The Reading Homeschooler

Socipoll - Earn By Voting On Online Polls

2012-02-13T00:52:00.000-08:00

A new and growing online earning opportunity is here! It has been most recommended by my online friends and they have their proofs of payment too.

SIMPLY EARN ONLINE BY VOTING ON SOCIPOLL...

If you are regularly online and love to join paid-to-click advertisements and get referrals, then this online opportunity is no different yet much more exciting! It's as easy as your Paid to click advertisements, but this one is so simple and easy - and guarantees faster earnings!

http://www.socipoll.com/welcome.pl?f=8339

What you can earn commissions for:*

$0.20 a signup you have referred
$1.00 a signup you have referred that has come back and created at least one poll, voted on at least three polls and made at least one comment
$5.00 a signup you have referred that has come back 5 times in 5 different weeks, has created at least one poll in five different weeks, has voted on at least three polls in five different weeks and has made at least one poll comment in five different weeks

The idea behind the tiered payment system is to encourage you to not just refer friends, but engage them using Socipoll. All signups are tracked by an id either on the facebook or twitter buttons, or the text/email link on every poll results page directly under the poll. All commission payments are made via Paypal at the first of each month.

What to do:

1. Either login or sign up for an account if you do not already have one
2. Login, and be sure to add a valid paypal address to which we can send your earnings in the edit info section
3. Once you've logged in, you can Facebook like/send, tweet or email using the links below each poll, and your affiliate ID will be attached to track.
3b. Instead of referring individual polls, you can also send your friends your Socipoll URL for the homepage,
4. Engage your signups by requesting friend status on Socipoll, create polls, vote and comment on their polls.

You need a UNIQUE IP ADDRESS for yourself and your referrals to successfully sign up and for your votes credited for cash. One household per membership, basically.

You may sign up here now http://www.socipoll.com/welcome.pl?f=8339

NO NEED TO VERIFY EMAIL ADDRESS..just maintain your account every week or every other day answering poll questions, cast votes, or create your own poll and of course, invite referrals. To keep earning thru your invited referrals, encourage them to cast votes on 5 polls and leave 2 comments on polls daily or as regularly as possible.

Thanks to all who will sign up, please leave a comment to confirm or email me at bookwagon888NOSPAM@gmail.com (remove NOSPAM)

Wordless Wednesday - A Christmas Image From Our Town

2011-12-23T02:38:00.000-08:00

Cyber Monday Deals On Target, Walmart, Best Buy and others

2011-11-26T05:22:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day has passed and a huge crowd of shoppers have been in eager anticipation to go to the malls to get the best deals at a fraction of a price buying toys, gadgets, dvd's, books and much more, in the preparation for Christmas gift-giving.

What is the fuss all about? Why, Black Friday, the day immediately following Thanksgiving Day in the US! Traditionally, the day after Thanksgiving used to mean one thing for retailers: it was the first day in the lengthy retailing calendar where a store could make enough money [move merchandise] to see yearly losses [for bookkeeping purposes represented by the color red] turn into gains [represented by the color black]. It is presumed that all sales completed the whole year were done at a loss until that one big day, Black Friday, whereby enough merchandise is sold to reverse course and to begin to turn a profit for the year.

These days, since the yearly Black Friday shopping sprees that considerably tire the buyers, people don’t rely on just one day, even though the news reports still declare that the day after Thanksgiving is so important to them. In reality, retailers have long since spread their reliance on Black Friday further out; now it is an entire week beginning what they call Cyber Monday that gives the retailers time to assess their decisions to buy.

So missing Black Friday is no biggie, you can still rely on Cyber Monday Deals to help you out!

A few picks from the most sought after products:

Number 1 Xbox 360 Repair Guide

Shop Amazon's Holiday Toy List

Shop Amazon's Christmas Corner - Holiday decor, tableware, and entertainment Shop Amazon's Gift Cards - Perfect Anytime

Computer Repair Home Study Course

Satellite TV for PC+++Internet Stream Direct Software TV

The Kindle Cash Machine - Publish On The Amazon Kindle

Friday Fill-ins - November 18

2011-11-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

Another Friday! I'm playing along now after a long while....

1. As you can see , I've resurrected back from being offline and am now excited again in blogging! Oh, I sure hope this motivation and this zest will keep on, not just seasonal.

2. It sure is Thanksgiving and Christmas again so soon! And my youngest 5-year-old Cupcake will have his birthday this week. I wish it will come through simple but splendid.

3. I love to buy for once, I would love to buy a Kindle Fire or Kindle Touch 3G for myself - and family. To add, I also would love to buy the pupils on our children ministry some Angry Birds thingamajigs - it's the latest fad

4. What could be thoughtful gift(s) this Christmas?

5. What's up with Demi Moore, CGMA, Eva Longoria and the latest people on twitter trends?

6. Sparkles on my fingertips.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to resting, catching up on need sleep, yet I know again I would work work, tomorrow my plans include going around the town proper and our street to solicit donations for my child's pre-school classroom and Sunday, I want to go to church, a visitor from our main satellite is going to preach then!

Skywatch Friday - Clouds Behind Acacia Tree

2011-11-17T01:11:00.000-08:00

Legos Are Still The Most Purchased For Christmas Gifts

2011-11-13T21:10:00.000-08:00

I hold very dear childhood memories of Legos during my formative years in Germany. This was during the early 70's and where Legos were still in their "prehistoric" stage :) just the basic models of houses and buildings in a miniature village. When we moved to the Philippines and I lost most of my Lego pieces (leaving me only with 10), I sadly thought I wouldn't get hold of Legos anymore as replacement for the Lego pieces I missed. Good thing, they were also being sold during the late 80's at Manila's Gift Gate, yet by then I've outgrown my necessity for them. My love for Lego's were again rekindled when my young boys were preschoolers and I thought of buying them some!

Now for some Lego trivia...

Did you know, since the 1950’s Lego’s have been loved by builders of all ages. The founder, carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen started making wooden toys in 1932. He named his company LEGO by combining the Danish words "Leg Got" meaning "play well." He later realized the word LEGO translates into "I put together" in Latin. The name was kismet, foretelling what would be a runaway success.

The plastic interlocking bricks were first produced in 1949. The pieces, still famous today were sold in loose sets of bricks. The toys were released in the United States in the 1960’s, captivating its young audience. LEGOS let kids unleash their imagination by easily building, taking their creations apart and starting the fun all over again.

LEGO then made a revolutionary addition to their popular kits by adding the wheel. Not only did kids build cities, but now they could construct and play with cars, trucks and later trains. Even preschoolers, more concerned with knocking down than building got into the action with the DUPLO product line- especially designed for smaller hands. From vehicles to cities ships and planes LEGO sets became the standard for creative play.

The Lego Group's motto, det bedste er ikke for godt, which means 'only the best is good enough' still rings true today. The sets are long lasting and durable. Where other toys break or become obsolete, LEGOS are passed down from generation to generation adding more colorful bricks to the collection. It is no wonder LEGOS are still popular Christmas gifts.

The LEGO Group continues to thrill its’ fan base. Thousands of sets have been released since the construction hard hats came on the scene including: pirates, space, Vikings, castle, undersea exploration, pirates, wild west and dinosaurs. Movie tie-ins, such as, LEGO Indiana Jones Adventures and LEGO Star Wars, and LEGO SpongeBob are some of the highest selling kits. Now you can even build and program your own robots with LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0!

The spirit of LEGO’s even translates into the digital world. A successful video game series has emerged with a number of addictive titles such as LEGO Indiana Jones, LEGO Star WARS, LEGO Batman, and LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean. The LEGO Digital designer software even lets users construct with LEGO bricks on their computer, publish their designs online, then buy the physical bricks to build your creation online. With the classic bricks, and their ability to stay current LEGOS will continue to be a popular Christmas gift for many years to come.

Use Store Coupons To Save Money This Christmas

2011-11-05T23:25:00.000-07:00

Save More, Earn More — Use Store Coupons to Save Money on Christmas Gifts

Every parent knows the feeling: Strangers stare at you in the store because your four-year old is shrieking for the latest Lego toy. Nearly all parents, especially moms, have these moments in the toy store. And even if you want to splurge by giving your kids what they want, high-priced commodities remain the greatest battle of all times.

So the idea is to come up with effective solutions that will help you cut on your Christmas shopping bills and still get to provide your family the best.

Among the many solutions available, store coupons from Toys R Us, Sears, Costco, among others seem to be one of the most reliable and effective money-saving solutions available. The only problem is that most people aren't aware of the wonders that store coupons can do for your money. One of the reasons why only a few people see the benefits they can derive from store coupons is that most people see it as a small-time savings.

Come to think of it, it does makes sense. Just imagine what a fraction of a store discount can do in your budget. But you may never realize this — that dollar savings when compiled and accumulated can actually provide you means of buying more expensive items.

Moreover, most people don't see the benefits that store coupons can bring because they don't know where to find them.

To help you out, here are some tips in finding store coupons and saving more.

1. Go online

For coupon lovers, one of the areas that they frequent the most is the Internet. There are so many printable coupons available online. All you have to do is to download them, print, and bring them with you when you do your Christmas shopping.

2. Print

You can always find money-saving printable coupons in newspapers and magazines. More coupons are available in the Sunday newspaper.

3. Rewards

If you are a frequent buyer at a certain store, you can always watch out for its freebies and coupon giveaways.

All of these things boil down to the fact that store coupons aren't temporary freebies. Store coupons aim to help those who want to save more on their Christmas shopping expenses. To see this happening, collect and save more with your store coupons now. Have an enjoyable early Christmas shopping!

Thanks To My October Entrecard Droppers

2011-11-01T17:55:00.000-07:00

October went by so fast, and here we are again for last month's top entrecard droppers, yey!

I'm grateful for all you regular droppers on my site, I am also amazed that I got that much regular visitors this month. This excites me to write more posts and gives me that proverbial pat on the back that keeps me going.
Thanks much!

Do visit them too:

Poet @ Jaybern
Technolgy
Business and Marketing
Austin Financial
Education Guide
Randy Blog
The Domino Guy
Top Travel Destinations
Techno News
Grenada Climate

From Jesus Daily

2011-10-24T19:54:00.001-07:00

Love your enemies! -JESUS
Ask and you shall receive! -JESUS
Love God with all your heart! -JESUS
Do not worry about tomorrow! -JESUS
Believe in me and you will be saved! -JESUS
Treat others how you would like to be treated! -JESUS
Like and Share to help others.
Copy/Paste your favorite saying.

Teach Your Child How To Read In 90 Days Book On Ebay.ph

2011-10-23T17:24:00.000-07:00

Always a part of my ebay listing is the item, "Teach Your Child How To Read In 90 Days!" which this website promotes.

Did you know that....

eBay was created in September 1995, by a man called Pierre Omidyar, who was living in San Jose. He preferred his site - then called 'AuctionWeb' - to be an online marketplace, and wrote the first code for it in one weekend. The name 'eBay' comes from the domain Omidyar used for his site. His company's name was Echo Bay, and the 'eBay AuctionWeb' was originally just one part of Echo Bay's website at ebay.com. The first thing ever sold on the site was Omidyar's broken laser pointer, which he got $14 for.

The site quickly turned extnsively popular, as sellers came to list a variety of odd things and buyers actually bought them. Relying on trust via the feedback system seemed to work remarkably well, and meant that the site could almost be left alone to run itself. The site had been designed from the start to collect a small fee on each sale, and it was this money that Omidyar used to pay for AuctionWeb's expansion. The fees quickly added up to more than his current salary, and so he decided to quit his job and work on the site full-time. It was at this point, in 1996, that he added the feedback facilities, to let buyers and sellers rate each other and make buying and selling safer.

... and that's my ebay tidbit for the week. Happy Monday!

The Reading Homeschooler Blog Is Here, you are not lost

2011-09-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right. I changed my layout again for the third time. My last one had a great captivating design suited for homeschooling themes. I really loved it and so did my new visitors. However, as I observed that as I write more posts and add more thingamajigs on the sidebar, my blog loads so slow. For that, I neglected posting last August to observe and gain feedback from readers. Yes, 7 out of 10 said my blog loads slow.

