Weekend Snapshot #52

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Sunday Lunch

I spent a nice Sunday at home with my family. Hubby prepared a delicious lunch for us today. We had chilled cucumber and dill salad for starters followed by seafood pasta (with fresh tomatoes, basil, squid rings and shrimp).

Cucumber and Dill Salad

Seafood Pasta

Yohanism #27

Sometimes I don't why what comes into my son's mind...

Yohan: "Mommy, I asked God to make me a dragon tomorrow."

Me: "But why?"

Yohan: "So I can have big wings."

Me: "You cannot ask God that. He cannot transform you into a dragon or any animal."

Yohan pouts and says, "If I become a dragon tomorrow I will use my fire breathing power!"

Me: "You know God cannot transform people into creatures or animals."

Yohan: "How about Santa?"

Me: "I'm sorry but he can't. Just think about it, have you seen a real dragon before?"

Yohan shakes his head.

Me: "That's because they don't exist."

Yohan: "Fine. How about a bird?"

Ha! Ha! Yohan was in funny mood. I think he knew all along that what he wanted was impossible. In the end he conceeded. I wonder if he was testing me. :)

Camera Critters #30

A grasshopper got inside the house. It was just what I needed for my Camera Critters #30 entry. Please pass by my other blog if you have time.

Photo Hunt :: Metal

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"Let's volt in!" This is the famous line of Voltes V, a famous Japanese anime when I was young. I remember how my brother and I looked forward to this English-dubbed anime series on TV. My hubby was also a great fan of Voltes V when he was a kid. He continues to be a big fan until now.

Voltes V

Last year, hubby bought a CD compilation of Voltes V episodes and our son, Yohan enjoyed watching it with him. I was initially concerned about the violent scenes where Voltes V battles with Bozanian monsters but I couldn't stop Yohan from watching it. He was hooked from the start.

Below is Yohan's very own Voltes V action figure made of die cast metal. It was given to him by his Uncle Keats on his last birthday. Yohan was so happy when he opened the present and hubby was equally delighted because he has always wanted one when he was a child.

Yohan's Voltes V

Aloha Friday #51

Rules: Post any question on your blog on a Friday, share your answer and sign Kailani's Mr. Linky. Then have fun answering the questions of fellow participants by visiting their blogs.

What's a nice freebie you received recently?

I got this nice magnetic bookmark when I watched Twilight at the cinema with my hubby last Wednesday night.

Follow up question: Did you watch the movie already (or do you plan to)? You may scroll down to my previous post to read my thoughts about the movie.

Reading New Moon

Admirable Traits Of A Law Enforcer

I was shocked when I watched the news headlines on Thursday morning detailing the terrorist attack on Mumbai. I saw the famous Taj Mahal hotel in flames and people fleeing for their lives on TV. I couldn't imagine the fear and anguish of the people caught in that terrible situation. I feel deeply sorry for the victims of the terrorist attack. So many people have been wounded and many lives were lost. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families.

I read that Congress President Sonia Gandhi condemns that act of terrorism. She sent message expressing her sympathy for the families of law enforcers and civilians who lost their lives in the terrorist attack.

In this kind of situation, law enforcers put their lives at risk to protect the people. They are the real heroes of the country. They play a vital part in today's fight against crime. I admire their bravery and love for their country. Being a law enforcer is not an easy job. It requires strong spirit and extreme dedication.

I believe that a law enforcer should always be in good physical and psychological condition. He or she needs to have strong sense of determination, courage and concern for the people. A good law enforcer must have good judgment and have a high degree of integrity. Taking risks is a big part of every law enforcer's life. They face tremendous pressures every day as they go to work. Their goal is to enforce the law, keep the public safe and ensure social order.

In order for an officer of the law to do his performance well, he also requires quality equipment. I believe that it is important to provide our law officers with efficient and dependable tactical gear like those found at 5.11 Tactical to aid them in their duties.

Movie Time :: Twilight

Hubby and I watched the much anticipated Twilight movie last night. I expected more from the film but I still enjoyed it nevertheless.

