Role-Switchings

It's funny when you realize something "profound" while you're taking a bath or folding the laundry or just merely brushing your teeth! While doing just that (brushing thingy) tonight, it came to me that we (Wes, Therese and I) actually switched roles when I got sick. You see, the real roles are:
Therese - a kid. Basically does nothing but play and sleep and eat and of course, go to school. Sometimes whines and throws tantrums when her whims are not given. But nevertheless, she's the sweetest thing in the whole world, universe, galaxy. (I'm the mom so I'm biased.)
Wes - The Provider. He's always, always on a business trip going here, there and everywhere. Just to provide for his small family. (And finance my caprices. Ssshhh...)
Me - the mom/wife/domestic goddess of this household. I feed them, I clean after them, I make sure they look clean and that they smell nice. And that the house is in order, etc. etc. You know what I mean.

Anyways, when I got sick, here's what happened:
Therese - she went away on a trip. So, she took Daddy's role. At least on being away.
Me - I became Therese this time. I did nothing but eat (and gave Wes a hard time feeding me) and sleep and yeah, whine and rant and cry. And asked Wes to get me this and that and buy me this and that. And I got mad when he did not buy me the food I was asking him to buy. (It's not that I don't do that when I am well. LOL!)
Wes - (this is the best part!) He evolved into a better version of himself! He became the domestic god of the household! He fed me, did the laundry, cleaned the house (sort of), took care of a sick whiner, fixed the bed, fed the stray cat outside (though it has been his duty) and did all the other wonderful things I have been doing for them. (LOL!)

It's relatively fun while it lasted. It felt good to be on leave both from office and house work. But now, I am slowly crawling back to reality. Or is the other way around? The little girl came today with my father and she was crying. She went straight to the CR and vomited. Poor thing. They were already at school and she was not feeling well so they decided to come here. My heart broke! I asked her if she wants to stay home now and she nodded. So there. I have a little girl by my side who has low fever. (And her Dad just went away again for another business meeting.) If this is German Measles again, I will have to extend my leave for another week. The year is just starting and my 15-day Sick Leave will all be consumed! And there's a possibility that those days are not enough and I have to opt for leave without pay. Good thing I can apply for a cash advance in trying times like this.

But I am praying and praying and praying that this is not Rubella German Measles. That this is just the usual virus she contracts once in a while. I can't bear to see her sick again though unlike before, my conviction that GOD WILL SEE US THROUGH is stronger. So we'll just take good care of her and pray with her like we always do and let God do His part.

Like what they say, "When it rains, it pours." We have our own version at the office, "When it rains, it floods!" Maybe this is a time when suffering seems to multiply and linger. But in my heart I believe that there's light at the end of the tunnel and abundant blessings will follow. ;)

Be a blessing!

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The Worst Days are Over!

Hi friends! How was your week so far? I hope it was productive and you have been happy with what you have been doing.

For those who are asking, I am feeling so much better now! Thank you, Lord! =) I have been taking 5 different kindsa of medicines plus I have the best doctor in town! Fever have subsided and I don't suffer from headaches, cough, fever and runny nose anymore. But my joints, hands and feet are still aching! And my skin (from neck down) still looks like Chorizo Bilbao! Hehehe! They're getting itchy once in a while but they're manageable. Now, I can get up longer and can feed myself, sleep 6 hours straight and without lights. Plus I can think straight! LOL! You know what medicines can do to you! They can make you well but they can also disorganize your thoughts. And hey! I was able to smell a fresh version of myself after 6 days!

Anyways, I am happier now. Though I feel sad whenever I remember my little girl. The house is so silent, it is so unusual. And unhappy. My nurse/cook left for about 4 hours yesterday and today to work and I was alone. And boy, it felt like I was on a solo retreat! I miss my girl so much! She visited me today and I was so happy to see her! I have been urging her to come home and yeah, she wants to but she does not know when. I do not know when either. Not for now, at least. ;)

Anyways, there are several projects that I need to finish and the succeeding days of recuperation will be spent working on them. I also need to work on this blog, surf the WWW for free digital kits, search for more digital printing services available here in the country, look for new good reads, browse galleries, stumble on the best online casino, play and win big time and then I won't need to go back to work next week! LOL!

One of the blessings that my illness brought is that Wes was able to touch base with the domestic god in him. :D He now knows how to do the laundry alone (though he bought himself a brand new washing machine), fix the clothes, "clean" the house and the most importantly, cook! Or at least fry. :) He also prepared fish soup and it was okay for a first timer. Except that he forgot to add some salt. LOL! But I am so proud of my husband. He did an A-OK job of taking care of me during one of the most trying times of my life.

