Blooming Thoughts

Here I am muttering about gardening again. Coming home this evening, I saw my neighbor, Mrs. S, preparing and cleaning her window flower box, and I was jealous since I haven't had the time to tend or care for my backyard and front garden yet. Mrs. S is a stay-at-home mom, so she's been spending her free time preparing her garden and her window boxes. I think she is ready to plant some flowers this weekend. I am really hoping to get up to speed with my gardening soon, as I am a bit embarrassed with the weeds overtaking my gardens.

Living in an apartment for the past two years has taught me a lot of things including gardening with limited space. I did not let the lack of space stop me from enjoying one of my passions - gardening, so I used pots, deck rail planters, and window boxes for flowers. I used the pots for vegetables like tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumbers and even eggplants, while I used the window box planters for flowers. At my former apartment, I planted red petunias on my window box and it was such a lovely and welcome sight every morning I look out while drinking my coffee. I have to admit that window flower boxes can add charm to even the smallest apartment. I still remember how the leasing management would hold contests on which apartment has the best balcony set up, and some tenants would really spruce up their balconies with all types of hanging plants and colorful flowers.

This year, I am considering purple and yellow pansies for my window box. Just the thought of blooming pansies make me smile. My point is, since it's spring and I consider this the season of beauty and rebirth, having flowers surround me brightens my day. Also, the thought of flowers eases my fears about seeing my doctor tomorrow morning. Is it fair to say that appreciating the beauty that surrounds me makes living with aplastic anemia a lot easier? I think so.

Three Things

Three things that scare me:
- Death
- Heights
- Failure

Three people who make me laugh:
- Ma and Dad (family)
- Weng
- PW Bear

Three Things I love:
- Weekend trips and travel
- Taking photos - family, friends, flowers, landscapes etc.
- Chocolate

Three Things I hate:
- Stinking office politics
- Slow DC Metro and 270 traffic
- Politicians who lie all the time

Three things I don't understand:
- Dichotomy between good and evil
- Space
- Religious debates

Three things on my desk:
- Glass of water
- Planner
- A box of tissue

Three things I'm doing right now:
- Typing
- Staring at the glass window
- Drinking soda

Three things I want to do before I die:
- Travel around the world
- Own a house in Hawaii
- Write my grandfather's WWII story

Three things I can do:
- Play guitar
- Compose poems
- Cook (sometimes)

Three ways to describe my personality:
- Antisocial
- Quiet
- Private

Three things I can't do:
- Calculate tips - anything that deals with numbers
- Run very fast
- Drink alcohol

House List

Since moving to my new house, my to-do list has been ever growing. My living room is still in need of furniture and my dining room is still bare empty. As of now, I am in the process of still looking at my budget. Filling the house with furniture might take some time, since I want to take my time in building my savings again and making sure I know what theme I'm going to use as basis in decorating my home. Besides, I guess you may now know how long it takes me to decide on even the simplest thing; take that on how long it took me to decide to get a short hair cut.

My friends say that a house is always an ongoing project, which now I absolutely agree to. This coming summer, I've already made up my mind, that my first two projects would be to get a brand new front door and get a new nice wall address plaque to go with it. Wall address plaques can provide great house accent and they make finding the house easier most especially that I live in a neighborhood with almost all the houses looking the same. I really need to do this since I intend to host my house warming anytime soon. It seems that the former owner really didn't care much about address signs because when I moved in, the address sign is pretty much rusty and unreadable.

Another item on my list would be the front garden. I just saw weeds invading the flower bed, but the gardening mood hasn't hit me yet since I'm waiting for the temperatures to stabilize. I can't bear planting flowers right now with the possibility of them being frostbitten. I'd rather wait for the right time to plant.

Okay, I think that's my very short house note for today. I'm hoping everyone's having a great Tuesday! Speaking of flowers, the Cherry Blossoms are in full bloom in D.C. and I can't wait to go see them this week. Watch out for the photos!

Opposite Of Yesterday

Today is the opposite of yesterday. Yesterday was maddening, as I was trying to beat four deadlines. I even forgot to eat lunch that it was only at 6 p.m. while driving home that I realized I was starving and could eat a horse. I had to stop at a nearby grocery store to pick up a bag of rolls, a small bottle of milk and a bag of cheese sticks. With my eagerness to get out of the store and to start eating, I rushed through the aisles just picking up the easiest I could find. Anyway, when I got back to my car, my hands were shaking trying to open up packages and ripping through the bag of cheese sticks.

