Confessions of An Army Wife

Backup All Files

2012-02-02T01:32:00.002-08:00

Speaking of having a backup for all our files in our computer, this is what I need to do. I need to backup all the school stuffs that I have done and stored in my computer. I am taking Medical Transcription and I have practice dictations that I already did. I also have a lot of information and references that I need to have backup with. I am looking for a reputable online data backup services because I needed to have one. I have been reading different reviews for several online services and found quite a lot.

I found a site that made a review about mozy, an online data backup service company. This site really gave a comprehensive review of mozy and the author really covered and highlighted the benefits of using this online backup services. What I am looking in an online backup service is reliability. I don't want all my data be compromised. I have another option of using an external hard drive. The thing with it, I have to bring the EHD anywhere I go if I need to access some files in it. With the online one, if I have internet connection, I can easily access to it.

I know this will be a dilemma if I haven't read the review from wpdesigner. I have to let hubby read the review too and wait what can he say about it. For those that are looking for a good review or backup resources, wpdesigner has an archive of different reviews. Just check it out for yourself.

My Kindle Stopped Working

2012-02-02T00:55:00.005-08:00

Hubby gave me a kindle 3G last year for my birthday. I like it a lot. It made me go back to reading again. It is very convenient and light. I can bring it anywhere, like if I am at the doctor's office waiting, traveling and I am the passenger, waiting to pick up DD1 from school, and etc. We even bring it to church every Sunday because hubby downloaded the bible in it.

Now, hubby brought it to his training area. He said he will use it to use the bible instead of bringing the big bible we have. Then he told me last night that it stopped working. I am not sure what happened but he said it won't work at all. He forgot if he also bought insurance for it. I can always check with the receipt though. He bought it at best buy and if he also bought the protection plan, we can have it checked there and if can't be fixed, best buy will replace it.

I do hope hubby got the Geek squad protection plan so I can have a Kindle again. I checked the manufacturer's warranty and amazon has a year limited warranty for it. We'll just have to return it to them and they'll figure out what was wrong with it. I hope it still can be fixed.

Enhanced Lenovo Multimedia Remote

2012-02-01T19:00:00.002-08:00

This post brought to you by Lenovo. All opinions are 100% mine.

Have you heard about the Lenovo Enhanced Multimedia Remote? This is the enhanced version of the Lenovo Multimedia Remote with Keyboard. They upgraded it to make it more fun and functional. How would you like to control your PC or other console gaming devices, such as Wii, Xbox, and PS3 even if you are 30 feet away Isn't that very convenient? Because this is a simplified version, you don't have to install any drivers. No more reading a long manual. You simply have to plug in the USB nano dongle and presto you are ready to go. As I have said, this new Lenovo Enhanced Multimedia Remote with Keyboard will give you the ability to control your PC wirelessly. It also has the added hot keys and shortcuts that gives you more control on your computer and make your navigation efficient. This is what I am looking for. I am soon to embark in a career where I need to improve my computer navigation using the keyboard more efficiently to become productive. I can see myself using this in the near future. Check this video below and learn more of the product. If you want to have the control in using your computer, this may be the product for you. Check it now!

366 Blog Photo Challenge #25 [Playing Doctor]

2012-01-31T11:08:00.007-08:00

Entry #25 for 366 Blog Photo Challenge

When our DD1 was 3-year-old every time she will be asked what she wanna be when she grow up, her answer is to be a doctor. I think she was influenced by our constant visit to the hospital for her sister's checkup. She will always tell me once we are inside the doctor's office she wants to be a baby doctor. I told her if she study and go to school she can be a doctor when she is big. Until now that is what she want to be.

We went to the Hands On Children's Museum here in our place and the kids were very delighted. They have all sorts of activities the kids can enjoy. Our DD1 enjoyed playing a doctor to her friend B. They're patiently taking turns, pretending to be the doctor and the patient. It was very fun looking at them. We just let them explore what they will do, and it's very impressive. I am glad there are places we can bring our kids to and they can pretend to be somebody. It is very educational and hopefully can give them inspiration of what they want to be in the future.

Movie Prices

2012-01-30T13:06:00.001-08:00

Posted by Gaylord Campbell.

Are you kidding me? I took my family of 5 to the movies tonight to see the new Chipmunks movie, and it was almost fifty bucks for just our tickets! When did the prices go up so high? That is just ridiculous. I guess they are a little cheaper during the matinee, but not much. Then, of course, everyone wanted popcorn and candy, and after it was all said and done, we spent about $75 dollars to see a movie. $75! There is something seriously wrong with that, especially when we’ve got Texas Dish Network TV at home. From now on, I’m going to say that we either wait until we can get the movie at home, or we go see it at the Dollar Theater. In this economy, there is not room for blowing $75 on one movie, in my opinion. Before we had kids, my husband and I went to the movies all the time, sometimes twice in one weekend, but that was before it cost an arm and a leg. There are better things to spend that kind of money on.

366 Blog Photo Challenge #24 [Slide]

2012-01-30T11:57:00.003-08:00

Entry #24 for 366 Blog Photo Challenge

I can't forget this experience. Our DD1 was around 2-year-old that time. We brought her to the park. This slide is straight and high for her so I volunteered to slide with her. Hubby waiting at the foot of the slide and decided to take a picture of us. I was holding our daughter and did not bother to hold on to the side of the slide. We shoot downwards like a rocket [exagge], really it was very fast I didn't had the chance to blink. Good thing hubby was so fast to catch me or else I would have shoved my face on the mulch. It could have been a disaster :-)

Park Equipment

2012-01-29T00:51:00.003-08:00

I can't wait for spring or summer. My kids need to have an outdoor activity because I can sense that they are already bored staying inside the house most of the time. Don't get me wrong, winter is nice but if it's too much snow, rain, and freezing temperature, it is just lazy to go out. During sunny days our eldest daughter will ask if she can go out to the park. If it is windy and chilly I don't let them go. It is freezing outside even if there is sun. They catch colds easily if I let them stay out long.

In as much as I want to bring them to the big park or the athletic complex near us, they will not enjoy it because of the temperature. Good thing our house was built near a small park in our community. They have nice park amenities, like an aluminum bleachers and portable bleachers under a shed where we can sit while waiting for the kids. Even if it's cold I can let them play for a few minutes and walk home after.

I am also glad that housing communities here built parks for the residents. For some, it is one consideration when looking for a house, that is if the location has some kind of recreation for the family. Another thing I like is that the pet waste stations and dog exercise equipment that you can see in most parks here. Every morning or early evening I see lots of residents from the neighborhood walk their pets. With these park equipment I mentioned, they can just easily dispose of their pets' poop. It maintains the park free from pet's wastes.

I hope tomorrow the sun will come out. I may let them play out at the mini park here after church.

366 Blog Photo Challenge #23 [Little Chef]

2012-01-29T00:02:00.004-08:00

First time I let our DD1 helped me in the kitchen was on her 4th birthday. I let her helped bake her cupcakes. She was very excited she got to fill the cups with the batter, though I have to hold her hand so as not to spill it. She also helped in putting the icing and the sprinkles. I think the icing and the sprinkles is what she liked the most to do.

She is very sweet. She told me she will be the one to cook when she is big enough. Me and daddy and baby sister just wait and eat. I hope it's still the same when the time comes. This is my #23 entry for the 366 Blog Photo Challenge.

Help at the Touch of a Button

2012-01-27T15:00:00.001-08:00

This post brought to you by Zeitghost Blog Network. All opinions are 100% mine.

We are at the age of high technology where everything is so easy to do because of electronic gadgets. One specific thing that I am talking here is, you can get help by simply touching a button. Yes, this is through the 5Star Urgent Responder. The thought that whatever the situation may be, if you have this compact, discrete, and GPS enabled gadget, your loved ones will surely assured of anything that could have happened.

This 5Star Urgent Response works great by just pressing the button and it can connect you to live agent who is very helpful and knowledgeable on what to do. They can then dispatch 9-11 responder to your location wherever it may be. If you don't want the help-agent, you can press and hold it to connect to 9-11 directly. How convenient is that? Because it is small, you can attached it to your keychain, purse, backpack, and other item that you have easy access to.

As I have said, everything is now being simplified. Many things have its shortcuts and easy how-tos. There is no reason why we have to procrastinate and reject changes. I find this gadget very helpful and in time, when our daughter will be in school and responsible enough to use this, I don't mind giving them one so I will be worry-free if they are out and about.

366 Blog Photo Challenge #21 [Jacuzzi]

2012-01-26T14:44:00.005-08:00

[Jacuzzi] 366 Blog Photo Challenge

When it is cold I can't help but become lazy too, especially if it is gloomy outside. I wish we have a jacuzzi to hop on to and just submerged yourself in a hot spa with the water massaging your tired muscles. I a telling you after a jacuzzi bath, you feel rejuvenated and relaxed. I remember when we were still living in an apartment, where the complex have this amenity. We used to dip in the pool and when the weather is not that warm, the pool water will get colder. We just transfer to the jacuzzi pool and relaxed in there. The above picture was our DD1 trying the jacuzzi last summer before we move here in our house.

A Pool Would Be Lovely

2012-01-25T10:29:00.003-08:00

When we were still looking for a property last year we were thinking if we also wanted a pool or not. We love to watch house hunters on HGTV and some buyers are really hesitant to having a pool because of the cost of maintaining it. I've seen also an episode of flipping houses wherein the flippers put too much money to replace pool covers as well as getting all pool plumbing supplies. This is the reason I was so adamant of having a pool. I also thought that maybe when we live in warmer state, where it don't rain as much here in the evergreen state, then a pool would be a nice addition.

But since we chose a single family home in newer community, the lot area is not that big and putting up a pool is not a good idea. Maybe in time when we can have a nice deck or covered patio, I will just opt for a jacuzzi that won't take much space. There are nice ones nowadays that is functional and enough for a family to enjoy while having barbeque in the backyard.

366 Blog Photo Challenge #18 [Sleeping Beauty]

2012-01-23T12:37:00.009-08:00

My entry #18 for 366 Blog Photo Challenge.

Our DD1 sleep anywhere when she is really tired from playing. The picture above is only one of the pictures that I took when she's sleeping just about anywhere. We were at our apartment and she was about 3-1/2-years-old then. I believe it was her growth spurt moment that made her a sleepyhead that time. Now she don't take a nap anymore except when we are traveling and get bored in the car then she will dozed-off to sleep.

