MY NEW BLOG

Please visit my main blog at http://myblog.joyreyes.com See you there!

Friday, November 30, 2007

Off to Sagada

The Husband is leaving tomorrow night for Sagada. This will be the first time that we'll spend more than one night apart and I wonder how much I will miss him. I can't join him because face it, as if I can ever leave Sandy with anyone. And bringing Sandy along is just out of the question. The trip will be too tiring for her plus we're not familiar with the place. So I let The Husband go with his long time friend because he's been dying to go there for some time to take some photos.

I'm a bit nervous too because the weather is not that good for the past couple of weeks. I've read somewhere that there have been some landslide accidents near Benguet. I hope his trip will be uneventful. I also told him to consider his trip as the start of his birthday celebration. He's turning 32 next week and I want him to enjoy the whole month of December as much as he can.

Just Before Payday

Looking for quick cash before payday? Apply for a payday loan online at CheckCity.com and you can receive your money as fast as the next business day once approved. It will only take three easy steps to complete the online application. The money that you requested can be deposited into your checking or savings account and when the due date arrives, an electronic withdrawal will be made from the same account. You also have an option to pay with a debit or credit card and even renew or extend your loan up to the next payday. You can also pre-pay the balance on a loan if you find that you can't pay the amount in full.

50-50




You Were Pretty Average This Year



You Were 50% Naughty, 50% Nice



You tried to be a good girl this year...

But as you know, being good isn't that fun!

If you're extra sweet, you may have enough time to get on that nice list.



Talk about being ordinary. Even the quiz thinks I'm pretty boring LOL.

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Lowest Rates on Hotel Packages

Buying hotel packages and airfare are so much cheaper when done online. I used to buy directly from the hotels and airlines but eversince I discovered about the discounted rates online, I never turned back. If you're looking for savings up to 70% off, then I suggest you go to Hotel Reservations. According to their Special Internet Rate Price Guarantee, if you found a lower rate for the same date and the same hotel, Hotel Reservations.com will match the lower rate or cancel your existing reservation with them without a cancellation fee. They have a huge listing of hotels, bed & breakfast, condo rentals plus transportation options that you can bundle with your hotel. With the help of their Destination guide, you can get the most out of your trip by carefully planning your itinerary, get recommendations on sites and restaurants to try, be updated with the weather and learn general information about the place you're going to visit.

Another Shopping

My sister-in-law found another warehouse selling dirt-cheap contemporary bedroom furniture. She's already getting more information on prices and quality of the items. If they are really cheap, we might head over there this Saturday hoping to find a nice bed for our room and a cabinet for her. We desperately need to update our bedroom furniture because it's starting to look more like a playroom. I'm particularly looking for a queen or king bed so The Husband can finally sleep with Sandy and me. We also need new lamps and could use a computer table with drawers to declutter my workspace.

Memories

1. They say elephants never forget. Would you compare your memory to that of an elephant or gnat?
Gnat. Eversince I gave birth, I find it hard to remember the smallest of things. Which is why I have notes on my computer, cellphone, walls.

2. What kinds of things do you find it easy to remember?
Special occassions - birthdays, anniversaries, the dress that I wore on a special day, happy memories

3. What kinds of things do you find it difficult to remember?
Usually the things that The Husband asked me like calling the laundry, calling the bank, find his favorite shorts, etc.

4. How does your short-term memory compare to your long-term memory?
My long term memory is way better. Which is why I can remember what I wore the first time I saw Sherwin and not where I placed his credit card yesterday LOL.

5. How do you commit things to memory? Do you use tricks, songs, images, word associations, or other little mnemonics?
Every memory in my head is filled with songs, smell and most of the time, the weather.

Presents for the Parents

Just when I just finished complaining about expenses, here I am listing my incoming shopping list again. It's for the parents, this time. A friend of mine from the States offered, as a Christmas present, a whole box for me to fill so she can bring it home with her this Christmas. She will pay for the fee so all I need to do is shop like crazy and ship all the items to her. Before I buy online though, I went to make a stopover at CouponChief and check their latest online coupons. I'm so happy when I saw the Overstock deals on clearance items. I saw a pair of multi-stone dangling earrings at Overstock last week and I know my mom and my mother-in-law will love those. As for my dad, I want to give him a watch so I'll probably take advantage of the 50% OFF Swiss Army coupon code and get him a really nice one for Christmas.

Even if this is the most expensive season, I know my parents will love our gifts that it just makes everything worth it.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Miss Popular

Sandy receives about two to three kids party invitations a month. We rarely attend them because either the venue is either too far or we're not really close with the parents. Still, it feels good to be invited. I even joke about it to her Papa that Sandy inherited her popularity from my side. The Husband, although a leader, is not the type who mingles with strangers. I, on the other hand, always go home from a party, with two or three "new friends" on my list. Seriously though, I hope Sandy will become a social butterfly when she grows up. It's amazing what she can do if she inherits her parents’ traits - strong leadership and charm.

Still ...

I just can't resist that pretty smile.



She's such a good girl when I put a lot of my attention on her. She eats her meals peacefully, even tries to take a bath on her own, play quietly and just become a dream toddler. So I guess I'll have to increase the time that I spend with her so she will feel loved and secured. I know I'm talking Oprah-ish here but that's just how I see it. She's happier, more active, more cooperative and eager to learn when I'm the one who's watching her and not her yaya.

Treaty Treats

I know all about celebrities doing addiction treatment. There's a rehab for alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorder, etc.

What I didn't know is that there are facilities for other special treatments as well. Just look at Ashley Judd. She went into rehab to receive treatment for 'perfectionism'. I wonder what pushed her to go? Meanwhile, Isaiah Washington, my favorite Grey's actor, is now working into transforming his negative thoughts into positive results by checking in a rehab center. Remember he got fired from GA after his gay slur?

Well, they really do think of everything.

The Big No

This is the NO NO NO stage for Sandy. Everything I ask gets a NO reply - from brushing her teeth to peeing in the bathroom, to removing her PJs to taking a bath, to drinking her vitamins to sitting on her high chair. It can drive any parent mad really. And she doesn't just say "NO" like other kids. She has to shout it and stomp her feet. If she's in the mood to get really rowdy, she'll lie down, shout to the top of her voice and do some sort of twirling dance, like one of those break-dancing moves that you see on TV. I've read a lot of tips on how to deal with this but I keep on forgetting them when I need them most. So we always end up either shouting at each other (I have to shout or she won't hear me from because of her loud crying), me carrying her / restraining her, or she, all alone on the floor, trying to cry more while I try to calm myself.

Wish we had those Nanny 911 stuff here.

Monday, November 26, 2007

The Boss and Red Sox

Seeing Fever Pitch on cable last week reminded me of one of my bosses. He's just as crazy about Red Sox as Jimmy Fallon's character in the movie. He trains his five-year-old son as early as now to love the team by bringing him to the games and explaining everything from the history of the game, to legends and heroes, to rules and regulations, to top plays and major leaguers. He even asked me once to design his own personal website for Red Sox so he can display the full Boston Red Sox Spring Training Schedule there, post some favorite photos and autographs, and put up a blog detailing his experiences and views about the game he love. He is so excited and told me just yesterday how he was able to buy a couple of ticket Red Sox Spring Training tickets at a cheaper price. He loves spring training because nothing beats seeing the players up close. I can feel his excitement as he tells me how he and his son are looking forward to have their photos taken with the players and ask for their autographs.

The Expensive Month

I knew December was going to be an expensive month. However, I didn't expect for the expenses to start as early as this week. I just spent more than $200++ yesterday shopping for Christmas gifts for my inaanaks. Good thing I bought them from a warehouse, at 50% off so I don't feel that bad at all. I think what made them expensive are the items that I got for the little girl. I mean I just can't shop for other kids without shopping for her right? Plus The Husband will only let me splurge if I buy "items" for Sandy. Whenever I pick up a toy, he will say, "that's cute! 'That for Sandy?" And I will answer, "no! I just bought her tons of stuff" to which he will reply, "well I'm sure she will love that" and then walk away as if leaving me to decide haha. Of course, he knows I'm too smart for that approach so what he'll do is to make sure to add another plastic bag containing similar items for his little girl. I shouldn't have bothered with a list in the first place LOL.

