Just Another Blogger

Summer Blog Challenge

2010-07-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

I am not, as you may have noticed, an assiduous blogger -- some of you miss my posts and some could care less. But it is time to catch up. My dear friend Fonda has issued a challenge... a "Summer Blog challenge". I thought, this would be as good a time as any to start blogging again.

Our first topic... WHAT SAYS "SUMMER" TO YOU?

Summer means so many things for me. One of them to say the least is sadness. Every time around this year, for the last 13 years, I have been reminded of that fateful day when Paul passed away. The pain of losing him is gone, but in a strange way it's still there. I still miss him. I don't think I will ever forget the day I found him laying unconscious on our front-yard. I never thought I would lose him like that, so suddenly... so abruptly. Even though his death certificate says July 14, 1997; In my heart and mind, he died July 13, Sunday.

I am grateful to God for the many blessings He has given me. My life with Paul, a beautiful daughter, and now my life with Doug. Thank you, Lord!

In Loving Memory

Paul Rene Saunders
May 5, 1959 - July 14, 1997

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."

~Psalm 116:15

I could not stay another day,
To love, to laugh, to work or play;
Tasks left undone must stay that way.
And if my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
~ Shannon Moseley, “Don’t Grieve for Me”

LIFE IS A THEATER - Invite Your Audience Carefully!

2010-04-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

Not everyone is healthy enough to have a front row seat in our lives.
There are some people in your life that need to be loved from a DISTANCE.

It's amazing what you can accomplish when you let go of, or at least
minimize your time with, draining, negative, incompatible,
not-going-anywhere relationships/friendships.

Observe the relationships around you. Pay attention.
Which ones lift and which ones lean?
Which ones encourage and which ones discourage?
Which ones are on a path of growth uphill and which ones are going downhill?

When you leave certain people do you feel better or feel worse?
Which ones always have drama or don't really understand, know or appreciate you?

The more you seek quality, respect, growth, peace of mind, love and truth around you...the easier it will become for you to decide who gets to sit in the front row and who should be moved to the balcony of Your Life.

"If you cannot change the people around you, CHANGE the people you are around."

Remember that the people we hang with will have an impact on both our lives and our income. And so we must be careful to choose the people we hang out with, as well as the information with which we feed our minds.

We should not share our dreams with negative people, Nor feed our dreams with negative thoughts.

It's your choice and your life... It's up to you who and what you let in it.

~Author Unknown

Burrowing

2010-04-17T22:58:00.000-07:00

It’s hard to write, when there is so much you *don’t* want to write about. Too many things to think about and plan for. All I want to do is curl up in bed hoping everything will be done and fall into place. Alas, I must get up and get on with life!

Change

2010-03-12T03:14:00.000-08:00

I decided to change the look of my blog. I'm not sure how long I'm going to keep this design. I think it's a little busy for my liking. On the other hand, I love the new look on my Project 365!

I do like that this design is more personalized. See the little sticky notes on the side? :)

Technologically Speaking

2010-03-11T13:22:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading my friend Fonda's blog post and it got me thinking about the Internet, social media and this whole technology thing.

Where was I technologically speaking, 10 years ago? 15 years ago? Maybe even 20 years ago. Let's see...

I remember Paul's cellular phone, it was so big that it has it's own bag and it needed to be plugged in the car for it to work. I remember him having a pager for work and I thought he was all that (this was before we were married). In those days, only doctors have pagers!

If I remember correctly, I got my very own cellphone in 1996 or 1997. It was gigantic candy bar style cellphone compare to the size of the phones now a days. I know it was a Nokia, because I remember thinking what a strange name and that it would be great to invest in the company if I had the funds to do it. I wish I did!

In 1998, I created my very first website called "What's Up?" (very creative, huh?) when I lived in Rockford, Illinois. I had to learn and teach myself HTML, back then you had to know how to write HTML code to publish your own website. Not so anymore. I remember one of the members of my family being upset because I had posted DD and my pictures on the world wide web.

It's so strange to think how far we've come, technology speaking. We have the internet at our fingertips, we blog, we twitter and facebooking is now a verb! We can surf the internet, send email, take pictures and even make movies with our cell phones.

