Makeover Mode

A belated Merry Christmas to all. We've been super busy, which is why I haven't been able to update my blogs as much as I would have wanted to. This includes the parties and now, the major stocktake sales at the malls! Hubby and I are currently window shopping for stuff for the house. Mostly, we are keen on getting our storage problem solved, but I would also like to check out outdoor lighting for our deck as the bulb there seems to be not working. We are on our mini home makeover mode, hence all the home improvements.

Some cookie I am

You Are Biscotti



You are a very direct, honest person. You don't have time for dramatics or emotional pleas. You feel most comfortable in the intellectual realm, especially with science and technology. You are good at understanding difficult subjects. Understanding people? Not so much.

What Holiday Cookie Are You?

Ha! A biscotti? I reckon this quiz has got it all wrong. LOL.

Busy as a bee

It's almost the weekend, and oh boy, the start of all the madness as well! In fact, tomorrow, we'll be having our first Christmas party, complete with gift exchanges, and as it is potluck, I will start preparing my dishes as early as today. The gifts are all wrapped and ready, save for a couple, but basically we are raring to go. I just need to get a few more work done on the PC, including cleaning up our system memory to make way for more downloads and pictures from the parties. Oh, and our anniversary is coming up on Monday, so I guess I won't be back until then. So for now, have a great weekend!

Freebie Overload

Goodness, I didn't realise this digiscrap blog of mine would take a mind of its own! For those not in the know, I've started a blog featuring different digiscrapping freebies from all over the net a few months ago. I thought I was going to feature a freebie or two every now and then, but have you seen how I am posting recently? I reckon I am posting about 15 freebies per day now and I think it's because of the Christmas season as it's a favorite theme among the scrappers. The volume is huge considering I've other blogs to update but it's all good. If you have time, please head over to Scrappy Freebies to see what the heck I am talking about, and pick up a freebie or two while you're there. :)

Speaking of Frustrations...

Would you believe that one of my frustrations is not being able to wear a pair of eyeglasses? I know, it's absurd. But I remember when I was younger that I may have psyched myself to have these sudden eyesight problems, just to see an optometrist in the hopes that he would prescribe me some specs. I don't know. I just like the intelligent look it gives. Again, being absurd here. LOL.

Anyway, had I truly been diagnosed with an eyesight problem, I would certainly have checked out the Holiday Glass Frames from Zenni Optical. They are one of the popular online eyeglasses shop as they offer great deals on a variety of specs like their $ 8 Complete Rx Eyeglasses. Gosh, that would definitely be a dream come true for me -- to shop for eyeglasses!

What's wrong with Yahoo?

I don't know if you've noticed and if you are experiencing it too, but I cannot access my emails at Yahoo. It is extremely frustrating to know that you may have a few messages put on hold because you just have no way of getting to them. And as I regular check all my inboxes (and that's like more than 5 to start with), my daily routine has been put off. I'll try a different computer next time, because maybe it's my laptop that's the problem. But I certainly doubt that. Will Yahoo management fix this bug ASAP, pretty please?!

Not on the list (again!)

I've received an email from a family friend about our menu for the lunch party on the 25th. I'll be whipping up my pasta dish which has got prawns, pesto and sundried tomato. I guess my cheesecake's not on the menu this year, though I might serve it for dessert on the 24th instead. I haven't made some in a while which is probably why I am quite keen on baking it for this holiday season. But everyone will have to watch out for the calories though, as this baby can pack quite a punch on the tummy! Maybe Lipovox will be of good use at this time. LOL.

What it means to me...

What The Holidays Mean to You


For you, the holidays are about emotional connections and bonds. You are happiest being around those you love. You celebrate the holidays in a minimalist style. You are likely to only give one great present and decorate your house with a few special items. During the holidays, you feel happily busy. There's so much do to and not a lot of time to do it. But you enjoy every minute of your holiday chores. You think the holidays should be nostalgic and sweet. The holidays bring out your inner child. Your best holiday memories are of childhood foods and traditions. You secretly still wish you believed in Santa Claus.

What Do the Holidays Mean to You?

Oh boy, I wish I were back home in Manila. There's nothing like being with your family (with hubby and the little girl of course!) at this time of the year. *sniff*

Wedding Bells

About a week from now, hubby and I will be celebrating our third year church wedding anniversary. Only three years, but it already seems more than that! Since we are on a tight budget, we're not checking in at a hotel this time. We did that last year. This year though, we will just have a nice lunch in the city with the little girl. We're having yum cha, which is what I have been craving for for some time now so diet pills are certainly out of the picture. LOL. As for the gifts, we'll just wait when Boxing Day arrives. More things to buy then, even with the same amount of cash.

Oh, and speaking of weddings, my brother R is planning to get hitched sometime end of next year, which means only one thing -- Yes, we are taking another holiday, and this time it will be merrier as it's around Christmas. Woohoo! :)

Blindly Disappointed

Just as I thought. The blinds did not come as scheduled. Hubby contacted the suppliers today to follow up on our order. And I reckon, it's a good thing he did, because these people may not have kept their promise that the blinds would be installed before the Christmas. Goodness, and it is just ten days away, so they really was being literal about it. Anyway, I do hope they come down here on Saturday or on Monday at the latest to get those things installed, so we can finally have a good Krissy pic in front of our tree ASAP!

Home Changes

Speaking of shopping, I can't wait for the Boxing Day sales. We'll probably be able to get good deals on discount furniture. As the blinds are coming in anytime now before Christmas, we'd also need to upgrade on a few furniture pieces to slowly get the new look we want for our home. The blinds will certainly have a bigger impact, but I am sure the interiors will also have some effect once we get things organised. i just love this makeover process! :)

The Shopper In Me

You Are a Discount Shopper
You love to get things as cheaply as possible. You live for sales.

It's partially because you like to save money, but it's also because you like the thrill of finding a fabulous deal.

Of all the types, you tend to shop frequently but rarely by. You keep an eye on prices.

Brand names are not that important to you. You know how to have style without collecting designer tags.

What Kind of Shopper Are You?

Certainly what hubby needs in this time of recession! LOL. :)

Not On The List

We did a wee bit of Christmas shopping last Saturday, but it was not enough to put a dent on my shopping list at all. It's December already but I am not even halfway through my mission! Panic, panic! I can tell you one thing though. I bought sexy lingerie, for myself that is, and that was not on the list, nor on my budget at all! Well, consider it as my Christmas gift to myself. LOL.

Thoughts to Ponder On

I got this from one of my e-groups a couple of days ago. Definitely some food for thought! :)

Life is too short to wake up with regrets.
So love the people who treat you right.
Love the ones who don't just because you can.
Believe everything happens for a reason.
If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands.
If it changes your life, let it.
Kiss slowly.
Forgive quickly.
God never said life would be easy.
He just promised it would be worth it.

Gift Suggestion

Are you still wondering what to get your loved ones for Christmas? If they wear prescription glasses and you just happen to know the grades on their lenses, then why not check out the Holiday Glass Frames from Zenni Optical? They offer cheap yet good quality specs in different styles and colors to suit everyone's tastes. That is why they are known as the popular online eyeglasses shop as they have deals like the $ 8 Complete Rx Eyeglasses. So get online now, and see if you can pick up an item or two at their store.

To Approach or Not To Approach

... That is the question.

You Are Somewhat Approachable

You are a fairly friendly person, and you're definitely not scaring people away. You do tend to have your guard up strangers, and rightfully so. How approachable you are depends on who is trying to approach you. You're friendly to people who seem harmless and nice. But you also know how to give creepy people the cold shoulder!

Are You Approachable?

In this day and age, you never know what people's intentions are so might as well be on the safe side.