Yes, it was horrifying. I may be exaggerating but it was a difficult experience for me. What sustained me was PRAYERS. I believe that God did not leave me during the time of His Divine Silence. He was actually suffering WITH me! And He blessed me again and again and again with wonderful people who lovingly supported me. Thanks to you too, for coming to visit and see how I've been and for loving wonderful and heartwarming messages. Salamat!

I never imagined that I will contract German measles at my age. And it never crossed my mind that it will be this hard. But like what I always tell Wes, it is better that I get sick instead of our girl.

One old friend sent an SMS on the second or third day of the event, and asked how I'd been. I told her I was suffering and it was difficult, etc. Her reply did not only comfort me but made me smile after how many days: "It's okay Zanne. My husband (a nurse) said that it really proves that you're still young because you contracted measles just now." :D

Okay, I'm done here so you go now and be good! ;)

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Still Sick

I will be limiting my Internet time while I am sick. (I have some deadlines kaya I am here now.) Guess what, my friends: I have this dreaded disease called GERMAN MEASLES! Haay! I feel super, mega terrible!

Thanks to everyone who dropped by and left some lovely notes! I will get back to you once my German visitor leaves for good. Heheh. Alpha, will do your tag once I get well.

Take care all and have a great week ahead!

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To be Well

That's what I have been praying for in the past days. I have been sick for several days now and it is a very, very sad thing, I tell you! I feel physically weak because of the pain that I have to endure. But the saddest part for me is that we have to send our kid to my parents' home since she might contract this disease. I can't imagine being away for a long time away from Therese and just thinking about it makes me sad. So I just take it one day at a time. Soon, she will be home, once Mommy is okay.

Anyway, allow me to introduce you to one of the healthy websites I stumbled upon this past week. It is a blog that promotes personal growth and wholistic development of body, mind, spirit as it tackles food, fitness, taking care of your mind and spirit, and staying in the present and being alert - elements that can bring us all to closer to a life that we all want to live. They have articles from aroma therapy to yoga. But my most favorite category is personality development. It even provides insightful books for the bookworms in us!

It is new year and what's a better way to welcome it than to be a better and new you!

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Sick

I have been feeling sick since last night. I had fever last Sunday and it recurred last night. I feel terrible and hot at 39 degrees Celcius! But why am I up, you might wonder? Because I have to, that's why! The boss is requiring me to send some brochure layouts today. Or else! LOL! No, just kidding. She is a nice woman. It's just that some "gods" will soon visit the university and almost everyone are panicking. Those are who are unaffected and do not care (like moi) are still forced to join the crowd. LOL!

Anyways, I hope and pray that I will feel better verrrry soon. I will post more photos and my part 2 of this post once I can.

Here's to a very happy weekend to you and your family!

P.S. Thanks to Lusi for the photo.

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Wanna Save at SaveBuckets?

In just three more weeks, the world will be going crazy with another holiday - the V Day! Valentine's Day is indeed just around the corner. Are you ready to celebrate it? What are your plans for the special day? And what about the gifts? We should never, ever forget about the gifts!

If you are looking for the perfect gift for the upcoming celebration, you better stop by at SaveBuckets. It can help you find great deals on anything that you want to give to your loved ones or even to yourself. How does the site work? They actually search over 1 million products online and provide a list of consumer items like clothings, household and kitchen furnitures, laptops, MP3 players, memorabillias and others.

Have you found what you're looking for but your allotted budget is not enough? You can inform them about your budget and they will send you an email once the product at the right price becomes available. With this feature, you can actually enjoy your Valentine's Day instead of worrying about your credit card bill. Neat, isn't it?

Another exciting thing about SaveBuckets is that they group the items based on their categories. So the items are categorized as Consumer Electronics, Electronic Games, Home and Garden, Computer Hardware, Clothing, Sports and Leisure.

So, save wanna save a whole load of money? Visit SaveBuckets now.

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Good bye, Fr. Rey (Part 1)

This is one of the saddest days in my life. Today, we buried the slain priest, Fr. Rey Roda, OMI. The love of the people whose lives were touched by Fr. Rey is very overwhelming. Let me share some snapshots of today's event and with few kwentos along the way.

The public school kids lining up to say bye-bye to Fr. Rey for the last time. Most of these kids are Muslims. Sayang, I was not able to take photos at the Cathedral where the requiem Mass was celebrated. It was overflowing with people! There was a long stretch of private high school kids naman outside the church pero I was not able to photograph them.

