a carpenter's WIFE's tool box

A pain-in-you-know-what

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

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

It’s the time of the year when my allergy is in full blast. And with all the outdoor running that I do on weekends not much I can do but to do it with my running buddies [saline and non-drowsy allergy pills]. And when I run out of these running buddies, I don’t worry because I can get them even in the middle of the night at my neighborhood pharmacy... Walgreens, that is.

Too bad my neighborhood pharmacy Walgreens and Express Script contract already ended last December 31 of last year due to unsuccessful negotiation for Walgreen to renew its contract with them and to continue as its pharmacy provider network. This really had a huge impact on us because Hubby’s prescription insurance plan is managed by Express Scripts. As well as his Veteran friend whose under Tricare health and prescription drug program. The termination of the contract poses a great impact not only to us but to most people in our neighborhood because it can also affect the longtime relationship we have with our pharmacist who we already considered as friends. We now have to travel in town to get our prescription medicines since Walgreens is no longer part of the network. This indeed a pain in the bu**, literally and figuratively.

But then, despite of what happened, Walgreens like any good neighbor is willing to help their loyal customers to ease their burden. They are now offering special discount on annual membership for its prescription savings club. This is a huge thing because individuals may join for only $5 and they can receive discount prices on prescription medicines. Other benefits that they can get includes:

Savings on more than 8,000 brand-name and all generic medications
Discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizers and diabetic supplies
Bonuses when you purchase Walgreens brand products and photofinishing services

So we took advantage of that program. Hubby and I are now members of Walgreens Prescription Savings Club because for only $10 a year, our family membership covers even Brandon and his new cat – Claire, which his Nana and Grandpa gave him last Christmas.

Oh well, life is tough indeed, but then Walgreen is doing its best to help people like us. That is why I showed my support by liking Walgreens on Facebook and following Walgreens on Twitter. So if you want to help those people who are affected by the discontinued contract between Walgreens and Express Script, come do your share.

He went to Jared [again]!

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 21:12:00 +0000

Tell me if I was wrong. Wives like me wish that our husbands will have super powers to read our minds. If there is an APP for that - I will surely download it super fast. I don't care how much it will cost me. LOL

Well, Christmas time is the time when you are a little insecure. A little insecure that you might not get what you want or that you might have bought more that what you are going to get. hahaha Well, it's a childish thing, I know.

At my age I don't really expect to get anything anymore. I am just happy that my family is healthy and that we still have each other.

I am just contented that I have a job. Well, two part-time jobs and I get paychecks on a regular basis. For my Sweetest... to be able to work and projects keep coming in is indeed a great bonus.

And I am just really happy to get new Pandora Charms. hahahaha Well, it's a tradition with me and my Sweetest. But to get another set of jewelry is way over my expectations.

Yes, He went to Jared...

and to G.M. Pollack, too!

And I felt so bad that I only got him a hunting suit and a gift card which cost not even 1/8 of how much he spent for me. Well, it's over the return period now - so there is no way I can return the gifts. Wink***

Love you so much Sweetest.

Merry Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 12:38:00 +0000

From a cold place to a warm heart. Merry Christmas to all from the Carpenter's household.

The Crazy Little Thing I did Last Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 21:34:00 +0000

Life here in New England has been a little crazy lately. Well, for the most part of it and I am speaking for myself only, by the way. The weather has nothing to do with it and please don't even dare to say the "S" word. Not yet. I am not yet ready.

Craziness has something to do with the Craft Fair that I finally joined recently. Yes, this is another new thing for me. Last Spring, I discovered that I can do cool stuff with play dough. I was just playing with some kids during the April school vacation when I found myself not only trying to get my kids involved and engaged in artistic activities but found myself a new passion. Next thing I knew, I was at Michael's, A.C. Moore and Jo Ann's buying all the tools and materials for polymer clay art making.

I spent the whole summer molding and making clay arts. That is when I was not running and training for my 5Ks. When summer vacation was over, I realized that I overdid it. I was too overwhelmed with my new-found passion that I became uncontrollable. I made tons of jewelries, magnets, key chains, deco boxes and whatnot. And yes, I also came up with a website for my craft. [Check out sample of my work at my website] Now, I am stuck with it.

