn those old LPs into digital. With LP saver USB turntable, you can save your old vinyl albums into digital CDs. Isn’t it wonderful?

Now, I just have to wait for those tapes to be converted to digital, I know nothing is impossible anymore and with technology constantly reinventing, I know my tapes will soon be saved as well. Or is there something I still don’t know?

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The wonders of foot massage

To say that I love foot massage is an understatement. I look forward to nights when Greg pampers my feet with unscented lotion after a days work at Sally. In appreciation, I give him a facial. Working at Sally keeps my feet up and about and a foot massage is just what I need at the end of the day. What are the benefits you get from foot massage aside from its relaxing effect? It also has healing effects to your body. Take a look at the picture below, in the feet are pictures of organs that corresponds to the points of it connects. It is true that the nerves that connects to the organs terminates there. So those ancient beliefs that is now "accupressure" is being proven to be true. So there you go, pamper your feet, and it will reward you.

Discount A/C Compressors

The sun always shines in the Sunshine State. It is no misnomer for a place that is as hot as Florida. But I couldn't complain, the place is teeming with beautiful sandy beaches, parks, upscale shopping malls and other recreations to wow you during the day.

One thing is very important that we need to make sure we enjoy – a dependable airconditioner whether at home or in the car. They have to be running perfectly or we suffer from heat stroke. Did you know that there is a place you can get A/C parts at a discount? DiscountACparts.com has the complete line of a/c compressor for all types of auto model, with full warranty on every part you order and free shipping. Isn't it a good deal?

At the end of the day, after being out in the sun, you retreat to a nice cool car to refresh and drive you home.

Healthy Juices

Here are some recipes of juices you can make. It is not just thrist quenching but also beneficial to your health. I am posting this article emailed to by my friend Ness. Enjoy these fresh healthy drinks!

Carrot + Ginger + Apple - Boost and cleanse our system. Apple + Cucumber + Celery - Prevent cancer, reduce cholesterol, and eliminate stomach upset and headache.

Tomato + Carrot + Apple - Improve skin complexion and eliminate bad breath.

Bitter gourd + Apple + Milk - Avoid bad breath and reduce internal body heat.

Orange + Ginger + Cucumber - Improve Skin texture and moisture and reduce body heat.

Pineapple + Apple + Watermelon - To dispel excess salts, nourishes the bladder and kidney.

Apple + Cucumber + Kiwi - To improve skin complexion. Pear & Banana - regulates sugar content.

Carrot + Apple + Pear + Mango - Clear body heat, counteracts toxicity, decreased blood pressure and fight oxidization .

Honeydew + Grape + Watermelon + Milk - Rich in vitamin C + Vitamin B2 that increase cell activity and strengthen body immunity.

Papaya + Pineapple + Milk - Rich in vitamin C, E, Iron. Improve skin complexion and metabolism.

Banana + Pineapple + Milk - Rich in vitamins very nutritious and prevent constipation

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

What’s going on the other line?

 

Have you ever had the misfortune of getting those annoying phone calls from people you don't know? At the time that you are the busiest and the phone rang and you can't help but get up and get the call only to find out they are just telemarketers? It really pisses me off. I wish we have caller ID so I could identify who is calling. Did you know that there is a phone number reporting site where you can comment on calls like that? At phone number reporting.com you can join other users and share experiences about a certain call, their numbers, the messages or anything you want others to know about your unwanted call. Let us know what's going on the other line.

Squash pure skin care

Inside the hotel, while waiting for Greg to finish his meeting last Tuesday, I turned on the TV for company. Martha Stewart show was on and I picked up this all natural facial cream recipe that I want to share. I actually tried it and it is so rejuvenating.

Here is the recipe

Pureed squash

Plain yogurt

Mix together, apply to face, let sit for 15 minutes, rinse with warm water.

Own a Schumacker Home

Even at this time of financial crisis owning a home is still the greatest investment of all times. And if you still don't own one, Shcumacker Homes has the ideal home you always dreamed of at prices no one can match. They are the leader in custom home builder in the US and deliver the best value for your money. For one thing, choosing your new home can be very draining, they are all over the market. But why choose a house that is not suited for your needs where you can customize it exactly as you want it? Schumacker will listen to all your wish and needs. They are committed to give you the perfect home of your dreams. Take a look and find out from these Schumacker home video the house you've always been dreaming of.

Skin Care Recipes

I promised to give you more budget friendly do-it-yourself tips to maintain that overall beauty that is YOU! When it comes to beauty, there is never short of things or ingredients to be had, natural that is. As I said, everything is available in your kitchen or garden. It is all organic and natural with great results and most of all easy on the budget. You may already have them so it wouldn't cost you a dime.

