Ruby Tuesday: Packing for the Trip

[caption id="attachment_215" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Packing my handbag for the trip"][/caption]

My son and I went on a trip to Manila with my sister and our mom last week.  I packed my favorite book, Peony in Love by Lisa See and my son's The Manga Jesus together with some Kit-Kat powerbars.  The Kit-Kats proved to be useful when we were stranded for around 19 hours at the airport on our way home.  But that's another story.  Happy Ruby Tuesday, everyone! Don't you just love this meme!

 

 

 

 

Money, Money, Money! - Reading "The Net Worth Workout"

[caption id="attachment_120" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Susan Feitelberg's The Net Worth Workout"][/caption]

I am currently reading my best friend's copy of Susan Feitelberg's The Net Worth Workout, a text/workbook on working out your financial health.  Being a mom who aspires to build a modest yet wealthy single-mom-queendom, it is part of my goals to have a clear vision of the financial road I am taking.  This is timely because the friends I have grown up with are on the same path of building their own empires in their own ways.

My attraction to Feitelberg's book in relation to the many books on finance I have come across is that over the first 40 pages, she keeps reminding the reader of these things:

1. Set time to HAVE A CLEAR PICTURE, PLAN and WORKOUT your financial goals (short- and long-term [long term includes retirement])


2. Remember that ATTITUDE AND DISCIPLINE are keys to creating wealth.  There are no quick fixes to appease our money worries; our financial anxieties are ironed out by spending time to plan and study our options in time.


3. I think the best thing that she has ever said so far is that WE START WHERE WE ARE FINANCIALLY in the Net Worth Workout.  But by practicing the principles that Feitelberg analogizes with the preparation and ultimate victory of top athletes, our current savings may be increased by 20%, gearing it for investment (p. xii).


4. Work with a financial adviser (someone who won't tell you about quick fixes, but someone who will guide/advise you on sound investment/financial practices that are best suited to your unique needs and goals).

So far, so good! I'm thoroughly enjoying this, while being educated by Ms. Feitelberg, a creative teacher, who parallels the success of the truly wealthy to the victories of top athletes.

"Managing money is an ongoing self-improvement project."  - Susan Feitelberg

It is a process not an end.  Let's be on this journey together!!!!

 

Earthquake Again: Intensity 4.5 March 28, 2011 Cagayan de Oro City

My hometown, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines was struck by an earthquake again at 1:30 p.m. this afternoon. The magnitude was intensity 4.5 in the Richter Scale. Those who felt the 10 second earthquake described the scenario as having moving objects (tables, shelves and other appliances) with a rumbling sound.

In times like these, when the last earthquake in the city struck on March 18 at around 3 in the morning, it is best to be prepared. Philvolcs recently discovered a fault line in nearby Tagoloan, the next town about 45 minutes away from the heart of the city.

Since nature and its movements are unpredictable, it doesn't hurt to be prepared. Always have a bag of extra clothes, first aid kit and toiletries ready on these uncertain times. Have an earthquake and fire drill for your family and children. Don't forget to pray.

God bless us all.

Sources:

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsww/Quakes/usc0002cw3.php

http://www.everythingcdo.com/2011/03/magnitude-33-earthquake-in-cagayan-de.html

http://www.3littlepigsonline.com/2011/03/what-to-do-during-an-earthquake/

R.I.P. Liz Taylor

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="318" caption="Elizabeth Taylor 1932-2011"][/caption]

I didn't know Liz Taylor died last March 23, 2011 until I read the last line of Paulo Coelho's Character of the Week. No wonder she was on the news which was our background noise during a friend's daughter's graduation party last night.

It's amazing how a spectator such as myself had taken for granted the mortality of this legendary lady's life.

I mostly remember reading about her in National Enquirer tabloids back in the early '90's and spraying my mom's Elizabeth Taylor Passion perfume in the same era.  In 1991, she hogged the headlines with her controversial 9th marriage to Larry Fortensky, a construction worker, whom she met at the Betty Ford Clinic (a rehab center for alcoholics).  Elizabeth signed an agreement to award Fortensky $1 Million if their marriage lasted 5 years.  They divorced in 1996.  She is also one of Michael Jackson's well known best friends.

Although I have only read about Liz Taylor in the later years of her life, what I most remember reading about was her struggle between proving her acting abilities that were overshadowed by her exquisite beauty.  Eventually, she became the highest paid celebrity by the time she filmed  Cleopatra in 1960.

Among the many things written about the extraordinary violet eyed beauty, what has stuck me most is her highly publicized love life.  Sadly, her story is proof that physical beauty doesn't necessarily assure one of a romantic happily ever after.

Elizabeth's most significant contribution to society, though overlooked by many (including myself), was cofounding the American for AIDS Research in 1985, following the AIDS related death of her friend, Rock Hudson.

Goodbye, Liz.  I wish you a peaceful and blessed happily ever after with the One Who gave you the beautiful face and colorful life that has entertained millions the world through your decades in the Silver Screen.

Benefits of Blogging

Instead of blah, blah, blah-ing, I find myself talking like this: blog, blog, blog... :)  Good thing my friends don't get tired of listening to me explain the benefits of blogging.

Why blog, after all?  Well, given that many people have been struck with internet addiction, blogging is a "justified" way of spending way too much time on the internet.  Instead of playing online games, peeking on the private lives of non-Hollywood human beings like you and me, instead of wasting time on the internet, blogging, if you're not studying or earning money online, is the better way.

Blogging is to scrap booking, journal writing, stamp collecting and autograph signing in the olden days.  Only, blogging gets you farther into continents in seconds when the old fashioned hobbies took time and were pretty much solitary endeavors.  Blogging lets you interact with fellow blogger in real time while arranging the objects of your fancy. And if you are a poet by heart, you get published at the click of the "enter" button, and voila! You have readers!  No need to wait for publishing houses to accept your manuscript/s, with blogging, you get your word out there from your own site!

But like everything else, when one ventures into this world, it is best to remember the always-in-fashion advice:  blog responsibly and be polite!

