Mrs. G

Bayantel Wireless Sucks

2009-06-23T18:19:00.006+08:00

A month after terminating their services, Bayantel is still giving me headaches.

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.

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.

Misery loves company. I am not alone. Darrel James writes, "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." (Read full article here)

I wonder how Bayantel can still be in business. We victims should do something about this.

The Terminator: Sample Termination Letter

2009-05-24T14:11:00.006+08:00

Express your dissatisfaction! Complain! Terminate!

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.

25 May 2009

***** CENTER
[Insert the company address here]

Re : Notice of Termination of Line
---------------------------------------

Gentlemen: [I am seething mad. I don't have time to be gender sensitive.]

I am Mrs. G, the subscriber of telephone number 02******* with ***** Wireless Account No. *********. I am terminating my account effective immediately.

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.

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.

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 ****.

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.

Signed
Mrs. G

RECEIVED by:

_________________________
(Name and Signature)

Date: ____________________

Photo by Horst Frank

Tamiflu vs. Swine Flu

2009-04-28T13:27:00.007+08:00

Swine flu! This PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY OF INTERNATIONAL CONCERN is freaking me out. Somebody please give me Tamiflu!

According to the US Center for Disaster Control, "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."

I am trying to get my hands on at least 2 boxes of Tamiflu. Wish me luck.

In the mean time, here are some tips from the CDC.

PRACTICE HEALTHY HABITS TO HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF SWINE FLU
Wash your hands often with soap and water. This removes germs from your skin and helps prevent diseases from spreading.
Use waterless alcohol-based hand gels (containing at least 60% alcohol) when soap is not available and hands are not visibly dirty.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put your used tissue in a wastebasket.
If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
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.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people. (Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.)
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.

How to Remove Ink Stains from Longchamp Bags

2009-04-21T08:29:00.011+08:00

Baglove called me last night to tell me that her HSBC bill, which I'm guessing was laser-printed, stained the lining of her fox orange Planetes. Imagine her bill permanently imprinted on her bag! I was laughing my ass off until I noticed that she was not laughing with me. Me, bad friend! To redeem myself, I shared with her Teacher J's tip. After around 30 minutes, she texted me to say that the tip worked. Me, good friend!

Teacher J shared with me her secret to removing ink stains in Longchamp bags. It's MILK!

The Steps:

Dip the tip of a wash cloth in milk. Teacher J used evaporated milk but I guess any kind of milk will do.
Gently rub the milk-soaked tip of the wash cloth in the stained area.
After each rub, pat dry the area with another clean dry cloth.
Repeat the steps until the stain is gone.

I must admit that I was very skeptical at first but Teacher J swears by it. She already tried it twice on her pink Le Pliage with much success. I finally decided to blog about the tip after Baglove confirmed that it really works.

Note: Pictures to follow

Check out this link --

Longchamp Spring/Summer 2009 Collection Material and Care Guidelines

How to Get a Philippine Postal ID

2009-04-18T11:31:00.017+08:00

The bank would not let Ate S and M 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.

HOW TO APPLY FOR A POSTAL ID

Go to the nearest PhilPost Office. It is best if you go to the post office in your zip code.
Ask for a copy of the Postal ID Application Form 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.
Fill in the upper half portion of the application form with your personal data.
Have your picture taken. You need to attach 3 identical 2x2 ID pictures with white background to your application form.
After filling up the form and attaching 1 picture, we had the form photocopied so that Ate S and M 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.
Bring the application form to your Barangay Hall.
Request for a Certification from the Barangay Captain that you are a resident of the Barangay. 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.
While you are in the Barangay Hall, get a Community Tax Certificate. You need this to complete your application form. Ate S and M paid P50 each.
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.
Go get a NSO certified copy of your birth or marriage certificate. (Click here for tips on how to get one.)
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.
Expect to come back for the ID after a few days. In the case of Ate S and M, they were able to get the ID after 3 days.

Estimated Total Cost: P815
1. ID Picture - P60
2. Barangay Certification - P50
3. Community Tax Certificate - P50
4. Birth Certificate - P140
4. Notarization - P150
5. Postal ID Fee - P315
6. Others (Transportation, Food, Photocopying) - P50

It is EXPENSIVE. Good thing it is valid for 5 years.

Ate S and M now both have BPI savings accounts. Their next goal is to get voter IDs.

NOTE:

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.
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.
Data from www.pia.gov.ph

Bugged by Bed Bugs!

2009-04-15T10:31:00.008+08:00

The bed bugs are coming.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) worries about bed bugs so much that they hosted the very first bed bug summit yesterday. This scary news was enough to make me come out of my long blogging hiatus.

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.

Here are some helpful sites on bed bug prevention:

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.

I'm Still Alive

2009-02-10T18:26:00.004+08:00

I'm working again.

Will blog soon.

No, that's not my desk. That photo came from Wikimedia.

BPI-Jollibee Promo: Yum-Yum!

2009-01-19T13:32:00.010+08:00

Shop anywhere and get these FREE!
At least 1,000: Yumburger or Sundae
At least 3,000: 2 pcs. Chicken Joy with Rice

Armed with the promo flyer, I went to Jollibee today to check if this promo is for real.

Well, I have good news and bad news.

GOOD NEWS: IT'S FOR REAL!

Just present your charge slip and credit card. It's that easy.

TIP: If you need to retain a copy of your charge slip, photocopy it first before going to Jollibee. They will get the original.

Redemption period is until March 15, 2009.

BAD NEWS: Only receipts from November 15, 2008 to January 15, 2008 will be accepted

Promo period is from November 15, 2008 to January 15, 2008 only.

I was not able to save all the receipts from last year. Aaaaargh... I think I only have around 5 receipts left here. Sniff...

I have until March 15, 2009 to redeem my treats.

IMPORTANT: 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.

GOOD LUCK! Enjoy your Chicken Joy!

How to Get Birth and Marriage Certificates: Ms. R to Mrs. G

2009-01-09T20:30:00.009+08:00

Do you want a copy of my marriage certificate?

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.

Some agencies and offices that required my marriage certificate:
1. Social Security System
2. PhilHealth
3. Land Transportation Office - Driver's License Renewal/Change of Name
3. Banks (6)
4. Embassies - Visa Applications (6)
5. Department of Foreign Affairs - Passport Renewal

The official transition from Ms. R to Mrs. G was and is not that easy.

2 WAYS TO GET YOUR MARRIAGE OR BIRTH CERTIFICATE IN THE PHILIPPINES:

1. ON-LINE/THRU PHONE

You can order the documents you need from www.ecensus.gov.ph or Pilipinas Teleserv, Inc.

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.

E-Census

Type-in the data in their website
Pay the fee in any of the accredited banks
Delivery within 5 to 9 days (Processing - 3 working days; Delivery - 2 to 6 working days)
PRICE: P315 for Birth or Marriage Certificate and P415 for Certificate of Non-Marriage

Teleserv

Call the hotline (737-1111) and dictate the necessary information to the agent
Pay the fee in any of the accredited banks or through Bancnet
Delivery within 4 working days (from date of payment)
PRICE: P330 for Birth or Marriage Certificate and P430 for Certificate of Non-Marriage

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.

2. PERSONAL APPEARANCE IN NSO

Go to any of the NSO Satellite Centers (Check the list here --Satellite Centers)
Submit your application form (Download the forms here -- Forms)
Pay the fee
Get the documents within 2-3 hours
PRICE: P140 for Birth or Marriage Certificate

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.

TIPS:

Print-out and fill-up the forms (download them online) before going to the NSO office.
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.
Ask your representative to bring his or her own I.D. too.

SAMPLE AUTHORIZATION LETTER:

09 January 2009

NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE
Office of the Civil Registrar General
National Statistics Office
East Avenue, Quezon City

Dear Sir/Madame:

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.

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.

Thank you.

Sincerely yours,

Mrs. G

New Year Chores: Quarterly Mold and Moisture Check

2009-01-08T15:00:00.004+08:00

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.

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.

Tools:

Flashlight
Bleach Spray (I am using diluted Domex)
All-Purpose Cleaner Spray (I am using diluted dishwashing liquid)
Rags
Moisture Absorbers
Silica Gels
Industrial Fan
Moth Balls

Clockwise: (1) Dehumidifier from Japan Home; (2) Used Dehumidifier; (3) Neopara (moth balls); (4) Sachets from Gourdo's

DETECTION.

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.

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.

ELIMINATION.

SPRAY AND WIPE. 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.

For items made of leather, click here for instructions -- How to Clean Mold from Leather.

DRY. Make sure the area is dry before returning the clothes inside the cabinet. I used an industrial fan to dry the cabinets.

PREVENTION

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.

More Resources:

OOSOUJI: Japanese New Year Clean-Up

2008-12-30T12:01:00.002+08:00

Welcome the new year like the Japanese.

OOSOUJI -- THE BIG CLEAN

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 Toshigami (the new year god) that their place have been purified and is ready to receive his blessings.

I am cleaning our house now. "Toshigami, I am ready for your blessings."

Sources: Wikipedia and Blue Lotus

Go Organic This Christmas

2008-12-19T08:19:00.008+08:00

This is my favorite gift box so far. All that yummy goodness without the guilt.

Second place goes to the basket containing SPAM that will last us a year.

Oooooh...Temptation!

What's was in your favorite gift basket this year?

(C, I know it's a horrible picture. I'll change it later.)

Baby - Made in Taiwan

2008-12-15T17:20:00.003+08:00

"Mr. G, bring me to the hospital! It's time!"

They just opened a Hello Kitty-themed maternity hospital in Taiwan. (See more pictures here.)

How cool is that?!

Note to Mr. G: The baby need not be made in Taiwan. I just want him to be delivered there.

GoodHousekeeping's The Maid Manual

2008-12-11T12:12:00.005+08:00

I got a copy of GoodHousekeeping's "The Maid Manual" by Tisha C. Bautista last week.

As advertised, it's truly "your ultimate guide to finding, training, and keeping your household help."

Part 1: Finding Help
Part 2: Training your Staff
Part 3: Keeping your Staff

Bonus:
Template for Household Staff Bio Data
Household Staff Interview and Assessment Form
Cheat Sheets for Cleaning the House
Sample Weekly and Daily Schedule for the Household Staff
Laundry Labels
Easy Recipes (my favorite!)

"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.

As to the other parts -- cleaning tips, weekly and daily schedules, and interview notes -- I already have them in my own household manual, thanks to Mrs. Frannie Daez.

For only P195, "The Maid Manual" will be a valuable addition to your household management library. (Click here for my other housekeeping reference materials.)

Sandwich Wrapper: Use Cloth -- Furoshiki Style

2008-12-06T10:27:00.006+08:00

After some thorough research and investigation (See this and this), my quest for the perfect sandwich wrapper has ended. It's CLOTH and REUSABLE PLASTIC CONTAINER for me.

That being said, I present you with a cool way to wrap your sandwich with cloth -- FUROSHIKI STYLE.

Photo by cafeconlecheporfavor

Click here for the tutorial.

As I don't want my sandwich to be crushed inside my bag, I'm planning on buying this cute Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Sandwich container.

Weird? It's like putting a LV bag inside a plastic bag. LOL! Oh, well...

