tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78511124634398091682024-03-19T13:51:35.787+08:00Mrs. GMrs. G shares her tips on successfully operating a household.Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.comBlogger158125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-89375346448178986052009-06-23T18:19:00.006+08:002009-06-23T19:01:19.138+08:00Bayantel Wireless Sucks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh13XGCWmKjMTg3S8My1v_ZGoLOdYumXqQjwAwAZ6ycvgBKi39jWfw_tqdM1jiwNvBl-VgVu-AOEmUVES71GdGl_ahEBDZtmvgKcjeugeJb2r3PRlpRJwUpPPcNKuYn3Ju2w8WhcBx0vhD0/s1600-h/Bayantel.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh13XGCWmKjMTg3S8My1v_ZGoLOdYumXqQjwAwAZ6ycvgBKi39jWfw_tqdM1jiwNvBl-VgVu-AOEmUVES71GdGl_ahEBDZtmvgKcjeugeJb2r3PRlpRJwUpPPcNKuYn3Ju2w8WhcBx0vhD0/s200/Bayantel.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350473111342092930" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">A month after terminating their services, Bayantel is still giving me headaches.<br /><br />I just received another bill from them. When I called customer service, a kind lady told me that their Cubao bayanCENTER has not forwarded any information as to my request for disconnection. This is after I sent the center a letter and called customer service on the same day to inform them of my decision to terminate their services. Good thing that I have a received copy of my letter.<br /><br />They now want me to go back to their Cubao bayanCENTER to confirm my termination request. WHY THE HELL WILL I DO THAT? I already did what I had to do. I've broken up with Bayantel. Why will I go meet him again to remind him that it's over. IT'S OVER BAYANTEL! You've ripped me off long enough.<br /><br />Misery loves company. I am not alone. <a href="http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200802/1202308489.html#comments">Darrel James</a> writes, "<span style="font-style: italic;">I am not the only one that BayanTel has ripped off with this. A lot of people have been complaining and returning their units and giving up their subscriptions. The ratio could be 9 out of 10 users are not satisfied. They are making money with their P500 processing fee instead of their actual monthly service fee.</span>" (Read full article <a href="http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200802/1202308489.html#comments">here</a>)<br /><br />I wonder how Bayantel can still be in business. We victims should do something about this.<br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-10487350035442848932009-05-24T14:11:00.006+08:002009-05-24T14:50:06.631+08:00The Terminator: Sample Termination Letter<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/88/Schere_Gr_99.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 395px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/88/Schere_Gr_99.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Express your dissatisfaction! Complain! Terminate!<br /><br />Below is the termination letter I am sending my wireless phone provider. Their service sucked from Day 1 but it took me more than a year to decide to terminate their services because I was too lazy to draft a termination letter.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />25 May 2009<br /><br />***** CENTER<br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">[Insert the company address here]</span><br /><br />Re : Notice of Termination of Line<br />---------------------------------------<br /><br />Gentlemen:<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> [I am seething mad. I don't have time to be gender sensitive.]</span><br /><br />I am Mrs. G, the subscriber of telephone number 02******* with ***** Wireless Account No. *********. I am terminating my account effective immediately.<br /><br />The unit I was given have not worked properly from the very beginning. If you check my account usage, you will notice that I rarely made or received any calls. My number is always busy or cannot be reached even if I am not using it. It takes almost 15 seconds before my call is connected, if ever it is connected.<br /><br />Last week, I sent my phone unit to your center. My representative was told that I could either pay P3,000 for the repair of the unit or pay P799 for a replacement. I called your customer service center to request for the waiver of the replacement fee but it was flatly refused.<br /><br />Since I could easily get a brand new unit from **** for the same amount it would cost to get a replacement from *****tel, I decided to terminate my account with you and open another one with ****.<br /><br />While I am paying my current bill (May 2009), I am terminating my account immediately because I am dissatisfied with your service. I expect not be charged henceforth.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Signed</span><br />Mrs. G<br /><br />RECEIVED by:<br /><br />_________________________<br />(Name and Signature)<br /><br />Date: ____________________<br /><br />Photo by <a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Horst_Frank/Gallery">Horst Frank</a><br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-71629804241009930972009-04-28T13:27:00.007+08:002009-04-28T13:52:12.188+08:00Tamiflu vs. Swine Flu<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Swine flu</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">! This PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY OF INTERNATIONAL CONCERN is freaking me out. Somebody please give me Tamiflu!<br /><br />According to the </span><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">US Center for Disaster Control</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, "the recommended antiviral drugs for swine influenza are oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu®) and zanamivir (brand name Relenza®). Both are prescription drugs that fight against swine flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in the body. These drugs can prevent infection if taken as a preventative."<br /><br />I am trying to get my hands on at least 2 boxes of Tamiflu. Wish me luck. <br /><br />In the mean time, here are some tips from the </span><a href="http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentSwineFluMexico.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">CDC</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">.<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">PRACTICE HEALTHY HABITS TO HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF SWINE FLU<br /></span><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Wash your hands often with soap and water. This removes germs from your skin and helps prevent diseases from spreading.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Use waterless alcohol-based hand gels (containing at least 60% alcohol) when soap is not available and hands are not visibly dirty.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put your used tissue in a wastebasket.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner (with at least 60% alcohol) when soap and water are not available.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Try to avoid close contact with sick people. (Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">It is important to follow the advice of local health and government authorities. You may be asked to restrict your movement and stay in your home to contain the spread of swine flu.</span></span></li></ul></blockquote></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-40183467142112280042009-04-21T08:29:00.011+08:002009-04-21T11:00:50.830+08:00How to Remove Ink Stains from Longchamp Bags<div><div><a href="http://baglove.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Baglove</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> called me last night to tell me that her HSBC bill, which I'm guessing was laser-printed, stained the lining of her <a href="http://www.magnums.net/prod/LC1899PT">fox orange </a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.magnums.net/prod/LC1899PT">Planetes</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. Imagine her bill permanently imprinted on her bag! I was laughing my ass off until I noticed that she was not laughing with me. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Me, bad friend!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> To redeem myself, I shared with her Teacher J's tip. After around 30 minutes, she texted me to say that the tip worked. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Me, good friend!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Teacher J shared with me her secret to removing ink stains in Longchamp bags. It's MILK! </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Steps:</span></div><div><ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Dip the tip of a wash cloth in milk. Teacher J used evaporated milk but I guess any kind of milk will do.<br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gently rub the milk-soaked tip of the wash cloth in the stained area.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">After each rub, pat dry the area with another clean dry cloth.