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Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Refacing Cabinets
Carmella Rimer is the author of this guest post
My husband and I were getting really tired of the look in our kitchen. Our kitchen was looking old and we didn't like the style of it because are more modern in terms of our aesthetic tastes and our kitchen was looking so traditional. We did not want to have our kitchen entirely redesigned because we like to use our kitchen and we did not want it to be out of use for any length of time because we are avid cooks.
Instead of having a kitchen remodeler come to our home and knock down walls to completely redo our kitchen we decided to take another route. We had a refacing cabinets consultation and told them our deepest concerns and they said that they could make our kitchen look completely redesigned, new, modern and fresh with the smallest work amount possible. Instead of taking out walls or tearing down cabinetry we decided to go with refacing cabinets.
The contractor took out our old, traditional, polished wood cabinets and replaced them with an etirely new design. Our new cabinets have been refaced with a light wood that is completely flat with polished stainless steel cylindrical handles. The cabinetry has brought an entirely new look to our kitchen and all we had to do was take out the old cabinets and replace them with new ones.
My husband and I were getting really tired of the look in our kitchen. Our kitchen was looking old and we didn't like the style of it because are more modern in terms of our aesthetic tastes and our kitchen was looking so traditional. We did not want to have our kitchen entirely redesigned because we like to use our kitchen and we did not want it to be out of use for any length of time because we are avid cooks.
Instead of having a kitchen remodeler come to our home and knock down walls to completely redo our kitchen we decided to take another route. We had a refacing cabinets consultation and told them our deepest concerns and they said that they could make our kitchen look completely redesigned, new, modern and fresh with the smallest work amount possible. Instead of taking out walls or tearing down cabinetry we decided to go with refacing cabinets.
The contractor took out our old, traditional, polished wood cabinets and replaced them with an etirely new design. Our new cabinets have been refaced with a light wood that is completely flat with polished stainless steel cylindrical handles. The cabinetry has brought an entirely new look to our kitchen and all we had to do was take out the old cabinets and replace them with new ones.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
He Irritates Me
Someone at work, let's call him KSP (kulang sa pansin), gets into everyone's business, gossips about everyone, disrespects and looks down at the assistants (mind you but KS is a receptionist), and absolutely loves drama and the attention he gets with his stories of lies. Whenever he has a doctor's appointment, he makes it to a point that everyone knows what procedure he's going through - even having his prostate exam has to be front news. Lately, he's been trying to steal someone else's job.
Now why, oh why, do I have to put up with this?
Now why, oh why, do I have to put up with this?
London Walking Tours
Brought to you by your friends at http://www.contexttravel.com.
Last year during my trip to London, I joined one of the walking tours there. I was absolutely enthralled and immersed with the history of the places we visited. And if I were to go back again (and I intend to), I'd absolutely, no questions asked, do the walking tours of London again for the following reasons: 1) it's a stress free way to learn about London; 2) I learned so much from the tour leaders and that everything I saw, I saw with intellect and meaning; and, 3) London walking tours is one of the best way to get to know the history and beauty of London itself. When I travel, I travel to get to know the country's people, history, and way-of-life. And if you are like me who's really interested and serious about the history, architecture, and cuisine of the places you visit, contexttravel.com could be the perfect place to find the London walking tours that suits your intellectual appetite.
This site isn't limited to just London but offers walk seminars at different well known cities including an offering for a Paris private tour. How would you like to indulge in the "Art and Architecture of Gothic Paris" or get an art overload taking the "Louvre French Masters" semi-private walk? What really impressed me is that this site's walking seminars are led by scholars and specialists who designed these in-depth walking tours. What best way to learn more about the places you visit other than from the professionals who have researched, lectured and studied the place itself?
In the this site's walking tours London, Contexttravel.com offers Archeology Walks, Orientation Walks, History Walks and Family Program Walks. I am specifically interested in the "Westminster Abbey, Britain Through The Ages" which is under the History Walks. The site offers different types of walk seminars covering the different angles or characters of London or any other city you're visiting. What about you, what London walking tours capture your interest?
Last year during my trip to London, I joined one of the walking tours there. I was absolutely enthralled and immersed with the history of the places we visited. And if I were to go back again (and I intend to), I'd absolutely, no questions asked, do the walking tours of London again for the following reasons: 1) it's a stress free way to learn about London; 2) I learned so much from the tour leaders and that everything I saw, I saw with intellect and meaning; and, 3) London walking tours is one of the best way to get to know the history and beauty of London itself. When I travel, I travel to get to know the country's people, history, and way-of-life. And if you are like me who's really interested and serious about the history, architecture, and cuisine of the places you visit, contexttravel.com could be the perfect place to find the London walking tours that suits your intellectual appetite.
This site isn't limited to just London but offers walk seminars at different well known cities including an offering for a Paris private tour. How would you like to indulge in the "Art and Architecture of Gothic Paris" or get an art overload taking the "Louvre French Masters" semi-private walk? What really impressed me is that this site's walking seminars are led by scholars and specialists who designed these in-depth walking tours. What best way to learn more about the places you visit other than from the professionals who have researched, lectured and studied the place itself?
In the this site's walking tours London, Contexttravel.com offers Archeology Walks, Orientation Walks, History Walks and Family Program Walks. I am specifically interested in the "Westminster Abbey, Britain Through The Ages" which is under the History Walks. The site offers different types of walk seminars covering the different angles or characters of London or any other city you're visiting. What about you, what London walking tours capture your interest?
Monday, June 28, 2010
House Projects
Brought to your by your friends at glasstilestore.com.
