SPOT BLOGGERS' FOOD TOUR - SERENDRA

SPOT Pass Card 1


SPOT Pass Card 2


Polu Kai Grill ***


Polu Kai Grill


Fu **


Texas Roadhouse Grill ****


Roadhouse pasta marinara and skewered shrimp n salmon


Starbucks ***


more cakes, cupcakes, pastries at Starbucks


Krispy Kreme's cookies and cream donut ***


KK chocolate and almond donut


Portico


Portico's interior **


Cuillere (French resto) **


suman & mango with hot choco by Choco-late de Batirol


Mezzaluna's resto/bar appetizers


Mezzaluna's interior


Cupcakes by Sonja **


raspberries and cream cupcakes


MAMOU *****


roast pork and chicken - the specialty


iced tea (not the typical one)


prime ribeye steak with side dishes


grilled vegetable salad


Mamou's choco sansrival


Miss Desserts **




more desserts


cheesecake and choco decadent cake


New Orleans ****


the bar


resto interior




banana foster


New Orleans pigeon blackened ribs


T.G.I.Fridays ***


wall decor


spicy shrimp pasta


TGIF ceasar salad


Kabisera ng Dencio's ****


kabisera's adobong pusit rice with pinakbet salad


more pinoy food




Kabisera's interior


Kabisera's wall paintings


sin-turon (sinful turon with ice cream)


ube palitaw (Kabisera)


Italiannis chicken (Italiannis ****)


fish fingers (fillet)


classic carbonara


bloggers taking pics and getting Italiannis prepared food


Italiannis panacota (this is a must-try)


Italiannis tv monitor airing the sports channel


Xocolat ***


Xocolat chicken croquettas, brownie, hot choco

Yesterday, we (me, Julie and Cookie) were lucky enough to make it to the first 100 registrants to the first-ever SPOT Bloggers Tour, a food trip around the finest restaurants in Serendra. Our generous sponsor is the newest website about dining, drinking and going around Manila, the SPOT.ph.

We were given a SPOT kit which includes ID bracelets, location map, spot pass, notepads & pencils and the SPOT card with the list of participating restos/shops. The resto managers should sign our SPOT card before or after we had sampled their special dish/viands, drinks or desserts, for we would receive another gift if we complete the tour. Nice of them huh, they would let us eat for free to our hearts delight and then give us a gift after. I wonder what the gift would be. I still have my card with me, we're supposed to get our gift at the Summit office in Ortigas. And I would be doubly-delighted if this is a visit to the spa...ha ha ha.

Going back, having tried the buffet (all-you-can eat) offerings of Manila's five star hotels and some fine dining restaurants around, I wasn't prepared to go around 19 restos in one day. This is just too much. And I'm thankful to Spot.ph for the experience and the following restaurants/coffee shops (the * represents my rating on the food, interior, rates and service):

Krispy Kreme ***

Starbucks ***

Italiannis ****

Kabisera ng Dencio's ****

Texas Roadhouse Grill ****

T.G.I.F. ***

New Orleans ****

Chelsea

Choco-late de Batirol **

Cuillere **

Cupcakes by Sonja **

Fu by Hei Shin Lou **

Kape Isla **

Mamou *****

Mezzaluna ***

Miss Desserts **

The Polu Kai Grill ***

Portico **

Xocolat ***

There hope you get to choose your next eating destination...

Nicole's 11th Birthday

Today, my eldest child, Nicole is celebrating her 11th birthday. To you my loving daughter, Happy Happy Birthday. We wish you excellent health, sound mind, more blessings and I hope all your wishes come true. You give me so much happiness my child. I'm so lucky to have you and I'm so proud of all your accomplishments in school.

We love you...

The Day I Started Blogging...

My daily morning ritual would begin with a cup of coffee then have my full heavy breakfast, read The Philippine Star and Philippine Daily Inquirer, check my mails and surf more. One day while reading the paper, I came across the name of Sassy Lawyer. Got curious, I started going to her site. Oh boy, she's really one sassy lawyer, writes so well and a very loving wife and mother. From then on, my day wouldn't be complete if I don't read her blog. I tried to leave some comments, followed the instructions and actually saw them printed right away in her post. This is exciting especially when I see her reply to my comment right away. Feels great...Way back, I refer to her post as an article, her blog as a website. I still didn't know what a blog is...I admit I'm a technology-challenged individual. We don't have computer classes in high school neither in college. The first time I actually spent some time on the computer was when I encoded and printed our group thesis at home a month before our college graduation.

