tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81978402024-03-07T17:04:01.383+08:00Heart of RachelHeart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.comBlogger1886125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-17243085836977796702017-05-31T23:15:00.000+08:002017-05-31T23:43:11.280+08:00My Heart is Rooted in the Philippines #MyAseanStory I pretended to be strong the day they left me behind. I bravely put on a smile and hugged each one of them as tight as I could. I fought the tears that were desperately trying to fall. I knew if I cried it would be harder for everyone. I could tell they were also fighting the same battle. The moment they left, everything in front of me became a blur. The tears came running down. I was so overwhelmed with emotion that I thought my heart was going to explode. <br />
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That was the day my parents and my brother left for the States.<br />
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I was over 21 when my family’s immigrant VISA came. Due to age restrictions, I was ineligible to go with them. Thus, I stayed and agreed that my parents would petition me later. <br />
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The first few days were the most difficult. Our tears would always muffle our voices and prevent us from having a good conversation. Every special occasion that went by brought an ebb and flow of loneliness. <br />
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The days turned to weeks, the weeks to months, and the months to years. <br />
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The nagging ache of missing my family persisted. The feeling never ceased but the intensity diminished until it became more bearable.<br />
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It has been more than two decades but the void is still there. <br />
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I believe that God has a plan for each one of us. I think I was destined to stay. <br />
<br />
I was always eager to hear my family’s stories. I formed a tapestry of thoughts of their lives in the US. They adjusted well in the foreign land. I felt happy for them but as time passed, it dawned on me that I couldn’t see myself living in the States.<br />
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At the end, I chose to stay rooted in the Philippines. It wasn’t an engineered decision. Everything just fell into place. I didn’t wait for my papers to get finalized before getting married. It was a decision that made my application void. <br />
<br />
I think it was meant to be. <br />
<br />
I cannot picture myself living outside the Philippines. It’s a very beautiful country and I don’t think I can ever feel at home elsewhere. I've traveled outside the country and it always feels good to come back home. I’ve lived in the Philippines all my life but there are so many places in this country that I still yearn to visit, explore and experience. <br />
<br />
<i>Where else can you see the most beautiful beaches?</i> The Philippines has always been known for its immaculate beaches. One of my favorite adventures is island hopping at Caramoan Islands, located at the far eastern end of Camarines Sur in Bicol region. I fell in love with its powdery-white sand beaches, sandbars that constantly appeared and disappeared along with the tides, pristine aquamarine waters, and amazing limestone formations. <br />
<br />
<i>Where else can you see a volcano with a perfect cone?</i> I was mesmerized the first time I saw Mt. Mayon in Bicol. I’ve seen many pictures and videos of Mt. Mayon but nothing compares to seeing it with my own eyes. According to local folks, not all tourists are lucky to see Mt. Mayon during their first visit. Legend has it that Mt. Mayon only shows her full regal beauty to those who are pure at hearts. I feel honored that she blessed me and my travel companions with her presence, unmasked by clouds on our first day in Bicol. <br />
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<i>Where else can you enjoy the freshest bounty of the sea?</i> Whenever I go to Roxas City Capiz, the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, I always feast on the freshest catch of the day including different kinds of fish, shell fish and crustaceans. I’m particularly fond of the delectable Diwal, also called Angel Wings clam. The Diwal shells resemble angel wings when they are fully opened.<br />
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<i>Where else can you swim with whale sharks? </i> Swimming with the butandings in Sorsogon was an exhilarating experience. I was overwhelmed by the size and awed by the beauty of the whale sharks, fondly referred to as the gentle giants of the sea. <br />
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<i>Where else can you see amazing waterfalls?</i> I’ve seen many waterfalls in the Philippines and each one is unique and breathtaking. The most recent waterfalls I visited was Ditumabo Falls, also called the Mother Falls located in San Luis, Aurora. I remembered traversing a rocky path and being rewarded by the astounding beauty of the falls. The water was refreshingly cold. The sound of the waterfalls was almost deafening as I got closer and closer to it. <br />
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<i>Where else can you fall in love with the people?</i> The Filipino people are naturally kind, friendly, generous, and helpful. Pinoys are resourceful and creative. Best of all, Filipinos have the strongest spirits. They are resilient people. They always find a way to recover from adversities. Pinoys always overcome the toughest challenges and regain their smiles.<br />
<br />
I'm so thankful I stayed.<br />
<br />
I still miss my family. I'm always happy to see them when they come home for vacation.<br />
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I'm happy where I am. My heart will always be rooted in the Philippines. <br />
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<image alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif"></image><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-77163827491474771442016-01-21T08:54:00.004+08:002016-01-21T10:45:21.281+08:00Six things we can learn from childrenMy article first published on <a href="http://thepoc.net/index.php/six-things-we-can-learn-from-children/">Philippine Online Chronicles</a> on January 12, 2016.<br />
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<br />
“A child can teach an adult three things: to be happy for no reason,
to always be busy with something, and to know how to demand with all his
might that which he desires.” – Paulo Coelho<br />
<br />
Children may not have a lot of experience and knowledge about the
world but they have ideal qualities that many adults have long
forgotten. Kids can help remind us of little things that matter most.
