Shopping the Australian Way

How can I ever forget my vacation in Australia in 2005, 2006 and 2008 that my sister and her husband sponsored? Seeing my passport stamped with a 3-month stay each visit always made me ecstatic. Aside from going to various tourists spots (Opera House, Blue Mountains, The Great Barrier Reef (my fave!) and more), I also experienced a taste of their culture, met some new friends, tasted delicious foods and of course go on shopping!

My sister and I bonded together as we painstakingly go through the racks at Big W, Target, David Jones etc. Sis always took me to a store where there is also a sale and I remember my sister hoarding some clothes and toys for her kids at Big W and put them on lay-by. I had some few purchases as well but there are times that I need to convert the prices to our currency to see if I really got a good deal. My shopping experience was highlighted when we went at the Queen Victoria Building in Sydney where you can find upscale brand stores such as Versace, Polo, DKNY and more. Even though we did not buy expensive products, yet it was an awesome feast on our eyes.

I was also overwhelmed on how aggressive their local department stores in promoting their products. The catalogues with promos and discounts that we got on the mailboxes are enough for us to be excited to go shopping and check out the products. I literally found myself perusing all the paper catalogues checking their deals. I can say that I got many sale items that I was able to bring back home. 

These days, shopping is even made easy using the internet. In Australia, Lasoo.com.au comes in handy for many Australian shoppers as they can  easily browse all the various catalogues of different department stores all at the same time and see what they offer. Searching by category, brands, retailers and even catalogues that include Big W, Crazy Clarks, Myer, The Reject Shop and clark rubber catalogue  just to name a few will make your shopping even faster.

Just some of the benefits that a shopper can get from browsing online are they don’t need to wait for the paper catalogues anymore for they can simply go online and browse and you can be ahead of everyone in terms of seeing the latest deals. I’ll have to make sure the my sister will know this website for she can manage her shopping properly being a busy mom and an entrepreneur.

It's also my wish to come back in Australia in the near future for I intend to see my sis and her family plus I would love to experience shopping via the Australian way all over again.

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I Love Pinterest!

I guess you already have heard about PINTEREST (pinterest.com) but just in case you didn't know yet, it's an online pin board where you can "pin" your favorite images or posts on the web. You can create your own board and categorize them into your own liking. Member can re-pin items into your own board or just click like.

Here is what my pinboard looks like and the categories that I have are Fashion/Style, Dream Places, Food/Drinks and lots more. There are too many ideas that you can find and share at pinterest.

If you're not a member yet, sign up now using your Facebook /Twitter accounts or just use you email address. Word of caution: It's addicting!

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Too Much Distractions

This is the last of the long weekend that we had since Aug. 18. It would have been nice to go out of town or go out with friends or treat myself on shopping but I just opt to stay at home so that I will spend anything during this holiday. After our recent Singapore trip, I just could not afford to shell some more money because I promised myself to save until November just in time for my birthday. Hmmm.. I just hope I can control myself from doing unnecessary spending that will hurt my wallet.

At home, I just did some household chores, spend more time on my social networking sites' accounts and do some online works. Actually, I have too much ideas on my minds or things that I wanted to do but there's too much distractions. I can't keep myself to focus on one thing today for I wanted to a lot of things. Like they say, when you multi-task chances are the end result is not that good because you are not giving your 100% attention to one task because your attention is divided. It's like putting a stanchion or barrier on your mind as it can control free-flowing ideas.

My day was spent online, house chores and watching TV esp. about the death of Sec. Robredo. I hope tomorrow will be a lot different as I want to be more productive unlike today.

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Eldad Hagar: Animal Rescuer with a Heart of Gold

Today, I spent most my time watching videos on You Tube because my work load is not that heavy. This is one of the things that I do to rest or unwind a little bit so I will not get bored at my work. I was specifically glued watching videos of dogs being rescued and there are times, I can’t help myself crying for the poor dogs who are mistreated and abandoned.

I’m a dog lover and it makes me sad to see dogs who are left alone on the streets, dying, starving and no one taking care of them because their former owners dumped them for many reasons.  Ahhh.. it’s breaking my heart!

I’ve been following videos from ELDAD HAGAR, animal protector/rescuer for a while now and I have to say that he has a wonderful and golden heart for saving animals. There are so many animal rescues that he did and this rescue video of FIONA made me cry so hard. Fiona is blind and was living in the filthy streets. Arghhh…

Watch her story and for sure it’ll make you cry as well. The good thing is that she is now well, can see and have been adopted.

I was so moved and touched by Eldad’s love for the animals and even made a small donation at HOPE FOR PAWS hopeforpaws.org, an Animal Rescue Organization. You can also donate so that they can help these poor dogs get a second life.

