Smile Worthy

Jules and I went to the dentist today for an overdue dental prophylaxis.

I don't like going to the dentist so I try to avoid it as much as possible. We were supposed to go to the dentist last November but I kept making excuses. I'm just like a little girl when it comes to these things. I always try to delay my appointment with the dentist maybe because I had a bad experience with my old one. She accidentally poked a very sensitive tooth. The pain was terrible. I have a new dentist and she has tender hands. But despite this, I'm still not fond of going to the dentist.

Today's dental prophylaxis went well. No pain, no discomfort. Thanks Dr. Quiatchon.

Now, I feel refreshed and I'm thankful that I'm done with my dental cleaning for the first half of the year.

Perfect Cup

We've been experiencing chilly mornings and nights these past few weeks. It has its advantages because we don't need to open the electric fan and aircon anymore. I'm sure our electricity bill will go down this month.

What's the best thing during chilly mornings and evenings? A perfect cup of homemade hot chocolate. Jules made some this morning using the chocolate tableas given to him by his friend. One tablea makes one cup. I love the smell of hot chocolate in the air. It's a very inviting aroma and somehow brings a feeling of warmth deep inside.

updated 2/1/07:

Tableas -- a mix of crushed native cacao beans and peanuts sold in solidified tablet or ball form.

Making the Jump

Hooray! HaloScan is functioning normally again.

As you may have noticed, I made another change. I loved the purple and butterfly template but like some of you have said, some links didn't show up well because of the color scheme so I decided to make a few more changes. I truly appreciate all your comments.

Anyway, I chanced upon a tutorial on how to make a 3-column Minima template. It seemed simple enough so I tried it. It worked! I finally have a 3-column template. I've always wanted to have the Labels widget on the sidebar but I don't know how to add it on the classic template. So I decided to make the jump ... I changed to the new style template.

I've been up all night, tinkering on my new template. Tammy, left a comment saying, "If you are like me when you are "tweeking" the blog, come up for air every now and then...lol!" It certainly made me smile because it was the perfect description of what I was going through last night. I was so focused on it that I barely had the chance to reply to the comments. Funny, I skipped breakfast to continue what I started last night. I can't deny it, I'm hooked on the whole blogging thing. :)

I like my new, simple 3-column template. I removed a few details to make my page load faster. I'll change my banner later because it seems redundant. I cannot remove the title below the banner so I might as well remove it from the banner itself. I'll find a way to put the Labels in a drop-down menu because it's so long. Oh well, more tinkering later.

Friends, what do you think?

New Template

I changed my template. See left image for the previous look.

I wanted to change it at the start of the year but didn't have time to work on a new template. Finally, I was able to come up with a new one today (edited from Caz). I like the new design because of the butterflies and the nice color. I removed a few details but retained most of it.

What do you think?

Born in the Year of the Ox

I was born in the Year of the Ox. I came across this site and it says that ...

People born in the Year of the Ox (1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997) are patient, speak little, and inspire confidence in others. They tend, however, to be eccentric, and bigoted, and they anger easily. They have fierce tempers and although they speak little, when they do they are quite eloquent. Ox people are mentally and physically alert. Generally easy-going, they can be remarkably stubborn, and they hate to fail or be opposed. They are most compatible with Snake, Rooster, and Rat people.

Interesting! I think most of it are true except for the patient part. I hate to admit it but I'm an impatient person. Even as a child, I found it very hard to wait for Christmas Eve to open my parents. I would beg my mom if I could open a gift before Christmas. She would compromise by allowing me to open just one gift but the rest always had to wait. As an adult, I try my best to practice patience. My husband always tells me that there is always a right time for everything. As a mother, I try to be patient with my son. Although, sadly, there are times when I lose my cool.

I'm usually soft spoken and have a mild disposition. But when I get angry, sparks fly. Something I wish to lessen this year. I always feel guilty after venting my anger. I hope to change this because losing my temper always leaves me with a heavy heart.

Oh yes, the stubborn part is quite true. I can really be stubborn at times. When I was younger, I always felt compelled to get what I wanted even though it wasn't practical.

Today, I think I'm more mature. Being a mother has taught me to be more practical, reasonable, and realistic. I have learned to prioritize my son's needs before mine.

