Attitude

1. It is your attitude at the beginning of a task more than anything else that will determine your success or failure.

2. It is your attitude towards life that will determine life's attitude towards you. Despite many people's belief to the contrary, life pays no favorites.

3. You control your attitude. If you are negative it is because you have decided to be negative and not because of other people or circumstances.

4. Act as if you have a good attitude. Remember actions trigger feelings just as feelings trigger actions.

5. Before a person can achieve the kind of results he wants, he must first become that person. He must then think, walk, talk, act and conduct himself in all of his affairs, as would the person he wishes to become.

6. Treat everybody as the most important person in the world.

7. Attitudes are based on assumptions. In order to change attitudes one must first change one's assumptions.

8. Develop the attitude that there are more reasons why you should succeed than reasons why you should fail.

9. When you are faced with a problem, adopt the attitude that you can and will solve it.

10. We become what we think about. Control your thoughts and you will control your life.

11. Radiate the attitude of confidence, of well being, of a person who knows where he is going. You will then find good things happening to you right away.

12. In order to develop a good attitude, take charge first thing in the morning. Do say, "Good morning, GOD" or "Good GOD, morning?"

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Help Save Baby Ric Andrei

I was moved by my fellow blogger and marce Jade of Life of A Filipina Blogger's blog post about her nephew Baby Ric Andrei and so I am posting it here in the hope that it will reach the greater Christian online community. 

Baby Ric Andrei is a premature baby. His Mommy had pre-eclampsia and so he had to come out prematurely (at 7 months) into this world via Caesarian delivery. Baby Andrei must stay in an incubator for a month and because of this, the hospital bill is getting higher. The family is estimating the total cost to be more than 1 million pesos ( USD 25,000).

Let us all pray for the fast recovery of Baby Andrei and his mom. And if you truly want to make someone happy this Christmas, your prayers and any monetary donation that you can give will be very much appreciated by the family.

Below is a copy of the letter of the parents to their family and friends:

Thank you for those who have prayed, for those who have helped us and who are willing to help us more in the most difficult stage of our life struggling between life and death… Our baby boy Ric Andrei is still fighting in the ICU at Zulekha hospital in Dubai and until now we still don’t have enough money to cover all the expenses which may be up to 1 million in pesos or more… we hope that there are more kindhearted people who will help us and thank you for those who are continuously supporting us…

And we are praying that the baby will be fine sooner…all your prayers are indeed badly needed and any financial assistance even small amount will be a great help for us… for any help you can spare us here is the bank account:

1. Bank Name- EmiratesNBD Bank
2. Account Number # 1102456650001
3. Account Name/ Title – Ricter Lim Calixto
4. Swift Code – EBILAEAD
5. Bank Address – EmiratesNBD PJSC P.O.Box 777 Dubai, U.A.E.

You can also send your donations to the paypal account of Ric Andrei’s mom: anna_liza20381@yahoo.com

God bless you all for your PRAYER Offerings and for your monetary help!

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Me Wants A Baby Boy!

My little girl is now 2 years and 8 months old. The time is just right to have another baby. But because I am still at the beginning of my graduate course, we cannot have another one just yet. Hubby and I have agreed that we will have another baby after my graduate studies.

And I do hope that God will bless us with another healthy baby, and the next time, we pray for a healthy baby boy. Although two years is a very long time, I find myself already searching for baby clothes and planning up our little boy's name. I have also imagined how my pregnancy would go, with my little girl being able to feel like she is also a part of the pregnancy. Why, she would of course accompany me on my regular check-ups, listen and feel her little brother in my tummy, sing songs and talk to him, all those stuff that I know she will enjoy. Even now that I am not pregnant, I would sometimes joke to her that there is a baby inside my bulging tummy and she would kiss it. Ain't she a sweet little thing. And I know that she will be a very wonderful big sister to her little brother or little sister, whichever God will give us.

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CC: I Will Do It Tomorrow

This week on Couple's Corner, Marce Liz asks: Did your spouse ever tell you that he will do it tomorrow, and yet it was left undone? I would definitely answer YES!

I have always been a patient person, or so I thought. Never had I imagined that I would be otherwise until I asked my husband to do something for me. He would just say OKAY and with that answer, I would of course expect that he would "obey" me and do it right away. But no... he wouldn't do it right away and I end up doing what I asked him to do because I can't wait for his "later" or "soon". He always tells me that I am very impatient. I always expect him to do the things I ask of him right away especially if it's house chores. I don't want things left undone before the day ends. I mean, if you can do it right away, why wait for later, right?

I guess the same goes for me. I am also guilty of saying Okay but never really getting around to doing things and sometimes, even forgetting them. I guess being the OC-type, you would expect me to be impatient if things don't get done the way I expect and want them too. And that drives my husband crazy. But he knows me too well that he just lets me be. An argument will only ruin our day and that is what we try to avoid, knowing that there's only the two of us that we can count on. Come to think of it, it has always been my husband who has always been patient with my crazy way of doing things. My, I am such a lucky wife!