 

Ruby Tuesday: Fiery Bougainvilleas

Summertime is here!  And look at these fiery bougainvilleas! These ubiquitous flowers are sure to attract attention against the warm, sunny landscape.  Bougainvilleas which are not native to the Philippines were introduced to our country from South America.  This thorny plant with vibrant-colored flowers are sun-loving and easy to care.  But like most plants, they will appreciate daily watering.

From the Manila Bulletin, it is written that the flowers are edible and may be used to garnish salads and may also be trained as bonsais.

Have a brilliant Ruby Tuesday!!!

The Third Secret of Fatima

I just received a forwarded email from my highschool friend entitled "Lucia Reveals the Third Secret of Fatima."  I don't usually open forwarded messages but with all the calamities and unrest happening in the world right now, I looked into the late Sister Lucia of Fatima's message.  The third message was kept secret by the Vatican and made public only in June 26, 2000.  It was hidden from the public since 1917 in order to avoid panic from the world.  But now, with the adversities that face many parts of the world, not to mention the short intervals in between,  the email is circulating once again, and recipients are now keener on finding out the Blessed Mary's message in Sister Lucia's vision.

I am copying the complete text as it appears in my email.  We lose nothing by reading the text.  Spread the word, if you please.  Thank you!

Nationality:  Portuguese Born:  3-28-1907,   Aljustrel , Portugal Died:   2-13-2005 (aged 97) Convent of Carmelitas Coimbra , Portugal LUCIA REVEALS THE THIRD SECRET OF FATIMA Regardless of whatever Creed or Religion, it is better to be prepared and  be in good terms with GOD,...who created us; for we never know when we will be leaving this world..... LAST SECRET OF FATIMA The Church has given  permission to reveal to the people the last part of the message. The Blessed Virgin appeared to three children in Fatima , Portugal , in 1917........ this is a proven fact;one of these children was Lucia, (died 2-13-05). She was a cloistered nun, and lived in a monastery in Portugal . Lucia disclosed the message for the first time;  to Pope Pius Xll  who, after reading , sealed it and stored it away without making it public. Later Pope John XXIII read it and, in the same manner as his predecessor, he kept it out of the public eye because he knew that once revealed; it would bring desperation and panic to mankind, But now the time has come, and permission has been granted from Pope John Paul II  to reveal it to the children of God;........ . ........ not to create panic, but to make God's people aware of this important message and be prepared. The Virgin told Lucia: 'Go, my child, and tell the world what will come to pass during the 1950's - 2000's. Men are not practicing the Commandments that God has given us. Evil is governing the world and is harvesting hate and resentment  all over. Men will  fabricate mortal weapons that will destroy the world in  minutes!.... .. where half of the human race will be destroyed. The war will begin against Rome , and there will be conflicts amongst religious orders...... .....  God will allow all natural phenomena like smoke, hail, cold, water, fire, floods, earthquakes, winds and inclement weather to slowly batter the planet. These happenings will come to pass before the year 2012.!!!! "For those who don't/won't believe..... . . this is the time..... Your beloved mother told you:- ...........those lacking charity towards others, in words & deeds and those who do not love their neighbour like my beloved Son has loved you all ....... cannot survive! They will wish to have died. God will punish severely those who do not believe in him, those who despise him and those who did not have time for him." 'I call upon all of  you to come to my son Jesus Christ. God will help the world, but all of those who do not show fidelity and loyalty will be destroyed!' Father Agustin, who lives in Fatima , said that Pope Paul VI gave him permission to visit Sister Lucia,a cloistered nun (she did not leave the monastery nor was allowed to receive any visitors). Father Agustin said that she received him greatly overwhelmed and told him: 'Father, Our Lady is very sad because nobody is interested in her prophecy of 1917,  though the righteous are walking through a narrow path, the evil ones are walking through an ample road that is leading them straight to their destruction! Believe me, Father, the punishment will come very soon.  'Many souls will be  lost and many nations will disappear from the earth. But, in the middle of all these, if men reflect, pray and practice sincerity, good deeds, kindness and respect, the world can be saved....... . .. However, if men persist with evil ways....greed, hatred, selfish acts, rivalry, and rif, the world will be lost forever!. The time has come for all  to pass on the message of our Blessed Lady to their families, friends, and to the entire world.  Continue praying, make penitence and sacrifices. We are close to the last minute of the last day and the catastrophes are near. Due to this, many that were far from the Church will return to the open arms of the Church of Jesus Christ. The joining of the churches will result in one Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church; ........ England , Russia , China , Jews, Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus,Protestants, etc..... All will return believing and worshipping God our Creator, in his beloved Son and in Blessed Mother Virgin Mary.'  WHAT AWAITS US ??? Everywhere there will be 'Peace Talks', but punishment will come. A MAN IN A VERY  IMPORTANT POSITION WILL BE ASSASSINATED AND THIS WILL PROVOKE THE WAR. A POWERFUL ARMY WILL DOMINATE ALL THROUGH EUROPE AND THE NUCLEAR WAR WILL COMMENCE. This war will destroy everything; darkness will fall over us for 72 hours (3 days) and the one third of humanity that survives this obscurity and sacrifice, will commence to live a new era; they will be good people. On a very cold night, 10 minutes before midnight, A GREAT QUAKE will shake the earth  for 8 hours. This will be the third signal that God Is, who governs the earth. The righteous and those who propagate the faith and the message of the Lady of   Fatima is : 'ONE SHOULD NOT FEAR, DO NOT BE AFRAID'. WHAT TO DO??? : Bow your heads, kneel down and ask God for forgiveness.  Because, only what is good and is not under the power of evil will survive the catastrophe. In order for you to prepare and remain alive and safe, I will give you the following signs: ANGUISH..... ... AND IN A SHORT PERIOD THE EARTHQUAKE WILL COMMENCE... THE EARTH WILL SHAKE..... The  shake will be so violent that will move the earth 23 degrees and then it will return it to its normal position. Then, total and absolute darkness will cover the entire planet.... All the evil spirits will be mingling around and free, doing harm to all those souls that did not want to listen to this message and those who did not want to repent. To the faithful souls, remember to light the blessed candles, prepare a sacred altar with a crucifix in order to communicate with GOD and implore for His infinite mercy.... All will be dark; and IN THE SKY A GREAT MYSTIC CROSS will appear to remind us the price that his beloved Son had to pay for our redemption.. ...  In the house the only thing that can give light will be the HOLY CANDLES... Once lit, nothing will put them off until the three days of darkness are over.  Also, you should have holy water that should be sprinkled abundantly on windows and doors. The Lord will protect the property of the chosen ones.... Kneel down before the powerful cross of my beloved Son, pray the Rosary and after each Hail Mary you must pray the following: 'Oh God forgive us our sins, preserve us from the fires of hell, take all souls to heaven, especially those who are in more need of thy mercy. Blessed Virgin Mary, protect us, we love you, save us and save the world'. Pray 5 Creeds and  the Rosary which is the secret to my immaculate Heart. All those who believe in my words go and take the message to everyone, DO NOT FEAR!  FEAR NOTHING DURING THE LORD'S GREAT DAY. Talk to all, now that there is time. Those who keep quiet will be responsible for all those souls who will perish in ignorance. All those who pray humbly the rosary will have the protection of heaven. Those who are bound to die, I will help them die in peace, and they will be holy when they enter the other world. I wish all my children to attend mass every first Friday and every first Saturday of each month; to confess and receive Holy Communion; and in doing so, save the world from its TOTAL DESTRUCTION. ..!! When the earth shakes no more, those who still do not believe in our Lord will perish in a horrible way:- The wind will bring gas and it will disperse it everywhere, then the sun will rise.  Maybe you will survive this catastrophe. Do not forget that God's punishment is holy and ONCE IT HAS STARTED YOU SHOULD NOT LOOK OUTSIDE, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE !!!! GOD DOES NOT WANT ANY OF HIS GOOD CHILDREN TO SEE WHEN HE PUNISHES THE SINNERS..... ......... .... All this encompasses with the  writings of the Holy scriptures.. .... Read on the New Testament: Lucas  21 - 5:121, 12:19, 20:20, 29:33   Letters of St Paul 3 - 8 - 14 Isaiah 40, 1:5:9. You must understand that God allows all this to happen. The Pope and Bishops are now awaiting another message that speaks about repentance and prayer. Please remember that God's words are not a threat, .......... but good news..... Please reproduce these pages and send them to all you know so we all can have the opportunity to repent and be saved. We do not know if those receiving this message believe or not in GOD,....but just think that, if you are receiving this message it is for a good reason!!.. from God who created us and loves us so much! Our Creator is giving us the chance to be saved, no matter  what religion or creed we may be. If you don't believe in this message, at least send it to others, it costs you nothing. To all those receiving it, they can have the opportunity to judge and decide for themselves. Remember, we can avoid a great deal of evil if we practice the Commandments that Our Loving Father God gave us.... Just 10 simple ways, that if we all put into practice we can obtain God's pardon. Amen.

