My Sweet Haven

Personal travel agent.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:53:00 +0000

My ability to plan and organize was put to test again. With this impending move to Montana, it will be a disaster not to plan things ahead of time. The move is set to happen on the 14th of February and there are just so many things to take care of. On the other hand, I consider ourselves quite lucky because most of the moving expenses and other incidental costs are going to be covered by hubby's new job. I think that's really awesome. But of course, there are still so much things to deal with. I try to be of much help as possible. I did all our hotel and flight bookings online. It may sound so easy but oh boy, it has stressed me out a little bit, you know, deciding which dates to book and stuff like that. But hubby thought I did a pretty good job. I told him I can be his personal travel agent, lol!

I am pretty excited with the move. It's going to be a new adventure for the whole family. I'm also happy that I will get to spend 2 weeks with my sister in Illinois before I fly over to Montana. Since we don't have a place to move in yet, we would be staying in a hotel probably for a few weeks until we could find our new place. I'm sure things are going to be crazy for the next few months or so, but like I've said, it will be a fun experience and I'm so excited to explore Montana.

Pretty crazy days ahead.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:30:00 +0000

Is it really almost Valentine’s Day already? Oh wow, time really flies! This upcoming move to Montana got our plans for Valentine’s messed up. We usually take a short trip somewhere to celebrate Heart’s Day but we won’t be able to do that this year. What’s sad is we would even be travelling apart on that particular day. I’ll be flying over to my sister’s place in Illinois while Jeff would be driving our vehicles to Montana. We will really have busy crazy weeks ahead because of the move. Oh well, it has been expected that things would go a little hectic especially since this is a big move. Anyway, we plan to just celebrate Valentine’s Day early, so we’re gonna do it the weekend before that. So I guess it’s still cool. I don’t know what present to give him though. If he were a music lover, I would have easily give him a fender ja 90, but he’s not so that kinda left me undecided which one to get for him. Oh well, I'm sure he'll appreciate even just a smile card and a kiss from me, lol!

Other business options.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:37:00 +0000

It is disheartening to see our economy going down the toilet. But it’s a reality each and every one of us must face. A lot of big scale businesses have gone out. Credit card companies are having a difficult time keeping up with recession. The real estate business is still not looking great. Nevertheless, some people would still want to venture into small scale businesses. Some of them don’t have very good credit standing to begin with but just because they are aware that they can make use of some bad credit business loans, that surely had not stopped them from starting up their own little business venture. Oh well, there sure is no harm in trying, is there? Regardless of the economic status, business is always a risk. So you just never know unless you try it.

My Own Boss

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:57:00 +0000

Guest post from: Bruno Smith

Gosh there’s something to be said for not having to answer to anyone. I really like working for myself and though it’s been a long time since I didn’t have a boss it’s even better than I remember. I love being a mom but staying at home just wasn’t for me since I got really bored really quickly. I think it’s much more fun being my own leader and knowing my income is coming just from me and nowhere else – can you imagine what it used to be like for me chained to a desk all the time!? I’ve got my little home office with my http://www.satelliteinternetbroadband.com/ internet and all my files and whatnot and most of the time I just meet new clients out in town at a coffee shop or something. I really love being in charge of my own income and not worrying about whether or not I’m going to get a raise or ruffle any feathers or anything – it’s been a real blessing for me to do this in my life.

Dinner at Yoshi.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 14:13:00 +0000

In as much as we'd like to go out on a date as often as we can, sometimes it seems just impossible to do it. Having a baby just takes so much of our time and energy. So whenever we get a chance to do it, we try to make it special.

Last night, he took me out to a Japanese steakhouse. This is my second time in this awesome restaurant and I still enjoy it as much as I did last time. The food was great. I had some steak, calamari, shrimps with veggies and rice. What I find cool about this place is that the chef cooks the food right in front of us with few little entertaining tricks as part of the show. It was fun. I enjoyed it. This is one of my favorite places to dine in in our area so it's really nice that we get to eat here again before we move to Montana.

Dance into shape.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:13:00 +0000

I have been playing Just Dance 3 on our WII lately. The funny thing is my 13 month old baby enjoys it as much as I do. Whenever I turn the WII on, he would go in front of the TV, swing his arms and move his little feet as if he’s dancing, lol! It is really cute to watch. His favorite tunes so far are California Girls by Katy Perry and a certain Bollywood music. So this is not just a little exercise for me but a fun way to bond with my little guy as well.