Note: This is not a paid post. I'm not endorsing Rubbermaid.

Sandwich Wrapper: Paper or Plastic? PART II

2008-12-04T13:02:00.021+08:00

SANDWICH WRAPPING TIPS SHARED BY SOME READERS

Ibyang: "I use aluminum foil. It keeps the sandwich fresh and easy to fold. I even write a little reminder on it for the husband sometimes."

Pros:

Great to use with hot sandwiches
Easy to fold

Cons:

Can cause minor shock when bitten
Not environment-friendly
Cannot go straight inside microwave

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 here to find out why it hurts to bite into aluminum foil.)

Reshma: "I use a cloth napkin to wrap my sandwiches in...they stay soft and fresh..more environment friendly too!"

Pros:

Environment-friendly
No chemicals to react with your food

Cons:

Not airtight
Your kid will likely lose this in school

I used to lose a lot of handkerchiefs when I was in grade school. It only stopped when I started to bring Kleenex.

Laura: Ziploc bags for me!

Pros:

Airtight if sealed properly
No folding required
See-thru
Very convenient
Can be combined with tissue or wax paper

Cons:

Not environment-friendly

C! I know you sometimes double wrap. Aluminum foil AND Ziplock. Tsk... tsk... tsk...

Homemom3: "Plastic bags here or those sandwich boxes (plastic). I hate wrapping in paper as it always stuck. That jelly can get tricky."

Mai: "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 LockLock containers (although the most recent LockLock containers are not made in Japan na -- made in China na...ack!) or Biokip (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."

Pros:

Environment-friendly
Air-tight
Reusable

Cons:

More expensive
Your kid will likely lose this in school

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.

Environment-Friendly Choice: Airtight Stainless Steel Food Container

Pros:

More environment-friendly
No plastic
Reusable

Cons:

Expensive

Some environmentalists do not consider reusable plastic containers as environment-friendly. Only stainless steel containers for them.

My choice: Cloth Napkin AND Plastic Container

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.

Photo credit: WTFwich by minusbaby

Sandwich Wrapper: Paper or Plastic?

2008-12-02T09:30:00.004+08:00

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.)

Paper or Plastic

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.

Tissue Paper: This is the wrapper of my youth. ("Scottie, strong even when wet." -- Was it Scottie?) The sandwich is usually wrapped with orangey-checkered tissue paper then placed inside a white sandwich bag.

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.

Wax Paper: 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.

Wax papers are definitely better than tissue papers. However, as Teacher J knows, folding it can be quite a challenge.

Plastic Wrap: 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.

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!"

Click the link for a guide on effective sandwich wrapping -- How to Wrap a Sandwich.

How do you wrap your sandwiches?

Book Worm Meme: The Myth of Monogamy

2008-11-26T09:14:00.013+08:00

I’ve been tagged with the Bookworm Meme by Maria of "Writings of Maria". Thanks, Maria! You just gave me a reason to share with everyone this wonderful book.

Here’s how this meme works:

Grab the nearest book.
Open the book to page 56.
Find the fifth sentence.
Post the text of the next two to five sentences.
Don’t dig for your favorite book, the cool book or the intellectual one. Pick the Closest.
Tag five people to do the same.

MY BOOKWORM MEME

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.

THE MYTH OF MONOGAMY: Fidelity and Infidelity in Animals and People by David P. Barash, PH.D., and Judith Eve Lipton, M.D.

I bought this book after watching Penn and Teller's show, Bullshit! The episode's topic was "The Business of Love". Several experts on love were interviewed, including authors of my favorite books, "The Rules" and "Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus".

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.

It was a funny and informative read. Here are some of my favorite quotes:

"Unattractive males guard their mates more closely."
(The uglier the guy, the more more jealous he'll be.)

"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.)"
(I'll be watching "No Retreat... No Surrender... Si Kumander" for a few tips.)

"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."
(Gold-diggers are bad news. "You've got to love me for what I am, for simply being me...")

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.

Despite all the examples of infidelity in the animal kingdom presented by the authors, they ended the book with a positive note.

"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."

Sigh... *googly eyes*

I wonder where my husband is right now. Time for some mate-guarding.

Promises, Promises: Waking Up Early

2008-11-25T07:30:00.012+08:00

Interview of First Lady Laura Bush by Jay Leno

MRS. BUSH: 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.)

But also, I have to admit, I promised I'd jog with him, too. And I never did.

JAY LENO: You never did?

MRS. BUSH: No. (Laughter.)

JAY LENO: Well, okay, so that works. One cancels out the other.

PROMISES! PROMISES!

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!

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.

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 www.howtowakeupearly.com.

1. Advice #1. To Wake Up Early, Go To Bed Early

What?! This is like DIET and EXERCISE. Obvious and correct but nobody wants to hear it.

No fast fix? Fine. I resolve to sleep no later than ~~11:00~~ ~~12:00~~ 12:30PM.

2. Advice #6. Take A Nap In The Afternoon

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.

3. Advice #27. Advertise Your Early Wake Up Habit

"Start spreading the news. I'm waking early today..."

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.

(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*)

There are 45 cool tips in the website but I'm only trying 3 this week. I hope it works.

What time do you wake up?

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?

The Vinegar-Baking Soda Duo Strikes Again

2008-11-24T09:29:00.015+08:00

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.

Yikes!

This is a job for the Vinegar-Baking Soda Duo.

Click here 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.

TADA! No more rust spots.

The formula works really well with chrome. My next project will be to clean this rusty chrome hamper.

Wish me luck!

Wordless Wednesday: Christmassy Brown Paper Bags

2008-11-19T10:30:00.002+08:00

THE PROTOTYPE

THE BROWN PAPER BAGS

Finally, a use for my alphabet craft punch set.

Potpourri: Coffee Stains, Shopping and Christmas Gifts

2008-11-17T09:30:00.008+08:00

NO TV?! NO COMPUTER?! WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO?!

After my Lasik surgery last Tuesday, I had to say goodbye to blogging for awhile. Although I still plurked using my phone, I could not blog hop nor update my posts.

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!

Banished Coffee Stains

Using my Magic Formula (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.

What you need:

* Baking Soda
* Pure White Vinegar
* Scour Pad

Instructions:

1. Mix baking soda and white vinegar. (go for pasty consistency)
2. Dip the scour pad in the baking soda and vinegar mix.
3. Gently scrub the stain.

Speed Shopped

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.

Assembled Car Safety Kits

Inspired by Martha Stewart, I decided to put together my own Car Safety Kit. Do you have an emergency car kit?

Tata! I need to rest my eyes now.

P35 Project: Take Your Vits

2008-11-11T12:30:00.001+08:00

Sick and tired of reminding family members to take their vitamins?

Try this!

Slide in your Vitamin Schedule in a small acrylic menu holder (P35/$0.70 in National Bookstore ).

Place everything in a tray and serve during meal time.

You can go a step further by making a schedule for each family member.

Eat Good, Live Bad Longer

2008-11-07T13:15:00.002+08:00

I've been sick the whole week and I left my readers with a post on death. I'm so sorry.

Now that I'm feeling a bit better, I want to share with you the new craze in our household -- ORGANIC FOODS.

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.

P.S. Mai da Paypay, our switch to organic is partly your fault. LOL!

P.P.S. More posts on this when I get better.

Morbid Thoughts: Living Will

2008-11-03T14:30:00.012+08:00

Photo by eqqman

Talks on Death

Me: If I die first, I don't want any fanfare. Just cremate me. It's cheaper. (Kuripot hanggang kamatayan.)

Husband: Me too. I want to be cremated immediately. No viewing. No wake.

Me: What if your family wants a wake?

Husband: Tell them I don't want one.

Me: What?! That will be difficult given the circumstances.

Husband: Just tell them.

Me: Bah! You're dead anyway. I'll do what they want.

Remember the Terri Schiavo 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 petition was vehemently opposed by Terri's parents and the case dragged on for around 7 years.

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.

I surfed the net and found some samples of Living Wills. 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.

According to Eternal Reefs, a good End-Of-Life plan consists of 4 documents.

The Last Will and Testament takes care of your estate. The first three documents contain your dying wishes.

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?

Morbid thoughts...

Will you be making your own Living Will soon?

Note: This is not a paid post. I do not endorse Eternal Reefs. However, their End-Of-Life Planning page is really helpful.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T10:20:00.001+08:00

My babies wish you all a Happy Halloween.
Click the photo for a bigger and cuter image.

Trick or Treat Loot Bags

2008-10-30T15:00:00.003+08:00

I was informed this morning that our Condominium Trick or Treat was moved from tomorrow to today.

TODAY!

I was immediately off to the grocery.

I veered away from candies and chocolates this year. I sure hope these cupcakes and cookies are safe.

Ate S, M, and I turned regular red sando bags into Halloweenie loot bags.

BOO!

My dogs are now all dressed up in their costumes and ready to party. TATA!

More pictures to follow later.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-29T14:00:00.000+08:00

We're having party spaghetti and chicken lollipops today.

Speed Stacks (a.k.a. Expensive Tumblers)

2008-10-28T14:56:00.020+08:00

For whatever reason, my godson MUST have one. I don't get it. They are just inverted tumblers.

It seems like a lot of kids are also crazy over Speed Stacks because the toy is now out-of-stock in major toy stores in Manila. Out of desperation, I was already planning on buying one from Amazon last night. Good thing I saw this set in REGINA'S (2nd floor, Shoppesville Arcade, Greenhills Shopping Center).

It's only P550. (The same item is $9.99, without shipping cost, from Amazon.)

Note: This is not a paid post. I am not endorsing Speed Stacks. I have no idea what kids do with these tumblers. I am just trying to be a good ninang (godparent).

Photo of Cup Anatomy from www.speedstacks.com.

My Garage Sale Experience

2008-10-27T10:30:00.010+08:00

My Garage Sale Tips

1. Prepare early. Two weeks before the sale, I went through every cabinet in our apartment looking for stuff I can sell. I then sorted the items and carefully packed them in boxes. Come Sunday morning, the day of the garage sale, I was relaxed and in a happy mood.

That's Jody's table being swarmed by shoppers. She was selling her kid's Crocs for only P150.

2. Let go. True to my hoarder genes, I started reclaiming stuff from the box a few days before the sale. I'm still stuck with this big server plate shaped like a fish. It comes with 6 matching fishy mini-plates.

Letting go does not end with the firm decision to sell the item. It extends to pricing. I was selling my tops (blouses, button-down shirts, t-shirts) for P25/$0.50 each. I used to just give away my clothes so I had no problem selling them at a very low price. However, when one woman started to show interest in my K & Company blouse, I started having second thoughts about selling it. I wore that blouse only once, during my husband's birthday. Why was I selling it?!?!? My heart was pounding! I wanted to snatch it out of her hands. I was tempted to answer P500/$10 (I was selling my Crockpot for P400/$8.00) when she asked for the price. Aaargh! In the end, she got it for P25 but she had to stay and listen to the history of the blouse and a reminder to love and cherish it for the rest of her life.

