My Secret Corner

Day 3

2012-01-23T07:30:00.003-06:00

I don't know why, but I always wake up really early when I don't have to and want to sleep in when I have to wake up early. Today was one of those days. I was really looking forward to sleeping in while on vacation. But, so far, I've been waking up at 6am! Feel rested though so no biggie.

First thing I did was look out my window to see if the fog is gone. To my disappointment, it was denser than when we went to bed last night. I'm beginning to think the weather is going to be like this the whole week. But, on the bright side, we don't have to deal with freezing temperature and snow. Here, I get to wear shorts and flipflops. Plus, I get to enjoy some quality time with Rick. I get to blog as well! It's funner when facing the computer does not mean crunching numbers.

Things are never what we expect it to be. We just have to look at it in a different perspective and appreciate what was given. I am grateful.

The Big Easy

2012-01-20T22:16:00.002-06:00

Armed with my tour guide aka my husband and his credit card, I bravely walked down Bourbon Street... where Mardi Gras was made famous because of different colored beads and boobs flashing.

It was not even 5 o'clock and the street was packed with people, street performers, people trying to lure you into their bar and strippers. Yes, in broad daylight! We walked aimlessly trying to find a bar we'd like. It's weird how most of the people there were doing the same thing. Although, the bars were full of people as well. Different kinds of music blasted from each establishment. Ranging from Nicki Minaj to the famous Louisiana blues.

There was a variety of people as well. From a group of young women scantily clad to an old man using a walker to get around. Everyone seemed to have drinks in their hand. My guess was they were mostly tourist because they look lost just like we were. We settled for a mellow blues bar where drinks were expensive and entertainment was superb.

It was fun to see this part of the country. Learned about the bayou, civil war and Republicans. Rick is a very good travel companion. He's like the walking Wikipedia without the need for WIFI. Seeing the bridge that is very long was quite interesting too. It's very long you can't even see the other side!

Would I recommend this place? Absolutely! One should learn and experience other cultures. Best to go with a bunch of friends though. It's not a good place for honeymooners because it's a place to party! Rick and I both agreed on this.

A Time Away

2012-01-19T07:30:00.005-06:00

Today we leave for Florida. A much awaited time-off from work, cold weather, and life in general. The day to day mundane things of life can be overwhelming sometimes. We haven't been on a vacation for almost two years now. I forgot how being away and seeing new things is like.

It's going to be a long time before we finally make it to our destination. We have decided to take a 19-hour train ride instead of flying. It's like our own version of Amazing Race. It's like an obstacle course we have to tackle to win the most coveted price of sun and sand!

First stop - Tomah, WI. We have to drive there to catch a train that will take us to Chicago, IL. From there, take another train to New Orleans, LA. This will be a very long train ride... I hope WIFI is available on board. Then, once we get to New Orleans, LA we will rent a car and drive 5 hours to Panama City Beach, FL. We will spend 8 days there. Hopefully we will have good weather!

I'm hoping to blog during my down time... why now? Well, I stumbled upon an old journal of our trip to LA seven years ago. Reading what I was feeling/thinking back then made me smile and I was able to re-live the journey. This inspired me to write again.

Now off to start our adventure!

Here

2011-09-04T10:39:00.003-05:00

The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails. - William Arthur Ward

Best of Both Worlds

2010-07-15T07:08:00.004-05:00

Last night, I went to bed confused. I need to make a decision on my career. Early this year, I left my accounting job and decided to do one job, that is in the dietary department at the local hospital. I was miserable being an accountant. Not because of the work load, but because of the people I work with. I was happy working at the kitchen. Because the schedule is flexible and the people are fun! Most of all... food is abundant! We decided that the extra income wasn't really necessary. Plus I get to spend more time at home to do whatever we want. Or so I thought...

Now, five months later, I'm working almost everyday and struggling with our budget. It's been tough. I've been praying for a full time job. Then a couple of weeks ago, I got an email my from previous employer, offering me a new position in the company. This week, a posting at the hospital for a Finance Coordinator at the Business Office is available. Yes, my prayer has been answered! I should be jumping for joy, right? But no, I'm confused.

My heart tells me to go for the hospital position. But morals is telling me to go back to my previous employer and continue working at the kitchen at the same time. I'm thinking of doing the latter. I have obligations to my spouse. I need to spend time with him and we need to do things together. Working two part-time jobs will let me do that. Income will be about the same... and the flexibility will be nice. I'll just sacrifice my sanity and try to put up with dim wits.

Enjoy the best of both worlds! Just like Hannah!

Make-Over

2010-07-14T12:23:00.004-05:00

It was my birthday a couple days ago. Came home from work that evening and a beautiful cake was waiting for me on the kitchen counter. How sweet...

Yesterday, I decided to get a haircut. I'm bored with my look, work, routine and life in general. Since the only thing I can do something with is my looks, I headed to the salon for some make-over. My hairstylist was Amanda and she likes to talk. Worse, she talks with her hands! She kept me awake because I was worried she might poke my eyeballs out! She's nice and very helpful, but I'm not too fond of the result. I don't know why people here just don't get what layered look is all about! Even if I brought a picture! It's times like these when I wish I was back home...

Nothing much is happening over here. It's summer and we are enjoying the sun. We went to a couple camping trips so far and it was fun! During the day we hiked and biked and explored nature. At night, Rick builds a campfire, grill some steaks or brats for supper, while I sit and read my book. Very relaxing... After supper we sit around the campfire share stories while waiting for my s'mores to be done. Yum!

Camping is not all fun though, I hated it when spiders crawl on my legs, or when bugs refuse to leave me alone and just keeps buzzing in my ear! I even slapped myself hard a few times because of those bugs. Ouch! One time, there was a raccoon on our picnic table! It was fun watching it walk around looking for food. Then the neighbor came over to warn us about a bear lurking around too...

I am looking forward to doing some more camping, the s'mores trumps the insects, the raccoon and the bear in the woods! It is nice to be able to explore nature and enjoy a couple days away from technology and play scrabble for entertainment. Rick and I were able to spend quality time together. Literally. And I like that. But for now, I have to work and save up for more trips.

Oh, if you didn't notice, my blog has a new look! I like it and I hope do as well!

It's a Holiday!

2010-05-31T09:43:00.002-05:00

Happy Memorial Day, everyone!

It is a holiday today. A day to remember the fallen soldiers. I am not into the holidays here. Not because I don't like it here, but because I don't know the history. Besides, I rarely get the time off. So it does not benefit me that much.

But today, I get the day off. A day of chores and relaxation. Maybe a little biking if the weather continues to be nice. I have been busy lately trying to help my parents figure out the documents they need for their immigration. They have so many questions about the process and I don't know the answer to all of them! Hopefully they're done before the end of the year. I would hate for them to come over during winter. It would be such a shock to their system! Summer would be perfect as they would slowly ease in to the cold winter months. Plus, fall is a really beautiful season, I'm sure they'd enjoy that! Something pleasant to look forward to before the long dreary months of winter kicks in. I'm excited for my parents.

I'm thinking though, that this move will be hard on Rick. Our dialect, food and the culture is different. I never really thought about that, but now that it's coming... I am beginning to worry. He gets along with them fine. But, that was short term. Just a visit. Now, my parents are coming to stay! I'm sure we will be alright. Besides, we can always use the camper if it gets too crowded in here. Wish us luck!

I'll really try my best to speak English at all times. (cross my fingers)

Road Trip - Day 4

2010-03-27T22:24:00.002-05:00

San Francisco Peaks

I did not realize there will be a day 4 on our road trip. But, there was. A four hour drive to our final destination proved to be scenic again. The mountains was not as high as Colorado, but it was still beautiful. Still scary, but not as bad.

So this morning, we head back to the canyon as planned. Took a couple of bus rides, which was free, and explored the different sites of the canyon once again. It was a beautiful day. Breezy, cool and the sun was out. Not a lot of people at the park that morning, I guess we were too early for the big crowd, which was good! We left the park at around noon because I was getting hungry. I get crabby when not fed and Rick knows that, so we skipped the third bus and head out. There was a long line of cars by the entrance then. Lucky us! We beat the crowd.

Our final destination - Scottsdale, AZ. We arrived this afternoon and was blown away by the very nice accommodation. Room is a suite. It has a nice kitchenette, dining table, full size couch in the living room area, TV speakers are surround sound, big shower and a hot tub! Plus, get this... a king size Tempurpedic bed! Never had I stayed in such a lovely room. Clean, very spacious and comfortable! The grounds are nicely kept too. Flowers and grass everywhere. The place is called Orange Tree Golf Resort, a timeshare we found on Ebay. Very nice indeed!

We plan to check out campgrounds while down here. We might be heading this way next winter. Rick coudn't handle the cold anymore. Hopefully we will a decent place.

Well, I'm going to try out our bed now! Sweet dreams...

Road Trip - Day 3

2010-03-26T21:34:00.001-05:00

We battled the forces of nature today. Wind, rain, sleet and then snow.

We were expecting the drive to be seven hours. But it turned out to be nine. The roads were still winding and high, but not as bad as the Colorado Rockies. We left the hotel early as we were planning to stop at a couple of places. Breakfast at the hotel was a little disappointing. But, oh well, it was free. I felt lucky with our hotel selections, nice clean rooms, plush beds and most of all cheap! We never went over our budget yet. Hope it stays that way.

Our first stop was the Arches National Park, it was already raining and some sleet when we got there. Not bad, we just put on our winter jackets and we should be fine. Or so we thought. Our car crawled on the steep drive towards the arches. Not even a mile of driving, the rain turned to snow. Heavier snowfall and visibility was down to zero! We turned around and head back down. Disappointed but with a promise to return on our way back. Weather permitting.

After we left the park, the weather didn't get any better. Snow was on the road. Visibility was down to a quarter of a mile. So Rick had to drive slower. He was getting cramps on his hands from holding on to the steering wheel, because the wind was getting stronger. I felt bad because I couldn't help him. He refused to let me drive in such bad road condition. The weather got better eventually. We were gonna stop at the Monument Valley but decided against it. It was getting late and besides, it was still raining. The weather in the mountains is very unpredictable.

So we kept going until we arrived at the Grand Canyon. It was really grand! Awesome and unique view. Rick explained to me that it was formed by the Colorado River and millions of years of erosion. It was a monumental proof of how old the earth is. Amazing. Nothing like this in the Philippines! I guess islands are not as old... must have been formed from volcanic eruptions. It was really windy so I was terrified to even hold on to the railing for some pictures. Managed to force a smile just for the sake of some keepsake. The wind calmed down towards sunset and we managed to have quite a few pictures that was worthwhile.

Well, I'm going to get some sleep now. We had a Mexican dinner and it was delicioso! We're heading back to the canyon tomorrow and take the bus rides. Hopefully the weather will cooperate.

Experienced nature's beauty at its finest today. God is great!

Road Trip - Day Two

2010-03-25T21:17:00.005-05:00

I survived the Rockie's drive.

Woke up this morning excited to see the long awaited Colorado mountains. Lo and behold! They were MOUNTAINS! The roads were carved along the valley of the Rockies. High and winding all the way up and down. I am scared of heights, you see. So I found the drive very stressful. My hands were clammy and hanging on to whatever the entire time. I finally got used to it towards the end. Was able to finish my lunch - a six inch sub. Took me almost 3 hours to eat the entire thing! Was too scared it might come right back up!

Rick said he was disappointed in me. He thought I would surely enjoy going through the mountains. I did enjoy it. I was amazed by all it's glory and splendor. But the height and what seems like forever steep roads, freaked me out. Never in my entire life had I experienced such a ride. It was both awesome and scary. I'm sure I'll be able to enjoy it more on our way back. Now that I know what to expect.

Well, off to bed now. Tomorrow would be the Grand Canyon. Hopefully it wont be as stressful.

Road Trip to Arizona - Day 1

2010-03-24T20:51:00.004-05:00

Our long awaited trip finally happened today. We left around eight for our 3-day road trip to Arizona. Car is packed to the brim! We have to pack two weeks worth of clothing. No choice because I don't want to do any laundry while on the road. Brought a bunch of munchies too to entertain ourselves because we will be on the road for 10 hours everyday for the next 3 days! I know... it would have been quicker if we flew... but then, we wont see much! This way, we get to see the Rockies and most of all... the Grand Canyon!

Well, we survived the first day. Saw a lot of wind mill today and I fell in love with it. Seeing them all lined up, turning and producing power at the same time, amazed me somehow. Took a bunch of pictures of it. Crazy! The view was mostly of cornfields. So nothing exciting. But Rick said tomorrow's drive will be more scenic! I'm excited! We'll be going through the Rocky Mountain High of Colorado tomorrow. Plus, it won't be a very long drive like today!

We are relaxing now in our comfy hotel room. We just got done with supper, so now, we are getting ready for bed. I sort of promised myself to write an entry for this trip as much as I can. To somehow remind me of the entire experience.

Will be posting pictures soon..

Spicy Chorizo Shrimp

2010-03-19T20:50:00.004-05:00

This was our supper last night. It's quick and easy to make. I was a big Rachel Ray fan for a while. Tried a few of her recipes and kept the ones we loved. This dish was a big hit to my mother in law and brother in law. But when I made it for my family in the Philippines, it tasted different, so they did not like it. The chorizo there is really sweet, while the one's here is based on a Mexican recipe. Which is quite spicy.

Click here for the recipe.

A Milestone

2010-03-04T06:56:00.004-06:00

I am officially a US Citizen!

The Naturalization Ceremony happened last November 2009. Took the Oath of Allegiance and had burger and fries afterward. A typical American food. It never really meant anything to me back then, other than, finally I can petition my parents. But today, when I received my US Passport, I truly felt like I belong here. I am an American Citizen. I say that proudly with a smile on my face. It never felt so good hearing those words. It felt like doors of opportunities finally opened up for me. I really don't know why I feel this way because those doors were never closed in the first place. I feel like I can do more with myself now. Empowered!

I told my manager about it and she said she's very proud of me. She knows about my countless immigration appointments and how sometimes she had to change the schedule to accommodate those. She's been very patient with me. That's why, even if my job there isn't very glamorous, I chose to stay because of the people I work with.

Rick and I did not really celebrate this milestone. I wanted to throw a red white and blue party, me wearing a blond wig and serve all American food. That never happened. Never found the time to plan it. Maybe when my parents come then I will throw a party for them and for me with that same idea! Hmmm... that's a thought. Thinking about it makes me excited already! I can finally wear a blond wig! Well, at least have an excuse to wear one anyway.

Dreams do come true! One day at a time...

