Just the way it is...

Hosting a Wine and Cheese Tasting Party

2012-02-11T23:37:00.000+08:00

Hosting a wine and cheese tasting party can be a fun way to spend an evening with friends. With a little planning and preparation ahead of time, you will be able to enjoy your own party without a lot of hassle.

First you need to decide on what wines and cheeses to have at the party. It is a good idea to have only a few selections of varying types so that each one can be compared and contrasted to the next one. Three different wines paired with three different cheeses are usually sufficient. Plain crackers to use with the cheese may also be needed. A soft style cheese, a hard style cheese, and then a different milk cheese (such as a goat’s milk or sheep’s milk cheese) would work well together.

Choose wines that will complement the flavors of the cheeses that you have selected. Having a red and a white wine will give plenty of contrast. Keep in mind that depending on the number of people you plan to have at the party, you may need to purchase multiple bottles of each wine.

When considering red wines, one popular variety is Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine has a bold and intense flavor and would work well with salty cheeses with strong flavors, such as Gouda or any blue cheese. A sheep’s milk cheese would not be recommended.

For a white wine, Chardonnay is a popular variety and can pair with a variety of aged cow’s milk cheeses and bleu cheeses, such as Roquefort. This wine will be able to handle the acidity and strong flavor of the cheese. A sheep’s milk cheese would not be recommended.

For a sheep’s milk cheese, try a Sauvignon Blanc. This white wine variety has a light body, fruity flavor and is considered very acidic. It would pair well with a mild sheep’s milk cheese such as Berkswell.

Now that you have decided on your menu, you will need to have a few other items. You will need multiple wine glasses, one for each flavor per person. Napkins and small plates would be needed to sample the cheeses. You will also need serving platters and a serving knife or spreader, one for each type of cheese. Plastic ware and glasses are recommended for convenience and can be purchased at any party supply store.

Have the cheese platters ready ahead of time, the wine chilled, and you are ready to go. Assuming this is a success, for the next wine and cheese party, have each person bring their own wine and cheese pairing for a new experience.

Christy Levine currently writes for Edrugstore MD, an online facilitator for discreet medications such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra online, where they offer an ask a physician section on Edrugstore.md. Laura has extensive background in health and wellness and enjoys offering her tips on the eDrugstore.MD Blog.

Personalizing Your Home With Photo Frames

2012-02-10T07:59:00.001+08:00

Personalizing Your Home With Photo FramesPhoto frames can be the ideal touch to make your living room or other rooms in your home seem friendly, warm and inviting. The photographs that you display around your home will usually depend on your hobbies, family, interests and personal life. If you have children and want to create the impression of a child-friendly home, there are a few things to consider.

The most obvious option is to have photographs of your own children in the photo frames. If you decide to do this, choose photos that have a sense of fun and happiness. Not only will your child’s smile brighten your day when you look at it, but it’ll also bring a smile to the faces of many other people.

If you want to add a more personal touch to your home, invite your kids to make some photo frames with you one day. There are a huge variety of ways for children to make frames. If your children seem reluctant at first or seem to think it will be boring, tell them that they can put a picture of themselves in the frame – that will encourage them to get out the glue and start being creative!

Once your children have agreed to make the frames, you can make them using almost anything that you have lying around the house. Empty cardboard boxes can serve as the actual frame, as long as you make sure it’s sturdy enough. If the cardboard seems too thin, stick several layers together to create more strength. The frames can be decorated using sweet wrappers, pasta, bits of scrap paper and any empty wrapping you can find. Try to get your hands on some stickers as well.

There aren’t many other things that will add the same personal touch to your home as a photo frame that’s been handmade by your children!

Facebook Timeline

2012-01-30T14:41:00.001+08:00

Seeing this Facebook Timeline feature at some of my friend’s account for the first time made me wonder… “Where’s mine?”

But since I am not really so into Facebooking…wait… is that an understatement? Okay I have a group or two that I frequently visit next to my own account. I guess whether I agree or not Facebook is now part of my virtual social life. Blame it to blogging… Oh no… don’t! But hey, even those are not reason enough for me to spend hours sticking to the site so I simply wait for whatever new features that comes along, use it if necessary and disregard when I feel it’s not needed.

Last week, Friday I opened my Facebook account and finally there it is… at the top left of my profile is an announcement that reads: Welcome to Your Timeline – Preview. Did I think twice to add a new cover? Hell no! I immediately scouted my hard drive for photo and I sure knew exactly which folder to open right there and then.

My timeline is supposed to go live on the second of February, that’s according to Facebook, but given the option to publish it right away instead of waiting left me so giddy. Ha-ha-ha…why wait?

Here it is… (click image to view full size)

I get it. My further research about this feature says the use of Facebook TIMELINE is now mandatory for all users.

In case you’re still unfamiliar, TIMELINE is the new Facebook profile. With this feature, traveling back through your old posts (which normally disappeared quickly off your wall) is now easier. Your posts from previous months and years (in blogging we call it archive) are now accessible through the new navigational element found at the right side corner of your screen. This element allows you to instantly swing back in time to the day your account was born. Cool, isn’t it?

Previously, TIMELINE is only a sort if “get it if you want” thing. I didn’t even know then there’s a page (Introducing Timeline) where you can get it. See, I told you I don’t care much. But all was only temporary until the company finally decided to make the use of TIMELINE mandatory to all users in which I personally cannot disagree.

On Becoming a Bank of Your Own

2012-01-26T10:56:00.001+08:00

Living a debt-free life is everyone’s goal. Can that really be possible? With the infinite banking idea, the answer is YES.

This is probably the first time that you’ve heard of it. Well just to give you a quick hint, infinite banking is about the possibility of a person or a group to become a bank of his/their own self. The idea will start in investing into life insurance policy that builds up equity and pay dividends. As these holders pay premiums; the annual value of their policy increases. They call the first five to seven years the “capitalization phase”. After which, the policy holder can now run a bank of his own. Obviously, the longer you allow your capital to accumulate, the more you generate profit.

Now the rewarding part…

For quite a long period, you’ve invested time, money and all. Now it’s time for you as policy holder to make use of your privilege of borrowing up to 100% of the cash value of your investment with no tax penalties and at any given time. How do you like that? Also if you may ask where the interest of your personal loan go, it is nowhere else than to your own account. I guess now at this point you already have a clearer picture of what infinite banking is all about and how it works in your favor.

Why seek for financial solution from a bank when you can be a bank, yourself?

Too Ascetical

2012-01-20T15:40:00.000+08:00

The beggar stopped a man on the street and asked for some money for something to eat.
The man said, " I'll buy you a drink if you like.
The beggar said, " I never drink. "
" Well then, " said the man, " I'll buy you a good cigar. "
" But I don't smoke," said the beggar. " All I want is something to eat. "
" I've got a good tip for horse this afternoon, " said the man, and I'll put some money on it for you. You can have the winnings. "
" But I don't believe in gambling. All I want is food. "
" In that case, " said the man, " I'd like you to come home to dinner with me. I'd like my wife to meet you because I want her to see what happens to a man who doesn't smoke, drink, or gamble. "

English Wikipedia Global Black Out in Protest Against SOPA

2012-01-18T22:10:00.001+08:00

I am a big Wikipedia user myself. I count on this website a lot whenever I’m in need of information. This afternoon (around 4: O’clock) while updating my other blog, I came across of this banner fixed at the top part of their site.

Four hours later in attempt to look for the meaning of a certain word again from the same site, I saw this…

The event prompted me to search for the keyword SOPA (Stop Online Piracy Act a.k.a. H.R. 3261) instead. This issue has been stirring the web since the dawn of its introduction to the United States House of Representatives in the later part of October last year.

The bill, if made law, would expand the ability of U.S. law enforcement and copyright holders to fight online trafficking in copyrighted intellectual property and counterfeit goods.

The originally proposed bill would allow the U.S. Department of Justice, as well as copyright holders, to seek court orders against websites accused of enabling or facilitating copyright infringement. Depending on who makes the request, the court order could include barring online advertising networks and payment facilitators from doing business with the allegedly infringing website, barring search engines from linking to such sites, and requiring Internet service providers to block access to such sites. [SOURCE]

I browsed for the subject further and found out that more and more popular websites are on black out too in the same protest.

Other than Wikipedia, the following popular companies also have voiced out their opposition against the matter: AOL, eBay, Facebook. Google, Mozilla, Open DNS, PayPal, Twitter, Yahoo!, LinkedIn, Wikimedia and Zynga Game Network. Along with the large percentage of Internet users, these companies think SOPA is a kind of an Internet Death Penalty.

Have You Ever Been This Tired?

2012-01-14T17:53:00.001+08:00

I know this will make you smile too so I thought of sharing...

From a forwarded email.

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN THIS TIRED?

And the best comes last...

Happy weekend, everyone!

Cottons or Snows?

2012-01-04T03:35:00.000+08:00

Quick… click on the photo and tell me what you think!

BOTH?

Mine and JK’s recent air trip together with Philippine Airline’s BOEING 747 craft over a month ago felt so awesome that it left me do nothing but take pictures of clouds, clouds and more clouds all through-out the trip - from point A to B!

I call it both cotton and snow of clouds. It’s one of the best shots I got. See more of it here. Promise you'll be amazed just the same.

At present I enjoy watching it on my desktop. I have been using it for a background for almost a month now.

Linking to Wednesday Whites

New Year Quotations and their Different Tones

2012-01-02T00:38:00.000+08:00

Racist

Youth is when you're allowed to stay up late on New Year's Eve. Middle age is when you're forced to. ~Bill Vaughn

Forward

An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves. ~Bill Vaughan

Ironic

A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other. ~Author Unknown

Silly

The proper behavior all through the holiday season is to be drunk. This drunkenness culminates on New Year's Eve, when you get so drunk you kiss the person you're married to. ~P.J. O'Rourke

Satire

People are so worried about what they eat between Christmas and the New Year, but they really should be worried about what they eat between the New Year and Christmas. ~Author Unknown

Logical

I do think New Year's resolutions can't technically be expected to begin on New Year's Day, don't you? Since, because it's an extension of New Year's Eve, smokers are already on a smoking roll and cannot be expected to stop abruptly on the stroke of midnight with so much nicotine in the system. Also dieting on New Year's Day isn't a good idea as you can't eat rationally but really need to be free to consume whatever is necessary, moment by moment, in order to ease your hangover. I think it would be much more sensible if resolutions began generally on January the second. ~Helen Fielding, Bridget Jones's Diary

Fair

We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives... not looking for flaws, but for potential. ~Ellen Goodman

Clever and my most favorite quote for the season.

We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day. ~Edith Lovejoy Pierce

826th Post: WELCOME 2012!

2012-01-01T10:44:00.000+08:00

We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called OPPORTUNITY and its first chapter is New Year's Day

~Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Let it Rain

2011-12-30T15:17:00.000+08:00

The tail of cold front according to the country’s weather authority is what keeps giving us daily rain showers. It’s hard not to say something about it when it makes moving around difficult unlike when the sun is out. But each time even before I could start whining I get reminded of how fortunate we are still for being spared from the recent disaster that killed many and left thousands of homeless people and just zip my mouth instead.

New Year’s Eve is in the next 24 hours so this morning off to the grocery store, we go. The idea is to avoid the rush and not to wait whenever the rain decides to stop.

“Just let it rain”; mom humbly said. Nature has its own course which we cannot help. We either want our things done sooner or hopelessly wait. Obviously, New Year’s Eve can’t wait, so yes… just let the rain fall, I guess.

The Irony of Life and Death

2011-12-27T16:23:00.000+08:00

Nine years ago yesterday, just right after celebrating the last Christmas of his life, my father finally decided to stop fighting for us. How ironic is that? We celebrate life on Christmas and mourn for our dad’s death the following day. Welcoming New Year’s Day with one member missing in the family and you know he is no longer coming back is simply unimaginable.

Though we’ve been through with the emotional struggles his passing has brought us, we still can’t help but reminisce each time.

Yesterday, despite the pouring rain we still went to visit his grave, lighted some candles and offered prayers for him. It has also been a custom of our family to celebrate his death anniversary not because we’re glad he’s gone but because we’re happy that he is now in his final resting place – free from worldly pain and sufferings.