Here's the last ride of Fr. Rey. From Tabawan where he served for more than a decade and where he was brutally murdered, his remains were transported many times until it arrived here in Cotabato City. He was buried in the Oblate Cemetery though he wanted to be buried in Tabawan.

Men in black belts, some of Fr. Rey's brothers in the Oblates. One of them, Fr. Biasbas (3rd from left, the one with a black belt) was one of Fr. Rey's classmates. He accompanied Fr. Rey all the way from Tabawan. He is also doing missionary works in one of the islands there.

That's all for now. I have been sleeping way too late these days. I need to catch more zzzzs and make up for those lost sleep. More photos and stories of today's event will be posted tomorrow.

Good night, friends. Have a lovely Thursday tomorrow!

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Two Awards from Yen!

It's way past midnight in my side of the world but look, I am still up and very awake! =)

Anyways, here are two awards given out by a very pretty online friend, Yenny! Thank you so much and I am happy to know that I cheer you up and though this blog's just revived, you consider it excellent na. =)

In return, I am giving out these awards to these ladies who also cheer me up and are E-bloggers: Liz, Melisse, Ate JennyL, Chikai, Alpha, Caryl, Diane, Butchay, Mars, Nita, Mai, Cabbie and my new friend, Twerlyn.

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

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RPG Games

Who is into RPG games? And what is RPG, by the way? RPG or role-playing games are computer games where players assume the roles of fictional characters in a fictional setting. Together, they follow or create stories based on the actions and characterizations of their chosen character.

I have a cousin who is into RPG and he's in his 30s! It's not that playing is limited to the younger ones only. =) And take note, he is not only playing on his personal computer but also bought another gaming platform and plays the same games he has on his PC! My other cousins and I just shake our heads and accept the fact that he is an RPG games addict.

Phelios, an independent game developer, does not only create games for Windows but they have Mac games too. What I like most about this site is that they have two versions of their games: a FREE download version and a full version which is available for a fee. Isn't that nice? You can actually try the PC games or the Mac games first before purchasing the full versions. Very consumer-friendly, if you ask me!

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Linky Love

Gee, I got the the same tag from two friends, Retchel and Yen on the same day! Anyways, I just combined the list and deleted the duplicates, of course.

Here's the rule: Copy the list below and add your blog's name and link at the end. (Do not replace, just keep on adding! Yes we hope it will be a long list!) And then, tag 5 friends and that's it! It’s really easy! Tag others and see your Technorati Authority increase exponentially!

The benefits of Viral Linking:
- One of the fastest ways to see your technorati authority explode!
- Increase your Google PageRank fast
- Attract large volume of new traffic to your site
- Build your community
- Make new friends!

The Strategist Notebook Link Addiction Ardour of the Heart When Life Becomes a Book The Malaysian Life Yogatta.comWhat goes under the sun Roshidan’s Cyber Station Sasha says Arts of Physics And the legend lives My View, My Life A Simple Life Juliana RW The Callalily Space Petra Summer in Blue Confessions of an Army Wife Bless’ Sanctuary Happy Life Living @ Evergreen State La Place de Cherie, Chez Francine, Le bric a brac de Cherie, Little Peanut, Pea in a Pod, The Creative In Me, Me and Mine,The Pipeline Fixation My Restless Feet Soloflight Ed Chalyza pinaylifestyle keep chary feel, RetchelsOnlineBuzz, Retchel'sPureLife, BehinddScenesofME, MyRevelation, ALittleBitofME,A Life in Bloom……ADD YOURSELF HERE

It seems that almost everyone did this na? Heniways, if Liz, Caryl, Agring, Francine and Retche have not done this tag yet, then I am tagging you! =)

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"The Happy-Go-Lucky One" and "The Protector"

Happy Monday! I'm still home because I still feel sick, though strong enough to blog. LOL! Anyways, I woke up finding a tag from a pretty friend of mine, Chikai. It's another horoscope thing and I find it interesting so let's play along!

Instructions: Click your Zodiac Sign and check if the characteristics listed is true to you or not. You can also include your partner’s Zodiac Sign to add more fun. But I beg to disagree re my label: Happy-Go-Lucky? No, no, no! I see myself as responsible ha. Heheh! Anyways, here goes mine and Wes' characteristics based on our zodiac signs!

SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One (Nov 22 - Dec 21)
Good-natured optimist. (I think so!)
Doesn’t want to grow up (Peter Pan Syndrome). (Haha! Pwede ba?)
Indulges self. (sometimes.)
Boastful. (Hindi naman.)
Likes luxuries and gambling. (absolutely untrue!)
Social and outgoing. (true!)
Doesn’t like responsibilities. (false!)
Often fantasizes. (hay. no time to fantasize!)
Impatient. (relatively true!)
Fun to be around. (You have to ask my friends)
Having lots of friends. (I think so!)
Flirtatious. (haha!)
Doesn’t like rules. (I do like them!)
Sometimes hypocritical. (Yep!)
Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. (Emotionally, yep.)
Doesn’t like being doubted. (Who likes being doubted?)
Beautiful inside and out. (Haha! You tell me! :D)

CANCER - The Protector (June 21 - July 22)
Moody, emotional. (nope!)
May be shy. (nope pa rin!)
Very loving and caring. (absolutely!)
Pretty/handsome. (Of course!)
Excellent partners for life. (Super!)
Protective. (Very.)
Inventive and imaginative. (Very!)
Cautious. (Verrrry!)
Touchy-feely kind of person. (Yep!)
Needs love from others. (Needs love from me! Hahaha!)
Easily hurt, but sympathetic. (Not easily hurt but very sympathetic.)

More zodiac signs here:

AQUARIUS - The Sweetheart (Jan 20 - Feb 18)
Optimistic and honest.
Sweet personality.
Very independent.
Inventive and intelligent.
Friendly and loyal.
Can seem unemotional.
Can be a bit rebellious.
Very stubborn, but original and unique.
Attractive on the inside and out.
Eccentric personality.

PISCES - The Dreamer (Feb 19 - Mar 20)
Generous, kind, and thoughtful.
Very creative and imaginative.
May become secretive and vague.
Sensitive.
Don’t like details.
Dreamy and unrealistic.
Sympathetic and loving.
Kind.
Unselfish.
Good kisser.
Beautiful.

ARIES - The Daredevil (Mar 21 - April 19)
Energetic.
Adventurous and spontaneous.
Confident and enthusiastic.
Fun.
Loves a challenge.
EXTREMELY impatient.
Sometimes selfish.
Short fuse (easily angered).
Lively, passionate, and sharp wit.
Outgoing.
Lose interest quickly - easily bored.
Egotistical.
Courageous and assertive.
Tends to be physical and athletic.

TAURUS - The Enduring One (April 20 - May 20th)
Charming but aggressive.
Can come off as boring, but they are not.
Hard workers.
Warm-hearted.
Strong, has endurance.
Solid beings who are stable and secure in their ways.
Not looking for shortcuts.
Take pride in their beauty.
Patient and reliable.
Make great friends and give good advice.
Loving and kind.
Loves hard - passionate.
Express themselves emotionally.
Prone to ferocious temper-tantrums.
Determined.
Indulge themselves often.
Very generous.

GEMINI - The Chatterbox (May 21 - June 20)
Smart and witty.
Outgoing, very chatty.
Lively, energetic.
Adaptable but need to express themselves.
Argumentative and outspoken.
Like change.
Versatile.
Busy, sometimes nervous and tense.
Gossips.
May seem superficial or inconsistent.
Beautiful physically and mentally.

LEO - The Boss (July 23 - Aug 22)
Very organized.
Need order in their lives - like being in control.
Like boundaries.
Tend to take over everything.
Bossy.
Like to help others.
Social and outgoing.
Extroverted.
Generous, warm-hearted.
Sensitive.
Creative energy.
Full of themselves.
Loving.
Doing the right thing is important to Leos.
Attractive.

VIRGO - The Perfectionist (Aug 23 - Sept 22)
Dominant in relationships.
Conservative.
Always wants the last word.
Argumentative.
Worries.
Very smart.
Dislikes noise and chaos.
Eager.
Hardworking.
Loyal.
Beautiful.
Easy to talk to.
Hard to please.
Harsh.
Practical and very fussy.
Often shy.
Pessimistic.

LIBRA - The Harmonizer (Sept 23 - Oct 22)
Nice to everyone they meet.
Can’t make up their mind.
Have own unique appeal.
Creative, energetic, and very social.
Hates to be alone.
Peaceful, generous.
Very loving and beautiful.
Flirtatious.
Give in too easily.
Procrastinators.
Very gullible.

SCORPIO - The Intense One (Oct 23 - Nov 21)
Very energetic.
Intelligent.
Can be jealous and/or possessive.
Hardworking.
Great kisser.
Can become obsessive or secretive.
Holds grudges.
Attractive.
Determined.
Loves being in long relationships.
Talkative.
Romantic.
Can be self-centered at times.
Passionate and Emotional.

CAPRICORN - The Go-Getter (Dec 22 - Jan 19)
Patient and wise.
Practical and rigid.
Ambitious.
Tends to be good-looking.
Humorous and funny.
Can be a bit shy and reserved.
Often pessimistic.
Capricorns tend to act before they think and can be unfriendly at times.
Hold grudges.
Like competition.
Get what they want.