It was a stuffy and hot weekend again, but we managed to do some renovation in my future home office. The project to renovate that room started a couple of weeks ago with PW spackling and sanding the dry walls; thank you, PW. Finally on Saturday, we were able to wash and paint the walls. The room's still unfinished, as we still need to do a second coating, nail the window's bottom border, and lastly hang the new curtain I just bought. I am thrilled and excited to start using that room and finally have a designated place to do paper work. Since moving into my house, I've been paying bills, writing letters and doing computer work in my living room, so bills and other documents are scattered everywhere and it's been driving me nuts. Hopefully this weekend, I'll be able to move in my work desk and all my paper work in there.
Another looming house project is to replace the bathroom tiles. Tiles in the second floor main bathroom are starting the show wear and tear, and since this is the busiest bathroom in the house, I want to get started on the work as soon as possible. This might be a good time to check out glasstilestore.com since they have a large collection of quality tiles. I found their "Project Gallery" and "Learning Center" very inspiring. So if you're looking for ideas and you're also a new house owner like me, don't forget to check these informational sections. Tiles, if chosen carefully, really add character and ambiance to any bathroom or kitchen.
This site offers a variety of tile collections such as Metal tiles, Subway tiles, Large Glass tiles and more. Searching or shopping on this site is made easier by browsing by project, collections, color, or price. Another feature I like about this site is that each product comes with a detailed description and image. In that case, you know what exactly you are purchasing. So whether you're renovating your kitchen or bathroom, I think this site is a great place to bookmark for reference and for shopping.
Happy home renovating!
It was a stuffy and hot weekend again, but we managed to do some renovation in my future home office. The project to renovate that room started a couple of weeks ago with PW spackling and sanding the dry walls; thank you, PW. Finally on Saturday, we were able to wash and paint the walls. The room's still unfinished, as we still need to do a second coating, nail the window's bottom border, and lastly hang the new curtain I just bought. I am thrilled and excited to start using that room and finally have a designated place to do paper work. Since moving into my house, I've been paying bills, writing letters and doing computer work in my living room, so bills and other documents are scattered everywhere and it's been driving me nuts. Hopefully this weekend, I'll be able to move in my work desk and all my paper work in there.
Another looming house project is to replace the bathroom tiles. Tiles in the second floor main bathroom are starting the show wear and tear, and since this is the busiest bathroom in the house, I want to get started on the work as soon as possible. This might be a good time to check out glasstilestore.com since they have a large collection of quality tiles. I found their "Project Gallery" and "Learning Center" very inspiring. So if you're looking for ideas and you're also a new house owner like me, don't forget to check these informational sections. Tiles, if chosen carefully, really add character and ambiance to any bathroom or kitchen.
This site offers a variety of tile collections such as Metal tiles, Subway tiles, Large Glass tiles and more. Searching or shopping on this site is made easier by browsing by project, collections, color, or price. Another feature I like about this site is that each product comes with a detailed description and image. In that case, you know what exactly you are purchasing. So whether you're renovating your kitchen or bathroom, I think this site is a great place to bookmark for reference and for shopping.
Happy home renovating!
Friday, June 25, 2010
A Cat In Waiting
Do you see that cat? He seems to be waiting for "something." When I took this photo, I thought he was waiting for the couple, who's playfully looking at him, to pass through so he can get to where he's going, but he stayed in that position for a good amount of time.
Do you sometimes feel like you're waiting for something but you don't know what? Or sometimes, you're waiting for someone or some event that would make you smile to get through a tough day, a hint of hope when you're desperate, a dash of pouring rain to ease the hot temperatures and humidity, a breathe of fresh air when you're stuffed like sardines in a crowded train, a dollar because you're a dollar short to ride the train home, a call for interview when you're looking for a job, or simply - a break from a rut.
Well, I am waiting and it feels like forever. The problem is, I can't patiently sit still like that cat in waiting.
Do you sometimes feel like you're waiting for something but you don't know what? Or sometimes, you're waiting for someone or some event that would make you smile to get through a tough day, a hint of hope when you're desperate, a dash of pouring rain to ease the hot temperatures and humidity, a breathe of fresh air when you're stuffed like sardines in a crowded train, a dollar because you're a dollar short to ride the train home, a call for interview when you're looking for a job, or simply - a break from a rut.
Well, I am waiting and it feels like forever. The problem is, I can't patiently sit still like that cat in waiting.
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I'm so glad it's finally Friday!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Eye And Other Issues
While driving last night, my eyes became so itchy and irritated all of a sudden. I suspect it was just an allergic reaction to "something" as I drove with my windows down trying to enjoy the warm and muggy summer air. This occurred a couple of times a few months ago too, so I suspect there's got to be something going on. I did get a notice from my eye doctor last week that I need to go in for my annual eye check-up next month. Perhaps I should call for an appointment and get these eye issues out of the way. I also plan to get a new pair of prescription glasses. It's been getting harder and harder to drive at night with my current eye wear.
And speaking of more eye issues, do you ever get your eyelashes into your eyes? I've been getting them a lot lately - twice today, and they're annoying me to bits. One would even think I have been crying so bad, as I try to take them out. Its a careful yet frustrating process.
Ok, enough of my eye issues. I just felt like ranting at the moment. It's been a hot, humid and slow week (more like dragging). I feel drained and I have absolutely no interest at work. Am I the only one feeling this way?
Yawn!
And speaking of more eye issues, do you ever get your eyelashes into your eyes? I've been getting them a lot lately - twice today, and they're annoying me to bits. One would even think I have been crying so bad, as I try to take them out. Its a careful yet frustrating process.