Another Earthquake

Earlier, a friend in Facebook posted "Earthquake" in her status.  She works and lives in Metro Manila and I immediately looked up "earthquake makati city march 21, 2011" via google.  I went to the Inquirer's website, and it said that the epicenter of the 5.7 quake was in Occidental Mindoro.  It generated a magnitude 3 quake in Makati City, similar to the 3.3 magnitude quake felt in the southern part of the Philippines last March 17.  The Inquirer said that a magnitude 4 earthquake will shake the earth as if a large truck has passed by.

Inquirer.net further reported that although there is no reason for a tsunami alert, everyone must still be prepared.  There were no damages or injuries during the earthquake yesterday.

God bless the world.

The Push and Pull on the Population Debate in the Philippines

I found this very concise take on the neverending argument between Church and State on the Philippines' Reproductive Health Bill surprisingly in aljareeza.net.

The bulleted points on the opposing sides' argument seem to understandably baffle 101 East (the aljareeza contributor), in the same way that it confounds this blogger and perhaps many other thinkers in the Philippines.

"On this edition of 101 East we look at one of Asia's most densely populated countries, the Philippines, and ask if the Catholic Church is affecting the nation's health," concludes the blog author. And I believe this is an eye-opening question to the Catholic congregation (if not the staunch church officials who fight for natural birth control) and to the Filipinos as a whole.

As a Catholic and as a member of the thinking society, I have found that there are no easy takes on the RH Bill. On one hand, the medical and scientific fields are taking the practical steps on controlling our burgeoning population. This is imperative because, as 101 East has pointed out, the UN has projected that by 2025 our country will not have enough resources to feed the mouths in our nation. On the other hand, we cannot just be tolerant about sexual practices (premarital sex, teenage pregnancies, illicit relationships) that risk one's mental health and more glaringly, risks unwanted or unplanned pregnancies.

But to get a sound message through, there has to be proper and humane sex education which should not be devoid of  emotional processing of the group or individual.

Both the secular and religious sectors cannot be simplistic on their cries for or against the RH Bill. And sadly, to speak up to the Church, the leaders have to create a better strategy than their gung-ho, "no-can-do" approach in fighting for their cause on the natural way, if they are to win people to their cause.  Although the Church has the people's best interest in mind, the former has to remember they are up against media (which, in reality, marks the signs of the times).  Sadly, the Church's staunch approach on the matter is driving many people away.

I understand both sides of the debate and find advantages and disadvantages on each side's points. It doesn't take a scientist to see the practicality of the non-religious point of view. It's a matter of choice and responsible health care, they say. The church on the other hand, says that sex is to be used for procreation within the sacrament of marriage. It's a matter of taking responsibility not only of one's body, but of one's soul, they say.

Here are my thoughts to close this monologue (and how I wish I had someone to literally, verbally talk this over with right now): While the Church will always be an influential part of Philippine culture, and while it will adhere to its unwavering stand on family planning, the debate will continue to be a hot item until someone in the high position will make a stand and defy fear of excommunication and stamp the RH Bill: PASSED!

In the meantime, we, as Filipinos who aspire to uplift our countries, can only do our best in the sphere of our influence, which are the home, the workplace and the communities we belong. We can integrate responsible sex education in our daily conversations with the children we care for and the youth who silently seek our guidance.

*** Practical sex education advice:

1. To small children: Your private parts are private. Nobody has the right to touch your private parts except when it is being washed. Learn how to wash your private parts by yourself. If anyone touches your private parts or tells jokes about your private parts, report it to your "safe other" (parents, teachers, guidance counselor, or someone you trust). In the same way, you have no right to touch or make fun of anyone else's private parts.