So last weekend I finally let the public see the craziness in me. I joined the Holiday Fair and sold my stuff.

Well, I really did not sell a lot. But what is kinda interesting is that, people liked my stuff. I got good reviews and there were people who kept coming back giving me compliment for doing a really great job. And there was this old lady who's probably in her 80s who spent 10 minutes in my booth inspecting each item and whispering "Oh my God" every time she picked an item, then she would look at me and say "You are amazing".

Well, I blame the economy for not making well at the Fair. But I am not really upset about it because it's my first time and I only want to introduce myself to the public. There are some who took my business cards and I am hoping that "customized orders" will be my main thing. So for now, the left-overs will be "Christmas presents" for loved ones and friends. You don't have a choice!

Caught Laughing-Out-Loud

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 10:00:00 +0000

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

Oh I love weekend. Who doesn’t? Working 12 hours a day… the weekend is always a day to look forward to. The weekend is my chance to take my sweet time in front of the computer to do my online stuff and hoping that one of my brothers will pop up so we can catch up.

This weekend, while I was waiting for either one of them to get online, I browsed and surfed the net and accidentally came across some cool and funny videos by AmFam - Stand Up For Family. They are stand-up comedy videos by some talented comedians. I watched each one of them and I found myself laughing out loud. Those videos are hilarious. One of my favorites is Mark Viera’s “In the Window” where he talks about his Granny. It was entertaining and utterly funny. It reminded me of my own Grandmother who knew everybody and everybody’s business despite the fact that she is deft. LOL.

As I watched all the videos though I found them hysterical, I realized what these comedians are trying to say in a comical way what real family life is all about. It is all about family values. It is all about the importance of family. And it is all about the influence our family in our upbringing.

Old values compared to modern ones are basically rooted in family values. I can understand the importance of having a family and the uniqueness of the family I belong too. And it being put in a very entertaining way is something people can really appreciate especially in this tough situation where family relationship is faced with crisis and challenges.

I love stand-up comedy. And I love family comedy simply because I can relate to it. It is a great way to see my own situation through other people’s take on life and family situation. And American Family Insurance truly brought out the best in family values in a light and entertaining way.

I was carried away by all the videos and didn’t realize that Hubby was already home and watching me with a bewildered face. Well, to save my face from embarrassment I handed him our Chinese diner. End of the story. But I was still laughing [quietly].

Noon

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 00:37:00 +0000

It was one of those nippy November days at noontime...

when I took the kids at work for an adventure walk to the woods. They had fun looking for frogs inside the logs, chasing squirrels and watching wild ducks swimming in the pond.

To Join Photo Friday Challenge... click HERE.

The Cuddly vs. the Cutie

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Puppies vs. Babies for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
A friend of mine asked me a favor I cannot refuse last weekend. She and Hubby celebrated their 2^nd Wedding Anniversary and wanted to go on a date. She asked me if I could babysit her 9-month old little princess who happens to be my Godchild too. Well, what can I do? I so love the little one to pieces so I said – yes. But there is a catch. Together with the little one, she also asked me to watch their newly adopted puppy from the shelter. That – I cannot refuse too.

So there I was trapped in my home on a nice warm Saturday [where I was planning to go for a run] taking care of a cuddly baby and a cute puppy. It was such a wonderful sight to see them sleeping on the opposite ends of the couch. Too bad, I didn’t have a camera to take their photos. My Sweetest borrowed it the other day.

The awesome sight reminded me of the Puppies vs. Babies online contest where you can vote for the cutest photo of the puppies or the babies. Well, if only this opportunity came earlier and if I had the camera then, I would have taken their photos and join the contest. Who knows I might win the $5,000 cash prize. But since the submission of entries is already over I just voted and wrote some comments. The contest is open for voting till the 23^rd of November only. For those who are dog and baby-lovers

I so love the photos of Puppies vs. Babies there. I actually voted for one baby who captured my attention for his captivating smile. He made me smile too when I saw his picture.

So if you are a dog and/or baby-lovers why don’t you check out their site and vote today. And while you are there, share who and why you are voting for in the comment section. Yes, we do love to hear from you. So come on because you still have time to participate in this awesome opportunity.