Here are some simple Homemade Skincare Recipes you can try:

Yogurt face mask

1 tsp. natural yogurt (not non-fat or lowfat)

1 tsp. runny honey (heat up hard honey to smooth up)

This recipe is a great cleanser that moisturizes as well, you should opt for plain yogurt. You add a little honey to the mixture and spread it right onto your face. Avoid your eyes, just in case they are sensitive to the mixture. Leave it on your face for about ten minutes and then wash off with water. You will love the silky way your skin feels after using your yogurt cleanser. You can even use this several times a day. Be sure to store it in the refrigerator.

Egg mask

2 eggs

2 teaspoon water

2 teaspoon honey

Raw eggs are wonderful for fast face masks. Simply beat two eggs, a little water, and some honey into a bowl. Rub it onto your face and let it dry for fifteen minutes. After it dries, wash it off well. Be sure to keep it away from your eyes and mouth. Raw eggs can contain bacteria and you don't want to eat them. This is a great way to lightly exfoliate your skin as well.

Oatmeal Face Cleanser Oatmeal is nourishing to the skin and is used in many parts of the world as a beauty aid.

3 tablespoons oatmeal

2 teaspoons witch hazel

And a few drops of water

Dampen the oatmeal first then add the witch hazel. Then add the water to make it moist. Apply to your face with an upward and outward circular motion. Rinse with lots of warm water. This recipe is good for all kinds of skin. If you have dry skin add a little olive oil. You can also add mashed banana for more nourishment.

Note: a witch hazel is the "baking soda" of skin care: It's a simple, all-purpose, old-fashioned product that's been used for generations.

They are popular ornamental plants grown for their clusters of rich yellow to orange-red flowers which begin to expand in the autumn as or slightly before the leaves fall, and continue throughout the winter, sometimes called "winterbloom". The bark and leaves are astringent; the extract, also referred to as witch hazel, is used medicinally.

Free Cataract Surgery

What is cataract? According to the National Eye Institute, Cataract is the clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision that is very common in older people. The lens is the clear part of the eye that helps to focus light or an image on the retina, the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The lens should be clear, like a camera to capture a sharp image. If cataract is present, it clouds the lens and the image is blurred, distorted or even discolored. It can afflict either or both eyes but it does not spread from one eye to the other. It is estimated that more than half of Americans by the age of 80 and above will have been afflicted with cataract. It is now considered the world's leading cause or blindness affecting millions of seniors each year.

Here is the good news. Cataract free America is a non profit organization that helps eligible seniors to avail of free cataract surgery including those who have delayed care because of lack of funds. Their mission is to educate the public about the potential risks of cataract and provides research and answers to issues related to cataract. They also help facilitate referrals to health care professionals and doctors who will provide cataract surgery for free. Cataract free America is committed to serve American Seniors suffering from cataract and is steadfast in its fight to make America cataract free. Call 916-387-8400 or visit Cataract Free America for more details.

Budget friendly hair care

Times are tight but don't forget to look good with these budget friendly tips I have gathered from the many hairdressers and beauticians who come to Sally everyday. And oh yeah, I have also my unsolicited advice pinned here that I picked up as an unofficial hairapist at Sally. I have noticed when I talked to some customers that many are now trying to learn the tricks of doing it themselves thus avoiding the expensive salons, at least the haircare.

Yes, there is an inexpensive way to look good. Between rising prices and tighter budget and economic crisis, I find it hard to justify serious money spending on hair care. Put the money in your savings instead.

  1. Cut your husband's hair or kids' hair. I do Greg's hair. How much is men's haircut here in the US? $20, 30, 40? With a $24 clipper I got from CVS, ( I wasn't working at Sally's then, and they have many different clippers there to choose from) I saved 9 months worth of haircut. Let's say, at a conservative point, he was paying $20 for his haircut, he is having one every month, since February to this day, I have saved $180 and have recovered my investment. The clipper already includes attachments and it has instructions on how to cut hair. If you have kids, the benefits will be even more.
  2. Color your own hair. Professional color is getting too expensive, but you can do it at home. Pick up your color at any pharmacy or any Sally Beauty Supply store near you, they have thousands of colors to choose from. I am a fan of the no-ammonia, no-peroxide hair colors because it has no strong odor, but it only lasts for 6 to 8 shampoos. It will be messy at first but it is worth it considering the savings you'll incur. Avoid showering in hot water since the temperature can cause color to fade and if you use cleansers, choose the one without sulfate. Protect hair from the sun too.
  3. Hair care products are available in your kitchen. Hair care products are very expensive. There are many at home treatment available that are as effective. And there are also treatments available right in your kitchen. For example, olive oil can be used as a moisturizing treatment for curly hairs. With olive oil on dry hands, apply onto hair, leave for 30 minutes before showering. It is very basic but very effective. As option for normal hair, mix half cup of honey with 2 tablespoon of olive oil, cover with shower cap and let sit for 30 minutes, shampoo and rinse as normal.

