Great Foods for the Heart

Stock up on these heart-healthy food and keep those arteries-clogging food out of the way.

1. Salmon - very high in omega-3 fatty acids which lowers blood pressure and keeps clotting at bay
2. Oatmeal - eat this for breakfast because it is high in fibre and aids in reducing the bad cholesterol (LDL)
3. Olive Oil - this oil is full of mono-unsaturated fats which lowers LDL and reduces your risk of developing heart diseases
4. Avocado - this fruit is rich in monounsaturated fats which helps raise the HDL or the good cholesterol in your body
5. Nuts - area also great source of good fats. Have a palm-full serving of almonds, walnuts and macademia nuts to raise your HDL
6. Berries - like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries - these fruits are rich in anti-inflammatories which reduce your risk of cancer and heart ailments
7. Legumes - like lentils, chickpeas, black and red kidney beans are packed with soluble fibre, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids
8. Spinach - this green leafy vegetable is full of lutein, folate and potassium which makes your heart in top shape
9. Flaxseed - full of fibre and omega-3 fatty acids, great in combating the development of heart ailments
10. Soy - this may lower cholesterol and a great source of lean protein which is good for a healthy heart-diet

(source: Yahoo.com/Health.com)

Gearing Up for the Extreme Weather

Weather these days is just hard to predict and understand. In places where it usually don't snow, snowed. Moreover, places which experience cold season, albeit in a brief period of time, did not feel the winter at all. And that is what we are experiencing here in the UAE. The winter season is barely felt. I think it did not come.

I was reading the news a while ago and saw pictures of the flash flood in Saudi Arabia. Sure, the people in the Middle East region is not new to some rainfall but not torrential rains. People were not geared properly and they were not ready for calamities like that.

People still walk around the knee-high flood like it was ordinary puddle. They do not have proper overshoes to protect themselves from contaminants in the water or even water-borne disease.

Everyone must be educated on how to act when calamities such as this happen. They should know the rudiments of survival to be able to overcome this natural cause.

It has not rained hard in the UAE yet. After seeing the floods in Saudi Arabia, I think the people of UAE are quite relieved to have not felt the extreme weather at all.

Job Market

I have been collecting classified ads for the past week. I am checking the trend of vacancies and the market outside my company. The jobs available are still very stringent compared to the pre-recession time when the classified ads was a separate supplement.

The administrator jobs available currently have dwindled. However, that does not mean that unemployment cases have not recovered. Our company is still hiring and other major multi-national corporations here in the UAE. The robust career-placement before is not as bullish but functioning, if I may say.

Personally, I still feel that the market outside my current post is still volatile. I am having difficulty in my decision whether to stay where I am or jump ship and take my chances.

Combat Mood Swings

Mood swings can afflict anyone. Even the person with the most sunny disposition in life can go into a state of funk. However, we can all combat this change of mood by doing the following and not resorting to any substance or medication which can alter one's perspectives falsely:

1. Count one to ten.

Sometimes, a pause is just what we need in this manic world. It does not hurt to pause for a while and recover from a negative emotion. Simply close your eyes and count one to ten - or even to a hundred if you feel like it. You'll notice how your heart beat slows down and your tensed muscles relax after doing this.

2. Envision beautiful and calm sceneries.

I do this all the time when I am feeling down. I always imagine myself standing in a middle of a field of tulips and basking under the glorious sun. Such a nice feeling and boom - goes my bad mood.

3. Sing a happy tune.
- or even whistle or hum if you like. Nothing beats a moody day with a perky song number. Match it with a dance step if you may :)

4. Take a day off.
If you have so many vacation leave credits, now is the time to use it. Most of our mood swings are contributed by the stress and people around the office. Maybe a vacation for a day or two can change that.

5. Say a positive mantra like "I am happy" or "I will not let myself be down" or anything you think can help make you happy and empowered.

6. Look at pictures of your love ones including your pets, if you have one.
Their happy faces (no matter how dysfunctional your family is!) can instantly plaster a smile in our face.

7. Light a scented candle or spray an aromatic scent to boost your mood.
I always have a supply of citrus scented candles and room spray. It always does the trick because the senses have an impact on our moods.