The One

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 13:43:00 +0000

My Sweetest... at the East Swift river in Byron, Maine where we usually go for gold panning.

To Join Photo Friday Challenge... click HERE.

Sweetest Had a Date

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 04:09:00 +0000

My Sweetest had a date last weekend! Yes, last weekend Hubby dated this charming, irresistible, brilliant, interesting and awesome lady that I realized he was flirting with for over 4 years now. It was me! LOL

Well, I asked my Sweetest to go on a date with me last weekend. And yes, he was kinda playing hard-to-get but his stubbornness and football didn't win over my persistence and charm. wink* Glad he said yes because I miss him so much. No, we still live together. It's just that we don't spend more time together now since school started. I usually leave the house while he was sleeping and come home to find him already sleeping.

I work 12 hours now. No, I am not complaining either. In fact, it is awesome to have 2 part-time jobs in this tough economy when we all know that there are lots of people who are unemployed. And on some weekends, he would be out in the woods hunting [yes, it's hunting season here once again] while, I am on the road running.

And last weekend, we finally got the change to be home at the same time and had no special thing to do. I asked him to go out to eat. It took him a long time to get his bu*t off the bed watching TV because the Patriots were on. Finally, he said yes and we had a lovely night.

NOTE: Will blog detail of the date next time. I am really that busy. It's not an alibi. wink*

SuperMom writes too

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:26:00 +0000

I had a chance to get interviewed by blogger-children's book writer mom Anna Denskins a few weeks ago. And it was indeed a wonderful opportunity to be featured in her blog. So here I am returning the favor. Here is the excerpt of the said interview.

Your children's book, The Adventures of Smitty looks magically. Tell us about it.

It's the story of a magical island of little creatures called Smilies and the mischievous little main character, Smitty. He's such a naughty boy. Haha! All the moms and kids I've shared it with have been giving me such a wonderful reaction. I cannot believe it. I have to tell you how excited I am to finally have a life-long dream come true. Writing The Adventures of Smitty was really about finding a story that I would want to read to my children at night. It has to be exciting but not scary so that my two daughters can go to sleep. Basically, I was looking for that perfect blend to read to my kids at night and decided, "Why not try writing my own?"

We've had a lot of changes in our life recently, so I want to make sure that when I put my daughters to sleep that they feel safe. I have short chapters because I know how busy we moms are but if you can just sacrifice 5 minutes at night reading to your kids, it makes a world of difference. Your kids will never forget it. And although we're running around the whirlwind of life, our kids grow up so fast, and that time that we'd rather finish watching what happened in our favorite soap opera instead of reading to our kids will never come again. I hope that The Adventures of Smitty and books like it help moms do exactly that.

And it's only 99 cents this week. That's what I love about it. Now, You are recently divorced. How have you been able to continue writing when going through such a change?

Yes, it is by far one of the most challenging points in my life. To see a marriage you thought would last forever to not last forever was difficult for the two of us. I really learned a lot about myself and most importantly, it's brought me closer to my daughters. I think that's what really motivated me to finish this children's book no matter what. When you're going through changes in your life like this, you need something to hold on to. There's a part of you that wants to prove that you can make it, that you will be a success even if it's not with the partner you originally imagined building a life with. I had to keep writing, for my kids. I want to show them that they have to keep strong, no matter what.

We as women, as moms really need to stick together to support each other and our dreams. We're living in an age when I think we're finally realizing, although we want love, the men in our life aren't the answer to everything. We have to stand up on our own two feet and keep going. True love will happen, but until then, we have to keep moving forward. Our children depend on us and we depend on us.

In addition to being a children's book author, you're also a small business owner. How do you juggle taking care of two daughters and at the same time running a business?

Yes, I am a fashion designer and have a retail store. Any type of creativity is what I'm passionate about. That's why writing The Adventures of Smitty was so important to me. Let me tell you, running a small business in today's economy isn't easy especially when raising two girls at the same time. But somehow, it seems someone's watching over me because my dreams are coming true no matter what. To have that many moms glowing about my children's book, means so much to me. And I know my girls are proud.

When do you ever have time to write?

