I Am KaRiRskikAikaRRi

Home and Accomplishing Things

2012-02-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

So far, so good. Stressed, but at least doing something, working things out for the better. I am temporarily living my old life, oooohhhh Philippines! Family, friends, and fruits --- so priceless!

I am close to completing my important tasks and I am hoping to get my one last stress-free week, hopefully!

Project

2012-02-02T19:27:00.000-08:00

Guest post written by our friend Trent Horton

I logged onto directstartv.com and upgraded our television package. We hadn't upgraded our package in years. We had old school cable and found a great deal for Direct TV. I have been surprised at how many channels that I was missing and how much that I was over paying. With our basic cable we didn't even get the Lifetime channel. Now we get it and realized that I had been missing a great show, "Project Runway." I have always been interested in sewing. I had heard of the show, but really didn't know what I was missing. It is wonderful! The challenges are so much fun. They cast members really have to be creative and talented to survive. All of the people on the show have unique personalities and there is also some usual reality television show drama. My mom likes the show too. Now that I can watch it , we call each other every week and discuss who we like and don't like. We talk about which outfits are our favorites and which outfits we hate. I can't believe I have missed the last eight seasons!

Wrong Sandwich Decision

2012-01-19T20:09:00.000-08:00

Today we got a complimentary lunch from the big boss and we got to pick our sandwich. I swear I tried Mr. Pickles' Wild Wild West before, but I always had a white sliced bread...

I thought I tasted something weird in there, its not the avocado, its not the cheese, its not the tomato, and not the pastrami... so it could only be the dough, the American or Italian dough or whatever, and all I know is it ruined my lunch.

...is now very hungry.

On Putting Nail Color

2012-01-18T19:42:00.002-08:00

Amazed. I think I already know to paint my nails perfectly. I feel like I could brag about this to anybody now, thus, this post.

I have the feeling that I am on my way to becoming a real lady (winks*, because I am a fake). Aside from being conscious of my nails and all the other stuff that I previously indulge in, I feel the need to splurge on jewelry lately. All the other stuff I mentioned would include, collecting perfumes, shoes, and make-up. I am not at the point yet of collecting bags because that could really be expensive and I am sure about myself not being able to spend more than a $1000 for a piece of bag, or you know what, at this point I couldn't let myself spend more than $300 for a bag, a grand for a bag is too much actually. It would be nice if I get an expensive bag from my husband, but I don't think so he would buy me one haha! Jewelry is far more better especially when its gold so I would stick to the idea of splurging on jewelry.

Oh God, I couldn't wait to win the lottery! Haha!

Back to putting nail color, I realized that there is no perfect way to put it on your nails, it is actually a matter of practice, or in my case, a matter of changing the colors everyday so I could get comfortable with it. Youtube is there thankfully, and its been really helpful. I also encountered a customer who does nails, and she advised on using a base coat/top coat which by the way makes real sense. My favorite products:

The thing is, I have really weak nails and it cracks and chips at any given time. Honey just bought us a "dietary supplement" for the hair and nails, so let's see if it would work. I am a little bit paranoid also of overdoing application of nail color, maybe it is a variable why my nails is giving up on me... but I hope not, nail color really look awesome!

No Starbucks Coffee Yet

2012-01-10T18:50:00.006-08:00

2012 marks my second year in America, and believe it or not, until now, I was not able to buy me a coffee from Starbucks. That doesn't sound weird, but to me, a coffee addict (loyal to Nescafe 3 in 1) spending my dollars for a coffee even more expensive than gas doesn't make sense.

I swear, Starbucks got the best coffee, they have a new menu addition coming out on the 10th actually. My husband occasionally goes to Starbucks to buy that white mocha of some sort, and it is really really good. When my client gave me a Starbucks gift card for Christmas I thought I could be using it to get myself my very first Starbucks coffee in America at last, and that could've been a real momentum for me, but guess what? I JUST DIDN'T CARE. The gift card went to my husband, I gave it to him as I know I could not really bring myself inside any Starbucks all by myself anyway. Maybe I just couldn't help myself from converting $5 to P250, maybe its that, or, it could be that Starbucks or Nescafe 3 in 1, its all the same coffee.

I love the pastries at Starbucks though, and that I wouldn't think twice of buying! They are the best, but the coffee, though they are really good, I would still say Noooooooooooooooooooo! I know I could use one someday... I get to drink Starbucks still, but not with my own money...

It is funny how Starbucks in the Philippines is really a big deal you know... I would love to deliberate more but then, whatever, I just get annoyed by the regular check-ins of my friends in Facebook --- is at Starbucks, Abreeza with Whoever... Cool but not cool I swear! If you know what I mean...

My 2011

2011-12-31T17:17:00.003-08:00

Before this year ends, I would like to document the highlights of my life first on you my dear blog...

This year:

... I got married, January 4, 2011 - changed my name

... I got my first Job in America, May 2, 2011

... I got my California Driver License September 20, 2011

... I got my green card which makes me legit

... I got to learn how to figure out the twang of the American Accent

... I felt at home and seriously didn't feel homesick anymore

... I learned how to establish my credit

... I learned how to style my hair a little bit, I learned how to make curls

... I learned how to put on make-up (but I am doubtful about this)

... I paid off my credit card bills in the Philippines

... Was able to break honey's laptop thrice

... I lost my Nokia E71 the day it decided not to turn on anymore, it was a birthday gift from Honey on my 26th

... I was able to splurge on really good cosmetics, above $20

... I got the most painful tooth ache in the whole wide world and I couldn't do anything about it because I didn't have dental insurance yet

... I got free contraceptive pills from the State of California good for 9 months, until they rejected me for my income when I declared my monthly last month, so last month I started paying $30 a pack

... I learned how tough customer service could be in America, and its effect on the one rendering the service, it makes me paranoid

... I've seen my husband broke down into tears for the first time

... I was able to get what I really wanted for my birthday, my Nikon D7000

... I was able to do a lot of online banking and I had to suffer some charges of $10 for over-activity... Banking could really be expensive in here

... I did a lot of online shopping that Zappos.Com made me a VIP customer and gave me access to VIP offers

... I got paid $20 for blogging for the very first time

... I got to experience working two jobs

... I learned how to cook and bake

... I learned how to appreciate GPS

... We finally subscribed to Netflix

... I experienced cleaning other people's houses for money, while I was waiting for my work permit to arrive

... I got to appreciate life in America, its not easy, its almost all work, but at the end of the day you know you're better off here than anywhere else

... I got to experience the first long road trip with Honey going to LA, and I didn't like it, we better fly next time

... I celebrated my first boring New Year in America, and now I am welcoming a new one! Wishing for a better 2012!

Tsokolat

2011-12-30T20:13:00.001-08:00

I was lured into buying a bag of Hershey's Nuggets with Almonds yesterday when I dropped by Walgreens. It was definitely not in my plan, I knew if I would buy some more chocolates it would not be for me but would go straight to the box for Philippines, but I guess not. I just went out to drop the Netflix DVD and my response to the Juror Service Notice by the county in the mailbox, I had no clue I would come home with a bag and with a smile.

Today is the second day of this bag sitting on my table, I strategically put in a place where it is convenient to grab. When I was training at my work, a colleague consciously mentioned about having 15 cavities, I was like whaaaaaat??? You tell me about it, I have no idea if that's bad because maybe I thought I could have millions! People here in America just have nice teeth, they have good water and they really have regular oral checkups. I know that someday when I'll have my baby that he or she could be a toothpaste commercial model, I swear to God! It is not impossible. I keep dum-dums in my window and it is funny that I don't keep them there for the kids but for their parents or grandparents. Most kids here are not even allowed to eat candies, and that is the very reason why they love the Halloween I bet because they could eat all the candies they want thru trick or treating.

I hope my already infected tooth with a temporary filling would not act up until my Dental Insurance effects! Why can't I keep my hands off chocolates!!! I am the most terrible sweet-tooth in the whole world, I don't even know if diabetes runs in the family, and I sure hope not!

A friend in Facebook uploaded this photo:

...You bet I would comment I won't back off, I could honestly finish a bar this big! Especially if it is dark chocolate. Try me!

Love Travelling

2011-12-29T23:23:00.003-08:00

***Thanks to Darwin Barton

I love travelling and I’m always thinking months ahead of any big trip so I got Satellite Star Internet service for my house so I’d be able to plan and get tickets and hotels and everything all from my home office. I’m thinking my next big adventure will be to Croatia since I’ve heard a lot of really good stuff so you know, that may be the best option as of now. I like beaches and culture and thankfully Croatia has both which is nice for me so I don’t have to travel too much once I actually GET to my destination. I think I’m going to go by myself this time which will be a bit of a change for me as I usually ask one of my friends or even whoever I’m dating at the time to go with me. I think it will be nice though to travel on my own and find out how comfortable I am alone in certain situations – it’s something everyone should do at least once in their life.

Crave

2011-12-29T19:36:00.003-08:00

I was telling my husband I want to shop some makeup for two days now. Whew! He said its up to me... He didn't get it obviously! Haha! Well, I did a little somehow but then I still miss some of the stuff that I have been longing to have... Like...

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencils

Urban Decay NAKED Pallette

DIOR Lip Maximizer

I mean, I could get all of these and more anytime, it is really affordable for me now, but I don't know what this feeling of holding back is called, that I always end up thinking I can find any drugstore cosmetic that would still deliver all the same. I am thinking, as I am a newbie in this makeup thingy, maybe I should better practice with drugstore cosmetics first. I am not really picky with the eyeshadows and blushers and lipsticks, the only thing that I am concerned about is the stuff that I put all over my face like the primer and foundation because that I only entrust to Shiseido, I wouldn't want any outbreak at all at this point of my life, I've been there you know, its what you call COLLEGE.

I will try my luck on these stuff next year, and that is 2 days from now. I wish there will be a huge SALE on cosmetics early next year, which is about impossible, they don't ever go on sale, I mean the good ones, do they?

Bestfriend's Just Survived Childbirth Photo

2011-12-27T21:42:00.002-08:00

I just grabbed this photo from her husband's facebook profile, there is no other way but to do just this. Looking at this picture for the first time felt awesome, I was in awe how she was able to survive it all. Technically she didn't go into labor as I might have already mentioned in my previous post, but technically she still survived it all.

Now I was thinking, am I prepared to have my own? Look at my bestfriend and how fulfilled she is now, she can actually already call herself a real woman. Did I tell you that I am already starting to feel jealous about friends who have little daughters because I want to have a baby girl of my own already? Yeah, I think I am crossing that phase in my life now. I will bet on next year.

My bestfriend's little boy was named Lald, that must have been the combination of her name Lo Am and her husband's name Lyndon... which got me thinking, not bad after all, it sounds unique actually.

I am really looking forward to meeting her little boy soon, and I hope I wouldn't be surprised by his quick evolution! Babies just grow fast!

I Keep on Forgetting my Password (s)

2011-12-27T21:33:00.000-08:00

This is what I normally get from having a lot. From emails, to shopping sites, to online banking... PIN for various cards in addition, I could really just mess up.

I have been intending to update you my dear blog, but for some reason like messing up with passwords, I wasn't able to figure it out until today. Of course, I have to change the habit of auto-remembering passwords somehow.

Goodbye Argiro

2011-12-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

Sad news again, after the passing of my beloved dog Georgina Marie (yet to be documented here), we all learned this morning that our co-worker Argiro passed away on November 30. A customer just mentioned it casually this morning that he saw it on the Greek newspaper and we wouldn't believe it so my manager tried calling her number, and my other workmates searched the internet, and they stumbled upon her obituary.

