Back to Blogspot

For almost two months  my blog could not publish into the cyberworld. It has somehow stop publishing after my attempts in renewing my blog with blogger went kaput. The difficulty in accessing help from blogger also exacerbated my problem. So, after worrying so much about it, I have decided to just get back to being blogspot while trying to figure out how to get back to my custom domain. So, here I am publishing in blogspot. 
 
Without my blog, I missed a lot of things to say. I missed talking about Megan Young’s Miss World 2013 coronation.  I missed yakking about  the US government shutdown that had me wondering how come the super powerful country has got into such situation (has common sense gone unknown?).  I missed saying my piece about the Zamboanga siege (selfishness and greed were big contributors to such unfortunate situation). I just missed talking about whatever considering my blog always helped me in putting my thoughts together.  Never thought that I could miss blogging until I lost my blog temporarily.

The problem started when I started renewing my domain blog with blogger by paying thru credit card. When the inability to pay thru credit card started a few weeks prior expiration date,  I was traveling abroad. Whenever time and connection allowed, I checked on my blog and the thought that I would be having problems with the renewal never occurred to me considering that it has been an annual activity for some years ago.  Compliance is the culprit.  Well, I still have other blogs that I need to get back to but sentimental value sometimes could get a better hold considering what I missed was my first and only custom domain. Praying that I could get it back soon enough.

Four Ways to Get Closer With Your Extended Family

Four Ways to Get Closer With Your Extended Family

With many family members taking to Facebook these days, it can be easy to avoid making an effort with them offline too. Birthday greetings can be sent in a matter of seconds, and you don’t even need to speak to them about their latest holiday as you can simply look at the photo album they publish. There is something both simple and wonderful about having a proper (verbal) conversation with someone, so I’d suggest getting yourself off the computer and putting yourself back in front of your family members to really get to know them.

I decided to do the same this year when my nieces and nephews started to share important news saying they were going to be getting married or having a baby - I didn’t want to miss out on these celebrations so I’ve really put the effort in and everyone has been thankful for it. If you are looking to do the same, here are four ideas about how you could go about it...

Family reunion

The first place many people will start is to organise a family reunion. Depending on how large your family is, you could either have this at someone’s house or garden, or even hire the local community centre for the evening. Logistically, you’ll want to choose a day or evening that most people are likely to be free on - Saturday is often the top choice so people can recover the next day if they have a few too many glasses of wine. Give people enough notice of the reunion date, especially if they are travelling from further afield.

Regular phone calls

If you call a member of your family and they are genuinely shocked to hear from you, there is a good chance that they think that you don’t ring them enough. Of course, it is a two way street so they could have made the first move too. However some people are unable to afford expensive phone bills so if you can then it only makes sense for you to call them; try and make it a regular event.

Enjoy celebrations together

We now have a family piggy bank where we all try to put in a few pounds every week so we can enjoy celebrations and days out together. Usually I’ll take a small portion of my salary but other times I’ve been able to put in a bit more, like when I sold some DVDs online. This year we’re having a big family Christmas so our savings will be going towards food, decorations and wine.

Go abroad

Finally, why not get your family together and have a lovely summer holiday abroad? We’re planning to do this next year as we’ve found a beautiful villa in France that has lots of bedrooms and even a swimming pool. We’ll be able to enjoy barbecues on the terrace, and there will be plenty of opportunities to take some photographs for future generations to look at.

The 2013 Kadayawan Festival Is On!

After some nailbiting days agonizing if it is really wise to continue with the 2013 Kadayawan celebration, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte finally gave the go signal. The crowd went silent when he did the speech. For some (like me and most photographer-hobbyists), we listened as we held our breath. For sure the threat was and still is real just even for the mere fact that the security during the Panagtagbo (Kadayawan opening ceremonies) was really tight. But like a worried father relenting to his offspring’s wishes he said yes but with added strict precautions and security personnel protecting the city and its constituents. Several days into the celebration, military presence is already everywhere. The people feel safer, for sure. And with God’s graces, the Kadayawan celebration this year is going to be one successful one as what were then the past years.