2. To prepubescents: Your bodies are growing and changing. These are how your bodies will change. Take care of your bodies. If you have any questions about your bodily changes, do not hesitate to ask your "safe other". (Make sure you distinguish that a safe other in this case does not mean their impressionable peers, but adults who are not sexually threatening or intimidating or even attractive [?]. In short, someone they look up to as a mentor and guide.)

3. To adolescents: Do not make questions on sex a taboo. Answer questions head on while remain being honest about your feelings on the matter. (i.e. if you feel uncomfortable about the topic, say it outright and suggest a specific person more suited to answer the teenager's question. People, children included, will always appreciate honesty.). Since there will always be news on rape or sexual assault on the news (what a sad reality!), it could be an educative moment, not only on the scientific and legal aspect but in the spiritual facet as well.

Other tips: Always keep your ears open on your children's questions, comments, and even their fleeting asides. Contrary to popular belief, sex education starts early and starts at home. It is not only about condoms, pills and babies, but about the whole human anatomy and our emotional and spiritual make up as well. We are not only creatures of soil but are souls too.

Wonder Women: Lynda, Adrianne and Me

[caption id="attachment_183" align="aligncenter" width="213" caption="Adrianne & Lynda"][/caption]

Image Source: Eonline

(The first time I saw the new Wonder Woman was in my friend Marie's blog.  Thanks, Marie!!!)

I've always dreamed of being Wonder Woman.  I attended a costume party in our neighborhood back when I was around 8 years old and drooled with envy over the celebrant's costume:  she was Wonder Woman, only she wore black stockings for whatever reason her mother had.

These days, I content myself by referring to my efforts as Wonder Woman by virtue of being a full time day-job employee, a full time single mother (who does the laundry, cooking and cleaning after work; not to mention tutoring my son when he comes home from school!) and an aspiring blogger.  But sadly, I still don't have a Wonder Woman costume.

But guess who gets a new one?

Finally, after many years and remakes of Superman, Batman and even The Green Hornet, Wonder Woman gets a new face in the hot and sultry Adrianne Palicki.  Wonder Woman even gets  a "new" flavor to her sexy costume.  She's wearing gorgeous tights instead of Lynda's hotpants and now has electric blue boots instead of the '70's red number.

I love how Lynda Carter turned over the golden crown/band to Adrianne Palicki.  Read here for the full interview. True to being a worthy member (not only muse) of the Justice League, it's truly magnanimous and gracious of Lynda to welcome Adrianne into the sisterhood of Wonder Woman with wonderful and encouraging words.

Now that I still dream of wearing that gold band over my head (while doing my real life Wonder Woman tasks), I now have the choice between Lynda's '70's style or Adrianne's updated costume.

Banco Filipino Fiasco

I spent the afternoon with friends today and one of them, a depositor of Banco Filipino, lamented the current status of the crippled bank.  "Bank run", she said.

Apparently, their family corporation has deposited a substantial amount in the said bank.  The PDIC-insured amount of Php 500,000.00 is but a fraction to the amount they have been saving in Banco Filipino.  "From the looks of it, it's quite a weak bank", I remarked, remembering that it was ordered to close back in 1985.  The bank resurfaced in the late 1990's.

Incidentally, one of the members of our afternoon party today was a manager of one of the more reputable and "stronger" banks in the city.  My friend consulted with him about the possibility of retrieving the whole amount they had deposited.  The elderly manager said that there is a new circular that has certain requirements in order to retrieve the money, or at least the published PDIC-insured amount of Php500,000.00.

The Sunstar Daily column on the matter dated March 18, 2011 is right on mark when the columnist wrote that the "irony (of the catchphrase "Subok na matibay, subok na matatag") isn't lost on angry clients who entrusted their money to the bank".

For the sake of my friend, and all the other depositors, especially those who endeavor to save aggressively (whether in small amounts or by the millions), I hope they retrieve their money at the soonest time.

***

Here's the GMA news link on the Banco Sentral ng Pilipinas order on the closure of Banco Filipino due to its Php 8.5 billion liability.  I wonder how that came to be?

CLICK HERE for an informative and interesting read on the history and/of weaknesses of Banco Filipino by Lala Rimando.  Enlightening.

 

Yummy Sunday: Ready for the Exotic?

[caption id="attachment_88" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="exotic food: pig's brain"][/caption]

Here's an exotic dish that is popular in our dinner table:  pigs brain in vinegar and garlic.  Definitely not for the faint hearted nor ones with "delicate guts".  But if you're in for an adventure, it's surprisingly good.  My 12 year old cousin tried it for the first time after seeing my son all worked up on having this for lunch.  My cousin said,  "It's actually very good!"

Before I proceed to the recipe, here's a story:

When my mom was still a little girl, she was often told that she was intelligent.  When her mother, my grandma, prepared this dish for her, she thought about how she wanted to add power to her intelligence.  She equated brain size to being bright and thought that if she ate the dish her mom prepared for her, she'd add to her brain size and level up on her smartness.  When my grandmother made this dish for me, my mom told me this story.  It made eating pig's brain even more enjoyable.  I passed this on to my son who likes retelling my mom's story to whomever will listen each time this dish is served.

Enough talking, now for the recipe:

Ingredients:

1. 10 pcs. fresh pig's brain (available in the local market)


2. native vinegar (but regular vinegar will do)


3. salt


4. garlic

Procedure:

1. Clean the pig's brain by running water and gently removing the membranes.


2. Put the cleaned pig's brain in a pot.  Add desired amount of vinegar (the more the better, to wash out the pungent smell of the offal).


3. Add salt and garlic.


4. Cook with slow fire for about 20 minutes.  Do not let the vinegar dry out.

Strengthen up your gut and feel like a Fear Factor winner!

Yummy Sunday: Ossobucco

Sluurrrp! I highly enjoyed this mouthwatering osso bucco (which, according to my computer's dictionary means an Italian dish made with veal shank containing marrowbone, stewed in wine with vegetables and seasonings).  Although my mom said the presentation wasn't good, the taste was absolutely satisfying!  On the left is the pineapple fried rice served in a pineapple shell :D  Bon appetit, Yummy Sunday!