Going back, I was really enjoying my time reading, commenting in the Sassy Lawyer's blog. Then I tried to click innocently on the names of some people who leave their comments on each post/topic/article. Suddenly, I was in another website. I remembered it was Teacher Julie's site. Now my blog reading addiction has grown from Sassy Lawyer to Teacher Julie. Instantly, I felt connected to Julie who happens to know some of hubby's nephews. We exchanged emails and eventually became friends. Prior to that, while on the course of my readings, I started clicking on the names on Julie's blog roll. There, I've discovered so many wonderful blogs, so many great writers, fascinating life stories and lots of good natured people who share the same passion in writing. It all happened last summer. Before I've discovered the blogosphere, topics in our home ranged from my kids' studies, politics, some showbiz stuff, business, movies, sports, weekly schedules and errands. From then on, I can't help tell my hubby about the posts/blogs I've read from Heart of Rachel, Occupation: SAHM, Touched by An Angel, Imomonline, Ode to Old, The D Spot, Scrooch Chronicles, The Shadow of Abaniko, Homeworked, HipnCoolMomma, Avocado-Express, Greymom, An Apple A Day, Kwentong Walang Kwenta, Wifely Steps, Alone-In-My-Thoughts, Gypsy's Haven, Sassy Mom's Corner, Under the Canopy, Beyond Normal, Preacher in Blue Jeans, Skin Diving, My Hideaway, Simply Belle and so many fascinating blogs. For the links to the mentioned blog, please click on my blog roll.

Thereafter, I decided to make my own blog, went to Google and followed the step by step instructions. Voila! I have my own personal journal, my blog. Newly-found friends Rachel and Julie helped me so much in improving my blog. Dine even gave me some writing tips early on. My blogger-friends have grown so with my blog roll. This brought me so much joy, excitement and happiness just when some of my closed friends have left the country, or been busy with their families and careers, I've gained new friendships.

As a bonus to my overwhelming joy on this new hobby, some well-meaning bloggers encouraged me also to try sponsored posts and I'm thankful I've found another source of income while doing the things I love, reading and writing. Now, the blogging bug has bitten my sisters who are into blogging also, my cousins and even some college classmates. Not only that, now I never run out of stories (from the blogs I've read) to tell during meal time, interrupted once in awhile to issues on the current global food crisis, the U.S. primaries, political bickerings here, stories of Hannah Montana, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, Dora the Explorer...and sometimes of Shaun the Sheep, ha ha...

No guys, this is not my anniversary post, not yet. Wait 'til next month, I'll celebrate it for sure. Some friends are asking how and why I started blogging, that's why I wrote this post. And my sisters' colleagues would like to start their blogs too. And to all of you my blogger-friends, Happy Blogging!

Dial-A-Movie

For movie buffs like me, this is a must in my wallet or cellphone directory. All numbers are landline contacts, choose your fave cinema and you can add it in your cell phonebook or click here for the current movie schedules.

SM MEGAMALL - 6331901

SM NORTH EDSA - 9295452

SM FAIRVIEW - 9350749

SM STA.MESA - 7161416

SM BICUTAN - 7763055

SM SAN LAZARO - 7862488

SM MANILA - 5239240

SM SOUTHMALL - 8066888

SM VALENZUELA - 2933917

SM SUCAT - 8294975

SM BAGUIO - 074-6197838

SM DASMARINAS - 046-4323201

SM STA.ROSA - 9012025

SM LIPA - 043-7840354

THE PODIUM CINEMA - 6389781

IMAX - 5564629

MALL OF ASIA - 5560104/05

Ayala Malls Cinemas, Glorietta 4 - 7527880/83

Alabang Town Center Cinema - 8508931, 842-2289

Market!Market! Cinema - 8867515, 8867516

Trinoma Cinemas - 9013695, 9013596

Greenbelt 1 - 7504180

Greenbelt 3 - 7573860/61

Shangri-la Plaza Cineplex - 6332227 or 6337851

Chocolate Chip Cookies For Summer

Chocolate Chip Cookies

This is such an easy chocolate chip cookie. No special equipment, no creaming -- a perfect cookie to do with kids. We love how versatile this dough is, too. It makes an awesome rocky road bar cookie.

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
3/4 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 (12-ounce) bag semisweet chocolate chips, or chunks
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon fine salt

Evenly position 2 racks in the middle of the oven and preheat to 375 degrees F. (on convection setting if you have it.) Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone sheets. (If you only have 1 baking sheet, let it cool completely between batches.)

Put the butter in a microwave safe bowl, cover and microwave on medium power until melted. (Alternatively melt in a small saucepan.) Cool slightly. Whisk the sugars, eggs, butter and vanilla in a large bowl until smooth.

Whisk the flour, baking soda and salt in another bowl. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients with a wooden spoon; take care not to over mix. Stir in the chocolate chips or chunks.

Scoop heaping tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared pans. Wet hands slightly and roll the dough into balls. Space the cookies about 2-inches apart on the pans. Bake, until golden, but still soft in the center, 12 to 16 minutes, depending on how chewy or crunchy you like your cookies. Transfer hot cookies with a spatula to a rack to cool. Serve.

