Simple Thoughts of Mine

My New Site

2008-10-18T05:53:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! Thanks for dropping by. Just want to inform you that I have my new site. Come and join me at http://www.marjonelle.com/ I would be glad to see u around. :-) Take care and God bless...

AIDS Precaution

2008-08-07T17:54:00.000-07:00

I got an e-mail and found it very informative, so I want to share it with you to somehow prevent AIDS.

It happened in Singapore - Waterloo Street. A 10 year old boy had eaten pineapple about 15 days back, and fell sick, from the day he had eaten. Later when he had his Health check done... doctors diagnosed that he had AIDS. His parents couldn't believe it...Then the entire family underwent a checkup... none of them suffered from Aids. So the doctors checked again with the boy if he had eaten out something... The boy said 'yes'. He had pineapple that evening. Immediately a group from the hospital went to the pineapple vendor to check. They found the pineapple seller had a cut on his finger while cutting the pineapple; his blood had spread into the fruit. When they had his blood checked...the guy was suffering from AIDS...but he himself was NOT aware. Unfortunately the boy is suffering from it now. Please take care in buying and eating street foods.

My 7-Day Experience with Pond’s Age Miracle

2008-07-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

I’m the type of woman who is not fond of using beauty or skin care products. I am afraid of discolorations, burns and allergies that may affect my skin. Until I attended the Pond’s Bloggers Party at Taste Asia in SM Hypermarket, Mall of Asia last July 4, 2008.

A 7-day trial kit of Pond’s Age Miracle Day Cream was given to each of the female bloggers and guests of the said event. At first I was hesitant to use the product for the said reasons above, but I still tried it out of curiosity.

My first day of applying it on my face was a bit odd for me. I was expecting a greasy and burnt feeling on my face, but to my surprise I didn’t feel any of those, instead I felt fresh all day. Then on the second day and onwards seemed so natural for me to do the routine, (wash face thoroughly and apply Ponds Age Miracle every morning). I love the transformation that happened to my face. I saw glow on my skin and felt the smoothness that it brings as the days passed by. And unbelievably, no side effects at all! My friends noticed the changes and they told me “Blooming ka ah! Ano ang ginawa mo?” Of course this made me smile, and simply answered them, “I'm using Pond’s Age Miracle!”

Now I know how Pond’s Age Miracle makes one look younger. First is the smoothness and glow it brings to one’s face and second because it makes one contented and happy. I’ll definitely add this to my everyday routine.

Would you like to experience the miracle too? Try Pond’s Age Miracle and see the difference in just seven days.

Pope John Paul II and The Virgin Mary

2008-07-13T17:40:00.000-07:00

Got this e-mail and want to share it to the world.

We don't know why John Paul II wanted to hide this picture for years. The Vatican published this picture recently, for first time. This picture was taken by one of his security guards just when the Pope was attacked and was falling down in his Papamobil. You can see the pain in his face.

Joaquin Navarro Valls, who is the one spokesman from The Vatican, said that they made a lot of studies for years of this incredible picture and of course about the quality of the developing of the picture because when it was developed nobody could see very well because the image was not clear. Finally, and after so many controls and being looking and checking by all the experts in photography (around the world), they decided that there were no tricks in it and today they give us this beautiful gift from our Mother of God.

You can see the Mother of God holding John Paul II in her arms. Beautiful right?

Philippine Airlines

2008-07-12T01:39:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time in China , there lived a happy couple, Mr. & Mrs. Chan with their 3 lovely daughters; Elaine, Ena & Ella. The 3 daughters were brought up in a prim-and-proper way and when they reached 20, they were still virgins.

Years passed, and it was time to get them married. So, the parents found them the most suitable "leng chais"(handsome guys). They got married and were preparing to set-off on their honeymoon.

As "concerned" parents, Mr. & Mrs. Chan were curious about their daughters' first-night experience. So, before the daughters went on their respective honeymoons, Mrs. Chan told them, "Your father & I want to know about your 1st night encounters and whether you are satisfied. Write a letter to us, but as not to raise your husbands' curiosity... you all must use a code to describe your experiences" .

So, the excited daughters were off. A week passed. Mr. & Mrs . Chan got the first letter. It was from Elaine. They opened the letter and found the word STANDARD CHARTERED. They immediately took the newspaper and looked for the Standard Chartered advertisement. "Ah! Here it is!!!!" exclaimed Mr. Chan. The motto for Standard chartered was... "BIG, STRONG & FRIENDLY." Mr. & Mrs. Chan were happy.

A week later, they got another letter. This time it was from Ena. The content was simple, "NESCAFE". So again they took the newspaper and looked for the Nescafe ad. "Ah! here it is... NESCAFE: PLEASURE TILL THE LAST DROP. Mr. and Mrs. Chan jumped for joy.

Another week passed. A month passed. 2 months passed. There was still no letter from Ella. The Chans became worried. Finally, the letter came. It was scribbled and could hardly be read, but Mrs. Chan managed to figure it out. The code was "PHILIPPINE AIRLINES".

Mr. Chan, confused on why she chose Philippine Airlines, rushed to the nearest store and got a newspaper. He flipped the pages frantically. ...... "Ah! Here it is!!!" Mrs. Chan grabbed the page and read aloud. Before she could finish ...THUMP!!! ... she fell off her chair... The Airline's motto was... "7 TIMES A WEEK. 4 TO 6 TIMES A DAY. NON-STOP."

Manny Pacquiao Beat David Diaz By TKO

2008-06-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching the "Lethal Combination" about an hour ago. And once again our very own Pacman did it again after winning the said fight. He won over Dangerous Diaz after Technical Knock-out on the 9th round. Manny reached his dream to be the first Filipino as well as the first Asian to have the 4 World Title in Light Weight Boxing. He just made a record!!!

I am just too lucky to watched it earlier than the rest of the people here in the Philippines. Thanks to the person who shared his HBO Pay Per View over the internet. And to you Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao... Mabuhay!!! Once again you made the Filipinos proud!

How to Determine a 2-Way Mirror

2008-06-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

What would you do if you see yourself in a scandal film which you didn’t do? You were in a hotel’s bathroom, showering, changing clothes or the worst situation…. you’re in your honeymoon, making love with your partner and it was filmed…. I’m sure you’ll be fuming mad. What is the possible way that someone filmed you without you knowing it? 2-WAY MIRROR!

I guess you might be interested to know how to determine if a mirror is a 2-way or not. It is very difficult to positively identify the surface by just looking at it. So this is what you have to do…

Place the tip of your fingernail against the reflective surface and if there is a GAP between your fingernail and the image of the nail, then it is a GENUINE mirror.

However, if your fingernail DIRECTLY TOUCHES the image of your nail, then BEWARE, FOR IT IS a 2-WAY MIRROR!

'No Space, Leave the Place' So remember, every time you see a Mirror, do the 'fingernail test.' It doesn't cost you anything.

Remember: 'No Space, Leave the Place'.

The Top 3 World's Richest People

2008-06-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered who the richest people on earth? How they achieved it? What they deal with? You might be interested like me, so I researched and this is what I found out.

