Cool and Composed

Sugar Free In 28-Days

2011-05-12T11:13:00.000-04:00

In this country, we’re facing all kinds of addictions – and beating them may be the #1 health challenge we face. Whether you’re addicted to nicotine, carbohydrates, salt or sugar, we all need a little help kicking the habit.

Try this 28-day challenge to reduce the amount of sugar you consume – you’ll feel healthier, and if you stick with it, you might just extend your life.

Ellen's season 7 opener - Dance with SYTYD

2010-06-24T00:16:00.000-04:00

Video Gallery - The Ellen DeGeneres Show

2010-06-24T00:10:00.000-04:00

Video Gallery - The Ellen DeGeneres Show: "Search Ellen's Videos:"

Chicken Adobo on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2010-03-10T21:02:00.000-05:00

Chicken Adobo on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Quotable Quote

2009-06-11T22:06:00.002-04:00

I love this quote. I remember adding this as a closing signature on my email when the word email started. When I read Helen Keller's biography, somehow this quote just had an impact on me.

Miss Firefly introduced me to Glenda of Oodles of Goodles. I discovered it to be a cove of treasure waiting to be discovered. What a great find. The contest was just a plus. Go check it out and join her birthday giveaway .

Sharon Cuneta Mega 30 Concert in Toronto

2009-06-10T23:04:00.006-04:00

Sharon Cuneta Mega 30 Concert tour went to Toronto last Sunday, June 07 2009 with special guest, her daughter KC .

Together with my sister and my cousin, we enjoyed the concert at Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

From Dear Heart, to PS I love You, Ikaw, Bituin Walang Ningning, Kahit Maputi na ang Buhok ko to Kahit Konting Pagtingin, I was singing with her all along. Sharon’s songs definitely brought so much memories.

The little acrobat

2009-06-03T23:44:00.003-04:00

photo taken at the backyard....it is growing. More grass will show where the brown soil is. Have to wait...more rain...more sun!

drawing

2009-05-14T16:11:00.002-04:00

My daughter drew this photo of her and her cousin. Its cute.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-23T00:34:00.000-05:00

Watch Santa's flight! Have you been good or have you been bad?
Will he come by and visit you on Christmas eve?

photo snatched from http://www.jacquielawson.com/

Let your fingers do the talking

2008-11-15T22:52:00.000-05:00

42 words

Typingtest

What Your Handbag Says About You

2008-10-01T21:11:00.000-04:00

What Your Handbag Says About You

You tend to be relaxed throughout the day. You are naturally at peace.

You tend to be relaxed but alert. You keep your eye out for anything unusual.

You are a high maintenance person. You feel lost outside of your normal environment.

You are an organized and together person. You are competent and successful.

You are practical and down to earth. You tend to be a rather reserved and quiet person.

What Does Your Handbag Say About You?

My little fairy

2008-09-25T23:32:00.001-04:00

Sketch your photos at dumpr.net

ROM

2008-08-17T00:56:00.001-04:00

Royal Ontario Museum - my family and I met some blogging friends at ROM and it was a delightful time indeed.

Here are some photos to share.

Love And Hate Meme

2008-07-23T22:03:00.004-04:00

I got this love and hate meme from Jeanny. There are things, ways, or people we can't stand. There are also things, ways or people we can't live without and would love to do over and over again or be with forever.

List down 5 things you hate and 5 things you love. Then, put the link or links of your blog or blogs in the list. Tag at least 5 people

5 hates:

1. scantily clothed women
2. stinky people (body odour)
3. stiletto high heels
4. ego-centric people
5. brown-nosers

5 loves:

1. my daughter and the hubs
2. watching movies
3. taking vacations
4. blogging : Cool and Composed, Mga-Munimuni, All About books
5. reading books

I am only tagging 2: Gina and Manilenya.

cool and composed

Encounter with a playful dolphin

2008-07-13T23:03:00.004-04:00

In a recent trip to California, we had a chance to see the dolphins in Six Flags Discovey Kingdom. What a great treat when this dolphin decided to play with my daughter on the viewing window. The dolphin was playful and loved my daughter's little panda bear. It went on for about half an hour and it was delightful.

Macro Shots

2008-07-04T20:33:00.000-04:00

Lobo

2008-06-25T23:07:00.001-04:00

I'm not really certain but i think Lobo is a tagalog word for wolf.
I am a big fan of Lobo, a Pinoy telemovie with ABS-CBN.
For your daily dose of Lobo, checkout Pinoy TV Junkie.
Most of the time I watch the episodes via Pinoy TV Channel or You Tube and on occasions thru TFC.

It is almost at its final episodes. I cant wait to see the end and yet a bit saddened that its almost over. Oh well..I'll see Piolo Pascual again i'm sure. I hope he will star on another tele serye.

and on a related note,
I went to the Metro Toronto Zoo the other day for my daughter's school trip and took some photos.
Here's one of the wolf pack enjoying the warm weather.

and here's more taking a snooze.

What does your day mean?

2008-06-21T14:49:00.002-04:00

Want to know which day you were born?
Click on this calculator

Just for fun...

WHAT DOES YOUR DAY MEAN?

MONDAY:

Monday's child is
fair of face.

You are good-looking,
especially when you smile!

You are beautiful inside and out.

TUESDAY:

Tuesday's child is full of
grace.

You have many
talents, and are fun to be around.

You dance through life!

WEDNESDAY:

Wednesday's child is full of woe.

You are a serious
person, and try to change things that seem unfair.

You make the world a better place!

THURSDAY:

Thursday's child has far to go.

You have many ideas,
and you want to do them all.

You will go far in life!

FRIDAY:

Friday's child is loving and giving.

You are caring and
sharing. You are kind,

you love people, and people love you!

SATURDAY:

Saturday's child works hard for a living.

You are ambitious,
enjoy work, and like to accomplish things.

You know what you want!

SUNDAY:

But the child born on the Sabbath day,

Is fair and wise and good and gay.

You are sunny, fun,
and loving.

You bring much joy to other people!

Thanks for this Gina!

Flowering Quince

2008-06-08T01:00:00.001-04:00

Here is a flowering quince bush in our backyard. It is flowering so beautifully now.

click on photos to see a larger view

And here is a photo of some flowers my hubby put on a bowl of water.
Isn't it pretty? I just love the blooms.

Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information.

Look of the Year

2008-06-07T00:30:00.000-04:00

Check out http://www.lookoftheyear.com for your chance to be discovered as the "Look of the Year."

Are you young and beautiful? If you answered yes, then this is the beauty contest for you. Be the next top model in town and be ready to romp up the ramp in New York, Paris or Milan. Delight in the glamour and flashing lights of this industry and have the chance to be photograph and be the cover girl in your fave magazines.

I would take this opportunity if I was still young. I am young at heart, I wonder if that counts?

Tagged: Sparky Friends

2008-06-02T01:13:00.000-04:00

I was tagged by Jeanny. This is so pretty and I love it. Thanks so much.

To keep this meme going, I’m tagging 5 of my blogger friends:
Gina,Roselle, Imom, Haze and Pining.

Here's a rose for you!

