tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-347875702024-03-07T06:13:26.953+00:00Cheers to a Gorgeous Life!lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.comBlogger287125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-9207220268119816132015-05-27T22:09:00.000+01:002015-05-28T22:25:34.368+01:00Choco Lollies for Party GiveawaysChocolate lollies are excellent idea for giveaways. Not only that it is sure to sell with kids and adult chocolate lovers, you can easily have them in cute and fun designs that complement the party theme. Chocolate lollies may be used to accentuate any party table.<br />
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Two years ago I ordered chocolate bear lollies from Dean & Deluca Kuwait as giveaways for Royce's first birthday. The guests loved them. <br />
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I recycled the idea of chocolate lollies giveaways for my sister-in-law's baby shower (who is having twin girls by the way, exciting isn't it?!). This time though I was able to contact a supplier who had better designs and way cheaper than Dean & Deluca.<br />
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I got the chocolate lollies from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/avamirasol">Amy's Sweet Bites</a>. <br />
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The chocolate-maker/owner is a full time mom who started it as a hobby; It is her passion. The baby milk bottles, onesies and teddy bears chocolate lollies she made for the baby shower were too adorable and cute to eat.<br />
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<center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRYVUvDGF8MxlvGN6svdwplbReBttATXXypjH474p4vBtRCn_UR93csdgJmdtJgRvGF9FMZyBscNDWym5HxogP9lUzUbjXCGUs3L1pZR9oEC69h3xYpRTN6kP5BV-ZVNJEwoK/s400/Teddy_choco_lollies.jpg" alt="Teddy Bears Chocolate Lollies"/><br />
Teddy Bear chocolate lollies by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/avamirasol">Amy's Sweet Bites</a><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbilx0OZS1k8Nc2LXcJikx-o5Fwz_qaTHcPBQPDmAycV_jVKKZ63UiYMHg0YljrT-jDXsVS5rE-c-sTJiY7-tBfbh6p_NKYgjoYVkqL0zXh8V9UPixtDxISGr1ASsSVvkHwCeI/s400/baby_shower_choco_lollies.jpg" alt="Baby Shower Chocolate Lollies"/><br />
Baby milk bottles and Onesies chocolate lollies by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/avamirasol">Amy's Sweet Bites</a><br />
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lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-6932734799504652132015-05-25T19:33:00.000+01:002015-05-28T22:27:17.736+01:00Our Version of ForeverWe are celebrating our 7th Engagement anniversary today, I am in a <i>muni-muni</i> (reminiscing) mood. I am in that can't-believe-it's-been-7-years mood. <br />
And since I still have a Forevermore hangover after watching the marathon reruns yesterday, would you believe I can point out some parallels between our love story and that of Forevermore?<br />
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<b><i>The Proposal</i></b><br />
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Harley did not propose to me at Mt. Pulag but in a similar setting; It happened in the romantic Highlands, at Inverness Scotland. <br />
I remember it was so cold that day. I had to wear layers of clothes. Too bad I did not own a Columbia pink rain jacket that time.<br />
It was also dramatically overcast. I could not see properly because it was drizzling.<br />
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We too had that almost perfect Forevermore teleserye moment when he popped the question and I said yes.<br />
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<center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMIdcFP6ouyvCq3DtN_Io_l4blG2MKdFwHM8fduSTxeV2EngprgQGYUsml_Zg14YW4E1DZHKhblYGkHtBH-VAGcmWDneYgA803zAe_Pe5uFNw7QTjH2wCs-SxqO5Ve1Bppb7bU/s400/forevermore_finale.jpg" name="Forevermore Finale"><br />
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<b><i>He Had to Wait</i></b><br />
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After I said yes I immediately told him I could not marry him right away. I had already renewed my contract and I had to continue working in the UK for another 1.5 years. <br />
I had to do it for myself, I reasoned. I felt the need to live on my own, alone in that beautiful country before settling down.<br />
He understood and told me he would wait.<br />
Naks so like Xander and Agnes! (wink)<br />
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Okay we might not look like Xander and Agnes. Even if I will perm my hair, kahit digital perm pa. But we have our version of Forever; I have my <i>forever</i> with someone who loves me for who I am, flaws included. <br />
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I am stuck with my Xander (who really looks more like Andrew), forrreevvverrr.<br />
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But actually <i>Forever</i> requires a lot of hard work, of many things not going as planned. It is not as rosy as I had thought. <br />
Even now I am cradling our son, forever trying to finish this blog entry while simultaneously fending off his little hands from the keyboard. He also suspiciously smells like he just pooped.<br />
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Though <i>Forever</i> is not always a walk in the park where beautiful autumn leaves have fallen, I am holding on to our version of <i>Forever</i>. <br />
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<center><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cLGdfctW5jc/VWNfvRm8RtI/AAAAAAAARLo/v_Ra2xeBzIw/s400/baguioforevermore.jpg" alt="Forevermore"></center>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-75565418275358690972015-05-05T21:23:00.000+01:002015-05-05T21:23:34.249+01:00Mid-Life Juicing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I celebrated my birthday 3 weeks ago and I realized something a bit depressing... I have used up almost half of my lifetime! <br />
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In fact I can use "mid-life crisis" now as a legitimate excuse! How depressing is that? At least <a href="http://how-old.net">how-old.net</a> kindly estimates I am still in my 20s. Thanks to the photo app filters of course.<br />
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I am extremely grateful I have survived this far. Only God knows how many years I have left. I can only hope I will be given more years than what I already consumed. What I know for sure is I have to value my time left here on this beautiful Earth. That means I must improve every aspect of my life.<br />
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Well, first stop is health. Why? Because I intend to enjoy the remaining half of my life in tip-top shape. I know the sad effects of ageing will catch up with everyone, the body will eventually deteriorate and wither. But I have to try not to let it catch up with me too soon.<br />
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Three days before my birthday I started getting into the habit of juicing. Everyday I wake up earlier (5:30 on work days) to prepare juice for the family. The juice is the first thing we drink, before breakfast. Because it is taken with empty stomach nutrients from the juice are more efficiently absorbed.<br />
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Why Juice? According to <i>Joe Cross</i> of <a href="http://www.rebootwithjoe.com/">http://www.rebootwithjoe.com/</a>, "Juicing offers many life-enhancing health benefits including a faster, more efficient way to absorb immune boosting nutrients naturally found in fruits and vegetables. It provides a way to access digestive enzymes typically locked away in the fiber matrix of whole fruits and vegetables."<br />
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<center><img alt="Breville 800JE Juicer" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYjpPd8Udco5X1Gdh2-hI3f8ELMWIPrrT-yB8JOSfuicRUXfTv9s_FlH60gclIFRRNgQPXtyYyhUHe6kirAcxiHj28ixQlrkn00ba2_Ianky6fDCUqNzZXOqMvyOynXEVbfMCN/s400/lgeorgia.com-juicer.jpg" /><br />
</center>Our monster juicer is <a href="http://www.brevilleusa.com/die-cast-juice-fountain-elite.html">Breville 800JE</a>. I love it because it is so easy to use, disassemble and clean. The feed chute is big enough that I don't have to cut the fruits and veggies into small pieces. It effortlessly extracts the juice of every fruit and veggie, and believe me, it's fast! With its sleek stainless steel exterior, it looks good in our kitchen too. I highly recommend it.<br />
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<center><img alt="Juicing" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyErjgjOzxUcIa23yTeX7fT7mLcSkT19kRyjA2O5c4F98ZjAfbsh2Zbw3cVXuYIDczfEVJDfbIOCihxHbxMwo4xs8Vmi4HEWypNl56wsJDXPbsx7avrnhpHd0dZa-aXE9rQfn/s400/lgeorgia.com-juicing.jpg" /><br />
</center>This is the resulting juice of broccoli, celery, ginger, oranges, apples, cherry tomatoes and cucumber.<br />
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So far so good. I have not missed a day and I plan to do it everyday for the rest of my life. It is too early yet to write testimonials but I am convinced I will reap tremendous health benefits because of this in the future.</div>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-88493924713158213932014-09-22T18:48:00.000+01:002014-09-22T18:48:00.668+01:00Chowking in KuwaitChowking opened its first store in Kuwait beginning of this month along Salem Mubarak Street, besides Al Fanar Mall.<br />
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The famous Filipino fastfood franchise has been brought to Kuwait by the same company that owns the two Jollibee stores in this country.<br />
<p dir="ltr">As expected Chowking's opening was highly anticipated and many Filipinos have since flocked into the restaurant, eager for a taste of home.</p><p dir="ltr">We went there on the first week it opened but I was slightly disappointed; It's a bit more pricey than I had expected. There were a lot of items on the menu that were not available. Quality was poor - Not the same Chowking taste I had hoped for. </p><p dir="ltr">It seems like the Chowking team was still struggling - undergoing some birthing pains so to speak.</p><p dir="ltr">I should just wait for it to settle. Try again after a month. Hopefully I will then experience that same taste of Chowking that I miss from home.<br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9t3wO7PabodQRlUXIyKvw0GAoDMI-2XQp2WtoIK5etrWqYoP8CkJuxcRWmzZHoMHKPbFtZjuYfLirZ_ywAbx5qmt5-xQbujXL7sdE3Ng5MZO0Zc8NKfZlgsHrU4uI6PpHyXzZ/s520/img1411406346130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9t3wO7PabodQRlUXIyKvw0GAoDMI-2XQp2WtoIK5etrWqYoP8CkJuxcRWmzZHoMHKPbFtZjuYfLirZ_ywAbx5qmt5-xQbujXL7sdE3Ng5MZO0Zc8NKfZlgsHrU4uI6PpHyXzZ/s520/img1411406346130.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWoAnvFtzRjMM9lIcfUhWndC65AqMovhrXIWdXDQQq7IHH-dwDps1ZOWMzZl68cNLtlKUsDQp1MPLRaYwMixyLG70Z56Gj7RQWrkRJ60R7K2-4vB6fP82o7F16r2A6lgW6mHte/s520/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWoAnvFtzRjMM9lIcfUhWndC65AqMovhrXIWdXDQQq7IHH-dwDps1ZOWMzZl68cNLtlKUsDQp1MPLRaYwMixyLG70Z56Gj7RQWrkRJ60R7K2-4vB6fP82o7F16r2A6lgW6mHte/s520/maxresdefault.jpg"> </a> </div><br />
lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-70165866215372954342014-09-21T20:30:00.000+01:002014-09-21T20:30:46.134+01:00Cost of Owning a Forbes Park PropertyWhile blogging about <a href="http://www.lgeorgia.com/2014/09/st-moritz-megaworld-is-now-for-sale.html">St. Moritz Private Estate</a>, I got a bit taken a back of how expensive a luxury property costs in a super prime location, right next to Forbes Park. But wait until you know how much a Forbes Park property typically costs...<br />
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Forbes Park is a gated community in Makati City, which is divided into Forbes Park North and Forbes Park South by McKinley Road. It is one of the first villages developed by <a href="http://bewealthy.lgeorgia.com/2014/09/get-to-know-filipino-tycoons.html">Ayala Corporation</a> and home to the Manila Golf and Country Club, and the Manila Polo Club. It is a well-known elitist subdivision for the wealthiest of the wealthy in the country.<br />
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Well indeed only the super rich can afford to live and maintain the lifestyle of living in Forbes Park as a property price there starts at a whopping 300 Million Php (roughly 5 Million USD)! (Oh yes, it's Three. Hundred. Million.)<br />
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Gulp.<br />
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Here's a listing in <a href="http://kmcmaggroup.com/">KMC Mag</a> of a Forbes Park 6 bedroom house and lot, which is tagged as "8-year old Mediterranean-style home is the <u>lowest priced</u> property currently available in the posh Forbes Park South." Its price is Php 300,000,000.<br />
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Other Forbes Park properties listed in KMC Mag include an under construction 5 bedroom mansion, 3100 sqm, for a stupendous price of One Billion Pesos! (approx. 22 Million USD).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOiNu2hKtMxk03JsCCX92rSZdIlRi8bi1oBF31f5_VLNAkbrYVQNnxGGRIkutyS9-CrO-I8kRpAUmRrQBjfOkY_T4ab8tkbjxkIKFGmhHRF_8PZY0mqds9YL9QG6-yT8L81a_/s580/forbes_park_6br_house_and_lot.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOiNu2hKtMxk03JsCCX92rSZdIlRi8bi1oBF31f5_VLNAkbrYVQNnxGGRIkutyS9-CrO-I8kRpAUmRrQBjfOkY_T4ab8tkbjxkIKFGmhHRF_8PZY0mqds9YL9QG6-yT8L81a_/s580/forbes_park_6br_house_and_lot.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnlmUcbtRaM-iubPs9ffoFS1no-u3oKwDl-Z-CxLkhqW0aFGY6GUlcj0K4RB2IkNLTQeTu9ewEH_52lfeXNzgDX61vSAItYKTI3KlLJMwYfSQRx2b6fPAfT8nhWxFYY216e5L/s580/1_billion_mansion_forbes_park.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnlmUcbtRaM-iubPs9ffoFS1no-u3oKwDl-Z-CxLkhqW0aFGY6GUlcj0K4RB2IkNLTQeTu9ewEH_52lfeXNzgDX61vSAItYKTI3KlLJMwYfSQRx2b6fPAfT8nhWxFYY216e5L/s580/1_billion_mansion_forbes_park.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_V0Xs_tNQuQGNbID6aaWKprzMkFLOxLtXLpeUNpPPhj9rK6KmROuMlsJ1puKXK920ubripg4HAqy7bTCWjg7SHTd-QArnPCz9flzrQruMeQF7v755CSOqhfWxz7XlAL1Brdbv/s580/forbes_park_4br_house_and_lot.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_V0Xs_tNQuQGNbID6aaWKprzMkFLOxLtXLpeUNpPPhj9rK6KmROuMlsJ1puKXK920ubripg4HAqy7bTCWjg7SHTd-QArnPCz9flzrQruMeQF7v755CSOqhfWxz7XlAL1Brdbv/s580/forbes_park_4br_house_and_lot.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAhNiJpxeVkryXIsJgZ9C-KQF3vomNm6z4FgjTBUFGD6noLX6-8stnPLouI33DVnTjHqEgvFBcQDrGwLVmQ9NYURlOJqqvZ4BKDLX-Z0fC8ig_s5Wyh2hhvQf4ZaNbAbu7RAd/s580/forbes_park_6br_house_and_lot_550M.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAhNiJpxeVkryXIsJgZ9C-KQF3vomNm6z4FgjTBUFGD6noLX6-8stnPLouI33DVnTjHqEgvFBcQDrGwLVmQ9NYURlOJqqvZ4BKDLX-Z0fC8ig_s5Wyh2hhvQf4ZaNbAbu7RAd/s580/forbes_park_6br_house_and_lot_550M.jpg" /></a>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-16738900257027722942014-09-17T20:37:00.000+01:002014-09-17T20:37:55.589+01:00St. Moritz (Megaworld) is Now for SaleSt. Moritz, the finest of ultra high-end living in luxury residential estates of Megaworld's McKinley West, is now open for sale.<br />
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<i>Prices start at:</i><a name='more'></a><br />
<b>2-BR</b> with balcony, 78.5 sqm: <b>14,525,625.00 Php</b><br />
<b>3-BR</b> with balcony, 117.0 sqm: <b>21,645,562.50 Php</b><br />
<b>4-BR</b> with balcony & pool area 218.5 sqm: <b>42,700,000.00 Php</b><br />
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If you are thinking of buying a luxurious property for retirement, you may want to consider St. Moritz for the following reasons:<br />
<ul><li>Modern European design by <i><b>Broadway Malyan</b></i>, an award-winning UK-based architectural firm.</li>
<li>Home innovations by European brands; Appliances by <i><b>Bosch</b></i>, kitchen design by German company <i><b>Leicht</b></i>, and, bath and toilet by award-winning French designer <i><b>Philippe Starck x Duravit</b></i>.</li>
<li>Located in <b><i>McKinley West</i></b>, Megaworld's first ultra high-end master-planned community in Fort Bonifacio adjacent to Forbes Park and Manila Polo Club.</li>
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Interested to buy? Leave a comment or PM me :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsFnM48PrsHHn4aBgGOpZ9sk4xooNvoBqeYJYY9P2FX1Gh-53uJGnYWwV6wO788NApErknbm594Co0vyFc6svGFYNZLLXPX60HaCbJKiMFHo_ei_pZWG5hLgvCwCjlN5rwJnZ/s480/st_moritz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsFnM48PrsHHn4aBgGOpZ9sk4xooNvoBqeYJYY9P2FX1Gh-53uJGnYWwV6wO788NApErknbm594Co0vyFc6svGFYNZLLXPX60HaCbJKiMFHo_ei_pZWG5hLgvCwCjlN5rwJnZ/s480/st_moritz.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6evxMOW2UupCubqRYrzQKT6R0Th-JBWtzBXGu5xnsljIx7Oh1FrjJg_4YQJKblDkb5n0b0P8Gj0hmCfHxSi3FSunFH7NOHZmOhZw9UmHHk7duaekPLKqu86x0toUchtIazV8f/s480/st_moritz_bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6evxMOW2UupCubqRYrzQKT6R0Th-JBWtzBXGu5xnsljIx7Oh1FrjJg_4YQJKblDkb5n0b0P8Gj0hmCfHxSi3FSunFH7NOHZmOhZw9UmHHk7duaekPLKqu86x0toUchtIazV8f/s480/st_moritz_bathroom.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKlXhvIwhiZevb3hUOdmShmJp0573CPZ9hn4iOo5I6VlwgZiJMw7sx7OyU-l_c33TGhBFKa_WV26Ui2iLf1evnKUX5SbnxmAvMVvvtzGDYhdTzyoOV76b02jlgjrLSuWPNQ_Q/s480/st_moritz_bedroom2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKlXhvIwhiZevb3hUOdmShmJp0573CPZ9hn4iOo5I6VlwgZiJMw7sx7OyU-l_c33TGhBFKa_WV26Ui2iLf1evnKUX5SbnxmAvMVvvtzGDYhdTzyoOV76b02jlgjrLSuWPNQ_Q/s480/st_moritz_bedroom2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0GJhRWYKgt9BjHSJ8da7p1DGZj6vyizHAQ2QN-Xq0s8gmwWFd3pphYQjez37Te7IT0GXVYhanMiIgTslPtJElIG7anmx0_8v7kSSW3W0f6iJIi4Csli1kK0WKsoFqgBOIM67/s480/st_moritz_bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0GJhRWYKgt9BjHSJ8da7p1DGZj6vyizHAQ2QN-Xq0s8gmwWFd3pphYQjez37Te7IT0GXVYhanMiIgTslPtJElIG7anmx0_8v7kSSW3W0f6iJIi4Csli1kK0WKsoFqgBOIM67/s480/st_moritz_bedroom.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieM1T0xcIcelc5h4sCaVctQHL4rTWsI45rVFJ3_9mWHIRu6vyIaKGi64VxFR_54Z86aXEn79_JXdOV6IbIUKpgjPN2TuvmHVLvTa7eiclgek1m9qq5PTZZW_z4r8asQIX30tct/s480/st_moritz_high-end_luxury_condos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieM1T0xcIcelc5h4sCaVctQHL4rTWsI45rVFJ3_9mWHIRu6vyIaKGi64VxFR_54Z86aXEn79_JXdOV6IbIUKpgjPN2TuvmHVLvTa7eiclgek1m9qq5PTZZW_z4r8asQIX30tct/s480/st_moritz_high-end_luxury_condos.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk9TS9Sf-tEZarkF0dXY_mgmcDly-F7mYJEHzz8GZKzihULwlf4RaEK0t-N0ye1DoNM7Az1Xu3O4tXvGxt820qEnAuQPicYX_lPLJEZNTscWzUlESAZFJQ2WTxSbkgtZkM6wwV/s480/st_moritz_kitchen-high-end_luxury_condos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk9TS9Sf-tEZarkF0dXY_mgmcDly-F7mYJEHzz8GZKzihULwlf4RaEK0t-N0ye1DoNM7Az1Xu3O4tXvGxt820qEnAuQPicYX_lPLJEZNTscWzUlESAZFJQ2WTxSbkgtZkM6wwV/s480/st_moritz_kitchen-high-end_luxury_condos.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqB8Z-XbHGB2Nku7fJIZTg7RtYeI8WaeGEUM_pvUmKbl8W2DiXZnHYC_1t769EbYnX2lyyr73Pt05Ue9d0XsLtlzhszy9o0PvSGCRc3MroYgFNHlYquTlPIrscy16woF4z8Ymh/s480/st_moritz_kitchen_luxury_condos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqB8Z-XbHGB2Nku7fJIZTg7RtYeI8WaeGEUM_pvUmKbl8W2DiXZnHYC_1t769EbYnX2lyyr73Pt05Ue9d0XsLtlzhszy9o0PvSGCRc3MroYgFNHlYquTlPIrscy16woF4z8Ymh/s480/st_moritz_kitchen_luxury_condos.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3hYctTd0aGzBOSi3F-5v9pUViPcWgfJVtQ39ths6vCOli3bQ3XwKxmi0LpMKc3EISBls845VC4KO0tyBjIUEmhNz99VBkTSHBe2dBnpmkkYFJkc0C7HXPKMkEIT7i9kH2cQ1/s480/st_moritz_living_room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3hYctTd0aGzBOSi3F-5v9pUViPcWgfJVtQ39ths6vCOli3bQ3XwKxmi0LpMKc3EISBls845VC4KO0tyBjIUEmhNz99VBkTSHBe2dBnpmkkYFJkc0C7HXPKMkEIT7i9kH2cQ1/s480/st_moritz_living_room.jpg" /></a></div><br />
lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-56328695124919453722014-09-16T17:30:00.003+01:002014-09-16T17:30:21.839+01:00A Minion Themed Party for RoyceThe Minions (from Despicable Me) themed party for our son's 2nd birthday turned out amazingly well - thank God! For practicality we decided to hold it in McDonald's Sharq and we availed some add ons, a magic show and face painting, to make it more interesting.<br />
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<p dir="ltr">Having the party at McDonald's Sharq turned out to be a brilliant decision because the venue was more than big enough for our number of guests (I think the Sharq Coop branch is the biggest McDonald's party place here in Kuwait). The kids had a lot of space to run around without distracting the adults. The party crew/staff were very skilled in handling the actual party itself. We got to enjoy the party without worrying about the programme flow and we had ample time to mingle with the guests. But the most wonderful thing of it all was the after party - the staff cleaned up all our mess. They even organized by putting the gifts into bags so we could easily take them home. </p><p dir="ltr">As for the decorations, aside from the balloons they provided (I specifically requested only yellow, blue and violet colors), we only had to add few touches, which are mostly DIY decorations to go with the Minion theme. We had to pay more for the Minion cake though, which we personally arranged with Cake & Bake, their cake supplier.</p><p dir="ltr"><b><i>Thank God for Pinterest and Kinko's</i></b><br />