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Got Business Cards?

Many professionals find themselves unable to go on a business meeting without carrying these tiny business cards. Although mobile technology has advanced at such a rate that everything can be done wireless and "paperless", business cards are still a commodity.

Even those who are not doing any business have their own personal information cards. Why in the world would people get one? Because it is not always that one is hooked to the internet. And it is not always that people have mobile phones. And it is not always that people memorize their contact information. Just like me.

Many people tend to carry these little things because it is a way to network with other people. In this very competitive world of ours, it is always important to network and keep contact because you never know when you will need another person's assistance or advice.

So if you are thinking twice on whether you should get your personal version of a business card, just go ahead and get one. So what if not all of them keep your card or even bother to read them? There will always one person or two who is bound to read and keep it anyway.

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You're Still You

Like Josh Groban? Then you must be familiar with the song You're Still You. This song goes out to those who choose to love despite the imperfections, and to those who are yearning to be loved unconditionally. 

Through the darkness,
I can see your light
And you will always shine
And I can feel your heart in mine
Your face I've memorized
I idolize just you

I look up to
Everything you are
In my eyes you do no wrong
I've loved you for so long
And after all is said and done
You're still you
After all
You're still you

You walk past me
I can feel your pain
Time changes everything
One truth always stays the same
You're still you
After all
You're still you

I look up to
Everything you are
In my eyes you do no wrong
And I believe in you
Although you never asked me to
I will remember you
And what life put you through

And in this cruel and lonely world
I found one love
You're still you
After all
You're still you

It's such a beautiful sweet sad song isn't it? Indeed true love doesn't count mistakes, it is more about acceptance and seeing beyond the flaws and being forgiving. Just like The One who has remained faithful to us despite our flaws, our imperfections, our sinfulness.

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84 Days To Go...

I can't believe it's already October! Time really flies so fast, especially if you have so many things to do in too short a time. The clock is ticking and soon, it will be Christmas Days. 

I still have yet to write down my Christmas shopping list, and I know that I have to work fast and hard if I want to complete buying all of them. Aside from that, I also need to send Christmas cards to our friends from around the world. Last Christmas, I failed to send them so I pledged to send them one this year. And I just know the perfect online store that sells Christmas Cards. Planning on buying one too? Then do click here.

I also have two balikbayan boxes to fill, and I know that it would take time to fill them up. I am running out of ideas on what to put inside. I know I can always place chocolates and food items that are not available in the Philippines. But I also want to send each one of them something special. My nephew has been talking endlessly about Optimus Prime so I already know what he wants. The rest of the family, I actually don't have any clue. Perhaps I can buy cosmetics and perfumes for the girls and perhaps shoes for the boys. I don't know... 

Oh well, I just hope I get to finish my Christmas shopping before the Christmas rush.

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God Knows Your Needs

Here's a story that is really touching and inspiring. I received this in my Inbox and thought it worth sharing. We may not believe it, but God knows our needs. Take this story for example:

Louise Redden, a poorly dressed lady with a look of defeat on her face, walked into a grocery store.

She approached the owner of the store in a most humble manner and asked if he would let her charge a few groceries. She softly explained that her husband was very ill and unable to work, they had seven children and they needed food.

John Longhouse, the grocer, scoffed at her and requested that she leave his store at once.

Visualizing the family needs, she said: 'Please, sir! I will bring you the money just as soon as I can.'

John told her he could not give her credit, since she did not have a charge account at his store.

Standing beside the counter was a customer who overheard the conversation between the two. The customer walked forward and told the grocer that he would stand good for whatever she needed for her family. The grocer said in a very reluctant voice, 'Do you have a grocery list?'

Louise replied, 'Yes sir.' 'O.K' he said, 'put your grocery list on the scales and whatever your grocery list weighs, I will give you that amount in groceries.'

Louise hesitated a moment with a bowed head, then she reached into her purse and took out a piece of paper and scribbled something on it. She then laid the piece of paper on the scale carefully with her head still bowed.

The eyes of the grocer and the customer showed amazement when the scales went down and stayed down.

The grocer, staring at the scales, turned slowly to the customer and said begrudgingly, 'I can't believe it.'

The customer smiled and the grocer started putting the groceries on the other side of the scales. The scale did not balance so he continued to put more and more groceries on them until the scales would hold no more.

The grocer stood there in utter disgust. Finally, he grabbed the piece of paper from the scales and looked at it with greater amazement.

It was not a grocery list, it was a prayer, which said:

'Dear Lord, you know my needs and I am leaving this in your hands.'

The grocer gave her the groceries that he had gathered and stood in stunned silence.