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Computer Games

One of my favorite activities when I am not so busy (or if my mojo takes a walk) is playing computer games. Yep, I still spend time on my laptop whenever there is nothing to do. But that rarely happens these days! LOL!

Anyways, I remember sleeping early in the morning just to play Zeus. I enjoyed building and developing communities and fighting off evil gods and goddesses. Of course, there are games for kids which I also find entertaining. But I am happy to discover Global Warning. It's not just a game for the sake of gaming but it is educational and may I say, environment-friendly, because it teaches about caring for the environment and how to generate significant savings on your energy and purchases. Interesting!

Being a Windows user since I was introduced to computers, I am happy that Mac games are also available for Mac users. Everybody's happy! :)

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Saggitarius Horoscope 2008

Tags are surely fun and here's a new one which I got from Liz. Thanks, sis!

"Sagittarius horoscope 2008 shows good times but only after many efforts as compared to the last year. Growth opportunities and avenues could be observed but only after some period of time. The time after the month of July is foreseen as a favorable and fruitful period for every kind of action. The stars predict only success in the coming year for the Sagittarius people.If you are the one who gets ready to make a job change at the slightest hint, then be prepared to make one big and final change in your professional field.You will also find much self control and would also be able to create much needed balance between the important things in your life. The year also comes with many opportunities, which will help you in creating your foundation in every aspect of life.

The horoscope 2008 talks of a personality change in the coming year for the people born under this sign. Investment would be favorable during the months of April to August. Investments made in the real estate sector would be the most favorable.

Joint business could witness some misunderstandings or problems, so be a little cautious. The month of December could be a little turbulent, so the need remains to be a little patient during this particular time. As far as love life is concerned, it is going to be full of exciting things for Sagittarius people."

Hmmm... How true can these predictions be? Let's wait and see!

Want to grab this tag? Go here and check your horoscope for the year.

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The Day that Was

Hi! Happy Sunday! Unfortunately, I woke up with a low fever and headache this morning. =( I was in bed the whole day and the good husband did almost all the housework! He even conquered his fear of frying! He even bought some groceries after going to Mass and took care of the laundry. I am soooo proud of him! =) However, I had super hard time dealing with my little girl. She has been an annoying and stubborn little brat! Either that or I am just impatient because I am sick. Oh well... Obviously, I can get up now and was even able to cook a decent meal for my small family.

Anyways, because I of my situation, there was nothing to do but sleep and tinker with my mobile phone. LOL! A preggy friend, Bingay is sick and so is her little girl, Nana. Ate Ann's father has been in the hospital for 6 days now because of cardiac arrest. I hope and pray for their fast recovery. On a lighter note, Rita and I exchanged notes regarding digital scrapbooking. I so envy her for having the mojo and time to scrap! She even had her layouts printed! Way to go, girl! Keep it up! Liz and I also had a chance to talk about a project that we have in mind. Imagine, I was thinking about it this morning and she called up this night to discuss it! Indeed, great minds think alike! :D And while I am writing this, I am also chatting with Jeff, my so-much-in-love brother in-love and with Arabelle, a super pretty friend whom I have not seen for a loooong time! We've been friends since high school and she's one of my super dearest friends even if we rarely talk. :) I love yah, girl and I so miss those long talks and fights! :D

So, there goes my weekend! How was your weekend? :)

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It's Back!

Bo Sanchez, a very popular preacher, writer, etc. said that we should always, always be open to blessings, that we should expect blessings each day because our God is a loving God and He always thinks of ways to bless us. So why am I sharing this? I was on a vacation for two weeks last December and I was not able to update this blog during that period. I came home to a blog with a 0 Page Rank (PR). PR these days is a big thing for people like me so you can just imagine how disappointing that was. In fact, I even removed the PR widget on my sidebar because it was annoying to see. Anyways, I checked last week and I still got 0. Tonight, I thought of checking again, expecting to see another 0 but lo and behold! My PR3 is back! It is so back! Thank you, Lord! This is an unexpected blessing and it is very much appreciated. ;)

Expect blessings to happen. They do happen. ;)

Hmmm... How will God bless me today kaya?

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Weekend Again?

Wow! Time surely flies fast when you're not looking. Hehe! So, how was your week? It has been quite busy for us. I attended a seminar last Thursday and Friday. I initially thought that it was going to be boring since we've been attending a similar seminar in the previous years. But aside from having a set of effective and amusing set of speakers and fresh topics, I was also seated with a very gay friend! He is one of the jolliest gays I know. ;) Thanks, Lor a.k.a Eunice! I actually learned new things even if I was one of the noisiest in the group. LOL!

