A Real Estate Broker’s Share

Care for Your Eyesight

2009-02-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of reasons why you should choose a new pair of eyeglasses. Perhaps, you are tired of your ordinary eyeglasses, or your doctor might have changed your prescription so you need a new pair of eyeglasses. It's not an easy task to find a new one, but if you really want to you can always search online.

The website of New York Times featured the Zenni Optical in the New York Times?! which recommends the cheapest Prescription eyeglasses for only $8!. Now Seeing Straight Without Breaking Bank is so easy when you purchase your eyeglasses via Zenni Optical. Check it out soon and you'll find a wide array of choices to choose from. And you will surely choose only the best and stylish eyeglasses.

Play with Ease

2009-02-02T00:22:00.000-08:00

Online casinos can be risky at times that's why many casino players are constantly in search for more secured online casino portals. The immense popularity of online casinos have been continuously patronize by many casino players all over the world. Now that there are more safe and secured casinos online plus the fact that paying money online is no longer a hassle, more and more players even newbies are going crazy about online casino games. Gone are the days for online payments that is coupled with stress and risk.

Now that security measures have been applied in online casino portals, you are guaranteed that the money you pay will be safe and secured. And that you will be excited to see what you have paid for when you win casino games.

If you are just like anyone out there who still wonder where to find the safest online casinos, you may search through directories for online casino. And make sure that you read all the featured reviews included in the directory. But also remember that you should not be over confident of what you see and read in the directories. It's always best to be wise and observant. That's the time that you will be able to figure out that onlinecasinos.bz is the safest. Yes, you better check it out as it offers not only the safest way of paying online, but also a portal with exciting games to play.

Real Estate - Breaking Real Estate Problems With Your Broker

2009-01-27T06:15:00.000-08:00

You want to buy a residential area in Miami. With its boosting economy and obvious tourist-magnet beauty, you of course want to be part of its proud populace.

With fierce competition among available real estate property, prices are relatively low on the Miami real estate market. So the best time to act, and buy a residential property from the Miami market is now! First and foremost, you have to be acquainted with real estate transactions; after all, it is your money and your would-be property. But then again, we have brokers because we do need experts for every field, especially at these relatively complicated transactions like the real estate business. So while you must attain a certain amount of knowledge on the real estate business, as a prospective buyer, probably one of the first things that you should do is contact a reliable and reputable broker. You can check real estate firms on the internet for possible choices, or you can always ask recommendations from your friends who know some.

Your real estate broker is your guide on the "jungle" of the Miami real estate market. It is therefore important that you get one who will suit to your needs and preferences. For their knowledge on the matter, of course you need not worry about that, because most brokers are experts and have trained and been educated regarding the business. Experience of course, is another thing, but you can always check their authentic credentials if you want to be sure that you (if you want brokers with experience) will be dealing with real estate "veterans." But of course the most experienced and the most reputable more often than not would charge higher than the "rookies," and it does not mean that if you are new then you are still not good enough, after all, the most experienced expert real estate brokers had to start fresh.

Of course another thing to consider when checking out for prospective Miami real estate brokers are their knowledge on your area of choice. There are of course many neighborhoods in Miami and so your real estate broker should have a considerable knowledge in the area, for the condition of the house is not the only thing that is important when buying a residential property, but of course equally important is the knowledge that it is situated on a safe neighborhood, and is in close proximity to necessary establishments (like the supermarket, the school, the hospital, the police station, etc.). If your broker is also from that area, then that would be preferable.

On buying a residential property your estate broker is practically your best friend. With him, you can the best house that will suit your needs and budget. Contact the best (for you) Miami Real Estate broker now and start living your Miami dreams.

Do You Want to Become a Real Estate Investor?

2009-01-07T02:55:00.000-08:00

Becoming a real estate investor can be a highly lucrative endeavor for those who are suited to it. There are several things that are needed before you can actually see a return on your initial venture. A real estate investor may purchase houses as cheaply as possible in order to fix them up and sell them, or flip them, for a profit. Also, they may purchase a home or multiple homes in order to use them as rental properties or may also do both. Regardless of which route you choose as a real estate investor there are risks involved that need to be considered.

As a real estate investor you will first need to buy a home or homes. Part of being a good investor is being able to value a property to determine if there will be a profitable return. You will need good enough credit to obtain the home in the first place and enough left over money to fix it up so it can be resold or rented. This may take both time and money. These costs need to be factored into the sale price of the home.

If you plan on flipping the home, the trick is to find a home that is in need of repair and purchase it for a bargain. However, the costs of the repairs need to be weighed and the value of the home after repairs needs to be determined. For a first time real estate investor it may be better to find a home that only needs minor, cosmetic repairs. This can be a fast and inexpensive fix and can add significant value to the home. You will also have to determine if the house can be sold quickly at a lucrative enough profit margin to be worth the time and effort.

If you plan on renting the house, some of the same concerns should be considered. There will need to be a commitment from you as the investor to be a good landlord to tenants which is not always easy and takes time. Also, repairs will need to be made over time and financial issues such as a vacant house and non payment of rent needs to be considered before taking that route. A real estate investor can make a lot of money on property as long as all the risks are weighed and smart decisions are made.

Buying Real Estate Steps

2008-12-28T03:03:00.000-08:00

Buying Real Estate is part of the American dream. For those who have never been down the "buying real estate" path yet, you just...

1. Get Pre-Approved. Even if you don't think you can afford it, or are concerned about a down payment, or your credit - the first thing you should do is talk to a skilled mortgage lender. It's their job to help you fix your credit, tell you how much you can afford, and help make it all happen. They will advise you if a down payment is needed (it may not! Many people arrange to buy a home with nothing down, $500 down, or 5% down), how much your monthly payment will translate to (i.e. tell them you want to spend $X a month, and they'll translate that into a purchase price of $Y). If you need to repair your credit, they'll be able to refer someone or give you some tips and help on how to fix it up.

2. Once you meet with a mortgage lender, you'll get a letter of pre-approval. It looks informal, but what matters is the listing agent (representing the sellers of a house you later want to buy) calling them and doing some research on whether you can in fact close and purchase the property. You then take this letter to a Realtor (R) / Real Estate Agent (note: Realtor is a real estate agent that adheres to a code of ethics; for practical purposes they're essentially the same, though a Realtor(R) has more accountability and is therefore more highly recommended). This is step 2 of buying real estate.

3. The fun part: Shopping! Step 3 of buying real estate usually involves you looking at a bunch of properties on the internet, driving around some neighborhoods, then when you see some homes you think you might like, just email or call your agent and ask to go see it. Don't get too hung up on this, and at first, go see some houses even if you know it's not quite right - just to get some ideas of what you like and don't like. On paper, or on the computer, a house is just a bunch of numbers - 3 bedrooms, 1873 square feet, etc. - but in person, you'll find that the "bones" of a house, they layout, and the materials vary widely. On each home, communicate what you like and don't like to your agent. Ideally, you should do this on each home, and by listing your favorite points, and factors you didn't like, you'll help your agent slowly hone in on what you really want. This is step 3 of buying real estate, and it usually turns out to be more work than you expect. By the way, it's OK if a house or condo or lot seems ok on paper, but just doesn't feel right. Trust your gut...buying real estate is emotional and you want to feel at home. Usually, if something doesn't feel right, it's because it reminds you of some other home, and many times, people ultimately buy a home that feels like a home they lived in as a child and therefore feel at home in.

4. The exciting part of buying real estate comes when you find a home you want. Just tell your agent this one feels right, and you'd like to put in an offer. Let your agent do the negotiating for you, it's their job, and they get paid by the seller so the service is essentially free. You can call the mortgage lender back now and tell them you're finally buying real estate, and give them the purchase price you want to offer, along with any other expenses such as taxes and insurance. They can give you a more exact payment on the house, which you'll then give your agent a range to offer, starting low with a walk-away price. The agent helping you in buying real estate will know the conventions and strategy best for your local market and sniff out competing offers, etc. This offer will then be accepted or declined or counter-offered.

5. The nerve-wracking part of buying real estate is closing the actual transaction. Once your offer is accepted, you then start a 2-way "dance" called "escrow" or "under contract" or "closing". This means the further you get into the deal, the more committed you are financially, and the more committed the seller is because they're packing their life into boxes. Expect a bit of buyers remorse - it always happens about a week in, and just remind yourself why you like the house and imagine your life in your new home. Also, expect that the closing date is just a guideline, and it could be earlier by a few days, or later by a few days. Most commonly, people close in about 30-45 days. Depending on your state, you'll sign a new loan on about day 25 or day 29, and then move in about day 30 (or 45, depending on your contract period). You'll sign a binding loan and get keys, the seller gets cash (and their old loan paid off, if they have one), and the bank gets an enforceable contract that you make house payments toward. Once it "records" the deal is 100% done, you own the home, and about 6 weeks later you'll make your first house payment to the bank.

Buying real estate is fun, and can make a big impact in how you live your life. For most Americans, buying real estate is one of the most important financial investments they ever make, and regardless of market it continues to prove a good investment simply due to inflation if not market appreciation. Just as your grandparents paid 15 cents for coffee and bought their first house for what seems like little money, so will your grandchildren (or you in your old age!) look back on buying real estate that first time as "cheap". Back when people were buying real estate for $5,000 for a home, the average income was only $1200 a year for some... our relationship with money changes over time. Once you cross the buying real estate bridge, you'll not only build wealth - but you'll build a home filled with memories as well.

Buying Real Estate With Roth IRA - The Right Choice For Me

2008-12-17T03:02:00.000-08:00

Over the last few months, I have seen a 23% in the value of my investments and I am not alone. In a recent AP news report, people have lost a combined total of $2 trillion of the money that they had invested in their retirement funds. $2 trillion dollars, I can not even imagine what that number looks like but I do know what it feels like. It feels like the rug is being pulled out from under me. I work hard, I pay my bills, I put away money to protect me in the future and now I see it all slipping away. My job is on the line; my future is on the line because a few people made some really bad choices. What am I suppose to do now? How can I send my daughter to college? Will I ever be able to retire? Should I be buying real estate with Roth IRA?

I took my concerns to a financial advisor. He suggested that I change my retirement plan from my company's 401 K into a self-directed IRA. He said that with the Roth IRA I can choose where my money goes instead of having the company make the choice for me. Not only could I make the choice of where I wanted my money to go, but after I placed it into this kind of account; I would never have to pay taxes on the money again. Can you imagine what that means? I am sure that by the time I retire, we will have seen a huge jump in the income tax. But I won't have to worry about it, because the income from my retirement will not be taxable.

My counselor advised me that buying real estate with Roth IRA is the best choice in today's wavering financial market. Property represents a tangible item that generally sees a rise in its value over time. Today, prices are low. The time is ripe to purchase property. Soon, the government's plan to shore up the housing market will kick into effect and property prices will regain their momentum. The return on my investments is sure to go over the 8% return that I am seeing today. Will a roll over IRA buying real estate really be an answer to my current financial woes?

I have decided to take my financial counselor's advice and have chosen to take my 401k and use the money to invest in a roll over IRA buying real estate. I look forward to sitting back and watching my investments grow. Buying real estate with Roth IRA seems like the right way to go for me.

Systems Drive Real Estate Sales

2008-12-04T03:01:00.000-08:00

The trend is for more of the top realtors to employ assistants to handle the more menial tasks or compensate for skill sets where the realtor has a weakness. This allows him or her to concentrate more on the aspect where they can provide greater benefit i.e. closing the sale. This allows the team to process more transactions and earn more in commissions. Systems are the backbone of these teams and enable all the team members to work together efficiently.

So what is a system? In this instance a system is a set of tasks that fit together to complete a given objective. You can define a system for almost anything. For example you could write a system for making breakfast:

Get the newspaper
Cook the eggs & bacon
Make the coffee
Set the table

In this example you could assign the four tasks to four separate people. Each task could be defined in more detail so that a stranger could perform the task and the end result would still be satisfactory. However, if even one of the tasks is missed or poorly done then the end result will be disappointing.

In real estate the tasks are usually very simple but there are usually a lot of them. Missing some steps due to the pressure of work or just poor discipline can have a drastic effect on the final income. Also, real estate salespeople are generally not renowned for their discipline. They prefer to be more intuitive, outgoing and people focussed. Therefore it is common to have checklists, computer systems or office managers to ensure that all the steps have been completed.

Example : Buyer enquiry system

Enquiries from potential buyers can come from a variety of sources including people simply walking into the office and asking for a specific property. The agent needs to work with each potential buyer and look after their needs. He or she needs to make the buyer feel special and that there is no need to go elsewhere for real estate services. This needs to be done in a proactive but reassuring way. That last thing that should be done is scare the person away by over servicing or being too pushy.

Each agent will develop their own style and will eventually develop a pattern that works for them. A typical system for managing the buyer enquiry might look like this:

Complete a buyer enquiry form. Usually a paper form filled out by the agent whilst talking to the potential buyer.
Conduct a search of possible properties for the buyer.
Take the buyer to inspect the possible properties and sell one of them if possible.
Gauge the buyer reaction to the properties and build a profile for the kind of property that will be suitable.
Enter the buyer details in the client database and schedule a trail of follow up actions based on the assessment of the buyer and his or her likelihood of purchasing in the next few weeks.
Same day - send a letter thanking the buyer and providing details of the properties seen and confirming the preferred property features for future searches.
Every week. Call the buyer and discuss the details of other properties coming onto the market. Try to arrange some more inspections.
Every month. Send a copy of the office newsletter.
Every three months. Send a copy of the suburb profile with updated sales and new listings during the period as evidence of sales activity.
Every three months. Visit the buyer and discuss how he values your service and whether he wishes to continue. You may then decide to change his details and the nature of your follow up campaign based on his comments.