Coffee Drinker

2012-01-23T12:22:00.002-08:00

How many cups of coffee you can drink in a day? Since I am still breastfeeding I do not drink coffee except just when I am going to taste when I brew hubby's coffee or if he buy a cup while we are out and about. This past days we had a really bad weather and had power outage. I wish we had a bunn coffee brewer that we could have stored coffee in to keep it hot. We did the old way, boiling the water in our gas burner grill every time hubby wanted to drink coffee, like early in the morning. It was really difficult since it was snowing outside and we don't have a back patio cover. We survived it though. From now on we need to make some changes and be more prepared so that incidents like this happened, we are at least covered and ready.

One thing that I will buy in the coming days is an airpot where we can store hot water. We use this back in the Philippines. My Mom boil water and transferred it in the airpot. It will last 2 days and it is still hot. But my parents drink coffee like 3 to 4 times a day so my Mom would replenish the airpot with hot water twice a day, one in the morning and before she goes to sleep at night. This surely can help once our power will be out again. I know we have hot water in the faucet but I still prefer to boil mine. I don't know, it may be just me.

366 Blog Photo Challenge #17 [Camping]

2012-01-21T11:24:00.005-08:00

DD1 was very excited and said she love camping!

This is my #17 entry for the 366 Blog Photo Challenge.

Okay, I am back now! We had 2 days and 2 nights of power interruption due to the inclement weather. I am thankful the power is now back on but sad to say there are still thousands of people across the state who do not have power. I know the energy company are doing their best around the clock to restore the power. It is really very critical not to have electricity at this type of weather. It can get very cold and is not good for anybody.

So, during the 2 nights that we do not have electricity, we camped in front of our fireplace in the bedroom. Thankful that there is a battery back-up for the fireplace. During the day after we do the house chores we drove to the mall or stores that are open so we will not get bored and get stuck in a cold house.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 16 [Snowman]

2012-01-17T23:19:00.007-08:00

I just had the chance to sit and face the computer. We were outside shoveling the snow and the kids were playing. We have almost knee-deep snow and it is still snowing until now. Our shovel broke so hubby chained his truck's tire and went out to home depot to buy another shovel. I hope there is still left considering it is badly needed at this time.

Okay, my # 16 entry for the 366 Blog Photo Challenge is "snowman." Hubby and the kids were making it while I was shoveling.

But of course, I have to stop from shoveling and pose along with the kids and snowman. We could have made a much bigger snowman with all the snow that we got today. Our neighbors' older kids are even sledging. They hook the sled to the car with a rope and pulling it while driving around the neighborhood. It's like we have an outdoor ski resort here :-)

Keeping Warm

2012-01-17T13:58:00.004-08:00

This was the scenario yesterday outside our house. The snow stuck on the ground but it wasn't deep. Regardless, the kids loved walking and playing while me following them ready to rescue them in case they fall.

I wish I can just sit down on the patio, watch the snowflakes fall from the sky, and sipping freshly brewed coffee. But even my desire to just keep warm in the sideline, it cannot be. I have to make sure they are safe while playing especially in this weather.

I saw a neighbor plowing their driveway and another neighbor puffing cigar. I think that is their way of keeping warm as well. Speaking of cigar, I have heard about Acid cigars. I don't know what it is but it may have something to do with the flavor. I bet cigar aficionados know more about it.

Anyways, since I don't smoke I may just settle with drinking a cup of coffee to keep me warm in this winter snowy weather. We'll see tomorrow if we get a knee-deep snow then I may have to bring the kids out again and make a snowman.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 15 [Winter Gear]

2012-01-17T11:24:00.004-08:00

Another day for 366 Blog Photo Challenge and my # 15 entry is entitled "winter gear." In the picture are the boots that I and the girls use in this snowy winter weather we have. My husband asked where are his, He has lots of it, his military boots :-)

Among the gears that we need for winter, especially if it is snowing are boots. Wearing a regular shoes may not be good in protecting your feet. I know back in the Philippines I only wear rain boots [rubber] when we go to our farm, plant rice, or plow the fields. But here, since the weather can get nasty at winter/snow time, a pair of boots is really a must to walk comfortably in a snowy streets.

Playing Yoyo

2012-01-17T10:36:00.006-08:00

I was in high school then when I was also hooked with playing yo yo. I am not a pro though that you can find in any contest but I know how to play the basics. I remember my brother made a wooden one that he used when he goes out with some of the boys in our neighborhood back then.

Then later on there are yo yo for sale in stores in different colors and sizes and now the more that it became more modern. You can buy a customized one and you can choose what picture you put on it. When our DD1 had her 3rd birthday, I put a plastic yo yo in the goodie bag that we distributed for the the boy guests. I though girls won't play it but when they opened their goodie bags and don't see a yoyo, they were asking why the boys only have it. Good thing I have extras that I gave to the big girls that wanted to play.

Have you tried playing yo yo? It is a fun game and a stress-reliever too.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 12 [Pansit]

2012-01-15T11:15:00.010-08:00

One of our girls favorite Filipino dishes is pansit. This food is not of Filipino origin. This dish was introduced to the Philippines by the Chinese. From its introduction until now this is being incorporated as one of the Filipino staples and not absent when there is big gatherings in Filipino household. The pian i sit according to Hokkien dialect means "something conveniently cooked fast." [source: Wikipedia]

True to it's literal meaning, this dish is easy and fast to cook. Whenever we have leftover chicken from dinner, I will usually cook pansit in the afternoon, the day after. You can buy broth or stock, chopped onions, peeled or chopped garlic, shredded carrots, and cleaned celery. [My lazy-style] So you'll just really do the cooking and, voila you will have cooked pansit in less than 30 minutes.

I made this last week for our lunch. This #12 entry for 366 Blog Photo Challenge supposed to be yesterday, but we were out and came back home around 8pm, thus posted late.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 11 [Kabit]

2012-01-13T10:14:00.005-08:00

Okay, disclaimer: no pun intended on the title of my # 11 entry for 366 Blog Photo Challenge. It's just that I can't figure out what proper English term to use. We call it in Visayan dialect "kabit" to hop on top or at the rear of jeepneys. This is very common practice in the Philippines, especially in the provinces where transportation is scarce.

I remember when I was in high school, we were forced to do just like it going to school to avoid being late. I know it is dangerous but most of us don't mind it just so we can go to school and have education. My husband took the picture on his first time to visit my place. He was so amazed how we do it in the Philippines. I am not sure right now if there is a law banning it, but I know this is still being practiced in provinces.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 10 [Tindahan]

2012-01-12T10:57:00.008-08:00

One thing I miss from my place in Philippines is if you want to go to the store to get something you need while cooking, you can just go out of the door and with few steps you can buy vegetable, produce, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, etc. But here, it will need you to do too much effort and not to mention burn gas since you have to drive. I know there is no comparison but simple living in a barrio is sometimes the best living you can imagine. Nothing to worry and you don't have to keep up with the hustle and bustle of living.

Above is a picture I took when we went to the Seattle Children's Museum. They have different culture and houses showcased for the kids to learn. Because there are too many Filipinos here in the Northwest, thus they also exhibited the typical Filipino bahay kubo and sari-sari store you can find in every corner of Philippine town or barangay. I felt nostalgic when I saw it my husband jokingly asked me if I want to stay there :-)

This is my # 10 entry for 366 Blog Photo Challenge.

No More Express Scripts for Walgreens

2012-01-11T13:00:00.001-08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

It was already announced by Walgreens management on their press release that the contract between Walgreens and Express Script has ended on the 31st of December. This means effective this month those patients with Express Scripts plan and uses Walgreens pharmacies to get their prescriptions can no longer do so.

Negotiations were already done but to no avail. Express Scripts did not accept even if Walgreens offered to hold rates for a new contract flat and expressed not to increase rates. Because Tricare, the military insurance provider, uses Express Scripts program, Walgreens took an unprecedented step of guaranteeing that they will match the prices or beat the average costs per adjusted prescription of all pharmacies in the Tricare network just so the military personnel and their dependents will not be caught in the middle.

All effort by Walgreens to prevent disruption of services to the consumer rendered negative result, thus, they are tying their best to minimize the inconvenience by offering discounts on membership fees through Walgreens Prescription Savings Club. If you are going to enroll this month of January, you can avail of the discount in membership fee which is $10 for family with dependents 22 and younger and $5 for individuals.

For me, as much as possible, I want to use the services where I am comfortable with. I know million of patients don't want to be uprooted to where they get their prescriptions from, because by doing so means you have to establish again another relationship with a new pharmacist and you have to start afresh, record-wise, in that new pharmacy. So if you want to support Walgreens and receive updates about issues, information, and promotion, like Walgreens on Facebook and follow Walgreens on Twitter .

Check Engine Light

2012-01-11T12:55:00.003-08:00

We are now in dilemma. Both our vehicles are fully paid already, and we enjoyed almost 2 years of not having car payments. The problem now is we may have to decide on getting another vehicle. The reasons, too high mileage for hubby's truck 160,000+, some parts needs to be replaced, and yesterday the check engine light came on. He went to an auto shop to diagnose what's wrong and some wiring fired up. It could be the spark plug or one of the cylinders.

We have been discussing to let it go, trade it with another one. Not necessarily brand new but in good condition and lower mileage. With all the expenses to incur and one income every month, I really don't want another bill to add. But on the other note, it is a necessity. It will be difficult if the truck breaks down because we have a student.

My, we need to do our numbers and see where we are going to be if we add another expense. I know if it is necessary, we have to do it sooner to avoid disruption in our daily activities. I know God will provide and He is able!

Racking the Deals at NoMoreRack

2012-01-11T12:41:00.011-08:00

One of the many things I am thankful for with our technology nowadays is to be able to go shopping even if you are in your pajamas any time of the day and night. Convenience is really up to a higher level. Adding to the convenience when shopping online is to find a line is having to discover a wonderful site nomorerack.com. I just joined this fabulous site late last year as recommended from one of the blogs that I read.

This shopping site is so incredible with all the insane deals that comes out everyday and only stays for a day. Very easy to use too. Once you have an account with nomorerack you just have to go to their site and view the deals posted every 12 pm EST. Once you see a deal you like, grab it right away to your cart because somebody may snag it from you. The products being featured at nomorerack are branded, authentic, and high quality products that you see in most magazines. If you buy these products at a regular boutique or specialty store, it will cost you an arm and a leg. But in nomorerack you can get of up t0 90% off and even pay $0, as in nada, zilch! The more you have friends, the more you can snatch up awesome free items.

