Housewife @ Work

Vote Efren Peñaflorida @ 2009 CNN Heroes

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 04:29:00 +0000

Help support Efren Peñaflorida to be the 2009 CNN Hero. Voting continues until Thursday, November 19, 2009 (6 a.m. ET). There is no limit on the number of times you may vote for the Hero of the Year.

ABOUT THE GROUP
Dynamic Teen Company (DTC) is a group of concerned young people with a mission of making a small yet significant difference in other people’s lives, particularly the small children in slum areas who have no access to education, basic hygiene and sometimes, even love from their families. The group was founded in August 1997 by four teenagers from Cavite National High School. The initial group made up of around 20 members started as a friendship club which aimed to divert the attention of students from joining violent gangs and notorious fraternities that were thriving on the campus. Their major platform then was to cater youth awareness projects, talent and self development activities, and community services. Today, the group holds different activities to address these issues.

TOUGH BEGINNINGS
In 1999, Efren “Kuya Ef!” Penaflorida Jr. who is living near the city dump site and one of the group’s founder, began to reach out to slum kids. This marked the emergence of the “Kalingain Batang Mahirap” (Care of Impoverished Children), DTC’s feeding project for children who scavenge for left-overs and spoiled food from the dump site. The group had a hard time involving older people to the cause and so they trained themselves to be self-sufficient enough to teach the young kids themselves. The group was able to support itself and its projects by showcasing their talents in staged concerts and performances; and by selling old newspapers, bottles, and recycled products. This enabled DTC to train more potential youth leaders and eventually led to a purchase of a pedicab for its literacy and feeding projects.

TODAY
With the training and supervision of Kuya Ef who is now a professional educator, DTC has indeed come a long way. Their mission to teach unschooled, labor-exploited and neglected street children is slowly being realized today. The group also conducts weekly feeding, first aid treatment of scabies and wounds, and values formation activities through their K4 Project (Kariton Klasrum, Klinik at Kantin). Hygiene and first aid skills are supervised by registered midwives and professional nurses who are DTC Alumni.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The fruits of their labor are slowly being reaped as former drug users and petty thieves who were reformed through their projects are now also serving as volunteers. Former scavengers are now in school and are helping to raise funds. Some of the children who remain unschooled are now able to read and write. DTC was able to reach thousands of children through their Mind Your Rights (MY RIGHTS) campaign and through their health-literacy work.
In 2007, they launched the “WE ARE THE CHANGE” campaign to inspire people to be the catalyst for change – in what they want to see in their home, community and the world we live in. For they believe that real change happens when we begin to touch one soul and change one heart at a time.

Smart holiday spending tips

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:55:00 +0000

Christmas is nearing and we already have some advance planning for the season’s needs. Part of that planning is buying presence to our love ones. As we all know Christmas is a spending season for people from all walks of life.

Below are some shopping tips to guide you. Remember we can celebrate Christmas without going over budget.

Plan ahead - As early as possible, list down people you want to give gifts to. Wait for mall-wide sales, inventory sales, closing-out sales, or even calamity sales throughout the year. Definitely, prices will be lower and you can start buying gifts in increments - without having to spend large amounts in one go.

Shop early - If you have a shopping list ready, try going at early hours in the day when malls or stores open. This way, you won't feel harassed when looking for gifts and if you shop early enough in the season, you won't have to compete with other buyers for limited items or stocks.

Go bargain hunting - It is fun to shop in bargain hotspots like Divisoria in Manila, the Dapitan Arcade in Quezon City, or the Green Hills "tiangge" in San Juan. You can find a lot of gift items or decorations - and haggle with the stall keepers when you buy. This means you can stick to your budget.

Look for "UK" goods - These are not imports from London, but "ukay-ukay" finds. Some of them, like vintage bags or clothes, can be jazzed up with newer items to give gifts that homemade touch. Never underestimate the value of making homemade gifts when your budget gets tight.