Gotta Have Those Filters And A New Sturdier Tripod

August has a lot of holidays that me and my photographer-friends are planning to do some landscape photoshoots. Am all for it even if the early wake-up calls are killing me. They are the least of my worries, actually.

What I am worrying about most are two things. One is that my tripod which is relatively new seems not sturdy enough to stand against the rocks, waves and what-have-yous that we are going to encounter in some coastal shoots. The first time it was tested, it stood well but standing beside the tripods of my friends, it looked malnourished. It may have been wrong for me to assume when I bought it that I would just be using it in sturdy ground without waves and rocks and such. As our landscape photography-teacher said, a sturdy and reliable tripod is a basic necessity if you want to shoot really good landscape photographs.

The other one, I thought I did not the filters. Mind changed. In an instant. After seeing their fantastic use during our landscape photography class. But this girl is running out of the budget already..oh what to do! Tic tac..tic tac..I might need another income to finance my getting-to-be-more-expensive hobby sooner than I think.

Going Somewhere

The traveling bug was caught from my father and he was the one that encouraged us all to go outside our world, explore what is out there and get some adventures. He worked as a professional driver and he was the first one to go and work overseas in several countries. Whenever he returned, he had a lot of travel stories to tell. The ones that stayed with me were the ones he had during the first Gulf War. He drove trucks and trailers for hundred of miles, met a lot of people like the Stevens Transport and learned a lot about life because of these travels. For him, his job was a big part of his life and this was why he appreciates meeting people like Stevens Transport. For him, to do his job well was not only to do his job conscientiously but also to improve himself through learning from the people he met in his travels.

On the other hand, traveling beckons to me again this year. It always does. This is why I try to travel whenever time and money allow.

With still more than a month of waiting, travel plans are being finalized. Actually, all that is to be done is to finalize our hotel bookings and we are all good to go. A friend is still having second thoughts but with or without her, the travel itinerary is already laid out.

We are also having talks for our next year travels. Initially, my friends and me are going on an international tour. The trip could take about almost a month to complete. Another planned trip is going to be a local tour that might last for a day or two preferably, just for a weekend.

For next year’s travels, initial researches are already being done. Several options such as www.stevenstransport.com are being considered. Of course, money is a big consideration for all but it does not hurt to dream and to look forward to something other than just work the daily grind without going somewhere.

And We Got The Budget

Finally, after a very long wait and a lot of pulling strings, our budget for the laptop replacement has finally been approved. With the approved budget, we are now tasked to find a suitable replacement and since no one in our division has the expertise to do such thing, the tasked was given to me in default.

Buy an Elegant Rolex Cellini Replica to Show Personal Taste

Beyond all question, one of the most elegant and noble watches does include the Rolex Cellini whose creation pays homage to a sculptor and goldsmith during The Renaissance, Benvenuto Cellini. The traditional horological technology is perfectly combined with the rigorous craftsmanship, making each and every Swiss Rolex Cellini watch not only great-looking but also highly dependable. This luxury watch considered as a romantic and charming accessory is one of the most ideal gifts to your favorite person. What you should do is to make up your mind to buy a Rolex Cellini watch to the one you love.

There is no denying that all kinds of Rolex Cellini watches are worth collecting. On the one hand, they are impressive works of art; therefore, people who never stop the pursuit of art should purchase those luxuries at once. On the other hand, the value of luxurious products will increase. Consequently, forward-looking consumers generally choose to invest money in purchasing Rolex watches such as Cellini watch. For you, buying a Swiss Rolex Cellini watch on sale is of significance. For one thing, it enables you to take on a better look, which could add your charm and upgrade self confidence. For another, that you wear a fantastic Rolex watch can for a certainty demonstrates individual wonderful taste and it will make you more different in the crowd. The above two aspects indicate that you need to shop for a glamorous Rolex Cellini.

Rolex cellini replica is recommended. It’s true that replica designer watches have already been in hot demand in today’s world and the main reason consists in their affordable prices. You should instantly seek out the replica Rolex Cellini watch online and decisively spend money in getting it; the sooner the better.