I have to admit, I felt like a teenager with a big crush when I caught the first glimpse of Edward's face on the wide screen. I held my breath and squeezed my hubby's hand as Edward entered the cafeteria. He's definitely my kind of vampire. :) Don't worry I won't go any further for those who haven't seen the movie yet.

After the film, hubby and I had late dinner at a nearby cafe. We had the place all to ourselves so we were able to choose the TV program on the LCD. We were just in time to watch the Smallville episode. I ordered my favorite clubhouse sandwich while hubby had spareribs. I had a chocolate sundae for dessert.

Cozy cafe all to ourselves.

Chocolate Sundae and my Twilight freebie (magnetic bookmark)

3 Word Thursdays #6

meme rules:
*photo must have 3 words in it
*post your photo on your site with a link
back to Ma Vie Folle (or grab button)

Yohan's classmate gave this coin bank (including a cologne and stuffed toy inside) to him on his last birthday. I like the nice message printed on it.

I remember the first time I asked Yohan what he wants to be when he grows up. He said he wanted to be a musician. That's his first dream. When I asked him again recently, he said he wants to be a firefighter. I wonder what he wants to be after that. :)

Creative Toys

The month of November is already coming to an end. December is heading our way which only means that Christmas is coming really soon. Have you started Christmas shopping already? If not, you should have at least finished your Christmas list. I'm done with my list and I'm looking forward to start my Christmas shopping soon.

Holiday online shopping has become popular. You can easily find anything and everything that's on sale on the Internet. You can buy gifts for family, friends and colleagues without leaving the comfort of your home. Kids are often the biggest recipients of gifts during Christmas. You can find perfect gift items for kids online.

Creative Toys make wonderful gifts for children. It's good to enhance children's creativity while they are young. Give kids the chance to express themselves through arts and crafts, music and imaginative play.

There are many Creative Toys to choose from. I personally like arts and crafts kits. I love the Funky Wooden Bead Chest & Jewelry Box. It's so colorful and pretty. It will brighten any girl's room. This lovely wooden chest has three drawers for all sorts of trinkets. It even comes with a bead kit which is perfect for creating accessories. It's something that my nieces would surely love. I even want one for myself. :)

Wordless Wednesday #44

Holland always makes me think of windmills and colorful tulips. I've never been to Holland but I know some people who live there. I would like to share this cute memento from Holland that I saw at the house of hubby's grandma. You may see it at my Wordless Wednesday #44 at my other blog. Hope you can drop by. Happy Wednesday!

Lunch Box Meme #3

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Sorry I missed Lunch Box #1 & #2. I'll just jump on in and join #3.

Here's Yohan snack for today. Yohan always eats a big breakfast before going to school. Yohan is in Kindergarten and his class starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 11 a.m. He only needs a light snack for school. He had a tetra pak of milk and popcorn for snack today.

Online Learning Network

Learning is like a partnership. It needs the dedication of both student and teacher. Learning is dependent on the relationship of both parties. If one party is not cooperative, then learning cannot be fully established. Both student and teacher need to fulfill their respective duties to ensure proper learning. A teacher embarks knowledge while a student listens, absorbs and applies what he has learned.

Parents are constantly looking for ways to help their children enhance their learning and improve their grades in school. In high school, there are some subjects that students find difficult and challenging. Parents often get the help of tutors to help their children in various subjects.

Many high school students struggle with Math subjects. One example is Geometry. Many students find the "mathematics of the properties, measurement, and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids" quite difficult. Brightstorm teaches students to explore the basics of geometry through the use of everyday objects, pictures and diagrams. Another tough subject according to students is Algebra. Algebraic terms and variables can be quite confusing. Some students also struggle with History. Memorizing important dates, names and events is not something all students enjoy.

Brightstorm implements an innovative and effective way of helping students with their lessons. It infuses fun in learning. Sign up for a free brightstorm acocunt to learn more about their teaching goals and courses they offer.