[Glitterfy.com - *Glitter Photos*]

So friends, tag 5 featured friends for the week, inform then of the tag to keep the ball rolling. A sparkly badge would be a plus.

Tulip Tree

2008-06-01T00:01:00.001-04:00

We planted this tree on my daughter’s 1st birthday.
On spring time, it blooms with these lovely yellow flowers.
The tulip tree is part of the magnoliaceae family and it smells good.

Tree

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in Summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.

— Joyce Kilmer

Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information

Therapy

2008-05-08T10:57:00.000-04:00

How to Maintain a Healthy Level of Insanity

1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and point a Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow Down.
2. Page Yourself Over The Intercom. Don't Disguise Your Voice.
3. Every Time Someone Asks You To Do Something, Ask If They Want Fries with that.
4. Put Your rubbish bin On Your Desk And Label It 'In.'
5. Put Decaf In The Coffee Maker For 3 Weeks Once Everyone is Over Their Caffeine
Addictions, Switch to Espresso.
6. In The Memo Field Of All Your cheques, Write 'For Smuggling Diamonds'
7. Finish All Your sentences with 'In Accordance With The Prophecy.'
8. Don t use any punctuation
9. As Often As Possible, Skip Rather Than Walk.
10. Order a Diet Water whenever you go out to eat, with a serious face.
11. Specify That Your Drive-through Order Is 'To Go.'
12. Sing Along At The Opera.
13. Go To A Poetry Recital And Ask Why The Poems Don't Rhyme?
14. Put Mosquito Netting Around Your Work Area And Play tropical Sounds All Day.
15. Have Your colleagues address You By Your Wrestling Name, Rock Bottom.
16. When The Money Comes Out The ATM, Scream 'I Won!, I Won!'
17. When Leaving The Zoo, Start Running Towards The car park,
Yelling 'Run For Your Lives, They're Loose!!'
18. Tell Your Children Over Dinner. 'Due To The Economy, We Are Going To Have To Let One Of You Go.'

And The Final Way To Keep A Healthy Level Of Insanity......
Send This blog post To Someone To Make Them Smile.
Its Called ....... Therapy

Guess the Number Game

2008-04-23T17:13:00.000-04:00

Click on the house, very interesting, how is it done?

Make A Wish

2008-04-10T23:17:00.000-04:00

Got this tag from Jeanny

The rules are easy:

1. Think about what it is that you want more than anything, what your heart’s desire and fondest wish is, and what it is that you would wish for if you were to see the above wishing star flame across the night sky.
2. Right click and SAVE the blank graphic below.
3. Use a graphics program of your choice and place your wish on this picture.

Here’s the original that you need to right click and save in your computer!

….and here is my wish

now its your turn to make a wish.....
Rachel,Gina, and Cookie

Jade

2008-04-06T14:48:00.000-04:00

This is our Jade plant. It is so big now. It is happily growing by the bay window. Commonly known as jade plant, friendship tree or Money Plant, Crassula ovata is a succulent plant that sometimes has small pink or white flowers and is common as a houseplant worldwide. Although I have not seen our jade plant flower yet. It must be a different kind than the common one.

Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information

Glass

2008-04-05T03:00:00.000-04:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Glass

These are actually swinging dolphins. Touch the dolphins and it swings like a pendulum on the metal holder.

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Glam Sexy

2008-04-03T03:12:00.000-04:00

I was tagged by Liza for this

You Are Glam Sexy

You live for flaunting your sexiness, and you totally work it.

Why not? You've got the goods - you might as well use them.

You're 100% woman, and you never go out without looking your best.

After all, you never can tell when you might bump into Mr. Perfect!

What Kind of Sexy Girl Are You?

I'm tagging Misyel and Leila

Rubber Plant

2008-03-30T17:36:00.001-04:00

This is a rubber plant. We have a few pots in the house. This is one of them.

Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information

Earth Hour

2008-03-29T15:17:00.001-04:00

Just like google, I am turning off the lights here in my blog.

Are you in? We are!

Turn off your lights
March 29, from 8 to 9 pm , your local time

We are actually going to a Lights Out Party tonight in celebration of the Earth Hour. There will be entertainment, children's activities and FREE hot chocolate. My daughter can't wait.

Earth Hour will show the world that by working together, each of us can make a positive impact in the fight against climate change.

Make sure you turn off your lights, unplug any appliance that is using energy. Even your cell phone chargers. And take time off from watching TV. Light a candle and enjoy the quiet of the dark.

Let's help in saving Earth.

High

2008-03-29T14:13:00.000-04:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is High, click on the photos to see the full image.

This is the Skylon Tower in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

_____________________________________________
I wanted to use this for the I spy theme two weeks ago, can you see the ferris wheel behind the trees? But I can use it for this week's theme of HIGH as well. This is the Skywheel, it is over 175 feet tall.

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Metal

2008-03-23T19:37:00.000-04:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Metal

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Linker Chain

2008-03-09T10:21:00.000-04:00

We all know that we need to get more links from one another join this linker chain.

* To get more more traffic.
* To increase technorati authority.
* To get more back links.
* To gain more friends around the world.

Heres the Rules:

* First copy and paste the list below.
* Do not remove any content from the linker list.
* Just add One LUCKY NUMBER to your blogs.
* If you don't like the concept...say no. :-/
* The main goal here is we are going to circulate our number of friends.
* The more people who will join the "LINKER CHAIN", the more links we can generate.
* Lastly, write only ONE LUCKY NUMBER for your blogs...
* Keep it simple and short, I know some of you have more than one blog.
* The color for the link should be only black, gray, or white, depending on your blog's theme. Please avoid using any color, ok ?
* Hundreds and thousands and millions only no more trillions ...ok lets get started.

1.) 6966
2.) 609
3.) 066
4.) 066
5.) 606
6.) 669
7.) 699
8.) 5354
9.) 777
10.)737
11.) 214
12.)1229
13.)7173
14.) 1969
15.) YOUR LUCKY NUMBER HERE!

I am passing this on to everyone in my link list. Hope you can do it.
Cheezmizan with Chuva , Rachel's Soulful Thoughts, Girlie's Hip and Cool Mama,
Tani's Rungs on My Ladder of Personal Success, Startin’ A New Life, Mommy's Little Corner - this one actually came from her and Missy Misyel.

Different

2008-03-08T20:01:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Different

Here is a photo of my hubby and daughter's sculpture of a snow woman. Normally, we make snowman out of snow. In this case, they decided to be different and made a snow bride instead. Click here to see more photos.

snow bride

Photohunt information can be found at the hub

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Be Oyster Aware

2008-02-27T23:34:00.000-05:00

Why did the oyster cross the road? Well, anyone...give me an answer to that please. I am searcing for a good oyster joke but somehow I cant find one. So let me make up a good answer to my initial question then. Hmnn, maybe because it was tired of swimming and said, wow, its great to shake off all this salt.

I often hear that oysters are an aphrodisiac. Maybe this is because they have excellent nutrient content, especially vitamin E and zinc. Newer methods of nutritional analysis have shown the oyster to be very low in cholesterol. The "fat" is not fat, but glycogen, and animal starch. Normally glycogen is highest from October to June. Oysters are a source of protein, several vitamins, sodium iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iodine and phosphorus and 16 or more trace elements.