Louise thanked him and left the store. The other customer handed a fifty-dollar bill to the grocer and said; 'It was worth every penny of it. Only God knows how much a prayer weighs.'

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Are You Wearing "Green" Diamonds?

Do you know how Rare Red Diamonds are made? They are created using a sophisticated and advanced technology where no mountains of volcanic rock need to be destroyed and no mines need to be plundered. They are grown in laboratories, where they are being controlled by highly competent scientists and technicians. Through these laboratories, man can get diamonds without having the need to abuse the environment and exploit human rights.  Isn't it a relief to be wearing Heart Red Diamonds, knowing that the environment is not abused just so you could wear something so precious and valuable?

I know I would prefer to wear man-made diamonds over those that were naturally formed and mined, for environmental reasons. I also don't want to get the uncertainty that the diamond I have in my possession could be a blood diamond.

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CC: What We Want From Each Other

My Hubby and I go way, way back. We have known each other for twelve years now so that we think that we know each other pretty well. But obviously, since we got married and lived together, surprises were always a possibility.

It is not easy to live together with someone especially if you have been living all by yourself for quite some time so that it could go either way: it could be that the they would embrace the fact that they are now finally together and can do things better together OR they would feel crowded and wish there were more space. It's the first case for us, luckily.

So, what do I want from my husband? I want... That he would always give us the feeling of security that he will always stand by us no matter what the circumstance. That he would continue to spend quality time with our little girl and have a close relationship with her. That he would also be sensitive of my needs because I too after all, am human and could also get tired and also needs care. That he would continue to be a loving and responsible husband and father and never tire supporting us. That he will continue to be honest with his feelings and say what he needs to say. That he would remain patient with me, especially if I can't speak my mind out. That he would know and be reassured of the fact that he has us, the two people in the world who loves him and thinks of him as someone who matters the most to us.

I haven't really asked my husband about what he want from me. But I think I can say that he wants me to continue to be strong for our family. To be my old self, the person who has always been patient and understanding. He wants me to initiate moves when it comes to certain family matters. He wants me to lose some weight so that he could carry me again. :D I know he wants to eat breakfast with me before he leaves for work. I also know that he wants the house in order when he comes home but he doesn't want to see me cleaning when he is around. He wants us to have another child now but he also knows that we couldn't have one just yet. He wants me to grow old with him and I want him to grow old with me.

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Are You Insured?

Insurance has been around since time immemorial. It seemed to have appeared simultaneously with the appearance of human society. It is so ancient and manifested in the form of people helping people. Today, insurance is so widespread that almost any risk that can be quantified can be insured.

There are various types of insurance existing today and one or more types can be covered in a policy. For example, a business insurance policy can cover both professional liability insurance and the company group health insurance.

Auto or Vehicle Insurance

It protects the vehicle owner against financial loss in case of accidents. The insured agrees to pay the premium and the insurance company will in turn agree to pay the losses as stated in the policy.

Health Insurance

In most countries, health insurance is mandatory and mostly covers the cost for medical treatment. It can sometimes be coupled with dental insurance and is often part of an employer's benefit package for its employees. If you are startine a business with a number of employees, it would be best to get a group health insurance quote as it helps you save some money.

Home Insurance

This insurance provides compensation for damage or destruction of a house in case of disasters, i.e. fire, theft, flood or earthquakes. Some providers include in the package liability and legal responsibility for injuries and property damage caused by a household member or pets.

Life Insurance

It provides a monetary benefit to a decedent's family or other designated beneficiary, and may specifically provide for income to an insured person's family, burial, funeral  and other final expenses. Life insurance policies often allow the option of having the proceeds paid to the beneficiary either in a lump sum cash payment or an annuity.

Liability Insurance

It covers the damage caused by you or your family to other persons or objects not belonging to you. Many insurance types include an aspect of liability coverage so you may ask your insurance provider about it.

Accident, Sickness and Unemployment Insurance

This type of insurance protects the insured in cases of accidents, inability to work due to sickness, job-related injury and disability, and unemployment.

There are other insurance types that cover other specific risks. We never know what will happen tomorrow so that it pays to get ourselves covered. Getting insured gives a sense of comfort and assurance that should something bad happen to us, the people affected won't need to suffer.

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Please Don't Grow Up Too Fast

Dear Sam,

I can't believe you are now two and a half years old. It amazes me each time I look at you and see how much you've grown. While you were growing, I know that I have both my shortcomings and glories. Please forgive Mommy for the things that she may have overlooked. I know I could have done better with feeding you the right kind of food when you were still small. You wouldn't have the difficulty of eating with other kids now that you are going to Kindergarten. I know I could have done a better job of regularly cleaning your mouth and brushing your teeth the moment your first tooth came out. You wouldn't resist brushing your teeth before you go to bed these days. I know I could have trained you with drinking your milk from a cup when you were able enough to use one. You wouldn't be drinking from a feeding bottle these days. I know I could have been more firm when it comes to implementing rules. You wouldn't have difficulty cooperating and listening to instructions. But perhaps, I love you too much to be lenient with you at such a young age. I know I should have done better but I did not. And I am sorry. I hope that you will learn to adjust well... that you will be fine while you are at the Kindergarten. 