Camera Critter: Cat in Church

 

[caption id="attachment_82" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="kittykitty on my fan"][/caption]

My son and I attended mass tonight and he saw his friend, whom he calls Kitty Kitty.  Here he/she is resting comfortably on my Footstool Palm fan called an abaniko.  :)  Happy Saturday, Camera Critters!!!

My First Camera Critters :)

My first Camera Critters... Caught these two doing some hanky panky in a nook in a ceiling... Grabbed my camera and clicked!  Natural selection happens everywhere!

What to do During an Earthquake

Last night, there was an earthquake in my hometown, with a magnitude of 3.3 on the Richter scale. It was pretty scary because it actually woke many residents up, alerting each other and loved ones abroad through Facebook about the strong tremor. It was said that the earth shook twice in this area at around 3 in the morning.

Although our place has not had any history of massive earthquakes and tsunamis (but it is prone to flooding), I just learned that the town next to our city 30 minutes drive up north was discovered by the PHILVOLCS to have a fault line.

Here's a link to the news on the earthquake in my hometown, which is around 6 hours plane ride away from Japan.

I found this helpful FEMA (Fedeeral Emergency Management Agency) information on how to protect ourselves and our children during earthquakes.  Sadly, part of being residents of this planet doesn't exempt anyone from the risk of earthquakes.  CLICK HERE TO BE DIRECTED TO FEMA.

Here is a discussion/study from the Business Mirror on the Japan earthquake last March 11, 2011 in relation to the Philippines tectonic plates.  CLICK HERE TO BE DIRECTED TO BUSINESSMIRROR.

Earthquake

It's 4:15 in the morning and I woke up from a tremor at about an hour ago. I thought I was imagining things but then I saw a friend from Facebook who lives in the same city as me put up a status that said she felt it too.

With what has been happened in Japan, it is no surprise that the tectonic plates in our area moved a bit, as the Philippines roughly belongs to the neighboring longitudinal line as Japan (lower left side of the world map).

That said, although the earth tremor was but slight, it still scared me and I am still up in the wee hours of morning.

Some Notes on Organizing Events

 

Children's parties. Weddings. Charity fund raisers. Church events. School or community programs. At some point or another, we are bound to be part of organizing events. By the virtue of the event's nature, an occasion will entail an influx of people, whether a party of 10 or a thousand. Here are some tips that fit the bill in successfully organizing small or big events:

1. Pre-planning stage: Answer these questions
   a. What is the nature of the event?
   b. How many people will be attending the gathering?
   c. How many people are currently involved in the preparations?
   d. How many people do you think you will need to prepare?
   e. Who are the key people needed to make this event a success?
   f. How much is your budget for the event?
   g. What are the things needed for the event? (venue, music, food, fliers, giveaways, etc)


2. Planning stage
   a. Categorize the needs for the events. (i.e. venue, food, party/event knick knacks, invitations)
   b. Delegate people to canvass for the different needs. Ask from at least 3 suppliers for the different needs. Ask around from friends about the good services for the best price.
   c. Pick the best deals from suppliers. Book and buy needs.
   d. Call key people needed for the event, and book them a month or 2 weeks in advance depending on the need.


3. 1 week before
   a. call the suppliers in advance (a week ahead) to confirm orders and bookings.
   b. meet with key people to discuss and finalize the flow of the program (meet the priest to ask for suggestions on how to go about a special thanksgiving mass, for example; or meet with the emcee to give special instructions). Inform the key people and the organizing crew of the call time for the events.
   c. Double check your list to see whether everything has been set and see whether you need to add anything to your list.


4. A Day Before the Event
   a. call key people and suppliers to remind them of the call time for the next day
   b. double check on the supplies
   c. pay for the ordered supplies (except for catered food)
   d. arrange the supplies in labeled boxes
   e. call catering service to remind them of their call time


5. On the day itself
   a. The organizing crew should be in the venue 3 hours before the event to oversee final preparations of the event
   b. All the supplies that have been ordered (except catered food) should have been paid for by now and arrange them in their proper places
   c. Assign one person to usher in the invited key people/persons. Make sure you have a token/gift for that invited guest.
   d. Have an emergency plan in case any of your plans crash during the event (i.e. make back up cd's, bring emergency kits of first aid, safety pins, double sided tapes, bond papers, pencils, envelopes and common sense with a dash of quick thinking)
   e. smile and enjoy!


6. After the event  meet with crew to assess the outcome of the event and see what things worked well and what need to be improved and list these down for future reference.

If you have planned well and things go wrong, remember it's not the end of the world! As long as you know you did your best, remember nothing is perfect. And if it goes wonderfully, thank high heavens for making the conditions work in your favor!!!

An Upset Redhead

I'm upset. I spent 4 hours at a neighborhood salon. Nothing fancy. I just wanted to hide the premature strands of grey showing on the crown of my head that prevented me from parting my hair the way I like it. I chose that beauty parlor because they have Matrix hair color products.

I chose the closest one to brown, as I am not inclined for loud fashion statements. I just wanted a normal, shiny brown.

I chose Wonder.Brown in Medium Dark Blonde (or something like that) and now I have a crown of red hair totally not what I want. Although it is not as offensive as I probably think it is, the fact of the matter is that I am not so happy with it.

I am not saying that Matrix is not a good product. Far from it. In fact, I picked that salon precisely because of the availability of Matrix products. The problem had to do with the stylist who didn't give any alternatives to the hair color that I wanted, but just gave a go to the closest color that was available. He should have advised me to use another hair coloring product and forego the only available color from Matrix and suggest that I order the exact color that I want for future use.  I personally think the stylist, though pleasant enough, didn't give me good service as far as looking out for the result I really want. >.<

As for me, I'm praying that the red will wash off tomorrow, otherwise I'll have to re-dye it myself and load up on the conditioner.

I found this good site that offers advice for those experiencing hair dye disaster.

我的秘密: Inspired by Jay

I am absolutely crushing on Jay Chou Chieh-lun right now. Ever since I watched The Green Hornet on the week of its premier, I've been smitten. So here's what I got from my research (Thaaaank you, Google!).