I wonder what's next? What about you? Do you remember your first cellphone or computer?

25 Random Things About Me

2010-03-06T18:04:00.000-08:00

By now you’ve undoubtedly been tagged at least once for that “25 Random Things About Me” Facebook note that has spread across the social networking sphere like some kind of self-revelatory virus. Love it or hate it, its rapid proliferation is unprecedented in social networking’s young history — Facebook reports that nearly 5 million notes were created by its users during the week of January 26 through February 2, which was more than double the amount from the previous week and more than any other week in the company’s history.

But still, no one seems to be able to get to the bottom of who actually started it, or why Facebook users are suddenly so enamored with this particular means of sharing both intensely personal and highly mundane details about themselves with hundreds of friends and acquaintances in their news feeds. “We don’t have specific data on the types of Notes users are creating, but we think this growth has a strong correlation to the sharing of the 25 Random Things About Me Note,” wrote Facebook spokeswoman Brandee Barker in an email message. “Other types of content, like photos or news stories, have spread rapidly and widely on Facebook, but this is the first time I’ve noticed a Note gain such distribution.”

Complete story here.

So, should I post 25 random things about me? What about you?

In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb

2010-03-03T12:24:00.000-08:00

February has come and gone. It has been a very mild winter, but I have heard that March is known for coming in like a lion and going out like a lamb. I'm hoping it will be a lamb this year. I hope we don't get any snow since I've already started taking down the plastic insulation over our windows. Apparently, this winter has been the least snowiest on record.

My spring flowers are starting to come up, I'm excited to see the bulbs I planted last Fall growing. I mentioned to DH I needed to get my tomatoes and other vegetable seedlings I want to plant this year. But, he is not as enthused about it as I am. He has put in for a couple of bids out of Washington so we are kind of up in the air right now. Regardless of were moving or not, I will have my tomatoes, eggplants and herbs this year!

I started going to a work-out class called Zumba on Tuesdays and Thursday... very fun fitness program! I have much to do as far as "Spring Cleaning" goes, I'm editing a lot of our stuff in our house. So much to do!!!

Project 365

2010-01-03T20:12:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm doing this project this year. I invite you to visit and encourage me to keep-up with it!

No turning this day around!

2010-01-02T16:38:00.000-08:00

You definitely can't turn this date around. Apparently it’s only the second palindrome day of the 21st century, meaning that if you flip the day over it reads the same: 01/02/2010 or 01022010.

Palindrome days, at least in the long run, are rarer than visits by Halley’s Comet, which swings by the green planet once every 75 or 76 years. Yes, the last palindrome date wasn't that long ago, on Oct 2, 2001 – 10-02-2001, but the one before that came a full 620 years earlier, on Aug. 31, 1380, in the year Charles VI, the French king, declared no taxes forever.

The next palindrome day, which will be the third out of 12 in the 21st century, will be on 11-02-2011. The 36th and last palindrome date of this millennium will occur on Sept. 22, 2290. The next one after that will be Oct. 3, 3001. A bit spooky to think of, that.

Happy 2010

2010-01-01T18:47:00.000-08:00

The old year has gone. Let the dead past bury its own dead. The new year has taken possession of the clock of time. All hail the duties and possibilities of the coming twelve months!
~Edward Payson Powell

A Dog's Life

2009-10-31T01:15:00.000-07:00

Brutus has his own blog. You can read his adventures at "A Dog's Life." It's also listed on the right side column under my Friends and Family Blogs. If you know any dog lover, feel free to tell them about his site. I hope you visit his blog soon!

Meet Brutus

2009-10-29T18:54:00.000-07:00

Our new baby... a 4 1/2 pound Shima!

I have been wanting a designer doggie for a long time! For the last couple of years, I have been looking to get a Yorkie-Poo. Tonight, DH and I decided to get a Shima, it's a cross between Shih Tzu and Maltese. He is such a cutie!!! Don't you think Brutus is a perfect name for our little fur-ball?

Brutus needs a haircut!

I ♥ Road Trips!

2009-10-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

"Life's a journey, not a destination"

Five glorious days of antiquing, wine tasting, cheese tasting, shopping, dining out, relaxing in front of the fire... what else can girl ask for?