Finding Out The Culprit

Well, I am off my medications now. It is actually day two since I stopped popping my pills. I have not been the person I was, and I honestly blame it on my meds as they were hormonal in nature. Among all the side effects that I had experienced, being able to go back to my pre-pregnancy weight was the only positive one. Maybe it was also an appetite suppresant for all I know. Now I will have to observe if there will be any significant changes. If I go fat, but am back to the happier person I was then I can certainly conclude that those pills were the culprit.

In A Rut

There are days when you cannot just find the inspiration to write. Sometimes you just feel so emotionally and physically drained that there seems to be no creative bone left in your body. Things happen. People change. I just can't handle that right now.

Specs Envy

Ever since I could remember, I have always envied my friends who wore eyeglasses, especially those who sported the stylish and classy ones. I do not know if I should be glad that I have perfect vision, but deep down, I really do want to have a pair of specs for myself.

And if I did the get the chance to, I would definitely give Zenni Optical a go because of the Variable Dimension Frames From Zenni, and you really get Great Eyeglasses For Less. In fact, they sell quality eyeglasses at such a bargain that Zenni Optical was on FOX news! If that's not enough to convince you, maybe you should check out the video clip of Zenni on Fox.

Brush Up!

If you are an amateur with makeup (like me), these tool tips from Beauty Heaven will definitely come in handy when you are trying get your gear together for a good makeup kit.

Top tool #1: Eyelash curlers
All of our resident experts said eyelash curlers, eyelash curlers, eyelash curlers! One even swore blind that they boosted the effect of mascara by at least 50 per cent. So only slightly important for creating that lush lash look.

beautyheaven loves: Ardell Heated Eyelash Curler

Top tool #2: Foundation brush
For flawless foundation, always apply with a brush. It’s a make-up must-have for the experts.

beautyheaven loves: Red Earth Foundation Brush

Top tool #3: Eye brush
Wondering why your smoky eye is more Rocky Horror than smokin’ hot? It’s probably because you’re using the little applicators that come with the compact (perfect for a touch-up but not the real deal). Start blending with a good quality brush and you’ll be amazed at the difference. We promise.

beautyheaven loves: Clinique Eye Shadow Brush

Top tool #4: Brow brush
Brows frame the face. Fact. And if you can’t quite get to the brow bar (or face a pluck), a quick brush of your brows will leave you good as new in no time. Just don’t go getting obsessed. It’s not like we are. Not at all.

beautyheaven loves: Serge Louis Alvarez Eyebrow Brush P2

Top tool #5: Big bronzer brush
The bigger the better according to make-up guru Yolanda Lukowski. That way, you get a more natural coverage. Her top tip? “You want to sweep it over the face, not on concentrated areas, also dust quickly over your decolletage and shoulders too.”

beautyheaven loves: Bloom Retractable Bronzer Brush

Top tool #6: Nail file
Ladies don’t bite. They don’t tear either. So make sure you always have an emery board to hand – we love them; there’s a gorgeously old Hollywood glamour feel about filing your nails. Wouldn’t granny be proud!

beautyheaven loves: Fing'rs 2 Black Files

Top tool #7: Toothbrush
You can tell a lot about a girl by her shoes and her smile. Snap up a battery operated one (plonked right between electric and manual pricewise) and dazzle everyone with your pearly whites.

beautyheaven loves: Spinbrush Pro Clean – Medium Brush

Top tool #8: Tweezers
As make-up pro Elsa Morgan says, “polished brows give a lovely lift to a face at any age.” Slanty, pointy, the choice is yours. Of course, if you’re indecisive – like us – you’re best bet is to go for dual-ended.

beautyheaven loves: Manicare 2 in 1 Tweezers

Top tool #9: Rosewater
Hair and make-up artist Nicole Groch swears by rosewater. According to the pro, it’s great over and under make-up as it refreshes, restores, tones and hydrates the skin. All together now: good skin = good make-up.

beautyheaven loves: Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist

Top tool #10: Clean hands
Your hands are your best tool – as Yolanda says, “you can do anything with 10 fingers to blend make-up with!” But always keep them clean: grubby grime and bountiful bacteria are never going to be the shades of the season.

beautyheaven loves: Dettol Healthy Touch Moisture Liquid Hand Wash

I have 4 out of 10, so I guess I better do a bit more shopping to complete the set. Not that I am complaining eh? LOL.

More on Driving

Speaking of driving, J took me out for my first official driving lesson in two years. The last one I got from him was before I was even pregnant with our daughter, so you can imagine my anxiety before we took off. I was all tense and nervous, and my hands hurt while grabbing on to the steering wheel. But when we were driving towards Tharwa bridge, the "rural-ness" of the place seemed to calmed my nerves. I did not realise that we lived just near such rural areas, and the scenery was just awesome. There were no houses in site, just animals grazing on the vast land. I think we would have needed a mobile router had we used our phones in that area. I regret for not taking my camera along. It would have been awesome taking those beautiful landscape shots.

Oh, and I digress. After 40 minutes of driving around using a stick shift within our suburb and nearby rural area, J gave me a 6 out of 10. I hope next time I can score a bit higher. :)

Driving Quiz

What Your Driving Says About You

You are generally an easy going, laid back person. However, you can't help but feel a little jealous and competitive sometimes! You are always increasing your awareness of the world around you. You are a life long learner. You are a very fair person. You treat everyone equally, even when it's difficult to do. You are a calm, peaceful person. You realize that arguments are only temporary, and you try to give people the benefit of the doubt. You have mixed feelings about authority figures. You understand their place, but you believe their power needs to be in check. You are somewhat focused, but you are also a bit scatterbrained. Distractions can get you in trouble. You are a very responsible and conscientious person. You often consider the feelings and needs of others. Your ego is normally in check, but sometimes you get a bit egotistical. You tend to be a little self-important at times.

What Does Your Driving Say About You?

Break Needed

I was raring to check out those Outer Banks rentals, because I would have wanted to go somewhere out of town during the long Christmas break. A change of scenery would have been nice but some family members from Melbourne will be coming up to see us during the holidays, so I guess that holiday escape is out of the question. I hope we get another chance to go on holidays before the year ends. I reckon we deserve a break from all the hustle and bustle from time to time.

Ambivalent

Gosh, this financial crises sure is a major one. The exchange rates has surprised me because my stint in paid blogging allows me to change my earnings to the Aussie Dollar and the difference is sometimes really huge! Personally, it is a good thing because I get paid more, but J reckons it isn't a great thing for the economy. Well, I believe him, as he has worked in Finance before and he knows what he's talking about. These are trying times indeed.

Gift Ideas

Can you believe October is almost over? Christmas is just around the corner, and I have yet to make plans for the holidays. One of the more important concerns are the gifts for our family and friends. I am particularly in charge of that, especially since J is not much of a shopper. It still remains to be a challenge when coming up with ideas of what to give the kids. While I would want to give them something educational or long lasting, and would want to refrain from giving toys (like an rc helicopter for the little boys), it breaks my heart to see their disappointed faces when they get something as boring as clothes. Their faces do light up when they receive a new toy, and sometimes that's just all you want to see. Ah yes, another dilemma for me to deal with.

PBF Raffle Deadline Extended!

Here's a new announcement I made regarding the raffle that's ongoing at Pinay Bloggers' Forum.

I’ve been really busy these past few weeks that I have not really had time to go around informing more people about the raffle going on at PBF. As such, I am extending the deadline of submission of entries to the 29th of November (11 PM Phil Time). You heard it right. That is a full months’ extension so that more Pinay Bloggers can join. Announcement of the winner will be at 8PM (Phil Time) on the 30th of November, Sunday, which also happens to be Bonifacio Day in the Philippines. This will be the first and last extension for this round. For those still not in the know about the contest mechanics, please click here.

Birthday Reminder

Tomorrow is my sister's birthday. Well, actually it's her twin and her birthday. They will be turning 2 decades old, which makes me feel really old. I can't believe how time flies. I can still remember when I was just 12, and I was helping my mom taking care of them. And now, they're all grown up, graduating from college in a few months' time.

