Health Nut - Quick Heart Health Check

This measure won't take 5 seconds of your life. For only 2 seconds, you can find out if your heart (and even arteries) is healthy.

Try sitting down and legs stretched in front of you. Now, do this - touch your toes. Did you manage to reach your toes?

Well, you're lucky if you did because that means your vessels are still limber and elastic because if they are, it is better to maintain blood pressure at normal. However, if you can't even go past your legs then it's high time to hit the running tracks, exercise and proper and balanced nutrition eating habits.

Need a new Printer

I have 2 old printers at home which do not serve their purpose. The HP 3-in-1 printer is obsolete and does not go well with my laptop and then someone lost the power chord for the Canon Prima. I am so upset because I have to print plenty of graphics for my handmade Christmas cards project and I cannot do it at home.

I want a new printer which is similar to my HP 3-in-1. I want simple installation and scanner software included on the pack. I want a printer which is not very complicated to operate as I mostly print graphics and letterings only.

Any suggestion to a good scanner-printer-copier in one machine?

Seasonal Skin Blemish

The weather is getting quite cool here in Dubai. It is this seasonal changes where my skin breaks out in rashes and other skin irritations. My face even becomes more oily considering the weather is cool and it should make my pores a little tight.

I think I have to minimize the use of a rich moisturizer for now so I don't aggravate my skin. A use of

therapores will use help in staving future break outs to save my skin from further damage.

Maybe I should change my moisturizer into a light one so I don't get too oily or I can actually fry an egg on my face! I have also avoided using facial soap for the time being just to clear away the blemish and rashes.

My face is not the only affected area. Even my arms have small rashes. I think I got this from playing with the fall leaves in Staten Island few days ago. I remember kicking all the dry leaves and started to feel a bit itchy on some of my arms but not on the legs area. Hmmmmm..... I hope there was no poison ivy anywhere on the bunch of leaves I have happily kicked around.

Anyway, my seasonal skin blemish is causing a stir at the moment. I am careful with my food intake too. Lesser fatty and fried stuff and more on fresh fruits and vegetables.

I hope this skin blemish goes away fast. I feel very uncomfortable.

Dreaming of a Longer Vacation (in NYC)

My body clock is starting to settle in the usual Middle East time. My heart and mind, though, have not.

I normally don't fall in love in a place so fast unlike the way I felt when we visited Paris. I instantly loved New York maybe because of the lifestyle which is similar here in Dubai. The fast-paced life did not appeal much but the fact that everything is almost accessible is a plus factor. I love the fact that we can just go to the subway and take the train to where we want to go without hailing a cab. We don't have to rent for a car to drive around. We can go to the nearby Catholic Church to hear mass. Cross 2 blocks to visit my favorite arts' store - Michaels and simply enjoy the nice fall weather. Not to mention, Central Park is just around the corner if I need to jog.

I have been thinking about New York since we came back. I know I am feeling this as a tourist but it will be a different ball game when I am a New Yorker. To work there will be a different story. I am not aiming that anymore as I have set my heart back home. I don't know but NYC has that certain charisma that draws you more. Funny that in every vacation to other countries that my family and I have, this was the only place I dreaded leaving. I wanted my vacation to last longer than it should. It was the same feeling I have when we visited Paris. I just wanted to stay there forever.

I need a longer vacation. Maybe a month-long vacation will do me good to get away from the work stress and other personal dilemmas that I face right now. I want to soak in more of New York's simple beauty.

Indeed, I LOVE NEW YORK!

Black Friday is ON!!!

Wow! The most awaited occasion to most Americans has come. Today is Black Friday and many are already lined up in front of their favorite malls and stores to grab the best deals in town.

I feel a bit envious to some of my friends who are still in the US on their vacation because they will actually feel the Black Friday rush and experience the shopping. I wanted to do my Christmas shopping in the US few days ago but had to come back to work as soon as possible due to the work load.

Black Friday poses many bargain hunts and finds for the wise consumers. Even online stores in the US are offering best-buys for shoppers aiming to save for the holidays with their early Black Friday purchases.