You mean, in between laundry, running a business, chasing my girls around the house, cleaning the house, and flying back and forth from Miami to New York? Haha? That's one thing I've learned, when you really want to do something, you find a way. Things fall into place if you just go for it and that's what I want to encourage all the moms who are reading this right now. Whatever your goal is, you can do it. Don't let the challenges in your personal life stop you from going for your dreams. Just go for it and it's almost magical how things fall into place.

Where can we get a copy of "The Adventures of Smitty"?

Right now, it's available online by going to: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/94655 You can also visit my website: http://www.AnnaDeskins.com where you can read more about my writing process, my recommendations for other books and my own adventures in Mommyhood.

I'm so grateful for your support and the support I'm getting from so many wonderful moms who dream of writing children's books one day too. Writing The Adventures of Smitty has been such an emotional experience for me, a true journey as I was going through so many changes while writing it. It's truly been a blessing in my life. It, along with my daughters, and that guy upstairs have really pulled me through a challenging time.

Thanks for the interview, Anna. And let's go out and support a fellow mom by getting a copy of The Adventures of Smitty today. I know I will!

Cars

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 23:54:00 +0000

This 1930 Ford Roadster is for sale for $16,000. But the memories of countless joyrides it brought is priceless.

To Join Photo Friday Challenge... click HERE.

How to Get His Approval

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 12:05:00 +0000

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

Do you love the idea of feeling richer? Can you imagine what you would do with the amount of money you can save by making a wise decision? And what you would you buy with all the savings you can get just from switching phone?

In this tough economy, everybody are looking for ways to save. Everybody are on a look-out for bargains. And everybody will do anything just to ease expenses. We can't be accused of being cheap by make good choices. We cannot be blamed if we want to make good decisions on money matters. And yes, we cannot feel guilty if it means that we have to sacrifice something very important to us.

The time has come for us to make crucial decision. It's time to choice the best thing that ever happen to mobile phone service. Yes, by just switching to Straight Talk, you can get connected and save a lot of dough. Why? Because you can cut your cell phone bill in half! And yes, you must be crazy to be on a contract these days when you can get everything you need without one.

Switching to Straight Talk is no brainer. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure it out. Here are some facts to consider:

With Straight Talk…

There are no contracts, no surprise bills and no credit checks. It has great nationwide coverage and excellent reception/connectivity. Finally, Straight Talk only uses trusted phone manufacturers like LG, Motorola, Kyocera, Nokia and Samsung.

Their Monthly Plans:

The “All You Need Plan” meets even the needs of heavy phone users with 1,000 minutes, 1,000 texts and 30 MB of web data. The Unlimited Monthly service is only $45, and includes calls, text, picture messaging, and web. Plus, unlimited calls, text, picture messaging and web for a whole year, for only $499.00! 411 calls are included at no extra charge. And free from activation, reactivation, or termination fees

For their International Long Distance:

Straight Talk International Long Distance Service is a flexible prepaid calling service that enables you to make international calls from your home, cell or office phone at low rates.

And their Phone Selection:

Reconditioned phones are available from $10.00 with camera, mp3 player, mobile web access, and blue-tooth capability. Great for young users! They also have mazing smart phones; touch screen phones, and app capable phones with features like voice navigation, camera, video recorder, music player, instant messaging, and Bluetooth®

Now check out this video from their real Straight talk customers to see my point.

And here is another real Straight Talk customer testimonials to stress my point.

Life is tough but it doesn't necessarily me we need to go unconnected and untouchables. Don't waste time in nonsense deals with other phone companies who are ready to suck your money out to the last penny. Don’t waste your time and decide now. Straight Talk is everything you need to call a friend no matter where in the world they are and no matter how long you want to get connected. Trust me, this is a mommy-proof advise. And as the saying goes mom knows best. And if you have a Hubby who is passionate about fishing – your savings can buy him Hook, line and sinker… and this is everything you need to get his approval on that stilettoes you are eyeing for. wink*

Regular Weekend Rendezvouz with my Sweetest

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:07:00 +0000

I had to admit, I hated camping and gold panning. In fact, I applied and took a weekend job last summer so I can have a valid alibi not to go camping and gold panning with Hubby. But I am surprised with myself that this year... I am always looking forward to weekends and hoping that My Sweetest and I will be spending them up the mountain.