Whew!

2010-02-27T09:10:00.004-06:00

It's a quiet Saturday morning, the cats are even sleeping! They usually run around like crazy this time of day so that i'll let them out. I just got done reading Jackie's blog (she's Rick's niece, who's in London right now for school) and it somehow reminded me of my own. It's been a while... But life has been hectic for me. Scrambling to relinquish my title as an accountant, year-end audit, catching up with chores and family matters. Sometimes it felt like I was being pulled in different directions. It was exhausting!

Down to one job now. Lesser work hours. Lesser income. Happy though that now I get to spend more time with my sweet... He calls me sweet potato now. I think it's cute. It was sweetheart before, but he decided against it. He said it was too common. One point for originality! haha.

Now that I have more time spent at home, maybe i'll start a food/cooking blog. That should be interesting... Growing up, I was more of a food critic than a cook. But ever since I became a wife, I started learning. Now I even bake! My sisters were so surprised when they found out. Speaking of which, I better start making Barley Bread! Promised my mother-in-law i'd bake her one.

It's never too late to learn something new...

Alone

2009-11-17T22:13:00.008-06:00

Eighteen entries and there's only a month left for the year. I suck at blogging. I admire those people who keeps their commitment to their blog. I have chanced upon quite a few who regularly updates their blog. Most of them are about cooking. Well, I suck at cooking too! So there! I just don't have a venue for blogging. My life is not that exciting. I live in Spooner, WI. Nothing happens in Spooner. But I like having the opportunity to write once in a while. It's nice to go back and read my thoughts.

Speaking of cooking, I made pinakbet, leche flan and banana bread tonight. I am home alone. Rick had to go help out his mom for a couple of days. So, I took this opportunity to make dishes that I don't usually prepare when he's here. He doesn't eat vegetables and he can't have sweets. Our usual meals consist of meat and potatoes. My version of dessert is unwrapping a chocolate bar. He doesn't stop me from making my own meals or indulge on a sweet treat, but, it's just a hassle making two separate dishes! The vegetables was such a nice change that, right now, I feel like I'm going to blow up from overeating! The leche flan didn't turn out too well. I found out afterwards that you're suppose to mix by hand, not with an electric mixer. I'm bringing the bread to work tomorrow. Hopefully they'll like it.

It's almost midnight and I'm tired. But, I couldn't sleep. I hate being alone in this big empty house. Well, our house is not big, but it sure feels like it when you're all alone! It's times like this when I wish that my chaotic family was here. I miss them. Heck, I missed them when I was there! The thought of leaving them again made me miss them. Anyway, I am tired because I raked the yard this afternoon. It was nice out, sun was shining and it was in the fifties. Perfect day for raking! It helped kept me from being too lonesome. But boy, is our yard huge! Got blisters, my back and arms are sore! I'll whine to Rick when he gets home. I might make him baked macaroni tomorrow if I feel like it.

Check this out! She's got really good recipes! They're easy to make too.

Vacation

2009-10-02T09:48:00.007-05:00

It's been awhile since we got back from our month long vacation in the Philippines. Took me some time to get used to the quietness of our home and the food. Tried to recreate the dishes that my dad made but couldn't. I believe it's not the ingredients that makes the difference or how you cook it, it's the company you have at the dinner table that gives the food it's distinct taste. Slowly I forced myself to acclimate to my old life again. It's hard. But I think I'm doing all right.

The vacation was a surprise to my family. That's why I couldn't make an entry about the preparation and excitement that I was feeling. Only one sister knew we were coming. Must have been hard keeping our secret! So, armed with a suitcase full of pasalubong, we flew. 20 hours of flight time and I was back in my native land. The applause when we landed at the NAIA got me teary eyed. I'm home! Well, sort of... I was back in my native land! The excitement in the plane was unbelievable. Rick asked me if I was happy to be back... a smile and a nod was all I can handle. I knew if I opened my mouth, I would burst into tears. Weird. I can't explain the feeling... but I was ready to cry... because I was happy! :-)

I can still see my parents' huge smiles when they saw who pulled up in front of the house. I was so happy to see everybody again. It was like being in a dream. Well, it was kinda... Haven't slept for more than 30 hours. Rick and I were instant celebreties! It was uncomfortable at first. I'm not used to all the attention, you know. Besides, I didn't want the neighbors to know we were there, hence the surprise. But I guess it's hard to hide a white guy! Haha!

The month was over in a flash! Friends and relatives I promised to visit, never happened. I did get to see some of them... but it wasn't enough. I felt bad. They must have thought I became a snob. But it was my first time as a balikbayan. I didn't know what the protocol was... So i hope they will forgive me and give me another chance. In the future, we will plan our vacation better. I know now that one can never have too much chocolate. That's the one thing a balikbayan should never forget.

Although there was a lot on my to do list that didn't get done and with Rick getting sick, we still had fun. I felt bad for him. But being sick did not dampen his spirit or stop him from enjoying the sun and sea! It was fun to bond with my brothers and sisters again as well. They have grown so much and had become their own person. I had to get to know them all over again. I got to meet my two adorable nephews too! Oh, how I miss them! I miss everything, Filipino! The noise, the mall, friends, family and food! Can you believe I did not have any durian at all? I may not be a big fan, but it's a must when visiting Davao. Oh, such shame! We did get our tan and ten pounds... So we're good!

It was a relief that we were running late for our flight back. Quick hugs, kisses and goodbyes was exchanged at the airport. No time for tears. Thank God for that! Tears welled in my eyes as we were walking in. I refused to look back because it's hard. I felt bad for leaving them again. Goodbyes are always hard, but the promise of coming back soon somehow helps.

At Work

2009-07-08T10:09:00.003-05:00

The cat is away again! Time to play!

Woke up really early this morning. I think it was not even 4am yet. Started thinking about the changes I had to make on my financial reports. Yesterday, I got to visit with somebody who's supposedly was an "expert" in finances. Showed him what I do, the recording and the reports... He suggested a thing or two like to further simplify my reports. I guess it was too complicated for the board members that's why he had to check on me. But oh well, can't please everybody! Anyway, he was all praise about my work. He said I was a genius in PeachTree (the accounting software we use) and that he was so impressed with the quality of work that I do. He said it to a couple of our board members and my boss. I was elated when I went home. A few kind words made me forget my frustrations. At least for the rest of the day yesterday. This morning I was greeted by my computer with an error. The smile quickly fade away... Life is not perfect, so I just have to deal with it.

Broke!

2009-07-06T09:26:00.008-05:00

I'm officially broke.

It is such a sad sad feeling knowing you can't afford to buy anything. Not even a pair of flip flops! Although I don't need one... but it gives me comfort when I know I can buy anything I want without having to worry about it. I may sound selfish but I worked hard to be where I am now.. or should I say, where I was. I guess I should work harder and stop giving away my hours. Stop calling in sick and not leave early because I don't have anything else to do. I hate wasting the company's money, but what the heck! I am broke! I can't even afford to pick my own nose! Rick always uses that expression whenever he talks about somebody who's broke. But I never really fully understood the whole meaning of it. Oh well, I'll borrow his line anyway.

Ugh! I really don't feel too well right now. Being broke makes me nauseous. Weird. But, I only have myself to blame. As what most people say in times of trouble... "There's a light at the end of the tunnel." I can see a tiny glimpse of it now. There is hope after all.

Our Journey Together

2009-06-21T18:01:00.008-05:00

Here's a little something I created this afternoon out of boredom and idleness. Chores were done yesterday and the rain pretty much imprisoned us in our own home. I may have started the slide show out of boredom, but I had fun trying to recall what picture happened when. Rekindle the flame of love... It is our anniversary today. I want to share with you the pictures of Rick and me on our journey together...

While going through our photos, i couldn't help but dream of future trips together. We have been talking about touring Europe and going back to the Philippines... I hope it happens soon. I'll make sure we'll take pictures of us together. I noticed when we went to LA and Las Vegas, there was not a single picture of us together! Then I remembered we didn't have a digital camera before. We had his trusty ol' manual camera. I was embarrassed using that camera, let alone ask people to take our picture! Oh, those were the days...

To Rick,

All the things that the world has to offer,
From the mountains to the sea.
From sunrise until the moon shines.
It is more beautiful,
Because I get to share it with you.

Happy Anniversary! I love you!

Absence

2009-05-26T20:45:00.006-05:00

I know. It's been a while.

Ever since my Rick stopped working and became a full time husband, my days are filled with spending time with him. Seldom do we stay home on days when I don't have to work. Therefore my time in the computer is limited. So, rather than me windows shopping and him watching tv, he prefers to drag me out of the house and find something fun to do. I don't blame him! It can get boring being cooped up in the house all day. What we do varies each day, movie marathons, property hunting, garage sales, pick flowers for the yard, or simply a walk around the block. He just wants to get out of the house. We are into biking this time, the weather is just too beautiful to pass up... besides, we do need the exercise! We are planning to bike around Shell Lake, which is about 9 miles, so this should be interesting.

We went to the Keweenaw Penninsula in Michigan last week. It's beautiful up there. Nature's beauty at it's best! It never ceases to amaze me how wonderful God's creation is. And the way the Americans highlight and preserve it - awesome! I know there's more to see... but so far, not a hint of disappointment in me. While up there, we spent a night at a rustic cabin. Rick found out the hard way that he married a modern Filipina and not a humble girl from the boondocks. Let's just say it wasn't a pleasant stay and he had to hear about it. Some of the little quirks about me that he still didn't know.

Marriage is indeed a lifelong process of getting to know your partner. It will have it's highs and lows, ups and downs. You are each others' cheer leader. It's a journey. Savor every moment.

Greetings

2009-05-10T07:15:00.001-05:00

I'm taking a break from my very busy life to greet all mothers out there, who made life more beautiful and meaningful by their presence in this world. Thank you for giving us life.

To my Mama,
On special days like this,
the very best way to say everything
that's in my heart
is to say...

I love you!

Alone

2009-04-17T18:28:00.002-05:00

I literally had to beg Rick to go out with his friends tonight. He looked at me last night with sad eyes. He asked if I was sick of him. Sometimes a person just needs some alone time. Time to think and ponder on issues about life and things... No, I am not sick of him. But I miss the days when I anxiously wait for him to come home. The joy of seeing him come through the door, the "welcome home" kiss and the happy feeling of not being alone anymore. I know it sounds weird. But it was our thing when he was still working. Nowadays, it's the other way around. I miss our old thing. But this is our life now and I accept that without a problem. Although it wont hurt to visit my alone time sometimes. Just like today.

Photography

2009-04-17T17:24:00.010-05:00

Not so many blog entries ago, I had mentioned that Rick got a DSLR camera for his birthday. To my disappointment, he doesn't use it that much. His hand is not very steady. He needs a tripod and a remote. We are still waiting on the later. So he has been asking me to take pictures. With delight, I click away. I fell in love with photography. If only they're a tad cheaper, I'd buy me one as well. For now, I will settle with borrowing his. I know pretty soon he'll get sick of me hogging the camera. I'll try to control myself. I will control myself. Below are samples of our lame attempt in photography.

Father Andrew with Ella Jean after the baptism. He wont stop dancing!
But I captured a good one. They look so sweet together.

Rick took this picture of Amnicon Falls. We took a total of 80 shots that day. Only 10% came out good. Hey, practice makes perfect!

I took this one today. Another bloom from a plant I got from Rick
just because he missed me.

Have a nice weekend, everyone!

Trust

2009-03-22T08:54:00.004-05:00

Trust. Such a strong word. It's easy to earn it. But once you lose it, it's hard to gain it back.

It's typical for me to be shy and timid when I just met somebody. But once I warm up to you... I open my heart and let you in. I made that mistake with a co-worker. I trusted her with my aches, my dreams, my regrets and aspirations. Yesterday I found out from a mutual acquaintance how she has been talking about me behind my back. Good or bad it doesn't matter anymore. Trust has been broken. She lost a friend in me. How awful it felt when I found out about it. It's not something I would wish on anyone. So I am not going to tell her what I have heard. From now on, i'll just keep my thoughts to myself.

A lesson has been learned from this experience. This morning I woke up with a renewed vow. Trust no one but your best friend. I'm lucky to have found that in my family and a few Filipino friends. It'll be a while or perhaps never, will I ever trust another American soul to be my friend.

Trust. Guide it with your heart.

Birthday Wish

2009-03-15T07:12:00.008-05:00

It's Rick's birthday again! No plans yet! I really wanted to throw him a party but he repeatedly refused despite my constant nagging. We are not anti-social, we love our friends and would want to spend time with them. But I guess, when you are in pain, you don't really feel like hanging out with a bunch of people. So I gave him what he wanted. Peace and quiet. And a camera to rekindle his love for photography. Hopefully he'll figure out the controls and functions. It is kind of complicated.

Nothing is planned so far. Church then brunch then whatever. He wants to barbecue a rack of ribs but let's see if all the snow has disappeared from the weekend's warm spell. If not, then off to a fancy restaurant! McDonald's perhaps? My treat! :)

To my Richard,

Wishing you promising years ahead.
Good fortune, good health, lots of travel and love.
Let's explore the world together and have fun!

I love you and I love my life with you.

Happy birthday, sweetheart...

xoxo

I Can't Drive 55

2009-03-15T06:13:00.008-05:00

I Cant Drive 55 - Sammy Hagar

Nostalgia

2009-02-27T21:40:00.005-06:00

F4/Meteor Garden. They were rocking the scene when I left.

Amazing! I finally had a day with nothing to do and I actually got bored! It’s half past nine now. Almost bed time. I’ve been ~~singing~~ screaming my lungs out for an hour now. Am in youtube trying to entertain myself. Decided to search for Filipino karaoke and realized how I don’t know a lot of the songs anymore. Specially current ones. It’s like I am frozen in time. My last memory of Filipino songs are from Regine Velasquez, Sarrah Geronimo and Aiza Seguerra. My heart still skips a beat whenever I sing their songs. Brings back memories of how I would scan the stalls in the overpass to Gaisano Mall for current pirated videoke dvd’s. How Sunday afternoons were spent with my sisters belching away ‘til supper time. It usually rains whenever we had our singing sessions. A blessing for the neighbors. hehehe..

Oh, how time flies. Five years. A lot has changed since then. I bet my sisters would laugh at me if we have one of our get together again and I would request to sing Dadalhin. I can just hear them teasing me… Boy, I’m old. And out of touch. Fashion. Trend. Music. Everything. I am an oldie…

It’s actually called life.

Happiness Is...