Way before he wowed the world with his mysterious and dreamier version of Kato (albeit just as strong as Bruce Lee's), long before his astronomic star power hit Asia (and then the world), Jay Chou was an average student who made his teachers worry that he was dumb due to his flat affect. In a Time Magazine article that featured this hunk, Jay's highschool teacher, Ms. Ellen Hsu remarked: "He had very few facial expressions; I thought he was dumb."

In fact, what confounds me more than anything is that in the same article in Time Magazine it says that "Idolmakers thought he was ugly". That is just atrocious!!! But then again, minus the stylists' magic, Jay Chou would just be another boy from around the corner. And I have to concede that in the Asian standard of male beauty, Jay Chou before the stylists' magic wands would stop at average.

But wait, beauty is only skin deep.

What makes Jay Chou win over Jerry Yan (according to me, that is) is his stellar talent. Though Jay Chou was touted by his teachers as "stupid" (Yu tsun, still according to Time Magazine), and though his physical attributes were a diamond in the rough for Taiwan's showbiz scene, Jay's stellar prowess comes from something that cannot be fixed by plastic surgery or years and years in the academe. His creativity is sheer genius.

This is what put Jerry Yan second place and Jay Chou first in my fan heart.

His mother, Yeh Hui-mei (also made famous by Jay, through his song "Listen to Mama's Words"), observed how Jay as an infant responded to pop music. From this keen inspection, Yeh enrolled her four year old son in piano lessons. Jay has often remarked that his mother has been strict with his music lessons, such that he envied how other children had the chance to play while he was stuck playing piano.

But all the hardwork (perhaps the ten 10,000 hours that contribute to one's success, to quote Malcolm Gladwell's thesis in Outliers) has paid off and proven WRONG! everybody who thought Jay Chou was retarded and ugly -

But first, Lady Luck:

A girl from Jay's high school (someone he barely knew, again according to Time), signed him up for Taiwan's version of American Idol. Jay, who is reputedly shy, was reportedly adamant against performing alone, agreed instead to accompany a singer (who sadly got sacked). But Jay's musical score bewitched Taiwan's entertainment godfather Jacky Wu. Jacky Wu's instinct in hiring Jay was right on the mark; but it was apparently Jacky Wu who doubted that Jay Chou's looks would make him a pin-up boy.

Jay released his eponymous debut album in 2000, collaborated with Vincent Fang (articles have called Vincent Jay's twin star lyricist), made music videos that are actually watchable (and re-watchable) mini-movies (that are not about sex and drugs, but about fantasies, family, fans and forever). He also directed his first film entitled "Secret 不能說的秘密 (The Secret That Cannot Be Told)" which garnered several accolades in Hong Kong's and Taiwan's award giving bodies. Then, Hollywood embraced him and his talent (even making his Kato a piano playing hero) and the rest is history.

Now, tell me, what stroke of fortune made this boy, who was doubted for his looks and "intellect," too significant to be ignored? His star shines not only to please the eye, but to inspire. Way to go, Jay Chou!

Sample Jay's music/MV:

<a href="">

Yummy Sunday: Improvised Pork Curry & Iced Mango Candy

[caption id="attachment_69" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Improvised Pork Curry and Iced Mango Candy"][/caption]

I loooove curry and mango!  To save time, I improvised this pork curry dish with simple ingredients that are easy to use and cuts cooking time in half.  After this simple dish, I made mango dessert from my childhood, which is prepared in three easy steps.

Here's the recipe of my own improvised pork curry dish (I'm allergic to chicken, but I'm sure you can make this with chicken as well).  Good for a party of two (or three light eaters :) ).

Ingredients:

1. 3/4 k pork cut into strips


2. onion, garlic, ginger, bell pepper


3. 1 can evaporated creamer (instead of coconut milk)


4. 2 medium sized potatoes cut in fours (you can also add carrots for more nutrition and color)


5. 2 tbsps of curry powder


6. oil, salt to taste

Procedure:

1. season the meat with a 3/4 tbsp. of salt, set aside


2. sautee the garlic, onion, ginger and bell pepper


3. add the meat, let it cook until the meat is tender


4. add potatoes


5. add evaporated creamer and curry powder


6. let the dish simmer for 5 - 7 minutes

Dinner is ready!

Now for the dessert:

1. Choose three medium sized, ripe sweet mangoes


2. Dice the meat of the fruit, prepare these in solo bowls


3. Add water and 1 tbsp of sugar and ice

Yum!

My Dream Home: The Sanggojae in Perfect Match

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="624" caption="Sanggojae Image from Ajumma's Journal"][/caption]

Image source : AJUMMA'S JOURNAL (many beautiful pictures of So. Korea)

I have been itching to blog about the Sanggojae, the traditional Korean house or hanok, residence of Park Gae-In, from the Korean Drama entitled Personal Taste/Perfect Match. All throughout the drama series, I fell in love with the architecture of the house, which is a U-shaped structure and has no walls between the inner courtyard and the living room and halls. I loved how this would make for a living space with good circulation that  welcomes natural light and air into the home. Part of my attraction of the Sanggojae, which is a tourist destination in the Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, South Korea, is how the traditional house was jazzed up with simple but classy modernity.

Picture this: You have a parcel of land, say, 500 square meters or so. You enclose your lot with a sturdy firewall and build the U-shaped structure around the perimeter of your lot, leaving a good enough space for your inner courtyard. Upon entering the gate, you are led to the landing of your living room by a path in the middle of your courtyard. You step up, leave your shoes, change into your slippers and plop down your low living room sofa. You can survey the rooms located in the “legs” of your U-shaped home. The rooms have wooden sliding doors, typical among traditional structures in Japan, China and of course, Korea. The eaves of the roofs are tiled and curved in typical Asian fashion and the materials used are that of timber, rock and soil, giving the whole structure a natural look, far from the artificiality of synthetic materials.

*** Here’s the official site of the Bukchon Hanok Village where the Park Gae-In’s Sanggojae is located. I would absolutely love to visit this place! And it wouldn't hurt if I had a house like this of my own!

Linkin Park: New Divide (Lyrics and My Personal Thoughts)

My son, who will be turning 12 this year, is a music lover.  He loves different kinds of music, from the Billy Joel's Uptown Girl to Bruno Mars' Grenade, from anime soundtracks to songs from the TV series "Glee", from The Beatles' music and now to Linkin Park's "New Divide". (Click on the songs for music video links).

