tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-251269022024-03-08T14:39:35.509+08:00Insomniac's Mindwide awake and bloggingjhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1157505541349928112006-09-08T06:28:00.000+08:002007-04-09T16:48:27.350+08:00Missing In Action<div align="justify">I was absent from the blog world for some time now. No big deal, I just had to take a break because...while I was gone, I<br />- spent an afternoon with Hubby D at <a href="http://www.intramuros.vweb.ph">Fort Santiago</a> (it was our first time to visit the historical place)<br />- attended a business conference<br />- went to the vet 5 times for Alf's medications (the baby is fine now)<br />- spent 4 days in Palawan with hubby (will post about this soon)</div><div align="justify">- been to hardware stores, home depot and furniture shops (our soon-to-be home will be completed by mid-next year, yay!)</div><div align="justify">- celebrated my birthday</div><div align="justify">Here's hoping I will be blogging more this time....</div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1156525218449854002006-08-26T00:48:00.000+08:002006-08-26T01:00:18.653+08:00For Dylan<div align="center">I was just watching you sleep,</div><div align="center">so peaceful...like a child.</div><div align="center">And I realized</div><div align="center">that there's nowhere else in this world</div><div align="center">that I would want to be</div><div align="center">except right here...</div><div align="center">beside you.</div><div align="center">I love you. </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1155925806235328582006-08-19T02:22:00.000+08:002006-08-19T02:30:06.283+08:00On A Sick Leave<div align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/alf%20059.0.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/alf%20059.0.jpg" border="0" /></a> My baby is sick so I'm taking some time off because he needs all the loving right now. Be back soon...<br /></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1155089074068002522006-08-09T09:55:00.000+08:002006-08-09T10:04:36.136+08:00Hug Me Please<div align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/koala.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/koala.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Uhmm...the comfort of a snuggle. Don't you just love to be hugged? on a rainy day? on days when you feel so alone? by your Dad, your Mom, hubby or dear friend? I'm declaring today as "Hug Day" so go give someone a hug and brighten that person's day. Hugs to you from me too.</div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1155000843982486982006-08-08T08:38:00.000+08:002006-08-08T09:36:33.343+08:00Laughter Is The Best Medicine<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/368367221.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/368367221.jpg" border="0" /></a>While surfing the net early this morning, I chanced upon <a href="http://showbizandstyle.inq7.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view_article.php?article_id=5560">this article</a> and I was forced to get a good laugh. Afterall, who wants to frown and get wrinkles at an early age? <em>Ahem, 30+ is STILL young you know. Don't dare argue with me, this is my blog, he he. </em></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">Now let's see, the benefits of laughter :</div><div align="justify">* Eustress State - a condition where mirthful laughter produces healthy or positive emotions that influence the immune system, boosting natural killer cells and tumor cells.</div><div align="justify">* Activation of T lymphocytes - laughter tells the immune system to activate the T cells or wake them up.</div><div align="justify">* Strenghtens the fight against upper respiratory tract infection through an increase in the antibody IgA (immunoglobulin A). An antibody fights disease-causing "invaders".</div><div align="justify">* Increase in gamma interferon that tells the immune system to turn itself on.</div><div align="justify">* Increase in IgB, another antibody, as well as an increase in Complement 3, which assists antibodies in penetrating infected cells. The beneficial effects lasted, and levels of antibodies increased, right on the day after patients watched a funny video. </div><div align="justify">* Laughing is a stress buster.</div><div align="justify">* Laughter exercises the diaphragm and improves the body's ability to use oxygen. </div><div align="justify">* It can help reduce pain and help speed up healing. </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><em>Hmmmm....I think I'll watch The 40 year Old Virgin with D this afternoon. </em></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154958877521308992006-08-07T21:34:00.000+08:002006-08-07T21:54:37.713+08:00You Have A Message<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/text_message_lg.