I hope next year, I will be able to experience the Black Friday sale in the US and prepare in advance my early Christmas list.

Give Thanks

I may have shortcomings and misgivings but I am sincerely thankful for the blessings, great or small. I thank the Lord for the bountiful blessings He gives me every single day. I am also thankful for the family who embraces me with love, for the friends who make my life so much fun and for the foes who make me strong and wise.

Happy Thanksgiving to all! 

And to all that we do (and have), give thanks to the Lord.

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Eyes Glaze Over

Did you know that when your "eyes glaze over" they become glassy and you tend to lack vision? Those are happening to me right now.

I have been checking manuals for the past year now. These manuals are not just 100 pages - more than that!

I thought the phrase "eyes glaze over" would never be applicable to me because I was always on my toes at work. I had plenty of things to do that sometimes I wished there were more time to complete my tasks. However, we had resignations here and there and I had to "catch" the workload of whoever left.

So there, my eyes glaze over as I check the manuals for any formatting mishaps, wrong grammar and any discrepancies I can spot. I feel like I am in a limbo. Everything is just automatic and they start to look the same to me now. I wonder how long I can carry on with this? Hmmmmm….

Can somebody please poke me before I fall asleep... Oh, by the way, this darn jet lag is making it worse!

Bath and Body Works In Dubai

I have waited for so long for this favorite store of mine to open here in Dubai. Finally, last week of October, the first Dubai branch of the famous ultra-pampering scent store has opened its doors here.

I first encountered this brand when a friend gave me a lotion as a gift 2 years ago. Prior to my fascination with Bath and Body Works stuff, I was totally into Victoria's Secret and would order online to get my loot. I am glad that the favorite stuff I used to get from the outlet malls in the US are now available to the Dubai market.

I just bought some bacterial soap from Jersey Gardens last November 14 while vacationing in New York. Thank goodness I recalled that there is a Bath and Body Works shop here so I just bought the  promotional items there.

I haven't visited the place yet. I may check it out these weekend to compare prices. I am sure it will be slightly higher because of the mark-ups but it is okay. At least I don't have to cross the Atlantic Ocean just to get my favorite scented lotions and body mists.

What would they open next here in Dubai? Victoria's Secret perhaps? They already opened Gap, Banana Republic, Aeropostale, American Outfitters, Pottery Barn and Crate and Barrel. I hope they'll consider opening the Middle East market to more great American retail stores across the sea.

Give Peace a Chance

This post is not a tribute to one of the popular songs of the Beatles. I am posting this article to call everyone to stop fighting and give peace a chance.

I cannot help but throw the newspaper out of the window because of the negative headlines I read most of the time. Well, it's the negative that sells, right?

What is this fighting in Korea now? Just because South Korea was firing into disputed waters for their military drill, North Korea had to retaliate by bombarding the island of Yeonpyong. Although North Korea had warned and requested South Korea to halt the military practice, the latter still pursued. Hence, the havoc and mayhem.

Goodness, what is going on in this world of ours? If it's not volcanoes spewing lavas and ashes, then it is the machine guns spitting bullets to innocent people.

Come on! Give peace a chance... Sometimes it pays to lower our principles because what we're fighting for may be very trivial at the expense of the hundreds of innocent people caught in the middle of the battle field. It's just not worth it...

The Beauty in Rustic Furniture

I remember scouting for a furniture when my husband and I first bought our house. It was around 1999 before he left for Dubai.

We must have visited one shop after the other in a place in Manila where furniture were the main highlight of the place. It is one stretch of furniture shops to choose from.

My taste then was still different. I preferred having a certain country and homey feel to my furniture. I vividly recall selecting a white wicker living room set which was around $200. Back then, that price would be so much but I feel in love with the rustic furniture that I didn't consider the price. I know it was not a very wise move, money-matter wise. However, both my husband and I loved the rustic piece. Even our respective families were gushing on how pretty and dainty the wicker living room set was.