Typically the system would be setup for a set period. For instance if a person wanted to buy a new investment property sometime in the next 12 months then you would probably assign a system based on 12 months duration. Then there would be a set number of follow up actions required, each with its own date etc. A system like this simple example would have 78 distinct actions that need to be completed.

When done well, these follow up systems build a trusted relationship between the clients and the agent. That in turn leads to a strong referral business.

Many real estate agents manage an area, or farm, consisting of over 500 people as potential sellers. Sometimes up to 2,000 people. The number of long term potential buyers, depending on the market, could be in the hundreds at any one time. Therefore it is apparent that a successful agent soon builds up a large list of daily actions and must be extremely efficient to stay on top. Writing the details in the diary is simply not going to provide the follow up necessary.

Please refer to Selecting and Using a Real Estate Database for more information.

Systems, tools and effective teams are the way forward in real estate sales today.

No Money Down Real Estate Investing - What You Must Know So You Can Profit Quickly and Securely

2008-11-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

No money down real estate investing should be just that -- you put down nothing at the start.

But a lot of people get tricked into thinking they have to deposit at least something whenever they buy real estate, even using a simple option purchase agreement.

That is a massive misconception. Huge! So in the next couple of minutes let me show you how ordinary people like you are confidently doing safe, no money down real estate investing even in today's economic environment. Some of them are successfully dong this on their own, although this is not easy. Many others are utilizing only their good credit and provable income yet getting real estate investments that are secure, high yielding and yet are practically turn-key.

Have you heard about the highly negotiable, so-called 'sandwich' lease option?

With it, you take over the house payments and equity of someone who can't keep those payments up, but not the house ownership, by linking a revocable option to purchase agreement with a lease agreement written in your favor. The option ties up the property before you buy it, but makes it possible for you to revoke it. Almost certainly you will have to make a promise to pay, or put money or a security down at the time you sign the agreement. But with these instruments in place you can back out when you want to with no recourse except losing anything you might have put down.

Now, most people seem to think they have to write a check or put down some cash to make these options legally valid. This is not correct. Because you and the seller can make a revocable option turn on a consideration of any sort that you both agree to. It can be money. But it could equally be a promise to pay, say, part of future rentals. Or something like a car or jewelry. Anything you both write into the option.

That promise to pay is attractive ... it basically means you put nothing down right now and will only make an agreed payment once the option is exercised. People are using these promise to pay clauses right now. This is pure no money down real estate investing with the security of commercial law and requiring zero cash.

Because it is so good, it is difficult to get this written into your option to purchase. Also, sellers generally must get rid of the property but with this option you are not taking over the ownership of the home. However, when you can agree on this option you scoop up all the benefits of no money down real estate investing.

There are several things to consider before trying to strike this agreement, however. And many first-time real estate investors gloss over them.

One, you must find out why the seller has not yet sold his house? Is there something wrong with the location or the physical condition of the house itself? Are city building or zoning regulations unhelpful? If there are problems with the house, will these make it difficult for you to keep up the payments you take over?

Next, do the numbers stack up? Most people thinking for the first time about no money down real estate investing concentrate on the fact that there is no money down. Don't overlook another fact --- you might lose money if the rental market is paying less than your payments. You might lose a ton of money! Here's an example of this. Say you take over mortgage payments of $1200 a month and rental market for the property only pays $1000 a month. You will be losing from Day One.

I don't mean to highlight the negatives that are present in this form of no money down real estate investing. So let me show you anther way to get into this business. This can even be turn-key.

If you have good credit (and it is easier to have good credit than you may realize) and make over $70,000 a year, it's possible to find a program where you can purchase real estate with 100 percent financing. Again this is pure no money down real estate investing. And to make it stress-free, you just need to find a program that will take care of the variables I've mentioned.

Ideally, that program would sell you a good looking, well designed property that could definitely be rented out. The home would be refurbished and meet (or even exceed) city building codes and standards. It might even be rented to a tenant backed by a government initiative such as Section Eight. The property would come with sufficient equity to get the bank loan and make certain your future profits. And it would give you a cash flow after moorage, insurance, tax and maintenance expenses.

Sound like a turn-key dream? There are no money down real estate investing programs that deliver exactly this.

So my advice is that you keep learning about no money down real estate investing, but that you raise your expectations and only consider joining turn-key programs that genuinely require no money down at the start, take care of many of the variables, and give you a reasonable return for relatively low outgoing costs over the life of your investment.

Buying Real Estate - How to Get The Best Deal in a Buyers Market

2008-10-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

Buying real estate during these "tough economic times" can truly be a great investment. But, it's important to have a few guidelines to help you along the way.

First and foremost...decide how you will pay for it! Do you have cash...or you will be looking for financing? If financing is in your plans...be sure to arrange for it ahead of time. Be sure to obtain a copy of your credit report and correct any mistakes...NOW! If you plan to live in the home as your primary residence, it will require a smaller down payment. But, if this is an investment...you should plan on at least 20% down. AND always have a pre-approval letter from your lender in hand when you make your offer! It will greatly help your agent negotiate the best possible price for you.

Then, when it's time to start house-hunting...look for a good Exclusive Buyer's Agent who will help you find the right property...and buy it at the best possible price. A few tips to consider when buying real estate:

- Look for a good neighborhood that will most likely increase in value. Be sure to drive through communities to see which ones would best fit your needs. It stands to reason that you wouldn't want to buy on the upper end of any neighborhood...so look for a smaller house in a nicer neighborhood.

- Have a game plan! Study the market -- and have your facts before making your offer to purchase. What is the median home price? Average days on the market? Comparables? -- Your agent can provide these for you. How many homes are owner-occupied? What about vacant properties? Foreclosures? Environmental issues such as high tension wires, noise, etc.

- Find out all you can about anything that could affect the home values in any given area. New road construction? Schools? Shopping? Hospitals?

- Before spending money on a home inspection, look the house over for yourself! Does the roof appear to be in good condition? What about the floors? Do they sag or look worn? Do the appliances need to be replaced? Do you notice any water and/or damage in the basement or crawl space? Are there any noticeable cracks in the brick or foundation wall? What is the age and condition of the HVAC units? Do the bathrooms need updating? What about paint?

- Remember that the seller is obligated by law to disclose any known problems...so be sure to take a close look at any and all disclosures relating to the property.

It's always wise to do your homework and investigate before buying real estate!

When preparing your offer...be sure to listen to your Exclusive Buyer's Agent. He/she will be able to give you good solid advice based on years of experience. Keep in mind:

- Make your best offer and present it with your pre-approval letter from the lender.

- Keeping the contingencies to a minimum can help you obtain a lower purchase price.

- Offering a decent earnest money deposit will help assure the seller that you are a serious buyer.

- If the home is in danger of foreclosure -- your best bet is to offer a quick closing. In this situation, the seller is interested in one thing...getting out of the house quickly...with as little damage to his credit as possible.

- It if is already a foreclosure -- make your best offer up front because you may be dealing with a multiple offer situation.

Please contact me with any questions you have about buying real estate in today's market.

Pam Rumley is a veteran real estate broker in Nashville Tennessee Real Estate. She is a true Exclusive Buyer's Agent, which means that her office never takes listings. This fact assures that there is never a conflict of interest regarding your real estate transaction. You can be assured of receiving 100% of her attention and loyalty - 100% of the time!

For more information, visit her comprehensive website http://www.NashvilleRealEstateAuthority.com.

Be sure to check out her "Real Estate University" section, where you will find more informative articles on a variety of topics concerning homebuying. WOW! - You can even choose your own closing gift from a large selection of high-end home decor items.

Real Estate Terms Made Easy

2008-09-17T02:53:00.000-07:00

If you are purchasing your very first piece of real estate, some of the basic terms can be very confusing. While real estate transactions are fairly common, they do include a variety of specific terms. Take the time to educate yourself about basic terms so that you can better understand the contracts involved and the professionals involved throughout your transaction.

Some of the most basic real estate terms to learn when initiating your first transaction are:

Realtor or Real Estate Agent

Realtors are those individuals who have registered with the National Association of Realtors. Both real estate agents and realtors work to help buyers to locate properties and for sellers to sell their properties.

APR

APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate and this is typically listed on your offer for a mortgage loan. Your APR is typically higher than your interest rate listed on your mortgage.

Seller Note

A seller note is a financing strategy in which the property owner self financing the sale of their property to a buyer. The terms of the self financed mortgage such as the interest rate, duration of the loan and the loan length are all determined between the buyer and the seller.

Assumable Mortgage

This type of mortgage is one in which the loan and payments can simply be transferred to another person, typically a buyer.

Appraisal

When purchasing a property, it is common for the lender to require an appraisal prior to agreeing to fund the loan. An appraisal uses features about the property as well as current comparable properties in the area to determine what the present market value of the home is. Appraisals are also often required when a home owner inquires into refinancing the mortgage or for a home equity loan.

Inspection

A home inspection is common in both residential and commercial properties and is sometimes required by the lender. A home inspection involves carefully examining all portions of the property, including the interior, the exterior and the land itself. Any issues will be reported to the buyer and the seller for remedy prior to closing. Some buyers will request that items be repaired prior to the closing, some will ask for financial renumeration in the amount estimated to repair the items found in the inspection and some buyers will cancel their offer if the inspection items are perceived to be too costly.

Closing Costs

Closing costs are one-time costs that the buyer and/or the seller will be responsible for when the closing takes place, transferring ownership of a property to another party. Closing costs are in addition to the down payment applied from the buyer and can include things such as property taxes prorated, mortgage interest prorated, insurance payments prorated, fees assessed by the title company, fees assessed by the real estate agents and other miscellaneous administration fees required to process the transaction. Closing costs range, but can typically be estimated from 2-4% of the purchase price of the property.

Earnest Money

Many sellers will require a good faith deposit called earnest money when a buyer makes an offer. These funds are held in an escrow account by the title company closing the transaction. And, it is typically applied towards the down payment.

Property Taxes

These are the taxes due annually for your property which are based upon the property value. They are typically due at the beginning of the year, although some municipalities require payments semi-annually. Some mortgage companies collect a portion of real estate taxes due each month to pay the annual real estate taxes on behalf of the property owner.

10 Random Things About Me

2008-08-05T09:57:00.001-07:00

Here's the rule for this tag:

Once you have been tagged, you have to write a blog with 10 weird, random things, facts, habits, or goals about yourself. At the end, choose 10 people to be tagged, listing their names and why you chose them. Don't forget to leave them a comment ("You're it") and ask them to read your blog. You can't tag the person who tagged you.

Now, here's my list:

1. I am a work-at-home mom now, doing three roles everyday: freelancer, nanny, housekeeper

2. I always love to be busy, especially if it gives me more "moolah", lolz!

3. I have a sweet tooth...name it, and I'll surely bite them all! yummy!

4. My heart is for the unfortunate ones so I feel like helping whenever I have much for myself.

5. I am a detail-oriented person, so expect me to have my documents and stuffs organized, even important conversation saved in a file. (ebidenxa!)

6. I am friendly, but B-E-W-A-R-E! When I get hurt, I won't let it pass until I get even (An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth) Sorry...

7. I am a dreamer...I want to be a CPA, Interior Designer, Web Designer, Lawyer and NBI agent, but my ultimate dream is to become R-I-C-H!!!

8. I got pregnant at the age of 20 to a cute and smart 'lil boy. I love you my prince!

9. I am uber meticulous when it comes to the tiniest detail at home. I want everything to be organized, arranged in a way that satisfies my eyes, even curtains should flow into place, etc.

10. I may be merciful, but not to arrogant peeps! As long as I am RIGHT, I won't allow you to step on me, ever!

Zenni Got Something for You

2008-07-15T21:04:00.000-07:00

Are you enduring eyestrain? So why not wear eyeglasses to help you get over it? There must be something that bothering you, and I guess looking old and boring is what you are afraid of. That’s not a problem now when you get the Incredible Stylish New Frames From Zenni. There’s actually a huge selection of Zenni Optical $ 8 Rx Eyeglasses. You’ll know more about it when you read on the Zenni Optical was on FOX news!.

Grand Vacation at Perfectescapes

2008-06-28T20:57:00.000-07:00

Too much work can be very exhausting. I think I needed a break. How about a weekend getaway? I think it would be great! But I want it to be so memorable and fun. I don’t want to just settle for a location where I am not sure if I’ll enjoy spending sometime.

It’s been almost a week that I have been searching for a reliable service to help me find luxury vacation spree. I certainly wish to finally experience Perfect Escapes. It’s just a good thing that I stumbled upon Perfect 10 Newsletter.

I found out that there’s a lot to offer from this service. And my excitement has become more intense when I get to see a list of the world’s best hotels and destinations that I can possibly go to. Now I made up my mind. I really have to go to any of these world’s best destinations as I hate the toxics in the city. I want something new, something fun.