DH and I own a WorldMark by Wyndham timeshare and decided to spend sometime in one of the resort in Birch Bay. The resort is about 7 miles to the USA/Canada border and it's about 7 hours drive from our house. We had a wonderful time just relaxing and spending quality time together.

We walked to the beach, visited local wineries and dairy farms. We visited the nearby towns; Bellingham is a seaport and college town, and Lynden, is a cute little Dutch town. I love walking thru downtown, window shopping and looking at old-century brick building. I managed to pick-up a couple of Fenton milk glass to add to my collection at one of the antique shops. ☺

There are several berry farms in the area; there are blueberries, blackberries, marionberries and many others. Some of the berry farms look just like a vineyard, it's beautiful. Berry season was over and missed the harvest.

We drove to Canada one early morning and spend the day in Vancouver. We had lunch at one of the local pub, and walk around downtown and Gastown. I did not realized how big Vancouver is... it's a HUGE city! WorldMark has a resort in downtown Vancouver, so DH and I are planning to go back and spend a few days there.

The fall foliage are so beautiful, I can't find the words to describe it! We drove the farm roads, the coastal highway & byway, and many a long-winding road... it was a perfect time to take a drive and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

On the way home, we decided to take another route instead of our usual Interstate Hwy 90 over Snoqualmie Pass; we took US Hwy 2 and went over Stevens Pass instead. It was a longer drive and more treacherous (in my opinion) but it was well worth it. We stopped along the way to take foliage pictures and we stopped at Leavenworth, a very picturesque German town for lunch. Leavenworth is famous for it's Oktoberfest and and makes you feel as if you are in Germany. I found out WorldMark has a resort there! We're adding this place to our list of weekend get-away.

I am looking forward to our next road trip!

Ode to Autumn

2009-10-05T16:21:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite times of the year. Green leaves gradually changes color to vibrant reds, oranges and yellows, transforming the natural landscape right before our eyes. What better way to celebrate the season by sharing this poem with you!

Ode to Autumn
by John Keats

Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness,
Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun;
Conspiring with him how to load and bless
With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eaves run;
To bend with apples the mossed cottage-trees,
And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core;
To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells
With a sweet kernel; to set budding more,
And still more, later flowers for the bees,
Until they think warm days will never cease,
For Summer has o'er-brimmed their clammy cell.

Who hath not seen thee oft amid thy store?
Sometimes whoever seeks abroad may find
Thee sitting careless on a granary floor,
Thy hair soft-lifted by the winnowing wind;
Or on a half-reaped furrow sound asleep,
Drowsed with the fume of poppies, while thy hook
Spares the next swath and all its twined flowers;
And sometimes like a gleaner thou dost keep
Steady thy laden head across a brook;
Or by a cider-press, with patient look,
Thou watchest the last oozings, hours by hours.

Where are the songs of Spring? Ay, where are they?
Think not of them, thou hast thy music too,--
While barred clouds bloom the soft-dying day,
And touch the stubble-plains with rosy hue;
Then in a wailful choir, the small gnats mourn
Among the river sallows, borne aloft
Or sinking as the light wind lives or dies;
And full-grown lambs loud bleat from hilly bourn;
Hedge-crickets sing; and now with treble soft
The redbreast whistles from a garden-croft,
And gathering swallows twitter in the skies.

Bayanihan Spirit of the Filipino People

2009-09-30T15:08:00.000-07:00

Bayanihan. Pronounced like "buy-uh-nee-hun," bayanihan is a Filipino word derived from the word bayan meaning town, nation, or community in general. "Bayanihan" literally means, "being a bayan," and is thus used to refer to a spirit of communal unity and cooperation.

I'm sure you have seen the news and heard of the devastation in the Philippines cause by Typhoon Ondoy aka Tropical Storm Kestana. It's heart wrenching to see these people suffer. Watching TFC (The Filipino Channel) in the comfort of my family room, I saw many Filipino helping each other. OFW (Overseas Filipino Workers) and Pinoy Expats sending help. I can see that bayanihan is alive and well in my home country!

(Photo Source)

(Photo Source)

When I called my brother to check-in on how things are with them, he assured me that him and his wife and the little girl we are adopting are safe. The area where they live is about 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of Manila and has been spared from the floods. So, I breathe with a sigh of relief.