Goodbye Argiro... I would never forget our short-lived acquaintance and friendship. You were my most patient mentor among others when I started work at the bank, and until now I still do what basics you taught me. I regret the day I wasn't able to see you for the last time when you paid us a visit because I was on my lunch break and nobody thought of calling me... I guess I will buy your perfume "Beautiful" now, and wear it, and will always remember that you've never had any other perfume in 20 years. Walk in peace my friend, until we meet again...

My Bestfriend is Already a Mom!

2011-11-10T19:32:00.000-08:00

November 4, 2011... Tongtong gave birth to a healthy 6 lb. baby boy. Let me take you to the real deal. She got married on May or June (I forgot but I made a post of that here), and on September I was informed that she was already 7 months pregnant! Guess I wasn't that surprised! Anyway, there is this feeling of excitement on my part for my bestfriend who is a mom at last! I gave her a ring two nights ago, it was her birthday, and asked her how she felt. As one who underwent a C-section, she said she just felt amazed how a big baby came out of her very tiny tummy opening. She was one of the women who was lucky enough not to go thru the pain of labor, but was just unlucky to have to go thru C-section because the baby's condition is already fetal.

I wish I could be there with her to share that moment, but guess I just have to work on my own preparation for my own baby.

Lately, I am having this feeling of jealousy when I see moms my age on Facebook with growing little girls. I am really wishing for a baby girl to happen soon, when we are ready.

I asked Tongtong to post a photo of her and the baby so I could share it here, will just add it up soon as I get it. Ciao!

Fun Shots Saturday

2011-10-15T22:35:00.000-07:00

Ginger girl enjoying her Saturday picnic with The Bay Area Football Team

Working on aperture, but guess I failed? Some photos just come out perfectly unexplainable...

I didn't do anything fancy in this shot but the cone just came out this way...Working with lights is a challenge, and it is to me, a mystery as always...

Simply nature..

Don't work too hard honeybee!

One more time Ginger Girl!

More to come as I learn my ropes in photography. The YouTube tutorials are awesome and have been giving me insights everyday. I am still in the lookout for more tricks and sightings.

Bailey

2011-10-11T19:45:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I was with Honey in Sunnyvale to take my practice shots during their football game. It was there in the middle of the field that I encountered Bailey, a 13 year old dog with her Korean owner, Michael, who requested me to take photos of them together...

I gladly obliged.

Its simple, Bailey reminded me of my Vanessa and Georgina Marie. I emailed the photos to Michael the moment I got a hold of my computer, and here comes his reply...

"Maraming Salamat Po!!!! So happy to get great photos of Bailey & myself in her few remaining moments.... hope your husband won, you are a very good photographer!!!!"

A thirteen year old dog in her few remaining moments =( Bailey looked so tired, can barely walk and was already hurting from all the aspirin she's been taking... I am glad I was able to take photos of her, at least I have a story somehow.

These photos are priceless.

Living Up to My Plans

2011-10-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

Today, I would like to announce that I'd only opened Facebook once, and that was early this morning before I went to the shower. I had been religious for a day.

I have other important things that I have to do in order to get a life.

I need to get a good book from time to time. My father and my aunts raised me to read, and in reading I find peace, and I think I have to find time to read a good book once in a while, which reminds me that I still have a Max Lucado for which I still have to make a review.

I don't want to forget about listening to good music too. I have to find time for my music, or strum the guitar. The Beatles, Queen, The Corrs, Madonna, Enya, and recently, Adele - are just few of the many artists that I indulge in. There is Jango.com online for me to fulfill this while doing stuff online, such as this - blogging. Just updating you know.

Next, me and my Honey should spend time when we get the same dayoff. Its part of keeping the bond alive between us lovebirds. Travel too, when we have enough cash to stash, Vegas probably or whatever, we will get there in due time.

Just some of the things that I thought I should be doing to feel that I am getting a life, if that makes sense at all.

I Just Need to Get A Life

2011-10-06T21:47:00.001-07:00

Not that I am not happy, of course I am very much happy! A thought just crossed my mind, there's more to life than just spending most your (free) time in Facebook. It has been by far my greatest distraction.

It is true, if not for the majority, at least for me, and I noticed: when I wake up in the morning I check Facebook, when I get a break at work I check Facebook, when I get home the first thing I do is turn on the computer and do Facebook, when I go to sleep I do Facebook first, when in the middle of the night I wake up I do Facebook... What the hell?! I just can't imagine this anymore!

My plan:

Have a hobby. Before I came here I had a hobby, I was into crochet. When I came here it died, just when I had boxes of colorful yarns prepared before me. In all fairness, I tried those knitting needles, but I just can't do it anymore. I feel that I've accomplished the most important part of my crochet career already by making myself three beautiful crochet mini skirts.

I figured I did not have to ponder too deep to get a new hobby, because for chrissakes I have my new baby, my Nikon D7000 already! Yeah, learning my ropes in photography can be a very good hobby! In fact, I have already started, and thanks to youtube I was able to figure out the most useless product manual on earth. I could do this! I feel that I have what it takes to take good photos.

So there you go, I could get a life by making time to learn more about photography - as against doing Facebook.

Another plan, I have to be somewhat aware of current events, and to accomplish this, I have to watch a little TV. Aside from watching Keeping Up With The Kardashians, and American Idol, the only shows that I watch on TV, I have to at least have a regular show that is worthy of my time to look forward to. I figured I found that show three weeks ago when ABC 7 premiered Revenge, and, so far, so good. I have to have a show to look forward to. The story is great, its awesome, and I couldn't take my eyes off the main character, I thought I found another woman crush:

Emily VanCamp

I thought discovering more pretty faces would help me piece my future daughter, because I think I don't believe in what genes could do anymore. Here's another thing, I am so afraid to watch Jersey Shore, if you know what I mean! --- current events huh? =)

Another big plan that I should try to work hard on is, having a regular exercise time. Yes I do Honey's Beach Body DVD once in a while, and ride the exercise machine at the patio for some crunches, but when I add up the times I had to them in a month, either exercise can only be done once before I have my monthly period - to be followed by another one before my next monthly period. Yeah... that's what you call a Facebook addict!

This Facebook addiction should stop for now. Status posting, photo uploading, checking out what's happening in the social loop should be treated as a once a day thing only and not to be considered as LIFE. Facebook is not LIFE, and I think I could really make myself believe in this from now on!

Dakota Fanning In Relation to Osama Bin Laden's Last Will

2011-09-16T19:53:00.000-07:00

I just remembered! I was planning to share this very funny video some time ago but I just forgot about, obviously. We are fanatics of the show Saturday Night Live, and during Bin Laden's death, some genius morons produced this particular video:

I was all over this video laughing like crazy late at night all because of Bin Laden's request for the virgin Dakota Fanning!

...the above photo is from a Yahoo feature today and that is what brought me to remember I had something to post, in relevance to Dakota Fanning!

Is It Goodbye to My Nokia E71?

2011-09-09T22:19:00.004-07:00

Two nights ago, I suddenly can't turn my phone on. I charged it overnight, nada.

This is not cool, how in the world will I ever retrieve my contacts?! I am effed up.

I am currently using Honey's old iPhone 3G. Finally, I will be spared from the weird stare because they find my Nokia phone "interesting"... Nahhhhhhh! Siga inyong mata sa akong Nokia no?

The Makeup Splurge

2011-09-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

I don't follow a technique in putting eye makeup, and I have a confession to make, just a few months ago, I didn't even have any idea as to where is the crease or the lid.

I have always been into drugstore cosmetics, the usual Maybelline, L'oreal, Wet & Wild - since day one. As I mentioned in my other post, I am thru just using drug store products because I already made my first move and bought myself some really worth it cosmetics that are a little bit expensive. I started with these three guys:

Primer

Two-way Foundation

A darker shade of lipstick

The splurge was brought about by the mishap I suffered on Labor Day when I wasn't able to buy me anything but a piece of sun dress, but reasonably,before that day, I already thought of buying Shiseido cosmetics. Without bias, I believe in Japanese products, and I witnessed my sibling patronized Shiseido cosmetics when I was growing and I could attest that it is really really good on your skin. When I bought Shiseido at Macy's, they gave me free samples, a sachet each of these new products to try:

...the samples are really really awesome of course, but as I looked into the prices, I am contemplating on maybe just using Neutrogena facial foam wash, and stick to my forever love Olay cream moisturizer. Maybe I could get me a bottle of toner if that makes my vanity complete.

I am lacking an eye shadow here, and it is because I am still on the process of learning how to put eye makeup. I have found this really helpful makeup tutorial site and these days I am somewhat obsessed with it because I really want to achieve a certain smokey eyes look that I am still not quite sure how to do! MAC products are on top of the line when it comes to eyeshadows, and I might get one when I have more knowledge in putting eye makeup. I also tried Shiseido's shimmering eye color and they are great!

Right now I am ready to play with my eyes following the tutorials on the above link I shared, let's see if practice really makes perfect!

The Body Shop: New Favorite

2011-09-02T22:06:00.000-07:00

I have always been a fan.

This is the one that is cool about me, I always get excited with lotions, shampoos, and fragrances. I soooo love them. On Tuesday, I had the chance to stop by The Body Shop at Oakridge originally to buy body wash, and then I saw the Satsuma body butter! OMG! There goes my $18, I didn't care, I just want to smell orange all over! Its kinda sweet, it remains on the sheets the day after, its chic, can't get enough of it!

Are You Kidding Me Justin Bieber?

2011-09-02T21:07:00.001-07:00

He's got his signature perfume in the market. On Monday at Macy's, I noticed his perfume for the first time and... need I say more? What the heck is that packaging??!

I am coming back for it on Monday, not to buy it, but to at least smell it. I have to write more about this.

It's Been A While

2011-09-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

Hello September! Everybody is saying they didn't get enough of summer, and now we are almost welcoming fall, but good thing I almost did not experience the 100 degrees California heat!

I am currently eating a square of drugstore brownie, not as good as expected, the ready to cook brownie mix taste a lot more better, but this has to pass for dinner. Early today, I took a quarter cup of oatmeal on my way to work, I expected I would arrive there first so I could use the waiting time inside my hand-me-down car for breakfast. Almost five hours later, Honey took me out to lunch at a Chinese restaurant where I had my unusual heavy meal with rice, an uncommon occurrence since I started work. Now, too lazy to even go out of the room, as a result of a day at work with non-stop bank customers coming in, I couldn't treat myself better than to stay quiet and keep my peace. I believe I have had enough meal for the day. Tomorrow is another day.

There is a holiday to look forward too which is the Labor Day come September 5, Monday. It is shopping time! Time to search around for work outfit alternatives. I'd say I love it! We are going to this factory outlet place where good finds are sold at a very reasonable price compared to the usual SRP at retail. GAP, Banana Republic, Jones New York, and the what not, I'll see you soon! I am going to get you! I am excited but I am still crossing my fingers that I could find my size, which is, SIZE "0"!

So are you ready for your weekend yet? --- somebody asked me earlier, my common answer, oh yes I am! I am going to make some money on the weekend! --- Grrr. I am not complaining, I opted to work on Sundays at the hardware so I could earn a little extra, and I almost couldn't get even a day off nowadays and I am missing it! I am the girl on the go, yes I am. I wish I could be richer by doing this, because if not, it is suicide! =)

It's Time for A NeW Bag!

2011-08-11T19:34:00.001-07:00

I have been holding to this big comfy bag for three months now, not that I don't like it (ssshhhh, its a gift from Mother-in-law) but I just felt the time has come to get me a new one...

I ordered myself a CK satchel bag. I know its boring yeah. I just had to pick one that I could bring to work on a daily basis where basically I could fit everything including my makeup kit, my lunch, my snacks, my bottle of water and others!

