Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Interest in Musical Instrument

Kids always wanted to explore new things and in their environment. It's actually healthy for them to learn and experience new things in their lives as it is where they can gain more knowledge that can help them. Not all kids also like music and to play an instrument so it's kinda refreshing and exciting to see if a kid is interested in it.


If parents noticed that they are showing interest in playing the guitar, piano, drums or any musical instruments, I reckon it is best for the parents to encourage and support them. Who knows they might excel in that field and even made them as a career in the future. Sending them to music classes can greatly help the kids to hone their skills and express themselves. You can also get them guitars piano or any musical instrument that they have interest in.


Never force your kids to learn something that they are not passionate about for they will not excel on that field if they lack interest.

Marina Krim, New York City mom, Shaken as Nanny accused of stabbing kids to death

A friend of my tweeted about this story and wow, I was shocked and had goosebumps when I read about this news. Marina Krim, a New York City mom came home from her daughter Nessi's swimming lesson and was shocked to see that her 2 children was stabbed to death by their nanny. OMG!


The nanny named Yoselyn Ortega, who is a Dominican Republic national stabbed Marina and Kevin's children: Leo 2yrs old and Lucia 6 while. The nanny was also injured and lay beside the children and police believed that it is a suicide attempt. The incident remains a mystery but for sure investigation will be done to know the real reason why the nanny made this Marina and Kevin's children.


My heart goes to the parents of the 2 children and I just hope no similar incident will happen again for it's a nightmare for parents to know that their children's caregiver will do that horrible thing.


Handyman in the House

It's sad to think that dad is not here with us anymore and we all missed him even if he's up in heaven now for more than 20 years. Losing the strength and wall of the family is pretty hard because all the responsibilities are passed on to my mom. At least when dad left we're all grown up and already finished studying and that makes easier for mom. I salute her so much and up to now my mom has become our mom and dad rolled into one. Strong woman if I can say and I'd like to emulate her if I can but she's a rare gem.


Ahh .. thankfully, my older brother is responsible enough and has taken over some of the things that dad usually do. He's a great help especially in home emergencies like changing of light bulbs, fixing and changing of ball bearings, electric or wood stuff and lot more. Bro is also our driver, who is ready to lend a hand when we need a ride.

Be Real

real
Truth!
No one is perfect anyway!!

Just be real and do whatever you feel is right and just. Don't strive to be someone you are not. As long as you are true to yourself and to others and you are not stepping on somebody's toes, you're good and real.  Perfect will be boring!

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Giving as a Lifestyle

Christmas is just a few "arms away" and like many have said, it's the "most wonderful time of the year". Why not? Aside from feeling the cold breeze during those days, there are many festivities, reunions, parties and get together that are happening left and right. There's also no reason to diet because foods are overflowing. Gift giving is also a  lot of fun. Not only kids enjoy receiving gifts but adults as well. Seeing kids' eyes lit up and smiles on their faces while opening their gifts are PRICELESS.


There's always something nice in gift-giving, we can always light up and cheer anyone's mood and make them feel loved. Giving something without expecting something in return is truly amazing gesture and I always believe those that give w/o hesitation and with pure heart will always be blessed.


I better start my own list for Christmas as my schedule can be hectic at times. I need to plan my shopping day so that I can get lots of gifts in just one shopping time. I have no problem with my nieces, SIL and mom on what gifts to give. It's the brothers that certainly will be more challenging. I could buy them buy rocky patel cigars but unfortunately, they already stopped smoking due to health problems. I still need to scour the stores to find that perfect gift.

7 Deadly Words

7 deadly words

There are times that I always say that I CAN"T do a particular thing or task without even trying. I need to change that thinking because I can be belittling myself when I do that but we are only humans and sometimes know our capabilities.

Getting Good Deals at Shiloh's List

These days, every consumer wants to get their every penny’s worth every time they purchase something. Who doesn’t want discounts or good deals when you shop on your local stores or even online? Personally, I love shopping especially when there is a sale and that always makes me thrilled.


Since we are in the digital age where almost all transactions can be made online, many companies saw the great potential in marketing their goods or products. Online stores have rocketed immensely in the last few years wherein consumers can order/purchase products or even book online on services or tickets.