I felt proud owning that wicker set. It has been with us for sometime and my daughter has sat on it's soft cushions while growing up.

The wicker set is now in my mom's house. It will still be my favorite furniture because of its simple beauty.

Worst Jet lag Ever!

I have tried all imaginable trips and tricks known to man to get my body clock in-sync with the time here in the UAE. Unfortunately, my jet lag has gotten worse.

Last Saturday, I slept at 4 a.m. Then I woke up at 2:00 p.m. only to remain wide-awake until Sunday (21 Nov.) of 8:30 p.m. My head was already aching. My temple throbbing. My brain shutting down and my eyes dropping like atom bombs while I was working. I finally had a semi-decent sleep last night around 8:45 p.m.

I realized that prior to our trip to New York, we went to Seoul, Korea first which was in the west and crossing different time zones. I didn't experience any jet lag so bad to affect my sleep pattern. Then we had a trans-Atlantic trip few days ago. I subjected myself to another time-zone difference and coming back to the Middle East was a nightmare in terms of jet lag.

My pilot friends are now telling me that they are experiencing what I have just gone through and they do it every single day. My hats off to them!

So, tonight, I will sleep according to what my body has been accustomed to. I will spray lavender mist on my pillow. Draw the curtains shut and put the air condition to full blast. I will also plug my iPod for some nice relaxing and soothing music. I need to psyche myself and it has to be now. I cannot walk another day like a zombie in the office. I need my sleep and I need it now!

Thanksgiving and Black Friday Deals

We just had our vacation in New York. If we had delayed it for another week, we could have experienced the Thanksgiving parade, Black Friday sale and even the Cyber Monday deals other shops and online stores offer to savvy consumers.

My husband cousin briefed us on what happens during Black Friday. People actually line up outside the malls as early as midnight to get ahead. She said, the sale is really awesome and one can actually save a lot by buying their gifts on further discounted prices.

So, my curiosity got the better of me and researched about Black Friday and Cyber Monday. I am enticed by the cut backs on gadgets and electronics. I told my husband to schedule our next vacation to the great USA around Thanksgiving time so we can experience the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

Major Sale during GITEX

Every one awaits the opening of GITEX here in Dubai with much bated breath. It is a yearly event every October where every electronics known to man is being showcased and sold much less than the retail price.

The recently concluded event was a success considering it is still recession. My friends took the opportunity to spend on cheap netbooks, smart phones, MP4s, navigators and home theater system to send back home.

One of our friends even bought 3 smart phones - one for each of his kids! He saved a lot because each smart phone he bought had a free 8 mega pixel camera. Not bad! He can eventually sell the free digital cameras in the Philippines.

So, I'll save money for next year's event and probably buy myself the Macbook Pro I have been dreaming of.

Hoodia Weight Loss

I have tried some weight loss supplements in the past and one of them was hoodia. I cannot recall the effect it has done to me but it is one of the few that worked for me.

Prior to trying weight loss supplements, I have gone through numerous web sites and health stores here to check out the products. The health stores have shelves full of weight loss supplements. So, I asked myself then, "does hoodia really work?" I did not buy on impulse because I wanted to make sure that it was not hype.

I checked with my friends who have lost weight and some of them suggested that I try hoodia as long as I couple it with regular exercises and proper and balanced diet.

Now that I have hypertension, it is very difficult for me to take supplementary medication or vitamins because it may cause palpitation. I will check with the doctor again if I can try taking hoodia while taking my hypertension medication. The last thing I want to happen is to have complications.

Hoodia weight loss supplements may be the answer for some but I still suggest for people who wish to take any weight loss supplements to check their physician.

Wide Awake at 3:30 A.M.

Good morning people! This isn't good. I have to go to work in few minutes and I am already wide awake earlier than my usual wake-up time. I think the jet-lag is kicking in and it has to be now when I have to work! Arghhh!