8. Take a walk.
If there's a park nearby, why don't you take a walk with a friend or your pet. The lively and happy sound of nature and people enjoying in the park can certainly lift your mood.

9. Read a good book.
Time to pick up that dusty novel in your bookcase for a good read. Sit in a chaise or a recliner, sip a nice lemonade and enjoy your solitude reading.

10. Help someone.
Sometimes, our mood is aggravated because we keep focusing on how we feel. Try helping a friend, colleague or do a random act of kindness.

11. SAY A LITTLE PRAYER... It goes a long, long, way.
Trust me, nothing beats this one. I took this prayer from www.marypages.com and want to share it to all of you.

"Heavenly Father, I awoke this morning in a bad mood and I have been unable to shake it so far.

Everything bothers me and everyone rubs me the wrong way. 

I just can't seem to get my true bearings. 

Help me to think of Your salvation, Your countless gifts and overwhelming love for me.

Let me relax and forget life's cares by placing myself wholly into Your hands.

Grant that this mood will soon pass and I will be able to bask in Your love and communicate it to others.

Amen."

HAVE A NICE DAY EVERYONE. Remember, we only live once so make the most of it.

Online Business

My friend and I are in serious discussion on putting up an online store back in the Philippines. We have gone through several brain-storming sessions already on the best small business to start while still holding our day jobs. The one idea that really stands out is the online business of buy and sell which is big hit in the Philippines.

We wanted to start something that would involve small capital but higher yield. I told her that food would be the number one bet and next was clothing and beauty products. We all know how the Filipino yuppies this generation are with regards to overall appearance. The only problem is, how to get the supply. I want to sell original stuff and will not compromise on cheap and fake merchandise.

I hope this materializes soon. I know there are plenty of things to consider like splitting the costs, shipping of merchandise, what to sell, who to entrust the accounting of money flow, who to trust on monitoring the website, any fees to pay for permits, etc. It is a lot of work so we need to consider all those things before we go ahead on this venture.

Stress Reduction Kit

Have you ever reached the point at work where you just want to jump out of the window? I have...countless times.

My stress level (and frustration) is so high that I almost finished my box of hypertension pills. So, I need to share this "Stress Reduction Kit" to all of you who share the same sentiments I have with work life.

I give credit to the one who created this. Brilliant! My colleague forwarded this by email so I am not really sure if my colleague created it out of frustration or was sent by email too.

Use this as required. The instruction is self-explanatory.

Wall Clocks

Wall Clock of any kind really fascinates me. I enjoy watching the movement of its hands and the swinging of some clock's pendulum. A bonus treat is when you hear the various melodic chimes.

I do not own a fancy and elaborate wall clock. I do not mind owning one though. I think a Large wall clock is a great piece to a bare or plain wall. It accentuates a room and can even be a conversational piece. It can also be a focal point in a simple room.  It certainly is a great addition to a home.

The first time I fell in love with a great wall clock was when I saw my aunt's beautiful cuckoo clock. It was big and stood out from their cream wall. I remember waiting for the clock to strike a certain time only to see a small cuckoo bird swinging out of the small window and the chimes followed a melodic tune. She brought the clock from Germany.

I recalled the beautiful cuckoo clock again when I saw similar designs sold in Munich near the Marienplatz. I thought it would be nice to have one in the house since I love wall clocks. I realized that it would be to transport unless I had it shipped.

I will certainly have one in the future. I really do not mind where it is made from as long as it makes beautiful chimes.

Leaving on a Jet Plane...

I hate saying goodbye. I am not very good in hiding emotions so whenever a "farewell" has to be said, I bail out. I just can't stand the parting and all the mixed and lonely emotions which goes with it.

My brother is going home for good. He's been with me here in Dubai for the past five years. Unfortunately, the company where he was working had to fold due to the recession. All of them were laid off and he doesn't want to take another chance here again unless he goes through official employment agencies.

I feel so sad and disheartened right now. I'm just used to having him around and being there to listen to my woes no matter how insignificant they are. He helps me in the house and does some errands for us. I have to do everything on my own again now that he is leaving.

On the other hand, I am relieved because I know he'll keep my mom company and he'll take good care of her.

He'll be leaving in two days time and as early as now, I cannot bear to say goodbye. At least, for now...