Know that you always make me proud because you have the capacity to adjust to the situation that you are in. I saw how you can get along easily with other kids and the thought that my little girl is making friends always gives a smile on my face and leaves me beaming with pride. I always find your genuine interest in people touching and I hope that you never lose that attitude as you grow older and more aware of your surroundings and the people around you.  I know that I have to allow other people into your life and take a little step back so that I won't get in the way of your learning other things. I also know now that I cannot totally shield and protect you from the outside world and so I promise to guide you in every way I can.

Just know that your Daddy and I only want what's best for you. And so we pray that God will give us enough strength and love to guide you in your journey. We love you Sam. You will always be our little girl. So please don't grow up too fast.

Love,
Mommy

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Custom Poker Tables: Earn Money as an Affiliate Marketer with a Poker Niche

If you are an aspiring online marketer looking to make money online, then you are probably on the lookout for a profitable niche. Why don't you go into the poker niche? Poker has gained popularity in recent years thanks to the exposure that it gets from mainstream media. Now, you can even watch poker tournaments on TV. Poker is not only popular in the United States, but all over the world. Taking that into consideration, there's a huge market for the poker niche.

The best thing about the poker niche is that it has many sub or micro niches. Tapping micro niches is one of the secrets to making money on the Internet. You can become an affiliate marketer and help promote products that are related to poker. You can sell information products such as books, e-books, CDs and DVDs. There are many materials out there on how to become a poker player and how to win big in poker games. Poker players are always on the lookout for products that can enhance their games especially the ones who are serious players and who make money from the game.

You can also promote custom poker sets, poker chips and custom poker tables. All of these are meant to enhance the game, so you can be sure that there is a market for these products. You don't have to be a poker player in order to make money with the poker niche, but it would be a great advantage if you are. If you are not a poker player, just make sure that you have a basic understanding of the game before you set out to create your website. The more you know about the game of poker, the more trustworthy you appear to potential customers, and the more they'll buy.

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It Pays To Be Insured

If you own a business, whether big or small, you have to ensure that you are protected from unnecessary or devastating losses. It is like a safety hat that will cushion the impact of an uncertain loss should it occur. As a responsible business owner, you also have to take care of the well-being of your employees because they are the ones who keep your company running. That's why it is important to get these aspects of the business insured.

There are lots of insurers in the market today. They can provide you with the necessary business insurance quotes that will cover every aspect of your business. Because health is an integral part of every human being, it is always wise to also get a group health insurance quote for you and your employees. Of course before purchasing an insurance for your business, it is important that you understand what needs to be covered. It is also good if you can get free quotes, like the Netquote small business insurance quotes. Getting insured doesn't mean that it's going to be expensive.

So what do you usually need to cover in a business insurance? Here are some of the basics:

• Health Insurance 
• Disability Insurance 
• Life Insurance 
• Business Property Insurance 
• General Liability Insurance 
• Business Interruption Insurance 
• Workers' Compensation

It is also wise to be specific when giving out information about your business. Be in the ready to provide the specifics, like the nature of your business, where it is located, your company profile and history, properties owned by the company such as vehicles. All these date will help insurance agents design the insurance coverage that works for you.

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Is Sorry Enough?

As individuals, we are not perfect. When we married the one person that we love, we knew that life wouldn't be perfect either... but happy nonetheless. Disagreements, arguments and misunderstandings will always be a part of human relationships and married couples are not exempted from that reality.

Hubby and me, watching the paragliders in Scwarzwald (Black Forest).

We all make mistakes. As they say, "to err is human, to forgive is divine." I am a stubborn person, but not stubborn enough to not admit I was wrong or made a mistake. I say "I'm sorry" and ask for forgiveness when it is due, especially where Hubby is concerned. When there are arguments and misunderstanding between the two of us, I usually keep quiet and if I know that I am at fault, I would say sorry and would try to explain myself. But because I am so bad at explaining, I always end up crying! Toinks! 

Hubby and I always feel bad whenever we quarrel or when someone does something wrong so that we try to talk it out. I get scared when he begins raising his voice so that I would just hug him and say Sorry too, for my part in the argument. Once the heat of the argument is past, we would then talk about it in a calm manner. That is the case, most of the time. When we talk about it again, it allows us to better understand the situation and one another. And we try to not make the same mistake again to save us the heartaches afterward.