Another thing to love at nomorerack are the insanity deals. If you are lucky and fast enough, you can score an insanely cheap products that if you buy it in store is very expensive. One insanity deal that I was so amazed was the Apple Ipad2 for $43.20 from $540.00 retail. A whopping 92% savings. Are you not going to be insane with this kind of deal?

Right now I have about 3 deals I am eying; a tote, a calendar clock, and a free deal grabber toe warmer. I know the clock is ticking but I am in dilemma since I only have a budget for one deal. But I am telling you, if you haven't checked out nomorerack.com yet, do so now. You will never be disappointed of the deal that you can find.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 9 [Posing]

2012-01-11T06:19:00.009-08:00

I don't know what is it about bending the whole body when posing with my girls. Promise I did not teach them to do it :-) I remember my eldest when she was 2-1/2-years-old my friend taught her to pose for the camera. She did as what she was told and then some. The picture below became her signature pose from then on.

Then just recently when I asked our DD2 to pose, she is overdoing it I think. She is funny little girl. She is 1-1/2-years-old and already starting to have her signature pose. She is starting early than her ate. I hope though this is only temporary :-)

This is my entry # 9 for the 366 Blog Photo Challenge entitled "posing." Our little girls pose when asked to pose for the camera.

No More Contract Between Walgreens and Express Script

2012-01-11T01:01:00.001-08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Express Script has been part of Walgreens pharmacy network provider but recently a Walgreens and Express Script press release states that this contract has ended on December 31. This means those that are under Express Script can no longer get their prescription from Walgreens instead to other pharmacies that who knows if you are comfortable dealing with.

We are a military family and military insurance provider, Tricare, uses Express Script. Now that this disruption happens, with Express Script not able to negotiate with Walgreens even if the latter already expresses no increase in rates just avoid disruption, Express Script still insist on defining contract terms unilaterally like what constitute name brand and generic medications. Military service members have already sacrificed a lot but this move of Express Script is not doing any good to our brave men and women since it does affect their families and dependents.

I am just glad that Walgreens never fail to help out and still make the process to those that are affected to still have the opportunity to do business with them by giving discount on prescriptions through Walgreens Prescription Savings Club. For this month they are offering a reduced membership fees for families or individuals., $10 for family and $5 for individual. Becoming a member will give you the privilege of managing your prescription online and set-up auto refill without any hassle and free pick up in store of your prescription as well.

If you are wondering if you are impacted with this changes, you can ask your pharmacist and even look at your prescription insurance card if it has Express Script on it. If you want to voice out your feelings on this matter you can follow Walgreens on Twitter and like Walgreens on Facebook to get first hand info and promos from Walgreens.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 8 [Jelly Fish]

2012-01-10T10:56:00.003-08:00

The photo above is my # 8 entry for 366 Blog Photo Challenge. Our "smiley jelly fish baby" at the Seattle Aquarium.

When we visited the Seattle Aquarium our girls were so excited. They loved watching different kinds of fishes and other salt and fresh water creatures. DD1 can't figure out at first what to look or touch first. She was very excited. The little one was somewhat oblivious of her surroundings. The only word she uttered that time was "fishy" in a gibberish way.

Aquariums is among the places I love to bring the kids to because it is really educational aside from zoos and museums. If kids are exposed to these places at an early age, I think IMHO, they will start to appreciate the beauty of nature and art at an early age as well. It is a practical learning experience for them as they are starting to become more curious and exploratory. What they read and see in books will be more appreciated if they see it in actuality.

Lockdown

2012-01-09T22:52:00.003-08:00

About a hundred soldiers in one company of the 4th Stryker brigade on Ft. Lewis was on lockdown because military gears that totaled to about $600 thousand were missing. It happened after the block leave for the holidays. My husband is under this brigade but in different unit. I heard and saw on the news how some family members are not happy about it because their soldiers cannot go home. This lockdown has been a practice in the Army that when inventory comes and there are missing equipment, nobody can go home until it is found.

I wish I can do the same with our eldest :-) Every time we buy her something valuable, like jewelry, she either lost it or break it. I have pendants for her that needs gold chains because she broke the chain and can't be used anymore. Good thing she did not lost her earrings because she is so careful with it. It will hurt when she try taking it off. I can't put her on lockdown, but she'll have a time out though.

Back to the lockdown on post, I hope those responsible will come out because they are really affecting the other soldiers' lives. They have this issue now and they have a schedule for a training soon. I hope too that this will be resolved as soon as possible so that the soldiers can be with their family .

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 7 [Pirates]

2012-01-09T06:37:00.002-08:00

Have you watched all the Pirates of the Caribbean movie series with Johnny Depp? Honestly I haven't and I am planning to get the whole 4 DVD's of this movie and see the adventures of Capt. Jack Sparrow. I've seen the first 2, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest. The last 2, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End and the one just released on May last year, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, I haven't seen yet. I like this fantasy-adventure flick of Depp. It has the funny side of it. I have read from somewhere that there will be a 5th installment of this movie series.

My entry # 7 for 366 Blog Photo Challenge is entitled "pirates." The picture above was taken last year when there was a fair here in our place. There was a makeshift pirate ship and aboard were also dressed in pirates costumes. It was fun for the kids and adults alike. Our DD1 was kinda scared when one of the pirates did the infamous call "Aye, aye captain!" She did not smile at all when I cheered her to follow the pirates lead.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 6 [Polka Dots]

2012-01-08T13:45:00.003-08:00

I am late posting my # 6 entry for 366 Blog Photo Challenge since we just came home from church. Maybe next time I will try to do a scheduled posting so I will not be that late again. Anyways, my entry for today is entitled "polka dots." During new year most Filipinos have the belief, among others, of wearing polka dots because the round shape signifies money [coins]. I don't know if you believe such thing but I guess there is nothing wrong in believing, but the most important thing is to strive and be courageous to reach for our dreams and aspirations in life. We can't just entrust our destiny to luck, we have to work to earn it.

366 Blog Photo Challenge # 5 [My Angel Ornament]

2012-01-07T11:16:00.003-08:00

This picture gave a smile to me when I saw it uploaded by a friend. Then a very good friend commented that she looked like she was sitting or hanging on a tree :-) as one of the decors. So I titled this # 5 entry for the 366 Blog Photo Challenge as "My Angel Ornament." She is indeed one of our angels and we love her very much!

366 Blog Photo Challenge #4 [Kabs]

2012-01-06T07:45:00.000-08:00

One of the best things that we Filipinos have is to always find enjoyment wherever we will be placed in this world. Most often than not we easily find friends and connect with them like we have known them all our lives. My husband is always amazed how we easily connect to our kababayans[kabs]. One time I met a Filipina in a store and we just looked at each other and smile and in no time we already exchanged numbers. I think because we are so far from our place and we tend to find refuge with each other where we feel the sense of belonging.

Above is my 366 Blog Photo Challenge # 4 entry.

366 Blog Photo Challenge #3 [Sweet]

2012-01-05T14:20:00.005-08:00

I am a bit late in posting my #3 entry for the 366 Blog Photo Challenge. But my entry for today is one of the reasons why the lateness. We woke up late this morning. DD1 don't have class every Tuesday and Thursday, so more hours to sleep in is justifiable. Plus I went to bed so late since a friend that now lives in Belgium called, and we talked for more than 2 hours [telebabad] When we went downstairs I prepared brunch for the kiddos, and my lovely girls requested for some sweets.

We decided to make some sweet cuppy cakes [according to DD2].

And of course our sweet little girl ate her sweet cuppy cake with gusto!

The Power of Advertising

2012-01-05T13:39:00.003-08:00

It is a known fact that advertising is very critical in making a successful brand or any products to flourish in the marketplace. Many products nowadays from big, well-known companies that can afford to pay the advertising expense really have the edge in the market. These companies use all types of advertising media to market their products. They will hire advertising agency that can give them the best concept for their brand that make the people desire or want their products.

One advertising agency that I know how to please their clients is That Advertising Company. They are among the leading advertising agency that knows what is best and clever advertising. They have the best pool of talents that does the conceptualization and marketing plan. They do mixed media marketing , combination of old and new media; from print, on air, television, and internet, as well as other form of tracking your ads to get the most of what you invest. They won't throw your money away as their client . Most of all they will make you a happy investor.

I must admit that as a consumer I am in a way influenced in buying a certain product based on what I saw or read when it is advertised. When an advertisement or commercial can get the interest of the consumer that means the advertising is effective. People more likely will buy the product. This, I believe is the power of advertising. When an advertising company can produce an ad that people will embrace, then they are on the right track. So for those that want their products reach out to the masses without snafu, then you need to find a great advertising agency, you may want to try out That!

366 Blog Photo Challenge #2 [Freebies]

2012-01-04T10:03:00.011-08:00

Here's my entry #2 of the 366 Blog Photo Challenge. Pictured above are the freebies I got from the mail just in time for Christmas. Coupons and sample of Armani sport and Armani code eau de toilette. I had a free stocking stuffer for hubby. He loved the smell a lot and I may have to save moolah to buy him the bigger bottle. Gotta love the freebies!!!!

366 Blog Photo Challenge #1[Christmas Bow]

2012-01-03T11:54:00.005-08:00

Another challenge that I will take this brand new year is joining the 366 Blog Photo Challenge hosted at Dhemz's blog. The challenge is to post a photo a day. Anything goes or share what you are passionate about through photos. As for my first entry on this 3rd day of the year is my first ever craft on Christmas. As a confession, I am not a crafty person but if you want to save and not break the bank, you can learn how to become creative.

Above is my first Christmas bow that I used to decorate our tree last Christmas. I am glad Youtube is there to save me on the how-to before I pull my hair off. From now on, I will do my own Christmas bow.

Real Estate

2012-01-02T00:40:00.000-08:00

Guest post of the week by Deangelo Spencer.

Real estate has always been my passion but ever since I was young I knew I wanted to be an agent AND something else. I wasn’t sure exactly what but when I hit my early 20s I decided it was a developer – I wanted to buy and flip houses for profit, and it was that simple. Anyway, I love that there are so many options in this business as well as tons of ways to make money and to lose it, too. I actually have a little home office set up in the second bedroom with XO small business and a great computer and a second phone line so I can operate BOTH my small businesses out of my home. I love selling houses and working with families to find a home but my real passion is renovation and that’s where I think I shine the most. I have an eye for that kind of stuff and hopefully when the market picks back up it will be easier to make money!