They can give us a better perspective of life. Sometimes adults get lost
in the sea of responsibilities that they forget how to open themselves
to the sense of wonder and exploration. If you think about it, children
are gurus of true happiness.<br />
<br />
The journey to adulthood may have made
us forget some of the essential things in life but it’s not too late. We
can still relearn and embrace the life lessons from childhood.<br />
<br />
<b>1. That another day is a chance to start anew </b><br />
<br />
Adults like to carry around negative emotions like excess baggage.
When things go wrong, adults have a tendency to get mad, lay blame and
hold grudges.<br />
<br />
Children find it easy to let go and face the next day with optimism.
When you are young, each day is like a fresh start. They open their
doors to new opportunities and exciting experiences. Children leave past
disappointments and failures behind and try again without doubt and
hesitation.<br />
<br />
Kids may fall several times but they always manage to get back up on
their feet. When adults are bombarded with challenges, they tend to
focus on the number of failures. The harder it is to recover, the more
they lose sight of their goals.<br />
<br />
Children can teach us to hang on and just keep on trying. Success is
never far behind when you give your best. Patience and perseverance are
keys to realizing your visions.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Pay attention to the little things in life</b><br />
<br />
We are often so absorbed with our work and responsibilities at home
that we neglect the beauty around us. Problems and worries of everyday
life can easily weigh us down. Sometimes adults would rather bury
themselves in their work so that they could temporarily forget their
troubles.<br />
<br />
Time can restrain us. Many adults are always in a hurry to beat
deadlines and pay bills on a regular basis. We are not aware that life
is passing us by.<br />
<br />
Children can teach us to <a href="http://thoughtcatalog.com/cristina-oliveras/2015/02/11-things-children-teach-us/" rel="nofollow">stop and smell the roses</a>.
Take time to slow down and appreciate the beauty that is all around us.
Embracing the richness of life can help calm the mind and the senses.
Finding peace can help us focus better. Sometimes a break is just what
we need to boost our energy and concentration.<br />
<br />
<b>3. To face each day with courage and confidence</b><br />
<br />
The young welcome each day with confidence and courage which allows
them to enjoy life better than adults. Children are not afraid of taking
risks. Their innocence makes them more open to new experiences.<br />
<br />
As we grow older, fear becomes a result of what we have learned in
the past. For instance, an adult knows better than to touch a burning
candle because he knows he will get burned. In this context, fear
prevents one from getting hurt.<br />
<br />
Adults are often ruled by different fears. Many grown-ups are afraid
of the unknown, being ridiculed, being rejected, being judged, and the
uncertainty of what might happen next.<br />
<br />
Balance is important in life. It’s alright to use past experiences to
guide us in making better judgment but fear should not limit us from
trying new things.<br />
People can enjoy life more by setting aside fears of failure. How will we know unless we try?<br />
<br />
<b>4. Take time out and have fun</b><br />
<br />
Play is not just for children. According to <a href="http://www.helpguide.org/articles/emotional-health/benefits-of-play-for-adults.htm" rel="nofollow">Help.org</a>, play is a way to “fuel your imagination, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and emotional well-being.”<br />
<br />
Many of us become slaves to our duties, commitments and
responsibilities at the workplace and at home. We end up being so
overwhelmed with tasks that we barely have time to relax and have fun. As we grow older, we dismiss the essence of play.<br />
<br />
In this modern world, adults’ idea of fun is often watching movie
marathons at home, engaging in online games, and browsing social media
sites. Many of us have forgotten about energetic and carefree play that gives us renewed vigor.<br />
<br />
Find time away from your modern, serious and hectic lives to have
pure fun. It can be as simple as riding your bike with your spouse,
friend or child. How about blowing bubbles in the air or running around
the lawn? Get a chalk and draw on the pavement. Better yet, use it to
draw a good old “piko” (hopscotch) pattern on the ground and play with
the whole family. Fly a kite, catch a Frisbee, play fetch with your dog,
chase butterflies, and so on.<br />
<br />
Keep in mind that play can relieve stress, stimulate the mind, inspire creativity, and improve relationships.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Learn to give without expecting anything in return</b><br />
<br />
Most adults are open to helping, giving or sharing with others but
they often expect something in return. In the journey of life, many of
us have learned that a favor merits a return favor; perhaps not
immediately but later on.<br />
<br />
Children can show us how good it feels to give unconditionally. The
young ones give without any hidden motives. Adults can re-discover how
to give without expecting to get something out of it. The happiness of
showing kindness and generosity to others can be its own reward.<br />
<br />
Let kids remind us of how wonderful it is to extend a helping hand
without strings attached. Meaningful contributions make both giving and
receiving a heartwarming experience.<br />
<br />
<b>6. Open your heart to forgiveness</b><br />
<br />
Children are the epitome of forgiving and forgetting. One minute kids
can be fighting over a toy and the next minute, they are giving each
other a tight hug.<br />
<br />
Adults find it harder to forgive. Pride often gets in the way of