Oh my goodness, it was heavenly when I first bit into that first roll with cheese. I could hear myself munching so loud and gulping so fast. Then I scoured through my bag of groceries for my milk, pop the top, and took a huge gulp. I gave out a loud, "Aaaagh." (I think that's how I sounded.) I checked out the milk bottle's label and it said, "Buttermilk." To my disappointment, I ate three rolls with cheese without the Buttermilk.

Today, the office is quiet. I hope it remains this way. I desperately need a breather. And by the way, I feel so light and refreshed with my new bob haircut.

Dreaming Of A Place

This is a sponsored post.

I am dreaming of a place. A place where I can unwind, relax, be princess for a day (or maybe a week), get away from the hustle and bustle of D.C., feel the sea breeze through my hair all day, my feet and toes covered with sand the whole day, or maybe even play a few rounds of golf. I am dreaming of the number one Family Beach in America - Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Resorts. With spring already here and summer soon arriving. I think it's just the perfect time to start planning for a quick break or even a week long vacation to the Myrtle Beach Resorts.

What I like about Myrtle Beach Resort is the idea of going for a vacation while still enjoying the comforts and amenities of a condominium unit instead of the usual hotels that we're so used to. With a condo, I get more space and most especially enjoy bonding moments with family and friends while still enjoying our very own privacy. Just to highlight a few of the amenities I like about this place, these condominiums come in one-two and three bedrooms, a 24-hour front desk, wireless internet access (so important), private balconies, fitness centers, covered parking, and 3 lazy pools, 2 lazy rivers, a kiddy pool and 3 hut tubs.

Apart from the condos that I consider one of the best assets of this place, Myrtle Beach Resort is located within walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment in the Myrtle Beach area. When I'm booking for a vacation, location, location, location is absolutley important. It sounds that Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Resort has got it all.

To Cut Or Not To Cut

I have been thinking (for weeks now) of getting a shorter haircut. My hair is shoulder length at the moment, and with the onset of spring and the possibility of a really hot oncoming summer, I'm considering a short bob cut. I could prolong this discussion and decision-making in my head, or might just jump into getting a cut this weekend. Who knows?

I mean, to all ladies out there. How long does it take to decide if you want a haircut or not?

In Need Of Repair?

Brought to you by your friends at RepairPal.

A few years ago, I remember how nervous I felt driving my 10-year-old, second-hand Mazda with my usual route of home to school. I bought that car from an old lady in New Jersey who gave up driving due to old age. But mind you, that car lasted me about five years, but one day, it just started sputtering smoke and the engine gave up on me in the middle of a busy freeway. You can imagine how scared and nervous I was. Back then, I was a novice about cars, and it would have been easier if I'd known about websites like Chicago auto repair. I found this website full of helpful and unbiased auto repair information. For example, if I were looking for car repair or service in the Chicago area, it's just a click help away to find information about the available services in the area. I used to painstakingly browse the pages of the Yellow Book and call every service company for a quote. Anyway, after my adventure with my old car, I thought it was about time to get a new one and I bought a brand new Toyota Corolla in 2006. I was so ecstatic about this car and it was a pleasure to drive it on the road.

Another feature I like about this site, is that they include customer review for each auto repair shops and mechanics. Websites like this could make choosing the right service for your car easier and stress free. Also, if you are planning to purchase a car, this website also offers a review of any car or any model. So knowing about your ride, is simply a click away. And wait, for first-time homeowners like me who needs to get to know more about their homes, RepairPal got this Encyclopedia feature where you can easily find any information about heating and air conditioning, water pump, electrical and lights and other" How to - Helpful hints." I've always believed that information is power, and this website does just that - provides you with the information you need.

