LESSONS and CHOICES

Behind a Daughter's strength is a love of a Mother

2009-05-29T16:27:00.003+08:00

August 14, 2008 this was the date when I posted a blog about a friend who has Polycystic Ovaries. A friend who put all her strength to triumph the emotional, mental and physical battles she encountered on her great desire to conceive a child.The medication per se was not easy since the medicine for her PCOS often triggered her other illness which is GERD yet she did her best to bear all the discomfort. Faith and prayers were her light whenever her path started to grow dim.May 10, 2009 Mother’s Day, she was in the seashore with her hubby watching the moonlight glowing to the serene sea. She closed her eyes and whispered “Happy Mother’s Day Ma.” hoping her mom was around so she could hug and kiss her. Captivated by the view of the moonlight she took a picture, she knew her hand shook a bit while she took the picture but to her amazement the reflection formed a heart shape. She’s not a superstitious lady but still she wants to interpret it as an answer of her mother’s day greetings to her mom who already passed away 8 years ago.

THESE ARE THE AMAZING PICS that SHE TOOK

With this, she gained more strength as she realized that though her parents are gone, somehow they let her feel that they know what she’s going through and that they trust her valiance in any given adversities.

An angel over the rainbow

2009-02-19T23:41:00.006+08:00

"The Notebook" was the only movie that I shed tears, I'm not a cry-baby apparently. I felt emontional on some movies though, but still I didn't cry 'til I saw The Notebook.

And I can't imagined just a minute ago when I watched this video,my tears just suddenly ran down to my cheeks...

...not just the song, not just the innocent face but I guess it's also her pure heart that goes with her angelic voice. It's great that this little girl chooses to pursue her talent and interest in singing.

Are you a Shoe Addict?

2009-02-16T00:09:00.001+08:00

Originally Posted by www.iVillage.com

by Melissa Kaga

My name is Melissa and I'm addicted to shoes. How do you know if you have a shoe-shopping addiction? Take a few moments to consider the following. Have you ever lied about a shoe purchase to friends and family? Have you ever experienced shortness of breath at the sight of a shoe sale? Do you consider a pair of shoes marked down from $750 to $450 a great deal? Do you talk to your shoes as if they were people? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then welcome to the club.

We embrace you with open arms and empty wallets. If you are not a member, let me try to explain. The first inkling I had that I might have a "shoe problem" was when I moved into my first Manhattan apartment after college. My rent left me with little to no extra income for shopping and dining out, so every penny had to be accounted for. I started off with every intention of "budgeting wisely" as my parents had instructed. But then I saw "them." It was like destiny, being struck by a bolt of lightning, love at first sight. They were a pair of black patent-leather, pointy-toe pumps with a stacked wooden heel, and they cost hundreds of dollars. They spoke to me. They didn't say, "We're too expensive for you." They purred, "Hey, stranger, what's a fashionable girl like you doing without a shoe like us?" They were way above my price range, but my common sense evaporated and what I call "retail reasoning" kicked in. They were expensive, yes, but they were an investment, right? I mean, my parents wanted me to think about my future, and here, right in front of me, was a pair of amazing shoes that I knew I had a future with. I bought them and ate beans and rice for a month. That was the beginning.......

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I could relate to her story...uhu!
Am I a shoe addict? Well, uhmm I guess but if there's such thing as "moderate shoe addict" that's me then. But I guess the important thing is you still know how to handle your finances well.

...choose and spend wisely

A Valentine Present

2009-02-14T01:02:00.005+08:00

My hubby and I are miles away. Was so confused on what to give him for present, but he actually keeps on telling me this "Your love is always present in every air that I breathe and that is always a wonderful present."

Still I desire to give him something and I came up with this, hoping he would appreciate...Broadcasting My Love for HIM on YOUTUBE ;)

(there are some typo error though, I made it 12:00 am of Feb.14, my eyes were already heavy to do editing ;)

Behind that radiant Face

2009-02-11T00:20:00.002+08:00

Let’s call this lady by the name star.

“There’s no dull moment when you’re with her.” a proverbial remark from her friends. She loves to talk; from the books/articles she reads, to the youtube videos she watches and the latest fashion she wants you to wear, down to her fascinating personal experiences in life. Needless to say, you won’t feel worn out listening as she always salts her stories with jokes. She is a good listener as well; with a shoulder you can cry on and with words you can ponder.

She is light, bubbly and yummy as she fondly described herself. And true, you never see her without a grin on her face. To her friend she is a star that never loses radiance.