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/text_message_lg.jpg" border="0" /></a>While on sick leave, sales assistant Katy Tanner from London found out she was fired from her job when she received a <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20060804/wl_uk_afp/britaintelecomjobs">text message</a> from her company. When she complained, Blue Banana defended it's decision and added that the termination method was fair because texting is a part of <em>"youth culture"</em>. The company employs about 120 people in Britain, many of them aged under 21.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">Youth culture? <em>Duh.</em> I have a 59 y/o staff who owns a cellular phone <em>(who doesn't? even the balut vendor has one)</em> but is required to call the office for sick leave/emergency leave. All instructions, endorsements and guidelines, even reprimands are in the form of formal writing. I think it's unfair to terminate an employee <em>(even if it's a small company for that matter)</em> via text messages. <em>Period. </em></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154795339301722602006-08-05T23:58:00.000+08:002006-08-06T03:38:24.740+08:00Life<div align="left"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/pooh.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 137px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 151px" height="148" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/pooh.jpg" width="122" border="0" /></a>Here's a nice message sent by a friend this morning, it made me optimistic the whole day :<br /><br />Life's pretty simple.<br />When you're asking for apples and life hands you lemons, make lemonade.<br /><br />If you are on your way out and it starts to rain,<br />at least you won't have to water the plants anymore.<br /><br />It's a matter of seeing things in new perspective. The benefits may not be immediate nor obvious, but you have to know this for sure,<br />God will never give you anything you can't handle.<br />Nothing you can't triumph over.<br /><br />There will be problems, there will be struggles, but if they're not there how'd you know how strong you are? </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154654805894777812006-08-04T08:02:00.000+08:002006-08-04T09:26:45.913+08:00Let's Celebrate Life!<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/balloons.0.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/balloons.0.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">I'm celebrating...</div><div align="center">1. a pleasant morning drive </div><div align="center">2. my favorite breakfast served </div><div align="center">3. a fresh clean face because I had a facial from my derma yesterday </div><div align="center">4. new clothes from yesterday's shopping</div><div align="center">What do you want to celebrate today? </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154371593627130822006-08-01T02:02:00.000+08:002006-08-02T09:28:07.636+08:00Rise And Shine, It's Another Day<div align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/sunrise.4.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 304px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 184px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="141" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/sunrise.4.jpg" width="248" border="0" /></a><br />I love watching sunsets but I love watching the sunrise even more. The rising sun makes me say a thanksgiving prayer - for a new life, a fresh start, another chance, one more reason to celebrate, an extra mile. There is a lot to be thankful for. I love my life, I know I'm so blessed. And I've been good, I know I tried my best and I share what I have...so please Lord, help me go through this <em>"ordeal"? </em>Thank you.</div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154285312027563062006-07-31T02:23:00.000+08:002006-07-31T07:52:24.426+08:00Sisig Anyone?<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/cartimar%20002.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/cartimar%20002.jpg" border="0" /></a>A trip back home wont be complete without a taste of Sisig. Aling Lucing's is the most popular and we always buy from her, but this time my brother suggested we try Aling Naty's, the store next to Aling Lucing's. </div><div align="justify">I made the meal more exciting by turning it into a competition. We bought one serving of each. Who won the battle? Surprisingly it was <strong><em>Aling Naty's</em></strong>. The same amount of serving but cheaper by P10. Although the two have almost the same texture, Aling Naty's was crunchier and tastier. Aling Lucing had the taste of burnt meat, and my Dad noted that it was too oily and had so much fat. So the next time you visit Angeles City, try both and tell me which one suits your taste buds better. </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154115902862961802006-07-30T22:28:00.000+08:002006-07-31T07:54:42.436+08:00Am I Weird? Here's 6 Reasons Why I Say So...