COMPLIMENTS OF THE SEASON

Where did the year go?
Time runs so fast... was November and now December again and we realized that with giant strides we started in January and within a blink of an eye, 2006 is on its back!

A big "Thank You" to each and everyone of you, for the huge impact you had on my life this year. Especially for all the support, love, care, friendship, and e-mails I received.....
without you, I'm sure that 2006 would have been extremely different.

To all my friends, bloggers out there, I wish you all a magical Festive Season filled with Loving Wishes and Beautiful Thoughts.

May 2007 mark the beginning of a Tidal Wave of Love, Happiness and Bright Futures.
And those who need someone special, may you find that true love. To those who need money, may your finances overflow. To those who need caring, may you find a good heart. To those who need friends, may you meet lovely people. To those who need life, may you find God.

Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. God bless

Little girl's faith

A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet. She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times, even. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door.

She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing. She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good. Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it! "And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen in ages," he said without waiting for a reply to his question.

"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother." Tess answered back in the same annoyed tone. "He's really, really sick...and I want to buy a miracle." "I beg your pardon?"said the pharmacist. "His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now. So how much does a miracle cost?" "We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you," the pharmacist said, softening a little.

"Listen, I have the money to for it. If it isn't enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs." The pharmacist's brother was well dressed man, He stooped down and asked the little girl, "What kind of a miracle does your brother need? "I don't know," Tess replied with her eyes welling up. I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation, but my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money.

"How much do you have?" asked the man from Chicago. "One dollar and eleven cents," Tess answered barely audibly and it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to."

Well, what a coincidence, smiled the man. A dollar and eleven cents...the exact price of a miracle for little brothers. He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents. Let's see if I have the miracle you need."

That well dressed man was Doctor Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing in neuro-surgery. The operation was completed free of charge and it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well.

Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this place. That surgery, her Mom whispered...was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?

Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost...one dollar and eleven cents...plus the faith of a little child.

Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

The holiday season is a time when people are busy and can become careless, vulnerable to theft and other holiday related crimes. Shopping during the holiday season can present unique dangers. Taking a few preventive measures can help keep your holiday season joyous and safe.

• Dress casually and comfortably
• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member and park in well lit areas, even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
• Do not buy items from strangers who might be trying to fence shoplifted items.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Secure all packages in the trunk of your car. Do not leave packages in open sight.
• Shop at well on-line sites and ship gifts directly to out of town family and friends. Many stores offer shipping services also.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry
• Do not carry large purses or wallets.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
• Carry your identification card along with minimum necessary cash, checks and credit cards and expect to use.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible
• Keep cash in your front pocket
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
  

The Snow

Snow this year came so early than I least expect. It poured out heavier each day, together with its cool, blowing of the wind. Its breeze flashed through my lonely face as I beheld the snow flakes fall. Looking through my room window, the snow spread quickly through the streets and covered the houses, trees, cars, fences and all other form of surface outdoor.

News forecast road accidents due to slippery streets, some schools were closed while some areas

experienced power failure. Sensing peril in traveling for work by myself too, I decided staying home would mean my comfort. Still looking through the window, I wondered should the snow stop the following day? But to my dismay, it even grew thicker and thicker.

As I felt so helpless over the condition of my environment, I thought of a solution to my situation. Geared with my snow wear and shovel on my hand, I bravely went out of my front yard and started digging and moving the snow out of the way. Though heavy as it may seem to me, I was decided to do it. Pretty soon some passers-by saw me and commented to what I did. "Oh! it's a hard work for you, they said with a smile". I nodded in response but what amazed me most was...when most of them cared to say, "Thank you!" fascinated my tiresome day and strengthened my feeble hands.

At times, anyone's smile can inspire, much more, simple words of gratitude may mean a whole lot of strength to a weak, vulnerable spirit.

It was all worth it...I got paid off a thousand times over.

Top Ten Anti-Cancer Food

Bobot sent me this e-mail and I want to share it with you enjoy reading ......

Modifying your diet to reduce fat intake and to increase fiber, antioxidants and other key nutrients can be done by simply making healthy selections at the grocery store.

Top ten anti-cancer food:
Strawberries family
Oranges
Tea
Carrots
Spinach
Tomatoes
Garlic
Whole meat
Cabbage
Beans

These foods carry protective phytochemicals, which are "plant chemicals" that may reduce heart disease and cancer risk. Learn more about you can eat for health. There is no question that we can make healthful food choices to reduce our chances of developing certain types of cancer, especially cancer of the breast, prostate and colon. Modifying your diet to reduce fat intake and to increase fiber, antioxidants and other key nutrients can be done by simply making healthy selections at the grocery store. Here are some healthful nutrition tips.

EAT LESS TOTAL AND SATURATED FAT
The average American diet still provides about 38 percent of the calories from fat sources, yet the recommendation of many health organizations is that we strive for closer to 25 percent or less. Check the Nutrition Facts labels on food products to select foods with only 3 grams of total fat or less. It seems that the saturated animal fats are especially cancer cell promoting. Reducing red meat intake may be helpful along with a greater focus on meatless meals, fish and nuts for protien. Include small amounts of protective monounsaturated fats such as olive and canola oils.