And I’m pretty sure that perfectescapes.com will settle everything that I needed for a grand vacation. I heard a lot of people who are grateful enough to have chosen their service. So I am grabbing the chance and won’t waste time until I can get the best vacation that I’ve been wanting since. I might also consider going to Wynn Las Vegas, which I heard a great place to stay.

Step 2: Get a REALTOR

2008-06-23T01:08:00.000-07:00

More than 2 million people in the United States have earned real estate licenses. However, real estate is a tough business with a steep dropout rate, and the result is that only a small percentage of those with licenses actively help buyers and sellers.

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) includes 1 million brokers and salespeople, individuals bound together with a strong Code of Ethics, extensive training opportunities and a wealth of community information. NAR members are routinely active in PTAs, local government committees and a variety of neighborhood organizations. Being actively involved in community affairs provides REALTORS® with a better understanding of the area in which they are selling.

Why?Buying and selling real estate is a complex matter. At first it might seem that by checking local picture books or online sites you could quickly find the right home at the right price.
But a basic rule in real estate is that all properties are unique. No two properties -- even two identical models on the same street -- are precisely and exactly alike. Homes differ and so do contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements and closing costs. Also, no two transactions are alike.

In this maze of forms, financing, inspections, marketing, pricing and negotiating, it makes sense to work with professionals who know the community and much more. Those professionals are the local REALTORS® who serve your area.

How do you choose?In every community you're likely to find a number of realty brokerages. Because there is heated competition, local REALTORS® must fight hard to succeed in your community.

The best place to find a local REALTOR® is from REALTOR.com's® extensive listing of community professionals and properties. Other sources include open houses, local advertising, Web sites, referrals from other REALTORS®, recommendations from neighbors and suggestions from lenders, attorneys, financial planners and CPAs. The experiences and recommendations of past clients can be invaluable.

In many cases buyers will interview several REALTORS® before selecting one professional with whom to work. These interviews represent a good opportunity to consider such issues as training, experience, representation and professional certifications.

What should you expect? (Working with a REALTOR®)Once you select a REALTOR® you will want to establish a proper business relationship. You likely know that some REALTORS® represent sellers while others represent buyers. Each REALTOR® will explain the options available, describe how he or she typically works with individuals and provide you with complete agency disclosures (the ins and outs of your relationship with the agent) as required in your state.

Once hired for the job, the REALTOR® will provide you with information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to a given situation. Remember: Because market conditions can change and the strategies that apply in one negotiation may be inappropriate in another, this information should not be set in stone. During your time in the marketplace REALTORS® will keep you updated and alert you to each step in the transaction process.

Step 1: Are You Ready?

2008-06-19T01:02:00.000-07:00

Knowledge and experience are the keys to successful real estate transactions. REALTOR.com® contains an enormous amount of valuable information, and such data -- combined with the expertise, experience and training of local REALTORS® -- can be the essential keys to your success.

One of the keys to making the homebuying process easier and more understandable is planning. In doing so, you'll be able to anticipate requests from lenders, lawyers and a host of other professionals. Furthermore, planning will help you discover valuable shortcuts in the homebuying process.

Do You Know What You Want?Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or entering the marketplace as a repeat buyer, you need to ask why you want to buy. Are you planning to move to a new community due to a lifestyle change or is buying an option and not a requirement? What would you like in terms of real estate that you do not now have? Do you have a purchasing timeframe?

Whatever your answers, the more you know about the real estate marketplace, the more likely you are to effectively define your goals. As an interesting exercise, it can be worthwhile to look at the questions above and to then discuss them in detail when meeting with local REALTORS®.

Do You Have The Money?Homes and financing are closely intertwined. (Financing is the difference between the purchase price and the downpayment, commonly referred to as debt or the mortgage.) The good news is that over the years new and innovative loan programs have evolved which require a 5 percent downpayment or less. In fact, a number of programs now allow purchasers to buy real estate with nothing down.

In addition to a down payment, purchasers also need cash for closing costs (the final costs associated with closing the loan). Several newly emerging loan programs not only allow the purchase of a home with no money down, but also underwrite closing costs.

Not everyone, however, elects to purchase with little or no money down. Less money down means higher monthly mortgage payments, so most homebuyers choose to buy with some cash up front.

As to closing costs, in markets where buyers have leverage, it may be possible to negotiate an offer for a home that requires the owner to pay some or all of your settlement expenses. Speak with local REALTORS® for details.

Is Your Financial House in Order?Those great loans with little or nothing down are not available to everyone: You need good credit. For at least one year prior to purchasing a home, you should assure that every credit card bill, rent check, car payment and other debt is paid in full and on time.

Home-Ownership 101

2008-06-15T01:00:00.000-07:00

The home-buying process doesn't need to be scary. Our step-by-step guide will walk you through the process and answer your questions on what you should expect from your REALTOR®, where to look for loans, and what to watch out for when closing the deal.

Step 1:
Are you Ready?

Step 2:
Get a REALTOR®

Step 3:
Get Loan Preapproval

Step 4:
Look at Homes

Step 5:
Choose a Home

Step 6:
Get Funding

Step 7:
Make an Offer

Step 8:
Get Insurance

Step 9:
Closing

Step 10:
What's Next?

Auction Tips in Buying a House and Lot

2008-06-11T01:25:00.000-07:00

Find the bargains

1. Property auctions are held around the country, but are advertised only about four weeks before. Look in local and national newspapers or in the trade papers Estates Gazette and Property Week. Chris Coleman-Smith, the head of auctions at Savills, recommends the Essential Information Group site, eigroup.co.uk, where the sales of all 300 auctioneers in the UK are listed. He says: “Sod's law says that if you get six catalogues, the property you would really like is in the seventh.”

Don't stay local

2. David Sandeman, of the Essential Information Group, says that the best bargains can often be found when properties are auctioned outside their local area. He says: “Half the properties sold in sales in London are outside the city. And if you have a small auction house in Wiltshire selling a property in Manchester, you may not have many people bidding who know the area.”
Get a professional view

3. The auction catalogue - which you can get, often for a small fee, direct from the auctioneer - contains all the information regarding the sale, such as guide prices, viewing times and any special conditions of sale. But make sure you appoint a solicitor who will apply for and check the document pack relating to your lot. This typically costs about £25 and includes the searches and the home information pack but no in-depth survey or valuation. Coleman-Smith says you can sometimes unearth important extra information by contacting the management company or speaking to another leaseholder.

See what you are getting

4. Visit the property at one of the viewing times listed in the catalogue - and take with you a surveyor and/or builder as necessary. More experienced buyers who feel they do not need a full survey sometimes pay a reduced fee of £100 or so to these professionals to “walk through” and advise on the property. According to Coleman-Smith: “You don't want to pay £500 for a full survey, just to be told there is a bit of woodworm under the stairs.” Viewings are typically scheduled twice a week and are open to everyone, which makes them an ideal chance to check out the rivals for the property you are interested in, according to Gary Murphy, the head of auctions at Allsop.

Keep an eye on the price

5. Do remember that a guide price (which to amateurs can appear very low) is, as Coleman-Smith says, “closer to a reserve price, and may have no relationship at all to the final sales price”. A guide price can change according to the interest displayed by buyers and any offers received in the run-up to the sale. It is not always advisable to make an offer before the sale as this may push up the reserve price, but be guided by the auctioneer. Coleman-Smith suggests expressing interest in writing and asking to be informed if a property is about to sell before the auction.

Find the cash

6. Have all your finance in place before you bid - if you are successful you will be expected to pay a 10 per cent deposit on the day, which you will forfeit if you can't find the remaining 90 per cent by completion 28 days later. However, more and more sales, particularly of repossessed homes, specify completion within 14 days, Sandeman says. Your lender must be aware of - and be able to meet - the strict auction deadlines by giving you an offer of mortgage before the sale. If you can't get this in time, don't bid.

Concentrate

7. Auctions last only about three minutes per lot. Once the hammer falls in your favour you will be required to sign the contract of sale in the back of the catalogue, and pay the deposit, so make sure you know your limits - and are bidding on the right lot. If you are a novice, consider attending a sale or two as a trial run before bidding.

Bid...

8. Auctions are not for the fainthearted. If you are worried about getting carried away, take your solicitor or a friend to bid on your behalf. You can also, if you think it is better for you, bid by telephone or online. But make sure you are fully informed: pay special attention to the auctioneer's announcements at the beginning of the auction as he or she will explain the procedure and disclose any lots sold or withdrawn prior to the sale. You must also read the addendum sheet on the day, which reveals any errors or omissions in the catalogue.

...or choose not to bid

9. David Sandeman says: “Do not get emotionally attached to a property. You are buying an asset, and if you miss this one, another will come along.” Some experts say that it is not advisable to start the bidding, as this can push up the price. If the auctioneer does not get the opening bid he calls for, he may accept a lower one. But Gary Murphy advises that sometimes a bold, early bid can be successful. He says: “Your competition will sense your strength and may be spooked.”

Follow up on unsold lots

10. Look into post-auction sales. Sandeman says: “Forty per cent of properties at auction do not sell. The sellers are then on the back foot: they have not managed to sell before the auction or during it, and you may be able to negotiate a bargain. More and more properties are coming to sale, and more and more are not being sold.”

5 Guidelines in Finding Your Dream House

2008-06-11T01:21:00.000-07:00

Stop salivating. What's holding you back from buying that dream house? Do the words "housing bubble" keep you up at night?

You're not alone: experts are cringing too. Some are waiting for a pop, others for more ballooning growth.

All the talk has left many wannabe buyers on the sidelines. Hey, you can still buy that home in today's market, but read today's five tips first to learn how to do it wisely.

1. Walk around town

Okay, so we talk about the housing market as if every home in the country was selling the same way. It's not. Real estate is a local thing -- and I mean really local.

Take this example: Home prices in Bradenton, Florida jumped 45.6 percent in one year, according to the National Association of Realtors. But 13 miles away, in Sarasota, home prices only rose 36 percent. And 46 miles north in the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg area, home prices only rose 15.7 percent.

The moral of the story is you'd be wise to walk around town, and investigate growth in each market. Stephen Israel, president of Buyer's Edge, a company that represents homebuyers, recommends you take a list of zip codes to the local real estate agent.

Ask them to look up the one-year and five-year change in home prices in those zip codes. Avoid any standout zip codes, like Bradenton from the example above. Places where there have been major market swings can come with falling or leaping prices, and bidding wars.

2. Think location, location, location

Let's get down to it -- real estate 101. The most important thing to look for is great location, says Israel. After that, you want to look for the best lot, and then finally, look at the home.

Goes against your instinct, doesn't it? Remember, you can fix a house. But you can't move your house into the city's best school district, push it away from a freeway, or turn your shabby neighborhood chic.

When looking at location, make sure you look at proximity to city centers, transportation, the best schools, culture, and work centers. But think it through, and take into account where you live. Living near a bus stop may be a major plus in Brooklyn, NY, but it may be a disturbance in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

When you're looking for the best lot, "Stay away from any major negatives," says Israel. The location and house may be great, but if there's a swampy backyard, the neighborhood looks dingy, or there are no trees on the lot, you could pay for it when it comes time for you to move again.

3. Don't show your cards

It's a seller's market. So be ready to play poker, my friends, and don't show your cards.

First off, be careful who you talk to. "Most consumers don't understand when they call number on a yard sign or speak to a person at an open house that they are talking to the seller's agent," the Massachusetts Association of Buyers Agents (MABA) warns.

The seller's agent is looking to find the best price possible for the seller's home. So don't tell them what you want to spend or what your motivations are for buying. It gives them bait to jack up the price.

And when you tour a house, be sure you don't make the so-called "$10,000 mistake" -- and exclaim, "I love this house," advises MABA. You'll pay for showing your emotion.

If you want to hire someone to be on your side, look for a buyer's agent, who can split the commission with the seller's agent in the sale. To find a list of buyer's agents, check out the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents, Web site: www.NAEBA.org.

4. Pay a smart premium

When you tour a house, make sure you take the time to evaluate the property correctly. Understand what the true value of the house is, and what premium is in the asking price. You're going to pay a premium in many markets because the market's hot. But just make sure you only pay a premium on a house that's worth it.

If it's a good property, it can stand up to any weakness coming in the market. "If you paid $550,000 for a home worth $500,000, you can feel okay knowing even if the market dumps, over time you'll make that 10 percent premium back just because it's a good property," says Israel.

5. Remember it's an investment

You've heard me say it: your home is probably the biggest investment you'll ever make. So treat it like one. Don't panic about the confusing current market conditions.

Israel says if you hold onto a house over the long-term, say five years, you can almost ignore the blips in the market. If your house devalues by 10 percent in the next three years, who cares, you'll probably live in it for seven, and by then, you might come out ahead.

Hubby Had to Leave for 3 Days

2008-05-15T04:22:00.001-07:00

Hubby woke me up early this morning to prepare for his trip. He'll be attending a meeting with his boss, coordinator and his co-auditors all over Luzon. He was told days ago about the meeting and all the while we thought that the meeting will only take a day. But just this morning when his boss texted him to bring clothes for a 2-day meeting. Sigh! I'll miss him as much as Bendyk will miss him. He'll meet my bro. at Philtranco, Cubao tonight. Hope they can have some clean fun hahaha!