Store cookies in a tightly sealed container for up to 5 days.

For a Rocky Road Bar:

Lightly butter a 9 by 13-inch baking pan. Make the batter as per cookie recipe and fold in 1 cup chopped walnuts along with the chocolate chips. Spread batter in prepared pan. Bake until the edges are light brown and the batter sets, about 45 minutes. Cool slightly and cover surface with 4 cups marshmallows and 1 cup chocolate chips. Broil at least 8 inches from the heat until marshmallows turn golden brown, about 2 minutes. (Keep an eye on the marshmallows, and turn the pan frequently--they go from golden to char in a wink.) Cool, cut and serve.

Source: Food Network

A More Perfect Union

My bet, Senator Barack Obama...




Senator Barack Obama's speech delivered last March 18. Please check this out...

A Touching Story

When I've read this article, I know I just have to post this in my blog. It's really a touching story involving a near-death experience, of giving time to our precious kids, that we all have a mission in this life and that indeed, there's life after death with our Creator.

God’s message to my patient
MIND YOUR BODY By Willie T. Ong, MD
Tuesday, April 8, 2008- Philippine Star

As a doctor, you never know who will come next to your clinic. Each patient has a unique story to tell and I take the time to get to know the person well. And so, when Joaquin came to my office some time ago, I wasn’t quite ready for what I was about to hear.

Joaquin said he came for a checkup because his heart had stopped.
“Uh, what do you mean ‘stopped’?” I inquired.

He explained,“I underwent a routine gallbladder operation and my doctors said that my blood pressure suddenly dropped for unknown reasons. I died and was clinically dead for a few minutes before my doctors revived me.”

“Ooohh, another near-death experience,” I thought to myself as I recalled other patients I’ve seen with near-death experiences or so-called NDEs.

Before I became a doctor, I had read voraciously on the subject, starting with the seminal book by Dr. Raymond Moody in the ’70s, to several New Age books in the ’80s, up to the definitive near-death experience by best-selling author Betty J. Eadie in the ’90s.

As the first one to popularize NDE, Dr. Moody had interviewed hundreds of patients who died but were revived. Curiously, the events are similar: First, it’s dying and leaving the physical body. Then you may spend some time hovering over your body, watching the doctors frantically work on you. Next, you find yourself being drawn into a long dark tunnel, moving at high speed. You hear a rushing sound and after some time, you see a glimmering light at the end of the tunnel. You move closer to the light, and it becomes brighter and brighter. The light warms you, soothes you, and comforts you unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. And suddenly, you are with a great being of light. You are overwhelmed and then you know you are in the presence of God.

“You know, Doc, it’s very confusing for me,” Joaquin interrupted my thoughts. “I still don’t know what to make of it. You see, during the operation, I knew something was wrong. Then I felt I had left my body and went through a dark place, like a tunnel. And then, I met this being. He was shining..,” Joaquin paused.

“So, who was he?” I asked as I sat at the edge of my seat.

“I don’t know who he was. I’m not a religious person, but he was a being of light and he was very kind and loving. What I do know is that this person told me that my death was premature. That it was not my time yet to die. He said I had a mission to fulfill in this life.”

Joaquin’s voice raised a pitch as he continued, “So, I asked this being what kind of mission I could possibly have. I had been an ordinary hotel waiter on Roxas Boulevard for 20 years. I could barely support my wife and kids. At 46 years old and just a high school graduate, there was no hope I could ever find a better job. My work did not exactly qualify as the ‘world-saving’ type.”

From his words, I gathered that Joaquin, like so many others with NDE, had wanted to be with this being of light in that heavenly place. He could not see the meaning of his apparently meaningless existence.

Then, the being of light revealed to Joaquin his true purpose: Your mission on earth is to take care of your two children, to raise them, and be a good father to them.”

Joaquin’s words struck me like a bolt of lightning. Here I was, a doctor, sometimes wondering about my existence, about my purpose in life. And I was suddenly aware of my own guilt of not giving enough time to the most important persons in my life, my two daughters.

Joaquin’s revelation almost made me cry. Here was the Supreme Being not asking for earth-shattering discoveries or sacrifices, but to simply care for your children, like the loving Father that He is.

An hour had passed and my other patients were frantic and couldn’t wait. God’s message doesn’t come too often. I told Joaquin that I would like to help him in his mission. And since I knew he was hard up, I said I promised to treat him and his family for free as long as he needed me.

Joaquin smiled, but his mind was in another world. He wasn’t listening to me because he asked how much my fee was. “No, no, nothing,” I stammered, “You have paid me already. You have paid me more than you can imagine.”

Joaquin’s experience echoes the messages of inspirational books, both old and new: No matter how ordinary your job is, there is a God-given purpose for your work and you must do it well.

Spend time to improve family relationships, especially with your parents, children, and relatives. Loving the family and healing broken relationships are part of our purpose in this life.