Detour

When I got off the train station today on my way home from work, I was starving. It must have been the long train ride or the stress at work. We are so busy right now, and I'm really hoping that it will calm down for the next two weeks. So, instead of driving home straight, I took a detour to the nearest Filipino restaurant and treated myself to a combo of rice, Menudo and Binagoongang Baboy. Oh my gosh, I ate everything on my plate. It felt wonderful eating Filipino food while watching some soap opera on the TFC. I saw a show about this girl named Rubi (not sure). I'm not sure what's going on, but it was still an interesting watch. While dining, I saw a couple enjoying halo-halo and pastries, so I decided that next time, I'll get a halo-halo with some cheese cupcake. What can I say, I am addicted to Filipino food.

It's midweek but I'm already starting to plan for this coming weekend. I am planning to use up all my gift cards at the nearest home depot and buy some cans of paint, light bulbs, a few picture frames, screen for the front door and maybe even a Ramset gun. Since the weather seemed to have settled down, I am not going to make excuses and seriously start with my house projects.

Is This It?

At the moment, I feel that my life is at a standstill - yet gifted with internal struggles. Similar to a quiet lake in the early morning unmoved and undisturbed, but underneath there are under waves waiting for the right breeze or wind to slip out. I try to show calm, but deep within, my mind never stops thinking, arguing, debating and rarely compromising. It is so unlike my cousin's chatty weekend phone call about her exciting description of what's dating in London like. Obviously, she's been busy with pubs and boys; she doesn't have the responsibilities like I do.

I, on the other hand, have been busy dealing with work and the stress that comes along with it, family issues that need to be addressed, responsibilities that need to be managed, promises that need to be kept, and bills that keep piling non-stop. Every year, I consider the possibility of moving to another firm or changing my career path. I try to envision if there are better jobs, choices, or opportunities out there. I’m sure there are better opportunities out there, but how do you know which one to take? My mind gets so conflicted at times.

Sometimes I ask, “Is this it?”

Beautiful Blogger

* Thank you Mumsified for this award. I am honored.

* Seven things about Kayni:

1. These days, I crave for Korean food. They're affordable in my area, and I just love the service I get from Korean restaurants here.
2. Just deleted 42,000+ e-mails in my work inbox. This is part of my spring cleaning process. I'm thinking of purging my filing cabinets next.
3. I've donated my size 18 clothes. I'm happy to report that by making better choices in my food intake and walking during the weekends, I'm now a size 14. I still have a long way to go, and I want to reach my healthy weight along with a healthier lifestyle; that doesn't mean I have to give up sweets.
4. Due to my move, my current commute to work takes me an hour and forty-five minutes. Two hours if there's slow traffic or the Metro breaks down, which I find "often" these days. I commute by both car and train.
5. Today, I'm wearing the same work shoes I wore for my job interview for this job. I'm thinking I might need new work shoes soon.
6.  I found Caramel Corn at the Filipino store a few weeks ago. I love it, and I'll be going back to purchase more.
7.  I still enjoy playing online games from time to time especially Mafia Wars and other word games. I like the games on this pogo site too.

* I'd like to pass this award to these new fabulous blogs:

• All Jayme
• Golden's Diary
• PinayWife Speaks
• Mj's Notes
• mine...not yours

1. Thank and link the person that gave you the award.
2. Pass this award onto 15 bloggers you’ve recently discovered and think are fantastic.
3. Contact said Blogs and let them know they’ve won.
4. State 7 things about yourself.

Rain

It's pouring right now in DC. I keep looking out and pausing from my research about toaster oven ratings as countless raindrops keep tapping on my window. From a distance, I could hear a faint roar of thunder, but I'm not sure if the thunderstorm is coming or staying distant from the city. It's been raining since I woke up. I even enjoyed a good soaking this morning as I set out my recyclables for collection. Yes, I just said "enjoyed." Did I ever mention that I love the rain? To me, the rain brings a sense of relief. After a good rain, I could feel the Earth breathing better, the trees and plants feeling refreshed, and the air smelling cleaner and sweetly fragrant. When I was a kid, I'd beg my parents if I could go out and play under the rain, and to this day, I am so glad they had let me. My cousins and I would run and chase each other around my grandparents farm house. Our laughter and excited screams would compete with even the loudest thunder in the province. Such is the beauty and happiness that rain can bring and even now, the rain can still unleash the child in me. And if you were to ask me, yes, I intend to get a good rain soaking tonight. Let the rainy season begin!

Happy Monday to all!

Spring Is Here!