<p align="justify">Here are the rules of this Tag from <a href="http://www.niceheart.wordpress.com">Niceheart</a> and <a href="http://www.bingskee.wordpress.com">Ate Bing</a> : </p><p align="left">The writer will create a blog about the 6 weird things/habits about himself.<br />People who get tagged will have to post a blog of their own telling 6 weird things/habits about themselves.<br />At the end of your 6 weird things/habits, you need to choose 6 people that you would like to tag and list their names.<br />Don't forget to leave a comment that says "You are tagged!" in their comments box and tell them to read yours and for instructions on how to proceed.<br /></p><p align="justify">Here's my list :<br /></p><p align="justify">1. I'm obsessed in keeping everything clean, I can't go to sleep if I see dust anywhere in the bedroom, I have to wipe it out first. And I hate hairs in the carpet. <em>Quick, give me the vaccum cleaner!</em></p><p align="justify">2. Hubby finds it weird that I'd rather hug my favorite pillow than hug him when I'm sleeping.</p><p align="justify">3. I sleep talk (incomprehensible language) even to hubby.</p><p align="justify">4. I prefer eating tuyo and sinangag than go fine dining. Heck, I can even eat tuyo and sinangag everyday, 3x a day.</p><p align="justify">5. I love the smell of a just-used- match.</p><p align="justify">6. I talk to myself while I'm driving. </p><p align="justify">Don't worry guys, I won't tag anyone. You can all breathe now, he he. I spare you from the agony of completing the list, unless of course you want to do it too. Drop a comment if you've done the same so I can check out your list, okay?</p>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154239641314802052006-07-30T13:58:00.000+08:002006-07-31T01:51:57.486+08:00Share A Kiss?<div align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/alf%20037.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/alf%20037.jpg" border="0" /></a> Oh, lookie lookie! Big chocolate kiss from hubby D. <em>Yay, so sweet.</em> Wanna have a bite? <em></em><strong>Ladies :</strong> When was the last time you received chocolates from your dear hubby/boyfriend? <strong>Men :</strong> When was the last time you gave your wife/girlfriend chocolates?</div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154170848654950362006-07-29T18:39:00.000+08:002006-07-30T02:00:42.893+08:00Alf, Alf, Alf<div align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/alf%20021.0.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/alf%20021.0.jpg" border="0" /></a> The <em>"First Family",</em> Mama just woke up and forgot to brush her hair, baby Alf on the other hand was already full of energy. He kept moving, so we weren't able to get a clear picture.<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/alf%20028.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">The <em>"proud Mama and baby Alf"</em> taken by my brother. Alf says: <a href="http://www.jaynir.wordpress.com">Jase's CC</a> , <a href="http://www.annabanana.info">Annabanana's Matilda</a>, <a href="http://www.eraofchris.blogspot.com">Princess' Lucky</a> can we be best friends?</div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1154114573691981012006-07-29T02:25:00.000+08:002006-07-29T03:22:53.910+08:00Blog Absence<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/bee2.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/bee2.jpg" border="0" /></a>Four days without a new post and not spending hours in front of the computer is a new thing for me ever since I discovered blogging. It must have been the rain, the busy week I had at the office and the effects of vitamins. Here's an update of my life during the 4 days of blog absence:</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">- rainy days meant memos and reports pouring in my office. <em>Sigh. </em></div><div align="justify">- more play time and exercise for Alf <em>(including 1 MOA dinner and some window shopping, Alf had fun and proud Mama/Dada failed to take pictures because we were busy watching him walk excitedly through the corridors of the mall).</em></div><div align="justify">- more time spent with D and my folks in Angeles City.</div><div align="justify">- the Insomniac can sleep. Thanks to the vitamins given by a Korean friend, I have been sleeping for 8 hours every night. <em>Hurray!</em></div><div align="justify">- years after it happened, I was able to finally watch 9/11 the documentary. <em>Tragic and sad.</em></div><div align="justify">- watched the movie Alexander, played by Collin Farrel <em>(was Alexander really gay as portrayed in the movie?)</em>. </div><div align="justify">- first visit to SM Clark. </div><div align="justify">- lots of cleaning ingredients, chocolates and potato chips bought from the Duty Free shops in Clark.</div><div align="justify">- 10 shots on Friday morning for hubby D when Alf accidentally bit his nose during their play time. It was a light scratch actually, but I insisted we see the doctor anyway. Alf is under observation, but I think both will be okay.