2009-02-19T18:06:00.000-06:00

Life hasn't been the best for the past few weeks. But the hardship did not dampen my spirits. I remain to be true to my name. Happy. A blessing. During hard times is the best time to think about good stuff. So when I found out that Odette, the little miss firefly, is having a contest in her blog, I made sure that I'll find time in my busy life to somehow join and try my luck. What have I got to lose, right? Anyway, at the end of this month, she'll have a random drawing for the goodies that she made herself. It's really simple, you just need to make a blog entry about happiness... Details of the contest is posted in her blog. So, if you're interested, do drop by her blog and say hello. You'll find interesting stuff like craft and recipes there. But most of all, you'll find a friend.

Closing my eyes now and going to my happy place... :)

Happiness is...

knowing that somebody missed you while you were gone.
a random gift from your special someone. the occasion? - just because!
a warm bed at the end of a cold winter day.
having someone to cuddle no matter what the season.
being blessed and becoming a blessing.
having friends who care and share.
being loved and loving in return. unconditionally!

Hello

2009-02-03T18:26:00.003-06:00

I have a quick minute to spare. Laundry is churning away downstairs. TV blaring in the living room. I miss being home.

For some unknown reason, I feel like my life suddenly changed from being relaxed and predictable, to complete chaos and stress. Did not sign up to be in this rat-race of being employed, but I definitely found myself in one. I'm exhausted. I have been longing for change but it seems like it's nowhere near in sight.

Rick lost his job a couple weeks ago. He spends most of his days with therapy and at the doctor's office. Yes, he hasn't been feeling quite himself. In fact he applied for disability. Poor thing... it seems like anything that could go wrong, is happening to him. But despite his health problems, he continues to fight and refuses to give in to pain. At least he is trying to. I help encourage him and lift up his spirit. I try to, at least.

Before, I can afford to miss a lot of days at work. I gave away my hours just so I can be with Rick and do stuff together. But now, I look for more hours to work. I am barely home. That is why I am exhausted.

A quick minute is all I can spare now. Time is precious.

Music to my Ears

2009-01-23T20:32:00.002-06:00

The beginning of the song is my favorite. Didn't really pay attention to the rest of the song. But it is easy to listen to so i am sharing this with you. Enjoy!

I'm Here

2009-01-18T21:48:00.008-06:00

I really wanna write something with sense. So much to say too little time. Still swamped with work and chores. I have learned a lot these days. I'm getting to know more about myself. A big change had happened to us. There's a good and a bad side to that change. I am excited and worried at the same time. Will elaborate when I can finally devote more time to at least finish a decent entry. But for now, I want you to know that I am here, still alive, breathing the crisp air of winter, facing a new challenge everyday, challenges I face with a brave face and a hopeful heart. I also want to leave you with a picture inspired by Odette - the little miss firefly, who shared her secret to amazing photo editing. Thank you.

Picture It

2009-01-04T18:42:00.002-06:00

My version of lechon paksiw. Yum!
(pork roast, cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, laurel leaf, cinnamon, thyme, pork gravy, salt and pepper)

Twilight Madness

2009-01-04T15:23:00.006-06:00

Why Bella Swan?

Why Stephanie Meyer?

I can't stand what happened in Eclipse. Two sleepless nights were devoted to finish two books. Bored. Disappointed. Halfway through the third book I was down to reading just the dialogue. I finished the book just for the sake of finishing. Twilight was indeed so much better than it's sequel. I wish it was a book by itself rather than a series. It would have been better. I would have been happier. It's only a book I know... but all the fuss about how good it was and how great a writer she is made me curios. But honestly, I was very disappointed. I was pouting when I finally put down the book. You can't blame me if I am not too excited to read Breaking Dawn.

Yes I am mad! Losing sleep over these books was not worth it. Hmp! I hope The Deathly Hallows is better reading.

I was bitten and it hurt!

Greetings!

2008-12-31T21:20:00.004-06:00

Another year is about to end. A new one is coming. We celebrated new year's eve with a fancy dinner - Steak and Seared Scallops with Manhattan Sauce. Yum! The afternoon was spent tidying up the place that's why I am in my polka dot jammies. Pardon me for wanting to be comfy while eating my fancy meal. Good thing my date didn't complain! He even paid for the meal! I ended up doing the dishes though. :-)

A new year, for me, signifies a new beginning. Another chance to make one's life better. Another opportunity to attain our goals, dream some more, love and live!

Happy New Year, Everyone! Cheers to a great year! Wishing you happiness, good health and abundant blessings for the days to come!

Christmas Greetings

2008-12-23T22:39:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas!

Life in the Fast Lane

2008-12-23T21:17:00.004-06:00

It's weird how I have been feeling rushed all the time. The whole month of December has been a big blur. Early in the month I have to prep people at my morning job for the week that I will be on vacation. Had to update inventory, balance the bank and made sure everything is in it's place so that they don't have to worry about finding stuff. It was good to know that they didn't have a problem while I was gone. Makes me worry a little, but otherwise, proud that teaching them did pay off.

A week has gone by since we came back from our vacation. Not a day was spared to relax. We jumped right back to work. Had payroll, auditors and doctor's appointment to deal with. Our house was a mess! Dirty laundry over flowing from the hamper, mementos from our trip all over the place, and the cats had been digging in the plants! But no time to clean. Had to keep working, day and night. It was hard catching up at first, specially with auditors always asking for reports. But in three days my inbox was all empty! Laundry was done by Rick since I was gone most nights to work. A little tidying here and there, and now our house feels like home again! Somehow I don't feel as rushed anymore either.

Our trip to the Bahamas (Freeport/Lucaya area) was fun. Although we were off to a rough start with a bumpy flight and choppy boat ride. But once we finally got to our destination, it was relaxation haven. The place was really nice. The rooms were comfy, surroundings were clean and most of all, the people who works there were really friendly. The buffet wasn't disappointing either. We didn't have the greatest weather. It was cloudy, windy and a little bit chilly, specially at night. Rick kept complaining about how there's no sun. But I was secretly cheering for its absence. The Filipina in me still cowers from the harsh rays of the sun. I really want a lighter skin complexion. Don't ask me why. The resort offers a lot of fun activities like trapeze, dancing lessons, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and many more, but with strong winds and the fact that not a lot of people were there, most of the activities were cancelled. So for five days all we did was eat, lay by the beach, and drink cocktails while laying on the beach or by the poolside. It was paradise! An alcoholic's dream world! Booze was free-drink all you can! Too bad I am not a big drinker. But I was happy to try a few concoctions they had. Good food, free alcohol and the relaxing atmosphere made up for the crappy weather.

All in all the vacation was okay. It would have been great if we did more stuff rather than sit and be merry while gaining 20 lbs! But it was worth the trip. Rick and I deserved it. Even if it was just a little sun, we still came home with a tan. :-) Conquered my fear of boats with the help of a little tiny pill! I am really glad though that the boat ride and flight back home was smooth, or else I would never step inside a boat or a plane ever again! We were jolted back to reality the moment we stepped out of the airplane. Vacation was officially over. We came home to below zero temperatures and almost a foot of snow. Worst - no food in the fridge! Like I said earlier, it's been over a week since we got back, but we still didn't have the chance to do some grocery shopping. Frozen pizza is our best friend right now. Both Rick and I are so busy, we hardly see each other. Yesterday, I mailed out the Christmas cards. Today, we bought, then wrapped the gifts. Tomorrow, we head out to my in-laws for Christmas Eve dinner. Now, that's what you call Christmas rush! It's sad in a way we don't get to savor the beauty of the season. We don't even have a tree! Now we know not to plan another vacation around Christmas time!

When are we going to have a day to ourselves? Soon I hope...

Whew!

2008-12-05T19:10:00.006-06:00

Have you ever had one of those days where nothing is going right? Well, my whole week had been like that. We are currently redoing our bathroom and so our patience as a couple has been tested again. Rick and I have been butting heads since Monday because of this ongoing remodeling. Our frustration gets the better of us, so we end up blaming each other. Like when the texture painting idea didn't work. Or when sanding the newly texture painted wall became too messy. I guess the root of all our problem was the textured paint. Imagine, we had to drive two hours just to get that special paint. At that time, the idea seems brilliant and doable. But two days of making that stuff work was torture! Online tutorials looked so easy but no matter what we do... it just wont work! It does not look like the picture! I don't easily give up on a given task, so I kept redoing it until the can was empty! Yah I'm stubborn and I hate defeat. But I admit it, I failed. Big time! Our cheap way of fixing things got way off hand and we ended up spending more. Frugal me hated the whole process, while my hubby just wanted the job done no matter the cost! After three days with no sink in the bathroom and the toilet paper mysteriously disappearing, I waived my white flag in surrender and gave up the fight. A new wall is up. Might be done tomorrow!

To make things worse, things didn't go well at work either. For some unknown reason, orders just kept pouring this week! My usual boring mornings, turned into a zoo of invoices and packing slips. The busy-ness robbed me of my zen moments - online shopping! I don't know why, but browsing pretty clothes, shoes, purses and sparkling jewelries, makes me happy. Pretty things makes me happy... So my week was basically a cycle of arguments, sleepless nights and busy mornings. But I survived. Rick and I survived. Things are back to normal now. I am back to experimenting in the kitchen and shop online for bathroom accessories. We even have a sink in the bathroom now! The weekend looks really promising... two parties tomorrow and a movie date with my Richard on Sunday! I can now breath a sigh of relief... bad things do come to an end!

Have a nice weekend everyone!

My Eyes!

2008-12-04T19:37:00.008-06:00

not me

Had an eye exam yesterday. Wore glasses for a while in college but all the optometrist did was let me read the eye exam chart then gave me my glasses! I have been getting really bad headaches lately and that prompted me to see the doctor. Little did I know that an eye exam here is way too different from that in the Philippines. The test lasted for more than 30 minutes, so many questions and bright lights were involved! The worst part was when he dilated my pupils. Two different eye drops, one to make my eyeballs numb and the second one to dilate my pupils. Scared me when he mentioned the numbing part. Thought he was planning to scratch my eyeballs out! Whew! Got out of the clinic and I couldn't see a thing! Everything was a blur. I was glad Rick was with me because I don't think I would have been able to drive. The evening plans were canceled because my painful eyeballs. Had a headache all night as well. I kept looking at my eyes in the mirror and I was horrified at how big my pupils were! Thought I was bitten by Edward Cullen! hehehe... Whined all night because of my pain. Rick, on the other hand, who had the eye exam as well, was fine and laughed at me for being such a baby. I swear I was really in pain...

My eyesight is back and no more headaches. Will get my prescription glasses in a week or two. Will post a picture of the "smart" me soon. :)

Funny!

2008-11-17T11:15:00.003-06:00

Not much going on here at work.

Trying to entertain myself and found this video. Enjoy!

Winter Time!

2008-11-11T19:53:00.004-06:00

Flurries started last Saturday. Not much accumulation then. Tonight, still flurries but it stayed on the ground this time! I couldn't help but smile. Winter is one of my favorite season. Everything is crisp and when snow comes, all is white! It's great for cuddling and yummy stoups and soups. Cloudy days are no fun though. It's dreary and makes me feel gloomy. But today was great! All day the sun was out and the snow didn't come until later in the day. I was already in the comforts of home and my ever famous pj's... sipping a cup of hot cocoa while watching my all-time favorite rerun - Gilmore Girls!

Kiss the snow, Hello!

In My Kitchen

2008-11-10T20:36:00.012-06:00

Have been browsing the net yesterday trying to find easy ways to decorate a cake. Making desserts is part of my job at the hospital. I make cookie dough, bars, cake and other sweet stuff. They all come out pretty decent. In other words, it's edible. I heard talks though of how my cakes are so blah. They taste good but not pleasing to the eyes. Therefore, they don't sell very well! It didn't upset me because I know they were boring. I simply follow the instructions on the box, put on some frosting and that's it! So now I want to spice it up a little bit. I thought I'll find some help online. But I was wrong. All I saw was professionally done decorations. They were too hard to duplicate. I'm not giving up on my quest though. I know it's out there.

In my browsing, I stumbled upon quite a few personal blogs. A lot of the blogs talks about food. They feature their own creation with pictures and a recipe for those who wants to try it for themselves. It was really inspiring. Makes me wonder why I never feature any of my dishes. Most of my cooking is copied from Rachel Ray. Her recipes are easy to follow and they're delicious too. I do have a few of my own. Nothing too fancy because I like it quick and easy. Here's a sample of my own creation. Below is my Tater Tot Casserole. Brown the ground beef. While meat is cooking, cook tater tots according to package directions. Add mushroom slices to beef. Pour cream of mushroom soup. Season with pepper. Let simmer until everything is cooked through. Transfer meat mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked tater tots . Sprinkle some cheddar cheese and bake until cheese is melted. You can add any vegetable to the meat like corn and green beans. We couldn't wait for the cheese to melt. Enjoy!

My Weekend

2008-11-09T19:21:00.006-06:00

Another weekend has gone by and I still feel tired. Back to work tomorrow and I am so not looking forward to it. I love my pj's too much. Didn't do much while at home. Was a domestic diva for the weekend. I cooked the meals, cleaned up the kitchen, did the laundry and oh! was a massage therapist too. That's the glory or being a housewife. No, I am not complaining. I love playing housewife once in a while. I am too much of a workaholic that I feel guilty about leaving Rick at lot. Pampering him once in a while is my way of paying him back for the patience and the understanding he unconditionally gives me. It's really a nice feeling to be loved...

Anyway, did a little shopping yesterday and I got a pretty good deal with my loot. Paid a total of $6.58 for nine items. Including a pair of jeans! I know! It's crazy! Couldn't believe it myself. Wanna hear something else that's crazy? This afternoon, while preparing supper, I watched the last few minutes of the Vikings-Packers football game with Rick. The Vikings were behind 27-21. Rick was all upset as usual because his team is going to lose again! Tried to lift up his spirits by telling him they're going to score a touch down and they did! The call was challenged by the other team and so he was all upset again. Told him don't worry, the call was correct... and it was! I was all smiles and told him to have a little faith... So the score was 27-28 Vikings. But the Vikings were still in trouble, the other team is in a scoring position now and is definitely going to win the game. They were going for the field goal (that's three points) with only thirty something seconds left on the clock. He gave up and started mumbling about how his team sucks. I told him the kicker is going to miss the goal. What do you know... the guy DID! I laughed. Who knows I have ESPN?! Unfortunately, he believed my ESPN word. I meant ESP my dear... I guess I am very unpredictable huh. :)

Misery Loves Companion

2008-11-08T08:57:00.007-06:00

Are you volunteering?