Cory's Gone

A Facebook post last Sunday stopped me from what I was doing. It said about Glee's Cory Monteith's untimely death. He was found in a hotel room. The first thought for me was, "What a pity! What a waste!". He was such a handsome and talented guy.

Musicals never fail to amaze me. Amazed how those talented people could actually sing and dance at the same time. Musicals on TV can be strange for me though because probably, I got used to seeing them in movies and mostly, the present TV musicals could get long winding and then it becomes boring. However, when I saw Glee it was interesting and fast moving which is why the news of Cory Monteith's death for me was saddening. My prayers for his soul and his family.

Do Not Go Crazy With Candy Crush

That is what I have been telling myself since I have started playing Candy Crush Saga last two weeks ago on my Samsung tablet. Some friends are crazy over it. Crazy enough to buy additional lives. and crazy enough to buy bigger sized tablets instead of the small ones. I have been hearing the game usually downloaded on the androids a few months ago but for one who is not into computer games, it was just nothing. But curiosity kicked in so the Candy Crush app was used with the thought that the game will be played sparingly. Wrong. It has stopped me from blogging and has fringed on my reading time. Sometimes, I feel stupid playing it but it can really addicting. The concession is I only play it up to its 5 lives limit.

Anyway, the promise is to stay disciplined and just play up to its limit. And, the blogging should be restarted too.

More Branches For This Year

Finally, we are branching out. After a lot of false starts, the people behind it are getting serious. We are opening two more branches initially and could add two more next year. For the sake of our loyal clients, am praying that the plans will push through notwithstanding the opposition from some employees.

The farther branch to be opened was supposed to be the first one to get occupied but the building owner was late in the installation of its final facilities. The next branch which is nearer from our current location is going to be opened next month. Floorings are almost done, glass installations are scheduled to be installed this week. Next week, carpets for the officers'offices are to be installed. Tigressa carpets were considered for their attractive colors and for their good worksmanship but nothing has been confirmed yet as all purchases for the new branches are subject to our Head Office's approval.

The officers are given the chance to choose their office's furnishings as long as it is within the allowed budget.  If I shall be given the chance to choose my office's furnishings, I would probably go for the wood floorings and the private quarters furnished with the Tigressa carpets.

Changes

The coming weeks are promising to be challenging. Already, the pressure at work is getting more intense day by day. We are gearing towards faster services but I am not sure if we are better prepared for it. Assurances were made but apprehensions are still prevalent.  Prayers are in order but nothing is sure. Personally, I only hope for the best.

Retirement is still too early for me but it is now starting to knock on my door. God has plans, I hope I shall have the strength and wisdom to accept them.

Cookware, Wine Cellars & More

When outfitting your home with top quality equipment designed to facilitate premium food and beverage preparation it can be complicated – there are so many choices it’s hard to know what’s right for you. Many folks swear by induction compatible cookware while others must have cast iron or enamel clad cast iron; some folks insist on aluminum while old school cooks often prefer copper. The reality is that most cooks have an array of cookware in assorted materials ranging from metal to ceramic and glass – there really is no one size fits all cookware solution.

 

It is important to look at design and construction when selecting better quality cookware. You will find that craftsmanship really does make a difference. Handles should be securely attached to the pot or pan if they are not cast as part of it; lids should have a snug fit and pans should be flat and smooth to properly conduct heat. Fancy ornamentation is pretty if you simply want to display your cookware, but it can be awkward to work with and hard to clean – clean lines and smooth finishes are more practical.

Wine storage is another area where there are hundreds of options and you can easily spend thousands of dollars and still not achieve a satisfactory result. For most folks wine fridges beat cellars as a storage option – they are cost effective and take up minimal space. The average wine refrigerator holds 12 or 24 bottles but you will find some competitively priced models which hold as many as 48 bottles yet use a very small footprint. A wine chiller is another great option when you have very limited space.

Always Read

I grew up seeing my father reading his newspapers every morning while having breakfast. He even required all of us to read the newspapers until it became a habit. I took to the habit without hassle because I have always loved to read while my brother complained about it from to time. To this day, reading newspaper is a daily habit that I have been trying to instill to my nieces for years now. 