My family is grateful to those relatives and friends who never fail to remember him and his passing day. They are who gave us comfort – prayed, feast and reminisce with us – making things lighter for us at the end of the day.

It's Christmas!

2011-12-25T08:04:00.001+08:00

The earth has grown old with its burden of care,

But at Christmas it always is young....

~Phillips Brooks

Stretching the Household Budget

2011-12-23T21:57:00.000+08:00

Image via Wikipedia

When your paycheck seems to shrink just as your bills are getting bigger, it is time to take a look at where you can quickly and easily work some breathing room into the household budget. Most people don't realize how many areas they can reduce the amount of money going out without making tough sacrifices. Here are several areas that the average homeowner can make simple changes to increase the money they keep each month.

Fuel Costs
If you find yourself running out of the house frequently, it is time to make wiser choices about your shopping habits. Keep a list with you at all times, and make it a habit to note what you're getting low on around the house. When you are out, check your list and get everything done in one trip. Try to arrange your errands so that you aren't backtracking. Combining your errands saves a lot of money on gas every month, and fewer trips to the store usually means fewer impulse buys.

Home Appliances
The average home appliance should last between ten and twenty years. Repairing appliances that break down can extend the life of some appliances by five to fifteen years. Making these repairs instead of purchasing new appliances every time one breaks can save the average homeowner thousands of dollars over the years. Many repairs are easier to make than you might think. When the refrigerator, dishwasher or stove has problems, do a little research and decide what repairs you can do yourself. When a professional is required, shop for the best price. Get three quotes on every major home repair, just as you would for your car repairs.

When the repairs are outside of the family budget, many people are tempted to buy a new appliance because they can pay for it with a credit card. Instead of putting the family in more debt than is necessary, consider Mobiloans to cover the repair. This can save you thousands of dollars in interest by the time you pay off the new appliance.

Image by McNail via Flickr

Utility Bills
Take a look around your house and see just how much power and water is actually being wasted. Unplug adapters and chargers that aren't in use. These devices actually use a small amount of power even when nothing is plugged in. If you have trouble getting the rest of the family on board with your savings plans, offer them incentives. For instance, if the family agrees to shut off lights and electronics when not in use and can cut the energy bill by $20, the whole family gets a special surprise. These incentives don't have to be costly, a family picnic or movie night in the living room works just as well.

image by McNail via Flickr

Saving energy helps the environment as well as the household budget.

Donations Sent! Thanks JRS Express!

2011-12-22T12:03:00.001+08:00

So mom and I spent a day yesterday to drop the packages we meant to donate to our friends both in Iligan and Cagayan de Oro City who were badly affected by the typhoon Sendong (WASHI- international name) last week.

To the nearest JRS Express branch inTagum City is where went to since we have our packages addressed to particular recipients and they’re the only courier around who accept such type of service.

Nearest means 2 hours away from where I live but that didn’t bother me since I won’t have to pay for the shipping cost anyway. So for that I am very grateful to the staffs especially to the Branch Manager (I forgot to ask his name) for personally accommodating us in such a very warm and friendly manner. He was the one who sealed the boxes and even made us further confident the recipients will get the packages by providing us Proof if Delivery numbers.

Of course I knew I will blog about it so I made sure I have my camera with me to take photos with. Little did these two know they’re making it to my page today!

from left is one of the staffs and the branch manager

Once again, my warmest THANK YOU to JRS Express especially Tagum City branch for making way for our donations. Mabuhay po kayo!

Couriers LBC AND JRS EXPRESS Now Shipping Donations for Free to CDO and Iligan City

2011-12-20T16:02:00.000+08:00

Thanks to the concern members from private FB groups for all these much needed information.

For LBC company, all local outlets are accepting donations of any kind – food, bottled water, clothing, medicines, blankets, etc. (except perishables) – all shipped free through the LBC Foundation. All donations received will be shipped in bulk and be distributed to the victims from these two greatly affected areas.

However, if you have donations you wish to send to specific addresses, JRS Express provide free shipping for your packages. You may refer to this link: http://www.jrs-express.com/branches.htm for the list of JRS Express branches nationwide.

God spared us from all the afflictions these victims has to go through at this time of their lives. Let’s be part of building new hopes for them. Big or small – your effort counts.

Now's the Time to Care. Let's Share Some for Sendong Victims

2011-12-19T16:46:00.000+08:00

It’s exactly a week before Christmas when a muddy flood brought by the most recent tropical storm SENDONG (with International name WASHI) hit the Northern part of Mindanao (Philippines), Saturday leaving numbers of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro City residents homeless, some are injured while hundreds of other are still missing. Death toll rose from 200 on Saturday to over 650 as of yesterday (18th). Sendong is reported to leave the country tonight.

But all these poor, outrageously affected victims shall be left behind. They got nothing and no one but us. Let’s have a heart. It’s not tomorrow nor later… now’s the time to let these people know we are here… let them feel that we care. After all, that’s the true meaning of Christmas.

These victims need food, clean drinking water, medicine, clothing, blankets, mats and other relief goods. We can share in any way we can. Please click the badge to see where you can send your donations.

Making the Best Out of a Supposed Boring Day

2011-12-14T23:34:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was indeed a day full of delight. That is after I got hold of a box containing all these…

It obviously made my day. A mix of white and red long-stemmed roses, paired with sinfully luscious chocolates plus the sweetest note to complete the package is just one perfect way to melt one’s heart. More of this story here…

Today however, is kind of unfortunate. An emergency situation caused us a day-worth of power outage. But instead of allowing boredom to get into us, my sister and I decided to put up some Christmas lights over at mom's house to make use of the day.

We also made this tree out of some coconut shrubs and old Christmas balls and other ornaments...

We’ve had a great time doing what we did, especially the kids. We then watched what we’ve put up together as soon as the power came back around five in the afternoon. The girls were very much delighted. :D

Total Lunar Eclipse, December 10, 2011

2011-12-11T15:33:00.000+08:00

I was only a kid when I last saw an astronomical event they call eclipse – a solar eclipse where the sun seems to disappear during the day and the sky darkens in a matter of minutes. Rare events like this is something I care less for until I’ve seen a total lunar eclipse for the first time somewhere in my teenage years. It was amazing! However, I wasn’t a blogger yet then and I can only appreciate things that were happening around so much because I don’t possess gadgets like a decent camera yet that time and maybe even if I do, I doubt if I bother knowing I have nothing to use the pictures for.

I felt bad I missed the last Lunar Eclipse in June this year. So when I heard about the December 10 one, I tried to pay attention. I kept myself busy and tried to work away from my bed just so I won’t get tempted to lay down and doze off. I even purposely made late dinner leaving myself starve a bit. That was one hell of sacrifice I just did for the sake of that event and yet I feel I still failed. I literally missed the part when the moon turned red and and only left with this instead…

Lunar Eclipse, December 10, 2011

The moon half consumed by the shadow of the earth

Anyway, I’ve searched on the forthcoming Lunar Eclipse events next year but found no results so far. Whenever that will be, I wish I have a much better camera by then.

Head's Up!

2011-12-10T09:32:00.001+08:00

I’m not so good at ranting on any of my page. Every time I start typing, that supposed post for the day always end up as a draft and will be marked as it is until I remember to hit delete. But I realized one of the reasons why I am here is to inform… doesn’t matter who listens or read and who don’t.

Blogging and earning from it is my way through life. I believe it is decent otherwise thousands of other people won’t waste their time doing it. But just like anywhere in the world, there are dark souls who doesn’t seem to care. Okay, let me get me get my words straight. I am talking about online fraud, better known as SCAM. When was the last time that you got scammed?

Being an earning blogger it is of course an initial reaction to get giddy whenever someone contacted you for a possible job offer. But I tell you what... I’ve done that and got screwed not once but a lot of times from the past and recently… just like around two weeks ago, there is this one self-acclaimed Direct Advertiser (she’s a lady) who just made her way to my list of hoax adverts.

See? I am still not that harsh. No names. But I have boundaries. And should any of you wish to have a clue who I am talking about comment along and I ask. I may have the exact answer for you.

Just ranting….

If you have things that needs out in the oven join Gagay’s Random Friday Rants and rave along!

Happy weekend!

Bunk Beds For Kids In A Downsizing Economy

2011-12-07T12:46:00.001+08:00

With today's economy as it is more and more people are downsizing. This means that people have to come up with brilliant ideas to house their families, feed their families and get through this tumultuous time. One of the things that can help is bunk beds. If you have to face a move that brings you face-to-face with fewer bedrooms in the house, but the same amount of children, a bunk bed can be the saving grace.

If you have recently been forced into a situation where you can only put two children into one bedroom instead of giving them their own room, you may have to look at getting a set of bunks for your children. Although your kids may moan and groan at first about losing their own privacy of having a bedroom to themselves, bunk beds are designed nowadays to be fun and exciting.

No matter what age your children are, there is a bunk bed that will appeal to them. Older children can opt for beds that have a desk attached that will house all their modern electronic accessories. There are a lot of these beds that have been designed for young teenagers or older preteens that no longer want the traditional bunks that look childish. They are looking for an older and more sophisticated set of beds that match their lifestyle.

Younger children can choose from bunk beds that are designed for princesses or beds that would house a dragonslayer. Both boys and girls can indulge in their childhood fantasies with the imaginative beds that are being produced these days. There are also traditional bunks that are beautifully fabricated with metal or wood that will seem fun and exciting for your young child.

You'll find that introducing bunk beds to your children isn't a problem as long as you find the right ones that match their age level. This is a problem that most parents face. They look for a regular bunk bed, show it to the children and the kids start moaning. If you start looking at the newer styles of beds being produced, however, you'll get a completely different reaction when you introduce the idea to your young ones.

Downsizing isn't fun for anybody. The idea is to make the most of it. Brainstorming on ways to make it more acceptable for everyone in the family is what needs to be done. Getting a set of bunks is the best solution when you need to downsize and don't have the room for singles or doubles any longer.

New Link: Alma's Corner

2011-12-07T12:38:00.001+08:00

It’s nice to have helped a new aspiring successful blogger once again. Welcome to the blogosphere, Alma!

She is a friend and a law maker by profession. Soon a new page dedicated to legal issues – (particularly Philippine legal issues) will make its way to the blogosphere but before that I am inviting you to head on to her page by clicking the screenshot below to get to know her and maybe if you could add her up to your link list... that would really be nice. :)

Help and Save

2011-12-03T01:30:00.000+08:00

This semester when you rent your books from CampusBookRentals.com a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Operation Smile. Not only will you be saving money and time, but will also be helping a worthy cause.

Operation Smile has performed over 200,000 life saving surgeries on less fortunate children since 1982. This generous organization continues to grow, but only through the help of committed volunteers and donations. The donations of individuals more than help Operation Smile, however when a larger company like CampusBookRentals.com agrees to help the proceeds are just that much better. With these donations Operation Smile can continue to provide free surgeries to children in the developing world. Additionally, Operation Smile has a goal to these countries with the tools and knowledge needed to continue helping children. This charity has even set up clinics, which allow children to return to receive dental attention, nutritional advice and other medical services. Unfortunately, Operation Smile cannot remain in any one country forever, so they build these clinics as a way to continue helping.

So, not only will you be helping these children you will be saving money and time. No longer will you have to stand in line at the bookstore, or hunt for hours for the book you need. You can now rent books from the comforts of your dorm room, and pick from the largest selection of textbooks in the country. You will also enjoy free shipping, a thirty day trial period and flexible rental dates.

Paypal: New Policy Update

2011-11-29T17:38:00.001+08:00

Are you a Paypal user? I am and just received Paypal’s Notice of Policy Updates few hours back. I don’t really do well with a long read especially when it says something like: Legal Agreements, Terms of Use, Terms and Conditions. They usually come with a very long tale and aren’t they just too boring to read? Most probably yes, but sometimes we just have to be as abiding being a user to any online services (especially when it is free) because it is where sometimes we get caught troubling ourselves with questions that are actually already been answered.

So if you haven’t checked it yet, you can view this Policy Update by logging in to your Paypal account. Once logged in, look at the Notification section on the top right side of the page for the latest Policy Update.

Meanwhile, you may wish to know from this post what services are available for you. Please scroll down.

Note: The following information below are from Paypal’s website. Screenshots are mine.

COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE and AVAILABLE SERVICES

This PayPal User Agreement applies to you if you reside in one of the countries listed below. You are required to register your PayPal account in the country in which you reside.

PayPal service availability varies by country. Please see below to determine which services are available in your country of residence.

Countries with the ability to send and receive payments: If you reside in one of these countries, you have the ability to send and receive payments.

Countries with the ability to send and receive payments and have Automatic Transfer:

If you reside in one of these countries, you have the ability to send and receive payments. In addition, PayPal will automatically transfer your PayPal balance to your US bank account or credit card on a regular basis.

Countries with the ability to send payments:

If you reside in one of these countries, you have the ability to link a credit card to your PayPal account and send payments. You do not have the ability to receive payments.

The Merry Month Is Almost Here!

2011-11-28T10:51:00.001+08:00

Where did the days go? I can’t believe we’re on the last Monday of the month already. Just two more leap and here comes jolly December! Yea, kids around never fail to make December a merry one. Personally, it is what Christmas is all about – the kids.

It’s funny because I really don’t feel like putting up a tree this year. I have in the past with wrapped presents for everyone under it. This time, this lonely wreath is the only adornment I can think of using so far. It’s an old wreath from last year and I am hanging it on the same door again this year.

Oh geez, I am just feeling so lousy again that I couldn’t get motivated to do things that needs done. Or is it probably because I have been hinted I may not be getting anything this Christmas? Ha-ha-ha! Oh but come on, isn’t it just disheartening? I’d rather not hear it!

No but seriously, it doesn’t matter if I get something or not from whoever this Christmas really. I am so used to it… but not the little girls. I promised they will have what they wanted for a gift this year and that is what I’ve been so hardly trying to work on. My girls are everything to me and there’s no way I will break their hearts on purpose. And as for the decors, I may still have to add some to it. I just can’t figure out what yet… maybe lights. Oh well… let’s see.

On Life, Game and Chances

2011-11-28T09:00:00.001+08:00

Gambling is not for everyone. Some people just don't have the "gamble" in them. They choose to be cautious and wise in spending their hard earned money and prefer to look for beneficial, long term investments rather than spending on game of chances like casino online. Others are prepared to take calculated risks with their money in order to take home some fortunes in return. Some people gamble for fun instead of profit. There is real adrenalin rush when you hit that giant jackpot in online casino slots. Many people play at low levels where the money doesn't affect them, but they simply enjoy the excitement of being on it. Gambling breaks the boredom of life's usual routine. For few hours of fun the worries and stresses are left behind as they relax and enjoy the game – be it on site or right at the comfort of their own home.

There are number of reasons why people go to gambling sites. But whatever those reasons may be, let us be aware of possible gambling pitfalls especially online. Some gaming rules and agreements can be a little tricky too sometimes. I'm not a gambler myself and know only few things about it through reading reviews but I certainly know fraud is an out of hand issue online. Therefore, it is always a must to take precautionary measures before risking into anything especially if what it takes is your sustaining income.

An Evening to Remember

2011-11-26T17:42:00.001+08:00

If Americans had Turkey on Thanksgiving, we BISDAK bloggers from Davao also had a blast with the crocodile dish tasting on top of popular Filipino dishes we’ve ordered at Riverwalk restaurant in Crocodile Park on the night of Gagay’s birthday! Gagay by the way, is one of us – a Bisdak blogger, author of multiple blogs too like me, (he-he )and she came all the way from Cebu City just to spend that special day of hers with us and her family of course after that evening.

THE DINNER

I know events like this always make everyone's mouth the busiest (you know gobbling, conversing, ranting, laughing) but did you know it's a mortal sin for a blogger not to be able to take keepsakes of every event they attended to? LOL!

Whatever they are but in my case since we are about to try some crocodile dishes for dinner anyway, it didn't help me but to ask one of the servants if we could see first and take some pictures of raw (uncooked) crocodile meat while waiting for our orders to be served.

I was hoping to see big chunks but only thinly sliced, packed and frozen ones were all they got.

Did anyone even notice how long we've waited for our food to be served? I bet no one. That's because we we're all busy mouthing, ha-ha-ha.

Moving on... it's drooling time!

Firstly, we had the croco fried rice.

Of course it's a birthday so we had fried chicken :D

The mouthwatering grilled 'panga' (tuna jaw)

Everyone also had a warm hearty sip of 'sinigang na tuna' (tuna stew in tamarind)

And finally, the star dish of the night... the SIZZLING CROCODILE SISIG!

It was everyone's FIRST to have tried a croc dish. I am not sure how the rest like it but for me personally, it's not the taste or how it was presented but it's the fact that I was finally able to try crocodile meat. I mean it's something I never thought or dream of doing but I just did and to me it's something worth sporting, ha-ha-ha!

THE TEXTURE. I'm not sure what part of crocodile it was but the meat appears to be a little chewy to me.

THE TASTE. It's spicy but oh-so-creamy. No doubt, this will make an ultimate "pulutan" for beer drinkers.

And how can we forget the sweet treat? A whole round of blueberry cheesecake for everyone! Oh sweet Jesus. Have mercy on our drooling eyes!

Alright, alright... I'm done making you crave, LOL!

Well now it's time to meet 'The BISDAK bloggers from Davao' (Thanks Ace Nierva for the photo.)

(From left: Adaah and his son, Moi, Genevive, Gagay, Verna and Crislyn)

It was truly an evening to remember. Thanks Gagay for the treat! I'm really glad I came. :)

Linking to Yummy Sunday

Sunshine Award For Me

2011-11-26T09:34:00.000+08:00

For the first time this year, I got an award and it’s from Hazel of Pink Memoirs! Thank you, Pinx!

I remember back then, awards like this is a constant part of anyone’s blog. Anywhere you turn there’s an award to grab. I wonder what transpired and it went out of the picture just all of a sudden… and for years… well at least from my own blogs. And now it’s starting to show up again. It’s alive! What can I say?

This time, there are few questions that I ought to answer. Oh, I like answering questions. Makes me feel like spotlight is on me, ha-ha-ha!

Here are the questions:
1.    Favorite Color: PURPLE
2.    Favorite Animal: I would love to have bunnies
3.    Favorite Number: 7
4.    Favorite Drink: Iced Coffee
5.    Facebook or Twitter: Facebook
6.    Your Passion: Seriously other than blogging, it’s exploring new kitchen recipes.
7.    Giving or Getting Presents: Giving but hey, I love gifts too you know so it’s both. :D
8.    Favorite Pattern: Cross
9.    Favorite Day: Friday
10.    Favorite Flowers: Roses. I like the long-stemmed ones.

And now the generous part… the sharing of the award to 10 fabulous bloggers.
Well, you are fabulous and I admire our virtual friendship, Mommy Pinx, Verna, Genevive, Gagay, Adaah, Crislyn, Ms. J, Lainy, Lynn, Rocks.

My Family's Share of Fun Playing Bingo

2011-11-23T15:31:00.001+08:00

Back in the days, when caught in one place together at a certain occasion like local fiestas, my cousins and I often agree to go and play on-site bingo games. We were teenagers and mostly of about the same age back then. Bingo is one of the most popular games at a carnival site around town. While the little ones are having the fun ride, we at the other part of the carny are enjoying Bingo.

My cousins have known the game way before me because they used to play it too in their neighborhood. Being a kind of loner that I am, I’d rather be in my comfort zone most of the time than being elsewhere. And I certainly won’t spend time hanging out if it’s not with my closest cousins and relatives. I’ve learned a whole lot of fun things to do through them – that include playing Bingo!

Initially though, I looked at Bingo as one of those unlawful games and therefore, is not a good form of entertainment to keep. But over the years my innocent mind smartens up especially after I’ve learned about all these existing online bingo sites. I realized it is not as bad as I have thought after all. In fact, my family and I went to play Bingo just not so long ago and guess who hosted it… it’s a catholic secondary school run by the nuns! Can you believe that? Well, just do! I came from that school myself and so are my siblings. They celebrated its 50th Golden anniversary two months ago and surprisingly that family bingo game was one of the many activities they have had! That was the first after the longest time that I was able to play bingo again. And what’s so special about it? It’s the quality time spent with a family having utmost fun together. Funny, because even the kids know how to play bingo now too! For me that was a total entertainment! I wonder when we could gather around and get amused again just like that.

A Pleasant and a Totally Relaxing Day Spent at EMARS Wavepool

2011-11-17T15:55:00.001+08:00

As promised, here’s the second installment of mine and JK’s “A Love Conquered for the Second Time” story.

Unlike the first time we met last year, we made no list of particular places to visit this time around. Everything just came in random except of course the plan of visiting my family at my hometown that took place two days after we arrived in Davao. We stayed for 2 nights and went back up to the city. On October 31st we came down again to spend Halloween with the family and kids. More of that story here!

Moving on to the rest of our random activities… JK and I also spent one pleasant and a totally relaxing day at Davao’s newest resort, EMARS Wavepool.

We got there a little early. Looking around there was nothing much to take good pictures with so we just ended up having breakfast at their restaurant while waiting for the wavepool area to open.

I had a bowl of hearty vegetable toppings while JK had the usual American Breakfast.

We paid for the entrance fee and one of the huts after.

Of course, we shouldn’t have been there if it wasn’t for the wavepool. But first we need to have our stuffs secured since the cottages were all designed open. We approached one of the staffs around and glad she offered to look after our belongings.

We walked into the pool and just shortly after there come the big waves. Woohoo!!!
I didn’t know about JK but as soon as I heard the engine started and the wave starts rolling in, I honestly felt like a kid again in great awe! Ha-ha-ha!

Each round of waves last for 30 minutes. They cut it out after and bring the waves back on every hour and a half.

It was my first time to have tried a wavepool and it was really fantastic. But then we had to cut the fun when the sun starts to bite. We walked back into our cottage, grabbed our cameras and started taking more pictures around and of us.

It’s LUNCH time! Helping ourselves with the views around didn’t reallymake me that hungry…but it sure dried us both out so we still ordered some. JK took T-Bone steak with fries and a bottle of beer while I had fries alone and a fruit shake.

After dining we’ve had few drinks. We were so aching to get a massage but the spa center signage says will open at 2:00pm so again we waited while listening to music from JK’s MP3 player. But of course, I am not gonna let you wait like we did so here's the final treat for the day....

A totally relaxing full hour of Swedish massage!

Imagine how soothing that was. Unfortunately though, the spa center has limited staff so we couldn't get anyone to take pictures of us while getting the massage. But here's how the place looks like anyway.

The staffs...

And finally, there's us having a cup of tea after the treat. Ah, that was just amazing!

The Whiteflash Difference

2011-11-14T21:30:00.000+08:00

The time of gift-giving is drawing near. I know many of you are now making or have made a list of who to give, what to buy and how much to spend. But when it comes to someone we so dear and care about, we most likely want to present them with something we know would make them feel special. What could be more pleasant to a woman’s eyes and heart than being handed with a piece or a set maybe of fine jewelry? And if you’re wondering where to get quality assured ones, look nowhere else than at Whiteflash and experience what jewellery sydney shop is going to be like. You’ve read it right. It is Sydney in Australia. Seriously, in a contemporary world that we are in, we sure know how almost everything can be possible and there’s shopping for one.

Whiteflash is a home of ideal cut diamonds. They’ve been around serving their diamond jewelry market for long years not only in Sydney but in other countries too. You want to look for Singapore jewelry stores online, Whiteflash has it. Additionally, if proposing to someone is your thing on that most wonderful time of the year, shopping for Singapore engagement rings might help. Whiteflash consistently deliver worldwide. Usually that is one thing we shoppers want to find out first before we head on shopping. With them, shipping shouldn’t be an issue.

"Lotus Halo" Diamond Engagement Ring

Look how gorgeous that is...

A Love Conquered for the Second Time

2011-11-11T16:43:00.001+08:00

We either love or hate endings. When something bad is going on around us, how we wish for it to end even before we know it. However, if it is something we enjoy and feel good about, how we wish for time to just slow down for us so we can keep the wonderful feeling going. But reality has it. Everything must come to an end and so is my time spent with JK.

I haven’t been blogging the whole time I was with him so please bear with me if I flood this and the rest of my blog pages with updates about our two weeks vacation in Davao City.

