SOME THORNS AND ROSES OF LIFE TO WRITE ABOUT

'twas 4 years ago when I last blogged.  Four years went soooooo fast!  During those years, many developments happened, both good and not-so-good.

My twin has recovered from her 2013 open heart surgery, as well as having her right left amputated.  With determination and practice, she now walks with ease using her artificial leg or a cane, if needed.  Thank God for giving her the strength and the motivation to return to almost normalcy and independence when moving around. 

An elder sister based in the Philippines is finally together with her only daughter, my niece.   Sad to say niece also lost a foot (not a leg) as a result of her ignoring a foot wound that was allowed to linger.  Ultimately, the foot had to be amputated too.   After living in the U.S. for a more than 10 years,  she recently decided to pack her bags and returned to live with her mom in Manila.  On a positive note, at least she and her mom can take care of each other.  But the downside of her returning to Manila, she now has to shoulder all the medical expenses that she enjoyed 100% when she was in LA.  

My only brother, who has absolutely no plans of migrating to New Zealand or Canada where his children are based,  also lives with my elder sister and niece.  It is perhaps in God's design to have these 3 family members , who have been living apart from each other for so many, many years,  are now living  and staying together  under one roof. 

In the last two years, many good developments have taken place.  My elder daughter's Tutoring Center is finally getting the needed recognition by parents whose children need out of the classroom tutoring.   I am really very happy about her business and the attention it is enjoying.   I support all her plans and pray that Tutoring Center  may continue to flourish,  attract new students and  grow not only in student numbers, but grow into  a new location somewhere,  someday.  

My only grandson, is the perfect icing in the cake of  positive news.  He is now in the 2nd year of the  accelerated Intarmed medical studies in the top and most sought-after University of the Philippines (Manila's State U). In the year 2023, he will be a  young doctor of medicine!  How about that!!  It is a graduation that I  certainly look forward to,

He enjoys the challenges and continues to excel in his chosen medical studies. Piano playing and  recitals have taken a backseat as of now.  Instead, he auditioned and  passed to join the UPMedChoir.   Because of this, he discovered the joys of singing and the good company of the choir members.

Let me now write about  my only granddaughter who is an equally intelligent, very creative and artistic teen.   At her tender age of 15 (since April), she is proving to be the always able, dependable "right hand" of her mom.  Like her brother, she is very knowledgeable when it comes to the use of computers like websites and about cellphone apps!  I should not forget she is a gracious ballerina having been a ballet student since she was that high!

I pray for a very  bright future for my 2  grandkids, my daughter and son-i-law.  I want all of them to enjoy a good life, and enjoy simple pleasures more than what I have experienced when I was their ages.  I want them to lead a healthy, prosperous life as the future unfolds.  I pray that God will look upon them with favor and protect them from harm and misfortune always.  I trust that He will!

My younger daughter has moved to a new job still in NY for a much higher pay and more fringe benefits.  Though married for more than 10 years, she and her husband, seem  to have no plans of raising a family  as of now  I have not lacked in motivating her to have a child so that she will experience the joys of motherhood and have someone to care for her someday.  I still hope she and her husband will change their minds soon. 

I am still in the same job, the same company, doing the same responsibilities which I truly enjoy. Since I moved to a farther cubicle from where I was, I requested a printer for my own use which was approved quickly.  I now do not need to walk from my far corner cubicle to another corner for colored printing or scanning needs. Thought the ladies room and the kitchen are also far from my corner, the walking is good for my health and for my fitbit!

Furthermore, I love my new location.  It overlooks a window to give me a good view of trees, the man-made lake, etc.       Internet connection for my cellphone works better, and my radio can pick up all the stations I want.  I  wish I had moved sooner.

As for my husband and myself, we are  happy in our togetherness.  We may not have all the gold trimmings of a financially rich couple.  but we are contented to be the simple folks in a modest, peaceful household. We dine out occasionally, watch movies, or just go to NY once in a while for good reasons.

.

Truly, My life may not be a perfect one, but I don't let the "humps" or the "downs" affect me permanently.    Survival is all about one's  outlook and how we swim against the rough tide or "go with the flow". Life is not without choices.  I choose to throw negative vibes out of my thoughts, and focus on the blessings I now have.  I keep in mind that  my borrowed life is brief,  and I want to enjoy it while I am able.    With God's help, I know I will always be a blessed wife, a supportive mother and a loving grandmother!

'

POST SURGERY CHAT WITH MY TWIN

After a long time since we talked on the phone (which we usually do almost everyday), I had the chance to chat with my twin.  She believes her "second life" is a miracle and a gift out of the benevolence and love of God.  I say, true!