North Carolina's Outer Banks

We have not been to North Carolina yet but we love to visit it someday. North Carolina boasts of many beautiful areas to visit like the Outer Banks, Raleigh, Cherokee, Pinehurst, among others.

The Outer Banks is where we want to go if given the chance. The northern islands of Corolla can offer plenty of quiet and relaxing time. We can even book on obx vacation rentals if we want to get some great and affordable deals.

We will see if we can go this year. We have not planned anything yet though because of tight budget but North Carolina's Outer Banks is definitely in my list of places to see.

Fashionable Accessories

I am fond of accessories more than the real deal. I only have jewelries and most of them were from my mom and gifts. I think, I only bought two gold jewelries out of whim.

I enjoy accentuating my outfits, whether they are for office or casual wear with chunky chamilia beads. Some of my long necklaces are wooden and made of glass beads. I have few Swarovski crystals but the rest are made of glass beads and faux-gems.

I really don't mind wearing inexpensive accessories. I think they can be sophisticated too.

Steins and Shot Glass Collection

My husband and I are avid collectors of Beer Stein and Shot Glass. We always make it a point to buy any or both of the glass souvenirs when we visit other countries. We both do not mind buying both of varying designs as long as it is colorful, unique looking and indicates the country where we bought them from.

Germany is famous for Oktoberfest and when there are drinks, beer glass, beer steins and even shot glass abounds. Our last visit to Munich, Germany was exciting as far as our Beer Glass and Stein hunt went. The area near the Glockenspiel were lined up with souvenir shops. They were all selling various designs of Beer Steins and shot glasses. The steins were so beautiful. We loved the big ones but were a bit adamant to get them because they might break. We settled for the miniature steins and medium-sized beer steins because they were easy to pack and bring home. We bought so many and decided to keep half of the purchase for our collection. The others were given off as gifts to families and friends.

We are looking forward to go back there and enjoy the beautiful sceneries and hoard on more lovely and unique shot glasses and beer steins again.

My Dream Vacation for 2011

I have been thinking about visiting Japan this year. I really love anything Japanese, from the language, to the clothes, culture, arts, food (except for the sushi and sashimi!), climate, Cherry Blossoms, and Mt. Fuji.

This is the reason why I took up International Studies back in college and had a major in Japan Studies. I almost got into the exchange student program with the Japanese government back in college but I bailed. I should have gone though. That was a "free" chance to see and feel Japan.

I am saving right now for a my dream vacation. My daughter also loves to see Japan as she is fond of animes. What is the best way to make her understand anime than to visit the country who started it all, right?

My husband has been to Japan so he is not as excited as we are. I want to see a lot of place there like the shrines, the numerous zen gardens and the beautiful Cherry Blossoms. I want to soak it all in and be one with nature.

Japan is one of the expensive countries to visit. I may need to really tighten my belt if I want to visit the country this year. If not, then I can delay it for another year or so but I will definitely visit Japan. It is one of the places I need to visit. And I will!!!

(Photo credit: http://www.doit-dongnai.gov.vn/)

Tight Security Measure

Our company is strict with accommodating visitors in the building. Everyone goes through the security in the lobby. Most of the time, the security officers assigned would call us first to verify if we were expecting visitors.

Our building is equipped with a swipe card system and barcode scanner which reads the strip in each of the employees' identification cards. Not only that, we have a reception area to filter those who are already in the building and CCTV cameras are also installed to check the comings and goings in each room.

Before the 9-11 event, our office was just like any ordinary building. We only employed security guards and trusted everyone who would come in and go.

Times have changed. Tight security measures are not being implemented and improved for those which are already in place and installed.

Make It TRENTA!

Wonder what my post is all about? Well, I am not sure if this will be good news or "weird" news for coffee lovers out there. I have just read from the news that Starbucks will launch its new mega size called "Trenta." If I am not mistaken, trenta is Spanish for 30. Am I right?

Anyway, Trenta is the largest cup to be sold by Starbucks. It is 916 ml size intended for iced drinks only. Whew! Thank goodness they mentioned that. Imagine if they also use that size for normal coffee orders and someone mistakenly uses it for an espresso. I don't even want to imagine...

The new size will be available on May 3.

Foods to Increase Breast Milk

If you're a lactating mother or planning to be pregnant, then read on.