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Repeat the steps until the stain is gone.</span></li></ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I must admit that I was very skeptical at first but Teacher J swears by it. She already tried it twice on her </span><a href="http://bagaholicboy.blogspot.com/2008/03/longchamp-le-pliage-bd-handbag.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">pink Le Pliage</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> with much success. I finally decided to blog about the tip after Baglove confirmed that it really works. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Note: Pictures to follow</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Check out this link --</span></div><div><a href="http://www.magnums.net/ctgy/LC_Care"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Longchamp Spring/Summer 2009 Collection Material and Care Guidelines</span></a></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-2755739918992789582009-04-18T11:31:00.017+08:002009-04-18T14:34:06.810+08:00How to Get a Philippine Postal ID<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_MOU1WZMH1L_KhuR5IpH1WsuviwWG2MKhiEUv6DDY9Wfcxy6PiT2CEGPiWooV3B_1ij7Dt5h0Nm33MnuDCZs41raOkEERFgOcFvXX_cdZs9YELe60_SRI98oWtwoD_Q1z-Rv7hj96YPc/s1600-h/Blog.Postal+ID+Application+Form+copy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_MOU1WZMH1L_KhuR5IpH1WsuviwWG2MKhiEUv6DDY9Wfcxy6PiT2CEGPiWooV3B_1ij7Dt5h0Nm33MnuDCZs41raOkEERFgOcFvXX_cdZs9YELe60_SRI98oWtwoD_Q1z-Rv7hj96YPc/s320/Blog.Postal+ID+Application+Form+copy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325899036144282578" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">The bank would not let </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Ate S</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> and </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >M</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> open a savings account without 2 valid IDs. Aside from the Condominium IDs issued to the employees of the residents, they don't have any other identification card so the teller suggested that they get Postal IDs.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /><br />HOW TO APPLY FOR A POSTAL ID</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><ol><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Go to the nearest PhilPost Office. It is best if you go to the post office in your zip code. </span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Ask for a copy of the </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Postal ID Application Form</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> or Form No. 391. They will probably give you a photocopy. The form is free here in Quezon City but I heard that some cities charge a minimal fee.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Fill in the upper half portion of the application form with your personal data.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Have your picture taken. You need to attach </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >3 identical 2x2 ID pictures </span><span style="font-size:130%;">with white background to your application form.<br /></span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);font-size:130%;" >After filling up the form and attaching 1 picture, we had the form photocopied so that </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);font-size:130%;" >Ate S </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);font-size:130%;" >and </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);font-size:130%;" >M </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);font-size:130%;" >would have 4 copies each. (1 for the post office, 1 for the barangay, 1 for the notary public and 1 personal copy) This is not required but we did it in case the Barangay Captain and the notary public ask for a copy.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Bring the application form to your Barangay Hall.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Request for a </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Certification from the Barangay Captain that you are a resident of the Barangay</span><span style="font-size:130%;">. The Barangay Captain will fill up the bottom portion of your application form and give you a photocopy of his/her valid ID. He may or may not ask to retain 1 copy of the application form. Our barangay charges P50 for this.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">While you are in the Barangay Hall, get a </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Community Tax Certificate</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> You need this to complete your application form. </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Ate S </span><span style="font-size:130%;">and </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >M </span><span style="font-size:130%;">paid P50 each.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Have the application form duly notarized. There is usually a notary public near barangay halls. The notary public will ask for a copy of the notarized document. Notarization costs around P150 per document.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Go get a NSO certified copy of your </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >birth <u>or</u> marriage certificate</span><span style="font-size:130%;">. (Click <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2009/01/ms-r-to-mrs-g-birth-and-marriage.html">here</a> for tips on how to get one.)<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Submit the following to the post office: 1) Duly accomplished application form [notarized with attached photocopy of the Barangay Captain's valid ID]; 2) 3 pcs. 2x2 ID picture with white background; 3) NSO certified copy of birth or marriage certificate; and 4) P315 postal ID fee. The postal ID fees vary from city to city.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Expect to come back for the ID after a few days. In the case of </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Ate S</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> and </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >M</span><span style="font-size:130%;">, they were able to get the ID after 3 days.</span></li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Estimated Total Cost: P815</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />1. ID Picture - P60<br />2. Barangay Certification - P50<br />3. Community Tax Certificate - P50<br />4. Birth Certificate - P140<br />4. Notarization - P150<br />5. Postal ID Fee - P315<br />6. Others (Transportation, Food, Photocopying) - P50<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;">It is EXPENSIVE. Good thing it is </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >valid for 5 years</span><span style="font-size:130%;">. </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" ><br /><br />Ate S </span><span style="font-size:130%;">and </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >M</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> now both have BPI savings accounts. Their next goal is to get voter IDs.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFI9a4nn55KP5nlWuj6LFOYkD0BKs1z8IEh7xtoe8YF5SJcsvwyYkagG9SfoHD39FqYnpnJ58YVwNB0yv8bU2kzer34EWQJJEEJDltdAweJDotJmjFhcnV87RpGHGqZ9tG6GMgQq-PXMix/s1600-h/Blog.Postal+ID+Sample.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 227px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFI9a4nn55KP5nlWuj6LFOYkD0BKs1z8IEh7xtoe8YF5SJcsvwyYkagG9SfoHD39FqYnpnJ58YVwNB0yv8bU2kzer34EWQJJEEJDltdAweJDotJmjFhcnV87RpGHGqZ9tG6GMgQq-PXMix/s320/Blog.Postal+ID+Sample.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325913517052269682" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >NOTE:</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For applicants without a birth certificate, they have to submit a certification of no record from the Local Civil Registrar or a negative certification from NSO plus any of 2 of the following requirements: baptismal certificate, permanent Elementary School Record 137-E, marriage contract of parents issued by LCR (if single) or marriage contract of applicant (if married) or certificate of Live Birth duly signed and properly filled up.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Instead of a certification from the Barangay Captain, the applicant may submit: a valid NBI clearance; if student, certification from the Principal or School Registrar, together with photocopy of the valid identification card of the Principal or School Registrar; or if employed, certification from the employer with the employer's valid identification card.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Data from <a href="http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p080228.htm&no=87">www.pia.gov.ph</a></span><br /></li></ul>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com73tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-53336431732700524442009-04-15T10:31:00.008+08:002009-04-18T14:32:16.658+08:00Bugged by Bed Bugs!