How we wish we could come with him, stroll around the malls in Metro Manila, especially the newest tourist spot, Manila Ocean Park. But because of our tight budget, we just have to wait for his next trip to Manila. Hayyzzz! I miss Manila, the huge malls, the heavy traffic, gigantic buildings especially the sweat-free elevators, the busy street vendors, and the like.

Soon, I'll be coming home, Manila, Manila...hahaha! napakanta na, lolz! Anyway, I hope and pray that hubby may have a safe trip to and fro Manila. While Bendyk and I are left here but tonight and the following night, hubby's cousin will be staying here with us.

We'll miss you hubby! See yah soon...mwah!

Not Feeling Well, sniff! sniff!

2008-05-14T20:18:00.000-07:00

I can finally get in touch with my techie-buddy again. I can't live without this hahaha! Exaj! Anyway, this will just be a quick post 'cause I'm not feeling well today. You see, yesterday until midnight I was busy packing and unpacking our stuffs. As what I have mentioned in my previous post, we had our "lipat-bahay" scene again, arrrgghhh! Yea, t'was tiring. And during times like that, I needed my techie-buddy to back me up, soothe my fingers and vision to help me get back into my normal state. Whew! Relocation, relocation, relocation would mean another set of expenditures. And I just hate it especially when I already paid for my internet broadband connection and yet I still have to pay for the relocation fee.

Oh man! What's going on here?! Alright let's just forget all the troubles of life these days. The important thing is, I am settling everything one step at a time. So there, I went to Smart Wireless Centre although it was raining, paid for the relocation fee, and woooaaahh! I just hate it when I get too excited, and upon learning that I had to wait for 3 days to 1 week for them to set everything up...What are you talking about miss?! I dragged myself in that wireless center amidst the rain and you were telling me that I had to wait that long?! Pa*sy*t!

Well, God still loves me. Kuya, the tech support of Smart Wireless Centre who came over here early in the morning got back to help me out of this trouble. I hate waiting for days just to restore my broadband connection. So at last! I finally have with me my techie-buddy's internet! Yipee! Need to cuddle my pillow now. I badly needed a nap 'cause my head is aching and in just a while I think I'll be suffering from colds and flu. Sniff! Sniff! Blame it to the rain! Sigh!

Searching for a House for Rent

2008-05-12T08:17:00.001-07:00

The whole day was spent searching for a house for rent. Yea I know, I know, public transportation is on strike today and will end til midnight. But the eagerness to find a new haven for us makes me hard-headed again. Well, we've been searching for a studio-type to rent for almost 2 days already. A studio-type home because it'll only be Bendyk, hubby and me who will be staying there. We're not that big to occupy the entire space at home so it'll be more practical to choose a not-so-big home.

But we didn't find any at Barriada so even if it's raining, hubby and I walked straight to Our Lady's Village, wishing to finally find a studio-type home. You see, we have to leave this house even though it's so big and fully furnished for us. There are just some people who are so "makakapal" to stay here even if they are not welcome anymore. These two people do wear thick faces to stick and stay here despite the fact that I am sending them away of this house since they aren't actually renting here and the fact that the woman is supposed to be with her kids whom she left at her mom's custody which I just knew days ago. And worst, mom is the one feeding them since the man has no more job. D'oh! Well, mom can't send them away 'cause she's always the hospitable woman I know. Arrrggghhh! It's a different story! So better get out of this house before I blow fire again! I am trying to hold my temper, but staying here for a few more days would certainly provoke me to give them a new set of hit! Darn! Uber sa kapal!

How I wish we could have our home which we can call our own. Sigh! When will riches knock on us? I just wish hubby can already have his promised house and lot from her aunt. Well, it'll take two more years I guess and it'll be in a faraway land, right within the vicinity of their farm-resort in Silang, Cavite. Waaah! Super layo naman nun sa kabihasnan. ==> : (

But we need a home now. And I mean it ASAP. Luckily, as we walked through Our Lady's Village today, we found that "House 4 Rent" posted on the tree. And good thing, the landlord as well as his family is hospitable to let us rent the house. It wasn't actually a big one as compared to this house we currently stay in. I guess it's only half of the size of this house. But it's already good for us. It has 1 bedroom, living room, kitchen, dining space, and comfort room. We also have our own small gate and the windows have screens and grills. And the monthly rent, which is 2,500php is not that expensive so it'll be easy on our pocket. Practicality has to be with us these days especially that the prices of products and even services are gradually increasing to our dismay.

So tomorrow will be another "lipat-bahay" scene. Hayyyzz!

Happy 24th Birthday Hubby!!!

2008-05-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

Today, May 8, 2008 is my hubby's birthday! Yipee! He's now 24 years old. Tumatanda ka na hubby nyahaha! So what's for today? Well, I was actually planing days before his birthday that we'll be having a simple pool party. It was actually a surprise gift from me. But since I've already talked to his cousins about the plan, they forgot to zip their mouth when hubby came home, arrrggghhh! I knew it from the start that he won't like it. He hate spending too much for himself, even if it's for his birthday. Sigh!

Anyway, I just gave him a new Puma sneakers as my gift. I hate his fave Chuck Taylor sneakers. Well, he likes my gift so no need to argue, lolz!

Mah gift for his 24th birthday...

So today, we'll just go out for a date (kiligar hahaha!) We decided to watch a movie at the theater, a 'lil shopping and dine out. I'll also buy him a cake so he can make a wish and blow his candle...Yey! And oh, a cake would be a good "pulutan" for tonight. Yes! We're going to celebrate here (yes, right here)...2 pairs of beer bottles will do, a lampshade on and with background music. Oh how romantic! I know he'll love it...

So till here for now peeps...I'll be having my date with hubby (kiligar nyahahaha!)
ciao!

A Lesson for a Lifetime

2008-05-01T18:45:00.000-07:00

Le'mme share this very inspiring story with you peeps...

When I arrived at 6 a.m. in the large hospital kitchen, Rose was already checking name tags on the trays against the patient roster. Stainless steel shelves held rows of breakfast trays which we would soon be serving.

"Hi, I'm Janet." I tried to sound cheerful, although I already knew Rose's reputation for being impossible to work with. "I'm scheduled to work with you this week."

Rose, a middle-aged woman with graying hair, stopped what she was doing and peered over her reading glasses. I could tell from her expression she wasn't pleased to see a student worker.

"What do you want me to do? Start the coffee?"

Rose sullenly nodded and went back to checking name tags.

I filled the 40-cup pot with cold water and began making the coffee when Rose gruffly snapped, "That's not the way to make coffee." She stepped in and took over.

"I was just doing it the way our supervisor showed us to do it," I said in astonishment.

"The patients like the coffee better the way I do it," she replied curtly.

Nothing I did pleased her. All morning her eagle eyes missed nothing and her sharp words stung. She literally trailed me around the kitchen.

Later, after breakfast had been served and the dishes had been washed, I set up my share of trays for the next meal. Then I busied myself cleaning the sink. Certainly Rose couldn't criticize the way I did that.

When I turned around, there stood Rose, rearranging all of the trays I had just set up!

Totally exhausted, I trudged the six blocks home from the University of Minnesota Hospital late that June afternoon. As a third year university student working my way through school, I had never before encountered anyone like Rose.

Fighting back tears, I wrestled with my dilemma alone in my room. "Lord, what do you want me to do? I can't take much more of Rose."

I turned the possibilities over in my mind. Should I see if my supervisor would switch me to work with someone else? Scheduling was fairly flexible. On the other hand, I didn't want to be a quitter. I knew my older co-workers were watching to see if my actions matched my words.

The answer to my prayer caught me completely by surprise -- I needed to love Rose.

Love her? No way! Tolerate, yes, but loving her was impossible.

"Lord, I can't love Rose. You'll have to do it through me."

Working with Rose the next morning, I ignored the barbs thrown in my direction and did things Rose's way as much as possible to avoid friction. As I worked, I silently began to surround Rose with a warm blanket of prayers. "Lord, help me love Rose. Lord, bless Rose."

Over the next few days an amazing thing began to happen. As I prayed for this irritating woman, my focus shifted from what she was doing to me, and I started seeing Rose as the hurting person she was. The icy tension began to melt away.

Throughout the rest of the summer, we had numerous opportunities to work together. Each time she seemed genuinely happy to see me. As I worked with this lonely woman, I listened to her--something no one else had done.

I learned that she was burdened by elderly parents who needed her care, her own health problems, and an alcoholic husband she was thinking of leaving.

The days slipped by quickly as I finished the last several weeks of my summer job. Leaves were starting to turn yellow and red, and there was a cool, crispness in the air. I soon would be returning as a full-time university student.

One day, while I was working alone in one of the hospital kitchens, Rose entered the room. Instead of her blue uniform, she was wearing street clothes.

I looked at her in surprise. "Aren't you working today?"

"I got me another job and won't be working here no more," she said as she walked over and gave me a quick hug. "I just came to say good-bye." Then she turned abruptly and walked out the door.

Although I never saw Rose again, I still remember her vividly. That summer I learned a lesson I've never forgotten. The world is full of people like Rose--irritating, demanding, unlovable - yet hurting inside. I've found that love is the best way to turn an enemy into a friend.

"Love your enemies! Do good to them! Lend to them! And don't be concerned that they might not repay. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to the unthankful and to those who are wicked."
Luke 6:35 NLT

Charity from dNeero-ites

2008-05-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

Super Tiring Day But Had Fun...

2008-04-30T08:15:00.000-07:00

Got bored after lunch. Hubby was still in Daet so I have no one to talk to the whole afternoon. Bendyk was busy in front of the TV so I can't even disturb him. My bosses are sleeping during the afternoon so I still have no one to converse with. I must admit that I'd rather want to be alone doing my own things, but there are still times when I just can't help it but look for some ways to unwind. And yes, an alternative to my techie-buddy is the mall. I dunno why my feet are itching to go to the mall most of the time.

So before I changed my mind, I called Bendyk to change his clothes and it was my turn after I put his "paraphernalias". In 30 minutes, we reached Mama's house (hubby's granny) to pay her a visit and at the same time asked hubby's 15-year old cousin if she wants to come with us. You see, I can't handle my little prince alone. He's too heavy for my skinny body to carry him the whole afternoon. It's just a good thing that Sweetie excitedly come with us. She's been spending her summer school-break at home so she is also getting bored.

Well, the truth is, we planned to watch for the most awaited heart-throb Sam Milby. We heard that he's coming at 6:00 p.m. this afternoon. And since we still had so much time to stroll around, we let Bendyk played his fave game, basketball and also had his rides. But it seems that he won't take a "no" for an answer when he insisted to ride in that push-car. Oh my, he's getting hard-headed lately. As what most people say, "like mother, like son" seems to be true, lolz!

So there he had it, a push-car for an hour. Whew! Money wasted once again...

I had an eye on that colorful cotton candies near the WOF so I went there and bought two cones, pink and blue. I just dunno why it says in their jar that the pink one is a bubble gum flavor. Hmmm...it didn't taste like one. Well, maybe it was just a part of their marketing strategy.

We also went to the Castle Playhouse but we didn't let Bendyk come inside. He's below the 3-year old bracket and according to their rule, the kid must be accompanied by guardians only if both are wearing socks. Well, I don't wear sneakers nowadays so it'll really be impossible for me to wear one. I know Bendyk wants to play inside the Castle but I told him to wait until he turned 3 this coming November.

After an hour, I asked Bendyk if it would be okay for him if we return the push-car since one hour had already lapsed. He agreed but on one condition, we have to eat at Jabee. Whew!

Afterwards, we went upstairs to buy a flash drive. I got the 2 GB so I can store a lot of my files, particularly pictures and digiscrapped images.

And then we headed to Landco Plaza where Sam had sung 3 songs. He is really good in singing and mind you, he looks so charming and sweet. He's not so maarte like the other celebrities who would hesitate to shake hands and even dare not to go down the stage near the audience. He's really a nice guy aside from the handsome face and body he has. I was actually taking photos and videos of him using my phone, but sad to say the light coming from the stage was really irritating. I don't see Sam on the photos taken. I could have just brought my digicam only if I knew that I am going to see Sam in person.

Sam Milby left at 8:00 p.m. so we just waited for hubby at Mama's house. And after an hour we went home and forgot that I've not yet taken my dinner. Maybe I was overwhelmed of Sam hahaha! Hubby had taken his dinner in Naga City so he thought that we already had eaten at the mall before we went home. It's late at night so stores are already closed. It was just a good thing that I bought earlier 3 Chuckies, Chiz Curls and of course, my fave Snickers. Yea, you got it right. These serve as my dinner for tonight except for 1 chuckie which Bendyk took away from my 'office desk' huhuhu!

Me vs. Junky-Healthy meal

It was already past 11:00 p.m. tonight, munching and sipping my instant dinner.

I'm actually multi-tasking at this hour, chatting with Shammy, having my instant dinner and at the same time chatting with mah boss.

Be Patient

2008-04-27T04:37:00.000-07:00

This is a true story which happened in the States. A man came out of his home to admire his new truck.

To his puzzlement, his three-year-old son was happily hammering dents into the shiny paint.

The man ran to his son, knocked him away, hammered the little boy's hands into pulp as punishment.

When the father calmed down, he rushed his son to the hospital. Although the doctor tried desperately to save the crushed bones, he finally had to amputate the fingers from both the boy's hands.

When the boy woke up from the surgery & saw his bandaged stubs, he innocently said, " Daddy, I'm sorry about your truck." Then he asked, "but when are my fingers going to grow back?"