Ok, enough of my eye issues. I just felt like ranting at the moment. It's been a hot, humid and slow week (more like dragging). I feel drained and I have absolutely no interest at work. Am I the only one feeling this way?
Yawn!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Nothing Better than the World Cup
Guest post written by sports blogger Antonio Cheek.
The World Cup has gotten under way in South Africa and there is no better sporting event in the world. My favorite part of watching the World Cup on satellite television is the fans. Soccer fans are some of the most passionate fans in the world. This passion is amplified when it is time for the World Cup. The way that the fans of many countries will sing and dance during an entire soccer match is nothing short of amazing, and really helps get me excited for the game as well.
In addition to seeing the spectators going crazy and really getting into the action the tournament format of the World Cup also adds the excitement. Unlike an 82 game season with other sports the tournament format of the World Cup creates an urgent atmosphere to win all of your games starting with the first match. If your team is unlucky enough to lose that first qualifying round match their chances are greatly diminished of making it to the knockout round. Having this extra pressure on the players to win at all costs creates an exciting atmosphere, which makes the World Cup one of the best sporting events.
The World Cup has gotten under way in South Africa and there is no better sporting event in the world. My favorite part of watching the World Cup on satellite television is the fans. Soccer fans are some of the most passionate fans in the world. This passion is amplified when it is time for the World Cup. The way that the fans of many countries will sing and dance during an entire soccer match is nothing short of amazing, and really helps get me excited for the game as well.
In addition to seeing the spectators going crazy and really getting into the action the tournament format of the World Cup also adds the excitement. Unlike an 82 game season with other sports the tournament format of the World Cup creates an urgent atmosphere to win all of your games starting with the first match. If your team is unlucky enough to lose that first qualifying round match their chances are greatly diminished of making it to the knockout round. Having this extra pressure on the players to win at all costs creates an exciting atmosphere, which makes the World Cup one of the best sporting events.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Lovely Awards
It's been a long time since I've received any award. But look here, I got two! Thank you CheGo2 the Kitchen for these awards. I am honored.
Rules:
1.) Thank the person who gave you the award.
2.) List seven things about yourself that others may not yet know
3.) Pay it forward by nominating 15 fabulous bloggers you’ve recently discovered.
1.) Thank the person who gave you the award.
2.) List seven things about yourself that others may not yet know
3.) Pay it forward by nominating 15 fabulous bloggers you’ve recently discovered.
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Here we go:
- I don't watch reality TV.
- I keep two calendars/planners - one for personal and the other for bills.
- I love going to yard or garage sales.
- I love and collect cute writing papers. I love paper!
- I have 15 penpals at the moment. I am hoping for more. Nothing beats the excitement of reading a real letter.
- I can't function without coffee in the morning.
- I miss eating hot pandesal for breakfast these days.
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I'd like to present these two awards to the following newly discovered fabulous blogs:
My Neighborhood Watch Program
Guest post written by my buddy Jimmy Hufford.
Is my neighborhood watch program effective? If I were to sit down and really think about it, I would have to say yes. I mean, although I try not to think of crime, I know that it's a part of life that you can't really ignore.
There are various signs posted all over the neighborhood that lets people who might be thinking of causing chaos know that they won't get away with it. I have never seen anybody suspicious walking around at night, either. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the police station is only a few miles down the road.
Besides the watch, I make sure to do things at home to ensure that I don't run into trouble. All the doors and windows are locked, only opened for short periods during daylight. I don't answer the door unless I am expecting someone, and ask others in the house to do the same. The curtains are also closed at night, so nobody could get a look at the things I own. I also had a home free alarm system installed. Overall, it's a pretty safe bet that I can rest easy at night.
Is my neighborhood watch program effective? If I were to sit down and really think about it, I would have to say yes. I mean, although I try not to think of crime, I know that it's a part of life that you can't really ignore.
There are various signs posted all over the neighborhood that lets people who might be thinking of causing chaos know that they won't get away with it. I have never seen anybody suspicious walking around at night, either. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the police station is only a few miles down the road.
Besides the watch, I make sure to do things at home to ensure that I don't run into trouble. All the doors and windows are locked, only opened for short periods during daylight. I don't answer the door unless I am expecting someone, and ask others in the house to do the same. The curtains are also closed at night, so nobody could get a look at the things I own. I also had a home free alarm system installed. Overall, it's a pretty safe bet that I can rest easy at night.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Snoopy Is Deep
I've always loved Snoopy as a cartoon character, but I didn't know Snoopy can be deep.
Why can't we get all the people together in the world that we really like and then just stay together? I guess that wouldn't work. Someone would leave. Someone always leaves. Then we would have to say good-bye. I hate good-byes. I know what I need. I need more hellos. (Snoopy by Charles M. Schulz)Happy Monday!
Local Search Engine
Brought to you by your friends at www.local.com.
You ever had one of those days where you can't find the services that you're looking for? For example, looking for a good local restaurant to have dinner with your friends or a reputable contractor to help you with your house repairs. What if I tell you that there's a stress free and easy way to find the services you want online? Check out www.local.com, where you can do local search specified to your needs.
The website is like the online version of your local yellowpages book but absolutely offers more. What makes this site great is that - it is a combination of Citysearch.com, Yelp.com, Yellowpages.com and Superpages.com. This can be your one-stop site for searching for anything to everything. Another great feature of the website is that your search results come with the complete information of each item plus customer reviews. This makes decision making easier. I, for one, rely on customer reviews and I really consider them in my decision-making. So for your next search for local restaurants or any services you need, use www.local.com and don't forget to check their Local Coupons section to save you some money.