</div><div align="justify">What's up with you guys?</div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1153758142648916452006-07-24T22:37:00.001+08:002006-07-25T04:36:40.576+08:003 Meme For Me Over the Weekend<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/psych_masks_bxp52729t.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/psych_masks_bxp52729t.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.ideasnpink.i.ph">Carey</a> says:<br /><br />1. Random : The food stuff you're posting in your blog always makes my tummy grumble! <em>Oops, he he.</em><br />2. Challenge : Teach Alf to do some neat somersaults and how to jump through a ring of fire. <em>This is a tough one but I'll try!</em><br />3. Color : Blue! It's your blog's color - very easy. <em>Green used to be the first in my list, now it's 3rd, blue is 2nd and Pink is actually my first. Hmmm...that gives me an idea, why don't I post my pink stuffs? Wink.</em><br />4. Like : That you are so positive about our country and it shows in your posts. <em>Yes I am, but I also have one <a href="http://jairamdinsomniac.blogspot.com/2006/05/good-morning.html#comments">post</a> that says otherwise. </em><br />5. Memory : Your picture with Winnie the Pooh. <em>I love that one, too!</em><br />6. Animal : A big fish in the ocean (coz of your underwater blog background). <em>Yes, yes, I'd like to be a fish but I can have my second life as a cute puppy like Alf.<br /></em>7. Question : What does Jairam stand for? <em>Jairam is actually the inverted Maria J because my full name is Maria Janette. I wanted a different name on-line.<br /></em>8. Song : Who Let the Dogs Out? (with Alf woofing in the background...lol) <em>He he cute and funny, that's a great song for Mama and Alf. Thanks Carey. </em><br /><em></em><br /><a href="http://www.journeyofthefamily.blogspot.com">Mama Jenn</a> you might want to do this meme.<br /></div><div align="justify"><br />From <a href="http://www.annabanana.info">Annabanana</a>:<br /><br />3 Things that scare me:<br />- death of my parents<br />- disability<br />- earthquakes<br /><br />3 People who can make me laugh:<br />- Dylan<br />- Alf <em>(okay, I know he's a puppy but he makes me laugh anyway)<br /></em>- that guy from the movie 40 Year Old Virgin<br /><br />3 Things I love:<br />- kisses from Dylan<br />- the beach<br />- my car<br /><br />3 Things I hate:<br />- poverty<br />- war<br />- gossip<br /><br />3 Things I don't understand:<br />- war<br />- politics<br />- politicians<br /><br />3 Things on my desk:<br />- a bottle of mineral water<br />- some candies<br />- my office pen<br /><br />3 Things I'm doing right now:<br />- blogging<br />- monitoring the activities of my staff <em>(2 are presently busy doing reports I need to sign later on, 1 is having a break & reading the papers, 1 went to the hotel lobby to assist a guest)<br /></em>- wiggling my toes<br /><br />3 Things I want to do before I die:<br />- I want to make sure that I made my parents proud with the choices I made in my life.<br />- have a baby<br />- make a difference in someone's life<br /><br />3 Things I can do:<br />- I can put on lipstick perfectly without a mirror and while driving.<br />- I can stay awake and still be active for 2 straight days.<br />- I can act, sing and dance.<br /><br />3 Ways to describe my personality:<br />- flexible<br />- I'm an extrovert.<br />- sensitive<br /><br />3 Things people might not know about me:<br />- I paint.<br />- Now that I have Alf, I prefer staying home all day.<br />- The lifestyle section is the first page I read in the newspaper.<br /><br />3 Things I can't do:<br />- I can't eat Durian.<br />- I can't sleep without a pillow.<br />- I can't drive wearing my office shoes.<br /><br />3 Things I think you should listen to:<br />- good music<br />- chirping of the birds<br />- a good advice<br /><br />3 Things I don't think you should listen to ever:<br />- gossip<br />- people telling you "You can't do it."<br />- people fighting<br /><br />3 Of my absolute favorite foods:<br />- ice cream<br />- chocolates<br />- pasta<br /><br />3 Things I'd like to learn:<br />- to fly a private plane/helicopter<br />- play the drums<br />- ride a bike<br /><br />3 Beverages I drink regularly:<br />- coffee<br />- Coke light<br />- green tea<br /><br />3 Shows I watched when I was a child:<br />- Sesame Street<br />- Smurf</div><div align="justify">- Bioman<br /><br />3 people I tag to do this meme (chosen randomly from my blogroll):<br />- <a href="http://www.ideasnpink.i.ph">Carey</a><br />- <a href="http://www.senorenrique.blogspot.com">Senor Enrique</a><br />- <a href="http://www.jefisthinkingaloud.blogspot.com">Jef</a><br /></div><div align="left"><br />From <a href="http://www.jade-n-mom.blogspot.com">JMom</a>:<br /><br />If only I could:<br />travel and have vacations without having to work, oh I would love that.