Year of the Dragon

2012-01-02T00:22:00.005-08:00

According to the Chinese calendar, this year is the year of the water Dragon. This water dragon can swim and can fly, so Astrologers are reading that this year is a year of extreme success as the dragon can fly high, and failure as it can drown in the waters. I was reading my horoscope for this year and it says that this is my year to do what I love to do because I will get successful in my endeavors. I will be lucky financially as I was born in the year of the dragon as well. I like what my horoscope was saying.

But I do not believe in luck alone. We have to work hard and patiently in order to reach our goals and success in life. There is nothing free nor easy jobs this days. We have work hard to earn our keep. Even if our horoscope tells us we will be favored financially, but if we are just going to sit and wait, nothing will happen.

This reading, for me, serves only as a guide to work more and better myself. Whatever the year is, I know that God has a plan for all of us. Apart from ourselves, He is the only one who can help us truthfully. He already died for us and I know He will never forsake us. We have to do our part. We need to work in order to be helped. We need to act according to His will so we will be successful. He knows the desires of our hearts, and I believe He will never let us down.

Rent a House or Apartment

2012-01-01T23:33:00.004-08:00

Before we made the decision to mortgage a property, we were thinking of renting first a house. We were living in an apartment in every places that my military husband was assigned. Until we got here in Washington, we thought of renting a house. But we did not find a house to rent right away, so we opted for an apartment. When my husband decided to stay here for retirement, we might as well get a house while he is still in the service rather than wait until he gets out. We found a place and now we are already living in our first home.

A friend of ours that just moved in Edmonton, Canada, late last year, was asking us if it will be best to rent a house when his family joins him. I think for him he can look for houses for rent in Edmonton this early and try to assess the pros and cons while his family is not there yet. He can ask people that already rented houses and compared it to apartment living. Every place is different. He can very well find a good house rental that is affordable where his family can live comfortably and freely. Apartment living is okay, but with kids I prefer a house so they can have space to roam around specially if the weather is nice.

We have lived in an apartment until our first born was 4 years old and she has limited space inside our unit. The only good thing though was we live in the first floor, and we had easy access to the front yard of our building. I can go out right away if our daughter wanted to play ball or blow bubbles. But it is still our friend's decision of what he think is best for his family. I know he will make a wise decision.

Rain and More Rain

2011-12-28T22:00:00.003-08:00

It has been raining for 2 straight days now. Last night it was very windy that I believed it knocked down some trees that affected the power lines. We had power outage for 45 minutes. Good thing in our house there are no tress nearby. I only heard the wind banging on our windows. It was howling literally.

I slept late and woke up early this morning because the kids woke up early as well. My darling husband let me sleep in so I was able to replenish my energy. We did not go out for 2 days now as well and stuck here at home. I don't like going out too much when it is pouring hard and gusty. Hubby is on leave until the 2nd of January. I like it when we are all at home and just being lazy. Although I got bored but knowing we are all safe at home is more important.

I hope tomorrow the rain stops and we can go out to the store. We thought of going to the Zoolights at Point Defiance also. Crossing my fingers that the rain really stops so we can walk around at the Zoolights not drench in rain.

Get Warm This Winter

2011-12-27T14:10:00.003-08:00

Winter is one of my least favorite season. This is because it can get very cold and I hate driving in the snow. Last year around November time was my first to drive in the midst of a snowstorm. I went to the hospital for my daughter's appointment. Good thing though the snowing stopped when I was at the hospital already. When we went home the road was already a bit clear.

This time we don't have snow yet, but the weather is getting colder. There were only few powdery snow or frost in the morning but that's it. We got rains though that make it more a soggy and gloomy weather. I told my husband before Christmas to get me a heated blanket or the electric blanket that I saw in one of the stores around here. He did not buy me one but he got me a very comfortable and fluffy lounge wear to use around the house. It is very helpful to combat the coldness when I am doing my school work in front of the computer. Maybe next winter I can save enough for a heated blanket along with our plan to get a new bedroom set.

Perfect Eyelashes

2011-12-23T12:13:00.002-08:00

What is your idea of a perfect eyelashes? I think for most it will be a long, curvy, and thick lashes. Honestly I envy those that have long lashes. No need for eyelash enhancer or maybe just a dash and you will be good to go. My husband is blessed with a curly, long lashes. I wish I have those, really. It adds drama to your eyes if you have long lashes. This is why I think when you put make up on, the look will be complete if your eyelashes is also done. I do not put make up all the time, only on special occasion or if I am not lazy. Through time I was able to acquire some beauty products that I can use. The only thing is I am not good at it and also the laziness hinders me from learning to put make up on. I know I have to learn the basics coz it will surely come in handy later.

Iraq War and Our Story

2011-12-19T17:49:00.001-08:00

After almost 9 years of the war in Iraq, finally the troops are exiting the country. It is a time of jubilation for our troops because they will be home to their loved ones and spend the holiday season with them. Many families will be relieved that at last they will be able to hug their soldiers.

I remember when the war started in 2003 I was supposed to meet my husband, then boyfriend, in person in the Philippines. But because of the war it did not happen. He has to go to Iraq. I did not realize then the massive effect of the war to the world. When I heard on the news how the war escalated and many troops perished, I got chills that what if my man will not come out there alive. But I hold on to his promise back then that if will get through it, he will follow me where ever I am in the world.

After more than a year in the war zone, he came back here in the US and followed me to the United Kingdom. We met there for the first time. He did not say anything about the war but I know he has seen and been through a lot. I came here in the US and we got married. He is still serving in the Army. He went back to Iraq twice.

The following 2 deployments really made me a stronger person. On second deployment I have to be strong because we have a new born baby. He left me with only the FRG people to call in case I need anything. With the grace of God he came back and we continue with our lives.

Then came the third deployment. He left while I was pregnant for our second baby. It was tough but I have friends, real friends, to call on to. I gave birth without him. He got to see our daughter on his R&R but only for a short period of time. After the leave he went back to Iraq and left me with the household, toddler, and 2-week-old baby to take care to. Still, I want to thank God that He brought him home alive and now is with us for more than a year. They were the last combat troops to get out of Iraq.

I am happy that there will be no more troops to be deployed to Iraq. But this does not mean I am totally happy for my man. Being in a combat troop, they are still going to be deployed to another war zone, Afghanistan. It's only a matter of time that they are going to load up and head up there. I always pray that this war will be over too so we all can have a normal life. But I know it is very complicated and time can only tell what could happen.

For the time being, I am praying continually for the military service members and their families for continued guidance and protection, to be strong and courageous, to stay bonded to each other even if being separated. I salute to everyone for their sacrifices. They are doing too much just to keep our freedom here at home.

To my husband, I know we will be separated again soon. It is my promise to him that I will always be here, praying and waiting for him again and again. Every deployment is a challenge but it made me a stronger person. It strengthen our relationship through the years as well. If we have a choice I don't want him to go, but it is his duty to fulfill.

Returning Stuff to CIF

2011-12-19T17:35:00.003-08:00

Early last month my husband was digging through all his military gears that he brought back from deploying to Iraq. He had lots of stuff and has 3 big black boxes with wheels in the garage full of it. After they got back from their almost a month out of town training, he decided to return stuff to the CIF (Central Issue Facility) some of the gears and clothing that he don't need anymore.

While sorting through the pile, I asked him names of the different military gears. They are issued almost everything that they can wear while in combat. They will have it before they deploy and they can also order stuff while in deployment. One of the gear he has is an eye gear and with a somewhat speedglas lens on it. My daughter was having fun wearing it even though it falls off her face. I myself slipped inside the big sleeping bag that he spread in our garage floor. It really is very comfortable and cozy.

I was glad he was able to return a lot of stuff to CIF. Now our garage is tidy and there is not much clutter. We fit our 2 vehicles in there and we plan of keeping it that way. It helps to have both vehicles in the garage. When morning comes and hubby go to work and I drop our preschooler to school, we will not scrape the frost nor heat the car up before driving it.

Yard Work Plan for the Spring

2011-12-19T17:24:00.004-08:00

Since moving here in our house we haven't done anything big with respect to our front or back yards. As I have said before, we are doing one improvement at a time. But come spring time I am thinking of adding a best address plaque to highlight our front yard. I have been scouting different stores or crafts services to do it but I can't find a nice one that I like. I will try checking online because I know I can find great deals and unique items in the internet.

I have been wanting to plant and do gardening but man, it is cold outside. My older daughter told me she wanted a flower garden. I replied that we wait til Spring time. The flowers and other plants will be nice during those times and the weather will surely be conducive to working outside. So hopefully the yard work plan will be pushed through so we can smell beautiful flowers again.

Best Time to Buy Electronics

2011-12-02T23:18:00.003-08:00

This time of the year is the best time to buy electronics. As we all know that the biggest sale in retail industry started after Thanksgiving, which I think Black Friday was the craziest one. This holiday I did not apply for a job as holiday help, but I did not join the bandwagon to be with the crowd of Black Friday goers.

My husband bought me a paper on Thanksgiving day. The inserts in that paper for different retail and specialty stores were a lot. There were even coupons that you can use as well. I browsed through the flyers, and most of the big ticketed items that are on sale and called as "doorbusters" were the electronics, such as, televisions, laptops, ipads, ipods, and gaming consoles. These really enticed those people to grab the deal even if they have to wait in long lines and in cold winter weather.

For those who are still planning of buying any electronics or gadgets, I know you still have time. The stores are still doing sales almost every weekend for the holidays. Some stores are even offering layaway so you can make plans of what to get first for yourself and for your loved ones.

Our Thanksgiving Celebration

2011-11-26T18:03:00.007-08:00

Thanksgiving had passed and gone and now we are preparing for Christmas and the new year to come. To recap, we had a great celebration, although there's only the four of us. My husband's co-workers were planning to come over, but the weather that time was bad. It was pouring hard, and the wind gust was high, so they may have decided not to come over. We cooked food which were more for our consumption. As much as I don't like it, we threw few of the left overs after 3 days.

It was our first Thanksgiving here in our house. I cannot thank God enough for the blessing. This is one of the biggest things that we received this year, and I am so proud of it, being a homeowner. This Christmas will be memorable for us too since it will be the first Christmas that we will celebrate here in our new house. I can't believe that we are reaching the 5th month of living in our dream home. It is a great feeling to finally be in our own place.

Road Service Assistance

2011-11-23T13:58:00.003-08:00

Have you experienced any road emergencies? Well, one year ago while me and our oldest daughter went to a trunk or treat in one of the churches near our apartment before, I accidentally left my key in the ignition and the car was still running. It was freezing cold. Me and my daughter was wearing a Halloween costumes and we started to both feel cold. My purse was inside the vehicle as well that I cannot call my husband nor an emergency road service to unlock it.Good thing I have a friend around that she was able to lend me her phone so I can call my husband and our insurance company.