Recycle gifts - Don't know what to do with items you got in previous Christmases but have never used? Try re-wrapping them and giving them as gifts to people whom you think would make good use of them. Make sure you don't give it back to the source!

Want to give food as gifts? - Try homemade rather than store-bought. Homemade delicacies will be appreciated more than store-bought food and will cost you much less.

Buy in bulk - If you have a lot of people on your Christmas shopping list, and you aren't certain about what they like, consider buying items in bulk. You can purchase multiple sets of gifts like t-shirts, candles, or foodstuffs. These types of gifts are ideal if you have co-workers, employees, or sets of acquaintances. Sometimes, stores also offer discounts for buyers who buy wholesale or many items at once.

Be pragmatic and strike out names - It may sound mean-spirited but you don't really have to buy for every person around you. Sometimes you really need to shorten your Christmas shopping list to make it more manageable especially when you have a limited budget.

Clustering - Also, try to cluster the people on your Christmas list. Instead of buying for every co-worker, why not give them just one large gift - like a cake? Or instead of buying for every aunt or uncle, why not give them gifts as a couple?

No-gift season? - Make an agreement with your family members that no one should spend more than a certain amount for gifts (setting a price cap for gifts). You can even go the charitable route: instead of giving each other gifts, why not send much-needed "presents" (food, clothing, toys) to charitable organizations?

Ang Tanging Pamilya movie trailer

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:40:00 +0000

November 11 is the showing date for Star Cinema’s Ang Tanging Pamilya. A comedy film bringing up the love team again of Sam Milby and Toni Gonzaga plus the comeback movie for former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada. What adds fire to this movie is the hilarious battle between Ai-Ai delas Alas (Toni’s mom) and Mommy Dionisia Pacquiao (Sam’s mom). The trailer gives a preview of how movie goers will laugh to death on the different funny and entertaining scenes of the movie.

Watch the full trailer of the movie here.

Nov. 15: Pacquiao vs. Cotto

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 05:35:00 +0000

The much awaited fight of Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao against the Puerto Rican champ Miguel Cotto is only 11 days from now. Both are in good shapes and well-prepared. Who will win the fight? Of course for Filipinos it will be Pacman but better to wait for the fight and watch what these 2 renowned boxers has to offer to boxing fanatics and who is who. Read here.

In relation to Pacman’s upcoming fight, congressmen are urged to skip watching live the said bout. Important bills are yet to pass (not possible without a quorum) and their constituents are still devasted and in dire need of their support especially for rehabilitation.

Sad to say that appeal like this has to be made to politicians in power. Well I guess due to old age of many they tend to forget that they are public servants and the Filipino people are their top priority. Do they need to get negative public opinion? If so, voters take note of those irresponsible and insensitive leaders. They do not deserve to be voted or re-elected. Don’t sell your votes. Vote wisely for your own sake.

Cheryl Cosim et al victims of road rage

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:42:00 +0000

Cheryl Cosim, broadcaster and TV anchor, was now one of the statistics of the police regarding road rage incidents. Cheryl together with her husband and in-laws who came from a vacation and beating her work schedule met in the road an irresponsible and rude gun owner in the name of Richard Castro Ordonez who owns a Nissan Cefiro with plate number XPY497.

It was really traumatic for Cheryl where Mr. Ordonez cut them, walked out of his car, got near to them and pointed them his unlicensed gun. Check out the news video here.

According to reports, said Mr. Ordonez owns 7 guns and all of these have expired licenses. Gun owners who have temper like of Mr. Ordonez must not be given permission to have and carry a gun. With just one wrong move he might take a life out of just a simple road incident and of his unruly attitude.

Cheryl already filed cases (grave threat and illegal possession of firearms) on fleeing Mr. Ordonez. May the authorities issue immediately a travel ban on this individual to let him face the consequences of his action. And may our authorities acted on different incidents regardless of civil status.