Well, there are many factors why things went differently this year. This year, I started enjoying nature because I can see how beautiful it is when you are looking at it from the top.

And since I started training for the races, I just love running on the trails.

whether it is unpaved... connected by a bridge....

or rocky...

or uneven...

or deep in the thick woods along the river...

that we have to make our own trail...

Oh boy, I am so glad that I got into running because it is much easier for me to walk, jump or hop from one rock to another up and down the river with 20 lbs [more or less] gas can on right hand and buckets on the other. It's just like weight-lifting on balance beam. hahaha

It's nice to get out of my comfort zone once in awhile where I cook our meals on my tailgate kitchen.

and watching birds having their regular meals of...

bugs!

And it is indeed nice to be afraid once in awhile so we can both sleep cuddling and snuggle at each others' arms [wink*]

[This is the letter we found on our truck when we came back from gold panning. Someone pass by our camp site and left this message to warn us. So nice of him or her or them.]

Converted Friends

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 14:02:00 +0000

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

Ever since I switched to Tracfone my friends are already thinking of following my lead. Yes, two of them already switched to Tracfone because they can’t really believe how much I save on my phone bill. Now they too are happy that they made the right decision.

Why not? TracFone does not only offer the least expensive way to own and use a cell phone in America but it also provides great nationwide coverage and excellent reception and connectivity. And just like me, they are happy that it has no contracts that will tie them up to the phone company, no credit checks that may cause embarrassment and no activation charges or cancelation fees that will give them huge surprise when the bill comes from the mail.

One of my friends said that her Tracfone is a big help during the summer because they are always on a road trip so she can stay in touch with me and make me jealous. LOL She is also happy that it costs very little so she was able to get her kid a Tracfone for a birthday present. Cool.

So, you - my other friends out there, are you looking for some help this summer with your cell phone bill so you can fit into your budget that gorgeous pair of shoes you were eyeing at the mall? Are you looking for a low cost phone for your kids so you can check on them anytime when they are way too passed their curfew? Wink* Or are you still in a dilemma finding the right phones to fit your family’s needs?

Well, here are some facts about TracFone that you may help you make a better decision.

Tracfone offers the following:

• Brand name phones from leading manufacturers like Motorola, Kyocera, LG, Nokia and Samsung. Choose from simple "Candy Bar" phones, to Bluetooth®-enabled "Smart" phones.
Monthly Plans:
• Pay as you go online or with cards available at thousands of retail stores across the country.
• 1 year service cards give you so much more. Receive double minutes for the life of your TracFone, and 800 minutes, for only $119.00
• “Double minutes for the life of your phone” is a feature that can be purchased separately for only$19.99, but some phones include it!
• Choose monthly plans with 200 minutes for under $30.00, and as low as $9.99 for 50 minutes.
International Long Distance:
• This is the only wireless service where you can call internationally, for the same price as any other call.
• Call over 60 international destinations directly from your TracFone at no extra cost!
• With the International Neighbors program, you can provide family and friends in Mexico or Canada a local phone number in those countries to reach you at your TracFone in the U.S.
Phone Selection:
• Simple phones for simple needs, calling and texting capabilities for under $10.00
• Great phones packed with features like camera/video recorder, web access, app capabilities, mp3 player, and full QWERTY keyboard, for $29.99

There you go. Tracfone has so many features. If you want to know what are those features that they offer watch this video from these satisfied real TracFone customers:

And if you are not convinced yet, here is another video from another real TracFone customers who can attest to its convenience, reliability and coverage.

Yes friends, life is tough indeed and it's time to make a decision to make it a little easier by cashing in some savings where it is possible. Take it from the real TracFone customers - like my friends and I.

Gold

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 11:53:00 +0000

If you are my friend or a regular visitor of this blog... you should know by now that I am into gold panning. Well, Hubby is. I was just a unhappy camper who just tag along to escape house chores. LOL. And this is what we are looking for in the river when we do gold panning. This is 100% pure gold. Wish we could get a bigger nugget though.

To Join Photo Friday Challenge... click HERE.

A Weekend with the Runners

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:43:00 +0000

Yesterday, I had another spectacular experience. It was the 14th TD Bank Beach to Beacon 10k Road Race. It was the race I dream to join in one day. Well, I did try to make that dream come true right after my 1st 5K but I wasn't lucky enough to win in the lottery draw.