reconciliation. When adults get hurt, they often become resentful. They
carry a grudge that amplifies the pain.<br />
<br />
Nobody is perfect. We all make mistakes. When we forgive someone, we give that person another chance. The young can teach us that forgiveness can free us of further pain.<br />
<br />
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<b><i>Photo c/o<a href="https://pixabay.com/en/koh-samui-children-play-beach-729875/" rel="nofollow"> Pixabay</a>. Public domain.</i></b><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-67653349384941078552013-07-17T16:56:00.001+08:002013-07-17T16:56:58.962+08:00Minecraft Inspired Birthday Snack Bags My little man is celebrating his 10th birthday tomorrow. His birthday happens to fall on a school day. He's excited to spend his special day with his classmates. As a simple way of celebrating his 10th birthday, Yohan will give snack bags to his classmates. <br />
<br />
Yohan is such a big fan of Minecraft so his dad and I thought of making custom-made Minecraft bags. We bought green fabric bags and printed a pattern of the Minecraft Creeper. Jules traced the pattern on an illustration board and used a cutter to define the significant parts. With a bit of black spray paint, we managed to mark each bag with a Creeper's face. <br />
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A snack bag won't be complete without goodies. We're going to fill each bag with chips, biscuits, pretzels, chocolates, and juice. Every bag will have a tag to mark Yohan's 10 birthday.<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-53242842264372735422013-07-17T14:43:00.001+08:002013-07-17T14:43:36.819+08:00Don't Let the Bed Bugs BiteAt the end of the day, everybody wishes to have a relaxing and worry-free sleep. We all need to get our daily dose of sleep to recharge our tired bodies and prepare ourselves for the following day. Sometimes, people experience trouble sleeping. When little parasitic insects are secretly lurking in your bed, it’s tough to have a good night’s sleep. Bed bugs are oval, flat and generally have reddish brown color. They love to hide in the crevices of the bed, headboard, and even furniture during the day. Bed bugs love to strike at night especially when you’re sleeping. Their sole diet is blood of people and even animals. Bed bugs relish in biting the exposed skin of a sleeping person or animal. Although bed bugs are not known to carry diseases, their bites can cause discomfort and itchiness. Don’t let these pesky bugs ruin your evenings. <a href="http://www.bordenpestcontrol.com/bed-bug-control.asp" target="_blank">Bed Bug Control Georgia</a> can help solve your bed bug problem. Bed bugs are great survivors. Imagine, they can live for several months without feeding on blood. They can also withstand extreme temperatures. If you notice black and oval shaped specks on your bed that look like apple seeds, then there’s a big chance that you have a bed bug infestation. Protect your family from these tiny troublemakers. <div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-48488463396495322462013-03-29T18:47:00.002+08:002013-07-17T16:23:36.709+08:0040 Random Things (Part II)<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><i>Continuation</i> ....</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">21. I
believe that if you can’t say anything nice, it’s always best to keep quiet.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">22. A
little kindness goes a long way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never
underestimate the power of a kind gesture or a smile.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">23. I’m
always fascinated with nature. I love watching the sunrise and the sunset. I
love seeing flowers bloom, butterflies fluttering, and birds singing. The full
moon never fails to catch my attention. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">24. I
love capturing special moments. Taking pictures make me happy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">25. I
regret many things in life. I learned that in order to attain peace within, the
first step is letting go. Once you do, moving on is easier. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">26. </span>The people you love can sometimes break your
heart too. Open your heart to forgiveness.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">27. Driving
still remains a dream. May be one day, I can find the courage to go behind the
wheel. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">28. I’m
not a perfect mom but I’m trying my best to be a good one.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">29. I’m
thankful for my writing job. I learn something new from every topic I write. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">30. Kare-kare</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> will always be my favorite
Filipino dish.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">31. I
don’t want to think of myself as a middle-aged woman. I always want to feel
young. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">32. I
love bags. I wish I could buy as many bags as I want.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">33. I
have a small closet. I wish I can have a walk-in closet in the future. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">34. When
the Internet is down, I feel down. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">35. I
enjoy watching horror films even though my fear always gets the best of me. The
Walking Dead is currently my favorite TV program.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">36. I’m
thankful to modern gadgets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can easily
connect with my loved ones in the States.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">37. I’m
happy that Bruno, my Labrador is still going strong at the age of 13. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">38. I