Why read the paper when you have the TV, internet and radio? Aside from the fact that I like the smell and feel of paper (like my dog, Kibol, who would always love to roll over our used newspaper whenever he has the chance), reading the papers actually improves your reading comprehension, grammar and composition. The articles are easy to read so there would be no need to look for the dictionary most of the time. They are simple and concise because the rule of answering the what, where, when, who and how would always be answered on the first paragraph. And of course, the daily paper carries a variety of subjects and features that there are topics for just everyone. 

Why am I babbling about reading the newspapers, you might wonder. I just read a school-required paper done by a niece and an inspection report done by a colleague. Both papers were done so badly with the latter just a teeny-weeny better that I was tempted to redo them myself. Both are from the generation of cellphones, facebook, computer games and the whole shebang of the internet. I know that my niece prefers to do the malling and the most reading she did outside from school was reading the text messages from her cellphone. Not sure about the colleague but I suspect that reading is not a hobby of hers too.

When one reads, there is a certain way of difference one writes or says. I could be wrong but one thing is for sure, reading helped me tremendously not only  in school and at work but it also helped a lot the way I look at things in life.

How to Eat Healthily on Holiday in Italy

Italy is famous for its history, beautiful countryside and stunning architecture, but one of the biggest reasons why millions of people holiday there each year is because of the amazing foods and wine. If you’ve ever experienced real Italian food, then you’ll know then there’s a big difference to the way it is served outside of Italy, with emphasis on grains, vegetables, olive oil and beans.

Furthermore, the amount of red meat used in Italian cooking is limited, with the majority of the ingredients coming from plants. It just goes to show how healthy traditional Italian food really is, showing how easy it is to stay in shape whilst travelling. Let’s take a look at how to eat healthy in Italy on holiday.

Fast Food Joints

This isn’t just a rule for holidaying in Italy, it’s a rule forever! There’s nothing good or nutritional that comes from eating in fast food establishments, and if you’ve been eating healthy for a number of weeks prior to your holiday, then a Big Mac meal or some processed meat and carbohydrates will certainly cause distress to your bowl movements.

Over the last ten years, there have been a number of fast food chains that have begun to spring up all over Italy, excluding the big dogs like McDonalds, KFC and Pizza Hut. The continued commercialisation of Italy will cause even more of these high calorie, high fat fast food chains to open, meaning people might just turn to a quick burger in a time of hunger need. However there’s nothing nutritional in these meals, and you’ll be much better off spending the extra time finding a traditional place to eat.

Restaurant Eating

Italy is the home of traditional cooking, but don’t be fooled into thinking that every restaurant offers the same style, ingredients and favourite traditional dishes. When it comes to tourism, the more successful businesses are the ones who find and adapt to niches in the market, and there’s always money to be made with western food!

If you’re eating at a real traditional Italian restaurant, you should see that the menu only offers the best local ingredients combined with grains, vegetables, fruits and healthy fats – basically all the best parts of the Mediterranean diet. As soon as you see that dreaded burger on the menu, keep on walking! Instead of settling for an easy meal, why not rent a car from Auto Europe and undertake your own traditional food road trip.

Processed Ingredients

If you want to keep healthy on your holiday to Italy, then watching out for processed ingredients is a must – even in supposedly ‘traditional’ places to eat. Cream based products really give the game away, as well lots of menu dishes containing red or processed meat. Not only will these dishes contain high amounts of calories, but they’ll also have their fair share of saturated fats, meaning you’ll find it hard to keep the weight off.

Limit Your Portions

There’s nothing wrong with pasta, especially the way the Italians cook it. However the Italians also love to feed, and their portions are traditionally huge! That much pasta on a regular basis, no matter how good it tastes, will be wasted carbohydrates, meaning it will just go straight to your wasteline.

Summer Is Almost Over

Yeap, summer's end is just around the corner and for those who are planning on a summer trip it is better to get planning and moving soon. Already, the rains are starting to come but the good thing is the rains come only in the late afternoons and/or early mornings.

On my part, I want to bring my mother on another trip but her schedules are always on the haywire. I could not risk buying plane tickets and booking hotel accommodations in some parts of the country and cancel them at the last minute. Not giving up yet though. As soon as she says "Go!", all systems are on fast forward.  In the meantime, I am doing the kayak lesson for a day next week just to pass one weekend.