When I was younger, I hated failing. I was always very competitive. Back then, I also detested criticisms. I never showed how much I was affected but I would cry when nobody was looking. I took every criticism seriously. I don't know what happened but over the years, I have learned to overcome this weakness. I have learned to look at unfavorable comments as constructive criticisms Today, I try to use them for my own benefit. I'm thankful for constructive criticisms because they make me strive to develop and improve myself.

The year 2007 is the Year of the Pig (1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007).

People born in the Year of the Pig are chivalrous and gallant. Whatever they do, they do with all their strength. For Boar Year people, there is no left or right and there is no retreat. They have tremendous fortitude and great honesty. They dont make many friends but they make them for life, and anyone having a Boar Year friend is fortunate for they are extremely loyal. They dont talk much but have a great thirst for knowledge. They study a great deal and are generally well informed. Boar people are quick tempered, yet they hate arguments and quarreling. They are kind to their loved ones. No matter how bad problems seem to be, Boar people try to work them out, honestly if sometimes impulsively. They are most compatible with Rabbits and Sheep.

What year of the animal were you born in?

Tidbits About the Philippines

Hi Breann. Glad you enjoyed looking at the zoo pics. Thank you for your nice note. It's good that you're learning about other countries in school. It is my pleasure to tell you more about my country. I think it would be an interesting topic since I haven't had the chance to write about my country. Here are some random things about the Philippines which I hope you will find interesting. I also made a short slideshow about it for you. Hope my other blog friends will also learn a few things about my country.

Cool Slideshows

• The Philippine flag is symbolized by an eight rayed sun, three golden stars, a red stripe, a blue stripe and a white triangle. The sun represents the beginning of a new era of self determination. The 8 rays on the sun stand for the 8 provinces that rose in revolt against Spanish rule in the late 19th century. The 3 stars stands for the 3 principal geographic areas of the country; Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.
  
• The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands. Main island groups are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Capital is Manila where I was born. If you look closely, you'll see that the map of the Philippines is shaped like a person.


• Two official languages --- Filipino and English. Filipino which is based on Tagalog, is the national language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education.


• We have eight (8) major dialects. I speak two of them: Tagalog and Ilonggo.


• We only have two seasons: wet and dry. The rainy season is from May to November, which is the summer monsoon, while the dry season occurs during the winter monsoon from December to April. Typically, the weather is cool from November to February, while it's very hot and dry from March to May.


• We have a unique public mode of transportation called the jeepney.


• Our national costumes are the barong tagalog (men) and baro't saya (women).


• Throughout the islands, there are fiestas (festivals) celebrated everyday. The fiesta is part and bundle of Filipino culture. Each city and barrio (town) has at least one local festival of its own, usually on the feast of its patron saint, so that there is always a fiesta going on somewhere in the country. You can check this site for a detailed listing of Philippine fiestas.


• The Philippines have many rich and luscious beaches. We have spectacular sunsets.


• Filipinos are best known for their "bayanihan" or spirit of kinship and camaraderie. We also take pride in our close family relations.


• Filipinos are generally fun-loving people. Hospitality is a common denominator in the Filipino character and this is what distinguishes the Filipino.

References:
http://www.tourism.gov.ph/discover/facts.asp
http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/philippines/about_philippines.htm http://www.filipinoheritage.com/customs_traditions/fiesta/fiesta_philippines.htm http://www.philsite.net/philippinefiesta.htm

My Babushka Dolls

I've always wanted to have my own Babushka Dolls or more commonly known as Nesting Dolls. Another Russian term for it is "matryoshka". I personally prefer to call them Babushka Dolls.

They say Babushka Dolls are considered to be a symbol of motherhood and fertility. A mother doll with numerous dolls-children perfectly expresses the oldest symbol of human culture.

Authentic Babushka Dolls from Russia are quite expensive. Jules saw a nice version of it in a tiangge (thrift store) and bought it for me. I love it. He said he will buy me another one with a different design next time.

Thank you very much Jules. I appreciate it.

Genina Bianca

Meet Genina Bianca. She is my beautiful Precious Moments Doll.