have my own share of flaws. I’m impatient, impulsive and I tend to worry about
small things.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">39. Life
is full of opportunities. Never be afraid to try something new.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">40. I
don’t know what the future has in store for me. I only pray that God will
continue to bless me and the people I love. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-6660625795924618012013-03-29T00:20:00.000+08:002013-03-29T00:20:17.109+08:0040 Random Things (Part I)Today I turn 40. It's another milestone in life that I'm grateful for. Let me share 40 random things I've learned, realized, and discovered in this lifetime. <br />
<ol>
<li>It’s never too late to start exercising. I’m thankful that I found the motivation to walk and run around the village. </li>
<li>8K is possible after all. Who knows, maybe I have the strength and endurance to run/walk up to 10K.</li>
<li>Biking is fun. I just bought a mountain bike and I’m rediscovering how fun it is to be on two wheels. </li>
<li>It feels great to lose weight and enjoy shopping again. When I was overweight, I was always frustrated when I go shopping for clothes. I just hope I can maintain my weight now. </li>
<li>I can finally wear dresses again. </li>
<li>Getting gray hair is not the end of the world. Thank goodness for hair coloring products. </li>
<li>I have the best parents in the world. They are kind, understanding, generous, and selfless. I love them very much. </li>
<li>I admire my brother for being so wise and responsible in life. I may be older than him but sometimes he’s more like my kuya. </li>
<li> My yaya (nanny) has taken care of me since I was a baby. I’m blessed that she chose to stay with me all these years. </li>
<li>I'm thankful to have a loving, supportive, and kind husband. He gives me strength and hope.</li>
<li>I have a wonderful son who inspires and motivates me to face challenges and continue dreaming. </li>
<li>Home is where the heart is. I realized that there’s no better place than
home. </li>
<li>Life is not perfect but once you overlook at the imperfections, you’ll
realize that life has so many beautiful things to be grateful for. </li>
<li>Life is a learning process. There's always something new worth discovering and exploring.</li>
<li>Disappointments are part of life. Learn from your mistakes. When you fail, there’s no harm in trying again. As long as there’s life, anything is possible. </li>
<li>I cannot please everybody. It’s a waste of energy to get rattled by what other people think of you. </li>
<li>Focus on the positive things in life. </li>
<li>I haven’t conquered my fear of heights but I gathered the courage to ride the Ferris wheel and the roller coaster. I’m still hoping to experience the zipline. </li>
<li>I love happy endings. I will always be a romantic at heart. </li>
<li>People come and go but real friends are there for keeps.
</li>
</ol>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-84685815310326551282013-03-24T22:33:00.001+08:002013-03-28T08:33:55.293+08:00Earth Hour 2013<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKDP6mVBBySf2eROezlvSDZo8yKjeLya88e6c7PwpnxNJBuh14Be9Y4HMJuhEENQFYxTqiOD6dQZqTFI46x6H2xWmsHz2-g2jvyF8WOKuHtmi98xaT3VeVDjPcoo8p7-iF4io/s1600/tree_planting.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKDP6mVBBySf2eROezlvSDZo8yKjeLya88e6c7PwpnxNJBuh14Be9Y4HMJuhEENQFYxTqiOD6dQZqTFI46x6H2xWmsHz2-g2jvyF8WOKuHtmi98xaT3VeVDjPcoo8p7-iF4io/s400/tree_planting.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
My family took part in the tree planting activity as part of the Earth Hour celebration. Planting trees is a rewarding activity especially when you see the seedlings grow bigger each year. It's our own little way of helping Mother Earth and contributing for the future. <br />
<br />
Last night countries around the world joined forces to observe the biggest environmental event for the year - Earth Hour 2013. We switched off our lights from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The darkness signified the people's concern for the planet. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBDTslXXt3cNnOUB7wKlQApdYzsmD3Sb8MHYU5m0mf2SjEtHOc-3c5IvsSjNFLpc6zYPuTUoTGxoDrCYRSzdfLp4ZxVjJnbSmEteD4A-_Z60aQigDd5OJpaVMg9o2Y_QF4bpv/s1600/earth+hour1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBDTslXXt3cNnOUB7wKlQApdYzsmD3Sb8MHYU5m0mf2SjEtHOc-3c5IvsSjNFLpc6zYPuTUoTGxoDrCYRSzdfLp4ZxVjJnbSmEteD4A-_Z60aQigDd5OJpaVMg9o2Y_QF4bpv/s400/earth+hour1.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKDP6mVBBySf2eROezlvSDZo8yKjeLya88e6c7PwpnxNJBuh14Be9Y4HMJuhEENQFYxTqiOD6dQZqTFI46x6H2xWmsHz2-g2jvyF8WOKuHtmi98xaT3VeVDjPcoo8p7-iF4io/s1600/tree_planting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-84780080989163814672013-03-13T15:37:00.001+08:002013-03-13T15:39:47.676+08:00Mornings are Never the Same Again <div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmLNx6NkF-zdUW8BSYQsiGqXpY7bNQqjBh0yfIMF6m669urD2GARhAm6-JRkkdu5WJS4maG9jXIRFObRY9ymWQU8CwnbULFtHX8FRdZDI0B8SsRHpBgLSUmFtWxYZoN8_QJi2/s1600/nike+free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmLNx6NkF-zdUW8BSYQsiGqXpY7bNQqjBh0yfIMF6m669urD2GARhAm6-JRkkdu5WJS4maG9jXIRFObRY9ymWQU8CwnbULFtHX8FRdZDI0B8SsRHpBgLSUmFtWxYZoN8_QJi2/s400/nike+free.jpg" width="400" /></a>I discovered the joys of walking every morning. My body feels more energized ever since I started this healthy exercise routine. I started with 30-minute walks but now I can easily walk for an hour. I also do short runs in between. If I could bring back time, I would have done this a long time ago.</div>
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Walking around the village is great for the body and the spirit as well. I find myself reflecting about different things while I walk. </div>