I enjoy it so much that it makes me want to try other WII fitness games like zoomba [sic]. I have heard so many great things about zumba classes but never really tried it myself so I thought maybe getting a WII game would introduce me to this fun way of dancing. How about you? Have you tried zumba yet? What can you say about it?

It's Tough

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:19:00 +0000

Guest post of the week by Nestor Nielsen.

Travelling is great but sometimes being out on the road so much really makes me miss home. I have a lot of friends here and my new house is finally finished so I wish the travel requirement of my job would lighten up so I could be at home for at least a weekend or two in a row. I went to www.satellitetvfamily.com not long ago and had satellite installed at my house and I’m really, really starting to want a dog but in order to get one I’m going to have to stop being away from home 5 nights a week…that wouldn’t be fair to bring a dog into. I love my jobbut I didn’t really sign up for all these nights in a hotel room and client meetings in cities I don’t know and after two years, it’s really starting to wear on my. My boss is a real stickler, though, and I know I’m lucky to have such a great position in this economy so I guess it’s back on the road for me!

2012 has such promise!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:12:00 +0000

Holidays are over. It’s time to focus on the move to Montana. There will be so many things to take care of. I have tried looking for places to rent over the internet. I’m not sure if Helena has apartment rentals like Edmonton apartments, but we'll see. Also, I have started going through things that we don’t want to bring with us to the new place. I was thinking of donating them to charity shops in town. We also need to inform our utility providers about the move. We would be staying in a hotel until we could find a place to move in. We prefer a single-family house but we're open to condos and apartments as well.

We are pretty excited about the move to Montana. It will definitely be a radical change of environment and climate but I think that's what makes it fun and exciting. We would be busy in the next couple of weeks. I will find time to bond with my friends and enjoy Arkansas for it will be a while before we would set foot here again. I'll be visiting my sister in Illinois by the end of this month so I'm pretty excited about that as well. Oh well, what a way to start 2012! This year will be a fun-filled year for us. Thank God for the new opportunity to explore and appreciate new places, new things, new people and new beginning.

Hello 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 19:29:00 +0000

Another year is over. Let’s welcome 2012 with a smile! Last year had been a fruitful and fulfilling one for us. As the new year starts, let’s set the negativities aside and hope for a brighter and better life for everyone. For some people, they might have started their year with new places, new friends and new jobs. But whatever it may be, new year is always a good time to start anew. Speaking of jobs, Dentist Jobs have been offered to those people who may want to jumpstart their health care career. I have known people that have worked in a dental office and they seem to enjoy the nature of their jobs. The health care field needs more dedicated people and if you want to make a difference in your life and other people's lives, it's not a bad thing to give it a try.

Keepsake gifts for Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 21:28:00 +0000

On getting gifts this holiday season, they say it’s the thought that counts. I agree. It doesn’t have to be expensive for me to appreciate a present. Memories matter to me the most, so I try to search for wonderful keepsake gift ideas for the people I love. Which reminds me of the presents Caleb got from his Grandma for his birthday and Christmas. She gave him toys and clothes but I love the quilts she sewed herself for Caleb the most. It's a labor of love and I'm sure Caleb will appreciate them when he's old enough to understand.

We're moving...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 20:33:00 +0000

...to Montana. Brrrrrr!!!

Jeff got a job in Helena, the capital city of the state. I'm not sure what to think about the place. One thing I know is it's going to be cold and it gets snowed a lot. I've read it can get really pretty in the summer time which does not last very long, lol!

However, I'm actually pretty excited about the beautiful scenery in Montana. I hope we could visit the picturesque parts of the state when the weather permits. I'm sure this move is going to be an adventure for us.

This tropical girl would brave the winter climate in the northwestern part of the country. Woohoo!!! That's the spirit, lol!

Photo courtesy of Big Sky Fishing.Com

Thoughts on sofas.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 20:23:00 +0000

When I saw this beautiful sectional sofa los angeles, I was reminded of my wish to update my living room couch. I love sectionals especially if you have a huge room in your house, it can definitely add class and elegance to your living room. I was thinking of getting a lighter color this time. Probably a tan, mocha, beige or ecru. Yeah, I like warm colors. However, I think I’ll have to wait until my son would be old enough to understand that couches are for sitting and lounging and not a black board, lol!

Just a thought...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 03:18:00 +0000

There are times when starting up a small business comes to mind. But of course, it’s not that easy to realize it, especially with today’s economy. However, a restaurant business in the Philippines probably would be a great idea. As what most people say, everybody needs to eat. So you definitely have a feasible market in a restaurant business. But I think looking for a location site, acquiring restaurant equipment, hiring trustworthy people, and basically just securing the needed capital for your business are the most difficult part. That's why even if there are a lot of people who much prefer to be their own boss, working for somebody else might be the only possible option out there.