I was thinking of giving them a magnetic bracelet each, but finally decided to just give them some cash. They love shopping online, so I reckon, the flexibility will allow them to get whatever they want for themselves. I hope they get something really nice, and they better show them to me! LOL.

Slow Poke

You Are 40% Hyper

You aren't exactly hyper, but no one would accuse you of being lazy either. You have enough drive to get everything done - with energy to spare. You don't get overly worked up or rushed. You'll happily take your time. And you definitely enjoy your down time. You can only be hyper for so long. Unlike more hyper types, you don't have a ton of interests and friends. You prefer concentrating on what matters to spreading yourself too thin.

How Hyper Are You?

Yeah, I can be a bit sloooooow. LOL. J, of all people, would know that for a fact. :)

The Things That Parents Do

Living in the technology age has its advantages and disadvantages. The Internet has certainly has its perks, but of course, as with everyday normal life, there will always be bad elements out there. The WWW is a good tool, of course, if used responsibly. It is so much a part of my life, and I am sure it will also be the same for the future generation, if not more. The little girl may be far too young now to enjoy the benefits of having an internet connection. But when she is old enough, I reckon I will become the paranoid mom every mom becomes when they see their kids chatting and surfing online. I am afraid I may have to use a keylogger just to monitor her daily logs. It's not really something I would want to resort to, but, hey, a parent's got to do what she's got to do!

Still on L'Oreal

This is the newest addition to my makeup stash -- L'Oreal's Touche Magique Concealer. It's not a really a newly released product by L'Oreal, but I have been seeing it so much on eBay and have read great reviews on it, that I decided to check it out myself. And I am glad I did! I oftentimes get really dark circles under the eyes, and I have been on the look-out for a good concealer that'll help cover them up. Touche Magique works for me, and it certainly brightens my eyes even more. I just love the over-all effect, when I lay a decent amount of mineral foundation on top of it. It definitely gave my skin a smooth flawless finish! :)

Skin Concerns

I have been lucky enough not to have acne or major breakouts ever since I could remember. My only skin problem is moisture as it tends to get really dry in the cold months. It was a good thing I was able to consult a dermatologist back home and was able to get relief from the itchy red skin I has having from too much dryness. My basic essentials supply is starting to run low now, and am really thinking of having them shipped from the Philippines to me here, as I could not find any similar product here. Ah yes, the things we do for beauty! :P

Shameless Plug: Scrappy Freebies

Scrappy Freebies is the most recent blog I have created. It features a collection of select digital scrapbooking freebies found on the net. I am only showcasing those that appeal to me, hence the word select. If you are a digiscrapper and love freebies as much as I do, I hope you can head over to Scrappy Freebies. And while you are there, don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter so you can be updated everytime I post a new lead on a great freebie.

Party Socials

We've been attending birthdays almost everyday of this week. There are lots of October celebrants, and in our family alone we have 6! Imagine that! Gosh, it felt like Christmas as we came with a big bag of presents for all of them. Hehe. And yes, as with all parties, the food was overflowing. There goes my exercise regime, which really tempts me to take a peek at the latest diet pill reviews. I know they're the easy way out. But I am not about to give in just yet. :P

Busy, Busy

I've only little time to spare today. My sister-in-law's husband will be getting the surprise of his life later tonight as she prepared this surprise birthday dinner for him. He's just turned 50, a big milestone, in this day and age. And as part of the celebration, my SIL has tasked us to prepare a photo slideshow as a tribute to him, and a little layout that we can use as a sort of screensaver while the party is going on. It's rare that I digiscrap, but I reckon this called for one from me. Here's a simple layout that I did. I sure hope they like it! *fingers crossed*

Living the Dream

A former co-worker of mine is packing her bags and making the move to the Big Apple. I reckon it won't be an easy task, but it's a long time dream for her to finally be able to live and work there so I guess it's all worth the hard work. She'll probably need a good New York Moving Company to help her with her stuff, but more importantly, she's lucky that one of our friends is also based there to help her settle in fast. It looks like all is working out for her and I am happy that's she's finally going to live the American dream.

Getting the Chills

Gosh, I can't believe this weather. Recently, we've been having very windy days. It's been very nippy, and what better time to occur when our heating system is busted, hey? Really crappy I tell you. So, it's a good thing we have our column heaters on stand by. Otherwise, I would not know how we could have coped with the cold. It's like freezing winter all over again in October. I hope the weather improves the next couple of days, at least until we get the heat back on.

Makeover Dreams

I am in constant search for the perfect living space design. Since getting our own home, it has something that has been a passion of mine, like investing in renovations that will certainly increase the value of our home. On my list are getting new blinds, new carpet for the bedrooms, timber flooring for the lounge, new sofa and storage space, probably getting home theater lighting as well, and yes repainting the entire house for a fresher new look. There's lots really to do. Now, it is all a question of money. That, of course, is a different problem to deal with. :P

Monday?!?

You Are Monday

Like this day of the week, you are ruled by the moon. More than anything, you are flexible. You are moody and impressionable. You are easily influenced by the world around you. And while you can be temperamental, you eventually adjust. While Mondays tend to be the hardest day for people, you don't mind getting back to regular life. You're the one waking up early and making the coffee while everyone else complains.

What Day of the Week Are You?

Gosh, I can't believe I am a Monday. When I used to work, I didn't like Mondays at all. This time though, staying at home, I have no weekend to speak of, as everyday is a work day, and am especially busy on the weekends when hubby is home.

Tube Schmoob

I am getting frustrated with our TV in the master's bedroom. The TV, I reckon is perfectly fine. It's the reception I am very irritated about because even with a set top box (yes, our set's not yet HD), it can only manage to get a few channels on the screen. Practically, the set is useless as we don't get to watch anything much on it, which leads me sometimes into thinking of just getting a high definition LCD type. There are probably good tv deals out there, but with budget constraints and all, I guess we will just to suck it in for the meantime. *sigh*

Raffle at PBF

Would you want to score a free subdomain? There's a raffle going on at Pinay Bloggers' Forum. If you are interested to join, please click on the image below for more details.

Gadget Freak

I can be a gadget freak at times. Though am not much into gaming and acquiring the latest playstation 3, I do love my cameras. They are my latest downfalls, as my recent investment was an DSLR type. I have no regrets though because it performs well and does the job that I require. I'm still not over my cam obsession though as I am keen on getting a new point-and-shoot digicam to upgrade my 4-year-old 5MP one. I am eyeing the 14MP by Canon. But that'll have to wait for now. :)

Loving L'Oreal

I am a recent mineral makeup convert. I have never been much of a makeup person but with all the hype on mineral makeup going on, I decided to give it a go, just to see if it was something that I can learn to love.

My first attempt was when I purchased L'Oreal's True Match Mineral Foundation in Buff Beige. I am glad I gave it a chance because it really does wonders! I've never liked that heavy, cake-y feeling that some foundations gave. Though this one gave me great coverage, it felt so light on my skin I can barely notice it. Even J noticed how beautiful the finish was, and that for me was the true test of good makeup, as men don't usually notice these kinds of things. I've recently purchased their blush in Soft Rosewood, and it has not failed to impress me once again.

Feeling Paranoid

Sometimes I feel like we have no privacy anymore in this world of ours. Everything is exposed and we are more connected and linked to each other especially with the advent of the internet. And yeah, don't forget the security cameras, that's installed in almost all public places. Ah well, I guess that's the price we have to pay for the advancements in technology. At some point, there's always going to have a pay off of some sort.

Impossibly Irresistable

This is the latest item I have in my makeup bag -- Clinique's Impossibly Glossy Lip Gloss in Plum Passion. As I have mentioned earlier, I have been shopping around for products which suit me, and this one certainly takes the cake! I am not much of a lip gloss fan as they tend to be really sticky and thick. Also, to much shimmer is not my thing. But when I tried Clinique's IGLG, I fell in love with it.