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I bought this brightly colored Nike Free as my walking partner. I love how lightweight and comfortable they are on my feet. </div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-23611147128766674302013-03-13T14:11:00.001+08:002013-03-13T14:14:14.535+08:00Keep a Small Flashlight HandyThe great thing about small flashlights is that you can conveniently store them around the house. You can keep <a href="http://www.professionalequipment.com/flashlight-mini/" target="_blank">Mini Mag Flashlights</a> in key areas of your home such as the living room, kitchen, bedrooms, study room, and the garage. Keep small flashlights in places that are easily accessible to the members of the household. Make sure you take a mental note of the places where you kept the mini mag flashlights. Inform the people in the house where those flashlights are located so that they can get them when the need arises. In case of unexpected power failures and emergencies, anyone in the house can get the flashlights and use them to light their way around the house. Don’t forget to keep extra fresh batteries for your flashlights.<br />
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It is also advisable to bring a small flashlight with you all the time. You’ll never know when it can come in handy. Emergencies happen when you least expect it. A mini mag flashlight in your bag can be used for safety measures. Take note that a flashlight is not only designed for emergencies. It can also be used for regular activities such as jogging or walking at night.<br />
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Keep a mini mag flashlight inside your vehicle at all times. In case you experience car trouble on the road, you can use the flashlight to check the engine or underneath your vehicle. You can also use the flashlight to signal for help at night.<br />
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A small flashlight is considered as an essential tool when you engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. When you’re out in the wilderness, you can use the flashlight to see your way through at night.<br><br>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-67072880013353261822013-02-13T14:03:00.002+08:002013-02-13T14:11:47.691+08:00Early Valentine's Date I spent the first day of February by going on an early Valentine's date with the two special men in my life -- my husband and my son. We had dinner at the newly re-opened Spiral restaurant at Sofitel Philippine Plaza. Some of you may remember that back in September 2011, Spiral was devastated by a storm surge that flooded many establishments in the area. Spiral was submerged in waist-deep flood waters. Sofitel was forced to temporary close their flagship restaurant because of the damages brought by typhoon<i> Pedring</i>. The renovation of Spiral took more than a year to finish. It finally opened its doors again last Nov. 8, 2013. <br />
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It was our second time at Spiral. We enjoyed our first lavish buffet experience. The three of us had no doubts that our second experience would be equally great. <br />
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We went down the familiar grand spiral staircase leading to the elegant restaurant below. Lovely ladies welcomed us to the newly refurbished Spiral. We were seated just across the back of the grand staircase with a view of gentle, flowing water. It was perfect!<br />
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The food was as great as we remembered. We were glad to see our old favorites and there were a lot of new dishes added to the sumptuous buffet. For my family, it's the best buffet in the country. The abundance of food is simply overwhelming. The new Spiral is actually divided into 21 dining ateliers. I don't think it's possible to try everything in one night.<br />
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Some of my husband's personal favorites include crabs, shrimps, crayfish, steak, bulgogi, beef short ribs, lamb chops, and the Asian pulled noodles. I love the Peking Duck, Chinese dimsum, Korean noodles, and skewered seafood. My son, Yohan love their salad, pasta, and freshly baked pizza.<br />
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I was surprised how my little man turned out to be quite a cheese
connoisseur because he enjoyed trying out the different types of cheese
at the Cheese room. The three of us share a liking for Japanese, Chinese, and Italian food. We also loved their freshly baked bread that we dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Yohan preferred butter and pesto on his bread.<br />
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After that sumptuous feast, we barely had room for dessert but I knew I would regret it if I missed their delicious creme brulee. Sadly, they don't serve those melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chip cookies like before. I think Spiral should really consider bringing those heavenly cookies back. Yohan enjoyed the candy bar and the chocolate fountain. The three of us tried the Creamery which serves different types of ice-cream and toppings. Sadly I was too full to try their chocolates, truffles and pralines.<br />
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I had a fantastic time with my family and I'm so happy because on that same evening, I met a dear old blog friend in person. It was a pleasure seeing Kathy of <a href="http://www.lifeiskulayful.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Life is KulaYFul!</a> She is sweet and charming in person as she is on her blog. <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-8487752929870507672013-02-13T10:35:00.000+08:002013-02-13T10:41:44.025+08:00How to Solve a Pesky Critter ProblemIf you suddenly find your stack of biscuits, chocolate, or chips in your pantry with little bite marks, chances are you have a mice problem at home. Watch out for gnaw marks on cabinets and closets. Another telltale sign is the presence of mouse droppings that look like small black beads. Mice also make squeaking sound especially during nighttime when they are most active.<br />