Because I love this blog so much in writing personal and family topics, I'm improving it again. It's the best I can do for now :)

Happy September, everyone!

Blog Speed Test

July Top Ten Entrecard Droppers.. A Bunch Of Thanks!

2011-08-05T02:16:00.000-07:00

Much thanks once again to all my entrecard droppers this month of July. I am thankful for the traffic I enjoyed this month. I likewise invite each blogger, especially the new ones, give entrecard a try.. you will gain many visitors guaranteed!

Now to my Top Ten Entrecard Droppers, I reward the linkylove...

Friday Facebook Follow Week 21 , yay!

2011-08-05T01:13:00.000-07:00

Whoops, I lost the proper URL to Facebook Friday Hop's Website that's why I momentarily wasn't able to join the list. Indeed I missed joining so much! Now I'm glad to participate again as I've found out it's still on. Open to all women, parents or etsy friends on fb and more!

My Favorite Christian Music From 1994

2011-07-17T23:50:00.000-07:00

I've finally done the task of compiling my favorite Christian songs for my MP3 player on my pc. I'm ecstatic to share the songs and I hope my friends would love listening to these songs again from 1994-1996. Enjoy!

In Your Presence by Marty Nystrom

Such Joy

Speak to One Another

As High as the Heavens

Don't Grow Weary

We'll Be Faithful

Broken Spirit

Ever Let It Be

I Love to Be With You

More of You

In Christ Alone

Humming to.. "Such joy... such unspeakable joy.. such peace.. everlasting peace.." :)

Tendjewberrymud

2011-07-13T04:41:00.001-07:00

Let's relax for a moment and read something funny ^_^

I first read this article from a Philippine Star column, and to my surprise it was nominated as the best email of 1999. I still have this clipping in my pack rat box or what you may call "lumang baul"

For the sake of those who've never read it yet, here you are; for those who've read it before, let's laugh again!

"Tendjewberrymud"

It's amazing, you will understand the above word by the end of the conversation. Read aloud for best results. Be warned, you're may find yourself talking "funny" for a while after reading this.

The following is a telephone exchange between a hotel guest and room-service at a hotel in Asia, which was recorded and published in the Far East Economic Review.

Room Service (RS): "Morny. Ruin sorbees"

Guest (G): "Sorry, I thought I dialled room-service"

RS: "Rye..Ruin sorbees..morny! Djewish to odor sunteen??"

G: "Uh..yes..I'd like some bacon and eggs"

RS: "Ow July den?"

G: "What??"

RS: "Ow July den?...pry, boy, pooch?"

G : "Oh, the eggs! How do I like them? Sorry, scrambled
please."

RS: "Ow July dee bayhcem...crease?"

G: "Crisp will be fine."

RS: "Hokay. An San tos?"

G: "What?"

RS: "San tos. July San tos?"

G: "I don't think so"

RS: "No? Judo one toes??"

G: "I feel really bad about this, but I don't know what 'judo one
toes' means."

RS: "Toes! toes!...why djew Don Juan toes? Ow bow singlish mopping
we bother?"

G: "English muffin!! I've got it! You were saying 'Toast.' Fine.
Yes, an English muffin will be fine."

RS: "We bother?"

G: "No..just put the bother on the side."

RS: "Wad?"

G: "I mean butter...just put it on the side."

RS: "Copy?"

G: "Sorry?"

RS: "Copy...tea...mill?"

G: "Yes. Coffee please, and that's all."

RS: "One Minnie. Ass ruin torino fee, strangle ache, crease
baychem, tossy singlish mopping we bother honey sigh, and
copy....rye??"

G: "Whatever you say"

RS: "Tendjewberrymud"

G: "You're welcome"

Vermiculture How-To: A New Venture

2011-07-05T16:34:00.000-07:00

Finally I can write my article on vermiculture composting, which I should have done in February when I started the regular habit of gathering compost materials. I've had this blog entry put on hold due to the long wait for the red wrigglers . Without those, this article would have served no purpose. And so, here I am :)

Since our town felt the brunt of Mother Nature from previous typhoons over the years - with unforgettable names such as Cosme, Pepeng and Juan - I began to think of small ways in helping save our planet. I believe that if each small earth-saving practice is done in every home, we can contribute largely to our earth's improvement. One way is proper waste disposal of our green materials which include fruit and vegetable peels and other scraps to prepare compost and/or compost food for the red wrigglers (African Nightcrawlers) Here is my simple step-by-step process:

We will need...

1.Green materials such as fruit and vegetable peels (limiting citrus peels), fresh grass, cow manure. These green materials are usually green or colorful and wet. They provide the nitrogen of the compost to grow and reproduce more organisms to oxidize the carbon.

2. Brown materials such as wood shavings, sawdust or dried banana leaves. These provide the carbon content of the compost.

The ratio suggested for the compost is one part nitrogen and 30 parts carbon (1:30) to keep the balance. Weighing the materials is necessary to get the right mix.

These are the green materials which we get from the market...

... adding also some from the kitchen scraps we have at home.

These are the brown materials: wood shavings we can get from the nearby furniture shop. We take extra care to remove sharp edges and nails from the pile before we mix them in.

Occasionally, we add torn scraps of paper...

(...hehe, that's me right there, mixing the greens and browns. This is the "tough" part as my vegetable vendor-friend at the market would grimace whenever I pick-up their market scraps. )

Important: After mixing them thoroughly, don't forget to pour right amount of water on the mix to speed up decomposition. Add some decomposed mixture if you have some .

After mixing, tie the sack tight enough, place a plastic mat or tarp underneath to keep them ants away. Wait for 2 weeks to decompose.

Eventually it's best to keep the sacks under the shade away from heat and sunlight. Occasionally, within the two-week span, open the sacks from time to time for proper aeration.

Make Money Monday - RevTwt

2011-07-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

Earn Money from your tweets

This is one of those make money online offers that I've been skeptical about months ago, but now I would gladly recommend since I received revenue from it :)

I suppose readers of my tweets wonder what I've been tweeting about recently which look like ads. Yes, indeed, they are ads but they are those ads that I've signed up for, hence, they show up in my tweets. And what's more, I've earned from them!

What is RevTwt? It's a new way to make money outside Twitter, and it pays! Now you can earn money from your tweets, emails, social network status updates, wall and forum posts, blog comments and any other social conversations you participate on the Internet.

How does RevTwt pay you? It will send all your earnings right to your Paypal account. If you still don't have Paypal, you can sign up here. Paypal is free and supported also in the Philippines
(please check if your country is supported by Paypal). You can directly withdraw your PayPal balance to your local bank.

How you can sign up:

It's easy, and no need to wait for approval, your account will be active right away. You can sign up at RevTwt for new account. Then add your twitter account, providing your username and password.

Start making money by logging in to your RevTwt account and then find the "Post Ads" link on the menu bar. Find ads you want to post to your twitter account. The ads is CPC (Cost Per Click), it means you’ll be paid for every click on your ads. Important: please be sure to read the RevTwt Terms and Conditions.

How To Earn More: Yes, you can also earn more extra cash from your 20 percent referral’s earnings. Join RevTwt Referral Program here or click on the RevTwt banner above.

Would love to hear your feedback, cheers!

Skywatch Friday - Afternoon Clouds

2011-07-01T01:28:00.000-07:00

Entrecard Top Ten Droppers For June

2011-06-30T16:14:00.000-07:00

Made it again! Survived the competitive world of entrecard dropping! :D
I'm all the more glad that I've had plenty of regular droppers on my blog this month of June.

Thanks to every visitor for keeping me company and in a lot of ways helped me reach my PR2 this month. Oh yes! That is indeed a surprise for me and I'm celebrating this small achievement now! :)

Now my special thanks goes to the following:

Lion-CC-Autos

Enfotainer

Cafe Japan

Sing It Live

Free Blogspot Blogtemplates

To join my daily entrecard list Visit Here

Our Second Batch Of Red Wrigglers From The Municipal Agriculture

2011-06-28T23:57:00.000-07:00

Woo-hoo! We are blessed!

Just this morning, brought about by some drive in me, I was anxious to get to the bottom
of this so-called "irregular government practices" that we thought of giving it a go again and visit the local agriculture departments. I can't really say for certain about the issue as we only got second-hand information that agriculture LGUs have no red wrigglers or worms for composting.

So there, without further plans and just a spur-of-the-moment visit, hubby and I went back to all those LGUs and requested for what we need, even planning to negotiate on purchasing just half a kilo of the red wrigglers if we get disapproved.

First stop was the neighboring town's agriculture office. Sad, they closed by 2:00 PM because they simply had to leave early. "Your taxes are working for you" rang in my head.

So we went to our own local agriculture department next. It was quite a surprise really, the department head and all employees were in today on a Friday! Apparently it's their salary day, and good for us, they were so generous! The head of agriculture was kind to write us a note of approval so we can pick-up our "first" batch of red wrigglers (African Night crawlers). He approved our request for 30 pieces. And when we got to the Municipal Nursery we were given much more, around 50! Now that is surprising!

I am just as excited to try my hand in this vermiculture business by beginning small. I'm still considering it as an experiment if we can make them grow and multiply sooner. Once again, I will keep you greenie folks posted with my worm composting how to articles.

Sepia Saturday #1 - Pre-school Graduation Photo

2011-06-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

Just came across this new meme I found, and I think it's very timely that I had a good laugh this week when our pre-school and elementary graduation photos from 1978 and 1984 were shared online in preparation for our alumni homecoming this December.

This photo was taken when I was 6 years old, March 1978.

This is my Sepia Saturday post and my first! Find more at Sepia Saturday 80

Malunggay Farm Development - Moringa Drumstick Seeds

2011-06-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

Hurray! We now have moringa seeds for sale!

We harvested the moringa seeds before summer ended and before the early rain and predators would harm the moringa drumsticks.

These moringa seeds for sale are now mature enough with 99 percent germination. We are now keeping them intact, and away from molds and insects in a finely woven sack to keep them dry.

I've posted our ads selling moringa oleifera seeds at Sulit.com.ph, Olx.com.ph, Ebay.ph and even Facebook's Marketplace. Looking for more, have you any to suggest?

Moringa Oleifera Drumstick Seeds For Sale

10pcs - 38.00
20 pcs- 76.00
50 pcs- 150.00
100 pcs - 300.00

Ships nationwide Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao

Shipment fee for less than one kilo - Php120.00 shipped via OCS/JRS

International orders negotiable

Techie Wannabe - How To Create A Networked Blog Page For Your Blog

2011-06-19T04:01:00.000-07:00

More again of my Techie Wannabe series of posts. This time I'm featuring a step-by-step process of creating a networked blog page.

1. Go to http://www.networkedblogs.com/
and just click on that Add Your Blog button, as below.

Clicking on that button will lead you to http://apps.facebook.com/blognetworks/

2. Next, click on Register a Blog

Here, registering your blog will lead you to http://apps.facebook.com/blognetworks/editblog.php

3. Next, simply fill out the form as below. Choose search tags and write your blog description to help people find your blog on Facebook :

4. Confirm that you are the owner of the blog by clicking on Yes

5. Now you need to verify ownership of your blog. You can ask friends to verify you, or you can use widget to verify ownership (second one is better). Indeed, technical skills are required. No worries, it's easy.

6. Choose Install Widget to get to the next step.

7. Copy the html code given for your blogspot/wordpress blog and install the widget on your blog. This step is necessary to claim your blog as your own. Remember to click Verify Widget right after.

8. You will get to this page below. Next click on Set up Syndication to make sure that your blog is syndicated properly.

9. From there you can syndicate your blog to your own Facebook profile. Click on Add Facebook Target. More syndication targets will be introduced, choose ones that may apply to your need. When done, click Close.

So there you are!

Indeed, Facebook has become an everyday habit to log onto for many tech-savvy people, that is why we bloggers who are on facebook can now easily share our posts - without the extra tweaks- to our friends and readers. Enjoy!

Happy Father's Day To All Fathers All Over The World

2011-06-19T01:57:00.000-07:00

June is the month we celebrate Father's Day. This year 2011, the day falls on June 19.