Get creative with your hair and take advantage of the many products in your kitchen, they work wonders without shelling those precious dollars. Beautiful hair can be had even in the most strictest budget.

More budget friendly tips next time.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Tips on credit card spending

Credit card offers from different credit card companies are pouring my mail box lately. I used to have several cards in my name but the present economic meltdown have caused us to cut back on credit spending and cancelled some of the cards and just kept one card to use for emergencies. It was a serious elimination process but in the end the low interest rate credit cards prevailed. I have always been on time in paying bills and I pay it in full if at all possible. I am also aware of my good credit standing and is very resolute to stay that way and in no way will turn my good credit into bad credit credit cards. At this time, a new credit card is the last thing I need.

Here are some tips on how to recession proof your finances: 1. minimize spending, buy only what is necessary. Tighten your belts because the economy will be even worst. So get ready. 2. Pay your credit card bills in full if possible because if you just pay the minimum amount, your bill will just keep building gradually and so is the interest, the next thing you know you are deep in debt. Pay your mortgages as well. 3. Maintain only one credit card and use it only for emergency. Pay in cash if you can afford it. The more you use your card, the more you pay interest, that's how credit card companies make money.

Choose your card wisely, choose the one that doest not only offer low interest rates but gives you points and rewards and also that which you can use your credit cards for balance transfer , extra service that allows you to save time and money. Also some credit card companies offer cash back credit cards that earns you cash returns to as much as 5 to 20%. Don't be fooled, find out where the cash back is coming from, if it is from your own money, never mind. Times are hard and we need to be wise.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Congratulations Krizia

I am very proud of my niece Krizia. She graduated today with 2 awards: academic excellence and clinical proficiency from Perpetual Help College Manila. Her grades could have qualified her for Cum Laude but she was a transferee in her school and the requirement is at least 70% residence in that school in order to be a Cum Laude. She is now preparing for her board exam to become a full pledge nurse. Congratulations Krizia. Were so proud of you!!!

Friday, October 17, 2008

Lawsuit finance available

Have you ever heard of Lawsuit finance? Yes, there is such a thing. If you are involved in a lawsuit and in dire need of cash while waiting for the settlement, you can apply for a lawsuit cash advance to get you going. Being in a lawsuit is a very difficult situation more so if you don't have the ability to earn money as a result of that situation. At LawMax, you can receive the cash settlement in advance even if your case is ongoing. And here is the good thing, LawMax shares the risk with you. They will not collect money unless the case is settled and if there is no recovery from the lawsuit, you keep the investment, and owe nothing. There is absolutely no monthly payments, no credit cards and employment required. Apply online or call 1-877-788-CASH for a confidential evaluation of your case without any obligations.

Are customers always right?

Customers are always right. Wrong!

I am working part time for a chain of beauty supply store here in Jupiter. I've enjoyed working for the Company not just for the perks but also fo the lessons I learned from the people I meet everyday, and my workmates are exceptional. Thinking of my impending move to Arcadia means that I will be leaving the company is torture to me, unless I decide to join the nearest branch in our new place but working with different people. I don't want to leave but life has to go on.

Work had been very smooth and pleasurable and rewarding. Although new in the group, I struggled to learn with the groups' help, which I am very grateful. I was not certainly the most congenial of all but I am certain that I treat customers with respect and give the services they deserve. If at times I can't be of any help to them, I call the person who can help best with a customers query.

Last Monday I worked from 9 to 2. I always come to work early to do other stuff. I heard a loud knock on the door and looked at the watch, it says 8:45. I could sense the urgency of the woman outside the door, so even if it wasn't time yet, I opened the door for her. "Good Morning Ma'am, how are you today?" I said. No response as if I was invisible, ok, maybe because of my size, she thought I was just a ghost. She went straight to the haircolor section and linger a while. When I saw her move towards the register, I asked if she's all set I was ready to ring her out. She said, " YES!", in a tone that will rock the whole Jupiter Square complex. "Do you have a Sally card?", I asked, she said "YES!". Uh-uh, maybe she ends her sentences in exclamation point!!! Then she instructed me to divide her purchases in 2 bags to which I repeated to make sure I got her right. At this point, I could almost see her raging eyes, her eyeballs are trying to get out of its sockets and screamingly said "YES"!. Uh-uh, what's wrong with you Ma'am, just asking myself. Then she paid me in cash…ok, coins. I am not from this country so I am still confused with the coins that seem look similar to me so I took time to count the coins. Then at a snap she shouted at me, "COME ON, DONT YOU KNOW HOW TO COUNT!!!!?", her eyes are all fiery like she's going to devour me. That was certainly what I was doing, counting her coins, but she already started to ruin my day. I wanted to throw the coins at her face, but I remember to exercise good manners and self control.