If you are interested in helping, you can donate thru the Philippine National Red Cross. It is one of the major organizations providing aid to those affected by the floods. Wherever you are in the world, you can send your donations to them through this online donations form. Choose “Typhoon Ondoy” in the Project/Activity drop down selection.

Somewhere over the Rainbow

2009-09-23T16:08:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling melancholy lately... I don't know why. So I decided to make a playlist for one of my favorite songs.

This is a collection of many different versions of Somewhere over the Rainbow. From the classic & original Judy Garland, the blues sound of Ray Charles, the Hawaiian style of Brother Iz, sweet voice of 6 year-old Connie Talbot, to the rock and roll version of Jimi Hendrix and every thing in between.

I'm looking for Norah Jones and Whitney Houston's version. If you have it or any other version please let me know. I hope you take time to listen to Connie Talbot's version, she's a 6 year old singing sensation.

Enjoy!

Summer Round-Up

2009-08-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Summer is quickly coming to a close and fall season soon to begin! I'm sorry to see summer gone but I am ready for the cooler weather and I am ready to end my hiatus from updating my blog!

DH had to work a 6-day week pretty much all summer. The extra money from over-time was very nice. But we weren't able to do our favorite activity which is to go on road trip on weekends, to visit nearby towns and check-out festivals around the area. Although, we had a chance to go and explore the Olympic Peninsula while visiting his parents in Bremerton.

I have lots of photos to share, and DH just bought me an external hard drive (1Terrabyte) so I can organize my pictures. I will try and upload some photos soon.

Celebrate Growing Older

2009-08-25T00:30:00.000-07:00

48 life lessons for my 48th birthday.

Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
When in doubt, just take the next small step.
Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
Pay off your credit cards every month.
You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
It's OK to let your children see you cry.
Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
Over prepare, then go with the flow.
Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
The most important sex organ is the brain.
No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"
Always choose life.
Forgive everyone everything.
What other people think of you is none of your business.
Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
Believe in miracles.
God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.
Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
The best is yet to come.
No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
If you don't ask, you don't get.
Yield.
Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

I would like to take credit for these life lessons; but this was written By Regina Brett, a Columnist for The Plain Dealer in Cleveland , Ohio. It is the most-requested column she's ever written.

Dropping By

2009-07-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

Sorry if updates in my blog is kind of slow (more like non-existence) but time is not on my side as I juggle to finish commitments and everyday chores.

Anyway, just drop by to say that DH and I are doing well and will try to get an update soon!

In Loving Memory

2009-07-14T17:51:00.001-07:00

Paul Rene Saunders
May 5, 1959 - July 14, 1997

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."
~Psalm 116:15

I Feel Good

2009-05-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

Whoa-a! I feel good, I knew that I would, now
I feel good, I knew that I would, now
So good, so good...

You know when you've accomplished something and it makes you feel good about yourself... that's how I feel right now.

Last week, I've been working around the house to get the boxes unpack and put away. The boxes in the living room are all gone! The kitchen, living and dining room area are organized. My china and crystal are safely put-away in the china cabinet. My Christmas Village collection is displayed, pictures and painting are hang on the wall. My house is starting to look and feel more like home!

Next week's project: the family room and the office.

Today I joined an exercise class from our church... I have been thinking about exercising and getting to know the women at my church and this was the perfect opportunity. After class, I went with two other ladies for a protein smoothie and brained stormed for some ideas for the Women's Ministry. Our church is a small congregation and they can used some help; so I think will jump right in with both feet. I figured it would be a good way to get to know these women and get involved with the church.

My week has been busy and fulfilling. I hope yours was too!

The PacMan vs The HitMan

2009-05-01T13:00:00.000-07:00

I'm not really a big boxing fan. But since Manny Pacquiao is from the Philippines and my fellow countryman, I thought I'd write a little about him.

PacMan as he is widely known, is considered as the pound for pound champion of the world. Manny’s fighting record stands at 48 Wins, 3 Losses and 2 Draws. Those 48 wins include 36 knockouts. He is a source of great pride and is considered a hero in the Philippines.

Good luck Manny... I hope you win!