She did not know she has diabetes, she has had no chest pains at all, except on the day she thought she was a victim of food poisoning.

She is grateful for the kindness of her boss who continues to pay her full salary all this time.  Grateful too for the prayers of her church pastor and all the members of her church.

I told her that in due time, she will be back into her normal route, but she should try to request  "to work, from  home".  I suggested she ought to request  a cellphone which she can use for receiving forwarded  office calls as well as use it for  outgoing official  calls.

I told her I was planning on giving her fruits and she said, ok to give her watermelon, apples, oranges.  Dina agreed to buy the fruits and I will send her a check for $30.00 for this purpose.

I read to her the election results of the senators who are in the magic 12.

WHAT IS THE MESSAGE?

The 2nd week of April 2013 was a total nightmare for me.  This was because I got the terrible news that my twin sister had to have an emergency open heart surgery for an aorta tear of 7 cm, plus the amputation of her right leg.  A total and devastating shock!  Double shock to be exact!   My initial thought:  what caused it, why, how, when?  What is your message to her, to me, to us, her siblings?

My quick and second thought was to make an appointment with my own family doctor for his opinion and to share what happened to Rita.  During my visit, my doctor drew my blood to check for certain symptoms, and then ecg. 

Following day, my doctor called to give me the result.   Thank God...no unwanted news.  Still I opted upon the doctor's advice to see a cardiologist for a better check up and consultation.  This will happen this Thursday, May 16 - a day before our birthday!

I know I need to exercise.  We have a threadmill at home, but I don't use it.  So, Rick and I started to walk half a mile since the other Sunday.  Hope to increase the length of 1 mile (I hope to keep this plan).

It's another birthday, dear God...thank you very much.  I pray for more birthdays in good health..You are a giving God...and I trust my request will be granted.  With extreme gratefulness...I know you will!

A Year-Ender Self Assessment

As saying goodbye to 2012, I thought of doing a self-assessment to welcome 2013.

MY YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW – A year-ender self-assessment.

Anyone who says that life is a bed of roses is living a lie.  And a liar, I am not!  Truthfully, for the past many years, my life has not been a bowl of cherries either.  2012 of course added a year to my chronological age  – but I’d like to think –wiser;  a positive character trait which eluded me decades ago because I cannot “learn” to be wise without experiencing failures, disappointments and frustrations.  However, failures can be a stationary vehicle to be wise.   Like everyone else,  we all have common, happy or sad nuances  in life:  the never-ending  wheel-like highs and  lows,  the triumphant small or huge  victories,  or the ( un)accepted  defeats,  smiles of happiness or copious tears.  Concrete proofs that we are humans.

Life is how you make or play it  --someone  said.  But life must always have a balance and harmony.  Like a violin which  cannot be played to make good music unless it has five (5) strings, or a guitar without 6 strings,  or a piano without  its 88 keys, etc.  It truly is up to me to make beautiful music, no matter the circumstances.    At my age with many years behind me, I have had many colorful rainbows and  have met unexpected dark clouds of storms as well.  Both all memorable as the other.

My rainbows are the proud achievements of my grandkids and their mom’s (Anne) much sought-after school teaching abilities, my  other daughter’s (Jade) stable and good  NY job,  my  being recognized  for meeting the high  demands of my current job position (my reward is being given more and bigger job responsibilities starting next year) , of  having a rather  good health in spite of occasional physical aches felt  here and there, my  having a peaceful home and married life, and finally answered prayers bought about by strengthened  faith in God.   They complete the circle that make up my life:  family, career, health, home, and faith!

The dark storms  were of  siblings’, relatives  and friends’  death, of a couple close to me married for a long time, yet decided to separate ,  of disappointments over situations I cannot control or change even if I strongly wanted to.  But, I will patiently wait till the changes unfold the way I hoped them to be.  In these circumstances, I bow my head and still thank our great Designer as I embrace life.  I always end my prayers with thanksgiving and an earnest plea to have more rainbows than storms.  I trust He will do this for He is a generous and faithful giver!

I am impulsive in many aspects and can be  a poor judge of character at times.  There are people around me that I don’t like for no apparent reason and refuse to include them among my circle of friends.  I simply rely on gut feel which can swing both ways –to prove me right or  to prove me wrong.   Later on, I find them to be nice people after all!   Taking off my mask of pretense when dealing with them has gained me more friends at work, not because we share the same company,  but truthfully through the willful  altering of  my  attitude.      I am a person full of humor and easy to please, but conversely, I am not a pushover and can be very assertive when required to be.  However,   I have become  more insightful and discerning . I think things over before speaking out what could be  hurtful or annoying to others.   But repeated offense against me will cause a name to disappear from my thoughts and heart.