Father's Day marks fatherhood to honor and commemorate our fathers and forefathers. It is a great time to let your father know you haven't forgotten him and also show him how much you value and respect him.

I personally cannot relate that much, having lost my father at a very young age. I have not known a father's love and protection. Thankfully, though, I have had uncles on my mother's side show me somehow how a father supports, guides and cares for his children. Yet often I wondered what my father's love really is, if he had lived long enough.

Many years in Father's Day celebrations later, I realize that indeed God's love as our Almighty Father is more than the love our earthly father ever could give. It really is amazing to know that God fills the emptiness of having grown up with no father or even with a distant father.

To all fathers, here is our Almighty Father's example. Happy Father's Day to you all!

Our First Batch Of Red Wrigglers

2011-06-14T19:42:00.000-07:00

Finally, after months of waiting, we got our first half-fistful batch of red wrigglers (African Night Crawlers). About 10-15 worms, I just hope! :)

They are not a lot, but we heard they can multiply as much as 3 times a day or so, we'll see.And I'm just excited to begin feeding them the compost I've been preparing for a long time!

Why it took so long, it seems that despite the vast quantity of the red wrigglers at the local agriculture department in town and in the nearby red wriggler farms, there were no red wriggler worms for sale. Up to this time I also wonder why. But oh my, I'm just ecstatic to have our first batch!

So here they are quietly in this improvised vermiculture bin made out of a used biscuit pail - courtesy of my hubby. Hubby also placed a fine mesh cloth at the bottom and on the cover so they wouldn't escape.

We are being extra careful with them because these red wrigglers supposedly cost 500-800 pesos a kilo, depending where the red wriggler farm is located.

What a relief to go onto the next level! In the meantime, will keep you posted, my greenie folks ;)

Skywatch Friday - Sunny Skies At Hidden Rock Farm Resort

2011-06-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - This Downy Fabric Softener Model

2011-06-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

W O R D L E S S W E D N E S D A Y

For more Wordless Wednesday Entries Visit Here

Meet Me On Monday

2011-06-06T03:49:00.000-07:00

1. What is was the last piece of candy that you ate?

Safari Chocolate Bar is as good as the well-known chocolate candy bars but costs less.

2. Do you "read" in the bathroom?

Nope. Not my thing anymore.

3. I can't stand when someone _________?

Lies about a story. Especially if I know exactly what really happened because I was also

there, and the person lying maybe "forgot" that I know the truth and ignores me to just continue with his/her story.

I am always for the truth, no matter how ugly or unbecoming the truth is, I believe that someone should just tell the truth. It will make all things better in the very end.

Now you got in my thoughts there, Hannibal Lecter :)

4. Do you do daily, weekly or monthly grocery shopping?

Weekly,preferably. We used to grocery shop daily this last summer, but

now that school has officially begun and we are busy, weekly shopping is imperative.

Skywatch Friday

2011-06-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

Thanks To This May's Top Ten Entrecard Droppers

2011-06-01T21:18:00.000-07:00

Can't believe that May is soon gone and here comes June! And I am so thankful for the regular droppers on my blog, you helped me in the promotions in a lot of ways.
It's been a bit hard for me recently because of my computer's poor memory, yet I'm glad I made it somehow to visit all your blogs. :)
Here's to the linkylove for you people....

comatisedWalk On Your LifeEnfotainerLion-CC-AutosFinance For USSkaviadosSieuthigigaI For Skills OnlineTexts without PhotoshopVintage Blog

Myspace Thank You Comments & Graphics

Reading Homeschooler's Entrecard Droplist

Kung Fu Panda 2

2011-05-28T01:12:00.000-07:00

The Dragon Warrior is back on screen!

Our sentimental attachment to Kung Fu Panda may come up again for this new movie Kung Fu Panda 2, for sure!

When Kung Fu Panda was first shown in 2008, we had the privilege of having a copy of its DVD a few months after. I didn't get to see it at once due to my self-confessed busy schedule. But hey, I got to listen to it every morning for 2 months when our youngest Cupcake would put the movie on the DVD player, as part of his morning ritual.

I tell you, all of us at home eventually got so excessively familiar with the lines in the movie that we could recite them ad verbatim. Each morning when my older boys went off to school, I would hear them go along:

"I just ate, so I'm still digesting, so my king fu may not be as good later on."

"One thousand guards and one prisoner... only that prisoner is Tai Lung"

"Don't worry, Master, I will never quit!"

"What are you going to do, sit on me?" "Don't tempt me."

"There is now a level zero."

"There is no charge for awesomeness... or attractiveness."

"I'm not the big fat panda, I'm THE big fat panda."

There are also couple of memorable lines from the movie that served as a reminder to me even during my low times. Here, let me share from memory:

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift. That is why it is called the present." - Oogway

and of course,

"The secret ingredient is.... NOTHING!" ("You")

Skadoosh!

Skywatch Friday - Summer Sunset

2011-05-27T03:54:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed this sunset today as we rested on the hammock under the mango tree.

Malunggay Farm Developments - Moringa Flower

2011-05-23T03:07:00.000-07:00

Surprising developments on our malunggay farm indeed! Due to the recent dry spell, I was impressed when I passed by one morning to find out that the moringa trees blossomed and produced fruits! Yes, I was moved that much because these moringa plants mean a lot to us.

Sharing photos....

Moringa flowers can be harvested after the 8th month of propagation. The tender flowers are better, of best choice. The flowers can be taken as tea. The flowers can also be fried and added to soup or scrambled eggs. Yes, we've tried a recipe and they have a taste similar to mushrooms with a hint of nutty flavor. From the moringa flower you can obtain both potassium and calcium.

Make Money Monday - Get paid for watching YouTube

2011-05-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

Get paid for watching YouTube!

It's a two-year running and legit earning online site I found recently thru the leading buy and sell site in the Philippines. I'm still new here as a member (about a week) and so far I earned 40 credits already. It isn't much at this time, but I hope it will be when I post this ad on all the profiles I have on the social networks.

Paid2Youtube is already up for more than a year and has yet to wait approval from PTC investigation sites if it delivers as it advertises. I've heard pretty good reviews from other users though, and two members whom I met online said they were already paid 14 dollars via Paypal. It's easier to navigate and use, what's more you will earn by simply viewing videos. (mostly adverts for the moment) It's the same as the PTC sites.

To earn, you will need:

Personal Computer
Regular internet use
Paypal Account (No Paypal yet? Sign up here. IT'S FREE)
Internet Connection

What are you waiting for? Sign Up now

Let's Play "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?"

2011-05-15T04:33:00.000-07:00

The tension-filled "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" hosted by Vic Sotto is back on TV5!

I'm watching the game show right now as I'm tweeting and playing this online game. (Got to multi-task ^^,)

Care to try this online game with me? Share on this blog entry - as a comment - how far you've gone. Have fun!

Who wants to be a Millionaire

Click here to play this game

Meet Me On Monday

2011-05-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

I've wanted to join another blog hop for Mondays and I'm thrilled to join Never Growing Old's Meet Me On Monday for this first time.

Questions and Answers:

1. What is your favorite kind of muffin? That would be any muffin with chocolate in it.

2. What was the first car you ever owned? I don't have a car for the moment :P

3. Which TV show were you sad to see end? Perfect Strangers with Larry Appleton and Balki Bartokomous. I miss the hilarious episodes that made me laugh 'til I had tears on my eyes!

4. What is your lucky number? I no longer believe in luck per se, but the number 4 has been following me since I knew. It's also my hubby's favorite number.

5. Pretzels or Potato Chips? If I had a choice, I'd say warm salted pretzels are what I'm craving for.

Happy Mother's Day to all Mommy bloggers!

2011-05-07T01:45:00.000-07:00

Myspace Easter Comments

Gilon Gilon Ed Dalan Dagupan Bangus Festival 2011

2011-05-06T18:12:00.001-07:00

Going here came as a surprise to me, honest! I really wanted to go but I thought I couldn't because of the weather. So I decided not to.

But plans changed when we had to rush that day going to University Of Luzon to enroll our son Popcorn. So there I was, no qualms whatsoever, we walked all the way from our stop at DBP bank up to UL then back via Downtown Dagupan up to DBP. Imagine the weather! Ha-ha! But it was worth it!

Thanks To This April's Top Ten Entrecard Droppers

2011-05-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

A ton of thanks to everyone who dropped on my entrecard this past month!

I'm kind of late in posting this entry, but just the same I would like to give the linkylove to my blog's Top Ten Entrecard Droppers this month.

My special thanks goes to....

... ... ...
Comatised
Namz Crypt
Enfotainer
BeadedTail
Lion-CC- Autos
Captchas Fun & More
Walk On Your Life
Skaviados
Blogging For FunVintage Blog

Make Money Monday - Earn For Uploading And Sharing Your Files

2011-05-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

It's Make Money Monday again!

Here's again another website I just found via browsing. Something I've been looking for in a long time... a download site that pays for every file downloaded from your own account!

I intend to use this app for all the papers and projects I have on my personal computer yet they get all piled up at a time until I will have to reformat and transfer the files as email attachment. Now, what better way to do this but get paid? It's cool, yes?

Since I'm still a newbie, I have no referrals yet. But with the files I have, a few of friends downloaded already from my account and I got around $.920 only, which isn't much yet. Wait til I really use it for my next project, and I'm sure I will get paid more!

If you need an unlimited filekeeper for files (photos,documents,write-ups,etc) to share with family and friends, please feel free to SIGN UP by clicking on that small blinking button at the top :)

Note: From my own observation, earning from Ziddu works if you have your own IP address and if you refrain from downloading from Ziddu at your own IP Address.

So let me try this app...

Here are sample pages from "Teach Your Child How To Read In 90 Days!" Feel free to download :)

Skywatch Friday - Fiesta Banners By The Open Air Food Court

2011-04-29T19:26:00.000-07:00

Twitter Tuesday Hop #15

2011-04-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

Got a twitter account and want to have more followers? Join us at this Tuesday's Twitter Hop! Simply visit Real Mom Reviews Blog, add your twitter profile URL and your twitter username, then follow the first twitterer (and more twitterers if you want to). You will get followed back too!

Make Money Monday : Neobux Pays!

2011-04-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

I've joined Neobux since I heard so much about it that I gave it a try. I'm writing about this because I'm excited to receive my first payment!

Thanks also to the people who signed up under me - from visiting my blog/s and my facebook and friendster profiles.

If you're interested in making money online, joining Neobux is one of the easiest ways.
All you have to do is click and view ads or websites for 30 seconds or less and you'll be automatically credited for it.

Neobux is a PTC website. Basically you get paid to click. They pay 2 cents per click, and an average of 8 adverts per day to click.This entails a little persistence but in just a few minutes a day to click on ads or even sign up for the offers and you'll be automatically credited for that!

It's easy to JOIN, just fill-up a form.

Type your preferred Username
Type your preferred Password
Type your E-mail Address
Type your Alertpay or Paypal Account E-mail (if you don't have one, you can just sign-up for it, it's FREE and it's safe)

The winning strategies to Neobux is clicking on the ads daily and referring members. Since I've signed up and posted the referral button on my social networking profiles, 3 friends have signed up too! So you also will need referrals, because this is where you make money. I suggest just Direct Referral because it's free and anyone can join by using your referrals link. (But if you prefer Rented Referrals, it's a better option)

Looking forward to sharing more ideas with you and will update this entry with payment proofs to come!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

God has done His part, so we must no longer make our own ways of redeeming ourselves. Our part is just to believe and receive the forgiveness, the healing, the freedom and live His abundant life. God does not want His blood to be wasted. He wants everyone to receive what He suffered to provide.

The text below I've read from an entry written years ago and I'm blessed to share this with you:

"It is Finished."

Colossians 1:12-20 (KJV; emphasis mine)
12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:
15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell;
20And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

So....."It is finished"... Jesus' last words on the Cross...before He died. He accomplished all that He came to do before taking His last breath.