I have a feeling that Calvin Klein might just be the brand for me, its signature, and its affordable. At this time of my life, unlike any other ladies, I am okay with whatever bag irregardless of the brand. I am more into the physical rather than the value. Although of course Calvin Klein is designer, but in the US it is just an ordinary brand. Everybody still looks up to Vuitton, Gucci, and whatever high sounding brands a lady would love to have (as a gift *-*), and I am not saying that I would stay away from them! I am actually eyeing a Gucci, but not until years and years later maybe, haha!

I am waiting for my new bag, online says I'll get it next week. I used my credit card for this one ( I am building my credit score, remember?) and I paid like $89 for everything, tax and shipping included. I really got myself a good deal, because I am paying off my card in 2 months, without any interest! Wow!

I feel that she is next: ( Dooney & Bourke)

Humanda!

The Hundred Fifty Dollar Splurge

2011-08-04T19:55:00.001-07:00

... and its all for:

- an eyeliner
- a bottle of perfume
- 6 panties + 2 brassieres
- 2 pairs of socks
- a curling iron

Seriously? Living here is way better, like I could afford the things that I like to buy without the need to save up for it. I just couldn't help myself though from converting my spending into peso!

Memory Lane

2011-07-31T22:16:00.000-07:00

I was carrying three bundles of photocopied materials this morning to my second job. I remember from last week that I should have at least scanned these materials to learn my way in the new part-time job. Then suddenly, it just came upon me, well, just like college when we would all wait in line for our copies in the photocopier outside the University late at night but then all the copies would just end up being unread. Days like these... Pasabta ko nganong ginabitbit pa jud nako ni!

I am Missing Pleasures!

2011-07-30T20:10:00.000-07:00

Its been months since I had my last bottle. I want to buy me one! I still have 2 bottles of perfume (which I don't like using anymore) and 2 bottles of almost unused mists. Believe it or not, America is in no need of perfumes, if you just shower in a day, you'd stay smelling good all day long.

I so miss the clean powder scent. Pleasures is my original perfume! Won't trade it for Beautiful.

Unimaginable

2011-07-29T21:11:00.003-07:00

Why is it that when I found out something about anything that it would definitely cause me to be indifferent almost immediately?

For instance...

I have been so hungry spiritually that since I came here in the US, one of the important things that I have been wanting to do is to join a congregation with the same Christian belief. I am a dedicated and baptized member of United Church of Christ in the Philippines, as my grandparents were one of the oldest pioneering members and their ancestors pioneering founders. In here, there is a United Church of Christ congregation, my grandmother's younger brother is actually serving a church as a Pastor in New York. Since I couldn't drive yet, and since everybody is sleeping til 10 am in Sunday and working in the afternoon until evening, I am left with no choice but to wait until the time comes that I could have my driver license already and pursue joining a congregation.

My husband and his family are Catholics. Thrice since I came here we were able to attend a mass. The last mass we attended, we noticed in the weekly handouts a calling to all that they need to meet the target of $16,000 A WEEK in offerings in order to continue the works of the church? WTF? Tax free, rent free and all that? $16,000 A WEEK??? $64,000 A MONTH??? Dude, that is just unbelievable! Unimaginable!

Needless to say, thus, the indifference.

I am not stereotyping here, just in the process of writing a feeling towards a certain observation, couldn't you help but imagine?

New Favorite

2011-07-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

Root Beer dum-dums! I know right? I myself couldn't believe this, I hate the real root beer, but you got to think twice about the dum-dums, IT IS HEAVEN!

I'm Going Crazeee!

2011-07-23T18:10:00.000-07:00

Bad day at work, I am over $20 =(

I just got my new laptop cord and therefore I just had the opportunity to write you, my dear blog, an updated post.

Something is wrong, going to New York early next month is becoming my not so favorite thing to think about. Airline tickets are about $500-$800 - connecting flights at that... Gee, a couple more dollars and that could be my fare to my beloved Filipinas! Work is not allowing me more days off, and that spending these dollars for limited hours in NYC is really not worth it... most of the time I will be traveling and waiting for connecting flights... Jeez! What do I do? I'll be leaving on August 5 (7 hours flight + 1.5 waiting hours for connecting flight) and be coming back on August 7 (7 hours flight + 1.5 waiting hours for connecting flight).. as in, SERIOUSLY??? Arggghhhh... cousin's wedding and niece's baptism, I am going crazeee!

Saving Up for the Future

2011-07-18T10:54:00.002-07:00

At the bank, I helped a 12 year old boy process a $13.08 deposit. He already saved up $1,200 and I just cared to comment, are you saving up for the future? Yup, he said, I am buying a car, a Mazda =)

Reading The Three Musketeers

2011-07-11T17:44:00.001-07:00

This is my mood after my afternoon sleep (not even nap) *^*

To be honest, I did not encounter this story in school so when I saw Slumdog Millionaire, I was like, oh, why didn't I know that story?

There is this voice inside of me that tells me to read this book right now so I would not be so left behind when the time comes somebody has to refer to this story during a casual conversation. I am in my quest to avoid awkward and dumb moments right now. Haha!

I Got Another Part-time Job!

2011-07-10T22:02:00.001-07:00

Yup! Two days ago, I was instantly hired after a 5-minute interview... I'm gonna be working 100 meters away from home! Nice commute =) Though the pay is a far cry from my other part-time job, I could sure take another extra, besides, this is America! It is nice to be working. I've always wanted to make good use of my time by working in order to earn a little extra. Excited!

The Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

2011-07-09T22:37:00.000-07:00

is yet to be discovered! Unfortunately for me, nothing is working anymore.

I have been plagued with this dandruff issue during first year in highschool, and it could only be attributed to Pantene! I don't have big nasty flakes, but only these tiny powder-like whites when i start scratching my scalp when it itches. I started using Nizoral, and the dandruff went away... Ocassionally in the Philippines, Nizoral has been my resort everytime I feel the itch in my head.

Here in the United States though, for some reason, my ever trusted Nizoral failed me. Since then, I have been searching for the best anti-dandruff shampoo.

For the record, I have tried these following products:

This worked for a while, but later on I noticed my scalp became itchy everytime I use this shampoo! I wonder though because this product works perfectly well with my husband, he has no issue about it and solely relies on this one. I bet this is just not the product for me... This comes in a lot of variety nowadays, so maybe had I tried the other formula, I could've found what would work for me as well...

...and then I tried organic, the tea tree oil that effin smells like dog shampoo! I used this along with its scalp treatment conditioner, at first i noticed the itching was gone, but on the following days, the itch is there again! So therefore, i moved on to my next resort...

I figured I could use a harmless formula so I thought of trying a baby shampoo, but still, to my dismay...

I then bought this product from Whole Foods which is known to sell only organics, I was excited to use this as I had the gut feel this would be the answer to my misery! First thing, I didn't like the smell, secondly, it did not serve me well...

I also tried using lemon, but it leaves noticeable pulp (i dont know if thats what you call it) on the strands of my hair and I am the laziest when it comes to combing...

...and recently...

I used this twice a week alternately with my favorite Herbal Essences shampoo, and I am praying this will be it! So far, I am liking it, it is somewhat effective at this point and I have been using it for two weeks already...

I have been advised to not use warm water on my hair too, because it dries the scalp and causes itchiness, I tried it, but nah... They say they put a lot of chemicals on the water we are using here so it is another reason why the itchiness doesn't go away. Worst case, I could just go visit a dermatologist to prescribe me another option, but just that it would cost me a lot without the insurance.

HEAVY SIGH :(

Information Trading

2011-07-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I just read about establishments not selling customer information for trade, but when I got home this evening, an envelope from a certain credit union is sitting on the desk. I am a little disappointed it was not from USCIS! Where the H is my green card?!

Anyway, so this letter was basically an offer for a PLATINUM membership, which proves that competition in the financial industry is really tough. The thing is, here in America everybody has to build credit history to obtain a high credit score. Having bad credit score or having no credit at all is all the same, could mean something from being denied to loans and etcetera... Lucky enough I have a husband who's taking care of all of this for me, got me a prepaid credit card, and included my name in the auto loan so I could build my credit... So, this letter just came in to late, though I wasn't really sure if I'd give in to this offer had it arrived earlier...

Where the heck did they get my info???

What I am lamenting about really is the fact that this particular credit union got my exact mailing address, but they just completely sabotaged my name! Here, take a look!

I already do not like how my name (Last Name) is right now, but to add a suffix at end? Seriously??? You take it all easy on me you freaks, you just made my day complete!

This is not the very first complimentary offer that I got though, I occasionally get this magazine for moms or moms-to-be that tackles on how to take care of your baby and all that... I think I know where the info came from, I started getting it after I got married.

They really like recycling paper in here, our recycled garbage bin is so full of this mail orders and complimentary offers.

4rth of July 2011

2011-07-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

My very first here in America and guess what? So far the things that I've accomplished today:

> Washed and vacuumed the car
> Color my nails
> Did laundry
> Clean the room

Do I ever get all of the fun stuff? It is 1:30 pm, and I am sure I could use some time out!

I Found Krista!

2011-06-30T19:17:00.000-07:00

A swarm of Krista photos in Facebook, I can't imagine how it took me days to realize this?

These are the photos of Maja Salvador portraying her role as Krista in the teleserye Minsan Lang Kitang Iibigin... She's so lovely, isn't she?

Ohhh Maja Salvador!

2011-06-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

I lurv you girl!

I have been following the teleserye, Minsan Lang Kitang Iibigin
via Pinoy-ako.Info and I can't help salivating for Maja Salvador! Haha! What an extreme word for a confession huh? I had been a fan since the younger days, this lady is just so beautiful in my eyes and I can't help but adore her in every little way, especially with that superb versatile talent that she's got.

Her character as Krista in the teleserye is making me kilig to the maxxx like I couldn't actually believe myself giggling! I was looking for a hi-resolution photo of her playing Krista, but to my dismay, I love the hair, the sweet face, and the character altogether. She is really one of the beautiful faces in Philippine show business to look forward to.

I just found out yesterday that she's got the heart of the most delicious kiddo in her generation, Caps Lock to MATTEO GUIDICELLI!!! Dude, they look sooo good together! I love the combination of two gorgeous genes.

Maybe my fascination with Maja Salvador have rooted from the fact that she's got this resemblance to the original goddess Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Currently browsing for a blown-up photo of Maja to put into my desktop. She is definitely on the top list of my woman-crushes. I can't think who's next though, but I sure have a thing for Gwen Stefani, Dawn Zulueta, Donita Rose, and Scarlett Johansson! Pak!

This Movie is Not Expendable: Contribution by Darren Saunders

2011-06-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

***
There have been a lot of movies that have come through theaters lately that have caught my eye. Many of you have probably seen these movies and thought, "I sure wish Johnny would review a movie that I am interested in." Well, don't have this thought anymore or ever again. I will now review a thousand movies before you can say "Meow!". Actually, I don't think this is possible anymore because time has slowed down. My favorite new movie is called "The Expendables". I watch this new movie on demand on satellite TV, that I got after seeing these direct.tv, whenever I can handle all of the gore. Gore makes me really stomach sick but I really enjoy throwing up hence why I like "The Expendables" so much. There is a bad guy in the movie who sides with the other bad guys to betray the good guys. Really they're all jerks because they think it is morally acceptable to murder whenever they feel like. When I watch this movie I am reminded of "The Lion King" because of the betrayal and the murdering. Sylvester Stallone does a great job of being a forty year old murdered. Bruce Willis doesn't do as good of a job murdering people in this movie as he did in the Die Hard series. I think that Bruce should murder more people in his next action epic.

Credit Card IOU's

2011-06-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

So I decided to pay my credit card balances in the Philippines which I thought I would definitely flee from paying until kingdom come. Well, lets just say that I have decided to own up to my credit card obligations back home in order to avoid messing up one day.