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c7/Adult_bed_bug%2C_Cimex_lectularius.jpg/800px-Adult_bed_bug%2C_Cimex_lectularius.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 200px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c7/Adult_bed_bug%2C_Cimex_lectularius.jpg/800px-Adult_bed_bug%2C_Cimex_lectularius.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;">The bed bugs are coming. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;">The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) worries about bed bugs so much that they hosted the very first </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://www.epa.gov/oppfead1/cb/csb_page/updates/2009/bed-bug-summit.html"><span class="Apple-style-span">bed bug summit</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"> yesterday. This scary </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://www.gmanews.tv/story/157028/Yikes-bedbugs-EPA-looks-to-stop-resurgence"><span class="Apple-style-span">news</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"> was enough to make me come out of my long blogging hiatus. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;">They are like vampires! Bed bugs feed on human blood and are virtually indestructible. There are currently no pesticide or spray that can kill them so prevention is key. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;">Here are some helpful sites on bed bug prevention:</span></div><div><ol><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12133597/"><span class="Apple-style-span">Your Bed Bug Questions Answered by Dateline</span></a><br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_2293179_prevent-bed-bugs.html"><span class="Apple-style-span">How to Prevent Bed Bugs by eHow</span></a><br /></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://thebedbugresource.com/">The Bed Bug Resource</a></span></li></ol></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;">I hate learning about this. One must not underestimate the power of suggestion. I bet I'll be itching and turning in my bed tonight. </span><br /></div></div>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-5672104559918237112009-02-10T18:26:00.004+08:002009-02-10T18:33:54.213+08:00I'm Still Alive<span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">I'm working again.</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/22/Schreibtisch.2.JPG/733px-Schreibtisch.2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 246px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/22/Schreibtisch.2.JPG/733px-Schreibtisch.2.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /><br />Will blog soon.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >No, that's not my desk. That photo came from Wikimedia.</span><br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-4168253237580037102009-01-19T13:32:00.010+08:002009-01-19T14:26:23.596+08:00BPI-Jollibee Promo: Yum-Yum!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIH0NZIEaCNGzfku5FfJtVZxGwpGhyphenhyphenEeMTGfOUzqb8E8P9H48ka9C1_nGORZW9GsR_4btR1SCJ1AYleL0L4xSVo_jUzdYvVbRwY6M4tcRgY8YK1eBfcM-fiKOrRJGYeRdbyHh5Xo85VlNW/s1600-h/BPI+Jollibee+Flyer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 87px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIH0NZIEaCNGzfku5FfJtVZxGwpGhyphenhyphenEeMTGfOUzqb8E8P9H48ka9C1_nGORZW9GsR_4btR1SCJ1AYleL0L4xSVo_jUzdYvVbRwY6M4tcRgY8YK1eBfcM-fiKOrRJGYeRdbyHh5Xo85VlNW/s200/BPI+Jollibee+Flyer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292880847106922786" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shop anywhere and get these FREE!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">At least 1,000: </span><span>Yumburger or Sundae</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">At least 3,000: </span><span>2 pcs. Chicken Joy with Rice</span><br /><br />Armed with the promo flyer, I went to Jollibee today to check if this promo is for real.<br /><br />Well, I have good news and bad news.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">GOOD NEWS: IT'S FOR REAL!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisq_U3Kq9KMAOaLB9WlgpN0AgE0eplW_ON6NLQW8RmVzDvgpsXfxPI40reIecDjsoFIXmbBnpZkpErsD3O5NfJs00SaQIXJXtXYVBeYLnhH_oCr_KT0835mjH65rOwkb865vsFdHzCEeI4/s1600-h/BPI+Jollibee.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisq_U3Kq9KMAOaLB9WlgpN0AgE0eplW_ON6NLQW8RmVzDvgpsXfxPI40reIecDjsoFIXmbBnpZkpErsD3O5NfJs00SaQIXJXtXYVBeYLnhH_oCr_KT0835mjH65rOwkb865vsFdHzCEeI4/s320/BPI+Jollibee.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292875903608478738" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Just present your charge slip and credit card. It's that easy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TIP</span>: If you need to retain a copy of your charge slip, photocopy it first before going to Jollibee. They will get the original.<br /><br />Redemption period is until March 15, 2009.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BAD NEWS: Only receipts from November 15, 2008 to January 15, 2008 will be accepted<br /><br /></span>Promo period is from November 15, 2008 to January 15, 2008 only.<br /><br />I was not able to save all the receipts from last year. Aaaaargh... I think I only have around 5 receipts left here. Sniff...<br /><br />I have until March 15, 2009 to redeem my treats.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">IMPORTANT</span>: Only 1 free food item can be redeemed per charge slip or cash advance receipt. A cardholder is allowed up to 3 redemptions per day per store.<br /><br />GOOD LUCK! Enjoy your Chicken Joy!<br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-35593806392320127632009-01-09T20:30:00.009+08:002009-04-18T15:11:38.724+08:00How to Get Birth and Marriage Certificates: Ms. R to Mrs. G<span style="font-size:130%;">Do you want a copy of my marriage certificate?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77AWF4Vfb9AUlOcb0OgSYAtH-ztLyiGy9IRAuhyphenhyphen24zEPgfLv9ZrvgeCjhOSCZqn-7gqMdjXsH2LgSSc_Qa01CCW47FCv9OPvWzlgUrk3ivhvHRI122kaP52XSdEYkvBGPe2jKqUDcNnvh/s1600-h/Marriage+Certificate.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77AWF4Vfb9AUlOcb0OgSYAtH-ztLyiGy9IRAuhyphenhyphen24zEPgfLv9ZrvgeCjhOSCZqn-7gqMdjXsH2LgSSc_Qa01CCW47FCv9OPvWzlgUrk3ivhvHRI122kaP52XSdEYkvBGPe2jKqUDcNnvh/s200/Marriage+Certificate.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289276171006750146" border="0" /></a>I've been married only two years but I've already submitted more than 15 copies of my marriage certificate to various private and government offices. These copies are all printed on security paper and issued by the National Statistics Office. If I include the ones I gave to companies and agencies that only required photocopies, the number will increase to around 30.<br /><br />Some agencies and offices that required my marriage certificate:<br />1. Social Security System<br />2. PhilHealth<br />3. Land Transportation Office - Driver's License Renewal/Change of Name<br />3. Banks (6)<br />4. Embassies - Visa Applications (6)<br />5. Department of Foreign Affairs - Passport Renewal<br /><br />The official transition from Ms. R to Mrs. G was and is not that easy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2 WAYS TO GET YOUR MARRIAGE OR BIRTH CERTIFICATE IN THE PHILIPPINES:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1. ON-LINE/THRU PHONE</span><br /><br />You can order the documents you need from <a href="https://www.ecensus.com.ph/Secure/frmIndex.asp">www.ecensus.gov.ph</a> or <a href="http://www.teleserv.ph/nso.htm">Pilipinas Teleserv, Inc.</a><br /><br />E-Census is managed by the National Statistics Office while Teleserv is run by a private company. From my experience, both are very reliable. I tried E-Census for my husband's birth certificate and Teleserv for my passport renewal.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">E-Census</span><br /><ul><li>Type-in the data in their website</li><li>Pay the fee in any of the accredited banks<br /></li><li>Delivery within 5 to 9 days (Processing - 3 working days; Delivery - 2 to 6 working days)</li><li>PRICE: P315 for Birth or Marriage Certificate and P415 for Certificate of Non-Marriage</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Teleserv</span><br /><ul><li>Call the hotline (737-1111) and dictate the necessary information to the agent</li><li>Pay the fee in any of the accredited banks or through Bancnet</li><li>Delivery within 4 working days (from date of payment)<br /></li><li>PRICE: P330 for Birth or Marriage Certificate and P430 for Certificate of Non-Marriage<br /></li></ul>I personally prefer Teleserv's services even if they are slightly more expensive than E-census. I like the fact that I can call them 24/7 to follow-up my order. They will also deliver your documents in just 4 working days.