Yet, who can imagine that behind that glistening persona is an anxious soul? Who can imagine that behind that smile and laughter is a stressed heart? Who can imagine that behind those wits is a bothered mind?

Nobody except me, whom she trusted to keep the gloomy side of her stories.

Indeed, she wants to stay as a star to her friends; hopefully giving them bright light in every dark path they cross.

Indulging and Burning

2009-02-04T23:19:00.014+08:00

February 2 was my thirty “something” birthday. I celebrated it with my family minus my other half and minus most of my friends; for one widespread reason they were already booked with other commitment on that day. Got their birthday greetings though, somewhat reminding me that what counts is at least they remember my birthday. (smile)

The night celebration supposedly for all my closest friends turned out just a threesome: Myself, Joraldyn and Trisha. We indulged ourselves with a Japanese buffet; from ebi salad, sashimi, mixed sushi, tempura, gyoza to teriyaki and etc. Nobody heeded about diet (lol). Anyway, after the gluttony we came up with a stirring choice to burn the fats “DISCO”

EAT AND POSE AND SMILE

HIT THE DANCE FLOOR

AND SWEAT THAT FATS AWAT

Another Year, another Journey

2009-02-02T00:01:00.002+08:00

It seems that it's almost a century that I have not visited my blog. ( and obviously the blogs of my friends too) Hope my apology is accepted.

It's just that I have been caught with lots of stuff.

And today is my birthday...Happy Happy Birthday to me!!! but nope not that really happy because my other half is far from me. I'm still thankful though that my creator is giving me another year to fulfill my life's purpose and of course I wish for another years to come. And I know it means greater responsibilities as well...more oceans to sail, more mountains and roads to cross.

So wish me luck as I start to make another step of my journey...

Bangles: The More the Merrier

2008-10-30T09:40:00.011+08:00

Bangles are everywhere! Bigger, bolder...

Lately my friend and I are becoming huge fans of bangles. Being trendy...yes! but we actually find it as an amazing choice to accessorize casual outfits. If you stack the bangles on your forearm; wearing at least wear 2-3 inches worth of bangles will help you achieve the right look and feel.

...And true " The more the merrier "

Celebrities wearing bangles hehehe....

More tips in wearing bangles:

1. Wear bangles in bright colors with jeans. Mix and match colors to fit with any color top.

2. Wear bangles for the sound they make. Bangles made from different materials, such as glass, gold, silver, wood, pearl and plastic, have distinct musical tonal qualities. The addition of gemstones or precious stones alters the tones, as well.

3. Let your jewelry style guide you to wear bangles that complement your attire. Many jewelry sets come complete with necklace, earrings, rings and bangles. If not, match the metal of the bangles with the base metal of the rest of your jewelry.

4. Wrap your wrist with costume, fashion or vintage bangles. Depending on your budget, you can start a collection of Indian jewelry, jewelry handcrafted in Mexico or bangles adorned with Swarovski Austrian crystals.

5. Mix round and square bangles. Square bangles are available in several metal options to mix and match with traditional round bangles

So...grab your own bangles now ;)

7 anti-aging Super Food

2008-10-06T00:31:00.007+08:00

“I’m 33, I’m not getting older just getting wiser” this is my usual response when someone asks me of my age. But when I looked at the picture of me and my friend (10 years younger than me) it seems that there’s no way out, my signs of aging are already visible. (gasp)

I’ve seen various anti-aging creams and pills in the ads but I’m just timid to try. Anyway, I can still live with my looks though ( lol).
But when I found out this article “7 anti-aging super foods” undeniably got a big grin.

Read on to find out more about the 7 foods to keep you young:

Chocolate The Kuna people of the San Blas islands, off the coast of Panama, have a rate of heart disease that is nine times less than that of mainland Panamanians. The reason? The Kuna drink plenty of a beverage made with generous proportions of cocoa, which is unusually rich in flavanols that help preserve the healthy function of blood vessels. Maintaining youthful blood vessels lowers risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia.
Get sweet satisfaction in seconds with delicious chocolate recipes, such as Chocolate & Nut Butter Bites (which include two of the 7 anti-aging super foods!):
Chocolate & Nut Butter Bites
8 1/4-ounce squares of bittersweet chocolate4 teaspoons almond, cashew or pistachio butter
Top each chocolate square with 1/2 teaspoon nut butter of your choice (almond, cashew, pistachio). Two sandwiches make one serving.
Per serving: 79 calories; 6 g fat (2 g sat, 1 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 9 g carbohydrate; 1 g protein; 1 g fiber; 12 mg sodium; 20 mg potassium. What you get: Magnesium, copper, chromium. 1/2 Carbohydrate Serving. Exchanges: 1/2 other carbohydrate, 1 fat.