EAT MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
Protective fiber, antioxidants Vitamin C and beta-carotene and hundreds of phytochemicals naturally found in fruits and vegetables can reduce cancer risk. Fiber binds to cancer-causing substances in the intestinal tract, removing them in waste products. The antioxidant vitamins neutralize damaging free radicals, substances produced by the chemical processes that go on in our bodies every day. Allicin in garlic, genistein in soybeans, and flavonoids in apples, are just a few of the cancer-protective plant substances (phytochemicals).

Living Well

Look good and feel great. Following are the secrets to improve your health, your attitude, and your appearance!

1) Take a multivitamin everyday.
2) Eat fish at least twice a week. The fatty acids will improve your hair and skin.
3) Switch to whole-grain bread with at least 2 grams of fiber per serving.
4) Walk at least 30 minutes daily.
5) Keep your skin moisturized; dry skin looks older than it really is.
6) Avoid fast-and prepackaged foods; the sodium content is hard on your body and skin. Cook at home to have more control of what’s going into your body.
7) Don’t starve yourself; your body needs nutrients to function well.
8) Resistance train. Women over 40 lose a half pound of muscles a year. This slows the metabolism, packs on fat, and makes everyday tasks more difficult.
9) Break your routine, and try new activities to keep your brain and body stimulated.
10) Don’t slouch. Your Mom was right because it makes you look older. Keep your shoulders back and your head up.
11) Spend time with family and friends who build you up and encourage you.
12) Limit time with those who sap your energy.
13) Keep a food and exercise log. (People typically underestimate food consumption by almost 600 calories a day and overestimate their level of capacity.)
14) Sleep at least 7 to 8 hours a night.
15) Stay hydrated, preferably with water or other calorie-free or low-calorie drinks.
16) Limit sun exposure and always wear sunscreen.
17) Learn to deal with stress. Exercise can help.
18) Exfoliate weekly to remove dead skin cells.
19) Get a regular massage to de-stress and improve circulation.
20) We saved the best tip for last; Spend time daily in God’s Word. A healthy relationship with Him is the best beauty treatment available because it works from inside out! And toss the guilt about the time and resources it takes to care for yourself. When you’re at your best-body, mind, and spirit-you can better serve and give to others.
Adapted from Homelife

Smell the happines in Oil!

These essential oils are known to elevate mood: rose, chamomile, clary sage, geranium, lemon, ylang ylang.
Find one you really like and mix with a fragrance-free body lotion-or combine a few drops with olive oil, then add to bathwater or apply directly to pulse points.
To use as a skin or air refresher, mix drops with witch hazel and pour into an atomizer. (use oils sparingly: Undiluted essential oils can cause allergic reactions.)

Who is in Charge?

A young couple on their wedding night were in their honeymoon suite. As they were undressing for bed, the husband, a big burly man, tossed his trousers to his new bride.

He said, "Here, put these on."

His petite, young bride obeyed and tried to put the pants on. She put them on and the waist was twice the size of her body. "I can't wear your trousers." she said.

"That's right,'' said the husband, "and don't you ever forget it.

I'm the man who wears the pants in this family." His young bride took the pants off. Then, she continued undressing.

Suddenly, she flipped him her panties and said,"Try these on." Her big burly husband tried them on and found he could only get them on as far as his kneecaps. "Hell," he said. ''I can't get into your panties!"

She replied, "That's right... And that's the way it is going to stay!! Until your attitude changes."

My Stress Reliever Electric Bus

I am just too dependent with the eco-friendly electric bus. I probably ride this bus more often than any other typical commuters here within the suburb. I commute as often as three round trips daily to show up to my regular care giving job, one part time cleaning job, another part time care giving job, attend church activities, and more often if I opt for window shopping to get away from the rat race and relieve my stress.

A ride within the zone cost $2.25. If I come back in short time then there will be no additional charges. In short, round trip within the designated zone within the time stamped in the ticket is a one Ticket Pass. But that rarely happens since I stay in one place longer than the two hours most. To save more bucks for the ride, I decided to buy the monthly fare card which cost $69, saving as much as $20.

When will I end my dependency on the bus? Maybe when I get my drivers license, or when the suitable Mr. Driver starts giving me a ride, or when my desires are fully sustained. I felt like the electric bus that is tied up to a pair of cable. Attempting to get away from the path will cut away the bus from the cable shutting down its engine. I am just too occupied and couldn’t append my To Do List. But then I have to make ends meet first and for now it is still economical than having a car.

October is Senior Citizens Celebration

It is good to hear about the news, especially coming from my hometown, our way of giving importance to our senior citizens is now in full swing, and for this month of October is devoted to senior citizens celebrations.
There are now several day care centers for the elders, namely the Mobolo Health Center that has already took care of 900 clients since 2002.
The Golden Center of Cebu, Inc. a non-government organization based in the Mabolo parish multi-purpose building. It is duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Golden Center holds a free clinic every Thursday and Friday morning for adult age over 60 and above, regardless of economic status. Other services are lay forums, lectures about aging, nutrition, and issues about the elderly. They also provide screening for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease, screening for depression and nutrition, and for deafness with the help of Manila Hearing Aid.
Also this month, the Center is gearing up for its second annual convention. The two-day convention will deal on the Rights of Older Persons, Legal Aspects in the Care of the Elderly, Myths and Realties of Aging, Challenges in the Care of the Old and the Restless, Under the Government Umbrella, The Aging Lung, The Beauty and the Best, You’ll Never Be Walking in Pain Alone, When the Elders Fall, A Litany of Worries, Sexuality in the Sunset Years, Cataract, Let’s Get Physical and the Big “C”. I hope with these activities with their goal of putting up a new building will soon be a reality.
Let as all share in promoting health to broaden awareness of the positive aspects of aging. Let’s provide information and inspiration for adult age 60 and above. Let us improve their physical, mental, social, and financial fitness.