We try to not let pride get in the way of our relationship. Because we know that it will destroy everything that we have worked and hoped for.

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On Being Frugal

If you are an expat, away from family and friends, and all you depend upon is your monthly income, it is important to be practical. It is necessary that you know how to identify a need from a want because there is now a very fine between the two. It also pays to be frugal, to save even some cents in whatever way because every little helps.

I am no expert but since I am all about savings, I might as well give you some tips on how to save.

1. Use promo codes and coupons. Whether you are shopping online or offline, promo codes are a great way to save money. If you are looking for promo codes on a variety of items, check out www.Savings.com. I have been planning on purchasing some electronic products and I was delighted to find that there are currently Sony promo codes that I can use when I shop online.

2. Carpool. If you are just like Hubby who drives to work instead of commuting, it would be smart to go on a carpool. You could ask your colleagues to ride with you on a scheduled basis. In the case of Hubby, he and a colleague drives alternately.

3. Shop for On-Sale Goods. Here, we receive lots of promo materials in our mail. They could be a nuisance sometimes because they fill up our mailbox unnecessarily but there are lots of good deals on these brochures. There are Savings Home Depot coupons, discount coupons for various items, and goods on special offer. If you want to shop for new stuff, check out the on-sale goods. You could always get a big discount if the item is on sale. 

4. Electricity, Lights, and Water. We know this is basic. This has always been what my chemistry professor says before we leave the laboratory. If it is not in use, turn it off. It helps save energy and prevents accidents too.

5. Don't be an impulsive buyer. It is okay if you treat yourself to something nice every now and then. But before you spend your money, ask first if you really need it. If you can still live or last the day without it, then don't buy it. It would also be helpful if you write a shopping list beforehand so that you don't just pick up stuff when you are at the groceries. More importantly, stick to your shopping list.  That way, you won't make any unnecessary purchases.

These are just some of my tips. Here's hoping everyone financial stability and well being.

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Visiting Lourdes, France

The city of Lourdes in France is one of the most frequented sanctuaries by Catholic pilgrims. It is famous the world over because it is where Our Lady appeared 18 times to Bernadette Soubirous. It was in 1858 when the apparitions happened in the Grotto of Massabielle. She revealed herself as the Immaculate Conception, asked that a chapel be built on the site of the vision, and told the girl to drink from a fountain in the grotto.

And so it is to this day that the Basilicas of the Holy Rosary and the Immaculate Concepcion have  been built at the site of the apparitions.  

Behind us are the Basilica of the Holy Rosary (on the ground level) and the 

Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (directly above the Basilica of the Holy Rosary).

The scene of the apparition, a very beautiful mosaic found outside the Basilica of the Holy Rosary.

The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus, one of the 15 

awesome and wonderful mosaic renditions of the 

mysteries of the Holy Rosary found inside the Basilica.

No fountain was to be seen, but when Bernadette dug at a spot designated by the apparition, a spring began to flow. The water from this still flowing spring has shown remarkable healing power, though it contains no curative property that science can identify.

It was a very beautiful experience for the family. We collected water from the spring and placed them in small and big containers. We also drank directly from it, in the faith that we will be healed from our illnesses. The waters tasted great and was very cool despite the summer heat. It was indeed a very refreshing respite from a long day of traveling. Too bad we weren't able to dip in the pools. Perhaps next time, when time permits again, we can go back and visit the pools.

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Shirts Never Go Out Of Style

If there is one thing that never goes out of style, that would have to be shirts. Originally worn as undershirts in the 1800's, they eventually became popular as fashionable, casual, standalone, outer-wear garments after the 2nd World War and after Marlon Brando wore one in the movie A Streetcar Named Desire. In the 1980s, t-shirts were becoming more of a form of self expression. To this day, custom tshirt is one of the flourishing markets in the garment industry.

From the plain white tshirt, we now have a myriad of colors, designs, and prints. So whoever you may be, there is surely a shirt that will suit your personality. There are sports tshirts for the sports minded, Death By Tshirt for some retro shirts and other great custom made designs for those who love to express themselves. 

So if you want to get your message across or want to have a marketing campaign, a tshirt will just help do the trick. The good old tshirt has been used to achieve the goal of getting people to buy a product, attend an event or even vote a president. Oh yes, the t-shirt has come a long, long way and it is without a doubt, going to stay in the years to come.

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CC: Like It Or Not

I just realized that I have always been referring to my husband as Hubby in my CC posts. I am just not used to using his first name when referring to him online so I hope you understand the anonymity. Hehe! But in case you are all wondering, his name is Vincent.

Anyway, here I am again, a little too late for my CC entry. Marce Liz would have to kick me, hard this time, so that I would my entry on time. Lol!