After hearing the song over and over again, my son said, "Ma, this song is actually emo."  His own opinion didn't deter him from playing the song over and over again.

I googled the lyrics and it is actually intense.  Oh well, this is one of the adventures of being a music lover's mom.  I get to hear different kinds of music.  As much as alternative metal isn't really my delicate cup of tea, I think the song is pretty cool.

Here are the lyrics from this site:

New Divide (Linkin Park)

I remembered black skies, the lightning all around me
I remembered each flash as time began to blur
Like a startling sign that fate had finally found me
And your voice was all I heard that I get what I deserve

So give me reason to prove me wrong, to wash this memory clean
Let the floods cross the distance in your eyes
Give me reason to fill this hole, connect the space between
Let it be enough to reach the truth that lies across this new divide

There was nothing in sight but memories left abandoned
There was nowhere to hide, the ashes fell like snow
And the ground caved in between where we were standing
And your voice was all I heard that I get what I deserve

So give me reason to prove me wrong, to wash this memory clean
Let the floods cross the distance in your eyes across this new divide

In every loss, in every lie, in every truth that you'd deny
And each regret and each goodbye was a mistake too great to hide
And your voice was all I heard that I get what I deserve

So give me reason to prove me wrong, to wash this memory clean
Let the floods cross the distance in your eyes
Give me reason to fill this hole, connect the space between
Let it be enough to reach the truth that lies across this new divide
Across this new divide, across this new divide

[caption id="attachment_116" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Dendrobium"][/caption]

I was so happy to get this "just because" gift from my best friend, a beautiful dendrobium orchid.  I was quite worried that I might not be able to take good care of it, but after online research on how to grow these delicate tropical flowers, I found that the budding orchid gardener should fertilize weekly, weakly and water the orchid media as needed (meaning, do not water during rainy days).  And if you want, talk to the orchid (plants loooove carbon dioxide!).

Read more on growing orchids in this comprehensive agricultural site.  Click here.

Here is a great site that will guide new orchid growers.  And here's a youtube video by askthedecorator on growing orchids.  You can click the vid to go to the original youtube site to read the comments from the veteran orchid growers.

Thank you, bff, for this lovely gift!!! To my orchid, I hope you grow and flourish sweetie!

Dick Wells on YouTube

Novena to St. Joseph

Tomorrow marks the first day for the Novena to St. Joseph.

As a Catholic, I have taken it upon myself to study the reasons venerating saints.  According to wikipedia, "Saints are individuals of exceptional holiness who are important in many religions, particularly Christianity. In some usages, the word "saint" is used more generally to refer to anyone who is a Christian.".  In my practice of the Catholic faith, I have come to venerate (which means to regard with great respect) certain saints in the faith, including St. Joseph, earthly father of Our Lord, Jesus.  St. Joseph is a great friend and father figure whose hasty aid (as a best friend's assistance) never fails.

In my own practice of meditating the virtues of saints (not only those who are canonized by the Church, but of earthly friends who lead otherwise exemplary lives) helps me as I ask for the grace in building my own character.

St. Joseph was a man of extraordinary faith.  He broke his betrothal to Mary, who was with Child (not his own), as was the custom of their time.  But he spared the Virgin from stoning by death and broke off their engagement quietly.  But upon the angel Gabriel's behest, Joseph married Mary and became Our Lord's foster father.  Not an easy task by any intellectual means.  It was his faith and ultimately the grace of God which gave St. Joseph the strength to carry on such an assignment.

Thus, St. Joseph has become the Patron Saint for good husbands, and for laborers as well.  But asking for St. Joseph's aid is not limited to the prayers for a good spouse and for work, but for the many needs of the family and of individuals as well.

Here is the novena prayer to be said for 9 days:

St. Joseph Novena

Feast of St. Joseph
Novena Dates March 10-18, Feast Day March 19

O good father Joseph! I beg you,  by all your sufferings, sorrows and joys, to obtain for me what I ask.

(Here name your petition).

Obtain for all those who have asked my prayers, everything that is useful to them in the plan of God. Be near to me in my last moments, that I may eternally sing the praises of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Amen.

(Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be)
Source ewtn.com.

Let's always remember to pray with faith and the knowledge that God knows what is best for us.  Keep the faith! Thank you, St. Joseph.  I love you, Jesus!

Word Filled Wednesday

[caption id="attachment_43" align="aligncenter" width="210" caption="Image Source: http://ilovebeinginlovewithhim.tumblr.com/"][/caption]

"But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble." Psalm 59:16

As a builder of a home, I believe in the Power of God's Word.  We all aspire to build houses on rocks, and what better way than to start with His Word.  After all, that is what Jesus has instructed.  So I feel so blessed right now in joining my first ever Word Filled Wednesday meme.  Internet Cafe Devotions is such a blessed site, a blessed sight.  :)  I got my photo from this tumblr blog by a lady named Gracie.  Like the administrators of Word Filled Wednesday, Gracie fills her followers' tumblr dashboards with inspiring words from the Bible and other spiritual snippets as well.  Here's to building our homes with solid foundation!!!

My Thoughts on International Women's Day

Yesterday was International Women's Day and I just read Marianne Williamson's right on the mark article on the celebration of the women all around the world.

I presently live in a city that has joined the many others in global economic growth. According to some taxi drivers I have randomly and casually interviewed, there are about 2,000 - 3,000 taxi cabs in our city that is about 170 sq. mi., home to about 600,000 residents. This city is also home to many multinational companies that have in their employ the best minds of men and women in the country.

That said, I come into contact with many people who have been experiencing high levels of stress due to the demands of living a fast-paced life. Not to say that our city is close to being New York or Hong Kong, but it is far from being the idyllic hinterlands that it used to be.

My high school teacher and I caught up with each other and I asked her how things were back in the day when the roads of our city wasn't clogged with the horrendous traffic that we contend with now. She said that basically, life as a teacher was smooth sailing and she had only a few experiences of displaced anger coming from parents of her students. And this was coming from a school of wealthy families.

