Loot Bags for Cadayunan Primary School Christmas Party

Last December, CDO Bloggers Inc went to Cadayunan Primary School in Besigan for our Christmas Outreach Program. But then, when we went there, the toothbrushes from Firefly Toothbrush had not arrived yet. They did arrive three days after. So we resolved in going back to Cadayunan Primary School for a Loot Bag giving during their Christmas party which was scheduled on December 16, 2011.

However, in the evening of December 13, 2011 we received word that the kids will be coming to the city on the 16th, and that their Christmas Party had been moved earlier by a day, December 15, 2011. Because the schedule was moved, we have not been able to go there for each of our personal reasons and schedules plotted beforehand. So instead, we opted to simply send the loot through their adviser, Sir Joseph.

 We were so lucky that Guard Insect Repellent Lotion was added to the loot.

And while toothbrushes were given by Firefly Toothbrush, blogger friend, Dhadha Garcia, provided the toothpastes that we added in the Christmas pack.

I met Sir Joseph at Jollibee Carmen, which was the meeting point during the previous trip to Besigan.

I was so thankful that Lili's Christmas party was scheduled December 19, for most of the members were busy with kids' Christmas parties at their schools, and all other Christmas related engagements that day. At least, I was able to meet their adviser as early as 6 A.M., and when I met him, I learned that he and Teacher Reyn were still busy cooking food to be brought to Besigan.. 

Well, we all know that December 16 midnight and December 17, 2011 was the infamous TS Sendong tragedy. This is actually a long overdue post due to TS Sendong complications from December 2011 onwards.

It was only in February 2012 that I saw the pictures of the kids during their Christmas Party.. 

I am glad that the kids are okay after TS Sendong also hit some parts of Besigan. I am happy that they liked our small token of love.. 

And they are all thankful to all sponsors too. Thank you so much for making the kids at Cadayunan Primary School happy..

Aside from the items above, included inside the loot are candies, toys, biscuits and cookies and money tokens for each kid. Below is what each child will get inside the loot bag...

Thanks to my friend Amy for the money tokens. The plan was to give them inside Red Pockets, but changes went with the changes in the schedule.. We are glad Teacher Joseph made it possible for us to still send what we all wanted to give..

I would also like to thank Mommy Raya, another mommy blogger who lives in Thailand for the candies. The biscuits and cookies were from our own stock at home. My daughter told me that she wanted to give them away for the kids at Cadayunan Primary School, after seeing all the photos of our previous visit.

Now
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Things To Look For In A Freight Shipping Company

Some things that you need to consider when looking for a freight shipping company.

Sending and transporting cargo via freight shipping is no simple matter. Various factors can affect not just the delivery time, but also the overall condition of your cargo. This is extremely important especially if your cargo is of sensitive nature, of great value, expensive, fragile, or of personal importance.

To make sure you get the best freight shipping services available, here are some of the things that you should look for.

·         Local pickups. An excellent shipping company takes the responsibility of transporting your cargo from the source all the way to its destination. In other words, a good shipping company takes the worry of taking the package from your house to the company or to any other packaging center away from your hands. No, it’s not supposed to be an extra service. It’s more like a show of confidence on the company’s part. If they aren’t even confident enough in transporting your package from your house to the delivery or packaging centers, then what more to the cargo’s intended destination?

·         Versatile packaging services. Second, freight shipping companies should cater to its customers’ needs and requests. They should be versatile enough to be able to accommodate any type of package and have the appropriate means to safeguard the cargo. Freight Dynamics, for example, offers custom packaging services like foam-in-place packaging, palletizing, or completely customizable crating. Others, however, are limited to just standard-sized crates, bubble-wraps, and shrink-wraps. If you’re looking for a secure shipping company to take care of your valuable cargoes, go for the one that offers you the most choices of security and packaging systems.

·         Complete packaging, storage and transportation system in one. Most freight shipping companies partner with cheap freight moving services and other third party movers to complete the transfer of their cargos. In other words, they outsource some of the work that they promised to deliver. How exactly does this affect your package? Since third party groups don’t necessarily have the same commitment as the original freight shipping company you chose, you cannot expect them to place the same amount of care on your cargo as the first shipper you talked to. In contrast to this, if your shipping company is a complete system on its own, complete with movers all the way to local delivery crews, they are the only ones who would handle your cargo. They would put better care of your things.