No couple  is perfect. Our flaws and mistakes and our inequities are what make life more meaningful and exciting because they allow us to learn and grow from them. I have known my Hubby for almost 12 years now but we were only married for 3 years. Knowing him that long, I thought I already know him. I also thought that I know myself too well. Not until we started really living together as husband and wife did I realize our similarities and differences.

LIKES

Hubby likes his coffee black while I like mine with a cube of sugar and fresh milk.

Hubby like to leave his clothes wherever but being the "neat freak that I am, I like to pick up after him.

Hubby likes to eat food that he is familiar with... I tend to be more adventurous and try new dishes.

When we eat outside, I sometimes like to order what he is having.

We both like movies and we watch at least one movie per week.

He likes to lie down on the couch while watching TV. I like to sit on the bean bag.

We both like to spend our free time going on road trips.

We both like ice cream and Japanese food.

When there's more than two viands on the table, I like to place small portions on my plate and eat them in a mixed manner. Hubby likes to eat one portion at a time. You will never see him "mixing" unless it is a big gathering.

Hubby likes sneakers and Timberland shoes. He likes his feet comfy because he drives a lot. I on the other love flats shoes.

When shopping for lingerie, Hubby likes to wait outside the shop or go somewhere else. He'll just come back when it's time to pay. :D

He likes his sawsawan spicy. I like mine plain although I sometimes dip in his.

Hubby likes to keep himself informed with current events in the Philippines, I obviously like to just blog. Lol!

I like to ask questions, Hubby prefers that I don't ask too much because he doesn't have all the answers.

We both like to help others in need, whenever we can.

We both like the same kind of music.

DISLIKES

Hubby doesn't like it when I try new dishes. He would say it's "french-french". I don't like it when says that because I get hurt.

We both don't like it when we raise our voices to each other. But of course, who does?

He doesn't like me making faces, I don't like if he accuses me of making one.

He doesn't like it when I am too silent in the car. I don't like when he starts being paranoid again.

He doesn't like it if I nag, I don't like it if I begin nagging too. And I would just stop.

Hubby doesn't like it when I ask him questions while we are watching something. I don't like it if he just ignores most of them.

Hubby doesn't like me makulit. I don't like Hubby being too demanding.

We both dislike to argue because when we do, I always end up crying. And Hubby doesn't like to see me crying.

We both dislike going to discos. We dislike smoking either.

We also don't like pretentious people that's why we are cautious who we get close to. No, we don't judge people but it is better to be careful than to be sorry. 

There are lots more but as Marce Liz said, this post would be too long if I go on and on. So now you know me and Hubby and better. What's your likes and dislikes?

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CC: Opposites Attract

I learned that "opposites attract" when I was learning my Chemistry. It's an undeniable fact. While it is purely science, it is also applicable to relationships. While Hubby and I share similar values and beliefs, we also have our differences. We try to work our differences out and compliment them with our strengths. We would drive each other crazy with our differences but at the end of the day, what matters most is that we came to understand and respect each other better.

Hubby has the tendency to just leave things wherever he pleases, I hate clutter and clean up after him. Hubby likes to talk and I like to just keep silent and listen. I like to window shop, he dreads it especially when I stop at the lingerie section. I love to experiment with food, he likes his food simply cooked the Filipino way. He loves Formula 1, I love Korean Dramas. Although I am the more sociable one, he also gets along well with people. I do not know how to play the guitar but I am the one who helps him with the rhythm when we practice songs for church. He is fair skinned, I am dark, like milk and chocolate. He is updated on the current events in the Philippines while I am more confined to blogging and my online tasks. There are countless other differences but looking at my list here, I am glad that they are not really major ones. And that we try to adjust and make compromises to avoid quarrels and misunderstandings.

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CC: Our Not So Hidden Talents

This is a very late entry. But I just had to publish this. Apologies to Marce Liz. I thought this was already published but it was still in my drafts. Sorry Marce!

The previous two days have been torture for me because I cannot use my computer. It has gone suddenly kaput and I haven't done any blogging since Tuesday. Hubby managed to fix it last night after how many attempts because I kept bugging him about it. And this is one thing that my hubby is good at. Fixing computers, both hardware and software. He just knows what to do with them. Hubby is also good at playing the guitar although he is not very good at singing. He hates dancing but he would dance just for the fun of it. I can even see him dancing with our little girl in Filipino gatherings lately.

I on the other hand have the talent for anything artistic although I am not good at choosing my own clothes. Lol! I can paint stuff and do crafts. I can sing fairly well too although my voice is not catchy. I love to sing for the church choir though despite that. I also know how to dance but I am also not very good at it. I used to dance well in my younger days but my bones and limbs are no longer as flexible as they used to be. Hihi! I also have the talent for catching a song's lyrics quickly so that I can already sing the chorus of a song the first time I hear it.

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Oral Health, Is It Necessary?