My days had been filled with so much stress lately. Rick and I are at the point in our lives where we have to make a decision in what to do with our future. In four more months, he can officially retire. But he doesn't know if he can last that long at his current job. Government funding is really limited and his resources is running low. He's tired of looking for grants day in and day out. Having a democratic president means that funding for environmental projects will be good again. But even if Obama won, CHANGE wont start happening anytime soon. I think it will be too late for Rick when it does.

Another dilemma we are facing is the health care. He gets his health insurance through work, right now, therefore not working means no health insurance. Not having health insurance in this country is a definite no no. You will be buried in debt if you don't have one. There are government programs, but it is for families with low income. We wont qualify even if we are just getting his pension money each month. A possibility we are considering is moving to the Philippines. Health care is affordable there, but I am not too sure if they are reliable. He had an emergency appendectomy the last time he visited me in the Philippines. A local doctor told him it's just constipation and prescribed him a laxative. He didn't get better overnight, so we decided to go to a bigger hospital. Well, turned out his appendix is about ready to rupture! That's why I am a little apprehensive about the idea of moving there for good.

Retirement and health care. That's basically the topic of our conversation nowadays. We mostly end up arguing and me getting upset. He is a very realistic person while I live in the "lala" land. I love shortcuts and quick fixes. He likes to dissect every idea to the core and always manages to find a flaw. While I drift into my wonderful world of fantasy, he always manages to pull me back to reality with a big thud! The eternal optimist in me hates it. But I have to agree, we have to be realistic sometimes. Friends had shared their ideas too and we are very thankful for the input. We would love to stay here and we will exhaust every possibility to make that happen.

Oh, if only life was easier then we don't have to argue or be crabby at work. I don't like sharing my misery. But the stress is sometimes too much to handle. We will have to decide and hopefully whatever we come up with, is the right choice. I leave it all in God's hands... Being a grown-up is really hard. I am not used to the thought of being responsible. I have always been dependent on my family. But now I have to stand on my own two feet and use my own mind. I know I have Rick and I can rely on him. But we have to make the decisions together. He likes it when I get involved. Therefore, he relies on me too to make decisions for us. I never had anybody rely on me before. Now, I have to grow up, suck it up and stop complaining. This is life!

So enjoy your youth while you can. Take advantage of the opportunity that is being given to you. Life gets harder as years go by... Carpe Diem!

Catching Up

2008-10-24T13:28:00.009-05:00

the view from my hotel room window

It has been a very stressful couple of weeks for me. Too much catching up to do after our hospital trip. Last week, I had to spend a couple nights at a hotel while Rick was in the hospital healing from a procedure done in his heart. The doctors had found a 70% blockage in one of his arteries. They had to put a stent in right away to prevent further damage. Everything went fine and he is home now, back to work and slowly trying to make his routine back to normal again. He's suppose to take it easy for a week or two. So far, he is good as new!

I was planning to write a post while I was in the hotel by myself. But I decided not to. Well, to be honest, I couldn't. The uncertainty of Rick's condition made me miserable. I didn't want to think or have time to think. The morning before Rick left for the hospital, he woke me up to say goodbye. It was not even six o'clock yet. He asked me if I know where his will is. He told me to inform his office that way I can get his life insurance. I was wide awake by then. Teary eyed and accusing him of being stupid. I told him he's not allowed to die! I know he was not joking and was just being realistic. But I don't want to deal with something so depressing, unless I have to. I'll worry about it when it happens. It was not fair of him to discuss such a thing with me, hours before they start poking around his heart! It felt like his last goodbye!

I was too upset/worried to go back to sleep after he left. Tossed in bed and finally decided to go back to my reading. For two nights I buried myself in the mythical world of Twilight. Pretending that the love of my life was invincible and immortal just like the character in the book. I know that's impossible. But sometimes it's nice to escape reality. Although sometimes, I caught myself just staring at the page and thinking about Rick. The thought of losing him was too scary to deal with. I wouldn't know what to do with myself. But right now, he is fine and here with me. That is more important than tomorrow.

So we are back home now. Busy catching up with work. Busy with chores at home. We have decided to change our lifestyle. Start reading labels and eat healthy. Stay away from red meat, fat and sodium. This is not a battle to lose weight anymore. It's about living and enjoying life. And for us to be together forever... I have to join him in his quest to stay healthy and live longer!

One Saturday

2008-10-12T07:59:00.030-05:00

Yesterday, Rick had to do some work and so he took me with him. The place was a couple hours away from home. But I did not mind at all. It was such a gorgeous day! Temperature in the seventies, the sun was out, and beautiful scenery! I really didn't expect much from the trip, coz it was work after all. All I wanted to see was the beautiful trees along the highway with its different colored leaves. I saw all that and more! Got me excited when we saw a sign saying Elk Crossing Area. With my camera ready, we scanned the area for some action. Unfortunately, we did not see any. I haven't seen an elk, that's why I was excited. Rick said it's a much bigger version of a deer. Maybe someday... We finally arrived at our destination. Done in fifteen minutes! On our way back, Rick decided to take a different route, he was determined to give me the "color" tour. Which I appreciated very much! We stopped at Lake Superior Park in Saxon, WI and at the Superior Falls in Michigan. We didn't even realized we crossed the border until we saw the sign. It was gorgeous there! A little chilly but not too bad. We walked around the park. The shore was covered with flat rocks, so flat you can even stack them together. Of course, I brought home quite a few for souvenir. Next stop was the Superior Falls. You can only admire the falls from afar. It was like in a middle of a caved-in hill, that it was surrounded by a cliff. So really, you can never get that close. After a few shots, we went to the scenic overlook and it was beautiful! My pictures don't do much justice, but I did what I could with my point and shoot camera. I could spend hours there just gazing at the water, a gentle breeze on my face, my love holding my hand, pretend that nothing else matters but what I have right here, right now. But it was getting chilly so had to quit dreaming. On our way back to the car, I took these photos to share with you. We went home refreshed, renewed and blessed. An ordinary day turned extra ordinary by chance. We went out hunting for colored leaves, we saw that and so much more. No expectations has it perks after all. An open mind and a little imagination is equal to an astonishing day! Perhaps, a little reward for our time and patience?

Rocky shores of Lake Superior and the "Squeezed" mushroom

Colorful trees and the forbidden cherries
(i just made that up coz Rick wont let me eat it!)

What a Foggy Day!

2008-10-08T11:51:00.004-05:00

Woke up this morning, looked out our bedroom window and saw that there was a thick fog hovering outside. I could barely make out the trees around the house. It’s cool in a creepy kind of way. On my way to work, I always drive by a river and this morning, it was exceptionally beautiful. Vapor coming out of the water, foggy surrounding and a tiny hint of sunshine on top of this cloudy beauty. It was perfect. So serene… calming. I wish I brought my camera with. But of course, I did not. It was one of those moments when I wish I have a camera phone, but I couldn’t afford it yet. So for now, I settled to enjoy the radiant beauty of nature, trying to capture the image in my memory. I feel so blessed living in a city where natures’ beauty is abundant. Makes me forget, even for a moment, how hard life can be sometimes. We just have to focus and have faith. Things will get better… eventually.

Randomly

2008-09-30T18:51:00.006-05:00

I finally had my haircut today! I've been dying to get one but I never had a chance to go to a salon. So my hair just kept growing longer and longer. I was inches away to my dream hairstyle - Lindsay Lohan's. But highlights, color and almost everyday blow drying made my hair dry and brittle. So had to give up on my dream of having a hair like hers. Nope, I am not weird. I know she's not really the epitome of a good person but her style isn't too bad... I used to despise my thick and wavy hair. But for some reason I like it now. I think it suits me better than fighting what nature has given me. Gone are the days of rebonding or ironing my hair 'til it's fried. Well, honestly it's because the "big" city of Spooner or Rice Lake hasn't heard of a thing called rebond. So it's either I sink or swim. I chose the latter. My wavy hair grew on me and now I am loving it.

I really don't know where i'm going with this entry... I just feel like typing. Hubby is busy watching his baseball game. It's his last hurrah for the season, so I am letting him enjoy it. He did the dishes tonite though, so that's a little consolation for me being ignored for the most part of the night. I'm really sad the Gilmore Girls is over. It's my favorite show on Tuesdays. Now I am lost and bored not doing anything. Well, not really... I am on youtube watching videos of how to style the hair and different make-up tricks. I kinda like pursebuzz and reiberry. Easy and simple styles/tricks. Maybe tomorrow I will try that doll-like eyes make-up hehehe... Usually I don't have time for that. Waking up early in the morning is the hardest thing for me to do. Love sleeping too much. Sometimes, when I am running late, I just put my wet hair up on a bun that way I don't have to brush it. Lazy huh? I make sure it looks neat though. ;-)

Hey! Dancing with the Stars is on! Forgot about this show. Don't know who I'm rooting for yet. But I have always liked the show. Rick usually shows me a move or two after the show which makes the evening more fun. Last week I found an ad in the paper for a ballroom dancing class. Have to force Rick to take the class with me. It should be fun! Or should I say funny? Just picture us dancing!

Annoying

2008-09-27T10:53:00.001-05:00

Have you ever worked with people who are slowpokes? Well, it seems like I am a magnet for those type of workers. Both jobs I have to deal with them. It’s both annoying and frustrating!

A guy I work with is currently bothering me. He writes slow, walks slow, I think just about everything he does is slow! Can’t read or write cursive. It’s a problem coz one of our sales people can't write in print. His handwriting is like that of a pre-schooler. Can’t seem to grasp the process necessary to finish a job. Despite his being slow... he still makes a lot of mistakes! Mistakes which is costing the company money. I was told he's the "golden boy" coz no matter what he does, he does not get in trouble with management. Where is the justice here?! Oh well, that's life I guess... At my other job, I have to deal with chatterboxes! They gab and gab and nothing gets done. I work the night shift so had to finish wherever they left off and usually.. that's a long list!

I am not trying to be mean, it's just sometimes I wish the company would do something when an employee is not being productive. There is no such thing as bonuses at both jobs. You do your job and somebody elses just to get things done and yet you still get paid the same. And oh yeah, the lazy one gets paid the same too no matter what. As long as they show up they are considered working! Sad huh? These are the days when I wish I have my own business! I even came up with a business idea last night only to find out it's already being done, at $4 a week! Ha! And here I thought it was a brilliant money making idea!

Like I mentioned before, I do get along with everybody. It's because I don't complain. So forgive me if I complain here. It's my way of venting. Don't worry, Rick get's to hear it first hand when I come home. Poor him... but he loves me so he has to listen!

I thank YOU for reading. :-)

A Nice One

2008-09-23T08:51:00.014-05:00

Summer is officially over. The air is getting nippy and leaves are all over the yard and the streets... Fall is here. I love the fall weather. It's not too cold and not too warm either. Just perfect! Not too happy about raking the leaves though. But I guess it comes with the territory. So I just have to deal with it. Might hire somebody to do that this year.

Was up at 4am this morning. Made breakfast and went to work early. It's cloudy and windy. We're suppose to get rain today. I love a rainy day as well. It's perfect for cuddles and being lazy. :) On my way to work, I can't help but admire the beautiful colors of the trees gently swaying at every gust of wind. The color of the leaves changes with the season. Green, yellow, orange and red. As I drove by gazing at the view, I can't help but compare the trees to a person or life in general. Spring, the beginning of life. Summer, the playful youth in us, enjoying life to the fullest. Fall, ripened by nature, life is more beautiful both mind and body, ready for the winter of life. I am not quite in the fall of my life yet, sort of in the middle. So, I have a lot of things to look forward to. It's moments like this that reminds me how beautiful life is. I have been feeling down lately and to start my day with such a wonderful thought lifts up my spirit. A little reminder to be grateful and know that things will be okay.

Someone is watching over me...

Whachamacallit?

2008-09-17T19:10:00.005-05:00

I have been in the country for more than four years. English is now my main language. I get confused whenever I talk to my family and then Rick or a co-worker tries to butt-in. I talk to them in bisaya! Of course I still know my native tongue and still very fluent at that. I don't think that will ever change. Although, my tagalog is getting weaker by the hour. I am mostly lost for words and prefer English if possible. But that doesn't stop me from talking to my tagalog friends or relatives. I just find it hard. That's all.

Four years and I still find English a very complex language. Everyday I learn something new. I used to have a hard time pronouncing the T in words (they seem to not say it like it should be). Accent is still hard. Where do I go up and down in saying the words? My biggest struggle is family names! How I hate answering the phone and taking orders at work. I make sure I get their phone number right that way a sales rep can call them back. I struggle with words that are somehow similar in meaning but different in use. Like I use scared instead of worried. These are some of the little things that embarrass me when they repeat my sentence with the right word or pronunciation. It offends me when they do that. It makes me feel stupid. But I know they are just trying to help. Nobody ever laughs at me when I make a mistake. Which is good. But still... it's embarrassing.

I do get a lot of compliments though. They never have a problem understanding me. It's still a little frustrating at times when trying to express myself. But I am getting better at it. New found American friends helped me a lot! Confidence is really the key to better express yourself in another language. Thanks to my very supportive husband, I am confident in facing people and meeting new friends. Somehow I know deep inside he's proud of me whenever a new friend would say - Wow! You really speak well!

Practice makes perfect! ;-)

My Weekend

2008-09-14T20:33:00.005-05:00

I spent my Saturday mostly packing up my balikbayan box. It has been sitting in our guest room for months now. Finally, it's on its way to the Philippines. Yippee! I'm excited for them. Not everybody will be pleased... but, at least I tried. I tend to buy more girly stuff, therefore making my brothers jealous. It's hard to shop for men! Specially teenagers! My apologies...

We went to the twin cities for the weekend. Spent a couple of days with my mother-in-law. She lives by herself and doesn't go out much. So, we took her with us when we did our errands. First stop, drop-off the balikbayan box! She loved the Filipino Store. She said she could spend hours there browsing the aisles and check out different food items. I told her most of the items there needs to be cooked. I don't cook so I was not interested in buying any of them. Bought a bunch of chichiriya instead and a couple goodies for my MIL to try. I wish I know more Filipino dishes other than my ever-famous adobo. Would love to cook for my new family. But sad to say, I don't... So, my apologies... again.

After hours (it was only minutes, but it sure felt like hours!) of being stuck in traffic, we finally made it to Kenny's, my brother-in-law. We visited with them for a few hours, catch up on things and whatnot. Alex's (my nephew) band was rehearsing while we were there, so we had the honor to listen to their music. They supposedly had a paying gig that night. Cool huh! And he's only 16! Anyway, after we got done with our errands, we treated ourselves to a lovely supper at Ruby Tuesday's. That place never fails to impress me with their food! It's always delicious! I forgot to take a picture of my food. Sorry...