Christmas decors @ Dapitan Arcade

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:08:00 +0000

Christmas is nearing and Filipinos, no matter what happens, will surely find ways to feel and celebrate it. One very common tradition is the Christmas décor we put on our homes. I do understand that these items are bit expensive in malls especially on some classy stores. But in Manila there is a place where you can shop for Christmas decors at prices that suits your budget.

The Dapitan Arcade (Kanlaon St. corner Dapitan St.) in Sta. Mesa Heights, Quezon City is a place where you can find stuff for your house, season items and not. It is a great place for Christmas shoppers because it is not crowded, wide selection of good stuff and bargain prices.

Check items here.

In Memoriam 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 02:40:00 +0000

Yesterday, November 1, the family went to the memorial park where the remains of my late father-in-law rested. The weather was really hot but we assembled quite a medium size tent enough to accommodate the family. We bought flowers and candles for our beloved father.

I got to be with my father-in-law for such a short time after the wedding. Hubby and I got married October 1998 and he died August of 2009. But I have nothing but admiration towards him for being such a simple, practical and supportive person. It is not possible for me to drop by at the North Cemetery where my grandmothers, grandfathers and two uncles rested. So I went by to the church near the memorial park to light candles for them and say my prayers for them.

To our beloved love ones who are now with God continue to guide us and be our angels. We love you and miss you so much!!!

2009 World Pyro Olympics

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 13:16:00 +0000

Holidays are nearing and so the 2009 World Pyro Olympics fireworks competition is said to kick off this November and winners will be announced on the first week of December 2009. It will be held this year in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. This annual fireworks competition showcases some of the most prestigious fireworks manufacturer.

It started as an exhibition event in 2004 and declared as the world’s largest international fireworks competition in 2005. On its first year, Show Fx. Pty from Australia won the People’s Choice, in 2006 the event was temporarily stopped, United Kingdom’s Westcoast Fireworks won in 2007 while Italy’s Parente Fireworks won as the best last year (2008).

Who will win the 2009 People’s Choice? Let us all watch this November and find out the People's Choice on December.

Sen. Chiz Escudero leaves NPC

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:10:00 +0000

What is the latest news in Philippine politics in connection with the coming 2010 election?
Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero (being reported as one of the presidentiables then) announced today (Wednesday) that he is resigning from the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) after being member since 1998. It is the political party of business tycoon Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr. who is being rumored supporting the administration candidate for president and nephew at the same time, NDCC Head Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro.

I personally believe having a party is not the problem. The question is knows when the loyalty to your party ends to give a 100% transparent and dedicated public service. Chiz can run independently or under a party of his choice but once (and if) elected his loyalty now belongs to the millions of Filipinos longing for a big change. Politicians, businessmen and others who try to support a winning candidate must have a clear conscience and a big heart not to consider the winning as “payback time” but the strong belief that they are supporting a person who will lead Filipinos to change.

Read here for more of the announcement.

Charter On Demand, get one now

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:09:00 +0000

As a housewife, I tend to miss movies and shows I love to watch. I am busy most of the time cooking, taking care of the kids, do the laundry, ironing, etc. The schedules are not match and if by chance I can get to see it, it is just a part of the whole thing. Sigh!!! Hubby too misses a lot of these because of his office works. He just manages to watch on weekends but to what is only available that time. But I know that if at times I am sad to be deprived of watching my stuff because of my chores and obligations, how much more my kids whose very fond of TV. As we know, TV is the life for kids.

But have you encounter Charter digital and get one for you? Ohh! If not you miss free access to On Demand too. Why? Here we go. Why opt for several subscriptions if you can have everything catered under one account? Charter digital’s high speed internet service provides the following all in one location and can be accessed with one login:

free web content such as video, news, sports, entertainment, weather
premium subscription services such as gaming & music
key account features such as email

By having an account, get access to over 6,000 movies and shows you can watch anytime at your convenience. You will not miss anymore your favorite shows because you can watch it the day after they air on TV and its FREE access. On Demand helps a lot too to pacify kids and cease the war because you can give what they are asking for right then. You can learn more at charter.net/ondemand for details of their services. It is indeed a one-stop site for your digital entertainment and news requirements.

