Eccentric Aquarius

In the Streets of Cebu

2010-11-09T05:52:00.000-08:00

I went out tonight to pick up ama (grandmother) from a party in White Gold Restaurant. Driving through M.J. Cuenco, I noticed this sign. Not hard to guess what the workers inside are up to... Hahahahahaha =D

PAY ATTENTION ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO ARE UNDER PAID

2010-10-30T01:07:00.000-07:00

DOLE: ‘No work, no pay’ on Nov. 1

GMANews.TV - Saturday, October 30

The “no work, no pay" principle applies to workers on Nov. 1, All Saints’ Day or Undas, as it is a special non-working holiday, the Labor department said Friday. In a release posted on the department’s website, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said that following Philippine labor laws, employees who will not work on Monday will not be entitled to compensation. “During this special (non-working) holiday, the principle of ‘no work, no pay’ applies, and premised on this principle and on the law, workers who are not required or permitted to work on this day are not entitled to any compensation," Baldoz said in the release. The labor chief, however, reminded employers to apply core labor standards applicable to special non-working holidays that are “consistent with ensuring the welfare and protection of the country’s workforce." Baldoz said the following pay rules apply on November 1: If an employee does not work on that day, the “no work, no pay" principle will apply, unless there is a favorable company policy, practice or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment on a special day even if it is “unworked."

If an employee works on that day, he or she should be paid 130 percent of his or her daily rate for working the first eight hours of a shift. If the employee works beyond eight hours, he or she should be paid 130 percent of the hourly rate.

If the day falls on the employees’ rest day, but an employee decides to work, he or she would be paid 150 percent for the first eight hours of work. In excess of eight hours, the employee would be paid 130 percent of the hourly rate. By law, the special non-working day on Nov. 1 is one of the three permanent special holidays observed each year in the country. The other two are the Ninoy Aquino Day marked on Aug. 21, and the last day of the year, Dec. 31.

Pay rules are pursuant to the Labor Code and Republic Act No. 9849, issued on December 11, 2009.—Jerrie M. Abella/DM/JV, GMANews.TV

Disaster early in the MORNING...

2010-10-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

Angkong (Grandpa): Who is the culprit?
Mauring (Yaya): Hunter ayy!!!

***Hunter was last caught lingering around the crime scene. And he received a spank from Angkong.

**Everytime there is chaos around the house (involving things being destroyed) Hunter is always the one blamed for it. This is because he is often times caught last at the crime scene. Ohh poor poor Hunter...

*Here are the suspects of destroying the couch:

Now where are we going to let our visitors sit???

Hoping to lose weight...

2010-10-21T04:58:00.000-07:00

My height is 4'11" and I used to weigh around 100 lbs. I finally lost some weight and became 83 lbs early this year. My secret?...
1. Work in a hospital.
2. Go to Boracay and eat lots and lots of raw oyster.Pray that you'll get food poisoning and experience dehydration due to extreme vomiting and diarrhea all at the same time.

Now the problem is I'm gaining weight again. I checked my wieght and its already 87 lbs. Oh no!!!!! I will make a program starting with my diet. For dinner, I'm having lettuce, cucumber and apples with italian and honey mustard dressing.

Struggle I'm facing: My family is having CALDERETA for dinner. I guess I will just have to close my eyes and imagine what I'm eating is same as theirs. =P

FAMILY DINNER RAE'S DINNER

10/10/10

2010-10-10T03:29:00.000-07:00

It's officially 76 days before Christmas. And incredibly, the date today is October 10, 2010 - 10/10/10

I spent my day with my mom enjoying a beautiful scene up in the mountains of Cebu in a place called, Mountain View.

Mountain View

Beautiful view of the mountains and outstretched ocean.
No pollution.
Perfect place to get in touch with nature.
A great place to spend time with your family.
A nice place to have a romantic date (there are lots of cottages where couples can enjoy their privacy).
A good place to hang-out with friends. Beers are sold in the canteen (just drink moderately to avoid falling from the cliffs).

Entrance Fee: P50.00

Transportation:

(Van) 10 people or less - P400.00
(Van) more than 10 - P40.00/head/trip(Motorcycle) - P50.00/head/trip

Pool:
P100.00/head (Entrance Fee for those who go inside the pool area whether you take a dip or not)

Mineral Water: P25.00

C2: P30.00

Chips: P30.00

Why Do Brides Wear White?

2010-10-02T03:51:00.000-07:00

Why do brides wear white? That is the question one kid asked his mommy.

I was reading my new issue of Reader's Digest and this is what Rowena T. Monleon of the Philippines shared:

I was attending a wedding ceremony when my five-year-old son asked, "Mum, why does the bride always wear a white gown?" I answered that that's because it was her happiest day.
He then followed up with a second question, "Why does her groom wear black?" This time, I just smiled back.

LOL! I find it hilarious since I am getting married. I love you yad! :)

ALCOHOL

2010-09-13T04:09:00.000-07:00

IS ALCOHOL IMPACTING YOUR RELATIONSHIP? -- that is the article of Lisa Merlo-Booth I'm reading on.

She says, "Many couples seem to be dealing with a third party in their relationships…alcohol."

This applies even to casual drinking. Some people say it's alright as long as it doesn't involve a third party who is a homo sapien. Well I say, it's still not ok! Alcohol can strain a relationship especially when the partner who drinks can't limit his/her alcohol intake which results to overnight sleeping with no idea where on earth, how I got there, how these abstract art of puke with all the smell got on my clothes drama. Worst of all, when the partner gets amnesia and remembers nothing, kaput of all what has happened during that fateful night.

In the past, I have experienced being drunk but I never had an amnesia. So I can't really say I trust those people claiming they cannot remember anything after being drunk.

Lisa Merlo-Booth mentioned that when she worked with couples, often one partner is worried about the impact the alcohol is having in their relationship and the other partner is not.

She says, "Guess who’s worried and who isn’t. You got it… the one not drinking is worried, and the one drinking is often certain their drinking isn’t a problem. The drinking partner will often say the alcohol isn’t impacting the relationship; it’s their partner harping on them about the alcohol that’s impacting the relationship."