Lately, group-buying sites have been booming as well. There’s no doubt that a lot of online shoppers are getting hooked with this latest emerging trend in online shopping. With the latest innovation in buying products or services, many retailers and suppliers also joined to offer their products or services at discounted rates. In turn, consumers have a wide range of products to choose from at very competitive prices and discounted rates while retailers can increase their sales.


Logo-for-Print-GreenC


Another emerging local group-buying site is Shiloh's List that offers top of the line products and services from their sellers/suppliers. Aside from getting good discounts on the list of products that they have right now, their members can earn reward points if they purchase, tweet, liked their Facebook page or have invited their friends or family to be part of the company. These points can be used to purchase on their rewards store, exciting isn’t it? If you want to get good discounts when you purchase online, do check out and sign up at Shiloh's List.

Monday, October 22, 2012

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

body


According to Mayoclinic.com:



Body dysmorphic disorder is a type of chronic mental illness in which you can't stop thinking about a flaw with your appearance — a flaw that is either minor or imagined. But to you, your appearance seems so shameful that you don't want to be seen by anyone. Body dysmorphic disorder has sometimes been called "imagined ugliness." Also called  dysmorphophobia, the fear of having a deformity.

I first heard and known about this serious mental illness many years ago while watching Oprah on TV. One of her guest is a women who suffers from this condition and it was already disturbing because she can't seem to be satisfied with her looks like that she underwent numerous plastic and reconstructive surgeries already. She's too obsessed on her physical appearance and she always find flaws in her herself.


BDD sufferers think that they are so ugly and look like a monster when they look themselves in the mirror.  They have deep obsession about how they look. They often withdraw themselves from people but for some surgery is the only solution to make them beautiful. As a result, they become addicted to plastic surgery too.  So sad to know that this condition really happens.



Some sufferers can start when they are still kids who are often told that they are not pretty or handsome and that they are worthless.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Men Can be Vain too

If some women can be vain when it comes to their looks and how others perceive them, men can be vain too. Some men can be vain but sometimes they can be viewed as not fully macho or at times as homosexual because we all know know that real man can be rugged or tough looking.


However, there are many cases where are real men without any hint of homosexuality  just loves to look good and meticulous on the way they dress up. They can also be picky when it comes to jewelry, looking for nice quality shirt, mens diamond watches or durable leather shoes.

When Life Becomes a Routine

Have you found yourself got bored because you feel like your life is a routine already? Are you doing the same thing each day?

You get up each morning, sometimes you even drag yourself out of your bed because you have a 9-5 job, you got stuck in a traffic then when you reach the office late  your "monster" boss is waiting for you and gave you tons of work. After work you go home and that routine can happen to you all the time each week.

For those who work at home, you have your own time to work but rarely go out to socialize. All work and no "play".

SAHM/WAHM - Being a mom is a 24/7 job and I'm sure it's also tough when you're a work-at-home mom who juggles work and family life at the same.

Life can be a routine  and like many of you, I also get bored with what I'm doing sometimes so I break that routine by doing other stuff like trying on a new hobby, shopping, talking to friends/relatives, play with my dog, watch a movie or whatever.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

New Year's Eve in NYC's Times Square

If I’m not mistaken, right at this moment, a lot of people have already been thinking about the holiday this year. After Halloween, there’s no doubt that everyone will be eager to start their preparation for Christmas and New Year’s Eve occasions. In fact, it’s the most wonderful time of the year so we all have the reason to celebrate, splurge, shop, eat a lot and just be merry.


Looking for a place to spend your New Year’s Eve with a blast? Why not head to New York City for a fun-filled and crazy way of ending the year? NYC has become a popular place to watch the countdown on New Year’s Eve. The Times Square Ball Drop has become synonymous to NYC for millions of people across the US gather to witness the gorgeous lights, the revelry and experience the bustling energy at Times Square. The crowd’s high energy and exuberance will make the event more exciting as everyone will be waiting for the clock to strike at 12 midnight and finally the ball drop comes to halt. The event will not stop after that, as there will be a lot of dancing, partying, drinking and more fun.




Just to let you know there are packages that you can book for your vacation in NYC. The times square new years eve packages have a lot to offer from your accommodation to Midtown Manhattan hotels to free admissions to various museum and observation deck.