You ever had one of those days where you can't find the services that you're looking for? For example, looking for a good local restaurant to have dinner with your friends or a reputable contractor to help you with your house repairs. What if I tell you that there's a stress free and easy way to find the services you want online? Check out www.local.com, where you can do local search specified to your needs.
The website is like the online version of your local yellowpages book but absolutely offers more. What makes this site great is that - it is a combination of Citysearch.com, Yelp.com, Yellowpages.com and Superpages.com. This can be your one-stop site for searching for anything to everything. Another great feature of the website is that your search results come with the complete information of each item plus customer reviews. This makes decision making easier. I, for one, rely on customer reviews and I really consider them in my decision-making. So for your next search for local restaurants or any services you need, use www.local.com and don't forget to check their Local Coupons section to save you some money.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Atop Las Vegas' Eiffel Tower
On our last night in Las Vegas, we decided to take the long elevator ride atop the Paris Hotel's Eiffel Tower replica. We wanted to go up at night, so that we could see the lights of the Strip; it didn't disappoint. Below are the photos I took that night.
The orb there is the sign for Paris Hotel.
Treasure Island Hotel/Casino
The castle looking like building is the Excalibur.
The Bellagio at night.
I hope everyone's having a wonderful weekend.
I hope everyone's having a wonderful weekend.
Beach Getaway
As summer's hot and humid temperatures settle in my area, I can't help but think of nearby beach places to find respite from the heat. All I could think of is Myrtle Beach. Anyway, there's this site called http://www.seasidemb.com/, and they have great oceanfront location, reasonable rates, lots of activities and amenities to choose from. What really caught my attention is that they offer condominium accommodations. For someone who values her privacy a lot, condominium accommodation is perfect. I could enjoy the comforts of home-like accommodations while enjoying unlimited access to the beach. So if you're thinking of the beach this summer, this could be the perfect place to book your Myrtle Beach hotel reservations.
If you're looking for relaxation, peace of mind, condominium accommodation, spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Carolina Coastline, private balconies, designer furnishings, full kitchen, and lots more, then this could the absolute choice for your Myrtle Beach Accommodations. With the heat rising up every minute, I wish I could go there right now. Perhaps on my next long weekend. How about you?
If you're looking for relaxation, peace of mind, condominium accommodation, spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Carolina Coastline, private balconies, designer furnishings, full kitchen, and lots more, then this could the absolute choice for your Myrtle Beach Accommodations. With the heat rising up every minute, I wish I could go there right now. Perhaps on my next long weekend. How about you?
Friday, June 18, 2010
Artichoke
These photos were taken at the Colonial Williamsburg Nursery which "is an interpretive and sales site featuring 18th-century garden plantings, botanical histories, historically accurate plants and reproduction gardening tools for sale." (http://www.history.org/history/cwland/nursery1.cfm)
It was my first time to see an artichoke plant.
It was my first time to see an artichoke plant.
How do you eat your artichoke?
An artichoke Friday to you!
An artichoke Friday to you!
Rewatching Games with Friends
This post is from guest blogger Johnny Ellington Perman
I have always considered myself to be a huge sports fan, so you have to understand my excitement when I finally got the DVR reciever for my satellite tv sports packages. I cannot believe how easy it is to use and get so much use out of being able to pause live sports broadcasts in real time. I thought that there was going to be a steep learning curve involved in getting used to operating it, but that was definitely not the case. It could not have been made easier. Just hit the record button to add shows to the recording cue, and I was on my way.
The best thing I found to getting the DVR was the fact that I could keep all of the games from the season to go back and challenge my friends on their levels of knowledge on the topic of football. I cannot believe that they did not come up with this earlier! I remember being told that live television would one day be able to be paused, but I never truly believed it. Along with my new HD TV, I feel as if it is the next best thing to actually being there. There is nothing better on a Sunday afternoon. I just wish that my girlfriend shared the same level of enthusiasm when it came to supporting the team!
I have always considered myself to be a huge sports fan, so you have to understand my excitement when I finally got the DVR reciever for my satellite tv sports packages. I cannot believe how easy it is to use and get so much use out of being able to pause live sports broadcasts in real time. I thought that there was going to be a steep learning curve involved in getting used to operating it, but that was definitely not the case. It could not have been made easier. Just hit the record button to add shows to the recording cue, and I was on my way.
The best thing I found to getting the DVR was the fact that I could keep all of the games from the season to go back and challenge my friends on their levels of knowledge on the topic of football. I cannot believe that they did not come up with this earlier! I remember being told that live television would one day be able to be paused, but I never truly believed it. Along with my new HD TV, I feel as if it is the next best thing to actually being there. There is nothing better on a Sunday afternoon. I just wish that my girlfriend shared the same level of enthusiasm when it came to supporting the team!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Aloha ʻOe (Farewell to Thee)
To my Grandma Aquilina,
Aloha `oe, aloha `oe
(Farewell to you, farewell to you)
E ke onaona noho i ka lipo
(The charming one who dwells in the shaded bowers)
One fond embrace,
A ho`i a`e au
('Ere I depart)
Until we meet again
My Grandma passed away on June 15 at the age of 84.
The ease of e-Readers
Guest post written by Richard Lee.
Getting a new copy of the latest New York Times bestseller is much simpler than it used to be. Now you don’t even have to leave your favorite recliner. e-Readers offer users the ability to order an e-book, download it in about a minute and read it – all on one device.
When I decided that I wanted one, researching and finding the perfect e-Reader device was as simple as browsing the various offerings and comparisons between different devices on the Clear internet because like most new forms of technology, there were already so many published reviews about them.
Although I love the personal feel of turning book pages that’s sacrificed for convenience with this device, it makes up for it in many other categories. Mine can hold more than 1,000 books, newspapers and magazines in its storage so I can browse its memory for a variety of reading material any time I want.
Gone are the days of lugging around huge hardcover books. An e-Reader has been the perfect addition to my bookshelf – which may not even hold books anymore!
Getting a new copy of the latest New York Times bestseller is much simpler than it used to be. Now you don’t even have to leave your favorite recliner. e-Readers offer users the ability to order an e-book, download it in about a minute and read it – all on one device.
When I decided that I wanted one, researching and finding the perfect e-Reader device was as simple as browsing the various offerings and comparisons between different devices on the Clear internet because like most new forms of technology, there were already so many published reviews about them.
Although I love the personal feel of turning book pages that’s sacrificed for convenience with this device, it makes up for it in many other categories. Mine can hold more than 1,000 books, newspapers and magazines in its storage so I can browse its memory for a variety of reading material any time I want.
Gone are the days of lugging around huge hardcover books. An e-Reader has been the perfect addition to my bookshelf – which may not even hold books anymore!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Missing Hawaii
While visiting one of the open malls, I saw this "Hawaii's Finest" shave ice stall. I was curious to try this stall's shave ice, but I wouldn't dare because I'd just end up comparing his to the ones I've had in Hawaii. There are things I'd much prefer to enjoy at home. Shave ice is among them - including the manapua and the malasadas.
I miss Hawaii.
Aloha Tuesday!
Aloha Tuesday!
What's In Your Mailbox?
Brought to you by your friends at www.mailboxixchange.com.
My love for letter writing is not limited to the cute, scented envelopes and lovely writing papers. It extends to the box that brings me surprises from Monday to Saturday - my precious mailbox. Mailboxes in my community come in different styles, but majority of my neighbors have mailbox posts that they they love to paint and decorate. There's even one with a cow figurine standing next to their mailbox posts; this one makes me smile every time I see it.
I am not thinking of replacing my mailbox any time soon. Although it is showing wear and tear at the moment, I have big home repair projects looming this year. But for anyone looking for high quality Residential Mailboxes and Commercial Mailboxes, mailboxixchange.com is a great site to check out and bookmark. The website is very organized and you can easily find what you're looking for by categories and manufacturers. Also each product comes with a photo and a detailed description, so you know exactly what you're buying. If you can't decide what you want or what would be suitable for your mailbox needs, then maybe their product reviews page would help you make your choice. If you need more help, don't hesitate to call their customer service or chat live with their online representative.
My love for letter writing is not limited to the cute, scented envelopes and lovely writing papers. It extends to the box that brings me surprises from Monday to Saturday - my precious mailbox. Mailboxes in my community come in different styles, but majority of my neighbors have mailbox posts that they they love to paint and decorate. There's even one with a cow figurine standing next to their mailbox posts; this one makes me smile every time I see it.
I am not thinking of replacing my mailbox any time soon. Although it is showing wear and tear at the moment, I have big home repair projects looming this year. But for anyone looking for high quality Residential Mailboxes and Commercial Mailboxes, mailboxixchange.com is a great site to check out and bookmark. The website is very organized and you can easily find what you're looking for by categories and manufacturers. Also each product comes with a photo and a detailed description, so you know exactly what you're buying. If you can't decide what you want or what would be suitable for your mailbox needs, then maybe their product reviews page would help you make your choice. If you need more help, don't hesitate to call their customer service or chat live with their online representative.
Monday, June 14, 2010
I Have Fever
"Traveling is a brutality. It forces you to trust strangers and to lose sight of all that familiar comfort of home and friends. You are constantly off balance. Nothing is yours except the essential things – air, sleep, dreams, the sea, the sky – all things tending towards the eternal or what we imagine of it." (Cesare Pavese)
I have travel fever, and it's absolutely a good thing.
Happy Monday to all!
Backyard Ideas
Brought to you by your friends at www.yardarbors.com.
I'm happy that my vegetables are growing well. I harvested a few peppers yesterday and they added a bit of spice to Sunday's dinner. Since summer is here, the thought of backyard improvement is certainly in my mind. I've been thinking of adding a wooden backyard arbor - perhaps one with a swing. I think that would make my backyard a suitable place to relax and watch the stars and fireflies during balmy summer nights. I've actually seen several houses in my community with garden arbors, and they really add a homey and relaxing charm to one's home.
Anyway, I've been checking this site called yardarbors.com, and I was impressed with the variety and selections of arbors they carry. Apart from arbors, they also offer trellises, pergolas, gazebos, and other backyard/garden accessories. I'm quite drawn to the white Companion Arbor with Fanback Swing, and I think that would be the perfect backyard arbor for me. It's easy to shop on this site as they have products available in categories, and I really like that each product comes with a photo and a detailed description. So if you are looking to purchase an arbor for your home or as a gift to someone else, check this site and feel free to contact their customer service. Who knows, they might have the right arbor for you.
I'm happy that my vegetables are growing well. I harvested a few peppers yesterday and they added a bit of spice to Sunday's dinner. Since summer is here, the thought of backyard improvement is certainly in my mind. I've been thinking of adding a wooden backyard arbor - perhaps one with a swing. I think that would make my backyard a suitable place to relax and watch the stars and fireflies during balmy summer nights. I've actually seen several houses in my community with garden arbors, and they really add a homey and relaxing charm to one's home.