3rd Placer – WILLIAM HENRY (BILL) GATES III (52 yrs. old)- 58.0 billion – USA
Bill Gates (been on rank 1 for thirteen years) is an American business magnate, philanthropist, and chairman of Microsoft, the software company he founded with Paul Allen. During his career at Microsoft, Gates held the positions of CEO and chief software architect, and remains the individual shareholder with the most shares, with more than 9 percent of the common stock.He has also authored or co-authored several books.

2nd Placer – CARLOS SLIM HELU (68 yrs. old) – 60.0 billion – Mexico City
Slim gained notoriety when he led a group of investors that included France Télécom and Southwestern Bell Corporation in buying Telmex and Telnor from the Mexican government in 1990 in a public tender during the presidency of Carlos Salinas. Today, ninety percent of the telephone lines in Mexico are operated by Telmex.[6] The mobile company, Telcel, which Carlos Slim Helú also controls, operates almost eighty percent of all the country's cellphones. These operations have financed Mr. Slim's expansion abroad. Over the past five years, his wireless carrier América Móvil has bought cellphone companies across Latin America, and is now the region's dominant company, with more than 100 million subscribers.

Slim was once MCI's largest shareholder, with 13 percent ownership. On April 11, 2005, The Wall Street Journal announced that he had sold his stake in MCI to Verizon Communications of the United States.

1st Placer – WARREN BUFFETT (77 yrs. old) – 62.0 billion - USA
America's most beloved investor is now the world's richest man. Soared past friend and bridge partner Bill Gates as shares of Berkshire Hathaway climbed 25% since the middle of last July. Today holding company invested in insurance (Geico, General Re), jewelry (Borsheim's), utilities (MidAmerican Energy), food (Dairy Queen, See's Candies). Also has noncontrolling stakes in Anheuser-Busch, Coca-Cola, Wells Fargo. Insurance operations flourished in 2007.

At only six years old, Buffett purchased 6-packs of Coca Cola from his grandfather's grocery store for twenty five cents and resold each of the bottles for a nickel, pocketing a five cent profit. While other children his age were playing hopscotch and jacks, Warren was making money. Five years later, Buffett took his step into the world of high finance. At eleven years old, he purchased three shares of Cities Service Preferred at $38 per share for both himself and his older sister, Doris. Shortly after buying the stock, it fell to just over $27 per share. A frightened but resilient Warren held his shares until they rebounded to $40. He promptly sold them - a mistake he would soon come to regret. Cities Service shot up to $200. The experience taught him one of the basic lessons of investing: patience is a virtue.

Sources:
www.about.com
www.forbes.com
www.wikipedia.com

Beauty and Brain

2008-06-03T05:31:00.000-07:00

To be a beauty queen one must have beauty and brain. Some says it never coexist but it does to some people. Here are some of the few beauty contestants who made it because of their looks and wit.

Margie Moran was asked during the the 1973 Miss Universe Contest:
"What's the difference between being Miss Universe and being a Filipina?"
Her reply:
"Being Miss Universe is like having a birthstone, you may lose it. Being a Filipina is like having a birthmark, it's forever."

Charlene Gonzales was asked during the 1994 Miss Universe Contest:
"How many islands are there in the Philippines?"
Her reply:
"High tide or low tide?"

Ruffa Gutierrez at the1993 Miss World Contest:
"How would you tell a girl who's suffering from low self-esteem to feel better about herself?"
Her reply:
"I'll tell her to believe in herself because it's not only physical beauty that's important but also inner beauty. Like what the Little Prince said, "What is essential is invisible to the naked eye." And I believe that character and personality are more important than physical beauty."

Maria Isabel Lopez at the Bb. Pilipinas Pageant was asked by one of the judges, Rita Gomez:
RITA: Here's your question, hija: Are you still a virgin?
MARIA ISABEL: If I say I still am, can I bring home the crown tonight?
RITA: Good answer!
MARIA ISABEL: What about you Ma'am, are you still a virgin?
RITA: Hija, I have 5 children with 5 different fathers, and what do you call that, Immaculate Conception???

Gloria Diaz at 1969 Miss Universe Contest:
"If the man from the moon landed in your hometown, what would you do to entertain him?"
Her reply:
"I guess since he has been in the moon so long, he would enjoy anything that an ordinary man would."

Top Ten Brain Damaging Habits

2008-05-25T17:23:00.000-07:00

1. No Breakfast

People who do not take breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level.
This leads to an insufficient supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain degeneration.

2. Overeating

It causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power.

3. Smoking

It causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease.

4. High Sugar consumption

Too much sugar will interrupt the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing malnutrition and may interfere with brain development.

5. Air Pollution

The brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our body. Inhaling polluted air
decreases the supply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in brain
efficiency.

6. Sleep Deprivation

Sleep allows our brain to rest.. Long term deprivation from sleep will accelerate the death of brain cells.

7. Head covered while sleeping

Sleeping with the head covered, increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decrease concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects.

8. Working your brain during illness

Working hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness of the brain as well as damage the brain.

9. Lacking in stimulating thoughts

Thinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage.

10. Talking Rarely

Intellectual conversations will promote the efficiency of the brain.

Bad Effect of Re-using Mineral Water Bottle

2008-05-21T02:15:00.003-07:00

Upo or Bottle Gourd

2008-05-20T05:19:00.000-07:00

I’ve been in fieldwork since last week (visiting different public schools in the Province of Rizal, Philippines) for the Annual Physical Inventory Checking. It is kinda tiring (maybe because it is so hot) but fun. I am able to meet almost all of the respective public school heads, district supervisors and some of the teachers of different schools. Actually, this is not the first time I’ve been in the team but every year is exciting. You will feel the hospitality of the people in each school we visited which is the best trait of the Filipinos.

I want to share you a picture of an upo or what you called bottle gourd . This was given by Sampaloc Elementary School in Tanay, Rizal which is headed by Dr. Julito Berdan. I had the feeling of regret when I didn’t able to bring my camera when I visited the school for me to be able to show you how bountiful their vegetable garden is. I’ve never seen upo this big before (actually it is not the biggest and longest there though it is 40 inches long, almost the height of Sean).

I remember on the way home, it put smiles on whoever saw it. Have you seen upo this long?

HUSBAND OF THE YEAR AWARDS

2008-05-19T06:45:00.000-07:00

I only want to share this e-mail that I received. I find it funny but also want to wake up all the ungentle men in the world.

6th Place goes to: Switzerland

5th Place goes to: ROMANIA

4th Place goes to:Canada

3rd Place goes to:Turkey

2nd Place goes to:Serbia

And the winner of the Husband of the Year Award is:Ireland?!!

Ahhh........ , the Irish are true romantics.

.........Look, he's holding her hand!

I don't know if these pics are real... but if these are... SHAME ON YOU GUYS!

Mother

2008-05-10T15:46:00.000-07:00

If I could give you diamonds
for each tear you cried for me.
if I could five you sapphires
for each truth you’ve helped me see.
If I could give you rubies
for the heartache that you’ve known
If I could give you pearls
for the wisdom that you’ve shown.
Then you’ll have a treasure, mother,
that would mount up to the skies
That would almost match
the sparkle in your kind and loving eyes.