It Should Have Been Las Vegas

A few years back, I went to US to visit some friends and relatives. I went state-hopping for almost a month and included in the itinerary was Las Vegas as one friend wanted to hit the casinos there. While she likes to hit the slot machines from time to time what she really wanted to do was watch the spectacular shows and to take photos of Las Vegas which is known for spectacular sights and sounds.

I traveled with two of my officemates and since we could not agree on what date to visit Las Vegas, we decided to buy the tickets on a later date. It was a wrong move. While we got busy visiting the sights of San Francisco, New York and and even some parts of Texas and South Carolina, we forgot to check the flight fares. When it was time to go to Las Vegas, the flight fares were not to our liking anymore that we had to give up our Las Vegas plans. Regrettably, some friends in Las Vegas have been waiting excitedly for our arrival but we could not afford to get there anymore.

Recently, a friend traveled to Las Vegas and posted some photos in Facebook. She had a grand time she said and her photos looked like it. Her photos and stories reminded me that I missed out on Las Vegas and the fun I could have had. If only we agreed earlier on what date to travel. In fact, if only we took priority on Las Vegas and adjusted our itinerary around it, it would have worked out. So, for the next US trip, I have been checking www.letsgo2.com to make sure that Las Vegas is on the itinerary.

Tips and advice to avoid getting sick in Bali

Bali is a hugely popular tourist destination, due to the spectacular scenery and year round sunshine. However, one thing which can potentially spoil a holiday here is illness. As such, it's worth taking a few precautions, so as to make sure that you have a truly enjoyable trip. You should consult with your doctor at least a month before you intend to leave, as you may need to get some of the following vaccinations; tetanus, typhoid as well as hepatitis A and B.

Insect and wildlife-related health issues

Dengue fever is a type of virus which can be transmitted by a specific breed of mosquitoes called Aedes that tend to bite most often during the mornings and the afternoons. Symptoms include a rash, vomiting, nausea, headaches, joint pains and muscle aches, as well as a high temperature. Malaria can also be transmitted by a type of mosquito called Anopheles that usually bite people after sunset. Luckily, Malaria is not very common in Bali   however there is still a small risk that those who are bitten by this type of mosquito will contract the disease. As such, make sure to bring along mosquito nets which you can use around your hotel bed and windows, as well as insect repellent. It's also advisable to talk to your doctor a few weeks before you travel, to discuss whether or not you should take anti-malaria medication.

Diet

Digestive and stomach problems such as diarrhoea and vomiting can be caused by food poisoning, or the sudden changes to one's diet. You should not drink the tap water in Bali; however, you can easily purchase bottled water here and it is usually very cheap. Use cooled, boiled water to brush your teeth too and try to avoid swallowing any water when showering. However, ice in tourist-centric areas is usually safe to consume.

To avoid getting traveller's diarrhoea, try not to consume drinks or food sold by any street vendors, particularly if you are not confident about how hygienic the stall is. If you have to purchase your food from a street vendor, look for one which locals and other tourists are using. Stay away from seafood or any raw meat and make sure that you are hydrated at all times. It's a good idea to bring along some electrolyte tablets or drinks to ensure that your mineral levels remain balanced.

Whilst most cases of traveller's diarrhoea clear up within a day or two, there is another type of stomach bug which may be mistaken for it, called 'Bali Belly.' This is more severe and is a kind of gastroenteritis, which is usually the result of a parasitic or bacterial infection. Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea and abdominal pain. This illness can take several weeks to clear up. If you suspect that you or your travel companions are infected with this, consult a doctor straight away, as the earlier the infection is caught, the quicker it will be resolved.

Mother’s Unconditional Love

Since I was a kid, she made it a point to prepare breakfast for all of us. If she cannot do it, she would badger my father to do it for her. She went through a lot to keep the family together considering it has not been easy to have an irresponsible and a selfish son, a philandering husband and a stubborn daughter to boot.