The father went home & committed suicide.

Think about the story the next time u see someone spill milk at a dinner table or hear a baby crying. Think first before u lose your patience with someone u love. Trucks can be repaired. Broken bones & hurt feelings often can't.

Too often we fail to recognise the difference between the person and the performance.

People make mistakes. We are allowed to make mistakes. But the actions we take while in a rage will haunt us forever.

Pause and ponder. Think before you act. Be patient. Understand & love.

Dating Tips For Teenage Girls: Four Fun Things To Do

2008-04-22T04:59:00.000-07:00

Going on a first date can be awkward for boys as well as girls. You and your date both want to make a good impression on each other. You’re probably both a little nervous and conversation may come hard.

There are some things you can do, however, to break the ice on that first date. And while you’re breaking the ice, you can be observing your guy to decide whether you want a second date with him.

Dating Tips for Teenage Girls #1: Go to a Movie or Concert

This will allow you to spend a few hours together without struggling to find something to say. Afterwards, the show you just saw will give you plenty to talk about. While you’re evaluating the show, you can be evaluating your date as well. Do you and he share a sense of humor or a similar sense of values? Does he laugh at things you find offensive?

Dating Tips for Teenage Girls #2: Do Something Physical

Go indoor rock climbing, challenge him to a good, hard game of tennis, or suggest a bowling match. Until you know him better, avoid activities like hiking that will put the two of you together in an isolated area. Observe his attitude and see how does he react if you win? Does he get sullen and resentful, or is he pleased for you?

Dating Tips for Teenage Girls #3: Double (or Triple, or Quadruple) Date

Go out with other couples to get some pizza or see a movie. The more people there are, the more easily the conversation flows. Watch your date as he interacts with other people. How does he treat the other girls? Is he pleasant, or does he make crude remarks that annoy the others?

Dating Tips for Teenage Girls #4: Make a Study Date

Meet at the library to catch up on school work. Most libraries have private rooms study buddies can reserve. As you work and chat together, observe his behavior. Does he do his share, or does he count on you to do the majority of the work? Does he know how to work through a problem, or does he get easily frustrated?

A first date can be every bit as awkward as a job interview. But these dating tips for teenage girls will allow you to have fun with your date, while at the same time keeping an eye out for personality traits you may find undesirable.

Live TV

2008-04-22T04:58:00.001-07:00

I bought a new TV last week and it’s a lot cooler than the ordinary ones. It’s a 21 inch colored LCD TV. My little kid is having a great time watching the live show every morning, lunch until night. Well, as much as I want to be with him watching his favorite shows, I’d rather sit here in front of my computer where I do my work and from time to time watch my favorite live broadcast at live tv.

Devinir Riche

2008-04-22T04:28:00.000-07:00

It could be frustrating when you are working hard and yet you seem not changing your lifestyle. You want to be a devenir riche. Who wouldn’t want to become like one? So now you are seeking for ways on how to make money while enjoying it. It’s so easy when you visit the argent facile sur le net. All you have to do is to play and enjoy winning a lot more prizes. So begin grabbing your mouse and enjoy the argent gratuity.

Dating Advice For Women: Lighten Up And Give Him A Chance

2008-04-18T07:05:00.001-07:00

Contrary to popular notions held by women today that there just are not enough good men left to date, evidence that is available points out that such is not the case. The ideal man could be someone that has a good career as a teacher or electrician and who is over five feet seven inches in height, is athletic or even huggable and who likes to cook, dance and hike as well as watch movies.

Look For Honesty And Monogamous Males

The best dating advice for women would be to look for such men, who in any case are also looking for a loving relationship and who view monogamy positively and who, also pride them on being honest. You would also be well advised in looking for a partner that is not too much older or younger than you since such men would also want the same things as you do.

Another important dating advice for women is to give the man a chance because it is a common complaint among men that women just don’t give them a chance, and it is quite common for men to be refused by women that have sought men out through dating services without even having spoken to the man or responded to communicate with the man any further. This kind of behavior on the part of women can leave men dazed and bewildered and also very frustrated.

The next piece of dating advice for women worth considering is to not judge the book by its cover and look beyond appearances and looks. Often, women may complain that they only are rejected because of their looks and men do not take enough time to get to know them better, and the same holds good in the case of men being rejected by women. The best dating advice for women is that they should select their partner not just on physical attraction, because this a common trap that most women easily fall into and that is why matchmakers don’t show photographs of prospective partners in the beginning.

It also brings up an important point about the cost to women in rejecting men based on superfluous attributes, and unfortunately the cost may be quite high and it is a common reason why they often miss the boat.

It is a much better idea to profit from dating advice for women and expand the horizons by looking for more desirable qualities in men such as finding someone who fits well and who maybe also has a warm heart, or who has communication skills of a better kind. Women should also look for education as well as honesty and because women in this present age are more independent, they do not need to worry too much about emotional support or even the financial status of the partner.

It is also worth paying attention to another good dating advice for women and that is it pays to get to know the man and sharing a glass of wine or engaging in light conversation and sparing an hour or so of her time to know the other person from the inside is worth more than simply accepting or rejecting a man based on his physical attributes.

Today, dating is filled with many opportunities and according to sound dating advice for women, you need not be so hung up on expecting very high standards of the prospective male and it is much better to give the other a chance and even say ‘yes’ when someone meets minimum criteria even though he may not be an ideal person, but could still make an excellent partner. There is not much you would lose and plenty that you could gain.

Dating Tips for Teenage Guys Taking a Girl Out on the First Date

2008-04-18T07:03:00.001-07:00

You have liked this girl for a while now, and you finally got the courage up to ask her out on a date. However, while you are really excited, you are really nervous. You want everything to go perfectly, so you are really in need of some dating tips.

Dating Tip #1: Ask Her What She Wants to Do

Girls love it when they get the opportunity to go on a date to their favorite place. So, you will be earning a lot of respect from her if you follow this dating tip. However, if she says that she does not have a particular place in mind, you should start planning! This is also a good time for you to ask other female friends that you have for advice.

Dating Tip #2: Choose a Neutral Place

Since this is your first date, you do not want to jump right into a romantic relationship and take her to a romantic restaurant. Keep everything just fun for the first date, and take her to the mall or to the movies. As for what movie to pick, choose a comedy. This way, you can laugh together and keep the situation less nerve-wracking.

Dating Tip #3: Give her a Flower

When you go to pick up your date at the door, make sure you bring her a little something – specifically, a flower. It is a nice gesture, and one that she is sure to love. However, keep it simple and save the bouquets for later on. As for what flower to choose, a single rose is a great idea, but if you happen to know what her favorite flower is, that is especially good.

Dating Tip #4: Do Not Try to Rush Things

As much as you like your date, you cannot just start making out with her, or going even further. Girls like a guy that lets them lead in that department, and it is better for you to just get to know each other on a mental level instead of a physical level. If this does not interest you, then you should reevaluate what you are looking for in a relationship.

Remember, relationships take time, and as a teenager there is certainly no need to rush into one right away. The important thing is to date and have crushes, but certainly not marriage! Dating is supposed to be fun, so get to know each other and see where this relationship goes.

Auto Insurance

2008-04-17T23:54:00.000-07:00

My brother who’s working in Manila informed me two nights ago that there is a vintage car for sale in the city near their place. It only costs 25,000 pesos so he asked me if I want to buy one. Where else can you find a car with a cheapest price today? That instantly popped into my mind when I read his message. Since I didn’t take it seriously, I replied and asked him if that car he’s been telling me has its four wheels complete and that it won’t let me push it just to make it run.

Oh well, I also informed him that vintage car is a lot expensive these days so how come that there is a cheap car for sale? He insisted that it is indeed not a joke because he is actually planning to get one when he saved for it. Well, it must be really true. But I want a car that I am assured of its quality and performance. And you probably know that getting one is a lot expensive.

But not too late for me, I guess. There’s an auto insurance offered online. And sooner or later I might avail one from them. Wish me luck. How about you? Have you ever dreamed of driving your own car? You better take a look at the site first so you’ll know if you are on the right track.

Payday Loan

2008-04-17T23:28:00.000-07:00

I’ve had enough of salary delay issues. Expecting something could only frustrate you if it doesn’t come on time. And I am pertaining to the salary we worked hard for. There are just some people who are inconsiderate enough to not think of the situation of other employees. Oh well, it’s over because I finally decided to leave my job.

It’s just a good thing for me that my work online is paying me on time. But sad to say, my hubby is still dealing with the inconsistent paydays. Although he’s earning a good compensation from the company he’s working, he isn’t happy enough when the salary is delayed. So I suggest that he might just apply for a payday loan. It’s indeed a helping hand in times of emergency needs. You might as well want to try this one.

You could be pissed off by the endless wait for your delayed salary. So now is the time for you to seek assistance while you wait for the salary to be uploaded in your account. I tell you, many are into this kind of service these days especially that we can’t tell when exactly we will be paid for the money we worked hard for. Check it out at easypaydaytoday.com.

Health Insurance Online

2008-04-17T22:18:00.000-07:00

Having a family of your own is a whole lot joy and excitement. You are able to start investing for the whole family to enjoy. Home, car, and other things that can satisfy you as well as the entire family are the ones you have to consider when you start to have one. As for me, I already have my own family. We don’t have our own home yet as well as car, but we are already starting to invest in appliances and furniture so that when we have our own home, we can fill it with things that can certainly add spice to our daily living in that home.

But more than anything else, your health and that of your family is the most important thing you should consider. It has always been the priority of every family. For best health protection, you may seek assistance for a health insurance online. I tell you, checking it out is one step you can make so as to ensure the health of the whole family.

It always feels great to be healthy, especially when you know that everybody is healthy in your family. So why neglect it when you can actually find assistance in just a few clicks of the mouse. It’s only at ez-insuranceportal.com where everything that your family needs is just a few clicks away.

Payday Loans

2008-04-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

Is delayed salary release pissing you off? Who wouldn’t be when you have always expected for that time to come and yet you have just waited for nothing. Good for me that I won’t be waiting for that anymore since I already decided to resign from my job. Perhaps, most of you can relate to my experience. It’s not a joke at all especially that you have worked hard just to earn that money. I just can’t understand why some people in-charge for that salary thing is inconsiderate enough to not think of the employee’s situation.

Anyway, it’s over and I’m fine now working at home without someone to reprimand me to do this and that. And perhaps, you know how it feels to be in the same kind of situation. If I’ve had enough of that thing, my hubby isn’t yet over with his consistent delayed salary. While he’s well-compensated from his job, he has to wait for days after the scheduled payday before he can get his salary.

So he’d rather apply for payday loans while waiting for his salary to be uploaded to his account. Sometimes, it has to be that way, to seek help from a lending company so that when emergency knocks on you are sure that there is someone/something you can count on.

Cash Advance Loan

2008-04-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Gone are the days of delayed salary release. Yes, I had enough of those times when I was expecting my salary but ended up waiting for nothing because it was not credited in my account on time. Most of you can relate to my experience. You see, you have worked hard to earn the money that is due to you, but these people in-charge to the payment aren’t considerate enough to think of your situation.

But that was then since I already decided to leave my job. I’m fine now working here at home with no inconsiderate boss and some backstabber officemates. Everything is okay on my part. My hubby has to deal with his consistent delay on salary release. Yes, it’s consistent although he is paid a likely amount one would wish for; he still has to look for something to back him up whenever the salary is delayed.

This made him decide to apply for a cash advance loan. Some would call it payday loans. But whatever you call it, it’s a big help which you can always count on especially during your downtimes. How about you? Are you paid on time? If not, you better try this one too. It won’t hurt to try availing a cash advance. In fact, it will support you while you are waiting for your delayed salary.

Bad Debt

2008-04-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn’t want to be debt-free? Of course, everybody does. But trying to be free isn’t as easy as stepping out of the door. You will have to undertake a lot of steps before you can finally call yourself, a man without debt. But the question is, what is the initial step to get there when the fact that incurring a debt is sometimes a part of living. You won’t survive if you can’t unless that you were born rich. But there are also times that even rich people also incur debt. Sometimes, they didn’t notice that they are already beginning to drown from it and soon incur a bad debt. That’s the hardest part here. Not unless you know where you are seeking help will help you solve your problem.

Best yet, you may visit nodebttoday.com as it can offer you a great deal on debt solution which you needed most. It has always been a hard situation when you have to deal with paying your debts, and worst when you incur bad debts. So the best thing to do is it’s either you don’t apply for a loan or pay your debts on time. You have to always think beforehand; otherwise, you will really have to carry a heavy burden caused by this.

My Dream Car

2008-04-17T16:59:00.000-07:00

Two nights ago, my brother who’s in Manila right now sent me a message asking me if I would like to buy a vintage car worth of 25,000 pesos only. Of course, I can’t believe it at first. I even asked myself; where else can you find a car that costs cheaper these days?

So I replied him with a message if that car he’s talking about has its wheels complete and that I won’t have to push it just to run. Yes, I didn’t take it seriously. I also added that it might just run within the city and won’t be able to run miles and miles away. He insisted that it’s a vintage car but still looks great. In fact, he’s also planning to buy one.

Well, I’m not so sure about it because all I know is that for you to get a quality and performance car, it will let you spend a lot first before you can have one. But I am also dreaming to have my own car so that I can go wherever I want and whenever I want. Of course, I’ll bring with me my family. I might just apply for an auto loan than purchasing a car that I am not sure if it will last long.