Tomorrow, is the first day of spring. When this time of year arrives, I picture blooming flowers, green trees, Cherry Blossoms, more outdoor activities, and of course, who would forget the Easter Bunny. What is it about spring that makes me happy and active? With the arrival of warmer temperatures, I have become a busy bee. I'm constantly sorting through a lot of stuff at home. I've been sifting through my unopened boxes which I have neglected since my move a couple of months ago, making a mental list on how to organize my countless files, arranging my books on the still empty bookshelves, and yes, I've even started thinking of paint colors. It's obvious that after being a couch potato during the slow and gloomy winter, spring has brought with it excitement and the reawakening of life in me. A renewal that makes me jump up in excitement and not wanting to miss every single bit of it. I intend to enjoy every minute of this spring. It is by far, my favorite  season of the year.

I have a bit of spring cleaning on my to-do list, and I have the full intention to accomplish them. I want all nooks and crannies dusted and wiped clean. I want my bedroom vacuumed and my bed checked for bedbugs; I heard that using tape to see if you have bedbugs is the best way to make sure you don't miss those pesky creatures. I want the grass mowed and the backyard fences straightened up. I certainly have a lot on my plate, but it's not a lot if I enjoy doing them. And after a hard day's work, I'd like to sit at the backyard and enjoy a cold glass of ice tea.

Grateful Wednesday

This week, I am struggling to find things that I am thankful for.  As I have mentioned earlier, work has been a challenge and the stress is closely comparable to the US foreclosure crisis information you can find at American Residential Law Group. I am hoping this will be resolved soon. On the other hand, I am glad the weather is getting warmer, and that the sun has been making more appearance than it did last month. It's a relief to know that I could finally turn my heater off. Last month's electric bill blew my mind. I couldn't believe that it was a whopping $260.00 bill for the month of February. I heard myself mutter, "There goes my lunch and shopping money." It was unbelievable! However, I am very grateful that I am able to pay it, while hoping that next month's bill won't be too high.

I am grateful that travel is in the horizon again. For a quick spring vacation, I have decided to head West for a change. I'm hoping to get this trip finalized soon, and all I have to do is pack my bags and head off. It's amazing that when I started to write this entry, I couldn't find any that I can be thankful for. Now, I have a lot to be thankful for.

If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice. (Meister Eckhart)

Puerto Rico's Castillo San Felipe del Morro

"Built on a headland, construction began on El Morro in 1539 as a simple tower. This fortress is part of a massive defensive system built by the Spaniards in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Spanish Empire spent over 250 years fortifying this prized location since through it, Spain could control access and commerce in and out of the New World. (Spain must have been turning up with Wicked Profits here. No wonder they named it Puerto Rico or rich port.)  El Morro protected this rich port from sea going enemies. Castillo San Cristobal, about 1 mile southeast ...protected the city from land based attacks." (Castillo San Felipe del Morro Guide)

The long entrance to Castillo San Felipe del Morro. It took us a good 15 minutes to reach El Morro's gate but it was such a beautiful, warm, breezy day, so walking was actually relaxing.

As we got to a higher elevation, I took this shot of the waves coming to shore. And visible here is the circular, red-domed chapel of Mary Magdalene.

Inside the Castillo, you can gaze at the beautiful San Juan Bay, where small ships come and go.

San Juan Bay

A relaxing view by the Bateria de San Barbara (Santa Barbara Battery), and a ship coming inland.

This ramp is going up the Bastion de Austria. I love how the yellow walls and arched entrance frames the maze-like ramp to the Bastion.

This particular day, I was drawn to the rough waves; they look beautiful from afar.

This is the breakwater built in front of the Bateria Flotante (Water Battery). This "breakwater was built in 1949 by the US Army Corps of Engineers that extends from El Morro to San Juan Gate to protect this historic site from water erosion."

A view from one of the Garitas (Sentry Boxes). Garitas are sheltered lookout posts to keep watch along the fortress walls.

One of the several cannons within the Castillo's walls as part of the exhibit.

This is the main plaza, "where troops assembled to parades, inspections, and guard mounts. The doors you see here lead to rooms also called casemates. These serve as living quarters for officers and soldiers, storerooms for food, powder magazines, prison cells, and cannon firing positions." (Castillo San Felipe del Morro Guide)

Far to the right is one of the sentry boxes overlooking the walls of El Morro and the Atlantic sea.