Blueberries In a landmark study published in 1999, researchers at Tufts University’s Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging fed rats blueberry extract for a period of time that in “rat lives” is equivalent to 10 human years. These rats outperformed rats fed regular chow on tests of balance and coordination when they reached old age. Compounds in blueberries (and other berries) mitigate inflammation and oxidative damage, which are associated with age-related deficits in memory and motor function. Eat more blueberries with healthy blueberry recipes.

Fish Thirty years ago, researchers began to study why the native Inuits of Alaska were remarkably free of heart disease. The reason, scientists now think, is the extraordinary amount of fish they consume. Fish is an abundant source of omega-3 fats, which help prevent cholesterol buildup in arteries and protect against abnormal heart rhythms. Eat some tonight with a healthy fish recipe.

Nuts Studies of Seventh-Day Adventists (a religious denomination that emphasizes healthy living and a vegetarian diet) show that those who eat nuts gain, on average, an extra two and a half years. Nuts are rich sources of unsaturated fats, so they offer benefits similar to those associated with olive oil. They’re also concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals and other phytochemicals, including antioxidants.

Wine Drinking alcohol in moderation protects against heart disease, diabetes and age-related memory loss. Any kind of alcoholic beverage seems to provide such benefits, but red wine has been the focus of much of the research. Red wine contains resveratrol, a compound that likely contributes to its benefits-and, according to animal studies, may activate genes that slow cellular aging.

Olive Oil Four decades ago, researchers from the Seven Countries Study concluded that the monounsaturated fats in olive oil were largely responsible for the low rates of heart disease and cancer on the Greek island of Crete. Now we know that olive oil also contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that may help prevent age-related diseases.

Yogurt In the 1970s, Soviet Georgia was rumored to have more centenarians per capita than any other country. Reports at the time claimed that the secret of their long lives was yogurt, a food ubiquitous in their diets. While the age-defying powers of yogurt never have been proved directly, yogurt is rich in calcium, which helps stave off osteoporosis and contains “good bacteria” that help maintain gut health and diminish the incidence of age-related intestinal illness.

By Michelle Edelbaum
Michelle is the associate editor of interactive for EatingWell Media Group. In between editing and writing, she enjoys sampling the tasty results of the easy, healthy recipes that the EatingWell Test Kitchen cooks are working on.

I got an Award

2008-10-05T10:27:00.004+08:00

I can’t imagine that I have been away from my blog for a month and what a pleasant surprise to receive an award from dear xjion89. Thanks buddy.

For me, this is not just my blog that he values but friendship as well. Isn’t it amazing that although we haven’t met personally, although I wasn’t able to visit his blog for a long time; still he remembers “amging”? that is truly COOL (smile)

Thus, I’m passing also this award to my fellow cool bloggers, my friends who keep on visiting my blog despite of my absence.

1.mharms
2.glorie
3.bolasinema

Having fun while staying fit

2008-09-04T20:15:00.007+08:00

I was away again for couple of days, thanks God that it wasn’t because of another ailment. I just started my new job, well not totally new just a sort of going back to my first job; from teaching I am again into sales and customer service. I wasn’t worn-out of teaching but apparently my recent job has stirred up my interest, it somewhat brought me a message that getting sick isn’t an enough reminder to take care my health.

The company that got me in produces an exergaming machine. Turning a sedentary past time video game into a game compelling our body parts to move. Our machine combines the elements of exercise and the fun of video gaming. Very suitable for people who are easily bored stiff doing traditional exercises but fascinated to be in motion when it comes to games.

The machine gives you a thrilling experience of virtual aircraft flight and aerial battles while you take benefits of a full workout, plus you can play this online with other players from different countries.

It’s definitely a first-rate choice to have fun while staying hale and hearty.

Our exergame machine in Holiday Spa

My officemates playing dogfight

See our website http://www.electronicsports.com/

An Honest mistake or an intention? Who's responsible?