Have faith. A big kind of faith. No matter how bad our situation may look like, there is always reason to hope. As Joaquin found out, God is constantly working in ways we can’t see. He’s in control and His immense love and compassion will see us through.

Going Up Day/ Pio's Graduation Day

My only son Pio Miguel, had his graduation from Prep last March 28 at the Catholic Filipino Academy (CFA), a home school provider. The Catholic Filipino Academy is duly recognized and accredited by DECS. It is being managed by Brother Bo Sanchez, a well known-Catholic preacher/ writer/ publisher. While my two girls, Nicole and Gabbie both received silver medals (one point short of getting the gold) in their school's Recognition Day last March 27. My kids told me a day before my birthday that these awards are their gifts for me. Of course these awards/medals are the best gifts I've ever received. All CFA pictures courtesy of Teacher Julie. Thanks Julie.


Pio with the other graduates and Brother Bo Sanchez



getting his medal, a character award


Pio receiving his certificate as Best in Science


Pio's grad march


Nicole and Gabbie received silver medals on their Recognition Day

March PICS

Ms. Jasmin, este Beatrice (American Idol wannabe)


Gabbie joining in some games (b-day of friend's kid), March 14


Bea bumming around, doesn't want to join the games


the infinity-like pool (Ayala Hillside Estate's clubhouse)


another view of the pool


kids playing, enjoying the cold water on a hot day


I took this pic of my cousin Althea last March 15 an hour before getting married in Sta. Rosa, Laguna (got hitched at the age of 27, another late-bloomer, same as moi).


kids getting lootbags from the clown, Kalvin's (cousin's kid)1st b-day party celebration at the Red Barn, Fun Ranch-March 16


at the Fun Ranch


Pio took this pic on my b-day (March 18)

Happy Easter!

Awesome Graphics and Myspace Layouts at pYzam.com

Awesome Graphics and Myspace Layouts at pYzam.com

Celebrating my 38th Birthday

[Glitterfy.com - *Glitter Photos*]
Nicole edited my post and inserted this greeting

When I woke up yesterday morning, I was greeted by hubby and kids. They gave me their birthday cards. I received three wonderfully created cards, while my youngest child gave me a long kiss because she can't make one. A day before my big day, my two girls, Nicole and Gabbie gave me their advanced gifts, a notice from the school that they will be receiving the academic for excellence awards on Recognition Day. I am so happy and texted hubby, my parents and siblings upon reading the good news.

Yesterday, like a typical day, I surfed the net for news, had my breakfast and watered the plants in the garden and dropped by in our shop. Went back to the computer, checked my mails, mostly birthday greetings from friends. A week ago I also received a nice card from Nestle Club, though am expecting freebies, he he. After reading quite a number of greetings, I blog hopped. I was surprised to see that my dear friend Rachel even posted a greeting for me on her blog, and asked her readers to visit my site and leave a message or greetings. I am so touched by her gestures. She's so thoughtful (helped me so much on my blog a lot of times), a very kind-hearted person and I'm really thankful I've discovered the blogosphere and met so many wonderful blogger-friends. To those who greeted me thru emails, texts and calls, thanks so much for remembering...

This is what Rachel posted on her blog yesterday. Thanks again Rach.



For the update, we went to SM Megamall at around 5 p.m. (have to drop by at the camp first). My sister Budeck (havin' her 2 week vacation, got back from Kobe, Japan) is supposed to treat us to Dad's eat-all-you-can merienda but since we arrived late, they're (my parents and siblings) done eating. So we just transferred to Pizza Hut beside Krispy Kreme. We ordered shrimp and mango salad, pizza and another seafood pasta. And of course, bought some donuts before we left mega. My kid Pio wouldn't want to miss the egg-shaped donuts. Hubby had someone fetch us by 9 p.m., the kids are hungry again after running around Toy Kingdom, Powerbooks and strolling at St. Francis Square. Hubby would like to eat chicken inasal, since we can't find one in Pasong Tamo area, we went at Macapagal Avenue and ate dinner at Jayjay's Inasal. We had molo soup, kare-kare and sisig (the best I've tasted). After dinner, we went to the wake of my uncle who passed away last Monday, a day before my birthday. He's one of my favorite uncles (so thoughtful, kind, generous, pious and live a very simple yet happy life). That's why as I've texted my blogger-friends, I don't feel like celebrating on my birthday. So I forego having a party at home. We just had a simple family get together to cheer me up on my 38th b-day. At the end of the day, my hubby, kids, my parents and sisters and friends made me happy on this special day...


with my kid Bea and sis, Yae


kids with my sis,Chic


Pio Miguel clowning around

Keys To Defense Driving

If you've been out on the roads, you know that not everyone drives well. Some people speed aggressively. Others wander into another lane because they aren't paying attention. Drivers may follow too closely, make sudden turns without signaling, or weave in and out of traffic.