I used to be an impulsive shopper.   Money may come in fast but it flies out of my wallet faster!   But now  before letting go of my hard-earned cash or hard plastic, I ask myself first:  Do I really need this?  Can I do without it?  Will it be a wise buy? In most instances, asking these questions save me from unnecessary spending. Therefore, I resolve to always   talk to myself this way.  Uncle Sam’s current recession has not affected my job.  But it is better to  be a wise spender in 2013 and beyond.  Of course, I will continue to take care of my usual  financial responsibilities, but spending less on useless things will make saving for rainy days easier for me.

Facebook and becoming a DYCI member paved a way for me  to meet new internet friends from various places.  I have only seen their faces and “heard” their voices through FB.  A few I have had telephone conversations with.   But even if we all differ with unique natures , most of these “net” friends  share a  united purpose of supporting and loving  our favorite tandem.   The driving force of the DongYan reel and real loveteam  made me a giddy fan all over again.   I am thrilled and excited when reading, viewing, and  hearing about the “formidable union” of DD & MR.   Moreover,  being kept  abreast of  their projects and  their daily whereabouts, romantic or otherwise,  whether  true or not,  whether fact or fiction imagined by fertile minds are delightful  enough for me.      So will they soon hopefully end up with each other in marriage?  This is a 24$  question  that remains to be delightfully answered, or undecidedly  left hanging till who knows when---until the answers fall in,  everyone’s  guess  is as good as mine!

I know that the richest people are not always the happiest, and the happiest people do not always have everything they want.   Therefore,   accepting  what life has given me so far,   or what came my way –the good and not-so-good, I make the most out of them.   This includes  occasional rugged  bumps of disappointments  that I have met-- perhaps for a good purpose,    to serve as a valuable  lesson,  or perhaps  to test my soul’s strength and  limitations.  I view my jar of life as being half-full, instead of being half- empty.  I dwell not on what I have lost, but revel on what I have gained.  I will never allow the small stuff to derail my life’s direction I have charted.  Yes, life is not a bed of sweet roses, but I have managed and chose to cast these thorns aside.  New thorns may continuously pop up, but I will never tire to pick them out and throw them away.  After all, practice makes perfect!

Finally, planning is now the newest facet in my daily life because  am not  a serious planner.  I casually  just  take things and situations as they come.   So  to welcome the new year, I have made  plans for 2013.   These are  not resolutions  only  big and small  plans:    Taking a much awaited trip back to Manila for DYCI  and to bond with my remaining family there, to  shed unwanted pounds and bulges with honest determination,   to really eat healthier foods  to keep my  health in check, to save even  a small portion of my income, and  to be more active in my chosen church.  These make up my priorities.   And making them all happen is definitely up to this writer  --me!

Fast forward to my visualized ideal“ Tomorrow”.  I anxiously  look  ahead to a year that I can just relax--  travel and fly to  interesting  places with Rick and my grandkids  instead of routinary contemplating on  the waiting  tasks  at  work.   But until those relaxing- easy- days become a welcome reality,   the M-F  6:00 a.m. continuous loud ringing of my bedside alarm clock  will still be quickly pressed to abruptly silence it.  My eyes and heart will then open to welcome another challenging day and thank God for the new morning.  I  will then get ready to accept what the Great Designer  has planned for me.  It is another working day as I drive out and head to my office cubicle.  My Tomorrow is still to come, but my  “present” which is a also a gift is here to be enjoyed!   And I’ll choose to start my present with a smile so that when my Tomorrow comes, it will be ushered in filled with joyous, infectious laughter!!   I trust Him that my most awaited Tomorrow  will turn, someday, into my Present.

Health Concerns

For a long time now, I have been experiencing acid reflux or GERD.  Unfortunately, the common relief prescriptions are not exactly welcomed by my body --I have allergic reactions to them which makes me itch (but no rashes).  Finally, a liquid solution was the last prescription, which worked, but the taste is mildly unpleasant for my taste buds.

So, upon the advice of my family doctor, I underwent an endoscopy procedure today which kept me tensed since yesterday up to this morning until I was in the endoscopy center itself.  I was in at 2:00 pm and out by 4:00 pm. The preparation was longer than the procedure itself.    Thank God the whole experience was not as frightful as I imagined it might be.  

On Wednesday, I will get to know the results of what my gastro doctor "saw" inside my body.  I pray it is not that bad.

I return to work on Monday, afternoon.

I thank Him especially for this day and for  my entire 2 week vacation which will end tomorrow, Friday.