She is now in her twilight years and we still have our moments of disagreements but she never failed to prepare breakfast for us which by now include two nieces who would rather wallow in their bed to sleep even until noon rather than prepare their food. Nowadays, she is prone to sudden bouts of self-pity and crankiness that patience sometimes wears on me quite thinly, but she is my mother.

I wish she is having a better life than she has now. Better life means not having to worry about her son’s future and well-being (he seems not to worry about it himself because he would rather sleep late, get stuck facing TV or play pool and cards all day long), not having to pay for her granddaughters’ schooling when they would not even asked her permission nor inform her whenever they have to get out of the house, not having to worry about where her groceries were going because the lazy son would do his groceries in her pantry rather than the supermarket for himself and his girlfriend, not having to wake up early to prepare breakfast for the family, being able to pay for her wants and needs first before considering her son’s and granddaughters’ needs first and generally, just living as a happy retiree at slow and leisurely pace which is quite contrary to what she is doing right now.

What she is doing right now I can never understand. I know there were times she wished she could do it differently but the unconditional love she has for her son dictated her actions and decisions. Her egg nest has been depleted several times due to these and the reminders about it fell on her deaf ears. Relatives have been faulting me for not helping her but I can only help up to what I can agree on her decisions as she would rather empty all the savings for her son and his daughters rather than save for her future so I am doing it for both of us.

My only wish now is that she slows down and takes good care of her health. Stubbornness runs deep in the family and she is one good example of it. I could say that my brother is one big hopeless case but my mother’s unconditional love believes otherwise. I truly pray I am wrong on this one just for her sake.

To Fly Out And Find My Own Nest

For years and until recently, there were no qualms on my part to live with my parents. Some people thought it strange but I was happy with the set-up. There were some limits but the advantages for all of us outweighed the disadvantages. However, things changed after my father died two years ago that the notion of flying out of our family home is getting stronger everyday. It could have been done earlier but the strong apprehension and mistrust in leaving my mother to my brother and his daughters have been bothering me all the time.

The worry is not stopping me nowadays though in checking out real estate prospects whenever opportunity comes. It will be quite a major project if it will push through but with discipline, determination and God’s blessings, it can be done.

Thankfully, the real estate background I had is playing out quite well in this major project. With real estate, the primary major consideration is location, location, location. I already found some really good real estate prospects affordability-wise and location-wise and one of my favorites is the real estate fountain hills. Not only is its location very favorable but also its amenities are quite good. All I need right now is to decide when I should fly out my family home to strike out on my own.

Work And Travel

There is no excuse even if I have been quite busy with work and traveling whenever I can. I should have blogged more but laziness took over. The stock photos I have right now are begging to be posted. The albums in Facebook have been filled up but the stories are better off posted here in my blog.  The work in the office is not letting up so the strategy available for me is to squeeze in updating my blogs whenever I can. It is what I have been right now, actually. Hopefully, I can maintain this. I want to. Keeping the fingers crossed.

Boarders And Floors

Years ago, my father opposed of the construction of additional rooms to accommodate paid boarders in our home. While it would help provide additional income to defray our household expenses, we would have to provide more security measures at home. Aside from that, having someone unrelated to the family living with us would have caused some awkward situations.

Unfortunately, my father died too soon to stop this project. We now have two lady boarders at home and I am getting worried with the security around the house. Even so, that most of us are always at work during daytime.

Additionally, there have been sticky situations that could have not happened if we did not have any other people in the house except our family. The other day, I came home and found a very wet staircase. Getting negative answers from family members, I decided to check our boarders who are living upstairs. I found one who was throwing soaped water on the wooden floor. She was supposed to be cleaning up but ended leaking water to the staircase that could have caused some accident.

I realized then that if our boarder would keep doing her style of cleaning the floors, we should plan changing our floorings upstairs. Firstly though, research is needed to know which floors are affordable and at the same time long-lasting enough. Good thing, the internet is helping a lot so I click for flooring options.

In the meantime, I asked our boarder to refrain from throwing water on the floors indiscriminately to avoid leaking water downstairs. So far she is doing that but I prefer that we stop having boarders at home.

Sunday Stealing#134 The Back 15 Meme

15) How do you vent out your anger?
I vent my anger by doing something physical like working out, cleaning up the house, taking a walk or go shopping.
 