I just got back from the dentist today. I had my first dental appointment after my dentist recommended that I undergo an intensive oral hygiene program because I suffer from periodontis. Today was the first of four appointments that I have. My second appointment will be in August.

My last visit to the dentist was a little over two years ago before I had my little girl. I do brush my teeth regularly but I must admit, I do it half-heartedly and in a fast manner. And I floss only when I feel like it, not knowing that doing so has put my oral health in jeopardy. Little do I know that my teeth and gums have been suffering from the inside. Until a toothache and a gum inflammation a few weeks ago, I wouldn't have known how important a regular visit to the dentist is.

So now I learned my lesson. I learned that we should take the time to brush our teeth and floss them. We should make time for it to properly remove the bacteria and to prevent plaque and tartar from forming. Because at the end of the day, when our teeth suffer, our whole body suffers. A simple toothache can be caused by an even deeper problem. So brush your teeth well, floss in between the teeth properly and use mouthwash for healthy teeth and gums. And yes, visit your dentist twice a year too! It's for your own good.

Wishing you all good health and a good week!

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CC: Hobbies

This week's theme for Couple's Corner is all about HOBBIES.

I will start off with the things that we both love: traveling & watching movies. We both are wanderlusts and when we got married, we vowed that we will visit at least one place that we have never been to in a year. But that once a year turned to almost four times a year, which I admit has taken a big chunk on our savings. Another passion we both share is watching movies. We love to watch romantic comedies, sci-fi, fantasy adventure, drama, family-related movies... well, almost all genres. Hehe! We subscribed to a monthly DVD rental and wait for the DVD to arrive by post. We also purchase DVDs from time to time, if we really love the movie.

Individually, we also have our own hobbies. Hubby is into classical guitar and go karting. Although playing the guitar per se is an inexpensive hobby, his classical guitar is not! Hehe! But we bought it as a birthday gift this year so that we have a reason to purchase it. I think it cost €899 for the guitar alone, a little too expensive as a gift but worth it nonetheless because Hubby practices everyday and plays me great music like Canon in D, Marriage D'Amor, Spanish Romance, Wonderful Tonight, Tears in Heaven among others.

I on the other hand am into digital scrapbooking, reading books and blogging. I haven't done much digital scrapbooking and reading lately because most of my time is devoted to blogging. Perhaps it is no longer a hobby... this blogging thing. It is for a living. I do have a number of digital scrapbooking projects cooked up like finishing my little girl's photobook and putting together into yearbooks the three-years+ photos that we have accumulated since we became a family. I also have a number of book titles that I have been planning to purchase but just never got around to doing yet. While I know how to do needlecrafts, I did not dare get my hands on a project because I know that it will take eons before I finish them. Lol!

Want to know what the other couples have for hobbies? Check out Rodliz Nest today!

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Like A Sunflower

I recently came back from a one-week trip in France and I find the French countryside very appealing, with its endless fields of wheat and sunflowers and vineyards. Unfortunately for me, we didn't get to stay at the countryside so that I can only content myself with watching the landscape and taking some snaps when I can.

Each time we pass by sunflower fields on our road trips, I always remember this song that goes like this:

Like a sunflower that follows Every moment of the sun, So I turn towards You, to follow You my God. In simplicity, charity I follow (2) In simplicity, honesty I follow (2) In simplicity, fidelity I follow (2)

Are you familiar with this song? It's kind of a spiritual song but it's simplicity allows one to learn it quite easily. I always find sunflowers to be cheerful, with its golden yellow color giving me a feeling of happiness.

And as you may all know, sunflowers have many uses. The seeds are mainly extracted for its edible oil. The seeds are also used as cereals, salad toppers and other culinary uses. It is also a good source of Vitamin E. Did you know that one serving of oil roasted sunflower seeds provides an individual with up to 76% of the daily requirement? Yes, it provides that much vitamin E. Aside from that, it is also a good source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and plenty of other healthy benefits. It is also a good source of fiber so if you are having problems with your bowel movement, you can munch on those yummy sunflower seeds for a hearty snack!

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4 Ways to Make Your Own Personalized Gift

To make your own personalized gifts, you might want to consider these four interesting techniques: make use of your skills and talents, make a practical assessment of your spare time, follow proper time management, and brainstorm for creative gift ideas.

Giving family and close friends personalized gifts is a great way to make them happy and feel important. Moreover, when you make your own customized gifts, they become even more special. Here are a few helpful tips so you know how to make your own presents for whatever type of occasion the requires a gift:

Make use of your skills and talents

Consider your talents and skills. If you are skillful in painting, then make a beautiful painting and frame it as your gift to someone special in your heart. If you are talented in composing songs, come up with a special song as your present. If you are very good in cooking and baking, make the favorite pastries and cookies that your recipient will truly enjoy.