·         Warehousing and Distribution Services coupled with real-time Inventory Monitoring. For special cargoes that require inventories, only a limited number of shipping companies offer warehousing services and meticulous distribution services. And even for the few who do, even fewer real-time online access to inventory monitoring. So if your cargo is of the same sensitive type, better look for these specialized shipping companies. 

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Bathroom Lighting..

Ever since Sendong happened, we are at the mercy of our tight budget. However, when it comes to bathroom lighting, and all other important things in the house, we do spend wisely. Sometimes, we are able to spend a huge sum, if only, it's for the best benefit. I mean, yes, contemporary bathroom lighting is nice, but if you speak about lights that can drive away mosquitoes, then it will come more appealing. 

 On the contrary, since my parents are about to plan the design for the new house that they are going to transfer to, in May, lighting, and decor are two important things they are actually considering. So from time to time, we do visit websites that offer ideas, and those that actually sell lighting and fixtures that are within the budget range. 

My mother saw this really nice golden bronze bathroom lighting which is on sale now at half the price. It is a lovely piece that can add not only beauty, but light to a bathroom. What's more, it gives a bathroom personality and charm. Surely, anyone would love to stay in a bathroom with such lighting fixture. Of course, there are other designs to complement the aesthetics of any room, be it a bathroom, living room, dining room, bedroom or even the kitchen. But if it's more on bathroom lighting, I suggest you too should explore The Bathroom Lighting Outlet. I think I will need to explore some more so I can find more designs at the site, that I can suggest to my parents.

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Being an Online Media..

I received an invitation to be in Butuan City this weekend for some media event. This is what I love about my current occupation. You get invitations to travel for free, and get the latest news and updates too. What's more, we get to be part of the media, being that bloggers are actually online media people, minus the fee of course. Anyhow, we get the greatest advantage as our scope is infinite.

Actually, this invitation is not the first. Two years ago, we were also invited to be in Manila for the launching of a certain program by Alaxan and the Department of Labor and Employment. Locally, we do cover certain events too. We've been to openings of establishments, installation of important persons in certain organizations, and many others. Aside from doing tasks and finishing online assignments, these offline gigs surely make happy.

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Must Be...

The other day, I met doctors and nurses who are on duty but are not wearing their medical uniforms. Well, technically, they are on duty because they are doing some outreach tasks in one of the evacuation centers. I noticed that they are quite young to be doctors and nurses. They look like high school students or college students in their freshmen year. 

But then again, maybe they just look young. I was staring at the identification card of one of them just to ensure that I am not dreaming. But while one of  the lady doctors opened her bag, I noticed the food she had inside, which was actually what she was trying to get anyway. She took out a sandwich, an apple and a chocolate drink of some known brand of food supplement. So it got me thinking that the said brand of food supplement truly works. Hahaha.. Are you thinking what I am thinking?

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Calling college kids! Help transform communities with the Filipino youth

Young minds coming together can spark great ideas. 

Believing in the youth’s ideas and their desire to make a positive difference, Unilab Ideas Positive, a social marketing clinic and competition-in-one, provides a venue for college students to share their innovative and sustainable ideas to address the health and wellness concerns of their communities—and turn those ideas into reality.

To help the youth turn their ideas into concrete health and wellness programs for their communities, Unilab Ideas Positive provides them with:

•a 3-day social marketing boot camp, where they learn and understand social marketing approaches from a pool of experts using current and relevant social marketing practices and case studies, and

•a seed money so they can implement their social marketing programs within six months.

Now on its third year, Unilab Ideas Positive gets even better with a focus not only on positive ideas, but also on positive outcomes—creating a difference where it matters, in partnership with the Filipino youth.

What’s new this 2012?

Unilab Ideas Positive is now expanding from Metro Manila to the entire Philippines, covering North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. More college students will, thus, have an opportunity to help transform their chosen communities with their social marketing ideas.

And because more positive ideas will be developed, more communities will benefit. Fifteen (15) teams will each be given Php100,000 seed money from Unilab Foundation for the implementation of social marketing programs—a total of Php1.5 million seed money.

Indeed, it’s an even more exciting Unilab Ideas Positive this year with bigger prizes at stake. But more than the prizes, it’s the opportunity to come together for a shared goal of a healthier nation that makes Unilab Ideas Positive a rewarding venue for the Filipino youth to make a significant contribution where it is needed most.