It is his second time to visit the country and we’ve pretty much spent our time together in Davao. But before that, October 22nd, I flew to met him in Manila and there we spent a night at Resorts World Manila. While waiting to catch our early morning flight back to Davao we lounged around RWM and watched a movie at Newport Cinemas. Such a great night to remember. We’ve watched REAL STEEL – another must-watch 2011 movie if I may suggest.

On our way back to Davao, JK and I felt so honored to have flown with Philippine Airline’s BOEING 747 flight with Fiesta Class accommodation. That was unexpected! More about that story HERE.

Unlike the first time we met last year, we made no list of particular places to visit this time around. Everything just came in random except of course the plan of visiting my family at my hometown that took place two days after we arrived in Davao. We stayed for 2 nights and went back up to the city. On October 31st we came down again to spend Halloween with the family and kids.

To be continued...

The Blogger is Back!

2011-11-09T00:32:00.000+08:00

That's after over two weeks of (semi) internet-free vacation with dear JK. Well internet free only means Facebook and Blogging-free but not with email checking. We of course had our laptops with us - for JK to check his family from time to time and for me to check my emails regularly - but that's that... no more, no less.

Sad that our time together had to end up again... made me cry (~~a bucket?~~) but hey at least no part of that event made us feel any less for we both knew there will still be more chances ahead of us and who knows... the next time might be a much longer one... or maybe forever. We can never really tell.

To reality is where I should be at and that's here... me on the blog land. I'm glad I'm back. And on top of my excitement to share tons of our photos together is also another inspiring welcome back surprises from Mr. G. This blog's Page Rank has been pulled back up to 2 while my family blog now also has PR2. How great do you think is that?

Another good news is... my desktop computer has been fixed and is now fully functional again with a new motherboard and a video card in it. I would have just let it sit but JK insisted to have it fixed so we did. This time there shall be no more excuses. I don't have just one but two blogging buddies now to help me keep all my blogs going. ;)

Organizing and finding cheap storage to reassert control over your stuff!

2011-10-26T12:19:00.000+08:00

Bedrooms, closets, and garages can rapidly become overflowing with stuff. One day, we wake up and realize it’s overwhelming! With a little organization and some cheap storage you can take back control! Here are some ideas to get you started.

Remember that the garage is for cars and tools.
To make room for your car in the garage, you should take out all the stuff that is not related to lawn care, house repair, and driving. You can put up shelves and racks for paint, car provisions, and small tools. You can also buy some hooks to use for hanging up gardening supplies and other tools.

Assert your control over your closets.
Tackle one closet a week, so you don’t end up overexerting yourself. If you haven’t worn it in twelve months, think about getting rid of it. After you have sufficiently reduced the clutter, you can put in new shelves, drawers, and adjustable tension rods intended for closet use. Closet organization specialists like the people at California Closets are a great option too.

Expand your efforts to the rest of your house. Take your time. It certainly doesn’t all have to be done in a day or even a week. You will probably spend the most time cleaning out the living room, so you should give yourself a couple of days or even weeks to do so. Look for items you haven’t used in over a year. If it has just been collecting dust for a while, you should definitely remove it.

Basically - sell what you don’t need on craigslist or ebay. If it’s not worth selling – then donate. Store the rest either in a garden shed or a storage unit - see-through storage bins are a great way to stay organized as you can see what’s in them even when they are closed and stacked.

Let it Be Me

2011-10-19T17:44:00.000+08:00

Christmas is still two months away but recently Bling Duck granted me this chance to make one wish (a thing) and for that I am making way for this gadget - an Aluratek 19 inch Digital Photo Frame – a gadget I’ve been longing to have since last year. Well not necessarily this brand but it is what I find decent when I browsed amazon to find what I want to wish for.

Thanks to Levy - a fellow blogger for making Bling Duck Grants One Wish promo known to me yesterday. I simply followed some simple mechanics and now I’m in to the raffle. No sweat!

Here's the link to my official entry: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=233751143348044&set=a.233294013393757.57979.160017920721367&type=3&theater.

Lastly, I’d like to thank some Facebook friends for letting me make it to the raffle. They have been very supportive. Thank you very much.

By the end of the month we shall see who are going to be the lucky ones (coz I believe they’re gonna be raffling 2) to take their wishes home. Could it be me? Who knows?

From 2, Page rank has been pulled down to 1! Now what?

2011-10-13T19:15:00.001+08:00

I don't know if you have noticed it but over the last week amidst the Apple icon, Steve Jobs’ death also came a sudden fuss over Google's Page Ranking system where most of bloggers I know displayed dismay towards their blog's page ranks all went down to zero. I checked mine and saw the same.

But unlike other bloggers it really didn't affect me that much thinking it was just Google's another update in progress that could have just been interrupted for whatever reason so I've waited. Then few days after, here came happy fellows seeing their page ranks back. If not for my new blog sites I wouldn't have just bother checking. I did and surprisingly, from 2 for 9 consecutive months, JTWIS's rank sadly went down to 1 this time - making me feel somewhat bad. Poor page!

I used not to really mind PR updates before. If it's there, good...if not, fine! But having it stayed consistently for almost a year for me would have already been a breakthrough! I've never had a monetized blog page in which PR lasted that long. Needless to say, if you're an earning blogger you would know why a Page Rank matters.

Oh well…justice has been served I guess. With crossed fingers, maybe I will just have to wait and see until the next update.

A Belated Teacher's Day Greetings To My Most Humble Teacher, My Mom!

2011-10-07T17:04:00.000+08:00

It was Teacher’s Day on the 5th and too bad I failed to greet my mom for the occasion. I was out to the city the whole time that day and when I came home the following day I saw these bunch of bouquets and flowers laying on the table while some were at the counter top. It was only then I realized that it was Teacher’s Day. I grabbed my phone and right away greeted her though a bit late a ‘Happy Teacher’s Day!”

Other than gifts, token and cards here are some of the flowers she got on that day…

I remember back then, whenever occasions like this will come, my mom has the most gifts received among teachers in our school. She had been a dedicated teacher from the start and even now that she’s already retired she still can’t seem to let go off her most cherished profession so until now she is still serving, teaching the children. - :)

Welcoming October with a Blast

2011-10-01T22:10:00.000+08:00

Time and again I am reminded of how time flies so fast. Since the "BER" month has started I can't help but to constantly throw a glance at the calendar that's posted right on my bedroom door.

Unknown to many, October has been my most-awaited month of the year. Why, you may ask.

Well, there are many things for me to look forward to from this month and onwards and a lot of reasons to celebrate and be gay as well. There's my mom's 63rd birthday on the 9th, welcoming a new bundle of joy any time this month and of course the grandest of them all... my dearest JK's 15-day visit to the country for the second time!!! Huzzah!!!

And with him coming around 3rd week of the month, it means I gotta be celebrating Halloween with him and my family. Whew! How cool do you think is that? JK celebrating Philippine Halloween for the first time! Last year he was around during my mom’s birthday… this time on the Halloween. Are you seeing any pattern yet? Could he be celebrating Christmas with me next year? Too early to tell but we'll find out!

For the mean time, here's to look back to our first grand moments together from last year. You may click the image to view full size. :D

HAPPY OCTOBER!

The Human Body: How Well Do You Know Yours?

2011-10-01T10:22:00.000+08:00

How well do you know your human body? Scroll down to see surprising facts you may have not known yet ever before!

See larger version
Graphic Via: this resource: www.RadiologyTechnician.com

Top 25 Grossing Horror Movies

2011-09-30T11:38:00.000+08:00

See if your favorite is included in the list plus get to know amazing facts and trivia behind all these movies.

Click to expand
Resources at: www.CriminalJustice.net

Eyeball with Bisdak Bloggers in Davao

2011-09-23T19:58:00.000+08:00

From Left: Bisdak Bloggers Crislyn Dagandan Nierva with her husband, Ace below (a photography enthusiast, I believe), myself and Verna Liza Ypil Luga

Would you believe, it took us 3 hours to sit around that table chit chatting after having lunch like we own the place? Well sue us! We have a lot of common blogging ideas in mind and that 3 hours wasn't even enough but then we all had to agree our time aren't just for ourselves and so we had to call it a day.

September 21st, it is!!! A day to remember! Thanks for the wonderful time. It was indeed nice meeting you both for the first time, Crislyn and Verna!

By the way, just for the benefit of everybody, Bisdak is a combinaton of two Visayan words Bisaya (a local dialect) and Dako (huge)... though in the word Bisdak Bloggers, the meaning of the word "dako" isn't really applied literally. Generally, Bisdak is a slang word used to describe not only bloggers but other group of people as well who commonly speaks their native tongue, Bisaya.

Whispering Angel Books

2011-09-19T21:47:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone! It's nice to be finally back.I wish you guys are doing great.

Around mid last week I received this package of books delivered right in front of my doorstep- not your ordinary kind of books because they are something special, inspirational and unique. But before I tell you more about it, I'd like first to apologize for this delayed acknowledgement. I exactly received the package on the 14th but some health issues kept me away from my computer for few quite struggling days, thus, the delay.

You may click image to view full size.

So, where all these books are coming from; you ask. Well they were humbly given to me (given meaning for free) by Ms. Lynn C. Johnston - Editor and Founder of Whispering Angel Books. Thank you so much, Ms. Lynn! As seen on the image there are four books and again I got them all four for free! I am still yet to explore the content of each book though but here let me give you a quick summary of each explaining why they're worth-having.

NURTURING PAWS is a compilation if more than 80 uplifting and inspirational short stories and poems illustrating the physical, emotional and spiritual healing effects of animals in our lives. This book will warm your heart and uplift your spirit as it celebrates the love, friendship and comfort we receive from cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, horses and more. It is written by more than 70 of today's most prolific writers and poets.

LIVING LESSONS is an inspirational collection of short stories and poems illustrating the enduring legacy of life's most important lessons in courage, tolerance, optimism, love and support as it is passed to us by the amazing people who touch our lives. These pieces will uplift your spirit and leave you with a greater appreciation of what can be learn from others.

HOPE WHISPERS is an inspirational anthology of short stories and poems illustrating the power of hope and faith in physical, emotional and spiritual healing. It's inspirational and uplifting messages will touch your heart and fortify your desire to succeed over adversity.

ANGEL'S DANCE written by Lynn C. Johnston herself, this book contains over 45 poems on love, family, faith, friendship, encouragement, separation and more. Each poem is prefaced with a brief introduction describing the events or philosophy that inspired each piece. The book has been used by grief therapists to help their patients wok through a devastating loss.

The gift giving season is drawing near. These inspirational books could make great presents instead of going through a tough task of looking for gifts to give to your loved ones or friends for the holiday. To place your order, please visit www.whisperingangelbooks.com. You may also want to follow their updates via Twitter: @whisperangelbks or find them on Facebook by searching "Whispering Angel Books".

Soon to Tie the Knot

2011-09-17T20:15:00.000+08:00

While I've been talking about anniversaries lately, someone also close to me is all thrilled preparing for her upcoming wedding day that is going to take place two months from now. She has pretty much all the tasks commissioned to a wedding planner she hired except for the wedding gown shopping which she aims to do by herself.

But before she even made the announcement, she had already been out looking for a possible wedding gown design. I find it too stressful on her part visiting from one shop to another so I offered to help and glad she like the online shopping idea. It indeed amazed her to see tons of dazzling bridal gowns presented and if luck is hers to keep, she might end up wearing one of those dresses on her grand day.

Three Years Ago Today

2011-09-07T16:05:00.000+08:00

It's my late father's birthday today. It has been 9 years since he passed away and he could have turned 62 already should he be around.

So like the usual we went to visit, lighted some candles, offered flowers and prayers for him earlier today. We've had lunch together after at home. Thanks God for the gift of memory and compassion. It has been 9 years but he is still remembered in exactly the same way as we did in the past.

==========================//

Today also marks the 3rd year of this blog's custom domain - onlinememorylane.com. This was the very first and the only custom domain I bought through Google Apps - that's before I've learned about Godaddy.com where I bought all the rest of my domains.

I quite have issues remembering important dates like blog anniversaries. That's why buying custom domains is much easier for me when done during significant dates like birthdays or the country's official holidays like Labor Day, Philippine Independence Day, etc... So three years ago today, on my dad's birthday came also the dawn of Onlinememorylane.com [the former onlinememorylane.blogspot.com] in the blogosphere.