Compare to what author Francis Kong had said during a Parenting Seminar I had attended when he said that the wealthier the school, the deeper the problems. And might I add, the higher the level of stress (for both the teachers, who are the second mothers of the children, and the parents themselves).

Connect to what Marianne Williamson said in her article that : "Corporate profits should not be our economic bottom line; the safety and welfare of this planet, our collective habitat, should be our bottom line. On this, we should insist. For we are the homemakers of the world...."

The pursuit of financial and economic ease has always been a non-gender issue, but with the women's lib movement in the recent decades, women's pursuit of bringing home their own bacon has been a glaring necessity in the silent majority.  This is not bad in itself.  The danger lies in the tendency to neglect the homefront for reasons of staying late at the office to bring home the extra yummy, extra strips of bacon at the expense of caring for the family and spending time with people we love, the same people who rely on us.

The basics needs are essential, but equally essential, if not more, are the time we spend looking out for what Marianne Williamson calls the safety and welfare (of our planet).  We begin everyday, moment by moment, and start at the home, outwards to the world.

My First Ruby Tuesday

Hi everyone! This is my first time to join Ruby Tuesday - and here are the things that help me with my busy schedule... My ruby red Starbucks 2011 planner and my Pei Pa Koa which soothes sore throat due to overfatigue. Thanks Ruby Tuesday!

Yummy Sunday: Prawns in Coconut Milk and Lemongrass

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Prawns in Coconut Milk"][/caption]

This is my first attempt at this mouthwatering dish, Guinataang Ulang or Prawns in Coconut Oil and Lemongrass. I had to estimate most of the ingredients as I only asked around for the cooking process.  It was fun to do, and satisfying when my family absolutely enjoyed the meal!  Careful not to put too much Sprite, as it will sweeten the dish too much.

Here's the recipe:

1.  1/2 kilo prawns

2. 1 medium sized coconut, grated (at the market)

3. Onion, garlic, ginger

4. Salt to taste

5. Oil

4. Sprite

5. Lemongrass (tied)

Procedure:

1. Prepare coconut milk by adding 1 cup lukewarm water to the grated coconut and straining water and coconut through a strainer or cheesecloth.  Set aside the first strain only.

2.  Soak prawns in sprite.  Set aside.

3.  Sautee the prawns in garlic, onion and ginger.  Add salt to taste.

4.  When the prawns turn an orange color, add Sprite, coconut milk.

5.  Wait until the coconut oil turn a yellowish color, add the lemon grass.

6.  Let simmer for about 3-5 minutes.

Enjoy your meal!

Power Ginger and Other Commonly Found Household Cures

It’s that time of the year, which sporadically comes all throughout the 12 months, when the change in weather is erratic.  Sweltering hot at mid morning till noon, cool and cloudy and then cold and rainy at night.  Result is flu like symptoms of runny nose, sore throat, headache, muscle pains and asthma.

I asked my doctor friend for a prescription and he gave me Alnix Plus, paracetamol and an antiviral tablet.

Worried for the state of my liver and negligence to take my meds on time, I resorted to ginger.

I washed off a candy-sized chunk of ginger, peeled it and then chewed on it for 5 minutes or so.  I discarded the ginger after ingesting most of its juice.  I repeated this process thrice during the day and twice the next day, and voila!  The flu like symptoms were gone.

For insomnia, I stock up on chamomile tea, which has zero caffeine, and successfully doze off for a good night’s sleep. (Might I add that meditation is also effective for this.  Stin Hansen has a good guided meditation to calm obsessive thinking, which is one of the causes of insomnia).  Worse comes to worse, I take StressTabs along with these.

For dry hands due to contact with detergents and other household cleaning solutions, I use olive oil to moisturize.  In fact, I have a bottle of olive oil in my cosmetics cabinet for that purpose alone.  After applying olive oil, I slather my hands and feet with Human Natures’ Salve (Human Nature products are said to be 100% all natural).  Both work beautifully together for soft hands and feet.

To ward off mosquitoes, I always have a bottle of organic insect repellant, citronella oil.

Secret That Cannot be Told (Discussion and Spoilers) – Read only after you’ve seen the movie

[caption id="attachment_88" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="My Secret"][/caption]

Ever since I got my copy of Jay Chou’s movie Secret (2007) via Yesasia, I have watched it four times and still hunger for more.  I have invited the preteen audience (my son and my cousin), a young adult (my sister), my best friend (an up and coming lawyer) and my mom.

The younger viewers highly enjoyed it.  My sister said “’twas okay.”  My best friend thought it was good with some forgivable loopholes.  And my mom, that’s another story.

If anything, the movie Secret is too significant to be ignored.  The movie launched an animated discussion on the movie as most movies on time travel do.  Jay Chou’s obra maestra was deftly crafted that it had two twists that were indeed surprising.

My mom watched it after I had seen the movie four times.  She was attracted to the idea that the characters, Jay and Rain, attended a music school.  I excitedly awaited her verdict.

After watching she said in her typical lecturing fashion, that the major flaw of the movie was that the seed was not planted in the begining of the movie.  By seed, she means the idea that the story is about time travel. She said that the scene sequences leading to suspense of Rain’s character broke the train of thought from cheesy, cutesy to suspense to eventually the real frame of the movie’s thought (which is time travel).  She further said that in the movie making business (and I surmise, in the novel writing as well), the formula of such art should be that a premise must be given in the beginning.  But she did end our conversation saying that Jay Chou’s piano scenes were very good (which was an unanimous vote).

In my head, I argued against my mom’s point of view thinking that the twists and turns of the movie were what made me fall in love with the movie.  To rebut my mom’s argument that a premise should have been made, the premise was the title itself.

My best friend and I had a mini-discussion on it as well.  Our conversation revolved around the process of Rain’s and Jay’s time travel.  One question she posed stuck:  “If Jay was the only one who was able to see Rain when she went to the future, would Rain be the only one who would see Jay in the past?”

Good question.

As for my sister, she keeps mum about how my love for Asian dramas is overboard.

Click here for a comprehensive discussion on Secret.

All in all, Secret That Cannot be Told is indeed a masterpiece – too significant to be ignored.

It is a worthy addition to my other time travel favorites:  Somewhere In Time, Lake House, and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.