In John 17:4, in the Garden, Jesus said "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do." The Greek for "finished" in this verse is teleioo and means consecrate, fulfill, (make) perfect. It is here in the Garden where Jesus declared that He had consecrated the work God gave Him to do...he declared it sacred and further, made it inviolable. And then He was put on trial and went to the Cross, as a lamb led to slaughter.

In John 19:30, on the Cross, Jesus received the vinegar and "...he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost." The Greek for "finished" in this verse is teleo and means accomplish, make an end, expire, pay, perform, complete, execute, conclude, discharge (a debt).

It is finished. What is finished? Everything (Colossians 1:20). He reconciled ALL THINGS unto Himself. Period.

It is finished.
It was finished? It will be finished? No....It IS finished...past, present and future. It was "IS" before Creation...it was "IS" when man fell...it was "IS" when originally penned..."IS" yesterday...and it will be "IS" when we read it tomorrow, a 100 years from now...and for all eternity...HALLELUJAH!!!!

It is finished. It is ended...expired...completed. His inviolable work cannot be violated. Period.

The Cross...that beautiful, glorious and, more accurately, indescribable Cross...
Colossians 1:20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.
May the Lord always be honored and glorified as we live our lives unto Him...as we live, move and have our being in the "IS"...

If you need a miracle, if you need the power of God to intervene in your life or heal your sickness, or come to your aid in any situation you are in right this moment, there is hope! Let go of discouragement, disappointments, unmet expectations, and look toward what Christ has already done to provide us all that miracle. Remember, "It is finished."

Open your heart, look to Jesus, and only believe!

Facebook Friday Hop #15

2011-04-22T22:26:00.000-07:00

Joining this week's Facebook Friday Hop #15! Real Mom Reviews hosts these blog hops to help increase social network followers! All you have to do is add your Facebook Follow or Like Page URL then hop on to the first blog on the list. Then hop to any other blog(s) you wish!

Skywatch Friday : Clouds Above The Ricefield

2011-04-21T23:09:00.000-07:00

My first entry for Skywatch Friday: Clouds Above The Ricefield. Taken just near the rice mill where we sold our yield that day, and when I looked up, I saw those clouds and thought it was a photo op :)

Twitter Tuesday Hop #13

2011-04-19T18:45:00.000-07:00

It's Tuesday Twitter Hop's 14th week and I'm again joining the list. It sure has added more twitter followers on my profile and would surely add more! I'm on #40 and the list is growing, so if you have a twitter profile, why don't you add your twitter on this Tuesday's Twitter Hop?

In Memory Of My Ancestors

2011-04-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

Verteilung des Namens Bülchmann

It's April 13 today, same date of my departed relatives' death anniversaries. My grandmother and father died from our vehicular accident on April 12 and 16, 1974 in Germany. My mother succumbed to cancer on April 13, 1991.

So I'm taking care of myself and watching my every step today.... I still love to sing Irene Cara's "Fame" (I'm gonna live forever) and Gloria Gaynour's "I Will Survive" ..... Uh, sorry, that was a lame shot at humor.

Kidding aside, when I think of my departed relatives now, I feel alone at times. No one here can tell me something more about them, about my father and grandmother, I mean. I only have bits
and pieces from what I can recall about them, which my late mother and a few relatives here told me.

My father was born before the World War 2 in Hedemuenden, Germany. He worked at the German Embassies in Prague, in London and in Berlin as secretary, respectively.

My mother when she was still with the Philippine Embassy in Hamburg.

My father and mother during their civil wedding.
They got married exactly two years before my birthday.

My grandmother, who was an industrious and kind woman, was from Czechoslovakia. My mother and her always got along. She majored in Home Economics and was really a good homemaker. From my mother's stories, my Oma loved to work on her embroidery, I actually still have the handiwork she worked on as a keepsake. And her collection of silverware and china.

My grandfather, according to my mom, died after the war when my late father was still a young lad. I was looking among my files, even the Familien-Stammbuch, and I found his obituary. I don't know the meaning of the rest of the words but it says he died in November 1950. So I guess my father was 7 years old by that time.

That is all I know or all I remember about my German relatives. I hope of searching for more, most times trawling through the genealogy databases, GEDCOMs and what-have-you of family histories. Sad to say, I've hit the brickwall many times because our surname is spelt differently. Sometimes it's Buelchmann and sometimes with the "umlaut" (the two dots on top of 'u') We jokingly refer to as "Two dots on top of you"

Yet that doesn't mean I've stopped searching. I've searched for anybody with the same surname as mine but nothing came of it. Then, since I'm admittedly a slow learner, I googled it last year and I came up with 3 people from the same town where my father grew up. And I also found one doctor, one jeweler and one minister. Wow! And there is a possibility I might reach them via whitepages too. I also have our family tree on www.dynastree.com and on www.myheritage.com in hopes that someone will search for me too.

But one tiny issue which may be a hindrance, my knowledge of Deutsch is terrible. It's a disgrace, I may need Google Translate on hand. But I am still in the process of learning I am actually in my 12th lesson now of Pimsleur's Speak and Read German. That'll do for now, that'll do... so, will keep you posted!

This is what Hedemuenden looks like, as shared by a new friend.

Techie Wannabe: Blog Speed Test

2011-04-09T00:59:00.000-07:00

As a regular blogger, I wonder how viewers see my blog and how fast it loads to welcome readers. I've recently read that blog speed is very important because it increases blog traffic and makes your blog come up on search results faster.

Ha-ha, talking about these techie stuff leaves me perplexed! I'm being honest here, dear readers. Yet I consider it a necessity to read up on these topics because it will help our blogs performance greatly.

1-2 seconds is an ideal page loading speed on a regular computer, of course. I'm out for the moment at an internet cafe with a blessed fast rented computer! So I tried the Blog Test on Pingdom Tools and my blog's result was 0.5 seconds! It's good enough :)

Try the test above and please let me know your blog's results as a comment. Thanks!

Thanks to :
Speed-up-your-website-to-get-more-traffic

Check How Fast Your Blog Loads

Friday Fill-ins #2

2011-04-08T06:15:00.000-07:00

1. In the near darkness I hope to sleep not so restfully as we need to keep watch at night, some strange things have been happening out our front door.

2. My eldest has not gone back to nursing assistant class til further notice.

3. But this summer, now that his brothers are on summer break, I would like him very much to go back to his classes.

4. Summer is sweltering hot, I wish I could cool my heels at noontime in the stream.

5. It's always nice to work around the house nowadays.

6. I enjoy my boys' jokes,stories and pleasant company.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to __, tomorrow my plans include _working on our new farming project on vermiculture and Sunday, I want to rest and relax after I come home from church.

See more Friday Fill Ins here

Facebook Friday Hop #13

2011-04-08T02:15:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Week 13 of Facebook Friday Hop by Real Mom Reviews
All you have to do is follow the first blog on Facebook! Then hop to any other blog(s) you wish!

Click on the button above to add your facebook page (not your blog URL) and join the blog hop!

And by the way, mine is Teach Reading In 90 Days

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-04-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

To join, please visit this site

Outside my window... Humid weather, summer in the Philippines is really something! One would wish to go to the beach as often as possible or even take a long vacation in Baguio City- the summer capital of the Philippines -which I say is my most favorite city in the world! I wish we could go there sometime...

I am thinking... of the paperwork that we need to work on. Can't divulge the situation just yet, but it's going to be huge. Am excited of what will come!

I am thankful for... the summer holiday of my children which means summer holiday of the wallet. I hope I can also save for the next school year.

I am wearing... black strappy top because of the warm weather, and striped brown shorts. I'm barefooted, need to add :)

In the learning rooms... I'll be teaching my youngest "Cupcake" some basic math with math games suited for his age. He learned counting up to a hundred, a few months ago but when he counted from the chart to "teach" his second cousin .. he forgot some. I'm positive he can learn again in time for school next year.

I am going... just to my malunggay farm this late afternoon to check on the trees. Will see if I'll be going someplace else much later.

I am reading... Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki... it's just an 80 page book but with great ideas there! Glad that I got the time to read despite having the book for almost a year now. It's about getting off the"rat race" of having a 9-5 job.

On my mind... I am calm and okay today, not being affected by anything. Thanks for the prayer and meditation too. Could have been from the wonderful dream I had.. of being in Manila and seeing friends.

From the kitchen... Stir-fried vegetables - Chopsuey- cooked by my eldest, because "I'm busy" today.

Around the house... clutter, as usual... crayons, pencils, paper... we got no energy to clean up much because of the weather (again) but I'll work on that later as I will work on the inventory of my ebay stuff.

One of my favorite things... is to catch up on much needed rest, for now.

From my camera... I got two photos from my son Popcorn's graduation last April 5th ...
one, with him and Cupcake. That's my son, always serious even for the camera!

And here below, hubby and me. That look? We hope the camera would work right :)

Twitter Tuesday Hop

2011-04-05T02:23:00.000-07:00

It's our 17th Anniversary!

2011-04-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

It's our wedding anniversary today! 17 years together! It's still going to be a simple celebration just as simple as when we first met and lived together all these years. =)

I'm also going to finally give my answer to the tag my friend sent me ages ago. Know more about me and my hubby's tug-of-war relationship (My hate-turned-to-love story)

Can you remember the day you first met your hubby? Yes, I sure would! Nothing special at that time and no sparks flew. But prior to that, the first time I heard his name and it rang a bell, just strange.... The person who told me they moved in next door also said that he's my age and to watch out, he might court me. I just said " not my type". And I really meant it.

When was the first time you met him?

When they moved in next to us. It was the first time I actually met him and I realized he was the younger brother of this other batchmate we had who was talented in theater.

First impression. Friendly and loves to chat. Told me even the funniest stories he already knew from our schoolmates. But I found him "overconfident". He was clearly not my type and yet I was taken aback when he had the courage to ask if I somebody has ever courted me. "You're pretty but your not my type I don't like girls who put on weight easily, or girls who are fair-skinned, or girls with physical defects" ... something like that. Ouch, my wounded ego! I made a mental note that I will never ever talk nor greet this guy again. So the rest of our high school year we never became friends.

Were you attracted to him? Attracted? During that time, if you had asked me I would be rolling on the floor laughing! But, no. It still amazes me though, how I learned to love him when we started being friends.

Were you friends before he became your bf? Yes. It's was the very first time I befriended a guy before the relationship moved on to steady. It was a long, long, long wait for him though, and I was an uncaring person that year after having had so many heartbreaks. He courted me February 24th and I finally decided I liked him October 24th. Ten months! It's a familiar joke to everyone whom we know.

What are the things about him that you are thankful for? He has stood by me through good times and the bad - and I mean including the worst moments of our marriage. I'm glad also that I stayed with him despite all the odds that our family has been through. He has remained my friend. I have so many things to thank him for, just minute details that usually someone takes for granted.. but I see them always.

Looking forward to more blissful years together!

Best Deal With Smartbro

2011-04-02T04:32:00.000-07:00

Call it a blessing in disguise when my previous internet connection was halted last week for reasons I can't explain. (Lesson learned over that one) But oh my! We are ecstatic to switch to SmartBro, knowing through word-of-mouth that Smart has better service and Smart is proven customer-friendly.

Dear friends and followers, can't contain my happiness despite that hindrance I was able to make it doing my rounds this week despite no internet at home. It was difficult because I had to physically hop from one internet cafe to another - haha, like I did during the early years online. Internet cafes with fastest speed were usually packed with customers so I had to keep looking for another internet cafe checking on their computer's speed test first.

Anyway, extremely happy that is over and am here now online at home because of Smartbro! I'm ecstatic due to their fast service, we just applied Tuesday and got connected that evening! Nothing can beat that :)))

What's more, applying for a connection with Smartbro has it's perks! Surprise! A free 3-in-one printer too!

Not only that, with Smartbro, I got what all I really wanted for a long time... you will laugh at this - been asking what is my IP and now I got my own! (I hope) ^^,

Blogger Widgets

Sweet Saturday #1- The Gift Of Time

2011-04-02T00:55:00.000-07:00

This is my first time to join Sweet Saturday by Jona of Heartifying!

I find it timely that I am posting this topic for a change. Been awhile since my hubby and I devoted time for each other. We have been used to all our boys being around us wherever we go, especially our youngest,Cupcake, who always tags along.