Weekend Snapshot #51

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My Mini Pals

I stayed home the whole weekend with my family. We were supposed to do some Christmas shopping but thought of postponing it for next week.

While going through my stuff, I chanced upon my two favorite mini pals. I decided to put them beside my web cam so they could keep me company while blogging. :)

Wheezy (the penguin in Toy Story) and Dumbo

Camera Critters #29

I feel sorry for neglected pets. Pet owners should understand that pets need proper care, love and affection. My BIL recently adopted a neglected dog. Please check out my Camera Critters #29 to see the adorable furry fella at my BIL's place.

Cold Days Of December

The temperature is getting cold; a sign that Christmas is coming soon. I heard that in some countries it has already started to snow. I can imagine how the children love the first snowfall.

I'm sure the kids are excited to build a snowman at the front yard. I heard that dressing up a snowman is a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy. My idea of a snowman has top hat, button eyes, carrot nose and stick hands. I think a snowman would look good with a colorful scarf and matching gloves. What's your snowman like?

I bet when it gets really cold, the kids come running back inside the house to get warmed up beside the Electric Fires and asking for hot chocolate. I remember just how soothing hot chocolate can be on a very cold day. When I was young, I loved how my mom used to make cups of hot chocolate with mini marshmallows for the whole family during the cold days of December.

I love the thought of family members sharing stories near the Hole in the Wall Fires. I also like the idea of roasting marshmallows on Gas Fires. Those are just a few bonding activities that you can do. Exchanging stories, seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter of everyone in the family make staying at home during a cold day worth it.

Photo Hunt :: Reflection

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The Door To Infinity is one of the featured scientific concepts at Museo Pambata (Children's Museum). When you open the door and look down, you'll think it's a long way down. However, it's just an illusion that uses the reflection of mirrors.

"When 2 mirrors face each other, you'll see many reflections.
This is because light keeps on bouncing back and forth
between them, creating more and more reflections."

Pest Control Can Save Your Home

There are different kinds of bugs that you can find in a typical home. Some are considered just a mere nuisance; however, there are others that could create havoc to your home. You can classify pests into 3 categories namely nuisance pests, harmful pests and structural pests.

• Nuisance Pests - They are often harmless to people and the environment. However, their presence is unpleasant and frowned upon. Typical nuisance pets are ants and flies.
  

• Harmful Pests - They can be a big threat because they can carry poison and spread diseases. Examples of harmful pests are cockroaches, ticks, scorpions, mosquitoes, mice and rats.
  

• Structural Pests - They are dangerous and can cause damage to your home. Some examples are carpenter ants, termites, and wood-boring beetles.

You should not make the mistake of taking pests for granted. Some pests may cause considerable damages to your home when left to their own devices. Pests can cost you a lot of money. Pest control is an important procedure necessary to protect your home. In the United States, pest control is given priority by home owners in many states like Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas, Arizona, and Colorado. Pest management can protect your home from dangerous crawling dwellers.

Aloha Friday #50

Rules: Post any question on your blog on a Friday, share your answer and sign Kailani's Mr. Linky. Then have fun answering the questions of fellow participants by visiting their blogs.

Aside from the Christmas Tree, what's your favorite Christmas decor?

Christmas Parol (a.k.a. Christmas Lantern)
taken at Pampanga last year

I love seeing beautiful Christmas Parols or Lanterns. They come in different colors, designs, shapes and sizes. Some Christmas Parols come alive with spectacular display of light.

Flat Belly Diet

Have you heard of the latest buzz? There's a popular Flat Belly Diet claiming that you can lose up to 15 pounds in 32 days without the need for exercise. It made me very curious so I checked what this Flat Belly Diet is all about. I learned that it is a science-based solution which makes use of a carefully researched and tested nutrition plan. It also incorporates the best expert tips and advice.

This amazing diet was developed by the editor of Prevention Magazine. This diet revolves around the concept of eating healthy fats (Monounsaturated Fatty Acids or MUFAs) during every meal. A person on this diet loses weight because it specifically targets belly fat.

