EMAIL FROM MAAM JO OF ECPAT

07 March 2009

Dear Friends: Children’s sexual exploitation is redefined with technology itself opening new dimensions of their further victimization if left unchecked or unregulated. ECPAT (2005) cites the following harms that cyberspace brings to children and young people: 1) production, distribution and use of materials depicting child sexual abuse; 2) online solicitation or ‘grooming’ (securing a child’s trust in order to draw them into a situation where they may be harmed); 3) exposure to: age-inappropriate, illegal or harmful materials which can cause psychological harm, lead to physical harm, or facilitate some other detriment to a child or young person; and 4) harassment and intimidation, including bullying. ECPAT, in cooperation with the Commission on Information and Communications Technology (CICT)-National Cyber Security Office, the Information Systems Security Society of the Philippines (ISSP) and UNICEF, will hold the Sub-national Conference of Internet Café Owners against Child Pornography on Tuesday, March 10, 2009 at the Bayview Park Hotel, Manila. The conference carries the theme “Making Cyberspace Safe for Children’. We are pleased to invite you to watch it live from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM by clicking on this link: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/ecpat Target Participants include the following: Internet Café Shop Owners IT software/hardware vendors, ISPs, mobile and telecommunications companies, credit card and fund transfer companies IT professionals (groups & individuals) IT schools & students Policy makers Children & YP Secretary Ray Anthony Roxas-Chua III, chairman, CICT will give the Keynote Speech while Sen. Jamby Madrigal and Rep. Matias Defensor, will present the Senate and House versions of the Anti-Child Pornography bills. JOSEFINA ENCENSO ALFORQUE Coordinator Advocacy & Campaigns ECPAT PHILIPPINES End Child Prostitution Child Pornography and the Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes 143 V. Luna Rd. Ext. Anonas Sikatuna Village, Diliman Quezon City Tel : +632 9208151 or +632 441 5108 Fax: +632 9299642

BEAUTIFUL PICTURES

My sister's friend, Sheena, was searching for San Francisco pictures to put in her report. She said their teacher assigned them to compile pictures of places in the United States. She is a second courser, taking up tourism as her second course. She has already compiled pictures from the other places except for those from San Francisco. So she visited me today here at Honeysweet for help. Whew... took me about thirty minutes to get beautiful pictures. I found them mostly from www.rwongphoto.com, a site dedicated for stock photos and fine art photography prints.

It amazes me how the pictures in the site were taken. Very good lighting and photography techniques and styles. AH! The eye of the photographer, as well as the hand that guided his craft.

So anyway, Sheena left happy and excited, while I too am happy for having helped a friend in need.

THE PHILIPPINES & ASIA --- A DNEERO SURVEY..

I always like doing surveys for Dneero. What's making me all the more happy is the fact that now, they have included The Philippines in the topics for discussion. Isn't that great? At least now, we Filipino Dneeroiates have something to think about and be proud about...

Here's the survey guys... enjoy...

By the way, if you wish to join, please click here.

Whew... It's Okay, I can breathe now...

After the case was arraigned, we left the court room. I am very lucky that my Aunt Irma and cousin Red were with me today. My friends Baby and Honey, would have come but I informed them that we left the building already. God is so good to me, for I have all my friends supporting me in this fight. I was uncomfortable going there without somebody with me for I know L and I would end up talking with each other again, and he would play by me again, acting like the little boy who lost his grip from his mommy's hand and got lost...That is always how he plays with my emotions...for he knows he can do that to me all the time...But not anymore.... So since I have someone to talk to, I did not need to talk to L... He was alone. Ninin came minutes after. Now that the case was arraigned, he can withdraw. I heard that L's lawyer is his brother's Ninang (godmother), the family oriented judge... Oh well, that would then be so ironic... Hmm...get my point???

Anyway, I am just happy that we did not get to talk... This non talking phase is all I need to keep my focus. NO MORE EMOTIONS INVOLVED. I do not want to be angry or upset by his existence... I just want justice, where everything good will fall into place... NO AMICABLE SETTLEMENT!!!

EVERY PRICE

Are you looking for a site where you can save more money when you purchase goods and stuff? From Video Games, digital cameras, watches, clothes, gadgets and everything you fancy? At EveryPrice, you get your money's worth... See you can even compare prices with other stores before you finally buy the items you have chosen. That's value for your money indeed.

Knowing how much you can save is definitely a good take when buying items. One time I felt cheated because I bought something somewhere with a price that is five times the price of another store I came across with after having done the purchase. See?

Anyway, if you are interested and would like to know what you can get from www.everyprice.com, visit their site today... Visit and you will be amazed...

The Philippines @ Dneero

REAL ESTATE

I read that Wilmington NC Real Estate is a great find. I was just doing my rounds today when I chanced upon www.coastalcarolinaproperties.com, and of course all the available lots and lands were there for the
taking...