2008-08-21T14:26:00.004+08:00

Last Friday I had a severe abdominal pain so my hubby brought me to the hospital. I was in the ER for more than an hour answering questions from doctors and nurses while in pain. The thing that annoyed me was answering the same questions from different doctors and nurses who came one by one. I mean, can’t they come at one fell swoop so that I don’t have to keep on repeating my answers or can’t they just take a look at my answers/records from the person who asked first? The scenario was just prolonging my agony because I wasn’t given a pain reliever ‘til the “one-on-one interview” was finally done. If it’s part of their SOP, still it infuriated me.

It took another couple of minutes before the pain reliever worked. While we waited for my lab results which took 3 hours, my hubby decided that I’ll be admitted in the hospital as he can’t bear seeing me anymore somewhat tormented in the ER. With other patients arriving every now and then, seems pain was everywhere in the place.

I stayed 2 days in the hospital which cost us P12,000 + ( US$ 300). I was shocked with the amount since I just had 2 bags of IV fluids, 4 anitibiotics,2 antacids, 2 pain relievers. Albeit I didn’t include yet the doctor’s fee, ultrasound, lab fee and the rate of the room in my rough calculation I still never thought it will cost us that much. Although the insurance shouldered my expenses, I still ran through carefully with the bills and I found out that there were some tiny stuff that I failed to add such as disposable syringe, gloves (used by the nurse) underpad dri-sheet, identification band, photocopies of my lab results, medical certificates and etc; means nothing is free nowadays. However, the most disgusting part that I found were medicines that they didn’t give me yet they included in the bills.

Good thing that my bills were covered by the insurance but I feel pity for those who paid from their personal pocket.

Was it an honest mistake or an intention? who are responsibles?

LESSON: Carefully review your bills

let's choose to laugh out loud

2008-08-19T10:25:00.005+08:00

I was supposed to post about my somewhat "unhappy yet challenging experiences" for the past 2 days but I got this "hilarious & intersting email from my friend today which I'd rather choose to post for now.

And so here it is...

A bus stops and 2 Italian men get on. They
>
> sit down and engage in an animated conversation that
>
> seems to be English.
>
> The lady sitting next to them ignores them
>
> at first, but her attention is galvanized when she
>
> hears one of them say the following: 'Emma come
>
> first. Den I come. Den two asses come together. I
>
> come once-a-more! Two asses, they come together
>
> again. I come again and pee twice. Then I come one
>
> lasta time.'
>
> The lady can't take this any more, 'You
>
> foul-mouthed sex obsessed pig,' she retorted
>
> indignantly. 'In this country we don't speak aloud
>
> in public places about our sex lives.'
>
> 'Hey, coola down lady,' said the man.
>
> 'Who talkin'abouta sex?
>
> I'm a justa tellin' my frienda how to spell
>
> Mississippi.'
>
> $5.00 says you're gonna read this again

LESSON: DON'T JUDGE PEOPLE BY WHAT YOU HEAR ;)

Choose to be aware to avoid troubles...

2008-08-15T12:36:00.008+08:00

Having an irregular menstruation?

I suggest that you go and see a doctor before further predicament occurs. Irregular menstruation is one of the symptoms of having a Polycstic Ovaries. And it's only now that my friend feels so regretful that she didn't go for a check up before the condition brought her thorny issues: risk of type 2 diabetes and the long- waiting period for pregnancy to happen.

Below are other symptoms of Polycystic Ovaries which I have gathered:

1. Irregular or no menstruation. This is the most common characteristic. Irregular menstruation means having menstrual cycles that occur at intervals longer than 35 days or fewer than eight times a year. The condition may begin in adolescence with the onset of menstruation, or it may appear later after a weight gain.

2. Signs of excess androgen. Elevated levels of male hormones may result in physical signs, such as long, coarse hair on your face, chest, lower abdomen, back, upper arms or upper legs (hirsutism); acne; and male-pattern baldness (alopecia). However, not all women who have polycystic ovary syndrome have physical signs of androgen excess.

3. Enlarged ovaries with multiple cysts. Your doctor may detect ovarian cysts by ultrasound. However, you may have ovaries with multiple cysts but still not have polycystic ovary syndrome. And you may have PCOS but have ovaries that appear normal.
Infertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common cause of female infertility in the United States.

4. Obesity. It's estimated that about half of women with polycystic ovary syndrome are obese.
Skin tags. These small, excess growths of skin that are usually found on your neck or in your armpit are common in women with PCOS.

5. Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. The ability to use insulin effectively is impaired in PCOS and can result in high blood sugar levels and diabetes. Prediabetes is also called impaired glucose tolerance.

6. Acanthosis nigricans. This is the medical term for darkened, velvety skin on the nape of your neck, armpits, inner thighs, vulva or under your breasts.