Want to be part of this transformative journey towards a healthier Philippines? It’s time for you to team up for a healthier nation! Start sharing your idea by visiting www.unilabideaspositive.com

 

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You Need Energy?

Have you heard about party enhancers? I read about K6 herbal incense and some Spiritual powders that help increase or decrease energy levels. A friend of mine even told me about a certain brand, Herbal City LLC products, which are said to be safe. Well, they can not be considered as legal mood enhancing herbal products,if they aren't. The said products help people feel good. That is quite literal. People who go for recreation, people who love the night life, and those who need to be in one place when they feel so tired already. So said products help ease one's stress, or decrease stress levels until relaxation is achieved. They are also said to help depression, as well as anxiety. Workaholics need this, if I may add. 

Anyway, why the interest in Herbal City LLC products? Lately, I have been feeling down. I read that they do not have harmful side effects, so I guess they're worth a try. But of course, I wouldn't want to rely on the product only. I have engaged myself in exercise and some adjustments in the food intake. More energy giving foods for me.. And lots of positive thoughts...

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Happy Women's Day 2012

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Accomodations Within The Budget

Has anyone tried reservations online for accommodations anywhere in the country and abroad? I once tried booking a reservation online, and I really saved a lot of money doing so. It was during my trip to Davao City, last year, when I joined the Davao Food Appreciation Tour 2010. Then I read about iBilik Philippines. I looked at the different reservations on the list, and somehow I have now another option as well as another idea where to have online reservations, the next time I travel where I will need accommodations. But of course, if we go to places where we have close relatives, it will not be necessary. 

I have also learned that we can actually make a business out of room rentals, as there are now many homes which offer home rentals or room rentals, and they prove to be very helpful for budget travelers. No need to rent an apartment for really long periods of time because there are cheap room rentals on a daily basis. Cool idea, isn't it? And with this I wonder if there'd be people who would be interested to have their homes rented, or offer their extra rooms for such business.

If our house hasn't been included under TS Sendong property damages, I could also include it in the list. Who knows, someone may just be interested in it. After TS Sendong, we realize how beneficial and lucrative the home rental business is. Imagine, our previous apartment takes P 3,700 from us monthly, and the pad is just small with only one room and not so comfortable living space. In this new apartment, the owner took P 16,000 for deposits and down payment, plus all other deposits like maintenance deposit and the like. Apart from that, she will get P 4,800 monthly from me. Sure the apartment is better than the previous one, with two rooms and a bigger living space. But still, it is not as comfortable as we imagine a house to be. But then hey, we all sure can make a compromise. I think when traveling on a budget, we also can do the same.

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Hello March 2012

Hello March 2012. You came so suddenly. I can't believe that in a few days I will turn 36. Whew. What a ripe age for everything in life. I am happy that despite all the challenges and ordeals, I came through them alive and well. Most importantly, I came through with a better perspective and lots of positivity that I am still a happy person regardless of the circumstance. My family is better too. My father finally shaved his beard. Now he does not look like Ramon Mitra, but Virus, the school director from the movie 3 Idiots. Hahaha.. Kidding aside, I am happy that he has done so. It is an indication that he is now okay with his living condition, though he is still naturally coping from the TS Sendong devastation. I can't wait to use the grills with my father's recipe on grilled meat and fish. Now that he is back to his cheerful self, I am sure he will be back exploring in the kitchen, like he's done so before Sendong.

So dear March, cooperate. Please be kinder than December, January and February. Please allow us to fully recover...

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The Beach: A Stress Debriefer

Last Saturday, my family were busy moving things from the pad to the new places of dwelling, for me, my sister and Lili, as well as for my parents and 2 siblings. It was quite tough having to wake up early and carrying such heavy load. But we had a brief beach session after our first round of transfer since the house that my parents will be living in temporarily is 10 minutes away from the beach. 

So we stopped to take a dip, and eventually had our breakfast there. I think we spent more than an hour there. The kids had fun, although it is quite evident for my little brother that he is afraid of drowning, and he talks about the water resembling that of the flooding.. for the first time after more than two months, he was able to articulate his experience and fears during the TS Sendong flash flood. Lili on the other hand, is trying so hard to swim. She said that she should learn how to swim so that she will not be afraid when the next flood will happen. That is of course a great opportunity for debriefing the two.. I believe that kids need to be debriefed every now and then, as the trauma must be faced head on in order to be liberated and for the survivor to fully recover. 