If you’re feeling a little bit more adventurous and wanted to stay longer to experience other places, a New York City New Year's Eve cruise, Holiday Lights Motorcoach Sightseeing Tour and even walking tour of Rockefeller center and 5th avenue are waiting for you. Booking early is proven beneficial for you can get good view, deals, or seats.

Friday, October 12, 2012

Common Misspelled Words

I admit, I am guilty of misspelling some words when I blog especially when the words has double "s" or "r". Thankfully, word doc has auto correct feature. Words with "ie - ei" and th - ht can be confusing as well.

Here are some common misspelled words:

• absence   • address  • advice  • all right  • arctic
• beginning• believe• bicycle• broccoli• bureau
• calendar• camaraderie• ceiling• cemetery• changeable
• conscientious• conscious• decease• deceive• definite
• descent• desperate• device• disastrous• ecstasy
• embarrass• exercise• fascinate• February• fiery
• fluorescent• foreign• government• grateful• guarantee
• harass• height• humorous• independent• jealous
• jewelry• judgment• ketchup • knowledge
• leisure• library• license• maintenance• mathematics• mediocre
• millennium• miniature• miscellaneous
• mischievous• misspell• mysterious• necessary
• neighbor• nuclear• occasion• occurrence
• odyssey• piece• pigeon• playwright
• precede• prejudice• privilege• pumpkin
• raspberry• receive• rhythm• sacrilegious
• science• scissors• separate• sincerely
• special• thorough• through• truly• until
• Wednesday• weird• you're

SOURCE:

Tips for a Fun Family Vacation

An out of the country trip with the entire family is something to look forward to and details should be planned ahead of time. While it may be a little challenge to travel with toddlers and young kids, there are ways on how to make it a fun one without having to stress out over small things. On the other hand, traveling with teenagers would mean getting ready for an adventure as they’d like to try out new things and explore places without hesitation.


So how can you prepare for a memorable trip?


1. Know what to pack. Make sure that your luggage contains items that you’ll need for the trip. In determining what type of clothes and footwear to pack, make sure to know a little something about your destination. If you are about to travel to a tropical country with relatively warm weather all year round, there’s no need for a coat or heavy sweater. Instead grab a few shirts made from light materials.


2. Plan your trip’s itinerary based on the interests of each family member. It will be nice to go on a trek as a family, but is it something that everyone will enjoy? Ask your kids on what they are expecting from this trip and if there’s any specific place that they might want to visit. Make a list of the likes and interests of everyone, thais can help you map out places to check out and activities to try during the trip.


3. Do not spoil the fun. There’s always something new to learn and experience once on a trip. The differences in might lead you to try on a local food, wear their traditional dress or learn to speak a little of their language. All these things are fun and enjoyable if you are up for an adventure. If your family’s up to trying it out, do not spoil the fun spirit and join in with them.


A checklist of the things to bring along with other important details will be a great help in making sure that the trip will be hassle free. Remember that if you are going out of the country, make sure to check the visa requirements and submit all the necessary documents ahead of time.


About the Author:
Mia is a content writer for sabahguide.com. As a budget traveler herself, she aims to provide information and travel tips for individuals and families that are planning to embark on a wonderful trip.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Sound Trippin': Songbird by Kenny G



If I think of a great flutist and saxophonist, KENNY G. will be the first person in my mind. Why not? He's been playing saxophone and flute with so much passion and soul that his listeners will be in awe and mesmerized. His music is classic and can be heard up until now on different places. He started playing when he was just 17 and started his professional career in the 80's. He has released so many solo albums and with other artists.

If you're aiming to become Kenny G, never give up on your dreams, study and practice hard. Always remember that if you love music, you need to have passion and dedication over it.

Monday, October 8, 2012

Anastasiya "Fukkacumi" Shpagina: Real-life Anime Girl

Wow I was in awe when I read about this at Yahoo News! Anastasiya Shpagina, 19 year old hairstylist from Ukraine has transformed herself into a real-life anime girl by wearing anime costumes and putting creative makeup. She even named herself now "Fukkacumi" to sound more like Japanese. She is even dubbed along with her friend who resembles like real-life Barbie as "HUMAN DOLLS". Amazing!