Wow...I wish to own one with my own earnings. Buying a land or lot with your own earnings is different
from getting a lot or land by inheritance or by donation. There is a different feeling associated with the
purchase and ownership of course. Way back, I always dreamed of owning a lot overlooking the sea, with
the woods or forests behind it. That, to me is a piece of heaven on earth... I just wonder if such residential
space exists. Oh well, Maybe there is something of that sort to find. But if there are none, then a beach
house would do...
So friends if you are also looking into that, feel free to visit www.coastalcarolinaproperties.com.
You will find what you will need there.


Bubye for now...Got to go to my class....

A GOOD START OF MY DAY...

My good old friend and fellow Montessorian Karl dela Peña sent me an inspiring text this morning. Here is goes...

"Everything you need is already in your life, merely awaiting recognition of it. Anything unrecognized remains uncelebrated. Anything you refuse to celebrate eventually exits your life...a GIFT.. a MIRACLE... or a PERSON..."

I am sharing this with you because I believe all of us are amenable of losing that we do not recognize...and when it's no longer there, then we realize we need it badly...most times, it will already be difficult to be able to get it back...

furniture anyone?

Who have seen leather sleigh beds? I have not seen one in real life but when I browsed the net today, I saw one at www.furniturefromhome.com. They have so many kinds of interesting furniture. I have seen a lot of designs to choose from. They also have Home Office Furniture that go well with the current trends and lifestyles...wow... I surely want one for the orange house... But for the orange house I would like to add dining room furniture, which will be perfect for family cook offs showcase..hahaha... I did mention in my previous posts that I love to cook as well as love to eat and prepare for my loved ones, didn't I?

And speaking of furniture, I am taking down my old stuff my my parent's house to the orange house... I wonder what more I can add to make it sun shiny and bright...hahahaha... 

Oh well, I think I will have to wait when budget is okay for me to start buying new stuff... For now, I love the orange house as it is...spacious and worry free...

ANOTHER CHAT SITE

Many of my friends are into social networks and chat sites. They have devoted a few minutes to an hour for chatting or social networking to expand their network of friends and some, have also made use of teh said media for business.. Ahahahhaha...

But of course those who have found something worth their while would always advice to join social networks and chat sites. Reasons may vary but FUN is always spelled out as one of the reasons... My Cherry Ann told me it is more than fun...So I joined another chat site today. Free LDS Chat is a good place if you are looking for more friends online. You are always assured that the people you chat with are OKAY... I mean, you can be yourself and still maintain your privacy. So if you are looking for more friends or would like to find romance, just visit that site.

My friend Amy recommended the site and guess what?  It is where she and Roger met. Who is Roger? Of course, Amy's great love. Hahaha... 

Although we hear a lot of really negative reviews form other chat sites, in this site you are assured that it is safe, based on the reviews for the said site...

If you are curious enough visit them at www.ldschatcity.com, and see for yourself... 

It's never too early or too late to be happy you know...

SOUTH PACIFIC at Rodelsa Hall

Watched South Pacific at Rodelsa Hall tonight with Gagay and cousin Red. DTR and Ash could not make it so the three of us just went ahead.

It was okay. Some scenes were good while still others are bland. I was not there for some critiquing so it's fine. No big deal. We got FREE entrance anyway... hahaha, kidding aside, theater affiliations, that is. Hehehe... We always support the theater scene in Cagayan de Oro City... that makes a cultured individual... hahaha... And Zarelle will also be raised the same way... wink..wink...

What a better way for me to relax and take away my stress related jitters. Oh well, it was good. Hahaha...very cold too. I should have taken pictures, but Theater Etiquette dictates NOT to... so No pictures here... I love the backdrop--- Bali High... and of course, some of the funny moments never escape me... I had fun...

Thanks Moshe dear, for the free show. Oh and Lorraine, thanks also...you look lovely as always.

BEAUTY PRODUCTS FOR MOMS-TO-BE....

When one is pregnant, finding beauty products that are safe for both mother and the baby (inside the tummy) is highly important. It is always said that whatever the mother does during pregnancy affects the baby. When I was pregnant with Lili, I was very vain. It was like being vain seven times the normal vanity. Hahaha.. Thrice a week I would have my nails manicured and pedicured and colored in all flashing colors. They were trimmed perfectly with the square tips. I wore make up and I lavishly enjoyed pampering myself like there was no tomorrow. My friends at work cautioned me to be very careful about the beauty products I use. Well, I could say, oour family brand has always been good. No doubts about it. Lili is even enjoying the products now. Hahaha... Too early for vanity? Not quite...hehehe....

Anyway, here's what I have discovered online today. A beauty product that is best for pregnant women. Beaute de Maman, a unique line of health and beauty products, was developed by a board-certified obstetrician to treat problems specifically related to the physiological and hormonal changes which are experienced by women during their period of pregnancy. The said beauty products have made it to Hollywood... That's right! Celebrity moms-to-be including actresses Penelope Ann Miller, Salli Richardson-Whitfield (“Eureka”), Chyler Leigh (“Grey’s Anatomy”) and Jennifer Blanc are said to be patrons of this product. And of course, men of Hollywood are not exempted too. Brooke Mueller Sheen, the wife of actor Charlie Sheen, Jane Hajduk, who married actor Tim Allen, and The Insider’s celebrity correspondent Victoria Recano, can also be counted among expectant Hollywood moms who have been seen and heard referencing various products in the Beauté de Maman line. Imagine that? If you use this said product, you'd feel like a star...you'd level with Hollywood stars!! Amazing!