<br /><br />If only I knew why:<br />then I wouldn't be thinking about it.<br /><br />If only I could meet:<br />George Bush, Jr. then maybe I would know why.<br /><br />If only they didn't have:<br />war and poverty<br /><br />If only I could have a car:<br />I already have a RAV 4 but I would like to have a BMW X3.<br /><br />If only I could have this age again:<br />13, I enjoyed my teenage years, I'd like to be young & carefree again.<br /><br />If only this wish could come true:<br />have a million dollars...<br /><br />If I had a Million dollars I would buy these things:<br />plane tickets for me and my family so we can travel the world NOW.<br /><br />If only I could anything right now, I would eat:<br />I'm craving for Yellow Cab pizza<br /><br />If only I didn't have to eat:<br />I'd be slimmer.<br /><br />If I could have one dream come true:<br />to travel around the world with the whole family NOW.<br /><br />If only I could be:<br />richer so I can shop everyday, he he.<br /><br />If I could meet one singer:<br />I'd like to meet Madonna.<br /><br />If I could meet one actor/actress, it would be:<br />Orlando Bloom<br /><br />If I could change one thing about me it would be:<br />I want bigger boobies!<br /><br />If I could have one thing, I would have:<br />the life that I have right now, I love it!<br /><br />If only they didn't play this song on the radio:<br />....bagay ba sa akin ang kulot?<br /><br />If I could go anywhere in the world, I would like to go to:<br />the top 10 beaches in the world!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.jaynir.wordpress.com">Jase</a>, <a href="http://www.zephyrtouch.com">Pareng Kneeko</a>, <a href="http://www.one-step-at-a-time.blogspot.com">Kuya Kadyo</a>, <a href="http://www.yorokobee.com">Yorokobee</a> it's your turn now. </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1153568124573170192006-07-22T19:26:00.001+08:002006-07-23T02:14:30.426+08:00Are You A Shopaholic?<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/juli_makeover_03.2.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/juli_makeover_03.2.jpg" border="0" /></a>A true blooded shopaholic is not one who spends without thought but does so with a lot of reflection. He/she is willing to pay good money for the best bag, a pair of shoes of the highest quality, and a dress hand-embroidered by a French seamstress. Here are some tips for shopaholics and shopaholics-at-heart as enumerated in <a href="http://www.yehey.com/lifestyle/default.aspx?artid=20567">this page</a>:<br /><br />1. Underwear that will go the distance will always be Marks & Spencer, Women's Secret and from abroad, La Perla. <em>I have been a loyal <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com">Marks & Spencer</a> user since my high school days, though at that time, it was more popularly known as St. Michael's, and we have the items shipped from abroad.<br /></em>2. Balenciaga dresses available locally in Homme & Femme at Shangri-la Mall. <em>My most expensive suit is an <a href="http://www.anneklein.com">Anne Klein</a>, and my most expensive dress is from <a href="http://www.mango.es">Mango</a>.<br /></em>3. Gucci is the brand of choice for high-heels, <em>a.k.a.</em> walking around in four-inch high Gucci without hurting your feet. The best walking shoes are found in Todd's. Women with big feet can try Nine West. <em>My most expensive pumps are <a href="http://www.ferragamo.com">Salvatore Ferragamo</a> , and my office shoes are Nine West. Although occasionally I buy cheaper brands from Janylin (styles are similar to Nine West designs), People Are People or from Mikka, a store in Divisoria. My walking shoes would be slippers - my one & only <a href="http://www.havaianas.com">Havaianas</a>.<br /></em>4. For the hip & young set, Cartier and Bulgari are the watch brands of choice. Try also IWC or Lucerne. <em>The very first watch I bought with my salary was a Guess dress watch, and then I upgraded it with an <a href="http://www.anneklein.com">Anne Klein</a>, two more from <a href="http://www.anneklein.com">Anne Klein</a> and one from <a href="http://www.dkny.com">DKNY</a> until now that I only have eyes for a <a href="http://www.technomarine.com">Technomarine</a>. </em></div><div align="justify">5. Are you a bag lady? Louis Vuitton is still the way to go but at more than P100K/$2K for a decent-sized leather purse, not all shopaholics can afford. Kate Spade has great fun bags for the young and the young-at-heart. <em>While I drool on a </em><a href="http://www.louisvuitton.com"><em>LV</em></a><em> I have a collection of </em><a href="http://www.polo.com"><em>Ralph Lauren</em></a><em> bags.<br /></em>6. When shopping, don't just consider the brand or the look at the price tag. If you are buying a bag, check the lining and zippers. If it's a dress, examine the seams. <em>I do this all the time.