Anyways, it is a busy weekend for me. Again. ;) So many things to do, so little time! It is great to have a very, super helpful and supportive husband like Wes! He has been so helpful around the house and very supportive of my undertakings. Am I lucky or what? :)

Speaking of being lucky, I found another website that provides a comprehensive list of online blackjack game sites that offer the highest payouts and signup bonuses. It is also interesting to note that they have a 24-hour customer support. Like what I have been saying, I am very much lucky and blessed with my love life but I am very unlucky when it comes to games of chance, even raffles! So I wil leave online gaming alone. ;)

Tomorrow is going to be a busy day for many people here in the country as we celebrate the feast day of the Sto. Nino. May our childlike faith help us get through with the trials that we face and may it also make our hearts grateful even for the simplest blessings that we receive.

Happy Feast Day to all!

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Transitions

Just like last year, when 2007 began, our family is again dealing with some transitions. I can't write about the more relevant yet. But I am very much grateful to our friends and relatives who have been praying for and with us. They also provide the much-needed moral support. Thank you, thank you! God is soooo good that He is blessing us with wonderful and loving people like you. Things are getting everyday and we know that very soon, our prayer will be granted. :)

Another thing that we face in the previous days is the absence of our helper/caregiver. It was she who decided to let us go! LOL! We have been having problems with her trustworthiness but we tried to ignore it. You have to understand that we were afraid to let lose her. She knew Therese since the girl was still a baby. She understands and love that girl and never hurt her. Aside from that, we used to believe that we can't handle all the household chores here at home, that we need extra hands because we are both working full-time.

Hours before our flight last December 2007, my brother, daughter and I decided to visit some relatives who live nearby. But before we left, I already prepared my bag and kept my wallet inside a locked drawer. But I kept a bill inside my coin purse for our terminal fee. The helper/caregiver was the only person left here at home for about an hour. Upon our return, much to my dismay, I discovered that the bill inside my coin purse is missing! I finally had the courage to talk to and confront her and told her that that was not the first incident. Of course, she denied that it was her! I guess I was really disappointed that time because aside from her cash bonus, we actually gave her some grocery items and a big can of assorted biscuits for her family that morning. We have been verrrry generous to her and her family. But I did not get angry, I did not become hysterical. I was actually amazed at how I handled the situation! In all honesty, I have forgiven her and I expected to see her again once we return. However, my brother (who stayed here while we were away) told us that she did not return after she got her salary that week. I was surprised to know that on the day of our return, she was not here. We actually waited for her to report to work last January 7, but she did not arrive. Her excuse was she got sick. But she was able to work one weekend somewhere! Looks like she's guilty.

Anyway, Wes and I decided not to hire a new helper/caregiver anymore. Not because we can't afford it but we can actually save a lot without one! Therese is big enough and have lesser caring needs. We also agreed that we can do the household chores together. I have been bringing Therese to work every morning. And she has been helpful to me and my officemates ha. ;) She goes to her class in the afternoon and we go home together. Wes and I share the household chores. He now knows how to cook rice using the rice cooker and I am so proud of him! :D Cooking viands is still a slightly difficult thing because thawing takes so much time! Wes and I do the laundry together and I finally agreed with him that we need a washing machine. :) Of course, we still need to adjust to the situation and I am happy to know that Therese prefers to be with Mommy than to be with her caregiver. That's what she said ha. (We already told her that her caregiver won't be coming back.) It is tiring, yes. But the joy is in knowing that I am serving and taking care of the greatest gifts given to me by God - Wes and Therese.

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Help For "Bad Credit" Consumers

Have you heard of credit counseling? I stumbled upon this phrase when I visited BadCreditOffers.com. Since I have been working in a guidance center, I am naturally curious about this term. So I read further and here’s what I discovered:

In credit counseling, a consumer with or without bad credit loans discusses his individual credit outlook with a qualified expert. This works best with a credit report on hand. Credit report is basically the consumer’s credit history.

BadCreditOffers.com offers help to consumers with bad credit loans in the United States with a not-so-perfect credit rating. The people behind BadCreditOffers.com claim to be experts in the credit industry and they work hand in hand with credit issuers in order to provide direct links on online applications which are not difficult to accomplish. They keep an eye on the online market place to provide consumers with the top “bad credit” available like credit cards, home loans, auto loans, personal loans and many more. BadCreditOffers.com provides consumers the opportunity to compare a number of bad credit offers from major providers and in order for them to discover the best offer that fits their needs.