Did you notice how I kept apologizing? That's how my mother-in-law was the entire time we were with her. She apologizes for everything! For walking slow, repeating herself, not hearing, eating slow and simply for being old. She is 90. Of course she's like that. We are always patient with her. And I am always respectful. But, there really is no reason to say sorry for being old. She earned the respect and understanding. She deserves the attention and the nice dinner that we insisted on paying. With a smile, I tell her all that and she would just laugh. We love her and I hope someday Rick and I will be blessed with a family who will care for us like we care for her...

The golden rule: "Do unto others what you want others do unto you."

Am I In Trouble?

2008-09-05T07:55:00.004-05:00

A couple weekends ago I got really bored. Did everything I could around the house (well, of course not the important part - ironing!) just to keep me busy and not jump off a cliff! Eventually I ran out of stuff to do and so I surfed the net, went to my favorite karaoke site and sang to my hearts delight. I got tired of singing after a while. Then I remembered one of my favorite computer games - Red Alert Counterstrike! It's been eons ago since I last played the game and I remember I was quite fond of it. Luckily one of my brothers was online and so I asked him if it's available to play online. He doesn't think so and suggested that I just download the game. So I did and waited until it gets done. While waiting, I saw one of my friends went online. We started talking and she was bored too. We ended up playing Literati and she was kicking my butt! Finally downloading's done! I was so excited to play the game but unfortunately, it does not work! I guess our anti-virus detected something, so it didn't download properly. Bummer! I ended up uninstalling the game and shopped at Ebay instead. The game is so old Best Buy doesn't carry it anymore. Had to settle for a used one!

Yesterday, Rick got an email from our ISP saying that an illegal download has been done by our account and we have violated the infringement law or something like that... The email went on and on about penalties and fines etc. Got me scared! I apologized profusely to Rick. I felt really bad. Omigosh! What if I get sent to jail? I reasoned to Rick that the game didn't work and I ended up buying the cd anyway! But still, I did try to download and that was the bad part! He got worried too, so he called the company and explained the whole thing. They just want us delete the program from our computer and not to try to "steal" any programs online anymore. Whew! What a relief! No more downloading for me or Rick! Not even songs! I have learned my lesson and promise to be a good citizen from now on... Not fun getting an email like that!

Nope! I am not in trouble! Thank God!

Life Is Difficult

2008-09-01T09:23:00.004-05:00

Life is difficult. That was the sermon at church yesterday. I listened intently because the priest's first sentence got my attention. How can he open the sermon with such negativity? But it worked! He made me listen. I have been feeling sorry for myself that morning, I always do when I see little children and there was a lot of them at church yesterday. Why can't I have one? I always ask myself. But as the sermon went on and on... I came to the realization about the bigger problem that's out there like sickness and poverty. Not having children does not make my life difficult. God has blessed me in some other way and by not having children of my own, I became a blessing to others.

There will always be things that I would never know in this lifetime. Labor pains and a mother's love. I don't wish for the first one, but I will always wonder about the latter. Whenever my co-worker complain about her kids, the words that come out of my mouth is always irrelevant. She agrees, but will never do it. Mothers have the patience and faith in their kids as big as the universe. And I admire them for that. I took advantage of my own mother too and she let's me get away with things... The bond between a mother and child is so intense - and I will never understand that.

Things happen for a reason. God has a wonderful plan for me. I believe that. My faith in Him is what keeps me going. Life may be difficult but knowing that I am not alone and God is on my side, life will be good. Life is good! The priest ended the sermon by saying God is bigger than all our difficulties - trust in Him, go to Him for comfort and know He is there with you. I left church feeling better about myself. All the screaming babies became irritating after a while. Thank God I don't have one!

Matthew 11:28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest."

Long Weekend

2008-08-30T09:12:00.002-05:00

It's the last 3-day weekend for the summer. Cars and trucks hauling their campers, boats and whatnot, was all over the place. Our area is known to be the summer destination for Minnesotans. So they basically take over the lakes and campgrounds during this time. Monday is labor day holiday so traffic is worse than usual when it's a holiday weekend.

We don't have plans for this long weekend and Rick is just antsy for some fun! I really don't want to go anywhere far because I have a long list of to do's here at home. We got lucky and found a camp site in Shell Lake, it's about 7 miles from here, not very far and a very pretty lake! So off we go - packed, pitch the tent, and just relax with a magazine and a cool breeze from the lake. It was actually very windy and chilly. Very refreshing! We opted to go to a resto-bar for supper instead of grilling because it was just too windy. After eating, we went back to the campsite and just hang out. We didn't bring our boat because it was too cold and can't swim either for the same reason. So we were stuck in our tent. I read my magazine while Rick fidgeted with the radio trying to find the station for his baseball game. Soon it was dark and getting colder by the minute, that's when I realized we needed more blankets! We have only one to share and wished it will last us 'til morning.

The campsite was just a zoo! People were rowdy and rude! It was almost 1am and they are still partying! I spent the night tossing around and texting my sisters. I could not sleep! The noise and the cold was terrible! Finally at six in the morning, Rick asked if I wanted to go home. Whew! The whole ordeal was over. We were both tired from the night of camping out. Now, we have the whole weekend to relax and unwind from our day of relaxing and unwinding at the camp. Ironic huh?

Picture It

2008-08-24T17:41:00.013-05:00

An Afternoon In Our Yard

Oh, such lovely flowers
The long green wall in the deck is adorned by them
Bees and bugs hop from one bud to another
What are they searching?

The sun is shinning
A gentle breeze is blowing
Humming birds dancing on our feeder
Why do they fly so fast?

Flowers, birds, bees and bugs in the yard
God took care of them everyday and always
He promised us the same
Why not start believing?

Tagged: All About Me

2008-08-21T19:29:00.011-05:00

I am: a workaholic.
I think: correct choices should be marked.
I know: i need to lose weight. to look better and for health reasons.
I have: a blessed life
I wish: i have my own business
I hate: waking up early in the morning
I miss: my family and friends in davao...
I fear: getting old and helpless
I hear: the tv - it's the olympics
I smell: like my shampoo
I crave: some chunky monkey from ben and jerry
I search: for answers to my questions...
I wonder: if i will ever have kids
I regret: letting myself go - weight wise...
I love: my ricky
I ache: for helpless old people...
I am not: a crafty person
I believe: all things happen for a reason
I dance: when i am alone and bored
I sing: whenever it gets too quiet at work.
I cry: me a river when i watch romantic movies
I fight: when i am provoked
I win: when i know when to walk away
I lose: my patience with stupid people
I never: forget where i came from
I always: try to be an optimist
I confuse: myself after speaking my native language. i talk to rick the same way! :)
I listen: to pop music on yahoo radio every morning at work
I can usually be found: at home, in front of the computer-window shopping!
I am scared: of the dark and being alone
I need: ten hours of sleep
I am happy about: my life.
I imagine: what life would be like if there were no wars...
I tag: ping-ping, honey may, em-em and jemima

Thanks, Boots for the the tag!

I Did It!

2008-08-18T18:40:00.005-05:00

celebrating my scrub days

Today was my last day working at the Business Office. I am officially reinstated to my old job at the kitchen. I think it was the right thing to do, both to my employers and for myself. I felt better after telling my boss I was coming back. Hearing it out loud made it seem official and my heavy burden was gone. I don't know why I even wanted to leave our department in the first place. I am happy there. You should've seen the smiles and heard the shrieks of excitement when I told everybody in the kitchen that I was coming back. That really made me feel loved. Time off from them made me realize how much I like working there. I guess I needed the break to appreciate what I have. I sleep better now knowing where and what I will be doing tomorrow. My routine is back!

It may look like I'm crazy for giving up an office job, but I really don't care. What I do at the kitchen makes me humble. There, I learn what it is like to work hard for your money. And by doing so, makes me appreciate what I have and thus, spend wisely. Besides, I am still an accountant during the day. That's my ego booster!

A Breather

2008-08-15T20:23:00.006-05:00

The past couple weeks has been crazy. With the advent of my new job, life has been confusing and very stressful. The new job is not too hard, it's my schedule that I'm complaining about. Juggling two part-time jobs is not an easy task. My day starts at six in the morning and it ends at eleven at night, depends if I sleep right away, but I have been sleeping well lately because I am just EXHAUSTED! I have been putting in 12 hours of work lately and getting a fifteen minute break. Yah, I don't have time to eat. I munch on anything sugary as the day goes on just to give me an energy boost. I know it's not healthy , but what can I do? Need to keep on going and I am no energizer bunny!

Anyway, even with my hectic, no eating schedule, I still think life is beautiful. Being optimistic is a good way to deal with stress and my candy jar does the trick too. Last weekend Rick and I met up with a long time friend. Honey May rode with some friends all the way from Arkansas to Minnesota just to shop at the Mall of America. It's kind of ridiculous, but hey, who am I to judge them. It was nice to see her again. Although we didn't get to spend a lot of time together, the brief moment we had, was a lot of fun. We'll see each other again someday but for the meantime phone calls will do. Didn't spend much at the mall. I feel fat and ugly and nothing looks good on me. So there, I saved some money! But I spent my saved money at the Filipino store. Bought a bunch of snacks like my all-time fav chippy! Bought some fruits and veggies too! Durian was one of them and boy, did Rick enjoy the smell! hehehe...

Well, I better get some snooze or maybe some snack? The food talk is making me hungry... Thank God it's finally the weekend. I get to sleep in and have some ME time again... Re-charge my battery for the upcoming week. I am done training now, so next week I am working on my own. Wish me luck! Although I am still confused if I should keep the job or not. I really miss working with my friends in the kitchen. I only have two days left to decide if I will stay or go back. It's really tempting to go back, specially with the conflict of my schedule. It's hard to make up my mind but I know I have to choose soon. Will keep you posted.

Wisdom, that's what I have been praying for every night.

New Job

2008-08-06T17:02:00.005-05:00

Today I started on my new job. Everybody seems to be nice. They had a little potluck lunch for no special reason at all. They just want to eat! Another girl started today as well. So it was cool. I have the advantage though because I mostly know everybody in the facility. The job is not so hard. All I need to do is register patients for admission or diagnostic imaging, help visitors find their way in the building and answer the phone. That's pretty much it! I had the short shift today, so I only worked four hours. Which isn't too bad because then I get to work at my other job!

My schedule is pretty messed up for now. I am actually working three jobs! Still have to finish my schedule at the kitchen and that is until next week. But after that, I am pretty much on my own. Don't know what my hours would be like with my new job, either way, I have to talk to my BOI boss and let him know my schedule. He's flexible so it shouldn't be a problem (I hope!). If it is, then it's time for me to go. I know they pay really well, but they don't have benefits, and the way the company is being ran... I don't think they'll make it. So I better stick to my job at the hospital. The health care industry is stable, plus they have really good benefits. But, I am still hoping having both jobs wont be a problem... Variety in life is always fun. The challenge keeps my mind working!

Please do pray for me... Hope all goes well.

An Opportunity

2008-08-04T20:48:00.003-05:00

Got a call this morning from the manager of the Business Office at the hospital, she wanted to know if I want to come in and take a test for a job opening at their department. I'm so glad I was considered. I have been hoping to get a job at their department for a while now. I wanted to use my office skills rather than wash dishes all day. I talked to my boss about the opportunity and she was happy and sad at the same time. Happy that I get to do what I want and sad because she hates to let me go. She considers me to be one of her best workers. I am excited about this new opportunity. I am really hoping to get a full time job. Preferably during the day. Because I want to spend my nights with hubby. I'm confused as of the moment on what to do. I hate to quit at BOI because the pay there is really good. Juggling two jobs wont be too bad. Hopefully I can keep both jobs since they are part-time. Well, I guess i'll make the decision once I get the job. There's no point in worrying about something that didn't happen yet.

I better go to bed. Get some rest. Tomorrow is another day...

A Trip Down Memory Lane

2008-08-01T09:35:00.005-05:00

This morning while waiting for my antivirus to get fixed, instead of staring at the screen, I decided to clean up one of the drawers of our computer table. It's overflowing with 'crap' from I dunno when. I carefully glanced at each piece of paper, thinking it might be important because I had put it in a safe place. I found a neatly stacked receipts from our basement remodel, another pile from when we went to Florida and a couple other from one of our many trips! I can't believe I hang on to things like these. There's quite a few receipts from clothes shopping, grocery and gas! Why do I keep the receipts? Honestly, I really don't know! It might be from instinct. Being a bookkeeper, every single receipt is important. My subconscious must be telling me to do the same thing at home! It's really silly! Oh yeah, I found my airline ticket from when I came over here from the Philippines too! Yah, it's been that long since I emptied this drawer. :-)

During this impromptu clean-up drive, I came across my 2002 planner. In it were important information of family and friends, such as birthdays, phone numbers and email addresses. It was my lifeline before the cellphone genre. A good portion of the entries are from when I was such an EB freak (eyeball:chat room vernacular for meeting in person). Names, email-ad or their YM nick! It was fun browsing the pages... a lot of familiar names but no face to match it to. Quite a few touched my life in a special way. The planner was a mini version of a diary, little entries of what happened that day. The most special one was of Rick - the first time we met, where we went, goofy details complete with little smiley faces. I might show it to him later, then we can take the trip down memory lane together. I'm happy to see my planner again. Reminded me of my young and carefree life, my struggles to fit in and find my Mr. Right. I'm so glad it's all behind me now, but the memory will never fail to put a smile on my face.

Life is a big puzzle. Every little piece counts to make a better picture. You have to look back to admire the beauty of today.

Sick Day

2008-07-28T09:14:00.003-05:00

Last night was one of the many nights when I couldn't sleep. I was tired from working but still my mind refuses to sleep. Forcing myself wouldn't help, as I have tried that before, so I watched TV until I zoned out. Last I checked the clock it was almost two. And I have to get up at six. Unfortunately, our cat Leo woke us up around 4:30 wanting to go out. But none of us got up. Rick doesn't want him to think he's the boss! So we laid in bed wide awake, listened to the cat whine. Finally the alarm went off at 5:30! The cat is out and I have the bed to myself. I slept in until just a few minutes ago. Feel so much better! So now I'm home on a work day and I blame it all on the cat.