Because I did not think I was creative enough, Pinterest literally saved me. This brilliant app showed me lots and lots of pictures and ideas for a Minion or Despicable Me party. If you don't have it yet, do <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/">download Pinterest</a> from the App Store or Play Store.</p><p dir="ltr">Our go to shop here in Kuwait to have DIY stickers or labels printed out is Fedex Kinko's. Thankfully it is open 24/7. And it is very cost efficient as their A3 size sticker only costs less than 1 KD.</p><p dir="ltr">Here are some snaps from the party. I am very proud we pulled it off!</p>* The little jars giveaways are filled with jellybeans and smarties.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHWahCSnvKcouU82to6MaocgdgJAuJiptslyEvhGEtu20dKPaANSYwGogdAezv1XZZcfQ2HzuMQLsqqpdz_T-mOdPq41xamSoq7PH53UWnQPWqfgqgun9Dy4Q2XFav7J2CBdE/s480/Tarpaulin%252520Royce%252520turns%2525202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHWahCSnvKcouU82to6MaocgdgJAuJiptslyEvhGEtu20dKPaANSYwGogdAezv1XZZcfQ2HzuMQLsqqpdz_T-mOdPq41xamSoq7PH53UWnQPWqfgqgun9Dy4Q2XFav7J2CBdE/s480/Tarpaulin%252520Royce%252520turns%2525202.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiII87mARrqbWOzxq99fdqBmaIHpUTYgozvN2SG_y6clagl_pqgPF4tBHi-AIxDhG-y9YwpBOxwYAnalW6_PEvQU2FtB9S9OXe0ns1p6KJWKlA71YnrVbtfC8tv5v0yO3UItp2/s640/img1410192605330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiII87mARrqbWOzxq99fdqBmaIHpUTYgozvN2SG_y6clagl_pqgPF4tBHi-AIxDhG-y9YwpBOxwYAnalW6_PEvQU2FtB9S9OXe0ns1p6KJWKlA71YnrVbtfC8tv5v0yO3UItp2/s480/img1410192605330.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9WxkgHJz4okoXDvuuC892GxxDzT2QwD1emci6FrhLYqzmBZ4XAHSUo2gI6MvHsRz_DAP4C8jV8799HeJxKMBLGcGCBeZ7K_9Bq85MYe9v2CCzD_x4p1LtOIrmkXZ74c9Uq4C/s640/img1410192392321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9WxkgHJz4okoXDvuuC892GxxDzT2QwD1emci6FrhLYqzmBZ4XAHSUo2gI6MvHsRz_DAP4C8jV8799HeJxKMBLGcGCBeZ7K_9Bq85MYe9v2CCzD_x4p1LtOIrmkXZ74c9Uq4C/s480/img1410192392321.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39wAqrAhZ1agBEWvHShSnuiEkikf_BelGX56Ok59OdXFAjuVoRdB_AGKJJn18wa77vNRt3KhnJEZmCoJ4jrxdAbkxs9bE23EcY19eNPa-wwmIM38_S9RYLF2DtyDQNHuOzZ4B/s640/IMG-20140908-WA0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39wAqrAhZ1agBEWvHShSnuiEkikf_BelGX56Ok59OdXFAjuVoRdB_AGKJJn18wa77vNRt3KhnJEZmCoJ4jrxdAbkxs9bE23EcY19eNPa-wwmIM38_S9RYLF2DtyDQNHuOzZ4B/s480/IMG-20140908-WA0018.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQ6ugXw_UE9gCQE2-MhgMT1iiv6kqJ-u2XWM5SDJ_N6Qmb5I794rpjUgugZM1IO4LBY-ZxUxtNlPoW-9cWHuzdojQEZGuOEJXhsOnyvGpWyw4zF529RLimpgIm_EG2YbN669J/s640/20140907_173456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQ6ugXw_UE9gCQE2-MhgMT1iiv6kqJ-u2XWM5SDJ_N6Qmb5I794rpjUgugZM1IO4LBY-ZxUxtNlPoW-9cWHuzdojQEZGuOEJXhsOnyvGpWyw4zF529RLimpgIm_EG2YbN669J/s480/20140907_173456.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXDjQ3lHp1nE6pCbJBisyqm24XonZ1TTR_NlqP8nPXqnWvaRar80lDIz73wOiEoqSXoGF0JHIuYJRZtXLsgKb7dBzbJQ_rQvQh5UFi4KP8_pQ1e7y1BO0ITTWjUyjxtq9pvpu/s480/IMG-20140908-WA0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXDjQ3lHp1nE6pCbJBisyqm24XonZ1TTR_NlqP8nPXqnWvaRar80lDIz73wOiEoqSXoGF0JHIuYJRZtXLsgKb7dBzbJQ_rQvQh5UFi4KP8_pQ1e7y1BO0ITTWjUyjxtq9pvpu/s480/IMG-20140908-WA0028.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0ynX5qWNixWA_VfZ6kHpVBA_kjzt6yYhBuUKe-aMddZOiuqFsPWD_ZZkeQConL1tOMy5GyP7O41NB1T4uVlE6fAGqUVSD-BJknIa3lYQDA3JY7wtIRR8RDBiwp3JQ6ex93At/s640/IMG-20140908-WA0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0ynX5qWNixWA_VfZ6kHpVBA_kjzt6yYhBuUKe-aMddZOiuqFsPWD_ZZkeQConL1tOMy5GyP7O41NB1T4uVlE6fAGqUVSD-BJknIa3lYQDA3JY7wtIRR8RDBiwp3JQ6ex93At/s640/IMG-20140908-WA0048.jpg"> </a> </div><br />
lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-50790143845337196702014-09-14T19:05:00.001+01:002014-09-14T19:48:59.286+01:00IKEA 2015 Catalogue is Here!Surprised to see IKEA (Kuwait) 2015 Catalogue delivered to our doorstep tonight. We are thinking of looking for a new place next year so this is a ... drum rolls, please.... sign!<br />
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<p dir="ltr">I am pretty much excited to see firsthand their new stuff for 2015. Anyhow I always visit IKEA to get ideas on how to redecorate or reorganize our apartment, with a side trip to the cafeteria for their meatballs fix. </p><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVIws_U9QsNGVD1KhaUwdFEjtXNZCTG_iH8DILtb25WZk6-IiZtp994DgSM1bHrCsmPuvxjLLkOqS7KXHq0sO-j4yGDRqcF7E0kij5tTHxTxXcU5lhyJaSsbcjM1DeE3-FFny/s640/img1410717804698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVIws_U9QsNGVD1KhaUwdFEjtXNZCTG_iH8DILtb25WZk6-IiZtp994DgSM1bHrCsmPuvxjLLkOqS7KXHq0sO-j4yGDRqcF7E0kij5tTHxTxXcU5lhyJaSsbcjM1DeE3-FFny/s480/img1410717804698.jpg"> </a> </div>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-19649323779734940012014-09-05T11:23:00.001+01:002014-09-14T19:47:19.877+01:00Once a Year Party Planner StintAt least once a year I have a stint to be a party planner.  That is to prepare for my son's birthday party. Talk about the wonderful role of being a mom. I prayed for a child, ecstatic when I got one but soon after I realized I also opened a can of worms with the many responsibilities that are included. Oh I'm not complaining. On the contrary I am happy because I can no longer accuse that my life is boring - and of course the rewards are enormous. My son's hugs and kisses are enough to wipe any complaint, aches and pains away.<br />
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<p>Now is that time of the year. My son, bless him, is turning 2 in Sunday. So for the past few days I am running here and there preparing for it. </p><p dir="ltr">I know he will not appreciate it now. He is still 2 for heaven's sake. But I love doing this for him; This service is my act of love.</p><p dir="ltr">It will not be perfect I am sure. Party planning is not my expertise.  But I will keep on trying every year until he says stop, he's had enough.</p><p dir="ltr">This year's theme is a Minion party. Why? Because he loves the Happy song, he plays the Minion Rush game and most of all he talks like a Minion - my goodness I still can't understand him.</p><p dir="ltr">My fingers are crossed that all goes well this Sunday...<br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHWahCSnvKcouU82to6MaocgdgJAuJiptslyEvhGEtu20dKPaANSYwGogdAezv1XZZcfQ2HzuMQLsqqpdz_T-mOdPq41xamSoq7PH53UWnQPWqfgqgun9Dy4Q2XFav7J2CBdE/s640/Tarpaulin%252520Royce%252520turns%2525202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHWahCSnvKcouU82to6MaocgdgJAuJiptslyEvhGEtu20dKPaANSYwGogdAezv1XZZcfQ2HzuMQLsqqpdz_T-mOdPq41xamSoq7PH53UWnQPWqfgqgun9Dy4Q2XFav7J2CBdE/s480/Tarpaulin%252520Royce%252520turns%2525202.jpg"> </a> </div>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-72054984216231179782014-04-20T14:02:00.002+01:002014-04-20T14:02:25.499+01:00My Travel Planning ToolsMy thoughts are occupied with our upcoming vacation end of next month. I am the travel/vacation planner in the family. It is something I enjoy doing and my husband tells me I am very good at it. Hmmm perhaps he is just relieved to offload this duty to me.<br />
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But truly I think I am actually good at it. Thus I would like to share the tools I use whenever I have to plan our vacation.<br />
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<b><i>For Hotels</i></b><br />
I use <a href="http://www.booking.com"><b>Booking.com</b></a>; I have booked hotels using this site countless of times and so far it has not disappoint me. From good deals of hotels in Europe to accurate, real reviews of hotels in the Philippines, this site has never failed me. The customer service is also superb. They have always been responsive and efficient in dealing with my requests.<br />
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When I was in UK I found a lot of great deals on hotels from <a href="http://www.latedeals.co.uk/"><b>LateDeals.co.uk</b></a><br />
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<b><i>For Flights</i></b><br />
I use <a href="http://www.skyscanner.net/"><b>Skyscanner.net</b></a>; I just love its simple interface. A Polish colleague recommended this to me six years ago and I have been using it eversince to compare prices of different airlines.<br />
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<b><i>For Events</i></b><br />
I use <b><a href="http://www.ticketmaster.com">Ticketmaster.com</a></b>; For concerts, theaters and sports events outside Philippines - one will find everything there.<br />
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<b><i>For Other Deals</i></b> <br />
Recently I have discovered <a href="http://www.metrodeal.com"><b>MetroDeal</b></a> for deals in the Philippines. I am planning to buy some vouchers for our use next month - will update you of my experience.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiuTB7ouaZDxNwatYHu1T_MmVvwSht1ft3zFRy0PEPXwcOj8rgVPzbRMRb0Gwirse7OIZ_8F_3-6bqIcaRyX0qetRx4ucdPpoTmjs6Llrju5sqB6U3e46Lcl2BjxqNiSuqBsV/s1600/travel_tools.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiuTB7ouaZDxNwatYHu1T_MmVvwSht1ft3zFRy0PEPXwcOj8rgVPzbRMRb0Gwirse7OIZ_8F_3-6bqIcaRyX0qetRx4ucdPpoTmjs6Llrju5sqB6U3e46Lcl2BjxqNiSuqBsV/s1600/travel_tools.jpg" /></a></div><center>"<i><b>The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.</b></i>” <br />
<i>― Augustine of Hippo</i></center>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-74242506144716016972014-04-19T10:43:00.003+01:002014-04-26T11:57:31.563+01:00Babalik Din Ako (I Shall Return?)A friend of mine who is working here in the Middle East attended the Wealth Summit 2014 in February. Wealth Summit is an annual event hosted by Bo Sanchez' <a href="http://bosanchezmembers.com/amember/go.php?r=1655 ">Truly Rich Club</a> where individuals who aspire to be <a href="http://bosanchezmembers.com/amember/go.php?r=1655 ">truly rich</a> gather and are given the chance to listen to famous speakers experts in their fields (eg. business, real estate and stock investing). My friend aside from coming out of the summit empowered, he was melancholic. He took his flight back abroad heavy hearted. Why? Because he met a lot young professionals (in their mid-20s) in the summit who became successful though they are staying in the country. My friend began to doubt and question if working abroad, being far from his family, is still the right choice.<br />