I am not a big fan of oysters but when my sister and I went to a Japanese restaurant a month ago and she ordered this baked oyster as an appetizer. I had a bit of a taste to it and wow, I was smitten. It was delicious. It was nice and warm and had a salty and lemony taste. It just melted in my mouth. I am sure I will order this again next time we go there.

The secret to eating a good and healthy oyster is to make sure that it is cooked well. When it comes to eating raw or undercooked oyster, the key thing to note is be aware, be cautious, be educated. Make sure you are not at risk; i.e. you have no health issues that might affect your body when you eat oysters.

Get all the facts and information at Gulf oysters.

Wooden

2008-02-23T22:41:00.001-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Wooden

I'm not really sure if this canoe is wooden. Its probably fiber glass. Photo taken from our camping trip last summer. At any rate, there are two trees (where we get our wood ofcourse) framing this canoe.

Photohunt information can be found at the hub

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Wish upon a Moon

2008-02-22T20:56:00.000-05:00

photo courtesy of daily galaxy

Hindi ang talang nasa langit kundi ang buwang nakasilip ibigay ang hiling ng matang nakapikit"

" Not to the Stars but to the furtive moon, I shut my eyes and say my wish"

Hearts I wear

2008-02-18T19:53:00.000-05:00

Toni of Wifely Steps is running a I Heart You February Blog Carnival: A Show of Hearts

update: Check out the roundup here

At the end of this short month, we will all have a nice catalog of the hearts we’ve taken pics of. So join now, its fun.

Here are a collection of some of my heart jewelries:

heart earrings

heart locket - a gift from my hubby , guess what's inside?

crystal heart earring - I misplaced the other piece - my sister made this for me to match my pendant below

amber heart pendant - another gift from my hubby from years back

silver heart pendant - Believe -

same heart pendant above - reverse is in French for Believe - Croire

LOBO - new teleserye of Piolo and Angel

2008-02-17T22:59:00.000-05:00

Akala ko naman, LOBO is a movie. Yun pala, teleserye. Nonetheless, I am so excited to see this. Aabangan ko ito sa DVD o kaya ipapa-record ko sa mga may TFC dito. Hmmnnn, baka mag-order na ako ng TFC just because of this.

Here is trailer.

Failure

2008-02-10T20:27:00.000-05:00

How does one cope with failure?

I would like to reminisce the past....

I have always been a good student back in my high school days. I even graduated top in my class. Maybe because there were only about a hundred graduating students from my alma mater. But hey, that's still something. I still remember hearing my name called 7 or 8 times to receive my medals. My parents were beaming with pride. I think my father had a smile that reached from ear to ear every time he went to the front to put my medal on me.

As a result of being top in the class, I received a scholarship in the university I studied at. My tuition was free for the 1st semester and will be for the next semesters to follow provided I make it to the top 10 of the Dean's List. I made it to the Dean's List but was not able to be in the top 10. I knew I would not make it , my classmates were definitely smarter than me.

When I received my report card, I think I cried for getting a grade that started with 7. Maybe it was 77 or 78. I never got that before and it was terrible to have gotten such a low grade. That was a disappointment. My parents now had to fork out some cash for the 2nd semester's tuition fee.

The results of my 2nd semester performance was much worse. I cried buckets of tears when I got my report card. I was devastated. I failed 2 subjects, it was in a math subject (I cant remember what it was called, it had lots of Differentials, etc), I think the other one was Physics. I had to take summer classes as a result of this FAILURE.

As my studies progressed, I learned to accept 75s and 76s. Yes, it was better than a failing mark of 74. Looking back, I wished I studied differently, I wished I took a different course. But I cant bring back those years. It was all worth it,I met a lot of people, gained friends and learned tons and tons of mathematical equations I don't think I ever used in my job. But everything happens for a reason. And my diploma served well in my career now.

Fast track to today....

I recently took a course and had to take the exam in order to move on to the next course. I failed. I really studied hard for this exam. But then again, maybe not enough. My results were not bad but I did not reach the passing mark of 300 points. I got 296 only. It was a difficult test. It was computer based. I can take it again but I have to wait 30 days before a retake.

Obviously I was very upset. But it did not bring any tears. I guess, I've grown much more and have learned to accept that failure makes you stronger. Each time we fail, we get up and try again, its like falling.

“Keep on beginning and failing. Each time you fail, start all over again, and you will grow stronger until you have accomplished a purpose - not the one you began with perhaps, but one you'll be glad to remember.”

Cover Girl

2008-02-06T13:59:00.000-05:00

Hey..check this out. I made it to the cover of Cosmopolitan. Eat your hearts out.

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

Subscribe to Cosmopolitan Magazine at a 63% discount!

My name's meaning

2008-02-01T13:26:00.000-05:00

Found this at Gina's blog and considered myself tagged.

It describes most of who I am. Type "A" personality, Hmnn, I wonder what that really means? What's an B or C kind of personality then?

It says I am over bearing at times, nah..i cant see that being me but then again, let me ask my husband and find out.

What LEAH Means

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.
You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.
Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.
You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.
You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out.
Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia.
Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Free Web Counter

2008-02-01T11:28:00.000-05:00

For free counter on your website. Checkout www.easy-poll.com/counters

They offer several designs that will suit your taste or style. All you need is two minutes to sign-up. Everything is absolutely free-of-charge. You can have accurate statistics at your fingertips any time you want. You are able to access your account any time of day and night 7 days a week.

So check it out and find out who visits your blogs or websites and have fun.

Just do it or Not?

2008-01-30T13:03:00.000-05:00

They say that the only thing that does not change in this world is the word "change" itself. I am contemplating on a change. I am not just sure if I should go ahead or not. It is always difficult to make decisions like this. Oftentimes, we get so comfortable in the things we do, the things we see, the people we deal with. It is just so hard to face challenges that come our way whether it be for something that might better ourselves or our lives.

Is it fear of the unknown? Fear of loss of what we are so used to? I am not sure. Somehow, I know I have to make a decision soon.

Are you moving?

2008-01-27T21:48:00.001-05:00

A lot of people are on the go, whether for business or personal reasons. In our lifetime, we certainly move from one place to another. From one house to another. From one city to another. Even from one country to another.

One of the task we need to accomplish at this point is to transport the things we have accumulated. Our furnitures, our appliances, our clothes, and many more that we have acquired through the years and still need for the years to come.

This is where Relocation.com comes in to our assistance. They help in assisting us in this big change in our life. Detailed guides are uniquely designed so that you don’t leave anything out. Check out their site for more information on Real Estate, Mortgage, Moving, Apartment Hunting, Insurance, Careers, and Home Improvement.

As we move from one city to another , or one state to another , or one province to another province where driving is not possible, we will need car transport as well. For this need, check out carmovers.com. They provide free auto shipping quotes and car transport resources & information. Whereas Internationalmovers.com provides shipping quotes for international moves and relocation.