Customers are always right? Not when they are rude, ill mannered, sarcastic and disrespectful. And I am talking about an old woman in mid fifties or perhaps in her sixties with no manners. Perhaps she woke up at the wrong side of the bed, or maybe beauce of the fact that I belong to the minority group and minorities are invading their turf is making her mad, just a thought, but it does not give her the right to insult me. I cant recall anything that may arouse such behaviour.

If her mission was to ruin my day, she succeeded with flying colors.

That was my first encounter on inexcusable rudeness and it certainly put my patience and self control to the test on an early Monday morning. Just my luck.

Newport Beach vacation rentals

As soon as I knew that we were relocating to Florida early this year, I frantically searched the internet for a property we could rent for a short time. Most housing that I have inquired requires at least one year contract but since my husband's work requires us to move from project to project for so short a time, a one year contract would be too long for us. A friend of mine suggested to check VRBO (vacation rentals by owner), a site that offers thousands of different vacation rental properties by owners all over the world. I was amazed by the scores of listings from private houses, condos, villas, resorts you can choose from. I found our place on VRBO. It is in a resort like community condo with 2 bedrooms, 2 bath and fully equipped kitchen and a patio we can hang out to watch the sunset on the 4th floor in one of the 7 buildings in Jupiter Bay, a short walking distance to the beach. It has everything we need, like a hotel except that it has the added conveniences of being at home. You can cook, if not, the restaurants are just there within your reach, use the spa and the pool anytime, the gym, the tennis court. I really enjoyed this place and I'm sure I'm going to miss. In a month we will be moving again but with VRBO finding a place like this is never difficult.

Who knows where we are going next. Whether we move in Spain, Germany, Texas, California there is always VRBO to accommodate us. And if you are looking for a vacation rental in California, check out Newport Beach vacation rentals, they have thousands of listings to suit your needs. Get out and enjoy life. A vacation is never as expensive as what you think if you stay in one of those vacation rentals by owner.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Arcadia, Florida

Greg had a meeting in Arcadia last Tuesday and fortunately I wasn't working the day after so I tag along. We stayed in the new Holiday Inn Express Hotel on Desoto Avenue just beside the new Walmart (did you notice, everything here is new). Arcadia is a small town in Desoto County about 2 ½ hours drive from Jupiter, voted to be the best small town in the whole Florida. As to the criteria, I have no idea. Anyway, while Greg was in his meeting, I wandered about the neighborhood. I can tell that I will really like the place. I explored Main and Oak St., where you can find rows of antique shops just waiting to be discovered, and old Victorian houses that speak loudly of how rich the town was once. This is a very simple unassuming town and I am looking forward to being part of it. After Jupiter, Arcadia will be our next new home starting early December.

Panama City Beach condo rentals on VRBO

Florida is one great place you should visit. I spent the last 1 1/2 years in New England and then relocated to Florida in February of this year. Living in New England has introduced me to some great winter sports like skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing. I have enjoyed all those sports but sometimes the weather there could be really rude. While I enjoy winter sports, I also dread the cold. So when we relocated in this beautiful glitzy town by the beach in Jupiter, Florida, I found one of the best places to stay that is totally different from the weather I've been used to. Two different worlds , two different weathers and I both love it. A Mainer by heart and a Floridian by affinity is what makes of me now.

One thing for sure, Florida won't be called the Sunshine State for nothing. It is teeming with beautiful beaches, with white endless sands to frolic and of course the sun always shines if you want that exotic looking tan that you've been dreaming of.

Florida has many diverse points of interests. Whether you are looking for fun and adventure with your kids, Disney World offers family fun and adventures. Fishing, snorkeling and diving is enjoyable in the Keys, we did it on our wedding anniversary this year, and we have a great time. If you are into surfing, come to Miami, Jupiter or Juno or simply want to relax and sun bathe in a secluded resort, Florida has all that.

I could say that we have explored most of Florida but we've never been to the Panhandle. This Christmas, we are planning to see the beautiful City of Panama and have a taste of their pleasant climate, try fishing and water sports and just basically enjoy the season in this beautiful part of the State.

In Florida, accommodation is not a problem. Where expensive hotel accommodations are out of the question, there are so many affordable vacation houses, condos and villas you can choose from. It does not only offer you affordability, but one you can call a home away from home in resort community setting. And one thing that we always enjoy staying in a VRBO vacation rental is that with its fully equipped kitchen and the abundant marine life of Florida we can always cook for ourselves the meal we always wanted. We have always enjoyed staying in a villa and this time I have found this Panama City Beach condo rentals we can call home even for just a week. It is a great way to save money while enjoying the time of your life.