Anyway, I've been checking this site called yardarbors.com, and I was impressed with the variety and selections of arbors they carry. Apart from arbors, they also offer trellises, pergolas, gazebos, and other backyard/garden accessories. I'm quite drawn to the white Companion Arbor with Fanback Swing, and I think that would be the perfect backyard arbor for me. It's easy to shop on this site as they have products available in categories, and I really like that each product comes with a photo and a detailed description. So if you are looking to purchase an arbor for your home or as a gift to someone else, check this site and feel free to contact their customer service. Who knows, they might have the right arbor for you.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Ties That Bind
As the sweltering and balmy summer temperatures settle in the DC area, it feels as if that dreadful winter of 2009 never happened. The picture of my car buried unrecognizable in three feet of snow is now a distant memory. Time really flies. This week, I got an e-mail from Jen, one of my closest high school friends (there were four of us who kept close until now), and found out that she's on the family way and a wedding is in the plans. Jen asked if I could help with the planning. I am very excited and happy for her, yet I feel a little sad that I have to let go of another friend. There's only two of us left in the singles realm.
As I browse through the samples of online wedding invitations to help Jen decide with the design she wants, it finally hit me that our lives will never be the same again. Back then, we worried about exams, quizzes or where and when the group will hang out for the weekend; now, we occupy ourselves with work, weddings, relationships, baptisms, birthdays and more. I have come to appreciate that we're all grown up and that we have to live our own lives, but there are two things that will bind us forever - the good old memories and our friendship.
As I browse through the samples of online wedding invitations to help Jen decide with the design she wants, it finally hit me that our lives will never be the same again. Back then, we worried about exams, quizzes or where and when the group will hang out for the weekend; now, we occupy ourselves with work, weddings, relationships, baptisms, birthdays and more. I have come to appreciate that we're all grown up and that we have to live our own lives, but there are two things that will bind us forever - the good old memories and our friendship.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Blogging Is A Wonderful Thing
If I were to give up blogging right now, I don't think my life would be the same.
I wrote an entry about the art of letter writing earlier, but this time, I'd like to focus on blogging. (This is like pen and paper versus computer. Is it really?). Here goes. I
I am not saying I am ignoring the rest of my life and that blogging is now an obsession. All I'm saying is that, I love blogging because: (1.) it enhances the creative writer in me; (2.) it challenges me to improve my grammar (I'm still working on this.); (3.) I meet a lot of wonderful blogger friends; (4) it is a good stress outlet; (5) I love reading other people's comments; and, (6) I learn so many things from other people's blogs. In a way, blogging has taught me to live my life so that I can share both the good and bad part of it.
Thank you so much for reading, visiting and commenting. Truly, blogging is a wonderful thing. Happy weekend!
Reviving The Art Of Letter Writing
I started writing to penpals in grade school and been doing it ever since. I used to have as many as 60+ penfriends; now I have around 15. I still remember running to meet the postman on Saturdays, and the first thing I'd ask mom whenever I get home from school or work would be, "Any letters for me?" I would be jumping for joy if I received five letters in one day, that to me was equivalent to winning the lottery.
I would grab all my letters, head to my bedroom, and run my fingers on the stamps and admire the whole package - the cute envelopes, the soft writing papers and most of all the different handwriting styles. I couldn't wait to read my penfriends' stories from Italy, France, Egypt, Japan and more. I'd imagine how their life is like compared to mine. Sometimes, I'd imagine that I'm a letter so that I could travel to all these places that I've never seen. Reading letters from all over the world was my way of traveling to distant places; they were like windows to different worlds. In fact, it is through these letters that I found my passion in traveling. I still remember vowing to visit all my penpals' countries one day. (Indeed, I have visited and met a few.)
Writing letters is still my favorite hobby, and I intend to keep writing until I can. I do hope that in the next few days or weeks that inspiration will hit me.
What about you? What's your favorite hobby?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Horses And Cats
Apart from exploring the historical park (Colonial Williamsburg), we encountered animals within and outside the park. It's been so long since I was this close to a horse (photos below). I've forgotten how majestic horses look like at a close encounter. I mean, I see horses when we're on the road, but just a passing glance; this time, I took the time to observe and feel their presence.
A black beauty.
Enjoying sun and grass.
A quick glance.
This cat ignored and walked past us.
A cat crossing the road - perhaps on her way home.
Happy Thursday!
Happy Thursday!
Crime in Central New Jersey
The block that we live on is in a good neighborhood, but it is not a place to leave your doors unlocked when you go to bed. Common sense is one of the best ways to help keep yourself safe. If you go out, even just for 10 minutes to run down to the corner, lock your doors. You don't want to invite trouble into your home. If someone is going to get in your house, make them have to work at it.
We have security doors on our two exterior doors. They are great and they truly make us feel very safe. They are not expensive and they give us peace of mind and a very secure feeling. They have improved the looks of security doors, so they don't stick out like a sore thumb like the older model doors.
We also have a dog, and she is a good watch dog. If she hears something, she will bark. If you don't have a dog and don't plan to get one, you can make your home look like a dog lives there. Put a big dog bowl by your door and put the name "Rufus" on it and people will think you have a big dog someplace in that house.
When you go away for the evening, leave some lights on. You can even use timers for this. Also, consider leaving a radio playing. Anyone approaching your home would believe someone is inside and they will move on to another home. These are all great home safety tips for protecting yourself from crime in central New Jersey.
Thanks, Jeff Anchor for the informative post!
We have security doors on our two exterior doors. They are great and they truly make us feel very safe. They are not expensive and they give us peace of mind and a very secure feeling. They have improved the looks of security doors, so they don't stick out like a sore thumb like the older model doors.