What's your take on this? My opinion is... if the partner gets an amnesia, then that is a very big problem. The alcohol could have destroyed his memory or when he got lost drenched in puke the aliens took a sample from his temporal lobe.

Joke aside. When a person is drunk, he is unaware of his actions. Do you think he is still behaving?

ANNONA MURICATA

2010-09-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

I just finished making a report on Annona muricata. This plant is also commonly known as Guyabano in our native language, Soursop in English, Guanabana in Spain, and Graviola in Brazil. My mom had mentioned that eating this miracle fruit can cure cancer. I must admit, I was a bit skeptic about what she said.

An undesirable action of chemotherapeutic drugs at present is it kills both cancer and normal cells. In doing some research, I learned that Annona muricata contains annonaceous acetogenins which exhibits selective toxicity against cancer cells without harming the healthy cells. In other words, it only kills the cancer cells and not the normal ones. This is what we want in treating cancer patients.

Making a drug takes time (considering all the clinical trials and processes that it has to go through), but let's just hope that there will be one available in the market soon since clinical studies have proven Annona muricata as a PROMISING ANTICANCER/ANTITUMOR AGENT.

Mmmmmmm... Enjoy eating the fruit or a cold Guyabano shake for a healthy living! =)

If this article caught your attention, don't be too carried away. I wouldn't advice people to ingest its SEEDS or ROOTS in any way/preparation, whether it is crushed, drank as a tea, etc. for it is found to have neurotoxic effects and may be linked to atypical Parkinson's disease.

Any thoughts???

2010-09-01T00:11:00.000-07:00

For all you teachers out there, do you agree to this saying?

"POOR ANSWERS COMES FROM POOR QUESTIONS."

Yes - If i know I haven't done my part as an educator.
No - If I have already done my part, but students did no effort in passing the subject.

If you are a student reading this article, it is best if you study hard because it is only for your own good. Your teacher's salary won't increase if she keeps on pushing you to study and do well in school. It is you who will gain from it, not us because we have already graduated a long time ago.

If you are a slow learner or easily distracted:

Know yourself...
Accept who you are...
Know your weaknesses!

These ways can help you counter bad study habits and improve yourself.

Have passion in what you are studying, because if you try to love the subject (even if it's very hard) it would make it easy for you to study. If you do not have passion in the subject, why did you enroll in the first place? Because your parents told you to do so? Then quit! Stop going to school! You are wasting money! Many people are starving across the globe, so better donate your money to charity and help others have education, food, clothing and shelter.

WINTER

2010-08-30T03:19:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the family WINTER! 

Meet our pit bull, Winter. He is 2 months old. He is so lovable and loyal. Whenever I stroke him, he will automatically lie down on his side and let you pet him even more. He's so cute and adorable.

People have been telling us that having a pit bull is risky due to their aggressive nature. But I have also read in some literatures that they are great pets as long as you treat them well and shower them with love. I really do hope those negative things about pit bulls are just stereo types does not hold true to all because I really do love him so much and would want to keep him as my pet.

But there is another thing that I am concerned with… I have a 6 month old beagle. His name is HUNTER. They are best buddies but they can play really rough too. Hunter is very playful and a big bully (well not really big, physically). At present, Winter is the one who cries whenever Hunter plays rough games with him. I'm scared that when the time comes Winter gets big, he may fight back and kill Hunter.

I'm really scared…

Here's a picture of them both having fun under the sun on a hot afternoon.

And them sleeping…

Thursday Thunks : Lather Up, Laugh It Up, And Have A Colorful Day!

2009-09-24T04:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the September 24th version of Thursday Thunks!

(which we always seem to post on Wednesday)

Where we make you think

a little bit before you blog!

This week we will answer some crazy questions brought to you by Kimber, the number 1172007 and the color of the walls in an asylum.

1. Does soap or shampoo have to really lather up for you to feel that it cleaned throughly?

~ No, it doesn't matter as long as I have enough on my body/hair.

2. Do you have a long standing joke with someone that you still laugh about every time you talk to that person?

~ Yes, I do. Me and my boyfriend talk about our blooper moments. Hehe :) Sweet no? <3 <3 <3

3. Share something that happened to you this past week that was unusual.

~ Not to me. Unusual is that maggots were found in a patient's left ear carried by a dead fly resting in his ear canal. Yucky!!!

4. If you dropped a purple crayon and a green crayon off a roof, which would melt faster in the sun?

~ Whichever crayon exposed to direct sunlight.

5. You are standing in line (grocery store, bank, etc.), and someone gets in line behind you that stinks. The stink is so bad that people in line in front of you turn around and look to see if you are the one causing the stink. Do you cover your nose, hold your breath, breathe through your mouth or just get out of line altogether?

~ Sorry, I think I have to get out of the line... God forgive me, I just can't take a sour stinky smell it triggers my allergic rhinitis to the core.

6. If you dropped your cell phone in the toilet, would you fish it out? If so, how much soap would you use to wash your hands afterwards?

~ Yes, I would fish it out. But if there's a poo then I'll leave it be. Eeeewww!!! I would try my best not to use my bare hands in fishing it out. But if there's no choice left then I'll wash my hands after with hot water with lots and lots of soap, alcohol, soap with alcohol and hot water with alcohol. But I can't imagine doing that so I'll just stick to fishing it out with something, like a stick perhaps...

7. Sydney Australia dust storm (link). How long do you think it would take you to clean your house after that sort of dust storm?

~ I won't clean my house. It would take a lifetime! I'll just leave it to the wind to blow it off. If not, then I'll consider it as an artwork. It's warm hue is perfect for the cold season. LOL =D

8. Do you think you can dance?

~ I don't need to think. I sense it running through my veins. =P

9. You are out to eat and someone across the room is staring at you. Do you get paranoid, try to ignore them, or go find out why they are staring at you?