Technology and Charter brings about goodness and convenience at every household. You can get updates and fun extras on Charter’s Facebook page. So hurry! Get one now for the family and enjoy watching.

Roxas-Sanchez wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 04:26:00 +0000

The controversial and much awaited wedding of the year will be held tomorrow. Korina Sanchez, a renowned broadcaster, will tie the knot with Liberal Party’s vice presidential Senator Mar Roxas at Sto. Domingo Church, 3:00pm on October 27 (Tuesday, Philippine time).

Congratulations and best wishes!!!

Climate Change Act of 2009 signed

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 04:57:00 +0000

The Climate Change Act of 2009 was signed by President Arroyo today (Friday) before leaving for Thailand to attend the ASEAN Summit where climate change is said to be discussed. The bill will institutionalize the government response to climate change.

That bill is for what our government will do about climate change? But what about our bill about climate change to ourselves? What are our little ways to help mitigate the effect of climate change?

Two days ago I was really mad to a neighbor who placed her box of trash in front of my house. I was really looking at their house with sharp and angry eyes not only for putting that box of trash in my front yard but being heartless towards other people and being so lazy with their social responsibility. Yes our street was lucky because we were not affected by Ondoy and Pepeng, but is that so? I said in a loud voice how insensitive and rude they are in placing their trash on street, open and scattering.

Climate change concern is not only about what our government needs to do. We also have our fair share on it. If we do all our shares toward climate change then we can save more people, our country, our beloved Earth.

Parent's Choice Infant Formula on sale @ Walmart

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 03:55:00 +0000

Among the most common expensive disbursements of parents for infants pertains to milk formula, aside from the daily vitamins, monthly check up, etc. I remember those times when I am still buying infant formula my goodness it was really financially breaking me apart and yet for a week’s consumption alone. Terrible! But thanks to a relative who worked then in a milk manufacturer and she enabled me saves as much as 50% of the cost.

But the most common misconception of other parents is that they need to buy expensive and name-brand formulas because they are safer for infants rather than a store brand formula. That is not actually a reality especially among infant formulas being sold in the US. FDA has the authority to check and ensure that all infant formulas sold in the US meet the minimum and maximum nutrient specifications. So with this why go high if you can go low with the same catch?

A perfect example of this is the store brand Parent’s Choice Formula. Exclusively available at Walmart stores, this infant formula is being sold at a fair and just price with the same nutrient specifications you can find with other formulas. Aside from that, the good news is special cans of Parent’s Choice Infant Formula are currently on sale but for a limited time only. Parents can buy two cans for just $10. How? Check it out below:

Parent’s Choice Milk Infant Formula is on sale in a 15.5 oz (440 gram) can for $5.00 each.
Parent’s Choice Gentle Infant Formula for babies with fussiness or gas is on sale in a special 12.9 oz (366 gram) can for $5.00 each.

Thanks to these store-brand formulas! They are giving parents the best option they can have for their beloved babies and easing the financial burns.

Shop & Share: Stars give back

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 03:29:00 +0000

Stars (celebrities) give back! In support for all the victims of typhoon Ondoy, Shop and Share website was launched and spearheaded by actress Angel Locsin to extend help. Among others who contributed their personal belongings are Anne Curtis, Dimples Romania, Kris Aquino, Ruffa Gutierrez, Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Richard Gutierrez and a lot more. This move shows that artists know it is payback time. It is time to give back to the people a part of what these devastated people gave them (money, living, fame, etc.).

May this good deed and realization comes to the heart and mind of every Filipino that we need each other to bring change to the Philippines and stand up as one people, one country. With or without calamities, may we always be united and always look at the welfare of our less fortunate brothers and sisters. And may our less fortunate brothers and sisters find in their hearts and minds that in their little way too can help bring change to our country.