The company was able to send someone from an emergency road service and the vehicle got unlocked. It was one thing that I don't want to happen again. One more thing that I was thankful for was our 3-year-old daughter was already out of the vehicle when it was locked up. If she was still inside the car and strapped in her carseat I will surely be in panic mode.

Practical Joke

2011-11-23T13:49:00.003-08:00

I have a friend that likes to throw practical jokes. She is indeed really funny and no dull moments when you are with her. I am thinking of throwing a practical joke on her as well this holiday season. I have been looking for a gift for her and I can't find any until I saw nipple tassels in one of the lingerie shop. I know she will be shocked and probably be laughing hard when she sees it. I can't wait what her reaction might be. She will not be expecting this because I haven't given anything her that is somewhat daring. So this will be a dose of her own medicine, perhaps, in a good and jokingly way.

Coupon Diva Wannabe

2011-11-07T13:28:00.002-08:00

I have been couponing for many months now but I am still far from having a stockpile to last us 6 months. My couponing is like off and on. If I see a good coupon that I can use for my shopping trip then I will use it, if none then I will not use coupon at all. It seem like it is so hard for me to begin. I envy those that are so diligent and already have stockpile t last them a while. I also envy those that can get a good deal for their every shopping trip. I think I still need more effort and do a strategic shopping plan before going out to the groceries.

This time around you can't only use coupons for groceries but for almost all of the things that you need at home including apparel, hobbies, restaurants, and many others. If you are a gamer or wanted to give games to your loved ones for Christmas, check out for some gamestop coupons that you can use to score great deals on games. I will surely look for some myself because I have kids and family to give gifts to. This is one way of curbing down our expenses this coming holiday season.

Next year or maybe this coming month when I am not so busy with my school work and the kids, I will ask a friend of mine that do extreme couponing to teach me or walk me through so I will gain more knowledge and strategy. I believe I will get the hang of it and maybe start to see the fruit of my labor.

Transcribing Medical Dictations

2011-11-06T21:03:00.002-08:00

I wish I did my school work for my program, Medical Transcription, diligently I would have been done by now. My problem was lack of motivation along the way. But now I am doing fine and on extension. I have another four months to finish. My problem aside from the lack of time is the difficulty of hearing the doctors dictate medical words.

I am hoping that with practice I will be able to get faster and learning medical terms will be easier as I move along. I got lots words learned already. I remember when I heard this one dictator dictates discectomy. I got it all wrong because I transcribed it without the letter "c" after the letter "s." Good thing it was only a practice dictation. If it were a test I will have a whole point wrong for medical word error.

Honestly, I learn to like this program more and more as I am now in session 12. I have 4 sessions left and then I will graduate. I will be most happy to finish early though so I can find a job and help my family.

Working Overseas

2011-11-06T20:44:00.003-08:00

I have lots of friends that work overseas. Most are nurses, engineers, and office workers. Recently I heard that Concierge Jobs are in demand nowadays, especially in the middle east when the big hotels are in need of workers. I also learned that a dear friend of mine back in high school is now working in a big hotel in middle east as well.

I am thinking if I wasn't able to come over here in the US, maybe I also applied for work in another country. In my home country if you don't have a good job it will be impossible to get out of poverty. This is why going overseas to work is an option that most people are choosing instead oc working locally. I can't blame them. Working overseas earns more that a lot are willing to sacrifice for their loved ones. They are what we call back home as heroes. A big chunk of overseas workers remittance also means more money to the government coffers.

Fall is Great But...

2011-11-04T14:13:00.002-07:00

I love fall but cleaning up the yard almost everyday because of falling leaves is not fun at all. When we live in an apartment I don't have this problem. They have maintenance people to do it. Now that we have our own place, it is our responsibility to clean our own yard. Me and hubby don't like untidy yard so we do the yard work almost everyday.

On Friday it was windy and most of the fallen leaves were on our front yard. I know my husband will clean it when he gets home but it will be dark already, so I rolled up my sleeves and did it for the 2nd time of the week. Yesterday hubby cleaned up the garage and swept the driveway. I like it when the front of the house is clean. It is understandable though that due to the fall season, leaves will be all over the place. I think I will be used with this in the long run.

Safety First with Kids

2011-11-04T13:55:00.004-07:00

I have two curious little girls and one thing that I so paranoid about is for them to have an accident in the house and hurt themselves. This is why I always make sure that we baby-proofed the house. We moved here for about 5 months now and I think we did a great job of baby-proofing. All the outlets are covered. We made sure the furniture are kid friendly. My husband wanted a glass coffee table but I told him no to have it because of the kids. So now we have a soft coffee table/ottoman in both the living areas and the one in our formal living room we had a wood table with a small accent of glass but it is safely put together.

Another thing that made sure is to use safety utility knife instead of a regular box cutter that I use when opening boxes. I bought the older daughter a safety scissors fit for her age as well. Their toy room is devoid of any sharp edges furniture and it is carpeted. The table and chairs in their toy room are age appropriate as well. We have a 16-steps stair and we had a fence installed so the 1-year-old cannot easily climb down when they are upstairs.

I just pray everyday though that there will be no accidents or any untoward incident that will happen. I am busy with my online schooling and I am constantly in the computer. I don't want to not be able to watch them or I will not be able to catch them when they are doing something not allowed for them to do. For all the Moms, this is the best thing we can do for our kids, keeping them always safe.

The Wedding Business

2011-10-21T10:02:00.005-07:00

I have a friend in Philippines that started her wedding business at first with just hosting wedding of our friends. Now I learned that she already have a booming business as a wedding coordinator and planner. She will average at least 3 weddings per month. Good thing she developed connections with vendors that supplies all her needs and also commissioned wedding videography services that will do the video and photos of the wedding.

I congratulate her for her drive to success on her business. It is not an easy work. Brides and grooms wanted their wedding to be perfect, and as a coordinator you should have all the creativity and ingenuity to plan a great wedding. This will only come once in a couples life and perfection is what most couple want to achieve to celebrate their union. Kudos to this friend of mine for finding the perfect business.

Changing My Blog Design

2011-10-06T23:40:00.003-07:00

It's been a while that I have this design for my blog and I enjoyed it too as well. Although I am still liking it now, I also felt that I need some changes to it. I want to have a new web design. I have been scouting all over the internet as well as asking some friends to give me idea who to contact to for an affordable web designers. I know if I want to have all the bells and whistles then I should expect a higher expense. I can always opt though for a free design but settle for less features.

I searched online and Houston web design really offer nice packages. I am not really sure though if I can afford it since I am just a mere blogger with no stable income. But I think they are one of the best so far that I have checked online. I like their portfolio and love their designs. I have been dreaming of one day having a nice web site. I may have to save more money to have this dream come true. This is one of the must do for me this coming new year, to have a new web site design in a budget that I can afford.

Wanting to Work Again

2011-09-13T12:28:00.004-07:00

Yesterday after I dropped off our DD1 to her school my friend and I went to a friend that has been sick. This friend of our worked as a nursing assistant. Because she got sick for more than a week, she wasn't able to work for the duration as well. She is getting better though and that is a good thing.

While at her place we were talking about jobs. I have been a stay at home Mom for quite sometime now although I had a holiday or seasonal job last year but it was only for a couple of months. I really miss working and asked her if they have hiring in her workplace. She said they actually do. Then it donned on me that I really miss wearing scrubs uniforms. I worked at a nursing home before and I still have my scrubs here. She told me that if I want to I can do a retraining and even get a license and work as a certified nursing assistant.

This will be my plan option if I wanted to look for a job before I finish my schooling. I am still in school right now and hopefully be finished in January. If I really need to get a job to help out my family then being a nursing assistant is one of my option and I can wear my scrubs uniforms again.

To Get or Not to Get

2011-09-13T12:14:00.004-07:00

Okay, we are now in a dilemma if it is wise to just go ahead and trade our truck or not. I mentioned in one of my previous posts before that my husband is tuning up his truck and change parts of the truck that needs to be changed. We both know though that if we are going to work on it, we make sure that our expense should not go over to half of its blue book value. He finished fixing the truck already but along the way he noticed some parts that are also worn out and needs to be changed. I asked him how much it will cost us if we do it. He answered maybe almost to our limit. I think it will be a money pit if we are not going to trade it in.

It is fully paid and thinking of paying for another vehicle again is bothering me. We now have a mortgage to pay and I don't want another additional monthly payment to our bills. It is really a dilemma. We wanted to paid off all our debts, commercial and education that is.

I am trying to budget that come next year we will only have our mortgage and our utilities to pay. But looks like the inevitable will come that we have to get another vehicle. I told him if we need to then we go for it. For the time being we need to make a plan to make additional income so we will not hurt our finances once we get another vehicle. If we can wait until next year then it is good. I hope the truck will not stall though. Crossing-fingers.

Side Job or Hobby

2011-09-13T11:30:00.003-07:00

I was reading a blog online about some new hobbies that can become a side job as well. It is about digging for precious metals using treasure metal detectors. There are people that make this as their hobby. They go to the beaches or other public areas that this kind of activity is allowed. Accordingly they get ample of amount of metals and some even got some gold jewelries especially along the beaches.

To some, it is only a hobby, but there are also those that made it as part of their income source. The only downside is if you can't get anything with it. But if you enjoy it, I think you can definitely do it without any apprehensions of losing.

Lose that Pounds!

2011-08-31T13:38:00.003-07:00

I don't know but I am so sluggish this past few weeks. I think I lack the motivation to do exercise. My husband keep telling me that we need to continue on with our pact to do crunches and push ups every night and also in the morning. I think I am not motivated that is why I am slacking.

I was reading some fat burners reviews and I am scared to try taking diet pills. I would rather cut my diet and maybe stop eating too much carbs. My problem now is that I am still breastfeeding. When I wean our daughter then I can start eating less and make a diet plan that will work for me and my husband. Both of us need to start doing it religiously not only for our ourselves but also for our kids. I don't want them to lose one of us early because we are not eating healthy.

I had my one year postpartum check up in April and my weight then was 100lbs which is just about my pre-pregnancy weight. When I checked my weight again this past week it showed a gain of 3 lbs. I know if I kept on doing what I am doing now, then I am sure it will go up again. So, indeed, I need to lose the pounds or else I will gain some more!

Tree Trimming

2011-08-31T12:39:00.000-07:00

The Author of this post is Velma Baird.