It has been six months since I last paid my RCBC credit card. I only used that card for a month, and that was before I left the Philippines, as I recall there was a 10k limit to it and I used up almost 8k. After 6 months, it has ballooned to 16k, inclusive of the interests and late payment fees, plus the attorney's fee they say as my account has already been forwarded to a legal collecting agent. Got it. Yesterday I was ready to pay, I was actually given a 15% amnesty so the total that I owe them is like 14k+, I sent the money to the Philippines and wrote the collecting agent to reverse my balances after the payment and disconnect the credit card services. Then came a surprise.

Unluckily, after days of communicating with this legal collecting agent, the officer informed me to hold my payment because my case was transferred from their office to another collecting agency, and I said what the heck??? Just when I was ready to pay? So they informed me that the new agency might collect another mountain of charges for the "legal fees", and advised me too to not pay immediately if they collect at the higher rate than I was suppose to pay.

I don't know if it makes sense though, shouldn't there be just one authorized legal collecting agent? Was there really a need to transfer my account just when I was about to pay them in full already? Makainit ug ulo!

Barbara Streisand

2011-06-22T13:52:00.000-07:00

Hahahahahahahahahaha! Seriously??? Just found out about this, made my day!

First Ever Designer Shoes!

2011-06-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

Well, actually this one is nothing compared to Carrie Bradshaw's Manolo Blahniks or Balenciagas, but I can't help but post it here because this shoes actually got some name!

Well, its a Calvin Klein (designer right?), and it was on sale haha!

Heels are nice yes, but sometimes standing at work for couple of minutes makes it unbearable. I have to wear heels to complete my corporate attire, well I could wear flats as well but I don't feel like a lady at all on flats, it is just not the appropriate shoes to wear for me with the pant suit. At first I was just thinking of buying whatever shoes there is and I settled for Payless because there are actually nice looking shoes in there and it is almost always BOGO (Buy One Get One for half the price), the price I paid was awesome plus I thought it was about the same price I paid for a pair of shoes in the Philippines so I told myself hey I can actually wear those shoes, not a problem at all! I bought two pairs, though Honey actually told me to buy more but good thing I just tried two because a day came that I had to suffer discomfort and I've given up on the shoes. Here comes always choose comfort when buying a pair of shoes, and believe me you, it always pay to stick to this rule when buying shoes, though it is really very tempting to pick the nice looking one.

So I have to look for something to add to my work shoes, and I was presented by the wide and affordable selections of shoes at Zappos. I was looking for something classic and classy and just the right length of heels, and I found this shoes, right then and there I told myself, I'm gonna get ya! This shoes have been with me for two weeks now, and I'd say, it was a wise pick, it is very comfortable and I couldn't complain!

Mr. Sun Is Out!

2011-06-08T16:25:00.000-07:00

At long last!

To update... I had been off from posting because I really got busy with the new job, I had to internalize, I had to take time to learn more, and I had to pray hard to keep this job by always balancing my work at the end of the day! To tell you, first week at the teller line, I was already short of $300, and that was not a so good first impression although everybody's telling me not to worry because it is not yet the end of the world, I still couldn't believe I lost that much money. Whew! Anyway, I'm on my third week and I am just doing fine, and I am believing that I am becoming pretty good at balancing my cashbox, crossing my fingers here that this will go on and on for the rest of my days at the bank!

So here is Mr. Sun at last, with a nice combination of cool breeze, just perfect! So now I could wear my summer outfit, and I hope I could wear them often! It puts a smile on my face everytime I go out and see the sun and feel it on my skin, makes me feel at home somehow...

ADDU: Ang Dili Datu Undang

2011-05-21T21:58:00.005-07:00

Oh boy, this is for laughing out loud! Saw this in my friend's album minutes ago, and I was like, oh man, this is the coolest for today!

I recall the times when I was about to finish high school, the rush to pick the best college or university to go to was such a pressure. Me, being just a daughter of a middle class family, didn't think of going to Ateneo. By the way, ADDU stands for Ateneo de Davao University. I just thought of maybe going to the University of Mindanao so I could go with my bestfriend. My mom actually met with an officer at a local COMELEC office to see if he could help me get a scholarship so I could go to Ateneo, well, i tried my luck, but unfortunately the courses offered for the scholarship were way beyond my interest and my capacity. Anyhow, I took the entrance test at ADDU not yet sure about where to go for college, until my brother (or sister) decided for me to go to ADDU.

I remember first day at school, the sight of socialites (the genuine and the trying hard) overwhelmed me! I really felt like I was out of place especially as I noticed that students who belonged to the classified socialites, boys and/or girls, most often than not, go to school to impress and not to study, or to find a girlfriend/boyfriend around different divisions. I hated being there because I really didn't belong.

Then came enrollment season during my 3rd year, money was tight and was a big issue in the family that I willingly volunteered to stop for one year. Ang Dili Datu Undang was a reality for me because I had no choice, my brother and my parents could not afford to send me to school anymore, or to ADDU in particular, tuition fees go up 10% every year.

It is funny how Davaoenos make fun of ADDU in terms of the student's capacity to pay for tuition, and it is at the same time funny how reality strikes for several students who experience to opt out of school for a certain period of time because of money. Funny how everybody strives hard to go to Ateneo, it is funny because in reality, Ateneo graduates are always given priority in most companies in Davao City. Funny how students pay expensive tuition fees to land a decent job, and it is funny because most of these jobs only pay at a minimum.

When I was a freshman in ADDU 11 years ago, my tuition for the whole semester was about P13,000 for 27 units. When I graduated college in 2005, my tuition was P32,000 for 27 units. I can't imagine how expensive tuition must be in there for a business course nowadays...

American Idol Not Cool

2011-05-21T19:07:00.002-07:00

After Haley Reinhart was voted out on Thursday, I couldn't bring myself to believe in American Idol anymore. Haley was the best among three but unfortunately there's nothing much I can do but to write this post to commend all the best talents on Season 10, to name: Casey Abrams, James Durbin, Pia Toscano, and Hailey Reinhart - you certainly have it guys but the votes went crazy and didn't turn into your favor.

American Idol is becoming unkewl (uncool), that is not the way to do it anymore. Its the big night next week and I hope Scotty could win it, if he lost - I swear not to watch Season 11 and onwards.

Belated Goodbye James Durbin

2011-05-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

It didn't feel right the moment Scotty was called in to join Haley and Lauren on the safe seats. Ohhh so heartbreaking. None of my two bets was able to make it. American Idol this year have been so unpredictable. I hope all the good talents will have a break through, James Durbin most especially.

Goodbye Casey Abrams

2011-04-28T21:11:00.001-07:00

I have been right with my prediction last week. Goodbye my true love, you know you got what it takes and you know you could go a long way! I applaud you for proving to the world your kind of artistic spirit, and thank you for the entertainment, until the end you were not a bore. Good vibes! I will be your forever fan, and I am truly excited for you to make your mark in jazz music =)

The Royal Wedding: William & Kate

2011-04-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

Alright! I haven't taken interest on this until this week. I've missed the royal love story in Lifetime maybe two weeks ago but I was glad I found the video pinned to their website!

So I never thought William's last name was Wales, or was it his last name? That's what I saw in the patch on his military uniform, William the Prince of Wales goes actually by the name of William Wales. Interesting. I wonder if all other royalties go by their title for their last names as well.

I am set up to watch the royal wedding this morning which will actually be aired at 1:00 am my time later, regardless of the fact that I am going to have an interview in the Immigration tomorrow for my green card. There is just something about this royal love story that pulls me, maybe because of the fact that you and I, are commoners too just like Kate, and we wanted to witness her fairy tale wedding.

I have been a fan of the late Princess Di, I wrote a feature of her on our highschool paper entitled "The Power of A Good Name" on the year she died. I have also seen recaps of her stories on E! this morning.

So... Anyway, I have an American Idol eliminations to catch so I'd probably write more of the Royal Wedding tomorrow.

I Got the Job!

2011-04-28T16:26:00.001-07:00

Minutes ago the recruiter called me to inform that I'm cleared with the background check and I'm off to start on Monday! Thank you Lord! I'm actually excited with my new job, this time, as a Bank Teller. ;)

Dizzyyyyy! I'm Sooooo DIZZY!

2011-04-27T14:02:00.002-07:00

It has been two days. I feel lightheaded and there's a minor throbbing pain in my head. What could be going on? Is this attributable to the book review?

First thing in the morning I baked my most abused recipe, as per mother-in-law's request, I obliged, at least somehow I know I have an avid fan. She thought that my dizziness is all because of my eyes, I explained my discomfort and she guessed it could only be my eyes. I have not been too abusive with my eyes lately, since I gave up on my crochet fever and reading, could it be because I am most of the time in front of my laptop doing Cityville? Gaaahd! I hope it goes away later, I am thinking of downing Ibuprofen already but I'm still a little bit in the holding phase. Oh, another thing, I just finished my period --- could it be a post-menstrual sickness?

Back in the day...

In my early years I was vulnerable to fainting, especially during my periods. Countless times I hit my head on the floor, in the fridge, or wherever --- but mostly on hard surfaces. Getting paranoid again, thinking of hematoma! I once read a case, a girl hit her head somewhere, she didn't think it was serious but not until years later when she started feeling dizziness, and she had to be operated on for hematoma - it happened to be caused by a blood clot which developed when she accidentally hit her head and thought it was only nothing.

I HOPE THIS ISN'T SERIOUS! :(

Impatient to Take the DMV Test

2011-04-26T00:33:00.002-07:00

This morning I went to the DMV prepared to take the knowledge test so I could have my driving permit. So far today is my fourth failed attempt.

The last time I was in their office I was asked to return when I already have at least one legal document to prove my eligibility to drive in California. This morning I was admitted in the process of lining in the windows because I showed them my work authorization ID, but in the reception I asked if its just alright that my social is still under my maiden name, and the Customer Service Rep said YES THAT SHOULD BE NO PROBLEM. Yeah right. After an hour of waiting for my number to be called, I was told that today was a big shot of a bad day for me and there's nothing they can do. I'll have to wait for my green card to have my social changed to my married name. My work authorization ID should match with my social's. It's all effed up. I should've not followed the handout given to me by that organization in the Philippines, I should've waited until I got married before I registered for my social.

Missing the Philippines for its lenience. Its never easy here.

A Time to Dance by Karen Kingsbury

2011-04-24T00:28:00.000-07:00

A once perfect couple is going through a process of divorce after 22 years of marriage. They thought that divorce is the only option left to end their empty lifeless union.

Having a wonderful family is a blessing. Keeping a wonderful marriage is not just a choice; it is like actually fighting for all the wonderful things you have ever known in life. Marriage is a wonderful thing to happen in a man’s life, blessed by God, and should be kept with unconditional love until the end.

Being a newlywed, I find it odd reading this book at this point. How the author lay the story in this book had actually made me see the problem at the point of view of both the husband and wife. I can feel how Abby and John fought for their love, and I find it really inspiring that God’s word was there all along reminding them of what God’s plan was, not just for these two characters but to all the couples who at this point maybe are in the verge of trouble. This story also justifies the essence of communication which plays a very vital role not just in marriage, but in every important relationship. This inspirational book is indeed an eye-opener that in Christian marriage, divorce should not be an easy option.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. I got this book as a complimentary copy from Book Sneeze in exchange for my honest review.

More Thoughts on My Bestfriend's Wedding

2011-04-23T20:25:00.004-07:00

I was in doubt and I had to spend $5 for a long distance call.

I haven't talked to my bestfriend for five months already and didn't realize we had a lot of catching up to do, the $5 phone card wasn't even enough. I hope she could have an internet connection soon so we could just do the catching up online.