3. Think out of the box. The sale started at 10 AM. By 11 AM, most of my stuff were already sold. I was getting bored and so I decided to sell the remaining items in bulk -- P200/$4 for one box of clothes and P100/$2 for one box of magazines. 15 minutes later, still no takers.

A woman selling crabs approached my table. Since I haven't sold a thing in the past 15 minutes (an eternity on a hot and humid day), I was in no mood to buy anything. Good thing Mrs. Crabs was in the mood to shop. She was interested in my shoe racks and offered to pay for it in crabs. SOLD! I offered to give her the rest of my inventory in exchange for another bag of crabs. SOLD! She left with 7 shoe racks and a box of clothes (she didn't want the magazines) and I with around 3 kilos of crabs. Everybody happy.

I remembered to take pictures of the crabs only after we finished eating.

I was back home by 11:40 AM.

Note: I joined the garage sale Ting organized in Mabini Hall, Quezon Memorial Circle. Thanks, Ting and Cesca!

My Moleskine and I

2008-10-24T13:30:00.007+08:00

What will I write in my Moleskine notebook?

Recipes and Tips. I will write down recipes from the magazines I read in beauty salons, my doctor's and dentist's waiting areas, and restaurants. (Corny?)

My niece copied this French Toast recipe from her teeny-bopper magazine into my Moleskine planner.

[This post is my official entry to Toni's Moleskine Giveaway Contest. Thanks to Wifely Steps and Avalon.ph.]

7 Random Facts About Me

2008-10-23T09:30:00.004+08:00

I've been tagged by Amy (http://artsyfartsyfooladi.blogspot.com).

Here are 7 facts about Mrs. G that are probably not known to many.

1. I heart HELLO KITTY.

2. I am a closet fag hag. (Hi, JJ!)
3. I can eat a whole doughnut in two bites. (Hi, MM!)
4. I make party spaghetti whenever I feel like it (which is sometimes as often as 2x a week). My party spaghetti is cooked with banana ketchup and cocktail hotdogs.
5. I am a natural-born detective (a.k.a. snoop, stalker).
6. My favorite color is pink.
7. I like staying at home. (No, I don't get bored.)

I now tag http://www.maidapaypay.com/ and http://baglove.blogspot.com/.

Organize Your Medicine Box

2008-10-21T10:30:00.008+08:00

When I was growing up, my parents kept our emergency medication (paracetamol, antihistamine, loperamide, etc.) in a small Tupperware container. Everything was dumped inside. Our medicine wonder-box was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get.

My husband, on the other hand, is very organized in this area. Good thing he brought with him his own medicine box when we got married.

Here's are some handy tips on organizing your own medicine box.

1. Spread it. Take it all out of its container and see what medicines you currently have.

2. Sort it. Remember the Sesame Street song, "Which of these things go together... which of these things do not..."? Sort it in a manner that makes sense to you.

3. Check it. Check for expiration dates. If there is none and you have no idea how old it is, toss it out. It's not worth the risk.

4. Store it. Decide on a container. We use a crafts box to keep the medicines neatly sorted. Some keep theirs in small envelopes inside an index card box

5. Label it. Label every medicine with it's corresponding expiration date. If it comes in a blister pack and you're planning on cutting it up, make sure you note down the expiration date first. I made the mistake of cutting before checking and I ended up piecing it all together like a jigsaw puzzle just to see the date.

6. Hide it. Keep away from reach of children. Hide it in a cool, dry, and preferably dark place. It should be accessible to you but not your children. But don't even think of keeping it in your bathroom. Storing medication in a humid bacteria-infested place is not a good idea. Remember, aerosol effect.

Blog Awards

2008-10-20T11:15:00.004+08:00

Thank you to The Work From Home Mother.

Thank you to Tina of Everything But The Kitchen Sink.

My favorite blogs now are:
Kitchen Cow
Market Manila
Wifely Steps
Misterhubs
The Trojan Bore

I'm too shy to tell them that I like their blog. I just hope they see this.

Wardrobe Inventory: Jeans

2008-10-19T10:12:00.006+08:00

Photo by aphasiafilms

WARDROBE INVENTORY: WEEK 6

JEANS

The Lucky Shopping Manual suggests the following:

MUST HAVES...

1 Pair to wear with heels
1 Pair to wear with flats
1 Weekend Pair you can wreck

ADD...

1 White Jeans
1 Another Favorite Pair
1 Cords (Corduroys)
1 Fun Jeans

To help you with your inventory, here is a guide to the perfect pair of jeans from Real Simple -- The Best Jeans for Every Body Type.

I don't have a pair for wearing with heels. I also don't have cords.

I have --

6 pairs of drawstring cargo pants (a.k.a. fat pants)
3 pairs of Levi's that are way to small for me now (a.k.a. pre-wedding pants)
1 pair of Moto jeans that fits horribly (a.k.a. i-bought-it-on-sale pants)
1 pair of white skinny jeans (a.k.a. what-was-i-thinking-my-thighs-look-huge-in-these pants)
3 pairs of wearable jeans

Holiday Planning: BOO!

2008-10-18T11:00:00.003+08:00

Photo by x-eyedblonde

Holiday Tasks for the Week (19 to 25 October):

1. Check your lists and relax.

Check your lists to make sure you haven't missed any important task.
Another holiday is coming up. Time to shift your focus for a while.

2. Decorate your home for Halloween.

Are you buying ready-made decors or are you making your own?
My friend Mrs. P made her own cute scarecrow a few years ago.
Find a way to blend the Christmas lights you already installed in your garden with your Halloween decors.

3. Buy or make your Halloween costumes.

Do you have a theme for the whole family this year? You can be a farmer and your children the vegetables. A gardener with her flowers? Snow White with dwarfs (hmmm... childhood dream)? Queen Bee with worker bees? You get the idea.
The cute and unique costumes are selling like hotcakes so shop early. You don't want to end up with the generic Wonder Woman/Superman your child wears all year round. This is the one time of the year you can legitimately act goofy.
Can you help me find an adult version of these costumes - here and here?

3. Prepare your Halloween candies/loot bags.

I heard it's now not enough to just give out candies. People started giving away loot bags last year?! Is this true?

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas.

How to Colorfast Clothes

2008-10-17T00:01:00.007+08:00

GADZOOKS! Someone didn't colorfast his gi!

Last night, my husband's pristine white gi was stained by his jiu jitsu sparring partner who wore a red non-colorfast gi. How irresponsible!

(The Tide "lagot kayo sa asawa ko" commercial comes to mind now.)

Dear Mr. Red Gi,

Please print out this post and give it to whomever is in charge of your laundry.

Mrs. G

HOW TO COLORFAST CLOTHES

Ingredients:
4 liters cold water
1 cup vinegar
1/4 cup salt

Mix all the ingredients together. Use cold water for better results.
Soak the garment into the solution. I colorfast each garment separately. If you wish to do one big batch, make sure you soak clothes of the same color.
Let it stay in the solution for about 30 to 45 minutes.
Wash separately. Be on the safe side, wash the garment separately until you're sure that your colorfasting was a success.

This is a good way to preserve the color of your clothes, especially jeans.

I hope this helps you, Mr. Red Gi.

P50 Make-Over: Pen Holders

2008-10-16T01:30:00.006+08:00

I was finally able to throw away the capless and barely writing pens in our pen holder. I went to the bookstore and replaced them with P5.00 retractable pens. It looks a lot neater now.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Computation: P5.00 x 10 pens = P50.00

Lead in Make-up

2008-10-14T12:30:00.009+08:00

We had quite a scare yesterday when HV taught us this simple test to check if there's lead in make-up.

Apply foundation/lipstick at the back of your hand.
Rub anything made of gold, like a gold ring, to the make-up.
If it darkens or turns black, there is lead in the make-up.

We were on our way to Divisoria so I was the only one wearing gold jewelry, my wedding ring. MM, on the other hand, was the only one with a make-up kit in her bag.

MM tested her Maybelline foundation first. It turned black. Aaack! She tested her favorite Cinema Secrets foundation next. It turned black too! She was distraught. (I know she left her bulky wallet that day to lighten her load so why did she have 2 foundations with her? Beauty before comfort.)

Good news, MM! You don't have to give up your favorite foundation. At least, not yet.

According to Snopes.com and About.com, this test is a sham.

The handy home test for lead in lipstick touted in the email is bogus. Certain metals, including gold, may leave a dark streak when scratched on various surfaces, but this is an artifact of the metals themselves, not an indicator of a chemical reaction with lead or any other substance.

To All: Can you help me confirm this? Please do the test on your foundations and tell me what happens. If it's true that gold will generally leave a dark streak when scratched, then ALL foundations, regardless of brand, should turn black.

Bad Mothers Anonymous

2008-10-13T00:01:00.006+08:00

Photo by Jennanana

Hey, Mommies!

Have you ever felt guilty for --

Not Breastfeeding (or stopping after your child turned 8)
Leaving the baby for 5 minutes so you can shower
Buying a dress that's worth 2 cans of baby formula (because you stopped breastfeeding)
All of the above and more

STOP FEELING GUILTY! You are not alone.

I recently discovered this site - Bad Mothers Anonymous - where mommies all over the world confess their deep dark secrets on motherhood. I bet you won't feel as guilty after reading their confessions.

Here are some of my favorites:

I have a 6 and 7 year old and since they don't know where babies come from I use it to my advantage when they are getting out of hand I tell them that I'm going to take them back to Target to get some other children. I know it's wrong but it works.

My hubby and I bought our son some candy at Godiva Chocolatiars. When he fell asleep that night and I carried him to bed I found the candy bar laying there and ate it. The next day or so he ask about it and I gave him a regular chocolate bar wrapped in the other ones wrapper....couldn't help myself it was SOOOO good.

When My son was little he was a biter, I got sick of it and finally bit him back! I didn't break skin or anything, but it actually worked. My daughter is a biter now, I mean HARD, I haven't bitten her yet, but I've been tempted to just throw her when she bites into my shoulder during a fit.

What's your bad mommy secret?

Wardrobe Inventory: Sweaters

2008-10-12T11:30:00.007+08:00

Photo by Lisa Dusseault

WARDROBE INVENTORY: WEEK 5

SWEATERS

The Lucky Shopping Manual suggests the following:

MUST HAVES...

2 Fitted Pullovers for Work
2 Cardigans
1 Black Turtleneck
2 Weekend Sweaters

ADD...

1 Evening Sweater
1 Vintage Sweater
More Weekend Sweaters

MY WARDROBE

I have too many sweaters! Good thing I did this inventory because I almost shopped for more in Zara yesterday.

Fold Marks -- I've noticed that my sweaters are developing fold marks because of long-term non-use. I need to find a better way to fold and store them.

Holiday Planning: Deck the Halls

2008-10-11T12:30:00.002+08:00

Photo from Wikimedia

Holiday Tasks for the Week (12 to 18 October):

1. Prepare Gifts for Shipping

Send your gifts for overseas friends early. Avoid air shipping and save money.
The gifts must be ready for shipping by November 15 if you want your friends to get them before Christmas Day.
The same rule applies to Christmas cards. Mail them early.
Shop around for cheap and reliable shippers.

2. Shop! Shop! Shop!

I cannot overstress this. Shop early and avoid the Christmas rush.
If you shop online now, most sellers can still deliver your purchases before December. Check their shipping rules.
Schedule trips to bazaars and weekend markets.
Review and update your Christmas list. Are you still within your budget?

3. Start Decorating Your Home

It's never too early! You want maximum exposure for your Christmas tree after spending days installing the lights and decors.
You can start with the tree then build-up the other decors each week.

4. Halloween

Two weeks to go before Halloween.
What's your costume this year?

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas.

The X-Men's Favorite Dessert

2008-10-10T18:50:00.006+08:00

GELATINOUS MUTANT COCONUT

What's in a macapuno? MarketMan has the answer. Check it here.

Christmas Lights Safety Reminders

2008-10-08T00:01:00.004+08:00

1. Check the condition of the lights.

Some experts suggests using new lights every year. Since this may be costly especially for those with big trees, just make sure that the lights are all in good condition.
Are they still working properly? Are there worn or frayed parts? Are there exposed wires?
Repair or replace damaged light strands.
Check if they are indoor or outdoor lights. Never use indoor lights outdoors.

2. Avoid octopus connections.

Connect a maximum of 3 light strands together.
Use enough extension cords.

3. Do not leave a lighted tree unattended.

Turn off the lights when nobody is in the room.
Teach everyone in the house how to turn off the main switch in the fuse box.
Place the fire extinguisher in an accessible area. Make sure everyone knows how to use it.

4. Match your extension cord with your tree.

Fine! This one has nothing to do with safety.
Why use a white extension cord when your tree is green?

Dirty Handbags

2008-10-07T00:01:00.004+08:00

(Mrs. G enters the bedroom)

Wow! Fresh bed sheets.

("Psycho" theme plays in the background. Mrs. G looks to the right.)

Shriek! Why is my bag on the bed? And it's beside my pillow!

(Mrs. G faints.)

Whoever put it there has absolutely no idea how dirty that bag is.

I have this bad habit of putting my bag on ANY floor, including public restrooms. I would prefer not too but it is sometimes unavoidable especially with the current condition of most of the public restrooms in Manila. No hooks!

Well, you think your handbag is cleaner than mine? Think again.

Microbiologist Amy Karen of Nelson Laboratories says nearly all of the handbags they tested were not only high in bacteria, but high in harmful kinds of bacteria.

Here are some tips on keeping your bags germless:

Use wipes (preferably the disinfecting kind) to clean the outer surface of your bag when you get home.
Bring your own bag hook when you go out so that you won't be forced to put your bag on the floor or any other dirty surface.
Refrain from putting your bag on surfaces where you know food is served or prepared.
Apply the same rules to briefcases, backpacks and gym bags.

Reference: Health Desk and Today

The Must-Have "IT" Toy for Christmas 2008

2008-10-06T00:01:00.006+08:00

Every year, toy companies come out with must-have toys that make parents who fail to get them feel like crap.

Remember the movie Jingle All the Way? Big guy Arnold Schwarzenegger had to fight with Sinbad for the "it" toy, Turbo Man. The movie ended with Arnold becoming Turbo Man, impressing everyone, and securing his title as the coolest and bestest dad in the world.

This year, unless you want to be a real-life Elmo, you better start shopping for ELMO LIVE!

P.S. If Mr. G is reading this, Mrs. G wants one too... uh... for future Baby G!

P.P.S. Thanks to Mrs. P for sending me the link to Elmo Live! Mrs. P already ordered one online.

Wardrobe Inventory: Dresses

2008-10-05T09:30:00.003+08:00

Little Black Dress by Banana Republic

WARDROBE INVENTORY: WEEK 4

DRESSES

The Lucky Shopping Manual suggests the following:

MUST HAVES...

2 Work Dresses
2 Weekend Dresses
1 Daytime Party Dress
1 Evening Dress

ADD...

More Weekend and Evening Dresses

(Note: I combined the Summer and Winter suggestions.)

Don't forget the LBD (Little Black Dress). This is a definite must-have in every wardrobe. Check different styles here.

MY WARDROBE

Thanks to C, I am fully covered in this department. She made me shop for dresses early this year so that I'll stop wearing jeans and graphic tees. Now, I love wearing dresses. No mixing and matching required.

How's your inventory coming along?

Holiday Planning: Don't Forget Halloween (Week 5)

2008-10-04T00:01:00.002+08:00

Photo by Karoli

Holiday Tasks for the Week (5 to 11 October):

1. Continue Shopping

Shop! I'm done with my Christmas decor shopping. I can now focus on the Christmas gifts.
Buying a few items every week is easier on the pocket compared to buying everything in one shopping trip (hopefully not the 24th of December). One exception would be if you're buying in Divisoria.
Shopping early prevents impulse and pressure buys.

2. Prepare for Halloween

Don't forget Halloween!
Prepare your candies and decorations.
Start shopping for costumes.

3. Buy/Order/Reserve "Must-Have" Toys

Research. Know what the kids will want for Christmas. I'm betting they are not clothes.
Excited moms and dads are already ordering the "it" toys. Don't be left behind.

4. Organize Your Closet

When I was a kid, Christmas means new clothes.
Make room for a new wardrobe by throwing out or donating unused and outdated clothes.

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas. She just posted great tips on Halloween planning.

My Divisoria Experience

2008-10-03T09:15:00.003+08:00

Photo by dodongflores

Last Wednesday, during the holiday, I went on a shopping trip to Divisoria with my mother-in-law and 2 sisters-in-law.

I had a blast shopping with them! That experience will forever set the bar for my future shopping expeditions to Divisoria. These are the reasons why:

1. No hassle looking for parking. We had a driver so we did not waste precious shopping time trying to look for a parking space. We were also able to go down in a strategic place, between 168 and Divisoria mall.

2. We had a navigator and guide. My sister-in-law knows the ins and outs of Divisoria like the back of her hand. No more aimless walking around trying to look for finds -- she knows exactly where the cheap but fancy stuff are!

Best of all, she knew where to get good food at the 168 food court. She ordered from this Chinese restaurant in the corner (near the restrooms) called Spoon. We feasted on Hot Prawn Salad, Yang Chow Fried Rice, Chili Spareribs, Chami, and Seafood Platter. I never knew 168 had such a fine restaurant.

3. No lugging around our heavy shopping bags throughout the mall. This is the best part. My mother-in-law brought along two assistants to accompany us around. Whenever our hands got full of shopping bags, the two assistants takes it back to the car and then meets us again inside the mall. How cool is that?

I felt so spoiled that day!

I am definitely going back to Divisoria soon but the experience will never be the same.

How to Tie a Christmas Bow

2008-10-01T00:01:00.001+08:00

Yesterday, I was so inspired by the trees in Tamilee decors that I decided to make a Christmas bow. With the gold ribbon I bought on sale last January, I started looping and tying.

My first attempts were pretty horrible. I tried to do it on my own for the around an hour until I succumed to googling for video tutorials.

Thank you Meghan Carter! Merry Christmas.

My Christmas Bow

Christmas Tree Heaven: Tamilee Decors

2008-09-30T15:00:00.004+08:00

Photo by Hustvedt

I was in Christmas tree heaven this morning.

Tamilee Decors was on the way home so I decided to drop by and take a peek at their latest collection. Their trees are gorgeous -- even the undecorated ones!

I stood in front of one undecorated tree for more than 5 minutes trying to figure out how they attach the lights. From what I observed, the strings of light are tightly wrapped around each branch. These people got tree decorating down to a science.

Tamilee Decors
325-A P. Guevarra St.
San Juan, Metro Manila
Tel. No. 724-9110

I'm going back sometime this week to buy the candle holder I wanted. They don't accept credit cards so I have to remember to bring cash or my husband next time. They accept checks but I don't know if this rule applies to non-regular customers.

Tip: If you need to park, enter the open gate on the left side of the shopwindow. The gate on the right is where you come in if you have a driver.

Teary Over Nido Commercial

2008-09-29T21:30:00.001+08:00

It's that time of the month. I get all teary eyed when I watch this commercial.

I am dedicating this video to all my Plurk buddies.

Thank you Spraky24 for the video and lyrics!

"You're My Number One"
Lyrics by: Sandy Sulit
Music by: Caloy Agawa
Performed by: Sharon Cuneta, with daughters Frankie and Miel Pangilinan

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

And there's no treasure
That i will cherish like you

And when i smile
They all see you glow
And they all know
You're my number one

My one and only joy
Is to give you my love

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

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

Wardrobe Inventory: Tops

2008-09-28T15:30:00.002+08:00

GAP Photo from People

WARDROBE INVENTORY: WEEK 3

TOPS

The Lucky Shopping Manual suggests the following:

MUST HAVES...

6 Work Tops
3 Fun Tops
4 Weekend Tops

ADD...

More Fun Tops

MY WARDROBE

More than enough work tops. I'm turning them into preppy-wife tops.
A lot of weekend tops.

I need...

Fun tops. I'm guessing fun tops mean gimmick/night out tops.
That elusive classic white button-down shirt. Help me find one!

I fitted all my tops and I had to let go of around 10 pieces. My white tops also need some Tide Ultra.

Note on T-shirts:

Both Giordano and Bench discontinued their basic black t-shirts! Why?!?!? The fabric Bench is now using is lighter and stretchier. I like the older one better because it's more forgiving. The new one is too clingy for my taste.

How's your inventory coming along?

Holiday Planning: Oh, Christmas Tree! (Week 4)

2008-09-27T18:20:00.003+08:00

Holiday Tasks for the Week (28 September to 4 October):

1. Visualize Your Perfect Tree

Surf for the latest trends in Christmas tree decorations.
Go around the malls for inspiration. Their Christmas tree showcases are now up. Try to take a picture when the salesperson is not looking.

2. Inventory Your Christmas Decorations

Are you buying a new tree? A bigger tree this year means more decorations.
Are you changing your theme?
Are all your poinsettias still intact? The balls still shiny? The lights still twinkling?

3. Start Shopping

Go to Divisoria soon! According to the experts (my Plurk mommy-buddies) the best time to go is before mid-October .
The malls are now selling Christmas decors. Prices will go up as Christmas nears.

4. Declutter Your Home

Make room for the decorations. It is hard to imagine how you will decorate a room with clutter all around the place.
Prepare your home for holiday guests. Make an inventory of extra towels and sheets.

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas

Adobo and the China Food Scare

2008-09-26T19:00:00.005+08:00

I wanted to cook Marketman's Adobo, Gata at Sili for dinner tonight but I was worried about the canned coconut milk in our pantry. I remember the can having some Chinese writing so, to be safe, I decided to cook something else.

I won't be eating adobo tonight, but all is not lost. After learning that Marketman used coconut milk from Thailand, I immediately checked our pantry. Luckily, our coconut milk is also made in Thailand and not China as I first thought. Whew! It's going to be adobo for lunch tomorrow.

Ate S on the China Food Scare

The China food scare is making even Ate S nervous. When I handed her the coconut milk, she kept on asking if I was sure it was not made in China. I had to explain to her that the writings in the can are Thai and not Chinese. I also pointed to her the words "PRODUCT OF THAILAND".