For our elders, lets establish the following:

1) Choose an exercise you like and stick to it. Do it with someone. Arrange to have a friend meet you. It is harder to say to exercise when you exercise with a friend.
2) Go site seeing. See new things and experience new cultures. Begin to plan a trip. Half the excitement is in the planning!
3) Watch game shows. Watch Game Kana Ba! It keeps your mind razor sharp.
4) Laugh loud, laugh often. A good sense of humor is essential.
5) Volunteer your time. Get involved with a cause you believe in or in something that interests you.
6) Be a beauty queen. An astonishing number of women said they enjoy competing in beauty pageants.
7) If you are a man, get married! Many married men attributed their longevity to the loving care and companionship of their wives.
8) Engage in 30 minutes of aerobic exercise and weight bearing exercise every day.
9) Stay in close contact with friends. Write, text, call or chitchat with your neighbor.
10) Develop a hobby. It’s never too late to learn how to sing Karaoke.
11) Save at least 10% of your income and invest in savings plans that compound interest.
12) Seek inspiration, keep the faith. Believing in a higher power lightens stress.
13) Seek out variety and challenge in your daily life.

All Purpose No Chemicals Homemade Cleaner

For those of us who are so concerned of having too many chemicals around the house, why not try baking soda. I know vinegar and lemon are a good candidate, too yet mixing the three together with the right quantity will create a perfect cleaner. Another benefit of this soda for the budget conscious is it’s economical to use, and will remove any unpleasant odors.

Cleanliness and orderly on all corners of the place I serve has been part of my routine. Sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, you name it, etc. from carpet to ceiling, from seeing thru the tiny drainage to climbing up the roof gutter. Nothing is clean until all areas are thoroughly swept and dust free. I know there are hundreds more of uses that are known around (even my relative use it as a teeth whitening) I will just mention the ones that I have applied in my real day-to-day encounter. Here is how to prepare it:

Deodorizer-
Placing a box in the refrigerator or freezer will absorb that unwanted odor.
Put in your smelly garbage cans.
For carpet deodorizer, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and 1/4 of tbsp of essential oil fragrance for scent. Sprinkle on the rugs before bedtime and let it sit overnight. Vacuum the ff morning.
Sprinkle some on the mattress before making the bed, removes all odors

Air freshener
Mix equal parts of baking soda with your favorite perfumed bath salts. Put it in a soap dish or in small sachet bags wherever you would like to freshen the air.

Scouring Powder-
Scrub those surfaces like any other commercial abrasive cleansers
Use it like it is
Or to be more liquid, add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to 1 quart of warm water.

Wash dishes making plates shine-
Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to 1 quart of water to the dishwasher

Clean the Toilet the easy way-
Sprinkle 1/2 box of baking soda into the toilet tank once a month.
Let it stay overnight before flushing. Both tank and the bowl will be clean and refresh.

Grout
Put baking soda directly on the grout, do a small area at a time. Then add vinegar on top of the baking soda. Let it bubble, and then proceed to clean with an old toothbrush. Depending on how extent the grout’s stain is, you may have to do it twice.

Clogged or slow Drainage-
Mix one cup of baking soda to one cup of hot vinegar, wait for a few minutes then, flush the drain with one gallon of hot water. It is more eco friendly than Drano and the like. Please be careful in handling hot water, and wear gloves

Shine that porcelain Sink-
Sprinkle baking soda all over the sink, squirt some bleach on top of the baking soda, let sit and then wipe clean. The baking soda soaks up the bleach, keeping it from dripping away

Enhance your Laundry
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the washing machine along with your usual amount of liquid laundry soap. It will make whites whiter and colors brighter. Please note that it won’t work with powdered detergents

Coffee cleaner –
Drip it to your coffee pot. Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda and one cup of warm water. Let it drip through the coffee maker. Make more runs with fresh water to rinse. It will keep your coffee maker clean and fresh.

Teapot cleaner –
To remove rust stains and mineral deposits, fill the teapot with water, 2 tbsp of baking soda and the juice of half a lemon. Boil gently for 15 minutes. Rinse and repeat if needed.

Shine that Silver-
In a heat resistant glass bowl, put that tarnished sterling. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda and some aluminum foil into the bowl. Then, pour some hot water to it. It will bubble, and in a few minutes the aluminum foil will turn darker and the silver will turn shiny. Rinsed the piece, buffed it dry and never spent a penny on silver cleaner again

Pesticide nontoxic-
Sprinkle some baking soda along their trails, under sinks near pipe openings and along basement windows to repel ants, silver fish and roaches. Roaches will dehydrate and die after eating baking soda.

Remove crayon marks from walls by scrubbing gently with an old toothbrush and a paste of baking soda and water.