But I have no pearls, no diamonds,
As I’m sure you’re well aware
So I’ll give you gifts more precious
My devotion, love and care.

- Author Unknown.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE MOTHERS IN THE WORLD! ESPECIALLY TO MY MOMMY. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

Cross Stitching As A Hobby

2008-05-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

Just wanna share you one of my hobby. It is called cross stitching. This thing requires a lot of patient and a lot of time. It took me 3 to 4 months to finish my first project. So if you aren’t patient… this is not for you. Though the materials are very affordable and easy to find, the finished work is quite expensive because it is really hard to do. I am proud to show you some of the cross stitches I did.

The first frame costs about Php7,000.00 if you sell it. The second around P3,500.00 and the last one (The Nude) about P5,000.00 if framed. Can’t frame it yet because framing is quite expensive (still no budget for it).

Is there anyone knows cheap framing for my cross stitch? Must be near Marikina City and Rizal area or anyone interested to buy my stuffs? :-)

Testimony of the Late Rio Diaz-Cojuanco!

2008-04-29T17:16:00.000-07:00

I got it from my e-mail and I know it is worth sharing for...

RIO DIAZ's Testimony (Aug 17,2003)

Six months ago, my family was preparing for my funeral, but I stand here before you today by God's grace because He still has a purpose for my life.

Let me share with you my story..

In April, l99l, I began to host Eat Bulaga!, a noontime show that brought me fame beyond my wildest dreams. I earned good money while I made people laugh. What a blessing!

October of l993, I met Charlie. Single and good-looking, this guy has a terrific sense of humor, a man with a big heart. "Kung sa beauty contestant, beauty and brains." At a certain point in our relationship, we both knew God brought us to be together...for life.

In August, l994, we were married. After four wonderful years of marriage, God blessed us with two children, Claudia and Jaime. Thirteen years earlier, I was blessed with a son, Ali, from a previous relationship.

May of l998, Charlie became Congressman and I became Vice Mayor of Pontevedra (Negros Occidental). November of the same year, during a routine check-up, they discovered some abnormalities in my stomach area which, the doctors said, could be solved by a minor procedure.

A few days later, my supposedly one-hour surgery turned out to be a six-hour-and- a-half surgery. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer..

Cancer?

No one had cancer in the family. My life flashed before me. My world suddenly caved in. The doctors were quite frank. They told us that I had only a couple of months to live. Stage 4 cancer is like a death sentence.

As my doctor was speaking, I didn't understand a word he said because all I could think of was Charlie, my children, my family, my in-laws, would whisper, Lord, help me...help them, Lord!

They're all suffering. I don't know how to comfort them. The day before my first chemotherapy, I said, Lord, just tell me you're in control. Tell me that no one made a mistake and I'll be fine no matter what, Lord. Somebody gave me a devotional book entitled Streams in the Desert which I read at 3 o'clock in the morning. It said, this is my doing.

Your weakness needs my strength and your safety lies in letting me fight for you. You did not come to this place by accident. You are exactly where I meant you to be. You were so busy that I could not get your attention and I wanted to teach you some of my greatest truths. The pain will leave you as soon as you learn to see me; in all things. These words became the pillow on which I rested my weary head.

I surrendered to God all my fears, all my burdens and my family as I began my journey of trials. I focused on His promises as Jesus said, Surely I am with you always.

By God's gracious mercy and beyond all medical explanation, after six months of chemotherapy went on remission. Eight months later, the cancer was back. More surgery, more chemo. And then again, God allowed healing for me. The best lesson I am learning from this is how God allows us to enjoy life with His moment by moment of grace. My third bout with cancer entailed three different chemotherapies infused at the same time. The Lord allowed me to learn to NEVER GIVE UP, NEVER GIVE UP...PUT YOUR HOPE IN GOD.

Three times, I was at the threshold of death. Medicines and state-of-the- art treatments were notworking anymore. Not all the money in the world nor the best doctors on earth can make us live if God doesn't want us to. During those times, God comforted my heart with these verses: Why are you downcast o my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God for I will yet praise Him my Savior and my Lord.

But let me tell you about my latest brush with death. After spending Christmas with my family here in Manila , I left for San Francisco in January of 2003 for my check-up. I knew there was something terribly wrong with my body. I had sleepless nights; I was steadily losing weight; I couldn't eat anything.

By the time I had completed all my tests, I was only 96 pounds. My doctor said, the cancer has spread. You need to be confined in the hospital. Your food passage is completely blocked by the cancer. I don't know how much time you have. Not much. Maybe a month. But I promise you will not feel the pain..I hugged Dr. Fisher and thanked him. I told him, don't be sad. I know God is in full control of my life.

I went home that night to make some arrangements and my daughter was fast asleep. I knelt down by her bedside and I cried, Mama loves you so much that it hurts. Lord, you know how much I love my Ali, my Claudia and my Jaime. You gave them to Charlie and me and I thank you. I know in my heart that Charlie will love them and watch over them. Lord, take care of my husband because I love him very much. But much more than this, it comforts me to know that I could never love them as much as you love them. I thank you, Father God.

Charlie remained by my bedside day and night, caressing me, talking to me. It pains me to think how much our husbands or wives suffer the fear of losing us.How blessed I am to know how much my family and friends love me.

The Lord allowed me to experience deep, deep, sleep. I have never ever felt that kind of peace, peace that surpasses all understanding. Dr. Fisher explained to
Charlie that my nourishment would come from a bag of liquid attached to me, which has to be administered on a daily basis for life. I would never be able to eat or drink again.

Surgery was ruled out, so was radiation. As a last recourse, it was suggested that I do the mildest chemo but if I so much as cough, he would remove it and just keep me comfortable. I was in awe when I was told how many people were praying for me. By God's sovereign mercy, I never coughed.. One month later, my cancer level went down by half. I am now only a few points away from being on remission.

And as if this weren't enough, God 's incredible bonus is that I am back to my full d iet. I can eat and drink anything now! Once again, the doctors were amazed. Yes, isn't our God amazing? God spared my life when Stanford doctors had given up on me.

In my heart, I knew why. God allowed this miracle in my life to show us how gracious He is and what a powerful weapon prayer can be. And that God can perform miracles in our lives, if you let Him. I will never fully understand God's ways but I do know that God has a purpose for each of us. When God calls you to live for Him, He will invite you to be a part of something much bigger than yourself, something that requires the very best of you, something that may outlive you. When God calls us to a powerful vision, it may transcend safety and it may transcend common sense because it is all about Jesus Christ. Without Jesus, we will not make it!

Do we know, do you know, what God wants you to do withyour life? If you are uncertain of God's will for your life, surrender all your plans to Jesus because
God's plans for us are perfect.

The cancer in my body, I did not choose. But in God's sovereignty, He allowed this affliction in my life. But I ask you, what is the cancer in your life?

Is it the cancer of unforgiveness, jealousy, lust, anger or bitterness that you are holding on to? What are the wrong choices you continue to make because they give you temporary pleasure but can permanently destroy you -your husband or your wife or your children or your circle of influence?