Oh well, the price to be beautiful is expensive alright. But with the product I discovered online today, I am pretty sure it is worth all your money. Anyway, if you are interested with the product, do visit the website at www.beautedemaman.com. And of course, if you really can't wait, order now!!!

HELP FOR JOSEPH "KIDDO" DEL GALLEGO

Please check out josephdelgallego.info for updates and info about Kiddo. We created this site to express our moral, spiritual, and financial support for Kiddo. Esp. those who have lost touch with him but are reunited thru Facebook, you may leave messages or donate thru paypal or deposit directly thru Kiddo's account. if you're doing the latter, kindly message Kiddo re amount deposited and time the deposit was made. Right now, he just finished his 2nd round of Chemo and has been well enough to attend his son's soccer game. We pray that he is on his way to recovery.

For us, Kiddo's battle w/ cancer is not just about helping out an old friend, it has also come to personify how HOPE and LOVE can help us triumph over the darkest hours of our lives, and we are here to help Kiddo see the light at the end of that tunnel! We need your support and prayers! Pls. forward this message to a friend who may know Kiddo.


Best Regards,
MDOHS '94 Classmates
and
Montessori de Oro Friends from Batch 92...

I LOVE YOU THIS MUCH...

I wish Lazar would listen to this song and think of Zarelle while doing so...

He can't remember
The times that he thought
Does my daddy love me?
Probably not
That didn't stop him
From wishing that he did
Didn't keep him from wanting
Or worshipping him

He guesses he saw him
About once a year
He could still feel the way he felt
Standing in tears
Stretching his arms out
As far as they'd go
Whispering daddy
I want you to know

[Chorus:]
I love you this much
And i'm waiting on you
To make up your mind
Do you love me too?
How ever long it takes
I'm never giving up no matter what
I love you this much

He grew to hate him for what he had done
'cause what kind of father
Could do that to his son?
He said 'damn you daddy'
The day that he died
The man didn't blink
But the little boy cried

[Chorus:]
I love you this much
And i'm waiting on you
To make up your mind
Do you love me too?
How ever long it takes
I'm never giving up no matter what
I love you this much

Half way through the service
While the choir sang a hymn
He looked up above the preacher
And he sat and stared at him

He said
'forgive me father'
When he realized
That he hadn't been unloved
Or alone all his life
His arms were stretched out
As far as they'd go
Nailed to the cross
For the whole world to know

[Chorus:]
I love you this much
And i'm waiting on you
To make up your mind
Do you love me too?
How ever long it takes
I'm never giving up no matter what
I love you this much

Here's the video too...

NOT ANOTHER "SCANDAL"

I saw the pics of "The New CDO Scandal", they were composed of pictures that are quite distasteful. The girl is too young. Oh my goodness! Another friend showed me a similar scandal only it's from another city, it's called "GenSan Scandal". What kind of youth do we have now? And why do they like posing naked with their partners holding their private parts? And worst, have them spread like a viral infection in just seconds... The girl has a pretty face, but poor thing, she has shown her not fully developed treasures to the world already. And the guy? OMG! He is crazy! They were like having a photo shoot of some sort, only naked...

Anyway, the girl is said to be a CHED Scholar who got kicked out. She was in first year.

If there's one thing I fear for my daughter, is to have a crazy boyfriend who will take pictures of her naked! Stupid kids!! I wonder if their parents have seen their pictures as well....

As a mother, I am pretty sure it will break the heart of the girl's mother.

"people change, so does the heart...
Seize the moment..
For in truth, nobody waits forever:)"

I JUST WANT SILENCE...PLEASE!!!

CORD BLOOD BANKING

Have you ever heard of umbilical cord banking? I have heard of this even before I gave birth to my little princess. And believe me, I am sold to the idea. It is just unfortunate that we do not have CRYO CELL here in the Philippines. See, here are some points to consider cord blood banking.

First of all, Stem cells from the umbilical cord blood are known to treat over 75 diseases, and are used in over 10,000 transplants worldwide. It is said that the value of these stem cells today, will benefit many in the future, as research is ongoing for a number of potential medical miracles that may come in the future. But of course, making the decision to save your baby's cord blood takes thoughtful consideration. And when one has learned all the facts, and decided to save the cells, there is no one better to trust but Cryo-Cell Cord Blood Bank , for the preservation of this potential medical miracle.

The second point raised is that, Stem cells are known also as nature's miracle. The baby's cord blood is rich in stem cells, special cells which are normally found in our bone marrow. Stem cells are responsible for producing all of the mature cells in the blood and immune system. They form the white cells that fight infection, the red cells that carry oxygen, the platelets that promote clotting and the cells of our immune systems. Because of this, they are also known as the master cells in the body.