Old Fashioned

2008-01-25T23:55:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Old Fashioned

This car was one of the few cars that paraded on the street in Banff. Taken a few years ago on our vacation there.

This photo dates back from when me and my hubby were still dating. A visit to the Museum.

Photohunt information can be found at the hub

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Opinion Polls

2008-01-25T14:14:00.000-05:00

Ever wanted to get a poll going in your website? Find out people's opinion on different views?

This might help in your decision in buying products in the market or maybe in even designing your website. Otherwise, do it just for fun. Say you want to rate 5 blogs, choose the best you like. Or maybe you want to get the opinion of people on the top 5 shampoo or top 10 shows on TV, do some research on movies, products, books and many more before you buy, view or use them.

Its so easy to join. You can create opinion polls right away , Yes/No style or Multiple choice. Its interactive and you can checkout the results round-the-clock. The system is designed in a way that you need no database of your own, no additional software or IT support. Everything is handled and calculated on Easy Polls' servers quickly and safely.

Win a Hamilton Beach® Stand Mixer Contest

2008-01-22T00:40:00.000-05:00

A Cowboy’s Wife is having a contest on her food blog! You can win a Hamilton Beach® Stand Mixer and she’ll ship anywhere so everyone is eligible!

The Prize:

Hamilton Beach 4.5-qt. Eclectrics Stand Mixer, Pineapple Yellow

The winner will receive a brand new
Hamilton Beach 4.5-qt. Eclectrics Stand Mixer, Pineapple Yellow!!

I would love to win this for sure.

Important

2008-01-19T03:00:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Important

My daughter - a very important person in my life

Photohunt information can be found at the hub

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Trustee Services

2008-01-18T16:41:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for someone who delivers a flexible and responsive trust service that will meet the needs of a wide range of clients, then Northern Trust is just the provider you are looking for. Northern Trust is a premier provider of banking, asset management and asset servicing to affluent families and individuals and leading institutions worldwide. They have in-house capabilities that include account administration, investment management, securities custody, tax preparation and more.

Northern Trust says and I quote

"Caring for your assets and beneficiary needs with world-renowned expertise and personal attention .For over a century, generations of families have relied on Northern Trust to look after assets and provide property administration expertise. Today, your asset management needs may be quite sophisticated and your beneficiary relationships complex. More than ever, you need an experienced fiduciary. Backed with our broad array of specialized services, you can rely on our: Commitment, Character and Creativity"

So if you are looking for a financial partner to care for your nneeds and help you achieve your goals. Go to Northern Trust for trustee services.

APICS - CPIM

2008-01-18T02:40:00.000-05:00

I have just finished one module of CPIM certification. It has a total of 5 modules. It was an acceleratoed course as compared to a 10-week program offered in colleges. The company I work for is sponsoring this course and is done in-house . It goes on for 5 months. On each month, 1 week is alloted to attend a 26 hr course and then take an exam to be able to move on to the next module. I am using half of my time and half company time. It is good I guess because if I were to take this on my own, I have to use all of my own time and invest my money upfront before the company reimburses me.

I am a little bit rusty in this studying concept so have to sharpen up my skills so I can remember all these terms and be able to pass the exam. I have been trying to study this week and do some review. i wish to take the exam before the next module commences in February. Wish me luck.

Steel & Specialty Metal Framing Product Supplier

2008-01-17T14:58:00.000-05:00

Direct from the site, here is an excerpt of what Petro perforated metal is all about.

Petro Wire & Steel
The perfect meshing of product and service.

If you can envision it in perforated metal, we can supply it.
Functional and attractive, perforated metal is seen virtually everywhere in today's world. Depending on the size and shape of the perforated openings-and the gauge-it can be many things. From a behind-the-scenes workhorse at screening and filtering a variety of solids, to a visually appealing diffuser of light and/or air for many architectural applications, perforated sheet metal is the solution that can even perform artistically as a display. Often it is advantageously employed in place of metal sheeting to lighten the weight of some products, without sacrificing too much strength.

So for all your needs in this kind of industry, whether it may be for Wire Cloth, perforated metal,Expanded Metal,Bar Grating, Fiberglass Grating, Grip Strut, Open-Grip, Grate-Lock, Screens, Stair Treads,Hex Metal, Hardware Cloth,Hex Netting, Strainers, Knitted Mesh, Johnson Screens Pultruded Fiberglass Grating, Molded Fiberglass, and Grating go and check out www.pwsteel.com

You can find different grades for different applications of the above list from their site.

Toboganning

2008-01-14T17:27:00.000-05:00

A snow storm hit us New Year's day and brought joy to my little one as she enjoyed tobogganing down the hill. I did try once and it was exhilarating and fun. The snow has since disappeared. We had a week of mild weather and it melted everything down. Not to worry, there’s a lot more of snow in store by mother nature that will surely bring a smirk to the driving population but lots of smiles, laughter and shrieks from kids who want to have fun with it. Hear my princess' glee as she goes down the hill below.

Find savings on line

2008-01-14T14:02:00.000-05:00

A lot of people have resorted to online shopping and I am not sure if all of them know that there are extra savings in store for online shoppers like them and me over at findsavings.com.

If you are looking for Coupons to save on that special buy you are about to make, look no more and find it here.

With Valentine's Day so close, flowers and chocolates will be what you would like to send. You may try 1-800 flowers and find special coupons here and ofcouse, some chocolates at chocolate source. See coupons here.

There's are a lot more to choose from whatever you may be purchasing online, be sure to checkout the list of coupons available at findsavings.com

Movies I've seen in the past month T13 ed #9

2008-01-10T19:13:00.000-05:00

lovely graphic from Harlekwin

I have been borrowing DVDs from the library over the last month and here's what I've checked out and viewed so far.
1. Pride and Prejudice - I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audio book and so I decided that I wanted to see it on screen as well. I was not disappointed. The ensemble of actors were all good. I woould recommend to anyone.

2. The Notebook - I have seen this movie before. And I remember liking it. I listened to the audio book and fell in love with the characters, I needed to see the movie all over again. What a great love story. Very good movie.

3. Match Point - kind of a quirky story. Story of love gone wrong all beacuse of the evil of money.

4. Prime - Funny and adorable. Not quite the ending I'd like it to be but hey, Merryl Streep as always gives a glorious performance.

5. Crash - i love the way stories of lives are connected. It is so true. We touch everyone's life without even knowing it. This movie is very good. I liked it a lot.

6. Shop Girl - Shop Girl was quite good too, a different Steve Martin movie. I'm sure the book is much better. They tend to do more justice to the characters than movies.

7. Spanglish - Spanglish was really good. I did not expect such for an Adam Sandler movie but it was really good. The ending was not as I wanted it to be but it was good just the same.

8. Mrs Henderson Presents - I discovered Mrs Henderson Presents from the previews on one of the DVDs I was watching and I surely had to watch it. The trailer was very interesting. It was a good movie. Judi Dench was a delight as always.

9. Under The Tuscan Sun - spoke about this here.

10. Two For the Money - I could watch this movie forever just looking and goggling over Matthew McConaughey's 6 pack. But yah, acting was very good too with Al Pacino in the cast, its contagious I guess.