I have tried taking sleeping pills before. It worked for a few days. After that, it felt weird. My mind was wide awake but my body was sleeping. My eyes are shut but I am aware of my surroundings. I would go use the bathroom and I'd be flailing all over the place. My body felt so heavy! I was like a drunk! A couple nights like that and I gave up on the pill. I never feel rested when I wake up in the morning anyway! So what's the point? I can always sleep in and miss work or come in late. No biggie!

Anyway, I felt bad after my last entry. My sister said she felt sad after reading it. I laughed when she said that because I really didn't care that I did not get the job at the bank. It was just due to my frustration that I did that. I like my morning job. I can chat and shop online anytime I want! I can always come in late or leave early if I want to. And I have done that quite a few times. It feels like a family business. Just like when I used to work for my parents. I have a lot of idle time, seventy five percent of my day consist of play the rest is work. How awesome of a job is that? Sometimes the reality of life being unfair surfaces and that's when I get sad. But it goes away after a while. I count my blessings and realize life is still good!

Morning

2008-07-25T08:51:00.003-05:00

I'm having a cup of coffee right now. Sitting in front of the computer. The television blaring in the background. That's my morning ritual when I have the day off. Friday is when I have the whole day to myself. I usually spend it doing household chores and whatnot. Some days I just sit in the recliner, eyes glued on the tv, in my pajamas and just be plain LAZY for a day. It's not one of my proudest moment, but it certainly is a favorite!

Work has been so confusing lately. I wanted to quit my morning job because of renumeration reasons. A sales person just got hired and he's being paid more than me! It makes me mad thinking about it. But this is life, it's not fair all the time. Because of my frustration, I started the week looking for jobs in the area both online and on the paper. I was going to apply to a couple but decided not to. A little more sacrifice wont hurt. Specially if we're planning to move next year. I did apply as a bank teller. Did not get the job, was not even considered for it! I know I'm overqualified. They want high school graduates. But it doesn't hurt to try. Speaking of jobs, I'm really proud of Ping-ping. She was selected by her company to go to England for more training. That is really great! I've never had that honor my entire life! I couldn't even get myself a salary raise! But, being we're related, I get to share that honor too... My family must be really proud of her. And, anxious for pasalubong! (Raise your hand if you want one!)

Hopefully, next week would be better. I have come to terms with life being not fair and all. But there's still this one thing that I am struggling with. Something that confuses me about myself. I have been pondering about it for weeks now and can't seem to find the right answers.

Oh well... I guess that's why they call this LIFE!

Enlighten me.

Picture It

2008-07-18T21:00:00.003-05:00

A sweet treat after a long hot day in the sun.

An Update

2008-07-15T21:03:00.005-05:00

I'm back to my old template! So sad... I monkeyed around with it this morning trying to fix the right margin. It was too wide that's why. But by some unforeseen event, my monkeying was saved and my template was ruined. So I decided to go back to my old design. I didn't have time to fix it, specially I was at work. I felt bad sneaking around, so every time the phone rang, I jumped!

We had our first grilled steak tonight cooked in our new grill! I got the grill for my birthday. I know... it's not a romantic gift, but I have been dying to get one! I really want to try some of Rachel Ray's grilled recipes, so now with my new grill, I can! But unfortunately, can't do any cooking this week. Have some other plans... I promised R I owe him a yummo dinner. Will take pictures if it's pretty enough and post it here!

It's quite a birthday I had. Although I had to work, I still had fun and the celebration went on for days... the kitchen crew made me this huge cookie cake on the day of and sang the birthday song. Yesterday, I got a card from my mother in law with a check in it! Today at BOI, my boss bought me a cake and they sang to me too! I felt special and loved... So nice...

I got quite a scare today. I checked my personal bank account and found three charges that I didn't do. Called the bank right away and canceled my debit card. It wasn't much but I am filing a dispute. I expected them to be more vigilant about stuff like foreign transactions, but I guess not. They assured me I will get my money back. So that made me feel better. I am still worried about having my identity stolen, so I better check on my credit report soon. I don't know how they got a hold of my card number, I guess from my online shopping. So, I better stop that bad habit. Nothing is secure in this cyber world...

Well, I better get some zzzz's, i've been up since 4 this morning. I feel really tired. Hopefully. i'll sleep better tonight.

Tata!

Eventless Life

2008-07-11T12:38:00.007-05:00

Another week has gone by. Life has been pretty much a routine. Work. Rest. Work. Rest. Rick hasn't been feeling well lately, so we were not able to do anything fun! I hope next week it will be better. I really want to go out on our boat, go biking and golf! Summer activities that I have been longing for since winter. We did something summery though, we went for a hike in the woods last Friday. It was an adventure of a lifetime! We got lost in the trail, covered with ticks, and hypoglycemia starting to kick in. We made it back in one piece with quite a few ticks in our clothes. Other than that, we are fine. I don't think we're going back in the woods anytime soon though. I was going to post an entry here about Hiking 101, but didn't have a chance to finish it. One sentence could pretty much sum it all up anyway. BE PREPARED! A boy scout motto that will always be true no matter where or what you are in life.

My birthday is coming up. I have to work. My friend's comment about me always working is pretty much true. But hey, nothing is free in this world, you have to work hard for it, right? So unless they are going to feed and clothe me, I have to work my buns off! Anyway, I asked to work on my birthday because I get double pay! Yay! Rick has to work that day, so it's not like I'm deserting him. He told me we'll celebrate my birthday the week after. I'm excited! I wish he'll make me that A1 steak again! :hint: Rick has no complains about my work schedule and he is all that matters! I just hate being accused of working too much! What is too much anyway?

My friends at work are marrying off like crazy. Three of them in one month. That's crazy! Crazy in an exciting way. I am happy for them because their search is over (I hope). It's miserable being single. Life is so much better when you have somebody to share it with. It took me a while to finally find my Romeo. But the wait was worthwhile.

It's going to be my birthday soon. A year older. Hopefully a whole lot wiser. God has been so good to me. I am thankful for another year full of His blessings and love and the opportunity to be a blessing and to love. It's nice to be twenty five! *wink*

Fourth of July

2008-07-04T22:53:00.008-05:00

Fireworks Show in Spooner, WI

click here to see more

Picture It!

2008-07-04T11:49:00.001-05:00

A Harvest of Love from Rick

Marital Bliss

2008-06-21T09:07:00.022-05:00

I Will - Alison Krauss

It's our fourth year wedding anniversary today! It seems like it was only yesterday when we had our wedding. Time sure flies when you are having a good time! A few of my co-workers knew about our anniversary. When I told them it's our fourth year, they would exclaim - oh, you're just babies! Most of them have been married for 20 years or so... So yah, we are babies! Hopefully someday we will celebrate our twentieth too. We will be old by then. But, if we're are still able... I want to have another wedding! I love being a bride...

Our four years together has been an adventure. We have traveled a lot. He showed and taught me a lot of things about the country and about nature. Because of him I became interested in sports and politics. Because of him I continue to grow. Our marriage is not perfect. We have our own faults. We argue. We have our differences. But we have a lot of things in common and the greatest one is our love for each other. So no matter what happens, at the end of the day, we know, we still have each other to love and to hold. Everyday, we continue to learn something, we continue to grow in love. Tomorrow is yet another day for an exciting adventure.

To my Richard - You are the best thing that ever happened to me. You are my best friend. Life is wonderful because of you. It may be tough sometimes, but as long as we have each other, nothing else matters. Looking forward to fifty more years of marital bliss with you! I love you!

Happy Anniversary, Sweetheart...

My Brethren

2008-06-19T16:02:00.006-05:00

Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house.
Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor...
Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.
Be the living expression of God's kindness;
Kindness in your smile,
Kindness in your warm greeting.

- Mother Teresa

When I work at the hospital, I mostly work in the employee's cafeteria. Although we call it 'employee's cafe', it is open to the public. That's where family and friends of people at the nursing home or patients at the hospital, go to get something to eat. Although the place is really small, we do have quite a few selection and they are good and cheap. A lot of people commend the cook for making really good food. I like working at the cafe because I get to interact with different people everyday. I have made a few friends along the way. It helps build my confidence too.

There's this old lady who comes through cafe once in a while. She is not an employee and I don't think she's visiting anybody either. The first time I saw her, she told me that she left her wallet at our cafe the day before. She said there was money in it and some house keys. I didn't work the day before so I don't know if anybody had found it. So I just told her that whenever we find something, we always leave it at the Registration Office. I told her she can go check there to see if her wallet was indeed there. But instead of leaving, she stayed and fumbled through her purse and continued to look for her wallet. She then decided to buy food that's worth $1, because that's all she has. I felt sorry for her then, she was old and I thought to myself she is just getting forgetful, like everybody else her age. The next time I saw this lady, she was at my morning job asking for donation for some car crash she was in. Nobody gave her any money at the office, because obviously, she was not hurt! It was a scam! From then on, I was never pleasant with her anymore. Irritates me whenever she comes through cafe because she asks "how much" a million times, she pinches, smells and touches everything! It's annoying!

She was back last Monday. I rolled my eyes when I saw her. I answered her every question with a scowl on my face. She was still eating when I went to the dining area to tidy up the place a bit. She tried to make small talks with me, but I was cold. She continued eating silently while I worked. She must have realized I wasn't interested. All of a sudden, it dawned on me, what if I am being tested by God! I surely did fail big time! What if she's Jesus? I was so rude! I felt ashamed and scared. If it was the end of the world, I surely would have no chance of making the situation right. I quickly tried to right the wrong, I asked her how her food was and wished her a good day. I felt better after that.

Life is already hard as it is. I bet that lady had to beg for money everyday in order to buy food. Thank God for the awakening. Being good is not easy. But it sure does feel good when you are able to brighten up someone's day. Smile! It does wonders for the soul.

Boyax!

2008-06-15T10:07:00.005-05:00

It's my Papa's birthday today and it's father's day too! So I get to give him only one present this time. They had a party for him and I heard everybody had fun. It's during times like this that I miss my family so much more... I don't get to celebrate with them. My only contribution would be some money and a phone call. It's sad sometimes but I chose a different path in life. No regrets though because I love my life here.

Growing up I was always told I am like my father. In a way I agree with them. I am cheap and smart about money. I know how to fix things around the house. I remember how I helped him build a couple screen doors for the house. That was fun. He was so patient with me and I was proud of him when I saw the finished product. I am the oldest kid so I was mostly helping him when he's trying to fix something. A skill that I am proud of! I am a better handyman than Rick. Like Papa, I don't like to dilly dally when dealing with business transactions. My love for movies is all because of him. He introduced me to Star Wars and Indiana Jones. He loves watching foreign films. I think that's why I speak good English. The one thing I didn't get from him is his cooking skills. He makes scrumptious meals. Lunch on Sundays was his turn to cook. And boy... you don't wanna be anywhere else but home. That's the time when everyone's at the table and we would sit there, eat, talk and tease. Nobody leaves the table until somebody cries. It's fun having a big family.

To my Papa... thank you for being a good father. You raised me well. I love you!

Happy Birthday!

Clutter and Achievements

2008-06-06T09:07:00.005-05:00

Our kitchen remodel is finally on the way. We spent the entire week boxing our kitchen stuff, taking down the cabinets and painting. We are pooped! Our sanctuary turned into a place of turmoil. We are lost in our own space. How weird is that? The living room and the basement looks like storage. There's no place to sit or eat. Since Monday our meals consist of frozen pizza and the restaurant. This remodel is getting pricier by the minute. Yes, I am complaining! But I know it has to be done. I just need to focus on the bigger picture... The contractor said they will start working later today and will be done by Monday. I hope he's right! Because another week of clutter will drive me bonkers!

Anyway, last Thursday, the company where I work as an 'accountant' had their annual board meeting. I didn't get to go because I am not a member of the board of directors nor an investor. But Friday morning my 'bosses' came up to me and told me that the Auditor/CPA had really nice things to say about me in front of the board! I don't know his exact words so I am not gonna quote him. All I know is that he's pleased with my work. I am so happy! It felt like a great accomplishment in some sort of way. Finally my great skills has been recognized and rewarded by kind words. I didn't get to hear it first hand, but knowing that somebody appreciates my work is good enough for me. My mama and papa would be so proud of me. I am proud of me! Thank you so much ma and pa for raising me to be one fine worker. Working for you for so many years did pay off. I know I was stubborn at times when you want things done your way. You want things done efficiently, neat and organized. Well, I have done things your way and now I am reaping the 'rewards'. Again, thank you, without your guidance and support, I would be nothing.

Well, I better go do some accomplishing now! It wont be much given the present state of our living room and kitchen. But I know a long hot bath will do wonders for the soul!

Picture It!

2008-05-25T18:41:00.001-05:00

A birthday greeting written on the sandy beach of Lake Superior.

Spring Has Sprung!

2008-05-16T10:34:00.004-05:00

Dandelions... That's the first sign that summer is coming! Finally the weather has been good. Sun is out. Tiny leaves coming out from tree branches. Grass is green... Spring is here! I wore my strappy sandals yesterday for work! Yipee! Reminds me to do my toenails. I'm thinking black! That should cover up the unsightly! hehehe...

Started cleaning out my closet. Put away my winter clothes and the spring/summer ones are out. Brought out my shoes too! Oh, I was so happy to see my cutesy shoes... vibrant colors and different styles. I soooo love summer! I'll give it another week before i start wearing my skirt to work. Oh, how i miss them! Sorry, I can't contain myself. Just too excited for the change of season.

We have big plans for the summer. Camping, hiking, biking, fishing and maybe a couple trips somewhere. I want to host a barbecue, have some friends over, eat, drink and be merry! I'll plan one when we get a new gas grill. We currently have a charcoal grill and I am not too fond of it. I desperately need a gas grill! Anyway, we just want to be outside after being cramped indoors for a long time. I have to pick out plants for my planters too! Soon we will be outside on our hands and knees digging dirt and planting lovely flowers. I don't know what i want yet, but i was hoping to get more perennials this year rather than the annuals. Planting new plants each year can be a pain, both in your butt and pockets! We still have some raking to do though. Leftover from last year. But lucky us, we were able to find somebody cheap to mow our lawn all summer. Whew! I'm quite relieved because I know my dearie can't handle that chore anymore specially with his broken toe!

Hope everyone will have a great summer!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T20:42:00.004-05:00

To my Mama,

On this special day
I want to share with the world
How much you mean to me
How much I appreciate
your unconditional love for me..

Without your dreams
Without your perseverance
Without your encouragement
I wouldn't be where I am today
I, wouldn't be Me.

I was never perfect
And I will never be
Yet that never stopped you
From loving me...
My wonderful life, I owe it all to you.