Why? Because even if it is a lip gloss, it was very light on the lips but at the same time giving you that little bit of shine and color, without being too overdone. this one's a winner for me, and I am quite keen in trying out the other shades as well. That is my new obsession now. :)

Big Day Ahead

Oh boy, my big exam is just two days away, and I am hardly beside myself. I hope all that reviewing will pay off. After all, this is my final chance in getting that OTR title to my name, and it would be such a shame if I would be unsuccessful in the end. The pressure is mounting, no doubt. But J says reassuringly that it is not the end of the world if I don't pass it. I will surely take that on board. Gosh, after all this hard work, you would think I would want to jump on a plane and go on one of those Vegas vacations, right? But no, I just want to go back to the way things were. It's like having a thorn taken out, once this exam is over.

Qantas is losing it

Gosh, it seems like Qantas has been having bad days more than I am. The recent mishap has gotten a lot of passengers hurt and that definitely does not help in reviving their image as one of the safest airline companies in the world.

I am taking a Qantas flight tomorrow and though I am not normally queasy about flying, the accident sure has made me doubtful about tomorrow's flight. Let's pray all goes well, and I don't figure into being a victim of one of their plane's malfunctions. Touch wood!

Car Envy

J and I are thinking of getting a new car. Our old but still working one needs a major paint job, but having that done would be too much expensive. I reckon we are better off buying a new one than getting the repair job done. But since, we just bought our house, I guess this other luxury will have to take a backseat for now. Besides, of all the things that you can invest in, a car is said to be one of the worst because of its fast depreciating value as it gets older, not to mention that it can be expensive in the long run if you consider all the maintenance costs as well (which makes you think of getting cheap auto insurance too). Priorities, priorities, priorities!

Brunette

Your Hair Should Be Brown

You are an intelligent, well respected person. You are very confident. You take yourself seriously, and other people take you seriously too. You are a good leader, and you can be trusted with someone's life. You motivate people well, and you command respect easily. You are competent, successful, and organized. You can't stand chaos. Some people mistake you for being cold, calculating, or elitist.

What Color Hair Should You Have?

Well, it is brown. Dark brown, that is! Even if I am Asian, I have never had that black hair Asians are most known for. :)

Going Gaga Over Makeup

The title says it all, eh? I reckon the makeup bug also bit me, and since then, I have been itching to shop around for different goodies in the stores and online. I have been visiting various kiosks and counters as well to test some products and see what's suited for me.

I haven't really been a makeup fan. I have always been just a face powder and lipstick/lipgloss kind of girl. But I think our last trip to Manila may have sparked my interest as my little sisters were more makeup freaks than I was!

Anyway, I have been doing some research and realise that it is better to buy your stuff online as it is way cheaper. And as such, the bad thing about it though is you get hooked into buying and buying more stuff. Yes, I am guilty as charged! LOL.

Now that I've got a substanstial loot in my bag, the next obvious thing for me to do is prevent zits! I must look into possible acne treatments should the need arise. God forbid!

Transitions

I have always been a member of The Knot, ever since we got into planning our wedding a few years back. Gosh, the website has surely grown so much since I last saw it. I say this because I have graduated now on to The Nest and just recently, The Bump. Their empire is growing fast, much like a family usually does, which I find is a fab idea because they get to keep their members' loyalty by still keep them within their ring of websites. What a genius! I wonder what's next on their agenda...

Escape

Gosh, I am up to my neck with chores and I am having difficulty trying to squeeze in some time for my review. The exam is only a couple weeks away, which is why I am in a bit of a state of panic. I wish I could just disappear for a few days and escape everything. Maybe a stay at a faraway lavish and exotic resort and playing some Orlando golf would be a wonderful getaway. That would be lovely! Yeah right, dream on...

Spring has sprung!

Yes, spring is definitely in. Though it can be a bit cool still in the evenings, it sure is getting warmer during the day, so much so that I find myself just wearing regular cotton tees, without the usual jacket. It is so unlike me as I tend to be a jacket wearer even during spring. Speaking of warmer weather, we better make sure our ac compressor is up and running. We've never tried turning our A/C on yet, so I reckon it's best to check while it is still early.

Wordle

Have you heard of Wordle? It's a really fun way to create some wordart, plus you also get to pick the words you use on your creation.

This one here is something I created last week. The words are from one of my favorite songs at the moment. See if you can figure out the title and artist for this song.

On Mobiles

Filipinos love their phones. In fact, I'll bet most of them own more than one unit. That's because mobile phone companies offer different packages and you get more advantages in the long run. I have two phones myself, one for my Oz number and another for my Philippine roaming number. I make sure to get a unit that's open so I can just switch phones anytime, which is why I am not really a fan of unlocked cell phones. I feel so tied by them! :P

For the Hubby

It's Father's Day tomorrow here in Oz, and I've no idea yet as to what to give the hubby. I have asked him a couple of weeks before of things that he might need, but he said to not get him anything. I know he needs something. It could be one of those Guess watches, some brand new undies and socks. There must be something! I'll try to rummage through his closet and see if I can come up with anything.

Exploring Other Options

In this day and age, it is better to have as much options as you can. I, for one, am taking an important certification exam so that I may have the option to practice my profession in the US and probably check out jobs in San Francisco. J is with me on this. In fact, he was the one who convinced me to apply for the exam and take my chances. Talk about being supportive, hey? :)

The Wedding Dress

What Your Ideal Wedding Dress Says About You

Your Personal Style: Classic and elegant. You prefer to make a statement with a few quality pieces. Your Ideal Wedding: Traditional and formal, but not tacky. You think the most beautiful weddings are understated. Your Philosophy on Marriage: It's a serious commitment, and the couple entering it should be ready to work for their relationship. Your Perfect Marriage: Is calm, stable, deep, and meaningful.

The Wedding Dress Test

I wish I'd taken this test when I still planning our wedding. :)

More Wishful Thinking

J and I are planning to renovate the house. Now that it is ours, we can basically do anything we want with it. We are probably checking out some blinds or curtain suppliers today, along with modern furniture to keep our stuff in. It is just to get an idea of how much it will cost us to get the things we want so we can save appropriately for it. I am pretty excited because I reckon our home does need a bit of a makeover. I wish the home makeover show was airing here and chose us so we don't have to spend as much. Just some wishful thinking!

Having a Happy Marriage

It's been three years for us today. There have been lots of challenges, arguments, debates, and what-nots, but we are still together! :)

To celebrate this special day, here are a few pointers that I picked up. I hope you find them helpful as it was to us.

1. Instead of trying to change something, he or she does - change you! Far too often, people get married with the belief they can simply change the person they married, molding him or her into the "perfect" mate. Instead, you need to accept your mate for the person he/she is. If a behavior needs to be changed, then provide support and encouragement. For example, if your husband complains about not having clean clothes, rather than nag at him, show him how to launder his shirts, jeans, or whatever it is he needs.

2. Communication is a key ingredient to any successful marriage. That means talking through situations rather than bottling up or yelling. By showing respect, you can work together as a couple should. With this, the two of you can talk to understand the other person's side better.

3. Keep intimacy as a part of the marriage. Remember, this person is the one you love, the one you want to share your life with, which means letting go of inhibitions. Intimacy is an excellent way to stay close, doing wonders for any marriage.

4. Accept the flaws in your spouse. Since no one is perfect, you want to learn to appreciate the differences between the two of you. If your husband wakes up with bad hair or your wife is grumpy, love him/her, in spite of the flaws (which includes changing body weights so read more on that Lipovox review).

5. Learn to ignore the small stuff. Every marriage faces challenges, some big and some small. Remind yourself that life is precious and short. Therefore, focus on the larger battles, working through them as a team while letting go of the incidentals that in the big scheme of things does not matter.

6. Make sure you choose your battles wisely. If you are going to pick something apart, make sure it really matters. Unfortunately, unresolved arguments are a big issue in marriages, often leading to divorce. Therefore, unless the issue is something significant, learn to let some things roll off your back.