There are three flags that fly over El Morro: The US flag, the Puerto Rican flag, and the old Spanish military flag called the Cross of Burgundy.

This is the San Juan Cemetery, which is known for its "elaborate tombstones and a circular, red-domed neoclassical chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalene. The architecture of the chapel dates to the 19th C and many of the Puerto Rico's earliest colonists are buried in the cemetery." (http://www.planetware.com/san-juan/old-san-juan-cemetery-pr-pr-ceme.htm)

As we left El Morro, we saw families and friends gather around the fortress to spend an afternoon of kite flying. Here's a father and son just enjoying the sweet and breezy afternoon of lovely Puerto Rico.

A Piece Of Thought

It's already mid-March and this month is slowly chipping away. My weekend was blessed with a lot of rain, so staying at home was the most practical thing to do. I spent most of my time watching movies, drinking tea, and doing laundry. Call it boring, but I did manage to relax and get my mind off from work for at least two days. All I could think of was how to start my vegetable and flower garden this spring. Just the thought of it makes me smile and excited. What can I say, I'm a farmer's daughter and I love to get dirt on my hands and tending to vegetables and flowers gives me a feeling of accomplishment and joy. I was thinking of tomatoes, green beans, peppers and perhaps a couple of herbs. When Sunday evening finally arrived, I winced at the thought of going back to the office this week.

Seeing Clearly

Consider these questions: How much does it cost to replace your eyeglasses every year? Doesn't the cost of eyeglasses these days cause a dent in your pocket? Are you looking for a place to purchase inexpensive glasses? Eyeglasses are a necessity but they do not come cheap. I have been wearing eyeglasses since high school, so I know how costly it could be to purchase them especially that there are four of us in the family who wear glasses. According to an article by Eric Hammer of Brooklyn Liberal Examiner, "There is a place with cheap eyeglasses that are just as good as what you'll find elsewhere. The place I'm talking about is Zenni Optical and their prices will blow you away." So if you are looking to save some money and still want durable, high quality, stylish, and affordable eyeglasses, you might benefit by checking eyeglasses and frames at Zenni Optical.

Zenni Opitcal offers full prescription eyeglasses starting at $8 per pair. I think that is really cheap. Also, if you require bifocals or thick lenses, there is an extra charge. Please note that they also charge extra for anti-glare coating for about $4.95. And check this out, shipping and handling is only $4.95 for your entire order, regardless of quantity. So this is a great place to order eyeglasses for the whole family and just pay a flat rate shipping cost. Zenni Optical really makes it possible to get quality eyeglasses for a low cost!

Breathe

It's been a trying and frustrating week at work. The strain of office politics has taken a toll on me, and I am left feeling more unsettled and confused. I (really) try not to entertain these negative thoughts, but somehow issues and problems have a way of creeping in making sure that their existence is acknowledged. I feel being pushed to a corner. And at times like these, I would go home and sit silently in my bedroom (which I consider my safe room), close my eyes and fervently wish that I could be whisked away back into my childhood days where worries are so far away, where the word "stress" does not even exist, where I could dream about riding my Winther Tricycle all day and not worry about a single thing.

Why is it that with age and maturity, problems have a way of keeping up with us? Even to a point of towering over us? I feel defeated right now, and that no matter how hard I try to get up, I feel that something is pushing me down, suffocating and restraining me to fight back for what is rightfully mine. I understand this too shall pass, and I'd breathe relief at some point. But right now, I feel that it's okay to mope and sulk (temporarily I hope) because it is through adversity that we fully and truly learn who we really are inside and out.

Humanity 101

Working for somebody or a company is not all ooey gooey all the time. Perhaps I really should consider starting my research on how to launch my own corporation at nevada inc. The truth is, you have to put into consideration how to act professionally around your coworkers and be prepared to deal with different even disturbed characters sometimes. Some personalitles I have encountered range from difficult, inexplainable, and even deranged. With my recent experience, it's distasteful working with a difficult or rather obnoxious person. I've decided to ignore this coworker and try to tune him out when he's gossiping about employee one or two. Yes, it's no mistake; it's a he. In the past, I've been open and civil with him but unfortunately the nice route didn't work. In fact, I was the only one being nice while some have ostracized him (I don't blame them.) but he started abusing my patience. Really, I don't wish to exclude him, but the way he treated me during one meeting was unquestionably unprofessional and utterly disrespectful; that incident was the single grain that tipped the scale. I have no respect for a person who steals credit for work he has absolutely no contribution of. I will still be civil and treat him well, but he is no longer a person I'd like to associate with.