I met her when I was in 3rd year college. We've been close friends ever since.
I bought her for myself when I was out shopping with a few friends. I just passed by the store and saw her beautiful eyes staring at me. I love her huge blue eyes. I adore her curls. When you look into her eyes, you'll know that she has a kind heart and friendly nature.

Aries the Ram

ARIES March 21 to April 20
Positive Traits: pioneering, adventurous, energetic, courageous, enterprising, confident, dynamic, quick-witted and freedom-loving

Negative Traits: selfish, quick-tempered, impulsive, impatient, foolhardy and undiplomatic

Likes: action, challenge, spontaneity, championing causes and coming in first

Dislikes: waiting, tyranny, failure, lack of opposition and the advice of others

Hmm ... I think most of it are true. But I don't think I'm undiplomatic. In fact, I try my best to be tactful all the time. I also lack confidence and I'm not always courageous, enterprising and pioneering. But the rest of the traits I could somehow relate to.

Find out what your traits are based on your sign.

For pet lovers, you can also check your compatibility with your pets ... just try it for fun.

Mine says:

ARIES OWNER: It will be important to establish from the very beginning that it is the human who will be the governing authority in this relationship...otherwise, there is sure to be a "locking of horns" from time to time. Since all Aries natives (regardless of species) are used to being "number one," it will be necessary for the human to "run the show." If not, the Aries pet may well run amuck and refuse to obey, believing that he or she is truly the boss. Otherwise, the energies of both human and pet should blend well here and much enjoyment will be had by traipsing through the wilderness together, throwing the Frisbee or going for long runs on the beach (assuming, of course, the pet in question is equipped for such activities). In short, this will be a healthy relationship.

Facial for Two

Went to Bioessence Facialhaus with Jules yesterday for our facial treatment. It's been three months since our last facial. We were too busy to set an appointment so we kept delaying our visit to the clinic. Weeks turned to months.

Maggie, my skin therapist greeted us with a warm welcome. I brought her a belated birthday gift. It was her birthday last Oct. 25. Maggie is not only my regular skin therapist but she became a good friend as well. We enjoy chatting during my treatment. We talk about everything under the sun. We often talk about personal things like our families. I feel very at ease with Maggie because of her friendly and trustworthy nature.

It was Facialhaus' 12th year anniversary yesterday. The clinic was decorated with frills and the staff were all dressed at their best. They had a Filipiniana theme.

My routine facial treatment takes 2 1/2 hours while Jules' basic mint facial only takes 30 minutes. Jules usually strolls around the mall to pass the time while waiting for me.

Jules was already in the reception area waiting for me when I got out of the treatment room. We always feel clean and rejuvinated after having our facials.

Later that day, I received a text from Maggie afer we left the clinic. She thanked me for the gift and she said she picked a prize on my behalf. I think the clinic had a raffle of prizes for regular clients. Maggie said I won a free foot spa. I could claim it on my next visit. Now, that's a nice treat.

Hopelessly Addicted to YOu

What kind of power do you possess over me?
I don't know why I'm so obsessed over you.
I can't seem to resist you.
I feel so ashamed because I can't help myself.

I tried countless times to drop you from my life.
I can't even remember how many times I tried.
But I always end up failing.
I admit you're too powerful for me.

What will it take to make me leave you?
Oh, I'm so desperate for an answer.
I've sought the help of others.
But no one has succeeded in helping me.

I know you're bad for me.
But why do I still want you everyday?
I should listen to what my mind tells me.
I confess, I'm too stubborn to relent.

Am I smitten with you for life?
Perhaps, there's still a chance for me.
I don't want you anymore.
Coke please leave me in peace.

Shopwise Stuff and Save Bag

I went shopping at Shop Wise today and found out that the store is offering 20% savings on many of its *participating items. All you have to do is buy the Shopwise Stuff and Save Bag. The bags are sold for P5.00 each. In exchange, a customer may stuff the bag with as many items from the these participating departments: *Children's Apparel and Toys, *Men's and Ladies Apparel, *Bed and Bathroom Items, *Home Furnishing and Decor, *Plasic and Home Organizers and *Kitchenware and Kitchen Linens and get 20% savings.

Too bad the promo does not cover grocery items and cosmetics.

The bags are sold at Shopwise customer service. I was told that the bags are reusable. You can bring the bags again on your next visit or you can even lend it to family and friends who plan to go shopping at Shopwise.