Spending a Well-Deserved Vacation

Today, is the 2nd of a 9.5 vacation days that I have scheduled for this year.  I just had to use these leaves --or lose them for good!

Many plans are written down to spend this vacation wisely: organize my recipe collections, organize my walk-in room (where I have clothes in hangers, or folded in shelves), do a winter-cleaning of my hard copy paper documents on various topics  stored  in different places inside the house, and do some travelling with Rick.

The weather on my first day vacation was not too cooperative, though.  Snow unexpectedly came yesterday, although the sun is smiling brightly today.  And when snow is all around, my interest to drive is dampened knowing the roads will be very slippery.

I loved the perfect chance to scan my FB and view what I may have missed.  Even if I log on FB daily, I don't really scan my site like a fine-tooth comb.  I read what seems interesting and ignore the rest.  Of course, I never fail to view any posts of my daughter and grandkids, and the DY group where I am the leader. 

I just viewed Migs' latest Nov. 24 piano recital. He truly amazes me because he never fails to impress me (or anyone)  each time I watch him play complicated piano pieces.  He has almost perfected the knack of piano-playing. Thank God for this talent. 

A Welcoming New Home

Gee, I like this site.  I hope to post new blogs here from hereon.

Happy Birthday, Anne!

Make A Wish On Your Birthday
Make a wish and give it wings
Dreams of bright and beautiful things
Dance through all the fun filled hours
Don't forget to smell the flowers
Share some love and birthday cake
All life joys are yours to take
And when evening comes to view
Thank your blessed stars you're you.
And then thank God, He created you!

Happy Birthday, dear Daughter!

Goodbye, Ditche!

                                                                                    November 19, 2009

Dear Diche,

How can I describe and reminisce about a wonderful sister in just a few simple words?  Not in a few words, I can't.  I can only hope that the following words will be adequate.

 

When Caying, and I were, I think,  about 9-10 years old, I remember we used to climb up into our bedroom’s high wall and peek into the living room, where you entertained your persistent suitor.   Caying and I remained quiet as we peeped and  I  recall being so amused to see your smiling, happy face  as you and your suitor joked with each other, sometimes even giggling quietly.   Your suitor was none other than Lando, who later on was to be your husband and father of your children.   Then, of course, you proved to be a steadfastly devoted wife, and a caring mother to our nieces and nephew.  I was not surprised that you became such a devoted partner and mother.

 

You did have quite a number of suitors then, and why not? Consider these: You  and kuya were the  “brainiest” both in school and in our family.  Physically, you were modest, very feminine, especially with your long hair which you always tied into a bun.  You were attractively slim, fair skinned, and, always very proper. As we say in tagalog “ di ka makakabasag pinggan”. 

 

People familiar with the “Sim” sisters said 4 of us were feisty, loquacious, and talkative…but.they also said, you were our complete opposite. 

You always laughed softly,  while the rest of us laughed loudly and boisterously.  We talked fast, oftentimes using colorful language; you spoke in a soft, mild tone, and would only gently raise your voice if extremely necessary!   Our fashion sense was geared towards what was fashionable and current style; your clothes taste was simple and ordinary, and to a certain extent, quite old fashioned. We liked attending parties; you would rather read a good book.  The list of our differences in attitude and outlook in life between you and us can go on and on and on…. You have proven true what someone said that “Sisters are different flowers from the same garden.”

During parties and gatherings, wherein you just had to be present, while the others fleeted to chat around with guests, you preferred to remain quiet and watched the happenings, and unless you were approached and greeted,  you seldom, if ever, went out of your way to start a conversation. Yet, you were not a total loner, nor a snob…you were simply timid and shy!  Of course,  you also had your own good and true friends.  But,  perhaps you just  preferred to keep a handful of  tested, quality friends.

 

When you migrated to the US, you kept in touch with us only through cards and through our eldest sister, Ate Josie, ,who was a constant traveler to the US and who became our source of news about your new life in the United States.  During those early days, there was no email for quick connections,  nor cell phones for convenient chats.    But in spite of the distance, you remained ever faithful and thoughtful—and never failed  to send special occasion cards during birthdays, Christmas, Easter, and so on. You also never forgot to find out how my own children were and what was going on with my own life.  The change in lifestyle here in the US did not prevent you from sending handwritten letters  with your familiar signature “Ditch” --as you called yourself to us– just to keep in touch and to let us know you cared!