When we first moved into our home there were a lot of trees and bushes in the yard. The trees provided a lot of shade during the summer when we wanted to sit outside or have a cookout. Over the years the bushes around the house have gotten bigger and the trees have too. I have trimmed the bushes and my husband has gone up in to the trees to trim off some branches, but I still feel that they are safety hazards. We even went online to http://www.AllHomeSecurity.com to see if there were any tips on tree trimming. The next day my husband and I hired some professionals to come out and see what they could do to eliminate the extra trees. The tree-trimmers came and completed the job in two days. My daughters miss the trees because they enjoyed climbing them and my youngest even named one of them. I believe that my job as a parent is to protect them and that is what I am doing with the tree trimming.

Stuck in the House

2011-08-30T20:28:00.004-07:00

For the whole week last week we were stuck in the house because my husband used my car to go to work. We have two vehicles but hubby tuned up his truck and replaced some parts that are needed to be replaced. It would not be that long to fix it but he is working so he can only work on it after he got home from his job.

I am very glad that my husband is a mechanically-inclined person. We can save the labor fee in fixing our vehicles. Ever since he is the only one who fixes and change whatever is needed for our vehicles. His truck is about 6 years old and my car is about 5 but still it is working great. We paid both of it and although e planned of trading it in but I want to wait until we can paid off other debt.

This past weekend hubby finished fixing the truck and I am so happy I can already get out of the house. I got back my car. It can really somehow cripple you if you don't have a transportation and you need to go somewhere. If I live in a place where public transport is available at anytime then I am fin without a car. Here, it is a necessity. But anyways, I am thankful that my husband can be relied upon in matters like this.

Mortgage Insurance

2011-08-17T23:07:00.004-07:00

Now that we owned our home we did a lot of thinking of how to protect our property as well as our loved ones. We discussed about having a mortgage insurance and increasing our life insurance as well in order to prepare and insure our kids' future in case something happened to us. My husband is very open about it and we are on the same page when it comes to this matter.

Last month a representative of the company that we are trying to apply for the insurance came in our place already and he gave us all the information that we need to know. A medical screening was already done and hopefully we can hear from them soon. I also tried to check different insurance companies online. One website that I checked to shop for insurance is the www.wholesaleinsurance.net. You can inquire for quotes and they can give information of different companies that you will feel comfortable to do business with. Hopefully we can receive the result of the application pretty soon and we will know how much will be our premiums and also we are weighing all our expenses being a first time homeowner.

Sturdy Bookmarks

2011-08-04T13:51:00.004-07:00

I am in need of sturdy bookmarks that will not get easily destroyed when kids are playing it. Yeah, that is my concern since most of my bookmarks are made of paper and my two little girls love to play it that now you can't even recognize it. Maybe metal bookmarks are good replacement so even they will play it all the time it will still remain as it was intended.

I didn't realize there is such a thing. Most of the bookmarks I saw in stores are made of paper and some are being laminated to make it thicker and durable. But these metal ones are nicer I would say. It will last longer. It is also a nice gift idea to friends and loved ones.

Not to Bury in Debt

2011-08-04T13:37:00.003-07:00

Now I understand why some of my friends are saying it is hard to control yourself from buying stuff once you have your own house. I know the feeling now but I am glad me and my husband are in control of our finances. When we signed our mortgage we made sure we don't have other debt so that we can still live comfortably even if we pay the mortgage. I know right now we still have so many things we need for our house but as I have said in my previous post, we have to tackle one project at a time.

It is hard to live day by day in a paycheck-to-paycheck basis. It will be more harder when you are on that predicament and you have kids to support. So now, even if the temptation to spend for the house is calling I will make sure we are always in check with our finances. This is the only way we can continue to live without any problem especially with money. We still have years and years of doing home improvements and I know it can wait. As long as we are living comfortably and safely in our home, then I am cool with it.

One Project at a Time

2011-08-04T13:25:00.002-07:00

Having our own house is liberating and at the same entail a lot of responsibilities. Of course everything is in your hands; paying all the utilities, maintenance, improvements, and so on. Now that we are kind of settled already, we are trying to lay out plans of what projects we are going to tackle being a homeowner. We agreed to do one project at a time.

Among the projects that we identified are staining the fence, having a customized patio cover, painting the kids room, organization for the kids toys corner, making one of the rooms our home office, spruce up the upstairs entertainment area, organizational shelving for the garage, and backyard storage shed.

Thinking about all those projects made my head spin. I know in as much as I want it to be done soon, I want to be practical and sensible. We can't afford to do all those at the same time. We can only do one at a time. So from now on I need to make sure we are right on our monthly budget so we can save up for all the projects that we want for our house in the future.

Back to School

2011-07-28T21:51:00.002-07:00

I have a friend that wanted to go back to school. She is thinking of going online since she have a small kid that she don't want to leave in a day care. I asked her what program she plan of taking. She said that she is still undecided but wanted to get something that will not take that long to finish and she can work later in her own place or even start a small business with.

Actually there are lots of programs and online schools that she can choose from. If she can want something that she can start to have her own business later on, she can do massage therapy program online. This will let her have her own business later when she finished. I will give her a call tomorrow since she asked my opinion on her future endeavor. I am also going to school online and per experience, it is really convenient. I can still watch my kids while doing my school stuff. I know she can do it too like I do.

Unpacking

2011-07-28T21:36:00.003-07:00

The bad part of our move was the unpacking part. I know it wasn't that bad but it was definitely very tiring. How I wish somebody can do it for me. After the unpacking was the arranging and organizing stuff. I would say we did good with it but until now I am still doing changes and cannot decide what decor to go.

While we unpack I just realized that we still have stuff from our previous move that we were not able to take out from the boxes. Most of them are my husbands military stuffs. I even uncovered some military coins that he were able to accumulate since he join the Army. His awards and other stuffs that needed to be hung on the wall as well as certificates that I am planning of putting in a frame. I know I still have years to do all the decorating here but I am hoping I can make up something soon to make our new home cozy to live in with.

Once I am done with our first floor living space, then I can work on the upstairs. I will do it one at a time. I am glad my husband is also a big help. He did most of the unpacking and me with the arranging.

Our July 4 Celebration

2011-07-18T21:23:00.004-07:00

I know this is kind of late but I just had the chance to upload all our pictures from my camera. We had a little get together on July 4th. It was our first holiday celebration being here in our own place. I invited few of my friends and we just had a little get together. Hubby bought a water play center for the kids to play with at the backyard. The weather was very nice so they were having a blast playing with the water. It was really fun and we enjoyed it. Below are the kids' picture having a blast playing with the water.

Motorcycle as Transport to Work

2011-07-10T01:13:00.003-07:00

When the gas price went up my husband wished we live near post so he can use bicycle or a motorcycle to go to work. It will be less gas usage and very easy to go through traffic because of its scale. I think there are pros and cons of having a motorcycle and I would still prefer to have a car when driving to work. It will be safe when it is raining or in cold weather.

My friend's husband owned a motorcycle and it is a fully loaded one complete with motorcycle navigator, but they are going to sell it. Her husband uses it to work but considering the weather here in the pacific northwest where it is always raining, her husband decided to have a car. They have another vehicle now and waiting for a buyer for their motorcycle. Back in the Philippines I was thinking of learning to drive a motorcycle but now here, I thought it is very difficult and looked dangerous to drive it especially on interstate.

Girl's Bestfriend

2011-07-10T01:01:00.003-07:00

As the saying goes that diamonds are the girl's bestfriend and diamonds are forever. Indeed, who will not feel like a princess if your loved one give you a diamond; may it be a ring, necklace, earrings, or other accessories that has diamonds in it. The first time I owned a diamond jewelry was when my husband gave me the engagement ring. I really treasured that ring until now. I only wear it on special occasion. For my daily wear, I only have our wedding ring in my finger.

Every May I celebrate two occasions, my birthday and also mother's day. I always tell my husband not to give me anything but he still likes giving me stuff. I am thankful every time whatever he will give me. I did not know that he was checking some diamonds online and also some techie stuffs. He told me that he was debating then what to give me on my birthday this past May. I told him beforehand not to get expensive ones and if he'll get a gift make it one for the two occasions. So what won over the debate was the ebook that I was also eying. I loved it and even if it is not diamond I am still happy with it. It is still like a diamond since it is my bestfriend now. I am bringing it wherever I go.

Watching HGTV Channel

2011-07-10T00:21:00.003-07:00

Before we found our first place we always watch HGTV channel especially the shows about house hunting, property virgins, and the likes. It is really a good thing that you have knowledge on how real estate works. Having to know what you want and how the process works helps in understanding once you embark on the real thing.

Now that we moved in our own place I thought I will watch it less but then the decorating ideas that this channel is giving to its audience cannot be passed. I wanted to learn how to decorate for less and somehow get ideas to apply to our own. There are so many ideas I wanted to copy to our place but I need to wait. I will make it one project at a time. I know that whatever good things we added to the house will add to the equity and it will be a good investment.

Speaking of investment, I am thinking of embarking into investing such as stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, or even buy silver dollars. This will be my next target of getting more information and knowledge. I have basic knowledge on it but I need to dig deep into it so I will know how it really works. I know that having your own property/house is a way of investing for the future but having a diverse investment is better.

Shopping at Kohls

2011-07-08T23:00:00.003-07:00

One of the stores I love to go and shop with is Kohls. In fact I need to go there tomorrow because I have Kohls coupons that will expire on Sunday. I need to get couple of things for the house. I am looking at the bathroom set for the master bath and maybe a comforter set and window treatment. I like going to Kohls too when they start the end of the season sale because I can really score some great deals.

Last summer when Kohls have their end of the season sale I was able to stock up on my kids clothing that I got for a really inexpensive price. I am sucker for bargain and I did love what I was able to spent. This time I am not only looking at stocking up on kids' clothing but also decor that I can use for our home. It is different now that we have our own place, you constantly think of something to make your house comfortable and cozy to live in. So I am hoping I will be able to score some good things at Kohls.

Closing at Last!

2011-06-27T10:26:00.002-07:00

Okay now I can see the end of our home buying will come to an end at last. I got a call from my husband that we will be closing this afternoon. I am so ready to close and move out here in our apartment. It's not that I dread staying here, but our lease will end on the 30th. It is only 3 days from now and honestly I haven't started packing a thing yet. The house that we are going to move is just 2 miles away. We don't have that much stuff to pack also.