I also have downloaded just today their “OUR LIVES HAVE GONE TO THE DOGS: Second Edition” book for free on my computer but I’m not yet through reading all the wonderful stories there.

I’ll be continuously following all the wonderful rescue videos on their YouTube channel and I hope they will not get tired of rescuing dogs. Thanks to the wonderful people who are saving animals esp. dogs.

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Value of Education

Education is a precious gift that we can give to ourselves, so as much possible if we have the opportunity, we should take that chance to study for we can all benefit from it. It’s sad to say that some students don’t take studying or going to school seriously but later in life they will realize the value of being educated even if you’re not a master degree holder.

These days, we should try to be patient in teaching the kids to study for there are many distractions already. Some maybe distracted with TV, iPad and different gadgets, computer games and more that is why they lose focus in studying. We need to set rules in the house such as time to play and time to study so that kids will know their boundaries. Also, as much as possible, let’s make the studying area neat and conducive in studying by removing the distractions away from them. Kids will follow as long as you talk to them nicely and tell them about what is good for them.

Degree of learning for kids is not all the same. Some kids learn fast while some kids tail behind or simply some are slow learners. We do not need to force them to learn something quick if we think and feel that kid needs a little more push. However, we cannot blame parents to push their kids to learn more for they want them to excel.

For some parents who are having a hard time teaching their kids with their school works or if their kids have some difficulties on certain subjects in school, this is where tutoring programs be of help. Tutoring is one-on-one and that can be done at the time you preferred that is why it is also convenient and beneficial. If your child needs help with English, School Tutoring Academy can help in reading comprehension, spelling, grammar, reviews and more. Math subject can be a challenge as well, that’s why learning math for some students need special attention.

Let us help students acquire and strengthen their skills though education that they deserve to have.

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Today.. 8/15/12

Outside my window… it’s so gloomy and raining because of Typhoon Helen that is battering northern part of the country.

I am thinking…of doing some digi-layouts tonight after finishing some of my online works.

I am thankful for… that we are not affected by the resent floods brought about by the torrential monsoon rain.

From the kitchen… our dinner is ready already. I cooked Pork Sinigang for lunch and there are many leftovers so that is what we’ll be having tonight.

I am wearing… my  fave red/dark pink duster in the house.

I am creating… new layouts for my Project 366 for 2012. I’m also half way done on my summer digi-kit.

I am going…to finish drinking my ginger tea that I’m having.

I am reading…  some blog entries of my friends via Google reader.

I am hearing… the sound of TV show “Sharon”, which is on right now.

Around the house…mom is watching TV, Sophie is outside.

One of my favorite things…my iPhone.

A picture I love: My dear sweet Sophie after eating her breakfast yesterday. I put a shirt on her because it’s cold because of the rain.

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The Love for Gardening

My 79 yr.-old mom definitely has a green thumb for she’s good in growing plants and gardening. Her love for plants and trees can be attributed to her father (my grandpa) who is a farmer back then. Grandpa used to plant rice and many vegetables at the field that he has been renting for many years back when he was still alive. I’m sure mom was exposed to planting activities that’s why it’s not unusual that she acquired grandpa’s planting skills.

Mom has a small garden in our front yard where she kept neat all the time. I often see her working on her garden planting, removing weeds, watering her plants/trees or just keeping the area clean. Right now, we have fruit trees (atis, mango and papaya) and many plants that look so healthy and well taken cared of.

If given the chance or if my sched would permit, I’d love the idea of toiling the soil and getting dirty as well especially now that flowering plants and herbs can be ordered easier at the nursery or even online just like at The Growers Exchange. It’s a great place for those who love gardening for they can find wide array of plants and supplies. Even those living in condos or don’t have enough space to grow plants will have no more reason not to plant because there are pots or containers where you can grow them. There are many plants that you can also grow indoors therefore making your house “green”.

Soon, I would love to have this Artichoke 'Imperial Star' flower in our backyard. I hope mom will plant one or if not I’ll try my hand in gardening too.

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Exercise Energized Me

Oh dear, this bed weather is making me sooooo lazy. The monsoon rain just passed and now typhoon HELEN just came in the country since last week. It’s been raining continuously and I just hope this storm will not leave too much destructions.

I’m also having some back and hip pains for the last 2 days now and I believe it is due to prolonged sitting in the chair while using my computer. Aside from that, I believe it is caused by my wrong position in bed while I’m sleeping because I woke up with back pains too. arghhh..

Today, I decided to do some exercise and I started it with some good stretching when I get up from my bed. Later on, I opened my pc and searched some zumba dance moves on Youtube and I found some that I followed.

I did some dancing for 30 mins and that already made me feel good and light. I have not done it in a while so this is refreshing. I feel energized afterwards even if I didn’t sweat a lot. I just need to do this more often so my sedentary lifestyle will be broken again.