Now, every weekend will be a beach debriefing session with my family. It will also be a bonding session and a swimming lesson day for the two..

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That Angry Bird Birthday Loot

It was a few months back that my daughter attended her classmate's birthday and she got the birthday loot above. The huge Angry Bird was actually a balloon that got scarred so all the air came out of it. What's left is something my daughter would like to make a kite body..I am not really sure how, but my daughter insists that it will just be easy... 

Hmm...

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Kiddie Summer Program

I just arrived from Culinary Institute of Cagayan de Oro, where we were invited to a baking demo by Chef Hasset Go of Med Chef, one of their senior chefs. I found out that they are offering a 4-day Kiddie Chef program for the summer, and I am interested to enroll my daughter who is actually a chef wanna-be. I could also enroll her in a music summer program or learn the guitar like that of j mascis jazzmaster, but I am afraid I do not know where to enroll her. Of course, I could only afford two programs for her this summer, and swimming is one of them already. 

Anyway, I am sure we can decide when summer is near. In the mean time, we just have to focus on her studies, as well as find a better alternative to her school for June. I am no longer happy with her current school so I will transfer her to a new one while it is not yet to late.

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CIC Open House Today..

We were invited to attend the pre-CIC Open House activity where Chef Hasset Go conducted a baking demo dubbed as "My Favorite Cakes Cooking Demo".  It was nice to be able to witness and even join  Chef Hasset Go as he prepared his cakes.

 But then we lacked time to finish the Concorde, so we only had the two cakes below:

The very yummy Caramel Custard Cake and the Chocolate Truffle Cake. Oh, and Chef Hasset Go signed our recipe booklets, while we were given Cookies made by CIC students as tokens.

Well, after the lunch that they served us, all seven of us shared a slice of each cake to taste. And just before we left, we were given umbrellas. So timely because it was really hot outside the building. We did not opt to join the Open House this afternoon for we have so much to do. Anyway, we had fun.. so thanks CIC for the invite.. 

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Growing Up..

Last February 14, 2012, my baby brother bought my mother a flower bouquet from his own pockets. Then I heard him say that he is saving his money for mother's day gifts come May 2012. Oh how my baby brother has grown. Unfortunately, he prefers to buy things rather than make things like cards and all others. My Lili, on the other hand, continues to make cards and story books with her bare hands. I love the thought that the two kids are thoughtful enough to save their allowance for items as well as materials to use for the stuff they want to give. And proudly I can say that such characteristic is distinct with our kiddies at home. I am glad that they are growing up as good persons.

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Sendong Monthsary Today..

We have started cleaning the apartment yesterday, continued clean up this morning and tomorrow we are going to officially move in to a new place-- me, my sister and Lili, but not my parents and siblings.  Although, we are going with them to the house where they will be moving at 4 in the morning. My father says he is not feeling safe in the new apartment, and not comfortable too. For awhile I thought that moving to a bigger space is the solution, but not!  And I do understand why he wants to move to his own property. After two months of being "displaced", a term we usually coined with those who are living "not in their own home", is true to some extent in my father's perspective. Since moving here in the pad, we have not been comfortable with the lessor's attitude. Well, they always have the right to do things according to their rules. That's always the downside when one is renting. And my parents have not been renting for quite a long while. So two months may just be enough for them to live in an uncomfortable set up. 

Anyway, they are moving to a family property in Opol. My father says, he will feel comfortable there because he owns the place. No rules of another person outside the family to follow. Not that we are fond of breaking rules, it's just that some people, especially the eccentric ones, impose rules that are way too much to even understand. But the said move for them is of course just temporary, while waiting for the unit that they have recently applied for in a small community in Gran Europa. Well, the necessary requirements have already been met, but some concerns regarding paperwork and such have taken quite a while.  Anyhow, as soon as they're done, then they will be moving there again. 

I guess you could say that home can never be home unless you will feel comfortable about living in that particular space. As for me and my sister, we'll do the challenge this time, in a more complicated, hopefully rewarding manner. So before the month ends, we shall be divided again, and shall part ways. Hoping for better horizons and a brighter, fruitful, happier future.

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5 Tips For Teaching Your Kids To Be Organized

Kids and disorganization frequently go hand in hand, and although some chaos is typically standard fare when raising kids, it doesn't have to rule your home! Being organized is a skill that anyone can learn. Since most kids are not naturally inclined to be neat, learning this important skill will help them build good habits and self discipline that will contribute to their success in school, career and all areas of life. The following are some simple ways to help your kids learn the art of organization.