~ Ignore them. I assume this person has big problems and is not aware that he/she is staring right through me. I too have experienced this especially when I'm worried about something. But if it's really obvious that the person is staring at me then I will still ignore him/her. This will really make me feel uncomfortable but there's nothing I can do, is there??...

10. Come up with a crazy, wacky Thursday Thunk question.

~ Do boogers taste good?

Join us here.

Maggots Found in Ears

2009-09-23T02:16:00.000-07:00

Flies can be dangerous I tell you! Watch out if a fly enters your ear, do not try poking it or you else might kill the insect or much more, damage your ear. Aaaahhh! Disastrous! They say when an insect enters your ear, try to remove the pesky insect by puffing a smoke from a cigar or by any means create a smoke close to your ear so that it will come out by itself. Don't know if I will have the patience to do that considering the PANIC when that happens! Ouch!

An old priest was hospitalized because he had ear problems. His chief complaint was that his left ear was aching. Three days prior to admission, a fly entered his left ear and he poked it not knowing he had killed the poor insect. (Can you still call the thing poor if it has maliciously entered your body orifice???) Anyway, the doctor found a dead fly peacefully resting on his ear canal along with maggots. Eeeww!!! Ironically, he didn't have fever considering a larvae was found in his ear. Now he's receiving treatment with antibiotics. I hope he gets well and free from maggots.

Living things are not supposed to be infested with maggots, only when a creature dies. Such a sad thing but hope we'll learn something from it. So remember mommies, keep your children's ears clean ALWAYS! And also yours! :)

Almost Paradise

2009-09-22T07:33:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love it when it rains?

This morning it was drizzling, the sky blanketed with darkness, and the weather cold. I was sound asleep enjoying the comfort of my bed and soft fluffy pillows when suddenly my trusty alarm sang to the tune of Paradise by T-Max! No offense, I love this song from the Korean TV Series, "Boys Over Flowers" but... Aaaarrrrrrgggggghhhhhh!!!!! Can't I just own the world and declare this day a Non-~~Working~~ Day!? I want to go back to sleep ... :(

The lyric goes, "ALMOST PARADISE achimboda deo nunbushin nal hyanghan neoui sarangi..."
Exactly what I'm feeling! (-c-,) Zzzzz

Life is a Puzzle

2009-09-21T05:53:00.000-07:00

Our time here on earth lies in God's hands.

Everyday is a gift, everyday is a blessing.

If you're loaded with problems can you still call it a blessing? On the positive side -- YES! You can pick yourself up and use what you've learned to improve yourself.

Life is unfair. Some are born rich, and others not. Being born in a third world country, I often ask God, "Why am I born here?". The answer is -- if I weren't born here, I wouldn't have known my loved ones.

Life is like a puzzle, every piece has its own purpose. Struggles make us tougher and wiser, but too much of it is also tiring to deal with. At times like this I pray, "Lord, I lift it all up to You!". I believe that whatever God takes away, He replaces it with something even better. I know He loves me and that He only gives me what He knows is best for me. He is my Creator, and I am His child. He will never desert me.

...Were you able to reflect on something this Monday?

PhotoHunt: Upside-Down

2009-09-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

I took these lovely pictures when I went to a Butterfly Sanctuary in Bohol. Are you familiar with the song
That's What Makes the World Go Round?

Come, sing with me! :)

Left and right

Like day and night

That's what makes the world go round!

Eeek! Mr. Caterpillar is falling... falling... DOWN!!! :o

In and out

Thin and stout

That's what makes the world go round!

An exquisite skeleton Christmas Tree FULL of LIFE :)

For every up there is a down...

This golden thing is the most beautiful pupa i have seen so far. :)

For every square there is a round

For every high there is a low

For every to there is a fro

To and fro

Stop and go

That's what makes the world go round!

No! They're not bats! It's the pupa of a moth.

You must set your sights upon the heights
Don't be a mediocrity
Don't just wait and trust to fate
And say, that's how it's meant to be
It's up to you how far you go
If you don't try you'll never know
And so my lad as I've explained
Nothing ventured, nothing gained

You see my boy it's nature's way
Upon the weak the strong ones prey
The human life it's also true
The strong will try to conquer you
And that is what you must expect
Unless you use your intellect
Brains and brawn, weak and strong
That's what makes the world go round! :)

~♥~

I hope these butterflies don't get headaches for hanging Upside-Down!!! LOL =P

Join us in PhotoHunter

Friday Fill-Ins #142

2009-09-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

Graphic courtesy of Tonya!

And...here we go!

1. My car is Honda Civic SIR and I am selling it for only 430K & still NEGOTIABLE!!!

2. Specs of my car is coming up next.

* * *

45,000+ Mileage
JVC KD-G635 Stereo with USB Port
Momo Steering Wheel
APEXi Muffler
Leather Seats
Central Locking with Car Alarm

* * *

3. Lately, things seem to be in God's hands and I say to the Lord, "Thy will be done.".

4. Praying to God is one of my favorite 'hiding' places.

5. What happened to us now is clearly the consequence of global crisis; population is increasing, natural resources becoming scarce, poverty and unemployment intensified.

6. A good chance for a PROSPEROUS TOMORROW is not impossible!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to sleeping early, tomorrow my plans include going to work and Sunday, I want to enjoy my day off!!!

Grace, Rome, me & Kat enjoy a lovely dinner at Teriyaki Boy. Try their Chicken Teriyaki, it's the BEST!

Crisp yet tender juicy inside... Yum yum :)

Join us in Friday Fill-Ins!

Thursday Thunks: 3rd Week of September

2009-09-17T02:04:00.000-07:00

Ouch, denim, news and that desert island question again....

Welcome to the September 17th version of Thursday Thunks!
(which we always seem to post on Wednesday)
Where we make you think a little bit before you blog!
This week we will answer some crazy questions brought to you by Berleen, the number one thousand twenty seven and the color of leaves in the fall.

1. My daughter (aka Demon #1) informed me the other day that her hugs were worth a million dollars. Would you give up hugs - giving and receiving - for the rest of your life, for a million dollars?
~ No, I won't. I don't have plans of becoming filthy rich and living a very sad life.