Bands that bonds.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:01:00 +0000

Choosing the perfect wedding bands for your wedding is fun and exciting. I remember the time when we shop for our wedding bands. It was hard to decide which one to get. We had agreed on a white gold metal and I specifically like something that's adorned with cute little diamonds. We got married twice. First in the US and then in a Catholic church in the Philippines two years after. In both weddings, we used the rings pictured above. They're very pretty. We couldn't be any happier with our choice.

Sound trip.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:39:00 +0000

There are times that I find myself sound-tripping. Because I’m a mom of an almost 1-year old active baby, I hardly have time to do things for myself really. But I sometimes indulge myself into listening to some cool songs while I’m on the computer. My laptop has built-in speakers so obviously I don’t need to use pc speakers. I wish I could figure out how to set up my Ipod to connect to our entertain center speakers. It will be nice to listen to some Christmas songs to have that holiday spirit in the house.

Thanksgiving 2011.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:52:00 +0000

We celebrated this year's Thanksgiving at my sister's place in Illinois. I think it's been 2 years since the last time we were there. However, she visits me on few occasions this year. I love the food she prepared.

We did Black Friday shopping as well. We enjoyed it. We don't shop together very often so we miss bonding together through shopping. It's my first time to shop on Black Friday. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. We did not sleep but it was all worth it. We got great deals. It was great!

A possible move to the North

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 15:17:00 +0000

We might be moving to the northernmost part of the country before the year ends. I know. I know. This tropical girl will soon be braving the bitter cold winter that I have not ever experienced in my whole life. Well, depending on hubby’s job interview results. I am excited at the same time a little apprehensive with the extreme climate difference but I think I’ll survive, lol! We’ll be closer to Canada which I’ve always wanted to visit. I wonder if there will be good Calgary apartments in the area. I have friends to meet there if ever we decide to go. For sure, it'll be a good thing to find out before we start any of our travel escapades in the future.

On a different note, I would just like to say Congratulations to Manny Pacquiao for his recent boxing triumph. The fight was in Nevada. It made me think if we move, we may be able to watch his future fights live, I mean who knows, right? Though I personally think it might not be worth the travel expenses not to mention the price of the ticket, but like I've said, who knows? We might win the lottery or something, lol! Anyway, now I'm rambling! Have a great Monday, everyone!

Not just your ordinary day.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 16:13:00 +0000

I guess I'm one of the few lucky wives who get white roses on birthdays, anniversaries or even no special occasion at all. I distinctly remember when I was on the 1st trimester of my pregnancy, it was such a miserable experience for me. I couldn't eat though I get hungry all the time. I was super nauseous, dizzy and sick. But hubby still has to go to work so I was kind of feeling sad and depressed. Then just one day, he surprised me with a flower delivery with a special note that says "You're not alone." Wow, that melts my heart! Hubby is just one of a kind. Truly, I feel special and blessed to have married such a wonderful man.

Home Sick

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:59:00 +0000

Guest post from: Mohamed Simon

I looked into directv medford on my computer to see what was available, and I'm so glad I did. I came down with a terrible cold and am nursing myself back to health in front of the tv! There is nothing worse than being sick in my opinion. I swear, I almost have an emotional breakdown every time because I get so tired of feeling so terrible! I've been doing everything I'm supposed to. Lots of vitamin C, and juice, and trying to rest. But, sometimes I feel so terrible it keeps me from being able to sleep. That is the absolute worst! The ONLY thing (and I mean the ONLY thing) that makes staying home sick half way decent is being able to watch some great tv! I've been re watching episodes of the Wire, which you've probably heard me go on about before. Best. Show. Ever. The writing. The character development. The insights into the complexities of the problems.

Indoors Girl

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:38:00 +0000

I appreciate the guest post, Jewel Rodgers.

Last night I was at a bar on the East Side of the city. I’ve made some new friends from the church I attend, and they’re what I like to call “hipsters.” They always know the places to be and look as though they just stepped out of an Urban Outfitters catalog. I’ve accepted the fact that I don’t exactly fit in with this crowd, but I like to think that they enjoy the contrast I offer. Last night everyone was talking about an upcoming music festival, which I was planning to attend, when they mentioned tents. Yes, tents. I hesitated at first and then thought it would be best to get it out in the open, I’m an indoors girl. I don’t go anywhere that doesn’t give me access to a microwave, blowdryer, EXPERTsatellite … The one and only time I camped was at a birthday party in the 4th grade. It lasted for all of an hour when I decided to forge though the darkness and walk four houses down so that I could sleep in my own bed. If this music festival camping is some sort of initiation, I’ve already failed. And I’m completely fine with that.