Breast milk is the first thing babies get to drink after they are born. The initial milk coming from a mother contains colostrum which is very vital to a newborn's developing immune system. It is high in immunoglobulin which aids in the development of the immune system.

The following are foods to take to increase breast milk:

Brown rice
Avocado
Beets
Carrots
Barley
Plenty of water
Soup based meals

Valentine's Day Gift For the Man of Your Life

The Christmas and New Year's holiday hustle and bustle has calmed down. We are in for another special occasion to celebrate in few weeks time. I am sure everyone is familiar with this romantic day celebrated globally - Valentine's Day.

Couples are already planning and asking around for favorable Valentines day presents to give their better halves, partners or sweethearts. The internet is buzzing with offers and promotional deals for people who wish to purchase their special gifts online. This saves them time, hassle and even money because of the great deals offered.

Like everyone else who wants to make their partners happy and special, I checked the web too for valentine's day gift for men and have found several hits. There are categories to choose from like gifts for the sporty, the romantic, the professional, the nature lover, the fashion-conscious, the food and wine expert and the gadget and high-tech fanatic. 

The gift-giving trend for this romantic occasion has really evolved over the years. We have plenty of options and gift-giving has been creative too. An example of that is a hot-air balloon ride for the nature and adventure lover or a ride on a speeding jetboat to the sporty man of your life. 

So, do not get stuck on the common gift trends. Be creative and enjoy the special moment together.

Old Keepers

I just finished cleaning the kitchen cupboard and found my long term food storage which has been missing in action until today.

I like my food keeper so much because it is big enough to put in some of our big meal's left overs. It is not that big to put in the fridge as well. The lid is rubberized on the rims for tighter grip on the container. I forgot where I bought it but I love it so much.

That old food keeper is still well-maintained. Well, partly because I lost it for some time so it was not used for a while. Now that I found it, I will have plenty of left-overs to keep in that trust food storage. So there will be no wastage at home.

Juggling Act

Being a career woman/mom/wife/daughter/sister/friend is such a difficult feat. I have so many roles to undertake in a short period of time with so many people. I have to be a working mom, a mother, a wife, a daughter to my mom, a sister to my siblings, and a confidant to my friends. Sometimes, I wish I can do astral projections so I can be in so many places at one time. I want to complete so many roles and tasks but find myself  not fulfilling one or the other. It is just not balancing the scale.

My time is so divided from work to home and some social activities on the side to keep me sane. I hope work does not eat so much of my time because I think my family deserves more piece of that time pie. Although I need to work to earn my bread and butter, I don't agree on slaving myself to give my family a better future. Maybe I need to reorganize my roles and life this year. Work is wearing me down.

I play a different role when I come home. I do 90% of the household chores of course. My hubby is kind enough to do some laundry for me and I continue with the pressing. The not-so-little princess makes our beds so she saves me time and energy. So two tasks already ticked from my things-to-do.

When night comes, I begin to feel rueful because come morning, it will be 8.5 hours of corporate bondage again for me. I keep telling myself to hang on for a while. It won't be long and 2013 will roll in. That's when I decide.

I have dreams but I am not sure anymore if where I am right now will actually be a contributing factor to the fulfillment of those ambitions. I'm not waiting for any promotion anymore (maybe just my end of service pay...not even enough to buy us a decent house back in the Philippines). My career is just that - a career - and nothing else.

My family is still my greatest priority. I'll be doing this juggling act for them because they're worth the sacrifice. Well, I better go now and wash the dishes...

Dinner with Friends

I rarely go out on social events. Last night I did! My hubby and I went out for a buffet-dinner with friends in Le Meridien.

The food was superb! There were plenty of selections so picking one was a tough call. I chose the grilled fish, salads, and a few serving of angel-hair pasta with chicken and white sauce. I made a beeline at the desserts area not once but twice. That's really bad! Diet wise.

So, I guess I have to start checking on the fastest ways to lose belly fat. My pants are a bit tight now because of the recent holidays and my lack of motivation to exercise.

That outlook will have to change or all the past weight-loss success I have had will be futile.

Health Nut - Be Kind To Your Knees

As we age, our bones and muscles degenerate. It is very vital for us to eat healthy and keep fit to maintain proper well-being.