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People used to say emphatically that the only way to earn more and live a quality life is to work abroad - <i>wala pang tax</i> (you will not be taxed)! But that is no longer true. There are actually more opportunities in the Philippines if you know where to look. <br />
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Perhaps one has to go out and live outside the country to realize that. Looking at the Philippines from the outside make me see all these opportunities that I would have been blinded to if I opted to stay there. Everything happens for a reason. I am here abroad not only to earn but to learn as I work with foreigners. I am growing more as a person and hence equipping myself better for the future.<br />
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Every time I land in Ninoy International Airport the smell of the air makes me nostalgic. Polluted it may be, the humid air brings back so many fond memories. Philippines, with all its imperfections, will always be my home. <br />
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Especially now that there are so many things to do there... <br />
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Oh no, it's not about the concerts, the malls that are mushrooming all around the country, the "improvements" you see everywhere. Those are just trappings. <br />
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It is the place itself...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4Ti9xy_UpbR7OoTM7cp20qZwJFLOrgsoLkg-SJ27hoCQtHVW0Ek7DKP2vzQaJhr6egYetNvJaHx4SUpvxAU3x6Ii_6JR-HJuBIOiO9oll1Y4aq02M0gxT2f-1PeB8SiJz5Xn/s1600/philippines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4Ti9xy_UpbR7OoTM7cp20qZwJFLOrgsoLkg-SJ27hoCQtHVW0Ek7DKP2vzQaJhr6egYetNvJaHx4SUpvxAU3x6Ii_6JR-HJuBIOiO9oll1Y4aq02M0gxT2f-1PeB8SiJz5Xn/s640/philippines.jpg"></a></div>... the islands, the white sand beaches, the fresh air in the mountains... and of course our loved ones who are always waiting for us to come home. <br />
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After all my years as a traveller, I am no longer aimless. I will go home for good and retire in the Philippines. I long for the day when my family and I will finally decide enough is enough. When we will finally click the heels of our ruby slippers - It is time to go home.<div><br />
</div><div style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="text-indent: -30px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">"<b><i>Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.</i></b>" </span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="text-indent: -30px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">-- <i>Terry Pratchett, A Hat Full of Sky</i></span></div>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-51600844102628534522014-03-10T18:27:00.000+00:002014-03-10T18:27:18.855+00:00Why You Should Join TrulyRichClub Too!I remember when I was still young my mother used to say, ‘<i>Day, take up Accountancy in College so you can work in a bank as a teller. You will earn a good monthly salary plus you will look nice.</i>’<br />
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My mother meant well. She wanted what she thought was best for me. <br />
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After college graduation (I did not take up Accountancy by the way. It is a long story why I did not.) I landed a good job in I.T. I can still remember my delight when I signed my offer letter. Gosh I would be earning a monthly pay of 10,000 pesos. 12 years ago that was huge!<br />
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But no one told me about the tax, other deductions and monthly bills I had to face with. I was also too weak to embrace the lifestyle upgrades that went along as the salary increased; Starbucks, regular movies and dining outs with friends, spa and salon sessions, and mall sales to name a few. I was lured to spend, spend and spend my money up to the point of using the shiny evil (yes, evil!) credit card when I ran out of cash.<br />
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Oh it was fun. Shopping was definitely fun. I was never afraid to spend. But reality bit me in the ass after I got married...<br />
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I moved to Kuwait to be with my husband. Sadly it took me a long time to find a job. I was jobless for 5 months. As soon as the monthly pay check stopped coming I realized I could not afford to be out of job. I had bills to pay for my back in the Philippines. My husband gladly offered to help me out but my pride would simply not allow it. I only caved in when my savings ran out.<br />
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It was then that I decided never ever to go through that again. If there will come a time I have to quit my job or I get laid off, I should have another source of income that will yield enough for my monthly expenses - an income replacement so to speak.<br />
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So I joined Bo Sanchez’s <a href="http://bosanchezmembers.com/amember/go.php?r=1655">TrulyRichClub</a> to grow our knowledge in handling our finances and to learn the multiple ways of earning passive income. Now I am investing regularly in the Philippine stock market. <br />
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I highly recommend that you also join Bo Sanchez’s <a href="http://bosanchezmembers.com/amember/go.php?r=1655">TrulyRichClub</a>. It has helped me tremendously. The wealth of information that I learned from the newsletters and talks is priceless. It has given me hope that I do not have to be stuck in our 8 to 5 day jobs forever. <br />
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<center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKe08C-grU1jFzu3fMx5SrSmpAaQEGmCMQnIdTeh8xOBo-bsNAEzQ-A28yYGL-i3IFm5LE32zvLtbsn8Rkn4_2Zl5tPrLkxW9oMsAePsojL6Nn_tNyqu140EkkKE3Dz0f4oPDv/s640/early_retirement.jpg" alt="Travel. Retire Young."/><br />
</center><br />
Actually it is possible that we can retire comfortably sooner than expected, to retire young. Imagine travelling to places you want to explore. Gosh I have that picture in my mind; To travel and travel while I am still physically able. Learn to grow in your finances too. Join the <a href="http://lgeorgia.trulyrichclub.com">TrulyRichClub</a> now.lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-13588568547264937192013-07-14T13:13:00.001+01:002013-07-14T13:13:05.122+01:00What is Sustainable Diet?It's a term that my dear friends coined to call the diet that the husband and wife tandem have been on. They have effectively shed a lot of pounds in just a couple of months. What does it mean? It is a diet that one can sustain; It means a lifestyle change. To read more about it, click <a href="http://mommy-aria.blogspot.com/2013/07/sustainable-diet.html">here</a>.<br />
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It is not rocket science. It is actually like following Bro. Bo's advise that whatever decision you have to make in life there is only one right question to ask: What is the wisest thing to do? Same practice can be applied to food; What is the wisest thing to do? Eat the Lay's chips overloaded with salt and unwanted calories or choose any fruit that will also address the hunger but is loaded with nutrients needed by the body?<br />
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Yes it sounds boring. Healthy foods after all are not as tasty compared to the sinful ones. It is difficult for most to follow that simple advise. But the key in my opinion is to have one or better, a few deep reasons why you want to tread the boring path and not to yo-yo.<br />
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When I was pregnant I had a reason why I needed to remain as healthy as I could be throughout the duration of the pregnancy. I vowed to turn my body into a safe haven for my son - a healthy cocoon for him to develop and grow - and to deliver him normally into this world. I stuck to my plan; I religiously stayed within my ideal weight, tried all the time to be wise in my food choices, and went for daily walks even when my belly was at its biggest and heaviest. I did not falter because I was always thinking about the well-being of my baby. Caving in was never an option.<br />
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It was a success. My baby reached his required milestones week after week. Apart from the weight and pregnancy acquired GERD, I had no other physical concerns. Though my son came early (3 weeks before his due date), I was blessed with a quick, noneventful labor that led to a normal delivery. My son is perfectly normal and healthy.<br />
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I was breastfeeding for 6 months so I maintained the healthy lifestyle. But even after stopping I have managed to stay on track. How? Just looking at my husband and son fuels my desire to stay healthy. I want to take care of them, not the other way around. I want to grow old with them healthy enough that I can still run after them with a stick whenever they break any of my rules.<br />
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Of course there are hiccups here and there. Like my favorite Sprinkles cupcake or a Magnolia Bakery banana pudding on a weekend. I don't want to deprive myself after all. But I know when too much is too much.<br />
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Oh I have not reached my pre-pregnancy weight yet. My tummy is not as flat as it used to be. Especially now that it's lined with stretch marks may mean I will never have the guts to wear bikini again. But it's okay. I don't want to be hard on myself. I take joy in little victories - I can now fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans. I truly feel healthy.<br />
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Here are tips that work for me that might work for you:<br />
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1. <b>Small meals a day</b>: At work people always comment that they always see me eating. I have never been a big meal eater. I think it's either my stomach is small or I get bored with food easily. So I get hungry every 3 hours so I snack frequently. I just make sure I choose healthy options for snacks like fruits, salad or vegetables.<br />
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2. <b>Work around your weaknesses</b>: Thankfully I am no longer gaga over chocolates... not because of Candy Crush. Since I moved to Kuwait where chocolates are cheap and in abundance, I am no longer a big fan. My weakness is actually bread. I can live without rice for a week but without bread? That will depress me. Looking at the soft, cheesy, white bread/pastry at the supermarket makes my knees go weak. I just do my best to restrain myself and get the brown version instead.<br />