The promo runs until October 31, 2006 but the bags will only be sold until October 8, 2006.

It's quite a good offer so if you plan to go shopping at Shop Wise, don't forget to buy a Stuff & Save Bag at the customer service before heading to the cashier.

cool glitters

i made this cool glitter art. please give it a few seconds to load properly.

Fickleness of Nature

Ten minutes ago, the sun was blazing hot. It almost felt like a typical summer day. We were contemplating of going to the clubhouse pool for a swim. But it's amazing how nature can change in just a matter of minutes. As I opened my computer, I noticed the gray clouds forming in the sky. The glorious sun seems to have disappeared and in a matter of minutes, the sky has been enveloped in dark gray clouds. I could hear faint thunder in the background. Flashes of light make me pause. I'm not really afraid of lightning and thunder but sometimes, its intense power can be quite overwhelming.

I remember when I was young, my mom would tell me to put a blanket over the mirror (the one near the window) 'coz it might attract lightning. I did it without question. Now I wonder, was there any real danger? Did a mirror inside the house really have the potential of attracting lightning. I doubt it ... but one can never be sure. It took very little effort to cover the mirror so I guess it wasn't a real waste of time. If it made my mom feel better, then it was worth it.

The rain has now dissipated. The sun is peeping behind the clouds. The sky is not as dark compared to few minutes ago. Some clouds have cleared but there's still a feeling of gloominess in the air. Nature still appears undecided ... rain or shine? I wonder what it will be next. Talk bout nature's fickleness.

Feeback from Down Under

I received an email from JW, the employer of my dear friend Cris. It goes...

Dear Rachel,

This is to let you know that I have received your e-mail indicating your interest in employment at my McDonald's Restaurant. I am at present working with Australian Immigration on the requirements to allow me to sponsor overseas staff. I thank you for your interest and will contact you when I have received the necessary information from the Immigration Department.

Kind regards

Jeff Watkins

I thanked him for sending me some feeback and told him that I'll just wait for further advice.

Cris recommended me and Jules to JW and assured him that we're hardworking individuals. The three of us used to work for the same office and we've been good friends ever since.

Window of Opportunity

Cris called me yesterday to ask if I was interested to work for McDonald's Australia. Her boss told her they needed one more to complete their team and Cris thought about me. Her boss is willing to sponsor me. Cris gave me the email address of her boss and I sent my resume the same day.

Later Cris texted me to ask if I had any experience in the food industry ... which I don't so that might be a problem. There's really no harm in trying. I told her that if it doesn't work out, I'm willing to wait for other windows of opportunity to open.

New Look

Just finished the new look of my blog. I still have much to learn about html but I'm getting there. Learning is fun.

Lost Comment

Oh my, I've made some template changes in my blog to include HaloScan commenting. After saving the changes, I discovered, that the new template somehow erased the only comment I ever received on my blog. boo hoo! I don't know how to retrieve it. I guess I should be more careful about making changes next time. I'm fairly new at this but I'm learning more and more about blog basics and add-ons. I realized blogging is a good outlet for me. It's becoming addictive but very rewarding.

Wishes, Hopes, Dreams and more

"A NEED is something you have to have because you won't be able to live without it."
I need air, water, food, clothing, shelter and love.

"A WANT is something you would like to have although without it, you would still survive."
I want Tiffany diamond earrings set in platinum.

"A WISH is something you fancy to happen magically."
I wish I could go shopping around the world to my heart's content.

"A HOPE is something you want to happen in the future that you await with great expectation."
I hope that my son will grow up healthy in mind, spirit and body.

"A DESIRE is something your heart intensely wants."
I desire to send my parents to a luxurious vacation to a place of their choice.

"An AIM is a purpose or reason for doing something."
I aim to be the best daughter, sister, wife, mother and friend that I could possibly be.

"A GOAL is a specific target you want to achieve."
My goal is to lose another 20 pounds before the year ends.

"A DREAM is something that you want that you see or imagine in your mind."
I dream of having a big house in the city.

"A VISION is a noble dream."
I have a vision of growing old in a happy home strengthened by the love of my family.

South Park counterpart

This is my personal impression of my own southpark character.