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Keeping Everything Safe

I first heard of insurance when the husband and I were looking for a car to buy. The breakdown of expenses included the annual payment for the car insurance. I didn’t think it was important back and I told the husband that we should not go through with that quote. A year after that, we had a minor accident using my mom-in-law's car and the damage, although small was immediately taken cared of by the insurance company. When the husband suggested that same year that we get our life insurance since were planning to have a baby, I didn’t think twice and agreed. I never really understood the importance of insurance until we had sandy. Everything just seems to matter when she was born. We wanted to make sure that shell be okay when we die. With the help of an agent, we compared various packages that that falls on our budget and meet our needs. Since then I became familiar with all types of insurance from home insurance, health insurance and even pet insurance. You just can’t be too careful when it comes to protecting your assets and loved ones.

No Rain

I think the typhoon changed her mind and went to a different route. The sky is still cloudless and the temperature is comfortably cold. Sandy is already sleeping as of this writing. She wanted to nurse but I kept on pretending that I'm asleep. After 15 minutes of trying, she gave up, turned her back and faced the wall, moving her back close to my chest so she can sleep in her favorite position. Great job for the both of us right? So now I'm just killing time doing my favorite past time, which is to bloghop before my husband gets home from a birthday party.

Have a great night to all.

Friday, November 23, 2007

Need Tickets?

For 2008, each MLB team looks to race toward winning the World Series and everyone is wondering who shall bring home the title. The world series tickets are now selling like pancakes and if you want to have the best spot, it's time to purchase your ticket at TicketsNow.com. TicketsNow.com offers the world's largest selection of premium seating to sold-out events including sports, concert, and theater. They take pride in offering the most outstanding selection you will ever find. If you can't find the ticket that you want, TicketsNow.com will get it for you. Looking for the best seat on a sold-out concert or sporting event? Then call TicketsNow.com so they can help you locate great seats anywhere, anytime.

Another typhoon

... is supposed to hit Bicol this week. When I heard about it, all I can think about was that I won't be able to go shopping this weekend. However, after seeing Aggie's post and the news on how the families are now being evacuated on some provinces, I felt so shallow. Hundreds of families and individuals are worried for their safety and here I am, wondering if it will rain too hard to prevent me from going out. I even forgot how we had it so bad on last year's milenyo when we had no water and electricity for five days. So really, I need to keep my priorities straight.

Perfection

I've been slaving away the entire night just to help a friend clean up her website codes. It started as me just checking what's wrong but I ended up re-doing almost the entire code. The problem with me is I just can't say no to people. Plus I can be realy a control freak that I always find myself saying "let me just handle it" even before I can remember that I have tons of stuff to do as well. So now, after three hours of debugging, her page is looking 70% alright. I guess I've done my job now as a friend and that she won't mind if I don't finish everything.

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Magic Beyond Imagination

I love magicians! The good ones, at least. There's no better way to make anyone's event unsuccessful by hiring unprofessional magicians whose magic tricks couldn't even trick the youngest of kids. It's different with Robert McEntee, a long island magician, who have been providing total family entertainment for over 20 years. To quote him, "My job as a magician is to make sure the audience’s imagination comes to life….to let them experience a sense of awe and amazement, as well as joy and laughter." His act, called "Magic Beyond Imagination", can be tailored depending on the audience's age and type of event. A graduate of Villanova University as well as Mystery School, his performances are usually highlighted by spectacular illusions such as floating someone in the air and making a guest of honor appear in a puff of smoke. He also does musical routines, storytelling, and even balloon sculpturing and fire eating, which kids totally love. For older audiences, he performs astounding mind reading, feats of memory, hypnotic entertainment, reading speed, intuition, goal attainment and much more. Every presentation is customized for each individual audience and the event planner's requirements.

The Fit One

The Husband can't get enough of the treadmill now ever since he lost 6 lbs in a span of two months. Of course it helped that he's now using boxing as a workout. He's also eating a balanced diet so I'm forced to eat one as well. As a wife, I need to support him and not eat junk while he's having one toast for dinner. Pizzas are now a thing of the past, well except once a month of course. Who can't live without 'em? He doesn't eat rice and for someone like me who breathes three plates of rice per meal, that just shows how badly he wants to lose the 20 lbs he accumulated over the year.

Trial Parenting

The usual scenario

Me: Sandy, brush your teeth
Sandy: No, no. (running away, jumping, running, playing)
Me: Let's take a bath
Sandy: Noooooo, I don't want take a bath. I need to play only. (she loosely uses the word need)
Me: No more touching mommy's dede. Mommy has aw-aw (In response to her whenever she pinches my other nipple to help her sleep, while breastfeeding!)
Sandy: No! Soft touch only, like this, like this.

So instead of getting angry and telling her who's boss, I tried to follow the tip that I read from one parenting forum. Talk to your kid when she's calm so she can understand what you want her to do.

So I waited an hour after when the little girl was so calm and happy while playing with her toys.

Me: Sandy, please do what mama tells you. I will get angry if you don't.
Sandy (thinking hard for about 20 sec): Okay mommy will get angry like Papa. Papa's always angry.

I know my reasoning with her (because I'll get angry??!!) is wrong to start with. Look at the title, it's called a trial. Still, I didn't know that Sandy thinks her Papa is always angry. That's what you get Papa for being hot-headed! So control your anger people especially in front of the kids.

Medical Supplies

Checkout AllegroMedical.com for all your medical equipment and home health care needs. Since being founded in 1996, they became one of the largest and most advanced online retailers of life enhancing products in the U.S. They used to just sell medical equipments at first but after two years of attracting consumers, they have expanded to other retail products like fitness equipment, nutritional dietary supplements, maternity/baby supplies and outdoor gear. Just look at their website to see the huge selection of medical and health care products that they have to offer. From diabetes supplies to electrotherapy, UV supplies to ostomy supplies, power scooters to catheter, maternity care to wheelchairs, everything that you need to enhance your life is being offered at a very competitive price.

More Bohol Photos

Sharing some more photos from our recent Bohol Trip.

Here's our little girl looking out at the Chocolate Hills. There were a series of photos before this shot which consist of myself trying to hold on to her. She'd rather stand on her own and won't let anyone touch even her shirt. Being a kid that she is, she's probably seeing something amazing that she's not even afraid to look down. I, on the other hand, is not that crazy about heights and can feel my heart thumping wildly everytime I take a step.

My new blog

is still in progress for like weeks. However, I'm happy to say that I've finally finished working on the theme so I can get started on posting. I didn't design the theme, but there were a lot of bugs that I had to fix before I can make it work. I love the new look and feel. As soon as I figure out how to export links, I'll post it here so you can all visit :)

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Secure Data

There's a new security software called NOD32 Anti Virus. It's a combination of the best security softwares out there including anti virus, anti spyware, exploits, and firewalls. For someone like me who installs gazillion softwares every day because it's part of my job, this software is exactly what I need. By combining all features in one place, Software Security Solutions are making it easier and cheaper for consumers to protect their systems. They even offer a 30-day back guarantee, which in my opinion is always the best way to convince people to buy your product. I mean, would you be willing to give their money back if you're not sure that your product can perform? Perhaps it's just a marketing approach but it's working on me. My whole online life, including my bread and butter is in my computer. So $39/year isn't such a big deal to protect all my data.

Blog Hopping

I lost track of time. I was supposed to just snag some tags from other blogs but I got engrossed reading some of the mommy's posts. I need to remind myself to post something about being addicted to blogging too. Everyone has become a hungry wolf now that we tend to forget that some other things are way more important. Look at me, I kept on postponing working on my designs considering it's my main job. The little girl is already 26 months and I haven't even started on her 6th month layout. There are more that just makes me feel guilty so I'll reserve that thought for another day.