7. Time for friends is also crucial. Once every other week, you should both take one day or evening to spend time apart and with same-sex friends. This will help you maintain your own identity and appreciate the time you have with your spouse.

8. Never take your spouse for granted. Again, life is too precious. Instead, find things that your partner does well or things that please you and let him/her know. If your husband is outside working on the car, take time to bring him a cold glass of tea or lemonade...just because. If your wife has been home all day with the children, hire a babysitter and surprise her with a dinner out.

9. Date... just because you are now legally married, you should not stop dating. Every Friday or Saturday night, even if you have children, make a date. This could be something as simple as bowling and beer or a romantic dinner and concert. The activity is not important, just that you get time for just the two of you.

10. Be forgiving with your partner. You will be faced with tough times and you have a choice of forgiving him/her when a mistake happens or carrying it in the marriage. Obviously, if you do not forgive, the marriage will suffer. Therefore, if resolution is found, swallow your pride and forgive your mate, letting the new day be another beginning.

Source: Families.com

My Bed!

What Your Bed Says About You

Outward appearances are very important to you. You do your best to look good and have an attractive home. You try to be an organized person, but you often fall behind. Certain parts of your life tend to fall into chaos. You are not very high maintenance in general, but you are high maintenance about a few things. In relationships, you tend to be quite dominant. You enjoy taking charge. You tend to be a down to earth, practical person. You think in terms of what is actual. You are a total homebody. You are happiest when you're at home.

What Does Your Bed Say About You?

There is some truth to that alright! :)

Thoughts on Cars

Our trusty car maybe set to retire anytime soon. Although it still runs fairly well for a 14-year-old car, it badly needs a paint job. For some reason, we've noticed this batch of models all have the same problem. It doesn't look presentable in fact because it appears to look like someone poured sulfuric acid on top of it. No kidding. And a paint job could probably cost us an arm and a leg here so it might be better to just get a new one. Of course, it goes without saying that we would also need to get car insurance for it as well. We'll see. And if that does happen, I am going to make sure we get it on automatic, so I can learn to drive here more easily. :)

Dream On

One of the few things that J and I dream about when the time comes for us to retire is to have a business of our own. I think it is more so with J as he really seems to be keen on the idea of being his own boss and managing a really good enterprise. It is usually the topic of discussion between him and his younger brother, as they most often brainstorm on business ideas whenever they get together. And while they are into that, they might as well consider what business performance management software will be needed in order for their endeavors to succeed. Well, dream on, after all dreams are free! :)

The Eyes Have It

You are the Sense of Sight

You are a very observant, detail oriented person. You are able to take in a lot of information at once. You often see things that other people never notice. You have a good eye for design and aesthetics. You love to be surrounded by beauty - natural or not. When you imagine how something should look, you see it clearly in your mind.

Which of the Five Senses Are You?

Can't argue with that! :)

Studying concerns

All I really need to do now is sit down and study. Hard, real hard! The Amazon books I bought have arrived months ago, but I have not yet been able to flip through its pages. My earlier blog post discusses the many reasons why.

To be honest, I am starting to feel a little panic now, especially since I plan on taking the exam in about a month's time. I am no way ready yet and I am not sure if I will be able to finishing reviewing just in time. Make or break!!!

Random mumblings

It's hard trying to accomplish everything you want in a single day. There's nothing more frustrating than planning out a schedule for my day then, ending up not getting anything done. Mostly, the unpredictability factor is due to the little girl. My major problem right now is that she sleeps awfully late at night. This is probably because of the fact that her body clock is still set to Manila's time zone, which is two hours behind Oz (eastern time). As such, it does not give me enough time for the things that need to be done, which includes studying for an important certification exam and completing all my blog assignments.

Shopping around

My father-in-law is on the look-out for a new laptop, seeing as how convenient it is to bring your computer just about anywhere in your home, especially now that he's also installed a wireless router for his internet connection. We've suggested a few brands and models including the Toshiba Satellite, but it seems that he is still biding his time to check out and study all his options. He's a smarter shopper you see, so unlike me who can be quite impulsive. LOL.

Brangelina's Twins

Photo swiped from People

Oh wow, can you believe it photos of Brangelina's twins is worth almost 15 million Aussie dollars? That's (more than) enough to set them for life. But apparently, their parents being humanitarians, have arranged to have the money sent to a charity as a donation. That's some lucky organization for you!

Staying active

Those diet pills just don't do it for me. As far as I am concerned, only exercise is the way to my weight loss. I've proven this countless of times. High activity levels seem to be the effective way for me to lose the weight. So here I am trying to get back some sort of activity in my life. It's going to take lots of commitment from my part, but I am sure I will manage inspite of my busy schedule. Just the same, wish me luck! :)

Freezing

It is cold. Period. The wind has been blowing real hard ever since the day began, and it's been howling like mad for hours. You cannot convince me to get out of the house in this freezing weather. I would not even dare. Who knows what I might catch? Plus, I am sure that my skin will suffer the most. It's already complaining now as I am only indoors. What more when I take a step outside our door? I am just glad it's not acne treatment I am undergoing. I hope it's only nothing a little moisturiser can't fix.

A Sucker for Romance

I was going through some old movie clips on Youtube, and stumbled upon this scene from the Bridges of Madison County which stars Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. It is such a heart-wrenching scene! I just had to share it because I am a sucker for tear-jerker scenes like this.

Home Fears

We've got the house now so now we are faced with the reality of being able to pay for our mortgage on time and on a regular basis so that there won't be foreclosure. Yikes! That would have to be our greatest fear. That is why I am keen on getting back into work force soon so we can afford to pay for it and still have enough for us to save. Let's face it. Times are tough now and being practical about these things is sometimes the only way to go.

Fair Enough

You Have Fairly Healthy Relationships

You try your best in relationships, and you do a pretty good job. You're as considerate, honest, and giving as you can be. There's always more that you can do, and sometimes you do leave people feeling a bit neglected. Great relationships don't happen overnight. As long as you keep making improvements, your relationships will get better!

Do You Have Healthy Relationships?

Well Wishes

One of my co-therapists from my old place of work is leaving for the States near end of this year. She and her husband will be based in the Big Apple, where another one of our colleagues is currently living. At least, they won't be lonely and there'll be someone there who can help them out during the first few months they are there. All they need is a good mover NYC so that they can settle in well in their apartment and start living the dream they've always had. I just wish them the best of luck, as I know how dfficult it can be starting out on your own in a foreign and distant land.

Day Trip

We visited the beautiful city of Tagaytay yesterday, upon the request of my MIL. It was good that the heavens heard our prayers of no rain, as we were able to enjoy the views and take loads of pictures. In fact, I should've brought along a hat, as the sun was a bit glaring and my sunnies just weren't enough to combat the glare. Also, surprisingly, it was not as cool as I was expecting it to be. Actually, the weather up there was just about the same as it is here in the metro. Things change, eh? Blame it on global warming, I guess.

The Geek in Me

In a way, you could say I am a bit of a techie. I love my gadgets and would certainly save up some cash just to get my hands on them. My recent buys this year are my laptop and DSLR. Thanks to WiFi, I can access the web anywhere possible using my laptop, which makes me feel like I'm living my geekiness to a tee! Haha! Anyway, a good Bluetooth headset or a newer point-and-shoot digicam would be also great. Time to save up though and work really hard to get these boys. :)

Creepy Prediction

It's been a hot topic of late. There's this email that's been circulating around about an earthquake that's going to hit Manila on the 18th of July 2008. According to the Brazilian's prediction, lots of people are going to die. Pretty scary, especially since that date happens to be my parents in law's birthday. We all hope that it is just some silly prediction and that no such thing will happen. But then again, it never hurts to be prepared. Be safe, everyone!