Importance & power of web directories

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 05:56:00 +0000

I remember when I was just started setting up my personal blog way back March of 2008, my friend/mentor told me to list down the blog in many web directories as much as I can. Being a newbie in the world of blogging of course I asked then how important it is to add my blog in a certain web directory. Traffic is very important for any blog and listing it to many established and trusted web directories I am much assured that it will help me gain exposures among its searchers. As days go by, I saw visitors coming from the web directories where I listed down my blog from my traffic map and list of referrers.

There is nothing to lose adding a blog from these web directories because most of them are free or you just need to exchange link with them. A very cheap price as compared to wide exposures and endless traffic you will gain for your beloved blog.

Among the biggest and most common web directories in the net is Yahoo! Directory being utilized by bloggers like me as well as business blogs all over the world. Listing my blog on its proper category (and sub-category) give I a chance to be came across by people looking for information that fits my blog’s theme. Gaining traffic in the web will eventually give me a good page rank and with that subsequently make me earn much than what I think of. On the other hand, Business.com is a huge directory for various businesses to list down their site to gain more traffic/visitors and more of that exposures will eventually lead to more sales thus more income.

Of course by now I well understand the importance of web directories and much more of what I gain from it. As long as these web directories exist I know there are more people to come and visit my blog.

Sen. Noynoy Aquino tops SWS survey

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 02:54:00 +0000

Who is the best leader for you to succeed President Gloria Arroyo on 2010?

Social Weather Stations (SWS) conducted a survey last September 18-21 allowing 1,800 adult respondents to give up to 3 names for the question:

Under the present Constitution, the term of Pres. Arroyo is up to 2010 only, and there will be an election for a new President in May 2010. Who do you think are good leaders who should succeed Pres. Arroyo as President? You may give up to three names.

Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III got 60% placing him on the top spot in the people’s best successor to President Arroyo. There is no list of names provided to the respondents to induce the respondents. See the list above for the other candidates and their respective percentages.

Why? Personally, maybe because of the public support of the Filipino for him after former president Cory Aquino died last August 1. We saw the overwhelming love and respect showed by the people when the beloved former president sent to her final resting place. Or maybe because Filipinos are now more concern on the “morality” of the leaders they will vote on the 2010 election. Senator Aquino’s parents demonstrated exemplary leadership in terms of “morality.” How will you like a smart but heartless leader who always thinks on the countrymen on the least?

For Senator Aquino, Congratulations (for now)! It is a long road to take to prove your worth, sincerity and political will to take the highest position in the land and bring the much and long awaited changes for the Filipino people, for a better Philippines.

UNO's initial senatorial line up

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 03:00:00 +0000

Aside from the help and rehabilitation being extended to the victims and places devastated by typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng, in the news too are some political buzzes for the coming 2010 Election.

The United Opposition (UNO), comprised of the Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino (PMP) and the Partido ng Masang Pilipino (PDP-Laban), on Wednesday announced its initial line up of senatorial candidates for the 2010 elections. Among those are the following personalities:

Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile
Senate Pro Tempore Jose "Jinggoy" Estrada
Congressman Teddy Boy Locsin of Makati
Congressman Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. of Ilocos Norte
Congressman Rodolfo "Ongpong" Plaza of Agusan del Sur
Newcomers Grace Poe-Llamanzares, daughter of actor Fernando Poe Jr.
NBN-ZTE whistleblower Joey de Venecia, son of former House Speaker Jose de Venecia
Brig. Gen. Danny Lim
Actor Edu Manzano
Atty. Koko Pimentel (if he decides to drop his case on the SC)
Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago is a guest candidate

There will be one slot available for a possible guest candidate. According to Senator Jinggoy Estrada, former president Joseph Estrada will have his formal announcement for the presidential bid after he finishes distributing relief goods in central and northern Luzon. UNO president and Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay is the chosen one to be his running mate (VP position).