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The common house mice are little furry creatures that scramble around your home and invade your food space. They have a knack for finding a way into your cupboard or cabinet where you keep your food. They can nibble on just about anything they find interesting. Mice can chew on boxes of cereals, pasta, and cookies. These pesky critters can eat your chocolates, candies, pastries, biscuits, and crackers. They can even find your supply of sugar, milk, coffee, and flour worth tasting.<br />
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Sometimes, they don’t stop with food, they can cause havoc by ruining clothes, bags, and even furniture. Mice are not just a nuisance. They can cause a lot of damage if you don’t do something. If you ignore the problem, these critters can multiply and lead to bigger problems.<br />
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There are <a href="http://www.professionalequipment.com/animal-trap/">Animal Traps for Sale</a> that you can use to humanely catch house mice. The box trap has slide release doors. Catch those unwanted house guests without hurting them. You can find a safe place with considerable distance from your house where you can release the pesky critters. Traps can be used both indoors and outdoors. It's special mechanism is triggered by slightest activity that traps unwary house pests.
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-51629307635379448092013-01-12T11:29:00.001+08:002013-01-12T11:29:32.770+08:00Embracing 2013 It’s the start of a brand new year. It’s an opportunity to learn from past mistakes, begin anew, and welcome promising opportunities. I’m thankful for all the blessings and I look forward to more good things to come. The past year was not all sunshine. There were also gloomy and sad days but God always finds a way to clear the dark clouds and replace them with a rainbow. I want to embrace 2013 with a smile, hopeful heart and positive spirit.<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-36017414334982342872013-01-12T09:51:00.001+08:002013-01-12T09:56:35.662+08:00Safe Home PlumbingIt is important to take good care of your home. House repairs are important in maintaining a quality home. Keep in mind that home maintenance prevents small problems from escalating to full blown ones. Keep your house clean at all times and keep an open eye for signs of deterioration and leaks. Plumbing is a vital aspect of home care. Invest on basic plumbing tools that can help you in minor plumbing repairs at home. Minor clogs and leaks often need simple solutions. If you have basic tools, you can manage to tighten pipes, fix a clogged sink or a leaky faucet. The right kind of <a href="http://www.professionalequipment.com/plumbing-tools/">Plumbing Tool Supplies</a> can help provide immediate solutions to plumbing woes. Some plumbing problems may require the help of a professional. Make sure that your home’s plumbing is safe for the members of the household. There are vital health and safety measures associated with plumbing that you can discuss with your builder. Do not hesitate to ask questions about the plumbing system of your home to give you a better understanding of how it works. For people who are planning to build a home, it is advisable to discuss plumbing matters like installation of water heater and water tank. Discuss about available options and efficiency of recommended system. <div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-72606121694759264182012-12-31T19:32:00.003+08:002012-12-31T19:32:52.575+08:00Warm New Year Greetings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8197840" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8197840" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTF7LFUyLrW2UQwxVVCIvFbSEdk6eKPdEC2Y-xWUh_zvw_LG1bxUd_ClJOeSJM8rSbsNzV6KeTq6KIp-qss_jWRPJXu05qgCwYNkBWcAgA5_AFctVUamm1dW5AJOLu6Xjww0uv/s1600/christmas+card+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTF7LFUyLrW2UQwxVVCIvFbSEdk6eKPdEC2Y-xWUh_zvw_LG1bxUd_ClJOeSJM8rSbsNzV6KeTq6KIp-qss_jWRPJXu05qgCwYNkBWcAgA5_AFctVUamm1dW5AJOLu6Xjww0uv/s400/christmas+card+2012.jpg" width="278" /></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8197840" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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Hope everyone had a beautiful Christmas celebration. Sending you warm and heartfelt New Year wishes. May your hearts be filled with love, joy, and hope this 2013! God bless. </div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-24734243520975778342012-12-03T22:35:00.002+08:002012-12-03T22:37:54.152+08:00Yohan's Recollection and First CommunionI'm thankful for family and dear friends who took time to write Yohan letters for his first recollection. Jules and I also wrote him one. Yohan told me how touched he was by everyone's kind words.<br />
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Yohan received his First Communion last Friday. It's another significant milestone worth celebrating. The boys wore traditional barong while the girls donned their beautiful white dresses and veils. The children lighted their candles and prayed for guidance. During the Offertory, Yohan offered fruits as symbols of good life and thanksgiving. <br />
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I was assigned to read the Prayer of the Parents. Together we humbly asked God to guide our children in their journey in life and to protect them from the temptations that surround the world. <br />