Aggressive drivers are known road hazards, causing one third of all traffic crashes. But inattentive driving is becoming more of a problem as people "multitask" by talking on the phone, eating, or even watching TV as they drive. We can't control the actions of other drivers. But learning defensive driving skills can help us avoid the dangers caused by other people's bad driving

KEYS TO DEFENSE DRIVING

Skills That Put You in Control

Before you get behind the wheel of all that glass and steel, here are some tips to help you stay in control:

Stay focused. There are a lot of things to think about when driving: road conditions, your speed, observing traffic laws and signals, following directions, being aware of the cars around you, checking your mirrors — the list goes on. Staying focused on driving — and only driving — is key.

Distractions, like talking on the phone or eating, make a driver less able to see potential problems and react to them. It's not just teen drivers who are at fault: People who have been driving for a while can get overconfident in their driving abilities and let their driving skills get sloppy. All drivers need to remind themselves to stay focused.

Stay alert. Being alert (not sleepy or under the influence) allows you to react quickly to potential problems — like when the driver in the car ahead slams on the brakes at the last minute. Obviously, alcohol or drugs (including prescription and over-the-counter drugs) affect a driver's reaction time and judgment. Driving while tired has the same effect and is one of the leading causes of crashes. So rest up before your road trip.

Watch out for the other guy. Part of staying in control is being aware of the drivers around you and what they may suddenly do so you're less likely to be caught off guard. For example, if a car speeds past you on the highway but there's not much space between the car and a slow-moving truck in the same lane, it's a pretty sure bet the driver will try to pull into your lane directly in front of you. Anticipating what another driver may do prepares you to react.

Eight Secrets of Super Driving

When you drive defensively, you're aware and ready for whatever happens. You are cautious, yet ready to take action and not put your fate in the hands of other drivers. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 90% of all crashes are attributed to driver error.

Following these defensive driving tips can help reduce your risk on the road:

1. Think safety first. Avoiding aggressive and inattentive driving tendencies yourself will put you in a stronger position to deal with other people's bad driving. Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front. Always lock your doors and wear your seatbelt to protect you from being thrown from the car in a crash.

2. Be aware of your surroundings — pay attention. Check your mirrors frequently and scan conditions 20 to 30 seconds ahead of you. If a vehicle is showing signs of aggressive driving, slow down or pull over to avoid it. If the driver is driving so dangerously that you're worried, try to get off the roadway by turning right or taking the next exit if it's safe to do so. Also, keep an eye on pedestrians, bicyclists, and pets along the road.

3. Do not depend on other drivers. Be considerate of others but look out for yourself. Do not assume another driver is going to move out of the way or allow you to merge. Assume that drivers will run through red lights or stop signs and be prepared to react. Plan your movements anticipating the worst-case scenario.

4. Have an escape route. In all driving situations, the best way to avoid potential dangers is to position your vehicle where you have the best chance of seeing and being seen. Having an alternate path of travel is essential, so take the position of other vehicles into consideration when determining an alternate path of travel.

5. Follow the 3- to 4-second rule. Since the greatest chance of a collision is in front of you, using the 3- to 4-second rule will help you establish and maintain a safe following distance and provide adequate time for you to brake to a stop if necessary in normal traffic under good weather conditions.

6. Keep your speed down. Posted speed limits apply to ideal conditions. It's your responsibility to ensure that your speed matches conditions.

7. Separate risks. When faced with multiple risks, it's necessary to address them by separating risks. Your goal is to avoid having to deal with too many risk factors at the same time.

8. Cut out distractions. A distraction is any activity that diverts your attention from the task of driving. Driving deserves your full attention — so stay focused on the driving task.

Happy (defensive) driving!



Source: Health and Safety

Tagged: Movies, Movies

Lynn tagged me to do this meme - movies my family have enjoyed watching. The last movie we have watched was Alvin, the Chipmunk. My kids really enjoyed it. But nothing can compare to the movie Cars, which we have watched ten times over here at home. My only son loves Lightning McQueen so much and he never gets tired from watching it even eating his meals in our room while watching it for the nth time around.

Cars



Aspiring-champion race car Lightning McQueen is on the fast track to success, fame and everything he's ever hoped for until he takes an unexpected detour on dusty Route 66. His have-it-all now attitude is thrown into a tailspin when a small town community shows McQueen what he's been missing in his high-octane life.

I also enjoyed watching the Oceans' and Bourne series. I guess I'm a fan of Matt Damon, Brad Pitt and of course, George Clooney.

Ocean's Eleven



Dapper Danny Ocean is a man of action. Less than 24 hours into his parole from a New Jersey penitentiary, the charismatic thief is already rolling out his next plan -- the most sophisticated, elaborate casino heist in history. In one night, Danny's handpicked 11-man crew of specialists - including an ace card shark, a master pickpocket and a demolition genius - will attempt to steal over $150 million from three Las Vegas casinos owned by Terry Benedict, the elegant, ruthless entrepreneur who just happens to be dating Danny's ex-wife Tess. Coincidence or motive? Only Danny knows for sure. To score the cash, he'll have to risk his life and his chance of reconciling with Tess. But if it all goes according to Danny's intricate, nearly impossible plan, he won't have to choose between his stake in the heist and his high-stakes reunion with Tess... or will he?

The Bourne Identity



The spy thriller opens as an amnesiac is rescued at sea by the crew of an Italian fishing boat. Nearly dead, he carries nothing but the bullets in his back and the bank account number embedded in his hip. Although completely without identity or background, he possesses an array of extraordinary talents in fighting, linguistics and self-defense that speak of a dangerous past. In the present he is disoriented and wary as he is propelled into an urgent search to discover who he is and why his life has taken a perilous turn. A Zurich safe deposit box yields an assortment of passports, a hefty load of cash, an automatic weapon and a name--Jason Bourne--with a Paris address. What it means remains a mystery, but Bourne quickly realizes that although he knows no one, there are people who recognize him--and do not wish him well....

There I'm done...I love watching movies. In fact I've watched movies on a daily basis when I was working and still single (thrice a week way back in college), to unwind and to de-stress my overworked (underpaid) self. I would be posting here more movies I've watched and really enjoyed. Thanks Lynn for the tag, had fun doing it.

Tagged: Fun Magazine Cover

My dear Rachel tagged me to do this magazine cover meme. She even said this is fun. True enough, I enjoyed doing this tag. Thanks Rach.

Well, these are my magazines, hot off the press... :-)



the best PC gamer in town, he he


kids on the block

Try this at MagMyPic.com and have fun too...

Add up to the Love Train

Rachel and Gina tagged me to do this meme. Now I finally have the time to do it. Thanks guys for tagging me.

Cut and paste the following starting here.

I have randomly selected 5 of you below to be tagged and I hope that you will similarly publish this post in your blog. You will have to tag 5 other bloggers and just keep adding on to the list. (Do not replace, just keep on adding! Yes we hope it will be a long list!

It's real easy! Tag others and see your Technorati Authority increase exponentially! The benefits of Viral Linking:

One of the fastest ways to see your technorati authority explode!
- Increase your Google PageRank fast
- Attract large volume of new traffic to your site
- Build your community
- Make new friends!

The Strategist Notebook, Link Addiction, Ardour of the Heart, When Life Becomes a Book, The Malaysian Life, Yogatta.com, What goes under the sun, Roshidan's Cyber Station, Sasha says, Arts of Physics, And the legend lives, My View, My Life, A Simple Life, Juliana RW, The Callalily Space, Petra, Summer in Blue, Confessions of an Army Wife, Bless' Sanctuary, Happy Life, Living @ Evergreen State, La Place de Cherie, Chez Francine, Le bric a brac de Cherie, Little Peanut, Pea in a Pod, The Creative In Me, Me and Mine, Me and my Two Boys, My Life is Peachy, Chat, My Happy Place, Raising Sandy, I am Dzoi, Snapshots of Life, My BIG Picture, Welcome To My World, Hannah, Michellie, Lisa, Ris, Scotty's Princess, What Women REALLY Think, Not Much More Than This, Jayedee , Jenn, Beth, Christie , Marla, Cailin, Simone, FlipFlopMom, Katrina , Gill's Jottings , Work of the Poet, Wakela, Modern Day Goddess, Livin With Me, Writing in Faith , Maiylah's Snippets, Soulful Thoughts of Rachel, REPAH, My Little Moments, Missy Misyel, Mga Muni-muni, Gina, Rowena's The Sweet Life, you're next my dear...

I tag the following if you haven't done this yet,

Cookie, Ann, Gen, Julie and Mary. Have fun...

FOR THE V- DAY

Happy Valentine....

Wishing you all more love to give and receive.....

MIL JOKES

I was feeling kinda low and I don't one anyone to ruin my day so I surf the net and came across mother-in-law (MIL) stories so I decided to post these quotes, jokes, stories...to just amuse myself, he he...Check this out and have a good laugh.

CAUTION: THIS IS LONG....

My MIL is banned internationally from playing poker, as she keeps all the chips on her shoulders.

Last week my wife and I went car shopping, and the salesman asked if I wanted a car with an Airbag. I said, "No thanks. I already have a Mother-in-law."

Q: How are shotguns and mothers-in-law alike?
A: If there is one around, you just want to shoot it!

I find it interesting that if you rearrange the letters in the word "mother-in-law"
you get the words "woman Hitler".

Q: What's the definition of happiness?
A: Getting up in the morning and seeing your mother-in-law's picture on a milk carton!

"It was really cold outside today."
"HOW COLD WAS IT?"
"It was colder than a mother-in-law's kiss!"

"Hello. Your Mother-In-Law fell into my pool filled with crocodiles."
"The crocodiles are yours, so you save them."

A big-game hunter went on safari with his wife and mother-in-law. One evening, while still deep in the jungle, the Mrs. awoke to find her mother gone. Rushing to her husband, she insisted on them both trying to find her mother.

The hunter picked up his rifle, took a swig of whiskey, and started to look for her. In a clearing not far from the camp, they came upon a chilling sight: the mother-in-law was backed up against a thick, impenetrable bush, and a large male lion stood facing her.

The wife said, "What are we going to do?"

"Nothing," said the hunter husband, "The lion got himself into this mess, let him get himself out of it."

Q: The difference between outlaws and in-laws?
A: Outlaws are Wanted!!

Then there is the joke about the guy who was told by his doctor that he has only 6 months to live. He decides to move in with his mother-in-law, because living with her for 6 months will seem like forever.

Or, the definition of mixed emotions - seeing your mother-in-law drive over the cliff in your new car.

Q: How many mothers-in-law does it take to ruin a marriage?
A: Just one ... mine!

Q: How many mothers-in-law does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: None ... she always gets the son-in-law to do it.

Q: What's the difference between a mother-in-law and a vulture?
A: The vulture waits till you are dead before it eats your heart out.

A man was on trial for bigamy, and after the judge passed sentence he asked the defendant if he'd learned what made having more than one wife a bad thing. "Yes, your honor, I have," he replied. "What is the reason?" the judge asked. "Having two wives means having two mothers-in-law, and that, in itself, should be grounds enough to support assisted suicide."

My mother-in-law is so stupid she actually asked me for money. The thing is, is that, according to her I'm a bum !!!!! How dumb is she?

I always know when it's the mother-in-law knocking at the door – the mice throw themselves in the traps.

The Argument:

A couple drove several miles down a country road, not saying a word. An earlier discussion had led to an argument, and neither wanted to concede their position. As they passed a barnyard of mules and pigs, the wife sarcastically asked, "relatives of yours?"

"Yep," the husband replied, "In-laws."

Q: What is the difference between George Washington, Richard Nixon, and your MIL?
A: Washington couldn't tell a lie, Nixon couldn't tell the truth, your MIL doesn't know the difference.

I never forget a face,
But in my MIL's case I'm willing to make an exception.

I have never made a fool of my MIL.
I just leave her to display her natural talents herself.

My MIL and I were happy for 20 years.
Then we met each other.

Sometimes you cannot tell if a man is trying so hard to be a success to please his wife or to spite his mother-in-law.

Does it really surprise anyone that Mother-in-law's Day occurs less than one week before Halloween?

"My Mother-In-Law was bitten by a dog yesterday."
"How is she now?"
"She's fine, but the dog died."

Behind every successful man stands a devoted wife and a surprised mother-in-law.

Olympic Track and Field: Watch as ordinary men and women set new world records for speed while running away from their MILs.

Martha Stewart Holiday Special: Learn to set a beautiful holiday table, without a place for your MIL. It's a good thing.

Judging MIL: Why not? She judges you.

Adam and Eve were the happiest, and the luckiest, couple in the world, because neither of them had a mother-in-law.

My MIL asked me, "If you hate me so much, why is my photo on the mantelpiece (the shelf above the open fireplace)?" I told her, "So as to keep the kids away from the fire."

My MIL said to me, "I'll dance on your grave." I said, "I hope you do. I'm being buried at sea."

My Mother-in-law's other car is a Broom!

Doctor: I'm sorry to say that your MIL had a heart attack.
SIL/DIL: That's impossible!
Doctor: What do mean that's impossible?
SIL/DIL: She can't have a heart attack! She doesn't have a heart!

Q: Why would you rather deal with a vicious dog than your mother-in-law?
A: A vicious dog eventually lets go!

Two men were in a pub. One says to his mate, "My MIL is an angel." His friend replies, "You're lucky. Mine is still alive."

George went on a vacation to the Middle East with most of his family, including his mother-in-law. During their vacation, and while they were visiting Jerusalem, George's mother-in-law died. With the death certificate in hand, George went to the American Consulate Office to make arrangements to send the body back to the States for proper burial. The Consul, after hearing of the death of the mother-in-law, told George, "My friend, the sending of a body back to the States for burial is very, very expensive. It could cost as much as $5,000 dollars." The Consul continued, "In most of these cases, the person responsible for the remains normally decides to bury the body here. This would only cost $150 dollars". George thinks for some time, and answers the Consul, "I don't care how much it will cost to send the body back. That's what I want to do." The Consul, after hearing this says, "You must have loved your mother-in-law very much, considering the difference in price between $5,000 and $150 dollars." "No, it's not that," says George. "You see, I know of a case many, many years ago of a person that was buried here in Jerusalem, and on the third day he was resurrected. Consequently, I do not want to take that chance!"

Source: www.motherinlawstories.com

Heavy

To join, check it out here.


heavy-duty dryer (this is the unit we're using in our laundry shop)


heavy washers (the reliable washers)


heavy cub for Gabbie

Weekend Snapshot

I was going to post for the weekend snapshot when my kid called me and asked for help on her homework. I thought my entry was posted but it remained on my draft folder. So here it is, my choice of pics eventhough it's late again, am posting just the same.

OUR FARM "PETS"

the older ones


newly-hatched ducklings


the protective mother


bonding time

Learning Self-Defense

I've seen on the tv news so many crimes happening daily, so many bad elements around. And sometimes, it worries me. Call me paranoid but we all want to be safe for ourselves and our families. I was surfing the net on learning self-defense while hubby is scouting for new "things" to buy for security measures. I decided to post what I've learned to share in this blog. Hope this helps.

Many people think of self-defense as a karate kick to the groin or jab in the eyes of an attacker. But self-defense actually means doing everything possible to avoid fighting someone who threatens or attacks you. Self-defense is all about using your smarts — not your fists.

Use Your Head

People (guys as well as girls) who are threatened and fight back "in self-defense" actually risk making a situation worse. The attacker, who is already edgy and pumped up on adrenaline — and who knows what else — may become even more angry and violent. The best way to handle any attack or threat of attack is to try to get away. This way, you're least likely to be injured.

One way to avoid a potential attack before it happens is to trust your instincts. Your intuition, combined with your common sense, can help get you out of trouble. For example, if you're running alone on the school track and you suddenly feel like you're being watched, that could be your intuition telling you something. Your common sense would then tell you that it's a good idea to get back to where there are more people around.

Attackers aren't always strangers who jump out of dark alleys. Sadly, teens can be attacked by people they know. That's where another important self-defense skill comes into play. This skill is something self-defense experts and negotiators call de-escalation.

De-escalating a situation means speaking or acting in a way that can prevent things from getting worse. The classic example of de-escalation is giving a robber your money rather than trying to fight or run. But de-escalation can work in other ways, too. For example, if someone harasses you when there's no one else around, you can de-escalate things by agreeing with him or her. You don't have to actually believe the taunts, of course, you're just using words to get you out of a tight spot. Then you can redirect the bully's focus ("Oops, I just heard the bell for third period"), and calmly walk away from the situation.

Something as simple as not losing your temper can de-escalate a situation. Learn how to manage your own anger effectively so that you can talk or walk away without using your fists or weapons.

Although de-escalation won't always work, it can only help matters if you remain calm and don't give the would-be attacker any extra ammunition. Whether it's a stranger or someone you thought you could trust, saying and doing things that don't threaten your attacker can give you some control.

Reduce Your Risks

Another part of self-defense is doing things that can help you stay safe. Here are some tips from the National Crime Prevention Council and other experts:

• Understand your surroundings. Walk or hang out in areas that are open, well lit, and well traveled. Become familiar with the buildings, parking lots, parks, and other places you walk. Pay particular attention to places where someone could hide — such as stairways and bushes.

• Avoid shortcuts that take you through isolated areas.

• If you're going out at night, travel in a group.

• Make sure your friends and parents know your daily schedule (classes, sports practice, club meetings, etc.). If you go on a date or with friends for an after-game snack, let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.

• Check out hangouts. Do they look safe? Are you comfortable being there? Ask yourself if the people around you seem to share your views on fun activities — if you think they're being reckless, move on.

• Be sure your body language shows a sense of confidence. Look like you know where you're going and act alert.

• When riding on public transportation, sit near the driver and stay awake. Attackers are looking for vulnerable targets.

• Carry a cell phone if possible. Make sure it's programmed with your parents'/ hubby's phone number.

• Be willing to report crimes in your neighborhood and school to the police.

Take a Self-Defense Class

The best way — in fact the only way — to prepare yourself to fight off an attacker is to take a self-defense class. We'd love to give you all the right moves in an article, but some things you just have to learn in person.

A good self-defense class can teach you how to size up a situation and decide what you should do. Self-defense classes can also teach special techniques for breaking an attacker's grasp and other things you can do to get away. For example, attackers usually anticipate how their victim might react — that kick to the groin or jab to the eyes, for instance. A good self-defense class can teach you ways to surprise your attacker and catch him or her off guard.

One of the best things people take away from self-defense classes is self-confidence. The last thing you want to be thinking about during an attack is, "Can I really pull this self-defense tactic off?" It's much easier to take action in an emergency if you've already had a few dry runs.

A self-defense class should give you a chance to practice your moves. If you take a class with a friend, you can continue practicing on each other to keep the moves fresh in your mind long after the class is over.

Source: kidshealth.org