So for those who are trying to get back on their feet financially and are in need of credit offers, try BadCreditOffers.com. You might actually find what you are looking for while you are there.

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Portugal

Planning to visit Portugal? Did you know that Portugal is a major European tourist destination attracting over 12.8 million tourists annually? Tourism is playing an increasingly important role in Portugal's economy contributing with about 5% of the the Gross Domestic Product.1. The largest 5 sources for tourists are : United Kingdom 21.8%, Spain 19.0%, Germany 12.3%, France 7.0% 5and Italy 5.2%

But before you book that flight, make sure that you visit Cheaperthanhotels – Portugal. It caters visitors from all of these major markets with its last minute and year round hotel reservation websites. Check out these pages as samples :Portugal Hotels : Lisbon Hotels ; Algarve Hotels ; Madeira Hotels.

The popular tourist places to visit in Portugal are Lisbon, the Algarve and Madeira. However, there are new destinations like Douro Valley, Porto Santo Island, and Alentejo. Tourism regional areas that are being rapidly developed includes Douro Sul, Templários, Dão-Lafões, Costa do Sol, Costa Azul and Planície Dourada.

Happy trip! :)

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A Day of Mourning

It's in the news. A priest who belongs to the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) was killed in Tawi-Tawi last night. Fr. Rey Roda, OMI was praying in chapel when about about 10 gunned men tried to abduct him. He resisted, he was hurt by them and dragged outside where he was shot to death. To read more about this tragic news, please go here.

I've met this wonderful priest personally. He was the one who brought Maz, an excellent student from Tawi-Tawi, to study in our university as a scholar about 4 years ago. Maz and I met around lunch time today and I saw how sad she was because of what happened.

He is one of the OMIs who runs some colleges and universities in Manila and here in Mindanao. I am an alumna of one of those universities, I served as an Oblate Volunteer after I graduated and I have been working in that university for almost 10 years. I grew up with having OMIs around. One of them baptized me. Another one solemnized our wedding and baptized our daughter. I have been amazed by the missionary work that these guys do. When I was once an Oblate Volunteer, I actually experienced travelling to far-flung areas with my superior (who's a priest) just to say Mass.

The OMIs actually go the distance. They serve the poorest of the poor. Many lives were touched because of their work. They serve everyone without the intention of converting them. They are loved by Muslims and Christians alike. That has been echoed over and over again when OMIs are being talked about. Like now. That's what the people who were served by Fr. Rey said. By the way, Maz, our scholar is a Muslim.

This is not the first time that a priest got killed in our country. Why things like this happen to people who whole-heartedly serve and love God and others? That I don't know. I also have been asking the same question.

Fr. Rey, rest in God's love. Thank you for everything that you have done for all of us. Please pray for us and we'll see you in heaven.

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Preventing Identity Theft

Last month, I was very privileged to meet two online friends. One of them came all the way from the US. It was refreshing to be talking to them about family life and the hobby that the three of us share.

However, one sad story was shared by Ms. V. Some months ago, a call woke her up very early in the morning. It came from an employee of her credit card company and she was being asked whether they just purchased some expensive stuff online. Well, the call actually woke them up and this means that they have not transacted online before that call. Good thing, their credit card company was alert in times like that one! Just imagine the hassle and inconvenience it would have caused if they were not able to detect the anomaly!

In order to prevent cases like this one to happen, Lifelock.com offers to guarantee your good name up to $1,000,000. Lifelock provides an effective solution in preventing your identity from being stolen before it takes place. What a convenience that would be, if you ask me! But wait, there's more! (I love that line! LOL!) Lifelock also offers a Lifelock promotion code if you avail of their service.

Protect and guarantee your good name, visit Lifelock now!

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What Kind of Soul Am I?

Here is another tag which I got from Buchay. Thanks girl! I was amused with the result. Hehehe.

Feel free to grab this one, ladies and gents! ;)

You Are a Newborn Soul

You are tolerant, accepting, and willing to give anyone a chance. On the flip side, you're easy to read and easily influenced by others. You have a fresh perspective on life, and you can be very creative. Nonconformist and nontraditional, you've never met anyone who's like you. Inventive and artistic, you like to be a trendsetter. You have an upbeat spirit and you like almost everything. You make friends easily and often have long standing friendships. Impulsive and trusting, you fall in love a little too easily. Souls you are most compatible with: Bright Star Soul and Dreaming Soul

What Kind of Soul Are You?

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The Love and Hate Tag

Here is another tag which I got from a good friend, Yenny! Thanks, girlie!