If you are going through a time of terrifying darkness and despair, or are plagued by doubts that are slowly eroding your hope that things can get better, I urge you to surrender it all to God; give Him full control of your life. It is the only way to live.

Lord, forgive me for all my sins. Jesus, come into my heart; be my Lord and my Savior. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Friends,

Get inspired with Rio 's story like me. It just occurred to me that I am also too busy with my life & work right now. Oftentimes, I forget to pray and thank the Lord for all the blessings that I receive.. I even keep on complaining that what I have is never enough. I keep on questioning Him with all the unfairness that I observe and demanding for a lot more. I don't have any idea on the plans that he has for me because I am usually blindfolded with my own desires - desire for luxury, power & control, recognition , & comfort. I think I must also start surrendering everything to Him and let Him lead me. Didn't you guys notice how exhausting our lives are? I always feel like I' m on a race and catching the leading car! How about you?

I wont wait for a cancer to strike before I will recognize God's plans! I wont promise anything but I'll do my best!

The Obedient Wife

2008-04-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

There was a man who had worked all his life, had saved all of his money, and was a real "miser" when it came to his money.

Just before he died, he said to his wife...."When I die, I want you to take all my money and put it in the casket with me. I want to take my money to the afterlife with me."

And so he got his wife to promise him, with all of her heart, that when he died, she would put all of the money into the casket with him.

Well, he died .. He was stretched out in the casket, his wife was sitting there, dressed in black, and her friend was sitting next to her. When they finished the ceremony, and just before the undertakers got ready to close the casket, the wife said, "Wait just a moment!" She had a small metal box with her; she came over with the box and put it in the casket. Then the undertakers locked the casket down and they rolled it away. So her friend said, "Girl, I know you were not fool enough to put all that money in there with your husband."

The loyal wife replied, "Listen, I ' m a Christian; I cannot go back on my word. I promised him that I was going to put that money into the casket with him."

You mean to tell me you put that money in the casket with him!?!?!?" "I sure did," said the wife. "I got it all together, put it into my account, and wrote him a check.... If he can cash it, then he can spend it."

Now tell me who's smarter, men or women?

Symptoms of A Stroke

2008-04-22T17:59:00.000-07:00

I received an e-mail and I think it is worth sharing for.

STROKE: Remember
The 1st Three Letters.... S..T.R.

My urge to save lives encouraged me to post it and spread the word.

If everyone can remember something this simple, we could save some folks. Seriously..

Please read:

STROKE IDENTIFICATION:

During a BBQ, a friend stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) .....she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes.

They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Ingrid went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening…

Ingrid's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00 pm Ingrid passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ.
Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Ingrid would be with us today. Some don't die..... they end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead.

It only takes a minute to read this...

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke.... totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Thank God for the sense to remember the '3' steps, STR Read and Learn!

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster.
The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple
questions:

S * Ask the individual to SMILE.
T * Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. It is sunny out today)
R * Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
If he or she has trouble with any one of these tasks, call emergency immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

New Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick out Your Tongue

NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this:
Ask the person to 'stick' out his tongue.. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other ,that is also an indication of a stroke.

Sturgeon Fish

2008-04-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

My uncle who lives in Sacramento, California loves fishing. Just wanna share the picture of one of the biggest fish he has ever caught. It is called Sturgeon, 65-inches long and according to him, it can only be found in California. You can get caviar from this fish which cost about $450.00 per pound. Wow!

Charice Pempengco - A Phenomenal Star

2008-04-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

I’ve seen this girl since she was a kid. She joined several singing contests before but unfortunately she always didn’t get the first place (from what I watched). She already got my attention with her singing prowess even before and I just thought maybe it’s not her time yet. I saw her determination to reach her dream. Until her wonder talent was noticed in a singing contest in ABS-CBN’s “Little Big Star”. Though she was not the champion, she was the one noticed by people. I am always been an admirer of Pinoy Achievers, to name a few are of course Lea Salonga, Josephine “Banig” Roberto and Cristine “happyslip” Gambito. And now Charise’ time came. She is now famous not only here in the Philippines but around the world. It started when Ellen DeGeneres herself saw Charisse in youtube (thanks youtube for making people dreams come true). Ellen invited her to her show even it means bringing her all the way from the Philippines. From then on she was being invited in different shows in USA, London, Korea (Star King), etc…

And now the latest tv appearance she had in US is none less than OPRAH! My gosh! I can’t believe it is happening to her now. Well, I know she deserves it but really very unbelievable! All her hard works are being paid now. The latest news about her is she’s working on her singing career in USA. All I can say is CONGRATULATIONS CHARICE! You are being blessed by our GOD Almighty. Stay as sweet young lady and humble as you are. Keep up the good work. Represent the Filipinos around the world! To all the inspiring individual who want to make it like Ms. Pempengco, just have the determination, be focused, follow your dream and put God first in all the things that you do, and surely you’ll be a big hit and phenomenal as Charice. AIM HIGH!

Watch this video below and see what I mean.

See more of her videos at www.youtube.com

Beat the Heat of Summer

2008-04-07T07:25:00.000-07:00

Beaches, swimming pools and malls are the common places people visit every summer in the Philippines. Baguio City and Tagaytay City as well because of the cold climate. Halo-halo and ice-cold soft drinks are the common refreshments Filipinos having. Shorts and sleeveless tops are the common attire we wear. Anything to beat the heat of summer.

Today, at 35ºC (normal temperature on summer) we decided to go swimming to freshen up a little. Luckily, we have swimming pools to go to within the neighborhood. Actually we have 4 swimming pools here in the village namely Casanjo Resorts (2 of them) and 2 pools in clubhouses. We went to the latest of them all, the Zone 5 swimming pool. Surely, we enjoyed our swimming especially Sean who’s so eager to learn how to swim. Actually I am thinking of sending him to swimming lesson this summer, I am very sure he’ll love it. How do you spend summer in your place?

Cinnamon for Type 2 Diabetes

2008-04-03T15:39:00.000-07:00

I received an e-mail informing me that Cinnamon is beneficial to type 2 diabetes. I was very surprised to know this fact! Really I am. The main reason is… I hate cinnamon!

It says that cinnamon has previously been indicated as a potential insulin substitute for those with type 2 diabetes. It has also been determined that this inexpensive spice increases glucose metabolism 20-fold.

It also says that ½ teaspoon of cinnamon lowers the LDL cholesterol, it has the ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections, reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells, and It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood. With tablespoon of honey every morning, it has significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month, and one study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.

Well, what can you say about these facts? For me I think I’ll love cinnamon from now on.

Sean Kirk as Preschooler

2008-04-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

One year is over since Sean started his first year in preschool. I just can’t believe Sean finished his nursery stuffs. When he started schooling, he doesn’t even know how to speak clearly and didn’t know a single letter, number, color and shape. Now I am proud to say that he learned a lot of things (thanks to Teacher Aye and the rest of the school's staffs). Now he knows the whole alphabet and its sounds, numbers 1-100, colors, shapes, and now he performs too! Let me share you one of his performance with his classmates and schoolmates in Green Gable Academy during their Moving Up Program last March 15, 2008.