Sure, we can see people wearing costumes as part of Cosplay or costume play but Anastasiya Shpagina is different because she lives with this kind of lifestyle everyday. It'll take her about 2 hours putting all the intricate makeup on her face to look like a Japanese anime. Ahhh.. so weird but she's good dressing up and doing her own makeup. She's only 90 lbs , even wanted to have a smaller waist and wanted to have an eye surgery.


For me, nothing is wrong if she puts lots of makeup or wear clothes to look like an anime, but if she goes to the extreme of making this look permanent through surgery and body modification then that is really weird and over the top already. I hope she will not regret it in future.



Images from: facebook.com/AnastasiyaFans
Anastasiya Fukkacumi Shpagina Real life Anime Girl Anastasiya Shpagina Reallife Anime Girl

Anastasiya Fukkacumi Shpagina
wow, they look like real dolls already!

Kids and Musical Instruments

I have never mastered any musical instruments that is why I just those people that can play well. I have tried piano when I was a kid but never got to a point where my parents enrolled me to a musical school. About few years ago, I was fascinated with guitars especially when I saw women playing as I find it so cool. Since my two brothers and one nephew know how to play, I asked them to teach me but I failed. The strings are just hurting my little fingers and I actually didn't like it. Too bad, I gave up without trying so hard and not being patient enough. I reckon playing a musical instrument is not for me too so I'll just leave it to others.


It's often a delight to see kids who are passionate about music and playing musical instruments. I guess parents need not force on them what to like for kids will not be happy with they will be doing in the long run. Let them discover what they like to play and just support them. A son of my friend loves to play drums and with his desire, they bought him  top electric drum set and even enrolled him in a class.I heard that he is loving every minute that he is hitting the drum. I will not wonder if one day, my friend's son will have a career in music for he is very passionate and consistent in what he likes.

Stress Less

stress less
Here are some things that I really need to do often to live a stress less life. I've been dancing and working out at my house maybe 2-3x a week and it makes me feel a little loose and light. The sweat can release many toxins so it's good. Bed time for me is around 10:30 - 11 pm but I still watch TV inside my room and I guess I dose around 12-12am already. Ahhh.. I need some hugs especially when I feel achy and feeling low.

Finding the Right Car Rental for Your Needs

Everybody needs some time to relax and unwind. Stress can easily take a toll on one’s mind and body, especially when it comes to work. If you are about to enjoy a weekend getaway with friends or a romantic evening with your loved one, transportation should be the least of your worries. Truly, a slight problem like this can ruin an entire moment, which is why it is very important to plan ahead and start looking for a car rental service that is right for your needs.


Rentals provide convenience to tourists who are looking for an easier way to go around the city without having to figure out the public transportation. This is an ideal choice, especially for those with limited time to visit tourist destinations. Individuals on business trips also find it more practical to have a vehicle already waiting once they get to their destination because of their busy schedule.


The first thing to do is to determine what it is that you are looking for. Organizing a limo party is a great idea for friends who love a night out with good food, wine and music. What exactly are your plans? Answering this question can help you narrow down your search for the right type of vehicle rental. If you are looking into renting one for a party, make sure that it is well-maintained, runs smoothly and is in perfect condition.


Knowing where you intend to go and what are the things that you are looking for in a car can make the rental search easier. Traveling with family members, especially kids, will require a bigger vehicle.  Luggage and other necessities may take up a lot of space and it might be uncomfortable to fit all of your things in a small car.


Sunday, October 7, 2012

Explore Your Options to get the Best Deal on Life Insurance

Investing in life insurance is about peace of mind and maintaining a healthy family life. The problem with the insurance is that many people are not sure about the best options for their particular situation. Life insurance is usually broken down into two main categories: term-life and whole-life. Depending on personal goals, finding the best deal will vary.



Term-Life Policies


Term-Life policies refer to the insurance options that are only available for a set amount of time, or the term. The term can range from five years to 20 years or more, depending on the selected company and policy.


In many cases, term-life policies will have a lower monthly cost and allow consumers to take out a higher coverage option than a whole-life policy. Due to the nature of the policy, it will be necessary to renew the coverage or find a new policy after the term expires.