You might be curious to find out more about MUFAs. The Flat Belly Diet points out that there is a type of heart-healthy, disease-fighting, "good" fat found in foods. The 5 classification of delicious MUFAs are Dark Chocolate, Oils, Olives, Avocados, Nuts and Seeds as seen on the diagram below. Some examples of MUFAs are almonds, peanut butter, olive oil, avocado, and chocolate. I love chocolates and I find it amazing how this diet does not put chocolates on the "must not have list". According to the Flat Belly Diet, it is alright to eat chocolates as long as its dark choclates.

Life Is A Discovery

I received this SMS from my friend this morning which I would like to share with you:

"Life is a journey,
a poetry,
a story.
It is a dream,
a challenge,
a discovery."

Sadly I don't know who said this quote but it's a wonderful message. Cherish and enjoy your life. Discover what God has prepared for you.

The Impact of Technology on Video Games

It's remarkable how video games have changed through the years. I still remember the day when my parents brought home a Nintendo Family Computer. It makes me smile when I reminisce about the good old days. I was in elementary back then. My brother and I were so ecstatic to have our own Family Computer. It had two controller ports and a slot for the ROM game cartridge. Our favorite game was Mario Brothers. My brother was the first one to successfully save the princess in distress.

Video games have gone a long way since then. I'm impressed by how technology has revolutionized the trend of video games. Take for instance the Nintendo DS. Its amazing features include two ultra bright screens, 3D graphics, touch-screen technology and wireless communication. When I was younger, I was used to playing video games with controller ports (1st player and 2nd player options). Both players had to be sitted together in order to use the controller ports. I find it incredible that now you can play with someone even though you are not physically together. You can actually play with someone located across the globe.

I've Been Dazzled Too

I just finished reading Twilight (which I borrowed from my niece). Finally I can now relate to the blog posts about this popular novel. I first heard about this book from Toni of Wifely Steps and it made me very curious.

I enjoyed reading the book. I'm captivated by the intense feelings of Bella and Edward and their unusual love story.

Here are some of my favorite one-liners in the book:

• "Stupid, shiny Volvo owner."
  


• "Stupid, unreliable vampire."
  


• "Do I dazzle you?"

I'm looking forward to watching the movie soon. I returned the 1st book and borrowed my niece's copy of New Moon. I guess I've been dazzled too. :)

Earn A Little Extra Cash

What do you love doing? Is there something you're particularly good at? Why not make the most of your free time earning extra money out of things you enjoy doing? Think about it and start earning some extra cash. You might find one of the suggestions below interesting.

• Make use of your love for photography by taking photos of special events. Start with small events like kiddie parties.
  

• If you have a great fashion sense and love shopping, you can apply as a personal shopper.
  

• Offer tutoring jobs on a subject you excel in (e.g. history, algebra, trigonometry, chemistry, etc.)

• If you love animals, like dogs for example, you can apply for a part time job at the groomer's. You can also "baby sit" the dog of a friend who will be going on a trip.
  

• Are you good in drawing or painting? Then you can consider giving weekend art classes to a group of kids.
  

• Organize a special event (e.g. birthday parties, weddings, anniversary parties) for relatives and friends.
  

• If you love writing, why not try some Freelance Writing on the side. If you're interested, you can check out available Job For Writers online. There are many Freelance Writing Opportunities that you might find interesting.

3 Word Thursdays #5

meme rules:
*photo must have 3 words in it
*post your photo on your site with a link
back to Ma Vie Folle (or grab button)

When you're sad about something, what helps you keep those tears at bay?

My son's gentle kiss and sweet embrace always makes me feel better. The support of family and friends gives me the strength to face worries and fears.

Wordless Wednesday #43

The week seemed to have gone by faster than I expected. Not that I'm complaining. I always look forward to weekends. If you have time, please come by and visit my Wordless Wednesday #43 at my other blog. Thanks.