We also have a dog, and she is a good watch dog. If she hears something, she will bark. If you don't have a dog and don't plan to get one, you can make your home look like a dog lives there. Put a big dog bowl by your door and put the name "Rufus" on it and people will think you have a big dog someplace in that house.
When you go away for the evening, leave some lights on. You can even use timers for this. Also, consider leaving a radio playing. Anyone approaching your home would believe someone is inside and they will move on to another home. These are all great home safety tips for protecting yourself from crime in central New Jersey.
Thanks, Jeff Anchor for the informative post!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Colonial Williamsburg Characters
For a historian like me, walking with and seeing historical characters alive and in action adds excitement to my day. (I know it's not the same for someone who doesn't like history.) Seeing them is exciting and how much more to seeing them giving a speech based on what happened on that specific day in history. I think that through re-enactment, learning history can be so much fun.
The marching band prepares at Revolutionary City.
He leads.
The drummers.
The auction begins at 1 PM.
I wanted that tea set, but the auction started a bit expensive. Nothing bad with taking home just the photo.
George Washington speaks of the issues of the day. (Audience are allowed to asked questions, and the actor must answer questions based on what was going on that certain day in history.)
Cooking the colonial way.
The peanut butter cookies were delicious.
The shoemaker's wife.
Is he going to work or at work already?
Actor interacting with park visitors.
A wonderful Tuesday to all!
Camera Repair
Brought to you by your friends at http://www.teleplancamerarepair.com/.
Should I be needing Camera Repair this soon? I noticed when I was taking pictures at the Strawberry Picking event that my Nikon is having a hard time focusing; at one time, the lens wouldn't work. I was disappointed because my digital camera is not even a year old and it seems to be hinting the need for camera repair. I'm now even contemplating of getting a new one.
Speaking of Digital Camera Repair, Teleplan might just be the right place to look into for camera repairs and other camera needs. This site offers Consumer Product Repair, Professional Product Repair, Lens Repair (which I think I need right now), LCD Repair, and Parts Procurement. What I really like about this site is the two-step Free Repair Quote. So if you want to get an immediate quote for your camera needs, all you have to is: (1.) select what brand of camera you have; (2.) select the model; and, (3) choose from the list the issue or issues your camera is going through, and Teleplan breaks down the quote for you. And while you're waiting for you camera to be repaired, you can check its status on their site as well. It's a stress free and no hassle process. I also found their blog informational and a good site to bookmark for reference purposes.
Should I be needing Camera Repair this soon? I noticed when I was taking pictures at the Strawberry Picking event that my Nikon is having a hard time focusing; at one time, the lens wouldn't work. I was disappointed because my digital camera is not even a year old and it seems to be hinting the need for camera repair. I'm now even contemplating of getting a new one.
Speaking of Digital Camera Repair, Teleplan might just be the right place to look into for camera repairs and other camera needs. This site offers Consumer Product Repair, Professional Product Repair, Lens Repair (which I think I need right now), LCD Repair, and Parts Procurement. What I really like about this site is the two-step Free Repair Quote. So if you want to get an immediate quote for your camera needs, all you have to is: (1.) select what brand of camera you have; (2.) select the model; and, (3) choose from the list the issue or issues your camera is going through, and Teleplan breaks down the quote for you. And while you're waiting for you camera to be repaired, you can check its status on their site as well. It's a stress free and no hassle process. I also found their blog informational and a good site to bookmark for reference purposes.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Williamsburg Flowers
I love flowers.
Plate size white magnolia.
Bee on the job.
Whenever I see these, they remind me of buttons.
I don't know the name of these flowers but...
this is how they look like when they're in full bloom.
Promegranate flowers.
A flower wearing a bonnet.
Another one with a pointy hat.
Splash Zone
Great guest post by Beth Nagle
For a day trip the other day our entire family went to Splash Zone which is our local water park. I loaded up sunscreen, towels, and toys for the kids. We set the home security alarm Click Here and got the kids in the car to go to the park. We got there in about five minutes. It was such a quick drive.
The water park has a small area for the kids to play in that they can touch. It has two little slides for them. It also had a large palm tree that water was spraying out of from every direction. They loved to just stand under it and let it hit their heads. The lazy river was the family's favorite. We could all float down the river on rafts together. It just keeps going around in a circle so you don't have to get off of it unless you are done. We spent a lot of time just relaxing and talking as we went down the river. They also have two big slides. They were too big for our youngest daughter, but the older one loved them. She talked daddy into taking her down several times. It was a great family day at Splash Zone for us.
For a day trip the other day our entire family went to Splash Zone which is our local water park. I loaded up sunscreen, towels, and toys for the kids. We set the home security alarm Click Here and got the kids in the car to go to the park. We got there in about five minutes. It was such a quick drive.
The water park has a small area for the kids to play in that they can touch. It has two little slides for them. It also had a large palm tree that water was spraying out of from every direction. They loved to just stand under it and let it hit their heads. The lazy river was the family's favorite. We could all float down the river on rafts together. It just keeps going around in a circle so you don't have to get off of it unless you are done. We spent a lot of time just relaxing and talking as we went down the river. They also have two big slides. They were too big for our youngest daughter, but the older one loved them. She talked daddy into taking her down several times. It was a great family day at Splash Zone for us.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Women's Clothing In Colonial America
While waiting in line to get into the Governor's Palace at Colonial Williamsburg, the gate usherette in full colonial costume started explaining what constitutes a woman's attire during colonial times. I was astounded at how many layers of garments they wore back then. I couldn't believe that a woman would be wearing a hat, a cape, a cloak, a mob cap, a shift, sleeve ruffles, stays (corsets), etc. all in one outfit. I kept thinking how constricting and hot would that have felt.