Term-life policies are often used by young families with small children. Parents worry about the possibility of an accident resulting in a financial burden that might cause challenges for the surviving spouse. The policy provides peace of mind, but does have the downside of a limited amount of time.



Whole-Life Policies


As the name implies, a whole-life policy will never expire or require a renewal. As long as the premium is paid each month, the policy applies. It is a guarantee of funds after death and the possibility of an annuity during retirement, even if health changes.


While whole-life policies have the benefit of a guarantee, it is also more expensive than a term-life policy. As a result, it might not be an affordable option for young professionals and families.


The whole-life policies can provide peace of mind that a family is able to move on financially after a death occurs. The benefit of a lifetime policy means that the family will never need to worry about losing coverage due to the expiration of a term, which reduces the potential challenges of finding new coverage later.


Comparing Companies


The easiest way to get ffordable life insurance is by comparing different companies. Taking time to read through different coverage options, the policies and the benefits available through the company will make it easier to decide on the best company for the needs of a family.


Saturday, October 6, 2012

Random Thoughts on Weekend

I woke up with an aching left waist that is radiating from waist down and to my left shoulders or arm. It's not that painful though but it feels like heavy and I'm uncomfortable. I'll just put some liniment on it and hope it will be gone tonight. I'm also a little bit worried about some family issues but I know it will be solved. Like they say we need to have a lot of faith and God will take care of it. I'm just a little worried just like everyone in the family, we're always over reacting to some things that we don't have so much control over it. We sweat small stuff too and I know its not healthy and good. Anyway, I know it will be solved anyway.


I run some errands this morning and it's also good for me for I get to spend some time outside the house. Bought some medicines and hahaha.. 2 blouses at a store as I just can't resist the colors and style of the blouses. Went home, walked Sophie and cooked our lunch. Sometimes my life can be so boring and routine so I wish that I can go out a lot of time or maybe take another vacation.


My cousin and her husband from the US are coming before the month ends and I'll be their tour guide for 3 days. I hope I can be very helpful to them. She booked a tour at Tagaytay and there will be horseback riding. I'm sure it will be fun! Ahhh I just can't wait so I can relax at well.

Friday, October 5, 2012

Do What You Love

dowhatyoulove
Very true!

I remember doing something I really hate and the end results are disaster. It was few years ago when my mom wanted to have another business that she wanted me manage. We already have a video tape rentals shop back then but during that time it was on the rocks so mom was thinking of another sideline. She wanted us to have party favors/ balloon services but I hate the idea but she insisted. I remember making balloons and whine while doing it. My heart was not on the business so it really failed.


If you're also working in a company and doing works that is not what you wanted, chances are you'll get bored and finally resign from that job. It's really hard to do something that you don't like or when someone imposes it because the outcome is not good. Therefore, we need to do what we love and enjoy for we'll be contented and satisfied.

No Helmet, No Travel Policy

It's always good to be safe all the time that's why in our town and many other cities they have implemented the “No Helmet, No Travel” policy for a long time now. It's one way to prevent more fatalities brought about by not wearing helmet when accident occurs. In our area, from time to time there are police or MMDA personnel that check every rider if they don't have a helmet they will be apprehended.


With that policy ongoing, my brother who happens to be commuting almost daily with his motorbike, he'll always see to it that he has his helmet on before leaving the house. Not only it will save him from being caught by the police but also will save him from fatal accident. There's an increase of sales of helmets like Bell Moto 9 and other full faced or just ordinary helmets and sellers are benefiting from it.


On the other hand, wearing a helmet is not a full-proof that you'll not get hurt or die when you ride your motorbike. When you're driving on the road there's always a risk of accident.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

The Perils of Texting While Driving

Lately, I always noticed that my brother will ask someone to answer or read his messages on his phone while he was driving. He already got that habit because I was once told him not to text nor answer the phone when he is on the road for it is very dangerous. Driving + Texting = Accident most of the times for your attention will be divided on keeping alert on the road and clicking all those letters on your phone.


My sis NEVER answers her phone while she was driving especially when her kids are with her and I commend her for doing that. She'll never put her family at risk just for the sake of answering the phone. Almost everyone already knows that when she can't answer the phone it is probably because she is driving.