For a change, last February 25, hubby and I attended a couple's night at Hidden Rock Resort together with members at church. We realized the huge difference between what was when we were younger and now that we are older with 5 children. I thank the coordinators of the occasion we attended, it was truly fabulous!

The message, delivered by an old friend, Pastor Ramon and wife was truly an eye-opener. In their message, they shared the four gifts of love: honesty, protection, care and time.

Taken during the prayer and affirmation. It was a light moment, I think someone was joking here here!

I'm glad we went there, it has brought a huge change to how we prioritize between people and issues in our life. And hey, what do you know, it's hubby and I's 17th anniversary this April 4th!

(sharing more photos from the church affair)

Friday Fill- Ins #1

2011-04-01T06:05:00.000-07:00

1. I can't believe we've got new and better internet connection with perks!

2. Caring for everyone.

3. How can I motivate my children to keep busy this summer?

4. Baked potatoes with butter was the last thing I cooked.

5. Six of one makes a mad mathematician out of me. The mere mention of numbers, haha. It's a joke!

6. Staying awake and stressing out; nonono!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to being online yes, on a Friday, tomorrow my plans include working on our next farm project and Sunday, I want to go to church as usual with my 5-year-old.

Thanks To This March's Entrecard Droppers

2011-03-31T00:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who regularly dropped cards this March on my blog! I will surely keep dropping back to all of you this coming month, I always do. I just started the past two weeks so it's possible my drop rate on your blogs are low, but I'll make it up this April!

To all the top ten droppers, here's my linkylove....

Comatised
Captchas Fun & More
Walk On Your Life
Osprey Value
Pitsmoezen
Big Stick
Free Usable Tips For Home
Christina Fong
Enfotainer- Enfotain Your Mind!
Rambling King

Also my special thanks to bloggers who've contributed largely to the promotion of my blog:

Download Film
My Piece Of Mind
etechworld
Thailand On Tours
Fashion blog
Diary of A British Expatriate in Finland
Be A Lifesaver Of Goodness
Roller Coaster Ride
Mommy's Joy Ride
Gardening And Flowers
Cook This Recipe

F97YGNSP2VCG

Facebook Like You Back #2

2011-03-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

Support Earth Hour 2011

2011-03-26T02:10:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Tonight will be a significant night as countries all over the world will unite and participate in Earth Hour 2011. We can all do our share by switching off our lights from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Let's also go beyond the hour, so after the lights go back on, let's think about what else we can do to make a difference.

Allow me to share in what ways we in our family have done so far to help save Mother Earth:

Planted 1000 moringa trees at our small moringa farm. Environmentalists say moringa is sustainable and good for the environment
Traded junk for recycling (i.e. aluminum cans and caps, tin cans, newspaper)
Used natural means of warding off pests in the house and garden like oregano, marigold, milk and leftover coffee grounds
Regularly utilized the energy-saving version of Google - Blackle for searching on the net.
Stopped the rural folk habit of burning old leaves and grass in the backyard.

and more!

Caring for our environment has become a tireless way for me to help. Experiencing the past typhoons that struck our province has made me actively participate, and I still continue to share environmental awareness to others in my own little way.

Happy weekend!

Rice Harvest

2011-03-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

We've been busy at home in between daily chores and errands this past week. Also added to our schedule was last Friday, March 18's, rice harvest for the first crop this 2011 cropping calendar.

As I've said last week, the rice harvest commenced with the harvesters reaping the crops last Tuesday. Then it took 3 more days for the machine thresher's availability. Consider also that the farmer, Mang Juan, had to sleep at the fields for 3 nights to ward off robbers. Oh yes, there has been reports of those lately even in a sleepy baranggay like this.

That's me, I braved enough to go near the threshing machine at the field. Tell you, before this picture, I tripped when I took my first step toward the rice paddies!Ouch, a trip is a great trip if at first I trip! I've got a bad left foot, that's why :)

It's an arduous task of planting rice up to harvest, I realize. I salute these farmers for their patience from planting, cultivating, harvesting and also for drying the crops to make it worth much more. According to the rates, newly harvested rice grains are traded for 15.00/ kilo, on the other hand, when the same rice grains will be sundried, it will earn more as much as 17.00 kilo. Here below, are the workers shoveling the grains back to the sacks. My hubby helped until he felt the allergy itch which is common in this job, whew!

This season's grains are of great quality this time unlike that of the previous season.

Total rice sacks filled were 87, one-fourth of which, went to us being representatives of the land owner. This season's harvest is by far the lowest despite having had no calamities that could have affected the crops. The farmers attribute the low yield due to the changing weather from humid to cold and back plus the lack of water and, for others, lack of appropriate fertilizers. A close relative from the same town, in fact, lost 40% of his harvest this year from experimenting with a new kind of fertilizer that not only did not seem to work, but also decreased this year's yield.

The 2 days at the field were so far relaxing for me, away from the hustle and bustle of chores and blogging. Enjoyed the atmosphere, almost sleepy . Took flickr photos, watched egrets flying overhead what we call "tagak", went to and fro from palay-drying to the rice traders and back to the rice mill. Even if the yield is low, still smile, looking forward to next harvest season!

More pictures in this slideshow :)

Call US And Canada With Skype

2011-03-18T05:04:00.000-07:00

Just found out Skype isn't just for chatting on the internet but also is another alternative to calling friends and relatives from overseas, just top-up $10.00 from your Paypal and you're all set.

The rates are cheaper compared to the regular phonecard in California $4.50 per hour. And yet sometimes the phone call gets cut-off just reporting "you have 3 minutes left" That's according to my aunt who resides there.

They've got low per minute rates which are considerably cheaper too for calls from the Philippines to overseas. At the rate of .021 cents per minute, I've been calling abroad for less than a dollar for 30 minutes. The advantage too is you can hear the conversation via speaker or headset. You don't miss the important details in your phone conversation.

My personal report: I talked to my aunt in California, called her via their landline phone, using a headset and mic for myself and the speaker for the rest of the family to listen in. It was only for 12 minutes though for that first time because I mistook the rate as .21 cents instead of .021 cents. Whoops!

Then next time I logged on, the report said my credit was still $9.67. And I thought of letting my hubby try Skype in calling his "long-lost" relatives in the US who hardly get access to the internet. They talked for an uninterrupted 30 minutes for less than a dollar. The rates are the same too for calls to mobilephones in the US and Canada.

What's more, I heard they have incredibly cheap and unlimited rates in calling your country of choice. I would highly recommend it, especially because their service is hassle-free.

I hope you try it too and let me know your personal report. Have a nice day!

The Cute Cuppycake Song!

2011-03-16T19:54:00.000-07:00

The "CUPPYCAKE" Song(Lyrics and Music by Judianna Castle)is actually the chorus from Amy's version of "You're My Honeybunch"(lyrics and music by Judianna and Buddy Castle)..The lyrics in blue make up the short version that was first uploaded to the internet in August of 1996.
Amy sings the lyrics in red as well in the complete version:.You're my Honeybunch, SugarplumPumpy-umpy-umpkin, You're my Sweetie PieYou're my Cuppycake, GumdropSnoogums-Boogums, You're the Apple of my EyeAnd I love you so and I want you to knowThat I'll always be right hereAnd I love to sing sweet songs to youBecause you are so dear This is one of those things I came across in 1996 and I didn't know it then where to find it. It's now my message alert tone on my mobile phone. It's just so cute to listen to!
**********************************************************And talking about cute, I thought of giving my children cute names here in my blog. (just noticed bloggers shouldn't give out too much info on their children's identity;for security reasons)

My Eldest, the 20-year-old is Brownie - that's his favorite, or shall I say anything covered in chocolate - for that matter :)

My Second son, the 16-year-old, is Popcorn - ( no association for this, just want to call him that)

Next is Cottoncandy, the 15-year-old - always SOFT-spoken and fair

Next is Jellybean, my 13-year-old sophomore - anything beginning with J

And, lastly is Cupcake, my five-year-old (of course! as cute as a tiny cupcake)

You'll soon get to meet each one of them here, with all my parenting/buddy-buddy stories. I'm thinking of adding zest to this blog (quips, blogthings, daily stories and all) , because I really really really miss blogging and meeting new friends!

Harvest Time Again Soon!

2011-03-15T06:35:00.000-07:00

Can't quite believe it's another rice harvest season this Friday! It's our third harvest since we assumed management of my uncle and aunt's ricefield.

That picture above shows that our field is the last one to be harvested in that area.( see the yellow grains in the field) Even I can't believe the grains have ripened that quick since we last passed by last March 5 to check how things were going. It was still green then and some neighboring farmers were already harvesting their crops.

Me and my youngest, Cupcake, beside our family's trusty motorcycle. Glad to have that motorcycle now, it would do wonders for our budget since last 2 harvest seasons we only hired tricycles to get there and paid 50 pesos per trip.

So today we visited the farmers and gave them 20 rice sacks they need for the produce. Later this month, I'm already thinking of our visit to the National Irrigation Administration for the irrigation fees.

Praying for a great harvest this season!

P.S. Just as I am writing this blog post tonight, just on the news at NBN: NFA launches I-Rice Program

Readers must have thought I've gone away!

2011-03-13T17:11:00.001-07:00

Neglect, that's what I call my blogging. ooh, I'm really sorry for the followers who keep reading at the same blog post of December! My apologies!

I realize my error now of not managing my time wisely as well as my thoughts and plans wisely. I seem to have some hyperactivity of some sort, and I must submit my thoughts and pray for discipline. There were days I planned to work on something but ended up doing another.. could be just cleaning the yard then end up planting papaya trees instead. Or clearing out the attic then end up taking photos of the antiques. It's too much that honestly, leaves me tired and unaccomplished at the end of the day.

Though I have neglected posting, I am always online ... posting items on ebay and other selling sites, facebook, twitter and checking email.

I need to take it slow this week and learn to surrender my thoughts and work habits. I think it has gone all the more awry because of facebook (admit!) but I believe I can get back on track.

Happy Monday, everyone!

Malunggay Propagation - Malunggay Pods

2011-03-11T02:04:00.000-08:00

It has been a long while since I spent some time here at the malunggay farm. I was busy with the household chores at home and the usual online things I work on.

The trees did not need that much caring these days, so I opted to just attend to usual daily stuff more than visiting the place. As you may see, these malunggay trees were left to their own devices. Not even an ounce of water except maybe from what they get from the morning dew. Yet, to my amazement, the dry season lately made them produce more flowers and more pods!

Thanks to this November's Top Entrecard Droppers

2010-12-01T21:32:00.000-08:00

All my heartfelt thanks to all my new friends I met through this blog and with the great help of entrecard. Thanks likewise to those who regularly visited and dropped on my blog. Will try to keep up and drop back as I just started seriously dropping recently.

To all this month's Top Entrecard Droppers on Reading Homeschooler, here's the linkylove :)

comatised
gobigbluecats
Vainzine
Beaded Tail
Rambling King
Crimsonsparkle.net
scrinkalicious Recipes
Style Up Your Life
In The Eyes Of The Beholder
Reaching Lifelong Goals

Malunggay Farm Update November

2010-11-08T17:52:00.000-08:00

Just the picture that welcomed me back, after I summoned the courage to visit the field again in November 16. After much research from the farming forums, I went back with all organic sprays and tools to remedy the yellowing of the leaves.

Not much problem anymore since the yellowing has stopped since we've treated them initially with sulfate. What gives me a headache, you might guess, is the weeds that have grown all over the place due to neglect and lack of time when my hubby was busy assisting a family friend during the baranggay elections. Actually, that picture above reads "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Ha-ha! Indeed it's true! I could not imagine how I can get these things done, yet we'll be almost done - fingers crossed and hoping there won't be any rain during the afternoon.

Malunggay Farm After Typhoon Juan October 18-19

2010-10-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

3 days after Typhoon Juan I visited the malunggay farm. It seems I lost the key to the gate by my niece's house so I passed by the open fence. I'm glad that somehow these trees survived the storm and the minimal flooding of rainwater - most of them at least.