Experiencing New Zealand

I've been wanting to visit New Zealand ever since my college friend moved there. She said there are lots of jobs opportunities and that it's easier to get approved than U.S. We'll have to come up with a huge amount of money though before we can apply. Which is why instead of migrating, The Husband and I decided to just go there for a vacation. I saw some cheap flights to Auckland from DialAFlight site plus some cheap hotel packages starting at £24 a night. I really like checking out DialAFlight.com because they offer a wide variety of cheap flights; affordable hotels, car for rent and other resources that can help anyone plan their dream holidays. I also browsed their New Zealand holidays and couldn't help but be amazed on their packages like The Ultimate Honeymoon, New Zealand and Fiji combined, New Zealand self drive, Completely New Zealand and more. All packages have something to do with water (beach, lagoon), which is just what we're looking for.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Bohol

I just posted a long review of Bohol on my main blog. Please check them out here, here and here. It really was a beautiful place. The Husband even told me that he might have to bump Baguio down to number 2 on our list of places where we'll retire. He liked how simple life is in Bohol and how easy it is to lead a clean, healthy lifestyle. Baguio is now over populated and the crimes are getting prevalent.

Here's a preview of our photos in Bohol.

Shopping For Protection

Looking for tactical gears? Check out 511tacticaloutdoors.com to see a wide variety of tactical items from pants to shirts, footwear to gear bags, knives to eyewear, and other accessories like Galco Holsters, Traser® H3 Watches and Surefire flashlights. 511tacticaloutdoors.com is one of the largest inventories of tactical gears and they are ready to ship your items in 24 hours. The site strives to provide superior products that can help law enforcers, military and firefighting professionals perform their jobs in a safe and efficient manner. Whether you're looking for a protection from the weather, nature or just simply want to feel comfortable, 511tacticaloutdoors.com is the place for all your tactical needs.

Healthy Living

Snagged this from Nice.
1. What is your definition of ‘healthy eating’?
- less junk food like chips, more veggies and right food preparation

2. Do you exercise on a regular basis? What is your favorite form of exercise? Least favorite?
- I used to run everyday either on treadmill or the oval near my office. Now my only exercise is carrying the little girl

3. Do you take vitamin supplements?
- Yes. I take Vitamin C and other nutritional supplements that I get monthly from my sister-in-law.

4. Can you tell that your body is getting older? If so, how?
- I get tired easily and find that I'm sleepy all the time.

5. Would you call yourself healthy?
- I guess, yeah. I don't get sick that often and when I do, which is usually once a year, it lasts for 2-3 days.

Monday, November 19, 2007

The Trust Seal

With so many surgical malpractices these days, I wonder how celebrities can still afford to go under the knife. Just the recent news about Kanye West's mother was so tragic that you'd think other people would be more careful. Good thing TrustedSurgeons.com care. This is a company who provides a database of trusted plastic surgeons in the U.S. They carefully research each surgeon that's included in their network to make sure that they pass their criteria in education, certification and track record. So far, over 14,000 plastic surgeons have been investigated and about two-thirds of that has been removed due to lack of training and certification. TrustedSurgeons.com state that the "trust" rate for plastic surgeons is approximately 29%. This type of service is especially helpful to people who either don't have the time to investigate or have no idea where to get started in their research. By placing the Trusted Surgeon seal on the website of an approved plastic surgeon, prospective clients will have the assurance that the surgeon has been extensively examined and reviewed and passed the criteria.

Back to the real world

We just got back this afternoon which just means I'm now cramming on my paid assignments and tasks from my boss. I wished I didn't have to go home. Bohol was just amazing with all the music and nature surrounding it. People are smiling, singing, dancing almost everywhere you look. It feels like Christmas where strangers seem cheerful and friendly whenever you pass them on the streets. It's way better because you can hear the waves crashing softly on the shores. Oh my, this is the part that I dread most. To want something that I can't have. I know I can't wait to check on my emails but if given the choice, I would love to just stare at the calm sea until the sun goes down.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Hours Before The Trip

Our much-awaited vacation is here! Five hours to go before we wake up the little girl so we can head to the airport. I don't think I'll be able to sleep at all from too much excitement. Well, that and the design tasks that I need to finish before I enjoy my five days of freedom. Everything's set including Sandy's new life vest and goggles, her toiletries, bathrobes and beach toys. She has been sleeping for an hour, which is highly unusual because 10PM is still way too early for her. I just hope she won't get cranky tomorrow when we wake her up around 3AM.

Gosh, I can feel the sand under my feet already.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Better Care For You and Your Loved Ones

If you're not sure about putting your loved ones in a nursing home, why don't you visit BetterCaring.com to find the answers to the most crucial questions about care homes. This website might help you decide which course you should take when planning a loved ones future. Bettercaring believe that as you grow old, you will need all the help that you can get. Which is why they do their best to help people decide their care options, read daily care and news, exchange care experiences in their forum and guide you in finding the perfect home using their searchable database of registered homes. Understanding every aspect of caring, from legal, financial, help options, and government support is a great start towards finding the perfect care system for you. A quick browse of the available homes showed that some of them have almost five star hotel amenities, organized activities and outings, clubs and game rooms, and even an option to bring your own furniture.

How lucky can you get

My entire Outlook mailboxes are corrupted. Geez, just when I need them the most. I hope I can find a backup on my desktop or else I'm screwed. I have 2 years worth of work on my email and I depend on those emails like a plant needs water. I should've just copied the logins in a notepad like I used to. But I've been finding it hard to organize ever since I worked from home. So I just leave the important stuff where they are, no matter how messy they look because at least, I'd know where exactly to find them. Well, serves me right for being a slob.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

3 Things I Can’t Let Go Of

1. My cellphone. I just love that I can browse the Internet, read my favorite ebooks, take nice photos and videos, calculate our expenses (yes, this is my hobby)

2. Old letters and cards from past boyfriends and suitors. It's fun reading about them all over again. I even want to show them to my kids when they grow up :)

3. Old Mp3 files and digital photos. These are my time machine. They just bring me back to any time I want.

On Mortgage Lists

So your company needs a mortgage lists to promote your latest properties. Who else can provide a powerful marketing list than Martin Worldwide? This company is one of the largest and most successful mailing list providers in the U.S. Their most successful product is ResponseCom™, a potent, proprietary blend of U.S. Response and U.S. Consumer databases. This powerful database is the result of years of compiling and optimizing of data, which results to higher response rates and profitability to Martin Worldwide clients. With Martin Worldwide's targeted business, consumers or active buyer lists, they can assure you success in your direct marketing efforts. Over 290 million records are in their business database alone that you are guaranteed of the quality of your sales leads.

Mommy Party Photos

Here's the link to our advanced Christmas Party for mommies.

It really was fun seeing everyone there including their hubbies and kids. All the moms are lovely and oh-so-fabulous as expected. The daddies are game as well, most probably because they're scared of their wives haha (kiddin').

There are just tons of photo opportunity everywhere you look. Lots of smiling faces, loud laughter from the moms (obviously), kids screaming with delight, kids fighting over the balloons, hugging and kissing, dancing and eating in between. Thanks to The Husband for taking wonderful photos. We have over 200+ shots, good thing I remembered to charge our digital camera battery.



Monday, November 12, 2007

Car Quotes

The Husband and I are planning to purchase a new car next year. I can't say when exactly because it will all depend on the budget. The Husband is particular with Honda Cars so I'm browsing several web sites to research on Honda Car Prices. A car comparison site called CarsBlvd.com caught my eye because they are offering Honda Car Quotes for free. When I went to their site, I immediately saw the free quote box wherein you can select the year, make, model and trim of the vehicle that you're planning to purchase. You can have up to two free quotes on any car so you can compare the prices before you buy. The site also offers car loans, car refinance and auto warranty so any potential buyers can move to the next step if they choose to.