I'm glad I called her. Now I'm all cleared with my doubts. They've been planning the wedding since last year and they asked permission from both their families months before I was bound to come here. They intentionally asked their families to keep the announcement as they want to surprise everybody, thus my reaction of course to the sudden announcement. Now I understand that I was not the only one taken by surprise. I am most glad to know that my bestfriend seemed to be getting married for the right reasons, really, she understands the commitment and that she really want to make the wedding memorable by setting it on their 8th year anniversary as a couple - May 18,2011.

Now I could calm down. No need to be stressed out. As I said, I still wish her all the best despite my distaste to the man she has chosen to spend the rest of her life with. No amount of negative emotions could prevent me from wishing her all the best, and I really mean it. Good vibes!

Becoming a Cityville Addict

2011-04-23T13:38:00.000-07:00

Finally I gave in to the flooding Cityville invites. My Facebook account has been accumulating neighbor invites for some time that on Monday, I decided to click accept and joined.

I have chosen to let go of Barn Buddy which for three years I had been so loyal to, off to the trash bin. I have decided to pour all my effort and focus on Cityville from now on, haha!

This game is just too addictive that this is the first thing that I check in the morning and the last thing that I attend to before I go to sleep. Really???

American Idol Bids Goodbye to Stefano Langone

2011-04-22T17:18:00.000-07:00

Well, at long last! Last night was actually the moment I have been waiting for since Top 13. Really.

I couldn't help myself feeling bad for James Durbin though, I was actually teary-eyed when he hugged Stefano on stage after his rendition of "LATELY".

For the Stefano Langone fans out there please do not feel too bad... Stefano said himself, he never wanted to be the American Idol, well, serves me right, the feeling was mutual all along!

I am afraid that next week it could be Casey Abrams' turn. I hope not. I could feel the heat of the competition and I have a feeling it could either just be James Durbin or Hailey Reinhart's moment to be a star. Well see well see...

My Bestfriend's Wedding

2011-04-17T19:03:00.003-07:00

... not the movie.

A church mate told me via Facebook that in case I did not know yet, my bestfriend is getting married on May, and I was like, MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh well. I hope she is getting married for the right reasons. I know her love story in and out, upside-down. I want to get a hold of her at this very moment!

American Idol: Paul McDonald

2011-04-15T21:05:00.000-07:00

I apologize to myself for this late post, I swear I was thinking of writing this down right after the show ended last night, but some accounting jobs got me too preoccupied...

I was feeling guilty because I missed the online voting on Wednesday.

It was Paul McDonald's turn to say goodbye and that means the jinx Stefano is still on to prove his singing "TO WIN" effort next Wednesday! Paul was the very first male contestant to be eliminated this season. I have voted for Paul McDonald for like three times since Top 13 because I found his stage presence captivating. He's got this very unique voice plus the good looks to charm his hoard of audience. Unfortunately though it has to end for him last night, America might have found his voice weak as compared to Haley who by the way was the only performance critiqued by the judges for the wrong choice of song.

My top 2 favorites are still on, still crossing my fingers for Casey Abrams and James Durbin.

The Brown Belt Phenomenon

2011-04-14T16:54:00.001-07:00

So I noticed everybody's into wearing brown belts nowadays. Black is out huh?

Checking my fashion sense (If I really have one), I was never into colors that is hard to pair with others so I play safe of always picking the black ones, even when it comes to belts. Accessorizing yourself with a good nice stylish belt could go a long way even with just the most abused flipflops, casual tops, and hair worn down. Its cool actually.

Thinking of getting me one.

American Idol: My Thoughts About Pia Toscano

2011-04-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

The first ever contestant on Season 10 to ever get the first standing ovation from the judges. Her vocals was always amazing and every performance was a standout. Last night was a shocking result as America voted her out of Idol. This is what I was talking about, the online voting politics on play and it is just way too unimaginable.

Nobody was expecting it to be her. I was hoping it would be Stefano. She nailed it when she performed River Deep, Mountain High - her very first rendition of an upbeat song and I couldn't see any flaw! I couldn't get over the fact that her fate was judged by this unfair online voting.

I am still hopeful for Pia Toscano though,maybe she is just another Jennifer Hudson in the making. She is a real talent and there is no doubt about that and I am positive she will have her moment soon.

Maybe it is time to reevaluate the process of elimination. Maybe put 50% of the weight of the decision on the judges and the other 50% to the lame online voters of America.

It's T-shirt Time!

2011-04-01T00:21:00.000-07:00

As Honey would excitedly say it, its t-shirt time!

Spring is finally here for real! Today was a sunny day and I so loved it! This is the first time in my four and a half months of being in the US that I actually felt the sun. Love that heat!

I am all to excited to wear shorts and minis again, and oh the flipflops of course! I reorganized our closet today to set aside the winter clothes and bring out the summer outfit! I had a feeling its shopping time again... Yipeee! EXCITED!

Listing Your Websites in Web Directory

2011-03-30T20:06:00.002-07:00

People’s heavy use of the internet has made it an advantage for you to list your website online. For one, the web directory will allow your website to become searchable by interested parties in the internet. If you are a business owner who wants to direct more customers to your page, or if you are a website owner you wants to increase the number of visitors to your site, then you better list your site to a credible business web directory now.

The first step to getting maximum exposure in listing to a web directory is to carefully choose the best. There are a thousand web directories advertising in the internet but there is no assurance yet as to its credibility, and worse some are just scams. Jasmine Directory is a business web directory where people can list their websites to be reviewed by experienced editors. It is a credible web directory to go when you decide to list your site as they hire trained and experienced reviewers who will evaluate the website you submitted and categorize them properly. Among the benefits in listing in Jasmine Directory are the following:

1. It is 100% SEO friendly
2. It is an expert in W3 CSS and HTML
3. It enhances your listing by adding up two thumbnail images of your website
4. It allows you to add up to 5 extra links of the pages you want to promote in your site

You might still be wondering why there is a need to list your site in an online web directory. Aside from the fact that it is easy, listing in a web directory will surely pay off for you as it will allow you to expand your network of visitors and promote your brand even more. Just keep in mind to choose the best web directories as most as they attract more traffic through the search engine result pages. More and more people actually choose to go directly to web pages when they look for a specific website. When your site is properly categorized, traffic will just pour in. Listing in a web directory is recommended if you want to your site to get noticed by relevant visitors.

So what are you waiting for? Add your website to Jasmine Directory now!

Born This Way - The Country Road Version

2011-03-27T19:26:00.001-07:00

I'm feeling this version much better! I didn't expect this version would actually turn out good, but given that its Lady Gaga, it turned out way too good! She is the best!

Noticed there was a few addition in the lyrics towards the end of the song:

"If I wanna make it country, baby, then it's OK, cuz I was born, I was born, I was born this way... From London, Paris, Japan back to USA, I was born on the road, I was born to be brave..."

Nicely done isn't it?

Not My Day

2011-03-27T18:09:00.001-07:00

Exhausted.

Today is the start of a week long housekeeping assignment. I did my first try cooking Chop Suey and I didn't like the outcome as usual. I overcooked the snowpeas and it made it look dull. I forced to cook the recipe in the absence of chicken liver and shrimps. I was confident to cook it because the recipe got a 4-5 stars review in the internet. Furthermore I was confident because I had enough pork, quail egss, and mushrooms to compensate for the chicken liver and shrimps.

The rice cooker has died in the middle of my food preparation and therefore required me to transfer its content to a pot on the stove top. As it turned out it was not well-cooked also as I overdid the drama of putting a little more water, and its nasty combined with the Chop Suey. Oh how I suck at cooking.

I did the laundry first thing in the morning and I was kind of just squeezing my preparation of ingredients in the middle. During my second wash load, at the rinsing phase, water overflowed from the washer thus flooding the garage. That was my strike two, I seem to be this washer's favorite and I have no idea WHY.

I didn't enjoy my lunch and now it is 6 p.m. and I am hungry. I couldn't eat that Chop Suey leftover anymore.

I was tempted to change the look of my other blog's template via Artisteer 2, and to my dismay it didn't work. To make things worse, the old template that I saved was broken thus making it not functional. I had to redo designing my blog's template using Blogger's template designer and I was not satisfied with the outcome!

I decided to light one scented candle in the hope of filling the room with the promised lavender aroma, and at least to calm me down. Now I shouldn't be wondering why after all it smells like All Soul's Day Philippines edition all over the room.

Second day of my period and I have a pimple on my upper lip. Its cold and I'm thinking of skipping shower but I guess later I still have to bathe myself so I could feel good smelling nice amid the pimple!

My day isn't finished yet and I couldn't stop thinking how unlucky could I still get?

House Cleaning

2011-03-26T17:42:00.000-07:00

I am not promoting a house cleaning service here but if in case you are in need of one I can recommend you Double Bee - this is owned by a friend and they are looking for additional clients to serve around The Bay Area.

I have to get on with my original thought, how did we Filipinos become so overly domesticated?

I for one am so particular with cleanliness that I super hate waking up welcomed by these fibers of dust flying in front of my face everyday. At first I thought America is dust-free, but with the heavily carpeted floors and thick draperies and curtains, you bet there are good enough room for these dusts to sit down. Here is where my allergic rhinitis advanced and that meant using up a box of tissue paper in a week's time.

It is good to note that my husband appreciates our marriage because I can clean, and I bet he brags about it. I couldn't imagine a day without making the bed, dusting off our stuff, arranging things, sweeping the carpet with our magic tingting, and freshen things up. I never thought I could become this domesticated when just four months ago I was close to being a real princess having a maid to order around. It is my hope though that I could keep this up until a full time job and a kid later.

Now I am ending this post because I have to catch a Sex and the City marathon on E!, and that to be honest I really meant to write this blog in tribute to those Filipinos who are messy! You effortlessly make it impossible for a human being to live with you.

Casey Abrams Voted Out By America

2011-03-24T23:44:00.000-07:00

Are you guys crazy? You have got to be kidding! Abrams is the best yet on this season's idol! I was freaked out when Seacrest announced it was him instead of Stefano!

Last night's performance was great! In fact he's garnered good vibes from the trio. What was the rest of America thinking? I actually voted for him five times in AT&T's online voting.

I just can't believe majority of America didn't see his star. He's definitely got it! Here is online voting politics on play, this is where the real competition is ongoing. I am calling out to all Casey Abrams fans out there, let us unite and make him win!!!

If there was somebody worth voting out tonight based from last night's performance, it definitely was Stefano. America, I just can't believe you!

Google Alert: Your Account Was Recently Accessed from Romania

2011-03-19T14:35:00.097-07:00

Okay. I am wondering what's up with these latest invasive attempts, first is my PayPal account, and now my Google account which is also associated with my Blogger and my other Google accounts!

I checked my Gmail after lunch when I noticed a red bar above my inbox, and it was an alert of a suspicious activity. Google has taken action and provided me a report as to the origin of the activity as appears below:

The fastest remedy which I immediately complied was to reset all my passwords, again. I am very much disturbed about this that I researched for the reasons why my online accounts are being compromised.

I found out that I may have fallen to phishing scams. Phishing according to Wikipedia is a way of attempting to acquire sensitive information by pretending to be a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. To quote, phishing is typically carried out by e-mail or instant messaging and often directs users to enter details at a fake website whose look or feel are almost identical to the legitimate one.

I then performed a walk-through of my past and most recent online activities and I figured the many times I've entered my real information in subscriptions mostly from paid surveys, pay per click, and other work from home sites. I have tried a lot of these sites for the sake of putting my eternal spare time to use with the hope of earning something and for the endless quest to find legitimate sites that pays "real money". As I realize today, I have subscribed to a multiple number of paid survey sites which also forwarded me to their other partner "affiliate paid survey sites" time and again and to all those sites I have entered my information like my complete name, complete home address, phone line, birth date, and of course the required PayPal address - in countless times. I recall I was busy during the early stages of registering to these sites, I almost couldn't keep up with the activation emails and newsletters and other emails that kept on luring me to register to other sites so I could "earn more". Aside from shopping online, subscribing to these almost too good to be true sites is the only activity that I could point out which led to the unauthorized invasions of my privacy.