I may not say it often,
But today on your special day,
Please know how much i appreciate You.
Thank you for everything.

I love you, Mama
Everyday and Always.

Happy Mother's Day!

Marie's 90th Bday Bash

2008-05-08T13:24:00.000-05:00

Marie taking a little break

Alex, Jackie, Marie and Kylie (grandkids)

Family and Friends

My mother-in-law turned 90! last Saturday, May 3rd. I spent the whole day with her. Made her dinner - grilled chicken with mushroom gravy and potatoes. I tried to distract her from worrying about the party. I was having some immigration problem so we ended up driving to the cities for an appointment. It was a blessing in disguise because then, I get to spend the whole weekend with Marie. She loved it. Ken and Rick, loved it! It was great! Rick didn't come until Sunday morning because he had to work. Although, the bed wasn't too comfortable, but what's a little discomfort if it makes a lot of people happy. Marie told everybody of how great I was and my cooking! How I waited on her hand and foot! Honestly, I didn't do much besides the cooking. Spent most of the day chatting with her and some TV. It was really nice spending the weekend with her. I loved keeping her company. She is so easy to talk to and I can just tell she really loves me and I love her too... I was so surprised to find myself actually enjoying the party. I recognized a lot of the attendees and visited with them with great sincerity. I was proud of myself. I didn't hide in one corner and hoped to disappear.

I am growing up indeed!

Picture It

2008-05-07T15:50:00.003-05:00

Rockstar Me

Blonde Moment

2008-05-06T18:37:00.005-05:00

I have always wanted to change the way i look. It has been my tradition to cut my hair really short for the new year. Put some color and viola! I'm a new person! But only for a while... the hair starts to grow back and the color fades away. This year I decided to grow my hair long and let my natural curls flourish! But I still crave the change! So today I had blonde highlights put in my hair! It's a change/mistake that's gonna stick with me for a while. Never did I know that highlights would be this many! I expected the highlights just to be on top of my head... not all over! Now, I look like a blonde with black highlights! Argh!

But I don't think it looks that bad. It just needs getting used to. Or better yet, avoid the mirror! Oh well... I finally have the change that I was craving for. So why am i whining?! It's too dramatic that's why. But, i'll live! Besides, it'll grow back. Eventually! You would understand my sentiment better if I post a picture. But I still have to muster the strength to take one and share it with the world! Oh, the joy of being a woman! I really do change my mind a lot. Like, right now, i wish i picked a different color. But too late for that. I just have to live with my choices and deal with it. It's not the end of the world, right?

Back to my laundry now... was not able to do them this weekend coz i was at my mother in law's. She turned 90 last Saturday! We had a party for her and we had over 150 in attendance. It was a blast! Will write more about it next time. I really have to finish the laundry or else we'll go commando tomorrow! But, the ironing is a different story...

Lazy butt! :-)

Picture It!

2008-05-01T21:37:00.005-05:00

Who's got the bigger hiney?

Can you find Nemo?Simba's Mom

Colorful Peacock

Safe House

2008-04-25T08:11:00.004-05:00

TOP SECRET

Orders

Read
Memorize
Eat
and...

Sip Surreptitiously
"Do" Lunch
Wine and Dine
Dance
Throw a Party/Hold an Event
Hail a Chief
License her to Thrill
Visit Sneaky Pete
Play Black-Jack
Join the VIO's
Experience The Underground
Don't Worry
Be Happy and
Have Fun...

....where the SECRET sip
the FURTIVE flirt and
the COVERT caper

OUR
SECRET
IS
SERVICE

This is quoted from the napkin I took from the restaurant. We had dinner there last night. Can't say much. It's a secret place. Food was yummy and the atmosphere was fun. Thanks, Rick for taking me to such a unique restaurant. *wink*

A Lazy Day

2008-04-24T11:11:00.003-05:00

A lazy day in the world of Mrs. Schneider...

It's half past ten in the morning and i am still in my pajamas. A cup of coffee beside me. Contemplating on what i would do today.

I am in a strange land called Milwaukee. A big city with tall buildings and a very complicated highway system. I think there's five levels in one of their overpass/flyovers. Scary. I don't think i'll be able to drive here. But public transportation is readily available. So, going around shouldn't be a problem. There's a mall a couple of blocks from here. I'm thinking I should walk there and spend some $$, but i think it's in the 50's out there and later today, it's going to rain. Although i really want to go shopping. Need spring and summer clothes for work. I have decided not to wear the uniform at BOI. I really want to start looking nice that way i'll feel good about myself. Confidence makes me happy. Compliments makes me happy. Haven't been feeling pretty lately, specially with the zits on my face, my bulging tummy and the crappy weather. Thank God winter is finally over and for the new trend in tops! Helps hide the unsightly! My face has been so bad lately. I think it's from that health supplement i have been taking. It's called superhero, it really helped my monthly cycle. But it's wreaking havocs on my skin. Hopefully the dermatologist will be able to help and so i can still take my superhero.

The hotel room is really nice. That's why i don't feel the urge to go somewhere else. I have a laptop with internet connection, so it's really not a biggie if i just stay here. It's nice to be alone and think about life sometimes. Not have any plans or worries. Life has been so hectic lately. My days is consumed with work. Day and night I am working. I feel like I abandoned Rick. But he has been so understanding when i have to go fill-in for someone. The money is nice. Specially with the economy getting worse everyday. Makes you wonder what will happen tomorrow... I watch cartoons to escape reality. Rick likes to watch the news. No wonder he's a nervous wreck! I'd rather not know what's going on and live life now and not worry about tomorrow. Now, I have a job, a husband, we can afford groceries and a little luxury. I'd rather savor what's going on NOW in my life, rather than worry about tomorrow. I strongly believe that worrying will rob you of the good things that's in front of you everyday, you'll fail to recognize the blessings, the grace and love. I'd rather be thankful, for i was given another day, to see the beauty of God's creation, to experience life and the ability to dream some more. Yes, life IS stressful. But worrying and complaining will not solve any problem. It's not gonna make life any better.

Live... Love... Laugh... For today might be your last and you failed to make a difference. You failed to enjoy it. There's no rewind or fast forward. You only have now! I don't mean to lecture. I just get carried away sometimes. I like to think when i am alone. Helps me be grateful for the wonderful life i have. It's not perfect. And i don't expect it to be.

The Last Lecture

2008-04-12T14:34:00.005-05:00

I watched a show called Primetime last Wednesday. They had a special on the author of the book called "The Last Lecture". The author was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was given 6 months to live. He's a professor in one of the universities here in the US and he gave this very famous "last lecture". You can see clips of this lecture on youtube. Apparently, people who watched and listened to his lecture was inspired by his life that they decided to changed their lives as well. I haven't really had the chance to watch the full clip, but saw bits and pieces of it that night. His line that stuck to my head to this day is "we cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand." Wish it was that easy to look at bad situations and see something good in them. It is not. We mostly see it as bad and further thinking makes it worse. It's basically the same principle as looking at the glass of water half empty or half full. I try to be optimistic most of the time. But there are just days when I wish I can pack my bags and give up.

I really should try to do more with my life. Become somebody rather than a nobody. I wanna make a difference. I wanna be a blessing. I want to be remembered and loved by a lot of people. How and where to start, I don't know... But it's nice to dream. I know an opportunity will present itself someday. God has great plans for all of us.

A line from our high school graduation song:
"Lord, here I am, send me..."

My Pink Dog

2008-03-29T07:13:00.002-05:00

This is the closest to my having a pet dog. This way, the cats wont get jealous and no fighting around the house. I have been a really good customer of Victoria's Secret and the pink pup is my proof! I'm turning into a VS Shopaholic. Every week I spend like $50! I am running out of reasons to buy some more. Who can blame me? Online shopping is so much fun!

The Week in Review

2008-03-21T08:46:00.002-05:00

It's still early in the morning, For some unknown reason, I always wake up early on Fridays. I wish can I sleep in but, to no avail, here I am browsing the internet with a cup of coffee beside me. Thought I'd write an entry instead of spending more money online.

It has been a crazy week for us. Monday, Rick got a call from his mom with some bad news, his Aunt Mildred was found unconscious in her apartment. They thought she had a heart attack. But later this week we found out that she's fine and back at home. Tuesday, was terrible! A building not too far from where I work had an explosion! It happened around 8:30 in the morning. I was trying to fix our internet connection when it happened. Thought somebody hit our building! I didn't really pay attention on what was going on, until I saw people from next door, rushing outside and looking up. Decided to check it out myself. There was this big cloud of black smoke and one of the guys started yelling to get out of there because there are propane tanks close to where the fire was. So, with my coffee mug on one hand and my purse on the other, I ran out of the building. Took off with Rick. We went home and there were ashes from the blast on our driveway! And we live a couple miles away!

Although, I think it was a little bit too much to close the roads and evacuate houses within half a mile radius. But they did and the entire area was blocked for more than 10 hours! We couldn't go back to work! So pretty much our day was wasted. We didn't know what to do with ourselves, coz we were suppose to be working! Isn't that ironic! We couldn't go to the store because the one store we have in our "big" city was evacuated as well! Business must have sucked that day.

The rest of the week was like a history class. People coming in and out of the office reminiscing the memory of the blast. I'm getting tired of it. But i bet there will be more stories come Monday. Oh well, as long as i get paid to listen to it.

Life is so unpredictable! Be prepared.

Picture It 15

2008-03-15T10:25:00.004-05:00

Kahunaville's Mahalo Salmon

A Birthday Poem

2008-03-15T07:06:00.004-05:00

I may not say it often.
You may not even feel it sometimes.
I may not act as if I am grateful.
You might think that I take you for granted.

But, I do love you.
I thank the Lord everyday,
For giving me You.
A wonderful You.

I know I don't express myself much.
So I take this chance,
On your special day,
To say...

I love you.
Thank you.
Life has been great,
Because of You.

Happy Birthday, My Ricky!

February Blank

2008-03-12T20:59:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I didn't have a single entry last month! I swear I wrote something... It was probably about nothing anyway. Just like all the other entries! :-)

Hmmm.... what did we do last month... Oh, I know! Valentine's Day! We didn't do anything that day. Rick had to work that night and I have been working like a horse lately. So nothing romantic happened. We went out to a fancy restaurant that weekend and he gave me a bouquet of roses, which was free! Menard's gave away their leftover flowers from valentine's hehehe... what a cheapo! But the gesture was greatly appreciated, thank you. Towards the end of the month we went to Oshkosh, WI for Rick's conference, spent a couple nights there and then after that we stayed at WI Dells for a couple of nights again. Oshkosh wasn't nice. We got lost each time we try to explore the city. Durango's, a Mexican restaurant there was really good though. WI Dells is the Kid's Capital of the State! Lot's of fun stuff to do for kids. And obviously, the place was packed - with whinny little brats! I loved our stay there. Food was great and right across our hotel is Tanger Outlet! Great shopping!

To sum it all up, last month wasn't too bad. I still feel overworked though. I need more vacation! Rick's birthday is coming up. Still don't know what to do for him. He doesn't want a party. We are going to see his mom instead and celebrate it with her. Hope we'll have fun!

Work is so stressful. :-(

Chocolates and Noses

2008-01-29T15:42:00.000-06:00

Chocolates... who can never say no to them. I can! Yesterday my lady boss came to the office and told everyone that we got a package from France. A customer sent us a box of chocolates for Christmas. It's long overdue, but, better late than never! She offered it to everyone, while yacking about how her husband-the president of the company- was digging into them during the weekend. We opened the box and everything looked so scrumptious. Can't wait to taste it! But I had to decline because I know how her husband is... He picks his nose while reading his emails! Eeew! Talk about GROSS! The thought even makes me nauseous. One time, I had to help him with something on his computer, I literally felt the germs crawled from my fingertips all the way to the tip of my hair! The mouse was sticky and the keyboard was gunky! I don't know how a person can stand all the filth around! I'm not a neat freak, but hey, who can blame me! Nose picking is a no no in public! So I said no to the chocolates even if she made a big deal about it being made in France. Big deal, Swiss chocolate is the best!

Anyway, my sweetie pie hunny bunch bought me a box of chocolates Sunday. Although it's not from France or Switzerland, it was still delicious! And germ free. He was so sweet... I had to work the entire weekend while he stayed home relaxing. So he thought of giving me something for being such a hard worker... Oh... i feel loved. Although, he told me to only eat one a day because I am trying to lose weight! Which makes sense! I joined the "biggest loser" challenge at work. So far, I am not doing too well. Michelle is the winner, she lost 7 lbs in two weeks! Call that lucky! She's being so secretive about what she's doing. I can't really blame her coz it's a competition and money is involved. So, i just have to figure things out on my own. I know there's no magic potion. I wish there was... I have five more months to catch up. Better do something about it huh.

Winter. Weight gain season. *slump*

Year-End Madness

2008-01-26T08:44:00.000-06:00

Inventory...
Taxes...
Closing of books...
Audit....
Adjustments...

I am halfway done with all these year-end reports and then I can live again! My life had been so busy since the beginning of the year. I thought I was going to have a break before I start tackling this madness, but I did not. Our vacation to the Bahamas got postponed due to unforeseen events. Rick got sick and so he spent his vacation at home and at the doctor's office. While I, went to work. Fun! I was a little bit glad that we did not go because if we did, I would be in big trouble! The month is almost over and I am still not done closing the books and filling out documents for the auditors. I am efficient and organized, but when one doesn't know what she's doing, then, it's downhill from there. I am learning a lot though. Which is good. And I am sure that next year it'll be easier.

But despite this craziness at work, I still managed to play housewife. I have been making dinner at home for the past couple weeks. I bought this Rachel Ray magazine and got inspired to try making her dishes. They're delicious and easy to make. Rick actually liked them! Although, i had a couple of boohoo, but the rest was delish! As what Rachel Ray would say! I plan to subscribe to her magazine, that way I'll be inspired all year long to cook for my dearie... She actually has some dishes for pest, i mean pets! If the cats would stop scratching the furniture, then maybe I'll make them dinner too! I love and hate them. They drive me bonkers sometimes... But they can be so sweet if they want to be.

Life, it's unpredictable.

2008 Greetings

2008-01-01T17:02:00.000-06:00

Woeful Saturday

2007-12-29T16:12:00.000-06:00

Spent the day mostly curled up in bed. Watched five movies - three of them cartoons and fell asleep in the middle of the last one. I got the cramps real bad, i had to call in sick for work. Arrgh! The wonders of womanhood.