11. Annie - Ofcouorse I had to check this DVD out not only for my daughter but for myself as well. Annie is quite a character. Would love to see this on stage someday soon.

12. Heidi - What a touching tale. Shirley Temple was delightful. Very cute.

13. Little Miss Broadway - another Shirley Temple movie. Got my kid hooked on oldies movies now.

Did you participate? Join the T13 community.

Jewelries Galore

2008-01-08T02:22:00.000-05:00

Ask any girl to check out this site and they would surely go gaga over the luster and designs in this jewelry wholesaler

I was just on the first page and my jaw dropped , nearly drooling to say "WOW".
This is every princesses' dream. Are you thinking of giveaways for parties, Well look no more and find exactly what you need at very reasonable price.

Or maybe you are just looking for a special gift ..there are thousands of choices, from 24 K gold to sterling silver to swarovski crystals and cubic zirconia for pendants, earrings, chains, rings, you name it.
javascript:void(0)
Publish Post
I think I might be shopping here to for some magnetic healing jewelries I will give to my mom for her birthday. What a great find.

Since this is for whole sale meant for businesses, a minimum order of $100 is required.

And if you have any questions, a live help customer service rep is available to answer your inquiries.

Charice Pempengco

2008-01-07T11:25:00.000-05:00

Here is Charice Pempengco - Philippine's newest little big star and now getting so much international exposure because of You Tube.

Watch her sing "I am Telling You" at Ellen's show.
Enjoy!

and here's her rendition of "I will always Love you"

Let's heat up

2008-01-06T23:30:00.000-05:00

The cold weather is upon us and sometimes the heater we have just ain't enough. I have always wanted a heater in my bedroom. Its just nice to cozy up and get comfy in the night while reading my favorite book all tucked up in my warm bed.

This electric fireplace is certainly the right product for me. It is attractive and I am sure, it will give me the warmth I need.

There is just a place I can find what I need and that is at desatech.com.

They offer products for indoor as well as outdoor heating. They offer fireplaces as well. Wow, I just saw I this cherry arched cabinet mantel I would love to have. Hmnn, maybe it's time to update my gas fireplace look?

And what about outdoor heating?
Desatech offers top of the line heating products for both indoors and outdoors. Their forced air heaters are perfect for outdoors if you are looking to heat an area up to 2400 sq.ft. Other models like torpedo heaters and shop heaters are also ideal for outdoor heating which not only feature clean burning and quiet operation but are also very reliable and safe to operate. Same is true with kerosene shop heaters

Delicious

2008-01-05T02:00:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Delicious

Somehow, I knew this photo will come in handy one day. This was the dessert served on the gala night of the PartyLite Conference I attended last August 2007 in Toronto.

And yeah, it was Delicious.

Photohunt information can be found at the hub

Visit PhotoHunt to comment that you've posted

Learn to play piano

2008-01-04T22:18:00.001-05:00

I've always wanted to play the piano. However I have never had any piano lessons in my life. Everytime I see a piano, I try to touch it and hope that I will somehow learn to play a tune one day. I somehow try to key in some notes hoping to get a music going.

Playpiano.com publishes a free Piano lessons & piano chords via email newsletter. It is sent out every 5 days or so and lasts for 101 issues. There is no cost for the email newsletter.

Full-blown piano courses on DVD for adults are for sale which are mentioned in the newsletters. There is never any obligation to purchase them. However, this is a good opportunity to start learning on your own and maybe play the music you've wanting to.

Happy New Year

2007-12-31T20:56:00.000-05:00

photo courtesy of pdpphoto.org

Welcome 2008! A few more hours in my side of the earth and we will be counting down the last seconds of 2007.

I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

Messy

2007-12-28T23:41:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Messy

Here is a photo of the presents under the tree before Christmas.

And here is the mess from all of my daughter's Christmas morning presents.

Grab the photo hunt code or join the blogroll

Fast Teks - Affordable web site Design

2007-12-27T15:10:00.000-05:00

Do you own a business? Are you getting the buzz you need to promote your product and/or services? In this day and age, we can find anything and everything we need on line and what better way to get noticed than through the world wide web.

For affordable web site design, check out fastteks.com. They will help you to develop and customize your own website so you can build brands, promote products and enable ecommerce solutions. They specialize in bringing business online with innovative technologies and world class design. Fast-teks works closely with customers to develop a fully integrated web presence that bridges the gap between internet technology and specific business goals.

Even for your home computing needs, fast tek provides services like software training,Data Backup and Recovery, Website Design and Hosting, Troubleshoot and Repair and many more. So go on and check them out.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-24T16:24:00.000-05:00

Let us celebrate the birth of Jesus. HE is the reason for the season. A Merry Christmas to all!

If you have 5 minutes to spare. Watch this slideshow/movie
A Silent Night

And the Winner is

2007-12-24T12:58:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Rachel for winning my Christmas giveaway contest.
Rachel, pls contact me and send me your paypal account.

thanks to Rachel, Daphne, Kiko, Tina and Gina for participating.

Merry Christmas!

Light

2007-12-22T15:48:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Light

Took a photo of this lit tree one night after the snowfall. Street light behind gives a nice effect too.

Grab the photo hunt code or join the blogroll

Ciara Diamonds

2007-12-21T15:26:00.000-05:00

Want that WOW ! Oh My Gosh! This is the Best gift Ever expression on your loved one's face this Christmas? Well, look no more and find the diamond of her dreams over at www.ciaradiamonds.com - a great diamond jewelers online

Find the diamond of your dreams. Here, you can find the perfect gem by searching specific criteria such as cut, color, clarity, carat weight, and price.

At Ciara, they offer the best service and is always dedicated to customer’s satisfaction. They carry the highest quality in diamonds. And they back up your purchase with a Three-year Insurance Guarantee–an innovation unique to the diamond industry that allows customers to always shop with risk-free confidence.

Christmas giveaway

2007-12-19T15:00:00.000-05:00

Announcement! I won the $25 from Tina’s contest. Thank you all for helping me out.

Now I would like to run my own contest. I am ecstatic to say that this blog, “Cool and Composed” has finally been approved for Pay Per Post and I would like to drive traffic to this site. Please create a post in your blog with a link to http://www.mga-munimuni.info and invite your readers to visit this blog. I will use google analytics to see who brings the most referrers to my site. Just like Tina did.

What’s the prize? Let’s say I now have $25 to give away too. And yes, it’ll be in US currency. Right now, the US dollar is higher than the Canadian dollar. So we can arrange for me to send you the money via paypal. And if you dont have a paypal account, we can arrange something else.

Rules:
1. Open to all bloggers in the blogging space.

2. Tell your friends that you are joining a contest for $25 at my blog. The only measurable way I can determine the winner is through Google Analytics. The most number of visits wins! Please declare your intention to join this contest by making a short post on your blog or traffic from referral link will be counted as “spectator only” . Please leave a message here or in my other blog to say that you are joining this contest.

3. Maybe if you visit me everyday through your link it will make you the winner. That trick helped me. lol :o)

4. Contest starts today Dec 10 and ends on Dec 23, 2007 midnight Eastern time. Just in time for a nice Christmas present.