How would you feel if I say this person is also on its way of becoming a church pastor? I feel great sadness.

Donut Adventure And The Big Footed Bunny

It's been months since I had a donut, so my friend, PW Bear, and I decided that we should have donuts for breakfast on Saturday. We were itching to go out because: 1) the weather is warmer; 2) we were deliriously suffering from spring fever; and, 3) nothing beats donuts for breakfast. Apart from my favorite glazed donuts from good ol' Krispy Kreme, I found out they have a new featured donut - banana cake donut. Whoa, the glazed banana cake donut absolutely rocks! Has anyone tried it yet?

After our early donut adventure, we drove to Germantown to visit a favorite - the Lancaster Dutch County Market, which is a collection of family-run Amish stores. I absolutely love buying my fresh vegetables and meat there. They also have freshly baked bread and pastries, and their soft pretzel and hotdog rolls are to die for. Plus, there's this shop that sells all types of sweets and snacks. I wish I could take photos, but I respect the Amish request not to be photographed. Anyway, I bought two milk chocolate bunnies and a spotted dog made of milk and dark chocolates.

And here's a biggy among my Easter chocolate collection this year, the Big Foot Bunny made of milk chocolate and crisp candy. I've decided to devour this on Easter. Although my friends say it won't make it until then. Speaking of Easter, just a sweet reminder that DST is also upon us. Do not forget to turn your wall clocks or watches an hour forward on March 14.

I hope everyone's having a sweet week!

Ride 'em Cowboy!

When I think of the Nationals Final Rodeo Tickets, my mind swirls of country music, western movies, wild horses, leader boots and belts, and good-looking cowboys. If given the chance and opportunity, I would love to watch the National Finals Rodeo live especially that it is held every December in one of my favorite cities in the world - Las Vegas, Nevada. I have only seen the televised competition, but I would give anything to watch real cowboys from the United States and Canada come together and compete in different events such as saddle bronc riding, bull riding, bareback riding, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing. One of my favorites to watch is the exciting yet dangerous bull riding event, which involves a competitor riding a large bull and attempting to stay mounted for at least eight seconds while the bull attempts to throw off the rider. The competitor hangs on with only one hand to the bull with a long braided rope. I think it takes great skill, balance and strength to be able to do that.

Seeing the National Finals Rodeo is still a dream but I know that looking at the ticket prices at Nationals Final Rodeo Tickets site, seat prices are reasonable. In fact, the price does not even matter because nothing can put a price in watching the Nationals Final Rodeo live.

Grateful Tuesday

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today.  Have you used one to say "thank you?" (William A. Ward)

It's another grateful week. For my list today, I am thankful -

• for the warm, sunny weather today and the rain arriving tomorrow
• for my new office. I moved to a bigger office on Friday. This office gets a lot of sunshine and a better view of Downtown DC.
• that I've finally finished and submitted my tax documents
• for my family and friends unending support and prayers
• for my job that keeps me challenged and motivated
  

Puerto Rico For The Foodie

Traveling is never complete without satisfying the foodie in me. Although I feast my eyes with the sights and scenery when I travel, of course with the help of my ever faithful eye glasses, majority of the time I also make sure the foodie in me gets its rightful share to experience the host country's food specialties. Puerto Rico did not disappoint. Anywhere I looked at the Old San Juan port, there's a stall, a tent, and colorful street food signs beckoning to be tasted, to be tried and to be enjoyed.

The Puerto Rican version of "ice cone" or what we call "shave ice" in Hawaii.

Pinchos or kabobs are made of either pork or chicken served with a slice of bread. Our dinner on our first night in Old San Juan. It was a warm, balmy night and we ate our dinner at a park.

Puerto Rican native sweets made of coconut, milk and nuts. I'd say very similar to our Peanut Brittle.