<br /></em>7. Double check the authenticity. If you're looking for a Prada bag, don't go to Greenhills. Buy only from authorized dealers and representives. Ask the salesperson questions. It doesn't hurt to ask, what's more embarrassing is being caught in an international airport wearing fake designer items. <em>I'd rather buy an item without a brand than buy an imitation.<br /></em>8. Be careful about internet shopping. Some people buy fake goods or stolen ones. <em>I don't trust Ebay or any internet shopping offers. I need to see the goods with my very eyes before deciding if I really like it.<br /></em>9. A bar of soap can cost as much as P500/$10 and a body lotion double the amount. There is a big difference from the brands and luxury products bought from the drugstore or the regular grocery store. <em>My most expensive toiletries would be my </em><a href="http://www.obagi.com"><em>Obagi</em></a><em> and <a href="http://www.shiseido.co.jp/com">Shiseido</a>.<br /></em>10. Rustan's carry the most designer names under one roof and the store even has a personnal shopper service. <em>Rustan's is my best friend when it comes to toiletries, cosmetics, suits and shoes.<br /></em>11. Clothes, shoes and bags are generally cheaper abroad but for some strange reason, make up is less expensive here. <em>I make it a point to ask "pasalubong" from relatives and friends abroad. I get some items for free, har har.<br /></em>12. In abroad, when people say branded it means wearing clothes with a designer label, and for the rich and famous, bridge lines don't count. <em>My branded clothes, bags, shoes and accessories, are branded, in the true sense of the word. But I only have a few. Sigh. I need to work harder to earn more shopping money!</em></div><div align="justify"><em>So, are you a true blooded shopaholic? </em></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1153493613285355012006-07-21T22:44:00.000+08:002006-07-21T22:58:51.366+08:00Doggie News<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/capt.sge.rmp28.180706071215.photo00.photo.0.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/capt.sge.rmp28.180706071215.photo00.photo.0.jpg" border="0" /></a>Doggie Hotel opens! The rate : <em>23 dollars a night</em> and television is optional. I spend <em>200 pesos a day</em> for Alf, for his pet dorm. Somebody has to take care of him while Mama and Dada are at work. <em>Sigh.</em><br />Americans spend nearly 40 billion dollars a year on their household pets - 30 percent more than 5 years ago. The figure is close to what Americans spend on toys for children - 48 billion dollars, and more than twice the 17 billion spent on cosmetics. Read more <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20060718/ts_alt_afp/afplifestyleusanimalshotelpetsoffbeat_060718071109">here</a>. </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1153284887177298052006-07-19T12:01:00.000+08:002006-07-19T14:01:37.770+08:00Life Is Good!<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/mess_pa_so.gif"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/mess_pa_so.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">Thanks to you guys, I'm feeling so much better. I'm back to my old vivacious self! <em>Yay!</em> Let's celebrate.<br /><br /><em>Things to celebrate :<br /></em>* <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/oukoe_uk_transport_virgingatlantic;_ylt=ArZeVVRVCGLk6Vom2rLAjbvtiBIF;_ylu=X3oDMTA0cDJlYmhvBHNlYwM">Space invasion</a> in 2008 - presently for the royalties, but who knows? Maybe in the years to come it will be affordable for all? Imagine 15 minutes in space including 5 minutes of weightlessness...<br />* It's final. D and I are going to <a href="http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph/explore_phil/place_details.asp?content=description&province=22">Palawan</a> on September to celebrate my birthday and <a href="http://www.annalyn.net">Ajay</a> and I are going to Malaysia on November for a short vacation. </div><div align="justify">* This afternoon we're picking up Alf from the Vet, fresh from a bath and some grooming. <em>Hmmm....supper cuddly! </em></div><div align="justify">* Tomorrow morning D and I are going to take Alf for a walk. In the afternoon after our scheduled Spa treatment, I have an appointment with my Stylist for a new look. </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><em>Life is good! Sooo good. I hope everyone is having a grand time like Me, D and Alf.</em> </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com67tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1153153738916098272006-07-18T00:14:00.000+08:002006-07-18T00:28:59.123+08:00Into The Blues<div align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/ziggy.gif"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/ziggy.png" border="0" /></a> I'm sorry I haven't been myself lately...I'm bothered about <em>"something".</em> <em>Sigh.</em> I feel blue. <em>Hugs, anyone?