I read more about phishing and I now find it worthy to note all of these important points:

1. Phishers are targeting the customers of banks and online payment services.

2. Social networking sites are now a prime target of phishing, since the personal details in such sites can be used in identity theft; in late 2006 a computer worm took over pages on MySpace and altered links to direct surfers to websites designed to steal login details. Experiments show a success rate of over 70% for phishing attacks on social networks.

3. The RapidShare file sharing site has been targeted by phishing to obtain a premium account, which removes speed caps on downloads, auto-removal of uploads, waits on downloads, and cooldown times between downloads.

4. Misspelled URLs or the use of subdomains are common tricks used by phishers.

5. Phishers have used images instead of text to make it harder for anti-phishing filters to detect text commonly used in phishing e-mails.

It definitely weighed me down having all of these troubles. Now I will make sure that I use different passwords for my emails and other account subscriptions. I will also make sure that I check my bank statement and PayPal statement from time to time to detect fraudulent transactions.

Before I forget, two nights ago, Facebook prompted me for a possible account usage from Jakarta and right then and there I immediately changed my password and deleted important information in my info page.

Other important reads about phishing can be found in these sites:

Broadband DSL Reports
Recent News on Phishing
Internet Fraud Tips from the National Consumer's Leagues Internet Fraud Watch
Anti Phishing

Karen Rodriguez Bids Goodbye to American Idol

2011-03-18T11:25:00.001-07:00

Her interview:

I had a strong feeling that it was going to be her. She needed to take her voice a couple of notches up because I didn't feel the power of her voice in all the songs she has chosen. It was like, her voice just sounded safe in a low tone but she was just trying to make it sound like its high but it wasn't. As an audience, I didn't feel any impact with any of her renditions at all, and I guess I'm going to stop commenting already as I am avoiding haters!!!

Here's actually a thread in my facebook to prove that I went for Karen last night: (*-*) winks!

...though that isn't a clear evidence at all huh?

I am glad my top 9 picks are safe! I guess that is all that matters!

American Idol Season 10: Top 11 Finalists

2011-03-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

Last night's show on idol revealed progressing talents as the American people decides on who to vote out.

My top picks: (based on last night's performance only)
1. Pia Toscano
2. Jacob Lusk
3. Casey Abrams
4. James Durbin
5. Lauren Alaina
6. Haley Reinhart
7. Scotty McCreery
8. Thia Megia
9. Paul McDonald

... and that leaves out 3 finalists off my taste. I voted for the above contestant last night via AT&T's online voting via American Idol's website.

I will note, that this is the first time that I go for Scotty McCreery as I noticed he's taking a few notches on his pitch, how I wish he would be consistent... I still have doubts though about how he'd make it when asked to sing rock, pop, or R&B, but I agree he really has this unique country voice among all.

Last night's best performer, for me, was still Casey Adams! I love his versatility and style! The way he naturally captures me with his every performance I could tell his going to make it until the end, he really has the making of a star!

Download last night's performances on iTunes and help relief effort ongoing in Japan through the American Red Cross.

So... until tonight! I hope my top 9 could make it!

Someone Broke Into My PayPal!

2011-03-13T15:54:00.007-07:00

I was shocked to have been charged $75 for a transaction that I know nothing of, paid from my account to Textbroker International, LLC - I mean, it does not ring a bell! I was out the whole day and night of March 11 as I lined up for the new iPad 2 and watched couple of movies during the night. Some crazy freak just broke into my PayPal! Right away I called PayPal Customer Service to report fraud.

I have registered two emails in my PayPal, one is for my eBay and the other one is for my paid blogs. I do online shopping from time to time also and sometimes I use my PayPal if I have the funds. I thought that maybe my PayPal account was compromised because of these activities?

I got a hold of a PayPal agent in an instant and I explained my shituation, and it seems that somebody stole my information and the agent advised me to change my password. The thing is, I use the same password for everything that requires password! So here I am changing my password from all the sites that I have subscription. Sunday bloody sunday, plus I am doing my laundry, just came from a 3-hour exercise, and barely finished in the kitchen!

Now, here's the good thing about PayPal, they are always true to being the most safest and secure way to send and receive money online, the agent told me that my case has been reported and will be resolved in 2-10 business days.

So if ever any of you will experience the same shituation, go and give PayPal a call right away and report your case and they will be most glad to assist you. They also have an online resolution center if in case you find it most convenient. They are also accommodating on Sundays.

Thanks PayPal!

JLo's On the Floor Music Video

2011-03-04T18:38:00.004-08:00

Jennifer Lopez's On the Floor music video premiered on American Idol last night, and I was definitely wowed! Good music video right there! The ever so delicious Pitbull was also featured in the video which makes it all the more a complete package! I have this little crush on that Latino for his very sweet eyes, and I believe that I am not alone because I think my husband's got a man-crush on him too!

The new song was an adaptation from the tune of the old-time baby girls' dance hit Lambada. JLo was at her peak at 41 showcasing her ultimate no-one-else-comes-close rocking moves ON THE FLOOR. She makes me so envious of her ever gracious dance moves! I especially like the way she looks into the camera and captivates the audience with her JLo diva stare with those smoky eyes and the long hair! Which makes me think, if genie would grant me three wishes, one of my wishes would be to be JLo for a day minus Marc Anthony! Definitely!

JLo's officially returned to the spotlight the moment she accepted American Idol. She also has few endorsements already, one is Gillette Venus and the other is Loreal.

If for some reason you are like me today who wants to familiarize JLo's new song, you may access the music with lyrics here.

I like this part: Brazil, Morocco, London to Ibiza, straight to L.A., New York, Vegas to Africa!

Herold Suarez on Pilipinas Got Talent

2011-03-03T18:34:00.001-08:00

One big guts! Proud to be Davaoeno! You made my day! Pwede... Pero, pag salonpas para maulian ang sleep nick ha? Haha!

Hey its March!

2011-03-01T00:28:00.000-08:00

The clock just hit 12:25 am, March is here. I want to share some of the things that I look forward to happen this month:

1) The weekly or maybe daily walking or running exercises that I will be doing comes my sporting outfit I ordered online. Me and my mother in law planned to go with Honey during his football games every weekend so we could jog or walk around the trail simultaneously while Honey finishes his 3-hour game session. On weekdays I could probably go to the nearest park for my walking exercise when good weather permits.

2) My work permit which would hopefully be issued to me before the end of March.

3) A trip around Santa Cruz.

4) More business from my online resellers.

Its amazing how time flies.

How to Handle a Breakup

2011-02-27T13:34:00.002-08:00

In facebook this morning, I saw my girlfriend wrote a hate post on her wall cursing her ex-boyfriend she broke up with maybe just couple of hours ago. This girlfriend of mine has been one of my closest friends since highschool and we go a very long way and I am the one who knows her true colors inside-out, especially when someone hurts her or does something to her she doesn't like, and yes oh yes like I could already figure out what her face would look like and how her voice would soar in unfathomable heights. She's overly sensitive and here she was cursing the guy to death. I could imagine, if only she could skin him alive at this very moment, she would, but luckily for the guy, he lives 4 hours away from my girlfriend so that means skinning him alive is not an option.

Which makes me think if there is a good proven formula in handling breakups, especially the bad ones? I am in the midst of browsing for this formula right now in the internet while I am writing this down, and guess what? There seem to be no proven formula but just a bunch of BS that you have to read down until number 10, and that was a very long list right there.

I recall how I felt when I had my very first breakup, i wasn't sure what exactly did I feel during that time though but I just cried because the feeling that took me first was, its over. I cried because its over. The second evident feeling that I felt was, I have to do something, since I initiated the breakup, I should be the one who should be over it first and find something that I could do to feel better and not end up looking like a loser. That was when I decided to have my first salon treatment, and studied the art of putting nail color. I was 19 back then. I admit I had a hard time because I didn't understand the feeling, and I didn't know how I should feel, but I did my best to get over it. Thinking about it now though makes me want to turn back time and undo the crying because during that time I was just a child and that relationship was only a trial and error and I really didn't have a good reason to put up that cry thinking that now, I am happily married. It is just so funny thinking about it now.

For my girlfriend though, this is the fourth breakup scenario that she have to deal with, and guess she really never learned her lesson after all. I wrote a comment on her hate post telling her that that wasn't a so mature way to handle a breakup, like writing hate post with the whole of your network of friends reading it? Plus probably with the hundred percent possibility that the ex would read the hate post as well? No way! Instead I told her to just feel good about herself, beautify and get ready for the next brand new thing to come her way! That was what I did, and it really worked for me.

Loss, loneliness, confusion... just a few that I could somehow relate to a breakup. During this phase one would want comfort from friends, one would surely fall in the spell of terrible love songs that would just make the broken heart feel worse, and one would likely lose appetite and be anti social for a while. Hello? It is not yet the end of the world! If you're still young and you're having a hard time right now, simply charge the whole thing to history and experience because you will have your full years ahead waiting for you. If you are in this stage of finding someone to settle with for the rest of your life and you are desperate already, girl, don't give up! Brave the world, beautify, gather up your real market value put yourself in the hotspot, you know you deserve someone better.

Let me share my formula, and caution:this might not work for somebody who hasn't got the courage to move on...

* Endure the breakup. Just endure it like any other normal girl would do for a matter of a day or two. At this point please allow yourself to cry for the heck of it, don't eat, don't sleep. Just two days, try to contain the emotions in two days and prepare to take the next step.

* Learn how to love yourself. Teach yourself to love yourself. Calculate your real worth. You cried over a spilled milk girlfriend, and the next best thing is to take a big leap to love and nurture yourself - this will make you think of something that will make you feel really good. Start by hitting the salon, treat yourself big time and feel beautiful, invest in yourself.

* Go shopping and brag a little, invest a little more in new outfits and new accessories. When you look at yourself in the mirror you wouldn't care about your ex anymore because you are overhauled already and is now more confident to walk chin up head up high like nothing really happened.

* Socialize. Call your friends, tell them you had a breakup but this time they will see that you don't look like you just had a breakup because you are looking good and comfortable about yourself. This is the best time to talk about it, and listen to what they have to say, but try to look at your situation from a different point of view. Be brave, remember you have already cried for it so don't waste your tears no more. Think of moving on and focus on it. In no time, you would be over it. In no time, you are ready for that somebody new.

When I had my second breakup at the age of 20, I knew exactly what I had to do. Let me share a little about the story. My second boyfriend was two years my junior. I felt nothing for that guy but I went into a relationship with him because I enjoyed his company and he was a bad boy. A month after, he broke up with me telling me he was still in love with his ex. Hello??? Did I have to cry for that one? No tear was wasted and I made sure I treated him bad during that night, I ordered him out of the taxi in the middle of nowhere. Like who the hell did he think he was, Brad Pitt??? I didn't even have to think of moving on anymore because I was back on my feet just minutes after he insulted me, I knew I deserved someone better and I was aware of my real "MARKET VALUE". That was that easy, the day after the break up, I was a new girl again and ready for the next one.

Gosh, this is so far the longest post I have ever written on this blog!

American Idol Season 10 Top 24 Finalists!

2011-02-25T16:53:00.000-08:00

Finally, the contestants were trimmed down to 24. While watching American Idol on TV last night I was all eyes and ears because I was crossing my fingers for James Durbin and Casey Abrams to make it to the Top 24, these two, since the very auditions, were my very favorites, and I was so happy that they made it!