** Additionally, the following are more likely to occur in women with PCOS:
High blood pressure
High blood cholesterol
Elevated levels of C-reactive protein, which may be associated with cardiovascular problems
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, a liver disease
Sleep apnea

When u don't have a choice...

2008-08-14T14:46:00.006+08:00

Having a baby was a least priority of my friend but that was before. A month ago with all the dazzling smiles on her face she told me that she’s ready to have a baby. Considering her age (mid 30s) and health condition I advised her to see a doctor first but I didn’t tell her with that reasons instead I told her to see a doctor for some pre-pregnancy vitamins. My friend is a smart lady; her eyes actually expressed qualms because she did understand the real reasons behind why I wanted to let her see a doctor. Nevertheless, her fear was routed by her excitement to have a baby.

We met 2 days after she went to the clinic. Albeit she put on a brave face and tried to compose herself to say something my senses told me that she’s in an uphill battle. And before she could utter a single word, tears already rolled down then she was weeping and trembling as if this time she doesn’t have a choice. The ultrasound result showed that she has a Polycystic Bilateral Ovaries which means it will “take time” for her to get pregnant. I don’t know if the doctor just chose the words “take time” as a milder way of saying “difficult” but I prefer to choose the former, at least it’s clearer to see light at the end of the tunnel.

I comforted my friend by searching the internet about her condition and provided her information that would somehow cease her pain and increase her hope that she could still eventually get pregnant. Although deep inside I’m also worried I tried to conceal it by telling her jokes that at least she still have lots of time to go disco clubs, travel everywhere and shop her favorite stuff. And besides her doctor’s giving her vitamins and fertility pills, she just needs to add the most important element in there “PRAYER”

Perhaps she doesn’t have a choice but to accept the fact that she has this Polycystic Bilateral Ovaries but at least it’s not only pure chances that she can get pregnant; there are choices of medication and a choice to be always hopeful.

As the song goes "Don't Give Up"

Being away

2008-08-12T10:31:00.003+08:00

Being away from my laptop and my blog for couple of days was like being away my from my best friends. I have been caught with so many things lately, making choices here and there. I'm thankful that albeit I only have minutes right now to be with them " my laptop and my blog" haven't heard complains from them lol.

Surely if I already have the chance to spend longer time in here, be visiting "U" again my fellow bloggers as often as I did before.

See you later

2008-08-06T23:18:00.004+08:00

Finally, think I found what I wanted "those happy guys above" everytime I open my blog.

My choice of food...my enemy

2008-08-06T17:34:00.007+08:00

Guess I should just stop dreaming of having a gorgeous body. There’s no way I can discipline myself when it comes to food and don’t mention exercise it’ll just be the least priority for a lazy bum like me.
Speaking of food, chicken and anything creamy and sweets are my weakness. Damn it! I know should avoid these but the lure is just too strong to ignore. ( tell me if u have a smart advice on how to combat the temptation and if it works on me, u are an angel).
Anyway, the other day got a dinner invitation from a friend ( was her birthday). She let me chose where and what to eat. I was surprised that the first thing that came into my mind was to eat fish and other seafood but out from my stomach to my mouth was the word Kentucky. (that is the airhead me)
So we ended up having dinner in Kentucky because my other friends can’t also resist the “finger licking good chicken” . Though, it wasn’t a wise choice of food for a
“Gorgeous- body dreamer” the important thing was we enjoyed. And the ice cream, cake and macaroni salads completed the so yummy dinner.

P.S. I wasn’t thinking twice that day before I made my choice (lol). I Just hope my friends had burnt their fats and calories after that day.

Crazy Crepes hmmm also my weakness

The birthday gal, doesn't mind calories she loves ice cream too, it's obvious in her smile.

Our diet starts tomorrow ( not so sure though lol)

Which will u choose chicken or cake? ( we chose both)

Annoyed

2008-08-06T01:16:00.001+08:00

Changing a new template for my blog was pretty annoying, needed to add page elements again and ooh took me couple of hours to choose stuff for my header. Yet, I still find my new template crap as I am. Well I’m not changing it again for now, perhaps in a week or so. You know, sometimes it’s just hard to identify what really is my choice. Like what just happened, I wanted my blog to have a new look but am still not satisfied with what it is right now (sigh). Anyway, I should sleep on this.

P.S. Sorry guys didn’t add my link list yet

Do u think choosing is simple?