I Use Water Delivery Service at Home

2011-09-07T15:21:00.000+08:00

Water delivery is becoming one of the most popular alternatives to getting good and guaranteed safe drinking water in many household nowadays. Not only that I use it for convenience but having water delivered ensures that there will be a constant supply of water for drinking when emergency situation (such as natural disasters) arises that may affect water availability or safety.

The hard workout that I do pretty much every day is what made me a heavy water drinker so I make sure I have stored water enough to last me at least a month then I don’t have to purchase every now and then. Another good thing is… from where I live, bottled water isn’t pricey at all plus the delivery is free of charge regardless of the amount of purchase.

Updated Blogger Interface

2011-09-01T20:02:00.001+08:00

HAPPY SEPTEMBER!!!

As usual my side writing jobs ate up most of my time for the week - leaving my poor pages at the back seat for days again. Whew! How I wish I could just say no to job offers. Oh please, we seek for them when it's not there. I just can't afford to say NO to them these days. Not when I need what I have to make out from it to cover the bills for the month.:D

Well anyway, I just got most of my tasks done so was thinking of swinging by here for a while when I noticed something new with my Blogger dashboard.

Have you seen it yourself yet?

Old Blogger Interface

Yes, I'm talking about this Wordpress inspired...

Updated Blogger Interface

And nothing, I just thought it is nice to see something new and fresh. And by the way, I just want to stress out that photo uploading now is way faster than before. It didn't even take me a minute to upload all these three at the same time. Cool, yeah?

New Post Window

What about you? How do you find the Updated Blogger Interface?

Just When My Family Needs Medical Miracle

2011-08-30T00:16:00.002+08:00

He was not perfect but he's a man of integrity.
He was not rich, but he gave us something that we can be proud of... a decent life
We fear him... not because he was stern but because we respect him.
He was our driver.
He was our man-at-arms.
He was my daughters all-time great Santa.
He was my mom's best friend... her life's confidant.

I don't know how else to put his life in details but one thing I am certain... I am a proud daughter of his.

To others he is nobody but to me he means everything. He's no longer with us but as his family, his memories will remain unspoiled and always be remembered. Soon he could have turned another year older if not for his illness that relentlessly took him away from us. He suffered Acute Renal Failure and survived for 11 months after he was being diagnosed of his ailment. Thanks to life-saving gadgets that let him live a little longer for us.

My father's death was the very first tragic experience my family has had. When we were told about the chance of losing him any day from his confinement, we all felt dispirited though we stayed calm and hopeful. Days, weeks and months became usual though financially stressful for us as he has to go through a Renal Replacement Therapy called Hemodialysis along with the lifetime medications primarily for his heart, blood and other organs.

He died of complete Kidney Failure, a condition that lasted him for eleven months. He doesn't like hospitals and that was the reason for his late diagnosis but nevertheless he was well taken-cared of for the last few months of his life even if to my family it means a total agony---emotionally, physically and financially.

It was never easy for us his family to went through such battle but we never gave up for him. It has been eight years and he could have been eight years older soon. But we’re sure God made better plans for him... just not for us (his family) to share with though…

There's Luckily No Long Distance Moving for Us

2011-08-29T22:56:00.000+08:00

Moving out from one place to another can be difficult. But in my family’s case, it was rather a very emotional event. It took all four of us (offspring of my Mom and Dad) to send us to college first before my mother out of her early retirement fee (being a private school teacher) decided to build us our own house in 2002. Sadly my father died of illness before we could even start to build the house project on the same year.

We’ve lived pretty much all our younger years in this old, shaky, almost rotten wooden house my mom and dad rented few months after they got married.

Awful as it may seem, this old house overflowed with lots of memories – happy and sad. That is why it was really hard when it was finally time to move in 2003. The new house is only few houses away as well from the old one so there’s obviously no need for a long distance moving team around. Besides we were not really so concern about the effort of moving our things out but it was rather the idea of leaving many good memories behind to start anew that’s making it difficult.

New Niche: Homemaking and Beyond

2011-08-29T16:47:00.001+08:00

I let this domain sit for quite a while after bagging it from an online contest hosted by Ruby last month. Knowing me when it comes to Wordpress blogging... though I already have 2 Wordpress blogs before this, compared to Blogger, I still find it a bit complicated especially the layout editing part so I can only do as much tweaking as I can.

Anyway, Home and Beyond is my 5th attempt for a niche blog which I am hoping I can keep up with appropriate posts as it goes. I wish to thank those who have inspired me to really blog a lot this year. There are too many names to mention each but most of them for sure know who they already are. Thank you all very much.

You may click the image or the blog's name to go to the page. See you there!

What Average Salary a Pharma Tech Should Be?

2011-08-28T14:26:00.000+08:00

Pharmacy Technicians, take a look at the graph below if you're receiving what it is exactly you deserve.

http://www.pharmacy-technician.net/employment-outlook

See more at this site: www.PharmacyTechnician.net

Employment Wages for Accountants and Auditors

2011-08-28T12:55:00.004+08:00

I am proud we have a Certified Public Accountant in the family. Hopefully when one of my nieces will make it and pass the board exams this year then there will already be two of them.

Do you have one in yours as well? Ever wonder how much they make?

http://www.accountingdegreesonline.com/certified-public-accounting

Check out www.AccountingDegreesOnline.com for other resources

Blog Header Update

2011-08-28T04:16:00.000+08:00

I had it made for quite some time now. I just couldn't find time putting it up as I was caught with lots of Ghost Writing tasks for the past 2 weeks and then I had to go out of town for few days so it was only after I got back home that I finally had the time to attend to some of my backlogs.

Anyway, just like the old one it is still a pre-made header design I took off Dani's site. It is free. I just had to add some decorative on it to make it look a little personalized. I also use that tiny Japanese girl avatar from my HP MediaSmart webcam effects to complement this blog's favicon. I would have wanted something purely out of my own effort but that has to wait. I think I'll just have to stick to it for now.

So what do you guys think?

Direct Selling Opportunities and its Beauty

2011-08-27T07:52:00.000+08:00

Direct selling is fun. My mom though she is having a regular job being a teacher, she has also been doing direct selling during her spare and until now. I really admire her attitude towards it. She simply sells, get paid, be happy and never heard of any negative issues about it.

I used to believe I can never be like her. Selling is not my thing primarily because I am a very backward type of person… so full of apprehensions– making it hard for me to approach customers when collecting payments on due dates. But then she is such a mighty influence. Inspired by her I’ve had my first direct selling experience as early as 16 or 17 (if I am not mistaken) and while still in college. There were bunch of direct selling opportunities handed before me but I was too reluctant to try thinking I may not be able to handle them all well so I just considered selling beauty and wellness products – just about what I thought would interest the people I come in contact with on a regular basis such as my classmates, friends and roommates. Then I started to enjoy making money out of my own effort. Who would imagine I can do it? But I did, and it is simply a matter of will paired with a little bit of diligence.

See? I didn’t even have to go through a tough hiring process to get the job. This type of business is easy to start, easy to run and luckily it is inexpensive to get going. That’s the beauty of direct selling… working at your own time and convenience. No wonder why a lot of people are still flocking to direct selling up until today!

Just the way it is... Page Stat

2011-08-22T11:21:00.000+08:00

As of August 22, 2011 (8:12 am, Philippine time) my page stat reads:

I was out all weekend and stayed at a friend's house. Though I'm aware I'm not good at getting things done online unless I'm in my own work place, I still brought my notebook along anyway so I could get to check emails and browse pages from time to time at least.

I like checking out for new comments on my Blogger dashboard as well and it is how I took notice of this Page Stat thing. I'm not sure whether it is something new or it has been there and I just overlooked it.

It's really one pretty cool feature...

Airline Terror

2011-08-20T05:59:00.002+08:00

Flying is fun... or could be the exact opposite. Securities are much tighter while the creation of TSA security checkpoints after the 7/11 terrorist attacks tops the list of changes to air travel that have taken the excitement of flying.

Click here to expand

Discover more at Online
Universities

The 9 Universal Goal-Setting Laws : Repost

2011-08-17T14:29:00.003+08:00

Goal-Setting is a relatively new concept, however, Goal-Setting Laws, just like gravity or physical Laws of motion have existed from the beginning of time.

We might not be aware of them, but it does not mean that they do not influence our life.

So pay close attention!

1. THE LAW OF NEUTRAL POSITION. You can not know whether you are going in the right direction and plan your route, while you are driving at full speed. If you are always busy trying to achieve one goal after another, you have no time to ask yourself, if this is what you truly want. To make any changes in your life you have to first stop and only after that change direction.

2. THE LAW OF A STRAIGHT LINE. The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. To find the shortest way to your goal you just have to know two coordinates – your current position and the position of your goal. If you do not know where you are going, the chances are that you will get lost and continue to go in circles.

3. THE LAW OF TAXI. The moment you let another person drive you, you give them full control of the car and the route that you take. Similar, if you let another person place priorities in your life, you will end up following their path, instead of yours. It is also not a secret that the longer you stay in the cab, the more it will cost you and the longer it will take you to get back. If you do not like where you are going in life, it is probably time to take the initiative back into your hands.

4. THE LAW OF EMPTY SPACE. You cannot bring a new closet into a room without throwing away the old one. There simply will not be enough space. You have to take out the old useless closet first, than clean up the space and only after that can you fill this space with something new. Similar to change your life, you have to eliminate old beliefs that are no longer serving you and only then will you be able to replace them with the positive ones.

5. THE LAW OF A MAGNIFYING GLASS. Neither of us has an objective perception of reality. Every person is limited by their own past experience, beliefs, and vision of life. We magnify those details that we are actively looking for. If we concentrate our attention on the problems, they become bigger and more terrifying. If you direct your attention to positive areas of life, they expand. There is only one way to change your reality, shift your focus.

Continue reading...

SOURCE

Education: What You Must Know

2011-08-16T12:23:00.002+08:00

How much do you care for education today? Yours, your child's... Is it on top of your priorities? Or your basic needs are?

---

Click here to expand
Source: Accredited Online
Schools

Tips to a Happy Life

2011-08-14T15:19:00.001+08:00

Let’s face it, the word happy is easier to say rather than live it. Happiness is relative but for most of the time it is the temporary feeling of excitement brought by material goods that people often mistake as a feeling of happiness. Is there really a way to be truly happy? The answer to this question solely depends on the person. You’ll be surprised to find out that small changes in your outlook in life could bring positive effects to your gloomy lifestyle.

Here’s the first tip: start your day with a smile. There are self help books on how to cope up with stress, problems and difficulties, most of their suggestions are based on one concept and that is to start positively early on the day. Instead of dragging yourself to work, think of it as another opportunity to learn something and earn a living.

Do not worry about the small things. Some people tend to worry about “future problems” and would spend their time and energy thinking about things that are not even happening yet. Deal with worries one day at a time. Tackle the ones that are in front of you with a rational mind.

Of course financial matters are always an issue. Either you chose to sit on that couch all day or get up and start looking for job. In this tough economy it is very important to spend your money wisely. Avoid going overboard or buying something that you don’t need.

Keep in mind, it is better to start with small things and it will eventually yield a big positive change in your life.

Lynne currently works as a freelance writer and uses her free time traveling and exploring place. Her current project with gulvsliber has provided her with an opportunity to share information about floor sander.

Name Your Own dot info Domain Giveaway Now Have Winners!!! Could it be You?

2011-08-10T10:26:00.012+08:00

Holler!!! Finally the long wait is over. I supposed to have this announcement up last night but uploading videos took way much longer than I expected. Blogger acted up along the way so I had to switch to YouTube instead. Oh well... Every thing are set here now and I just cant wait any longer to announce the winners of the recently concluded NAME YOUR OWN DOT INFO DOMAIN GIVEAWAY. All in all there were 24 validated entries of the contest under the following names:

The possible highest points each participant can make is 20. This time there were 7 entrants who have gathered the same points and they are the following:

5. Mommy Jes - 20
9. Jared's Mum - 20
12. Lisa - 20
13. Mars - 20
14. Dick-Vince-Dory - 20
21. My Lucky Ruby - 20
23. Cielo of Brown Pinay – 20

Check out live drawing coverage below (via THE HAT) whose name came out the luckiest to bag the first dot info domain from Just the way it is…

Now for the second domain… as much as I wanted to give each a fair chance to win, I have decided to draw the rest of the names on the list. And so the second lucky winner is…

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

MARS and MYS

You are advised to contact me ASAP at chinita [dot] me [at] gmail [dot] com and provide the following:

Subject: Dot info domain winner
Complete Name
Email Address
2 Domain names [Primary and Secondary]

And once again, my sincere appreciation and gratitude goes to each one who took part in the humble celebration of this blog’s 4th year in the blogosphere. I hope to still see you guys around!