I can't believe that we are slowly fulfilling our dreams. I am happy and fortunate to have a husband that shares my values and aspirations. We both wanted to live the American dream like everybody else. I know that with our decision to own a house is a big step toward living that dream. This is something that I have only in dreams way back in my home country. I think I am a living testament to everyone who believe in their dreams and working with the grace of God to reach that dream.

Utilities are easy to forget…

2011-06-22T21:17:00.002-07:00

This guest post from Lenny Mcknight.

Utilities are the kind of thing you can easily forget when you’ve moving, especially since there’s so much other stuff going on. It’s easy to let them slip by when you’re dealing with movers or a moving van, packing up all of your stuff or in my case, moving halfway across the country from your family. That’s why when I got to California, I realized that I never called ahead to set up all my utilities. Whoops! What an undertaking that turned out to be…it took nearly a week to get our power up and running. It’s a good thing the weather there is mild! I also forgot to look into security systems at http://securityCHOICE.com until we got there but thankfully, that didn’t take too long. I feel better now that everything’s squared away but next time I move, I’m definitely going to plan ahead better! Maybe I’ll even get a checklist or something to make sure I’ve got everything under control…that sure would have been helpful about six months ago when I moved out here!

Right Direction

2011-06-22T20:53:00.002-07:00

A month ago our daughter have their class field trip in a farm. We were given the printed direction to the farm and I was relying on my good sense to follow direction. I was driving following that direction and when it said I have to turn right I followed it but I was thinking most of the farms was on the left side so I turned back and went left. I have been driving farther from what it says as 2 miles and I haven't seen the farm sign. So I turned back. Then the weather did not cooperate. It poured so hard that I decided to just go home. I don't want to drive around in a pouring rain looking for the right direction. That time I wished that I have a magellan gps or any gps for that matter. It is very frustrating for my side because I let my daughter down and I did not follow the right direction. We could have been there already if I did not turned around the first time and just continued on following the printed direction. Lesson learned, follow instruction and always verify the information.

Daddy's Upcoming Birthday

2011-06-22T20:46:00.002-07:00

My husband asked me if we are going to have our soon to be place blessed. He witnessed my sister's house blessing and he's thinking if we can have our place be blessed as well. I told him it depends if one of the deacon or minister in the church will do it for us. That we are going to find out when we go to church next week. I really wanted to and if ever they can I am thinking of having it on my husband's birthday as well.

The birthday is still in September but time flies so fast so I better plan early. I am also thinking of gourmet birthday gift ideas for him. The house is the biggest gift ever for him and to our family but I want to look for any gift ideas that he deserve. He is a very good provider for us, a good husband and father and he deserve to get the best on his special day. I hope I can have one soon so I can save money for it.

Looking for a Job

2011-06-08T21:31:00.003-07:00

I told my husband that once we can have our own place I will also start looking for a job. I need to help out with the family's expenses too. I have experience in sales jobs but I am looking at the medical field when I am looking for one. I already thought of starting with medical receptionist or medical clerk if there is an opening and then once I am able to have an apprentice for my medical transcription program then I will go into it as well. I am still on the basic part of the program and I have a long way to go. Looking at those that recently graduated from my school, they were able to find a job in a week's time. So hopefully my future for this field is clear. For the time being, I will just continue with my school stuff and do my best to finish the program as early as possible. I am way behind but I know I can make it.

But if ever I can find another job that will suit my schedule before I finish my program, I may go for it. I need to help out the family as well as need to start working building our finances. This is not only for myself but for the whole family. The kids are growing as well as their needs. There are so much to prepare in order for them to have a good life when they are older. Right now, I can't wait to start our life in our new place and building our future together as a family.

First Time Home Buyer Nightmare

2011-06-08T21:19:00.002-07:00

I never thought we will have problem with our home buying journey. Everything when smooth but after few weeks of not being able to hear from the builder we decided that we may have to pull out from the contract. We were supposed to close this month but the builder gave us an addendum that we will close in August then another one which will be in September. It was too long of a wait and we already sacrificed the tax credit but to wait for another month is too much.

I believe it is still a blessing in disguise though because we were able to find another house that we think suits our family and we will be able to move this month. Our lease will end at the end of this month and we don't want to do the month-to-month rent. With God's grace, we were told that we may be able to close on the week of the 20th and by the end of this month we can clear out from our apartment. God is really good that despite what happened, He still provided for us. I can't wait to and nervous for the new life that we are going to partake as a family. This will be a meaningful moment and the very big step for our future.

Update on my Mom's Health

2011-05-29T15:01:00.002-07:00

Last year, October, I had the scariest time of my life when I learned that my Mom had a stroke and was in the ICU. They thought she will not survive it but for the love of God my Mom was able to get through it. I cried many nights knowing I am not beside her and if anything happen to her I don't know what I will do.

With all the prayers and thoughts from everybody, I am so happy that she is now recovering well. From being not able to sit, stand and walk, she can now walk with the aid of a cane. I told my sisters that somebody should be in her side just in case she need assistance. I don't want her to fall while still recovering and trying to regain her ability to walk unaided.

Both her and my father also is suffering from other illness, like arthritis. They are in their 70's and use arthritis pain relief most of the time as well. Despite of all the medical problems they are going through, they are still coping and it made them stronger through the years. I love them both and I hope to see them soon.

Summer Fun

2011-05-29T14:51:00.002-07:00

In no time at all summer will be here already. I bet most of you have activities lined up already for the family. For us we still have to depend everything on whether the construction of the house will be done. We are looking at moving the latest is August. Imagine from June, as what we first thought, and now it will be August. I hate the idea but it's the reality.

Anyways, back to summer fun shorts and swim suits will be coming out pretty soon. I don't think I have enough courage though since I am in no way near fit to flaunt my body. I gained weight and I believe the only thing I can do to get the body I want is to take OxyElite Pro. It is funny since me and my husband made a pact to trim the belly fat but looks like I will lose the pact.

For the time being, I started walking and exercising to help me lose some weight a bit. I am also inspired to participate in a 5K run this summer. Hopefully everything will work out fine and I will be able to reach my short term goals without a hitch.

Weird Mails

2011-05-21T23:23:00.003-07:00

I was sorting our mail yesterday and I can't believe we received mail from a certain insurance company giving us discount if we go through them for a 5th wheel insurance. I don't know how but we don't have trailer RV or its like. We received weird mails lately. I even laughed at my husband because he also got one from AARP when he is no way near to be in that category yet. Good thing though we can always read about information on some of these mails and marketing flyers.

I think what these companies should do is really target consumers that has those kind of things so there will not be too many papers wasted. Mother earth needs to be taken cared of and as much as we want to do paperless, there are still those that wants to waste trees and continue to send mails to people that really don't need it in a way.

My New Toy

2011-05-21T20:55:00.003-07:00

On my birthday my husband bought me a Kindle. I have been looking at it before but really did not buy it since I wanted to wait for some time. I did not know that my husband was planning of giving it to me on my birthday. I am so happy to have it. The first night I got a hold of it I bought a book by Nicholas Sparks, Dear John. It was about a soldier whose father collected coins through the years and when the father died he inherited all the collections. It was a sum of money. I think if you are a collector of something, like silver or gold coins, in time these will amount to something. Right now with the economy is slow to go up having a gold or silver bullion bars as investment on the side will really pay off. I am not a savvy when it comes to it but I know it can be learned.

Back to my new toy, I am hook on it now that I am planning of buying more books. I just need to check online for cheaper Kindle books to get. I will also try to check if one of my textbook has a Kindle version so I can have it downloaded into it. It will be less weight in my purse if I only have the Kindle and not having the hardcopy of the book itself. My husband also downloaded a Bible (KJV) on it and the audio helps a lot to read through it. For now I am still learning some of its feature and hopefully master all of it in time.

Losing the Tax Credit

2011-05-11T11:04:00.002-07:00

We received a not so good news from our realtor that the builder of our soon to be place is still waiting for the permit to construct the house. Honestly I was thinking that they all have the permits ready and if a buyer decided and got the lot then the construction will start rolling. Apparently not.

Now our dilemma is losing the tax credit for first time home buyers. It is a big chunk of money that can really help us and it will go down the drain if we cannot close in June. With the construction delay and it is not our fault, our realtor made an addendum for the seller to agree that they give us the credit if we cannot close in June. Hopefully they will agree on it. If they will then we can just put it in more upgrades.

One upgrade my husband is looking at is having the surround sound system. I don't really think it is necessary. My husband said just in case I will agree to him, he will start checking out top 10 subwoofer speakers that is in the market right now. He likes this techie stuff and I just let him be because I know when it comes to really deciding he will do a reasonable decision.

For the time being, we are anxiously waiting for the feedback from the seller about the addendum. We have talked about it before with the seller's representative and I am hoping that they can still accommodate it.

Generator Sets

2011-05-05T21:24:00.001-07:00

Good thing that here in the US we don't get frequent black outs unless if there is extreme bad weather that topple down electric lines. Back in my home country we always have black outs. I remember when I was working back there, we have honda generators to use as back up in case the electricity is cut off for the day. It is a hassle when there is no energy and the legislators are in session.

Until now I was told that there is still frequent electricity cut off. Sometimes the electric companies are giving each cities time to have electricity and then take turns. It is very sad but that is how third world country make use of its resources. I hope that the present government back there will do something and improve the electricity grid for all the consumers.

Gift Ideas for Mom's Day

2011-05-05T00:27:00.003-07:00

Mother's day is fast approaching. Being a Mom of two wonderful kids I don't ask for anything more. Just having them both is a great gift that I will be forever grateful to our Almighty God. But I know that in honor of our beloved mothers we are all looking for something special for them. I am thinking of some personalized mothers day gifts. A present with personal touch will surely be appreciated.

Our preschooler handed me a wrapped gift and a mother's day postcard that she just scribbled the crayons when I picked her up at school this afternoon. When we reached home I opened it and there were 2 bookmarks with a message at the back and at the front is an abstract painting using her tiny little fingers dipped in different colors. It is very cute and special and too personal. I thought it's a nice gift idea to give to Moms this mother's day.

Conceal That Dark Circles

2011-05-05T00:26:00.004-07:00

Lately when I can't get enough sleep the dark circles around my eyes becomes prominent. I really don't like it. Since I don't wear make up and I don't own skin foundation and concealer, I have a hard time dealing with it once it appears. I often ask my friends how to remove dark circles around my eyes and they will answer me to get a concealer aside from getting a good night rest.