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. PERSONAL APPEARANCE IN NSO</span><br /><ul><li>Go to any of the NSO Satellite Centers (Check the list here --<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://www.census.gov.ph/data/civilreg/serbilis_centers.html">Satellite Centers</a>)</li><li>Submit your application form (Download the forms here -- <a href="https://www.ecensus.com.ph/Secure/frmDownloadApplicationForms.htm">Forms</a>)</li><li>Pay the fee</li><li>Get the documents within 2-3 hours</li><li>PRICE: P140 for Birth or Marriage Certificate</li></ul>M, one of my household crew, went to NSO this morning to get copies of my marriage (4 copies) and birth (2 copies) certificate. At P140 each, that's only P840! Compare that to the P1,980 I would have spent if I ordered them online. I was also able to get the documents on the same day.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TIPS:</span><br /><ul><li>Print-out and fill-up the forms (download them online) before going to the NSO office.</li><li>If you will be sending a representative to get your birth certificate, make sure that person is armed with your authorization letter and your I.D.</li><li>Ask your representative to bring his or her own I.D. too.<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">SAMPLE AUTHORIZATION LETTER:</span><br /><blockquote>09 January 2009<br /><br />NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE<br />Office of the Civil Registrar General<br />National Statistics Office<br />East Avenue, Quezon City<br /><br />Dear Sir/Madame:<br /><br />I am Mrs. G, the owner of the birth certificate and marriage certificate being requested by M. I am authorizing Ms. M to request and receive the said documents in my behalf.<br /><br />Attached to this letter is a photocopy of a valid I.D. bearing my photograph and signature. The original of the said I.D. is with Ms. M for your verification.<br /><br />Thank you.<br /><br />Sincerely yours,<br /><br />Mrs. G</blockquote></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-74304331379696905782009-01-08T15:00:00.004+08:002009-01-09T00:35:40.358+08:00New Year Chores: Quarterly Mold and Moisture Check<span style="font-size:130%;">Damp and humid weather is conducive to mold growth. While the mold toxins may not kill you, it can cause nasty allergic reactions such as irritated eyes, nasal congestion and headaches.<br /><br />With molds, prevention is the key. You can never let your guard down. Constant vigilance is required. Check and clean your cabinets at least once every quarter.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tools</span>:<br /><ul><li>Flashlight</li><li>Bleach Spray (I am using diluted Domex)</li><li>All-Purpose Cleaner Spray (I am using diluted dishwashing liquid)</li><li>Rags</li><li>Moisture Absorbers</li><li>Silica Gels</li><li>Industrial Fan</li><li>Moth Balls</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKsOSy9I_Gnb9xZS9_CYBley4BwAzIgvahDpm2HuOTmFhHEbcxk_1dq2ZxMzPEJbERD86sy8DtfxmtfSopLWWxVzxoauZyuOOH08487MfoUxM65ICe90WVFi0Mp0GcjC7F9GVXgLu5YuF/s1600-h/Moisture.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKsOSy9I_Gnb9xZS9_CYBley4BwAzIgvahDpm2HuOTmFhHEbcxk_1dq2ZxMzPEJbERD86sy8DtfxmtfSopLWWxVzxoauZyuOOH08487MfoUxM65ICe90WVFi0Mp0GcjC7F9GVXgLu5YuF/s320/Moisture.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288820316701947826" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Clockwise: (1) Dehumidifier from Japan Home; (2) Used Dehumidifier; (3) Neopara (moth balls); (4) Sachets from Gourdo's<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />DETECTION. </span><br /><br />Check all your rooms, cabinets and drawers for mold and moisture patches. Use a flashlight to inspect the dark corners. Don't forget to check the cabinet ceiling.<br /><br />Examine your leather items carefully. Molds love real leather so you better check your designer bags, shoes and belts. I've noticed that if there's leather in the cabinet, they will ignore the pleather.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ELIMINATION.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">SPRAY AND WIPE</span>. The best way to kill molds is by spraying them with a bleach solution. Clean the area with an all-purpose cleaner then spray with bleach. DO NOT use bleach on leather.<br /><br />For items made of leather, click <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Mold-from-Leather">here</a> for instructions -- <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Mold-from-Leather">How to Clean Mold from Leather</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">DRY</span>. Make sure the area is dry before returning the clothes inside the cabinet. I used an industrial fan to dry the cabinets.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />PREVENTION</span><br /><br />Prevent further build up by putting moisture absorbers and silica gels in the area. I also put Neoprana (it smells like moth balls) in small sachets and hang them inside the cabinet.<br /><br />More Resources:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/ageng/safety/ae1179w.htm">Molds in Your Home</a></li><li><a href="http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/prevent-mold">Prevent Mold in Your Home</a><br /></li></ul></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-39193995422690605072008-12-30T12:01:00.002+08:002008-12-30T12:15:23.644+08:00OOSOUJI: Japanese New Year Clean-Up<span style="font-size:130%;">Welcome the new year like the Japanese.</span><br /><br /><a style="" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6a/Shimogamo-Broom-M1625.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 300px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6a/Shimogamo-Broom-M1625.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">OOSOUJI -- THE BIG CLEAN<br /><br />The Japanese prepare for the coming year by cleaning their houses and offices from top to bottom. This is a way for them to inform <span style="font-style: italic;">Toshigami</span> (the new year god) that their place have been purified and is ready to receive his blessings.<br /><br />I am cleaning our house now. "<span style="font-style: italic;">Toshigami</span>, I am ready for your blessings."</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Sources: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Eve#Japan">Wikipedia</a> and <a href="http://blue_moon.typepad.com/blue_lotus/2005/12/the_neat_segue_.html">Blue Lotus</a></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-42904029987638882362008-12-19T08:19:00.008+08:002008-12-19T08:59:01.485+08:00Go Organic This Christmas<span style="font-size:130%;">This is my favorite gift box so far. All that yummy goodness without the guilt.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyrHuLaPKSVRLSsH2g8DkMZSaYM22caCRSvOeyxQwPmBZ8BJYr-ZOeVJ9W4zKb8BTMLVtI8aGbVFQl9jgQ2nYECx4nUuTXyovBskz9FKFNUCtDAiHgtU6k8eiwEtF6ZaByxuoWNas8CYej/s1600-h/Healthy+Options.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyrHuLaPKSVRLSsH2g8DkMZSaYM22caCRSvOeyxQwPmBZ8BJYr-ZOeVJ9W4zKb8BTMLVtI8aGbVFQl9jgQ2nYECx4nUuTXyovBskz9FKFNUCtDAiHgtU6k8eiwEtF6ZaByxuoWNas8CYej/s320/Healthy+Options.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281291059480586738" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Second place goes to the basket containing SPAM that will last us a year.<br /><br />Oooooh...Temptation!<br /><br />What's was in your favorite gift basket this year?<br /><br />(C, I know it's a horrible picture. I'll change it later.)<br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-21314084591391103872008-12-15T17:20:00.003+08:002008-12-15T17:29:14.911+08:00Baby - Made in Taiwan<span style="font-size:130%;">"Mr. G, bring me to the hospital! It's time!"</span><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4ZHrDbju9kk&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4ZHrDbju9kk&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">They just opened a Hello Kitty-themed maternity hospital in Taiwan. (See more pictures <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1092834/First-Hello-Kitty-themed-maternity-hospital-opens-Taiwan-aims-reduce-stress-childbirth.html">here</a>.)<br /><br />How cool is that?!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">Note to Mr. G: The baby need not be made in Taiwan. I just want him to be delivered there.<br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-73624776485461934932008-12-11T12:12:00.005+08:002008-12-11T12:46:13.636+08:00GoodHousekeeping's The Maid Manual<span style="font-size:130%;">I got a copy of GoodHousekeeping's "The Maid Manual" by Tisha C. Bautista last week. </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjke7I3Dh4t9pRzDIGoqjpuehplZ7ILHalnm4VvsK8Glm_FwQ2-34e3-MN89rApisn-rlPOyjdvaZanlvvVDOBNIdPEPsI4gGIYlq-459Nz34KsftQ62Uc_LsxeX6SFpgMUKwSOoQ14cSNd/s1600-h/The+Maid+Manual.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjke7I3Dh4t9pRzDIGoqjpuehplZ7ILHalnm4VvsK8Glm_FwQ2-34e3-MN89rApisn-rlPOyjdvaZanlvvVDOBNIdPEPsI4gGIYlq-459Nz34KsftQ62Uc_LsxeX6SFpgMUKwSOoQ14cSNd/s200/The+Maid+Manual.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278381182670224994" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">As advertised, it's truly "your ultimate guide to finding, training, and keeping your household help."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Part 1:</span> Finding Help<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Part 2:</span> Training your Staff<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Part 3:</span> Keeping your Staff<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bonus:</span><br />Template for Household Staff Bio Data<br />Household Staff Interview and Assessment Form<br />Cheat Sheets for Cleaning the House<br />Sample Weekly and Daily Schedule for the Household Staff<br />Laundry Labels<br />Easy Recipes (my favorite!)<br /><br />"Part 3: Keeping Your Staff" was most helpful for me. It has tips on how to motivate household staff and an explanation of standard employee benefits.<br /><br />As to the other parts -- cleaning tips, weekly and daily schedules, and interview notes -- I already have them in my own <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2008/07/household-manual.html">household manual</a>, thanks to <a href="http://keep-it-together.blogspot.com/">Mrs. Frannie Daez</a>.<br /><br />For only P195, "The Maid Manual" will be a valuable addition to your household management library. (Click <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2008/08/housekeeping-reference-materials.html">here</a> for my other housekeeping reference materials.)<br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-34458018879970352922008-12-06T10:27:00.006+08:002008-12-06T11:00:09.785+08:00Sandwich Wrapper: Use Cloth -- Furoshiki Style<span style="font-size:130%;">After some thorough research and investigation (<span style="font-style: italic;">See <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2008/12/sandwich-wrapper-paper-or-plastic.html">this</a> and <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2008/12/sandwich-wrapper-paper-or-plastic-part.html">this</a></span>), my quest for the perfect sandwich wrapper has ended. It's <span style="font-weight: bold;">CLOTH</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">REUSABLE PLASTIC CONTAINER</span> for me.<br /><br />That being said, I present you with a cool way to wrap your sandwich with cloth -- <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Furoshiki">FUROSHIKI</a> STYLE.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/2426822113_8fb1352ddb.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 188px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/2426822113_8fb1352ddb.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cafeconlecheporfavor/">cafeconlecheporfavor</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Click <a href="http://furoshiki.com/techniques.php">here</a> for the tutorial.<br /><br />As I don't want my sandwich to be crushed inside my bag, I'm planning on buying this cute <a href="http://www.rubbermaid.com/rubbermaid/product/product.jhtml?prodId=HPProd100072">Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Sandwich</a> container.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.rubbermaid.com/rubbermaid/images/product/7f58_sand_sm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 260px;" src="http://www.rubbermaid.com/rubbermaid/images/product/7f58_sand_sm.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Weird? It's like putting a LV bag inside a plastic bag. LOL! Oh, well...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">Note: This is not a paid post. I'm not endorsing Rubbermaid. </span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-21532813647986171582008-12-04T13:02:00.021+08:002008-12-05T11:04:04.954+08:00Sandwich Wrapper: Paper or Plastic? PART II<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/48/144207631_a1bbd9543d.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 135px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/48/144207631_a1bbd9543d.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">SANDWICH WRAPPING TIPS SHARED BY SOME READERS</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><blockquote><a href="http://awifescharmedlife.blogspot.com/">Ibyang</a>: "I use <span style="font-weight: bold;">aluminum foil</span>. It keeps the sandwich fresh and easy to fold. I even write a little reminder on it for the husband sometimes."</blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pros:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Great to use with hot sandwiches</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Easy to fold</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cons:</span></span><br /><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Can cause minor shock when bitten</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Not environment-friendly</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Cannot go straight inside microwave</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">Aluminum foil is another great option. However, as I told Ibyang, I was traumatized by foil when I was a kid. I accidentally bit the foil while eating a burrito. OUCH! Since then, I stayed away from foil-covered food. (Click <a href="http://science.howstuffworks.com/question564.htm">here</a> to find out why it hurts to bite into aluminum foil.)<br /><br /><blockquote><a href="http://notesfromamallukitchen.blogspot.com/">Reshma</a>: "I use a <span style="font-weight: bold;">cloth napkin</span> to wrap my sandwiches in...they stay soft and fresh..more environment friendly too!"</blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pros:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Environment-friendly</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">No chemicals to react with your food</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cons:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Not airtight</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Your kid will likely lose this in school</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">I used to lose a lot of handkerchiefs when I was in grade school. It only stopped when I started to bring Kleenex.<br /><br /><blockquote><a href="http://www.junkfoodaholic.com/">Laura</a>: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ziploc bags</span> for me! </blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pros:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Airtight if sealed properly</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">No folding required</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">See-thru</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Very convenient</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Can be combined with tissue or wax paper</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cons:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Not environment-friendly</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">C! I know you sometimes double wrap. Aluminum foil AND Ziplock. Tsk... tsk... tsk...<br /><br /><blockquote><a href="http://homemom3.blogspot.com/">Homemom3</a>: "Plastic bags here or those <span style="font-weight: bold;">sandwich boxes (plastic)</span>. I hate wrapping in paper as it always stuck. That jelly can get tricky."<br /><br /><a href="http://www.maidapaypay.com/">Mai</a>: "I don't like using throwaway stuff for Pogiji's baon na sandwiches because they become garbage after, kawawa the environment! What I do is I put his sandwiches in <span style="font-weight: bold;">LockLock containers</span> (although the most recent LockLock containers are not made in Japan na -- made in China na...ack!) or <span style="font-weight: bold;">Biokip</span> (made in Korea naman) to maintain their freshness. The containers are not as cheap as sandwich wraps but in the long run, they are since they are reusable. And they don't harm the environment too! Wax paper gives sandwiches an aftertaste that I don't like."</blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pros:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Environment-friendly</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Air-tight</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Reusable</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cons:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">More expensive</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Your kid will likely lose this in school</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">I also lost quite a number of Tupperware plastic boxes. It's not my fault! The Tupperware-gnomes followed me and stole my lunch boxes.<br /><br /><blockquote>Environment-Friendly Choice: <a href="http://www.grassrootsstore.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=796"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Airtight Stainless Steel Food Container</span></a></blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pros:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">More environment-friendly</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">No plastic</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Reusable</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cons:</span><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Expensive</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">Some environmentalists do not consider reusable plastic containers as environment-friendly. Only stainless steel containers for them.<br /><br /><blockquote>My choice: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cloth Napkin AND Plastic Container</span></blockquote>I'd wrap the sandwich in a cloth napkin then put it inside a reusable airtight plastic container. I think I'm now mature enough not to lose my lunch box.</span><br /><br />Photo credit: WTFwich by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/minusbaby/144207631/">minusbaby</a>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-10649057832032931452008-12-02T09:30:00.004+08:002008-12-04T09:25:15.446+08:00Sandwich Wrapper: Paper or Plastic?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a6/PBJ.jpg/664px-PBJ.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 186px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a6/PBJ.jpg/664px-PBJ.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Sandwich wrapping is not as easy as most people think. First, you have to chose a wrapping material that will best seal the sandwich's freshness for at least 5 hours. Nobody likes a soggy and damp sandwich. Next, you have to fold the wrapper origami style for better presentation. (This post is dedicated to Teacher J. Her nanny cannot wrap a sandwich without using tape and it's driving her crazy.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paper or Plastic</span><br /><br />While we need air to live, our sandwiches do not. Air accelerates food degradation so keeping air out of the wrapper or container will help your sandwich stay fresh longer.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Tissue Paper</span>: This is the wrapper of my youth. (<span style="font-style: italic;">"Scottie, strong even when wet."</span> -- Was it Scottie?) The sandwich is usually wrapped with orangey-checkered tissue paper then placed inside a white sandwich bag.<br /><br />I do not recommend using tissue paper. By recess time, my sandwich was already soggy and the tissue sticks to the bread. Taking it off was like peeling out a super sticky price tag, you don't get it all out. I know how tissue tastes like.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Wax Paper</span>: This is what C's sandwiches are wrapped with. Her mom makes her a sandwich in the morning so she'll have something to eat for lunch. But does she eat it during lunch time? Of course not! She has it for dinner. Thanks to the wax paper, her sandwich is still fresh after more than 8 hours.<br /><br />Wax papers are definitely better than tissue papers. However, as Teacher J knows, folding it can be quite a challenge.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Plastic Wrap</span>: This is the wrapper of the pros. Most canteens and cafeterias wrap their sandwiches with plastic wrap. We don't know long those sandwiches have been on the display counter but they're still pretty fresh after we buy them so they must be doing something right.<br /><br />Plastic wraps provide a sealed environment for the sandwich, keeping it fresh longer. Also, it's clear so you don't have to open the wrapper to know what's inside. "Ham nga!"<br /><br />Click the link for a guide on effective sandwich wrapping -- <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/content/exclusive/0,21770,1058668,00.html">How to Wrap a Sandwich</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How do you wrap your sandwiches?</span><br /><br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-3580125437441697662008-11-26T09:14:00.013+08:002008-11-26T13:44:14.374+08:00Book Worm Meme: The Myth of Monogamy<span style="font-size:130%;">I’ve been tagged with the Bookworm Meme by <a href="http://writingsofmaria.com/?p=333">Maria of "Writings of Maria"</a>. Thanks, Maria! You just gave me a reason to share with everyone this wonderful book.<br /><br />Here’s how this meme works:<br /><ol><li>Grab the nearest book.</li><li>Open the book to page 56.</li><li>Find the fifth sentence.</li><li>Post the text of the next two to five sentences.</li><li>Don’t dig for your favorite book, the cool book or the intellectual one. Pick the Closest.</li><li>Tag five people to do the same.</li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MY BOOKWORM MEME</span><blockquote>For a "married" male to engage in out-of-pair heterosexual sex, his EPC partner must in turn be (1) seduce, (2) coerced, (3) a willing co-participant, or (4) an active initiator. ... We'll find that all patterns occur, in animals as well as human beings.</blockquote><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.amazon.com/Myth-Monogamy-Fidelity-Infidelity-Animals/dp/0805071369/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_k2a_2_img?pf_rd_p=304485601&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-2&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=0716740044&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=09PH4QH065PHXGA8B9M0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 130px; height: 130px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51TKYSY953L._SL500_OU01_SS130_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://faculty.washington.edu/dpbarash/index.html">THE MYTH OF MONOGAMY: Fidelity and Infidelity in Animals and People </a>by David P. Barash, PH.D., and Judith Eve Lipton, M.D.<br /><br />I bought this book after watching Penn and Teller's show, <a href="http://www.sho.com/site/ptbs/home.do">Bullshit!</a> The episode's topic was <a href="http://www.sho.com/site/ptbs/previous_episodes.do?episodeid=s2/bus">"The Business of Love"</a>. Several experts on love were interviewed, including authors of my favorite books, <a href="http://www.therulesbook.com/">"The Rules"</a> and <a href="http://home.marsvenus.com/">"Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus"</a>.<br /><br />The only book featured in the show that I haven't read was "The Myth of Monogamy". I had to get my own copy immediately! For a household manager like me, it is important that I am kept abreast of research on home topics such as Romance and (In)Fidelity.<br /><br />It was a funny and informative read. Here are some of my favorite quotes:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Unattractive males guard their mates more closely."</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(The uglier the guy, the more more jealous he'll be.)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Males who remained monogamous when they apparently had the opportunity to attract a second or third female were those mated to unusually aggressive females. (This aggression, incidentally, was directed toward the potentially home-wrecking females, not toward the male.)"</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(I'll be watching </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1130859/">"No Retreat... No Surrender... Si Kumander"</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> for a few tips.)</span><br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"In territorial species, a female generally chooses a male based on the quality of his territory. ... By getting a resource rich male, a female also gets the best genes. But this need not always be true. If a male who is genetically subpar ends up with a high-quality piece of real estate, he may also end up with a female who looks elsewhere when it comes to a sexual partner."</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(Gold-diggers are bad news. "You've got to love me for what I am, for simply being me...")</span><br /><br />It must be noted that Dr. Barash and Dr. Lipton were talking about the mating habits of birds and not humans. I never knew birds live an exciting life.<br /><br />Despite all the examples of infidelity in the animal kingdom presented by the authors, they ended the book with a positive note.<br /><blockquote>"By establishing a durable, long-term relationship with someone who not only cares, but also shares an expanding history, who understands one's strengths, weaknesses joys and despairs, the successful monogamist assures himself and herself a companion for life, long after the children (if any) have grown, when work is no longer an option, when even sex may be mostly a memory, at just the time when two devoted people can keep track of the doctor appointments, change each other's senior diapers, and sit together, watching the sunset." </blockquote>Sigh... *googly eyes*<br /><br />I wonder where my husband is right now. Time for some mate-guarding.</span></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-82993026403159283932008-11-25T07:30:00.012+08:002008-11-25T08:35:56.228+08:00Promises, Promises: Waking Up Early<blockquote><a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/10/20041007-1.html">Interview of First Lady Laura Bush by Jay Leno<br /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MRS. BUSH</span>: This was back in 1977 when we married, he was thinking about running for Congress, which he did, in our home district in the Panhandle of Texas. So I said, you'll have to promise me I'll never have to give a political speech. And he said, oh, no, of course, you'll never have to. So much for political promises. (Laughter.)<br /><br />But also, I have to admit, I promised I'd jog with him, too. And I never did.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">JAY LENO</span>: You never did?<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />MRS. BUSH</span>: No. (Laughter.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">JAY LENO</span>: Well, okay, so that works. One cancels out the other. </blockquote><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />PROMISES! PROMISES!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/46/Windup_alarm_clock.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 174px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/46/Windup_alarm_clock.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I promised my husband that I will ALWAYS eat breakfast with him. I was able to consistently do this the first few weeks of our marriage. I was even the one preparing breakfast! However, as time went by, I began slipping to the point that my husband would sometimes say goodbye to me while I'm still in bed. So much for promises!<br /><br />But it's not too late. I can still make good on my promise. I resolve now to wake up early and make sure I eat breakfast with my husband EVERYDAY.<br /><br />I was never a morning person so this won't be easy. Good thing there are so many self-help sites in the internet today. I am trying some tips from <a href="http://www.howtowakeupearly.com/">www.howtowakeupearly.com</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1. Advice #1. To Wake Up Early, Go To Bed Early</span><br /><br />What?! This is like DIET and EXERCISE. Obvious and correct but nobody wants to hear it.<br /><br />No fast fix? Fine. I resolve to sleep no later than <strike>11:00</strike> <strike>12:00</strike> 12:30PM.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. Advice #6. Take A Nap In The Afternoon</span><br /><br />This one I likey! However, it is advised that afternoon naps be limited to 20-30 minutes. No more 2-hour afternoon naps for me.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3. Advice #27. Advertise Your Early Wake Up Habit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"Start spreading the news. I'm waking early today..." </span><br /><br />I already announced my wake-up-early resolution to my Plurk buddies last week. So far, today is the only day that I was able to successfully wake up before 6:00 AM. I woke up at 5:47 AM and was connected to Plurk by 6:14 AM.<br /><br />(I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my Plurk buddies for the encouragement and support you have given me this past week. I couldn't have done it without you. *bow*)<br /><br />There are 45 cool tips in the website but I'm only trying 3 this week. I hope it works.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What time do you wake up?</span></span><br /><br />Note: The White House transcript is dated Oct. 7, 2004. I watched that interview when I was already married which meant that it couldn't have been earlier than mid-2006. I've always known that the Leno shows here are reruns but 2 years?Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-35817818219679188482008-11-24T09:29:00.015+08:002008-11-24T13:10:26.438+08:00The Vinegar-Baking Soda Duo Strikes Again<span style="font-size:130%;">Immediately after my eye surgery, I could not let water drip down my eyes so I had my to tilt my head back when I shampoo my hair. This position plus the fact that I can now see clearly even without my glasses allowed me to notice these little rust spots in our shower enclosure.<br /><br />Yikes!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtc7rXDL9aX3ZdhEapUKMW-YP84CBfnt4yaKTJhiPr1SkeUXfszAIpPo1b_Ni7pzVFy7sz3dXcRhRUFrj94RJijZBgOKQICjMmvCGdW26HaYdHMlAaILhbaF2-z3e0E77YlT4yU5xOEHi/s1600-h/Shower.Rust.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtc7rXDL9aX3ZdhEapUKMW-YP84CBfnt4yaKTJhiPr1SkeUXfszAIpPo1b_Ni7pzVFy7sz3dXcRhRUFrj94RJijZBgOKQICjMmvCGdW26HaYdHMlAaILhbaF2-z3e0E77YlT4yU5xOEHi/s320/Shower.Rust.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272035058869065474" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">This is a job for the <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2008/08/tip-rust-remover-magic-formula.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vinegar-Baking Soda Duo</span></a>.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;">Click <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2008/08/tip-rust-remover-magic-formula.html">here</a> for the instructions. Early detection and prevention is important. Don't wait for the rust to eat into the chrome. Nip it in the bud.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNhusUY2Ysejls3_hF8q62f0j2o6uvvPSSRcTHAL4Kx2DxBEDDGfm-ieHT82mILQykL8cEMW8NWYcIKFLUqAGwrx1yfR4Ay-23tn7805RkyDmALekIiNJ894JWfP-on8HgixaF9LPuT6c/s1600-h/Shower.No+Rust.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNhusUY2Ysejls3_hF8q62f0j2o6uvvPSSRcTHAL4Kx2DxBEDDGfm-ieHT82mILQykL8cEMW8NWYcIKFLUqAGwrx1yfR4Ay-23tn7805RkyDmALekIiNJ894JWfP-on8HgixaF9LPuT6c/s320/Shower.No+Rust.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272036275794682274" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">TADA! No more rust spots.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">The formula works really well with chrome. My next project will be to clean this rusty chrome hamper.<br /></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OY17I6_-9PtIEkNprm_92psvPy7bNX_NaUHeDxLWtZ_Io1Zn6MgbsNh3J76t-EdqDXdk6yOw6XwqjN3hEKVwOtECgv9OmALGEoV209qQMX5KFLijiTix740rBXWlmzS_tXB1Ysmuu2iY/s1600-h/Chrome+Hamper.Rusty.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OY17I6_-9PtIEkNprm_92psvPy7bNX_NaUHeDxLWtZ_Io1Zn6MgbsNh3J76t-EdqDXdk6yOw6XwqjN3hEKVwOtECgv9OmALGEoV209qQMX5KFLijiTix740rBXWlmzS_tXB1Ysmuu2iY/s200/Chrome+Hamper.Rusty.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272045255363810210" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Wish me luck!</span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-48082331540349286412008-11-19T10:30:00.002+08:002008-11-19T10:50:09.561+08:00Wordless Wednesday: Christmassy Brown Paper Bags<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE PROTOTYPE</span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFxIp0tLFUvoCAuUq9_Jlzc_psPPzBOnvILA5mthlJH1T3GcU2ioD4QRQPCibQ0BSgxb3VsXDutwhZcgkikkz11zakH3wy8RNY2l5oOIdK5qiU4rZza9czjMUGrTdyKcZyOiZwyllgqas/s1600-h/Christmas+Wrapper.The+Prototype.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 273px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFxIp0tLFUvoCAuUq9_Jlzc_psPPzBOnvILA5mthlJH1T3GcU2ioD4QRQPCibQ0BSgxb3VsXDutwhZcgkikkz11zakH3wy8RNY2l5oOIdK5qiU4rZza9czjMUGrTdyKcZyOiZwyllgqas/s320/Christmas+Wrapper.The+Prototype.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270191400976838210" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />THE BROWN PAPER BAGS</span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-xUst_rdeelhh8rCAR2F0Ub4es19_OFGPS6selSg8dkZQvFKL4vjj3vxhyHs9NZaM2RInRwwUM1eeo2kia4D-FhkOPkL6R1ujB1gRKQ8ff68uyO9ZNCEA5llMGVVcAG2192v0rC8YmG1/s1600-h/Christmas+Wrapper.Craft+Punch.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-xUst_rdeelhh8rCAR2F0Ub4es19_OFGPS6selSg8dkZQvFKL4vjj3vxhyHs9NZaM2RInRwwUM1eeo2kia4D-FhkOPkL6R1ujB1gRKQ8ff68uyO9ZNCEA5llMGVVcAG2192v0rC8YmG1/s320/Christmas+Wrapper.Craft+Punch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270191663703726418" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Finally, a use for my <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/search?q=craft+puncher">alphabet craft punch set</a>.</span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-89852453055136889482008-11-17T09:30:00.008+08:002008-11-17T18:53:49.083+08:00Potpourri: Coffee Stains, Shopping and Christmas Gifts<span style="font-size:130%;">NO TV?! NO COMPUTER?! WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO?!<br /><br />After my Lasik surgery last Tuesday, I had to say goodbye to blogging for awhile. Although I still <a href="http://www.plurk.com/">plurked</a> using my phone, I could not blog hop nor update my posts.<br /><br />I never realized how addicted I am to plurking and blog-hopping until last week. Forced to find other things to do, I was able to accomplish a lot of tasks at home. I went shopping too!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Banished Coffee Stains</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uWC1ryr3QvhjS9Y2Gbye2zNKFobh1CiNn8ofrSSNIOYdeLqhG682-J5XQ7DNgR8KVm_wW7_tVKr9BzvLXx4gEgGIHJV9tn4mQAgKnjkHe5E6Ee0-rkwQ1wBW4oLIlqLR5PDvRKCjEwI-/s1600-h/Coffee+Stain.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uWC1ryr3QvhjS9Y2Gbye2zNKFobh1CiNn8ofrSSNIOYdeLqhG682-J5XQ7DNgR8KVm_wW7_tVKr9BzvLXx4gEgGIHJV9tn4mQAgKnjkHe5E6Ee0-rkwQ1wBW4oLIlqLR5PDvRKCjEwI-/s320/Coffee+Stain.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269434748136850290" border="0" /></a>Using my <a href="http://www.themrsg.com/2008/08/tip-rust-remover-magic-formula.html">Magic Formula</a> (Baking Soda and Vinegar) and a small green scour pad, I was able to remove the coffee stains from all the cups in our cupboard.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What you need:</span><br /><br />* Baking Soda<br />* Pure White Vinegar<br />* Scour Pad<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instructions:</span><br /><br />1. Mix baking soda and white vinegar. (go for pasty consistency)<br />2. Dip the scour pad in the baking soda and vinegar mix.<br />3. Gently scrub the stain.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Speed Shopped</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgasf5fX4BiEBY4_i8iFxR5WQu5eHOfWK3xmS-hXRqCqVelICFVP9Ft8O6L2f485lMuFs_h2kPV94FgawcGwkc8PZn2pEBGqJ_R5DrNe74iedU0-rpRwuSO3IAdfInAyMv8tQWSSt1tMSla/s1600-h/Private+Sale.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgasf5fX4BiEBY4_i8iFxR5WQu5eHOfWK3xmS-hXRqCqVelICFVP9Ft8O6L2f485lMuFs_h2kPV94FgawcGwkc8PZn2pEBGqJ_R5DrNe74iedU0-rpRwuSO3IAdfInAyMv8tQWSSt1tMSla/s320/Private+Sale.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269437009187967810" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />MM dragged me to this private shoes and bags sale in Corinthian Gardens. We were in and out of the place in less than 30 minutes. She bought shoes and I bought a bag.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Assembled Car Safety Kits</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsjmTsYd4UUl_zFumMbze1onAzhy2ZDK2zahJb1iR_kO2kcs_bPlqmGHlgtZF4Caj1loKkGGNO7O2jgb1hvkbg4l_k7DoYEs4SL7xryey-SD59lOVVlaz-udqPLQVdtkvNIOB5R7fFTeM/s1600-h/Car+Safety+Kit.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsjmTsYd4UUl_zFumMbze1onAzhy2ZDK2zahJb1iR_kO2kcs_bPlqmGHlgtZF4Caj1loKkGGNO7O2jgb1hvkbg4l_k7DoYEs4SL7xryey-SD59lOVVlaz-udqPLQVdtkvNIOB5R7fFTeM/s320/Car+Safety+Kit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269437223831954130" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Inspired by <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/article/how-to-assemble-a-car-safety-kit">Martha Stewart</a>, I decided to put together my own Car Safety Kit. Do you have an emergency car kit?<br /><br />Tata! I need to rest my eyes now.<br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-35876553016713540612008-11-11T12:30:00.001+08:002008-11-11T13:10:28.625+08:00P35 Project: Take Your Vits<span style="font-size:130%;">Sick and tired of reminding family members to take their vitamins?<br /><br />Try this!<br /><br />Slide in your Vitamin Schedule in a small acrylic menu holder (P35/$0.70 in National Bookstore ).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2j8wUqtJxjIbGrjs583XR27pAxJ-dcnAnOk9F2KihhZDLHY-exk7OqBu3j8sSYJ3s2rse_H5G5lIBFBYYfhfp_0hVcpWg6r-N-oP0XXgiRjQXpSlTskuRZSx6r4HWHdY7si-2wjpstgy/s1600-h/Vitamin+Schedule+Holder.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2j8wUqtJxjIbGrjs583XR27pAxJ-dcnAnOk9F2KihhZDLHY-exk7OqBu3j8sSYJ3s2rse_H5G5lIBFBYYfhfp_0hVcpWg6r-N-oP0XXgiRjQXpSlTskuRZSx6r4HWHdY7si-2wjpstgy/s320/Vitamin+Schedule+Holder.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267262743510555730" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Place everything in a tray and serve during meal time.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpC10-tls6JLKq6ColNgh5IA8_zfk_GI3z5W7uHXqGsdsQ0baiCwAwpODBLU_N1ctPG40zApJGOt_cb8jq-XQgbPSr6gRsZoPcfTakaaRZbmzhkc7TJrIBPniIunbe7HqK8awstrtKA35a/s1600-h/Vitamin+Tray.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpC10-tls6JLKq6ColNgh5IA8_zfk_GI3z5W7uHXqGsdsQ0baiCwAwpODBLU_N1ctPG40zApJGOt_cb8jq-XQgbPSr6gRsZoPcfTakaaRZbmzhkc7TJrIBPniIunbe7HqK8awstrtKA35a/s320/Vitamin+Tray.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267259611625845602" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />You can go a step further by making a schedule for each family member.</span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-57302954557539702262008-11-07T13:15:00.002+08:002008-11-07T13:41:51.682+08:00Eat Good, Live Bad Longer<span style="font-size:130%;">I've been sick the whole week and I left my readers with a post on death. I'm so sorry.<br /><br />Now that I'm feeling a bit better, I want to share with you the new craze in our household -- ORGANIC FOODS.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_DXs8QGhkACz4cVBUTvpjlumkqmh64JBTUChPf3nUzSXyvfE1MG_z3x0ILN7Hu0cdTfZoK6k13EwnW56VFFvGk-z9e_w1st5lAOdMshA8JeU0ObiIRo-8ew594UQIOy9EoG4gL0nuQ2s/s1600-h/Organic+Breakfast.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_DXs8QGhkACz4cVBUTvpjlumkqmh64JBTUChPf3nUzSXyvfE1MG_z3x0ILN7Hu0cdTfZoK6k13EwnW56VFFvGk-z9e_w1st5lAOdMshA8JeU0ObiIRo-8ew594UQIOy9EoG4gL0nuQ2s/s320/Organic+Breakfast.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265779077378902770" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">We are starting with breakfast. We still eat junk food and order from Jollibee but it's a big step from the greasy bacon, ham and spam we eat every morning.<br /><br />P.S. <a href="http://www.maidapaypay.com/">Mai da Paypay</a>, our switch to organic is partly your fault. LOL!<br /><br />P.P.S. More posts on this when I get better.</span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7851112463439809168.post-19830358107999373212008-11-03T14:30:00.012+08:002008-11-03T19:23:34.537+08:00Morbid Thoughts: Living Will<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/11/12711718_d9f56a89c6.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 250px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/11/12711718_d9f56a89c6.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a>Photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/eqqman/">eqqman</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Talks on Death</span><br /></span><blockquote><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Me</span>: If I die first, I don't want any fanfare. Just cremate me. It's cheaper. (</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Kuripot hanggang kamatayan.</span><span style="font-size:130%;">)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Husband</span>: Me too. I want to be cremated immediately. No viewing. No wake.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Me</span>: What if your family wants a wake?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Husband</span>: Tell them I don't want one.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Me</span>: What?! That will be difficult given the circumstances.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Husband</span>: Just tell them.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Me</span>: Bah! You're dead anyway. I'll do what they want.</span></blockquote><span style="font-size:130%;">Remember the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terri_Schiavo">Terri Schiavo</a> case? She suffered severe brain damage and was only kept alive by a feeding tube. Claiming that it was her wish not be be kept on life support if there's no hope for improvement, Terri's husband petitioned the court for the removal of the tube. This </span><span style="font-size:130%;">petition was vehemently opposed by Terri's parents and the case dragged on for around 7 years.<br /><br />I don't want to put my husband in the same position if something like that happens to me. I am publicly declaring now that I DO NOT WANT TO BE KEPT ON LIFE SUPPORT IF THERE IS NO HOPE FOR IMPROVEMENT.<br /><br />I surfed the net and found some samples of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advance_health_care_directive">Living Wills</a>. I want my husband and I to make one. One day of morbid planning will save us all the trouble in the event that one of us dies first. In the perfect world, we die at the same time.<br /><br />According to <a href="http://www.eternalreefs.com/index.html">Eternal Reefs</a>, a good End-Of-Life plan consists of 4 documents.<br /><ol><li><a set="yes" linkindex="10" href="http://www.eternalreefs.com/resources/lifeplanning.html#directives" class="body">Advanced Directives</a> </li><li><a set="yes" linkindex="11" href="http://www.eternalreefs.com/resources/lifeplanning.html#power" class="body">Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care</a> </li><li><a set="yes" linkindex="12" href="http://www.eternalreefs.com/resources/lifeplanning.html#final" class="body">Final Directives</a> </li><li><a set="yes" linkindex="13" href="http://www.eternalreefs.com/resources/lifeplanning.html#will" class="body">Last Will and Testament </a></li></ol>The Last Will and Testament takes care of your estate. The first three documents contain your dying wishes.<br /><br />Do you want to be kept on life support? Do you want to donate your organs? Do you want to be cremated? Do you want to ban Malaysian Mums (this is a type of flower, not mommies from Malaysia) from your wake?<br /><br />Morbid thoughts...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Will you be making your own Living Will soon?</span><br /><br />Note: This is not a paid post. I do not endorse Eternal Reefs. However, their End-Of-Life Planning page is really helpful.<br /></span>Mrs. Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05916917531469316119noreply@blogger.com10