The Digital Age

One of the things that I love about taking long vacations is the opportunity to take loads of photos of your experience. I remember the time before digicams came into existence, I'd buy tons of rolls of film and there was no guarantee that all the photos you took were great. But with the advent of point-and-shoot digital cameras, taking pictures is such a breeze and you can screen all the shots you took and pick out just the ones that you love. The only problem is you'd need a huge computer memory to accomodate these digital pictures and so that you can enjoy them. You win some, you lose some.

Adjustments

The little girl has undergone some major adjustments during her stay thus far in the Philippines. To be more specific, they are health changes more than anything else. I am not quite sure what the culprit is, but she has been having diarrhea on and off. There must be something in the water that's causing all of this, as we've seen major improvements in her bowel movements when we only offered her distilled water, instead of the usual boiled one. I am glad we have found a solution (at least for now) or we may have had resorted to a colon cleanser. Let's hope she does not get any of those bad episodes from hereon.

The Big Dipper

Here is a little trivia for the non-Pinoy. In the Philippines, it is not uncommon to see a pail and a dipper in the bathroom. Overhead showers and shower faucets are not a usual thing especially in the rural areas, as the bucket-and-dipper combination aims primarily to save the bather water, as this resource is sometimes limited in some areas of the country. That's your little bit of info for the day. :)

Traunt

Well, what can I say? I have been such a neglectful blogger of late. There are tons to keep me occupied these days, including reviewing for my exams, (still) taking care of the little girl and of course, visiting relatives and friends for a little catch up time.

And did I mention that the Philippines is still my favorite shopping haven? Apart from the cheap office supplies, clothes, shoes, accessories and what-nots are so affordable, that is impossible not to indulge in a little spree. I have yet to indulge myself, but right now I am already drawing up my "tiny" list before we head back down under. :)

Thinking of Home

We left our home in the ACT neat and clean, hoping that when we come back to it after two to three months of vacation here in the Philippines, that it would remain the same as we had left it. We don't have slipcovers for our chairs and sofa, but i guess it'll be okay, considering that my sister-in-law and her family will be dropping in from time to time to check on the place. Thank God for relatives!

Actor Rudy Fernandez Dies

I just heard the bad news. Yes, actor Rudy Fernandez has finally succumbed to periampullary cancer early this morning. I reckon he has suffered quite a lot in the short amount of time he was given by our Creator to cure himself of the disease. But since they discovered it late, there was little much that they could do about it. The only good thing about it now is that he is now with his Creator and he can finally rest from this gruelling battle. His death is an absolute shock, but such is life. You never really know what lies ahead and you can never be prepared for certain things to come, which is why the motto Carpe Diem! is much believed in.

Wanted: Exercise Buddy

My options to losing weight are limited. I reckon with the poor willpower I have, I won't accomplish much. But if I get a good buddy to join me in my exercise program, I think I will have greater chances at success in this tough battle of the bulge. I hope J is up for the challenge so he can become my exercise buddy. Otherwise, I may have to resort to browsing the list of best diet pills to see what my other quick fixes are. I hope I won't go that far just to get what I want.

The 'Beach' In Me

What the Beach Test Says About You

You like people, but you're careful about who you get close to. Friendship is important to you... so important that you aren't just friends with anyone. You fall in love with ease and confidence. Even if you've had bad experiences in the past, each new love is a reason to start completely over. You are deeply passionate about several things in your life. You're not passionate about much... and the few passions you have are truly obsessions. Your sense of humor is intellectual and obscure. Only really well educated people get your jokes.

The Beach Test

That pretty much sums it up! :)

Dream On

A week from now, we will be in the beautiful island of Cebu. It's my family's province and J's never been there yet, which is why we decided to visit it this time on our long holiday home. I haven't been to Cebu in a while. The last time I was there was three years ago to attend a good friend's wedding. And I'll bet there's plenty of new places to visit this time around.

As you can see, we are trying to make the most of our holiday. Ever since we bought the house last month, our finances from now on will be limited and all expenses must be prioritised. We can probably take our next holiday once I am able to go back to the workforce. Until then, we will just have to dream on about Hilton Head rentals and other wonderful places worth visiting in the future.

Feast 192

Appetizer
When you drink soda/pop/coke, do you prefer to drink it from the bottle, a can, or after pouring it into a cup?
I actually prefer drinking it after being poured into a cup, with a straw please.

Soup
What television show are you willing to stay up late to watch?
I have no particular show in mind. Usually a good old movie or a reality show would make me want to stay up late and watch it.

Salad
Name one person, place, or thing you think of as brilliant.
My daughter Erin. Who else?

Main Course
Would you be willing to work 4 10-hour days instead of 5 8-hour days in order to save gas?
Yeah, it’d be fine with me. This way I get to have a full day off.

Dessert
If you were a superhero, what would you call yourself?
Super domesticated goddess. But I have yet to perfect a couple more things. I’m still working on it.

Happy weekend to all. Hope you all have a good one.

Zits Away

It's almost that time of the month again. Not my favorite, as I am sure it isn't as well for all women. One of the things that I am peeved about is the unwelcomed appearance of zits. And as if they are out to irritate you more, they come in massive sizes in the most hated spots of your face. Your only salvation is natural acne treatments in the hope that they will be successful in eradicating the zits in time for your important date or function.

Firsts and Lasts

I grabbed this one from Joey.

FIRSTS

First real job: Admin assistant at my mom's business
First screen name: mae (i just used my second name)
First funeral: My grandmother's
First pet: We had lots of pets. But I remember we had a Japaneses Spitz when I was a child and named her Daffodil.
First piercing: Ears. Had them when I was a baby, but got second ear piercings when I was a junior in HS.
First tattoo: Just went for a henna tattoo so many years ago on my right ankle. But it turns out I was allergic to it! I have a very light scar to prove it.
First credit card: Citibank (an extension from my mom)
First kiss: An ex-bf of mine when I was a junior in college.
First enemy: I don't think I have any enemies. There are just some people I am irritated with, but they probably don't know how I feel about them.

LASTS

Last car ride: Last night, when we had dinner at Zao in Serendra, courtesy of my sister's BF.
Last kiss: My hubby! ;)

On Vacation Mode

Speaking of vacations, it would be a wonderful change of scenery to travel to a different continent other than the one you are currently in. Well, we've got friends over in the states and hopping from city to city would indeed be something fun. Orlando vacations is definitely on the itinerary as we also have relatives based there and we've heard so much about the place. That's something definitely worth looking forward to.

I Scream For Ice Cream

Your Ice Cream Personality:

You are an incredibly modest person. You don't feel comfortable bragging about yourself... or even receiving complements. You have a wild reputation, but you're not as wild as you seem. You take risks, but only measured risks. You are a somewhat open minded person, but deep down you're fairly conservative. You don't like trying new things very much. And if you do find something new you like, you stick with it. You are a natural multitasker. You feel alive when you're doing more than one thing at a time. You can be a big dramatic and over the top sometimes. You are bold in every way.

The Ice Cream Personality Test

Ha! Now, ain't that a revelation? :)

Cleaning Concerns

When you have a kid, one of the challenges that you also must take on board is to try to keep the house clean. Children have lots of stuff that sometimes it is just so difficult to keep track of them or to even find storage space for it. But you have got to thank the heavens for whoever invented vacuum cleaners. Whoever this guy is a sheer genius. I don't know how we could have survived without it.

Travel Challenge

As you can see, I've been a pretty bad blogger lately. Updating this blog has been the least of my priorities right now as we have just travelled 11 hours. The trip was long, tiring and just a drag. The little girl was becoming a challenge as it was hard to keep her entertained and satisfied throughout our travel. All I wanted was for just our plane to land so we can finally rest from all the stress. It's a good thing that we are staying for two or three months so it's going to be a while before we subject ourselves again to this kind of situation.

Mindfulness

Now that the house is ours, we've got to tighten our belts as far as expenses are concerned. The monthly repayments are going to to put a dent on our finances so we have to be mindful of what and how we spend our cash on.