 

During the late 90’s, I also remembered the time when you wanted to organize to clear up your patio because we were preparing for a get together where my former officemate, Frank, was invited to play the piano and provide live music.  Caying and I were there to help you carry, sort out, throw, and move packages of assorted stuff.  Funny, but you would ask Caying and me to carry certain packages up into your room, or elsewhere in your house,  or throw them out, only to find out in the end, that we were just moving the packages from one part of the house to the other because you did not seem decided to part any with the stuff. You would reason “ I still have to read that..I still have to use that…I still have to fix that…oh! I was looking for that….etc… In short, we failed to help you organize and get rid of unwanted stuff!  Finally,  we  stopped and ended up laughing with you!

 

Over the last 3-4 years, we wrote each other and exchanged classical music CDs that we both enjoyed.  You never failed to send me scribbled thank you notes when I sent you those kind of CDs.   And I honestly always thought of you, Diche, whenever I came across classical CDs,  because I knew you would be delighted to have them.  That was also my simple way to let you know that I, too, cared and wanted to share simple things with you as a reminder that I was thankful to have you as a sister.  You truly were a very understanding and generous sister in your own way.  I have experienced your giving heart on numerous occasions.  

 

Only last Thursday, November. 12, I received a letter from you along with 2 CDs of piano music.  You wrote that you knew I would like them and surely, I did!   I quickly encoded a reply to you which I was to mail the following Monday and planned to enclose 3 local CDs of Original Pilipino Music.  I wanted to tell you that, for a change, you may want to listen to something new from our local popular artists from the Philippines.   I never knew that your November 8th letter with CDs were to be your final sweet remembrances to me.  

I never guessed you would be gone so suddenly and quietly.  In fact your leaving totally shocked all of us! And even in leaving this world, you so quietly departed --as quiet as you had been in life!.

 

Typical of your nature, you probably felt pains here and there but  never complained to your children.  Again, true to your nature, you probably did not want them to fuss over you, or cause them to worry about your health----that is why you left fast with nary an advanced warning or clue! 

Ditch, I  know you are now happy to meet our dearly departed parents, Ate Josie,  and the other  dear souls who have passed on.  I  know too that you are now at peace, but will still quietly be watching over your children, grandchildren, and the rest of us, your sisters and brother,  who will immensely miss you!  Rest in everlasting peace…you are now beyond physical pains, worries, and hurts , and remember that I will always love you! 

 

This poem is for you… it speaks for all of us!

You never said "I'm leaving"
You never said goodbye
You were gone before we knew it,
And only God knew why

A hundred times we needed you,
A hundred times we will cry
If love alone could have saved you,
You never would have died

In life we loved you dearly
In death we love you still
In our hearts you hold a place,
In one corner that you fill

It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you didn't go alone
For a part of us went with you,
The day God took you home.

So long, and see you again some heavenly day! 
Your sister,
Lita

Know your Body Mass Index (BMI)

As published ina  health column by Dr. Paul G Donahue from the Daily Record Newspaper.

To determine body mass index or BMI:

Divide your weight in pounds by height in inches squared.  Then multiply that answer by 703.  Multiplying your height in inches by itself (ex: 68 x 68) gives you 4,624.  Dividing your weight (ex. 185 pounds by 4,624 yields .04).  The next step is to multiply that number by 703 to arrive at a BMI of 28.

Body mass index provides an estimate of how much of your weight is muscle and bone, and how much is fat.  A normal BMI is 18.5 to 24.9; 25 to 29.9 is overweight; 30 and above is obese.

Although BMI is a better health gauge than weight alone, it is far from perfect.  Heavily muscled individuals end up classified as obese.

BMI also is not completely reliable for people oldeer than 75.  At that age, much muscle tissue has shriveled, and these people are classified as normal when their body fat is highter than it should be.

 

 

Some Healthiest Foods on Earth

These food health tips are from a local newspaper column. 

Banana - Increases fat burning, lowers risk of colorectal and kidney cancer, leukemia, reduces asthma symptoms in children.

Pineapple: Speeds post-surgery healing, promotes join health' supports colon health.

Blueberries:  Restores antioxidant levels' reverse age-related brain decline' prevent urinary tract infections.

Spinach: Helps maintain mental sharpness; reduces the risk of cancers of the liver, ovaries, colon and prostate' top nutrient density.

Red Bell Pepper: Reduces risk of lung, prostate, ovarian and cervical cancer; protects against sunburn; prmotes heart health.

Broccoli: Reduces diabetic damage; lowers risk of prostate, bladder, colon, pancreatic, gastric and breat cancer; protects the brain in the event of injury.

Apple: Supports immunity, fights lung and prostate cancer' lowers Alzheimer's risk.

Butternut Squash: Supports night vision; combats wrinkles, promotes heart health.  (This is our local kalabasa)

Carrot: Antioxidants defend DNA' fights cataracts, protects against some cancers.