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3. <b>You don't need to count the calories</b>: Calorie counting never works for me. I tried many times to record my calorie intake but somehow knowing the exact calorie count of a food rubs me of the joy of eating it. What works for me is choosing the least (if available) calorie option of the food I am going to eat. Choose the non-fat, no-sugar, wheat/brown version.<br />
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4. <b>Be mobile</b>: If exercising is a tall order, be mobile when possible. I work in front of a computer for 8 hours a day but I make sure to stand up, stretch my short legs at least once an hour. I go for frequent water breaks. I avoid using the phone, go straight to the person I want to talk to instead. Or if I have to use or pick up the phone, I stand up (thank God I am short so I don't stand out). I go for walks with my friends at a nearby mall during our break. And whenever I go to the toilet I do some stretching exercises.<br />
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Like my friend said in her blog; have a system that can work with your lifestyle and really sustain. And don't mind the picture below; Be mean to greens :p<br />
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<center><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-IQ3_dP214xc/UeKSyh03t5I/AAAAAAAAD-I/bqdDfIW9btk/s800/image.jpg"/><br />
</center>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-46834417253263019862013-06-25T07:58:00.001+01:002013-06-25T08:13:58.063+01:00A letter to RoyceHow is it that someone so small has conquered my heart, my mind, my entire being so effortlessly?<br />
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I have been asking this question since I first saw my baby's "picture"... His first ultrasound printout. He was the size of a lentil seed then.<br />
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The first time I held my little boy, I felt an overwhelming tug deep in my core; I knew I am bound to this tiny creature forever. <br />
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Oh it is not a walk in the park. Motherhood is the toughest job I have ever undertaken. Especially the first 3 months, it was an endless blur of dirty diapers, feeding, burping him and battling to put him to sleep. But though on auto-pilot most of the times due to exhaustion, regret never crossed my mind. I would willingly go though all those again, if I have to, because it is so worth it. Motherhood is by leaps and bounds the most rewarding job a woman can have.<br />
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To my dear sweetheart (who as of writing this is still 9 months), if by some stroke of fate in the future you have come across this blog entry, know that<br />
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You are amazing, wonderful, exquisite human being. I simply adore everything about you. Everyday i thank God that you happened to us.<br />
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Your every smile, chuckle or sign of delight always without fail gives me boundless joy. <br />
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Be patient with me. I am not perfect. But mummy will strive to be almost perfect for you. I hope you will love me inspite of my imperfections, warts and all.<br />
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It is okay if you find your daddy cooler and more fun to hang out with than mummy. Or if you find his cooking as more palatable than mine (which I believe will happen); I am cool with that. Or you want to play for boys only games with daddy; I will cheer both you on at the sideline. You can have favorites, I am really cool with that. No matter what I will always love you more than you love me.<br />
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It always move me everytime you scoot under my arm at night as if it's the only place you'd rather be. I don't think I will ever be ready when the time comes you need to start sleeping alone in your own room. But I promise to be brave because I have to let you go, many times actually in your lifetime, so you will grow and reach your full potential. Forgive mummy if she makes such drama everytime she has to let you go though.<br />
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I hope my darling you see me as your friend. You can confide in me about anything. I want to hear your thoughts even about the mundane. I am corny, cheesy, silly - you can laugh with me. <br />
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I hope in life you will follow your dreams, your passion. Always play and fight fair in everything you do, my boy. In the person that you already are, I am proud of you. My love for you is bottomless, unlimited, and has no expiry date. You will always be the apple of my eye.<br />
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<center><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NTELi17nQ7k/UclCOi_2FRI/AAAAAAAAD9g/14W0WrGcNio/s400/image.jpg"/><br />
</center>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-76034104762799580172013-06-07T17:00:00.000+01:002013-06-11T19:30:05.889+01:00Passive Income through BloggingMonths ago I happened to catch a colleague updating his blog during office time. Instead of reprimanding him or telling on him (well, I am not that kind of person), I got interested and asked him what kind of blog it is. I found out it is about project management, leadership; topics that may not interest most people but quite a few who are into these stuffs are visiting his site regularly.<br />
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So my second question for him was, <i>are you earning money from it</i>?<a name='more'></a><br />
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His reaction was the typical shrug; Meaning, no. The thought of making money out of it just did not cross his mind. He did not mind sharing his knowledge on these topics, intellectual property by the way, for free!<br />
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So I pushed for him to add Google Adsense to his site. There's nothing to lose, I reasoned; Just try it.<br />
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A few days ago he came up to me and disclosed that last month alone he earned 30 Euros through Google Adsense! My initial, uncontrollable, human reaction was envy. Gosh I have been on Google Adsense for more than 2 years now but I have not earned that much in a single month!<br />
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Of course I am genuinely happy for him, and proud that it was me who suggested that to him. Throughout our conversation I kept reminding him that thanks to me he is now earning passive income. Well I am just human after all. My ego has to be stroked once in a while.<br />
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What made his blog more lucrative than mine? How can one earn from blogging? <br />
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It is because of these <b>3 Cs</b>; The 3 Cs a blog should have in order to generate regular page views and ultimately ad clicks that translate into money.<br />
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<b><i>Content</i></b><br />
Every article is well researched and well thought of. He invests time and effort creating a quality post that interests his niche market.<br />
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Also his blog has a single theme. His readers know they what to expect from every post.<br />
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Too bad my blog is as scatterbrained as me. At the moment it is still like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get...<br />
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<b><i>Customers</i></b>(Regular Customers)<br />
He has a base loyal readers (customers) who visit his site regularly. He has captured a market, which assures regular traffic to his site.<br />
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I only have one loyal reader, my husband. And I need to call him everytime I have a new post so he at least will read it or else...<br />
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At least there is hope in the not so near future that this number will double. When my son learns how to read and access the internet... :|<br />
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And last but not the least, something that I need to work on is <b><i>Consistency</i></b>.<br />
He writes at least two posts a week. His loyal readers can expect a new post bi-weekly.<br />
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The key is, by writing posts at a regular frequency makes your blog unforgettable. Do not allow your readers to forget your blog.<br />
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<center><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ed2yjo_1IsQ/UbIAkgPw0wI/AAAAAAAAD8k/qAKEYbG8O70/s400/google_adsense_example.jpg" alt="Sample of a Google Adsense dashboard"/><br />
Sample of a Google Adsense dashboard<br />
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Adsense is just one way to earn through blogging. There are many ways to generate steady income in blogs. Google it and you will find a lot of tried and tested options.lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-7583194044000917552013-06-04T07:12:00.000+01:002013-06-04T07:18:46.765+01:00Stocks are Down! Hooray!I logged in to our COL Financial account and lo and behold, stocks are down!<br />
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For the past few weeks Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) has hovered around the 7,000 figure, but since yesterday it has slipped back to 6,600+ mark. This is exciting!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7OFb5Dd5Qemw4oIstV8OwFp9ICn6HJw8AoNr6hJa4NM-Tg_4P_Axp2QRyNNXYbF8rePoJXMHMAuZv0YHlceFzO0Pqtu4ibjQUUbvrEBma7jPMSY-5-l4Z6UveG2q0a9b9C-wE/s800/image.jpg" alt="Stocks are down!"/><br />
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You might be asking why am I happy and excited to boot? I should be sad seeing some stocks in our portfolio are in negative, right? I am happy because a lot of stocks are on sale. This means I can buy stocks from very solid, blue chip companies at cheaper price. We are <a href="http://donyatiks.blogspot.com/2012/01/investing-vs-trading-in-stock-market.html">investing</a> on the stock market for the long haul. We are not traders.<br />