I am trying to access the BFAD site for the partial list of products pulled out from the groceries but the site is down. In the meantime, Ate S is removing the China-made products in our pantry.

UPDATE: I got the partial list from ABS-CBN News. Get it here.

Sexification and Beautification: Soup Diet

2008-09-25T09:30:00.004+08:00

Last night, Ate S and I made a big batch of Toni's fat-burning soup. (Check out the complete recipe and step-by-step pictures in http://wifelysteps.com.)

To be honest, the diced green vegetables with the tomato juice did not look appetizing at first. What was I thinking? I already spent P300 for the ingredients and I there I was having second thoughts about the the whole soup diet thing.

I watched Extreme Makeover Home Edition while Ate S took over the cooking. After the show, still teary eyed (I always cry after watching that show), I went to the kitchen to check up on the soup.

Ate S and M were grinning. They were so sure that I will not eat the vegetable soup. I was nervous. I asked them if they wanted to eat soup with me but they shook their heads. Bah! They'll see. O ye, of little faith!

Well, I showed them. I ended up eating 3 BOWLS of soup that night. It was really good, something I'll eat even if I'm not on a diet.

My diet officially starts today and will end Wednesday next week. Wish me luck!

How to Fold T-Shirts

2008-09-22T10:30:00.006+08:00

Compare this t-shirt stack to the photo in my post yesterday.

It's driving me crazy! I want my pile to line up perfectly. Aaaarggghhh...

What's a SAHW to do? Well, I spent the whole morning searching for a video on how to perfectly fold shirts.

Here are the results of my research.

First, there are obsessive-compulsive folders out there. Most of them used to work in GAP. (Remember Reality Bites?) There's this guy who automatically folds messy shirts in stores when he goes shopping. Read the article here.

Second, there is a magical way of folding shirts. I first found a YouTube clip demonstrating the technique but the woman in the video spoke Japanese. Luckily, Martha Stewart has an English version. See the video here.

(But the boys might find this video more interesting.)

Third, there are gadgets out there for folding t-shirts. My favorite is FlipFOLD. If you're planning to give me one for Christmas, I want the green one. If you like crafts, you can make me one. See the instructions here.

Fourth, aside from the GAP fold, there is also a Disney fold. Read the article here.

Fifth, although there are tons of posts on the GAP way of folding t-shirts, there is not one instructional video on how to do it (although there is a video on folding jeans). I heard they use plastic boards when they fold. One woman suggests using a chopping board as a guide. Please help me find a video.

That's it. Happy folding.

How do you fold your shirts?

Wardrobe Inventory: T-Shirts

2008-09-21T10:00:00.009+08:00

Photo by LTgate

WARDROBE INVENTORY: WEEK 2

T-SHIRTS

The Lucky Shopping Manual suggests the following:

MUST HAVES...

2 Good White Tees
2 Good Black Tees
4 Tanks
1 Striped Tee
1 Henley or Polo

ADD...

Solid tees in unpredictable colors
Fun tees

MY WARDROBE

2 black tees. My favorite black Bench shirt is starting to fade. I don't like wearing the other Giordano v-neck t-shirt.
TONS of graphic tees. What was I thinking?!?! C actually hates my logo/message/graphic t-shirts. She says I'm too old to be still wearing them.
4 Hello Kitty tees
18 collared/polo tees of different fits.
3 long-sleeved tees.
12 solid-colored tees

I need...

2 good black tees
2 good white tees
1 striped tee
1 henley
1 black polo tee

I'm going to Giordano and Bench later.

How's your inventory coming along?

Holiday Planning: Off With the Old, On With the New (Week 4)

2008-09-20T00:01:00.017+08:00

Holiday Tasks for the Week (21 to 27 September):

1. Make Room for Things to Come

Throw or give away old toys and other unwanted stuff around the house.
Your DS Lite no longer working? Add iTouch to your Christmas wish list.

2. Start Home Improvements

Showcase your house this Christmas. Do your home improvements early and avoid the Christmas rush.

3. Window-shop for Potential Gifts

Armed with your list and budget, start scouting bazaars and malls for potential gifts.
If you see a gem, buy it now!

4. Write Christmas Wishes

Set a deadline for sending your Christmas Cards.
Start writing as early as now. If you make two a day, you'll be all set my mid-November.

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off to Hike We Go (Updated)

2008-09-19T11:00:00.009+08:00

For the love of CCB, I am going hiking tomorrow!

It's good that my husband loves her as much as I do because he'll be the one lugging all the stuff I ~~want~~ need to bring for the trek.

Here is a list of what I packed in HIS backpack.

Water
Food (Granola Bars)

Shirt
Socks
Small Towel

Camera
Wallet
Cell Phone
Umbrella

BLUE KIT
First Aid Kit
Medicine Box
Flashlight/Radio
Cold Pack (For heat cramps)
Emergency Poncho
Emergency Blanket
Multi-Tool (Swiss-Army Knife)
Work Gloves
Signal Mirror (Regular Compact Mirror)
Compass
Whistle
Lighter
Toilet Paper
Notebook and Pen

Here is a list of what I packed in MY backpack.

Water
Food (Granola Bars)
Hat
Shirt
Socks
Small Towel
Jacket
Sunscreen (highest SPF I can find)
Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Lip Balm

Camera
Wallet
Cell Phone

It's a 4-hour trek so we better be prepared.

Tip: Make sure you drink at least 1 quart of water the night before the trek.

Recipe: Orange Iced Tea

2008-09-18T11:00:00.003+08:00

What you need:

Powdered Iced Tea (My husband doesn't like Nestea, and Lipton is expensive, so I now use Earth and Sky. Use whatever brand you want.)

Sunquick Orange (It must be Sunquick. This is the secret ingredient.)

Water and Ice

Plastic Shaker (I got mine free. I bought Nestea just to get the free shaker. My friend got hers from Tang just recently.)

Just mix everything together. Add more or less to taste. The Sunquick will do wonders to your iced tea. I promise!

Space and Clutter

2008-09-17T09:00:00.012+08:00

I grew up in a family of pack-rats. My grandmother held on to everything -- M.Y. San and Danish butter cookie tin cans, empty jars of mayonnaise, ketchup bottles, old bicycles, unused and broken appliances, outdated clothes... you get the idea.

Photo from the Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute of Maryland

I can still remember her carefully removing the labels and sterilizing the bottles before keeping them. She stored her loot in an orderly fashion, much like how Wall*E did in the movie. However, as years passed and her collection grew, her backyard started to look like a junk shop. I once saw giant rats hiding behind old bottles of Coke and Magnolia Chocolait. Eeek!

While reading this month's issue of Yes! Magazine, the featured celebrity housewife reminded me of my lola. The pretty wife/host confessed that she does not throw anything. She's not kidding! She was able to fill their 110 sqm. master's bedroom (almost as big as our whole apartment) with rows of boxes and knick-knacks. She and her husband now have 4 container vans parked in a vacant lot out of the city to store things that they can no longer fit in their basement. Beat that!

This got me thinking. I always thought that our house would look less cluttered if we had more storage space. After seeing the cluttered bedroom of the said celebrity, I realized that clutter has nothing to do with space, but everything to do with purging. I just need to be vigilant about throwing or giving away things we no longer use. Better yet, I have to learn not to bring into our home more stuff.

This is easier said than done, especially since I am very sentimental. It's a daily struggle. Sigh...

Impulse Buy: Alphabet Craft Punch Set

2008-09-16T13:00:00.006+08:00

Two Sundays ago, I had to choose between a K and Company dress and a craft punch set.

I chose the craft punch set.

My husband asked me why I wanted it. I didn't have an answer. I just do. I dream about it at night.

See how it perfectly cuts little alphabets.

Aren't they lovely? Would you have chosen the dress?

Wardrobe Inventory: Skirts

2008-09-14T17:00:00.007+08:00

Photo by Joe Mabel

WARDROBE INVENTORY: WEEK 1

SKIRTS

The Lucky Shopping Manual suggests the following:

MUST HAVES --

2 All-Season Work Skirts
1 Day-to-Night Skirt
2 Summer Work Skirts
1 Denim Skirt
2 Summer Weekend Skirts

and IF YOU NEVER WEAR PANTS, ADD...

1 Summer Evening Skirt
1 Winter Evening Skirt
1 Leather or Suede Skirt

MY WARDROBE

3 Black Work Skirts (9 if I include the skirts that come with blazers)
3 Colored Work Skirts
3 Denim Skirts
1 Evening Skirt
1 Weekend Skirt

I need more weekend skirts and at least 1 day-to-night skirt. I also need to lose 5 pounds if I want the skirts to fit like they used to. LOL!

How's your inventory coming along?

Wardrobe Inventory

2008-09-14T16:00:00.014+08:00

I always learn the hard way.

Our maid misplaced (a.k.a. lost forever) one of my clothes again. I cannot describe... I don't want to discuss it. I feel really bad.

Sigh...

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

Starting today, I am going to devote an hour every Sunday to do my WARDROBE INVENTORY.

To make the task less daunting, I will focus on one type of clothing every week. My Lucky Shopping Manual will be my guide.

Join me! Let us itemize and update our wardrobes together.

Here's the schedule:

Week 1 - Skirts
Week 2 - T-Shirts
Week 3 - Tops
Week 4 - Dresses
Week 5 - Sweaters
Week 6 - Jeans
Week 7 - Pants
Week 8 - Suits
Week 9 - Bags
Week 10 - Shoes
Week 11 - Jackets
Week 12 - Undergarments
Week 13 - Swimwear
Week 14 - Outerwear

Holiday Planning: Me, Myself and I (Week 3)

2008-09-13T10:30:00.005+08:00

"If Mama's not happy, nobody's happy"

That's the theme of Cynthia's holiday prep checklist for this week.

Holiday Tasks for the Week (14 to 20 September):

1. Make a Christmas Card List

To whom should I send a card? Start a database of names and addresses.
Will I give a generic store bought card or will I make my own?
How many cards do I still have from last Christmas? Will I be using them this season?
How many cards do I need make or buy? Order or buy the cards soon.

2. Inventory Gifts

Set aside a box where you can put the gifts you buy.
Do you recycle gifts? Make a list of the gifts left from last Christmas and put them in the gift box.

3. Plan for December Pampering Sessions

Schedule "me" time for December as early as now. Plan ahead as you will likely forget about this during the holiday crunch .

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas

Clutter Diet: 5 Questions Before Buying

2008-09-11T17:00:00.007+08:00

From Lorrie Morrero, my organizing guru:

I am so excited to share with you our new free "Wallet Reminder Sleeves!" They help you prevent clutter from coming in your door with a reminder of the five questions you should always ask before purchasing.

Which reminds me...

Photo by Donovan Govan.

I want to bake a pound cake but the recipe requires a mixer, a gadget I never considered buying before. Should I buy one?

THE 5 Ws OF SHOPPING: Lorie Morrero's 5 Questions Before Buying

1. Who owns this already and might share it with me?

I think Teacher Jam has one but she just gave birth and I don't want to bother her. Mrs. P lives too far. Maybe C has one at home.

2. What do I already have that is like this?

I have a whisk, a spatula, and a wooden spoon.

3. Where will it be stored?

I might have to give up a few plastic containers to make room for this.

4. When will I have time to use it and maintain it?

This will all depend on the success of my pound cake. My sister said that a mixer is a good investment and that it can last a lifetime. Oh, I bet it will since I am going to use it only once.

5. Why do I want to buy this?

I want to bake my own cake since I find the Sara Lee pound cake too expensive.

So, do you think I should buy a mixer?

[Get your own free card sleeve at http://www.clutterdiet.com/wallet.]

Organize Your Discount Cards

2008-09-11T16:30:00.005+08:00

I love discount cards!

Some cards you get instantly and some you get only through hard work -- shopping and saving the receipts.

No matter how and where you got them, you have to bring them all with you all the time because you never now when you might need them. There was a time I had to go home and get my card because a friend decided out of the blue to buy a refrigerator. Sayang ang points! Since then, I organized my cards and vowed never to leave them again. (Two weeks ago, I forgot my wallet but all my discount cards were still in my bag. LOL!)

Where do you keep your cards?

LifeHacker and Martha Stewart suggest using a key ring. You punch a hole in the cards and put them all in a key ring or small carabiner.

Punch a hole in my Sanrio Fans Club card?! NEVAAH!

I keep mine in this gold card holder. I bought it for P250 in the Rockwell Urban Bazaar a few months ago. A similar holder is available in Fino, Rockwell for around P500.

Cleaning: Seven Wonders of the Home

2008-09-10T00:01:00.009+08:00

These are the seven cleaning products that I cannot live without.

1. Vinegar

*Cleaning
*Deodorizing
*Mild Bleaching

Bathroom: Vinegar eliminates soap scums and softens mineral deposits in faucets.
Laundry: When added to the first rinse, it cuts grease, softens the water, and whitens fabric. You can also use vinegar to colorfast clothes.
All-around: Mix it in a bucket of water with a few drops of tea tree oil and you have an instant floor cleaner. 1 part vinegar and 1 part water makes an excellent window cleaner.
Deodorizer: Boil half a cup of vinegar in a pot of water. It will absorb all the bad smell in the kitchen. You can also just leave a dish of vinegar in a musty room and drawer.

2. Baking Soda

*Deodorizing
*Scouring
*Stain Removal

Miracle Mix: Vinegar and Baking Soda
Kitchen: Leave a small box in the refrigerator and freezer to keep it odor free.
All-around: It provides gentle yet effective scrubbing power. Mix it with dishwashing liquid to scour toilet bowls and tiles.

3. Dishwashing Liquid

*All-purpose Cleaner

Don't be fooled by the name. You can use dishwashing liquid to clean almost anything in your house. Just don't forget to rinse.

4. Erasing Pad (Melamine Foam)

*Scrubbing
*Scouring

Ideal for sinks, bathtubs, ceramic tiles, windows, microwave, refrigerator, computer (my MacBook), electrical appliances, furniture.

We unfortunately used flat paint on our walls and this pad is the only thing that can safely clean it.

5. MC All-Purpose Cleaner

*Dirt and Grease Remover

If it won't come off with water or dishwashing liquid, use MC.

6. Goo Gone

*Goo Remover

It removes grease, gum, stickers, crayon, tape and all kinds of goo. Say goodbye to annoying price stickers.

7. Kitchen Paper Towel

*Drying
*Cleaning

Use it to dry hands, wipe surfaces, remove dust, and clean spills. It is disposable and germ-free.

"C" Sees: Oops! She Did It Again

2008-09-09T09:00:00.008+08:00

The lady has a gift. She can discover the "funniest" things in the most innocent places. (See her previous finds here.)

This time, we were in a make-shift toy store in the middle of a mall.

While I was checking out this toy...

(The doll is cute but a bit creepy. Reminds me of Chucky.)

she found this...

THE "DUMP" TRUCK

Click here for a better view.

R-U-M-B-L-E! R-U-M-B-L-E! R-U-M-B-L-E!

Is that the sound of a tummy rumbling?

The "dump" truck to the rescue!

2008 Christmas Bazaar Schedule (Updated Last 30 October)

2008-09-08T15:00:00.024+08:00

Start scheduling your Christmas shopping.

Here is a list of the upcoming bazaars for the months of September to December.

Happy Shopping!

SEPTEMBER

8 September

American Women's Bazaar
World Trade Center, Metro Manila

12-14 September

Rockwell Urban Bazaar
Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Tent, Makati City

13-14 September

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

27-28 September

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

28 September

Assumption Alumni Bazaar
Hotel Intercontinental, Makati

OCTOBER

4 October

US Embassy Club Shopper’s Day
World Trade Center, Metro Manila

4-5 October

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Venture 7 Christmas Bazaar
Hotel Intercontinental, Makati

6 October

American Women's Bazaar
World Trade Center, Metro Manila

11-12 October

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

Woodrose Family Bazaar
Cuenca Community Center
Ayala Alabang Village, Muntinlupa

12 October

Casa Y Jardin Bazaar
Hotel Intercontinental, Makati

19 October

Casa Y Jardin Bazaar
Hotel Intercontinental, Makati

24-25 October

Rockwell Urban Bazaar
Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Tent, Makati City

25-26 October

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

26 October

The Best in the West Bazaar 2008
Rotary Club of Makati West
Hotel Intercontinental, Makati

NOVEMBER

3 November

American Women's Bazaar
World Trade Center, Metro Manila

8-9 November

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

9 November

21st Christmas Bazaar
Rotary Club of Makati
Grand Ballroom, Hotel Intercontinental, Makati

15-16 November

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

Noel De Luxe Bazaar
The Megatent, No. 30 Meralco Avenue
Ortigas Center, Pasig City

16 November

Hearts and Hands for Charity Bazaar
International Bazaar Foundation (IBF)
PICC Forum, Manila

22-23 November

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

23 November

Assumption Alumni Bazaar
Hotel Intercontinental, Makati

28-30 November

Rockwell Urban Bazaar
Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Tent, Makati City

29-30 November

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

DECEMBER

2 December

American Women's Bazaar
World Trade Center, Metro Manila

5 - 16 December

The 7th World Bazaar Festival
World Trade Center, Metro Manila

6-7 December

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

12-14 December

Rockwell Urban Bazaar
Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Tent, Makati City

13-14 December

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

Christmas Gifts and Giveaways
Delicacies Area, Tiendesitas
Ortigas, Pasig City

13-23 December

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

18-23 December

Grand Bazaar '08 @ the Big Tent
Isidora Hills, Holy Spirit Drive
Don Antonio Commonweath, QC

19-21 December

Cars/Accessories Showcase and Lifestyle Bazaar
Celebrity Place, Capitol Hills Drive, Diliman, Q.C.

20-21 December

"Yuletide Souk" The Big Red Bazaar
Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Tent, Makati City

22-23 December

Wonderland Christmas Bazaar 08
Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Tent, Makati City

27-28 December

Karl Edwards International Bazaar
NBC Tent, Taguig

Recipe: Rib Eye Steak

2008-09-07T00:01:00.010+08:00

You don't win friends with salad.
- Homer Simpson

My husband is not a fan of vegetables. He believes that our evolution from apes to intelligent human beings was largely due to the fact that we eat meat. How can you argue with that?

Good thing steaks are so easy to cook. If you're in a hurry, you can cook them straight from the freezer (according to Mrs. P).

How To Make Rib Eye Steak

Ate S and M watch VideoJug instructionals with me.

Note: I cooked steak for lunch yesterday. I got it right on my first try. Hooray!

Holiday Planning: Christmas Notebook (Week 2)

2008-09-06T09:00:00.014+08:00

Holiday Tasks for the Week (7 to 13 September):
[See Week 1]

1. Start Your Christmas Notebook

It may be a regular notebook, an accordion file or a clear book.
Insert/paste your Master Gift List and Holiday Budget
Make room for other stuff like calendars, pictures and more lists.

2. Make a Christmas Countdown Calendar

Take note of the bazaars this holiday season.
Schedule shopping trips.
In a few weeks, you will start to calendar Christmas parties and reunions. Avoid double-booking.

3. Create a Mood Board

Choose a Christmas theme for this year.
Start a set of tear files. Clip ideas from magazines. Print out pictures and articles from the web.

4. Inventory Crafts Items

Do you still have hundreds of those gold gift wrappers?
Tapes, tissue paper, cutting board, cutter, scissors, etc.

5. Make a Shopping List

Base your shopping list on your gift list and budget.
Decide whether you will make or buy the gifts.

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas

My Little Christmas Tree (Year 2006)

2008-09-06T00:01:00.002+08:00

"Little Christmas tree
No one to buy you
Give yourself to me
You’re worth your weight
In precious gold you see
My little Christmas tree"

- Little Christmas Tree
(Jose Marie Chan)

2009 Ikea Catalogue

2008-09-05T09:59:00.006+08:00

THANK YOU, KAYE. I LOVE YOU!

THANK YOU, BATS. I LOVE YOU TOO!

Grocery Shopping: As Good As It Gets

2008-09-04T00:01:00.006+08:00

2 behavioral problems I leave home when grocery shopping:

1. PARANOIA/PHOBIA

I want to be well-stocked for every national disaster imaginable. There is no harm in being ready, but my imagination can often times run wild. (After watching War of the Worlds with my husband, I asked him if he had an evacuation plan in case aliens invade planet earth, or for zombie and vampire attacks.)

Because of this, I tend to over-stock food. Just a few months ago, I had to throw a few dozen expired canned and bottled foods.

2. OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVENESS

If I have to buy more than 1 thing of something, it must be an even number, usually 6.

I don't need 6 cans of green peas or 6 packs of noodles but I still buy 6. I cannot explain it. It just has to be an even number.

THE HEALING PROCESS:

I made a list of the food staples that I store in the pantry and I limited myself to a certain number for each item . When grocery shopping, I only buy enough to replenish our stocks as opposed to buying 6 of everything.

Example: I can only store 14 cans of corned beef. At the end of the week, if we used 3 cans, Ate S will write down "Corned beef - 3 cans" in our grocery list. I then use all my will power to buy only 3 cans.

I still hoard groceries but I now have a system. We have provisions enough to feed 4 people for at least two weeks in case disaster strikes.

Grocery Shopping: The List

2008-09-03T09:00:00.008+08:00

With the rickety carts provided by ***mart, it is very hard to maneuver around the grocery while holding a list and a pen.

Post-its to the rescue!

My two hands are now free, and I can easily identify my cart -- no more pushing some other woman's cart away.

I also discovered yesterday that the medium carts have better wheels. I used to always choose the biggest ones and those are squeaky and unwieldy.

I LOVE: The Electrolux Ultrasilencer

2008-09-02T09:30:00.010+08:00

BagLove just posted a video of her current obsession, the Prada Trembled Blossom bag. I love the bag too but I'm coveting another item now. (hint, hint, *ehem*, *ehem*, christmas gift)

Behold, the world's most silent vacuum cleaner!

Click and zoom in the picture to see how beautiful it is.

My husband already bought me an UltraSilencer but it's orange -- the only color available in the Philippines. (Thanks, Honey!)