Cauliflower: Stimulates detoxification; suppresses breast cancer cell growth; defends against prostrate cancer.

Cabbage: Promotes healthy blood clotting; reduces risk of prostate, colon, breast and ovarian cancers; activates the body's natural detoxification systems.

Kale: Counters harmful estrogens that can feed cancer; protects eyes against sun damage; and cataracts; increases bone density.  (This green leafy vegetable is similar to our Philippines' dahon ng gabi).

Kiwi: Combats wrinkles, lowers blood clot risk and reduces blood lipids; counters constipation.

Mushroom: Promotes natural detoxification; reduces the risk of colon and prostate cancer; lowers blood pressure.

Strawberry: Protects against Alzheimers, reduces bad cholesterol; suppress growth of colon, prostate and oral cancer.

Sweet Potato: Reduces stroke risk; lowers cancer risk, protects against blindness.

More Tips for the Housewife!

I can't help but share useful  and tested info like the following  tips to make us be able to "cure" some  household common problems. These are courtesy of Martha Stewart:

How to Whiten linens with lemons: Damask napkins, linens, even white socks can be whitened on the stove - Fill a pot with water and a few slices of fresh lemon (or calamansi as the case may be) and bring to a boil.  Turn off heat, add linens and let soak for up to an hour; launder as usual.  For extra brightening, spread them out in the sunlight to dry.

How to store candles: Candles should be kept in a dark, cool, dry place.  Why? Because light can cause the colors to fade, as heat can cause the candles to warp and moisture can make the wicks difficult to light.

How to keep cut flowers fresh and alive: For cut flowers to survive, give them sugar for nourishment and an acidic ingredient like lemon-lime soda or aspirin, which allows the plant to absorb water more easily.  A drop of bleach prevents bacteria and also lengthens their life

How to remove melted wax: Candlelight is romantic, but there's nothing lovely about prying or scraping melted votives out of their holders.  Instead, place the glass holders in the freezer for a few hours; the wax should shrink just enough to pop right out.

How to steady a wobbly chair: Once they've done their duty as wine-bottle stoppers, corks can come in handy elesewhere in the house.  In the kitchen or dining room, they are a simple solution to an exasperating problem: a wobbly chair.  Simply cut a slice of cork horizontally and slip it under the troublesome leg.

How to make your mirrors sparkle: Commercial window cleaner evaporates quickly, making it better for mirrors than homemade solutions.  Never spray the mirror itself with the cleaner, instead spray a clean, lintless cloth, wipe down the mirror.  To avoid streaks, dry immediately with another clean, lintless cloth.  (I personally use damp old newspapers to have a better sparkle.)

How to store tomatoes: Unlike many other fruits and vegetables, tomatoes should always be kept at room temperature.  In a shallow ceramic bowl, they look beautiful on the kitchen counter, or even as a centerprice.  Place underrripe tomatoes in a sunny spot or in a brown paper bag for about 2 to 4 days to ripen.  Check them every day to catch them at the right time.

How to remove red wine stains:  Fear of red wine stains probably keeps more lfine linens ont he shelf than on the table.  Here's a sure, easy way to get rid of red wine stains.  Wet the stainw ith lukewarm water, then add a layer of table salt.  Rub and let it sit for 5 minutes.  Pull fabric taut across a heat-proof bowl and secure with a subber band.  Place in sink and carefully pour boiling water on the stain from a height of 3 feet.  The combined pressure & heat of the water will eliminate the stain.

 

 

DO IT NOW!

I chanced upon a 2003 issue of Reminisce, a magazine about old times.   This poem caught my interest.  It is worth sharing:

"If you have work to do, do it now.  Today the skies are clear and blue,

Tomorrow, clouds may come in view, Yesterday is not for you,

Do it now.

If you have a song to sing, sing it now.  Let the tones of gladness ring

Clear as the song of a bird in spring.

Let each day some music bring...Sing it now.

If you have some kind words to say, Say them now.

Do some kindness while you may, Loved ones will not always stay,

Say them now!

If you have a smile to show, Show it now!

Make hearts happy, roses grow, Let friends around you know the love you have before they go.  Show it now! "

 

 

HOW TO PREVENT HOME FIRES

I came across this useful article in a local newspaper.  To me, these tips are very useful and worth keeping in mind especially during the typhoon season in the Philippines.  Or if you are living outside the Philippines, these tips are also surely helpful in keeping your homes and families safe.  

It said that largely, home fires are something that can be prevented.  Here are some safety precautions that can prevent a fire in your home.  And if you are quite friendly with your neighbor, it is worth sharing these tips with them:

Many fires break out in the kitchen. Always keep an eye on what you are cooking sot hat food does not ignite or splatters from the stove do not cause fires.  Keep kitchen towers or oven mitts away from the stove.

May people do not know that fires can start from lint trapped in dryer vents.  While it is important to empty lint trap after eachload, it is equally important to check the actual vent and tubing for trapped lint.  this should be done every 6 moths to a year.

Faulty electricial wiring is a leading cause of house fires. Have a professional electrician check the wiring in your house and replace any, if needed, to prevent a fire.  Also, do not overload outlets.  This is something often done during the HOLIDAYS when lights and decorations are plugged into extension cords.

Keep drapes and other cords away from radiators, baseboards or electric heaters.  Do not leave electric heaters on unattended. (This last one is applicable only in houses other than the Philippines).

Regularly clean and maintain fireplace chimneys.  Creosote buildup in the chimney can ignite and cause a fire.

Do not leave candles burning overnight or when you are out of a room or the house.  Candles are a large contributor to home fires. Today, they make candles with real wax that have an LED light in the middle to simulate a flame.  These can be safer if you're weary about candle use.

Keep a FIRE EXTINGUISHER charged and on each floor of the house, especially one close to your stove.

Routinely check the battery life of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

Develop a fire safety plan with your family, highlighting the safest exists and where to meet should a fire break out in the home.

Do NOT store pains, newspapers, rags or other chemical materials next to a home's furnace or heating system.

Never use the kitchen stove as a source of heat.

Replace old or faulty appliances promptly.  Watch foods in toaster ovens which are notorious for igniting greasy foods if not properly cleaned and maintained.

Don't sit down or lie down when smoking.  Standing up will usually prevent you from falling asleep while smoking.  Getting too tired? Put out the cigarette thoroughly in an ashtray or water-damp sink and go to bed.  Cleaning out the ash tray? Place the ashes in the sink and dampen them then scoop them up and place them in the trash can away from the house.

Do not pile up lawn clipping near a building.  Fermenting lawn clippings can create heat and catch on fire.  Barn fires start this way from bales or hay with no electricity.  Some house fires have been started from a pile of lawn clippings.

Confine pets when you are away from home to prevent them from chewing on electrical cords.

Keep matches away from small children.  Some small kids have a tendency to play or experiment with matches.  Educating them of the danger of playing with matches  is important.

And the most important of all, common sense and being safety-conscious is the best prevention to avoid home fires to keep your family safe!

 

 

 

20 Uses for BAKING SODA -

I got these tips from the  AllYou magazine.  I, myself, have used some of these tips and found they really work!  So I know these tips will also be useful for others.  So here they are:

1. To put out a grease fire, scatter baking soda over it by the handful to extinguish flames.

2. Stash an open box of baking soda in the fridge to absorb odors (replace every 2 months)

3. Clean the dishwasher and coffeemaker by running an empty-cycle with baking soda.

4. Add 1/2 cup baking soda to your bath for an at-home spa treatment.

5. Polish jewelry with a paste made of water and baking soda. Safe on both silver & gold.

6. Scatter baking soda in the kitty box, then add litter on top to keep smells to a minimum.

7. For instant relief from bug bites, sunburn and poison ivy, mix baking soda with a little water and apply it directly to the  affected sore area.

8. Make a fluffier omelet by adding 1/2 tsp baking soda for every three eggs.

9. Pour in 1 cup baking soda followed by 1 cup hot vinegar to quickly unclog the kitchen drain.

10. Fight dandruff by tabling the shampoo for a few weeks and massaging your wet  scalp with a handful of baking soda instead.

11. Gargle with baking soda, or use it as mouthwash.

12. Soak toothbrushes in a mixture of 1/4 cup baking soda and 1/4 cup water, let stand overnight for a thorough cleaning.

13. Make DIY kitty litter. Mix a small box of baking soda with 3 inches of sandy clay.

14. Use baking soda to brush your pet's teeth.

15. Scatter baking soda on icy sidewalks--it's not as corrosive as salt.

16. Discourage weeds by sprinkling baking soda into the cracks on your driveway and walkways.

17. Surround your pet dog's food bowls with baking soda to keep pests away.

18. Sprinkle baking soda on the sink and tub, and scrub with sponge.

19. Have heartburn? Create an antacid by mixing 1/2 tsp of baking soda with 1/2 cup water.

20. To clean the toilet, add 1/4 cup baking soda to the bowl, swirl then scrub.

 

   

 

What Matters Most - by the Philippine Madrigal Singers

 

I love listening to the Philippine (UP) Madrigals.  One of their members in the 70's became a choir instructor of our company's choir.  And since I love singing and appreciate good music, I joined the alto group.   Our choir was formed to participate in a going away presentation for the  company's GM who was returning to the US after a long tenure in the Philippines.  During that time, we were taught the German version of Silent Night, Dahil sa 'Yo, Dalagang Pilipino, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, Amen, Around the World, and many more! 