1. Hold A Family Strategy Session

Planning how you want to tackle getting your home organized will involve the entire family. Therefore, get everyone involved! Before you present the idea to your kids, create an overview of the areas in your home that are the most disorganized. Once you have done this, hold a family strategy session, letting everyone contribute ideas on how to create order from the chaos. Getting your kids involved will help them feel a sense of ownership, making their participation something to take pride in rather than something to dread.

2. Lead By Example

The easiest way to teach your kids to be organized is to practice what you preach. Start by designating a place for things that are used regularly by all household members. If you are disorganized yourself, this will be a bit of a challenge at first, but don't despair! It will get easier with a little practice. Make a list of things your kids use daily, such as toys or school books, and designate a specific place for these items, making sure that they are returned to the same spot when not in use. As your kids become more consistent, add additional items to the list. Before you know it, you will have organized kids and a well organized home! Remember, too, that the younger you start training your kids to be organized, the easier it will be.

3. Decluttering Your Way To Success

The best organizational plans can quickly end in frustration if your home is hopelessly cluttered! Make decluttering the house a family event. Have everyone go through closets and bedrooms, sorting out unwanted items. Once this is done, have each person designate where different items will go in their area and label it. This will help them to stay organized in the future. By starting with a neat home, it will also be easier to keep it that way.

4. Show and Tell

Sometimes kids will bend the truth, especially when asked if they have completed unpleasant tasks, such as cleaning, organizing or doing their homework. This is when show and tell becomes a crucial step in the organization process. Whether it's cleaning and organizing, or completing their homework, it's best to have them show you exactly what they have done. If they have a heavy homework load, which is common when they are attending junior high and high school, they may simply forget an assignment. By actually examining their work, you can be confident that they have completed all of their assignments. Your kids will also be confident that they will arrive at school ready for class, with their completed homework in hand. It is helpful to get them in the habit of placing completed assignments in their school backpack, leaving it by the door ready for the next school day.

5. Reward Accomplishments

Some might consider rewarding their kids by paying them for helping around the house to be bribery, but it can be a great way to teach responsibility and a strong work ethic. After all, when we report to work each day, we expect to be paid for our efforts. Kids respond equally well to being rewarded for their efforts! Just be sure that the reward offered is realistic pay for the work being performed. Most people wouldn't promise their teenager a Ferrari for simply cleaning their room and taking out the trash. A few dollars allowance each week, or a visit to the local mall for that new CD or outfit they have been talking about, however, might suffice as equitable compensation! Be sure to make it clear that if their room is a mess, homework is incomplete or their chores not done, no reward is forthcoming. James is the employee of a British printer cartridge supplier which means he works with a whole range of toner cartridges and printer ink when he’s not setting up the blog. 

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Bills, Money and Everything Else to See..

I already saw, held and had a photo op with Singapore's biggest currency. Ten thousand Singaporean Dollars, and it's just one bill. Well, it wasn't mine, but my Ilonggo turned Singaporean citizen uncle's money. It was really nice to see that and when I was asked by Singaporean Immigration, on our way back from Johor Bahru, in December 2010, during their standard operating procedures checking of bags, some of them are not even familiar with the bill. Anyway, that's really something. I have yet to see ms70 gold eagles, which I have always been curious about. 

On the lighter note, I have already seen frog legs sold at the wet market. Tempting to buy some, but I have reservations as I do not know how to cook it..

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Barney at Dinosaurs Alive!

Tuesday this week, we went to Lim Ket Kai Center to see the Dinosaurs Alive exhibits. Lili and River enjoyed the exhibit very much.. But then, there are other kids who got scared of the Dinos..

Good thing Barney was there to make them calm down.. Well, kids will always be kids-- 

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Great Time for a Ceramic Ring

There are many people that work hard with their hands. There are many jobs that require physical labor and for you to use your hands a lot to accomplish your work. If you are married you want to be able to wear a wedding band that will always look good and will hold up to your tough jobs. If you fall in to this category you might want to look into getting a ceramic ring. These rings are made from some of the best metal in the world. The name might give you the impression that they aren’t as tough as they are, in fact you might even think these rings would be fragile. This is not a correct assumption. These rings can break but they are very hard to scratch. So if you are working a lot with your hands it is a wise choice to go with ceramic wedding bands Ceramic is a lot newer to the wedding industry than tungsten jewelry but it is making a lot of people happy. People find that a black ceramic ring is so much superior to a black tungsten ring. Black tungsten is simply a tungsten ring that is coated a with pvc coating. This coating has a propensity to wear off. It also looks old and worn when it wears off. The good thing about a black ceramic ring is that it is black all the way through it. So it will never fade or wear off. It is better looking and lasts much longer.