Anyway, I volunteered so I will be able to be a part of the event.

Here are some of the unofficial photos of the event.

This is where our Station is - the Water Finish.

It was indeed a hard job.

We laid out 6000 plus water bottles for the runners.

It was awesome to greet and congratulate the finishers first as they approach our table to get their water.

And yes, it was a wonderful and exciting way of spending one hot summer weekend. But most importantly, it was a great way to spend a day bonding with friends and families.

For more Weekend Memoirs... Visit OWM Here.

Spotted

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 00:30:00 +0000

I went for a walk in the woods one weekend and I spotted these two spotted butterflies.

To Join Photo Friday Challenge... click HERE.

Brandon's New Playground

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 18:51:00 +0000

Finally, Hubby was able to convince Brandon to go camping with us. Last summer, he didn't go with us because I think he got traumatized by his Dad's gold panning activities.

Yes, I was traumatized too. That is why I took a weekend job to have an alibi not to go gold panning with him. shhhhhh [This is just between us, ok?] LOL

Well, here is the thing, Hubby is crazy about gold panning. And when I say crazy it means... crazy-crazy. He is very passionate with his hobby. We would be in the river dredging, sorting out rocks after rocks, panning sand and repeat - for 8 hours straight. We will only have 15 minutes break to eat lunch. Thirty minutes for me to prepare lunch then back to the river. It was exhausting. It was draining. It was traumatizing. So I guess Brandon got so bored and didn't wanna do it anymore.

This summer, he finally gave it a shot. And boy, we all had fun. Well, we came prepared this time too and we have contingency plan for Brandon so he won't get bored and ask to go home early. We brought a portable DVD player so he can watch his Spongebob movie and he brought his other electronic gadgets to play with when he got tired jumping from one rock to another.

Hubby, on the other hand, was also awesome and was a happy camper too. He was not crabby like before. He did not spend more time in the river, which is very surprising. He even took Brandon fishing. And when he was down the river dredging... Brandon and I had fun playing in the field chasing butterflies and picking some wild raspberries and blueberries.

Looking forward to another weekend to go camping.

Enormous

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 23:23:00 +0000

Can't get enough. Can't have enough. Enormous obsession to money can buy one more trouble than happiness.

To Join Photo Friday Challenge... click HERE.

Enjoying summertime without thinking about the Big Bs

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 14:01:00 +0000

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

Oh summer, who doesn’t love summertime? The sea, the sand and the sun – what a perfect combination, I couldn’t ask for more. This summer vacation I opted not to work. Yes, I am officially a bum. And being unemployed has its advantages and disadvantages. To be able to look forward on weekend’s road trip, camping and gold panning without worrying we have to hurry back home for the next day’s work is awesome. But going on a tight budget to be able to pay bills is not. Hahaha. So we have to make a wise decision and sacrifice on some essential stuff to make our summer awesome.

Summertime calls for the big “B”… bills, budget, and bargain. That is why I have decided to switch my phone with Tracfone because it’s the least expensive way to stay in touch here in America. It’s easy to own. There is no contract that you need to deal with like with other big phone companies. No credit checks which is good for those people who are having tough times during this economy. No activation charges or cancelation fees when you decided to stop using it – so no surprises to your next bills.

So if you are looking for some help this summer with your cell phone bill, here are some points to consider switching to TracFone:

1.TracFone has great nationwide coverage and excellent reception/connectivity.
2.It carries brand name phones from leading manufacturers like Motorola, Kyocera, LG, Nokia and Samsung. Choose from simple "Candy Bar" phones, to Bluetooth®-enabled "Smart" phones.
3.They also have Monthly Plans at fit your budget.
-Pay as you go online or with cards available at thousands of retail stores across the country.
-1 year service cards give you so much more. Receive double minutes for the life of your TracFone, and 800 minutes, for only $119.00
·“Double minutes for the life of your phone” is a feature that can be purchased separately for only$19.99, but some phones include it!
-Choose monthly plans with 200 minutes for under $30.00, and as low as $9.99 for 50 minutes.
4.For International Long Distance, TracFone is the only wireless service where you can call internationally, for the same price as any other call. You can call over 60 international destinations directly at no extra cost from your TracFone! And with the International Neighbors program, you can provide family and friends in Mexico or Canada a local phone number in those countries to reach you at your TracFone in the U.S.