I slept according to Dubai time thinking my body would soon adjust to the norm. Lo and behold, my eyes suddenly opened at exactly 3:30 a.m. I tried going back to sleep but to no avail. I just tossed and turned in bed but had to get off or my sleeping husband would be awakened. He needs his beauty rest too.

This is the problem with crossing different time zones. It is hard to catch up and just when your body is getting used to the local time where you're currently in, it's time to head home.

I don't know how I'm going to concentrate later at work. I'd probably down 2 cups of espresso to give me a jolt. I hope I don't fall asleep half-way through work.

Loving New York

I love to travel. My family loves to travel. We are a travelling family and we love doing that.

Whenever we go to other countries, we try as much as we can to see the place, enjoy the sceneries, breathe in their culture and observe how it is like to be one of them.

I have heard negative things said and written about New York and the people who live there. I guess what I have read and heard are all based on other people's point of view and personal experience. We just stayed there for 5 days so I cannot make a very concrete judgment about the place and people to quell the negative things written and said about them. So far, we didn't encounter anything that would "write-off" NYC in my list of "go-to" places.

Yes, the place is manic. People shuffle here and there. The movement is quite frantic and not to mention the billboard signs which light up most of Times Square at night. However, I have seen the other side of the manic world of NYC in Central Park last Sunday after we heard mass from the Holy Name of Jesus Christ Church near 96th St. West. People were having fun, exercising, playing soccer, children running around the playground, dogs fetching sticks, moms pushing their babies strollers, young fellows reading books and talking while seated on the benches and people just sitting there enjoying the sight.

I know it takes a lot of time to really let everything sink in but I am loving New York. I can't even believe people still open doors for you. It didn't happen just once by the way. People still greeted each other with hellos. Nobody shoved us while we gawk on the marvelous sights around us. New Yorkers are rather accommodating, if my observations are correct.

I want to go back there. Perhaps as a tourist again. I don't think we'll ever live in the US because of the recession. While I contemplate my next move, I will be reliving every minute spent in the beautiful city that never sleeps.

Back from NYC!

We just came back from New York City. My darling husband decided to spend the Eid Holidays there and it was a decision made in haste. We had no plans nor itinerary laid out which was unusual because I always made it a point to organize the trip.

We stayed in the Upper Manhattan area along 96th street in Days Inn Hotel. The location was perfect because it was walking distance to the metro station. The hotel was also close to the Central Park, some Catholic churches, Michael's (my favorite arts supplies store), TJ Maxx and cafes and restaurants.

People there, like in Seoul, are health buffs and exercise all the time. The metro was packed and we walked around Time Square and Central Park. I felt that I lost more than a kilo just by walking around the city. It was as if I have taken fat burners because my pants has gotten a little loose! Wow!

I like the place. I love the weather! I love New York!

High Technology in Seoul

My family and I have enjoyed our recent trip to Seoul, Korea. The place was scenic and clean. I love the weather although it was so chilly.

We had the chance to visit some nice malls and I cannot help but compare their advancement in technology. I bought some chocolates in the grocery and had to use my credit card because I had few money left. I was surprised to see their sleek receipt printer with a very high-quality paper print out. The receipt was thick. I was also waiting for the shop attendant to ask me to sign the paper receipt she printed. Instead, she directed me to a small check-book like device placed in front of me with a small pen. She told me to sign there. Wow, electronic signature! I have never used that yet and have not seen that here in Dubai.

Seoul is really modern and advance.

9 Spices to Improve Health, Energy and Longevity

According to Dr. Maoshing of Ask Dr. Mao site, there are 9 spices to "spice" up our health, energy and longevity. It is best to update your pantries to include the following and why you should include these spices on your next stop to the nearest grocery.

Garlic

As pungent as it smells, it's potent effect in lowering blood pressure and helps ward off (not just Dracula!) bad cholesterol. It also acts as antibacterial so it is good in treating minor infections.

My father used to eat fresh garlic (at least 2 cloves only) when he had his heart attack as advised by the doctor. The garlic improved his health a great deal. Also, my recent vacation to Korea proved that garlic is indeed powerful. Garlic is also a staple in Korean dishes. No wonder, even the elderlies in Korea can still commute alone despite their age. 