Why I love my UltraSilencer:

It is truly the world's most silent vacuum cleaner. I can watch TV while vacuuming our room.
It has a washable hepa-filter. My husband is allergic to dust. Hepa-filters help reduce asthma and allergy symptoms.
It is powerful. Mrs. P advised me not to buy a vacuum cleaner that is less than 1200W. The UltraSilencer has an adjustable power of 1400-1600W.
It has cool attachments. On top of the brush and crevice tool, the UltraSilencer comes with a rotating duster attachment that uses static electricity to attract dust particles.
It looks cool. But it will look a lot cooler in all-white.

Housekeeping Reference Materials

2008-08-31T00:01:00.019+08:00

"Basa ng basa, hindi naman marunong mag-walis. Isosoli ka ng asawa mo dahil hindi ka marunong sa bahay." - Lola

If only she could see me now. God, bless her soul.

What I did not learn at home when I was growing up, I made up for by reading how-to books. (Yes, Lola, all that reading worked out for me.)

Here is a list of my books on household management:

1. The Proper Care and Feeding of Husbands by Dr. Laura Schlessinger

I bought this thinking it was a cookbook. I'm still happy I got it. I love Dr. Laura's no-holds-barred way of dishing out advise. She can, however, be a bit sexist so you have to keep an open mind.

(W)omen get married thinking largely about what their marriage and their man can do for them, and not what they can do for their men. And when there is so little emphasis on the giving, the nitpicking and pettiness chews up and spits out what could have been a good marriage.

2. KIT: Keep It Together by Frannie S. Daez

Mrs. Daez is an angel. Her book inspired me to develop my own household manual and I credit her for most of what's in it today. Thank you Mrs. Daez. (Note: This is a perfect wedding shower gift.)

KIT is a home management manual to help women keep it together. Frannie Daez introduces a corporate approach to managing the home... The author shares how she manages her home based on personal experiences.

3. Apartment Therapy by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan

I discovered their website -- http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ -- a few months after my husband and I moved in our apartment. Maxwell's EIGHT STEP HOME CURE made me buy the book. It's not you regular run-of-the-mill interior design book.

A top interior-design guru shows you how to create a home that works for you -- physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

4. I Love You, Yaya Handbook by Maricel Laxa Pangilinan

Even those without children can learn a lot from this book. It comes with a CD containing the lectures in the hand book.

It is a two-part reference book containing informative articles on hiring, training, and nurturing caregivers, as well as practical guides for children, common illnesses, developmental milestones, and even fighting stress.

5. The Home Organizing Workbook by Meryl Starr

The book contains clutter-busting tips and wonderful photos. The pictures will inspire you to organize your home.

Finally, an accessible and utterly practical handbook that offers lasting results for anyone looking to clear the clutter.

6. Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook by Martha Stewart

This is my housekeeping bible! A must-have for every household. If expectant mothers read "What to Expect When Your Expecting," brides should read this before moving into their own homes.

Martha's indispensible handbook for creating comfortable and beautiful home and caring for everything in it.

7. Real Simple Solutions

Most of what's in the book is also in their website -- www.realsimple.com -- but I like browsing through the pages and looking at the pictures when I need inspiration.

Real Simples' indispensible household-hint book. Features more than 300 fast, practical, and affordable solutions to make your busy life easier. Includes inspiring ideas for cooking, cleaning, decorating, entertaining, and more.

8. Good Housekeeping:The Complete Household Handbook

Very comprehensive. It is a nice complement to the Martha Stewart Handbook. But if I have to choose between the two, I will choose Martha's.

This is the ultimate comprehensive, authoritative, and easy-to-use source of practical information for organizing, cleaning, and managing your home.

9. Better Homes and Gardens: Clutter Cutters

I got this from Book Sale. It gives you practical advice on how to stay organized. This was the book that helped me develop my own system of storing things.

Cut the clutter and reclaim your space and your life. Clutter Cutters offers advice and encouragement for clearing out the clutter in every room of the house.

Holiday Planning: Planning Week (Week 1)

2008-08-30T00:01:00.004+08:00

Holiday Tasks for the Week (31 August to 6 September):

1. Master Gift List
2. Holiday Gift Budget

I'm making a list, and checking it twice. Were you naughty or nice this year?

Note: I'm following the holiday planning schedule of Cynthia Townley Ewer. Check out her website -- Organized Christmas

Jollibee Yum Burgrrrr...

2008-08-29T15:00:00.008+08:00

28 August 2008

I placed my ordered at 3:36 PM.

The delivery guy arrived in our condo in less than 30 minutes. Good.

He spilled the drinks and had to go back. He also did not leave the fries I ordered. Bad.

The delivery guy was back in less than 15 mins. Good.

I discovered that my Yum Burgrrr had no beef patty. Bad.

The replacement burger arrived at 5:15 PM. Very bad.

They refused to honor their 30 minute guarantee. Very, very bad.

They picked the wrong customer to mess with. Not today. Not me.

Jollibee guarantees that you will get your order within 30 minutes. If they fail to deliver on time, they will give you a P200 gift certificate. In my case, since their delivery guy arrived at the lobby of our condo within the prescribed time, the manager said that I am not entitled to the P200 gift certificate. She offered me two peach mango pies instead.

BurGRRRRR...

The guarantee is for THE ORDER and not the driver.

I can forgive the spilled drinks but I really insisted on the gift certificate when I found out that they delivered other orders first before bringing me my replacement burger. They thought the 30-minute time limit no longer applies in my case since their rider was on time the first time.

My position was that they were already in default when the delivery guy failed to deliver the drinks and the fries. They just aggravated the situation by delaying the delivery of the replacement burger.

To cut a long story short, I got the gift certificates and 2 peach mango pies.

Want a Jollibee treat?

Cleaning: New Lysol

2008-08-29T07:30:00.002+08:00

I recently switched to homemade cleaning products but Ate S, the germophobe, threatened to throw a coup if I don't buy her Domex. For world peace, I went to the grocery to get her anti-bacterial all-purpose cleaner.

At there it was! The Lysol All-Purpose Cleaner for only P59.00.

I immediately bought 4 bottles.

I'm not sure I like it. The smell takes some getting used to.

Wall*E: Hoarder or Collector?

2008-08-27T12:01:00.007+08:00

Wall*E is a hoarder! He developed very human traits and hoarding was unfortunately one of them.

I can't blame him. He can have anything on this earth! It may all be earthling garbage but as they say, one man's trash is another man's treasure.

Sort and Store

He's so cute. He chooses his "finds" carefully and brings them home in his cooler. At home, he sorts them and keeps them in his hi-tech rotating cabinet. He obviously has a system because he can find anything in an instant. It only took him a few seconds to find that Rubik's Cube for Eve.

Hmmm... I take it back. Wall*E is a collector not a hoarder. He collects the stuff he likes and enjoys them. Just like me. *ehem, ehem*

Now, when my husband complains that I hoard stuff I can always tell him, "Correction. I collect not hoard."

Here is a list of some of the things I hoard:

Hotel Toiletries
Plastic and Paper Bags
Tea Lights
Notebooks
Ballpens

These are considered consumables, things used everyday, but I end up hoarding them instead of using them. Some I use every now and then but very reluctantly.

Am I a collector or a hoarder? Do I need help?

What do you hoard?

I Love You, Yaya Handbook

2008-08-26T17:00:00.007+08:00

I was late discovering the I Love You, Yaya Handbook. Good thing they had one copy left in Fullybooked, Powerplant.

I initially had second thoughts about buying the book because it looked like the browsing copy. (I hate wrinkly/crumpled book covers.) When I opened it, I even saw scribbles in the title page. WTF?!?

"Oh, wait! That's Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan's authograph. SOLD!"

I bought it for P499. Since I am childless and don't need a yaya, I got it purely for research. This review is for you my dear readers.

The book comes with 2 CDs. They contain the same subjects discussed during the I Love You, Yaya Training Seminars. You can use it to train your yayas at home.

I listened to Disc 1 and all I can say is that I love Maricel's voice. She sounds so soothing and pleasant.

Here are some of the topics I liked:

Common Mistakes We Make in Feeding Our Children (can be applied to husbands)
Teach Your Yaya the Value of Disease Prevention
Yaya: Your Organization Buddy
Love Your Kasambahay
Letting Go

It's a handbook for you and your yaya!

If you want to see it first before investing your P499, you can borrow my copy.

Honeymoon Suites: The Bare Minimum

2008-08-25T16:30:00.008+08:00

I just came home from a 3-day Palawan vacation.

We stayed in a resort known to be a honeymoon destination but I honestly don't know how it got that reputation because the place is definitely not honeymooner-friendly.

[Warning: Mature material ahead. No curse words.]

What You Want in a Honeymoon Suite

(Please use your imagination. I don't want my blog to be banned for posting pornographic materials.)

1. Bed: A broken back is never romantic.

Demand at the minimum a queen-sized bed. Two single-beds that are pushed together do not count. When you start rolling around from one side to the other, you don't want to feel the break in your back. Worse, you don't want to fall right in the middle! All the action will definitely cause the bed to separate. This happened to my friend, I swear!

2. Bed sheets: Knee burns and chafed elbows!

I am not asking for 1,000 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets from Frette. Just don't give me bed linens with the texture of a sackcloth. Some may think this is not important but if you are planning to stay in bed most of the day, you will notice.

3. Room service: Dressing up and walking to the clubhouse just to get something to eat will kill the mood and break the momentum.

You will eventually get hungry but moving your ass out of that bed will be the farthest thing from your mind. Without room service, you will have to dress up and go out to eat. The horror! By the time you finish eating, it will be very hard to get the groove back.

4. Privacy: If you can hear your neighbors they can hear you too.

Res ipsa loquitur (The thing itself speaks).

There! Good luck on your first, second or nth honeymoon.

Ultimate Yaya Accessory: Cash Card

2008-08-23T00:01:00.003+08:00

"Yaya, can you buy 5 kilos of Wagyu beef on your way home? Just use your card."

I wake up. End of dream sequence.

Seriously, a yaya (nanny) cash card may prove to be heaven sent to busy moms.

My very pregnant friend almost passed out in the supermarket a few weeks ago. She did not feel well but needed to buy some things for her kids. She had to use her credit card and therefore could not delegate the grocery shopping to her maid.

Why not give yaya her own card so she can do the shopping for you? She and the driver can even gas up on the way home. Wouldn't that be lovely?

I'm not kidding. You just load the card an amount enough for emergency shopping trips. Enroll it in your online account so you can easily keep track of how it is being used. You can reload it online too.

Easy, right?

Chocolatiest Test

2008-08-22T00:01:00.011+08:00

My husband believes in rapid nutrient replacement after a workout. I have no problem with this since studies show that a person must consume carbohydrates within 15 minutes after a workout to help restore glycogen. My problem is his choice of carbohydrates, KRISPY KREMES.

© BrokenSphere / Wikimedia Commons

I have to give him another option! But where will I find a healthy alternative to Krispy Kremes? It must be as yummy as doughnuts.

Compared to children, husbands are harder to feed healthy meals. You can't just give them "the mommy look of terror". Fortunately, after some research, I found the perfect after workout snack...