Home Sweet Home

2008-04-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

Having our own family is not so easy especially if you don’t own a house for the whole family to live in. That’s what hubby and I have been discussing lately if when will we be working at this plan of owning our own home. While it’s not so easy and quick process, we have to plan it carefully. We have to consider the exact place we want to have our own home built, would it be easy for us to reach our work and the different establishments that we need to go to every time.

And most of all, we also have to consider the expenses of applying for one aside from paying for the house and lot. Now it left me thinking if do I have to study about Mortgage before we jump into paying for a house and lot. But then again, hubby and I also consider availing the housing loan benefits that we could get from a certain government office.

It won’t hurt if we try availing it. In fact, it will help us start on our own and avoid spending a lot for rent which we knew even from the start that the house won’t be ours even after so many years we will be living here. So we come up with a decision to apply for a housing loan in the future. But before we do that, we have to study everything first so that there will be no hassle in paying for the mortgage. It’s just a good thing that I found a site that can help me with my thorough study, the mortgagefindersnetwork.com.

Credit Cards

2008-04-17T08:06:00.000-07:00

The entire week is so busy for me. The other night, hubby and I went out and had a drinking spree at the beer plaza along with his coordinator and my friends. The next day, hubby had his trip to Naga City then to Quezon Province, while my Prince Bendyk and I went out to shop at the mall and “tiangge” later in the afternoon. We had so much fun that left us starved when we left the place. So we headed to eat at fast food chain to recharge the energy we’d lost.

Just today, I bought a new 21 inch flat TV with a swing features so I can swing it to the right or left depending on my desired position. I wouldn’t have to lift it up just to put it in the direction I want. Now, I am just thinking, if I am empty pocketed now, I might just apply for credit cards so next time that I had to purchase something, I will just pay for it using the cards than paying in cash.

I’ve known friends who are enjoying the hassle-free of using credit cards. They can shop at anytime they want to and when emergency arises, they have something to use should they come run out of cash. How about you? Do you prefer using credit cards?

Cash Advance

2008-04-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

I started the week eating out at the mall and shop around with Bendyk. I also paid our bills, rent, internet connection, electric bill, water bill, digicam and just today, I bought a new 21 inch flat TV. I love this one because it can be swung either to the left or right without lifting it up to my desired position. My Prince Bendyk loves it so much.

Now, I’m here working again in the middle of the night because I am not empty pocketed. But it’s alright since I can see where my earning went to. It’s worth spending though especially that hubby and I are able to invest for our own things without asking from anybody. It makes us happier just with the thought that no one is supporting us just to live a life so simple yet satisfying. In other words, we faced the consequences of early marriage independently and we are proud of ourselves.

Since I’m empty pocketed now, I might need to apply for payday loans so when time comes that we need emergency cash, I have something to count on. For some who are in dire need of emergency cash and your salary is delayed, you might as well try this one. It’s worth availing, I tell you.

12th: Hyundai 21" LCD TV-Swing Feature

2008-04-16T07:52:00.000-07:00

Whew! I can't believe it! This is actually my 12th pay-out and for today, I purchased a brand new Hyundai 21" LCD TV. The swing feature allows us to move it to the left or right direction so there's no need to lift it up.

My Prince Bendyk who's so excited to open the box...

Hyundai 21" Flat TV

And the "Swing" feature...

So there we have it, another investment for a newbie family...yey! (wink!)

12th: Hyundai 21" LCD TV-Swing Feature

2008-04-16T03:03:00.000-07:00

My Prince Bendyk who's so excited to open the box...

Hyundai 21" Flat TV

And the "Swing" feature...

So there we have it, another investment for a newbie family...yey! (wink!)

A Wifey Momma Wannabee...

2008-04-15T02:53:00.000-07:00

It's the 15th of April, the effectivity date of my resignation from my previous work. Yea, I decided to leave my job and in the meantime would try my best to be a "wifey momma". It's so strange that for over 2 years of becoming a mom, I never been an ideal mom to my kiddo and a good wife to my hubby. I'm not so sure of this, but I guess it's quite true.

Anyhoo, I started the day cleaning the house, rearranging stuffs from one corner to another and so far it feels good to touch them once again. You see, I've always been a frustrated interior designer so expect everything inside the house to be rearranged once a week or at least twice a month. It makes me feel oh so damn goood!

Done with the general cleaning and assisted my prince bendyk in his milky bubble bath. My prince looks fresh again so I turned on the TV so he could watch his anticipated fave show, wowowee. While the wifey momma went to the kitchen to cook for our lunch. Hubby is at work so no one would cook for Bendyk and me. (sigh!) I found fresh longaniza and was confused on how to cook it the right way. I forgot to ask hubby about it before he left.

Well, I imagined how it looks like when cooked so I figured out the procedures. I washed the longaniza first before putting them on the pan. And then I half-filled the pan with water, and put it in the stove, covered them and waited for a few minutes until the water boiled. I picked every piece of longanizas and sliced each into thin pieces. After that, I put a little cooking oil in an empty pan, put the longanizas on it, sprinkled a pint of sugar to caramelize and put them on the stove. I tossed and turned them on the pan so they won't get burned.

And after a few minutes...

My specialty for today...taraaan!

When you try to look at it closely, you'll notice that some part are a 'lil burned. I found out that cooking this kind of dish sticks on the pan so I had to gather extra effort just to toss and turn them. About the taste, well...I must admit that it doesn't taste good. It's some kinda sour and a bit sweet. I dunno if the problem is with my cooking or the mixture of the one who made it. Sigh! Better luck next time christelle, hehehe!

After lunch, cleaned the table and washed the dirty dishes on the sink, I took a bath and interact once again with my techie-buddy. I have a lot of online work to do. You see, I resigned from my job, but it doesn't mean that I don't work anymore. I deal with data entry, social marketing, and monetized blogging so expect me to be busy everyday like when I was still working in a real office.

It's in the Cards

2008-04-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

Bad Credit Offers

2008-04-08T02:12:00.000-07:00

You have had your bad credit credit cards before and you wish to apply for new credit cards or credit loans. But because of your record, many companies are rejecting your application. Don’t lose hope; bad credit loans are offered to almost anyone even those who have had bad credit records. Yes, you read it right. So why not begin grabbing that mouse and visit the site.

Summer at Chef School

2008-04-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

It’s summer time once again and I want to spend this season by making it a whole lot fun and exciting. So let me think of the plans I have listed on my note. While I am still waiting for the school year to come, I might as well enroll first in a culinary school. But before I do that, let me find first the best chef school in the city. There are so many culinary schools so I’m pretty sure that I can find the one that suits my taste and standard.

Spring Time

2008-03-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

Manila Ocean Park

2008-03-29T02:23:00.001-07:00

I’m so excited to be able to share this news with you! As a biologist, I’m thrilled that the Philippines finally has its own oceanarium.

The state-of-the-art Manila Ocean Park had its soft opening last week, on February 29. It’s gorgeous and truly world-class! Let’s take a tour, via Mel & Joey:

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For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Here’s another sneak peak of Manila Ocean Park as reported by Mel Tiangco of Mel and Joey.

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For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

The oceanarium is just the first phase of construction which will eventually include a hotel and mall, and open marine habitats. Already, it has the following sections open to visitors:

1. Agos (Flow) - a rainforest motiff complete with 8 tanks of freshwater fishes.

2. Bahura (The Reef) - exihibition of artificial corals in 48 tanks

3. Laot (Fishing Ground) - features big fish and Eagle-spotted rays in a long tank.

4. Kalaliman (The Deep) - showcases marine animals found in the deepest parts of Philippine waters.

5. Buhay na Karagatan (Living Ocean) - the main attraction of the oceanarium is a 25-meter long walkway tunnel with 220-degree curved acrylic walls similarly seen in Ocean Park Hong Kong, Singapore’s Underwater World in Sentosa, Siam’s Ocean World in Bangkok, Thailand and Kuala Lumpur’s Aquaria in Malaysia. The difference between MOP’s is a 220-degree curved tunnel as compared to the standard 180-degree curved tunnels seen in other Asian countries.

6. Overhang Tank - variety of rays fly over while you’re under this unique Overhang Tank.

7. Pating (Shark) - features several species of shark.

Let’s finish the tour with this second segment from Mel & Joey:

Isn’t it great!!? This is a definite must-see in Manila! The Manila Ocean Park is located behind the Quirino Grandstand at the Rizal Park (Luneta).
Check out this information page for entrance fees, operating hours and phone numbers to the Park.

World Tag

2008-03-21T08:53:00.000-07:00

Start copying here: ^_^

These are the Links Around The World Tag.

Instruction:
1. Place your link after the list. If you have more than 1 blog, feel free to add them all here!
2. After placing your blog’s address/es, you must tag 5 or more bloggers that is not yet in the list, this is to keep the ball rolling.
3. Here is the best part: Make sure to update your list every now and then, by getting the master list here. I’ll be updating the master list every day, or as soon as I see a new blog that’s been added to the list.

1. Momhood Moments 2. Business Mars 3. Princezz 4. Princess 5. Cecil 6. Ron & Cecil 7. Pinay Mommy Online 8 OnlineBiz and Resources 9 A Simple life 10 - moms…..check nyo 11 Mommy’s Little Corner 12 Random Thoughts 13 Paradigm 14 See Me For What You Will 15 Pamp’s Blog Corner 16 - Pampered 17 - HappyHeart 18 Qtcotzkie and Baby 19 A Sorta Fairytale 20 tragicseven 21 - Listen to the Beat! 22 Just Saying 23 Tipsy Tips 24 Different Angles 25 Delicious Corner 26 I Care 27 Blog Blag Blog 28 Daily List 29 Life’s Journey 30 Welcome to my Crib 31 A Daily Walk With Bill & Gina 32 Me,Myself + 2 33 Fun.Fierce.Fabulous 34 Mike 35 BerryScrappy 36 BloggerHappy 37 - My Planet Purple 38 - Our Journey to Life 39 - Princess Bela 40 - Kaptyurd by Howell 41 - Random Thoughts 42 - My Colorful World 43-A Handful of Surprises 44- My Paper Scraps 45-Crumpled and Scratched 46-Witty Rendezvous 47-Coohrahao 48-The Enfakid 49-Thumbmark 50-Misty Heart 51-Prince Bendyk 52-The All-Around Nanny 53-Linger on Love 54-Auto Crazed 55-Hook My Smirk

I will pass this tag to Lala, Dhen, Shammy, Halley, Owenn and Yhen

Thank God, It's My Birthday!

2008-03-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday today, yipeee! I'm 23 now and I wish...hmmmm...akin na lng 'yon hehehe!

I feel blessed for everything that I had, I am having and will be having and all the things I have been through for the past years, be it happy or bad times, I am still grateful for I have successfully surpassed all the challenges/trials in life.

I am now ready to embark another year of life and that made me feel excited. But I must admit that despite the happiness I feel at the moment, there is this promise I have made years before that when I reached the age of 25...hmmmm....oh well, I'm only 23 so I still have 2 years to achieve that greatest dream in life. (I crossed my fingers to that thought) Wish me luck, guys!

Time check: 2:03 p.m. - I am supposed to celebrate my birthday, alright. But I have to finish tons of workloads (backlogs, darn!). This is also my supposed to be rest day but I just can't rest. The company compelled us to work tomorrow instead of Saturday, next week arrrggghhhh! So I have to finish everything before tomorrow, or else, oh my! it's my birthday so I shouldn't be thinking of any depressing thoughts for now...

I have to rush myself and get through with these keywords so that later this afternoon, it's a celebration, horayyy!!! hahaha! It's not gonna be a bongacious one. I'll be out with my Prince Bendyk and with his dad of course, hehehe!

And tomorrow...

I guess, it'll be a real party lolz! My friends at the office keep bragging about having a birthday party in our cubicle. And it's a good idea, how's that?! (wink!) Alright, wish will be granted if that'll make me happy and my friends as well.

I better start now...gotta go, friends!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! HEHEHE!

Mah Score @ Blogger Spelling

2008-03-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

I Scored a 100%!

Got Friendship Award

2008-03-07T08:49:00.000-08:00

I am uber happy to receive these awards from Lala. Look at these uber cool awards...they speak of how this pretty, brainy and sexy lass (no comment hahaha!) treasures me as her wonderful friend. Thanks lalafot!

I am giving these awards to my special friends eden and diane

My Typing Speed

2008-03-02T08:47:00.000-08:00

55 words

You reached 237 points, so you achieved position 253056 of 697879 on the ranking list

You type 303 characters per minute
You have 55 correct words and
you have 0 wrong words

How about you? How fast can you type? Take this Speedtest test now...

Outburst of Ink

2008-02-21T08:42:00.000-08:00

The first time I stepped in my kindergarten class marked the beginning of my history in writing. It began with writing the alphabet. My teacher was a petite lady, well-known for her patience. We were a perfect match as I took twice as long as my classmates just to write A-Z. She would take up all of the papers and then slowly turn around. Then came the stare; a stare I came to know very well. I would look back at her with an exaggerated innocence and quietly ask, "How does my paper look?" I knew even at that tender age that my letters looked better than everyone else’s. At this early stage, I developed enthusiasm that has lasted throughout the years. I would finish a writing task and when I finished it, which is more often than not, it would take a special and qualified person to truly appreciate it.