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Loading Station Business

A very good friend of mine has ventured into business. She’s been telling me about opening a loading store where she can sell pre-paid cellphone/internet or game cards, cellphone loads and other service that involves cellphones. I’m just so happy for her because she finally had her dreams come through. Being a friend, I’ll support her all the way, I even made some small signage just a short bond paper sizes to get her started.

The business opened just few weeks ago and I heard that it’s doing well because the location is a busy area, which is very good. I also advised her to make a big tarpaulin for her business name and another one for the services that she offered. Those signage can attract more customers to come to her store.

Word-of-mouth is good but nothing beats if you’ll make your store be known through advertising or marketing. I have been seeing a lot of companies or stores doing all sorts of advertisements from giving away flyers, brochures, business cards etc. just to make their business known. These days, business owners need not worry where to order their brochures, posters etc. because they can even order online already. Conquest Graphics, an online printing company offers wide range of quality and affordable printing services. Don’t be left behind, advertise your company or store not just online on sites/blog and social networking sites but also via traditional forms of advertisement.

I know my friend’s business will prosper in no time as long as she’ll put her heart and dedication on it plus if she needs to know her customers’ needs.

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Google Doodles Tribute to 2012 London Olympic Games part 2

Here’s the part 2 of the Google Doodle’s tribute to of 2012 Olympic Games. I patiently waited at their site everyday to see what they have come up for the day.

I had so  much fun playing these interactive games such as as Hurdles, Basketball, Swimming and the Soccer at GOOGLE DOODLES the past few days.

This is their tribute to the CLOSING CEREMONY of the 2012 Olympic Games that ended August 12, 2012 at the Olympic Stadium. Millions of people witnessed the magnificent get together of athletes around the world. 2016 Olympics will be held in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. 

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Another Home Project in my List

As a homeowner, I have so many things that I wanted to be done at our home. Since our house was built in the early 80’s it is no wonder that it is already prone to damages and house problems already. There are times that we need to put sealant on the leaking roof, change roof gutters and even replacement and repair of some cabinets.

Just this year, a mini makeover was done at our house. I have our walls repainted again as it looks dirty or not appealing anymore. You see the signs of wear and tear as well so I decided to have it painted even though it costs me quite a lot. It was a massive work done, as our workers also need to assist us in moving almost all the furniture and other stuff in all the rooms. The house was a mess for a month but the result was very satisfactory for we have also done a major cleaning. Since our house was re-painted again, I bet it will take another 5 years or so to have it done again.

After that mini makeover, my home project is never ending for I have already put replacement of flooring on my list this time. I know it will take time for me to save up for that but at least I have a good start now by researching online and even getting suggestions or ideas from friends.

Our old vinyl tiles have shown wear and tear already. The edges are chipped off already and the beige color tuned into almost brown shade albeit thorough cleaning. It saddens me every time I see our floor but since the flooring industry has come a long way, I know there are new products that I can buy the next time I start our flooring replacement.

While browsing the Internet for ideas about flooring, I came across Carpet One, where I saw different kinds of flooring materials such as vinyl, laminate http://www.emersoncarpetonebatonrouge.com/laminate-flooring, hardwood, carpet and tiles. I am kinda liking the laminate flooring for it looks great and has heaps of grain and finish color that can match the theme of our house. The prices are also competitive and there are quite a number of brands to choose from. If the time comes for me to start my another home project, I know I have a good flooring source to get our supplies. Should you be renovating or just building your new house Carpet One is a good option to select.

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Google Doodles Tribute to 2012 London Olympic Games part 1

Google Doodles have been making tributes to people or events all the time and since The London Olympics 2012 is still going on, here is the Google Doodles Tribute to 2012 London Olympic Games. I always wait for Google page all the time to see what doodle they will come up each time and here are just some. I will post more Google Doodles that I have captured.

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Taking Care of our Elderly

While I was going through some photos on our old album the other day, I can’t help myself but to miss my grandmother (mother-side) when I saw our old photos. She was hardworking and can still manage to sell her homemade condiments in our neighborhood even though we told her not to work anymore because she’s old already. She did not die because of a major ailment or disease but it’s probably due to her old age where her body can’t function well anymore. She left us at age 93 and if would have been nice if she can stay for more years but it’s already God’s will.

When she can no longer walk properly or take care of herself, her daughter who never married is mostly on her aid. Aunt bathes her and assists her in so many ways without hesitation. It’s like giving back all the love that grandma showered her children when they are still young. Of course, at times we also give our support in whatever we can. 