A glass of milk

One day, a poor boy who was selling goods from door to door to pay his way through school, found he had only one thin dime left, and he was hungry. He decided he would ask for a meal at the next house. However, he lost his nerve when a lovely young woman opened the door.

Instead of a meal he asked for a drink of water. She thought he looked hungry so brought him a large glass of milk. He drank it so slowly, and then asked, How much do I owe you?" You don't owe me anything," she replied. "Mother has taught us never to accept pay for a kindness."

He said ... "Then I thank you from my heart."

As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt stronger physically, but his faith in God and man was strong also. He had been ready to give up and quit. Many year's later that same young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were baffled. They finally sent her to the big city, where they called in specialists to study her rare disease. Dr. Howard Kelly was called in for the consultation. When he heard the name of the town she came from, a strange light filled his eyes. Immediately he rose and went down the hall of the hospital to her room. Dressed in his doctor's gown he went in to see her. He recognized her at once. He went back to the consultation room determined to do his best to save her life. From that day he gave special attention to her case.

After a long struggle, the battle was won.

Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final bill to him for approval. He looked at it, then wrote something on the edge and the bill was sent to her room. She feared to open it, for she was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it all. Finally she looked, and something caught her attention on the side of the bill. She read these words ...
"Paid in full with one glass of milk"
(Signed) Dr. Howard Kelly.

Tears of joy flooded her eyes as her happy heart prayed: "Thank You, God, that Your love has spread broad through human hearts and hands."

There's a saying which goes something like this:
Bread cast on the waters comes back to you. The good deed you do today may benefit you or someone you love at the least expected time. If you never see the deed again at least you will have made the world a better place - And, after all, isn't that what life is all about?

Send Money Free

As was advertised on this week’s Filipino Asian Journal newspaper, for your first transaction using the coupon, here’s what to do:
1) Go to xoom.com, or click the logo on the right side of this webpage, and type in the information; contact, recipient, and the amount you want to send
2) Select delivery method; cash pick up, home delivery or direct deposit at their participating banks; be sure to use the coupon code MABILIS965 (this offer expires 10/31/2006)
3) Select a payment method; bank account, credit card or Paypal information
4) Let your recipient know the money is on the way, xoom.com will email the receipt and tracking information.

I have used Xoom for awhile and I haven't encounter any problems so far, and as what promised delivery was always on time.
The other reasons are:
Low fees – up to 80% cheaper than Western Union and MoneyGram’s online services, you can send as low as US$3.50
Convenience – you can transfer money anywhere and anytime they are online
Reliability – offers the customer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you don't want your hard earned money to go up in ht eair
Flexibility – unlike with traditional money transfer companies, you have different choices of delivery options, they offer direct deposit to a bank account, cash pick up, secure debit cards, or home delivery.
Pick up locations are everywhere, to name a few, Equitable PCI, Cebuana Lhuillier, One Network Bank .

Disadvantage? I noticed that their exchange rate is somewhat lower compare to other Filipino owned door to door services. So before you decide, you may want to used the calculator to compare the fees on delivery against the exchange rate.

Flowers

A business was moving into bigger quarters and one of the owner's friends wanted to send flowers for the occasion. They arrived at the new business site and the owner read the card; it read "Rest in Peace."
The owner was angry and called the florist to complain. After he had told the florist of the obvious mistake and how angry he was, the florist said, "Sir, I'm really sorry for the mistake, but rather than getting angry, you should imagine this: somewhere there is a funeral taking place today, and they have flowers with a note saying, 'Congratulations on your new location.'

6 Foods that will make you beautiful!

Nourishing the inside of your body is just as important as pampering the outside. Eat your way to good health and great looks with these beauty boosting superfoods:

1)Wrinkle busting blueberries – Just half a cup of these antioxidant packed gems can help rebuild collagen and stave off wrinkles, says Tufts University researchers.
2)Nail growing soya – shoot for at least five grams of soya per day, and you can bet on longer, stronger nails, report dermatologists at the University of Alabama
3)Face softening fish – fatty fish like salmon, sardines and tuna are swimming with skin softening omega-3 fatty acids, which replenish skin’s natural lubricants, says Dr. Grossman
4)Skin saving avocado – according to research at the University of California, it’s loaded with vitamin E which boosts elasticity
5/6)Age erasing cantaloupe and tomatoes – both are loaded with lycopene, which helps prevent wrinkles and gives you a youthful glow, says Nicolas Perricone, M.D.

Mixed uP! Heat or ice to an injury?

Ice is always the best choice at first, says Dr. Matthew Shapiro, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Iced decreases swelling by restricting blood flow to the area. Cold also reduces pain. “If you put ice on a sore knee for 20 minutes, it could give you 2 hours of pain relief”, says Shapiro. Place a thin towel between the ice and your skin. After 20 minutes, remove the ice pack and wait an equal length of time before reapplying it. Don’t leave it on for longer or you may actually get frostbite. If the ice tray is empty, use a bag of frozen vegetables (peas and corn work well). Use caution when using blue frozen gel packs, says Karen Merrill, a spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise. “If there’s any kind of rupture, that stuff will burn,” says Merrill, who has seen clients with second and third degree burns from chemical inside. In fact, it might be best to avoid them altogether. After 48 hours of treatment with ice, you can use heat to address any lingering stiffness and muscle soreness, Shapiro says. “It helps loosen things up.” Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle for 20 minutes every hour or so. Repeat as needed. Better Homes and Gardens, Kathleen Parrish

Really, a free internet calls?