Success

Oh my god! The party was a huge success! Who knew the mommies (not me) who used to spend big bucks on their "simple parties" will enjoy an old, good McDonald party? It helped that we're so psyched to see each other in person after reading each other's blogs for some time. I don't know if I can sleep at all. Like a kid who just ate a bag of sweets, I'm so high from the party that I think I'll bounce from one wall to another. The Husband took our photos and they all looked wonderful. Can't wait to post them already! I'll post more details about the party on my main blog soon.

Partey!

We're having our advanced Mommy Christmas Party this afternoon. I'm so excited to meet the mommies and their kids. I feel like I already know all of them after reading their blogs for so long. Not everyone can come but still, most of them are my regular visitors so I'm so thrilled to finally get a chance to chat with them in person. The daddies will be present as well to take photos LOL.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Credit Card Deals

Do you know how many credit cards we use? Five. And most of the time, we max them out. Well, the ones that have a small draft, at least. It's just so tempting to use credit cards these days with so many shopping deals out there. You just feel like you're missing out on something big if you don't purchase them. Add to that is the increasing amount of 0% credit cards wherein you can purchase an expensive item and pay it in installment terms without any interest at all. Other credit card deals that might convince you are lower interests rate for balance transfers, free annual fees, huge bonuses per purchase, cash back rewards, free Internet protection and more. As an experienced credit card user though, I'd like to suggest that you should compare the offers first before signing up for one. There are websites like cardguide.co.uk that can help you browse through some of the most popular credit cards and compare them side-by-side so you can properly choose the one that's right for you. You could be saving a lot on annual fees in one card but some other cards can save you more because of the cash back rewards. So it's really up to you on how you should maximize your use of credit cards. Lastly, in my personal opinion, paying in huge chunks, if you have the money, can save you a lot in the long run rather than just paying the minimum payment monthly.

Shopping All Day

That's what we've been doing for the last ten hours. Imagine that! And with a toddler in tow! Of course, it helps if you give her ice cream or a lolli when going from shop to shop. Before you accuse me of giving junk to my kid, you should know that it's only her 2nd time to eat a lollipop and she's already what, 2 years old? As for the ice cream, it was just one scoop and she even had to share it with her Papa. Anyway, we've been shopping because our Bohol trip is five days away. We had to buy some floating device, bathing suit, aqua socks, etc for the little girl so she can make the most out of our island getaway. I didn't know why we took that long to shop, perhaps the snacks in between, about four of them, is the reason.

Royalty Free Video Clips

Cinematographers usually earn money while they are on the field. When they're done with a project, they end up with a huge amount of footages in their hands. Now, with the help of AlwaysHD, they can now collect their high definition footages and put it up for sale at AlwaysHD website. AlwaysHD connects talented cinematographers with many producers who are always on the look out for professional high definition videos. The excess videos and footages gets edited, clipped and processed to make it more marketable online. Currently, AlwaysHD is one of the main providers of HD Professional Stock Videos which is why production companies like broadcast TV studios, documentary producers; cinema studios are consistently buying from them. The stock videos are being sold royalty-free which means that they can use it worldwide for any length of time. The contributor receives 50% of the net revenue generated from the sale of their footages. It's a great way for talented cinematographers to earn extra revenue from their old footages without doing a lot of work.

The Most Memorable Thing

What's the most memorable thing your kid has done to you


My daughter loves to massage my back and feet whenever she sees my lying down. All I have to say is "I'm tired" and she will immediately pretend to get a lotion so she can rub it on my back. She's so caring and loving that I sometimes forget that she's only 2 years old. She also hugs me whenever she has a chance, kissing my lips and cheeks for no reason at all.

I guess the baby books are right when they say that your kids will inherit how you treat people. Which in this case, the way I care about her.

Friday, November 09, 2007

Sleeping in 3s

I'll never have enough of the beds from FurnitureHome.com. Everything in their collection are just beautiful, from Sleigh Bed to Queen Beds, storage beds and canopy beds. But what we really need is a huge bed that can accommodate three grown persons. Sandy, although only 2 years old, is already more than 3 feet tall and has a habit of tossing and turning, waking everyone beside her. King Beds are the only way that the three of us can a have decent sleep together. I feel bad about The Husband sleeping in a folding bed for so long that it's really time to get a new one. There's this platform king bed that I really like from Furniture From Home and just by looking at it, I know it will last us for the next 20 years. Too bad we're married already or else I will definitely add this to our registry.

School Girl

Sandy loves to pretend that she goes to school. I'm not sure if this is a sign that she's ready for preschool but seeing how she loves to read, learn her ABCs and numbers makes me want to enroll her already. Here's a photo of her drawing in her magnetic pad while she's in school.



The thing is, she gets bored after sitting for 6-8 minutes. So I'm really having second thoughts whether it's time for her to go. Should we enroll her in a playschool instead? That would be like wasting your money, LOL. I mean, we can always play here or she can go outside to hang out with other kids. But we'll see where the wind blows.

Make Money From Your Blog

One of the easiest way in earning money online is to get paid for blogging. The paid blogging industry has gotten big and more advertisers are choosing this method to improve their traffic and sale conversion. If you want to be a part of this business, Smorty is just the place to start. Smorty connects advertisers with thousands of suitable bloggers so they can write about the advertiser's products, services and websites. The bloggers get paid per opinion post with an option to write on subjects that interest them. You are not required to write about something that you feel strongly against. The payments are never late and you can even add as many blogs as you want to earn more. There's no fee to sign up but your blog will be subjected to review before you get approved. Blogs must have quality content, indexed in Google and Yahoo In order for the advertisers to get the most our their money, the bloggers must have quality content and must be older than three months. These criteria and more are important so the advertisers will get the most out of their money.

Excited to the max

Have you seen this?

CHRISTMAS KIDZ KRAZE ‘07
Warehouse, Calle Industria, Libis, Quezon City
December 1-2, 7-9, 14-16, 19-21
9:00 am to 6:00 pm (Saturday and Sunday)
1:00 pm to 6:00 pm (Weekdays and Fridays)
Up to 80% off on branded toys, clothes, and shoes

I just can't tell you exactly how excited I am to go here. It's what I usually look forward to during Christmas, you know. Overcrowded bazaars, Christmas music floating in the air, long list of inaanaks and shopping for their gifts, shopping for our Christmas outfits and of course, the endless sales like the one mentioned above. And if you go to bazaars like the ones in Ayala Alabang, the treat of seeing the Christmas decors of the luxury homes there is enough to make your day.

Unfortunately, The Husband just hates crowds and gets all cranky whenever we visit bazaars or crowded malls. Most of the time, I make him feel guilty by telling him that it's the one thing that I love most. Crowds during holidays bring me back to a certain time when I used to shop with my mom for gifts. So in the end, he'll give in and support me by carrying all the shopping bags when I go Christmas shopping. In return, I buy him something expensive so everybody's happy :D

Adjustable Weight Loss Procedure

I've been hearing about this Tampa lapband surgery from other celebrity blogs and how they prefer this procedure than gastric bypass. From Journey Lite's website who specializes in Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding or LAP-BAND® System procedure, I learned that what makes this procedure different is because it's completely adjustable and reversible. The process goes like this - a Journey Lite surgeon will make tiny incisions in the abdomen and insert a silastic band, which will create a small pouch and narrow passage to the larger stomach. This band will restrict food intake without interfering with your body's normal digestive system. The small pouch can hold small amount of food so the patient will have the feeling of fullness. The band can be adjusted to increase or decrease the speed at which the food empties into the stomach. Many successful clients have reported a weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week. This is considered the least invasive amongst other weight loss procedures because no cutting or rerouting of small intestines are involved. Because of this, the chance of complications is very low and recovery period is quicker.

Sponsored by Blogitive

How did motherhood change you?