Yet, as seen below, there are some signs of yellowing from the other trees which could have come from too much rain or slight damage from the winds.

According to what I researched and asked around, yellowing is caused by some plant pests. Thankfully, that is taken cared of already thru organic remedies.

The trees are no longer in a straight row, due to the winds. We cannot move them to straighten as they still need to recover.

From Newspaper Classified Ads to Online Selling Sites

2010-10-15T03:26:00.000-07:00

Above, that's the Php1,200.00 a day ad on PDInquirer. I bought an ad space just once to give it a try. The return was 4 inquiries and 2 sales. Not bad.

This one above is from the Buy & Sell Classified Ads. It helped some.

Above, my ad in 2002 at Baguio Midland Courier, a local newspaper in Baguio City. This is the newspaper ad that gave me back my money's worth. Note: bookwagon@yahoo.com is also my email address

(Ad above and below) Lastly, even on the Abante Tabloid, to reach the C-D audience, I gave it a try. Got 10 inquiries, no sales though. Note: my mobile number was 09198242668

I'm featuring these classified ads, as part of my personal "sentimental" clippings of 2001 when I started. I got this idea from a direct marketing guide,however obsolete that was, I still gave it a try as it just might work. Yet, I admit now that I made a mistake of not checking on the trends that year; I'm glad though that what I was looking for (selling via internet) was already with me to begin with! It was a roundabout of sorts for me ^^

Much later, as I mentioned in my previous posts,I learned that in this age of technology selling online is twice better. Here are the online selling sites I've joined and posted in within the span of 8 years.

Alibaba
Ebay.ph
Sulit.com.ph
Ayosdito.ph
Entrepreneur.com.ph

THANKS TO OUR RECENT CUSTOMERS... B.F. GALVEZ... C.VILLONGCO... O.STA.MARIA... V.GARCIA,JR... M.A.DOMINGUEZ... K.P.FERNANDEZ... J.J.EVANGELISTA... M.LIM... T.MARCELO...Get this Widget

What would you do if you were a victim of piracy

2010-10-08T07:02:00.000-07:00

Got this email reported and forwarded to me a few years ago... If this happened to you, what would you do?

And although this issue is still not completely resolved, I would like to post it with the sender's name partially hidden. This email was posted in a parenting group where one of the members posted my ad; within that thread, though, another member replied back:

m*l*an*e*syo**g@******** Date: Sun, 13 May 2007 07:26:53 -0700 From:m*l*an*e*syo**g@******** Subject: Re: reading book
To: ****************************

hello po! P125 lang po. bale 4 files ng ebook (pdf format). i'll send you na rin un powerpoint presentation (3 files) plus 1 file ng nursery rhymes compilation. it will be sent via email.

i can print it all din if you want, in black and white then i'll ship them to you via aboitiz 2g0. p275 po including shipping.

payment is via gcash.you can send gcash even if your not a globe subscriber. just go to any globe centers to cash in. you'll need the following details:

K** A*******
*** real st. e. aldana
las pinas city
0915441**29

thanks! :)

My first reaction was, "Oh my, this is so ridiculous!" Laughed out loud. Yet, I felt my pulse race and I admit I was a bit disturbed. We've worked so hard on this book, including the research and the promotion. We also started small and improvised for our needs when need be.. and now here, someone was selling my e-book without approval!

I know I'm not anybody well-known, in fact I'm just a very very ordinary citizen from the province. But still that is my work, I own the copyright and even the exclusive right to sell it. Sad, that this person doesn't realize the things I have gone through before I sold the material as an ebook. Now here she was selling it at low low price.

So here's what I did then: I wrote her, quoting the forwarded email message. I sent my copyright certificate as attachment. In my letter, I told her that she is not authorized to sell the cd or the material unless she sends me a request and that upon my approval she can do so. I also added to please let whomever she got the ebook from to stop selling without my permission (I know from my directory she is not one of the subscribers)

I admit, it was also my fault for not safe-guarding the ebook from piracy back then and not regulating it's distribution. Though I'm glad that so far since 2001 I've been consistent in listing my customers names and other details. This last bit is a plus for the subscribers of the ebook because when they lose their e-copy they can just call or email me for a replacement at no cost.

Despite what happened, it did not stop me from selling. In fact I've researched how I could protect the ebook from copyright infringement and did exactly that. As subscribers will notice, the ebook is now password-protected with the copy number assigned to each. So I suppose that will do for now. Will keep everyone posted!

Read: How To Protect Your Work From Copyright Violation

Malunggay Farm Developments September

2010-09-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

The stalks are wrapped with plastic to prevent rain water damage

Good sign! Leaves are beginning to grow.

Need to cut weeds again soon, with a reliable grass-cutter. We will borrow a grass-cutter again next week. As of today (sept 11), we bought 2 1/2 trike-ful of malunggay again for planting.

Developing A Malunggay Farm

2010-08-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

Am here again, friends, and again apologize for the nth time for my absence from serious blogging. I'm sharing (above) photos of our malunggay farm with mango and papaya trees on the side.

It's been more than a month now since my hubby cleared up the tall weeds up to the time he planted the malunggay stalks. Tough work indeed, and all I'm allowed to do is watch, take photos here and there and bring lunch for them so-called "workers"

I'll just be sharing the photos from the first of August until the 17th. Yet at this time the farm has developed so much already with more than 500 trees planted!

This is a huge project for us. We just plant according to what we learn online and from the advice of trusted farmers. So far our goal is to plant 1000 trees in this 2,200 sq meter land and gradually increase the number.

I am so happy that it is getting to be completed soon and will be beginning to look for people needing supply of Malunggay leaves for their products. I'll be working on that this week by sending proposals to 8 prospects. I pray that each opportunity will unfold and all will turn out alright!

Malunggay Propagation Is My Next Project

2010-08-04T17:14:00.000-07:00

It's been two months now since I've been thinking of some big project to do and praying for it. If you've seen this picture below in some other blog, now you would remember who I am :)

Yes, that was me with my youngest in 2009. Those pictures were taken before the Pepeng flood washed away our 2nd planting of corn. Regrettably, it did not work out well and you could say I had to let it go. But still the land was there, it seems to bug me that I have not thought of anything to do with it much. So far, we've only planted a few grafted Guimaras Mango trees, which we are going to wait for 3 years to bear fruit. So here I was, getting antsy... wanting to help the environment... and still wanting to plant something at less cost or if possible no overheads at all ( just need elbow grease).

Okay, so later, I've had minor health problems which led me to take malunggay drinks for detox. Then I thought that this malunggay tree is just around our place anyway, so instead of the commercially available one, I opted for the malunggay leaves in original form.

I looked up feasibility studies and found out so much information which got me excited. I also took it as a sign when the malunggay pods I planted two months ago (before I was into all this) have grown so well!

Let me share you a few pictures.

1. The malunggay pods, believe me they are worth almost 4 pesos one pod but I got them for half the price. Before planting the pods, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours so that the seed can absorb all the water it needs for germination. The next day, plant it in a temporary plot just one and a half inch deep

2. The seeds sprouted on the 5th day. This is just my temporary plot.

3. The malunggay sprouts on the 6th day.

4. The malunggay sprouts on the 7th day. This is where I carefully transferred them to different places in my backyard garden.

5. Here are a few, 5 days later.

6. Picture below of the malunggay plant, which I left in a pot a week later.

Let this be the start of something big! These days we are busy clearing the 2000 more square meter lot and little by little planting malunggay stalks. Who knows, it might be a great start for my own Hacienda Luisita :) I will keep you posted when it's all ready.

What I really like most about planting malunggay, it helps in saving our environment!

Note: Thanks to Moringa Farms for info http://moringafarms.com/159/germinating-moringa-seeds-for-personal-use/

My best choices for country clip art and they are free!

2010-07-02T16:33:00.000-07:00

Developing a website from scratch is quite easy, thanks to the help of free country clipart.

My first choice then was Lisa's Country Graphics and ClipArt and it gave more appeal to my website in a homely way. Most of Lisa's Cliparts are free, with her permission of course. Adding her badge to your website is best as a way of thanks.

I also got free country backgrounds from Lisa's Country Graphics for my website before at Geocities. My favorites were:

I'm really missing that Geocities website, brings back happy memories of exchange with customers and inquiries.

My second choice of country clipart is Cute Colors, which I used many years later when I wanted to change the layout. The graphics are really cute! From pre-school children, apples, bears, dogs to fairies and flowers. It's quite difficult to choose which one I liked best so I mixed and matched.

Below are just a few of those graphics I used and am still using at the moment. Try them on your pages too!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-03T22:23:00.000-07:00

Easter Graphic Comments

Thanks To These Bloggers!

2009-10-24T21:46:00.000-07:00

I take this opportunity to thank the following bloggers that I've been giving linky love on my sidebar for all the ideas that they've shared. The knowledge they've passed on has helped me make my blog better and make me stay in the loop.

How To Create A Flickr Widget (or Badge), I thank ThatItGirl

How To Make Scrolling Blogger Blog Roll , I thank Crispy Papaya

Add Favicon Icon to Blogger URL , I thank Tips For New Bloggers

Buy Me Coffee For Blogger, I thank Blogger PlugIns

How to create a grab-my-button widget, I thank.......

I know there are plenty others who've shared their ideas on improving blogs and on generating widgets that I may not know of yet. Let this be my invitation to all to give the URL of their blog entry and short description about their blog tips. I'll be sure to include them here too :)

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-10-07T19:48:00.000-07:00

for Today

Wednesday, October 7th

Outside my window... it is rainy and the storm seems to have come back. I remember waking up at dawn startled by the curtains blown by the wind in our living room (where we sleep)

I am thinking...right now? My Cafe World account at Facebook... my Bacon
Cheeseburger just went "ding!" :D Kidding aside, I'm thinking of this blog that I've neglected for quite a time and what I can do especially when I'm too-too busy.

I am thankful for... finally completing the list of ebooks I'm selling for download. You'll find it on my other blog, so please feel free to visit.

From the kitchen... again, I'm not the cook :) but we'll be having Ginataang Breadfruit or what-you-may-call-it (Ginataang Kamansi, in our local dialect)

I am wearing... a black hand-me-down hooded sweatshirt (because it's cold today) and housewear shorts.

I am going... to write emails sent thru facebook today, just to say hi

I am reading... Psalm 46

I am hoping... for fair weather for the Philippines. We really want that, don't we all?

I am hearing... my toddler watching Mr. Bean show in the background

Around the house... clean up to do. I'm still thinking of having our garage turned kitchen painted with white. Kind of like French Provincial. Oh, after the winds of course.

One of my favorite things... a warm mug of coffee.

A few plans for the rest of the week ... ebaying and online selling as usual.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing... picture of raindrops taken on our doorstep (I'm on this side of the film, that is, what you see is the entrance to the house for rent)

To participate in Day Book post or to read other post, go to the Simple Woman's Daybook blog. I'll be posting this every Wednesday.

Clearing Up Of The Field

2009-09-14T19:59:00.000-07:00

Just to share what we've been busy about these days.

Pictures from our small cornfield, a parcel of land which was recently lent to us, plus pictures from the adjacent lot (the house for rent) that we're cleaning up for fruit trees.

Credits to my hubby and his Uncle Ogie (look-a-like of Xi) for the good job.

A quick welcome :)

2009-09-09T04:20:00.000-07:00

Want to know more about the material and how selling it online was developed? Please read my previous posts.

I willingly relate and share all the things I experienced in online selling of this book /ebook. In here you will find all of the tips I'm sharing; the websites and ideas that helped; the other websites I have in selling (especially now that Geocities has closed); the feedback of satisfied parents, even the only one bad feedback that I received- though it wasn't true; the person who attempted selling this ebook without authorization- and at a much, much lesser price - and how I blocked the piracy; the odd times I went through but thankfully the cheques kept coming in the mail; I also would like relate how "too dedicated" I am in attending to my duties of delivering books and ebooks on time no matter what happens.

Hey, did you know that I stubbornly attended to my business up to the day I was having labor pains? (I was on the family way with my 5th in 2005) ... I now laugh at that, really, as I look back to those days! Read that story soon here. The story - and more- are just to show how I put the parents/clients first and in a way assure everyone that I'm a very honest person when it comes to my "small business".