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Witnessing Yohan receive the Holy Eucharist for the first time gave me a sense of happiness and pride. <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-51961544584657734892012-11-06T21:46:00.001+08:002012-11-06T21:46:19.622+08:00Significance of Accuracy and Precision in IndustriesDifferent fields like medicine, engineering, architecture, landscaping, astronomy, and many others rely on accurate and precise measurements. Many things around us are products of careful measurements. The house where you live, the school that you go to, or the building where you work have all been built using different kinds of precision equipment. <a href="http://www.professionalequipment.com/measuring-tools/" target="_blank">Tools Used for Measuring</a> are significant instruments in ensuring quality performance and output. Various fields and skilled trades depend on vital measuring tools to produce products and build structures that meet proper and safety standards. Professionals like engineers, builders, architects, and designers use different types of measuring tools in their respective line of work. Good measuring tools help eliminate or lessen the margin of error. For example, the Laser Distance Measurer calculates precise distance and height. This measuring tool is very helpful in large sites especially when there are obstructions that hinder engineers from making direct measurements. The Land Surveying Equipment is the perfect aid when it comes to leveling applications. This tool helps builders construct sturdy and safe houses and buildings. There are many more measuring instruments that ensure reliable results. Establishing accuracy and precision are very important especially when it comes to safety of the public.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-39967356040728727232012-10-31T23:47:00.002+08:002012-10-31T23:47:43.339+08:00A Pirate on Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yohan is a reluctant trick or treater this year. He told me that he didn't want to join the Halloween village party this year. I respected his decision to stay home but he gave in to my request to go trick or treating. Jules and I went to the clubhouse to show our support for the event organizers then went back home to pick him up.<br />
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Yohan was already dressed up as a pirate when we arrived. He has always been fascinated with pirates, particularly Captain Jack Sparrow. He never gets tired of watching the Pirates of the Caribbean series. Yohan even brings the DVDs whenever he rides the car. <br />
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Jules and I accompanied Yohan around the village for Trick or Treat. I noticed that he wasn't that excited to collect sweets like he used to when he was younger. I guess my little boy or rather my young man is growing up fast. <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-79437365355444164642012-10-14T22:14:00.000+08:002012-10-14T22:14:14.918+08:00Yohan's Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtOdnIgwn9mZZpUtQsanfB5mmX6uhMycHeP6XEOCL9gP7thbRs4TCEHMyvK-JBUmVoC9RWgqL5IzybdOEV7t65KxU36zxDaDTOEbRL5mwCt3BbNPYjjYzFZ7va2VNd1mghwhZL/s1600/mara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtOdnIgwn9mZZpUtQsanfB5mmX6uhMycHeP6XEOCL9gP7thbRs4TCEHMyvK-JBUmVoC9RWgqL5IzybdOEV7t65KxU36zxDaDTOEbRL5mwCt3BbNPYjjYzFZ7va2VNd1mghwhZL/s400/mara.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I was so touched when Yohan gave me this stuffed toy giraffe last Saturday. He won it at Shakey's Fun Zone. <br />
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After lunch, Yohan asked me for some money to exchange for game tokens. He usually plays his favorite car racing arcade game but he told me later that when he spotted "The Claw" in one corner of the room, he suddenly thought of me. He gave up his favorite game and used his tokens to win me a stuffed toy. <br />
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I named her Mara. It's a long story but the name is not inspired by the soap opera Mara Clara. ha!ha! Anyway, I will always cherish this sweet gift from my son.<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-39538473915023730472012-10-14T21:36:00.000+08:002012-10-16T13:19:15.091+08:00Learning Online CPRKnowing how to perform CPR is a great advantage because you have the ability to save a person’s life. Emergency situations can strike at any time. It’s always good to be ready. An individual capable of performing CPR can increase the survival chance of a person while waiting for professional help to arrive. Time can be critical. A few minutes can make a huge difference when a person’s heart suddenly stops beating or an individual stops breathing. It’s very important that the person receives immediate CPR to prevent permanent damages. If you’re interested to learn the basic course of CPR, you can visit <a href="http://www.cprcertification101.com/">www.cprcertification101.com</a> to earn an online CPR certification or standard CPR certification. A hectic schedule at work doesn’t have to stop you from learning basic CPR because busy individuals can take up online CPR classes.
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-15703640207953191332012-10-14T21:32:00.001+08:002012-10-16T13:20:12.148+08:00Boost for Words With FriendsWords With Friends is a fun and challenging interactive game. You can play with real friends or have a word match with a random opponent. Putting words together out of the limited letters that you have on hand is a great exercise for the brain. It’s a game that requires careful thinking and a bit of strategy to get high scores. If you want to have some advantage on the game, check out <a href="http://www.topwordswithfriendscheats.com/">www.topwordswithfriendscheats.com</a>. The site has a remarkable solver that helps the player determine the words that can get the most number of points. A table featuring some of the toughest and highest scoring words can also help boost your game score.