Now, why should Cryo-Cell be the choice for the preservation of the baby's cord blood? What's with this company? And why should they be trusted for such a heavy burden? It's simple. Cryo-Cell boasts the industry’s highest levels of quality certifications and accreditation., and their U-Cord® Service provides clients superior value and unique features that is worth every effort, time and money. In fact, it is the world’s largest and most established family cord blood banks with over 175,000 clients worldwide, a category-exclusive Upromise® partner and contribute 2% to client’s established Upromise accounts. Plus, there is no extra charge for personal bedside courier service within the United States and in Puerto Rico (only). They will provide a $50,000 Product Quality Guarantee, and a $10,000 Cryo-Cell Cares™ payment to client families to offset personal expenses during transplant procedures. The Client for Life™ program locks in today's pricing for future children. Plus....There is no enrollment fee! They offer a variety of payment plans and financing options to meet almost any budget.

And as an added bonus, if anyone who is going to deliver within the month and enrolls or enrolls and delivers by February 28th, she will be able to receive these said Special Offers!

Remember, UCORD is $300 off, while, Protect Baby, Protect Mom is $400 off.

If you are interested, then I am inviting you to enroll now. Think of the life that can be saved in the future...

BOY & GIRL...

Look how the text changes. Tell me the story. Hmmm... When I first saw this I was telling my sister how corny. But somehow it got me.

Sometimes we react basing on our clouded idea of things. Instead of thinking positively, we embrace the negative and end up crying... I told myself, that girl is crazy... She should have asked the boy... Ahahaha...

And I further commented, that the boy was stupid for not telling the girl the truth...

Well, sometimes... NO! make that most of the time, there are just some reasons for NOT correcting the "false idea" and instead of reaping joy, both parties suffer...

Oh well, sometimes, no matter how much people age, their maturity and decisiveness remains that of a third grader...Ugh!!!

RAPTIVA & ITS ILL EFFECTS...

Do you know what's the latest in health and medicine, parallel to its legalities? Here's a recent FDA warning about the popular Psoriasis drug called Raptiva. The FDA gave out warnings saying that the drug can cause a serious brain infection called Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy or PML. This is a rare, but often deadly, brain infection has adverse complications. And because of this side effects of the said drug, its use is now highly monitored. In line with this, a certain law firm is willing to represent patients who have been injured by this said drug. If you or your loved one has taken Raptiva and have developed PML, meningitis, or suffered another injury, legal rights to financial compensation may be filed against the drug company. The drug producer and the other responsible parties may be liable for your injuries, making you and your family eligible to receive money to compensate you for medical bills and hospitalization, for lost income from the time you were too sick , absences from work which leads to non compensation of loss of the job, pain and suffering, and other damages. If a loved one has died as a result of taking Raptiva, you and your family may qualify for wrongful death damages. In reference, you may visit http://www.youhaverights.com/dangerous-drugs/raptiva or simply go to www.raptivapml.com, and see these facts for yourself.

The U. S. Food and Drug Administration approved Raptiva sometime in October 2003 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis, which is a chronic immune-system disease that cause the surface of the skin to have thick, red, scaly patches to appear. Psoriasis is somehow associated with diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It has been reported that there are as many as 30% of psoriasis patients who have also developed psoriatic arthritis. The statistics show also that there are as many as 7.5 million Americans who are suffering from psoriasis and most of them are subjected to Raptiva with its high media coverage and marketing value.

So guys, if you or anyone needs legal advice regarding these matters, simply contact the persons indicated in the website. I am pretty sure they can help you.

Carrots, Eggs & Coffee

My friend Joy sent me this through my email. I just want to share this with you guys as I know there is a lesson to learned here. Enjoy---

Carrots, Eggs & Coffee

A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee... You will never look at a cup of coffee the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, ' Tell me what you see.'

'Carrots, eggs, and coffee,' she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, 'What does it mean , mother?'

Her mother explained that! each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

'Which are you?' she asked her daughter. 'When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff ? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.


May we all be COFFEE!!!!!! !

THE ORANGE HOUSE

When we moved in the orange house on December 28, last year, the place was really dark. The previous tenant took all the other light bulbs for the light fixtures in the house. My father immediately sent me four boxes of light bulbs to use. The music room had this really nice chandelier but because it had no bulbs when we got there, we were not able to appreciate its beauty and grandeur. It was only when we replaced the bulbs that they shone. The owner of the house really have nice home lighting. They have very good taste.

It is really good to have a well lighted home. Otherwise, we thrive in darkness. Ceiling light fixtures are important especially if you live in an enclosed abode. But the orange house is open, as it has glass all over. Natural light flows in the morning and at night time. However, we keep the kitchen light fixtures on because natural light does not reach the kitchen area. When we sleep, my daughter prefers to have the bathroom light fixtures on so it will be easy for her to run when the need arises.

I just love the orange house. Even if there are just 3 of us living there, and people find it utterly too big for the 3 of us, still, I love it there. I like the thought that I live in a house that is so full of light. Makes me feel safe and secure. Anyway, guys, if you need to have a well lighted home, please go to www.farreys.com. That's where I found so many lovely lighting fixtures that you may be interested in also.