I care a lot for the feedback I get from the people who purchase from me. Hours after I receive confirmation of their payment, I get down to facilitating their order (because that is how I am - client's satisfaction first).

And I'm happy that since I've started in 2001, I've maintained this business and continue to receive purchases/orders through word-of-mouth and social networking; what's more, I also accept orders from parents outside the Philippines, that's how the internet has done wonders for me... so I hope you come back often and read more of what I would like to share.

Basically, this is my little way of encouraging anybody, that if an ordinary person such as myself can earn online... then so can YOU!

Cheers!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-09-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

for Today

Wednesday, September 9th

Outside my window... the sun is out, after days of rain!

I am thinking...of good things, positive thoughts... yes, I'm happy!

I am thankful for... this day... it's September 9th, it's my eldest son's 19th birthday... plenty of good news... even our country seems to be in a festive mood after Sen. Noynoy Aquino's announcement today.

From the kitchen... we'll be having a simple lunch of beef and red beans. My hubby's the official cook here :)

I am wearing... a hand-me-down shirt that I love and blue denims. Funny, the shirt says : "The worst day of anything is better than the best day of school" in faded prints. Ha-ha! Why such thoughts about school, this must be my niece's shirt. I also have a beaded bag I just bought.

I am creating... a slideshow of photos from our cornfield and "new" vegetable garden

I am going... to just be like this all day. Will get to work in a while on my ebook selling errands.

I am reading... Proverbs Chapter 24 of the Bible. A verse I found there today is the best advice I could possibly find!

I am hoping... for fair weather, keeps everyone in a good mood.

I am hearing... the Secret movie on tv.

Around the house... my children are home and will be going to school this afternoon. hmm, everything is in order. Surprised!

One of my favorite things... is a day like this, I have a very very good feeling. It's like when I was in the 80's of the amazing days.

A few plans for the rest of the week ...my week will be busy online while I'll be checking on the cornfield out back.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

To participate in Day Book post or to read other post, go to the Simple Woman's Daybook blog. I'll be posting this every Wednesday.

A Blog Award!

2009-09-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

I thank Mommy Elvz (Straight From The Heart) for giving me this award :)

I gladly pass this award on to.....

EuroAngel of My Euro Travel and Adventure
Shimumsy of Republic of A
Beth of Mommy Passionista
Nanay Belen of Survivor Mom
Arlyna of The Flavors of My Life
Janeth of Janeth Vicy's Life Journey
Russta of Because I Said So.
S-H-Y of A Journey For Life
Buggys of Cute As A Buggy

Grab it now and post it on your blog! ^_^

Here are the rules:

* Copy the award image above.
* Pass it to the bloggers whom you think are deserving for this award.
* Leave a message to them.
* Pass as many as you want.
* Leave a comment to the person who give this award.

WW- Day at the cornfield

2009-09-03T20:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Top Entrecard Droppers For August

2009-09-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

Myspace Thank You Comments & Graphics

Thanks to everyone who consistently dropped on my blog. I thank you for always keeping me company and dropping your comments too!Thanks also for the advertisers!

Work At Home
Car Placement Parts Review
Spontaneous Insignificancy
Mechanical Engineering Ebook
Over a Cup of BARAKO
English Wilderness
Grandmother Wren
Otak 3 Pagi Experiment
Small Business Plan and Opportunity
Business Law Cases

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WW- Family Tree Project

2009-08-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

*please don't forget to drop by my sponsors*

Reality of My Living Room

2009-08-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

I love Kimchi!

2009-08-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

Been wanting to blog about this for so long and share information about this Korean food. It's one of those dishes that we crave at least once a month. However, it's a Korean staple with every meal and can be served daily.

Kimchi was introduced to our family when many years ago we had this Korean family as neighbours. They are great cooks and share/exchange recipes with us. (though our contribution was just "Pinikpikan" and "M&M Jumble cookies")

But with kimchi, because at first we didn't know what it is, we politely accepted. When I first got a taste of it, I thought it was too hot and oddly because of the salty-sour-pungent taste - just imagine how Koreans profusely put chili sauce.

Months later, our neighbour moved and oh no, we forgot to ask her for the kimchi recipe. So I researched it on the internet, considering food safety issues and health benefits ( you will find the links below)

Prepare the basic ingredients:

2 heads Chinese cabbages, ginger, garlic, green onion, red pepper powder and rock salt.

Wash vegetables thoroughly. Remove discolored leaves. Cut cabbages into sections.
Soak in brine mixture of 10 cups water and 1 cup salt.

You may need to weigh the cabbages down with a plate to make sure they are evenly soaked in brine. Soak for 2-7 hours until soft. (You will need to rinse them in cold water after soaking time)

Chop the rest of the ingredients. Finely if you please.

You can put the green onion, ginger and garlic together while the cabbages are soaked.
Keep them covered to maintain their freshness.

After rinsing the cabbages, drain.

Mix the green onion, ginger and garlic together with the cabbages.

Add the red pepper powder. ( we use only minimal red pepper powder hence this kimchi you see below is quite mild)

Blend all evenly to ferment.

Now it's ready!

Try this recipe and feel it's health benefits too!

Sources:
http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/STUDENTS/Hwang/kimchi3.htm
http://www.treelight.com/health/nutrition/KimchiHealthy.html

WW- "Bobder " (Bob The Builder) after a day's work

2009-08-19T21:37:00.000-07:00

Made Me Laugh : Miscommunication

2009-08-16T21:40:00.000-07:00

I'd like to share this short story about miscommunication. I found it so funny yesterday at church when our pastor included it in his sermon, to stress a point that when we hear, we must listen. I tell you, I really laughed so hard until I felt tears in my eyes.

Some time ago, an English lady, tired of the rain of England, went to look for a house to buy in Switzerland. She finally found the house of her dreams, had her offer accepted, and returned to England to pack her belongings. While packing her bathroom, she suddenly realised that she didn’t remember seeing a bathroom in her new house. So she wrote to the Swiss estate agent asking for the whereabouts of the WC. The Swiss agent - his English being none too good - passed the letter on to the local priest for translation. Being unfamiliar with English abbreviations, the only meaning he could think of for WC was Wesleyan Chapel.

The English lady received the following reply:

‘My Dear Madam,

I take great pleasure in informing you that the WC is situated nine miles from the house in the centre of a beautiful grove of pine trees surrounded by lovely grounds.

It is capable of holding 229 people, and is open on Sundays and Thursdays only. As there are a great number of people expected during the summer months, I suggest you come early, although there is usually only standing room. This is an unfortunate situation, especially if you are in the habit of going regularly.

It may interest you to know that my daughter was married in the WC, and it was there that she met her husband. I can remember the rush for seats. There were ten people to every seat usually occupied by one. It was wonderful to see the expressions on their faces.

You will be glad to hear that a good many people bring their lunch and make a day of it, while those who can afford to go by car arrive just in time. I would especially recommend your ladyship to go on Thursdays when there is organ accompaniment. The acoustics are excellent, even the most delicate sounds can be heard everywhere.

The newest addition is a bell donated by a wealthy resident of the district. It rings every time a person enters. A bazaar is to be held to provide plush seats for all, since the people feel it is long needed.

My wife is rather delicate and she cannot go regularly. It is almost a year since she went last, and naturally it pains her very much not to be able to go more often.

If you let me know when you are planning on attending I shall be delighted to reserve the best seat in the WC for you, where you shall be seen by all. For the children there is a special day and time so they do not disturb their elders with their noises. Hoping to be of some service to you.

Yours faithfully…’

I found it very funny, so funny in fact, I wondered what has gotten over me. (I think the tension of the past weeks are gone away. Though it's still threatening to come back again, I must brace myself and, as Robin Padilla says "Wag kang aayaw, think positive!" )

Tag Time: One Word

2009-07-09T19:26:00.000-07:00

I was tagged twice by my blogging friends, Arlyna of The Flavors of My Life and Beth of Mommy Passionista Thanks to you both! ^_^

This is a ONE WORD tag and you can only answer with just one! It's not easy especially if you want to share more of the story. But it was fun answering. Copy and change the answers to suit you and pass it on. Be sure to tag the person who sent it to you!

1. Where is your cell phone? desk
2. Your hair? ponytail
3. Your mother? deceased
4. Your father? same
5. Your favorite food? Kimchi
6. Your dream last night? abroad
7. Your favorite drink? tea
8. Your dream/goal? health
9. What room you are in? living
10. Your hobby? reading
11. Your fear? death
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Germany
13. Where were you last night? home
14. Something that you aren’t? gossiper
15. Muffins? No :)
16. Wish list item? Blackberry
17. Where you grew up? Pangasinan
18. Last thing you did? stretch
19. What are you wearing? PJs
20. Your TV? off
21. Your pets? Dogs
22. Friends? plenty
23. Your life? positive
24. Your mood? great
25. Missing someone? mom
26. Car? none :)
27. Something you’re not wearing? shoes
28. Your favorite store? ebay
29. Your favorite color? purple
30. When is the last time you laughed? morning
31. Last time you cried? MJ
32. Who will resend this? bloggers
33. One place that I go to over and over? sari-saristore
34. One person who emails me regularly? aunt
35. My favorite place to eat? home :)

I'm passing on this tag to my friends: Josie,Peachkins, Shaine, Mira,Babette, Jessa, and Janz.

Blogthings - My 1950s name

2009-07-01T22:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Ria of It's My Party (and I'll Cry If I Want To) who always remembers to tag me with these quizzes. As promised, here is the answer...

Your 1950s Name is: Thelma Frances

What's buzzin, cuzzin?

What's Your 1950s Name?

With this I'm tagging all my friends on my blogroll, so feel free to grab it! :)

Paypal payments accepted

2009-04-07T03:28:00.000-07:00

This ebook can now be purchased immediately when you have Paypal. Simply log on to Paypal and click the Send Money tab and send payment. Or just click on the Buy Now button below.

It's great to have the help of Paypal for trading and selling online, especially for those who reside outside the Philippines and have no other access to safely send payment. Good news is, it's convenient and anyone's bank/credit card details will not be divulged to a second party.

ebook sent as email attachment

for $7.00 only

We accept payments from the Philippines and internationally

"TEACHING YOUR 3- TO 7-YEAR-OLD CHILD HOW TO READ IN 90 DAYS!" is devised as a parents and teacher's guide with an individualized approach to teaching reading. Parents and children who have tried our lessons only spent 3- 5 minutes each lesson per day. Just imagine your feeling of surprise mixed with quiet pride as you watch your child read his first book by himself!

Interested parents and teachers within the Philippines may also purchase thru any of the available modes of payment as follows: GCASH, SMARTMONEY, BANCO DE ORO, BPI, WESTERN UNION or CEBUANA LHUILLIER

Please send your inquiries to book_wagon@yahoo.com or bookwagon888@gmail.com

or text me at 639062757330

To know more about this material, please email or also visit http://learntoreadin90days.multiply.com

Thanks!

My Dear Delinquent Tenant

2009-01-22T02:39:00.000-08:00

(that's me, still ha-ha, listening to calming sounds of the jungle. I'm at the house for rent, for clean up)

On January 20
I've unleashed my pent-up fury towards my tenant. Finally! I did not even talk to her yet, but I've relayed my message that I'm tired of her ways.

It was not in a violent way, but close enough. It was 9:30PM January 20 and DelinquentTenant was due to pay the rent on January 7 but until this time she has not handed in her payment. As DelinquentTenant usually does every month, she says this and that but they are all excuses - just reasons to hide a lie.

That afternoon, I thought of searching the internet for sample copies of Notice to Pay Rent or Quit and Eviction Notice. I realize it does not apply here in the Philippines; that the usual thing landlords do is to send them packing in a week or month's time. I- just for a difference- prefer to handle it the pen & paper way. So instead of railing at DelinquentTenant, I had a notice to pay rent served this evening.