I am more giving, forgiving and understanding. Now I always think about what the other person is feeling before I act. I put myself in somebody else's shoes just to find a different perspective. I cry all the time. I'm emotional. I care more about life, the environment, the government, and the world. I take joy in things that I usually take for granted. I am stronger, braver but somehow more afraid than ever.

Because now, another life depends on whatever I do. Any plans, opinions, acts that I make will affect my daughter if not now, but in the future. My dreams are now her dreams. My life is my daughter.

Online Casino Reviews

Many gamers are now becoming more interested with online casinos. Even though we're not into gambling, I can see the reason why so many people would like to have fun, betting online. It's very convenient because you can play at the comforts of your own home plus the rewards and bonuses are just amazing. So if you're looking for a new casino website to try out, visit PRO360.com first to read their detailed reviews on over 79 on gambling websites. PRO360.com reviews a huge selection of online casinos so you, as a player, can make the most out of your online gambling. They have categories like Editors Choice, Most Voted, Highest Jackpots, and more to make your search for the perfect online casino a breeze. Each detailed review consists of an overall score from the Editor’s opinion and players opinion, a detailed casino info, game selections, graphics and sounds, speed, payout and withdrawal options, bonuses and security. The contact details are displayed in each casino page including screenshots of the game. A download link is also available if you want to experience all the exciting features the game has to offer.

Mommy Stuff

1. What food did you crave when you were pregnant?
I didn’t crave anything but I ate a LOT.

2. Did you gain a lot of weight when you were pregnant?
Yes, 50 lbs! Good thing they’re all gone. I’m slowly gaining some though hehe.

3. Did you drink milk when you were pregnant?
Nope.

4. How long did you stay in the labor room before your delivery?
2 hours man! It was a sweet and quick labor.

5. Did you have epidural during labor?
All natural and I will do it all over again if the next time will be as easy. I also took a lamaze class so I was pretty prepared. But I remember asking for epidural when I was already 8cm to which the residents replied by throwing a pillow at my face. (close kami eh haha)

6. How did you give birth?
Normal

7. What was your first reaction when you heard your baby’s cry and saw him/her for the first time?
My first thought - “Lumabas na?” I thought I was going to cry but I didn’t haha. I was just so tired. The Husband said he was the one who cried LOL. He was with me when I gave birth and I immediately asked him to count Sandy’s fingers and toes.

8. Prior to that moment when you first held your baby, did you know how to carry a newborn?
Oh yeah, don’t know why but I became a mother instantly (naks!) To think I never wanted to have kids when I was single.

9. Did you take a bath after your delivery?
Nope, took a bath on my 3rd day.

10. How was your first night with your baby like?
Oh gawd, it was a disaster. We didn’t know it was going to be that hard. The Husband and I changed her diaper for 30 minutes. It was life changing and so difficult that we just want to forget about it.

11. Did you breastfeed your baby?
Yes. Up to now haha. Walang awat.

12. If you were to pick just one moment from the time you gave birth until the moment you were discharged from the hospital, which do you think is the most special moment for you?
When I looked at her face and smelled her head. It was just those moments when you wonder if you deserve to have this wonderful, spectacular, amazing little bundle of joy.

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Have your company working more efficiently

It's frustrating to know that your company could be more efficient. You know that there are better ways to keep track of inventory, incoming orders, and the warehouse in general, but don't know which to choose. That's why F. Curtis Barry & Company is the answer to all your problems. I think you'll be surprised by how much their warehouse management system can help your company save time and money.
With over 20 years of experience in Warehouse Consulting, F. Curtis Barry & Company has the know-how to help your company move to the next level. You'll quickly see why they're an industry leader in helping companies become more efficient.

Sponsored by BloggingAds

Everything You’ve Been Looking For

There are so many choices out there when you're looking for a new car that it can be overwhelming at best. Oh, and nevermind driving around to all of the dealerships for the different makes…that alone can take days. That’s why I’ve got a solution for you. Check out the Missouri car dealer with all the makes and models and save yourself some driving. Conklin Fangman has a huge selection of new cars, and they’re a great provider of Missouri used cars as well. So whether you’re looking for new or used, Buick or Cadillac, you can be sure that Conklin Fangman can take care of you.

Sponsored by BloggingAds

Praying

Here's the little girl praying for her Lolo at the Loyola Memorial. She used to ask us where her Lolo Cesar is. Now she knows.



It was also her first time to visit the cemetery and since we went there when there's no more crowd, she had fun having the park all to herself. She ran around; chasing butterflies, touching the flowers, jumping on the grass and hanging out under the big trees.

24-Hour Cash

I was organizing my junk in my computer table when I saw three envelopes containing our credit card bills. We were so busy for the past week that I totally forgot about them. The due date has passed which means we'll need to pay for the additional interest next month. Good thing that whenever we buy something using credit card, I set aside the amount that we spent so we'll have something to pay for when the invoices arrive. Not everyone can have this kind of discipline though. If you find yourself in a tight situation and need extra cash fast, PayDayLoanQuotes can help. Applying for Faxless Payday Loans can be done in three easy steps. First, fill out the short online form containing your contact, employment information and bank account details. This information is important because the lenders will base your qualification based on them. Once you qualify, a lender will contact you online or via phone and provide you with the loan terms or ask for more information. If approved and you agree to the loan terms, all that's left to do is send them the electronic agreement and the money is yours in a matter of 24 hours. Just like that.

What's Your Flavah

1. What’s your favorite color?
green, pink, purple

2. What’s your favorite quote?
Both from Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist:
-It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life so interesting
-I’m afraid that if my dream is realized, I’ll have no reason to go on living

3. Favorite television show?
Everybody loves Raymund, Grey’s Anatomy, FRIENDS

4. What part of the chicken is your favorite?
Wings

5. When you get a cold or the flu are you tough or a big baby?
Big baby - whining here and there to get some TLC from hubby

6. Are you more serious or a big dork?
One huge dork

7. Use one word to describe how you are feeling right now.
Ecstatic

8. Name your worst habit.
Like Alpha, I worry a lot.

9. Name a book that you could read over and over again.
Griffin and Sabine Trilogy, Harry Potter 7 (my latest fave)

10. Are you a collector of anything?
Junk, yes.

11. What’s one of your favorite blogs to read?
Aside from the ones on my blogroll, I just love Perezhilton.com, celebrity-babies.com, gavin-rossdale blog

12. Name one thing you are passionate about.
I just love anything that has to do with art.

Finding The Right Printer

We have about 40GB worth of photos sitting in my laptop, waiting to be printed. We want to save by buying our own printer so I can print all of them including my digiscrapping layouts. I still have no idea what kind of printer we need to buy though. Good thing I came across, Cartridge Finder, a site that offers a wide variety of all printer-related products from all major brands such as Canon, Epson, HP, Lexmark, Samsung and more. You can easily browse products by Brand and a list of products will be displayed. Each product checks PriceGrabber.com's merchant listings so you can be assured that you're getting the best price on the product that you're looking for.

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

Mini Control Freak

That's Sandy I'm talking about on the title. Here's why:

Her yaya is cleaning up her mess and putting her "food" toys on the top basket.

Sandy: Ate Ayin, not there! There, o, in the food area. (Pointing to the 3rd basket containing all her plastic food toys such as chicken, veggies, tomatoes, ham)

Sandy sneezed and her snot were all over the floor.

Sandy: Mommy, wipe the floor please.

I'm reading a book and accidentally pronounced a word incorrectly

Sandy: Mommy, don't say (insert word here), say (insert correct pronunciation)

While I'm preparing her food on her Barney place

Sandy: Put the rice here on Barney's body. The chicken there, on Barney's head

When I'm giving her a bath

Sandy: Don't touch my face, body only body only. Then head, like a baby.