And here are another important things note taking about the TracFone’s phone selection:

1.You can choose simple phones for simple needs.
2.It has calling and texting capabilities for under $10.00.
3.They have great phones packed with features like camera/video recorder, web access, app capabilities, mp3 player, and full QWERTY keyboard, for $29.99

The TracFone is the most reliable phone there is now, check out these real TracFone customers if your are not convinced yet.

And if you are tired of getting surprised with your phone bills, then check out these real TracFone customers video so you to will be surprised no more with your bills.

Well, I am not really a “phone person”, meaning – I only keep a phone for emergency reason aside from my usual call to Hubby to check on him or the other way around. That is why TracFone is the most convenience thing for me to get in touch.

For more information on convenience, reliability and coverage check out these videos from these real TracFone customers.

Well, summer may end soon but our bills will continue coming. If we can save a lot on our phone bills, it will be an awesome thing. It will surely help us plan for our next summer’s vacation maybe – in the Caribbean or Hawaii? Wherever you plan to go... there is one thing we don't want to think about - the big "B".

What really happened on our 4th Wedding Anniversary

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 03:07:00 +0000

Ok, I had to admit, that Wedding Anniversary thingy didn't happen. Even the part where we supposed to be watching CSI, romantically [whatever that means].

No, you wouldn't guess why. You cannot imagine why, a Wedding Anniversary would turn out to be a disaster. Well, I will not make you guess no more. There are varied reasons and there are two-fold reasons to the "reasons".

The two-fold reasons:

His reasons:

1. He worked long hours.

2. He went straight to his friend's house to give the payment for the sluice that he had ordered custom-made.

3. He didn't have the time to buy me gift or flowers because of the 2 reasons above.

My reasons:

1. I was PMS-ing so I didn't listen to reasons.

2. I was pre-menopausing so I didn't have the ability to listen to any reasons.

3. All of the above.

Downside of the story:

His side: He saved money on gift and dining out.

My side: I didn't get the chance to get new Pandora Charms. hayyy [Yes, he tried to hand me out a booklet of the entire Pandora Charms inventory for me to choose what I want but I was so mad I didn't even look at it. I didn't even realize he had that booklet or shall I say Pandora Bible].

Oh well, there will be a 5th so I'll make it up then. hahaha

You're still the one!

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 20:36:00 +0000

Today, I woke up early and just laid in bed watching my sweetest while he was still in dreamland. It has been awhile since I last did it.

School is already over and now I have more time to stay in bed. I don't need to hurry up to go to work because I am now a certified bum [LOL]. And as I lay tracing his face with my fingers so carefully not wanting to wake him up... memories of some 4 years ago came flashing back.

Yes, four years ago... on this exact day... we said "I do". Yes, today is our 4th Wedding Anniversary. It has been fours years now and I can't believe that we are still together. Not that I wish otherwise, it's just that after all the ups and downs and all the things that we have been through, I can't believe that we still have the strength to hold on and not give up.

Well, we are just typical couples with typical problems like everybody else. We are ordinary people with ordinary trials and hurdles but we were able to conquer them in our extra-ordinary way. And we are just simple human beings not trying hard to be super heroes wanting to save the world but save our relationship the best way we can.

Today... I opted not to write him the usual I-don't-know-if-he-actually-read-or-have-a-clue-that-it-actually-exist love letter but rather sing him a special song that fits what I feel right now. Yes, this is the only way I can give justice to my singing talent without humiliating myself in the process. LOL. And this is also the best way to save me the time and the energy to think of what I want to tell my Sweetest on our special day.

So here we go... hmmmmmm [I started humming. Yeah!]

[Oops! Narrating first.]
I first saw you, I saw love.
And the first time you touched me, I felt love.
And after all this time, you're still the one I love.)