In no time, it’ll be my turn to take care of my mom. She is turning 80 this year but she’s still strong, mobile and quite healthy though her blood pressure tends to shoot up at times. When the time comes when she can no longer do things on her own like going to the comfort room, I know it’ll be a good help to put the MoliCare comfort plus briefs on her for her comfort. In addition, there are also some helpful products that we can now purchase at www.parentgiving.com like mobility devices, medical supplies, beddings etc. just in case you need some stuff for your elderly at home.

It’s pretty hard to see senior people that has no relatives around them all the time because in some other countries, their elderly are just placed in senior homes. Please take care of our elderly for when it’s our time, we can have the same good treatment.

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Emergency or Hotline Numbers

Today, our country is faced with yet another calamity. The heavy down pour of monsoon rains made the Manila, Quezon City, Marikina City and nearby provinces such as Rizal, Cavite and more submerged in water.

Here are the emergency nos. that you can call if you have concerns. Be safe everyone. EVACUATE NOW, if you are in danger already because PAG-ASA said that it will still rain the whole day today.

If you have something to donate like food, clothing and more you can call these numbers as well.

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Family-friendly Home Décor

If you are planning for a new arrival there is much to do – outfitting the nursery is likely top of the list with a focus on a crib, crib mattress and a glide rocker – all of the things you will need as soon as the bundle of joy arrives. Savvy parents-to-be do as much research as possible upfront and make sue to sign up on the baby registry of the local bed and bath store; this way well-meaning gift givers will be more likely to proffer up what you want and need instead of something you will need to return or exchange.

It’s never too early to plan ahead and a new baby means home décor changes beyond the nursery. It’s important to make the bathroom safe and functional so everything from the bathtub needs thoughtful review and consideration. Cleaning supplies and hazardous items should not be stored under the sink; if they are stored in the vanity you will need to install a childproof lock. Even the actual bathroom hardware such as drawer pulls and knobs should be scrutinized to see if the are or can be childproofed or should instead be replaced. 

Bath time is a big part of parenting and you will want to be comfortable and keep baby safe. Invest in things like a bath spout protector and a water temperature gauge; a shampoo rinse cup will help to keep tears at bay. A bath seat or chair or a kneeling pad will make it easier for you to lean over the tub and bathe your child or supervise bath activities as you child grows up. Keep bath toys safely stored in a caddy or net bag secured to the tub enclosure wall with suction cups.

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Interactive Google Page: Hurdles

I checked out google.com today and look it has an interactive game of hurdles. It’s cute hahaha. I played it and my best time so far is 24.0 seconds. I will try again later to beat my time..lol

Try it before they change their page tomorrow.

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Massive Rain

Last night, I posted about how heavy the rains are and today it's the same. There's a heavy downpour and most houses in the low lying areas are submerged in water already. There's no typhoon in the country but the heavy rain and flooding are brought about by monsoon rains. We are all just worried because the levels of water in Marikina area is on critical level already while the La Mesa dam already spilled water making more areas flooded. A friend of mine, is already packing some of their things so they can evacuate in their second floor. I'm sure their outdoor fountain is filled with rain waters already and I heard that there's knee deep water on their street now.

I’m praying for the safety of my friends and relatives plus all the other families who are experiencing difficult times now. 

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Non-Stop Rain

Oh my gosh, it’s been raining non-stop for 2 weeks now! Right now, rain is not stopping and there are floods everywhere. PAG-ASA is already on RED ALERT and that means that evacuation is already needed on families living on low lying areas and esp. those near rivers or creeks.

Actually there’s no storm right now but the LPA (low pressure area) plus the monsoon rains are the culprit. I also heard on the news that the LAMESA dam is already on it’s spilling level that’s why there’ll be high levels of water now.

Be safe everyone! Evacuate if you are in danger areas.

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Outdoor Fun

I always been dreaming on embarking in a hiking somewhere with some friends that loves the great outdoors. I know I'm not a sporty person nor having an enthusiasm in many outdoor activities but it always cross my mind that I want to go and experience such. The thought of buying a tent, back pack, jackets etc. from sierra designs is already thrilling but how much more if I’m already on the go for a new adventure.

I guess when summer comes again, I need to condition myself going with my friends hiking.

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Under the Weather

Hello August!

The start of the new month for me is not quite good as I’m not feeling good since yesterday. It’s been raining for the fast few days because of the weather disturbance brought about by Typhoon Gener. Classes in many place have been cancelled due to flooding but fortunately our area is on a higher ground.

I have a slight fever with weak muscles yesterday morning but didn’t mind it that much but in the afternoon I felt different so I took a medicine and drink my fave ginger tea with honey. I also made myself warm when I slept last night and good thing that I woke up feeling fine already.  

The weather is still crazy  today and all along I thought I'm good already but here I am feeling weak and about to throw up. Yay!

Oh I hate being sick!

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