I was trying to find out the validity of this websites internetcalls, and jajah to make free calls. The way it works is somewhat different from the regular internet calls, though they have the sip (session initiation protocol) option. From the main site, I punched in my cell phone number starting 001 Canadian international code. Next, I punched in the destination number. I decided to call my friend in the U.S. which is listed as one of the countries listed as free calls. Suddenly I heard my cell phone ringing. From my cell phone I heard my friend saying hello.
Wow, I got excited; I was talking to my friend! Then after awhile I thought about something. I checked my cell phone call log and surely it says call received from my friend. I text'd her up and her call log said same, too.
Who initiated the call? Your guess are better than mine.
I hope my telephone carrier won’t charge me, hehehe.

PC getting more and more Affordable

I was planning to send a desktop pc to my niece until I came across this promo from a famous pc outlet store, Ngenius IT Hub, Metro Cebu. Why buy overseas, let’s go local. With free installation and no hassle warranty, I am sure I’ll have my money worth. Aren’t you glad you’re helping out our economy?

Eat Meal That Makes Women Thin!

Researchers recently studied the eating habits of nearly 3,000 volunteers who had lost an average of 70lbs and kept it off for 6 years. Their findings? A whopping 78% ate breakfast every single day. People often say eating breakfast makes them hungrier the rest of the day, but that’s probably because they’re eating the wrong foods.
Refined carbohydrates like doughnuts or pastries that cause blood sugar to rise and then drop, which leads to that very hungry feeling midmorning.
However a breakfast menu of juice, whole grain cereal, toast or waffles, with fresh fruit and a glass of fat free milk provides you with complex carbohydrate and protein for just 400-450 calories
.. and it will keep you feeling satisfied all morning
.…and skinny for years!!!

My first blogging month

It’s almost a month now since I started blogging and yeah with all the hectic to do lists that I have been courageously dealing with, added to the caring of my lovely golden girls, Nana, etc, plus dusting off Mr. Woo’s mansion, with all those church activities, I‘m surprised and can’t imagine how in this digital world I did survived. I know it is still a long way to go.
Thanks for all you pushers, the instruments who have been in more ways influenced me so much and have played a special part of my blogging mainstream.
Although the web page format is not as pro looking like other sites, I am slowly yet delightfully sharpening my writing ability, striving to tweak my mother tongue Cebuano, English, Tagalog lingual twist.
My message is simple and clear. As one of those thousands overseas workers who have been tirelessly wandering around the world, I enjoy with pride sharing the information and experiences I gained that I came across, may it be educational, entertaining or failures and hoping that somehow serve lessons and affect others daily lives in a positive way. The road is quite long and narrow and I believed as what a lot of us OFW used to sigh “there is always light at the end of the tunnel.”

Humor Time!

Sister Mary Catherine died and went to heaven. St. Peter asked if she had any regrets. “It was always my dream to travel,” she replied, “but I didn’t get the chance,” St. Peter said since she’d led such a good life, he would let her visit any place on earth as long as she called him within 24 hours.
Exactly 24 hours later the phone rang. “Hello, St Peter, this is Sister Mary Catherine. I’m in Rome. I got to visit the Vatican and meet the pope!” St. Peter decided to let her visit any place she chose, as long as she called in 24 hours.
“Hello, St. Peter, this is Sister Mary Catherine. I’m in Paris,” she said the next day. She spoke excitedly of lighting candles in Notre Dame and visiting the Eiffel Tower. St. Peter told her she could have one more chance to travel, but she must call back in 24 hours.
Three weeks later St. Peter’s phone rang. “Hi, Pete, this is Cat –I’m in N’awlins!”

Paradox of our Times

A Wonderful Message by George Carlin:

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoyless. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time.
We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.
We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.
We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.
We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships.
These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes.
These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill.
It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom.
A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete.

Remember, spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.
Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.
Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent. Remember, to say, "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.
Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak, and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Reduce your stress:

We all have stress, right, but slowing down can make all the difference. How can you reduce your stress level? Its Friday and it should be slowing down.
Let's try the ff:

Stretching – even a few minutes of it releases muscle tension, says Arlene Brown, M.D. of American Academy of Family Physicians.

Drinking herbal tea – research shows that peppermint tea calms our nerves, leaving us feeling relaxed.

Trying herbal supplement – studies say valerian is a great stress reliever. What about the amazing anti stress powers of ginseng supplement? Countless studies have found combining both types American (Panax) and Siberian, effective at soothing the nervous system.

Taking a deep breath – the extra oxygen will relieve some of our body’s stress

Saying a little prayer – it is good for spiritual health

Listen to music – play that soothing sound to block away the buzz noise

Get an aquarium – sales of tropical fish have soared more than 25% in the past three years and with good reason. More people are discovering that watching fish glide through water lowers blood pressure and induces a wave of calm. Have you ever wonder why so many dentists and doctors place aquariums in their waiting rooms? They have read the research proving it calms down anxiety ridden patients. Scientists, in fact, now know that people who gaze at fish in a tank for just 15 minutes rate themselves 40% less stressed than they do before they watch the fish. Serene, low maintenance tropical fish are the perfect antidote to rat raced harried living. A single goldfish in a bowl will produce the same effect.