During my elementary years, from grades one through six produced nothing more than a long and dormant period of writing. I was just like Bermuda grass that turns brown all winter long and then greens up in the spring. I finally came out of dormancy in my first year in high school when again I met my grandma, who took a flight from Australia. In my eyes, she was halfway to perfection. But it was just about her wits. She was about five feet tall with large, soft, black eyes and short hair. I was just 2 inches shorter but that didn’t matter.

Every time I saw her, a tingling feeling would start in my stomach similar to the sensation of racing around that sharp, fast turn on a giant roller-coaster at the amusement park. Not only was she physically aggressive, she was also a vibrant human-being with strong personality. Right then when I realized that I want to be like her, a woman of wits. She has a career of various interests, a journalist in the Philippines (during Marcos’ regime) and in Australia, a terror professor, a lawyer, a pianist and an interior designer. I look up to her as a versatile career woman and as a mother. I was her favorite grandchild, and we would sit together and talk about everything. Much to my surprise she never tired of my constant attention. One remarkable tribute was her ability to express meaning as well as describe people she had encountered or objects she had seen. I always listened intently. Throughout her stay here in the Philippines, I went out of my way to learn more from her about things that will help me be inspired in reaching my goals, which is becoming a journalist tops my list. That was before when I was kinda innocent…

My experience during my high school was in some way profound. It wasn’t so much the fact that I thought my stay in high school was so spectacular. What was amazing was the emotional response that my achievement could summon from some members in my clan. All year long, I had seemed somewhat friendly. I have earned the care and love from my friends in the class and even from other class sections. Perhaps they had little time for sentimental thoughts of the finer things we had (wink!)

It appeared that our friendship had somehow transformed as least temporarily when we enter college, where we traverse separate tracks towards our future career. But I know that is just temporarily like what a friend of mine has told me, "That’s all right, Tel. She then gave a somewhat less-than-thunderous slap on my shoulder. Not very soft, but it was an improvement. This gave me a comfortable feeling.

Well, after high school I embarked another level of thinking. My writing habit has begun to absorb inks of my pens. I even joined the publication to somehow dream that I am at least on my first step in becoming like my grandma, a journalist (sigh!Attention and congratulations from people around me have become a part of my college years as well. I was completely captivated with writing and speaking which required a unique combination of flexibility, strength, grace and poise. I slowly improved my skills.

But at this point, I now realized that true wits is often hidden and concealed. The skills utilized during my activities still manifest itself in my own character. (To be continued hahaha!)

5th Pay-Out: Sony Ericson Z610i

2008-02-14T08:43:00.000-08:00

The wait was a no joke, swear! Paypal pissed me off since the start of February of 2008. The withdrawal process was pending for about two weeks. And I never read any mail from them explaining why and when it will be resolved. They emailed me but it was too late. I was already irritated of their service and seemed to lose hope, since I do not know whether I will still be able to get my money or it will just be a T.Y.

But somehow I felt relieved when my withdrawal status changed to complete. Yipeee! Does it call for a celebration? Hmmm...Le'mme think of that first. The thrifty gal, alright!

As always, the fruit of labor was spent to something worthy. Yea, I shared it to some peeps close to me and I always feel good whenever I do that. And as what I have promised myself-an investment for every pay-out, be it small or big, I still wanna see the fruit of labor I have worked for every time.

And for my 4th pay-out...

The Best Feature I love about this phone...
"FACE WARP"

The Best Artist
(sinetch itetch?)

Hmmm...sinetch itetch, ulit? lolz!

I don't mind spending too much for this. As long as it satisfies my taste (simple yet classy) and interest, the thrifty gal will still give in, lolz! I really can't resist this sleek clamshell that is clearly eye-catcher and features a mirror effect that makes the external display visible only when it is lit up.

Get ready peeps, I'm on for PHOTO HUNT hahaha!

Who will be the next model of the year?

FEATURES:

Size

94 x 49 x 20 mm
3.7 x 1.9 x 0.8 inches

Weight

110 g
3.9 oz

Screen

262,144-colour TFD
176x220 pixel

External screen

128x36
OLED display

Memory

16 MB* memory
Memory Stick Micro™ (M2™) support (up to 2 GB)

Camera

Music

Internet

Entertainment

Connectivity

Messaging

Communication

Design

Organiser

In My Dreams

2008-02-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

I was just a little girl then when I witnessed how artistic my clan was. I've looked up to my grandfather (the late Arch. Raul Atos Corral) - this post is dedicated to you my dear lolo. At young age, I told myself that I want to be an architect. I admired him so much by merely looking at him, sitting in front of his large table with different kinds of pen, coloring materials, triangle, a very long ruler, and also a large white paper where he did the light but fast strokes. As you look over the drawing, you'll see series of lines that can't be understand by a young girl like me, or even those who aren't fond of drawing. Until my dad came and told me not to disturb my lolo.

My dad and I went to the sala, and there he told me some ideas about what my Lolo's career was. I asked him a lot of questions so he decided to teach me the basic strokes in drafting a house. My dad was also an architect for me though he wasn't able to finish it in college. We started outlining the floor plan, then we moved on to the "perspective". I was really amazed when I saw the outcome of our drawing. It was just an ordinary house, but what amazed me was the fact that we only started it with series of lines which you may not think it'll become a "house". Since then, I kept myself locked in my room, doing several floor plans and simple perspectives, which were already a masterpiece for a little girl.

Years later, my loving lolo died. It hurts us so much. But just the thought of his kindness (as his first grandchild) uplifts my heart. One thing that instills in my mind and heart is the way he inspired me. Yes, I was really inspired to be an architect. I may not have a degree in architecture, but I know deep in my heart, I am longing to be like one.

I am continuously inspired when it comes to architecture because of my dad. He followed the career path of my grandfather. It feels good whenever I see my lolo's green book which is a compilation of all his blue prints, his masterpieces. My dad is also compiling his own since I was a kid, and I'm his critic.

I also shared my ideas on interior designs. Yes, aside from architecture, I'm also fond of interior designs. I think I'll pursue the latter since my dad doesn't want me to be an architect. But whatever happens, dreaming will always be a part of me...

Balance in Every Step

2008-02-08T08:39:00.000-08:00

I'm climbing my mountain, step-by-step

I'm Climbing my mountain, day-by-day

I'm climbing my mountain, all-the-way

I'm climbing my mountain... I'm gonna make it!

Take one step at a time, one step at a time...

I'm climbing my mountain, "ONE STEP AT A TIME!"

This is something I really need to find in my life-balance in every step I make. I'm usually good and doing all the things I need to for others, but I'm not always good and squeezing in the things I want to do. Through the Holy Spirit, I know that I can make it too. It may not be so soon, but at least I'm confident that it will come.

Feast 101

2008-02-01T08:38:00.000-08:00

Appetizer

On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the highest) how much do you enjoy watching sports on television?

---> I'm not into sports so I guess 1 will do since I was only given a scale of 1 to 10 option (if zero is included, it'll be my answer with no second thought hehe!). I don't even change the channel just to watch any sports on TV.

Soup

If you could completely memorize any one work of fiction, which one would you pick?

--->The Mount of Monte Cristo, errr...I dunno if I could storytell the whole story, but the gist, hmmm yea, sure! The story is really a superb fiction! I actually have written an ending to the story, as requested by our Lit. prof. way back in college.

Salad

What is your favorite breakfast food?

---> Breakfast is no longer a part of my daily meal scheme (sigh!). I have to rush myself so I won't be late in the office. But I do sip a cup of coffee as soon as I arrived here (That is, if there's a stock of coffee and sugar at the pantry, woooaaahhh!)

Main Course

Name something fun you can do for less than $10.00.

---> $10? errr...well, it's good enough for a sunday treat with my loving hubby and 'lil prince bendyk. If we'll convert it to Philippine Peso, $10 is somewhat equivalent to P450. Perhaps, we'll just be eating at Jollibee, and the excess will be for our transpo. fare hehehe!

Dessert

How long does it usually take you to fall asleep?

--->after 8 hours of staring at the PC, and watching the entire Primetime programs on T.V. (usually ends at 11:30 p.m.), the next thing could happen is dozing off automatically while holding a remote control. ZzzzzZZZzzzzz!!!

Why Do I Blog?

2008-01-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

It's past 1:00 a.m. according to my computer clock. There's nothing really special why I keep myself awake even at this hour. I guess, I have just been used to staying late really and it has been part of my routine. But I must admit that it doesn't make sense at all since it affects my own system even to that of my work.

There's just something that is bothering me for a couple of weeks already but I just can't seem to tell exactly what it is. It could be emotional disturbance, I really don't know yet. While I know that I do have pending tasks to work on, I am just finding the best time to deal with them. I don't want to do the same negative thing again that I would cram just to get the job done. I badly needed the perfect time to do all these pending tasks including those I have set as my personal tasks. I am hoping to have it so sooooon, and I mean it really soon. Just like anybody else, I also don't wanna get caught up with these bothersome stuffs. It makes me feel uncomfortable. Do you know the feeling of wanting something to get done now and yet your mind seem to stop for awhile and nothing is feeding it to continue with more and more ideas? And listen to me now, am I already becoming nonsense here? I don't really know what I am talking about. I guess, I really need a little bit push and I'll be fine soon. And hope that soon will be later this morning. Let's see...hmmmm....

And oh, before I must forget le'mme deal with this tag from Sir Dex. It's been posted for so long I guess and it's just now that I remember this one...

How long have you been blogging?

It's been more than a year already since I started blogging. I guess it was early of January 2007 when I finally able to appreciate blogs, particularly the designs which I have been very much engaged with until now.

So far, I have more than 10 blogs and I am not sure of that if they are more than 10 or 20? Whaaat?! I know, I know they are too many. But the updated ones were just a few of them and I can tell exactly that I do have 10 monetized blogs so far. I need to update some of my blogs so I can also use them as monetized blogs.

Are you trying to make money online, or just doing it for fun?

Eventually, I discovered the different ways of monetized blogging from Pay Per Click, Pay Per Post, etc. or what is commonly known as the SEO thing.

I learned these crafts by searching more information regarding these crafts and applied them on my blog. I weighed the ones that seemed to be easy-money than the other sources. And the effort is worth it since I am now earning a decent income from this hobby.

Tell me three things you love about being online.

1. I am earning dollars just by getting online.
2. I get to know more peeps online and I happened to finally meet them in person, just like Diane.
3. The internet has been feeding me with lots of information that I wanna know without lifting a page from books.

Tell me three things you struggle within the online world.

1. I guess, I've been always itching to get online 24/7 but can't make it because of my other commitments.
2. I'm struggling to finish this tag since my eyes are getting droopy now.
3. I am struggling to recall if I have missed something for this question. So there I have it hahaha!

Oh it's 1:49 a.m. and it took me almost 46 minutes just to get this tag done, whew! I better shut this off now. See yah later guys! Nyt2!

Bah-Bye Wallet

2008-01-26T08:36:00.000-08:00

I was supposed to post this last night, but it seems that i've lost the energy to rant about it...

Oh well, le'mme start for whatever I have to rant today...

It was just an unlucky night-January 25, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. (approx.). And some already knew what had happened. It isn't that big deal actually. I just lost my "wallet", ayt? So what's big deal with that?

So now, ask me one more time, what's big deal with losing my wallet...arrrgghhh!!!

Goodness! It's not the wallet that made me react like this. It's all about the cards enclosed in the wallet.

How am I gonna get my salary if I don't have the Metrobank ATM Card?

How am I gonna get my dollars if I don't have my EON Visa?

How am I gonna say "sorry" to my hubby for losing his BPInoy International ATM Card?

I even lost 200php, SSS ID Card, receipts (evidence that I did pay for the digicam), raffle coupons (my chance to win that Toyota Innova via LCC Mall), The Lord oF Pardon which guided me all throughout my endeavors (quest in Cavite/Manila, when I gave birth to Bendyk, and the events that followed) and it's also in this prayer book where I inserted the drawing I have made years ago.

I even forgot to take a picture of it. That item inspires me every time, for it says about my dreams in life--pictures of me, bendyk and hubby, with a bungalow at the side, a car, dollar signs, and a "Healthy" text. I made that two years ago. It was just a draft that I didn't realize is actually working all through these years. Now that these dreams are beginning to knock on me, that piece of dream had gone nowhere, huhuhu! I just wish and pray that what I'd only lost was that piece of paper and not the inspiration that goes with it.

Now, tell me...isn't it a big deal?!! grrr!!!

From now on, I promised myself to forget about "kwek-kwek" and the "chicken nuggets" too. It only made me realized how soOooOOOooo STUPID I am. Why didn't I notice that snatcher behind me. Oh well, I did notice him moving my bag. So my instict told me to pull my bag, and checked if I really had lost something. But it was too late, that damn snatcher walked away. I even saw him crossing the road while I was checking my bag. I don't wanna be impulsive in casting blame since I wasn't yet sure if I really had lost my wallet. And finally, I was able to figure it out.

There's something missing inside my bag...wooooahhh! I haven't seen his shadow anymore. Oh my dearest wallet, you'd bring me luck since I bought your price. You were only a month and weeks old, but now you were taken away from me. Hope your charm is left here with me. If that is so, then it'll be fine with me if you'll be gone forever. I'm still lucky because my digicam wasn't taken by the culprit. He probably didn't notice the black hello kitty pouch inside. If only I could turn back time, I'll suggest him to take away the pouch of make-up instead of my precious valuables, hayz!