Classy Workspace

I've been so lazy for the past three days. This is the problem when you work from home. There are just too many distractions. Plus a proper office really makes a difference. Which is why my next project is to invest in an executive desk. I saw some nice ones at FurnitureHome.com, my latest favorite Home Furniture store hangout. I've been visiting this site for some time and even made a post about their Dining Room Furniture and Living Room Furniture. They have an amazing collection of almost everything that you'll ever need for your home.

So back to my search for the perfect desk, I fell in love in this Old World Executive desk from their site. It has so many drawers, which will be very useful for me because I have tons of junk and paraphernalia on my current desk. It has a pull out drawer for a keyboard, built in compartment for a PC and huge seat opening for comfortable computer chairs. This desk is just too beautiful for words. I'm sure even my mother-in-law would prefer to work form home if she has a desk like this.




Lazy

I can't get any lazier than this. All I want to do is sleep or just lie down in bed doing nothing. I miss those times when you can do what you want, whenever, wherever. I don't seem to be getting any sleep at all. Can't even remember my dreams, if ever I had any. Even when Sandy is asleep, I can't rest because I'm either trying to grab paid opps or cramming with design tasks for work. And if I try to close my eyes, all the things that I need to do will fill my head that my eyes will keep on opening on their own. Which is why instead of sleeping, I'm just slacking off. I'm so uninspired that I can't do any designs and so tired that I won't be able to write any paid opps.

And to be honest, what I really want to do is eat a moist, dark chocolate cake.

Orlando Hotels

Orlando is now one of the most popular tourist attractions because of the theme parks that they have to offer. Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Escape and Sea World are just some of the host themed attractions that pull more than 25 million people a year to come to Orlando. Which is why it's highly advised to book a hotel beforehand to avoid accommodation problems. Orlando.com can help you by offering the most comprehensive travel and vacation packages in Orlando. Finding the perfect orlando hotel is a breeze using the search function on their web site. The list of hotels can get long but you can easily sort them according to star ratings or price. All hotels are within proximity to every attraction, shops and restaurants that Orlando has to offer.

Sponsored by Blogitive

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

October Roundup

What books and/or magazines did I read this month?
- Harry Potter 1-7
- Size 14 is not fat either
- Finished eleven minutes

What movies and/or tv shows did I watch this month?
- Chuck and Larry
- Harry Potter Order of the Phoenix
- Heroes
- Phenomenon

What special days did I celebrate and how?
- Halloween

What gifts did I give and/or receive?
- A guitar toy for KD’s birthday
- BJ stuffed toy for Sandy

What illnesses or health concerns did I have?
- Backaches for moi
- Colds (Sandy)
- Allergy attack (The Husband)

What fun things did I do with my friends and/or family?
- Trick or treating
- Shopping sprees with Sandy (I consider this fun because Sandy is such a good girl when I’m shopping that I’m starting to feel like she’s now my shopping buddy)

What new foods, recipes or restaurants did I try this month?
- Spinach Ravioli in Edsa Shang
- Forgot the name but it’s an Indian resto in Rockwell

What special or unusual purchases did I make?
- none

What were this month’s disappointments?
- none, thank God

What were my accomplishments this month?
- lots of paid opps, finished my design projects

Get ready with your credit cards

You must know all about Black Fridays sales if you're a self-confessed shopaholic. These sales happen exactly one day after Thanksgiving so people can get started with their Christmas shopping. Loads of unbelievable discounts are available during Black Friday sales that people just flock to the stores. However, the ads are not disclosed until Thanksgiving Day so you only learn about them the same time as others. Which is why if you want to get hold of the best stuff, you will have to fall in line as early as 5am in front of your favorite store.

If you hate standing in line yet still want to take advantage of the amazing Black Friday sales, then Black-Friday.net is just perfect for you. At Black-Friday.net, not only you have the advantage to see 2007 thanksgiving specials before anyone else, but you can also purchase Black Friday items online! If you go their site now, you will see the list of stores that they are expecting to have Black Friday ads for.

As for me, I'll be on the lookout for some Ikea deals and Toys R Us Specials. I already subscribed to their email alerts so I can receive an email whenever new black Friday ads have been posted.

Howdydah

Well, there's nothing much to do at work. Also done with my assignments so I have so much time in my hands. The dilemma now is what should I do with this free time. Not that there's nothing left to do, I just can't choose which one. Should I finish the little girl's first year scrapbook? Should I organize our cabinet? Should I back up all our photos in a DVD? Should I call my friends and catch up? See, there's tons of stuff in my list and since I'm not used to having extra time, I'm so confused which one I should start with first. Just thinking about them is exhausting already. Perhaps I'll just enjoy this moment and bloghop :D

Monday, November 05, 2007

Discounted Disney Tickets

Looking for cheap Disney World Tickets? Check out Orlandofuntickets.com to get the lowest prices on all discount tickets for Disney World and all Orlando theme parks, dinner shows and attractions. The tickets are available in various packages with options from one to ten days called, "Disney Magic Your Way". Your family will surely enjoy all the attractions that Walt Disney World has to offer. Just imagine your kids roaming around Disneyquest, Downtown Disney Pleasure Island, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks. Nighttime is equally exciting with dinner shows including Arabian Nights, Medieval Times and Pirates Dinner Adventure. Every kids at heart can find will have a blast visiting other major theme parks like Sea World, Kennedy Space Center, Universal Studios and more.

Sponsored by Blogitive

Snagging Memes

Snagged from Alpha's blog.

1. Are you good at hiding your feelings?
No. If I'm not whining or gushing with delight, all that I'm feeling will show in my eyes.

2. How can we tell that you’re already irritated?
Oh, you'll know. My eyebrows have a life of their own.

3. How do you treat the person that obviously doesn’t like you?
I ignore them. I don't really care unless I did something to make them dislike me.

4. What usually ruins your mood?
Unplanned events or changing plans at the last minute.

5. Who do you see everyday that you wish you just wouldn’t at all?
None. I work from home so I don't have a choice haha. Nah, I love everyone around me.

6. When was the last time that you had a good cry?
Months ago I think. It's healthy to cry, you know.

7. How often do you shop for clothes?
Like Alpha, not so often. I buy clothes whenever there's a new place that we need to go to and I'll have to see anyone that I know.

8. Who’s your long-time crush?
Gavin Rossdale

9. Someone you just had a crush on?
Brandon Routh

10 . Do you have something that you wish you just don’t?
My ugly teeth!

11. Do you sometimes crave for something that isn’t there?
I won't be human if I say no. Think about cakes, pastry, chocolate, pizza. Or money, clothes, big house, new cars.

12 . Do you wish to live in a faraway land where nobody knows you?
Yeah, sometimes. But it can get awfully lonely, don't you think?

13. Have you kissed a total stranger?
Sadly, no. Haha.

14. What do you want to do at this moment?
Sleep

15 . The worst feeling?
Fear of the unknown

16. How about the best?
The first stages of being in love.

17. Ever given your number to someone you dislike?
Nah.

18. What will you say to the one reading this right now?
This is fun. I just enjoy doing tags in a slum-booky way. Snag it if you like.

19. What/Who do you need right now?
Oh God I need tons - new memory, portable hardisk, vacation, sleep, exercise

20 . Happy with your life?
Oh yes. Very.

Garage Spaces

Maximizing your garage's space is easy with Car Guy Garage.com's garage cabinets. This site has a wide range of storage cabinets that you can use to hide all the junk that is usually being stored at the most taken for granted place in the house. We have a big garage but it looks small and cluttered because the half, unused space is filled with boxes of old clothes, broken furniture, toys and books. With simple re-organization, perhaps we can turn it into a sitting lounge. I'd probably choose the Aluminum Garage Cabinets because it will complement the color of our garage's wall.

Sunday, November 04, 2007

Fully Booked

Woke up really early this morning because we're going to the cemetery. I hope it's not hot there because we have two kids with us. Plus the little girl is throwing tantrums for the smallest things because we had to wake her up a bit earlier than her usual schedule. I'm still having second thoughts if we're going to attend the birthday party later. It's in North Edsa, which is like the opposite end from where we live LOL. But we'll see how Sandy will manage the outing this morning.