5. Winner will receive U$25 cash and will be sent via Paypal or any other way there is.

Thank you so much.

5 Wishes

2007-12-18T15:40:00.000-05:00

I was tagged by Ipanema on my 5 wishes for Christmas. See her 5 wishes here.

Actually, I have posted my 5 wishes here 3 months ago. Quite early huh?
Now, there's only 6 days left. Whew, time flies .

But wishes can come in so many forms and there's always room for more.
So here goes...

1. A disney vacation for me and my family. For the young and the young at heart. Meaning my daughter and us. It'll be nice to see the wonder of it all.

2. A trip to the Philippines. I havent been back since I came here to Canada. I would love to visit the places I've not seen before.

3. A new desk, monitor and chair for my office. (that's actually 3 wishes all tagged into 1)

4. Happiness

5. Good health

And yeah ...Peace for all of course.

Let me tag you Analyze and Zherwin

Are you Looking for Office Space in Austin

2007-12-17T23:12:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for an office space in Austin? Well, look no more, Don Cox Commercial Real Estate will help you save time and money to find the best office space possible for you in Austin.

Don Cox has represented tenants and buyers for 25 years. Check out his track records of high-profile Austin Commercial Real Estate leases and sales here:
http://www.doncox.com/track_record.htm

Don Cox Company specializes in finding commercial office space in Austin, TX. Customers and tenants are represented at no cost and receive a free search of Austin office space within 24 hours.

Happy birthday Daisy wherever you are

2007-12-16T10:57:00.000-05:00

Daisy was my friend. She was suppose to turn 37 today. She is my kumare, her eldest (now in grade 3 - i think) is my godson. She has 3 boys all together. Youngest is just a year and a bit old. Her husband sent me an alarming text message that very day in August and I read..."that Daisy was taken by the Lord due to multiple organ failure from Dengue fever". What a shock. I called him and did not know what to say. I just listened. I guess, it helps him to be able to talk about the event/tragedy.

I recently exchanged some emails with her husband and I know the pain is still there. However, time heals all wounds and I'm sure he is comforted to know that Daisy is now in a safe place.

I always keep in touch with her at this time of the year especially that she celebrates her birthday so close to her son's.

I hope Daisy that wherever you are, you are happy celebrating your birthday. We truly miss you.

Dial a Flight

2007-12-15T11:57:00.000-05:00

'Tis the holiday season and there are so many things we are busy about. Presents, parties, and many other busy things we seem to get ourselves into. Somehow, we forget ourselves....why not treat yourself this year and enjoy a vacation somewhere. Get flights to Thailand, flights to USA or even a flight to Australia, hey why not visit my hometown and checkout flights to Canada

Visit Dialaflight which is a leading independent UK travel company offering flights, hotels & travel ideas worldwide. The site gives you details and very useful travel information. You can search for flights, hotels, car hire and many travel ideas including weekend breaks, beach holidays, spa holidays & much more. I am certain that you will find your dream vacation with DialAFlight and have a great holiday. You can speak with one of their UK travel agent who will ensure that your requirements are fulfilled.

Remember to visit Dialaflight when you are looking for cheap flights any where in the world.

Small

2007-12-15T02:59:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is Small

This is a photo of Neo.

A small/miniature collectible bear that my blogger friend Gina gifted me for my birthday. She actually hand crafts more designs. Checkout her store here

Grab the photo hunt code or join the blogroll

Contempo Curtains

2007-12-15T02:00:00.000-05:00

I love decorating my home and of course one way to do that is through window coverings. Well, there is definitely one place you can check out for all your curtain needs. Whether you are looking for contemporary curtains or modern styled curtains, you will find it in ContempoCurtains.com

I was just checking out the site and found this nice looking 2 tone festive grommet curtain. What a way to decorate not only for the holidays but through the year. You can choose colors that best suit your home decor. Be it your sofa or maybe your furniture or throw pillows and other accessories, I'm sure you'll find a matching curtain to go with your style. Pillows and accessories are also available.

Add a hip, contemporary style to your interior without paying a fortune. ContempoCurtains.com's products are all very affordable, but are still high-quality, custom-made products.

Christmas cards parade - T13 ed #8

2007-12-13T00:30:00.000-05:00

lovely graphic from Harlekwin

I like doing photo lists and this time around I've done a slide show.
Here's 13 Christmas cards I photographed awhile ago. It is nice to capture them and remember such beautiful art. some of these I received just this week, some from last year and the others are some that I have yet to send.

Did you participate? Join the T13 community.

Save your photos in CDs or DVDs

2007-12-11T16:23:00.000-05:00

I have so many photos in my computer I just have to back them up. You never know when and if the hard drive will fail you. I find that it is good to use blank CD or DVD to backup my digital photos and movies. At least I know that I will always have that copy. And for any DVD or CD media needs, Supermediastore.com is a good place to check. They offer a variety of high quality DVD-R and other blank CD or DVD media for your specific needs. They also carry DVD packaging case, computer hardware, memory, ink and toner cartridges and many more.

More often than not, these photos seldom gets printed. It is a good idea to create a Christmas DVD of my family or maybe a slideshow of several pictures you;ve taken this year and maybe even create a collage and send it to close relatives and friends.

And for your last minute Christmas needs, have your presents delivered to your loved ones. Free shipping offer to eligible purchases.

So for any of your mutimedia needs checkout Supermediastore.com. They do retail or wholesale.

Image Meme

2007-12-11T12:43:00.000-05:00

I saw this meme at Frigga's blog and thought it'll be nice to do it and pass it on.
I am tagging >Missy Misyel and >Kiko on this meme.

Here's what you do: type the answer to each question into Google image search engine, and post the first picture that comes up.

1. age at your next birthday: 39
Must be a highway sign. I am close to the highway of where my life begins.

2. place I'd like to travel: Paris
- Wasn't expecting this. I thought it'll be the Eiffel Tower. I guess Paris Hilton is a top search in Google.

3. favorite place: The sofa by the fireplace
Its winter and wouldnt it be nice to curl by the fireplace reading your favourite book?

4. favorite object: Angel Sculpture
not this one in particular , soomething smaller displayed in my living room.

5. favorite food: kare-kare
- A Filipino dish, really good and I cook it really well. Although I like my kare-kare more meaty rather than fatty. This one in the photo used lots of tripe.

6. favorite color: Pink
- Another celebrity result. I picked one I really liked first but to stay true to the meme, I'm posting the 1st image which was Pink.

7. nickname: Leah
- First result is way too hot to post here, I guess my namesakes are just too hot too handle. Well, I went for a more wholesome result , the 2nd photo.
Leah Remini

8. where you were born: Pasay City, Philippines
Yup, a map. Its a City very close to Manila

Get away and enjoy the sun this winter

2007-12-11T02:59:00.000-05:00

It’s the time of the year when we usually hibernate and stay indoors to avoid the cold weather outside. I have been thinking of going places and doing some traveling. I have not done this in a long time and maybe, just maybe this is my chance to do so.