Street food sign - pick your favorite. I like the Bacalaitos and the Empanadillas, which are similar to our Empanadas in the Philippines.

La Muralla is a great place for snack after exploring El Yunque Rainforest. We enjoyed our snacks while that cute dog watched. I kept coaxing the dog to jump but the cutie just looked at me.

A closer look. She or he melts my heart.

Great menu for an inexpensive meal.

The hotdog looking one is called Sorullito made of corn bread with a cheese filling. Next to it is the the Empanadilla de Pizza, sort of a pizza turned over.

These are the famous Pan de Mallorca, Puerto Rico's version of the Danish.

I went for the simple Pan de Mallorca and found it similar to Enseymada without the margarine and the sugar. This one was warm, soft, buttery, sweet, simple in taste, but absolutely a mouth's delight. We bought this at the La Bombonera, a bakery featured on Rachel Ray's TV show.

Apple/Strawberry Danish pastries (left), Bread Pudding (middle), Pastelillos de Queso (right). The Pastelillos de Queso is my favorite and for the duration of my stay in Puerto Rico, I had to have them every single day.

La Lechonera and oh yes, there's a pig roasting in there.

My ever first real Lechon meal since moving to the US. The meat was succulent and that skin was so crispy I was in heaven.

I ordered my Lechon with Mofongo also called as Fufu. Mofongo is made with plantains or yucca, fried, mashed and seasoned with garlic and olive oil. I heard there are several versions of how to make a Mofongo. My order came with a Chimichurri Sauce, which you drizzle over the Mofongo. I like the Mofongo just plain without the Chimichurri Sauce. It was an adventure to actually finally taste this after reading about it on travel books. Verdict? I like it.

Grateful Monday

For a while now, I've been thinking of posting things or events I'm thankful for either monthly (ideally) or maybe weekly (possibly). Being grateful for even the simplest kindness in my life is something I'd like to add in my daily routine. As Michael Angier stated, "If you learn to appreciate more of what you already have, you'll find yourself having more to appreciate." So let's get the ball of gratefulness rolling -

I am thankful -

• my parents in Hawaii are safe from the expected tsunami triggered by the earthquake in Chile. I called Mom on Saturday and was in a panic when she told me they're being moved to higher ground. On Sunday, I called back to check on them and I was so relieved to hear that they're back home safe and sound.
• my two meetings last week went very well. Due to the recent snow storms, two of my meetings got rescheduled twice until we couldn't reschedule them anymore. We ended up scheduling both big meetings in one week, back-to-back. The stress was a bit overwhelming but nothing beats the headache of having to deal with a rude, unprofessional coworker who really pushed my limits.
• and happy my raise this year is very generous and duly reflects my dedication and hard work.
• my friend, PW Bear (lol), and I had a great chat and dinner at Red Lobster on Sunday.
• I have started reading again.

How About An $8,000 Tax Credit?

As we all know, it's tax season again. First-time homebuyers who bought their houses last year are now looking forward to receiving their $8,000 Tax Credit. But wait, the federal income tax credit for homebuyers has been extended and expanded to now include homeowners who wish to "move on" after 5 years of living in their current property, as well as first-time homebuyers. We all know that it's currently a buyer's market, so instead of renting, why not visit your bank and see if you qualify to purchase a house. And if you are a first-time homebuyer or wish to "move on" after living at your house for 5 years, you can still qualify for this federal income credit. With this $8,000 Tax Credit, you can certainly use this money to do home improvements or pay off credit card debt. As we all know, the current state of the housing industry really needs a lift so this $8,000 Tax Credit is absolutely beneficial to first-time homebuyers, current homeowners who are afraid to jump back into buying new property, and to the creation of more jobs and a healthful boost to our American economy.

How to qualify for this federal tax credit? According to Coldwell Banker President and CEO Jim Gillespie, if you're a first-time homebuyer, all contracts should be written by April 10, 2010 and all properties must close by June 30, 2010. And if you're a homeowner who wants to "move on," you should have at least resided for five years in your current home. This video (below) offers a clear and easy to understand explanation on how to qualify for federal tax credit. In addition, this $8,000 Tax Credit website provides a chart, a concise and clear preview and very useful information about the 2010 Homebuyer Tax Credits. What are you waiting for? Click and see if you qualify.