2.Have you ever been bitten by a member of the canine family?
~ Thank God not!

3. What is your favorite color of jeans?
~ The classic blue color. It never goes out of style. :)

4. What is something that has changed in public schools that you wish was the norm when you were in school?
~ I have never attended public school but I have visited the University of the Philippines in Manila. In spite of not having the finest facilities, I praise UP for producing the most intelligent graduates of the Philippines.

5. What is your news source?
TV Patrol ABS-CBN Kapamilya Channel

6. What sort of people do you think read your blog?
~ All sorts of people. Thank you for visiting my blog! =)

7. If I told you that I had a headache, you would say..........???
~ Me too! I have a paracetamol would you like some?

8. You go to a buffet style restaurant, what is the first food you put on your plate?
~ Depends on what food is placed on the first row. I couldn't just insert in the line and pick according to my preferences. That would be very rude!

9. If you were stranded on a desert island.... no, we aren't asking that again. Lets put a twist into this. Would you volunteer to be dropped off on a desert island, to be picked up in a month? And you don't get to bring those 3 items, either.
~ If you're going to drop me off, how much are you going to pay me? What are the conditions? What 3 items are you talking about???

10. When the sun sets, what are you usually doing?
~ On the computer chatting with my luvy-duvy, Judd. Hehehe =)

Watch Films Online for FREE!

2009-09-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

Working in another country away from family and loved ones my boyfriend, Judd, finds ways to entertain himself while spending much of his time at home. He is currently residing in a place where there are no theaters. Imagine how boring that is! Luckily, he has his trusty laptop where he can watch movies online. You can watch your favorite films on line for free in www.newmoviesforfree.com. They have the latest movies in a wide range of genre. What I like most about this website is that I don't have to wait too long for my movie to download. It's so fast and easy!

Reasons why many people download movies for free online include lack of budget. Let's face it, it's crisis! Not all individuals can afford to watch/buy movies. Although this is not ethical as defined by law but it leaves other people no choice. And this is the truth.

Quite honestly, I always look forward to watch films online during my day off to relax and enjoy the day. And as what my boyfriend says, he no longer misses home that much because he enjoys watching movies free online with the comfort of his own room and bed. :)

PhotoHunt: Electric

2009-09-12T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hi, it's me in negative! Do I look scary or not!?!? I've decided to put this up because I'm all charged up in this picture. Being blue and all... Have you seen my eyes? It looks like I've been possessed. However, I DO NOT wish to be so. And my teeth??? I like the color! It's like I've sucked all the ink off my pen. LOL =P Seriously, I think this is what a person looks like when being electrocuted. Waaaaahhh! Scewy!!! :o Join us in PhotoHunter and enjoy your weekend with some wacky photos. Happy Weekend Everyone!

LinkFromBlog Marketplace

2009-09-12T03:01:00.000-07:00

I was reading Marice's blog when I came across LinkFromBlog. Curious on how to earn on-line, I dropped in their website and discovered that you can work for them by advertising through your blog. This benefits both the clients and advertisers/bloggers. Clients get to promote there products across the globe with the help of bloggers covering a variety of readers. And in turn helps us, bloggers, to earn extra income. Being new to this, I promise to preserve my honesty and integrity in advertising all sorts of merchandise.

Hoping to spread the good word and help others as well. Happy Weekend!

Fighting Pimples

2009-09-11T02:17:00.000-07:00

Today, I went to my Dermatologist to have my monthly facial cleaning & surgery. The procedure took less time than it normally did; less pain and less blood. I'm glad my face is gradually becoming clear. My dream is for my skin to become smooth and acne free. I'm almost there. I hope and assume... :) Dr. C.A. said the medications she gave me like clindamycin lotion and tretinoin are only for supportive measures, what really absolve me from such skin problem is the hormone therapy. If you're asking what pills I'm taking -- it's Diane35. I'm on my third month taking hormones and I surely hope it will continue to clear up my face. Although I didn't experience any side effects (aside from mood swings), I still do not recommend this to all people. Side effects may vary in each one of us. A friend of mine once took this pill and her side effects include severe headache and excessive uterine bleeding. Consulting a Dermatologist or Ob-Gyne is a must. As the saying goes, "Health is Wealth. Safety first." Before I go, I'd like to justify the word surgery -- it denotes pricking (of pimples) and injecting anti-inflammatories to prevent the face from swelling. I'm also thinking of getting a Diamond Peel but it costs a lot considering you have to have weekly sessions. Oh my, with my schedule, I'm afraid I can't adhere to that!

Happy Weekend Everyone! Wash your face, pat it dry and stay acne free! :)

Thursday Thunks: 2nd Week of September

2009-09-10T07:56:00.000-07:00

Dying, Buying, Eating, & More

Welcome to the September 10th version of Thursday Thunks!

(which we always seem to post on Wednesday)

Where we make you think a little bit before you blog!

This week we will answer some crazy questions brought to you by

Kimber, the number 999 and the color of a butterfly sitting on a red rose.

1. A 90 year old man's dying wish in South Carolina was to be buried in his car. Link If you were told tomorrow you have 3 weeks to live, would you have any dying wishes or something special done before you died? ~ To spend more time with Judd and be closer to him.

2. Do you pay for more stuff using a credit/debit card or cold hard cash? ~ COLD HARD CASH

3. What's cuter- a baby lizard or a baby snake? ~ Baby lizards. I used to pet a couple of iguanas back when I was in first year college.

4. You go out to eat by yourself at a restaurant. While waiting for your food do you people watch & easedrop on others conversations, read a book, use a laptop or chat with people around you? ~ None of the above. I'm fond of examining details in the room especially the furniture and etc. trying to take a glimpse of art in every piece.

5. If you see someone walking around with toilet paper stuck to their shoe, do you tell them or just laugh? ~ Stranger or not, yes, I will tell them. What goes around, comes around. What goes up, must come down! Mao na magbinut-an ta kay ang gaba dili magsaba. Hi-tech na bya ta ron, dali nalang ma-abot ang malas!