Monetizing a blog

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:34:00 +0000

The personal blog is the kind of blog mostly maintained by millions of bloggers like me around the world. Sometimes it is good to know that we have a ready outlet to absorb things we have in our mind or heart, good or bad. In writing we can express ourselves and sometimes receive helpful comments or appreciation on something good we share to them. I maintained several blogs and I could say I enjoy blogging so much. Thanks to a dear friend Che for her patience and unselfish effort in teaching me.

Secondary issue why a full time housewife like me turns into blogging on spare time is because I well understood that I can monetize my blogs. Sweet deal, isn’t it? While at home, I can take care of my kids and hubby, do the chores and earn on my spare time. I know it sounds like pretty hard to do those things on a daily basis but hey I’m a supermom. LOL. For me it is very important that each member of the family does his/her share (above the best if possible) for the welfare of it.

There are many ways to monetize a blog like posting banners or widgets, pay per click, Google adsense, paid post, commissioning, etc. I monetize my blogs in several ways and one way is getting paid to blog just like most bloggers are in too. It is very flexible since online automated systems like Blog Advertising Store provide a venue where advertisers and bloggers meet for a mutual beneficial relationship. Some involve biddings and some lay down all the qualified opportunities to take and blog about. Of course the advertising rates and the content are not a big deal since details for a certain opportunity is well given. Bloggers get a chance to pick tasks that fit their theme.

Online advertisement is a very cheap or inexpensive form of advertisement for advertisers. Also, they are in control of everything from the content up to the rates. Advertisements are very effective and powerful for promoting products or services especially those on the net because internet forms part of our daily lives.

Happy blogging everyone!!!

Update on Roxas-Sanchez nuptial

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:40:00 +0000

While listening to DZMM as I wash the dishes around past 9am, I heard Ted Failon interviewing his longtime radio partner Korina Sanchez in their program “Tambalang Failon at Sanchez.” The veteran broadcaster Sanchez came over the program to clear something about her upcoming wedding with Liberal Party (LP) vice-presidentiable Senator Mar Roxas.

Sanchez said that the wedding is on the go on October 27, 3:00pm, at Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City. What was withdrawn in the wedding was the reception alone which was intended to be held in Araneta Coliseum. The cost of the reception (food, arrangements, guest artists, etc.) will be donated to different charity groups such as Caritas Manila, the Philippine National Red Cross, Sagip Kapamilya of ABS-CBN and Kapuso Foundation of GMA-7, among others. These are the groups helping the victims of Ondoy and Pepeng. There will be a private and simple wedding reception at Senator Roxas’ home for the entourage, relatives and close friends.
Read here for more.

Kapamilya Shower Na!

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 06:57:00 +0000

A renowned broadcaster Ted Failon conceptualized the shower project called “Kapamilya Shower Na!” to give evacuees a much-needed comfort and hygiene in different evacuation centers who rarely have access to clean water. Most of the centers’ facilities are not capable to accommodate the personal hygiene needs of the people and the places are crowded with people, hot and dirty.

Before pursuing the shower project, Failon raised funds through his famous radio program “Tambalang Failon at Sanchez” for a portalet project. Portalets are much needed too in the evacuation centers because do their “call of nature” anywhere and dump it anywhere.
The first stop over of the shower project was the Ultra Stadium in Pasig City. Evacuees, mostly missed to bath a week or more, were all happy and surprised for this project. Read here for more stories.

Time for gardening

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 06:23:00 +0000

Recent typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng devastated many things (properties, businesses, communication, agriculture, etc.) and even claimed many lives. It really saddens me to see the aftermath and fear for what has yet to come if we still not do something about our nature and surroundings.