2008-08-03T10:05:00.001+08:00

Every split seconds in our lives we make choices, from simple to complicated. However when I finished reading the article below I've come to realize that in every choice I'll make, thinking twice shouldn't be enough.

CHOICES

KEEP IN MIND THAT LIFE DECISIONS ARE NEVER SIMPLE

EACH HAS IT'S OWN UNIQUE RISKS

THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR DECISIONS SHOULD ALWAYS BE CONSIDERED FULLY AND OVER THE LONG RUN"

CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING TWO CHOICES....

Should we get a dog?

Or, should we have children?

Tagging from xjion89

2008-08-02T18:53:00.000+08:00

#1. If your lover betrayed you, what will your reaction be?
- mad of course but I’ll be all ears to listen if he has an explanation.

#2. If you can have a dream come true, what would it be?
-many of my dreams have already come true and I’m really hoping that my dream for World Peace would also come true.

#3. If you could be at one place right now, where would it be?
- Paris with my hubby

#4. Are you confused as to what lies ahead of you?
- Not really

#5. What's your ideal lover like?
I already found him ;)

#6. Which is more blessed, loving someone or being loved by someone?-
Both

#7. How long do you intend to wait for someone you really love?
- I found him already

#8. If the person you secretly like is already attached, what would you do?
- Not applicable to me lol

#9. Is there anything that has made you unhappy these days?
- There are lots of things actually, but I don’t choose to be unhappy so I always focus myself on things that make me happy ;)

#10. What do you want most in life?
- To have a God-centered family and full of love.

#11. Is being tagged fun?
- I wouldn't be answering these questions if it’s not fun but next time make the questions fewer lol.

#12. How do you see yourself in ten years time?
- Happy wife and a mom with healthy beautiful kids#

13. Who is the current most important person to you?
- My other half and everyone else.

#14. What type of person do you think the person who tagged you is?
- Wow!!! this kinda tough question lol. Well, I haven’t seen “xjion89” in person and even in photos but through reading his blogs I could say he’s cool.

#15. Would you rather be single & rich or married but poor?
- Married and rich

#16. If you could have any animal for a pet, what would it be?
- I got a puppy before ( he was a birthday gift) but he died, was bumped by a car. After him I never had pets anymore. But lately I want to have a Panda Bear.

#17. What are one of those things which you would prefer not to do?
- Things that can ruin one’s life.-

#18. What kind of person do you think you are?
-Eccentric,endearing and Ms. Congeniality

#19. What do you define as a bad day?
- When my hubby and I argue on something crap

#20. If you have to choose between love and friendship, what would it be?
- I am already married and in our relationship we have Love and Friendship. It’s fun to be lovers and friends.

Tagging: Ann and Gloria

My current choice of dresses

2008-08-02T00:01:00.000+08:00

Sometimes it’s funny and exasperating that when you don’t need to buy a dress for an occasion you’ll find lots of nice dresses but when time comes that you need one, seems nothing captivates your taste. This is what happened to me and my friend today. We were looking for a dress to wear on a friend’s wedding. Almost 4 hours in the mall, hopping from one boutique to another, fitting and changing yet it seemed that we looked like a crap in every dress that we fit. Well, we ended up so exhausted and frustrated...we didn't find one.

When I arrived home I immediately grabbed a vanilla ice cream hmmm yummy my frustration melted away. While eating my ice cream was also browsing the net and guess what sites? Hehehe yep fashion and I’ve found these amazing dresses which somewhat hypnotized me. The styles are actually my kind of choice but the prices are not lol. Thanks that we still have couple of days more to hop another mall and boutiques again, hopefully we can find similar styles of these
dresses I found.

Versace-absolutely love this

Gucci's revival of 1960--perfectly amazing

sweet and sexy

Wow!!!but certainly not allowed in the church :(

I could have been a make-up artist

2008-08-01T00:29:00.000+08:00

I am fond of make ups ever since I was a kid but wearing it was not my cup of tea. I loved to put it on my mom’s face and felt so glad every time I saw the result; as if I have made a “tour de force” lol. Hahaha I was 3 years old when I started my job as a make up artist ( sad that we failed to take a picture of my mom as my very first customer lol) but at least she didn’t look worst than a clown. My fascination for make ups went on and I was flattered that my friends have started to ask me to be their “make-up artist” from attending special occasions to dating and flirting; perhaps because it was free. Anyway, thanks to them who offered their faces for experimentation. (was lucky no one complained lol)

However, pursuing a career in this enthrallment was a less priority as I had another choice but my love for make ups continued. Consequently, in my previous jobs I was a sales executive at the same time a make up artist to my office mates, was a teacher as well as a make up artist to my fellow teachers; yep still free hehehe.