One part of our body which we need to keep healthy and well lubricated is our knees. We should eat green salads as part of our daily meal. Green vegetables like cabbage, spinach and swiss chard contains Vitamin K which is good for our joints. It also helps reduce the risk of joint damage.

It is good to have your Vitamin K fresh by having these green vegetables as part of your staple rather than taking supplements.

So, the next time you visit the grocery, head on to the fresh produce and do your joints and knees some good, loving favor.

Shopping Festival Sale! Sale! and More Sale!

Dubai has a major festival celebrated by many annually. Plenty of residents and even visitors from around the world, flock to this tiny cosmopolitan city to enjoy and take advantage of the major sales and discounts from all the participating outlets and shopping malls in the city.

Dubai Shopping Festival 2011 is on now. It started yesterday and it will be a month-long affair of shopping and bargain-hunting to the budget conscious consumers.

I was already on the lookout yesterday. I was looking on the pretty htc desire 2.2 in one of the electronics shops in the mall. I still have my reliable mobile phone. I was just admiring it's simple interface, sleek look and features.

A lot of people will really splurge during this festival. The items on sale are mostly regular stocks not from the old season. Even food retailers offer promos during this Shopping Festival.

Valentine Flowers

February is just around the corner. Next thing we know it, we are already in the 2nd month of the year 2011. And what is so special about February? Well, for me, it's the month of my daughter's birthday and she will be turning 13 - an official teener. Globally, February is also the month of love and romance.

What is the better way of enjoying Valentine's day? Candle-lit dinner date for 2? A fabulous ring or necklace gift? A night in one of the fanciest hotel? A stroll on the park while holding hands and whispering sweet nothings? Or a box full of chocolates? Perhaps, flowers - beautiful Flowers of February? It is anyone's choice.

I prefer the flowers. It speaks a magnitude of emotion. It is not very expensive and it is beautiful. February is also the month where beautiful blooms of flower grow. February flowers include the following selections: Alstroemeria, Anthurium, Aster, Cattleya Orchid, Freesia, Hyacinth, Lilac, Tuberose, Tulip and Vanda. These flowers grow well in the season and will make good and interesting flower-cuts if arranged well.

Your Valentine's need not be expensive and fancy. Buying expensive things is not very practical anymore. Your love and affection will be appreciated as long as you convey your emotions through your beautiful flowers. It's classic and timeless just how a love should be.

Weather Changes Here

It was quite humid the other day and how I wished I have a home dehumidifier to balance the air flow at home.

I cannot believe how this can happen when it should be winter season here. I barely feel the winter at all. I'm still using the aircondition unit because I cannot stand the humidity. It is not so breezy and cold considering the time and season.

Today, it rained for a short period of time. It was enough to bring the humidity to an acceptable level. It was a bit cold in the afternoon when I left the office. I wonder how long this coolness will hold up.

Our Child's Safety

There was a headline last week about a young girl of 4 yrs. who was sexually abused by the school bus driver and his 2 cohorts who were bus conductors. This happened last year, around November. The news only came out recently because the parents took the child to India and had her examined. It was medically confirmed that she was sexually abused.

The mother had a suspicion last November when she called the bus driver that she would wait for her child on the building lobby where she would be dropped off. The bus driver told her not to go down yet until he called. (More details on the story here: Accused rapist...)

The kid got home but did not tell anything. However, the mother saw weird stains on her uniform and had a bad suspicion. So, she kept the uniform and they went to India for the examination.

Now, the story and the name of the school has been released for public's knowledge so the people are aware that this thing can happen to anyone. 

As a parent, I am fuming mad about this. What human can do such an evil act to an innocent child? She is very helpless. How can she protect herself? What can we do too? 

Most schools here in the UAE employs third-party transport services for reasons beyond my knowledge. Either because the cost of maintaining several fleet of buses and retaining employees is too much of a cost or they are just washing their hands for eventualities like this one.

There is an out-cry from the parents here in UAE. How do we protect our own children? How? Should the government here change their laws and include death penalty? Public hanging perhaps?

Those 3 animals admitted to their crime. What's next? 

Pimple Face

I am so baffled why my face is breaking out on tiny pimples on my forehead and chin area. I am way past the puberty stage where having skin blemish is a common occurrence.