I took these photos (below) last weekend during my trip to Colonial Williamsburg. I've always been fascinated with how the women of colonial times endured wearing all these layers of clothing and still carried themselves so well. I honestly think that putting a gown on during the colonial times is a chore. Although it seems that colonial fashion were constricting to women, I still think they're lovely to photograph.
Please enjoy the photos below and the quotes I took from reading Baumgarten's research articles online regarding women and women's clothing during colonial times.
I took these photos (below) last weekend during my trip to Colonial Williamsburg. I've always been fascinated with how the women of colonial times endured wearing all these layers of clothing and still carried themselves so well. I honestly think that putting a gown on during the colonial times is a chore. Although it seems that colonial fashion were constricting to women, I still think they're lovely to photograph.
Please enjoy the photos below and the quotes I took from reading Baumgarten's research articles online regarding women and women's clothing during colonial times.
"For some, it is a wish to experience the beautiful fabrics, elaborate decoration, and tactile qualities; experiences no longer found in most of our own clothing. For others, it is a desire to understand people from the past a little better; if we know such details as how they dressed themselves in the morning, what it felt like to be laced into stays, or what it was like to wear coarse linen and woolen while working in a Virginia tobacco field, we might better understand the routine, human aspects of their daily lives, which are so seldom revealed in the written records they left." (Baumgarten, Linda. Looking At Eighteenth-Century Clothing. http://www.history.org/history/clothing/intro/clothing.cfm)
"When we look at ladies' corsets –"stays" –from the period, we cannot imagine how a woman could subject herself to such a garment. Yet the wearing of stays was as much linked to concepts of modesty and support as it was to figure shape; without her stays for most public occasions, a woman was considered not quite properly dressed at best and a "loose woman" at worst. Someone who had worn stays from girlhood might scarcely have questioned their comfort or lack of it. (And who is to say that stays were any more uncomfortable than pointed-toe, high-heeled twentieth-century shoes?)" (Baumgarten. http://www.history.org/history/clothing/intro/clothing.cfm)
The lady in costume is pregnant (not visible on photo), and I wondered what life would have been like for her during those times. "Women's lives in the eighteenth century usually centered on their families; there was little likelihood of a career outside the home. Women went into childbirth uncertain not only of their own survival but of their child's, as well. It was not uncommon for a woman to give birth seven or eight times during her life, with only five or six children surviving to adulthood. Despite high mortality rates, women expected to have large families. Esther Edwards Burr, mother of Aaron Burr, was daunted by her future prospects after the birth of her second child. She wrote in 1756, "When I had but one Child my hands were tied, but now I am tied hand and foot. (How I shall get along when I have got ½ dzn. or 10 Children I cant devise.)" (Baumgarten, Linda. Fashions of Motherhood. http://www.history.org/history/clothing/women/motherhood.cfm)
References:
Baumgarten, Linda. Fashions of Motherhood. http://www.history.org/history/clothing/women/motherhood.cfm.
Baumgarten. Looking At Eighteenth-Century Clothing. http://www.history.org/history/clothing/intro/clothing.cfm
Watching Yankees Baseball
Thanks to guest blogger Sharon Sullivan.
I love baseball season because it lasts a while, and it gets you in the mood for the great weather. There is nothing better than watching the opening game for baseball. I am so glad I can watch all my games on satellite tv. I recently moved to California and found some great Directv Sacramento deals. You know it is Spring time when the first game starts. It is such an exciting sport to watch, as you root for your own team. I especially like the Yankees. They have been my favorite team since I was a little girl. I never got to see the real game in person, but watching it on television has become a family tradition. The 2009 World Series was like a family party. It was quite funny because half of the family are Yankee fans and the other half are Phillies fans. Luckily, our Yankees won, as it made me very happy. It was actually their 27th title, and I hope many more to come.
I love baseball season because it lasts a while, and it gets you in the mood for the great weather. There is nothing better than watching the opening game for baseball. I am so glad I can watch all my games on satellite tv. I recently moved to California and found some great Directv Sacramento deals. You know it is Spring time when the first game starts. It is such an exciting sport to watch, as you root for your own team. I especially like the Yankees. They have been my favorite team since I was a little girl. I never got to see the real game in person, but watching it on television has become a family tradition. The 2009 World Series was like a family party. It was quite funny because half of the family are Yankee fans and the other half are Phillies fans. Luckily, our Yankees won, as it made me very happy. It was actually their 27th title, and I hope many more to come.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Travel And Genetics
Flowers at the historic Williamsburg.
Tuesday was spent at NIH for my usual aplastic anemia tests. I finally got my genetic test results and also got a good discussion about the possible genetic cause of my condition. I found out that aside from my aplastic anemia, I am also anemic. As of right now, they found out that my bone marrow is not producing enough platelets and white blood cells. It's not easy knowing all these because there's absolutely nothing I can do to treat my condition or even alleviate the annoying symptoms I go through almost every single day - except for the pain relievers I take as needed. I guess it is a matter of choice if I'll spend my days feeling helpless about my condition or live my life to the fullest. I choose the latter.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Green
Everything has turned green in my area and wildlife abounds. I took these photos a couple of weekends ago, when my friend and I were out enjoying the park.
Feathered friends kept the lake busy.
There were two of them, but I only managed to take a photo of one. I think they were building a nest.
A baby turtle, who probably can't wait to explore the vastness of the lake.
Wildflowers in bloom.
A snake sunbathing and didn't even budge when I took this photo.
A peaceful view.
Flowers.
Look beyond or through the bushes and you could see wildlife.
Turtles on a log.
A family out for a swim.
A family out for a hike.
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