6. You are talking to someone you just met but you can't understand them at all because of their accent. Do you tell them you can't understand them or just smile and nod? ~ I'll say pardon me, I didn't get the last thing you said. And smile... =)

7. Mudfest! Park filled with pools of mud and an obstacle course of mud. Do you go and play in the mud? ~ No, I won't! It takes too much effort to clean the ears... =(

8. Have you ever had a headache so bad it effected your vision? ~ Yes! I've experienced my vision becoming blurry, or at one time, I saw stars/diamonds flashing around even as I opened my eyes.

9. Would you fit in more with the circus, Hollywood, Broadway, or comedy circuit types? ~ Hollywood, I guess. Because it's where the gossip is and the glamor and fashion. =D

Family Vacation

2009-09-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

Today, I got some rest but I wouldn't say 100% because tomorrow is workday and I have more things to do. Sometimes I do wish hospitals have ~~Holiday off~~ but that couldn't be possible for there are lots of patients who need us everyday. :) Going back, I just came home from Mactan where me and my family had a vacation over the weekend. We had a luxurious stay at the Shangri-La Hotel in our lush Sea View Suite.

One of the activities I enjoyed (aside from swimming in the pool/beach) was feeding the fishes. Below are pictures of us feeding the fishes:

We fed the fishes with some bread and cupcakes. And they definitely loved it! :)

See! I told you! They aren't afraid of getting close to us. Fishes are friends. :)

Our little fishy friends had a feast. They took small bites from my bro's yummy treat. :)

If you'd like to unwind pamper yourself at the Chi Spa. Relax and take pleasure to enjoy a serene massage or take a dip in their private pool while they serve you your meals.

I recommend this place to working women and honeymooners. :)

Thursday Thunks : Talks About Ethics

2009-09-03T04:34:00.000-07:00

Kids falling out, revenge and unmentionables

Welcome to the September 3rd version of Thursday Thunks!
(which we always seem to post on Wednesday)
Where we make you think a little bit before you blog!
This week we will answer some crazy questions brought to you by Berleen, the number one thousand twenty six and the color of the dirt spot you need to wipe up on your kitchen floor.

1. Your thoughts on truck drivers? They are hardworking people trying to make a living.

2. Did you hear Michelle Duggar is pregnant for the 15th time? (but that will be kid #19 if you lost count....) I just heard it now but it's not very surprising because sadly it's a common thing among Filipino families especially in the lower class.

3. Have you ever done something to hurt someone intentionally... just for the sole purpose of hurting them because you thought they deserved it? Maybe a paybacks a bitch sort of thing? I don't want to be plastic. Yes, I have. Depending on the level, I think we're all guilty on this.

4. Is there anyone in your life that when you go to their place of residence, you just walk in without bother knocking? Does anyone just walk into your house without knocking? No, I always remind myself to knock. It's a bad manner not to. And yes, our workers routinely walk right in to our house without knocking. I hate that! It's like they don't respect you anymore and there's no privacy.

5. Whats in the trunk of your car? Do you even have a clue? Can you guess? Call that Quadro Parking! Hahaha =D

6. When you go to a family holiday get together (such as Christmas or Thanksgiving), about how many people are there? I lost count... Hehe :)

7. What is in your kitchen sink right at this very moment? Dish washing soap.

8. You go to a store to buy an expensive item... say $150. You pick up that item and a couple other this n' thats. You get to the register and the expensive item rings up at $40. The cashier doesn't seem to notice and tells you your total. Do you go with what they say and pay it or do you question the price difference? You know you would question it if your $40 item rang up at $150.... I'd ask if there's a discount 'coz maybe I could get a price off for all the other items included in my cart. Hihi =P

9. Do you fold your underwear or do you just toss it in a drawer? Fold it neatly.

10. There is a Harley-Davidson giveaway. Chances are $100 and they are only selling 250 tickets. Do you buy one? I think not. I'm saving for something...

11. Who is your favorite Disney character? Ariel

12. It's September - most of the weekly sitcoms/dramas are starting new seasons again. Which one are you most looking forward to? I must confess, I'm not a tv person...

13. You are at a grocery store and are on your way out to your car with your cart full of grocery bags. On your way to your car you see a black kitten in an empty cart. What do you do? Leave it alone.

14. Is there anything that you do for a hobby that you are asked to do for friends/family that most people would hire a professional to do? (example: cake decorating, fixing cars....) Charcoal Painting

15. Are we there yet? To Norway?... Almost, I hope... Hehe :)

The Meeting

2009-09-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

Today I feel completely drained especially after the PTC Meeting. Twenty drugs applied to be part of the Formulary and only 3 were approved. I pity the companies whose products have been disapproved due to the matter of not being able to produce Bioequivalence/Bioassay studies. These studies can cost up to 1M and being in a third world country, I don't think all of the drug companies can afford that. But rules are rules. No exceptions. DISAPPROVE!!! There are also a number of unresolved issues tackled during our meeting. Being part of the committee and seeing no changes makes it __________. Wow! You got that right!

I consider my work very stressful, yet sometimes I don't... But lately I'm no longer happy. Should alarm bells be ringing I ought to reflect on the root cause. Do I have a calling? Another job perhaps? I must confess, the thought of resigning is lingering through my mind but decisions are hard to make because there are also things to consider. Is there anyone in the world who feels the same way? HELP...

The Season of Loving & Sharing

2009-09-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

I would like to greet everyone a...

Super Advance MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Have you been naughty or nice? It's now officially the First Day of the Season of Loving & Sharing (1st Day of the Month of -BER) and what are my plans? I'm thinking of starting our Manito-Manita early so we can make each one of us at work have something to smile about, whenever we receive a token from our Manita or looking forward to what we will receive next. Making someone smile is such a nice feeling because you have made someone happy. And the game itself is also exciting, it lifts up your mood even when you're having a tough day. It gives you inspiration to wake up every morning and wonder what you'll get next.

I'm so excited! I can't wait to let everyone pick a rolled piece of paper with our names written on. I just hope mine will be a Manita because it's really hard to pick gifts for a guy. I have no idea on what to give if it's a boy...