Cinnamon

I am not a fan of this spice. As a matter of fact, I try my best to avoid having this in my meal, drinks or desserts - if I can help it.

After reading Dr. Mao's article about this spice, I have changed my mind and decided to give this holiday-smelling spice a chance.

Cinnamon is said to lower blood sugar, improve blood pressure, lower cholesterol and improve brain function.  In addition to the many wonderful benefits of this spice, it is also great in detoxifying the system and fight bladder infections.

Curry

I don't have problem having this spice in my meal since I love eating Thai Curry Chicken and other viands prepared with curry and coconut milk.

This spice is very prominent in East Asia. My Indian friends here love preparing this food with a sprinkle of this tasty, yellowish powder.

Its benefits include improving the joints health, good anti-inflammatory aspect, anti-oxidant and helps prevent Alzheimer's disease due to its any-amyloid property. Amyloids are plaque-like proteins which builds up in the brain tissues responsible for causing Alzheimers Disease. 

Star Anise

As the name suggests, it is indeed a star-shaped spice. I have seen this spice when I have chicken biryani. Although I don't eat the star-shaped spice, I do love the flavor it adds up to the biryani meal.

This pretty-looking spice is not only flavorful, it helps ward off rheumatism, aid digestion and boosts immune system.

Cardamom

Okay, I am biased on this one because I really don't like this spice. It does not taste bad. In fact, it does taste flowery (that's how I perceive the taste to be) but it affects my buds when I eat something else even after I have brushed my teeth.

Cardamom is great in tea and again, my Indian friends prepare their chai with cardamom milk. Taste funny but it's actually good.

This spice has the ability to improve circulation and boosts one's energy level. Not only that, it helps improve asthma, bronchitis, halitosis, moods and is even considered an aphrodisiac in the Middle East. No wonder I see a lot of people here drinking cardamom milk! ;)

Clove

I haven't tasted this spice yet. I don't think I ever recall buying this spice when I cook meals at home. I think, the closest I get to having this at home is when I buy clove oil to cure my daughter's tooth ache which actually works!

Chewing clove will help alleviate tooth aches, sore throats, diarrhea and stomach cramps.

Cumin

Here is another spice I am not familiar with. Although there are plenty of cumin here in the Middle East, I really haven't tried incorporating this spice in my dishes yet. I think I should in the future!

Cumin boosts immune system and improves liver function. It helps reduce flatulence and aids digestion.

Fennel Seed

This spice is good in aiding digestion and helps soothe the nervous system. This is a great spice to mix with recipes for meats, beans and legumes.

Ginger

A nice and rather spicy spice is ginger. I love having this in my Chinese dishes especially when I am preparing chicken and shrimps.

Ginger is great in relieving nausea, arthritis, headaches, menstrual cramps and muscle soreness. Also, whenever I get itchy throat or feel like I am going to come down with a flu or have tonsilitis, I boil a fist-sized ginger with 3 cups of water and drink the ginger broth. It really helps and soothes my dry throat and wards off tonsilitis.

These spices are really beneficial; however, if you are considering having these spices to cure some of your ailment, it is wise to consult your physician. Example, garlic is good in itself if you have high blood pressure but if you are going to take ginger too as combination, it may thin you blood so much. Also, do not treat yourself on your own especially when combining spices. If you are going to have an operation then it is advisable not to take garlic, ginger or any spice which helps in lowering blood pressure.   

Flea Market Day Tomorrow

I did my last minute clearing of old clothes, books and toys this morning. I can finally say that I am all set for tomorrow's Flea Market. I am looking forward to sell all the unused and unwanted stuff I will bring to the park tomorrow.

I didn't make any inventory anymore. My friend said it would be difficult to keep track of what is being sold. So, I'll just pray that every item I have will be bought so I don't have to take them back again and worry where to stash all of those stuff.