How To Remove Gallstones The Natural Way

2008-03-28T22:45:00.001-07:00

Lots of people today are suffering from gallstones. I read an article that we all have gallstones in our gallbladder just like a cancer cell, we all have cancer cells in our body it’s just that some are active and some are not. I know some people who already suffering pain from gallstones, but can’t be removed via operation yet for a health condition problem. Till I read about GALLBLADDER AND LIVER FLUSHING. It is a natural procedure of flushing away the stones in our gallbladder and liver.

One member of the family tried it first, even though she doesn’t have any symptoms that she has some. Amazingly, after she did the procedure, she eliminated numerous (about 40 to 50) stones from her body. The picture at the right is not the actual stone that came from her but she told me that it looks like the same. Let me share you how she did it.

1. For 5 consecutive days, she took 1 liter of apple juice a day.
2. On the sixth day, she didn’t take dinner. At 6 p.m. she took 1 tablespoon of Epsom Salt (magnesium sulfate) diluted to 1 cup of warm water. She repeated it at 8 pm.
3. At 10 pm she took half cup of olive oil mixed with half cup of fresh lemon juice. The next morning the stone came out with her bowel. It can easily be seen because it floats.

It was said that apple softens the stone, the magnesium sulfate opens the passage way and the olive oil makes the passing easier.

At last, there’s an easy and cheap natural way to eliminate these unwanted stones in our body! The rest of the family will surely try this procedure at the soonest time. You can also try this at your own risk. Do you have anything to share about this liver and gallbladder flushing?

Holy Week in the Philippines

2008-03-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Holy Week (also known as Semana Santa or Mahal na Araw) is the most important religious event the Philippines celebrates. Maybe because Philipines have one of the most number Roman Catholics all over the world. The event lasts for a week which starts from Palm Sunday (Palaspas) and lasts on Easter Sunday (Linggo ng Pagkabuhay). In between, “Pabasa” (reading of life of Jesus with tune) usually done on Maundy Thursday to Holy Friday (non-stop reading), the procession of Saints on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday for the Roman Catholics and Thursday, Friday and Sunday for the Aglipayans. There’s also called “Penitensya”. It is done in many ways like carrying a cross on the street like what Jesus did, hitting oneself at their back with rope or belt, fasting, walking far distance bare footed, etc…

This picture shows the preparation of the procession of Saints (which I am participating since I was 9 years old) in San Roque, Marikina City, Philippines. Lot of people from nearby towns visit the place only to witness the procession. This year, 2008 there are 53 participants who joined the event (just imagine how long the procession is). My relatives own a St. Jude Thaddeus image.

On the other hand, for non-religious ones, since it is the longest vacation from work, it is the time where they take their summer escapades. It is the time where all the expressways are congested. People go out-of-town to relax and unwind. To name a few of the famous destinations are Boracay, Baguio City (Summer Capital of the Philippines for having a cool temperature), Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro, beaches in Palawan, Pearl Farm in Davao, etc…

I can say that Holy Week is one of the much awaited holiday in the Philippines. How do you celebrate this religious event in your place?

The Mystery of the Mountains

2008-03-18T00:16:00.000-07:00

Why some people love mountain climbing? What can they get from going there? I used to ask these questions too, until one summer day in 1999 a friend of mine asked me if I would like to go mountain climbing with them. It was in Benguet, Mountain Province, Northern part of Luzon, Philippines. Three to four hours rough-road trip from Baguio City to the jump off in Ambangeg. It’s named Mt. Pulag, the 2nd highest peak in the Philippines (almost 10,000 feet above the ground). THAT WAS MY FIRST EVER MOUNTAIN CLIMB!

I remember that we have to trek for a total of 10 hours to the peak. First 5 hours to the Ranger Station and another 5 hours (the next day) to the peak of Mt. Pulag. Well, professional climbers can do it in a single day for 8 hours or less. But since I am a beginner my company adjusted for me (thanks to them). Reaching the Grassland (golden color from the aerial view), where we pitched the tent was already an achievement. I can still remember the indescribable feeling as the clouds pass by as we walk, that we have to stop because of zero visibility (or else we’ll fall to the cliff), and the mist on my skin left by the clouds. I also recollect the extremely cold wind that I experienced for two nights, the cold water as if the ice just melt (and we have to use it in bathing), the amazing sunset and the sunrise, and most of all the fact that you are above the clouds, where it is so high and unreachable when you are on the lower ground. Since then, I myself knew the answers to those questions. Up there, you can feel peace and tranquility within. It felt like I am so close to God and really overwhelming to know that I am on top of the world.

It didn’t end up there. From then on, I bought gadgets needed for mountain trekking, like a backpack, a headlamp, light-weighed kitchen utensils, a mini stove, a trekking shoes, sleeping bag, thick jackets, etc… (tent was shared with my cousin, Randy). After that climb, I had eight more in the provinces of Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Bulacan. And in every climb, there’s always a new experience encountered. And those are the experiences that I won’t ever forget as long as I live. Now, it’s been 6 years since I stopped from this adventure and I really miss it so much. How I wish I could go up there again… someday. Do you have same adventure experience to share?

Sugar Free for Diabetics

2008-03-10T19:13:00.000-07:00

Is there a certain thing as “sugar free”? This is the question you can hear from people who has diabetes. My answer is YES! What I am trying to say is that, there are artificial sweeteners as replacement for sugar. (Well, at first, drinking coffee without sugar is really gross, but my tongue accepts now the taste of unsweetened coffee.) But I read an article that there’s a research that these “artificial sweeteners” (I won’t mention the names for they might sue me hehehe) can harm us.

Studies have shown that Aspartame, an artificial sweetener commonly put into processed foods and diet soft drinks has a very dangerous chemical. This chemical converts to formic acid (formic acid is the poison found in the sting of fire ants), which in turn causes metabolic acidosis when heated above 86F. The methanol toxicity mimics other conditions such as multiple sclerosis, tinnitus and systemic lupus, especially among diet soft drink drinkers. If you take aspartame you might suffer from fibromyalgia symptoms, spasms, shooting pains, numbness in your legs, cramps, vertigo, dizziness, headaches, joint pain, depression, anxiety attacks, slurred speech, blurred vision, or memory loss.

There’s also a research that there is one alternative that maybe step above all the rest. This is a NATURAL herb called Stevia. Stevia is derived from a South American shrub (Stevia rebaudiana). A good quality leaf is estimated to be 300 times sweeter than cane sugar, or sucrose. Also known as honey leaf and yerba dulce, stevia is not absorbed through the digestive tract, and is therefore non-caloric. This is a huge find for a person with diabetes. Stevia is not only a natural substitute for sugar but it also carries medicinal properties. Preliminary evidence suggests that it may lower blood pressure, prevent or reverse diabetes and possess anti-viral properties.

Why I haven’t heard of this herb before. Guess I have to research more on this for this is very beneficial to me. Do you know anything about this herb? Please let me know.