New Look

For me, that is. Sandy was so behaved and cooperative when we were buying groceries this morning that I've decided to have a haircut while she's in a good mood. She watched while I was being shampooed but got bored so The Husband took her to the play area. It's been a year since I had a haircut so I made the most out of my ME time. Sandy wouldn't look at me though when she saw my new bangs. I asked her to kiss me, which she did, but her eyes were still looking away from my face. Guess she needs a little more time to get used to Mommy's look hehe.

Grocery Time

We’re on our way to the grocery store now. Been blogging for hours, thanks to my loot of paid opps. I don't have time to create a grocery list so I'm sure we'll go over budget again. I've been trying to cut down on our monthly expenses for the longest time. It's so hard because it seems that the higher our earnings, the longer our list gets.

Saturday, November 03, 2007

Pies at your doorstep

Check out the newest sensation - Tootie Pies. Having Pies delivered to your home is just the best reward you can give yourself after a long day at work. Tootie pies are mouthwatering, handmade pies that use only the freshest fruits and finest ingredients. It's available for delivery and will arrive at your door warm, fully baked and ready to serve. Tootie pies are good alternative to cakes for special occasions and parties with your friends and family. It's also a unique gift for your employees, clients and boss especially if you don't know what to give them. Tootie pies come in original apple, black berry, blueberry, cherry, chocolate pecan, lemon velvet and more.

Sponsored by Blogitive

Yay

My favorite shop, Bayo had a sale this afternoon. I bought myself a nice pair of open-toed, red sandals at half the price. I was actually trying out the red version of my blue-green ballet flats. I loved those ballet flats because they are so soft that I wouldn't mind buying another one in a different color. I was about to purchase them when the girl who was trying out the open-toed sandals decided to hide the sandals so she can come back and buy it. I immediately grabbed them while she wasn't looking and with Sandy's help (can you imagine that? she's shopping with mommy now), we went somewhere to sit so I can try them on. Looks good with my legs if I may say so haha. They actually phased this model out so I was really happy about my purchase.

Rings Around the Fingers

Finding the right wedding rings can be just as important as finding the right engagement rings, but thanks to Danforth Diamond you can find both in the same place. I know that you thought finding the best diamonds to put into a ring for her was about as hard as it was going to get, but picking out the perfect wedding bands together is just as important, but if you follow my advice and check out Danforth Diamond, I think you'll be please, and quickly understand why they're an industry leader when it comes to helping people just like you find just what they're looking for.

Sponsored by BloggingAds

Give it a rest

I'm having problems with my plugins on my main blog. Personally, I think it's because of the 20++ posts that I do everyday. I would get tired if I were my blog LOL. Anyway, I hope I can get it fix soon because it has something to do with Google sitemaps and you don't want to mess up anything google-related, do you? I'm so crazy about PRs right now so I need to suck up some more.

Family Christmas List

Seeing mommy bloggers post their wish lists inspired me to post not my own but my Christmas list for my two babies. CouponChief.com just added amazing online coupons to their database so I'm taking advantage of that. For The Husband, I'm choosing between J & R Computer coupons and some Buy.com coupon codes for his much awaited 20mm F1.8 wide lens. It's expensive (which is why I'm using coupons) but his birthday is in December so I'm hitting two special dates with one stone. As for the little princess, I'm getting a big doll house using their BabyCenter coupons then have it shipped to my Uncle's address so he can bring it when he visits this Christmas. Those two really are just the most important people on my list so that will do for now. As for everybody else, the bazaars will do LOL.

Well...

I'm bored again. Might have to ask The Husband to go out for a couple of hours. The thing is we're staying away from the malls after the recent bombing so there's really nowhere we can go. I wish there are parks near our house just like in the U.S. or other countries where the babies and mommies go to whenever they want to get fresh air. Our pollution is so bad that walking outside is just not suitable for kids anymore.

Friday, November 02, 2007

Worry Free Brides

Getting married is a huge step already that the stress, usually a part of wedding preparations, is something that future married couples should not experience. With the help of WeddingChannel.com, future husbands and wives can now focus on their exciting endeavor without having to worry that something might go wrong at the wedding. Finding the right location for the ceremony is a bliss using their Local Wedding Vendors section. Choose the perfect wedding dress from over 30,000 gown designs. Wedding Gifts, registries, photo and video suppliers, cake makers, honeymoon destinations and more are also available to help you plan your dream wedding. You will never have to worry about going over budget when you're working with Wedding Channel's budget calculator. Keeping track of all your wedding to-dos will result to a stress free wedding using the online planning checklist. The site has a huge community of brides and grooms so you can get real advice from people who are about to tie the knot.

Sponsored by Blogitive

A to Z

My abcd ....

Instructions: Each player starts with 7 random habits/facts about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

Seven facts about me:
I love to eat
Sleeping is a luxury to me
I get paid drawing pretty pictures or in I.T's term, design websites
I'm a sun worshipper
I'm an excellent dancer, if I may say so. I even used to choreograph
Coffee gets me through the day
I've been working since I was 14 years old

A - Age: 28
B - Band Listening To Right Now: David Byrne - Glass, Concrete and Stone
C - Career: Fulltime Mommy, Web Designer, Blogger, Cow
D - Drink or Smoke: Drink, yeah! I wish. Can't drink while I'm breastfeeding.
E - Easiest Friends To Talk To: Teta, Novie, Tere
G - Gummy Bears or Gummy Worms: Gummy Bears, they're so cute!
H - Have a Boyfriend: Yeah, The Husband
I - In love: with life. It's so good.
J- Junk Food You Like: Pringles, Lays with sour cream hayyyyyy sarap
K - Kids: Sophia Andrea aka Sandy Kulit
L - Longest Ride Ever: Baguio
N - Names For Your Future Kids: Boy - Juan Manuel
O - One Wish You Have Now: good health
P - Phobias: don't have any but I'm not that crazy about swimming in deep waters
Q - Favorite Quote: It's a beautiful world, everyone's insane. Either you swim or either you fade.
R - Reasons To Smile: My small family
S - Sleeping Hours: never LOL. around 2AM?
T - Time You Woke Up: every 2 hours
U - Unknown Fact About You: I'm scared of what people will say. Sometimes.
V - Vegetable You Hate: okra
W - Worst Habit: napakapakialamera
X - X-rays You’ve Had: chest and back for my scoliosis
Y - Yummy Foods: Italian
Z - Zodiac Sign: Gemini / Cancer

Online Gaming Reviews

My uncle enjoys betting online and usually scouts the web for the latest in online casinos. He loves to play poker and blackjack and considers himself a pro. Still, he values security above all else, which is why he doesn't join any online casinos until he's fully researched about the company. So when I came across topusaonlinecasinos.com, I immediately told him to check it out. It's a free guide that assists US players in finding the safest and the best online gambling web sites. Each website is being ranked according to their game selections, graphics and sounds, payout rates, speed, security, fair play, deposit and withdrawal options, bonuses and customer support. It even shows a brief description of each site including awards, year that it was established and tips in maximizing your gaming experience. Although the site isn't totally complete yet, the reviews are very detailed which can help any player in deciding which web site they should try.

Getting Old

A meme that I found online.

1. If you could pause your aging process, at what age would you choose do to it? (Meaning you would not live forever, but live for 90 or so years at whatever age you chose).
I would like to live up to 80 so I can see Sandy and her future brother/sister grow up, be successful in their careers and grow old to take care of their children and grandchildren.

2. At what age did you (or will you) consider yourself to be an adult?
When I turned 23 and had to live on my own.

3. What do you think will be your most annoying trait when you’re a senior?
Nothing! I’ll be a very cool grandma.

4. How does your current life compare with where you thought you’d be at this point when you were young?
I’m poorer but happier than I’ve ever thought I would be.