Cheese on crackers – if you crave for chocolates during those stress time it is because stress causes your body to pump out the hormone cortisol and research reveals that’s the body’s way of telling you it needs additional glucose or sugar. But other foods will satisfy your body’s demand for glucose without adding more pounds to your belly. Try cheese and crackers, baby carrots and low fat dip or apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon. Any of those will help stabilize blood sugar levels and calm stress.

Sending Balikbayan box to Visayas

I have a Balikbayan box that is almost full now with goodies such as Kisses, M&M, used Levi’s maong, Nike tennis shoes, bath towels, shampoo, bath soap, miniature car toys, etc. I am planning to send it in a couple of months and hopefully, my family will received it in time for Christmas. I was told that the average costs to send one box to Central Visayas is around $100. This will be my first time to do a door to door since my family has been yearning for one. With a mindset frugality added to my curiosity, since I enjoy window shopping and compare prices, I did a little bit of scouting. Hint, if you drop the box to the store you may get an additional discount as high as $20. Other things that you may want to consider:

Size of the box – the more stuff you can inch in the better

Insurance covered – you don’t want your hard earned dollar just go up in smoke, you want to sleep comfortably without any worries at all; ensure the insurance coverage is in par value

Length of delivery – promptness is one of the ingredients why customer keeps coming back, as what was promised to you

Handling services – ask your loves ones on how it was delivered; partially opened on one side, notice the new tape; somewhat wet, may have been left out in an open storage for awhile; looks rounded, it has been tossed out and rolled so many times

I checked out the local door to door companies around Vancouver and here is the result:

Asia Pac Cargo
#3-2551 Vauxhall Place
Richmond, BC
Tel: 604-270-2919
Cost: $95
Size: 18X18X29

EZ Movers Ltd
Unit 18-145 Schoolhouse St.
Coquitlam, BC V3K 4X8
Tel: 604-524-2177; 800-764-4443
Cost: $90
Size: 19X19X30

Forex Cargo
120-12511 Vulcan Way
Richmond, BC V6V 1J7
Tel: 604-278-6476/6078
Cost: $115
Size: 22X22X20

Iremit
1549 West Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Tel: 604-733-3631
Cost: $100
Size: 18X18X29

Jolly-B Box Express
201-2415 Columbia St.
Vancouver, BC
Tel: 604-781-8429; 604-637-3859
Cost: $115
Size: 18X18X29

Manila Express Cargo
3181 Main St.
Vancouver, BC
Tel: 604-874-5571
Cost: $120
Size: 18X18X28

Pasalubong Forwarders Ltd
101-283 East 11th Ave.
Vancouver, BC V5T 2C4
Tel: 604-709-0959
Cost: $115
Size: 20X20X28

Professional Cargo
140-11780 River Road
Richmond, BC
Tel: 604-278-9391; 800-977-3822
Cost: $110
Size: 18X18X30

Traveller’s Card/ San Freight
4603 Main St.
Vancouver, BC
Tel: 604-876-8110
Cost: $115
Size: 18X18X30

Umac Express Cargo
Unit 7-1520 Cliverden Ave.
Delta, BC V3M 6J8
Tel: 604-759-8622; 866-338-8622
Cost: $95
Size: 19X19X30

Just another Holiday!

It was a rest day during the Labor day, September 4, and adding to that weekend event, I felt like I was on vacation again. Together with Ana, Aleli, Dianne, Bong, Ernesto, Bobot and Jomai, we decided to go to Cultus Lake. This is famous for its water park , beautiful lake, and one of the primary summertime destinations in southern BC. Aside from the water park, it has golf courses, miniature golf, bumper boats, go carts, canoe, boat, marina, restaurants, stables, laundry mat, stores and gas stations. It’s a 95 km away from Vancouver, approximately an hour and a half drive depending on the traffic. To get there, head east via highway 1. Take the exit 104 which will take you through small town of Yarrow to the Cultus lake. Signs to the lake are all over and you will not be lost.
We arrived at 10 am at the main lake’s picnic area. Cost to park was $1.00/hour or $5.00 for the whole day. Luckily, we were one of the early birds so we were able to grabbed a picnic table which is free and were able the best view of the lake. We barbecued some chicken legs, pork, hotdog, salmon and bangus fish. We laid out our mat and played unggoy unggoy, pusoy dos, forty one and lucky 9. Dianne and Bong rented a jet-ski for $80/hour. Renting a jet-ski or boat requires a valid driver's license. We took a nap, ate, picture taking, played, snore, bloated out our bellies, and it was a great holiday!

Map to get there try this or this one. Enjoy!

Request your birth certificate online!

Instead of waiting in long lines and sweating out under the sun's intense heat at the National Statistics Office, we can now avail on this very useful online internet services. Thanks Inday for the tip, we can now request at our convenience on birth, marriage, or death certificates especially for our love ones in PI. Please visit ecensus.com.ph. Mode of payment is thru Equitable Bank or Union Bank and other major credit cards.

What a difference a technology can bring us!

Vancouver Top Canadian destination on list

Excerpt from Torstar News Service…no wonder why I love you Vancouver!