CHOCOLATE DRINKS

According to WebMD:

In the study, nine male cyclists rode until their muscles were depleted of energy, then rested four hours and biked again until exhaustion. During the rest period, the cyclists drank low-fat chocolate milk, Gatorade, or Endurox R4. During a second round of exercise, the cyclists who drank the chocolate milk were able to bike about 50% longer than those who drank Endurox, and about as long as those who drank the Gatorade.

Problem solved? Not really.

My husband would only drink CHOCO-VIM but that drink was discontinued decades ago. The only trace the good ol' drink is this bottle being sold on eBay.

If there's a will, there's a way.

I hope one of these tastes like Choco-Vim.

Anyone out there who can still remember how that chocolate drink tastes like? Please send me your suggestions.

Super Olympic Mom

2008-08-21T11:00:00.009+08:00

She is a middle-school principal.
She is a mom of three, two girls and one very special boy.
She went through a divorce when her son was 9 yrs. old.
She found out soon after that her son had ADHD.
She found time to bring her son to swim practice 2x a day.
She is the mom of the world's greatest swimmer.

She is...

DEBBIE PHELPS

Picture from Good Morning America

She shared her secret in Good Morning America. "I'm the parent not the coach or the agent or whatever there is to be." She will always be MOM.

Very Dirty City Air

2008-08-20T00:01:00.007+08:00

Manila Air is sooo DIRTY! Here's the proof...

I had our air conditioners cleaned last 6 August 2008. On the same day, I placed in it special filters that are designed to turn any air conditioner into an air filter. It comes with an indicator that you stick on the air conditioner's grill. Once it turns black, after around 1-2 months of normal use as the packaging claimed, it's time to change the filter.

On the 8th day...

The indicator was barely a week old when it started turning black. We had to replace the filter after only 8 days!

See the dirt trapped in the filter? Gross!

Alas! The price we have to pay for living in the city.

"C" Sees: Her True Value Finds

2008-08-19T11:00:00.016+08:00

Two weeks ago, I dragged "C" to True Value in Power Plant, Rockwell. I, while shopping for lights, was blissfully unaware that "C" was dying of boredom in the CFL section. When I asked her if it's okay for us to go around and browse the tools section, she gave me an emphatic NO.

Yesterday was different. As I aimlessly browsed the True Value aisles, "C" entertained herself with some of the "interesting" items near the counter. Inspecting her finds, we were giggling like school girls as we read the labels. *hihihi*

NO. 1: UDDER CREAM

This was "C"'s first find. I saw her laughing her ass off while holding this jar with a cow label. I first thought it was underarm cream. Upon closer inspection, I realized that it was an UDDER CREAM! The intense giggling then started. "Cream for you significant UDDER!" "Not only for the lips but also for the nips." "Oh! AAP (our breastfeeding friend) will love this!"

Seriously, check out the website of UDDERLY SMOOTH. I think it's a great product once you get past the UDDER.

NO. 2: "PERSONAL" Massager

We just couldn't resist taking a picture of this contraption. It claims to be a personal massager. With that shape, I'm sure it will really be a "personal" experience. Grab it now! It's 20% off.

Check it out in the Walgreen website -- HEALTH O METER Personal Massager. Read the reviews of the customers. See the ~~udder~~ other uses for the massager.

Color-Coding

2008-08-17T00:16:00.021+08:00

I am talking about ORGANIZING BY COLOR, not the MMDA "number coding scheme".

Do you color-code at home? It's a great way to arrange stuff around the house. I have to warn you though that it can be addicting.

Here are some examples of my color-coding efforts:

1. Books: The bookshelf doesn't look as cluttered, right? It's very pleasing to the eyes. However, make sure you ask your significant other first before color-coding your conjugal books. I decided to surprise my husband and he almost had a heart attack when he saw his Henry Kissinger books separated. (They were 4 different colors!)

Click here to see larger picture
(Pictures by B.Q.)

That is MM's bookshelf in the picture. I arranged it while she was in the shower but this time I asked her permission first (friends may not be as forgiving as husbands). She was happy with the results but it took awhile before she got used to the fact that her books are no longer arranged by genre.

2. Clothes: When there is nothing good on cable and you don't want to go to yoga class, I suggest you try color-coding your clothes. It makes your cabinet look so neat. Just remember to use the same type of hangers for maximum neatness effect.

(Sorry. No pictures. My husband is in the room. I can't sneak in to take a pic.)

3. Dinnerware: I'm not really color-coding here because everything is white. I deliberately chose an all white scheme for our dinnerware because I am bad at matching colors.

Click here to see larger picture
(Pictures by BagLove)

Share your color-coding stories. Again, no Bayani or MMDA related stories please :)

Holiday Preparations: Gift Wrapping Station

2008-08-16T00:01:00.026+08:00

Too early? It's never too early. Martha Stewart is already telling her viewers to prepare for the holidays! She has started making cards, decoration and other trinkets.

I think I will start with organizing my GIFT WRAPPING STATION.

Do you know where your gift wrappers from last year are? Where do you keep them?

Photo courtesy of Real Simple

If you are like Candy Spelling (wife of Aaron Spelling and mother of Tori Spelling), they are probably in your own GIFT WRAPPING ROOM. Yes, a room just for wrapping gifts.

Photo courtesy of Babble

I, a mere mortal, will have to make do with my own portable gift wrapping station. It's just a bag that holds my wrappers and tools. Perfect for our small apartment.

I bought this for P995 in MakeRoom, Rockwell (Dec. 2006). I saw the exact same bag in True Value last week for less than P700.

Here are some helpful links:
1. From REAL SIMPLE, Creat a Gift Wrapping Station
2. From UNCLUTTERER, Organizing Gift Wrapping Supplies

The organizer featured in Unclutterer is available in MakeRoom.

Julia Child's a SPY!

2008-08-15T00:01:00.006+08:00

Julia Child was the Martha Stewart of the 60s. She was a famous American cook, author, and television personality, who introduced French cuisine and cooking techniques to the American mainstream, through her many cookbooks and television programs. (See Wikipedia)

She looked so motherly. This woman inspired so many cooks around the world. Who would have thought that she was a spy? A SPY! (See Yahoo News)

This is so exciting. Where do I apply?

Cord Cover-Up

2008-08-14T00:01:00.008+08:00

Picture from Fire Iron Design

What's wrong with this picture?

Where is the electric cord? How will they light up that lamp?

Many interior design magazines do this. They hide the cords in the meticulously styled pictures so you start imagining the table looking oh so elegant and perfect in your living room. You buy it, place your lamp and iPod dock on top and then EGAD! Unsightly cords under the table!

Here is a tip on how to hide those ugly cords.

Photo from Cord Coverup (A&M Designs, Inc.). See more pictures in their site.

I'm planning on having something like this made in Kamuning next week. Want to go with me?

Tip: Rust Remover Magic Formula

2008-08-13T00:01:00.007+08:00

Problem with rusty pans and tools?

What you need:

Baking Soda
Pure White Vinegar
Aliminum Foil

Instructions:

Mix baking soda and white vinegar. (go for pasty consistency)
Crumple the aluminum foil with the shiny side showing.
Dip the aluminum foil the baking soda and vinegar mix.
Scrub the rust out of your pan/tools.

Shortcut: Take out your cleaning kit. Liberally dust the pan with baking soda. Spray Pure White Vinegar. Scrub with the aluminum foil.

You can also try this with your chrome fixtures. See the rust magically disappear.

Warning:Test-scrub in a small area first to make sure that it won't scratch the metal. If you don't mind it being scratched, like with my stove pan, scrub away.)

Before and After: Electric Stove

2008-08-12T00:01:00.006+08:00

I kept on reminding myself to buy a single-burner electric stove but I never got around it. (We need it as an emergency stove in case we run out of LPG.)

One day, my friend "MM" gave me this green National electric stove. Perfect! I instantly saw its potential. It's a well-built stove, better than what's available in the market nowadays.

Before...

After... The stove looks like this now. Tada!

Here is how I did it:

1. I had the cord changed. See the chewed up cord in the before picture? I brought the stove to our neighborhood repair shop and they replaced the cords for P220 ($5).

2. I cleaned the pan and the center of the coils. It only took 10 minutes to turn the pan from grimy to shiny. I will post the secret formula tomorrow.

3. I polished the body with MC All-Purpose Cleaner. MC can clean almost anything.

Bow...

Note: SAVE THE EARTH! Recycle. Try to save appliances by having them repaired. Don't just throw them away.

A Tip from May Poppins

2008-08-11T00:01:00.004+08:00

Photo courtesy of Freewebs (Disney Classics)

“In every job that must be done,
there is an element of fun.
You find the fun and ‘snap’,
the job’s a game.”

I watched Mary Poppins on the Disney Channel last week. She's right. Find the fun and turn the job into a game.

Here is an example of how one mom turned the job of preparing packed lunches into a game/hobby.

Check out Kitchen Cow! She makes the cutest Bento Boxes. See how she turns regular pinoy food (ex. tapa and adobo) into a work of art. I'm going to try her Tonkatsu recipe this week.

Bag Clips

2008-08-10T00:01:00.010+08:00

"Crruun...... phew... phew... THIS IS NO LONGER CRUNCHY!!!
"Tsk... tsk... tsk... Somebody forgot to put the clips on the bag of chips again.

I hoard bag clips. My friends and I can't get enough of the cute pastel-colored clips from Ikea.

My friend "B" bought 1 bag of clips in Mayflower 1620 for P350.

I still have 1 unopened bag of clips so I really don't need to buy another one. Even so, I had to muster the little self-control left in me (most already left with the plastic containers) when I was saw the bag clips in Mayflower 1620.

Not a believer in bag clips? Okay. See here how you can magically reseal bags without a clip.

It's magic! Tried it?

Internet Finds: Craiglist Manila and Delivery.Ph

2008-08-09T00:01:00.006+08:00

1. Craiglist MANILA, Philippines

It's here! Check-out Craiglist Manila.

Shopping! Shopping! Shopping! (and selling too)

2. Delivery.ph

This site promises speed and accuracy in delivering food orders.

Hooray! Finally, an all-in-one on-line food delivery service in Metro Manila. Too bad the choice of restaurants are limited at the moment. (Thanks KitchenCow for sharing this food delivery tip with us.)

Tried this? Share your experience. Post a comment.

Health: Granite Countertops

2008-08-08T00:01:00.001+08:00

I Need a Geiger Counter! Now!

I just found out that my jet black granite countertop releases RADON.

RADON: This odorless, tasteless gas occurs naturally when uranium in rocks and soil decays. Recent studies indicate that exposure to high levels of radon over extended periods is linked to lung cancer. Both the U.S. Surgeon General and the EPA recommend that every home be tested for radon. [Good Housekeeping: The Complete Household Handbook, p. 379 (2005)]

Good Housekeeping not a good enough source for you?

Okay, here is an article from the New York Times -- What's Lurking in Your Countertop?

The E.P.A. recommends taking action if radon gas levels in the home exceeds 4 picocuries per liter of air (a measure of radioactive emission); about the same risk for cancer as smoking a half a pack of cigarettes per day.

I don't smoke but now there's a possibility that I have the same risk for cancer as my friend who smokes half a pack of Dunhills a day. Argh!

What's your kitchen countertop made of?