Selling your old clothes, toys, shoes, books and other stuff is a great way to earn and clearing closets at home to lessen the clutter. It's also a good idea to mingle and meet new people and probably strike a network with someone who has something good to offer, be it products or services.

I hope everything goes well tomorrow!

Security Around the Clock

I could not help but wonder why there were so many wireless cctv cameras in Seoul. They were just everywhere I turn my head to, the hotel hallway (thank goodness not inside the rooms and bathrooms too!), the metro subway stations, the ATM machine stands, the lifts, the cashier areas, in restaurants and even on some shops' front door.

Seoul was like a land of CCTV cameras! I think, being a modern and industrialized country, they are also particular with their people's safety and security. It is a good way to curb untoward events and minimize crime.

I guess it is working well for their society as crime rate is relatively low for a global and rising nation.

One Less Bell to Answer - The Etiquette Bell

Have you ever encountered odd devices stuck on a public comfort room before? Well, this is the first time I have seen an Etiquette Bell. I was really baffled when I saw an electronic device stuck in the comfort room cubicles of Incheon Airport. The device which looked more like a door bell gadget was placed strategically (and within arm's reach when seated) on the wall inside the cubicle.

So, I thought of taking a picture of the device and research about it upon my return to Dubai. I was a bit surprised to find out that it was actually NOT a bell which would ring when the button was pressed. It is a device to cover unwanted sounds made when you do your thing in the rest room. Some devices play fake flushing sounds, violins and soft music for 20-30 seconds. 

I didn't press the one inside my cubicle for fear of an army brigade rushing to my cubicle and tearing my door down or some siren-sound to come out of the device and call every one's attention. I wouldn't like to be caught dead seated there while the weird device makes funny sound. No way!

Well, I think this device is kind of cool. I hope they install them here in Dubai too so I don't hear weird noises from the nearby cubicle. 

Wedding Anniversary Gifts from the Heart

One of the best thing about celebrating wedding anniversaries is the thought that comes with the gifts being given.

Wedding anniversary gifts vary according to the number of years being celebrated. Married couples who are searching for ideas on what to give to their spouses often consult websites about anniversary gifts by year in order to give the appropriate present to celebrate their union.

Couples these days are more creative with their gifts. More and more gift suggestions can be found online and one of those is the unique and yet very sweet suggestion for 3rd year anniversary gifts - leather. People may wonder how leather can be romantic and sweet at the same time when it always represent labor and fashion. Well, if you consider this option which I posted below from Justpaperroses.com, you will see how creative and ingenious these leather roses are which is right for the 3rd year anniversary theme.



I think this is a very beautiful and lasting gift to give because it does not wilt. It is there for keeps just how a union should be!

If you are still lost and confused on what perfect gift to give your special someone, just check out Justpaperroses.com and you will be surprised on the number of gift ideas and suggestions they have to celebrate that momentous occasion.

Back from Korea

Every fun and great vacation has come to an end. That really is a bummer but hey, it's reality! The flight from Seoul was approximately 9 hours and 20 minutes. It was longer to come back from going to which was only around 7 hours and 30 minutes. Probably, it was because of tailwind. Anyway, it is back to reality for all of us. The short vacation is so short but we had fun.

My mom-in-law was so surprised to see us there. Just like the Singapore episode, we did not take videos nor pictures of the "surprise moment" because my sister-in-law's family arrived part midnight. We were so drained and dazed so we fell asleep. We'll probably get the "surprise-look" next year, I hope!

We liked it there. The weather was great as usual because I was kind of biased with that. I love cold weather so I will find it very pleasant. Actually, it was chilly with the cold, crisp air biting the skin. Come to think of it, the season was just the start of autumn. I could imagine already what it would be like when it is winter.

Sigh... I wish the vacation is longer. I had fun! Although I didn't get to buy any souvenir, except for my daughter's key chain only, I am happy. We got to see many places and sampled their Korean dishes.

I will post the pictures as soon as I have time to label and load them on my pc. For now, I just want to relax and sleep for a while. Tomorrow is back-to-the-grind day again. Argh!