16) Favourite toy as a child?
The doll my father bought me and the little cooking set my mother gave.
 
17) Favourite season?
Summer.
 
18) Do you ever get letters delivered by the post office?
Yes, mostly marketing letters and postcards.

19) When was the last time you laughed hard?
While watching Chinese kungfu movie, Tai-chi Part 2.
 
20) What is on the floor of your closet?
hmm...dust.

21) Are you any good at drawing?
Just so-so.
 
22) What did you do last night?
Blogged and watched Tv.

23) What are you most afraid of?
Losing people I love.
 
24) Plain,cheese or spicy hamburger?
Plain cheese.
 
25) Favourite dog breed?
Any. I love dogs.

26) Favorite day of the week?
Friday!
 
27) How many states / provinces / countries have you lived in?
Two provinces, one country.
 
28) Diamond or pearl?
Both.

29) What is your wish for this new year?
My wish for this year is that somebody should stand on his own feet and live away from his mother.

30) New year resolutions
I don't have one because I keep breaking them anyway. 

If Only I Could Have It Sooner

Traveling for me is not only seeing new and interesting places but also meeting interesting people. Traveling is also learning about new things that I would not be able to learn if I stayed close at home. Every place always has something different to offer and to show off. For the recent Europe trip, it showed me that Europe is far more interesting and has a lot more to show off than other continents.

Part of our itinerary was the exotic Northern African kingdom of Morocco. The kingdom was known for its Berber people, exotic belly dancers and for its colorful world-renowned carpets and leathers.

We went on a tour inside what is considered the oldest medina or town in the world in the city of Fez, Morocco. There, we saw how the world-renowned Moroccan leather was made from animal skin or animal hide. The smell of tannery was bad but curiosity on how the process was made had our group tackling the labyrinthine stair of the tannery building determinedly. We also saw how such thick and exquisitely beautiful carpets were made. I could have bought one if only they were cheap. Actually, I almost bought one if not one of our tour groupmates prevented me when she told us that she bought her own exquisite carpets by checking online on Shop deals & savings today!

She was right about the more affordable but similarly beautiful carpets when I checked online. Good thing that impulsiveness did not take over on that day, it would have been more expensive. Anyway, the carpet project is on my future project list. If only I could have it sooner but things are not easy nowadays.

Sunday Stealing#133 40 of The Most Random Questions Meme

Welcome back to Sunday Stealing which originated on WTIT: The Blog authored by Bud Weiser. Here we will steal all types of memes from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent memes. You may have heard of the expression, “honor amongst thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we also have our rules. First, we always credit the blog that we stole it from and we will “fess up” to the blog owner where we stole the meme. We also provide a link to the victim's post. (It's our way of saying "Thanks!") We do sometimes edit the original meme, usually to make it more relevant to our global players, to challenge our players, sometimes to select that meme's best questions, or simply to make it less repetitive from either this new meme or recently asked questions from a prior featured meme. Let's go!!!
Today we ripped off a blogger named Gina from the blog The Journey to Olivia. It is 40 questions, this is part two. She does not state where she found the meme. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: 40 of The Most Random Questions Meme, Part Two,.

21) What’s something you’ve always wanted?

Travel the world with somebody special.

22) Do you have hairy legs?

Nope, thank goodness.

23) What does “Semper Fidelis” stand for? 

I've googled it, Always Faithful or Always Loyal. It is also the motto of the United States Marine Corps.

24) Would you rather swim in the ocean or a lake? 

I'd rather do the ocean.

25) Do you wear a lot of black?

Yes, because it's always the color of anything about photography. Black is considered the combination of all colors.

 
26) Describe your hair:
Used to be really black and thick. It has lighter color now and thinner than it used to be.

 
27) Do you have Entomophobia?
Nope.

28) Are you an adult?

Yes, I hope so.

29) Do you own or rent?

Own or rent what? I own a house but I'd rather rent a car than own one.

30) Do you have a tan?

Yes, am naturally tan.
 
31) Are you addicted to TV?
Thankfully, no. I'd rather read or blog.