I am still using the same pimple cream. I just noticed that my skin is probably immune to the components of the pimple cream. I think I will have to check the internet for the best acne treatment review. I may have to shift to a different brand if mine does not serve its purposed anymore.

Ink on Skin

I know it is very impolite to stare but I cannot help looking at my brother's big tattoo scar on his lower arm. He had tattoos inked while growing up and passing the tumultuous stage of adolescence. I'm sure, that phase drove my parents really mad and crazy. I think it was my brother's way of rebelling or showing off that he was already a grown man. Albeit, still trapped in a little boy's body.

Well, the scar was his own doing. Several years ago, he didn't know how to remove it so he used an acid to scar the upper skin layer. If he knew the best tattoo removal cream during that time, he would buy one to cover the marks of his rebellious past.

I pat him on the back for his bravery and tap him on his head for his irrational behavior and poor judgment. I know, people will have their own personal perspective on putting ink on their skin. It can be for aesthetic reasons, a phase one go through, a sign of toughness, of bravery or just fad. However, my brother now regrets having those tattoos on some parts of his arms. They reminded him of a past best left where it should be.

Basic Commodities and Their Ever Increasing Prices

Few years ago, before the onset of the recession of modern times, I used to go in the supermarket with a mere 50 dirhams (approx. US$12.00). I could fill my shopping cart with vegetables, few canned goods and some poultry and meat.

That was few years ago. Now, I can barely fill a "basket" with grocery items without having to shell out more than a hundred dirhams. The basic commodities like rice, poultry, meat, water, vegetables and fruits have increased. I am not sure about the exact percentage of the increase but they it I would estimate, it would be around 20%-40%.

The price hike started last year, around September or October. I am not sure if they will further increase the price since I have not read anything about it. However, a roll-back would be ideal and certainly appreciated if only this region would consider...

Kiosk Stand in the Office

I must be very pre-occupied with something that I did not notice the installed kiosk in our office lobby. I have been walking past the white rackmount near the lift and did not realize it was there. I asked my colleague this afternoon when it was installed. I was surprised to know that it was there for the past year. What? I thought I was extra sharp on noticing my surrounding but being in that building for the past 8 years have made everything around me seem like a blur.

My colleague was surprised herself. It was a big kiosk and was hard to miss. I could not give any reason because I just went past that same kiosk for over a year now without realizing it there. 

The installed kiosk was for the staff's use when they want to book their tickets on last minute and to those who have no access to a computer due to the nature of their job. It is very convenient and yet, I have missed to notice its existence.

Household Tip - Easy Ginger Peel

I tried using a paring knife to peel off the skin of ginger. However, most of the time, I get my fingers' slightly cut.

Thanks to Food Network channel, I learned an easy way to peel a ginger without cutting yourself. SPOON! Yes, the spoon is the best tool to pare a ginger. Use the sides of the spoon and scrape it like you would use a peeler. It really works and faster too without sacrificing your fingers.

My Friend is Pregnant!

News flash! This should be in front page! I am so happy because one of my best friend is pregnant. Her first child was born many years ago and now she is going to have another baby. All of us in her circle of friends are really hoping it is a baby girl this time. She really wanted to have a little "princess" at home.

Her circle of friends are very quick to remind her to take her prenatal-vitamins, have a good rest, do not over-tire herself, eat vegetables and fruits and take everything easy in terms of her activities. She is already in her late 30's and may experience different symptoms now as compared to her first pregnancy. It has been a long time so she may find her second pregnancy a challenge. So, we are all supporting her and make sure she is healthy and fit to go through this second pregnancy without or at least, very minimal complication.

Time-Out from Facebook

It already came to a point where I am feeling a wee tired of opening my Facebook. I only do it these days to check who's online, for personal messages and what's happening to my family and friends. Apart from that, I have lessened my playing time drastically.

I just want to get my life back pre-Facebook where I used to do a lot of stuff - healthy and enjoyable stuff like going to the park, walking my dog, meeting friends and a bit of shopping. I got hooked on Facebook for sometime and dropped my activities all together so I could dedicate my time playing. I know, it's bad and I had to put a stop on it.

So, I'm having a temporary break from Facebook. Not a total fasting but minimizing my usage time to an hour and the rest is spent for what is truly essential.