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I don't know what caused the PSEi to slip down. I still have to read up on it. From my source stocks will remain on sale (down) for the next 3 weeks so better take advantage and buy more of your favorite stocks. If you are not yet investing on the stock market and would want to learn how to, click here to <a href="http://donyatiks.blogspot.com/2012/01/guide-to-opening-citiseconline-account.html">invest directly by opening a COL Financial account</a>.<br />
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Okay why am I into investing now? There's only one word why; Motherhood. Don't laugh. I will explain more in my next post.lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-75643361078190802322012-07-03T16:16:00.000+01:002012-07-03T16:16:52.662+01:00What's In A Name?<i>"What's in a name? That which we call a rose <br />
By any other name would smell as sweet."</i><br />
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As soon as we found out the gender of our baby, hubby and I started brainstorming for his names. Name<b>s</b> because we decided he should have 2 given names. Not because this is the <i>uso</i> (trend) nowadays, but we want to follow the French tradition in naming a child.<br />
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<center><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_vBosyjxsuw/T_MIw6GAIPI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/azeFOq_yiIg/s400/baby-names.jpg"/><br />
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A French friend told me that usually they have 2 given names. The first one, in most cases, is used in daily life. The 2nd is usually kept private (or not used daily) but should be written in official documents. What is interesting and truly meaningful that made me decide I would want to name my child the french way is that the habit in choosing the 2nd name is to name him/her after a relative (child's grandparent, aunt/uncle, etc) or a dear friend that the parents want to honor.<br />
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Since our child is a boy, hubby and I immediately had two options... our fathers. I love my dear Papa very much but I do not want my son to grow up a babaero (womanizer) like him. LOL. Thus, he is going to take my father-in-law's (FIL) name as his 2nd name. <i>Bola</i> aside (flattery aside) FIL has many admirable qualities and we want our son to look up to him. This is hush-hush for now so don't tell my FIL about this as we want to surprise him.<br />
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Our child's name (first name + second name + family name) according to <a href="http://www.paulsadowski.com/NameData.asp">paulsadowski.com</a> means:<br />
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Regal.<br />
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His number is 8<br />
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The expression or destiny for #8:<br />
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Your Expression is represented by the number 8. The 8 Expression is well-equipped in a managerial sense. You have outstanding organizational and administrative capabilities. You have the potential for considerable achievement in business or other powerful positions. You can expect to receive the financial and material rewards. You have the skill and abilities to establish or operate a business with great efficiency. You have good judgment when it comes to money and commercial matters, and you understand how to build and accumulate material wealth. Much of your success (or lack of it) may come due to your ability (or inability) to judge character. With the number 8 Expression, you exercise sound judgment in most of your affairs; you are realistic and practical in your approach to business matters.</i><br />
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Watch out world! Watch out MVP, RSA, Henry Sy, Ayalas and J. Gokongwei for you will have a new challenger… Our son is going to be a very succesful tycoon :)<br />
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Oooohhh I can just imagine my future. Vividly.<br />
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Me: <i>Son, your Dad and I are bored. We wanna chill in France.</i><br />
My dear son: <i>Sure mummy! (Take note it's British accent…) I'll send over the private jet this afternoon.</i><br />
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Gosh, I am surely gonna retire a donya. Ah la belle vie!lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-13978232476042852602012-06-30T19:45:00.000+01:002012-06-30T19:45:07.319+01:00Pregnancy Wardrobe WoesMy belly is getting bigger every day. I am not kidding.<br />
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uZIFSYp_UJU/T-9Hs6O4AtI/AAAAAAAAD4w/6sx4N31awwg/s400/me%2520at%25206%2520mos.jpg" alt="me at 6 months"/><br />
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I feel like a penguin; I think I am now walking like a penguin. I feel huge. Every morning is a struggle to search my closet for a dress that still fits and is still office appropriate, i.e. I don’t look like a suman. <br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9zikJ-ey4JIUiZXQIRlM4xUDhT1ReEZnIeP2eqaH9-K93nljCUzbtfbm3mitmO6-v-w2idOcXDwrS8iROePijYy1dddzCngPN30B6mpE5PjNnETohLRljERSuu6F_84Z45SR/s400/suman.jpg" alt="Suman or Budbod in Bisaya is a Filipino delicacy"/><br />
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Currently it is sale season. Most shops are posting 50% discount or more. The other day I dragged my husband to shop but I could not find anything that looked good with this huge belly of mine. Nothing fitted properly. It was torture! All I could do was drool. I ended up forcing hubby to buy new shirts for himself while I, cruel cruel world, left the mall empty handed.<br />
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Okay there are maternity shops here but most of their dresses are usually too big for my frame. They are made for Western or Arab women that make me look like a walking tent. Plus in my own opinion these maternity shops are seriously milking the pregnant women; everything is expensive. I can buy 3 normal dresses for the price of one. So if I can help it, no way!<br />
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In a few weeks I am sure I will run out of clothes that I can still wear. I guess I just have to be resourceful and creative to survive. Sigh.<br />lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-27342272837898830552012-06-13T18:26:00.001+01:002012-06-13T18:27:25.987+01:00I heart BabyCenterSince I knew that I was pregnant my most-visited website has become babycenter.com. Thanks to a gorgeous friend who recommended it right away.<br />
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BabyCenter provides a wealth of information not only for expectant mothers but also for those trying to conceive and early childhood care for parents and parents-to-be. Users of the website have numerous <a href="http://www.babycenter.com/tools">tools</a> at their disposal (i.e. baby names finder, pregnancy calendar and pregnancy weight tracker). Users can also signup for weekly email alerts of their baby's or child's development.<br />
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I love, love, love (!) the fetal development videos. I get a kick everytime I watch a video because it gives me a reliable idea how my baby is developing or will develop inside of me.<br />
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I also enjoy reading the forums and feel this bond to faceless expectant mothers who have shared whatever concerns they have.<br />
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Honestly, this website has helped me a lot in guiding me through pregnancy. I highly recommend it!<br />
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<a href="http://www.babycenter.com/"><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjBu0mpF76wF2ucJfGKhHkoTq8Yj3IM0M3ZjIrHRY7MG8q-a8IvFl6UlGn22iMmghxEGVcDm_VqJWL6CUyd3bICyAqKb8pb51Xlx-ANjqMHivD_hXPfvh1KCoSaLUA0Dgh4piM/s800/baby_center_logo.jpg" alt="Click to go to BabyCenter site"/><br />
</a><br />
</center><br />
And oh by the way, it is free of charge :)<br />
<br />lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-87039383110913671952012-06-10T21:56:00.000+01:002012-06-13T18:30:13.479+01:00So BlessedFour months ago he was still a dot. Roughly the size of a sesame seed.<br />
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Now he has grown. Oh how much he has grown! At 24 weeks he now weighs more than a pound and his length from head to rump is approximately 11 cm... longer than an IPad (yeah even the new IPad!).<br />
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See his fingers? You have a good eye if you can recognize that in the above ultrasound scan he is sucking his thumb. Isn’t that cute?<br />
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Uh yes, it is a boy. Oh well rephrase that; He is a boy. We found out right away as he was not at all shy to show his jewels, which made my hubby very proud.<br />
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To conceive was a long wait. I had been poked and pricked numerous times...<br />
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Ooops I am not talking about what Harley had to do to me. What I mean is that our doctor had to poke me to check if there was anything wrong with my reproductive organs.<br />
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As far as I can remember my menses were never regular. So when we decided we were ready to have a baby mid last year, we sought the help of a reputable fertility doctor early on. He was recommended by a family friend. Harley and I underwent some tests and thank God we were both declared normal and fit to have a baby. I was prescribed with injections in order to ovulate regularly.<br />
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Though our doctor pronounced with conviction that he did not see any reason why we would never conceive, but patience was never my strength. The wait was a roller coaster ride of emotions. I became snappy at well-meaning friends who showed concern because it was taking us time to hit the jackpot. I became frustrated at my father in law who asked me for progress every single time I talked to him. (At the back of my mind I knew that to pressure me was never his intention. He was just as impatient to have his first grandchild.) I even threw dramatics at my poor husband, asking him many times if he would still love me if it would turn I could never get pregnant.<br />