At home, my family is lucky to be spared with the raged of both typhoons but not to some relatives. For several days now I am busy gardening, cleaning and beautifying the area. When I look at my garden, the colors, flowers and the aura gives me a feeling of peace and serenity. I have trees and several plants in my garden. The strong wind and rains of typhoon Ondoy brings trash and damage in my garden and that is what I am dealing right now. I cut dead stalks and broken leaves and support plants with stakes against strong wind. Christmas is nearing and I want my garden to be in order and look great again. November till January is the cold and rainy season perfect to work in my garden.

Keep a garden at home to provide shelter and food to other creatures. See as birds and butterflies roam in your beautiful garden. Watch as your fruit-bearing trees and flower-bearing plants bloom. What more is you have a place for your family where you can relax and enjoy the view. Happy gardening!!!

Journey's Arnel Pineda @ Oprah Winfrey Show

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:20:00 +0000

After Charice Pempengco, it is now Arnel Pineda who visited and impressed Oprah Winfrey with his powerful voice and stage performance. The group “Journey” visited Oprah show to promote their latest album, “Revelation.” The group performed “Don’t Stop Believing” in front of the enthusiastic audience and ended the show with another song “Faithfully,” the song that made Arnel Pineda get the job.

The Pinoy singer was star stuck during the interview. He never knew that he will come face to face with Oprah Winfrey for an interview, one of the biggest and powerful women in the world. Congratulations AP and more successes to go!!!

Pag-ibig Fund offers calamity loan

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:50:00 +0000

Pag-ibig Fund is now accepting applications for calamity loans affected by typhoon Ondoy, as announced by Vice President Noli de Castro. Members are given 90 days from the occurrence of the calamity within which to apply for and avail of loans under the program. They can borrow up to 80% of the accumulated savings at 10.75% per annum. Below is the thread from Pag-ibig website:

Pag-IBIG Chief Executive Officer Jaime A. Fabiana said that under the Fund’s Calamity Loan Program, Pag-IBIG members can borrow up to 80% of their total accumulated savings, with an interest rate of 10.75% per annum. The loan has a five-month grace period and is payable in 24 months. The CEO added that members with existing Multi-Purpose Loans (MPLs) can still avail themselves of the assistance. However, the outstanding MPL balance will be deducted from the proceeds of their calamity loan.

To qualify, applicants must be residents of localities declared as calamity areas who have paid at least 24 monthly contributions, and are active members at the time of application. They must continue to remit their contributions during the term of the loan.

To date, Metro Manila and 25 other provinces in Luzon have been declared under a state of calamity. These include the provinces of Aurora, Quirino, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Viscaya, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Zambales, Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Quezon, Isabela, the Mt. Province, Ifugao, Benquet, La Union, Batangas, Cavite, Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Camarines Norte and Bataan.

For inquiries about the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Program, members in the NCR can call the HDMF Call Center at 724-4244 or the nearest branch in their area.

Passages from Mother Teresa

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:24:00 +0000

I got this in my inbox coming from a dear friend Donz Vinzon and I want to share it with you my dear readers. Many of us experience these on our daily lives. But hey don’t worry! What is important is that we live our lives on what is good and pleases God, that matters above all.

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,people may cheat you;
Be honest anyway.

What you spend years building,someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis,it is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

-Mother Teresa

"Pilipinas Got Talent" @ ABS-CBN Network

noreply@blogger.com (Crissy) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:25:00 +0000

It is official. ABS-CBN Network acquired the “Got Talent” franchise, a British television format conceived and owned by judege Simon Cowell of “American Idol,” and this latest reality-based talent show will be called “Pilipinas Got Talent.” This newest reality television series patterned after the popular “Britain’s Got Talent” and “America’s Got Talent” will open opportunities to other talented Filipinos who are not been discovered yet. Similar to other “Got Talent” series, the Philippines’ version of this show will also feature singers, dancers, magicians, comedians and other performers from all ages.

According to Wikipedia, the “Got Talent” franchise is one of the fastest growing international franchises raging over 20 countries along with “The Weakest Link,” “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?, “Dancing with the Stars” and “Pop Idol.”

Congratulations to Kapamilya Network!!!