Inventory Control Software: What You Must Know

2011-08-08T10:03:00.001+08:00

Behind every successful and outstanding business results nowadays is the simple yet powerful inventory control software. Gone are the days of the ever tiring, old-fashioned physical inventory practices where assigned people are often left stuck to their job posts because they don’t seem to get things right at a given time frame! Thanks to the advent of technology as well as to companies that provides such amazing products.

Inventory control software is a complete business solution provider to manage your company’s essential accounting records at the shortest amount of time and with utmost accuracy. Think of it as an investment you can look into for your company and its future. It matters just as much as the valuable profit you’re looking forward to gain at the end of each inventory. Well unless you want to stick to the old ways and be left behind. I really doubt that is something you want to happen either otherwise you won’t be in the business world.

Just the way it is... turned 4!

2011-08-05T11:58:00.002+08:00

That was yesterday exactly. By the way, should you wish to know how this blog have started, you may read the story from HERE.

So it's Just the way it is... turned 4 years on the 4th of August. I don't normally celebrate blog anniversaries with huge online bashes like what other bloggers do however, I realized for the last three years I have never given my visitors and readers any complementary gestures to show how grateful I am for their support - big or small. And so around mid-last month (July) I launched Name Your Own Dot Info Domain Giveaway! My humble way of saying...

There were 30 participants so far and today is going to be the last day of entry submission. The contest badge is still at the sidebar for those who haven't join yet or simply click the contest link above to help you get started. At this early, I'd like to say thank you in advance to those who have participated and will still participate later today. Good luck and may we all be blessed in many ways!

Clever Solutions for Effective Services

2011-08-04T21:16:00.001+08:00

Most large companies and business entities need to have established document management systems in place. This is essential in every operation so as to keep documents, important company information, and other vital data easily accessible and yet safe. Microsoft application development softwares are being afforded to companies and businesses who wish to store information on servers and other powerful computer systems.

One of these providers is Sigma Ukraine, which has proven years of expertise in delivering solutions based on Microsoft technology. They have 16 Microsoft Certified specialists that can deliver a wide range of solution types. Sigma Ukraine also offers Custom Software Development where they will tailor-make business models and solutions based on their customer's needs and expectations. Sigma Ukraine's solid experience and profound knowledge of a wide variety of solutions will ensure effective company operations, reduce production costs and deliver high quality services.

Weekend Blog Follower Caravan #4

2011-08-02T12:41:00.001+08:00

Hi, here's joining late [again] for July's last and final week of WBFC! This time we're doing Google Plus One. Here are the guidelines:

1. Google Plus One our sponsors: OnlineBiz and Resources and Pinay Mommy Online. Make sure you give your plus one at the blogs homepage.
2. Make a post with our WBFC Badge to welcome all our participants.
3. Leave a comment at our participants welcome post that you have Google Plus One their blogs’ homepage. Remember Google Plus One the blog’s homepage and not the welcome post!!
4. Google Plus One all participants!!

How to know if you have been Googled Plus One? The numbers on your Google Plus One widget at your homepage will increase. One blog per blogger only.
Now remember… homepage and not the post!!

There you go guys... Let's get the ball rolling!

Awakening Consciousness. A Woman's Guide!

2011-07-30T19:30:00.003+08:00

I got this book from the mail 2 days ago. It is from Robin Marvel. She does blogger to blogger campaign and send out essential reading materials for women for interested bloggers. Obviously I am one of those bloggers and the arrival of this book is just very timely for my newly launched page about women.

Just to give you a sort of preview on what this awesome book might be all about, I'd like to quote the author herself... It says A Note to the Empowered Women

Being empowered means holding and knowing your own power. You are an amazing woman of strength and personal power. Being a woman comes with many demands and responsibilities. The most important of these is the responsibility to honor and respect your self. You are a marvelous being changing our world.

This workbook is designed to encourage you to heal your mind, body and spirit. Taking the time to complete the exercises in this guide will reacquaint you with you, resulting in strengthening yourself from the inside out. Use the pages of this guide to express yourself and move forward on your path of self-awareness.

With Love and Gratitude
Robin

This is just simply what I need for a book right now and to you Robin, thank you so much for sharing it with us. I've been scanning its pages and I just can't wait to start blogging about it!

Wanted to be Somewhere Serene for the Weekend

2011-07-30T18:40:00.000+08:00

There’s so much going on around the blog land lately that I just wanted to get away from. It is weekend anyway and all I have in mind is to pack up and be somewhere else before my head starts to crack. I wanted to be somewhere peaceful and calm. Maybe a place that is a little similar to this…

Yea, I mean just similar because I know it’s not definitely where my pocket will allow me to be. For me it is kind of fancy place already but hey just in case this is your thing for the weekend… within this gorgeous place is where you find Katy Houses for Sale. Doesn’t it just look perfect for a home location?

Dot Info Domain Giveaway to End Soon

2011-07-27T20:38:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone! Name your own dot info domain giveaway is ending in 9 days. This contest is open to both international and local bloggers so to those who haven't submitted their entry yet, click the image below to see the contest mechanics. Good luck!!

Fibromyalgia and Sleep

2011-07-27T20:11:00.001+08:00

Living life to the fullest means having a healthy exercise, healthy balance diet and a healthy sleep! But how tight is your sleep at night? Or are you experiencing the other way around? If it feels like a widespread pain that keeps you from getting a complete bedtime rest at night then it could be Fibromyalgia.

According to experts, Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by fatigue, anxiety, depression, awakening feeling tired and restless sleep. Its cause is unknown and is said to more likely affect women than men.

While there is no cure for the said condition, recommended medications are tailored to help control symptoms. Exercise, relaxation and the use of chiropractors and medical doctors’ recommended fibromyalgia pillow. Its natural cooling effect is said to help Fibromyalgia sufferer to get uninterrupted sleep at night.

Weekend Blog Follower Caravan #3

2011-07-26T11:10:00.001+08:00

We've just celebrated Municipal Fiesta yesterday, thus the extra busy weekend and the late WBFC entry submission. It was only a few days but it feels like I'm gone for a very long time that catching up is so impossible to complete in just a day. But I know I can do it and I better start now.

By the way, WBFC is still accepting links until tomorrow - that is you haven't joined yet. You can submit your entry HERE.

My Two Cents on Shredding Off Excess Baggage Effectively

2011-07-23T13:24:00.005+08:00

I just got a free weight check yesterday when I went with my sister to see her doctor. The scale reads 62 kilos or roughly 136 pounds. Bravo! That was quite an achievement for me to have worked roughly 20 pounds off my extra baggage. You can do the math how much I've lost but I’m telling you none of it was never easy. And I would have shredded off more if I didn’t have to slow down a bit with my workout routine since summer. Yea, I know I should get off my feet and start doing it regularly again.
It might be beneficial to look into getting a certified personal trainer . But hey, with my self-obtained experience, I know I can train myself just as better. Well at least I am still with my dietary fiber supplement up until today.

Yes at first I thought I can’t keep up with its off and a little disgusting smell and after taste but thankfully adding a spoonful of lemon concentrate on every teacup helped it. Then I have to realize probably that is just how natural herbs are when mixed altogether. I’m talking about its main ingredients, Senna – a famous Indian herb and Malvae - a neutralizer from Lotus or Pearl leaves - a mixture of both has been proven effective to speed up metabolism and lowers cholesterol and therefore help lose weight in a natural way.

The only downside of it is well… the constant trip to the bathroom which I know a lot of people hate. I used to feel the same but had to get though it otherwise forget the entire weight loss plan. There are however, alternative supplements available such as NO Xplode by BSN to go with your intense workout which I believe is also effective especially for those who are in active fields.

Lastly, I believe a right attitude is a must when you’re on a slimming program. Personally, I bought my own bathroom scale, got the necessary accessories and even bought few pairs of exercise outfit and it just made me feel right!

What about you do you take supplements too like I do?

This post is in participation of a blogger campaign by Bucks2blog. It is compensated however; all views and opinions expressed above are my own.

Name Your Own dot info Domain Giveaway

2011-07-18T12:39:00.005+08:00

Hello ladies and gents! Here's an invitation for you to join my domain giveaway. You’re probably thinking of making a new addition to your blog collection so this could be your chance to make it happen.

Just the way it is.. is turning 4 exactly 18 days from now so to quickly celebrate I am giving away 2 dot info domains to name for your own! That’s for two lucky winners.

However, I know you guys are all busy so I made the mechanics real simple for you. No blog post required.

Simply get the following done:

1. Like Just the way it is... on Facebook (1 entry)
2. Follow Just the way it is... through GFC (1 entry)
3. Subscribe to my feed via Email (For new subscribers only) - This is optional but for the effort I give 2 entries provided that the subscription is verified. For old subscribers you may want to try other options below for earning additional points. Widget is on the sidebar.

For Added Points:

Like on Facebook and Follow through GFC Kat’s Box and Dice (1 entry)
Like on Facebook and Follow through GFC I blog today! (1 entry)
Like on Facebook and Follow through GFC Daily Grind (1 entry)
Like on Facebook and Follow through GFC D’ TOUR (1 entry)
Subscribe to any to any or all three blogs above (1 entry each)
Share about this contest (FB/Twitter) (2 entries)

When done, write down the details of the tasks you have completed at the comment section of this post. Kindly indicate usernames, email address used, and proper URLs of the tasks you have done so I can easily count them in. Only submitted entries in the comment form will be validated.

That’s it! Good luck and let the contest begin!

The Right Shaving Products for that Early Morning Ritual

2011-07-18T00:22:00.003+08:00

It really pays to look younger. That is what I always tell myself whenever a new acquaintance is introduced to me and will say, “Funny you don’t look your age”. Seriously, I really find such compliment somewhat skin-deep and is sure fire to melt a heart, don’t it ladies? But what is more surprising for me was to see how beau earned exactly the same compliment when I first introduced him to my family and some friends about a year ago. Of course I cannot disagree to them. And I bet he owes that to his doting self and how he takes care of his skin.

He’s really not too vocal when it comes to skin care but I know one thing he does regularly and that’s the men’s oldest morning ritual - shaving and such ritual according to him doesn’t have to hurt every time. Did you know that majority of men actually have sensitive skin? That is why he always recommends the use of essential shaving products such as safety razors, the right shaving soap and an after-shave cream to moisturize and prevent razor burn. In fact, he also gave me some of those shaving soap. He knows I’m into it as well. But mine has with Aloe Vera. Obviously we all know how aloe with its natural component works wonder to our skin, right? I tried using it and I tell you what, shaving has never been the same from then on!

This post is in participation of a blogger campaign by Bucks2blog. It is compensated however, all views and opinions expressed above are my own.

Weekend Blog Follower Caravan #2

2011-07-16T12:07:00.001+08:00

It's actually on its week #18 now but I joined late, so thus #2 on the title.

Anyway, before moving on I'd like to congratulate 2 of the last week's lucky WBFC participants. They're $5 richer today and that's simply by joining WBFC. Watch how it was drawn here. But hey, it's never too late for you to join us yet. This week's tasks are even simpler.

They're the following:

1. Please SUBSCRIBE and CONFIRM via EMAIL to our sponsors’ blogs: Pinay Mommy Online and OnlineBiz and Resources (subscribe at the sidebar).
2. Make a welcome post for other participants of WBFC # 18 to comment on. Make sure you place our badge on your post.
3. Comment on the welcome post if you have SUBSCRIBED and CONFIRMED. If you are already a subscriber, still leave a comment to know that you have visited.
4. Please remember to SUBSCRIBE and CONFIRM. Subscribing without confirming is useless. So please… CONFIRM.

Don't forget, your entry is your ticket for a chance to win $5 at the end of the week so join now!