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Cake Journey in Butuan City

I have finally visited Margie's in Butuan City.. I was there last week until Sunday, and I was actually in cake heaven. Not only Margie's but the other cake shops as well. Call it, the cake journey in Butuan City, lol. Well, what good is having a sweet tooth when you do not explore the sweetest possibilities, right? So from Margie's, I was able to taste the Margie's Cookie Monster Cake, as well as the Margie's Sans Rival----

Apart from this, we also got to taste Margie's Thai Rice, I forgot the name, which is actually my cousin's favorite. I love Margie's... The place is really nice. Cozy, intimate and the staff are well trained. They are even very nice and most importantly, they are polite. Of course, the food makes them all stand out. I swear, I will go back to Margie's when I go back to Butuan.. hmm.. Until next trip!

The next day, we decided to go to St. Joseph Cathedral, and attend the first Friday mass. Soon after, we headed to Red Apple. The food at Red Apple in Butuan City had always been commendable. I have often tasted treats from them because my aunt usually buys pasalubong from them. But that day we dropped by, was my first time to dine there. The staff were NOT nice. I didn't like how they answer questions, while the cashier was too nosy.  

Anyhow, I liked Red Apple Casava Pie and the Red Apple Sacher Torte that we ordered. Unfortunately, I find their drinks too expensive. Imagine, that sakto size for P 18?

Anyway, since food is nice at Red Apple, I could actually NOT stop patronizing them. But since service is bad, and the staff are not that friendly, I will not go back to dine there again. Maybe just buy some food, take it home and that's it. The ambiance there is not that good too. It's pricey, but it's not at all worth the price. It is just like a fastfood center only, the servers at Red Apple are  not cautious of how they treat their guests. So instead of me ordering a birthday cake for my cousin, I did not. Which is actually good because I would not be able to discover Baker's Joy.

Baker's Joy in Butuan City is probably second to Margie's. At least if I will rank all three cake shops in Butuan City. At nine in the morning of the 4th, we went to Baker's Joy in M. Calo Street and the moment we entered the place, I loved all the delicious aromas coming from their kitchen. And the cake display is full, and fresh. Upon seeing two of my favorites, we immediately ordered Baker's Joy Nelusco Cake and Baker's Joy Brazo de Mercedes. It was a heavenly morning for me and my sister. Sweet breakfast, if I may add. Then my sister said we should try their brownie, and it was a delight. 

For my cousin, we bought her Baker's Joy Double Chocolate Cake. It was amazingly perfect. Chocolate goodness that is not too sweet nor overpowering. What's even more delightful is the fact that the cakes and pastries at Baker's Joy are not expensive at all. Oh, and the staff at Baker's Joy are wonderful. They were courteous and helpful. I wish Red Apple would follow suit and train their staff similar to Margie's and Baker's Joy.. 

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Our Neighbor

My neighbor was asking my brother for some wire ducts to use in their home. Since we have not returned to Balulang after Sendong, my brother has not been able to give him his request. I pity this meighbor of ours because they have loaned a huge amount of money for capital as they have just opened a new business before Sendong ravaged the city.

When Sendong hit our place, their makeshift store inside their home were all washed out because the grills and their fence collapsed. Even their refrigerator had been lost. So in time of recovery, they were only able to recover a few things, but not their bread and butter.

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Organizing Your Financial Needs

The main thing you should remember when planning a budget to manage your financial needs is that even the greatest plan can and will fall apart in the face of emergency issues unplanned for.

The First Steps

Do what it takes to organize mentally the information as well. Writing or typing your budget with a variety of colors can help encourage building a better memory of all of the different elements and details.

1. Spend a week writing down every cent you spend. Once you have established a system, input that into an office file, template, or even an application for budget management.
2. On your calendar, write the due dates of every bill you have along with that months bill amount due, or at worst, a healthy average.
3. If it would be beneficial to have a specific bill due at a different time of the month, try to call those creditors and see if it can be arranged, often they will work with you to prorate a bill one month to get you on a better track for the future.