Last year, Rick and I had the chance to watch a live concert of the current UP Madrigals  in New York. We enjoyed the show, and I was really very proud of this all Filipino singing group.  Great voices, great arrangements, great repertoire!

I chanced upon their rendition of this beautiful love song...and I am sharing it with  all music lovers!  This song  by them matters to me, I hope it also does to you!

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU9Tv213Jzw

 

Sing Me A Song Again Daddy (composed by Jose Mari Chan)

This is one of my favorite  Filipino orginal songs composed by Jose Mari Chan and sung by Cherie Gil.  She has a very beautiful voice..beautiful diction and enunciation.  I hope she'll record some more!

 

Listen to this beautiful, touching song here!

 

 

A Child Learns to Trust - by Laurie Hays Coffman

In church today, being Mother's Day, our Pastor read the following poem dedicated to all mothers.  It is a beautiful lift from Psalm 23...guaranteed to make any mother love this poem!

My mom is my shepherd; I shall not want. She makes me lie down under cool, downy comforts. She watches me play beside still waters. She restores my soul.

She leads me in paths of respect, responsibility, and goodness, for I am her namesake!

Yea, even though I walk past monsters in the dark, I will not be scared, because my mom is always near me. Her hands and her voice, they comfort me.

Mama sets the table and cheerfully calls me to dinner even in front of big, mean bullies.

She anoints my skinned knees and broken heart with kisses. She smiles and throws me a towel when my cup runneth over.

Surely God's peace, power, and mercy shall uphold me all the days of my life, for my Mother taught me to dwell in the house of God forever.

8 Surprising Ways to Burn 50 Calories (courtesy of AARP Bulletin)

Work Out Your Funny Bone - 10-15 minutes. 
Laughing out loud can boost your metabolism by 20%, researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn., found.  Laughing also increases blood flow and may reduce the risk of heart disease, according to a study by doctors at the University of Maryland.

Pick Up Litter - 8 minutes.
Walking is good exercise, but some bending, stretching and lifting make it even better.  Cleaning up trash and collecting recyclables (cans, bottles, etc. ranks way up there in the feel good department and sets a terrific example for others.

Rub Someone the Right Way - 8-9 minutes.
When it comes to massages as a calorie-burning activity, it's definitely better to give than to receive.  Massage, researches have found, reduces pain and stress throughout the body.  It may also lower blood pressure and boost immunity.  But that's only if your massage partner returns the favor.

Hoop It Up: - 8 minutes. 
Hooping - the exercise-oriented incarnation of the 1950's Hula-Hoop craze--gives you a good cardiovascular workout, builds stamina and improves agility and strength.  It's cool and likely to be even cooler, now that an avid hooper, first lady Michelle Obama, is in the White House.

Conduct an Imaginary Orchestra - 14 minutes. 
The gestures and body movements of conducting (think Arturo Toscanini, not Lawrence Welk) significantly boost your pulse rate and, over time, strengthen your heart.  "Noby knows why many orchestra conductors live longer than people in other professions," says Gabe Mirkin, M.D., "but the very act of conducting may be the reason."

Be a Clean Freak - l0 minutes.
Vacuuming gives muscles in your upper body a gentle workout and, if stairs are involved, helps tone the lower body.  A cleaner house helps control such asthma and allergy triggers as pet dander, dust mites and pollen.

Type-email - 19-20 minutes.
While this may strike you as a sedentary activity, keep in mind that a typist burns up to twice as many calories as a couch potato.  Keep in touch with your friends and family.

Chew Gum - 4/12 hours.
Working out your jaw muscles in this way can raise your metabolic rate by 20%,researches at the Mayo Clinic have found.  Xylitol, the sugar substitute used in many sugar0free chewing gums, reduces dental plaque and helps prevent cavities.

Goin' Bananas!!!

A professor at CCNY for a physiological psych class told his class about bananas. He said the expression "going bananas" is from the effects of bananas on the brain. !!

Never, put your banana in the refrigerator!!!

This is interesting!!

After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana.. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation

: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore norm al bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey.. The ba nana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness

: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system..

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the sto mac h.

Temperature control

: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking &Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!"

Lastly, do you want a quick shine on our shoes?? Take the INSIDE of the banana skin, and rub directly on the shoe...polish with dry cloth.

What an amazing fruit!