Make a practical assessment of your spare time

Before deciding to make your own personalized gifts, make sure you have fully assessed the availability of your spare time so you can finish everything. If you intend to give goodies for Christmas, calculate how long it will take you to go to the store for the supplies, to bake them, and wrap every package. Otherwise, you might just end up having time only to buy your ingredients only and not enough time to bake anything at all. That is a waste of money.

Follow proper time management

Proper time management will make it possible for you to finish your entire gift-giving project without inducing stress on you. Ensure that making your own gifts is going to be a pleasant and enjoyable experience for you. When you decide on a certain type of custom-made gifts, make a timetable for every specified task needed to accomplish everything. Follow your schedule, and you will surely achieve your goal.

Brainstorm for creative gift ideas

There are a hundred ideas on the types of gifts to make. Coming up with an excellent idea is so easy when you have fully organized your thoughts on what you want to give to someone. To guide you, here are a number of suggestions. It is up to you to determine which ones suit your time, money, capability, and, of course, the ones that your receiver will really appreciate.

* Make a photo calendar with your recipient’s photos.
* Make an apron for someone who enjoys cooking and baking. Make it more personal by adding his/her embroidered name on the front pocket.
* Make a poem about your loved one and print it on beautiful stationery.
* Bake your specialty pastries, wrap them with colorful food wrappers and place the creatively in a basket.
* Paint small terracotta pots and fill them with various cute items such as magnets, candles, and the like. You can make it more customized by adding the initials of your receiver on one side.
* Compile various favorite songs of your gift recipient in one CD, label it with the receiver’s name. Be sure to include the occasion too.
* Give the recipient a photo in a picture frame you decorated. You can decorate around the frame using beads and cutout letters to form her name.

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CC: When We Were Sick

I can say without any hesitation that I am as healthy as a horse because I am not a sickly person. And even if I am sick, I cannot afford to show weakness or be seen in bed unless I am totally ill because I have a little one who is dependent on me and a husband who does not need to go through more stress when he comes home from work. Even now that I have a toothache that seems to go on forever, I cannot afford to have a break. It is my personal choice. I am calling the dentist in 30 minutes to see if they can squeeze me in for a quick check up otherwise, I will have to tend to myself. But that doesn't mean that hubby doesn't take care of me. He does, when he really sees that I cannot bear the pain anymore. He would willingly look after our little girl and let me rest while he prepares food. After all, there's only the three of us here.

My hubby is asthmatic but we never really had problems with attacks when we were still in Japan. It came back full blast though when we moved here in Germany, especially in the winter season. When he is sick, I had to be strong for him. I don't know how it feels like when you have asthma but hearing his wheezing gives me goosebumps. We had to store up on his medication so that he could get fast relief when the attacks come. Although he could be a baby at times, he keeps to himself until he couldn't bear it any longer and asks for my help. I do take care of him and see to it that he is comfortable,and allow him ample time to rest.

It is very difficult to get sick when you have no one to turn to but yourselves so that it is important for us that we live a healthy lifestyle. I guess our only vice is not getting enough sleep because we watch movies or tv series until the wee hours of the morning. Our daily prayer - that we always be blessed with good health so that we can live our lives normally. And I am thankful because the Lord kept us away from sickness.

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Milan's Duomo

You must all be wondering where I have gone the last week. I know you haven't heard from me in a while and that's because we went out of town, sightseeing with my parents in law in Italy and France. No, it's not an extravagant vacation. We packed our meals, went from one city to another in our car, and booked promo hotel rooms.

The morning sun slowly peeking at us as we drove through Switzerland down to Italy.

So where did we go first? To the fashion and business capital of Italy of course! We were already on the road at 3:30AM and arrived at our hotel in Milan in the afternoon. After a little rest, we decided to go to the city center by public transport (metro) because most cities in Italy have a crazy traffic regulation. Surprisingly, we found Milan to be packed with Filipinos! Yes, anywhere we turn, we can see Filipinos. We have been to Venice and then to Rome but nothing compares to the number of Filipinos that we found in Milan.

Milan's Duomo in all its splendor and beauty.

When we got off the subway, the first thing that met our eyes was the beautiful view of the giant Duomo, Milan's hallmark and one of the largest Gothic churches in the world. What makes this church extraordinary is that it is crowned with 135 spires and innumerable statues and gargoyles.

The other side of the Duomo. Can you see the gargoyles?

We heard mass at 5:30PM and although it was said in Italian, it was very solemn. Only a few people attended the service though as most of the crowd were just there as tourists. I think in many grand Catholic churches in Europe, it is sad to note that most people come only to take photos and see the beauty of the mosaics and stained glass windows and the architecture and never really to go there to pray. I am not judging them though because these churches are indeed a sight to behold.

And of course, a souvenir family photo right in front of the Duomo.

So that was Day 1 of our trip. More stories to come in the coming days.

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