As usual, feel free to grab this one! :)

1. I love to eat: Chocolates and sweets and fruits and some junks. ;)
2. I hate to eat: no answer. Hehehe!
3. I love to go: to Pampanga
4. I hate to go: to work! :D
5. I love it when: I am surrounded by people I like and love.
6. I hate it when: I have to wake up early.
7. I love to see: my family in-love, friends from high school days and online friends.
8. I hate to see: her! :D
9. I love to hear: my husband and daughter sing.
10. I hate to hear: her shrill voice!

Who is "she"? SECRET! :D

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Lucky Click

It's a weekend! For many of us, this is a great time to relax and enjoy. However, in my case, it's different! It's time for my household chores! Hubby and I had an interesting bonding moment late this afternoon - we did the laundry together! It was not as tiring as I expected because of the extra hand, plus I actually have someone to talk with aside from myself! LOL! It just rained but I hope that tomorrow's going to be a sunny day so that our laundry dries up quickly. Next task, ironing them! Waaah! When will I have time to blog and surf the net and read other blogs and download digital freebies? ;)

Anyways, for those who got the luxury of time this weekend, why not try your luck on an online casino? Like what I have mentioned before, there are many, many online casinos to try out there! Who knows, it might be your lucky day and your luck is just a click away! ;)

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Friendship Survey

One of the tags I recently got. This one is from Butchay. Thanks, girl!

Feel free to grab this if you like!

1. What time is it? 4:03 PM
2. What's your full name? Suzanne V.
3. What are you most afraid of? Death of a family member
4.What is the most recent movie that you have seen on bootleg? None
5.Place of birth? Cotabato City Philippines
6.Favorite food? Chocolates!
7.What's your natural hair color? Black
8.Ever been to Freak Nick? Nope!
9.Ever been skinny dipping? Nope!
10. Love someone so much it made you cry? It was I who made them cry! Hehehe!
11. Been in a car accident? Nope, thank God!
12. Croutons or bacon bits? Bacon bits
13. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
14. Favorite restaurant? Nothing in particular
15. Favorite Flower? Rose? Hehehe.
16. Favorite sport to watch? None.
17. Favorite drink? Water.
18. Favorite ice cream? Coffee Crumble
19. Warner Brothers/Disney? Disney
20. Ever been on a ship? Yep!
21. What color is your bedroom carpet? Not applicable
22. How many times did you fail your driver's test?
No guts to drive!
23. Before this one, from whom did you get your last e-mail? From my brother in-love, Tedley.
24. What do you do when you are bored? I have no time to get bored these days. *sigh*
25.Bedtime? Between 6PM and 12 midnight.Hehe!
26. Who will respond to this e-mail the quickest? No idea.
27. Who will least likely respond? No idea pa rin.
28. Who is the person that you are most curious to see their responses? Everyone's.
29. Favorite TV shows? Las Vegas, House M.D., CSI
30. Last person you went to dinner with? My husband and daughter, obviously! :D
31. Park or Zoo? Zoo
32. What are your favorite colors? Pink and brown
33.How many tattoos do you have? 0
34. How many pets do you have? 0
35. Which comes first, the chicken or the egg? Chicken
36. What do you want to do before you die? Retire in a super nice place with my husband, travel around the world with him,etc.
37.Have you been to countries outside the U.S.? No.
38. How many people are you sending this e-mail? None. Anyone can grab this. ;)
39. Time this survey ended? 4:14 pm

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Wednesday Blabs

Happy Wednesday, everyone! It is a happy one for me because it's a holiday in celebration of the Islamic New Year. I just loooove holidays! :)

I was supposed to write some serious stuff here but I will just save it for some other time. Baka maiyak pa ako. Hehehe!

Anyways, I found an amusing site courtesy of a good online friend, Chikai. Do you know the ever-famous Inday, the English-speaking katulong? Well, well, well! Inday blogs! Go here and see for yourself! And like what Chikai said, sosyal ni Inday, having her own domain!

Anyways again, I do hope you are all having a great week! Catch you all later!

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Pro360

Here's a trivia for you. Did you know that there are about 3,000 online casinos on the WWW? That is one big number, if you ask me!

If you are a new online casino player, you will surely be overwhelmed by the number of online casinos on the web. It is then helpful to know that there are sites that provide casino reviews which can guide you on where's the best online casino to play and earn bonuses, sites like pro360. This site does not only provide a top 20 list of online casinos but they also classify these best online casinos based on player votes, most voted for online casinos and casinos with best bonuses. But wait, there's more! :) Comprehensive lists of poker rooms both worldwide and US are also provided.

So, whether you're a pro or a newbie in line of online casino playing, visit pro360 for updates.

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