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-28721188659837500262012-10-09T22:10:00.000+08:002012-10-09T22:10:57.451+08:00Invitation for Story TellingI was recently been invited by my son's former preschool teacher to be part of the Reading Festival in school this coming October 25. I have been requested to read a story of my choice to Kindergarten students during the festival. I love reading to my son but this is the first time that I'll be reading to a whole class. The parents of the Kindergarten students are also invited to watch. I admit I'm a little nervous but excited at the same time. I'm still looking for the perfect story. Something short but interesting enough to capture the attention of the kids. I might ask Jules to help me make some props for the story.
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-15167488486365446002012-10-09T21:36:00.002+08:002012-10-09T21:38:02.002+08:00Basics of a Retail Clothing ShopA retail clothing shop has become a lucrative business in this modern society where fashion plays a significant role in day to day life. If you’re interested in fashion, putting up your own retail clothing store is a promising business venture. Take time to create a business plan to study the different aspects of the business such as store location, store concept, product lines, marketing strategies, competition, and other important factors. The location of the store can be vital in the success of your retail clothing shop. Choose an area with high traffic to easily attract potential customers. Remember that the type of goods that you choose to sell will have a great impact on your store image. It is essential to choose quality clothing products to earn a good reputation among customers. If clients are satisfied, they are likely to return to your store to make repeat purchases and they may also refer you to their family and friends. Customers appreciate a clean and organized store. <a href="http://www.fixturesanddisplays.com/store-fixtures/countertop-displays.html" target="_blank">Countertop Retail Displays</a> can help enhance the look of the store and give clients a better view of products offered in the shop. Give shoppers an opportunity to browse through your product lines with ease and comfort. Customers can conveniently look for clothes that they like if they have easy access to clothing racks and display tables. Train your staff to be courteous and helpful to customers. <br><br><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-44365759094650945072012-10-05T15:13:00.000+08:002012-10-05T15:13:21.858+08:00First Honor Congratulations Yohan for being First Honor in class again. I'm very proud of your achievements. Thank you for studying hard and always doing your best. Keep up the good work!
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7114/signatureac0.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-80386751130539898652012-10-04T10:39:00.001+08:002012-10-09T13:21:53.189+08:00Quality Home EntertainmentIn this modern world where competition between products and services is so high, quality becomes a defining edge for end-users. It is important for customers to determine what products and services are worth their hard earned money. When it comes to enjoying high definition television programs, the best investment for the home is satellite dish television. Unlike typical cable TV, Dish TV utilizes signals from a satellite which produces high quality picture and sound.<br />
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For movie enthusiasts, the <a href="http://www.dish-systems.com/programming/blockbuster/" target="_blank">Dish Network Blockbuster</a> is a great opportunity to enjoy unlimited movies in the comfort of your own home. Think of it like a limitless movie pass that allows you to choose over 100,000 amazing movies, television shows, and even video games. You can take advantage of new releases and revel in unlimited online streaming. It’s great entertainment in the palm of your hands.
The great thing about today’s Dish TV technology is its portable HDTV system. For people who are always on the go, the <a href="http://www.dish-systems.com/products/dish-tailgater/" target="_blank">Dish Tailgater</a> is an ideal solution. You don’t have to miss your favorite program or game because you can conveniently bring your portable dish antenna with you.
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://feeds.feedburner.com/HeartofRachel</div>Heart of Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542152478039483575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197840.post-55187672695689196062012-09-14T00:20:00.000+08:002012-10-04T10:44:24.350+08:00How to Make a Cub Scout FlagThis is Yohan's second year as a Cub Scout. Last year, he had his <a href="http://mysoulfulthoughts.blogspot.com/2012/07/look-back-at-last-school-years.html" target="_blank">Cub Scout Investiture</a>.<br />
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Yohan is more active in scouting this year. Last quarter, he was chosen as Assistant Patrol leader of his group. He came up with their patrol name Dragon and volunteered to make the group's flag.<br />
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Making the cub scout flag became a family activity. Yohan requested white and red fabric from his grandma while I searched for a simple dragon graphic online. As soon as I found one, I printed it and Jules painstakingly cut the outline. He placed the stencil on top of the fabric and used spray paint to fill the spaces in the pattern. We made two flags, a white and a red one.<br />
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Yohan and I worked on the outlines of the dragons. Yohan decided that the red one will be the official flag of Team Dragon. To complete the flag, Jules attached it to a long bamboo stick.<br />
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Earlier today, Yohan went home to share some good news. He had been promoted to Patrol Leader this quarter. I'm so proud of my young cub scout.</div>
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