The Trouble with a Busy Weekend

2011-07-15T21:42:00.002+08:00

It's Friday! Where are you guys headed this weekend? A friend of mine invited me to hang out this Saturday along with our other friends. Something exciting is going on. She wants us to meet her long-time boyfriend whom she met from a dating service site two years ago. Trevor as I know of the guy's name came to the country to meet her again and this time I heard is going to propose a marriage to her. Aww! How sweet is that?

However, I'm not really sure if I can make it for her yet. Saturday is so soon. It has been a tight week and I got so many loads that needs done that I couldn't afford to miss a day and carry them all undone towards the next week. I shall be sad but I know for sure my friend will understand. I'll still be willing to do their wedding invitations as she initially suggested to me though.

How to Add a Custom Favicon to your Blogger Blog

2011-07-13T18:20:00.008+08:00

I spent my time doing rounds this morning and noticed a lot of Blogger blogs are still using the default Blogger's favicon... you know the defined orange and white logo we see next to the name of the site. Well not like they really care but as a blogger, isn't it being different is what we are trying to establish?

Now to answer the question why should it matter... well for a start, wearing a custom favicon (favorite icon) separates us from the rest. And other than it is fun to look at, it also allows us to easily identify the content of each tab should we open number of tabs in our browser all at the same time.

click image to view full size

Here's how I did it and I hope it helps:

1.Using your preferred image, create your own favicon file. It should be as small as 16x16 pixels file and preferably with ".ico" extension although I use .png file for some of mine and it should work just as fine. Or if you want there are also free services out there where you can create your own unique favicon.

2. Upload the file to your image hosting account to get it coded. I use Photobucket, by the way. Love it free, lol!

3. Finally, add the following script to your blog:

To do that, go to your BLOGGER PROFILE - LAYOUT and then click EDIT HTML. Scroll it down to where you can see the head tag then insert the script above. Make sure to replace the Your Icon URL with the newly generated URL of your favicon, click save template and you're DONE!

Killer Heels

2011-07-10T07:50:00.001+08:00

Do you wear heels? Like what 2-3-4 inches? Or what about a whopping 5 inches high? Hmm, I doubt if I can even wear one in more than an hour.

I'm really not so big on wearing killer high -heeled shoes or sandals. For one, I have a very poor social life. Two, my job is home-based so I don't go out that much. Although I keep a pair or two just in case I need one for some occasions. But not wearing them often doesn't mean I don't fancy for the thing. I love window shopping, that's for certain and can't leave a site without looking for best buys of almost about everything and yes that include womens shoes.
Just the other week, I got this chance to shop at one online costume store for free. I browsed through all their pages from the wide array of amazing Halloween costumes to costume accessories and after about 2 fun hours of shopping I ended up with a pair of this sexy, Clear Brook Shoe.

I find this thirty five dollar-worth sandal really so pretty, don't you? Everything you see in it is clear - the straps, the platform and obviously the heels plus it will sure blends well with any color of costumes you wear. Thanks to Costume Supercenter.com for this awesome freebie!

Weekend Blog Follower Caravan #1

2011-07-09T22:15:00.000+08:00

Have you ever seen this badge around? I bet you do! It's been up and now running on its 17th week. But I am just starting here obviously. As you can see my title tells it, lol!

So what is Weekend Blog Follower Caravan?

It is a blogger-helping-blogger weekly meme and as to your questions: How it work, who can participate and how to play, I suggest you go here to get the most appropriate answers possible.

Now going back to this week's tasks... they are the following:

1. Follow our sponsors The Pink Piggy and LIKE Weekend Blog Follower Caravan at Facebook (like button at the sidebar).
2. Make a welcome post for others to comment on.
3. Comment on the welcome post if you have followed. If you are already a follower, still leave a comment to know that you have visited.

Oh and by the way, here's more to perk us up. Join this week's WBFC and get a chance to win a little something from our dear host. Your entry automatically entitles you a raffle entry to the weekly draw while $20 Paypal cash will be given to one lucky participant at the end of the month.

See, it's a lucky start for me and it could be for you too but only if you will do something now and waste not the next minute of your time.

Ever heard of Infinite Banking?

2011-07-07T13:49:00.002+08:00

You’re probably thinking about the traditional concept of banking and how it helps you grow your investment, big or small. Well, not quite. What I’m talking about here exactly is the possibility of a person or a group to become a bank of his/their own self. Now, that must make you thinking, yeah? How can that be possible? Okay, just keep reading because I actually just heard of it too some time ago and we’re under the same state of finding out how.

There’s this company that is dedicated to teaching and carrying out new and effective processes for acquiring wealth – something an individual barely can refuse. This company is called Personal Equity Institute or PEI and their business is to provide infinite banking ideas. Through their online resources, which include classrooms, training seminars, books, articles and informational videos, they help their clients understand the dynamics of accelerated wealth and the common drawbacks of traditional financial planning.

The lack of genuine information about financial issues that were made available to the public is what prompted PEI to come to life.

Their target clients include small business owners, professionals, including doctors, attorneys, athletes and others, who have optional funds available to invest. If you’re one of these people and you’re seeking for a true gainful investment then maybe PEI is where you need to be. Who knows?

Puerto Vallarta Rentals for Mexico Vacations: Where Luxury Accommodation Doesnt Need to be Expensive

2011-07-06T09:37:00.002+08:00

The most-loved season of the year has just started in some parts of the world. Right, I'm talking about summer and I believe many of you guys have already figured a perfect place to spend summer this year. Have you?

Great because I just thought you may want to check out Puerto Vallarta Rentals for Mexico Vacations if you haven't considered any yet. Sites like these never really fail to amaze me just as much as I believe you won't get disappointed in availing best valued reservations with them. Oh and when I say best valued I mean luxurious accommodations at a very pocket friendly price. Isn't that what we want for a vacation after all? See it for yourself!

The Use of Branded Search Based Products Explained

2011-07-05T02:41:00.004+08:00

The unfolding progress of today’s technology and automation enables Zugo LTD to provide hundreds of their partners and clients globally a one stop, state-of-the-art monetization solutions through their search based products.

What are these search based products that can be easily distributed to their partners?

1.BRANDED START PAGES. Otherwise known as customized start page. This innovative facility allows merchants to bring their content together, Google services and the best of the web for their clients.

2.BRANDED TOOLBAR. How cool is it using a toolbar that is especially designed for you. Yes, at Zogo this feature is fully customizable according to your specific needs. When launched, your clients will take it with them whenever they browse the internet, enables them to stay close to you all the time. The catch? Your community is extended beyond the boundaries of your website bringing you in more possible customers.

3.START NOW TOOLBAR. Using this, you’re just a click away to your favorite sites for those much needed information. Probably the best internet browsing experience you will ever have. It is simple, lightweight and works perfectly well with any browser.

Finally, these multiple monetization options provided by Zugo are malware and spyware free and are powered by different search engine partners including Bing, Yahoo and Ask.

Latest Indulgence: Custom Domain Shopping for Less

2011-07-01T12:00:00.000+08:00

It's not only customizing blog themes (and I'm not done with that yet by the way) that consumed most of my time for the week but domain shopping as well. Four days ago I bought and registered one dot info domain for a suggested travel/photo blog. It was pretty much great of a deal for only $1.99 for its first year. The page is now up under Blogger platform though it is still empty as of now because I am still on the process of looking for a theme and will probably do some customizing again before I do the official launching. I am actually considering today to make the counting easier since it is the beginning of the month but I am not quite sure about that now. Hope I still can make it.

I am a certified Godaddy.com customer and yes, a happy one. However, I wish I didn't have to indulge so much too. But seriously, who would say no to dot com for $1? Yea, yea, yea, you've guessed it right. I went for one yesterday. I had to park it yet though till I can figure a good idea for a niche. Do it right the first time, they say so hmm... we shall see...

Shifted Finally

2011-06-28T15:00:00.001+08:00

Woot! Brand new week, brand new theme! Right... everything looks fresh and brand new here. I hope I made it obvious to those who frequent here. This and the rest of the blog makeovers I did for the last two weeks (there's three of them, by the way) is what keeping my butt glued again from morning till dawn. Well I'm not really so good in to this thing so that pretty much explains the length of time I consumed in coming up with the final idea.

See the difference...

Before

After

Would you believe that the new layout is just a recycled version of my blog's old theme? It is. The only new element I added here is the header. By the way I'd like to thank Dana of Design's by Dana for that pretty freebie. I find it really cute although initially I've been also thinking of doing a personalized one just like what I did to my other blogs here and here but until I have it figured out then I will just enjoy the one I have got for now.

Another freebie I used here is the post divider and that I owe to Lena of Simply Fabulous Blogger Templates. That's it... I just did the rest myself and it was one hell of a job. But that doesn't matter really. To my own right, it's an accomplishment. In fact, I still have one more blog makeover to do so that should be all for now.

Oh and if you have something in mind, you can go straight and write them down at the comment section of this post. I'll really appreciate your time and effort. Thanks! ;)

Dream Big... Win Big!

2011-06-22T16:38:00.002+08:00

I am officially joining this!

Looking around you'll see different bloggers talking about this in their pages - a contest hosted by Levy - a fellow Pinay Mommies Community (PMC) member and you just have to believe that she is giving away $500 worth of cash and prizes (as what the widget says) to the lucky winning entrants come next month. Isn't it getting near?

You'll probably be thinking how she managed to raise that huge amount for her prizes. Well the people behind all these links below were the ones who made it possible for her.

Designers Depot * LEVYousa * One Day Graphics * Wahmaholic Blog Designs

7107reasons.com * Delight my Appetite * Zowanderer * Living and Wellness

Pinayads * I love Darly * Food and Passion * Pepperrific Life

Topics on Earth * Pensive Thoughts * Hearts content of a Mama * Abdul Hakeem

The Misis Chronicles * Everything Nice * My Pink Blog * Mirage

It's all about me * My Tots Exactly * My Tummy Calls * Foodies Galore * One Proud Momma * Earn Dollars Pinoy * Samut Sari * Pink Memoirs * Hands Full of Life * Gen walks * Pop Ups My Mind * Treat your Palate * Lovingly Mama * Flakes and Nuts * The Life Encounters * The Food Encounters * A Woman's World * Life is a Choice * Love home grow Garden * Jolly Toes * Seasons and Seasonings * Milestones and Marvelings * 2Homes 2Moms * Musings of a retired economist * Prudent Lifestyle * Prudent Sahm and Cooking * Orange Hut * Aphrodite: My so called Life! * Philippine Travel Promos * Mommy Lessons * Real men wear Aprons * Travel Monologue * Shopaholic Geek * Home Ramblings * Pink Nimble * What the Fat? * Mrs. Shoppiness * Journal of RJ's Mama * My baby RJ * Wonderfully Fabulous * Shygirl's Own * Life of a Filipina Blogger * Newbie Momma * Momma ~~wannabe~~ Finally * Home and Family living * Health and Beauty Diva * Online Chikadora * Pictures and Cultures * Sweet as Candy * Brown Pinay * My Point of View * My Green living ideas
Family and Home living * Mommy Diary * Sweety Paula* Mumwrites * Jareds Little Corner * Food.Fashion and Beauty * Mommy Survival Guide * Music, Movies, Stars, etc. * Bloggityboop

Here you can dream big and have the change to win big as well. This contest is open to bloggers and non-bloggers and to help you get started all you need to do is visit Levy's Contest for the official contest mechanics. Have fun and good luck everyone!

You're Still the Man! Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T16:04:00.001+08:00

This is to the man me and my family have been missing for long years...

Wherever you are, we miss you and we love you so much, Pa.

Software Development Services and its Glamor

2011-06-19T08:18:00.001+08:00

I was at the local store this afternoon with mom to buy a wedding gift for our neighbor who just got married today. Tomorrow is father’s day, yeah so I understand the rush of people going in and out the store as much as I understand we had to wait on queue to check out the stuffs we bought. On the other hand, I’m glad I made my father’s day gift purchase ahead of time and online.

Anyway, digging a little bit deeper into the subject did you know that these software development services are what making our online shopping experience a whole lot easier? Imagine a giant store running without quality IT services for a partner. No way, right?

Well the use of this Custom Software Development services doesn’t end at our favorite stops because believe it or not, they are everywhere too - government offices, banks, telecommunication companies, tourism and even the entertainment and gaming industries. So next time you get to check out cash from that automated teller machine booth think about it or perhaps whisper a little thank you for the advent of these awesome technologies.