Concert Queen of the Philippines

2008-03-09T03:04:00.000-07:00

Pops Fernandez (Cielito Lucban Fernandez), the Concert Queen of the Philippines has been my idol since I was in High School. I remember sleeping late only to finish her late night show, The Penthouse Live with her ex-hubby, Martin Nievera. I also remember asking my aunt to watch her concert with me in Araneta Coliseum, Folk Arts Theatre and ULTRA (thanks Tita Glo), saving money from my allowance just to have something to buy for the tickets to see her movies, bought magazines where she was featured, visited Gift Gate because of Pobee, her character in Gift Gate. Those were the good old days which are nice to reminisce. :-)

Now after 24 years, I had the chance to take pic with her. Actually this is my 2nd one but lost the 1st one (can't find it grrrr....). This was taken last March 7, 2008 at Sta. Lucia East Grandmall in Cainta, Rizal Philippines during the celebration of the "Realtors" from winning the Championship in basketball. How about you, what is your memorable moment about your celebrity idol?

Dangers of Chocolate

2008-03-04T12:40:00.000-08:00

A WARNING!

DO YOU EAT CHOCOLATE?

We were raised on chocolate as kids and even into adulthood. I will never eat it again! I hope from now on you will throw yours away whenever you are given any. It seems as though nothing is safe to eat anymore. This what will happen when you eat too much chocolate! This is a warning, please tell this to everyone you care about. It could happen to you......or them.

Chocolate can cause small feet!!

Warn everyone!! :-)

Life in the Province

2008-03-03T14:18:00.000-08:00

Once again I had the chance to visit my folks' province, Gapan Nueva Ecija, Philippines when we've been invited to my uncle's "70th" bday celebration. I've visited the place once in a while since I was a kid. Sometimes spending overnight, so I witnessed how simple their life is. I remember, we had to tucked up in bed as early as 7 pm (can u imagine that?). It is really far from where I grew up, in Marikina city.

The venue of the party was great, at the middle of ricefield! It is surrounded by different plants and animals too. At one side you'll see the ricefield, then at the other side the mango plantation with lots of roosters too, another side is the fish pen, and the back of the house is the poultry and the piggery. Different varieties of vegetables can be seen too.

Here in Manila, when you need vegetables and stuff, you have to buy it. In the province, you just have to pick it up from the backyard. :-) Living in the province is really different. But however comfortable and simple to live there, I won't regret getting old in the city. But if you want to wind up or to relax... get out of the city!

Chaos in Philippines

2008-02-28T05:32:00.000-08:00

Now my country, the Philippines is in chaos. Why? Because of this NBN ZTE scandal. News about this are spread all over the country, perhaps in some part of the world too. Two sides can be heard, people are confused who to believe, who's telling the truth? Some wants to oust the President, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Some wants her to stay. My gosh! All I ever wanted is PEACE... so much of this turmoil. Let's put this issue on the lighter side and let me share these funny pics which I got from my email and a video from youtube.

Baby Sitting is Fun

2008-02-19T21:19:00.000-08:00

Taking care of children is not an easy thing to do but it is fun to do with someone you love. I remember when I was 22, I was given a very delicate task... taking care of a 3-year-old girl (left for almost 3 years by her parents). It was really a big task for me then for I have no experience at all. And maybe because I love children and this kid (my cuz), I did it very well (also thanks to my mom who supported me all through the years). Now that she grew up to be very nice, sweet, loving and bright lady... I am proud to say that I was part of her childhood. :)

Why these things came back to me? Look at the picture. She's the girl that I'm telling you and she's having shower with my son after a swimming. Josephine even told me that it was the first time she gave bath to a kid :) My "eldest" and my "youngest" children taking bath together. Isn't it a lovely pic to see?

When Animals Revenge On Humans

2008-02-18T21:56:00.000-08:00

A Little Christian Humor

2008-02-18T04:38:00.000-08:00

This is one of the best clean jokes I've seen in awhile!

JESUS and satan were having an on-going argument about who was better on the computer. They had been going at it for days, and frankly GOD was tired of hearing all the bickering.

Finally fed up, GOD said, "THAT'S IT! I have had enough. I am going to set up a test that will run for two hours, and from those results, I will judge
who does the better job."

So satan and JESUS sat down at the keyboards and typed away.

They moused.

They faxed.

They e-mailed.

They e-mailed with attachments.

They downloaded.

They did spreadsheets!

They wrote reports.

They created labels and cards.

They created charts and graphs.

They did some genealogy reports

They did every job known to man.

JESUS worked with heavenly efficiency and satan was faster than hell.

Then, ten minutes before their time was up, lightning suddenly flashed
across the sky, thunder rolled, rain poured, and, of course, the power went
off.

satan stared at his blank screen and screamed every curse word known in the underworld.

JESUS just sighed.

Finally the electricity came back on, and each of them restarted their
computers. satan started searching frantically, screaming:

"It's gone! It's all GONE! "I lost everything when the power went out!"

Meanwhile, JESUS quietly started printing out all of his files from the past two hours of work.

satan observed this and became irate.

"Wait!" he screamed. "That's not fair! He cheated! How come he has all his work and I don't have any?"

GOD just shrugged and said,

JESUS SAVES! AMEN to that....

Please Don't Drink and Drive

2008-02-09T03:38:00.000-08:00

Effects of Cold Water

2008-02-05T02:54:00.000-08:00

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this "sludge" reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.
A serious note about heart attacks - You should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line.
You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. 60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive.

I hope this information will keeps away a lot of people from heart attack.

Mobile-phone addiction in teenagers may cause severe psychological disorders

2008-02-03T17:59:00.000-08:00

Such a harmless and common object in our society represents a real problem for four in ten young adults in Spain, for whom their mobile phone has turned into an addiction that can lead them to consequences as dangerous as those caused by alcohol or drugs.

That is the conclusion reached by Francisca Lopez Torrecillas, lecturer at the department of Personality and Psychological Assessment and Treatment of the University of Granada (UGR) and an expert in psychological addictions, who carried out a fieldwork among several hundreds of 18 to 25-year-old young adults from the city of Granada.

UGR professor warns of the danger that 40 % of young adults admit using their mobile phones during more than four hours a day. Most of them state that they spend "several hours a day", using their phones, be it talking, sending text messages or giving the so-called missed or drop calls. Many of these people take a real offence at not getting a missed call or a message answered, which makes them feel "deeply upset and sad".

Lopez Torrecillas highlights that this addiction is the result of social changes occurred in the last decade. The main difference between this kind of addiction and alcoholism or drug-addiction is that mobile phones do not apparently cause physical effects, but psychological ones. "Mobile-addicts can be seriously affected at the psychological level but, as they don't show any physical symptoms, their disorder goes unnoticed to others", says the UGR professor.

Mobile-addicts tend to neglect obligations of important activities (e.g. job or studies), drift apart from friends and close family, deny the problem and think about the mobile phone constantly when they do not have it with them. "Most mobile-addicts are people with low self-esteem and problems to develop social relations, who feel the urge to be constantly connected and in contact with others."

Francisca Lopez Torrecillas says that these people "can become totally upset when deprived from their mobile phones for some time, regardless of the reason". "Switching off their phones causes them anxiety, irritability, sleep disorders or sleeplessness, and even shivering and digestive problems", points out the UGR professor.