32) Do you enjoy spending time with your In-laws?
Am single.
 

33) Are you a sugar freak?

Nope but I like sweets from time to time. 

34) What happened to Larry King?

Don't know.

 
35) What sign are you?
Libra.

36) What do you wish on your birthday?

A new camera or a new lens.

 
37) Who did you copy this from?
 Sunday stealing.

38) Do you eat breakfast?

Always.

39) What would you name the royal baby?

If a girl, Alexandra. If a boy, Michael.

40) Do you buy a newspaper?
At least, twice or thrice a week.

Where Did The Money Go?

Source: FastLoanTree.com

Am in the process of evaluating what I have earned and what I have spent for the past year.This is to ascertain if I'd actually save some or not. For sure, my expenses were quite high last year due to some travels but I also know that I saved a few. Last year, the realization that I could not depend on some people I thought I could trust was more prevalent than ever which is why the goal for this year is to save more for some planned projects for my future and for some more planned travels.

Do Not Forget The Local Travel

Thanks to cheaper plane fares, people are traveling more. It used to be that the international destinations  were more expensive than the local destinations but because of budget plane fares, people are traveling abroad more. This is good but a lot more people now prefers to go abroad than see the local destinations.

Me and my friends started traveling long before these budget travels came along. Back then, the travel cost were not only expensive but the bookings were quite difficult to make. Back then, there was no internet, no mobile phones and such conveniences to make things easy for travelers to book for their vacation. But we made a pact, travel locally as much as we can before we could allow ourselves to travel abroad inspite of the difficulties we encounters.  We did and we still do and we had great adventures.

Of course, we are now traveling abroad too but at least, once a year me and my friend-travel companions travel locally. Not only we learn more about our country but we also get to appreciate our own culture, people and heritage. So, whenever I hear people telling stories about their travel abroad, I also encourage them to travel local too.

How to Find All Inclusive Holiday Deals

When it comes to finding a great holiday deal, many travellers look no further than all-inclusive for their next package break.

Why? Because with all-inclusive all of your meals, snacks, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are typically included in the upfront cost of the holiday - which takes care of the essentials when you're in the resort. Just think of all the money you'll save on eating out, and the time you'll save by not having to go in search of three meals a day. What's more, in Eurozone countries the currency exchange rate means that eating out can feel significantly more expensive. So for many, all-inclusive is the way to go.

But how do you find cheap all inclusive holidays?

The trick, just like any bargain hunt, is to be vigilant with regard to special offers and scour the market as widely as possible. That means browsing various travel agents' websites and performing a range of different searches on your ideal dates, and whittling down the options until you've found your perfect combination of destination, departure date and price. It's a process of elimination.

Another great way to find all inclusive holidays is to look for late deals. Just like any regular package holiday, all inclusive holidays will often come down in price just before the departure date. The last few weeks prior to departure is usually the best time to find late deals, as this is when hoteliers and travel agents will drop their prices in order to sell off the last few available rooms before the date passes. After all it's better to have a half-price-paying customer than none at all.

So remember to be vigilant, do your homework thoroughly and be prepared to jet off at a moment's notice if the price is right. After all, bagging your perfect holiday at a great price means your travel experience will be worth its weight in gold...

Traveling Is Not Expensive

Some people will disagree but hear me out first. Sure, it takes money to get to one place to another. More especially if the destination is half the world away. Even more so, if one needs to get a visa for the country to be visited like what we did in Europe. For ordinary employees, some could only afford to travel in distant places after getting their retirement pay or after they have saved several years from their toils for the trip. In most cases, the dream to travel abroad could only take them to nearer places. This is why some people just forego their plans to travel at all. To not travel at all is akin to deciding not to learn something new again. Because traveling opens a lot of learning experience and opportunities for an individual not only to appreciate the world outside-the world different from one’s own and to live outside the comfort zone. The value of these experiences is priceless. One cannot put monetary value on how people live their daily lives, on how do their dress themselves, as well as their beliefs, culture and tradition. Traveling may need money but I cannot say it is expensive in the truest sense. Because in lieu of the cost, the learning experience and the appreciation of what is life to other people are invaluable.