<br /></em></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1152959287466132462006-07-15T18:16:00.000+08:002006-07-23T02:41:37.990+08:00Another Challenge For You<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/9people.0.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/9people.0.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">Here's another one from <em>Amazing Illusions</em>...dare challenge the observant power of Sherlock Holmes? Are you as exceptionally observant? I found 8 people in the picture. How many can you find? </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1152909591729606312006-07-15T04:14:00.000+08:002006-07-15T18:16:27.750+08:00Challenge Done!<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/beach.0.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/beach.0.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I was challenged by <a href="http://www.toni.marikit.net">Toni</a> to post a picture of my favorite place where I want to be alone. When I was still single, I enjoyed walking alone by the shore <em>(I still do, but now I walk with D).</em> Even if I would go to the beach with friends, I make it a point that I get quality time with myself. I love those times when my feet are burried in the sand or simply watching kids build sand castles, <em>how comforting!</em> Now that I have D in my life, I don't get to do that anymore. The only time I'm alone is when D is at work or playing basketball, and I spend it in our room sleeping or on-line. <em>(Hey, I'm still not alone - Alf keeps me company)</em> But I never regret my choice to spend the rest of my life with him...<em>he's my hero, next to Dad of course!</em> </div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1152806681874544732006-07-13T23:21:00.000+08:002006-07-15T18:10:40.186+08:00Enjoying A Rainy Day<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/ALF.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/ALF.jpg" border="0" /></a>How can we <em>(D & I)</em> not enjoy going to the Vet, having him groomed, buying him a bed, playpen, doggie bag and toys? We got him <em>(yay! finally convinced D ha, ha) </em>last Wednesday night. It must have been the car aircon, room temperature and the<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/pizza.0.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 161px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 120px" height="132" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/pizza.0.jpg" width="176" border="0" /></a> bad weather - he got a cold the next day. But today, the Vet declared him healthy and well! He's very playful and barks like a big dog. His name is <em>Alf</em>. I named him Zak when we first got him but D insisted I change his name because he was sickly. Now Alf is better and sleeps in a bed beside ours.</div><div align="justify">And to celebrate, we're having take out (<em>midnight snack)</em> from <em>Yellow Cab</em> - pizza, chicken wings, Coke and ice cream. <em>Please come over and join us!</em></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com64tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1152634775105345512006-07-12T00:16:00.000+08:002006-07-12T00:19:35.110+08:00Signs From Above<div align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/church%20sign.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/church%20sign.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This is hung inside the Church, <em>tsk tsk</em>...</div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1152633953041889932006-07-11T23:56:00.000+08:002006-07-12T00:46:18.316+08:00Busy As A Bee<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/dubai.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/200/dubai.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I'm sorry guys for not visiting your sites lately, I've been busy at work and at home <strong><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:78%;">(will post about this in the coming days)</span></strong>. I promise to drop by as soon as I finish everything. <em>Sigh. </em>In the meantime, let me share with you an additional item on my wishlist ....<em>what's yours?<br /></em><br />Desert Safari in <a href="http://www.dubaicityguide.com">Dubai</a></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25126902.post-1152466829121598152006-07-09T23:38:00.000+08:002006-07-10T01:45:02.923+08:00Illusion<div align="justify"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/1600/13%20faces.0.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5786/2619/320/13%20faces.0.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Fellow blogger <a href="http://www.niceillusions.blogspot.com">Santosh</a> from Bombay, India was kind enough to allow me to share with you this interesting photo.<em> How many faces do you see?</em> There are thirteen faces in the picture, <em>did you see them all?</em></div>jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16289144935360637862noreply@blogger.com40