81ST OSCARS WINNERS

here are the list of winners, in case you guys are interested...

Best Supporting Actress- Penelope Cruz (Vicky Cristina Barcelona)
Best Adapted Screenplay- Slumdog Millionaire
Best animation- Wall-E
Best Costume- Design The Dutches
Best Cinematography - Slumdog Millionaire
Best Supporting Actor - Heath Ledger (The Dark Knight)
Best Make-up - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Art Direction- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Short Film- La Maison In Petite Cubes
Best Short Film Live Action - Spielzeugland (Toyland)
Best Original Screenplay - Milk
Best Documentary - Man On Wire
Best Documentary Short Smile Pinki
Best Visual Effect - Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Sound - Slumdog Millionaire
Best Film Editing Slumdog Millionaire
Best Music (Score) - Slumdog Millionaire
Best Music (Song) - Slumdog Millionaire
Best Foreign Language Film- Departures Japan
Best Director - Slumdog Millionaire
Best Actress - Kate Winslet (The Reader)
Best Actor - Sean Penn (Milk)
Best Motion Picture - Slumdog Millionaire

BREAKFAST

My daughter and I had a very yummy NO RICE, NO BREAD Breakfast.

It was nice. We each had a plate which had two kinds of eggs, sausages and corned beef and each, a cup of hot chocolate.

hmmm.....YUMMY...

PHILIPPINE NURSING LICENSURE EXAMINATIONS RESULTS 2009

If you are looking for the results of the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examinations held last November 2008, the result has already been released. Click here to find out if your friends or relatives passed. A few people I know did not make it. But hey, there is always a next time right?

I am so happy to say that TWO (2) of the TOP 10 Board Passers are from my Alma Mater. Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan ranked number one among the schools whose students took the board exams.... GO ATENEO CDO!!!

CONGRATULATIONS NURSES...

YOU'RE MY NUMBER ONE...

I am so crazy. I am not an expert in making a photo slide show or a video but I have signed up to join the Nido Fortified Contest. Ahahaha... And Zarelle does not even drink NIDO, ahahahha... Her milk is PEDIASURE and SUSTAGEN 3+. But I found it fun, so I tried making myself a slide through moviemaker... ahahaha, Will post it soon.. I will still need to edit it though as it is not my final entry yet. Just something I have thought at the moment... Anyway, see the lyrics below.

You’re My Number One

Lyrics by: Sandy Sulit
Music by: Caloy Agawa
Performed by: Sharon Cuneta, with daughters Frankie and Miel Pangilinan

Look at me mom
Shining like the sun
Bright as the day
You’re my number one
And there’s no treasure
That I will cherish like you

And when I smile
They all see you glow
And they all know
You’re my number one
My one and only joy
Is to give you my love

(bridge)
My one love for you
I give through and through
I see you and the signs that bring joy
That all the world can see so clearly

Look at me mom
Shining like the sun
Bright as the day
You’re my number one

MY REASON FOR BEING HAPPY...

I guess all of us have our reasons for being happy. We all have our own reasons for existing in this plane. Much more so, a reason to smile each day despite the currents and tides that hit us rock bottom sometimes.

My reason for being happy is ZARELLE. The one and only person I trust who will love me no matter what, second to my mom. My mom and I have our differences and sometimes with misunderstanding, we do not communicate well. But with my daughter, we talk about everything. And it's funny because she has simple explanations for things that utterly confuses me. Hahaha... Sometimes I feel like I am talking to a 40 year old instead of a 3 year old little girl. I draw my strength in the thought that I have to live longer because she wants me to there for her till the end. And also, I want to live longer to see that she lives well before I pass away.

I have raised her to be open about her thoughts and she exercises freedom of expression. So she tells me what she wants and what she does not want. I do not force her to do the things she is not comfortable with. And she does not force me to do the things which I do not like to do too.

We always hug and kiss. That's the part I like most of all. I love my baby---more than my life.

EVER SINCE THE WORLD BEGUN (SURVIVORS)

I never knew what brought me here
As if somebody led my hand
It seems I hardly had to steer,
My course was planned.

A destiny that guides us all
And by it's hand we rise and fall;
But only for a moment time
Enough to catch our breath again.

And we're just another piece of the puzzle,
Just another part of the plan;
Oh, when life touches the other,
It's so hard to understand.

Still we walk this road together,
We travel through as far as we can;
And we have waited for this moment in time
Ever since the world begun.

Takin' in the times gone by
We wonder how it all began
We never know and still we try to understand.

And even though the seasons change
The reasons still remain the same;
It's love that keeps us holdin' on
Til we can see the sun again

And we're just another piece of the puzzle,
Just another part of the plan;
And we have waited for this moment in time
Ever since the world began.

And I stand alone, a man of stone, against the drivin' rain
And the night it's got your number and the wind it passes your name;
And we search for truth, win or lose to whisper on again.
Where hopes still burns eternal,
We're the people of the plain.