Wouldn't it be a nice Christmas surprise to see in my Christmas stockings a pair of ticket to a holiday in the clear and beautiful Mediterranean waters of the Ibeza? Sure it will! I'd be sure to checkout cheap holidays to Ibiza

Or are you somewhere warm and want to experience the refreshing coolness of Alaska?

Book cheap holidays online with one of the largest travel agencies in Europe. Holiday Hypermarket offers millions of package holiday bargains, last minute deals, cheap flights and all inclusive holidays to destinations all over the world.

Somewhere over the Rainbow

2007-12-10T22:04:00.000-05:00

A child wonder!

I was going through my blog rounds and found this video clip.

Brought tears to my eyes, see for yourself.

This girl has already recorded her 1st CD. WOW!
You can see more of Connie Talbot over at http://www.connietalbot.com

Read the books you love

2007-12-10T09:46:00.000-05:00

I've always been an avid reader and when I found out that I can get my books in so many different media formats, I was ecstatic. Lately I was even able to enjoy audio books like Pride and Prejudice and the Notebook. Booksonboard.com helps me get all this choices. It has audio books and ebooks. It carries over 190,000 ebooks from the major publishers and small publishing houses. BOB currently offers books in Adobe pdf, Mobipocket, Microsoft Reader and Palm/ereader format.

I like different kinds of books. It can be mystery, classics, spiritual and yes even Romance eBooks. I am all for it.

Its a great stocking stuffer for those readers on your list. Get it downloaded staright to that Palm Pilot you have for your loved ones maybe? So check out what you can get at www.booksonboard.com. They have hard copies too.

Green Thumb Sunday - Christmas Tree

2007-12-09T03:00:00.000-05:00

This is a spruce tree...I think (I'm really bad in remembering names). I just love the smell of a fresh Christmas tree.

This is the 7th year we've had a fresh tree for Christmas.
We got it last week from home Depot. This photo was taken on the first day it was up and decorated. My hubby mixed some sugar into the water and he waters it everyday.

Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information

LONG

2007-12-08T12:18:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is LONG

I found this photo in my archive of old scanned images from my photo albums.
I truly can't remember where we took this photo. It must have been from inside a museum.

So this is my version of Long, the long hands of the clock.

Grab the photo hunt code or join the blogroll

Green Thumb Sunday - Grass

2007-12-02T10:42:00.000-05:00

Its snowy today in this neck of the woods. Here's a snap shot of the grass in my backyard. Not sure what variety of grass it is. But is gorgeous in the fall and as lovely in the winter time.

And closer look...

Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information

Disclosure Policy

2007-12-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

This policy is valid from 01 December 2007

This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. For questions about this blog, please contact muniblog@gmail.com.

This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.

The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content.

The owner(s) of this blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements, we always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the bloggers' own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

This blog does contain content which might present a conflict of interest. This content may not always be identified.

To get your own policy, go to http://www.disclosurepolicy.org

RED

2007-12-01T02:07:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is RED

Here's a few RED photos I want to share.

Grab the photo hunt code or join the blogroll

My to do list : Thursday 13 ed#7

2007-11-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

With Christmas fast approaching, there seems to be less time to do all the things I need to accomplish.

So here is a list to help me in doing them all.
1. Buy a Christmas tree this weekend
2. Decorate the tree and the house with ornaments and lights
3. Send out my Christmas cards to the Christmas card exchange program I joined through Amy's blog
4. Send out my exchange ornament. This was hosted by Kailani. I have the ornament already, I just have to mail it.
5. Send Christmas card to family and friends, yes I still like to do it the old fashioned way.
6. Go out and buy Christmas presents for everyone in my list (yes, I need to make the list too). I guess I'll be needing extra cash for that.
7. Wrap the presents
8. Plan for a few dinner get together with friends
9. Bake cookies
10. Send Christmas e-cards
11. Wrap and send presents to relatives and friends in the US ( I have a few)
12. Start my exercise routine. I have been bad and have not been to the gym in a long, long time. I need to get back in track and try not to indulge too much this holidays.
13. Relax and enjoy the holiday

Did you participate? Join the T13 community.

Timeless goes Platinum

2007-11-27T20:56:00.000-05:00

Piolo's Timeless album goes platinum. See Piolo Pascual sing "One more chance"

If only I can fly to the Philippines and be in the front row seats to watch Piolo on his concert. Hey, I'm allowed to dream ain't I?

Green Thumb Sunday - Prayer Plant

2007-11-25T16:42:00.000-05:00

This is called a Prayer Plant. The leaves fold at evening time and opens up in the morning.

Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information

HOT

2007-11-24T00:44:00.000-05:00

This week's Photo hunt theme is HOT

Here's a photo of marshmallows roasting on a HOT log of fire.

Speaking of Hot, who wants free coffee? Check this out.

Grab the photo hunt code or join the blogroll

Santa Claus Parade 2007

2007-11-20T20:27:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, we watched the Santa Claus Parade in Oshawa.
A year ago, we were out and about here to watch the Santa Claus Parade too. I did blog about it over here. And yes, it was the same cold and freezing night. By the time the parade was over, my toes were frozen. Although the whole family was ready with our lawn chairs, blankets and all donned in our winter coats; just sitting there and watching tends to freeze you up. Next year, we will wear our thermal socks and thermal shoes.

All in all, it was a fun time. The time was well spent. We had our popcorn and hot-chocolate milk in tow while awaiting the parade to start.

Here are some photos we took. Pardon the darkness.

'Tis the season for this event. This year's Santa Claus Parade in downtown Toronto was last Sunday. My sisters and my cousin went on that one. Maybe Misyel will blog about it. This parade is the one we wanted to go to but it was just too far and too cold. Plus, my little girl is just recovering from a bad cold. Nonetheless, we watched the telecast over at Global TV. Go over to their website and check out if it is now available. They mentioned that the coverage will be available on line until the end of December or was it early January.

Santa has come and is probably over at the malls now handing out candy canes while kids hop on to his lap for a nice cheery Christmas photo.

So are you awaiting Santa's arrival for Christmas? Stay good then!

se7en

2007-11-17T22:31:00.000-05:00

I was tagged by my cousin Kiko.

Although I did answer other meme's on 8 things about me or 5 things you might not want to know about me , I can certainly lists some more.

So here goes 7 truths about me....more like more little things about me...I say.

1. I love going to the beach despite the fact that I cant swim and I dont like getting dark. But its inevitable, come summer time, I will get dark and I have accepted that. Anyway, come winter - I am nicely tanned.

2. I just love the crinkling sounds of the crunching leaves under my feet. As my shoes scrounges the fallen dried leaves, it just creates this aura of certainty, that life goes in circles. Where once these leaves where way up high in the tree, now it goes back to the ground and grows all over again.

3. I like snow but I dont like driving on it. Its nice especially when its freshly fallen snow and its all white and fluffy. I am and will always dream of a "white Christmas"

4. Winters here in Canada seem to get longer every year. So, come Spring time is one of my fave seasons...its just like Baguio weather. Plus it commemorates my wedding anniversary and my daughter's birthday.