Not everyone follow the "no texting while driving" habit though like you can see in this video. tsk tsk..


Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Want to be a Great Jazz/R&B Musician? Bet You Didn't Think of This

Anyone who loves jazz, blues, and R&B knows the tops hits from Boyz II Men, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, and just about every other great artist of the genre. Musicians all around have emulated and imitated their styles. But it takes a trained ear to distinguish just how complex and creative the musical styles and rhythms are within these A-list albums. Musicians working on their jazz, blues, and R&B musical styles need to know some very discreet but largely effective tips and tricks within the genre if they ever want to walk on the illustrious road to greatness.


Different Instruments
The Jazz/R&B genre is infamous for incorporating unique, uncommon, and interesting instruments, anything from soup spoons to steel pans to make some great tunes and catchy singles. If you've fallen into a rut within the same rhythms and time signatures, pick up a new instrument. Investing in a quality harmonica can really spice up any jazz/R&B band, and learning about common harmonica keys can step your music up in ways you couldn't even imagine. Musician's Friend has a wide selection of nearly every instrument you might think of to incorporate. Looking into "scat" singing and unique vocal skills could launch your singing career, too. Nowadays, musicians can simply speak through a mic and add some auto-tuning and synthesizing to transform their vocals; it takes real talent to master the art of voice. Use reliable music sources like Musician's Friend to answer questions and be inspired by.


Learn As Many Songs As You Can
We've all been there. You're at a party and someone pulls out a guitar, and everyone wants you to play. By learning some of the famous, catchiest, most well-known songs, you can entertain any crowd and captivate any audience with a killer cover. Plus, you will inevitably expand your understanding of different musical styles, perhaps very unlike your own. Good musicians make a style; great musicians learn many styles.


Intellect
Professional music isn't for everyone. On the contrary, the amount of time, effort, energy, and diligence required from any who call themselves "great" is astronomical. Memorize your instrument, don't play and look at what your hands are doing. Listen to music - a lot of it. Compare notes on what the greats have done, and how you differ and sound the same. Have patience. Not everyone can be great, and it's up to the chosen few to pioneer new styles, hit, and stories of diligence to inspire generations.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Pilot Ryan Thompson's Marriage Proposal With Plane Crash Prank

This video of Pilot Ryan Thompson's marriage proposal to his girlfriend Carlie Kennedy is going viral already. Ryan pretends that the plane is having a control problem and asked her gf to read that emergency checklist, little did her gf knows Pilot Ryan is going to propose to her. Watch her reaction after knowing that he is proposing and there's really no emergency.

This is surely a romantic but very scary marriage proposal !!. Ryan was surely creative and almost scared her gf to death.

Connecting Everyone All in One Place

These, many people have been using the Internet to do almost anything. From the simple reading of e-mails to online banking, the Internet has become part of our lives already. Every morning, while I’m having my warm mug of chocolate or my fave ginger tea, I always read my mails on my phone and that became a habit already. Later on, I’ll transfer to my desktop to continue checking my mails and my social networking site accounts. I’ll do all of them before I start to work.


It’s also amazing to see long lost friends and relatives and re-connect with them through Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. I’m sure you have already tried searching for a friend, former classmates or relatives on Facebook just like what I did before. I have found some while others seem to be out of reach.


With all the social networking accounts that we have, I guess some people have a hard time jumping from one site to another to check all them. I just found that MyLife.com, can connect all our social networks, blogging sites and online email accounts all in one place. It’s also a good place to find other people that you wanted to have a connection again. Furthermore, you can also see people who’ve been searching for you as well.


I guess with all the innovation on the way people connect and find each other, more people will be re-connected and much faster and easier now.

13-Year Old Filipino Kid Wins International Children’s Peace Prize 2012

Our country, Philippines was so proud of Cris “Kesz” Valdez for he won the prestigious International Children’s Peace Prize 2012 on Sept. 20, 2012. Only at 13 years old, Kesz is determined to educate children who are living on the streets about personal hygiene and he even takes care of their wounds. He has given them inspiration and hope. I am sure that when he grows older, he'd continue to do good deed on his community.Good job Kesz !

Know more about his story here:

This is his acceptance speech: