Monday, December 27

Year End Break

I was really looking forward to my year end break. I didn't have a long break this year, that's why. I have a long list of things to do and most were outdoors but the weather is not cooperating. It's been raining on and off for almost two weeks now.

Although, I have so many things to do indoors... the weather doesn't help really. It just makes me all the more to be lazy. But of course, shopping is one task that is not affected by the weather. We're just been to Bunnings Warehouse this morning to take The Tatapilla to their playground and had a bite. I also checked some lightings and could be hudson valley lighting. I have to organise my projects before going there as it might be tomorrow.

But life is really fun especially if you're not doing anything. :)
*****

Life is Gold




Your Life's Path is Gold



You seek companionship and good times. You love being around your friends and family members more than anything else in the world.
You believe other people are the key to living a happy life. In return, you provide them with good company and true friendship.
You are charming and outgoing. You have big personality that others don't easily forget.
You love luxury and high quality goods. Luckily, you are quite successful and good at making money.




How's everyone's Christmas? I'm sure happy and filling - what with good company and good food, nothing has to be asked.

Mcj's brother and son came down here for the Christmas. It's been so long since they last saw each other so it was a welcome break.

It was a big happy family reunion of the sorts - not the same with what should we have back in the Philippines, but it was enough. No karaoke machines to amuse us so we played Canasta, and it was fun.
*****

Monday, December 13

Choreographed Christmas Lights


After The Tatapilla's Christmas Party, we drove around the neighbourhood to have a look at the Christmas Lights displays. We were not disappointed after a couple of bends and turns. We were treated to a magnificent display. It was my first time to see a choreographed lights intune with the music in real. I saw some videos that my colleague showed at work.

I was in awe and wonder. Curious too. Not green with envy though. I don't want to subject myself to so much trouble that might lead me in search of anti-wrinkle creams. But the house owner was supporting a better cause so I believe they're efforst were all worth it.
*****

Sunday, December 5

I Wonder




You Are Open-Minded



You prefer music that is new, different, and even a bit experimental. You have broad tastes.
You are both a tolerant and adventurous person. You'll take a risk and even enjoy yourself if it doesn't work out.
You are cosmopolitan and well versed in culture. Many of the things you love are acquired tastes.
You are progressive and even downright radical. Your ideas are definitely a bit outside the mainstream!




I admit, I am open-minded but one thing for sure is I don't like food that are acquired tastes. I am not adventurous when it comes to food. I prefer those I'm already used to. Yeah, I am tolerant so although, I don't wish it, I can work in business debt consolidation companies.
*****

Company Christmas Party




Our company christmas party was last Friday. It was in the Bowls club. I really enjoyed it and so everyone. We enjoyed sumptous food and good and fun company. Everyone had a ball, I reckon. Downside, I forgot my car key in the office in my notebook bag (not one of those netbooks).
*****

Saturday, November 27

Christmas under the Stars

Due to the new project in Town Square, this event will be at Centenary Lakes.

Christmas under the Stars will be a fun night out for all the family! Come on down to Centenary Lakes from 4pm to enjoy free rides and activities. We’ll also have some fantastic stage entertainment lined up with the assistance of the Combined Churches of Caboolture.

There will also be an interactive nativity display complete with baby animals and Santa will be making a special appearance!

Fireworks will light up the night sky from around 7.45pm before “The Chipmunks – The Squeakquel” is on the big screen.

This event starts quite early but I reckon we can get there in time to see the for works and the movie as well. There might be many business around that time to grab dinner so we might skip dinner at home. I'm sure a big event like this utilise manual directory submission service as well as automated.
*****

Petrol Prices

Since owning a car (which is quite long enough), I have been very conscious of the fuel prices. I only fill-up my car when necessary and when the fuel prices are down. I also monitor the days when the prices are down and time my purchase. With my affiliations with the rewards card, I also can get 8 cents discount these days. It's not much as my car fuel tank can only accommodate up to about 40 liters but it's worth it. Up to 4 dollars discount is good enough. For some, it might not give them dark eye circles to miss it for me who's motto lately is "every cents count", it's something to dance about.

The fuel companies or say retailers are also getting tricky. They shift the day when the fuel price are down from the middle of the week to the end of the week without much notice or big intervals. One must be vigilant, something that I take seriously.

In our area, this week the fuel price is down on Friday. I got unleaded for 123.90 cents a liter.

*****

Surprising

maybe or maybe not.

For somebody who loves reading, I don't own a bookmark. I have desired to own one and every time I am at the bookshop, I always checked them but I haven't taken a step to buying them. I am not sure why. I have always wanted an antique style bookmark but where on earth can I get them. I just don't want something ordinary, I like them fancy. Like these.




At some point, I have thought of making collections and for something that don't occupy space, bookmarks fit. But how many bookmarks one can amass for it to be called a collection? I need to learn more about collecting and bookmarks.
*****

Sunday, November 21

Quiet Time

soon... I'm posting my last post for the hour that is. I have several opportunities to do but they will be due in the next couple of days, so no hurry. I plan to have some quiet time soon. Maybe curl up with some book with old english characters that I have loved.

My little boy has symptoms of flu but still perky, not to worry about. I gave him panadol and all is well.

Have updated myself with my facebook community (have used my phone as well - and got me curious with htc sense).

Have fed my family and all is happy.
*****

Wishing



That I can have a Christmas decorations such as these, a miniature maybe? But I know it is a long shot. I can't even put up a wreath. It's just too much work to do but I can admire and wish and dream as well. Maybe, this year we'll just have to visit houses and places with pretty deco instead of doing something monumental at home, that is when we are finished moving all our furnitures such as cabin furniture and the like. There are so much to do that I expect my coming holidays will be filled with housechores.
*****

Sunday, November 14

Lethargic

That's what I'm feeling most of the times these days. It seems I only have the energy to go to work, eat and tend to Jens then I'll be bushed. At 9PM, I would be getting ready to sleep. Juvenile, isn't it. You would think, I have one of those jobs retail, but I simply sit the whole day and figure things out. I think, it's more tiresome than doing manual labour. I can't seem to stop working even if going for a break.

I can't wait for my long awaited break. I plan to just veg-out and lay like broccoli. Well, not all the time though. I also want to have a productive holiday. Maybe doing some decorating around the house. But I can't wait for days that I don't have to worry getting up for work.
*****

Well Behaved

When I hear parents saying that they had a hard time with their kids keeping them amuse, I always wonder how hard could it be. And when I see kids playing up when travelling, I always feel for the parents, not because I have been through it but because, I am just thankful that I am not put through it.

You see, The Tatapilla is just the best kid there is. Sure he throws tantrums but not the types that I will be at my wits' end. He is so mature for his age. When told once, he understands it. No need to repear instructions.

Today, my friend commented him for being well-behaved. He was tired but you can't hear him whinging or crying. He just sat there looking tired. When I mentioned ice-cream, he perked up so even when it was hot, we ventured in all the shops to buy ice cream (one thing that I indulge him in without even regard to hoodia in his future). He was still happy and dandy on the way home and had less than 5 minutes sleep but bounced like a kangaroo when it was time to get off the bus.

We're just happy parents to a well-mannered kid.
*****

On Gifts




You Are Generous With Your Money



You believe that it's important to give until it hurts - and giving money definitely stings.
When it comes to causes and people you believe in, you'll put your money where your mouth is.
You believe that any time is a good time to give. You don't just give around the holidays.
You aren't selfish with your money. As long as you have enough to feed and clothe yourself, you're happy to give a lot away.




I'm not quick to admit that I am all these but all I can say is that I am a spend-thrift. I love spending money and I love buying gifts just for the sake of shopping. Although, even when Christmas is near I haven't bought any gift for anybody yet. Haven't given a thought if I'm giving Dutch Master this year.
*****

Food Fix

It was a successful day for us at the Mabuhay Festival. My friends and I met there, Mcj was very busy to come with us. Jens tag along (as he didn't have a choice anyway). The day started well for us despite some hassles on the public transport.

We went there mainly for the food and of course to have a glimpse of how many Filipinos are there in Brissie. Well, there are heaps.

On to the food. I bought lechon kawali, lechon paksiw, pakbet, dinuguan, chorizo, polvoron, biku, puto and kutsinta. I know, most of them are fatty food but who cares (if ever I gain weight, there's always best weight loss supplements to resort to). The filipino food high is always worth than worry about weight. I have one week to eat it or put some in the freezer.

*****

Wednesday, November 3

The Race That Stops the Nation

It’s an understatement as of the moment although I don’t want to feel like I’m getting under because of so many things to do. You see, we are moving house. It’s been a work in progress for almost 3 weeks now. We didn’t hire a mover, just a big truck to move heavy items. We’re moving most of the stuff ourselves using the van and trailers.

Now, my job is on the un-packing and sorting side. Although, it is a daunting task I am taking this opportunity to clean up and throw or store things that we haven’t used.

On the house front, we have plenty of space that walking from the room to the garage is not like a walk in the park anymore if done several times a day. It’s an A-structure house, so when you talk it echoes all over the open area of the house. Funny. I’m not sure if we need dehumidifier but the house is air-y what with all the bay windows and 5 screened-doors.

And the best of all is we live in the street named after our last name. Humm.
*****

Wednesday, October 20

20 Bucks




You Are a Twenty Dollar Bill



You are a pretty ordinary gal or guy. There's a lot of people like you in the world, and you probably tend to run in a pretty tight pack. You may not be able to buy everything you want in the world, but you do okay. You're able to be comfortable. Compared to most people, you're not really materialistic. You see how money is useful, but you don't obsess over it. As long as you have enough money to pay for what you need, you're happy. You don't feel rich or poor.



Not bad, huh? I’d like to believe that I am in a stage of life that money is important but not everything. I’d be happier if we have more money but I am happy what we have now. We work for what we want and buy what I can afford.
Speaking of affording things, with the Aussie dollars on the rise it is really very tempting to go on shopping spree from overseas suppliers – online of course. It could also be a good time to buy funeral plans. But it always boils down to what you really need and if there are extra, spending some for the wants. For us, anyway.

*****

Saturday, October 16

All The Way

This song has been in my Iphone for almost3 months now - the first on the list actually but I didn't really like it. One day, while on the train I really "listen" to this song and I thought to myself, I can listen to the voice of this man and he can lull me to sleep. Little did I know that it's Frank Sinatra. And how naive I was that I didn't know that he is dead. Anyway, I love his voice in this version. It could be the way it is blending with Celine Dion's voice.


Although, the original version is also quite touching. I learned that this song was number 2 in the chart in 1957 and won the Best Original Song for his movie, The Joker is Wild.


I know, he's my Mum's favourite and I might have to look for a DVD or CD of him to give to her when I've done checking supplements for weight loss.

*****

Our Saturday Morning

I should be flat out doing household chores today because finally for almost 3 weeks, the sun is out on a weekend. But I wasn't although, I have done some washing. As planned, The Tatapilla and I went to the bank to do his monthly deposit to his bank account and did some retail therapy.

As to retail therapy, I really didn't buy the whole shops but we have been everywhere. Our first on the list was a gift for Daddy's birthday and we found one that didn't cost much. Besides, it's just The Tatapilla's gift and Daddy had already told us what he wants. Plus, I bought him some shirts which are really very cheap. I'm so happy about it. I bought some stuff for myself too. And of course while strutting around the shops, we spotted some diet pills but we really didn't have time to linger.

The Tatapilla and I had lunch there and got home with Mcj eating the breakfast that I cooked for his lunch.

So far, Saturday isn't over yet and we already have a fruitful day.
*****

Sunday, October 10

Less Than 100 Days

It's Christmas time! My favourite day of the year for several reasons - the birth of our Saviour, the festivities, the commercialism that I reckon I would be swayed this year, holidays, the big break. Oh well, plus the putting up of fancy blings around the house and outdoor Christmas decorations.

This year, the days just went in a blur that we didn't even get the time to plan for a holiday. I've been saying that we're going back to the Philippines but because it's the busiest time of the year for Mcj we can't. We didn't even book any local holidays but I'm taking 5 days off work and will have a total of 12 days off so I'm sure we can come up with something by then. I'm just looking forward to a big break.
*****

Bling-y Doll


This doll is the most expensive of the Barbie Doll range donning a 3 carat pink diamond. A whopping 510,000, USD I suppose. It is for auction to raise money for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The designer of the necklace and gown is from Sydney, Australia.

Whoever will buy this doll will surely have to guard it with his/her life. I reckon, a secured display case or a safe box at the bank. The latter doesn’t sound like practical at all. Why bother to buy it when you just have to hide it anyway.
Anyway, I never own a Barbie doll personally in my whole life. They were very expensive for my family’s budget when I was growing up. This story just amazed me that toys can cost as much as houses these days – I suppose it matters little to those who can afford. Can I say the same for male enhancement in relation to those who want them?

*****

Friday, October 8

Car Costs

These days, car costs take a heap chunk of the hip pocket budget. For some, it is up there next to house mortgage.

But it doesn’t have to be like that all the time. There are many ways on how to reduce cost. Got these tips from news.com.au.

1. Know the cycle. This is about the fuel price. The fuel price used to be on Tuesday, then was shifted for about a couple of weeks on Saturday and now back to Tuesday. Paying attention to the prices of fuel is a big help as the difference could be about 10c. If you’re filling up an 80 lt car, that’s substantial amount of money that you can save. We always pass by a petrol station so I check it out when I know that my fuel is running low.

2. Fuel discounts - I’m on this as well. I have a fuel voucher/card in Woolworths and I’m maximasing the use of it.

3. Cut running costs. The key is just right maintenance. If you feel or see that there’s something wrong in your car, fix it right away rather than waiting for the molehill to become a mountain.

4. Share the driving. This is for when you drive to work. Carpooling will save you heaps of money.

5. Eye on insurance. Yes, this one I reckon is so easy. There are several insurance companies that you can compare and get the best price.

6. Finance factors. Look for the cheapest finance. Although, some of the banks and companies will have you jump in hoops, it pays as often they offer the lowest interest rate as the risk is low compared to those who approved finance like doing magic. I learned that the difference is almost half.

7. Haggle Hard. Yeah, the secret to saving money is good haggling. Although, these days when you go to the shops most of the items are on fixed price but when it comes to repair, insurance or buying cars, haggling is a tool.

8. Near-new is good. It’s nice to own a brand new car but if your purpose of buying a car is practical, used car can be your type.

9. Retention is the key. And that’s my plan unless I get hold of an obscene amount of money in my disposal. I plan to use my car until it dies.

10. DIY Mechanics. There are car trouble that might just need a DIY fixing. It could be replacing the head gasket in your Honda Civic. It could be anything else. It pays when you investigate what the issue first before calling a repair shop like the Los Angels auto repair.

*****

Saturday, October 2

Thankful

Mcj and I are celebrating our birthday this month. It's a happy month for us. I have so many wishes for material gifts (of course) but I am just thankful that we are all healthy and happy. We haven't got any serial illness that plague us. Every now and then we get cold and flu but nothing to be really so concerned of. At least, in Mcj's age he wasn't exposed to asbestos so Mesothelioma is not known to us. Unlike those people who had high expose to asbestos, I reckon they were on high during those period of employment but now, it's all downward.

It's another year, another day, another experience in life.
*****

Friends, Again - Sat 9



1. Do you make and keep friends easily?
I do but I'm very picky. I haven't made so many friends in this place that I'm living in.

2. Who was your very first friend?
My mother.

3. Who has been your friend the longest now?
Lots of them to mention.

4. Tell us about your best friend.
She's very caring and protective. And I miss her.

5. Tell us about the friend who gets on your nerves the most, and why.
Won't say it here.. Lol.

6. Tell us about the last time you let a friend down.
When I was not able to pick up her call as I have promised when she wants to share something.

7. Tell us about the last wonderful thing a friend did for you!
When they remember my son's birthday.

8. What was the last 'friend' thing you did?
Meet up over dinner and talk.

9. Have your ever been jealous of a friend's S/O?
At some point when I was still single.

Thanks, Sam for hosting. I have always loved Friends and I'd still watch it over and over when I have time.

*****

And I Don't Like Tea




You Are Chai Tea



There are many subtle sides to your personality. You are difficult to decode.
You are a complex and deep individual. You have many nuanced beliefs, and your mood frequently changes.
You are a creative and expressive person. You draw your inspiration from the whole world.
You enjoy exotic food, music, and travel. Your tastes are very international.



I used to be an open book. I talk and nothing stops me from divulging my secret in life which ended up not secret at all. But now? I'm more reserved. I have changed I may say. I think, it comes with aging. You realise that not all things in your life have to be a talked about topic. I still talk a lot especially if I feel comfortable with another person. But I reckon that if it's just someone who's giving out online term life insurance quotes, I can talk anything. They don't know me anyway.


*****

Friday, October 1

Aussie Dollars Rising

The aussie dollar is rising against the green backs. And as the news proliferating in tv and print, it’s the perfect time to travel overseas and go online shopping. There’s only a few cents difference in us and aussie dollars and the prices of the goods overseas are way cheaper. I’m really tempted.
Yesterday, I’ve been browsing a women store site and how I wish I can figure out how does the shopping work. You see, they don’t ship overseas and I know just the right website to go to but it takes time to do it. Time, that I currently don’t have.
There’s really nothing that I need right now, but just want. And only because they’re on bargain. I wonder if hospital uniforms, cotton scrubs, etc also go on sale. Surely, if they do people who are interested by those scrub sets. As for me, it will be a battle of will in the coming days unless the opportunity for me to spend to much time online arise.

*****

Sunday, September 19

Quiet Time

I woke up early today to a very quiet house. I know it's not unusual but what's different is I am not in a hurry to go somewhere i.e. work. I wake up early on weekdays to get ready to work and I don't get to savour the quiet and the moment of moving around the house alone. Plus, I was able to enjoy my coffee albeit infront of a computer.

I have blogging to catch up before I get drowned with my Little Man and house chores. So here blogging away about what is the best diet pill for women while sipping the last drop of my coffee and listening to Jewel, Stay Here Forever.

I'm in a good mode despite I lost my file saved in an external drive that I just unplugged without saving. I have to research later how to recover it. It's also raining but I won't let it dampen my mood. It's Sunday! Life is good.

I leave you with this song:

*****

Sat Nine: Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying



1. When was the last time you cried?
Last night, while watching the news. I'm very soft and emotionaly. I cry over a book, a movie, any touching scene infront of me.

2. If you could wake up tomorrow with a new talent, what would it be?
Painting.

3. Who is someone (other than yourself) would you like to go back into your past and talk to and why?
My junior classmate and friend who died.

4. What is your favorite meal eating out?
Any seafood cooked in Asian style (I would definitely need diet pills that work if I have to consume it more often).

5. Do you feel energized or drained by being in a group situation? If the answer is "it depends," on what does it depend?
Depends on the attitude of the group.

6. What word do you use far too frequently?
Really? - but not as much that it can be noticed.

7. What’s a word you’ve invented? (alternate question: What needs a word but doesn’t have one yet?)
Omni-footerous. The family invented it.

8. Pick out one of your favorite songs. Go to Song Facts and tell us about the song's history.
The Gift by Jim Brickman. Song facts has no record.

9. What is your absolute favorite piece of furniture you have and why?
The couch. Need I explain?

*****

Saturday, September 18

Sometimes it is not what you know but who you know to be successful.

Many factors can affect a man’s ability to please his partner and the greater the man’s desire to not disappoint them, the more likelihood that problems will manifest themselves contrary to those most desired. Call it the mirror of expectations or just the fear of failure, but the devastating effect it has on his libido can be overwhelming for the relationship. Premature ejaculation is a symptom of mental over stimulation not physical over stimulation and merely verifies that their partner is truly the apple of their eye(s). Before doing anything drastic, you might wish to consider natural male enhancement.

*****
GUEST POST by Christopher John Petersen author

*****

Thursday, September 16

Techie Issues

Last week, my gmail account was hacked. It gave me such a big fright as all my blogs were deleted. I have to change my password. That same week, I tried to login to my bank account and it required me a security code – and I was told today that it is not a normal procedure. Only happened for new accounts and if there are some malicious movements in my account.
Today, my windows explorer kept on crashing. We tried to over-ride it with a fresh copy (it wouldn’t let us). Did virus scan that ended up deleting my ITunes file (that I’m currently downloading). My colleague did a start up repair to no avail. Finally, we did a system restore from yesterday and it did it.

Half of the day gone, tweedling my thumb and facebooking using my phone. All these techie issues are no fun like buying red box gifts for friends.
*****

Saturday, September 4

Sat 9 - Half the Man


1. Do you feel that you are essentially the same person that your were ten years ago?
No. I have changed and I haven't really sat down and examine what are those aspects. I just think that it's for the better and hope that people I love think the same way as I do.

2. Is there something that you have to give all or nothing to?
Things? No. Someone? Yes, my family.

3. Have you ever gambled? What have you bet on and for how much?
In my adult life, no. But I can remember when I was about 10, I used to play "tatsi" and it involves money.

4. Can you sleep anywhere or does it have to be in a bed?
When I'm beat up to the bone, I can be a circus girl.

5. Tell us about the most disastrous or embarrassing first impression you've ever made on someone.
I have many wrong first impressions but I'm not vocal so they're not embarassing.

6. Do you have a memorable "ripped clothing" moment in your life? No? How about in someone else's?
I can only remember a scene in Confessions of a Shopaholic - when Rebecca was unraveling. :)

7. What's changed on your blog since its inception? ...a redo? ...a change of pace? ...or is it about the same?
Lots. Layout for most of it's early time. But eventually, it has it's own tone or theme (that includes comparing or compare life insurance).

8. If you could travel back in time and whisper something to yourself ten years ago, what would it be?
Be yourself.

9. Okay, let's have it! What's the craziest, most impulsive thing you've ever done?
I'm an impulsive shopper but not so impulsive when it comes to doing things in my life. One friend thought that I am the kind that needs to know how deep the water first before plunging. Yeah, I can only talk about my shopping loots.

Again, I have fun. Thanks, Samantha for hosting this.

*****

Micer, wiser?




There's a 47% Chance You'll Be Rich



No doubt about it, you really love money. You just love spending it more than making it.
You have expensive tastes, and it takes a lot of dough to bankroll you.
You'd love to be rich, but it's not going to happen unless you start saving some of your hard earned money.
Try to sock away some funds for a rainy day. That's how normal folks get started on becoming rich.



Well, Mcj couldn't agree more with this test. Well, what can I say? That's me! I'd be scrubbing toilets in my retirement if managing my finances is left to me. Thank God, there's Mcj. Lol.
*****

Stay Here Forever


Singer Jewel on the red carpet at the 2010 Emmy Awards

I’ve heard of her songs before and it sort of left a print in my mind. Then, I heard her again in Men in Trees. I didn’t know then that it was her until I read recently that she had a quest appearance. Then, I heard her song again in the movie Valentine’s Day. It’s like a lightbulb moment. I just want to get a copy of one of her albums. Stay here forever is just really good. Easy listening while reclining in your outdoor chaise lounges.

*****

Friday, August 27

FF-Aug 27


1. You do your thing; I do mine and sometimes you can do mine too. Lol.

2. Shopping for shoes (and wood swing set if I can) is what's been on my mind on and off all day.

3. Remember when you were at school and you can’t wait to get a job but now that you have a job you sometimes feel like you want to be a student again?

4. Feel good movies, reading romance novels, and nuts are three of my favorite obsessions :-)

5. During the last year we had two out of town holidays.

6. Calling our half-man of 3YO “Bub” puts a smile on my face.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching football with my family, tomorrow my plans include going to a saloon for a haircut and Sunday, I want to bake something!


*****

Sunday, August 22

Classic


All hands on deck! Jennifer Aniston makes a stylish appearance outside the New York City studios of The Daily Show on Thursday, where she continued to promote her latest film, The Switch, in theaters today.


She might look to fellow A-listers for style inspiration, but Jennifer proves she can hold her own as she visits the N.Y.C. set of The Daily Show With Jon Stewart in a tweed Dolce & Gabbana sheath.

Sometimes her style looks boring as she's opted for the monotones and bland colours but the fact that they suit her, is brilliant. I put it down to her skin tone. She's forever toned and tan. I mean, digital camcorder don't lie, do they? Unless of course, it has been "shopped".

These are JA latest photos captured of the camcorder (or should I say cam) by the paps.

What I also like in her in these photos is the minimal jewellery. Okay, so much for this.. time to go bang with the digital camcorder reviews.
*****

Can't Get Over With


I read today this quote of Brad Pitt talking about Jennifer Aniston when they were still married.

“My wife loves jewellery, and I love my wife. She’s always my inspiration. I started doing this because I wanted to make something special for her.”

Well, this just makes me feel sad now that they are divorced.

Anyway, I’m glad to know though that Jen also loves jewellery – good on her as she can buy whatever she wants including lots of loose diamonds. It seems I'm going to be on the loose of checking out celebs jewellery style. :)

*****

Saturday, August 14

What the heck!

I'm not into contest in blogging, mainly because I haven't got so much time in my hands. Being a working Mum makes you that. Anyway, what makes this one special? Because, I'm now free - finished cooking dinner and all that stuff that needs to be done before night time, it doesn't mean that there's no heaps of to do's on my list.

I digress.

Faye in quicker8.com is having a contest.

Prizes
1st price - Ladies Chronograph (bic face) watch
2nd price - Kate Spade kikay kit (orange)
3rd price - Kate Spade kikay kit (floral)


HOW TO JOIN:
1. Subscribe to my feed via email located right side bar (REQUIRED) - 1 Entry
2. Blog about the contest along with the Prizes {You MUST include the Prizes and My link}- 5 Entries
- If you have multiple blogs, much better. Each blog post along with the Prizes -5 Entries.
3. Leave a comment in this post telling me what you did and give me the link of the blog post. 1 Entry.
4. Comment to any of my post. From August 8,2010 to Sept 8,2010 and you’ll have 1 entry each comment.
-Make it sure it's at least three word ! LOL And NO SPAMMING, PLEASE!

The Contest Ends on the 8th of Sept 2010 so if you wish to participate you must enter before that date. Winners will be announced on Sept 18,2010! The winners will be picked through Random.org!


Plus the prizes are really nice. So here's crossing my fingers and toes. Wanna join? Just go to the link above on her name and to see the photos of her prizes.
*****

Non-fiction


I've been reading this book for a week and finally, I finished it last night. I normally read it on the train but I thought I have to finish it - it's thrilling and just anti-climactic if I have to stop. So I forgo watching the 2nd half of the footy to finish it.

When I read the synopsis at the back of the book, I assumed that it would have a happy ending - happy means, he saved the life of his client that he thought is innocent. But he was not able to. He had lots of should have and could have done but I believe that he, along with his colleagues, have done their best in the case. I am still a believer of fairy tale in every stories that I read - I now realised that it's the main reason why I love reading fiction.

Anyway, sometime while reading this book I've been asking why David Dow didn't become a trial lawyer, that way his clients that he believed are innocent wouldn't get to be sentenced of death penalty in the first place. I'm still planning to email him that. My knowledge of the law especially of the USA (can't be bothered to checkout Cheap Online Schools if I have a chance of learning it) is very superficial or even close to none so maybe, the answer to my question is very obvious.

This book has awaken my curiousity on death penalty. It made me asked myself if I am pro or anti. It's hard to be not judgmental and its have to be. I am pro-life though. But of course, I can't speak for the relatives of the victims. I just pray that circumstances such as this won't come my way.


*****

Sunday, August 8

I Love Spring




Your Soul Is Connected to the Spring



You are an optimistic, eternally hopeful person. No matter how dark things get, you always see the light.
You are open-minded and always up for a fresh outlook on life. You don't cling to ideas or beliefs.
You are sweet hearted and have good intentions. Even though you've seen a lot in life, you remain innocent.
People see you as playful and even a bit airy. You feel free to be yourself, and that's a beautiful thing.




I love summer but I prefer spring as it's neither cold nor warm. Just in between. And oh, the flowers.. the smell of it all around. The abundance of colour everywhere. I can't wait for it actually especially now that we are at the peak of winter. But I need not hurry it up as the weather are like slide shows, that just passed through our eyes and have to be savoured.
*****

Who is He?


And why do I like him a lot after seeing him in the movie Confession of a Shopaholic? Well, he’s not really cute as in the type of a guy that I would normally say, good looking or superbly attractive. But I like his accent. Boy! And the fact that he has a rugged look in him in the movie (read: messy, unkempt face), is what makes him my latest favourite celebrity. Never mind the acting but it’s better than looking up discount laminate flooring. Lol.

*****

Sunday, August 1

Sat 9 - Bad Day

1. Is there anything that you tend to do to cheer up when you are having a bad day?
Sleep, re-read books that I like, re-watch my favourite movies, shopping (and maybe lying on the massage tables) - are just some of them.

2.What’s the last card game you played, and with whom did you play?
Uno, with Mcj (hubs).

3.What’s the last board game you played, and with whom did you play?
Scabble, against the computer. Lol.

4.What’s the last computer game you played, and with whom did you play?
Does using Iphone, counts? Heaps of game.. crazy bird, bowling, tennis.. etc... with my little boy.

5.Is there somewhere you’d like to visit but have not, and where is it?
The Australian Outback.

6.Think of your favorite movie (or a movie you really like, if you can’t think of a favorite). Some people say that the reasons you love your favorite movie are related to what you value in romantic relationships. How is this true or untrue in your case?
Not true in my case. I like funny light movies, that's all there is to it.

7.What physical attributes do you find the most attractive?
Eyes that can seem to see you through your soul.

8.How many people live in your house? Tell us about them.
Mcj and The Tatapilla.. The Love of My Life.

9. Ever punch someone in the face?
No.

I had fun, thanks Sam.

*****

Saturday, July 10

Books I Love to Read

This is the last book that I've read of the author Susan Elizabeth Phillips. It's a rom-com book but not like the others. What set all her books apart are the building up of characters, the pace and spontaneity.

When I read her books, I feel that I can relate to every character. Everyone is a lead on its own. Although, there are main characters, the rest are given their own fair share of the story. The books are always long -almost 500 pages that it is inevitable to put down but because you have immersed yourself to the characters in the story that you can't forget where you've stopped. You can follow up. I have read almost all of her books and I think, she can't write fast enough because I'm wanting for more (funny if it's weight loss pills, eh?).
*****

Digging Up

I'm in my usual curious and voyeur self again. I just posted about the biggest pair in Hollywood and got curious of the personal life of Meg Ryan that I have to dig it up.

Well, I found out that he was married to Dennis Quaid and had a relationship with Russel Crowe. She has two children, one her own and one adopted.


Well, now I'm quite satisfied of what I found. I'm a fan of her but really not a big fan that will follow her whereabouts everyday (like following fad diets that work).
*****

Biggest Pairings

I'm the kind of person who will watch a crappy movie over a good one if I know the actors in the first one. Actors always influence my choice of movies - maybe, because I'm a loyal fan. Or it could be something like I can relate them to their movies that I've seen. Whatever.

With the showing of the movies Knight and Day, here are some of the biggest pairings in Hollywood movies.

Yeah! I like Australia but it's not the type of movie that I will over and over again.


I recently bought Pretty Woman and rented Runaway Bride last Tuesday.


Well, I don't see much of Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan's movies but I do like them. Better than reading apidexin reviews.

BIGGEST A-LIST PAIRINGS
To celebrate the reunion of A-listers Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz in Knight and Day, MovieFIX takes a look at the biggest A-list pairings of all time.
*****

Saturday, June 26

Thirteen Things


Random things I did or happened to me this week:
1. I went to the shops on my lunch break to buy Jens’ outfit for their country dress up day.
2. I washed linens in the middle of the week.
3. Went food shopping on Thursday night on my own.
4. I window-shopped today for (not for Asus) shoes and bags – only because I didn’t find any that took my fancy.
5. I finished reading the book “Natural Born Charmer” by SEP.
6. We saw a dead crow in the drive way of Jens’ day care.
7. I got really really mad at Jens that I smacked him on the bottom – naughty me, I know.
8. I ate my first strawberries for the season last night.
9. I bought lunch at Maccas twice so I can get toys of Shrek the third.
10. I was able to watch soccer when Australia played against Serbia.
11. I haven’t been online at home until now.
12. I saw the movie “A Room with a View” for the first time.
13. I spilled coffee to the keyboard attached to my machine so now I have to use the built-in.

*****

Sunday, June 13

Sat 9 - Goodbye To You


1. Have you had to say goodbye to a good friend or lover because they were moving?
Yes, he was going to work overseas.

2. Have you ever wanted to use personal information about someone to sort of "blackmail" them? If yes, tell us about it.
I can't remember that I ever did.

3. What two things influenced the choice of your present job or to stay at home?
Career path and pay? I didn't really imagine that I would get this job as y first in my home country.

4. Do you like warm weather? How warm does it get where you live? What is the best way to spend a hot, summer day?
Yes, I do. I came from a tropical country and I'm in a sub-tropical state now. It gets as hot as 40 degrees in summer here and what better was to spend it than to head to the beach or splash in the pool?

5. What do you find "hot" in a man/woman? What is the first thing you notice about someone who is hot? Do you ever think of yourself as hot?
Really, in my age I seldom find anybody hot. But I guess it has to be the eyes - smoldering eyes. I feel hot sometimes. Lol.

6. Are you quick to anger? How do you react when you are angry or frustrated? What do you do to cool down?
Yes I am and I'm trying to change. But I think, I'm just annoyed. When I'm really really angry, I cry. To cool down? Just do something else that I love doing like reading.

7. In your family, who is the least like the rest of you?
In my "old family", I am the least like the rest of us. Not because I'm use pull up bars but because I am the most independent of us all.

8. What are a few great books that you've taken along to the beach or on vacation in years past? If you aren't a big reader, what do you do to while away the lazy hours?
I love to read but I can't remember any of them. But I've been reading some of Susan Elizabeth Phillips books.

9. Do you like going outside during a thunderstorm and watching the lightening?
Definitely not.

Again, I had fun. Thanks, Samantha.
*****

Saturday, May 29

I Don't Like Cereal




You Are Muesli



You are broad minded and cosmopolitan.

Your tastes are varied and numerous.



You like many types of things. You definitely aren't picky.

The only thing you can't stand is being bored.



You're the kind of person who can't have the same breakfast often.

Your breakfast is unpredictable, unique, and very varies.




Funny how this sound but I don't even like cereal. These days, I jus have muffin toast and coffee - enough to get by to get to work.
*****

La Familia

Everyone has been pretty busy in my family. Mcj has been working night shifts most of the time although, it's not per se. He just wants to finish his task - sorting out stuff in the workshop that has been left un-attented for several years. That's a good thing.

The Little Boy is a big guy now. Pretty busy and active. And I have to be the same lest, he'll just eat when he's bored. Good thing he likes doing puzzles - a blessing when it's rainy.

Can't complain. We've been meeting people and becoming friends with them. Exciting. Blogging has been pretty good lately, just like now that I have to do apidexin assignment. More shopping money.

We're happy camper, as usual.
*****

On The Work Front

It's been pretty quite at work lately. Did a few training here and there and some customisation but I mostly focused on the testing.

I'm using a new machine now with Windows 7 which at first I don't really appreciate. But eventually, liked. I also have Office 2007 which for the same reason, I detest at first. Heck, I can't find my favourite buttons. It was really boggling as I have to ask my colleague every time I want to do something that I can't find in the most conventional way. This may sound over-acting but it seems that hair growth shampoo was necessary for me for the few weeks that I was getting used to the new OS.

People come and go in the office too. I mean, some left and some joined. I suppose, there has to be turnover for a change.
*****