I am still pining for the Wii but by the looks of it, I reckon it's going to us a bit longer before we go out there and get our own console. If I can use some Circuit City coupons and get a big discount, and hopefully I can convince the husband to buy it. Isn't it obvious I am so wanting to get this gadget? LOL.

Wordless Wednesday

Creepy Old Merbourne Gaol

A Week Left

Yes, our trip back home is exactly a week away and our relatives there are as excited as we are at the thought. It's our last weekend here in Oz and we are scrambling for ideas as to what gifts to bring to the folks in Manila. They all have different tastes, but the one I am most sure of is that of my mom's. She likes jewelry even if they are just the costume jewelry ones. But I am thinking of probably giving her handcrafted jewelry. I am certain she will be pleased when she gets it. As for the others, I'll just have to brainstorm myself to death and be creative. Tough luck!

PPBC 2nd Edition: Call for Articles

The first edition has been a success. Now, Joey is calling for articles for the 2nd Edition which revolves around the topic of education. If you missed out on the last carnival, make sure to check out the second one. Deadline for all entries is on the 24th of May, and publication of all entries submitted will be on the 28th. Just visit Joey's blog for more information on the 2nd edition.

Feeling Lucky

You have got to forgive me for not updating this blog regularly. Lots of things came up which kept me busy, hence the neglect. But they were all good things so it was just as well that they were prioritised first.

Well, to start with, our broker told us the good news that our loan application has been approved. The good news does not stop there. J was informed that his job application for a position he wanted was accepted. It is pretty major stuff if you ask me. That is why we are over the moon.

It seems that the heavens have been so gracious to us. We are very much grateful about all these blessings. I just hope our luck doesn't run out, much like what my laptop did when it froze (the ram may need upgrading) while I was in the middle of something important.

Brothers and Sisters

I regularly watch the Brothers and Sisters series every Sunday night. They are quite a big and noisy bunch, which actually reminds me of my own family back home. There are lots of bickering but we love each other immensely.

My least favorite character on the show would probably have to be Justin, the youngest son, who once served in Iraq and has been in and out of drug rehab. I honestly think there's nothing much to his character, as compared to the others. Maybe the writers should give him something more to portray, hopefully one that is more positive. All his character been through lately are the negatives (getting into drugs, sleeping with his brother's mistress, etc). That would probably make the series a bit more interesting.

10 on Tuesday: 10 Places I’d Love to Travel To (That I Haven’t Gone to Yet)

It's Tuesday and here's my list (in no particular order)! :)

1. Italy
2. France
3. Thailand
4. Malaysia
5. Gold Coast, Australia
6. Boracay, Philippines
7. Palawan, Philippines
8. Batanes, Philippines
9. Perth, Australia
10. USA

Join Ten on Tuesdays! :)

Dream (Almost) Come True

In a few weeks' time, our family will finally have our own home. That is, of course, if all goes as planned and there are no hitches along the way.

Now that we are faced with this huge financial responsibility, we need to make sure we don't go overboard with our expenses and we must continue to maintain good balances of our savings accounts. We don't want the sheriff hounding us around taking back our dream away.

Pinoy Parenting Blog Carnival

Are you a parent and have your very own blog? Join me and other parent bloggers in the first-ever Pinoy Parenting Blog Carnival.

This month's topic is Becoming a Parent. Joey will be hosting May's blog carnival so you can get more information on how to participate in this event by checking out her blog.

Drive more traffic to your blog and get to know more bloggers by taking part in this wonderful event. See you there!

GonnaBe

Talent show contests on TV keep sprouting every now and then. People who think they have the so-called x-factor line up, hoping to get a chance at stardom. It can become very competitive and only the very talented and strong-willed do succeed.

Enter Gonnabe. This company gives children the opportunity to show off their talent and once accepted, they also get to appear on Be TV where they join other talented kids perform.

At Gonnabe, children also are provided with different resources to improve their talent more and give them the exposure they need in order to succeed in this tough world of showbusiness. It is a good thing that potential wanna-be child stars now have this option if they really are very keen on pursuing their dreams.

I was browsing through the profiles of their members on the website, and I swear there are a couple of Filipino kids out there! I hope they do the Pinoy race proud! :)

Time to celebrate

Mother's day is just around the corner. As for me, it's going to be my second Mother's day having given birth to the little girl just last year.

It is great that mothers (and fathers) have a special day dedicated to them every year. For all their sacrifice and hard work in the home and for their children, it is just right that they should be honoured, whether through gifts (like religious jewelry) or by giving a simple card to let her know you remembered. Now is the perfect time to think about how you can give your mom a very special mother's day next weekend.

Feast 189

It's the weekend already people! Hope you all have a good one. Enjoy! :D

Appetizer
What was your favorite cartoon when you were a child?
I loved cartoons when I was a kid. My parents bombarded me mainly with Disney classics. I also loved the Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake to name a few.

Soup
Pretend you are about to get a new pet. Which animal would you pick, and what would you name it?
Maybe a fish would be nice. Both J and I have bad allergies so anything with fur would be a no-no. I wouldn't know what to name a fish. I've never done that before. I'd probably name it based on it's color (like Goldy) for lack of a better idea. :P

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy getting all dressed up for a special occasion?
I think that would be an 8. I do like dressing up -- putting make-up, wearing jewelry, styling your hair, wearing heels. Things which I hardly do these days. We would have attended a formal occasion last weekend, but we were in Melbourne then.

Main Course
What kind of music do you listen to while you drive?
I have this nice compilation of crossover music which I love listening to whenever I go driving. R&B music would also be an option. I guess it depends on my mood.

Dessert
When was the last time you bought a clock? And in which room did you put it?
It was last year. We bought a tiny one which could measure the room temperature. We placed it in our bedroom so we could monitor the temperature for the little girl.

Travel Tip

The big trip on the end of this month would have cost us a lot of dollars. But you have got to thank the heavens for whoever invented the frequent flyer points system. J earned enough points to get a round-trip ticket for free so all we had to pay was the taxes for the little girl and him and my ticket as the little one is not yet required to pay for her fare. So if you are planning a trip anytime soon, it's best to weigh your options so you'll be able to get the best travel deals out there in the market. It pays also do some research.

Wrong Unit

J was able to upgrade his mobile phone before our trip to Melbourne. I specifically told him to get the E65 which was up on offer by our provider. We separated ways before he completed the transaction so I did not see the unit until we got back to the car on our way home.

He got the wrong model. Instead of the E65, he requested for the 6120. He really thought the 6120 was what I indicated the entire time. I suppose it's okay since there is not much difference in their features. Well, there's always next year, which is my turn to upgrade my unit as my contract expires then.

Worried About My Weight

My body is different now. Sadly, I am finding it terribly hard to keep the weight off, so unlike in my younger days and when I was still childless. Even J confirms how much my body has changed over the couple of years. It can be frustrating at times, that it makes me want to take Akavar and other similar weight loss pills. But we all know that it takes commitment and hard work that really does the job. I think I lack both. Pathetic, I know. Oh boy. What to do, what to do...

Home At Last

It is great to be back home. While Melbourne was exciting and all, I still can't help but feel relieved we are back home. Living in a hotel for a week is cool because you don't really need to do any cleaning up as the housekeeping staff will do it for you. But having a toddler and keeping her quiet and happy was a challenge. For some reason, our little girl has learned the art of screaming. She screams her lungs out whenever she wants something, does not get what she wants, or is just frustrated. We had to find out how to keep her from resorting to screaming because our neighbors might complain about us. Well, we still are trying to find ways to keep her from screaming, but at least we are in our territory and need not worry if our neighbors will be annoyed with us as they live some distance away.

For the future

When you have a family of your own, you begin to think more of long-term plans rather than the short ones. You have a family now to consider and their future is what holds most important.