Aside from my top 2 bets, here are some more promising talents that I'm counting on to make it to the finals:

1. Jacob Lusk
2. Julie Zorrilla
3. Lauren Alaina
4. Paul McDonald
5. Tim Halperin

To view the other contestants who made it to the Top 24, please click here. Two Filipinos also made it to the Top 24 and I am all out in supporting them as well. I will miss no American Idol this time!

Maria Aragon: The New YouTube Sensation!

2011-02-24T15:05:00.003-08:00

It's on Yahoo today with the headline: After Lady Gaga invite, Maria fulfills another dream!.

I first saw Maria Aragon's youtube video in my Facebook wall, it was a friend's post saying she hopes she could have a child who could sing just as good plus the link of the Born This Way cover.

Which makes me think, did this little girl initiate this video all by herself or was she pushed by her parents to show to the world what she's got? Either way, posting the video was a brilliant move as it indeed caught the attention of Lady Gaga herself! Aside from that, she got a chance to appear on The Ellen Degeneres show, which is really a knockout for a Filipino her age! Could she be the next Charice Pempengco? Her cover of Born This Way already gathered more than sufficient clicks which is a sure sign already that she wowed the world big time for her excellent rendition of her own version of the Lady Gaga song!

She handled her interview with Ellen very well that I was really impressed how she smartly conversed with her in a very composed manner. She didn't sound like a ten-year old at all.

It always brings me tears whenever I see proud parents cry for the success of their child. So heartwarming. I hope I could have a child with the same spirit as Maria Aragon. Kudos to you little girl, the Filipinos and the whole world are proud of you!

Pedicure Time

2011-02-23T18:07:00.008-08:00

Before anything else, I would like to commend whoever invented the foot cushion - i don't know if that is what it is called but for the record I want to proclaim that YOU ARE BRILLIANT! Before I proceed, I have a confession: I have no idea if this cushion is for the feet or for the fingers, but they sure did serve their purpose! Haha!

Today was a little slacking day for me to compensate for my little vanity. The temporarily plain housewife felt the need to change the color of her nails!

I recall, I was not really into nail colors until my third year in college. It was one of the beauty lessons I learned after my very first break up with a male species. Back then, I had almost every color that I wanted because a lot of friends actually supported my endeavor by donating a bottle or two. That was really nice and sweet of them. Back then, I have to note, that I did not even know how to use every single apparatus found in the nail kit, but nevertheless I was most acquainted with the nail clip and the nail file. I also would like to say, for the record, that until now I still do not know how to use every apparatus found in the nail kit, most especially the nipper!

Yesterday, I saw a nail kit for a dollar and I bought it because it included a foot cushion, the foot cushion was the only thing that I wanted, but since everything sells for a dollar only, I picked a kit to get more value for my dollar. I was excited to use it for the very first time all by myself, so today I decided to change my nail color from red to blue and the cushion really helped me put a clean finish to my toenails, my hands were still a little bit shaky but I did a very good job.

Next nail color: ORANGE!

Sex and the City - Daily Plunge

2011-02-20T19:23:00.013-08:00

At one point in my life I thought I would never be caught dead watching Sex and the City. For one, I thought nobody else could really fall in love with it aside from those single old maids. My aunt (an old maid, but a kicking hot one) in the Philippines once invited me to watch Sex and the City the Movie with her to which of course I said a big NO, and when she finally bought a DVD copy, she won't stop herself from mentioning it to me so that I would want to borrow it from her. I also would want to mention that before, in my honest judgment, I did not find the characters in this show interesting, and believe me when I say I really didn't like Sarah Jessica Parker. There, but that was before.

Suddenly one day, I found this Sex and the City complete season 3 DVD sitting there on the cabinet just outside the door of our room. The DVD I bet belonged to my brother in-law's girlfriend, it couldn't be my mother in-law's, or my husband's, or could it?! It was then that I decided to give it a try just for killing time. Then came the familiarity about fashion, relationships, and other stuff that the ladies are concerned about - and I found myself on the lookout for Sex and City episodes during weekdays on E! Hmmm... Should I be telling myself, what the heck? I'm hooked. I am actually loving the perfect blend of personalities of the four best-friends. So now, it is likely to postpone my dinner, or whatever essential there is just so I wouldn't be missing an episode. This doesn't sound like me at all, but at least someone out there should be celebrating because at least I have picked one English show to squeeze into my daily schedule, aside from my favorite Filipino shows I still watch online.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

2011-02-19T18:43:00.007-08:00

...wherever in the world, it is a rarity.

Back in the Philippines, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts can only be bought in Manila - it will take an hour and a half flight from where I lived just to have a bite of it. So in there it has become kinda like a tradition to always request Krispy Kreme from whoever is traveling to Davao from Manila, that the doughnuts have become an expected pasalubong from whoever is coming from Manila to Davao already. Like, we don't want you to bring us anything else, just the Krispy Kreme doughnuts! It is a very simple but heavenly delight for us Davaoenos, and we always look forward for the doughnuts. I am not sure if the Manilenyos are aware of this though, because I've never known a Manilenyo who brought us Krispy Kreme when I was still in Davao. I hope in the near future Krispy Kreme would expand to Davao City, in there I am very sure they will have people lining up double the number, and in that city, they will never go bankrupt. Makes me think why after all this years Krispy Kreme have not expanded in Davao City yet, is the franchise cost that expensive?

So anyway...

Before I came in the United States I thought I will find a Krispy Kreme outlet in every corner. That was the picture I envisioned just like I expected of Starbucks as Americans created this heavenly treat. I later found out that even here, in San Jose California specifically, Krispy Kreme is still a rarity! From where we live we still have to travel 17 minutes just to have a taste of the delicious original glazed doughnuts! So I thought I would not be craving for the glazed doughnuts anymore, but I still do! Honey told me that way before there were Krispy Kreme outlets nearby but due to the recession they closed down. This morning, on our way to Daly City, we stopped over Mountain View to buy us 2 dozens of doughnuts and I still couldn't get enough of the it. Heavenly!

Lady Gaga's Grammy Awards 2011 Red Carpet Moment

2011-02-18T12:53:00.006-08:00

I love Lady Gaga! I worship her like you could never imagine!

When she stepped into the Grammy's on Sunday, or not literally "stepped" because she was according to her designer was incubating, she just had her best red carpet moment. So I have been watching a lot of post-Grammy awards in television and I can't help myself but applaud Lady Gaga for all the reaction she pulled for coming in a vessel that was known as an "egg" or a "womb". So fit with her album and currently hit single Born This Way, perfect isn't it? She made sure all the people will hate her just as usual. She even came with a latex material for a costume, along with her entourage, to endorse safe sex thru the use of condom.

Her Grammy performance was superb!

Lady Gaga already dressed down with just prosthetic horns as accent. The black dress she wore during her speech was not too much of a scene, but how could you actually spare it a reaction? Everybody's got something to say!

She went home with a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album, with this killer melodramatic speech... That was like really far out, and again, everybody hated her for this! I love the way she did it!

One more time Lady Gaga, I just can't get enough of it! It has been days but the egg arrival is still on TV. Nobody is just over it yet, and I think that nobody will ever be until the next Grammy Awards, or the next Music Awards when everybody will be on the lookout again for what Lady Gaga has in store for the world!

A New Gateway to Make Money Online

2011-02-17T14:38:00.004-08:00

I was happy to learn another site that allows bloggers to earn money online by blogging! To know more about this online opportunity, please visit their site at www.blogadvertisingstore.com.

Grammy Awards 2011

2011-02-12T21:52:00.003-08:00

I can't wait!

I am very excited I can't contain it! I've written the schedule down, set my alarm, and always tuned in to E! channel!

The reason why I am very excited is because of the fact that I have missed a lot of Grammy's way back in the Philippines. I hardly catch up the replays. Now that I am here though, it is like oh my gosh this is it!

Everybody's wondering what's Lady Gaga's gonna wear tomorrow, I really want to see her perform again live!

Twenty hours to go!

Blog Travel

2011-02-11T18:04:00.001-08:00

I was reading my old posts in here and it is just so funny when I had to encounter a lot of links! I have to redeem myself, I really had no idea about HTML during those times yet obviously. I wanted to change them one by one but I am too busy! So, I guess, I just let that be history. =)

I Miss My Georgina Marie

2011-02-06T15:05:00.003-08:00

Back in the Philippines I have a dog. She was born of Vanessa, my other dog whose death I triggered a year ago. I named her Georgina after the gorgeous Georgina Wilson, but unfortunately though she did not grow up gorgeous! Surprisingly, my Georgina looks more like a pig than a dog! Later on her name evolved into Georgina Marie, and to complete it I made it Georgina Marie Jacquet Lorin. She is everybody's dog. I'm glad I had a video of her in my phone so that I am able to share this with you guys. I named the clip Georgina Wilson, and as I checked youtube today the video actually generated like 50 views already! Funny. They must have thought its the real Georgina Wilson in there. Why my Georgina is cute isn't she?

How I miss her. She'll surely love the abundant leftovers we have here in the kitchen. This dog would not eat dog food AT ALL! I wonder who is taking care of her back home. I wonder when did she have her last bath... and I never stop to wonder.

Oyo Boy and Tin's Cute Wedding Clip

2011-02-05T17:59:00.002-08:00

Oyo Sotto and Kristine Hermosa from Bong Sare on Vimeo.

Feeling Sick and Guilty

2011-02-03T17:56:00.008-08:00

I woke up today with a discomfort feeling, i felt lightheaded and something was wrong with my lower right abdomen. I just had my monthly crisis and I think I did well until i noticed numbness and cramps in my thighs and in my hands last night. I was thinking this could be the side effect of the pill I am taking. I was recommended this contraceptive pill Ortho Tri-Cyclen - to replace Diane 35 since Diane does not exist in any drugstore here in San Jose - and I started with my third pack yesterday. I got the first three packs of my pills for free from the clinic called Planned Parenthood. That was what they recommended after they studied and compared my Diane 35 prescription that I brought all the way from the Philippines and after they interviewed me. I was actually told to come back right after my period and during the first week of taking my third pack to submit myself for a pap test. Scary. I never had it before, I thought of having it but way back in the Philippines it was not necessary because of the fact that I still never underwent childbirth. In America however, females are all subject to a regular pap test once they arrive at the age of 21. In the Philippines, we were all lead to believe single women don't need a pap test at all and only mothers are required to undergo the test, or only if the need for a pap test arises. What a different world it is out here. I should be showing up in the clinic supposedly within this week so I could give an evaluation about the pill, the nurse would want to know if I am just doing alright with it or if I feel something different while on it and something else relative. I should be there maybe next week, I still need Honey's little participation so I could do the pap test smoothly.

On the other hand, I feel guilty because again, I intentionally did not answer a phone call. The call was from a friend. Are you familiar with the feeling that when you do things in a routinely manner that eventually you'll get tired of it? It is just like answering a phone call. I could never imagine how me and Honey survived the 3 years long distance relationship with the daily phone calls and instant messages. I don't know, maybe we survived it because that was important for each of us and we wanted to keep the relationship healthy so that's why we had to put up with the daily phone calls and instant messaging, in the most routinely manner unimaginable! We obviously did it. Answering a normal call from whoever else is another story. I'd rather I'll make the call rather than them calling me first. So that is just as good as saying, don't call me, just wait for my call when I feel like giving you one. I felt this way for my mom as well when during my first few weeks here we had to talk everyday over the phone and I, the she devil, got tired of it in no time. Right now I am trying hard to spare my mom from this, I am teaching myself to accommodate her every phone call. Maybe I could try to teach myself to accommodate friends also. By the way, that friend of mine called me while I was sleeping an hour ago, I needed that sleep because I was not feeling well until now.