On Freeing Finacial Woes Away

2011-06-18T10:51:00.001+08:00

The new school year has just begun. I can tell how that back to school preparations did stress you out. I bet you’re financially exhausted now too. Didn’t that make you wish there’s just somebody out there that you can turn to lend a hand?

Well fret no more. It doesn’t have to be that difficult to look for financial assistance nowadays. Capital Finance Web offers a wide range of financial solutions that range from a payday instant cash loan to unsecured personal financing options. How? Granting you have qualified, simply fill out a secure online application provided by them and get approved in less time. Yea, it is just that simple so if you think this is what you need why don’t you grab that keyboard now and start ticking those financial woes out your way!

And she turns 9

2011-06-16T12:59:00.001+08:00

Just sharing here some new pictures of me and my girls. Today my second daughter, Naureen is celebrating her 9th birthday... everybody sing a song... HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! That's it! I love you so, dear.

Naureen - the birthday girl

The proud mama and the birthday girl

Lastly, there's Naureen with her older and only sibling, Kate

She's still in school right now but tonight is gonna be her night. I know not typical for kids of her age to hold a birthday party at night but that is it. That's how she used to celebrate her birthday since she will be in school for the whole day and none of her birthdays really fall on weekends or holidays, LOL!

Kat's Box and Dice: the new blog on the block

2011-06-13T21:51:00.000+08:00

Yesterday marked the 113th celebration of the Philippine Independence. And since it’s a historical event Filipino people will always commemorate each year, I’ve decided to also launch my newest and second Wordpress blog on the same day. Well not for anything else but for me to just conveniently remember its annual anniversary date.

To those who don’t know yet, I’ve won katsboxanddice.info from PMC ‘s .info domain giveaway last month along with 9 other lucky winners. Attached to that free custom domain is also a lifetime free hosting services courtesy of Pinay Mommy Online Hosting Services.

Many thanks to Mommy Ruby (PMC moderator) for awarding it to me last Monday and because I know I can only do so much when it comes to WordPress layout editing, I gave it the entire week to do what needs done. And thankfully, I got it at least 90% done and able to finally make it public yesterday.

So why Kat’s Box and Dice?! Well, that’s going to be up next on the page. Meanwhile, I would like to invite you guys to head over there when you have time and tell me what you think by writing them thoughts and suggestions down at the comment section of the post. Thank you and that’s all for now! ;)

MM: try it on my own (whitney houston)

2011-06-06T10:59:00.001+08:00

I don't normally do this. This isn't where I play Music Monday but I'm thinking just this once... I just really feel like putting this song up here right now... just this once....

This Monday's great! Stay happy everyone! :D

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. Rules are simple. Leave ONLY the ACTUAL LINK POST here and grab the code below and place it at your blog entry. You can grab this code at LadyJava's Lounge Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

happiness quote to live by

2011-06-06T09:02:00.002+08:00

Okay, so I had my reasons why I woke up happy today and just to break the usual routine, here's one motivating lines from Happiness quotes to keep the day going right.

"To be happy, it first takes being comfortable being in your own shoes. The rest can work up from there"

--Sophia Bush --

This is so true especially that with so much going on with my personal life these days, I just find it senseless anymore to deal with all the agitations when I know I can do better than that. ;)

first day of class, don't be late! ;)

2011-06-06T08:12:00.001+08:00

Peaceful environment, positive vibes - oh, it's always nice to rise up on a beautiful morning! Yea, I should know that. It's the first Monday of the month and today marks the official opening day of classes here in the country. As early as 7am, my nieces have gone out with so much excitement towards their new school already to get acquainted with new teachers and friends around.

Well what else more could I say other than good luck to all teachers, students and parents and remember one of Martin Luther King quotes that say:

The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.

Happy schooling!!!

scenic sunday #10 after sunset view

2011-06-05T11:20:00.002+08:00

Funny, but seems like all I have are photos of beaches from different places I've been to. Don't you think this is insinuating something? A bay watch meme perhaps:??? Hmm, gotta think it through!

This time it's a beach view from one of the popular tourist places in Cebu - Panagsama Beach - and also the place where my younger sister used to manage a Japanese Restaurant before

It's an after sunset view where fishermen are on their way out to make catches for the night. I had the convenience to snap this photo since the view is located just right in front of the restaurant.

what the girls want

2011-06-03T19:03:00.000+08:00

Would you believe at seven and eight, my two girls already have divulged their preference when it comes to style and fashion? And certainly wearing childrens jewellery (trendy ones) is in their list. But did it surprise me? Honestly, no. Although that made me a little bit weepy the first time they asked me to buy one each for them because back then I realized how much they have grown already… and that they’re no longer my babies.

Other parents might think it’s way advance for them to act like ladies. Or some may find it wasteful since kids are likely to lose small articles like jewelries anyway with their hasty behavior; but such are kids. As much as possible I try not to go against whatever their preferences in life maybe as long as I see nothing wrong with it. Besides, a piece of jewelry doesn’t have to be that pricey to please one’s young heart.

There's my Kate on the right wearing the largest knickknack she have had ever

This year they’ve turned nine and ten and so are their attractions to so many things they get to see around progresses. And this time it’s not just fancy jewelries that they get so gaga about of having each time but so are the other things that I love doing to myself, they want done to themselves too such painting my own nails or doing my own hair. But that shouldn’t surprise me now. After all, they’re both grown up kids. We mothers should know how it is like in the first place; shouldn’t we?

back to school woes and thrills

2011-06-03T18:33:00.000+08:00

Two more days left before the new school year will officially begin here in our country. It has been a custom for us parents to buy our kids new school stuffs before the beginning of each new school year – from new notebooks, bags, and a new pair of school shoes. That is our way of showing them support and making them feel that we value their effort to learn and become successful in the future.

I’m sure lots of parents especially moms out there are now bracing themselves and are just as thrilled as me and my sisters whose kids are also going out along with thousands of other children from different parts of the country for the first day of school on Monday.

However, as much as ready up as we are, I also know many are still out there trying to combat against the thick crowd of rush shoppers just to check out their items. That practice is getting way too old and so sad to imagine but we really can’t help other people’s financial situation. But let’s just not go to that.

Anyway, on the lighter side, for those who haven’t shop for school shoes yet for their kids, I have here a short video – a guide on how to fit buckle up school shoes for girls. You moms out there will surely find this tutorial amazing and not to mention helpful in finding that girls shoes that will perfectly fit your little one's unique feet.

sky watch friday #3 heavenly beauty

2011-06-03T16:28:00.000+08:00

Opportunity knock only once and so when I got the chance to visit this marvelous place where I can embrace and see nature at its best I made sure not to miss bringing home not some but lots of keepsakes of them as well.

The room we got from this place was set atop the ridged of resort's high elevation of 20 meters above sea level. And from there, we climbed 200 steps just to get to sea this heavenly beauty.

warm thoughts and wishes for him on father's day

2011-06-03T08:43:00.000+08:00

On my Facebook wall yesterday, I wrote something about how I am missing someone terribly. That someone I was referring to was my dad. It’s been eight years since he passed away. He was diagnosed of Acute Renal Failure in 2003. He suffered constant pain and restlessness for 11 months and a day after celebrating his last Christmas with us, he left. His death was the most tragic me and my family have had experienced so far.

Everything happened pretty fast. I lived away from them so it was only my auntie (dad’s sister) who personally broke the sad news about his death. Shortly after that notice my family and I drove home. All the while I thought I had myself ready when his time will come but I saw his motionless body and it was only then that I broke bucket of tears. No words can ever describe how painful it is to lose a father.

So much is going on around with me lately. And that sudden feeling of emptiness I’ve had yesterday must have been just a hint telling me that he is just around watching over me. Or perhaps he just want remembered… after all the celebration of father’s day is drawing near. So many fathers day gifts we’re left undelivered since he’s gone… not only from me but from the rest of the family as well. But I’m sure wherever he may be right now; he is just as glad knowing that warm thoughts and wishes are sent his way.

just to let them know they're missed

2011-06-02T12:00:00.000+08:00

It’s going to be my cousin’s birthday on the 5th. It’s a shame I forgot with so much going on around. She works and lives in Singapore away from her family. Though I haven’t experienced what it is like, I certainly know how it feels living alone in a foreign land. Well, not literally alone because I know for sure she got bunch of nice friends out there.

Anyway, her little sister wrote me last night asking for some pre-made birthday greetings. She’s cooking up a surprise for her on her special day and now I’m caught between the ideas of producing either a video or a personalized e-card. Hmm, we shall see. I’m not really good at talking in front of the camera but oh well; I shall find a way for that I guess.

I would have been thinking lately of making (using my family photos) and sending out personal postcards to her and her sister who is also now living in Australia with her own family but postcard printing takes time. It can wait though… will just have to send them on different occasion when it’s ready. I know communications are already made easier for people nowadays with the help of all those powerful tools available around but don’t you think it will delight them to have received something from the mail?

just beautiful #1

2011-06-01T20:08:00.001+08:00

Okay, so I'm done with all the DA tasks now it's time for filler, LOL! No but seriously one thing I like about joining memes like this is that it gives my hidden pictures the chance to get sported. I got bunch of them so all the rest of PMC listed memes out there, get ready... hehe.

So here you go... my first entry for JB. It's already a 7 month old pic I took when we payed our first visit to Hof Gorei Resort in Samal City. The place was heavenly and nature-rich. I sure won't mind crossing the place over again should anyone invite me to.

wrapping up summer 2011

2011-05-31T21:56:00.000+08:00

It's the last day of the month. Summer season is finally over and since I haven't talked much about it here I am just going to wrap it up in one post.

As far as I can recall it started well and right. I had to attend the girls' last commencement exercises in the later part of March and took them home after. Everything about summer went smooth from then on. Though we didn't have much chance for outdoor activities all the girls still enjoyed everyone's company doing almost everything - from playing, to singing, learning and watching movies together. And I must not forget, they're always up our sleeves for something to eat. Yeah, summer here is all about the girls... I mean 7 little sassy girls. They're all we have in the family.

7-1 = 6

the youngest member of the family I guess was asleep when I took this picture of them

The 7th of April was my daughter, Kate 10th birthday. I was a little disappointed that day (though I tried not to show it) because my digicamera's charger suddenly stopped working so I had to resort to my notebook's webcam just so I can take some keepsakes of her birthday.

Around first week of May we shopped for school supplies... I don't do well with rush buying so I had to set that date earlier. Can't carry the lappy all day long while shopping so no pictures for that event. Duh, don't you think it's awkward? So I had to keep trying to make that charger work since I can't find a replacement from any local Kodak stores around. I didn't know really how I did it but call it a wonder coz it just went from being 'irate to nice', lol! (Hmm, didn't it sound like me?)

There you go... my girls sporting their new school bags with the rest of their stuffs in it.

Then there's just the three of us...

All the while I thought it has to end right too just like how it started but I was so damn wrong. Something came up somewhere along the finish line that made me feel like I was buried down in a rat hole where there's no easy way out. But that's a different story I would rather not talk about.

Well, as of this writing the girls are already back to their dad's. I never once like the idea of them living away from me but for them I'm always trying to be hopeful things will get better in time.

back to school thrills

2011-05-29T18:44:00.001+08:00

Few days more to go before classes starts. The shopping mania is finally over and now it’s time for us parents to set the kids’ mind for that big opening day. As parents we are just as thrilled as them... but knowing kids, they can easily adapt in less time.

I wish the same too for my 4-year old niece, Sabina. I remember the last time when sister and I took her to their Childcare Malahide Road - like school for the first time, she couldn’t go in because she thinks she knows no one there and that made her scared. Such are beginners. Over time though she managed to surmount that fear and that made us all glad. I believe the teachers also played a huge part with her fast development. Sister made the right decision for choosing that learning center for her daughter.

This time around the all keyed up Sabina and the rest of the girls in our household are going to go out along with thousands of other children from different parts of the country come first Monday of June for the first day of school. I wish them all young ones good luck and same goes to all the mommies out there.

sky watch friday #2 gloomy

2011-05-27T16:50:00.001+08:00

Life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating.

~O. Henry, The Gifts of the Magi ~