Remember, if you have an emergency that arises in the middle of your strictly planned budget, and you will, do not hesitate to take out short-term no fax payday loans from PayDay One.

In this way you can supplement your budget temporarily, without taking a chunk from your bank account and destroying all of the things that drove you to budget your finances in the first place.

Additional tips to help keep your budget organized and prepared for emergencies when at all possible can include:

• Never write checks unless the money is there, now.
• Do not put anything short of necessary emergency medical help on a credit card.
• Always save something from every working household member's paycheck. Even five dollar donations can truly add up and help in a pinch.
• If your property or vehicle is the most vital element of your livelihood, be sure to protect them with no fax payday loans from PayDay One to protect your investments at all cost.

Even when the economy is thriving, it is important to retain a working knowledge grasp on your family's expenditures. Following a budget can reap rewards for all in the forms of enjoyable household upgrades or even vacations. Balancing out a budget with strict practices that provide enjoyable rewards is also a great way to teach children a good system for life.

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Prepping My Vision Board

I saw an ad online that is actually inquiring about where to buy an electric pool heater. At first glance I thought that the post was for selling one but when I read it again, it was actually an inquiry. Well, I don't exactly know the answer but it led me to search for it online. I guess I was just excited prepping my vision board, lol. 

In my vision board, you will not only see images of places, houses, and all others common in one's wish board. Mine includes the small stuff as well. So that the house includes a pool, and of course, what type of design it will have as well as its accessories. Thus, the interest in the ad. 

My daughter is even more accurate in the hair style and dresses that she had included, as well as the toys that she wants. The doll house that she dreams of, the cool stuff to place in them. It's like mom and daughter are designing lives with just pictures. And we are having fun too.

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Do You Think This Is Safe?

I saw this shared at Facebook. But I have doubts whether it is safe for my laptop or not. Of course, it would NOT be safe for the safe conscious, but perhaps it can be something useful at some point..

Now tell me what you think...


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The Von Trapp Family

I found this photo of the Von Trapp Family of The Sound of Music shared by my friends in Facebook. I find it heartwarming, that after 45 years, as was the caption, we can still see them all complete. Reminds me of those melodious songs and the story that was just so dear to most of us who have seen it...

The Family Von Trapp's story in The Sound of Music may be true to life, but I also found out from www.archives.com that the story has been changed quite a bit to fit the storyline of the big screen.. I just love that movie..

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Tips to Consider When Moving Out

Moving out is a big step, but it’s an important one on the road to adulthood. People usually move away from home when they are between 18 and 25, but there is no hard rule about this. It should happen when a person is financially ready to support himself or herself and mature enough to handle the worries of self-sufficiency.

Planning to Move Out

Image via Wikipedia

The most important thing to plan for when moving out is rent. You need to find an apartment that fits within your budget that also has the features you need, such as being close to school or having multiple bedrooms so you can have roommates. Also, remember that the price of rent varies greatly from area to area. For instance, you’ll have to pay more money for apartments for rent in Tampa FL than a smaller area such as Denver CO.

Try to keep your rent as low as possible, especially for your first place until you get a better sense of where your money will be going and what expenses you won’t be able to do without. In addition, there are other costs to worry about other than just the rent when you are moving out. You also need to budget for the following:

• Food: If you’re not used to buying food for yourself, you’d be surprised how expensive it is. When you first move out, plan on budgeting $50-plus per week for groceries. This money can include your toiletries, too. You’ll find out over time what your average weekly cost of groceries is so that you can better budget for the future.

• Utilities: Unless you find an apartment that includes the utilities with your rent, you will have to pay for your gas, electricity and water on separate bills. This can be expensive if you’re not used to turning off the lights when they are not in use. This will probably be $75 or more per month for one person, but there are other factors, such as the age of your apartment and its size that can make this number go up or down.

• Clothing: If you don’t budget a little bit of money each month for your wardrobe, it won’t take long for it to be in shambles. You don’t have to buy expensive clothing, but you should continually add to it and replacing old items.

• Transportation: If you don’t have a car, try to find an apartment that offers easy access to public transportation. You need to be able to get to school or work. If you do have a car, getting an apartment with plenty of parking will make your life a little easier.

These are just a few tips to consider when you’re thinking about moving out. Plan ahead and you will be able to find the perfect apartment for you so that you can live on your own and feel like an adult.