The year is almost over. It seems like time flies! Or so it seems when one is mature enough to know the importance of time. I remember when i was a kid i couldn't wait to grow up, but it felt like forever to gain my freedom and independence. Oh, how i long to be young again... Now, with two jobs, a husband, my family and a home to keep neat, 24 hours is not enough. I am not complaining, i am simply realizing how important it is to live life today and not always yearn for tomorrow.

I guess i feel like this after seeing my mother-in-law slowly losing her memory. She's old. And that's my worst fear. We spent Christmas Eve with her at her apartment. My brother-in-law and his family was there too. So the place was a little crowded. Marie was busy in the kitchen and Rick was helping her while the rest of the group was in the living room playing a catch phrase game. We were a little noisy, but we didn't think that would bother her. Then suddenly, Marie, asked who made the rolls, the food and she couldn't remember why everyone was there. It went on for a couple hours, same questions and no recollection of the day whatsoever. It was sad. Everybody was nervous. We ate and opened the presents. Then she was fine. She didn't know what happened to her. The doctor said she must have been overwhelmed by the day's events. The stress in preparing the food and the noise. She lives alone and so it's always quiet at her place. But she seems fine now (thank God!). Hopefully it stays that way.

The weather wasn't the greatest either. Snowstorm during the weekend and more snow Christmas Day! Driving was terrible! A two and a half hour drive took five hours! Horrible! But it wasn't that bad. It was still fun. I am finally comfortable around my in-laws. They don't ask me specific questions about the Philippines anymore, like traditions and food. Which i am glad because i don't really know what to say. For me, each family has it's own tradition, their own way of celebrating. So i am always careful with my answers. I don't want to give the wrong impression! *-* I got a lot of Christmas presents from them. They were all nice! Thank you! And then i got more when we came home. Thank you, Richard, everything was wonderful! Good shopper!

Life. It's full of surprises.

Christmas Greetings

2007-12-21T12:50:00.000-06:00

glitter-graphics.com

Holiday Hullabaloo

2007-12-14T07:40:00.000-06:00

Christmas is fast approaching. Lights adorn boring houses in the neighborhood and made it look more interesting. It seems like year after year people add a little bit more lights outside their house. We didn't do much light decor this year. It's not because we don't want to, it's because we can't! Last summer we had new soffit and fascia installed but not the rain gutter(that's where you hang the lights). We didn't wanna ruin the new soffit by pounding nails just so we can hang some lights, so we opted not to put up lights on the roof instead. There's a couple of lighted Christmas tree outside and some lighted ornaments on the window. That's it. But inside, we have a medium sized - real tree and a bunch of lights all over the house. We wrapped the pillar in the basement with lights, some more lights in the bookcase and a wreath on the big window in the living room. I think our house looks so bright and beautiful! Snow came early this year so it is definitely a white Christmas!

There are no presents under the Christmas tree yet. I already have quite a few here at home waiting to be wrapped, but i always forget to buy a tape! Although, I think i am doing pretty good this year, almost done with Christmas shopping-two more to go, Christmas greeting card is ready to go and i already picked out my outfit for church on Christmas Day! Great! Now i don't feel rushed. Last year, i didn't have the cards out until the twenties! I felt terrible! Anyway, I have a theme for Christmas this year - everything is in red and gold. From the lights and bulbs on the tree, to the Christmas wrapper I'll use and even on what to wear for Christmas eve dinner and to church the following day. A little over the top? Nah... just want to try something different, something new.

I am just so excited about the holidays! I can't wait to come home and open my presents, (although i don't see one yet, but i know they'll come), eat a lovely dinner and visit with family. This is the time of year too when i miss my family back in the PI the most. We celebrate differently there, more food and more family. Although i think it's different now that the kids are all grown up. Maybe they'd rather be out somewhere with friends. But i know one thing that'll never change - my Papa and Mama busy preparing for the noche buena. Papa will do all the cooking and Mama just cleaning up after him (she's a killer cook-literally!). Sometimes i feel like i hardly know my siblings anymore. I feel sad about it, but helpless. Life's journey has taken me far from them. But they will always be close to my heart.

Have a great Christmas everyone!

Shopping and Bus Rides

2007-12-01T10:15:00.000-06:00

I had my first public bus ride in the country last Thursday. Having the luxury of owning a car does wonders to a person. But for me, driving in a big city is a no-no. Scares the hell out of me! So i decided to take the bus and go shopping while Rick had his colonoscopy done. It was an adventure for me because i don't know which bus to take, where it'll stop and how much to pay. But i was brave enough to ask for directions. I'm not a guy anyway! *wink* I had to walk four blocks to get to the bus stop. It would have been fine if only the temperature was not blistering cold! I was practically shivering while waiting for the bus. But, it was worth it. I told Rick i'll do it again next time he's got a longer appointment.

Was planning of shopping "til i drop" but decided against it. I might get nice stuff for Christmas. I already had an early Christmas present. Rick bought me a diamond ring! Whoopee! Yah, we went crazy day after thanksgiving, we went shopping at 5am just to get a really good deal on a flat screen TV, which we got, plus the ring! hehehe...

Speaking of thanksgiving, Rick made us thanksgiving dinner. The whole works, turkey, stuffing(the best i've ever had!), cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie and some sparking white drink. We had fun. We ate too much. Which we regret after a couple hours... The part i didn't like was eating leftovers for three days. I swear i smelled like turkey by then!

Shopping, food, and fun - just a few to be thankful for.

My Thanksgiving List

2007-11-22T22:12:00.000-06:00

Another year is about to end. Today, the Americans are celebrating Thanksgiving Day. It's a day where food and family is abundant. Here's my list of things I am thankful for:

1. Food - because it gives us nourishment.
2. Family - they remind us who we were and what we've became.
3. Good health - without it living would be so much harder.
4. Friends - free therapy!
5. Job - helps provide our needs and some wants.
6. Love - makes waking up in the morning more meaningful.

note: i didn't get to finish this entry but i decided to post it anyway because i don't have an entry for November. Not even One.

Growing Up

2007-10-27T21:35:00.000-05:00

It was already late last night and i couldn't sleep. My mind was just wandering. I couldn't stop thinking. I partly blame the vacation talk before we went to bed. We couldn't decide on when and where to stay. I have such a fickle mind! So, another day is about to end and we still didn't book anything.

While I was trying to sleep last night. I suddenly thought of how hard it was being a grown up. We have to make our own decisions and be responsible for our actions. It used to be our parents doing that for us. And we resent them whenever we don't get what we want. Before, when i was younger, i was often asked what i want to be when i grow up. I knew deep inside what i wanted to be. I always had a dream. Finish school, have a career and family. I was blessed enough that i was able to attain almost all of my dreams. I finished school. I have a career and i have a family. Although we don't have kids. I still consider us a family. I may not have the riches that I always wanted. But that is fine because we live a comfortable life.

So what now? That question was really bugging me last night. What do i do now that i am a grown woman. Can i still say i want to be something when i grow up? I got scared thinking that there is nothing to hope for anymore, nothing to dream about, nothing to look forward to, but wait for sickness or death to come knocking at my door. Then it hit me. I was just suppose to enjoy life. The life that i have now and stop worrying about the future. Enjoy the hard work i endured to become a grown up. It's time to make up for missed opportunities because i was so busy trying to grow up. I guess that explains my unexplained excitement when we went to Disney Land. My eagerness to see the wonders of the world that i only saw in the movies, read in books or learned in school. My desire to fill-up my closet with clothes, shoes and purses. Growing up i didn't have much. Now I understand and i know what being a grown up is all about.

Although i know i haven't reached my full potential yet. There is still room for me to grow. So i thought i should go back to school and try to learn some more. I don't like it that i am not learning anymore. I think it's boring and i'm scared i might become a bore too.

Yah, i still have dreams... i want to travel all around the world. Visit the queen. Dine with the stars. And most of all try to match Imelda's collection. *wink*

Blogging Business

2007-10-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

I came upon somebody's blog and she says that she's being paid to blog. I have heard about this but i just don't know how... Well, so i tried to visit the website and learn more about it. I went through the process, fill-in all the information needed to have an account with them. Nothing fishy so far. They didn't ask for too personal information until i logged out and logged back in. They want my social security number! Now that's a bummer! I would never disclose such information to anybody on the web! So there goes my money making dream. I hope someday someone will show me how to do it and lead me to a legitimate site.

Anyway, I am sore from raking the yard for three hours! Yup, I got a lot done. The yard looks so much better now. Tomorrow, more leaves will be on the ground! But at least I got rid of some of them. That's just how fall weather is. You have to deal with a lot of LEAVES! It's not too bad though. The trees looks so pretty when they change colors. But once they're done, then, they end up on the ground. Then they don't look pretty anymore. They look messy and you have to clean it up! After all our hardwork, the neighbor's yard still look so much better. But he rakes his yard everyday! That should make a difference. Saw him kicking a pile of leaves towards the side of the road the other day. Wind was gusting and so that sent the leaves flying all over the place. Most of it ended on our side of the street. Smart-ass!

I realized my entry last week had a little bit of a sad tone to it. It's just that i have been talking to a friend who's having some problems. And hearing her sad story made me sad too. Life is full of surprises and not all of them is pleasant. We just have to be strong and persevere. Just like the blogging business. I know someday i'll figure it out! It might be too late. But i know it'll happen. I'll just keep my hopes up and smile!

Autumn of change... exciting!

Mistakes and Promises

2007-10-16T19:29:00.000-05:00

There's only two things that's certain in life - taxes and death.

I think i heard that from my taxation professor in college. And he's so right! Everybody pays tax and eventually, we will die. No morbid stories here! Just contemplating on decisions i have made in the past. Yes, i did some bad ones, some really awful ones and somehow something that was good enough. Yah, i mustn't have done so bad... I didn't turn out too bad after all.

My sister was having a hard time deciding on what to take for college. She tried nursing school for a while and i guess she didn't do too well. Oh, how she reminds me of my younger days... But not that much. I knew what i wanted to be even when i was only in 6th grade - I wanted to be like my Mom! Tinkering away with numbers.... no, not the engineering numbers, but one that has $ on them! I knew where i want to go to school too! Lucky enough, I got what I wanted and here I am...

Life is never a bed of roses. It is not a fairy tale either. We make mistakes and believe in empty promises. But life isn't too bad. It can be hard but not bad. The good in life outweighs the bad in them. We just always have to look at the brighter side of things. See the glass of water as half-full rather than half-empty. Seize the opportunity that comes our way!

I guess my professor was wrong. There are three things that's certain in life - choices, taxes and death. We are faced with choices from the moment we wake up to the time we go to sleep. Decisions that we have to make ourselves. Good or bad - it makes us who we are. You can make your own bed of roses or your own fairytale. But life will never be perfect. You just have to make the most of it.

Life is beautiful.

Live in the Philippines

2007-09-07T09:25:00.001-05:00

I always read this website about living in the Philippines. It's a blog maintained by a foreigner, named BOB, who lives in the Philippines, particularly, Davao City. Rick and I both read it whenever we can because it is such an informative website. Rick can learn about how life is like over there from a view of a fellow American. Bob doesn't say bad stuff about the country and the people. He just say it as it is, which, i admire about him. He doesn't try to scare people away, but encourage them to give it a try...

We plan to retire there someday. Take it easy for a while and see if we would like to settle there for good. The value of the dollar isn't much anymore. And probably the cost of living would be somewhat similar to what it is here. But having family around trumps the "American Dream". Plus having easy access to the beautiful white sandy beaches and the fresh seafood and fruits... makes it all worthwhile. Yeah, Rick has family here too... his mom and his brother lives 3 hours away. And they call each other once in a while. We go visit them once a month, if we can. They never come visit us. So i don't think it'll affect anything if we move. I know the transition is not gonna be easy... but it's worth a try. Hopefully we'll find a way to somehow keep the house here while we're gone. Rent it out perhaps?

Anyway, after following Bob's blog for a while now, i realized that he knows more about my country and the people there than I do. Being away for a while is not an excuse. I took for granted the beauty, the culture and everything that made me into who I am. I should have explored my own country more than my desire to visit all 50 states. Someday i'll go back and somehow explore the islands some more... hopefully it's not too late yet.

Change can be good or bad. But it's worth trying. Look at me now! *-*

Weekend of Fun

2007-09-01T21:23:00.000-05:00

Boy, oh boy! was my weekend ever fun!

THURSDAY - after work, i met with Em and Jemima. We went to Celia's place, talked for hours, ate, and then we went shopping! I didn't buy much. So did they, but it was already 9pm when we got home! Our husbands were worried! None of us bothered to give them a call that we were going to be late! Sometimes, we just have too much fun that we forget we have a family waiting for us at home... It was clean fun, by the way, no booze or whatever... we just like to talk and eat and shop. I'm glad I'm blessed with good friends.

FRIDAY - we went canoeing on Namekagon River. The canoe rental place is about 6 miles from Spooner, so it wasn't that far. From there, they took us to a boat landing which was about 5 miles. I was really excited because i have never been on a canoe before! I was a little scared too coz it's not really a big boat and you have to keep still or else it'll tip over, or so i thought. The day was so pretty, the sun was out and there was a gentle breeze... So off we go down the river. I was all smiles and giddy! Looked around trying to seek some form of life. We saw quite a few birds flying around, some trying to catch a bug on the water and some just staring at us from a tree or a log nearby. There was quite a few turtles on the bank on top of some log or a big rock trying to get a tan. We saw different kinds of fish in the water too! The water was so clean and clear... We even saw a couple jumped in front of us maybe trying to catch a bug or something.

The water was so shallow that i felt foolish to feel scared. I think the deepest there was, was 4 feet or less. It was so shallow that we got stuck a couple times. We had to get out and push the canoe 'til it floats again. Although, we partly blame our weight for that! There was one spot where the current was pretty strong and big rocks all around! It was exciting! Rick got wet coz we hit a big rock that sent water flying his way. It was fun and exhausting at the same time. I wish the seats were more comfortable and have a back so we can kind of lean and rest once in a while. It took us over three hours to get back. We didn't even notice we were gone that long. There was just so much to see that we forgot about time. But we felt the pain after we got home. Our back was just so sore for sitting so long... We didn't have to paddle as much, we just drifted mostly, so our arms or shoulders is not sore at all! We may be sore but we had fun and we are surely gonna do it again!

SATURDAY - we just stayed home. I did my chores while Rick putts around with his plants. He made my favorite beef stroganoff over rice for supper! Yummy! We finally put the boat seats in so we are gonna give it a test drive tomorrow. Rick and i are already toasted from the sun. He's red and i'm black! Arrrgh!

Another day of sun wont hurt...