Finding out whether your child is a mobile-addict is far from easy. "Someone can spend eight hours a day at their computer, or permanently hooked to their phones, and not being an addict. In the case of young people, many parents see this use as something normal, but they should control misuse", warns the professor.

Lopez Torrecillas states that making "a reasonable use" of mobile phones can be even positive for teenagers, "since it enables them to keep their friends near and feel backed by their peers", but misusing this device "can have irreversible effects on the development of teenagers' personality".

In fact, addiction to mobile phones should be included into a greater group - that of addiction to new technologies. "This is the result of the dramatic change in values taking place in our times. Likewise the hippy movement, a new generation of teenagers is arising and they have grown up surrounded by mobile phones and the Internet", says the author of this work, who highlights that part of the blame is to be put on "many parents who buy a mobile phone to their children and force them to have it constantly connected so as to always know where they are".

SOURCE : www.multiply.com/momynda

The Beauty of Nature

2008-01-31T00:17:00.000-08:00

I remember when I was younger, I always wanted to see the beauty of sunrise or sunset, whether I am on the mountain (I used to hike) or at the beach. I don't know, it really mesmerizes me whenever I see one, until this time. It feels like my world stops for a while, brain stops functioning for a while too, I feel tranquility within me.

I also remember when at times that I want to have peace within me, I drove fast to "Overlooking" in Antipolo, Philippines just to witness the most favorite site I wanna see. And instantly, I got what I want.

This month, I am so happy to witnessed sunset twice at the beach. Lucky huh? Let me share you the priceless pics I have and tell me if you agree with me (pics are not that nice though.

The Waiting Is Over

2007-12-12T17:33:00.000-08:00

Ten (10) days had passed after our successful Batch'87 Reunion. It was the first time I attended such event. So curious on what's going to happen. Supposedly, I am one of the registration peeps, but unluckily I didn't able to arrive earlier due to some changes in my sched. Anyways, I arrived when there are still few peeps (less than 50 I guess) around. Few of my classmates were already there, so we decided to choose our table (groupings are per section basis).

Little by little, the school's open ground area were being filled by excited and anxious former students of Roosevelt College Marikina, Philippines. I can see that all of us are so excited to see old friends which will be seen after 2 decades. I can see flashes from cameras (I am one of them :), picture shots here and there (thanks to the technology for inventing digicam that we don't have to worry how many shots left).

The program started... I may say that the highlight of the event was the giving of plaques of appreciation to our class advisers. I am so happy to see them after 20 years (there's no too much changes from their looks though). Then suddenly the only one who became a showbiz personality from our batch arrived, Tess Bomb (she was my classmate in 2nd year) of GMA 7 TV Network. She became one of the hosts and certainly she spiced up our night. She really is a great comedienne :)

As night deepens, people gradually lessen. I know that we have to parted ways for the meantime and I know all of us felt little sad about it. But the night didn't finish there! We decided to have cups of coffee first before we call it a night. We spent another hour in Tropical Hut Concepcion Branch. :)

Thanks to Timmy that we got home safe and sound (Yes, he dropped us home one by one. Isn't he a good man?)

At this moment, I'm feeling excited again for we will meet again on the 21st of December. Isn't that great?!!!

Government vs. Rebels

2007-11-29T07:11:00.000-08:00

I was in the office this afternoon, When a friend of mine sent me a message informing me that there's a mutiny happening in Manila Peninsula, Makati City, Philippines this afternoon. First, I thought that it was only a joke, but when I transferred to other department and was able to watch a news, I found out that it was true! There was another mutiny occuring which was led by Senator Trillanes (who's detained for a mutiny once) again.

May I say fortunately it was not successful. What I want for my country is peace and unity. I remember when I was in my senior year in high school, People's Power happened (ousted Ferdinand Marcos, the former president). Now that we're about to celebrate our batch reunion after 20 years, a coup d'etat almost occured? What is this, a COINCIDENCE???

Tonight, there will be a curfew for all civilians from 12 midnight to 5 am. Officials are hoping that it would last only for a night. I'm sure all of my batchmates are hoping and praying that too, for our reunion is only 2 nights from now. I just can't imagine that we all have to leave the party and be home before 12 midnight or stay together till 5 am. I prefer the second option for I missed my classmates so much.

I just hope this predicament will be over overnight or as soon as possible. Please let us pray for peace on earth!!! Especially, to places where it is needed most.

Twenty Long Years

2007-11-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

Twenty long years... Yes that's how long I haven't been connected with my former classmates in high school from Roosevelt College Marikina, Philippines. Until my cousin, Amy told me that we're having a batch reunion which she heard from an announcement in tv. From then on I was so excited about it but there's no one contacting me to inform me about the reunion, so I decided to do my way.

Finally I had their numbers and started to see some of my high school friends. I was so glad to see them, what more when my classmate, Raquel asked me if I can go with them for a house to house search for our former classmates. Excitement arised more. Looking for long lost classmates has been an adventure for me. And meeting them once again made us closer again. But of course I've been expecting for some changes from ones personality and it's kinda intriguing. :-)

The second motorcade (a pre-activity of the reunion) happened last Nov. 11, 2007. Everyone were so happy. The groupings are per section basis. I can say that the motorcade was a success. Now it's almost two weeks to go and the big event will happen. I am so excited to see all of my batchmates on Dec. 1, 2007, our GRAND REUNION.

All Saints Day in the Philippines

2007-11-04T14:20:00.000-08:00

I want to share the whole wide world how the Filipinos commemorate All Saints Day. This usually took 3 days which starts every 31st of October to 2nd day of November. The cemeteries were congested by the relatives of the deceased persons from all walks of life. The tomb varies from museum type, loyola lot type (which was buried under the soil) to apartment type (see picture above).

Flower and candle businesses are boom on this special occasion. There's a long non-working holidays. It's just like a Holiday season where relatives see each other like a family reunion. Lots of foods and games to play were brought (like having a picnic in a park). I know not all countries don't do this way. And I am wondering what other countries commemorate their departed ones like Filipinos?

Glorietta 2 Explosion Victim

2007-10-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

Just want to share this letter to everyone. It was forwarded to me by a friend. It touched my heart and surely will touch yours.

THE LETTER

Good day everyone,

I wish I were writing under different circumstances.

I would like to inform you that my wife Leslie Cruz was part of the casualties in the Glorietta 2 Mall bombing in Makati City, Philippines. She was supposed to have a minor out patient surgery at Makati Medical Center at 230pm.

I had taken a leave from work to accompany her there. We dropped off our daughter, Amber, at my parents place in QC to babysit at around 10am. We then proceeded to Makati and was there at 1230pm. Since she had been fasting in preparation for her procedure, she wanted to move around and listen to some music while I grabbed a bite to eat. We parked at the basement of Park Square 2, and headed for the Glorietta 2 entrance. We parted at the top of the escalator, she turned right towards Filbar's while I went left towards the restaurants. That was the last time I would see her.