Riding School

The riding school near our building is in full gear again because of the pleasant weather. The horses are being brought outside for a gallop with their riders. I usually see them in action in the morning as I drive to work. I sometimes drive slow to witness the handlers place the horse tack, blankets and pads.

I am really in awe in the presence of these Arabian horses. They are so beautiful. I wish I have enough money so I and my daughter can enroll in the beginner's riding lessons. Unfortunately, it is quite costly here. We can only do it during the colder season which is just barely 4 months in a year.

Save A Lot

The global recession has put everyone's spending habits to the test. No one knew when it would hit and when it did, plenty of people were not prepared to face the great depression of  the modern time.

People who managed to save enough to cushion the blow of unemployment, deflation, and economic crisis are ones to be emulated. These people are the ones who seek discounts and great deals from internet sites like Savings.com, cut out coupons from newspapers and magazines, recycle things and re-use them, and ask themselves hundred times whether they should buy or not before making a purchase.  Many people have sacrificed the comforts they once had to be able to save money. Some go through the length of cutting back or downgrading their common services like cable subscription, telephone and internet lines, mobile phone line subscription, magazine and newspaper subscription, membership fee in gyms and other health or recreational clubs. Other sold their other properties to retain one and have taken the task of public commuting to save on gas consumption.

Saving has become the trend of most people now. The majority of the masses have reconsidered the art of spending less and thinking twice whether a purchase is necessary or not. Gone are the days of living in the lap of luxury. People have gone back to the conservative and time-tested methods of saving. People are now re-inventing ways of saving more and spending less by being wise and frugal. 

Headphones Abound

Our house is full of gadgets and trinkets and headphones - not just two but almost a dozen!

You can find two or three in my study drawer, two hanging on my daughter's knick-knack rack, two in my hubby's luggage, one in my bag (for my iPod) and two in the living room when they feel like listening to some head-banging music.

We just have plenty of them so where ever you turn or look at, you will certainly see one in plain sight. I like it that way. At least, we don't fight or wait for our turn to use the headphone. Not only that, we all have our varying tastes in music. I love soft and light, my daughter is into Japanese, my brother is into heavy Japanese music, and my husband is into pop.

So, it is just right to have enough headphones to go around. I know, people ask, "Does 8 pairs of ears require a lot of headphones?" My answer is YES.

No HATE!!!

What the heck is going on in Arizona?!? I told myself countless times that I will stop reading the news because the headlines are just so negative.

I am so surprised to read that a 22-year old gunman randomly shot at people with a plot of shooting Congresswoman Gifford while meeting her constituents last Saturday.

Young adults are becoming very bold and daring and the one thing that bugs me is that, how the heck do they acquire semi-automatic weapon? Legal age? Don't they go through series of psychological tests to ensure the person who acquires a weapon is a responsible person with a sound mind?

A number of casualty from this senseless and merciless killing perished. Among them is a 9 year old girl who happened to love politics and was newly elected in her student council. She was a bright person with a bright future - if she hadn't been shot!!!

Wake up America? Maybe, some things should get tightened... 

New Fitness Equipment is Healthy Enjoyment

Our building's gym equipment needs serious updating or much better, replacement of modern and current models.

I appreciate the fact that we have a free gym in the building to use. However, the optimum exercise regime is not achieved when most of the fitness equipment are malfunctioning.

I remember using the treadmill last week and was already on my peak when the machine went kaput. I almost fell but luckily was holding the side rails so I managed to hang on.

There is a reason why a successful gym requires modern and functioning equipment so that people can achieve their objectives. If the landlord hears our pleas and decides to replace or update the fitness equipment, then we, the tenants, are all going to be very happy!

Beads and More Beads

My daughter received a nice jewelry making supplies with lots of glass beads for Christmas. She eagerly opened it and started with the project over the weekend. She took my neck measurement and asked for my preferred colors amongst the selection. I happily obliged because she was making me a bead necklace. She knows how much I love wearing accessories rather than the real deal.

Her project is progressing well. She even asked me to try it just to make sure her beads are aligned and the length is enough for me.

She really enjoys doing arts and craft. She is following my footsteps and I am so proud of her. I hope she continues to make use of her God-given talent and creativity for the good.