[Now singing with my eyes closed.]
Looks like we made it
Look how far we've come my baby
We mighta took the long way
We knew we'd get there someday

Bridge:
They said, "I bet they'll never make it"
But just look at us holding on
We're still together still going strong

Chorus: [Banging my head now!LOL]
(You're still the one)
You're still the one I run to
The one that I belong to
You're the one I want for life
(You're still the one)
You're still the one that I love
The only one I dream of
You're still the one I kiss good night

Ain't nothin' better
We beat the odds together
I'm glad we didn't listen
Look at what we would be missin'

I'm so glad we made it
Look how far we've come my baby

My Dear Sweetest,

Happy Anniversary Sweetest. I hope you like my song. Tonight, I will sing it to you again... in the comfort of our bed... with the rhythm of the humming sound of the A/C [looks like it will be another humid night]... with the romantic ambiance of our bedroom brought by the calming and lightly lit Himalayan salt rock lamp... while watching CSI. [DANG IT!] hahaha. Whatever! But as you lay down to sleep tonight I want you to know that - I love you more than you ever know. Thank you for your patience for 4 long years. I hope it is renewable for another term. wink*

Your Sweetie.

Damn it! [Excuse my words, is just for impact]

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 18:18:00 +0000

I woke up early today even if I am was supposed to be working. Yes, I am officially unemployed so there is no need for me to be up and about. hehehe But still, no matter how I wanted to stay longer in bed, I couldn't. I didn't feel good for some reason. Damn alarm clock! Why didn't I turn you off? My Bad!

Well, it's not actually unusual for me to feel this way nowadays, so there is nothing to panic about. At my age, sleeping and/or getting a sleep is a huge problem now. I have a hard time getting a good sleep and when I did get to sleep, I would have to get up in the middle of the night to take a trip to the bathroom. Damn bladder! Why don't you leave me alone? LOL.

Now, "hot flashes" are on the attack. Oh yeah, I think I am almost there. My foot is already on the threshold. Again, nothing to be concerned about. Time will never stand still no matter how I wish. Yes, baby I am about to reach a milestone. Damn fountain of youth! Where art thou? LMAO

My Running BFF

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 08:02:00 +0000

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

I am happy to run outdoors now because I save a lot on my gym membership fee. [wink*] I like running on “real road” than on “moving belt” which twisted my knee and gave me an injury [thanks a lot for my ignorance]. And more importantly, I just love the feel of the cool breeze on my cheeks and the warmth of the sun on my skin. It does feel like “not winter” anymore. Yey.

Well, I have been waiting all winter to get the chance to run outdoors but I didn’t realize that this spring will have a great impact on my allergy. But then, my allergy didn’t stop me from running outdoors. I now run with my new BFF – Wal-Fex Allergy for Indoors and Outdoors Allergies which is one of the Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Products that I discovered which is very effective to me. It is not only effective but friendly too. Yes, it’s friendly to my pocketbook, that is.

This product gives me quick relief from sneezing, itchy nose, eyes and throat, runny nose, and watery eyes. And most importantly, it’s non-drowsy so I know I won’t fall asleep while I was running. LOL.

Well, I know there are lots of brand name products of the same medicine but I like Walgreens products not only because they are cheaper compared to others but because… Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Products are a great value, allowing families and individuals to save money without sacrificing quality or trust. With the rising cost of health care, saving money on over-the-counter medications can really benefit a family’s budget. In addition to being an exceptional value, Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Products… are Walgreens pharmacist recommended… most contain the same active ingredients as other national brands… and have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Visit http://www.walgreens.com/walgr… to learn more about Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Products and the Walgreens Way to Well Fund™.

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An Allergy-Free Day

noreply@blogger.com (ruthi) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 01:00:00 +0000

For some reason, I am now allergic to almost everything. Could it be even possible at all?

I have lived a life free from allergies even when I was still in the Philippines. Smog, smoke, dust, pollen and air pollution never bother me. They never give me sniffles, headache and stuffy nose.

When I came here in Maine, I may be bothered by the extreme weather but still that doesn't give me reason to take any anti-histamine.

Well, I would have a little stuffy nose every now and then, especially early in the morning but that is because of sinusitis but that's all about it. I don't even have to take anything for it to go away because I think it goes away with the ticking of the clock.

Now, I need to take non-drowsy anti-histamine to survive the day without headache and watery eyes. I love the outdoors especially now that I am into running. I just hope that I will be able to run everyday without worrying about the pollen.