THINK HAPPY THOUGHTS

Today, Nanay Purie was laid to rest at the Divine Shepherd Memorial Gardens. The afternoon of the necrological service is perhaps one of the most important highlights in a burial. It lets one know more about the person that was once alive. Although, ironically, it would have been better if Nanay Purie was able to hear all those words of love and admiration for her as a person, a friend, a neighbor, mother, teacher, aunt, wife, etc. But I guess she knows just how much people will miss her because I believe Nanay Purie already knows, even when she was still alive, that she was loved by the people around her.

There were tears shed, there were smiles shared. There were even jokes cracked. People will surely miss Nanay Purie for her sincerity and uniqueness.

As for me, as I am making this post, I am thinking of Nanay Purie with happy thoughts. Lola Viating will now have a partner in taking care of the clan, as they are our angels looking donw on us. I also know Nanay Purie and Lola Viating are now busy organizing a welcome party for whoever will go next. The younger siblings, Nanay Celing, Nanay Teding and all others may have shed tears but I know they too are anticipating, that when they leave this world, their manangs will be there waiting...

So with Nanay Purie's passing, I think happy thoughts. Nanay Purie have finished her task that's why she had to go. She has fulfilled her purpose, there is no more tasks for her so she needs a time out to relax....

Anyway, I have taken a few pictures of her interment. I shall be adding more and more pictures as soon as the other photographers will send me their shots...

TEAM WOX GROUP WARE

Have you had problems in the area of communication and reporting in each of your companies? Well, all you have to do is "Reunite your company with TeamWox GroupWare"...What is TeamWox Group Ware? Well, according to Mr. Google, it is a system that optimizes organizational processes in any company. This product allows all the corporate information to be combined in one place, thus helping to raise the employee's productivity and with it, the efficiency of the whole company. Isn't that great?

All companies, once they apply the TeamWox Group Ware to their advantage will surely enjoy transparency of all work related activities, efficient work with documents and access from any point in the world, forming a consistent customer relationship policy, effective internal policy and PR. Including of course, the ability to cut costs and gain in productivity.WOW! Impressed yet? I sure am. Anyway, if you have more questions or if you need more information, simply visit their site at www.teamwox.com, and surely, you too will be amazed.

SELF EXPLANATORY---

I LOVE THIS SONG...LOVED THE MOVIE TOO...

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS & MORE...

Today, my student asked help from me. She said she did not have money to pay for Internet use at a cafe so she asked if she can use my PC. Of course, as the adviser, I would certainly be supportive of my children's welfare and development. Assistance is never a question. So I allowed her to use my PC. She was to search for the different musical instruments, and prepare a summary of her report. She had difficulty in doing her search so I assisted her.

We came across a site for all musical instruments. From brass instruments, like trumpets, horns, trombones, etc, to woodwind instruments, like clarinets, oboes, saxophones, etc, to string instruments like violins and violas, cellos, guitar, etc, to percussion instruments like drums, xylophones, cymbals, etc, to keyboard instruments like the piano, organs, etc. There was even an accordion and many others. I was totally amazed because at this site, we found almost all instruments. And they have tips for beginners and professionals. We copied the pictures and added them to her report. Wow. She found really a lot. I didn't mind the printing too. So she had free Internet use and free printing. Hmmm, I guess I can say, by now I have fully embraced my teaching career with all my heart. wink..wink...

Anyway, going back to that site after my student left is also a learning experience. In the site I have learned the many factors to consider when buying musical instruments. And the proper ways to care for them too. Oh, and of course the best part, shopping for musical instruments on this particular site. WOW! The site is not just informative, it also provides the shopper a cashless, worry free and carefree shopping experience, right inside your home. If you are curious, click here.

YUMMY SUNDAY: FOOD DURING THE JUNIOR'S NIGHT...

The food we had during the JN... The venue for the said activity was the Xavier Sports and Country Club. For dinner we had Chicken and Mushrooms, braised beef and rice. For dessert, we had a piece of chocolate moist cake. Yummy foodies...

JUNIOR'S NIGHT @ MOGCHS

I love this look. Thanks Ramil of Carlo Reyes Vamenta Branch for making me look gorgeous. For the price of P 380.00, makeup, hair cut and eye brow trim, I am a satisfied customer. This photo was taken while I was dressing up for the party. Well, Feb. 13, 2009 was the date set for the Junior's Night. All my junior students in Values Ed. were really excited. As the adviser fro 3rd Year Daniel, I had to look presentable as well, as one of the finalists in the Mr. and Ms. JN is one of my kids. And indeed I am so happy that in my second week of teaching at MOGCHS, I have already gone up the stage, proud and smiling as my son in 3-Daniel was given 2 minor awards and of course his ranking for the finals. So I went on stage

The first award given was for Best in Evening Wear. Notice the change in attire? LOL... Well, I had to change since my cream outfit is too flashy. It is sheer enough to show my underwear and I was in a hurry to look for my half slip that should go underneath. Anyway, I love it. The black dress I have kept in my closet for too long already. It helps to have clothes ready for occasions like this. No more renting or buying. Well, I was planning on getting a new dress but I had no time. I am juggling in fact. But hey, the dress is okay, right?