As for my Wish List, I wish for a Mac Laptop, iPhone, or a plane ticket to be with Judd. Hehehe ;P These are all impossible to give. What will yours be? Just don't mention House & Lot because have you seen a mini model of a Nipa Hut with a carabao standing outside? I have a friend who once asked for a House & Lot and boy did she get her wish! Well, it's true her Manita did give her what she wanted but only a scale model. Hahaha =D So a bit of advice, it's important to describe your wish in every detail or you may not get exactly what you wished for... Have a nice day everyone! :)

To Love or To Be Loved?

2009-08-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the new tv series, Katorse? Every weekdays, I look forward to watch this soap opera so whenever the clock strikes 5:00 o'clock I always make sure I'm ready to punch out from work. This is a 30-minute soap opera about a province girl, Nene, who is head-over-heels (I must say, blindly inlove) to a city boy named Gabi who doesn't even love her but is pretending to be (as what most men do). I don't understand why men do this! I'm sure many women have been Nene's too sometime in their life. Past or present.

In the story, Gabi does this to get his mind off from a girl whom he loves but doesn't love him in return. The point is, if you're broken-hearted why do you take advantage of the only woman who cares for you? Don't you feel any guilt inside?

The story goes that Nene is now pregnant and Gabi has left to escape from his responsibility. He even denies that the child is his! The nerve! And what does Nene do? She's insanely in denial that Gabi has left her.

Why are we sometimes so naive? What is more important...

To love, or to be loved?

Executive Order No. 821

2009-08-30T02:32:00.000-07:00

This is good news to all Filipinos because companies have voluntarily reduced the prices of innovator drugs to 50% its market price. These drugs include medicines that address diseases accountable to the leading causes of morbidity and mortality rate, like, Hypertension.

As a healthcare provider, I have witnessed some patients no longer follow/finish their medication at the course of treatment due to poverty so for me, the Maximum Drug Retail Price can greatly help a lot of Filipino families afford medication fit to their budget as it regulates the prices of expensive yet most prescribed/dispensed drugs.

But there's also a disturbing question. How about the pharmacies previously stocking these drugs? Will they ever recover from such loss? Oh, definitely YES! Companies give a refund to the number of stocks remained.

Hoping to spread the good news. Have a great Sunday everyone! Ta.. ta..! =)

Friday Fill-Ins: A Bit of What I'm Feeling Today

2009-08-28T03:51:00.000-07:00

#139

Serendipity

Graphic courtesy of Tonya!

And...here we go!

1. He was a ~~sweet~~ boyfriend turned sour.

2. His arrival to the Philippines is what I look forward to most this time of year.

3. My best friend, lover and mortal enemy is my boyfriend whom I mind-bogglingly have a ~~Love-Hate~~ relationship.

4. I am not ready for the PTC Meeting to be honest with you.

5. Appearances can be deceiving.

6. The last person I gave a hug to was Ate Tin when she announced to me that she was pregnant.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to sit back & relax, tomorrow my plans include going to work and finish my materials for PTC Meeting and Sunday, I want to have an overnight stay in Shangri-La & enjoy the beach with my family!

Thursday Thunks : Brings Back Childhood Memories

2009-08-27T07:34:00.000-07:00

BS, Dog Kisses, Memories And You Guessed It...More!

Welcome to the August 27th version of Thursday Thunks!

(which we always seem to post on Wednesday)

Where we make you think a little bit before you blog!

This week we will answer some crazy questions brought to you by

Kimber, the number of kids I have and the color of dead roses.

1. Have you ever played Bullshit? Nope, sorry... I haven't...

2. A dog licks you on your face. Are you disgusted or thinking it was sweet? Aaaawwww, how sweet! Sabrina used to do that every morning to wake me up for school. I missed her...

3. Tell us about a fun/special memory you have of a grandparent. Me and my grandpa used to sleep all day long on Sundays only to wake up to eat lunch and dinner. Hehehe Hey, everybody needs a Beauty Sleep! LOL =D

4. Have you ever pet a rat? Nooooo... Have you ever wondered why they look so sticky & wet (especially the black rats)? I always wonder where they took a bath... Hehe
5. If I walked into your kitchen, where are the cups? Northwest from where you're standing.

6. Since you already let me in your home, I found the cup and had water, now where's the bathroom from the kitchen? Are you going to bring the cup? If you want I can hold it for you or we'll put it on the table. Please follow me to the master's bedroom. It's the nearest bathroom.

7. Have you ever pet a turtle or tortoise? Yes, I have! Toytoy has a very smooth shell. Sometimes, he wanders in our garden but I don't need to worry because he never fails to crawl back to his pond. =)

Not Happy

2009-08-26T04:23:00.000-07:00

What is wrong with Cbox!!! My posting is locked and now that I created a new account it doesn't seem to work. Is there something wrong with my internet connection or is the site going crazy!? I'm getting frustrated! I just hope everything will turn out well coz I'm already stressed. Cbox, what's wrong with you???

Is it a Boy or a Girl?

2009-08-25T03:53:00.000-07:00

Today is a Happy Day! My friend, Kristine just found out she's pregnant. When she told me the good news were shouting like crazy! Soooo excited & all! =D She took a pregnancy test last night & couldn't believe the 2 little lines appearing on the kit. Her husband was tremendoulsy happy that he couldn't sleep! I'm so happy for the couple because they have been trying to have a baby for a year now, and finally! God gave them one! Hehe Being preggy also has its benefits because her hubby has been quite a romantic lately. Carrying a man's child really does add some magic & spark to a relationship.

P.S. We were thinking if soy milk did help her get fertile, however, other sources say it does the opposite... But whatever it is, God surely gives the best gifts at the right time. =)

Congratulations Ray & Ate Tin!

Who's Birthday???