A Sudden Bright Idea

Have you ever experienced having episodes of ideas popping in your head even before you go to sleep? It has been happening to me lately. For few nights now, I have been sleeping with a pen and paper on my night stand so I can write down my ideas as soon as it pops. I usually give in to them because I don't want to waste that opportunity to record some good insights.

I'm not really sure where they are coming from. They are mostly ideas of what I can do when I go home in the Philippines for good. I have always been vocal about my desire to put up my own business and be my own boss. Since my tenure here in Dubai is coming to a close (not so soon though), I am already thinking of ways to keep the cash flow going.

I may not earn whatever I am getting now back home but I am looking forward to the fact that I will generate jobs. I don't have to answer to anyone but God and certainly, I'll give my staff more days off (if needs be).

It's really weird how these bursts of ideas usually come at night. Maybe because my mind is already relaxed and away from stress so my sub-conscious is feeding my brain thoughts of opportunities.

I hope this keeps going. I may just narrow down to one or two in the long run. I can't wait to see my dreams into realities. I keep my hopes high and fingers crossed (eyes included...LOL!).

Valuable Insurance

We have been hit by the great depression of modern times. Not everyone is prepared when the recession came. Some may have been very lucky to apply the moral of the fable - The Grasshopper and the Ant while others lived like there was no tomorrow.

Many businesses closed because of the economic uncertainty which plagued the entire world. I do not think that a single nation has been spared because of the recession but many who are wise to secure their future are left standing.

This is why having insurance is as valuable as saving money. A wise person will have his or her assets insured by following Insurance guide and principles to prepare for the worse. Even business investors, home owners and auto owners are purchasing insurance to have their hard-earned property and assets covered. An example of this is the Florida Auto Insurance Quotes an auto owner can request from insurance dealers in the US. 

There are a myriad of insurance company worldwide who can offer you the security and peace of mind through various insurance coverage products and service. It does not matter if you live in Europe, Asia, Middle East, Australasia and the Americas. Owning an insurance will surely give you something to relax about when thinking of security and coverage.

Seoul Vacation 2010

I have mentioned here before about the pictures I would post when I have things organized. I thought I would be able to organize our pictures as soon as we got back from Seoul. However, we had another trip to NYC few days after our arrival from Korea. So, to make the long story short, my pictures to organize have tripled! Here are some pictures taken in the beautiful city of Seoul.

Enjoy!

 Below is Myeongdong Street at night. This place is famous for its retail merchandise from the peddlers to the stores lined up. I didn't buy anything at all so I don't know how haggling works in this place. I have seen imitations upon imitations of famous luxurious brands here. I wanted to buy the fake "Ugg" but the better of me said nope.

Below is the Admiral Yi Sun-shin monument and fountains along Gwanghwamun Square. This square was inaugurated on 2009. It is right in front of the Gyeongbokgung Palace, in the heart of Seoul. This place is walking distance from where we stayed. Well, I forgot the name of the hostel but it was a member of the Innotel chains in Korea.

Below is the path leading to Gyeongbokgung Palace, still in  Gwahnghwamun Square. This is behind the Statue of King Sejong and the museum beneath it.

Below is a picture taken inside the palace. I posed near the tall guard before they all took off for the Ceremony of the Changing of the Guards. 

Inside the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Nice mountain backdrop, right?

I forgot  what this place was called. I'm not sure if this is the Sejong Centre of the Museum of Arts. I can't figure it out though.

This is taken from Gwanghwamun Square right after checking the museum beneath the King Sejong statue. Admission is free.

On our way to Everland Resort. It's like Disneyland in Seoul.

Some space-ship looking monument near the Lotte Castle and Resort.

Funny looking tree in Everland Resort.

The entrance facade of Everland Resort. It looks like Enchanted Kingdom from afar.

Inside Everland Resort. This is taken near the botanical garden.

 Holland Village in Everland Resort.

Chyeonggyecheon Stream at night. This is near the hostel where we stayed. I actually like the area where we booked our stay because it was walking distance to the subway, the palace and the square and this. Also near the night markets like Myeongdong and Nandaemon. This stream had wonderful musical fountain but when we returned after a long walk, it was already over so I didn't get to video and snap photos. Maybe next time.