The second minor award he got was Mr. Greenwich 2009, where he will represent MOGCHS also in the citywide activity Greenwich Pizza has planned. I was so excited I was not able to do retouch. Ew...my face was shiny already... Anyway, I have a very nice smile, so perhaps it is still okay...Hahaha...

Moving forward, my student made it only 3rd. And he was telling me that he did his best. I told him it wont matter because as his adviser, the fact that he is one of the top five contenders is enough. It is an honor in itself. And I assured him that of the five, for me he is the best. Of course, he is my son in the school so I should be loyal... Right?

This one here is taken after the show. Before we had dinner. In the picture are all the contestants and all third year advisers. So I am there too... Guess where? Ahehhehe

ARGUE WITH EVERYONE

If you are a person who is into arguments, a political message board is for you. A debate body is tasking as it requires quorum and some budget. But if you are a busy person with a need to argue about anything and everything, then all you have to do is go to www.arguewitheveryone.com, and answer any of the issues you wish to participate in.

Isn't that great? Less cost compared with organizing an actual debates, great people to argue or  have

a debate with, and a safer venue too. Right at the very roof you lay your head when you get tired arguing, lol...

NANAY PURIE DIED TODAY...

Today, our dearly beloved Nanay Purie died of MI, or myocardial infarction. The same heart problem my grandmother Lola Viating died of. I guess it runs in the blood because my father was also diagnosed of MI. Only that his doctor was a good one, and was able to revive him after the attack. Although he is in continued medication, but I am happy he is doing fine.

What is MI? I will discuss this after I do more research, okay? For now, I am so so sad because Nanay Purie is a "complete copy" of my dear Lola Viating, and I miss her terribly. When Lola died, Nanay Purie was the light that shone upon all of us, as she showed us that our dear Lola is still alive through her. Sometimes, I often stare at her and I see my Lola in her... Now the two of them will share orchids and foodies in heaven...

I miss them both... The Golden Girls have now lost two siblings....

TRACING OUR ROOTS...

I made a separate blog for family and in it I have encoded all the information my father gave me. Today, I discovered that a relative left a comment, and an informal introduction. I was more than excited. I have news to tell my father. Unfortunately, I have nothing more to tell as I could not see anything more except her name, Anna Liza Abrogueña Aca-ac. And in her comment for that specific post, she mentioned that she is the granddaughter of Luis and Narcisa Abrogueña, the daughter of Cesar Aguilar Abrogueña. Isn't it exciting? Unfortunately, when I clicked on her blogger profile, I could not find anything there.

Hopefully some light will be shed here and more information may be gathered....

If anyone is interested to share such information, please do contact me.

OF BOOTS ...

My cousin Blue, who is in UK, emailed me this morning and told me that he has something for me, which he will send through his housemate named Stephen. Stephen will be arriving in Cebu on the 28th, so I am excited about what he will bring with him. Blue said it was a blundstone. Huh? What is that? Then of course, I scrolled down the email and found a lovely picture of a shoe. Oh, he meant a Blundstone Stiefel, kinda like the shoe we were eying one time when we went to the mall. Nice. Really nice. Blue added that it is a comfortable pair also. As he himself bought a pair of Blundstone Boots for him to wear at work.

Oh well, if we have to spend for a pair of shoes, we must be certain that the price is right for the comfort and satisfaction we get when we wear the shoes. Otherwise, we do not buy at all. Would you agree with me? Well, like what I mentioned, we've been eying for a pair of shoes like that one at the mall, and dreamily we both promised each other to send the other a pair, whoever gets the extra cash. We could not afford the pair we saw at the mall, mainly because they were utterly expensive. We just could not afford to waste money for the said pair at that time. Oh well, malls in Manila have more than a dozen designer shoe shops, and some expensive names which only the rich can afford. Blue and I were simply part of the minority who can only afford to window shop at these expensive stores. Enjoying the sight and the air-condition, hahaha... Kidding aside, it was one of those fun past times that we do to kill time without suffering our pockets.

Anyway, what's good about the shoe is that both men and women will enjoy them, regardless of age and lifestyle. Isn't that neat? I love it already. Even when they have not arrived yet. So Blue, thanks so much cousin dear. I will surely treasure them. Oh, by the way?Is Stephen single? Hmmm... never mind. hahaha...

BEWARE OF ONLINE SCAMMERS...

This is a post by my friend Sanz, who got scammed through an EBAY transaction. I am reposting this to help her track down teh culprit and perhaps too, warn others about this scammer. For more of this, visit Sanz' Multiply Blog, that's http://sanasanz.multiply.com/journal/item/156/Scammer_Hazeil_L._Cruz for your address bar.

---Start here----

Name: Hazeil Jade L. Cruz
Address: Mabolo, Cebu City 6000
Number: 09052688022
Ebay ID: alwaysonstylehaze

(She had 13 positive feedbacks, 3 of her previous buyers emailed back that they used Gcash to pay her and their items arrived. They already deleted her number and forgot her name cause their transactions were done Aug-Sep 2008 - Users: hwggrivas and lee-808 were the ones who replied in my email, the other one i already deleted.)