5. When would you like to retire? What do you see yourself doing with your life after retirement?
I’d like to retire when I turn 50 I guess. I’m such a workaholic that I can’t see myself doing nothing at all. Maybe The Husband and I can buy a farm or a place in Batanes and stay there for the rest of our lives. That was our first dream anyway.

Shoppers Rewards

A great way to pick up sales is to introduce customer rewards. WebLoyalty.com specializes in this kind of program and if you partner with them, not only you will receive extra cash but also, you're guaranteed that your customers will want to come back for more. The webloyalty program is a win-win situation for both WebLoyalty partners and their customers. To explain it further, let's say someone bought a product from your website. After their purchase, they will see some offers from WebLoyalty as a thank you for their order. It could be a $10 off on their next purchase or choose from a wide range of valuable discounts and services. Because of these offers, which range from travel discounts to shopper savings and protection, the customer will feel that the company values their patronage. As for the partners, they will receive an extra $.50 to $2 per transactions made on their websites. To summarize, you get paid for providing excellent customer service.

Sponsored by Blogitive

Sandy's Beach List

Okay, we just got back. I know I said we're just going to buy some DVDs but I went home with a new pair of shoes. It was on sale at 50% off so I just couldn't resist! On our way home, we passed a sports store and saw the floating device for babies again. I'm still thinking having second thoughts about getting one because it's so expensive but I want Sandy to have so much fun at the beach. With that device, she will float upright unlike those inflatables that you put on your arms and waist. Well, with my earnings I guess I can buy it without flinching. Plus, it's for my baby's safety, which should always come first. Okay, enough explaining haha.

In Progress

Yay, I'm half done with my assignments. I'll just take a break now and head to the nearest mall with the family. We're all not used to staying at home doing nothing, (well them, because I'm working my @$$ off here) so we decided to go out, have a snack and buy a couple of DVDs. The hummus will just have to wait! The Husband is too lazy to do anything and would rather lie down on the couch all day. We're just going out because he ran out of movies to watch plus we're all hungry.

ME Time

Well, not exactly. The little girl is asleep so I'm doing what I can to squeeze in some paid blogging time. As I've already mentioned on my earliest post, I got loads of paid tasks to write and since my boss sent me some work this morning, I haven't got a chance to write any. You might think I'm addicted to this but there's just so many things that I want to buy haha. Shopping always gives me the right push to get to work.

Compare and Save Buckets!

There's a new comparison site called Save Buckets that searches the web for the lowest available price on any product. Whether a buyer is looking for mp3 players or home furnishings, Save Buckets will show which store can offer the best price. The buyer also has an option to search for shops that are most visited online such as Asda, Comet, John Lewis, PC World, Play.com and more. And if the buyer wants a better deal, they can enter the price that they would like to pay using the My Price feature. Save Buckets will then email the buyer when the product that they want has reached the amount that they're looking for. If Save Buckets fail to find a price that fits a buyer's budget, they will offer him the current lowest price available. And to help consumers get total shopping satisfaction, they provide a categorized list of guides that explain to consumers what they need to look for when purchasing products online.

Hummus!

Been craving for authentic hummus ever since I saw one last night at The Food Network. The Husband used to make hummus whenever we are on a diet and it was always delicious and satisfying.

I found this recipe today and it seems like the real thing. I'll ask The Husband to make it for our afternoon snack. I don't have the talent to understand these things even if the exact step by step instructions are available. I just don't like cooking, period.

Got this from humus101.
[4 large bowls of Hummus]
2 cups dried chickpea grains
1/3 cup tahini*
juice from 1 squeezed lemon
1-2 garlic cloves
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/8-1/4 teaspoon baking soda
salt
olive oil
parsley

Directions:
1. Poor the chick-peas over a large plate. Go over them and look for damaged grains small stones, or any other thing that might be there of which you would like to dispense.

2. Wash it good and soak the chickpeas in clean water for the night. Then, switch the water and soak for a few more hours. The grains should absorb most of the water and double their volume, more or less.

3. Wash the chickpeas well and put them in a large pot. Cover with water, add the baking soda and NO salt. Cook until the grains are easily smashed when pressed between two fingers. It should take around 1.5-2 hours, during which it is advised to switch the water once again, and remove the peels which float over the cooking water. When done, sieve the grains and keep the cooking water.

4. Put the chickpeas into a food processor and grind well. Leave it to chill before you continue.

5. Add the tahini and the rest of the ingredients and go on with the food processor until you get the desires texture. If the Humus is too thick, add some of the cooking water.

Serve with some good olive oil and chopped parsley.

Beauty Institute

I have high regards for hair stylists. It might seem vain and shallow but they do make people happy about themselves. With the right haircut or hair color, a person's confidence can significantly improve. Of course, the keyword there is perfect.

Regency Beauty Institute believes in being exceptional in the beauty business. This is why they focus on creativity, self-confidence and excellence when educating their students. All their cosmetology schools has a dedicated education team plus a unique learning system that keeps track the progress of each student and rewards them for their successes. As part of their training the students are required to provide discounted, high-quality salon services to the public under expert supervision. Regency also schedules regular on-campus open houses and auditions so salon owners can get access to future top stylists in the making.

Sponsored by Blogitive

Thursday, November 01, 2007

Just when you don't need them

... tons of designs tasks appear on your inbox. My boss might somehow forgotten the fact that I'm on holiday for two days. He and one of our clients from Las Vegas have been sending me urgent updates to their websites for the last hour. Of course, I can't say no to them. I'm not that type of person who will leave them hanging especially if I'm the only one who can resolve the issue. However, I hope this doesn't happen next next week when we go to Bohol. I won't have Internet access there and I sure hope that I won't be working at all.

Holiday

It's a holiday today! No work for two days so I'm enjoying the extra time by blogging. There are so many paid tasks that I need to finish in two days. I also have a few design projects that should be done by now so might squeeze some mockups today.

So much for that much-needed rest now.

Miss Organized

Ooohh, just look at this lovely hand-painted baby organizer! I'm planning to get this for Sandy so we can finally organize our cluttered room. I'm sure she will love this considering how she likes anything with animals in it. Hopefully, this will convince her to help mommy pick up her toys, books, clothes and other baby things. I love how it can be stacked on top of each other when they're not in use. We need all the space we can get in our room and hallway plus it won't hurt if the organizers look as fabulous as these. And do you know that you can personalize them as well? Babynest is known for personalized baby gifts from new born apparel, toddlers, bath time accessories, new parents and even nursery decors. You can check their collection at www.babynest.com.

Sponsored by Blogitive

Overseas

My friend just won't stop talking about Singapore. She's trying to convince me to work there by telling me about the government and the low crime rate. However, she warned me that it might take a year before I can bring Sandy. Her salary is now times 4 of what she used to earn here in the Philippines, which is why it's starting to appeal to me. Don't get me wrong, I love my work from home job and it's twice the pay of any designer that I know. Still, I can't help but think of the future of my daughter. There are crimes everywhere I go. I'm even scared to ride a cab home at 10:30 PM for God's sake. I don't know, but I will have to think about this real hard. I'm absolutely sure that I can't leave Sandy even for just a few months even if The Husband is with her.

Dress It Up

The right window treatment can give any room a quick makeover. If you watch any home make over shows, you will see that whatever they do, they never forget the windows. It could be as simple as changing the curtain, adding a new set of blinds, or totally replacing the window frames. Different types of curtains can either block the sunlight or let some to seep in creating a homey, romantic feel.

Ready to dress up your windows? Get your supplies now at TerrysFabrics.co.uk. Here you can find all that you need in redecorating your room from their huge variety of curtain fabrics, curtain poles, curtain tracks, blinds, bedding, lighting, cushions, throws and many more. The prices of the products vary but suitable to all budgets. They also have ready-made curtains so all you have to do is put it up or add a lamp and other pieces here and there to enhance the look of your home.