We ranked 6th, Victoria 8th in North America. Vancouver and Victoria have the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains. Quebec City and Montreal have history and culture. Vancouver led the Canadian entries, coming in at No. 6 on Travel + Leisure magazine's ranking of the Top 10 U.S. and Canadian destinations. It was followed by Quebec City, Victoria at No. 7, then Montreal. Seattle rounded out the list that placed New York City at No. 1. But what does Canada's biggest city, Toronto, have to entice international tourists? Not much, according to the magazine's readers. Four Canadian cities ranked in the Top 10 U.S. and Canadian destinations in the popular travel publication's annual World's Best awards. But Toronto is noticeably absent. An associate editor at the magazine says Toronto shouldn't take it personally. While Toronto has everything. I don't know that it has any one thing that sort of stands up", said Ken Wong, a Queen's University School of Business marketing proffesor. "Toronto's kind of good on everything but great on nothing." A recent forecast from the Conference Board of Canada found that Toronto draws the most tourist out of the eight Canadian metropolitan areas that it studies.

Top 10
1. New York City
2. San Francisco, California
3. Chicago, Ill.
4. Charleston, S.C.
5. Santa Fe, N.M.
6. Vancouver
7. Quebec City, Que.
8. Victoria
9. Montreal, Que.
10. Seattle, Wash.

Beauty wonders around the kitchen!

Here are some kitchen items I collected that will doll up our body. There are maybe more…

Got milk? Milk is full with lactic acid which blows away old skin to reveal the radiant new skin, notes Chicago dermatologist Marianne O’Donoghue, M.D. Soak a cotton cosmetic pad in whole milk and dab over skin. Splash the face with water to rinse.

Try it to keep your legs hair free - Researchers have discovered an ingredient in soymilk that may slow hair growth. Now you can shave less often. Sweep a soymilk-saturated washcloth over legs, under arms or bikini area after shaving, then rinse.

Tea time – Chamomile tea cleanses pores. Soak two bags in hot water. Wrap a towel over head and inhale the soothing essence for 10 minutes.
Rub out under eye shadows – Its tannins stimulate circulation to fade under eye circles, says Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, John Grossman, M.D., and it wont’ stain skin. Run cool water over tea bags, place over eyes for 5 minutes.

Soothe troubled skin – a recent study in The Archives of Dermatology reported that green tea is a natural anti-inflammatory, so it reduces redness and calms crisis skin. Just soak a washcloth in a cup of cooled green tea and apply to skin for 5 minutes.

Make your skin smooth by scrubbing it with sugar - this natural exfoliator is showing up in all the pricey new bath and body treatments. Make your own by mixing a spoon of your favorite shower gel with enough sugar to form a paste. Rub over skin in the shower. Rinse well. Brown sugar works best, says Alina Roytberg, co-creator of Fresh beauty products, its crystals and doesn’t dissolve so fats.

Keep skin young with olive oil – Rich in vitamin E, olive oil fights off free radicals while it keeps skin soft and supple. Massage into skin just after showering.

Make you skin beautiful with honey – its natural moisturizer that won’t clog pores and kills acne-triggering bacteria. For an easy face or lip mask, smooth honey over face and lips. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse well.

Get succulent lips with amazing aloe – skip the store-bought balms and sticks, and soothe your chapped lips with hydrating aloe-vera gel pulled right off the plant. Take it out with tissue after 5 minutes.

How to remove wax from carpet:

I got this advice from one of my fellow OFW’s when she caught me cleaning up my client’s carpet stained with candle wax. Says, ”The easiest way to get the wax out is to use an iron. First is to cut apart a brown grocery bag and placed it over the wax, adjust the iron to medium setting, and as it melted the heat will absorb into the bag. Change the paper often and keep repeating until all the wax are out.” I tried it and it saved me the rest of the day. I was showered with compliments, too ('.') Thank you Sis…

Student Driver

Learner’s Permit - sometimes called Student Permit, required in order to get the ultimate Driver’s License. I have to study and learn the road safety, traffic rules and regulations, and pass the Knowledge Test. I picked up the latest publication from ICBC (Insurance Corp of British Columbia) office. This is a 157 pages booklet. You can visit their webpage and take an online multiple type questions and answers courses. When ready to take the test go back to ICBC office with two valid Id’s. The cost to take the test is $15. You must answer 40 out of 50 questions or you will fail. However, hehehe, you can fail as much as you can, go ahead and make a lot of donation! The learner’s permit is valid for one year. You can only take the actual driving test after one year or enroll in driving school and take the test after nine months.

Now you can start driving, but with someone who has a valid driver’s license. Next is taking the driving test. Most applicants here prefer to enroll in driving school, cost is around $300. That is why you will notice some vehicles here carry the sign “L” or STUDENT DRIVER.

We’re slow but please give us a chance…

Things we can do to Look Younger!

Celebrity makeup artist Peter Lamas (who has made Sharon Stone, Cindy Crawford, Kate Winslet and other superstars more gorgeous!) reveals the beauty rules your favorites follow to look forever young – and how you can make them work for yourself!

1) Try the anti-aging masks celebs love – Stars know that moisture keeps skin glowing and fends off fine lines beautifully. Lamas recommends this weekly ultra hydrating mask to his clients: combine a chopped, whole cucumber, a spoonful of mayonnaise and a teaspoon of olive oil in the blender. Blend until smooth, then apply to clean face. Leave on for 30 minutes.