5. Stuffed toys and animals were part of my collections before but somehow as I grew older or shall I say, I became a mom, it became less and less interesting for me. Somehow, I've considered it now as a dust collector so I tend not to buy them as often as I did before. Although I still gravitate towards all cute stuffed animals wherever it may be.

6. I dont like okra. So I am not keen on eating the ever famous "pinakbet".

7. I like to give ...so giving out prizes for contests is a delight for me. That's why I love Christmas, its the season for giving. So any instance I can get the chance to give something (as long as I can afford it) , I take it. I guess, that's why I love shopping too. Now, I wonder what my next give-away will be?
Mind you, I do love receiving presents and awards as well. So thank you again to Gina and Annamanila for my birthday presents.

Game Plan and Dreamer

2007-11-12T22:38:00.000-05:00

Is it Father's Day? it seems like the theme of movies we've watched this weekend was all about dad and daughter relationships.

Last Saturday, My sister and I together with our daughters went to see a movie. We were planning to watch "The Bee" movie but the movie theater we went to did not have this in the line up. I guess, I did not check good enough at tribute.ca to check out the schedules. I really thought it was there. Anyway, we ended up with this movie . It stars Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Madison Pettis. While the movie "Game Plan" was suppose to be a comedy. The tears flowed down my eyes on this heartwarming story of a famous football player who learns of a daughter he has never known he's got. It is actually a good movie. I glanced over my sister and saw her wiping her tears away. Her daughter too balled her eyes out. My daughter? Ahh...she said she almost cried, she said " i had a very heavy heart mommy, I almost cried". I think she felt left out that we were all crying, that she said after the movie ..."we can watch it on DVD mommy and I will cry then".

And Sunday, I went to the library and borrowed a couple of DVDs and some books.

One of the DVD movie I got was called "Dreamer" and found it to be really good too. It stars Kurt Russel and Dakota Fanning. Another heartwarming story of how this father and daughter team brought their relationship to new heights while caring and training an injured breed horse back to victory.

All in all. It was a a good weekend.

I should tell my husband to watch these movies with my daughter, I wander if they'll cry?

Josh Groban

2007-11-07T22:35:00.000-05:00

I just got Josh Groban's new Christmas album entitled "Noel".
Played it this morning and I am certainly feeling that Christmas is just around the corner.

The cold autumn air has finally come and it seems just right to start playing Christmas songs. I never get tired of them. And different artist's rendition of same songs make it more enjoyable.

Is it me or is it Josh Groban's singing but somehow tears started to trickle down my face as I listened to his songs. And if that was not enough, I put in his other CD and my heart ached some more. He sings this Italian or is it Spanish? songs though I dont understand, I feel the pain. It is just so touching.

Here is a video clip I found in you Tube of his famous song "You Raise Me Up"

The remnants of Halloween

2007-11-02T22:38:00.000-04:00

Halloween came and went...And it was all fun just the same.

The house has been decorated, the pumpkins was carved.... and....
the usual trick or treating happened in the neighborhood. The weather was a bit chilly bacause of the wind but it was good enough. The kids did not even want to wear their coats. ..(they wanted to show off their costumes). My little witch was excited with all the candies of course. Actually, she's been pretty good with the rules...(no candies before a meal)...so we still have a full bowl of candies/chocolates to dig in.

She wanted to hand out candies as well to the trick or treaters but there were only a few who came to our house since it was already late when we got home.

All in all...it was fun...till next year then..

Now off to the next holiday....C H R I S T M A S ! ! ! !

My Piolo experience

2007-10-28T21:56:00.000-04:00

I tried to squeeze through the narrow seats and head towards the aisle and onto the front stage. I reached as I might my long arms to be able to shake my dearest Piolo's hands but to no avail, amidst the throng of screaming and estrogen filled , shrieking and fanatical women, I WAS NOT able to. There was just too many Pinay rivals to deal with. And so I just point and shoot my camera and hoped that I would get good videos and great close-up shot of my Piolo!

The concert all together was not as great a I hoped it to be. The venue was not a concert material per se. This was a church , a place they gather to have fellowship. It was located in an industrial area. There was no backstage and the sound system failed in the beginning. The Pastor apologized before the show started for any inconvenience. He said, this concert was unplanned and was only added to the Canadian tour. I can enumerate more disappointments but I would like to concentrate on how wonderful Piolo was. He is a hunk, a heart throb to the very word. They can question his masculinity but I dont believe it. He was oozing with sex appeal and yes, I was mesmerized. He sang a few songs. his voice is cool and crisp. He looked me straight in the eye and sang me songs. He smiled at me and greeted me Happy Birthday!

I bought his newest CD entitled "Timeless" and I was able to get him to autograph it. I've been playing it in the car. So he is my companion on my drive to and from work.

Haaaayyyyyyy! I am still swooning.

Here are some photos i took, click the album to see more.

piolo concert

Let's go places

2007-10-27T03:00:00.000-04:00

This is my birthday weekend.

Pick a balloon. Now imagine that you’re flying into the blue horizon with that balloon in hand. Yippee! Isn’t that fun? I’m following you, holding on to my gold balloon. Gold is for the celebrant.

You have to tell the balloon where to take us. We’re celebrating my birthday together and it’s up to you to choose where I should celebrate my birthday. You have to pick an interesting place otherwise the balloons won’t budge! They’re kinda picky like that.

So… where do we go for my birthday?

I am borrowing this post from Toni at Wifely steps. This was one of the posts I read in her blog. I thought it'll be lots of fun here as well.

All excited

2007-10-21T21:46:00.000-04:00

A few more days and I will be able to watch this awesome artist. This sexy hunk . This scrumptious hearthrob. His name is Piolo Pascual. I just cant get enough of him.

Am I a certified Piolo addict? Well, I did search on You Tube and found this great video. Oh my...I cant wait for the real thing.

My Gift

2007-10-16T21:43:00.000-04:00

Well...2 weeks from now will be my nth birthday and I am celebrating it with a night of serenade with the man I've been ~~dying~~ wishing to see for a while now. I've spent late nights just to finish all those soap operas he stars on like Walang Kapalit and Sa Piling Mo. So pardon this post of "ala-teenage" crush sorts. After all, I'm entitled to a birthday gift, ain't I?

Well, I've got VIP seats to Piolo Pascual's concert here in Canada. Its called Piolo Pascual Live in Brampton.
Mister Pinoy heart throb, Piolo Pascual is definitely going to make my day.

So for those who are here in Toronto and wouldn't mind an hour's drive to Brampton, more info can be found here.

So this is My Gift to myself.

Pumpkins

2007-10-12T21:41:00.000-04:00

Had a trip to the pumpkin farm a couple of weeks ago and my daughter enjoyed the trip immensely. There were hay mazes, wagon rides, cannon-pumpkin show and many more.
Check out my album to view some of the things we saw.

pumpkinoct2007

What more?

2007-10-05T22:21:00.000-04:00

We go through life wandering, wondering...what is there to life? Why am I here? What is my purpose.

As I wake up for another day ahead. I ask, what can you do to make this world a better place. Then I answer...what's in it for me?

Am I selfish?

I hope I can find answers to my questions.