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I blame it on the medications I was under. They were surely wrecking my hormones.<br />
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But I should have relaxed and placed my trust in Him as everything has to happen at the right time.<br />
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Last year my husband’s mother (who is working here in Kuwait) was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. When she started her treatment in August 2011 she of course desperately needed our support as her husband was not here (he works in Africa). We all tried our best to be there for her. But it was tough, and what was tougher was seeing her suffering debilitating pains because of the complications of the chemotherapy. There were many times when we felt helpless. The pressure was stronger on my husband as he tried his best to step up, to be the man in the family.<br />
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My mother in law completed her chemotherapy sessions by mid December 2011. I decided to take a home pregnancy test in January when I realized I missed my period. And the result? Well I had to pinch myself and was shaking when I showed to my husband the big fat positive - the two lines of Hallelujah! The pregnancy blood test I had the next day confirmed it.<br />
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See, everything happens in God's perfect time.<br />
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Mother in law has since recovered brilliantly and her health has improved dramatically. In fact she is back to work and looking better than ever.<br />
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And I am pregnant! Now, I am entering my 6th month and I am enjoying every bit of it.<br />
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I am proud to have survived the difficult first trimester - the sicknesses that happened not only in the mornings. <br />
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Oh I don't care about these breakouts on my face. I don't care that my tummy is itchy most of the day. I don't care that whenever I see myself on the mirror, I am sure my nose is getting bigger.<br />
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Well, I am having a boy after all.<br />
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But I don’t care. To experience life growing inside of me, his kicks and jabs as if to remind me of his precious presence, his increasing weight... these are just too priceless.<br />
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Oh yes, I am enjoying my pregnancy. I love the comforting feeling that my son is with me, inside of me, 24/7. I feel so blessed. Being alone is such a foreign feeling now.<br />lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-37596379337470714672012-02-05T20:00:00.001+00:002012-02-05T20:01:22.264+00:00Alshaya Mega Recruitment Event: Feb 8th & 9th<u>Where:</u> <b>The Convention Center & Royal Suites, free trade zone, Shuwaikh</b><br />
<u>When:</u> <b>February 8th and 9th - from 9am to 6pm</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.alshaya.com">M.H. Alshaya Co. W.L.L.</a>, the leading retailer in the Middle East, is seeking outstanding individuals to be a part of its growing retail team in Kuwait.<br />
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They are looking for experienced managers and staff to work in their fast paced stores and restaurants.<br />
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If you're interested, bring a copy of your resume/CV, passport and residency page to the event.<br />
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Best of luck!<br />
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*** <i>Alshaya brands includes H&M, River Island, Pottery Barn, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, Starbucks, Topshop and so many more.</i>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-73524010558225502282012-01-24T17:24:00.001+00:002012-01-24T18:18:00.074+00:00There's something about KuwaitMy Russian boss (haha sounds like a mob boss!) who's been here in Kuwait for more than 20 years warned me, "There's something about Kuwait, you'll get used to the easy life. Before you know it you've been living here for a decade."<br />
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When I heard that I was in denial. No, that will never happen to me! Hubby promised will just stay here 5 years max and that's it. He's a man of integrity...<br />
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It's not that I hate Kuwait. I am honestly growing to like this country. After all it's safe here and having none of those internal conflicts that some Arab nations are experiencing. I just don't want to stay here long. Because of the following reasons:<br />
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<i><b>Bawal ang pork</b></i><br />
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Coming from the the land of lechon, this is a sacrifice for me. But it's not too bad, we can occasionally have it. There are ways to get it. Also when friends come back from vacation in Philippines they usually share the bounty (usually Purefoods tender juicy hotdogs) they're able to sneak in. But it doesn't compare with having fresh, succulent, cholesterolly pork. Aside from lechon I miss having my favourite pork meals; pork <i>adobo</i>, <i>sinigang na baboy</i>, <i>chicharon</i>...etc. Sigh. Although I just console myself with fact that because of this forced no pork diet I am healthier.<br />
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<i><b>The hills are not alive</b></i><br />
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Remember the "Sound of Music"? Remember the opening scene of the movie - a sweeping view of the beautiful green hills and Julia Andrews suddenly runs and dramatically breaks into the song, "<i>the hills are alive, with the sound of music...</i>".?<br />
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Well, there are no rolling green hills here. Sigh. <br />
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I miss going for walks by the river where sometimes I chance upon swans a swimming (not usually seven at the same time) or gorgeous hunks canoeing topless (ooohhh). I miss seeing tall, green non-palm variety trees. It seems that the landscape here is just plain brown. So I have to be content with bringing in greens (potted plants) inside the house.<br />
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<i><b>Nothing but malls and restaurants</b></i><br />
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Though there are no green fields there are still many outdoor activities to do here like picnic by the sea, yachting (which we haven't done yet, LOL) and sports. However during the summer and winter when it's challenging to stay outside there is nothing, absolutely nothing to do except shopping and eating out. There are no theatres, museums or art galleries to visit. I wish it will improve in the future because truly the government can afford it.<br />
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<i><b>One must drive</b></i><br />
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Since I don't drive yet as I have to complete 2 years stay before I can qualify to apply for a license, mobility is a serious problem for me. There are no reliable public transportation options - no trains. There are buses and taxis but more often than not, they stink. I also wish the government will improve this too and ban stinky buses and taxis!<br />
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<i><b>Laid-back life</b></i><br />
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This shouldn't be one of the cons for most of you but for me it is. A typical day for me is; Wake up (after snoozing the phone alarm many times), hubby drops me off to my office before he drives to his, work (or pretend to work for that matter) until 3:30 PM or until hubby picks me up. That's it. That's my routine for more than a year now. Except weekends of course<br />
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The travel to/from the office usually takes 15 to 20 minutes tops. We are usually guaranteed to be home before 6 pm unless we dine out somewhere.<br />
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Okay this is a charmed, peaceful life especially if we have kids. But we don't have one yet anyway. I am not a fan of this laid-back lifestyle. I like action. I like crowds. I like noise. I don't like traffic but a part of me somehow misses it. Sometimes I am bored because life here is so provincial.<br />
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<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-pyUdQde8Jwo/Tx7iB7Ka39I/AAAAAAAAD24/_WOEgmjEsy4/s800/kuwait-towers.jpg" alt="Kuwait Towers"/> <br />
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But you see, Kuwait has its advantages that as of the moment outweigh my above complaints. My fear is that I might get used to this laid-back life and choose to get stuck here until it's time to go home to Pinas. I can't say for certain that this will never happen as no one can predict the future. I will most likely turn out to be a different, hopefully better person than who I am now; A person with different set of priorities. But one thing I am consciously putting an effort on is this - I vow to have fun, to build meaningful relationships, to be alive while I am here (or wherever I am).<br />lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-17858476065752270072012-01-19T20:21:00.001+00:002012-01-19T20:21:37.997+00:00Is it more fun in the Philippines? Absolutely!I cannot stop saying that I love the new tourism slogan “It’s more fun in the Philippines!”. It was time for a revamp; there was a serious need to replace or not continue with simply blah “Pilipinas Kay Ganda”.... <br><br>
Thank God we did not go back to “Wow Philippines!”. With “Wow...” black and white pictures of Banaue Rice Terraces and Hinulugang Taktak in my battered <i>Sibika at Kultura</i> textbook come to mind. It’s so yesterday! <br><br>
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The very moment I found out about “It’s more fun in the Philippines!”, I could not help but smile and gush my agreement. Because truly, absolutely, it's more fun in the Philippines! It's not only because of the numerous natural wonders that our beloved country is gifted with but the people who makes it more fun. <br> <br>