I think I could use a shower.

Christmas is for Cars ALSO

2011-02-02T18:00:00.002-08:00

Okay, this post is a month too late but I'll still post this nevertheless. This is not the first vehicle around here that I saw bearing Christmas decorations! I actually saw one or two with Christmas lights on it. Amazing isn't it? This never happens in the Philippines, or at least in Davao City! I took a photo because I really find it ridiculous haha, but okay, I'd say this one is cute and humurous.

How About San Diego?

2011-02-02T15:54:00.015-08:00

At the onset of the year, Honey and I have made a list of our goals. The number one goal this year is to get a house. At the moment we are currently renting at a family friend's house since the house that Honey's family tried so hard to save was foreclosed three years ago. The house were planning to get of course will become the official family home where all of us could stay together for good. Everybody has been working hard to get the money for the house. Unfortunately since the recession, houses in the US, specifically in California have become way to unaffordable especially for middle class families.

The second goal in the list is for honey to pass the real estate exam so he could officially become a Realtor. With Honey having the real estate license, getting a house will become more manageable.

Just a thought, since houses here in San Jose are very expensive because it is Silicon Valley's capital, why not pick another location around California? California is every Filipino's dreamland and everybody in the family has made up their minds to settle in California, and I heard that San Diego is a good choice! I like the sound of San Diego, it sounds so homey. So today I went to search the internet for more of San Diego, so that later on when the family will have a discussion again about getting a house, I could have a good suggestion handy.

I spent almost an hour in the internet to have more of San Diego and I like what I found out about my little research especially because of the fact that the place have lots of beaches! Oh how we adore the beach, and the sun of course! I also found out it is sunny in San Diego the whole year round! Wow! That would be just perfect! So I was thinking it would be nice if we could find a house near the beach or even a house that's near or accessible to the beach, or if we could afford it, buy a beach house instead! Then probably dream on! Who knows if any of us here wins the lottery, surely we could afford a beach house already!I am counting the days and couldn't wait for the day to come when we would go house shopping at last! I am also excited to share with the rest of the family the rich and enticing information I got about San Diego. I'm sure everybody would love the idea of us in a new but promising place, and start over again and have a new life. I'm sure employment opportunities are better also since I also read the city's website and it is so promising. Everybody wants a good quality of life, and San Diego living might be the answer.

Lastly, I found out that San Diego have a variety of tourist spots, and I particularly would want to visit the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch and take lots of nice photos with those colorful flowers! Oh how I love flowers, I actually can't wait for spring to come so I could plant colorful flowers in the garden!

Laziness Again

2011-01-30T19:11:00.002-08:00

Right. It's my second day and I am dealing with laziness and it is really eating me up. All I want to do is sleep. Woke up 1pm today. Had lunch at 2pm. How does that sound?

Meanwhile in Facebook and back in the Philippines, Alecxa - my cousin, informed me that Lolo was rushed to the hospital this morning due to shortness of breathing. This is the day that all of us are dreading to happen. Lolo is already 85 years old and is still trying hard to live to his ideal of being the head of the family that he goes to his farm everyday to try to earn the family a decent income and he travels like 3-4 hours via 6 trips all in all, and he only commutes. I hope and pray he gets well. I hope he would allow himself to be confined when the doctor tells him so. I know that maybe this is the beginning, but I still don't want it to happen. Nobody wants it to happen yet... Nobody is prepared...

Jobless

2011-01-27T17:08:00.005-08:00

I am currently jobless, the reason: I don't have my legal documents yet and it is hard to find a job without those documents. I am better managing my time right now though, here is my online selling thru pre-order system, plus the blogging on the side.

Two minutes ago I got a text from +12159064159 with this message:

Like to shop? Like to eat? Get paid up to $50/hour! Call for current jobs 866-904-3762 or go to www.MyJobs101.com

Code: 785JH

Really huh? I am thinking of not giving it a try. Scammers.

I have been busy...

2011-01-27T16:35:00.002-08:00

Well obviously.

I had a plan to improve on blogging, thought of buying books like dummies for blogging and study SEO and the likes just to generate something worthwhile from this blogging experience. Ah-ah, I am not taking blogging seriously though, this is just something that I do when I feel like sharing anything.

Two days ago, I happened to receive my first blogging income in my PayPal. It was the sweetest! After four years of blogging there goes my twenty dollars!

My New Favorite!

2010-11-26T18:36:00.003-08:00

I have been always crazy with cinnamon. I'm overly grateful Honey introduced me to the sweet mouth-watering taste of Wetzel's Pretzel's Cinnamon Bits!

I'm loving it!

One Very Cold Day

2010-11-19T15:21:00.003-08:00

Today is my nth day of doing nothing productive. I am giving this a try:

schadenfreude refreshes the parts other beers cannot reach

I need something to do! I need a job now! ;)

Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart

2010-10-28T02:02:00.001-07:00

Like I've been searching for this song forever!

A Year Older by Tomorrow

2010-10-25T02:54:00.002-07:00

I am feeling myself. What in the world is probably waiting for me? I am still doing the same old stuff year and again!

I wasn't able to react in writing two Sundays ago so let me put it here once and for all: I admit, I am still very affected with Gerald Anderson's interview on The Buzz the other Sunday; it totally broke my heart to see him stammer! The hot issue, what happened during their movie presscon? Well, thanks to youtube again...

There, those were real tears. Whew! How could I apply to be a Kimerald member? Any idea? I really would love to fight for the Kim Chiu – Gerald Anderson love team you know. Yesterday, after seeing both Gerald and Kim together on the same show made me feel like a teeny-bopper again and I was giggling like you could never imagine! I was overly excited for the two of them to get on-screen together, and to hell with the rumored lady love!

Which makes me think, I don't feel any different at all, should I be feeling at least a little different at 27?

Another 16 days and I'll be officially free from the job that I held on to for 5+ years. A choice I believe that I made not because I am too loyal, but because I avoided a little too much what I call unnecessary drama. I don't know. I probably overdid something a little. I feel relieved from a lot of things unknown. It is always better to try to search for whatever you are searching career-wise while you are still young, I assure you a trial and error is just fine. I've been giving away some of my useless lipstick, lip gloss, mascara… and tomorrow, a book, to benefit some of my colleagues at work. Question, need I be doing this? I don't know… It is weird how I feel I should be doing this.

I did not attend the barangay elections today to spare my vote from putting a useless representative in office. The candidates walk around wearing alcohol like a cheap perfume and dare run for office, useless. I do not expect change to happen in the next 10 years or so, it's all going to be the same, and politics will still exist as a convenient source of living for some if not for the majority.

I have to do something else, something of genuine essence! Will there be a beach party?

Moving on. =)

Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make a Difference by Max Lucado

2010-10-24T05:56:00.005-07:00

First and foremost, I am happy to announce that my first encounter with Max Lucado as an author did not frustrate me. I requested this book a month ago and planned to read this on my upcoming 16-hours flight, but guess what, there's a little change to the plan because I already started reading the book the day I received it and in just two days I finished the reading despite my very busy schedule! Take it as a reliable evidence from a reader who just couldn't put a Max Lucado down.

This is the first book under a religious category that I requested to review. I am amazed how the author gathered everything in this book. The book has really an overpowering humbling effect! I say that every page is really a piece of cake that you could share to somebody and change the way they look at life. True, life is not just a shallow phase that you had to go thru to worry about simple things and waste it away. This book elaborates a very profound meaning to living a life that is much more meaningful when you do a little very simple something for someone who is in whatever need. There are the homeless, the hungry, the brokenhearted, the jobless and the what not, and taken that nobody could give everything to change these unfortunate endeavor, you could do something very simple that could help a soul in need. The biggest challenge is only taking your first move.

It seems to me that I am envious of how Max has chosen to outlive his life when I came across his stories about random people he met and was moved by his simple gestures of kindness. I have decided to pass this book to a friend whose outlook in life I could probably change.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for a very worthy content and in terms of its readability. This is not your usual boring religiously-themed book, because I never really expected sufficient humor inside.

I got this book as a complimentary copy from Book Sneeze in exchange for my honest review.

Bawal Bawal Ka Dyan!

2010-10-14T17:42:00.003-07:00

I must admit, I can't help myself from posting this commercial. I've been searching the net for a video but yeah just this morning I realized there's actually youtube haha!

First thing that got me, I think I have a woman crush on the model whoaaaahhhh! Yeah, isn't she perfect?

Second thing that got me, was her line.. "bawal bawal ka dyan, eh so what kung gabi magka-kape ako kung gusto ko noh, decaffeinated naman, so pwede pa rin akong makatulog, ang sarap kaya, try mo!" I liked the way she delivered the line, or I think it is better to say I really liked her facial expression while delivering the line... perfect face! I envy this girl whoever she is! Just yesterday I was copying her line out of the blue while I was printing something in the office, made my officemates giggle! They too can't help copying the line as it is like a last-song-syndrome that stays in the mind.

Lastly, I'm a coffee addict, and however I try to decline drinking coffee, I can't resist the sweet aroma of coffee especially Nescafe 3 in 1! Loveeeet! Can't live a day without it, really makes my day complete!

Disturbed Cat... Ssshhhhh.... Its on to something...

2010-10-10T03:07:00.008-07:00

Last weekend on my way home, there was a cat above a useless pole that makes our driving like hell on our way left to the highway caught my unusual and priceless attention:

I pulled-over just to take these photos! The reason? This cute but disturbed cat reminds me of my late grandmother. My Lola was fond of adopting lost and stray cats that she would find wherever on or before or after her daily routine at the wet market. I remember her very well with the weaved bamboo basket tucked in her right arm and her black umbrella on her left. By the time she gets home, a basket full of vegetables and whatever plus a stray cat sitting on them.

McDonald's Berry McFlurry! Loveeeet!

2010-10-05T21:50:00.002-07:00

To be honest, I thought at first I tasted cinnamon there, now I know that was just crushed grahams =) Still, Yummy! Highly recommended!

Happy Birthday Kuya Ken!

2010-10-01T08:57:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday happy birthhhhdayyyyy… Happy birthday to you! Now you are 38!

Update with my Dad

2010-10-01T08:51:00.001-07:00

I am free to provide an update because I am awaiting the clock to hit 12 midnight. The travel agent told me a little secret about booking online and I am trying it, a couple more minutes and I'll justify if this is worth my try at all.

So, after 8 days of confinement, we were able bring my dad home tonight. It was pretty tedious staying at a government-owned hospital. It was pretty awesome on the other hand how the bill was slashed 3 times and we only had to pay PHP 9000 for the hospitalization bills (exclusive of the medicines and the surgical apparatus and equipment) since after my dad underwent a major head surgery due to subdural hematoma on Saturday. Now I'm gonna take back my big SIGH. What a relief, especially for the one who paid the bills hehe! Compared to the other patients who were confined at the neuro-ward, my dad was the only patient who looked really good in recovering fast, and way way better at that. Amazing. We were already preparing for the worst but God was with us the whole time and gave my dad a second shot at life (probably not the second shot anymore, but maybe 3^rd or 4^th shot already, not quite sure). I would like to commend the 2 young neuro-surgeons who took care of my dad and I don't know if it's proper for me to blog their names here, but I am not giving their full names anyway since I only know them as Dr. Poracan and Dr. Oliverio – at that time were the neuro-surgeons assigned at the Davao Medical Center.

My dad is staying at my aunts house together with his first lady on duty (n.b: we have been separated as a family for 17 years now and he stays with his other family), and I promised to bring him books tomorrow… he wants my Sheldons!!! so ahhhhhhmmmmm… yeah, goodluck na lang sa akong mga libro kung mauli pa ni!