2009-08-24T06:19:00.000-07:00

I must admit, I'm not very good at remembering birthdays. Bad, right?... I know my friends are aware of this, and I'm sorry to those I've not greeted happy birthday... Last August 18, I told my friends/coworkers that it's Kristine's birthday the next day & we should greet her. And guess what!? We saw each other early in the morning, had lunch together, until a friend greeted her happy birthday! Wow! We were sitting next to each other & (crap!) I haven't even greeted her Happy Birthday!

Last night, I reminded myself to greet my highschool friend a Happy Birthday....
Early this morning, I reminded myself to text her a Happy Birthday...
Arriving at work, I reminded myself to text her a Happy Birthday...
And guess what!?
Yeah, you got that right! I forgot to text her & it took a friend of mine to remind me that today's her birthday! And again, this happened DURING LUNCHTIME! Shob, if you're reading this, I'm soooo sorry... I may not be the perfect friend but I wish you all the BEST & many more birthdays to come!

Lesson learned? It's better late than never! Waaaaaaah! :o

Eccentric Thursdays!

2009-08-20T06:03:00.000-07:00

Thursday Thunks - stupid questions that you love to answer

Welcome to the August 20th version of Thursday Thunks!
(which we always seem to post on Wednesday)
Where we make you think a little bit before you blog!
This week we will answer some crazy questions brought to you by Berleen, the number ziltch and the color of spider webs.

1. Your thoughts on hunting?
Men in a room full of women or in a disco bar.

2. Swine Flu vaccine... will you get it?
No because there's none available in the market. Will you? Haha ;P

3. What is one job/profession that you think there are just too many of?
Nurses. Too many graduates, less job opportunity for newer ones, thus, difficult to attain working experience... It's a tough competition when there's too many applicants.

4. I want to go on a diet, what advice will you offer me?
After 6! My bro used to be big & that's what he did to get slim.

5. You are going out on a date with someone for the very first time. When you get into their car, you see a box of condoms on the floor. What do you do?
Act as if I've seen nothing and be civil but I won't definitely go for a second date. It just leaves a bad impression on what kind of person he is. Pervert!

6. Name something in your bathroom that shouldn't be there.
Newly washed undies! I should remind myself to keep them later...

7. What was your Kindergarten teacher like?
She was kind but one time a classmate of mine pooed and no one will admit who the source of the awful smell was so she made us all bend over, pulled up our skirt and examined each & everyone of us. I will never forget that teacher! I was innocent for God's sake!

8. What kind of oil do you use when you cook?
Cooking oil of course... And you???

9. If someone takes an unflattering picture of you and posts it online, do you beg them to take it down or do you laugh at yourself with everyone else?
Unquestionably, YES! Of course I'll beg them (on my knees, pretty please, with cherries on top) to take it down. But if they won't, well, revenge is sweeter... =) Life's like that! Sometimes your up, and sometimes your down. Just you wait and see... Bwahahahaha! ;P

10. What brand of dishwashing soap do you use?
I have no idea! Wait, I'll check them! Nah, too tired! LOL ;P This should have also been asked in Q#8! Just suggesting... Hehehe

Boracay "The Island Paradise"

2009-08-19T23:55:00.000-07:00

Judd & Rae's Vacation Getaway #2

Destination: BORACAY

We went to Boracay last July and I tell you, they have the best beach ever! The sand beneath our feet feels like talcum powder. They're sooooo refined that they tend to pass through fibers and stay in your clothes which makes them pretty much difficult to remove. We stayed at the Sur Hotel in Station 1, I definitely recommend you to try this hotel 'coz it's peaceful and so affordable. If you stay in Station 1 you will definitely enjoy the long stretch of soft white sand even on a stormy day. I say this because I've experienced it first hand. July is not a good month to go to Boracay because it is, as the locals say it, "Habagat" where there are strong winds and heavy rainfall. We didn't get any henna tattoos but its alright... We ended up having unintentional blue tattoos instead! Haha =D It all happened when I used my Tie Dye Sarong on a rainy day as we were searching for Manana Restaurant. We asked the receptionist at the front desk for directions and she told us to walk along the shore going towards Station 2. As we were heading our way, we didn't foresee the strong wind + heavy rain + sudden high tide and big waves coming towards us! Me & Judd were laughing despite fighting our way through the forces of nature as we were thinking: "Hmmm... the lady could have just simply told us to swim our way to Manana rather than walk!" LOL =D Anyway, my sarong got very wet, its dye washed off and stained my arms, back and my top! Good thing I wore my white spaghetti straps for it just added some unique design to it. I was so mad of the mess it made that I handed it over to Judd and he too got a blue tattoo! Hahaha ;P

If you haven't gone to Boracay or haven't seen all of it, I would like to share with you the Top 10 Restaurants in our list:

1. Aria Restaurant - Try their delicious pizza & spaghetti!

2. Cyma Restaurant - Always look out for their special menus written on a huge blackboard above the kitchen. Don't miss it!

3. Friday's BBQ & Grill Buffet - During dinner they have performers dancing native dances where they also invite guests to try the Tinikling. It's fun watching them (dancers and guests "with no experience" hopping about to avoid snapping bamboos) and secretly hoping somebody's feet will get snapped! Aaahahahaha! ;P

4. Manana Restaurant - They serve delicious Mexican food and cocktails.

5. Gastoff Ribs - They have big juicy Baby Back Ribs & their Ginataan na Plapla is very appetizing!

6. The Hobbit House - We almost blended in 'coz we, ourselves, are also vertically challenged. LOL =D We tried their drinks Sex on the Beach and Kamikaze and paired it with Sisig (Ox's brain).

7. Smoke - Tasty & affordable saver meals.

8. Jonas Milkshake - They have the best avocado shake! Must try them!

9. Bug's Grill - We ate lobsters here. If you buy a lobster, you have free shrimps for dinner!

10. Steak House Boracay - Mouth-watering and super delicious! We had a scrumptious meal! =D

~~ ♥ ~~

We have many unforgetable fun moments in Boracay. We experienced walking to Friday's on one shrill night not knowing there's a "bagyo" or storm (no wonder there's no people around, plus a sign, our umbrella turned inside out! LOL =D). And swimming in the beach at daytime where it suddenly showered thin, icy, needle-like rain piercing our bare skin as we agonizingly ran for cover and hysterically laughing at the same time 'coz we haven't experienced this kind of rain before! Hahaha =D We really had fun in Boracay and I can truly say we have yet the most bizarre and best adventure of our lives! Thanx to Boracay! =)

Happy Vacation everyone! ...and don't go to Boracay on Habagat! hehe ;P

♥ Rae ♥

Arsenic + Vitamin C = Death???