We, Filipinos, are inherently hospitable. When we receive guests at home we take out the fine china carefully hidden (or displayed) somewhere because we think it’s a crime to give them the chipped, overused plates that we ourselves use everyday. We strive to provide the best for our guests – the best food on the table and the best drinks that we can afford (almost always a Coke litro just fresh out of the nearest Sari-Sari store’s refrigerator). <br> <br>
Every tourist is guaranteed to be treated that way, sure to be welcomed in every single island of the 7,000+ islands. <br> <br>
But it’s not only our hospitality that we are famous for. We are also famous for our smiles. It's endearing that Filipinos always find a reason to smile, to laugh and to share that joy (big or small) to anyone nearby.<br> <br>
I can’t agree more on what Heather Carswell wrote about our beloved country for <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com">Lonely Planet</a><br><br>
“<i>Aah - the famous Filipino smile. It may not sound like something that’s worth visiting a country for but the old adage it true, it is the people that make the place. Throughout the archipelago you’ll find people are friendly and curious, wanting to know where you’re from - often shouting out their guess at where you’re from - and where you’re heading. At times when you’re not feeling in the best mood yourself, for example when you and 25 others are squashed in the back of a jeepney built for 10, if you glance around you’ll always find lots of smiles and laughter that will instantly lighten your mood</i>” -- The Philippines, beyond the beaches. Read the whole article <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/north-luzon/sagada/travel-tips-and-articles/53749">here</a>.<br> <br>
Of course there are also criticisms against "It's more fun...". Original or not, in my humble opinion, DoT (Department of Tourism) has done a brilliant job for coming up with this exciting new slogan. It is already a winner as it has awaken our dormant devotion to our country. It has energised Filipinos all over the world to share why it is indeed more fun in the Philippines and even come up with these humorous versions of the slogan: <br> <br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYlPlDhE_fA39aJWjztx5CQOkSA__vfFaLktTN_z1ZiItUhpQnhZBwLvBE-x14HUcKpQn7TiRpfSVzIVogHq6Dh-XCOYEJWPT82TBI1QTA1MHTTv8WV4Vz67KvlcABlPpHsdG/s400/its_more_fun_in_the_philippines_angry_birds.jpg" alt="Angry Birds. More Fun in the Philippines."/>
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FXsoXFXr2fc/Txh66NPZdeI/AAAAAAAAD2g/stZQyV8-Ic4/s400/its_more_fun_in_the_philippines_change_of_address.jpg" alt="Change of Address. More Fun in the Philippines."/>
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wfDB97PSflI/Txh2Yattz1I/AAAAAAAAD10/WXg9pWYGrTs/s400/its_more_fun_in_the_philippines_public_transport.jpg" alt="Public Transport. More Fun in the Philippines."/>
</center>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-36147691400455504272012-01-17T20:38:00.000+00:002012-01-17T20:39:02.906+00:00Future DonyatiksWorking women are good money managers. We are good at budgeting our monthly pay check, stretching it from here to there just so after paying up all the obligations we still have money left for shopping. We are also damn good at finding solutions in case we are broke.<br><br>
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As good as we are at making sure current financial obligations are addressed; Filipino women usually don’t think long term. We don’t care about things like investing, setting up a retirement fund and stock market. We leave it to our husbands (or future husbands) to worry about these serious stuffs. We trust that they will financially provide for us forever. As long as we are contributing regularly to our savings account, we think that should be enough.<br><br>
But that is so wrong. Women should strive to be financially literate as well. If we want to live comfortably when we grow old, not dependent on anyone for our basic needs, still have the financial means to contribute to our community or help needy even after we retired, and even afford as much botox as we “need” (LOL), we must educate ourselves. We should actively take part in the family financial planning and management, and not to dump all responsibility to the man. Two heads are always better than one especially when both are working towards the same vision. Even if you don’t bring home the bacon, you still have to get involved and make sure your husband’s hard-earned money is spent and invested wisely. <br><br>
That’s why I have put up a blog, <a href="http://donyatiks.blogspot.com/">donyatiks.blogspot.com</a>, chronicling the things I have learned so far as I embark on this financial literacy journey and start applying bits and pieces of what I have learned. <br><br>
It is actually not as daunting as you think. Start with reading Bo Sanchez’s book, <i><b>My Maid Invests in the Stock Market</b></i>, which will give you the confidence that you can do it too. I am not advising that after reading the book you must invest in the stock market right away. Do so when you have the right financial mindset and you understand the risks. <br><br>
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Go to www.trulyrichclub.com to get a free copy of the eBook.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vZijivh3FJQ/TxXZCSgnB-I/AAAAAAAAD1c/MUy7t0yxE44/s800/my-maid-invest-in-the-stock-market-399x550.jpg" alt="My Maid Invests in the Stock Market">
</center>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787570.post-87833384869051179792012-01-14T19:34:00.002+00:002012-01-14T19:34:21.511+00:00My 2012 RoadmapThe Mayans and Nostradamus predicted the world would end this year. I hope they’re so wrong. Well who’s ready for the end. Honestly, I am not. I don’t want all this to end and not be able to hug my loved ones ever again. Nah I don't wanna think about that!<br><br>
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Of course nothing is certain. No matter how I wish that all this can go forever, our time here is just borrowed. But we shouldn’t worry much about the future. Let’s do our best to prepare for it, yes, but what we have is the present. The only time we have the power is now. Let’s just enjoy it while we can, live and be present at every moment. Okay enough spewing Eckhart Tolle’s teachings at the risk of being accused of plagiarism... LOL<br><br>
It’s been ages since I last blogged. The culprit? My iPad. Since I received this gift from a dear (obviously generous) friend I found no reason to use my old toy... my trusty pink laptop. My iPad fuelled my passion in reading magazines and novels, playing angry birds and sims, lurking in twitter and facebook ... the list goes on and on with the many amazing things I can do with my favourite can’t-leave-the-house-without-it gadget.<br><br>
I feel bad for ignoring my very faithful, very reliable 4 year old but still working perfectly pink laptop. It’s been months since I last tapped on its keys and honed my creative writing skills (I hope there’s some left). As I hear the familiar clicks of the keys – I feel like I am embracing an old friend. I vow to never replace this until it breaks down on me. <br><br>
2011 is now a history. It was a year of wonderful blessings; it was also a year of challenges. It was the year when our dream of euro-tour was fulfilled. It was the year when we decided that we’re finally ready to be (but God must have a reason why it’s not happening yet). It was also the year when my husband’s mother was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, which was a big challenge to the whole family but it also highlighted how blessed we are with friends and relatives who continue to support us – absolutely heart warming.<br><br>
2011 was full of ups and downs, like riding a roller coaster. I am personally relieved it that that year has passed. So far the beginning of 2012 has been promising. This year has begun with good news; pertaining to mother in law’s recovery and my hubby’s career. I have a strong feeling, feel it deep into my bone marrow that this year is going to be more fabulous than the last.<br><br>
But to make sure to push that gut feel into reality I have thought of a roadmap. Here is my 2012 dream board. My goals for this year are<br><br>
<b><i>Having a baby</i></b><br>
This is an enjoyable pursuit so no worries about not working on this goal. But I won’t be pressuring myself anymore. I surrender to Him that in His time He will blessed us with a child. I will keep on knocking on His heart to finally give in and grant us blue-eyed twins (a boy and a girl). Oh I should perhaps drop the “blue-eyed” part because that maybe the reason why it’s not happening...
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<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dLMJcK3vGJE/TxHUY-_IHsI/AAAAAAAAD0k/R7i1p3rBtEk/s400/twins-cuddly-twins.jpg" alt="Cute twin babies :)"/>
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<b><i>Visit the US</i></b><br>
The American dream has never been my dream. Of course I want to tour US someday, but never migrate to. I hope this year is that “someday” because I really want to visit my bestfriend whom I haven’t seen for two years now! Or maybe I should just see her next year so I can personally tell her “I told you so, the world didn’t end...”
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mTBL16xvXIA/TxHUa5TuHfI/AAAAAAAAD0s/PTD609Vz2gU/s400/Statue_of_Liberty%25252C_NY.jpg" alt="New Yooorrrkkk!"/>
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<b><i>More wise investments</i></b><br>
According to HSBC our beloved country will be the world’s 16th largest economy by 2050. Even if when that happens I will be in my seventies but for the sake of the next generation let’s invest more in the Philippines. Why else? It is more fun in the Philippines! My husband and I want to go home and retire there and it is our plan to do so if not in style but in comfort. We vow to be financially independent when the time comes and be able to afford the lifestyle we desire. So we better prepare for it, plant the seeds that will enable us to achieve this goal.<br><br>
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<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6pIR7lDMDs8/TxHYEyaVQDI/AAAAAAAAD1E/uKD5RS6f8Xw/s400/social-climbing-more-fun-philippines.jpg" alt="Haha! Social Climbing :p"/>
</center>lgeorgiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03973368206039173712noreply@blogger.com0