Now my concern is how to choose the right concealer for me. I don't have any experience on putting make up. I have been checking out on youtube for tips and step by step make up application but still I am not confident enough. I think I need to go to a professional and have a hands on class on putting make up. I may not wear it everyday but surely it will help me for some occasion where I need one.

Delayed Closing Possibility

2011-05-05T00:26:00.003-07:00

During the time we submitted our offer for the house, we emphasized the closing date. Looking at the progress right now of the builder, I believe we cannot close on the date that we wanted to. I don't know how this would work. We wanted to close in June so we can still avail of the tax credit since it only has until June this year as extension, but I don't want them to rush finishing the house and compromise the quality.

Honestly this really gives me a little stress. Our lease will end in June and I don't want to pay month-to-month for more than 2 months because it is a bit costly. One option that we are hoping is that the seller will agree to give us credit if we can't close in June. Even half of the total tax credit they can give us is of great help.

I think this is one of the stresses that one can feel when looking and achieving the American dream. I am praying though that everything will work out well for us once the house will be fully constructed.

Barnyard Animals

2011-04-26T23:44:00.002-07:00

Our daughter's interest right now are barnyard animals. It started when they were told they are going for a field trip in a farm. When you say farm, she will associate immediately with barns and animals that lives in it. I am really amazed how she can get excited when she see farm lands along the way.

One time we were watching one TLC reality show wherein the family was riding on horse along the trail. She exclaimed she want to ride and have to buy horse equipment too. I told her we can try horse back riding in summer but not buy the equipment coz we don't have horse ourselves. This will be one of our activities this summer, to try horse back riding and visit some farms.

House Hunting Diary #2

2011-04-26T21:51:00.003-07:00

Okay, it has been a while that I made an update for our house hunting. Now it is not really house hunting since we already found our soon to be first place. Me and my husband decided to go for a new construction. We feel that it will be good for our family to have ready to move in house and we will be the first owner. We can't afford to have a fixer upper one because we have two little ones and too much work for the house will be too straining for us. We already did the paper works and hopefully we can close end of June. Our lease here in our apartment will be over by that time as well.

A week ago we went to the builders' design center to choose the house fixtures, colors, etc. I really like it they have undermount sinks for their kitchens and the standard fixtures looks like it is already upgraded. Our Realtor said that they are making good quality products and we have a good deal. This will be our first place and we can't wait. We thanked the Lord for all these blessings and we are very happy.

Updating Our Insurances

2011-04-21T00:28:00.004-07:00

We are very happy and blessed that we are now in the process of having our own place. I did not imagine that we are slowly seeing the fruits of our labor and achieving our goals as a family. As I have said in my previous posts that we were house hunting and now, finally, we already found our first place. I will post update on our journey toward home ownership in my succeeding posts in the future.

So, with this changes in our life we also look into updating our insurances. I know that along with home ownership comes responsibilities that will make our life secure as well as our property safe and covered. With our personal security, my husband thought of us getting additional disability insurance. We also need to increase our life insurance and look into getting our kids as well.

As to the home insurance and other riders, my husband already asked a quote from our current provider. We have a good provider now and hopefully once we can move to our place our premium will not be too high. They gave us a fair amount on the quote. It is doable and we get a bang for our buck.

Outdoor Camping

2011-04-18T09:48:00.003-07:00

Lately our soon-to-be 4-year-old daughter is talking about putting up her tent that I gave her on Christmas. She said she like to go camping. I told her it is not a good time for camping yet since it is still cold and always raining. My husband is not an avid fan for camping out in the woods. As a military, he said he have seen and been to many woods or outdoor experience. Maybe one day though he will bring us to some camp but it will be an RV camping of some sort. We don't have an RV but there are ones that we can rent out.

So I told my daughter she has to wait until she is old enough not to get scared walking in the woods. We can get a nice big tent like the Copper Spur UL4 that I saw in one of the outdoor stores online. It is durable and can surely withstand some tough conditions. I remember the last time I went backpacking with my friends back in college. I was bringing my gears that I would say heavier than me. I wish I saw this type of gear before where it is light and I would definitely enjoy more the adventure than agonizing on my heavy gears.

No I am still looking forward to go back doing some adventure with my family. If the kids are already bigger and can basically take care of themselves while outside then it will be fun for all of us. I am just hanging on for now and not to be in hurry as what our DD1 is trying to convince me.

House Hunting Diary #1

2011-03-29T16:11:00.002-07:00

I am having positive thoughts that we can achieve our goal to have our own place this year. Early this month me and hubby had a talk to resume our house hunting. I told him that I think we need to get pre-approved first before we look for houses so we will know the figures and we will look at houses in our price range. Before we apply for pre-approval we look around, different area and houses that will be possible to be in our list.

I admit that driving around looking for a good neighborhood for possible location is hard. There are lots of things you need to consider. This will be our first place and I know it's hard to find a perfect one but we need to find one that we like so we will not have any regrets. We considered at first established neighborhoods and houses but in the end we gave up and thought about new communities in a good neighborhood.

We checked out newly developed communities and my husband fell in love with a new developed community about 12-15 miles away from where we live right now. It is a new development, as I've said, and just few houses built. The builders are very great and they have affordable and nice houses. We talked to the sales manager on site and she was really very helpful. We viewed few of their model houses and I would say I like their designs.

I know that when you find your first place seldom you can get everything you want. There are some things you need to let go and things you need to compromise. So now we decided to go with the place and in the process of deciding on a design. Hopefully we can get everything put together as to the design, upgrade and other stuff so our agent can write the offer. I am crossing my fingers that our house hunting will be done and all will run smoothly. I always pray to God to guide us in all our decisions. This is not a simple undertakings. If everything goes well, with the grace of God, then I can say we are on our way to achieving our future's goals.

Favorite Fashion Themed TV Show-What Not To Wear

2011-03-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the post, Nora Howe.

What Not To Wear is my favorite fashioned themed TV show. When I settle down and switch on my satellite TV that I got after seeing this Directv DVR Offers comparison to watch, I know I am in for a treat. First of all it's reality TV so it's never the same characters twice. The plot is the same. Someone has turned in a friend, co worker, relative, into the "fashion police" for an outdated or understated style. I love how the hosts showcase what the person is into wearing now and then help them find a fashion fit for them. The hosts are always very nice and delicate but also very straight forward in telling the person what is wrong with their dress now and how to up ate it. They even go through the person's closet with them and throw stuff out. The fashion victims are not always happy about giving up their current looks but usually wind up very happy with the new look they are given. It's a fun show to watch and a way to get some great fashion tips!

Light Fixture

2011-03-23T11:21:00.005-07:00

Many times I mentioned here in my blog that we are hoping to own our first home one day. This time we are determined and we are now in the process of doing the first step of home ownership. Beforehand, we are driving around the neighborhood checking out different communities and house styles. One of the things I look at house's feature aside from the important ones are also the light fixture. Most of the houses here in the northwest, especially here in our area, the central air is an add-on or an upgrade. This is why I look at the ceiling fans with lights as well. I am a fan of Casablanca fans and I am hoping in the houses that we are going to look at we can get those types of fans. So far with the houses that we checked out I haven't seen those kind of fans yet. I think we have to purchase it by ourselves and replace whatever fans that the house have when we find the right place for us. I can't wait to have our own place, really :-)

First Communion

2011-03-23T11:08:00.002-07:00

First communion is one of the milestones for those who practice Catholicism. I had my first communion when I was in grade school. My parents who are devoted Catholics made it sure that we attended the classes and then had our communion. Although we did not have the bells and whistles like having nice dress, communion invitations prepared, and other stuffs but our parents made it sure we celebrate it as a family.

Right now I am attending church service at a Baptist church and I am not sure how they celebrate first communion for the kids. They have communion every first Sunday of the month and I am curious how it goes with kids. I need to ask my husband about it because long before we know it, our little girls will be ready for their communion.

Military PCS

2011-03-23T10:57:00.003-07:00

Some of our friends here are now in the process of moving and some have moved already to other duty stations. This is one of the saddest times for me being in the military family. After 3 years of being in one duty station, there is a possibility that your active duty service member will receive an order to PCS, permanent change of station, to another post. I know that we are already expecting it but every time somebody move you can't stop the sadness.

My very dear friend will move to Germany this coming June because her husband will be stationed there. I am not sure how long they are going to stay there but she has to go where her husband go. They have two kids and are friends of our little girl as well. I am sure she will miss her friends as much as I will be missing my friend. We don not know when we can see each other again though.

Couple of months ago two of our friends also moved overseas and another moved to another state. If their husbands have many years before they retire then maybe we will still be able to see each other since most of them just run in circles in the Army. They maybe stationed here again or we will be stationed to where they are at right now. Wherever it is, I will still feel the sadness everytime a friend of ours PCS.

Our Little Crawler

2011-03-06T00:12:00.003-08:00

I am still amazed at how our little ones developed every single day. She is now 10 months and crawls everywhere inside our place. Good thing we have carpeted floor. It will not be cold when she is on the floor. We have a small space of laminate flooring at the entrance and our baby love to stay on there. She likes banging the door that is why. When she's on there I sometimes put a blanket just so she will not be cold.

Right now she is learning to make steps while holding on to furniture. She can pull up herself already and she is too quick to do it now. I know anytime soon she will be able to walk by herself.

Healthcare Jobs

2011-03-05T23:56:00.002-08:00

I would say that our economy is slowly getting better. The numbers in wall street are high and unemployment rate going down. Retail sales are high compared to past year. If it not for the current situation in the middle east that made the gas prices soaring high then maybe we are not experiencing the high gas price.

When the unemployment rate was up for the past two years, healthcare industry jobs were still very active. This is why some people that were laid off from their jobs tried new careers in health care. I have several friends, including myself went on training for a health care field. This industry will always be in need of workers. I am so excited to finished my training program so I can get back to the workforce again.

Diet Pills for Women

2011-02-26T20:35:00.002-08:00

I didn't know that there are diet pills for women alone. I thought these type of pills can be taken for either men or women in varying doses. But anyways, if you are looking for any diet pills to take it is best to consult a professional that can guide and properly prescribe for you. I have read that diet pills will have different effect for different people. In looking for an effective one, you must do your research, read reviews, and ask the opinion of profession or your health practitioner that know your medical history. I am not a vain person but I am looking at my health because this is my only shield in order for me to live a long life to see my kids grow old and have family of their own in the future. I know all of us want to have an illness-free, disease-free life. So, to those that wanting to live a healthy life, take the way that is best suited for your lifestyle and ask professional help when it comes to taking pills for supplement or anything that goes to your body. Be aware and get knowledge.