Then fate brought me into a cosmetic firm where I was hired not as make up artist but as a sales supervisor (because of my sales experience). Yet I still underwent seminars and trainings on make ups. (knowledge and applications of your products are important in sales) and of course I also started wearing make ups (wink, top requirement).
I was supposed to take more steps further to be a professional make-up artist but another career opportunity came which I chose and didn't regret.

And though the path I chose isn't into make-ups
Oh well, my allure for make ups will always be

alive. And I still offer free service or make up advice ;)

Send-off and get-together

2008-07-28T16:02:00.000+08:00

Just arrived home 12:45am from a send-off party and kinda get-together as well. My eyes are already heavy wanted to hit the hay but I'm also excited to post this blog. One of my close friends (ex co-teacher) will be leaving for USA on Friday to start her teaching job there. It was definitely an amazing night, with other ex “celebrity teachers” ( lol) and current teachers in bare hearts sharing their past and present walks of life. ‘twas like a 1900 class reunion ( excuse me for exaggerating lol ) we were too eager to chew the fat more yet too little time to do so. Anyhow, the important thing was we were able to give Darlene our kisses and hugs of good luck in her newly chosen expedition…

Well, I know she’s gonna be fine in there. Come hell and high water, Darlene’s gonna kick ________ for students who are pain in the ________ (lol, get used to it Darl). Of course she’s gonna choose the right approach in doing it. So no worries Yo! Two thumbs up!

Presenting the much-awaited teacher in N.C.

with her supporters lol

When u have a bad day, don't 4-get to smile and pose "click" there you go! say no no to wrinkles.

...and of course delight yourself w/ yummy food after a long day...

smile and pose again...

always remember that ur mentors r just one click away ( they already have friendster remember?)

and your fella ex-housemates...

plus your other fella teachers

and the knight in shining armor is ever-ready to cross mountains and seas...

( the step-mother wearing pink seemed so happy hehehe)

See everybody's enjoying the food....hahaha

P.S. Believe that if this is really God's choice for you, it's gonna be great..

a kindergarten teacher or a linguist???

2008-07-26T12:02:00.000+08:00

Being a linguist was one of my huge desires, in fact I studied Mandarin and Spanish in high school and college. However, almost everything I’ve learned became a junk since I chose not to pursue this desire because of some unavoidable circumstances and in due course was gone by the wind.

Until I met a friend who’s a Portuguese and speaks Mandarin, Japanese, English (with a British accent) and a bit of Spanish aside from her native tongue and my 5-year old student a Russian-American who lives in Japan and speaks English and is now learning Russian and Japanese. Wow! I am always fascinated hearing them speak different languages and it extremely awakens my long lost desire to be a linguist.

( 3-4 foreign languages are fine with me lol)

Hmmmm, it seems that I have an undeniably crucial choice to make; to continue being a Kindergarten Teacher or to switch another career “again” as Linguist?

But at least I'm already happy that I can say Thank you in few languages hehe

Merci

Arigato

Sie sie

Gracias

Grazie

Danken

Agradecer

Dhanyawaad

Helping my friend choose a facial cleanser

2008-07-25T11:55:00.000+08:00

Disappointed with her current facial cleanser, my friend had asked an advice from me as to what kind of facial cleanser she’ll use. She added that she wants to try that product she saw on tv with somewhat bewitching ads but the price’s just pretty expensive. Albeit I am satisfied with the product I’m using, I didn’t recommend it on her straight away.

Helping her to make a fine choice for a facial cleanser, I shared with her some stuff I’ve learned from my previous job in a cosmetics firm and some articles from the magazines and internet.

“A person with dry skin is going to benefit from a facial cleanser that is lipid free. These cleansers allow you to cleanse your skin without removing the oil from it. Those who have oily skin will want to use a deep cleanser to draw out and wash away excess oils and impurities. If you have combination skin, determine if your skin is more prone to be oily or dry. Whichever type covers more of your face, choose a combination cleanser designed for combination-to-oily skin or combination-to-dry skin. Another important thing to remember when choosing a facial cleanser is any type of skin conditions you may have.No matter what type of skin you have, make sure you do not cleanse too much. Once in the morning and once in the evening is plenty. If you clean your skin to much, you will end up drying it out."