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Lotsa Chocolates

Sendong devastated our lives from December 17 last year until the weeks of Christmas and New Year. Now that it is nearing a month, I could say that we have already bounced back and are feeling the need to move forward, lest we fall back into nothingness. Starting from scratch is not easy. We have to find a new home, and a new environment where we can all have peace of mind and not worry when another flood would come.

One of our friends who gave help during our first few weeks trying to survive Sendong's aftermath gave us lots of chocolates . I couldn't figure out why chocolates were given, and not candies. Then, it dawned on me that since chocolates provide immediate energy at half the time, then it is such a great idea. However, lots of water is necessary so as not to contract sugar related diseases. They were all yummy chocolates which we plan to buy, unfortunately, they are not available locally. 

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Bouncing Back

It's almost a month after that Sendong tragedy struck our city. Survivors are now bouncing back, and living life as normally as possible. Some manage to go back to their workplaces and do what's best to survive further. Some even went back to their houses and lived lives as if nothing has happened. While for others, whose houses are no longer livable, have moved to a new house, in a new environment. Some have even managed to go shopping already. Buying new clothes, necklaces with titanium pendants, shoes, bags, or whatever they fancy. On the other hand, majority of the TS Sendong victims are still at the evacuation centers and some of them have slowly been relocated to the tent City in Canitoan.

Sadly, there were those who have not really been relocated that chose to end their lives like Roy Navarro for  instance, who committed suicide after learning that he and his family were not included in the list for evacuees to be relocated. It would have been comforting if someone briefed the evacuees prior to the start of relocation.

As for my family, I am happy that everyone's bouncing back. Adults now back to work, and kids back to school. Somehow, we are now able to see a brighter future ahead.. I hope everyone does too.

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to help solve sanitation problems in evacuation centers

One of the major concerns at the evacuation centers as well as at the relocation site for Sendong victims, is sanitation and a place where evacuees can move their wastes.. So here is a $700 portable...  or what's inside it..

I remember last week I reposted on my wall at Facebook about the ecosan, and I am so happy that it caught a reader's attention, and to that effect, a donor.. Thank you Roa-Hammond Family... I am actually reposting it here for a wider reach...

TO THOSE WHO STILL WANT TO DONATE: Here's one good cause to help solve sanitation problems in evacuation centers. Elmer Sayre, XU Aggie Alumni and head of an NGO (Water, Agroforestry, Nutrition and Development Foundation, Inc), have started building portable toilets for Macasandig and West City Central. So far, a total of 15 toilets have been built and now operational have stopped open defecation. Other evacuation centers are clamoring for more, but the NGO's funds is running out. The NGO is calling out for donations for this cause. For every donated portable toilet (P8000), the NGO will match it 100%. If you are interested in helping CDO's sanitation, here's the contact details:

CONTACT PERSON: Elmer Sayre
PHONE: 09218041573
EMAIL ADDRESS: elmer2222001@yahoo.com

WEBSITES:http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/health-sanitation-and-food-security-for-3000-filipinos/ and http://www.wandphilsorg.com/

Anyway, I have read about the project of Mr. Elmer Sayre, and I am happy to find that his ecosan is even much better than the $700 portable shown above. The ecosan is actually good for the environment. The toilets can be placed anywhere, as it is easy to transport, easy to use, does not need water and best of all,  recycle human waste to fertilizer.... It may be simple looking, but it is what we need at this time. It's cheaper too. If one donates at the cost of P 8,000, WAND Foundation will match it 100%, meaning, you get two ecosan toilets installed. One toilet including 2 weeks supply of toilet paper, soap, and all others cost about 186 USD. Please contact elmer2222001@yahoo.com should you wish to donate.

Here are single vault ecosan with EcoPee urinals at the side... Transporting pre-fabricated ecosan units  is easy, and four can actually fit in a lory.

In case you are wondering how waste is taken from the units, the feces container is actually rattan basket which is lined with heavy duty sack, and a garbage bag. 

Since the problem here in Cagayan de Oro City, after Sendong is water, the ecosan toilets can really help minimize water and sanitation problems. I hope many more agencies and organizations will help provide potable waterless toilets like the ecosan units in the many evacuation centers in the city..

Oh and I should like to point out that this great idea came from an Internationally multi-awarded Filipino named Elmer Sayre from Initao, Misamis Oriental.. Proudly Filipino and a Mindanaoan... (Photo credit goes to him as well, as I have simply borrowed the three images from his FB account.)

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