My hubby went to DelinquentTenant's house to collect, for that is what she always asks. What would you expect....again she says she will hand in her payment tomorrow at 10AM (Well, I think I've heard this from her countless times before?!?) .... So my hubby comes back to our house - which is just a stone's throw away from DelinquentTenant's. My hubby explains to me that DelinquentTenant will surely pay tomorrow. I just shook my head thinking when will tomorrow come? And just like that the German Shepherd in me yelled : " IT'S BEEN TWO WEEKS NOW, UNTIL WHEN ARE WE GOING TO KEEP UP WITH THAT?!?" sa Pangalatok ko po sinabi.

I hope someone reading this will understand my predicament. I tell you, I think I have been too considerate of DelinquentTenant since she rented the place in July 2007 - wherein she only paid on time three times. The rest - she was 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, and 19 days late. I am angry at myself for giving in too much- for being too considerate - when in fact one of the provisions in the Rental Agreement reads as follows:

Tenant hereby acknowledges that late payment will cause Landlord to incur costs not contemplated by this Rental Agreement, the exact amount of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. In the event rent is not received prior to 5:00 P.M. on the _____ of the month, regardless of cause including dishonored checks, Tenant further agrees to pay a late charge to Landlord equal to eighty pesos (Php80.00) each week the rent is late. Neither ill health, loss of job, financial emergency or other excuse will be accepted for late payment. ................to just mention one of the 4 provisions she breached.

That evening, when DelinquentTenant got hold of the Notice To Pay Rent, she said she will go to the ATM machine and withdraw the money for the rentals. As in , ASAP. She told my hubby to wait up because she will pay even if she comes back at 12 AM. The thing now is, we waited for her until 1PM - I realize how gullible of us to do so. But she never returned.....

January 21
The next morning, our councilor-neighbor just reported that he saw DelinquentTenant sneak inside at dawn. And later around 8 we saw her leaving with her daughter to withdraw her dinero. We couldn't help but go find out when she will be back, but the maid and the others kept mum.

We waited the whole day for her to come back as they said she will. It was a long wait and believe me, this was a day that we had no money, we had to borrow money from the internet shop for our basic needs and we thought of not sending the kids to school but then they had their exams.

Guess when DelinquentTenant came back? 9:30PM! She came home and ASAP had her maid call on us. She paid us on January 21 for the rent covering Dec7 to Jan7, plus penalties from November totaling 4330. She gave 4500. But here's the catch: DelinquentTenant declares she intends to leave the following month so we should give her back 7000 for her Security Deposit. WHAT! (I suddenly remembered the story of a man who paid his debts by just letting the creditor listen to the jiggling coins inside his hat) She argued with my hubby and threatened to meet us in any confrontation that she'll surely take her policeman-son along. Uh.... okay.

January 22-24 We did not disturb her peace anymore. We sought out the baranggay captain's assistance in this matter. We waited for a schedule of our meeting at the baranggay hall. Unfortunately it fell on a Sunday morning, but still we went.

January 25... ah, this day... I'm still thinking if I'll give all the details - though boring they may seem.

But I feel really bad about what happened, I'm remorseful. Honestly, I have never felt so infuriated in years, so just blame me. Before this meeting I've thought to keep quiet no matter what she issues she throws our way. The actual meeting, though, she hemmed and hawed on trivial concerns just to get her way. The bad thing - it was all LIES. So I took the lead and took all the papers on the table... told DelinquentTenant that all the issues she was raising up were irrelevant. I told her, if you will allow me to answer all those issues punto por punto based on the Rental Agreement. I read all the 4 provisions she did not follow. She looked the other way and went on her monologue. I handed her policeman-son the eviction notice I am about to have her sign and why. In there he found the list of all the days her rent came in late; I guess he too was so surprised. He read it and gave attention to every detail. He seemed the quiet type and never said a bad word. But, FYI, I never liked PNP policemen they just give me the creeps. Can't blame me for that, am just being honest.

But DelinquentTenant would not give way and raised all sorts of issues.
LIE: said that on January 20 evening she could not sleep because my hubby kept coming back to collect the rent
FACT: she said that my hubby wait up until 12AM for her payment
LIE: said my hubby told her that we will file a case against her maski saan kami makarating
FACT:(1) we never said a word about that; we won't waste money to pay a lawyer; that's the reason why we ARE at the baranggay captain's place (2) it was DelinquentTenant who said that

What happened next was like a scene from my bad dreams. I forgot where I was and *bleeped* and *blinded* at her. Everyone, including people outside the Brgy. Captain's residence, thought I was going to attack her physically. At least my hubby and my sister-in-law knew that side of me 19 years ago, so they were watching me closely.

I never got up from my chair. I unknowingly just shifted my position to what looked like intimidating, while I was making myself very loud and clear of what my problem is with her. She still would not stop and claimed she was right. She would not sign. She demanded I pay her damages. She threw so many curveballs that did not prove anything substantial.... yes, and one more LIE- she took out an electric bill/receipt with an amount computed by pen totalling 5200, which she said the electric cooperative said I still owe when DelinquentTenant's family moved in. She demanded I reimburse her for the fees she paid. I checked the bill, while thinking back how it happened - because as an SOP I always clear previous tenants' back accounts before I let a new one move in. I even give the electric/water billing receipts to the new tenants for proof ...then BINGO! this receipt must be the one! I flared up and called her a liar and kept the receipt in my folder. She protested that she paid the bill herself. I handed the receipt to the Brgy.Captain and did a double-take - the date was in Nov 15 2007 when Delinquent-Tenant got disconnected, it's her own bill then that she was blaming me for! All the more I got mad at her and called her a desperate liar. Apparently, she was bringing up issues - just anything- to divert our attention from the breach of contract and for her to claim damages.

And I thought nothing will come out of it when finally her son, the policeman, for the first time spoke and said, if that is the case then please give us time to leave.. on or before February 7. After all the trouble, the now red-faced DelinquentTenant signed the eviction notice acknowledging her promise to pay on February 7 before she leaves.

That's the end of my story. I hope you understood what I just typed. My English is bad and so is my French - I can't let it out. God is watching. Lord, I am sorry for taking matters into my own hands and not letting others work on it. I am speechless. . . . and remorseful.

Oops, What if they recorded the incident for proof on a hidden digicam and uploaded it on YouTube? Oh, no!

****

Forgive me, dear readers, I'm rereading what I just typed and I don't make sense. I rarely get angry, very very rare. I strive to be pleasing and very understanding of other people. But there are rare times that I do, and when that happens... what a bad hair day for others.

I am still upset and tense about my behaviour, it's "unbecoming of me". Though, as of this afternoon, we've been laughing at the incident as I ask my hubby and SIL "Was I that scary?" to which they would laugh and answer, "Yes, we couldn't have stopped you. You looked Hannibal Lecter-ish"

"Teach Your Child How to Read In 90 Days!" the revised edition in ebook

2009-01-07T01:08:00.000-08:00

This was the eBook cover of the revised edition.

I worked on this ebook in 2005 and finally finished in May of 2006 just in time when I began selling it. It was hard work for me and more so that I was surviving on a shoestring budget. But special thanks to a friend from church, Victor, who had an internet cafe infront of Nepo Mall Dagupan and gave me free use of his computers and scanner.

Many parents have requested in the past for this format, so here we are! It is the much improved edition from the old one. It contains much more than the old one and has colorful illustrations. More modules and lessons were added. Now 150 pages with a series of 61 lessons. The same simple methods introduced in the first edition are used. I have added more lessons to it, plenty of home activities, games and some nursery rhymes too. A parent's guide is included in the first part of the material and it's easy to follow

****
This format is usually sent via email as attachment, as it costs a fraction less than the book version. (This costs Php280.00 or $7.00). It was then accepted by parents/teachers as a more favorable method of delivery since it's convenient.

I think so too, but I've also offered the ebook in CD version for those parents who prefer to install the software onto their personal computer. As an extra companion, I used to add the simplified Powerpoint version** - this too is good for the review and for children much too young to understand the complexity of reading.

**The Powerpoint presentation is no longer available due to the piracy I found out in 2007.

Top EC droppers for December

2009-01-04T02:45:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone. I would like to thank the ec droppers and visitors to my blog this December. I had just a few drops this past month because I haven't ec dropped that well for this blog this month. I also include the top ec droppers to my PINK*JeepEbooks blog.

Please accept my thanks, everyone! Here's to a better ec dropping this January!

Please visit these blogs:

Hit-or-Miss
Jodi's Journey
Nintendo Game Reviews
Random thoughts
Proud To Be Filipina's Corner
Musings of a Vicks Inhaling Man
Mariuca's Perfume
There's No Place Like Home
Havoc and Mayhem
Unique Ideas For Your Beach Wedding

Daily Comic Book Covers
readingrec
TLC's Haven
Random Thoughts
KRAMLO
Barefooted me
Havoc and Mayhem
MeiYah's
Barako Brew
Spipra

The book when it was first sold

2008-11-15T01:05:00.000-08:00

That is how the first edition looked like, in colors red and yellow. I was trying to keep printing costs low with this 100-page book. The pages were immaculate and quality book paper was used. The first printing was for 2000 units. 900 were sold out in a year.

I'm also glad to say I went the extra mile and registered this material for copyright at the National Library of the Philippines. I thank myself, otherwise I would be sorry by now if I had not done so.

Please find the status of the book at the National Library of the Philippines. You may check the status on the Search Form by keying in: Teaching Your Child How To Read In 90 Days.

Where I first started with my website at Geocities

2008-08-22T00:34:00.000-07:00

This was screenshot of the website at geocities. It used to be found at http://www.geocities.com/book_wagon/teach_reading

It's what I call my "bread and butter website" because it's one of my online selling websites where I sell so well and I take joy in it for it has helped my family since 2001.

I came a long, long way in selling. As I may have mentioned before in my previous posts, it had it's ups and downs because of my trial-and-error strategies.

Hardly believe that it's still doing well despite all the odds and to think that I just gradually developed it by just visiting other leading websites where I got more ideas. Who would believe that back then I didn't have my own computer and merely worked on this thru my frequent visits to the internet cafe in town? Yes, I spent hours and hours online, thinking how I can improve the website - and my online selling skills (which,honestly, I'm not really good at.) But thank God, the time I spent paid off.

I thought of putting up this website on Geocities (because it's also free!) so I can accept orders easily and at the same time give instant information to the interested parents/ teachers. That way they won't need to text or email just to inquire more about it, unless truly necessary, because it's all there.

Also, since I'm offline most times, I added an automatic order form which they can fill out in a jiffy. I got it from Createforms. This, too, is free. Purchasing customers can fill in their Name, Address, Email Address, Preferred payment method and book format. Two order forms are necessary to fill out and complete the purchase:

ORDERFORM1 and ORDERFORM2

This way, no request or inquiry is missed and every customer is attended to.

How I began selling online, the "a-ha!" moment

2008-08-20T00:22:00.000-07:00

I was still so new in the business of publishing and in dealing with book traders. Admittedly, I felt I was stuck in a rut as my dealings with store owners were dismal. Either someone would ask for a 40% from my sales or someone would take longer to collect receivables from. The private schools were good to me though and they helped me a whole lot better in promoting the product. But, sad to say, I was near my giving up point. Before all else would fail, my knowledge of the internet revived me. Simply browsing websites, checking emails and posting my personal thoughts on forums gave me the idea that I can possibly earn here. Here's how the a-ha! moment came up...

I've been an active member of alumni.net and a regular visitor at that. On one of the alumni webpages I spotted the bulletin board where former schoolmates get updated with alumni news.

I also posted a "find a classmate" bulletin when I realized I can try posting an advert since it was also allowed. I posted about 5 bulletins on each school I came from. Days later I was surprised when a few parents replied to my ad and emailed me to order. It brought good results, and it was fairly easy doing so. Most especially, I no longer needed to pay for expensive ads at the local daily!

Yes, I agree, it just brings a few customers to purchase but the results are far better than with advertising on the newspapers. The most advantage I get is that it's free and I can post on as many sites or forums as much as I'd like!

It was a lot of help from posting ads at alumni.net, then later on other satisfied parents posted ads for me too on other forums and email groups. Since then this book gained sales thru free advertising.

know more on my next post...