Around 120pm, she had called me so that we can meet at the Glorietta 2 exit just in time to make her appointment. As I made my way there from Glorietta 1 through the connecting hallways, and was about to turn the corner, I heard 2 deep thumps and the shock-wave from the blast hit me. At that moment my heart dropped as I knew that the origin of the blast came from the same place where we were supposed to meet. I tried getting to where my wife was, but the dust was too much and it was as if I was staring at a white wall.

I still tried to convince myself that she was able to make it out, and that after ringing her mobile without a response only meant that she dropped it in the confusion. After 6 hours of searching from Makati Med. to Ospital ng Makati, the blast site, and back again to MMC - with the help of all the people I could get hold of, that I was able to get confirmation in what the state of my wife was.

My Dad and Uncle signaled me in from the ER of MMC. My Uncle (who's a doctor) asked me to describe Leslie's appearance to another group of doctors. I saw in the eyes of one that the description made sense. Instead of confirming it to me, they huddled together, then brought me to a small examination room. It was only through a digital camera that I was able to confirm (and deny) that she was indeed gone.

I have so many regrets. I should have met her sooner. I should have ran instead of a brisk walk. I should have not chose to park where I did. I should have braved the dust and went in the blast site. I should have ...

Today's the 4th day. It is still terribly difficult to breathe, let alone wake up realizing that your source of strength, your best friend doesn't lie beside you on your bed. That my deepest worry is when Amber starts asking for her Mama.

I am glad that Amber's too young to understand the loss and pain. In time I would like to tell her the details of how her mother died, but more importantly I would like to raise her as how her mother lived - a loving person, strong willed,decisive, caring, and nurturing. She has always cared for her family and friends, and sacrfied her career for being a full time mom and home maker.

As with all couples we had our ups and downs - none of which I regret not going through. The sweet is never as sweet without the sour. For almost 4 years of marriage, we've finally hit our balance in life only to be taken away in an instant. I have no regrets about our marriage. She has loved me and Amber beyond her capacity. I will always love her.

It is my first time to write to egroup as I've lurked and watched emails being sent to and from. All I want now is that for each of the couples here is to cherish each moment that we spend with our loved ones. Pretty simple to say, very easy to take for granted.

Thank you all for the prayers. I would still like to ask you to please include Leslie in them until her 40th day so that the path to God's kingdom is well lit and she is no longer in the dark.

Sincerely,

Carlo Cruz

Nightless in Southern California

2007-10-26T04:06:00.000-07:00

That’s how Southern Californians described their place right now especially who lives in San Diego. “Nightless” because of the flame the wildfire brings. It is so heartbreaking when I see the news about this wildfire in Southern California. Two hundred fifty thousand (250,000) residents already evacuated (the number is still increasing), 1 died and some got treated for burn. At least one hospital area was closed by the threat of the so-called Witch Fire, along with several nursing homes.

I watched a reporter reporting his house is being gutted by the fire (if you’re in his shoe, what would you feel about it?). A relative of mine was already been advised to evacuate, but luckily was told to go back because the wind changed direction. An actress from the Philippines evacuated and when she got back to her house, it’s a miracle that her house was not burnt while all her surrounding neighbors gutted by fire.

Despite of the will of the firefighters to stop it, the fire is still uncontrollable. What they need is rain. And we can help them thru prayers.

You gotta watch this video...

What do you think the most effective way to stop the fire?

Racial Discrimination… Again?

2007-10-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

Desperate Housewives, an ABC primetime soap opera belittled Filipino doctors when Teri Hatcher delivered an insulting line, “But first let me see his diploma. Just wanna be sure that he didn’t come from some med school in the Philippines”.

A Filipina nurse customer in H&R department store was insulted by an American saleslady, while asking for an assistance. She was ignored and told that she’s just a Mail Order Bride.

Most of the Filipino passengers were held in an immigration office in an airport for long hours of interrogation and sent back to the Philippines.

The issue of racial discrimination has never been ended and guess will never be. Why is it so strong? What’s the root of this? I myself don’t know the answer. But in my point of view with what recently happened, it is because of the bad images of us Filipinos have. Let’s admit, there are really a lot of mail order brides and many overstaying (TNT) Filipinos in the USA.

But Americans must not condemn Filipinos in general. Lots of Filipinos in the USA are living and working with pride whether they are TNTs or not. The Filipinos in medical fields are doing great. So I am wondering where in the world the writer of Desperate Housewives got that idea? And maybe the salesclerk in that department store was dumped by her boyfriend for a Filipina? Who knows? Just wondering…

Special Delicacy from Southern Tagalog

2007-10-13T08:05:00.000-07:00

Why do many people from Southern Tagalog in the Philippines and other part of Luzon love to eat mudfish (isdang dalag)? And people from other places don’t? From the people I met, I found out that most people from Bicol region, Visayas, and Mindanao don’t eat this fish because it can only caught from a dirty place, from a canal or some muddy places. But not in Southern Tagalog, most of it was from fish pens from the province of Rizal.

See how powerful a mudfish is…

Source: www.youtube.com

Let me share you the most famous dish for dalag…. paesang dalag!!! It is a soup base dish. It is very simple to cook. First boil water with onion, ginger, salt, sweet potato (camote) and pepper. Then pour the cut fish, let it boil for few minutes, then pour the petsay and the onion spring. Presto!!! You have paesang dalag. Serve it hot with fishsauce with calamansi and chili. Mmmmmmm.

Another dish for dalag is what you called “pakalog” (shake). It is the delicacy of Santolan, Pasig in NCR. Actually their feast was named “Pakalog Festival” named after the dish. It is also easy to cook, just boil the live dalag fish in a pan with tamarind soup and salt. Be sure that it has a cover or the fish will go back to water. J When it is cook, set aside the soup and fry the fish, when fried pour back the tamarind soup and let it boil for few minutes. Presto!!! You have pakalog.

Try this and I’m sure you’ll love it.

Fabulous Birthday Party

2007-09-29T02:29:00.000-07:00

Throwing up a birthday party is not a joke. There are lots of preparations which start weeks before the day itself. What are the stuffs that should be prepared? The venue, foods, invitations, souvenirs, games, prizes etc…

The party came but the hardship is not over yet. We have to make sure everything is doing well. The buffet table must always be full of foods, the games, the chairs and tables must be sufficient enough for all the guests, we transfer from table to table to entertain them all. Throwing a party is not really a simple thing to do.

But with the trend nowadays, a party thrower would have worries no more. Event organizer is the answer. Just contact one and presto you can sit and relax till the party is over. Just prepare around 100k bucks and you’ll have a memorable one. Remember 100k bucks. :-)

What is life without limbs?

2007-09-13T20:19:00.000-07:00

Do you feel that you are living in vain? Do you think you are miserable? There’s a point in our lives that we feel God abandoned or punishing us. We even want to commit suicide because you feel that there will be no sunshine to come.

I want to share you this video profile for you to answer if you are really living in vain and live so miserable… I don’t know this man personally. He was only introduced to me via email not once but several times.

He touches many lives around the globe. He touched mine and I am very sure that he will touch yours.

You have to see this ....

Source: http://www.youtube.com/

Now tell me. Are you living in vain? Are you miserable?