As an added bonus, by the way, are those useless policemen. I approached one of them at that time, but he didn't even give an effort to find the culprit! insetad, This lame policeman/traffic enforcer suggested that the incident must be reported at the police station. What the hell was he talking about?! I even told him that the man just walked away 2-3 minutes ago. Arrrggghh! What a useless government employee are you? And also you police desk officer! You seemed too old to ask me the same questions, and what you just did was to put the statement on that record book! Have you done something good about it? Why didn't you just let someone search for the culprit? Grrrr!

It's just so depressing to think that this incident had caused me too much hassles. I need to file an affidavit of loss for my valued cards. Right now, I'm still waiting for a positive feedback about my salary release since payday will be on the 30th already. Arrrggghhhh! I just hope the company would just send me a cheque since I don't have with me my Metrobank ATM Card. And today is Sarurday so I still have to wait for another day before I can replace my EON Visa Card. This is really frustrating, sigh!

This served me a lesson, peeeps! So you betta' be careful too. These damn culprits are uber "kapal" to get things that aren't theirs. Hmp!

3rd Pay-Out: New CPU + Smartbro Plan 999

2008-01-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

Geee!!! I'm so happy to have finally received the 3rd pay-out on the 7th of January. This makes me feel more excited with my blogs, lolz! So here's what I got for my 3rd pay-out:

At last, I finally got a chance to avail the Smartbro Plan 999. This was really my plan since last year, but took sometime to think of the pros and cons of having one at home. Well, I realized that internet connection at home can really be of great help in my blogging career. And my fingers are now crossed, wish me luck!

Tarrraaaann...!!! Internet connection won't be possible if without my newly purchased CPU. See, my previous Sony Pentium II already waved me good-bye last December. Maybe he's too old so he probably needed a rest, but I still consider sending it for upgrade maybe later. Going back to my newly purchased CPU, a Pentium III for that matter, but not bad at all hehehe! Gripping my wrist in spending money is still a habit. And I want to make it last. Yea, I'm still the thrifty gal, lolz!

Enough of this...I'm now looking forward for the 4th pay-out. Wish me luck, guys!

Lucky Charms of 2008

2008-01-07T08:35:00.000-08:00

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

The Lunar New Year dates from 2600 BC, when the Emperor Huang Ti introduced the first cycle of the Chinese zodiac.

Because of cyclical lunar dating, the first day of the year can fall anywhere between late January and the middle of February. On the Chinese calendar, 2008 is Lunar Year 4705-4706.

On the Western calendar, the start of the New Year falls on February 7, 2008 — The Year of the Rat. If you were born in 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996 - you were born under the sign of the rat.

Like the rat, you are always busily pursuing a personal goal or ambition, and are thus known as one of the hardest-working signs in the Chinese zodiac. For rats in 2008, any recent setbacks or obstacles can be overcome, so look forward to a year in which to really shine, either personally or professionally.

Like the houses of the zodiac, the animals of Chinese astrology are said to influence your luck during the year. Your horoscope for 2008, the year of the rat, depends on which animal signifies the year you were born.

Rats are water signs and it is said that they make a very good match for monkeys and dragons, but do not get along well with rabbits, horses and roosters. The brown earth influences of this year also make oxen a favored friend of the persevering rat but add conflict to the year as the elements of earth and water seek a balance - especially during the early part of the year.

The rat's stone, the deep red garnet, is the color of joyful celebration. It signifies the loyalty and passion of the most honorable traits of the sign that will rule the year ahead.

Since the rat year begins a new cycle, remember that decisions made during this year will carry long term consequences. Do not make changes without careful planning especially during the beginning of the year.

A Prosperous New Year to Everyone

2008-01-02T08:26:00.000-08:00

Hello peeeps! Here I am again, still sticking to what I am used to hehehe! Well, fireworks can never get blogging out of my system. I have been used to it and considered it as part of me since January of 2007. And now, the year was over and I'm about to begin another escapade in 2008.

Wohooo! I am uber excited on how will it turn out this time of the year. But all I wish this year is happiness, good health and more dollars (lolz!) for me and my loved-ones.

By the way, our New Year's celebration wasn't as extravagant as what elite people used to have. Hours before the celebration, hubby and I rushed to the supermarket to buy for our Media Noche. I hated the crowded lines to the cashier, but I have no choice so I just ignored them. While pushing the shopping cart from one shelf to another, all I think about is my blogging task. At that time, I have pending 26 paid blogging opportunities. So I was thinking if what time will I be able to start dealing with all of them. Arrrghhhh!!!

Enough of that, so there I continued grabbing those stuffs that we need for our Media Noche. As I looked at the cart, my built-in calculator begun to function. I just gave out a sigh after that. Hmmm...you probably guess what I mean. Since I only have few bills on my wallet, I have no choice but to use my EON card. Woooahhh! Goodbye dollars!

When we arrived home, hubby had started unpacking the goods so he can start cooking as early as possible. I also helped him out slicing the easy ones, hotdogs, cheese, etc. As you know, cooking isn't in my vocabulary at this point in time. Maybe next year, how's that hmmm?

As I waited for him to finish cooking, I went to our room and sat by the PC. I had to deal with my backlogs...and oh, pending blogging tasks. Wooooahhhh what a busy new year to start with, tsk! Well, procrastinating should get out of my system by then.

I paused for a while when hubby called my name. The foods are now ready to...oops! for table preparation...When I saw how they look on the plates, I got some ideas and have done the designing. You may take a look at them below:

I checked my watch once in a while to see if how long will we be waiting for the fireworks to start, and that of course should start at exactly 12:00 midnight. The clock starts tickling when finally, we all shouted, "Happy New Year!!!" Then there were the fireworks here and there. Noise barage seems to break my ear drum. Arrrggg! But it's alright. It's New Year, anyway. We also had our fireworks lighted. And my little Bendyk loved it!!! He also blew his horn, but sad to say he seemed had sipped the horn instead of blowing air out. Tsk, tsk!

After that, we feasted all the foods we have prepared. It was a buffet style since I haven't yet purchased a dining table. So we just settled on getting our own plate and hit our seats. The foods were all yummy, especially my cheese sticks hahaha! That was my specialty, lolz!

Time to sleep guys, so we all went to bed at 1:00 in the morning and woke up at almost 11:00 in the morning. After eating our lunch, I finally got time to focus on my paid blogging tasks, then finished my backlogs. Huhuhu!

Does it mean, I'll be busy for the entire year? If it would mean more and more dollars, well, I wouldn't care at all!!! In fact, I'd love to hehehe!

So now let me bid goodbye to year 2007! I had a great time spending those days with you. And now it's time to welcome the year 2008 with CHEERS!!!

Happy New Year to all!!!

Innocence

2007-12-23T08:21:00.000-08:00

Reminiscing the past uplifts my spirit...

I was kinda innocent then when all I know is to roll over the bed, giggle and smile at my parents, and of course, to drink what I am supposed to drink (nax! model of enfalac aketch!)...

If only I could turn back time, I would want the clock to tick-tack on the time when I was in a whirlwind of innocence I'd rather be innocent of what the world is all about than absorb the blows of life's sorrow!

A Tribute to My Neverland Days

2007-12-15T08:19:00.000-08:00

My thoughts were wandering when all of a sudden "Peter Pan" popped into my mind. Perhaps, you were able to watch it during your younger years. If I remember it right, "Peter Pan" is an animated TV series which was aired in ABS-CBN every morning, and later on was moved in the afternoon slot. I have come to realize that I really had good memories of my childhood days. I was just a 'lil kid then and an avid fan of "Peter Pan". And now, I'm already a "young" mom who wanted to share to my child the joy of watching animated TV series.

As I flew myself to Neverland, I came to know Peter who is a mischievous little boy who won't grow up. He is a fierce swordfighter who spends his never-ending childhood, adventuring on the island of Neverland as leader of the Lost Boys. What fascinated me were the fantastical elements involved. One of these elements is the ability of Peter Pan to fly.

His friends were also symbols of fantastical elements, namely fairy and Tinker Bell.

The funny thing about the story was a crocodile that has swallowed a ticking clock and stalks

Captain Hook, the pirate leader and Peter's nemesis.

It's been so long and I can only recall a few scenes which touched me the most. But for your convenience, if you were not able to watch it (since you are much older than me...wink!) here's the gist of the story...

Peter often visits the "real world" of London to listen in on bedtime stories told by Mrs. Mary Darling to her children. One night, Peter is spotted and, while trying to escape, he loses his shadow. On returning to claim his shadow, Peter wakes Mary's daughter, Wendy Darling. When Wendy succeeds in re-attaching his shadow to him, Peter takes a fancy to her and invites her to Neverland to be a mother to his gang of Lost Boys, the children who are lost in Kensington Gardens. Wendy agrees, and her brothers John and Michael go along. The great dangerous and magical flight to Neverland is followed by many adventures. The children are blown out of the air by a cannon and Wendy is nearly killed by the Lost Boy Tootles.

Peter and the Lost Boys build a little house for Wendy to live in while she recuperates (a structure that, to this day, is called a Wendy House.) Soon John and Michael adopt the ways of the Lost Boys, while Wendy plays the role of mothering them, all the while provoking the jealousy of Tinker Bell, Tiger Lily, and the mermaids. Peter is often oblivious, concentrating on real and make-believe adventures and on taunting the pirate Captain Hook. Later follow adventures at the Mermaids' Lagoon, the near deaths of Tinker Bell and Peter, a violent pirate/Indian massacre, and a climactic confrontation with Peter's nemesis, the pirate Captain Hook of the pirate ship the Jolly Roger. In the end, Wendy decides that her place is at home, much to the joy of her heartsick mother. Wendy then brings all the boys back to London. Peter remains in Neverland, promising to return and take Wendy back with him once a year to help him with his spring cleaning.
In the novel, Barrie includes an additional scene which was not in the play, but which he created for the stage under the title An Afterthought. In this scene, Peter returns to Wendy's house, not realizing that more than twenty years have passed since he took Wendy, John and Michael to Neverland, and that Wendy is now a married woman with a daughter, Jane. Confronted with the news, he breaks down and cries. Wendy leaves the room to try to think, and Peter's sobs awaken Jane, who asks him to take her with him to Neverland and to let her be his new mother. Peter joyfully accepts, and the two fly off together with Wendy sorrowfully looking off after them. Peter will now return for Jane once a year as he once promised to return for Wendy.

Peter's relationship with Jane is what the Disney movie Return to Neverland is based upon, but its plot is almost totally invented for the film; it has only the slightest resemblance to Barrie.

The memories of "Peter Pan" will always be a part of my childhood days. I've learned a lot from it. It taught me the value of "love" (kinikilig na me nyan sa murang isipan, lolz!), how to be a responsible sister even at young age (which I didn't put into practice, sigh), how to fight for justice, and a lot more. But what amazed me was the animation used in the series. It inspires me to dream a lot even beyond my reach ( it's free anyway).

3 is an Odd Number

2007-12-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

Three things that scare me

1. Losing my Loved-Ones
2. Natural Calamities (Super Typhoon, Tsunami & Volcanic Eruption)=Death
3. Exotic Foods (crawling worms, and the likes)

Three people who make me laugh

1. Bendyk - my super bibo kiddo
2. Rick - my super kulit hubby
3. hmmm...who else? can i suggest my funny friends?

Three things I love

1. Shows of 'lil kiddo Bendyk (dancing, singing, acting, boxing, etc.)

2. Sweetness and Thoughtfulness of my lovable hubby
3. Shopping

Three things I hate

1. Seeing scattered stuffs at home
2. Hearing rumors spread by backstabbers
3. Not getting what i want! (sigh!)

Three things I don’t understand

1. How to cook?
2. Where does the typhoon go after hitting many countries?
3. The reason why ghosts are still wandering.

Three things on my desk

1. computer
2. cute white mug
3. Spicy tuna sandwich (courtesy of Fita Speadz hehe!)

Three things I am doing right now

1. answering this tag
2. peeping on my unwritten keywords (sssshhh!)
3. listening to the tune of "By the Way"

Three things I want to do before I die

1. Charity works : housing and livelihood program for the less fortunate
2. Seeing my Bendyk and future kids being successful with whatever career path they choose
3. Exploring the world with my family

Three things I can do

1. drafting (architectural floor plan & a bit of perspective)
2. interior designing
3. editing already-made template codes so as to create a look the way I wanted it to appear

Three things I can’t do

1. I can't dance
2. I can't swim
3. I can't cook

Three things I think you should listen to

1. advice of your mother ("Mother knows best")

2. Godly words of religious peeps
3. what your heart is telling you

Three things you should never listen to

1. rumors
2. evil words (tempting words)
3. empty promises

Three things I would like to learn

1. Auto Cad
2. Virtual Basics (and then advanced hehehe!)
3. Martial Arts (pref. Taekwondo)

Three favorite food

1. Jollibee Spaghetti
2. Ginisang Bagoong (sweet, spicy & salty)
3. Cheezy Pizza and a bit spicy

Three shows I watched as a kid

1. Peter Pan

2. Mara Clara - dramatic child hehehe!
3. Sineskwela