Experts say the following about choosing a cleanser:

*Avoid heavily fragranced products, since the ingredients used to perfume a product can cause skin irritation.
*Cleansers that produce a lot of lather are no more effective than those that don't. Furthermore, ingredients included to produce lather can sometimes be irritants.
*No matter what an advertiser promises, a skin cleanser will not prevent or reverse signs of aging.
*Standard detergent ingredients are common in skin cleansers, and generally will not harm the skin. However, two such ingredients -- sodium lauryl sulfate and TEA-lauryl sulfate -- are especially strong and potentially irritating. You should avoid skin care products that list these in the first part of the ingredients list.
*"All natural" plant ingredients are not necessarily effective, or even healthy. Some, such as mint or menthol, can actually irritate the skin. Don't assume that "natural" ingredients are necessarily good, or that synthetic ones are bad.
*Inexpensive facial cleansers generally work just as well as higher-priced products, and in some cases even better. Costly skin care products often contain the same ingredients as budget cleansers, but are priced higher because of packaging or marketing hype.

Choosing alternative for coffee

2008-07-23T12:00:00.000+08:00

My parents were coffee drinker and so was I. I started drinking coffee at age 11 and my parents appeared to have no choice but to allow me otherwise I won’t be eating my breakfast. At least it was still 1 cup a day but eventually became 2-3 cups when I joined the university and started working. I chose to drink coffee than milk first of all because of its stimulating taste, secondly the aroma which is coffee’s unique signature and thirdly the common reason keeps you stirring especially when you need to burn the midnight candle. The benefit of antioxidants it contains was never part of my reason besides I didn’t care about coffee’s composition. Coffee was part of my daily life until I was advised by the doctor to stop it because of my GERD (acid reflux disease) . The caffeine it contains will make my ailment worst.
It was crucial at first choosing for an alternative because milk and chocolate drinks were also part of the list that I should avoid. Since GERD is an annoying illness I did my best to follow the doctor and fortunately found a great alternative for coffee which is Chamomile Tea. Amazingly, it doesn’t only provide me a stress-free feeling but also gradually eliminating my heartburn due to acid reflux.

It was definitely a brilliant choice.
(Celestial Seasonings and Twinings chamomile tea are my brands.)

THE BENEFITS OF CHAMOMILE TEA
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita ) is a member of the daisy family. It has a calming quality and is widely used to relieve anxiety, caffeine withdrawal, hyperactivity, insomnia, pain and stress. Chamomile is also an excellent digestive tonic helping to relieve colic, flatulence, indigestion and irritable bowel. Some European hospitals serve it to calm patients and it is said to prevent nightmares. Many women use chamomile as a successful remedy to relax menstrual cramps.

I Chose to Bring It Back...

2008-07-22T11:32:00.000+08:00

I didn’t choose this lady to be my friend neither did she choose me to be her friend. It happened spontaneously when we worked together as teachers for just a year and sad to say that the bonding moments we shared were more of work-related stuff. But still we felt the tie of friendship glowing within us.

My choice to quit my job and pursue another plan had separated us thousand miles away and worst was we lost contact due to some unavoidable circumstances. Over a year of not keeping in touch, many things have happened in our separate lives which included meeting new friends. Yet, as the cliche goes "once a good friend always a good friend" so I did my best to find ways to reconnect with her thanks to “friendster”

After a year of silence and a year of internet communication (2 years of being far away) we finally met again in person. I was so delighted with the idea that we can spend time together again and this time it won’t be work-related stuff but purely pleasure. Until she told me that she was also leaving the country soon to work abroad. “Wow!!!”. I know I would miss her but I am glad with the opportunity that she has. Apparently in her limited stay in the country we chose to spend time together and making the best out of it; shopping, fitting blouses and dresses, going to church, eat, play badminton and party….yeeeeyyyyyy

I could have chosen to let our frienship perish but I chose to bring it back because....

see below the print on my friend's shirt

Truely worthy to be a friend

We eat anything we like although we plan to lose weight hehehe.

Bubbly

Gorgeous

Nice and cool

There's no Dull Moment with Darlene

Cheers to a good friend!!!
I will definitely miss you DARL

The Choices we make

2008-07-21T13:12:00.000+08:00

Every split second in our lives we make a choice and for every choice we make there’s always an end result which may or may not be favorable to us or to anyone.

Generally people always want to choose the “good one if not the best” and because we have different sets of standard or raison d'être in choosing, accordingly we come up with different stuff.

So this blog would feature my choices, your choices, their choices and the rationale behind those choices.