One of the most common investments one can get into is to get one own's house so that someday your children and the future generation of your family can inherit it. It would be ideal to consult real estate agents when you're shopping around for a good property. Corpus Christi real estate can probably be something worth considering. Invest properly in something that will grow in value over the years. You will surely reap the rewards sooner than you know it.

Feast 187

Appetizer
Name a color you find soothing.
I love the color aqua. It reminds me of the cool, calm waves of the sea.

Soup
Using 20 or less words, describe your first driving experience.
It was nerve-wracking, at the same time, exhilarating. I was 20 years old then.

Salad
What material is your favorite item of clothing made out of?
Cotton! What else?

Main Course
Who is a great singer or musician who, if they were to come to your town for a concert, you would spend the night outside waiting for tickets to see?
I wouldn't go that far just to see my favorite artist on stage. I am not that of a fanatic. I've no favorite singer/musician in mind. I'd want to watch Cirque du Soleil, instead.

Dessert
What is the most frequent letter of the alphabet in your whole name (first, middle, maiden, last, etc.)?
The letter e.

Have a good weekend everyone. :)

On Oprah's Book Club

Ever noticed how Oprah's Book Club features literature on life matters and self-help? I've been a follower of all the books she's chosen for her book club and I have noticed this trend for some time now. The new book chosen for her club is entitled A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose. The title says it all, eh? I reckon it is one of her major interests, hence, the feature of such books.

Well, life is one big journey and every day is a challenge for all of us. We need all the help that we can get, whether physically or in the form of encouragement as these types of books offer. Ooh, look at me now, starting to sound like Oprah! LOL! :)

Mobile Madness

J is planning to upgrade his mobile phone unit as his old one has already surpassed the 2-year contract and he can now upgrade to a new phone for free, provided he still avails of the same post-paid plan he got 2 years ago.

Originally it was the Nokia E65, but they all ran out of stock of the unit so now we have to choose another model. Apparently, other people also had the same idea as we did, which explains why they were sold out.

We're going to try out if they are still available in the shops. If not, then maybe we'll just wait it out a bit and hope that the one with GPS (which is what he really digs) will be on offer soon.

Organize, Shmorganize

Yes, today was spent shopping for storage which we needed badly so we could organize the stuff in the third bedroom more neatly. Right now, the boxes are piled high up to the ceiling. The room is intended to be our study/office, but by the looks of it, it has become our very own mini-warehouse.

I was able to buy some stackable plastic boxes and vacuum bags for all the things that need to be packed away. J also bought a plastic crate for the rest of his electronics stuff, which has been lying around in our house recently. Hopefully, by tomorrow night, the third bedroom will start looking more like a real study. That is, if all of our belongings will fit in the boxes we got. Do wish us luck.

Out of Shape

Remember how I was complaining about my weight gain and how much I needed to lose the excess kilos? Well, I need to do that fast. I just weighed myself again on our bathroom scale earlier today and was so disgusted at the huge amount of blob I've become. Ugh!

I did take steps to shake the fat off a few days ago by doing some taebo for 30 minutes. But the following day, I had muscle spasms all over. It just goes to show how out of shape I was. Very disappointing! Maybe I should also invest in a yoga dvd to improve my flexibility and be able to do all those cardio moves in taebo. Well, whatever. Bottom line is, I must get off my big butt and start sweating it out before I turn into a contestant for The Biggest Loser.

Almost Halfway Through

A few hours ago, I was worrying over my dilemma of how I could complete all my blogging assignments in just two days. Well, who would have thought I would have enough inspiration to blog almost halfway through all those assignments?

I'm glad I did not get any mental block tonight. And as if the heavens were all behind me in this endeavor, our internet connection has become quite cooperative, which made it all much easier to finish my tasks. God is good. :)

Clueless

Yup, that about sums it up for me at least. When it comes to money matters, that is. Although I loved math when I was still a student, I can't quite explain why I am such a dunce in financial matters. It's a good thing that I have a husband who once worked in the banking industry so I turn to him whenever I encounter big terms like stocks and futures broker. He is able to explain the concepts to me in layman's terms so I can get a better understanding. Also, without him, I don't know how I'll be able to manage our finances very wisely. He is a Godsend! :)

My Next Project

It looks like we are getting no thinner. I am referring to both J and I. Our goal is to have a weight loss that is appropriate for our height and age. Whatever means that we can decide on to achieve this is important because the program should be something that we can stick to.

We are planning to do some Tae-Bo first so we can exercise at home even with the little girl around. When all has been paid and done for my Canon DSLR, I also plan to buy a Nintendo Wii Console. It is something we have eyed on for a while and I can't wait to get my hands on one so we can do some fun activities together, at the same time shedding those unwanted kilos off. :)

Independence 101

I never was a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) person, especially with things crafty. I can however assemble large things, like a barebones computer. Just give me a good instruction booklet and I can assure you, I can do the task. This is the reason why I give my helping hand to J, as most things here in Oz have to be assembled by the buyers themselves. It just goes to show how much you need to be really independent in order to survive here, because no one else will do it for you.

Almost but not quite

Yes, we have finally made the move to our new place. Tomorrow, we turn over the keys to the old house, and I can't help but feel a bit nostalgic about it. This is the main reason why I don't want to go back and visit the place anymore. I don't know why I am attached to the old house. I suppose it is because it is the first place I've ever lived in here in Oz. Me and my attachments. I am such a sentimental person.

Parties Galore

The parties never seem to end, at least in our part of the world. Every now and then, someone we know is celebrating their birthday and oftentimes, we are invited to a small celebration at their house.

Yesterday, we were invited to attend the 21st birthday of the daughter of one of our friends. It's going to be a masquerade ball, so all guests are required to wear a mask. The 21st birthday is a grand celebration here, so I might suggest them to consult the wine of the month club as to what type of wine to get for this special occasion.

I don't know how we are going to attend the party with the little girl around. Since all of our family and friends are going, we cannot leave DD with anyone. It's a big dilemma alright.

One More Hurdle To Go

The most dreaded day is finally over. The little girl's party was a huge success and we had tons of food left as it was overflowing. We had to take the leftovers home. Now, we will probably have to eat the lot for the entire week to gain back some storage space in our fridge.

The next item on our agenda is our moving out of the house. We really need to concentrate real hard on getting our stuff packed so we can transfer them in a more organized fashion. I am very much looking forward to April. By then, things will hopefully be more relaxed and settled.

Anticipating

Well, in a few hours, we will be finally celebrating the little girl's birthday. J already has the keys to the tsa locks of the community centre where we will be holding the party. I've partially finished my dish assignments for the occasion and all we need to do is just decorate the place and be ready when the guests arrive.

We definitely feel less stressed out this time as compared to her baptism celebration last year. My poor mom didn't sleep because she was slaving in the kitchen, cooking 4 dishes all by herself. That was a nightmare indeed. We are just so lucky to have family and friends who are more than willing to help contribute for the party. Thank God for them!

Time for me turn in now as we are going to have a big day ahead. I hope all things go as planned.

Happy easter!

I just realised how much of a big deal easter is here. The realization dawned on me yesterday when we went to shop for the little girl's party at Hyperdome. It was like a madhouse at K-Mart because people were scrambling to buy those chocolate easter eggs. As the day ended, the shelves were empty of all candies and chocolates.

And to confirm this idea, today, at a godchild's birthday party, some of our friends handed out chocolate easter eggs to the little girl. We took home quite a number of it so we have a few dozens of them in our fridge right now. Even the little girl was given by her aunt a bunny ears and tail set to wear at a get-together we had earlier today. Cute! :)

Shopping Dilemma

Speaking of the big party on Monday, we have yet to buy party supplies for this event. I would want to go all out but we are constrained by our budget and the high prices of these supplies here are such a big turn-off.

If we were in Manila to celebrate her birthday, it would have been easy and we would have gotten the best buy and deals for all we need to make it a grand one. And it wouldn't take an arm and a leg to have one, mind you. *sigh* These are just one of the things I miss about home.