The story:

January 29, 2009 - My cellphone went crazy, even plurked about it here.

January 30, 2009 - My phone was officially declared dead. Started looking around for a new phone. Browsed thru ebay and bidded on alot of phones to choose from, from sellers WITH feedbacks. Left for the mall afterwards to have my phone checked.

January 31, 2009 - I went to the mall to canvas cost for phone repair and left my phone there for check-up.

February 1, 2009 - I called repair shop and they informed me phone repair would cost 2,500 so I said I'd just get back my phone coz it was t0o expensive for just repair. When I got back home, I received email from ebay that I won one item.

Item I bidded and won: E71 Complete Package Used

Item details:

Confirmation sent to my email from ebay:

Invoice and message sent afterwards:

I texted the seller after I read the emails. When I texted her and asked where and when in cebu she's going to be available for meet-ups so I could have her and my bestfriend's bf meet, she said she currently left for baguio for a business trip and would return by march. So I asked for her mode of payment, she said Gcash is convenient for her now because she's busy. I still hesitated and even plurked about it.

So I asked for her Gcash details to get her personal info (which is only what's written above). I asked for the total amount with insurance and she said 8810. I withdrew from my savings account and cashed-in at Globe Limketkai. I texted her and said I'd send payment after she sends me actual photo of the unit and box and a photo of the unit turned on and she agreed and sent me photos:

February 3, 2009 - After I received the photos, I sent the amount 8810 thru Gcash (I still have our conversation thru text, the cash-in details from Gcash and the transaction info for the amount I sent to her). She texted back she got the payment and will ship after lunch. And I logged in to ebay and marked the item "payment sent":

An hour later she texted back with tracking number from Air21 - 300 001 734 819, she also said the latest day for it to arrive is Thursday Feb. 5. I tried to track it online but online tracking said the number was invalid so I tried a couple of hours later, which again returned invalid. So I sent her another message confirming the number, she said it was correct and maybe the system was faulty - which I know usually happens most of the time.

February 4, 2009 - I was at work and started feeling weird. Scared and uneasy. I had my sister call Air21 cdo (but unfortunately, they weren't helpful, they shouldn't have answered the phone) so I had her call long distance to Air21 Baguio about it, and they asked for our numbers, also the seller's. They called back the same day that the seller's number was off and shipment from Baguio to CDO would take about 2-3days and that they'd check their receipt files for the said receipt. I was even more worried. So after work, I started to clear my mind and went to the mall. User from ebay, hwggrivas, texted me a couple of times and even called me up and said he was worried for my situation, he also said he paid for Gcash with his transaction with that seller but the seller's name (on his record, he says) was Christine Ong from Iloilo City. I almost cried when he told me this, he adviced me to call using another number and try to get more info from her, I said thanks and headed home. When I got home and checked on her profile again, I saw she relisted the phone again together with a LV Black Mahina XS Purse (item photo you'll see on first photo in this blog). I was even more worried, so I texted her again if she had more e71 cause she relisted it, she replied hours later that she instructed her cousin to relist only the LV bag and was sorry the e71 got relisted, she said she'll unlist the next day when she gets home. I texted her back to give me a copy of air21 receipt and she said she'll email me a copy when she gets home and unlist the item.

February 5, 2009 - The latest ETA of the said unit, guess what? no unit arrived. I wanted to break down but I was still holding on to sis clarashoppe's words that baguio shipment might take about 2-3days to arrive here. I tried to call the seller but her phone just kept ringing but no answer. I tried to text and call user hwggrivas, hoping to get more info from him but he didn't reply nor answer my call too. Same day, I found out her feedback corner is now set to private. So I thought, maybe some of the members I messaged is part of her scam, or she's expecting a negative feedback. I also found out, she ended the relisted item early and gave the latest bidder the current price she bidded. So this means another person is being scammed too.

Here's the cache result from google:

I tried to call her this morning but I couldn't get thru. So did all my other friends who tried to call her, she barred her incoming calls.

I already sent a complaint thru ebay, sent her a message there, and still waiting for their feedback. I will also email Globe and try to ask help from yahoo for traces of her info.

This is rather a very expensive lesson. Hope alot of you will learn to be more vigilant than me. I wasn't ready to spend 2,500 for a phone that's dead - where all my contacts, apointments and such, but I chose to spend that much on a very slightly used, t0o g0od to be true, E71 coz I wanted to be able to access the internet anywhere and have my important documents and such with me.

I have had a few transactions on ebay with even more than that price, and to sellers with lesser feedbacks, but this is just different. Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda.. indeed are the last words of a fool. I just hope she needed the money so bad, and hope her issues - or whatever reason she has to have done this, are solved. I hope she doesn't scam anybody else. I hope in time she'll change her mind and stop doing this stuff coz it won't do her any good.

I will update this blog for more info. I just feel so bad now, I feel like my heart is about to explode.