2009-08-17T03:44:00.000-07:00

Shrimp Diablo

(Manana Restaurant, Boracay)

So I've heard that shrimps contain arsenic due to contaminated water and their loving nature to scavenge. It is said that when we eat shrimps, arsenic pentoxide becomes available in our body but otherwise, harmless. However, when you take Vitamin C (also known as Ascorbic acid) it converts it to its toxic form, Arsenic trioxide. Its side effects simply include MULTIPLE ORGAN DAMAGE which can eventually lead to DEATH.

Fact: NO SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE

My take: If this is just a myth, then cause of death is probably due to anaphylactic shock. It could be that the person is only allergic to shrimps, and no more than that! ;P

Know Your Shapes

2009-08-16T06:09:00.000-07:00

You Are Skilled

You are balanced and competent. You value harmony.

Other people see you as outgoing, hyper, and even a bit overwhelming.

Your ideal romantic relationship is unconventional, wild, and very public.

You do best in tasks that require you to be flexible, creative, and playful.

The Shape Test

Thanks van for the link! :)

My Toes, My Knees...

2009-08-16T03:42:00.000-07:00

I have arthritis. Yes, I know I'm still young and I'm not suppose to have this but thanks to genetics I inherited it from my grandma. I hate it when the weather is cold, standing too long, or whenever I have my period because that's when the pain strikes! I tried Fit Flop and I've noticed some changes. These biomechanically engineered sandals cushion my feet and it helps soothe and massage the base of my foot. I love my Havaianas but it just doesn't feel the same, they're too flat for me now. So for those who have foot problems I recommend you to try these new sandals and maybe it will also change your life! :)

Protection Against Cervical Cancer

2009-08-14T03:52:00.000-07:00

, ,

Boo Boo... :(

I had my 2nd shot of Cervarix, a Cervical Cancer Vaccine and it hurts a lot more than my first dose! When I got home, I had to ask for assistance from Yaya Mauring to help me remove my shirt because it's too painful for me to raise my hand... Taking a shower was also difficult, I can't scrub my back well! Hmpf! Imagine how frustrating that is not being able to clean your body properly! When I went to sleep, I felt the gravity pulling on my arm. Whatever position I try, my left arm still hurts like hell! I felt like a barbie doll where some evil kid is trying to brutally pull my arm off! :O

I'm not sure if I had onset of fever, but I certainly had chills. I wanted to contact my doctor but sadly I don't have her number (if only I had asked earlier in the clinic...) I was scared that I might die and no one will ever notice until tomorrow... I wanted to go to the hospital but my arm was intensely painful! I could not imagine what the 3rd dose would be like. My doctor said that the last dose is the most painful one. Well, good luck to ME!

BOHOL "Land of the Golden Sun"

2009-08-08T03:19:00.000-07:00

Have you ever traveled and gone on vacation with a special someone? If you haven't, then try it! It can surely add some spark to your relationship, but also, make sure that both of you (and not only you) will enjoy your "romantic" vacation. Me and Judd only get to see each other every six months, so we decided to have a trip every time he comes home to the Philippines. For our first excursion, we both decided to go to Bohol. It's just an hour ride from our hometown, Cebu (that is, if you take a fast craft). I find Bohol to be very rich in culture and that's also because the Boholanos take pride at what they have. We stayed in Amarela Panglao Resort and I just love this hotel! They have good service and it has a very homey feel to it. I would even want my future house to be like it. Hehe =)

Here are the pictures we took of some of Bohol's Tourist Attractions:

1. The Blood Compact Monument

2. The cute Tarsiers! I was scared to touch them at first, but when I did, they were very softt and really have these enormous brown eyes! Below are three primates taking a picture, 2 chinky ones and the other, full wide screen! Hahaha

3. We also went to the Butterfly Sanctuary where we get to touch each and every butterfly and caterpillar they have in the garden. This I was very hesitant at first! Hhhmmmm...

4. After our educational tour, we finally went to the famous Chocolate Hills! Climbing 214 steps of the observation hill was not that easy but we had fun taking pictures and enjoying the scene.

♥♥♥

5. We also went to the Man Made Forest. Some say this place is haunted... It sure is a SCARY place to get STRANDED...

6. I wasn't particularly happy walking across the hanging bridge. I was terrified to death! We went to the other side to see Buko King. (Charge: Php 100.00/buko gnawed open/min) Do you think you have what it takes to have this job?

7. Hungry, we went to Loboc River to experience their Floating Restaurant. I was taking some pictures as we were sailing across the river and I realized, who on earth would build a bridge right through a church??? I just find it so intriguing so I'm including it in my blog. Haha

8. I present to you PRONY! The largest python snake in captivity! A month ago, he ate a full grown pig and now that he's hungry, he's got his eyes on you... Mmmuuuu-ha-ha-ha!

9. Baclayon Church is one of the oldest church in the Philippines. Raw materials used in building this church are coral stones and egg whites. Wonder what the egg whites are for? Believe it or not, they used it as a cement! Pretty amazing, don't you think!?

10. Last tourist attraction we went was the Bee Farm. Good thing I insisted on Judd that we go there 'coz if not, we would have missed this...

...and the great view of their beach!

~~ ♥ ~~

After 8 hours of tour, we retired in our comfy suite in Amarela Panglao Resort. It is a serene place where you can take the pleasure of spending some quality time with your special someone. You can also borrow DVD movies and watch in the comfort of your room, borrow some pocket books, play board games or just enjoy the art and antique collections found in the hotel.

Happy Vacation Everyone!

♥ Rae ♥