2) Go incognito – They don’t just wear them to slip by fans; celebrities also sport hats to protect skin from the sun and keep it youthful. “Sunscreen is also a must”, says Lama. “Slather it on your face, neck and hands whenever you go out.” Tip: for everyday use, use just an SPF 15-25 lotion on your face (anything higher can clog spores).

3) Highlight this top wrinkle zone – “The first signs of aging usually surface between the nostrils and the corner of the mouth,” notes Lamas. Smart celebrities use a sweep of white highlighter to erase wrinkles and lines here in seconds! “Apply a pale concealer first, then brush on your highlighter to brighten the whole area,” says Lamas.

4) Trim your hair younger – “Dry, split ends can look dull and drying and can age anyone,” says Lamas. A regular trim (every 2-3 months) holds the shape of your style and “snips off” the years.

5) Switch to creamy formulas – Powder shadows, brushes and other cosmetics are drying and can sit in creases and draw attention to mature skin. Opt for creamier formulations to smooth away the years!!!

People come into your life for a reason

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.!

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

Why Women Craved for Chocolates

Have a Chocolate Bar: Women in particular tend to crave chocolate, especially before their period, and there’s a good reason for it. Chocolate contains mood-lifting chemicals; it also increases endorphins and serotonin in the blood, promoting a sense of well-being. According to Aztec legend, cacao seeds come from paradise, and eating them brings wisdom and power. So give yourself a chocolate break, and notice the effect. After you indulge, don’t scold yourself. Experts believe that moderate amounts of treats are better than complete deprivation (which tends to lead to bingeing).

Should we do Online Banking?

If you have a computer and write more than a handful of checks each month, I urge you to start managing your money online. Some 53 million people bank online, and many of them pay their bills with just a few clicks of the mouse. The recipients don’t need online accounts; the bank can mail them a check.
Online banking can helps build wealth. Every time you log on, you see how much money is in your account, which helps prevent you from bouncing checks. You can have your paycheck deposited automatically in a money market savings account, where it earns interest. When you’re ready to pay bills, you can transfer money from savings to your checking account in seconds. Plus, online banking makes it easy to set up automatic payments. Your bank is safe enough. If a hacker swipes your money, the bank is liable. And I figure I’m safer because I don’t carry a checkbook.

Inspiring story - Bank Account

You may have read this story over and over. It may have played a great role to my everyday living due to the nature of what I do here. Yet I was thinking of me, myself in the coming years...read thru it.

Bank Account
A 92 year old, well poised and proud man, who is fully dressed each morning by eight o'clock, hair combed and face shaved perfectly, even though he is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today. His wife of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary. After waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, he smiled sweetly when told his room was ready.

As he maneuvered his walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of his tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on his window.

"I love it," he stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new puppy.

"Mr. Jones, you haven't seen the room, just wait."

"That doesn't have anything to do with it," he replied. "Happines is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged..it's how I arrange in my mind. I already decided to love it. "It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice. I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do.

Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open, I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away. Just for this time in my life.

Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw from what you've put in.

So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories! Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank. I am still depositing. "Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

1. Treat with compassion
2. Worry doesn't help
3. Live simply
4. Give more
5. Say 'yes' to life

My Daily Living - Immigration

Consistently hearing the good things plus constant advice from closed friends and relatives, I decided to apply for a job and took my chance here. Luckily enough after two years religiously waiting, I got called on the job. Now I can prove here not only on the amount of my take home pay, but the substantial opportunities this place has to offer, more job opportunities, friendly people, and high quality living conditions. The most important reason compare to other countries that I chose to work here is having the option of becoming an immigrant. To be a landed immigrant, I must continuously live here for three years. I am on my two years now and I am getting my papers ready. Fees are quite expensive though.

Applying for a permanenet resident: In my case, I must complete at least 24 months of employment as a live-in caregiver to apply for permanent res. in Canada. I must have completed the 2 years employment within 3 years of my arrival here. On May 2, 2006 the Government of Canada announced a reduction of 50% in the $975.00 Right of Permanent Residence Fee, but the processing fee is still the same $ 550.00. Medical examination - the immigration gave us the doctors list and address and it's up to you to choose which doctor you want or near in your place, but for me I will choose the cheapest one. Also, there is that required local police clearance and NBI (Phlippine clearance) clearance documents.

Open employment: Once you have recieved a favourable assessment on your application for permanent resident status, you may apply for an open work permit. This will allow you to take any job you wish until you are granted permanent resident status. You will not receive you permanent resident immidiately. Normally, there are many people applying for permanent resident at any given time, and it may take time for the application to be processed. You need to pay $150.00 for an Open Empoyment Visa.

They said at present time, there is a waiting period of 6 to 10 months. This is due to the enormous amount of application that the immigration office is processing. I think this is true. Here in the metropolitan alone, with it's diversified opulation of more than 2 million, 49% are immigrants.

Vancouver Immigration
Local Office1148 Hornby St.
Vancouver, BCV6Z 2C3
604-666-2171

Vancouver Citizenship
Local Office#877-20
Expo BlvdVancouver, BCV6B 8P8
1-888-242-2100