Cute uniforms do great wonders.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:51:00 +0000

I know I've been blogging a lot about how I love to go back to school and take up a Nursing program. I'm aware that Nursing is not for everyone. Not just because the job is tough and demanding but it's a challenge getting into the program in the first place. One will face extreme competition since many would like to apply but only a few slots are available. So I know I'll be up for quite a difficult task ahead of me. There are many things to like about this program. This might come across as being shallow but honestly one of the little things I love about being a nurse is the uniform, lol!

I can already imagine myself wearing hot pink scrubs at work, lol! I've always been a girly girl and I think hot pink scrubs would be perfect for a tough hospital day. Maybe it's just me, but whatever, I find it too cute! I have told my sister who works in a dental office to take a look at the cute and finest medical uniforms available at http://www.blueskyscrubs.com. Not only that they don't look boring, they are of great quality at such an affordable price. I'd definitely buy one for myself here when it's time for me to wear one. I highly recommend it to everyone in the health care field.

Future spendings.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:40:00 +0000

I wonder how much sony lcd tvs do cost now? Just curious 'coz I've wanted to get a flat screen tv but since we still have an old Sony Wega that still works, I guess we'd be stuck with that for now, lol! Unless flat screens would dip to an all time low since holidays are coming. Not a priority at all, but window shopping won't hurt. I'm actually focused on getting presents for the baby, family, relatives and friends. Our anniversary is in 4 days, then little guys' 1st birthday is coming, then Christmas so we're anticipating to spend more in the next couple of months.

I've made up my mind.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:33:00 +0000

I don’t know what has gotten into me lately, but I’ve never felt so interested to go back to school as I do now. I can’t believe I am seriously considering taking a Nursing program. I mean I’ve always thought of Nursing as a very rigorous program. Not to mention the job is demanding and full of all kinds of pressure. I have a sister who just finished a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and I saw how difficult it had been for her especially the clinical duties, though she managed to made it all throughout. But now I have this strong urge to get on a nursing program. I must admit the great pay for nurses is a huge motivational factor. But hubby was apprehensive that I may not be happy with the job no matter how great the pay is. That’s also a concern of mine actually. I have been reading a lot of things about Nursing and have talked to real nurses that I personally know of to help condition my mind of what to expect. I have not made up my mind yet but one thing is for sure I want to go back to school soon. On a different note, I’m sure technical writers out there have not had a problem getting Technical Writer Jobs. I seem to have seen a lot of job openings on this nature so good luck to those who were looking.

Good deals on video games

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:23:00 +0000

Christmas is just around the corner. I am excited to buy Christmas gifts for my loved ones. As a matter of fact, I have already bought 6 toys out of the 12 that I wanted to get my little guy for Christmas. Talking about getting excited, lol! I have also started making a list of the gifts that I would get for hubby and our respective families. I’m pretty sure xbox games would be a hit this Christmas. They’re probably on sale or something. Too bad we only own a WII and I don’t know anyone that has an XBOX. Anyway, I’m hoping I could find some good deals with WII games as well. It’s a perfect gift idea for everyone.

Point and shoot.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:36:00 +0000

I had been looking for a good point and shoot among the hundreds of digital cameras out there. We own a Canon Powershot ultra zoom camera for 6 years now. It's been working great. As a matter of fact, I find it so reliable and have been using it frequently. But I wanted to have an alternative camera. Something handy, compact, sleek and stylish, user friendly and most especially loaded with features and excellent photo quality.

I don't limit myself with Canons, though I find them the superior brand as compared with its famous competitors in the market. But I'm open with other brands as well. However, after quite a great amount of searching, I find myself still wanting a Canon, lol! To make the long story short, I now own a Canon Powershot Elph 100. Thanks to my generous friends, they gave me one as a gift for my birthday.

I so love the color! I know this is a gift but I personally chose the style and color, lol! So much for the element of surprise huh! But again, I am so grateful to my friends who made my small wish come true. I love how lightweight and chic it is. I have been using it with my 10 month old son as my subject, and I can't stop loving this thing. It's so cool and take excellent pictures. Now I can capture every little cute thing my baby does. Love it!