Update:
Congrats Manny! Pacquiao deafeated Hatton in the 2nd round!

Should We Worry About The Swine Flu?

2009-04-30T23:13:00.012-07:00

Today I sneezed and made a comment about getting the swine flu!

Well, DH was not very happy about what I said and told me that the swine flu is very serious and people are dying. So, somewhat chastised I decided to do a little research on flu pandemic.

According to what I found online, the last great flu pandemic to hit the world was in 1918. That flu killed 2.5% of all people it infected. This new swine flu is killing 6%.

So why not worry?

Think about 1918. There were no anti-flu medicines. There were no widely-available face masks. There were no quick diagnostic tests. There were no governmental early warning systems. There was no widespread knowledge of how to avoid infection, or quick access to medical personnel if one did have an infection.

Today, people — even in the relatively poor country of Mexico — are being screened weeks earlier, preventative measures are being taken, quarantines are being put up when they can still be effective, and information about this situation and how to prevent it is a knowledge that pretty much everybody on the planet now possesses. We are a cleaner and healthier race than we were 90 years ago, and the immediacy and quality of our medical care is vastly improved in even the poorest corners of the planet. The United States alone handles millions of flu cases per year, and while the swine flu is a specially bad version of the flu, it is still the flu.

Can a disease still come along that will again wipe 40 million people? Possibly... but if it does, it will be something new and unexpected to which the tried and true methods of infection avoidance prove to be ineffective.
_________________________________________________

A little swine flu humor added in for levity's sake:

No Reservations!

2009-04-27T13:28:00.027-07:00

One of my favorite chef/foodie celebrity is Anthony Bourdain. He finally went to the Philippines and did a show about the country of my birth! It's too bad he didn't eat "Balut" (fertilized boiled egg) and "Dinuguan" (blood pork stew) on the show... Bizarre food with Andrew Zimmern (another favorite show) did!

I hope you enjoyed the show.

Spring has sprung!

2009-04-22T17:31:00.013-07:00

In spite of Old Man Winter's grip, spring has sprung! Fuzzy buds are unfurling from the tips of our bushes, flowers are budding and tulips are poking through the ground.

To celebrate spring DH and I went to Seattle for a few days last week to visit his parents and sister. Sarah took us up to the viewing area of where she works; Columbia Center, Seattle's tallest building. We had fun looking over the city and had a great time.

Of course, you can't really go to Seattle and not stop at Pike's Market. On the way to his parents house, I got my M-i-L a bouquet of spring flowers and I got some for myself on the way back home.
While on the Ferry, we saw the USS Abraham Lincoln on it's way to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton. The Ferry actually stopped and let the ship through the channel first. The USS Lincoln is huge; it was an awesome sight!
On the way back to Spokane, we stopped to take pictures at Columbia River and the Wild Horse Monument.

Thanks mom and dad, we had a very nice visit!

Then and Now - Dear Husband

2009-04-09T22:48:00.003-07:00

My DH took a picture of himself while at work today and emailed it to me.
I found an old photo of him at his heaviest and wanted to share it.

This and That

2009-04-06T16:50:00.006-07:00

Writing about the weather seems to be an easy subject when I can't think of anything to say. I will do my best to not focus on the weather since I can't really do anything about it. Although it's been warmer and sunny the last two days, it's still too cold to work in the yard.

I have been kind of in the dumps lately. I just haven't had the motivation to get these boxes unpack. Believe me I have the plan on how to do it, what I don't have is the motivation to get going. Every day I tell myself: "August, you need to unpack these boxes. Start with one box!" But when I see the mountain of boxes in the living room, family room and garage, it's just so overwhelming!

I think I know what's bothering me... it's the possibility of moving to Texas. DH hasn't heard anything from them, but he did tell me that they sent his boss some sort of "evaluation questionnaire" so they are looking at him. At this point we don't know anything yet. It's the waiting and not knowing that's so hard!

Last week DH and I went to Outback for dinner and the service was so poor that the manager didn't let us pay. I felt sorry for him because they ran-out of a lot things and he was going from table to table explaining and probably giving them a free meal as well. He told us because of the weather their delivery truck was stuck on the other side of Snoqualmie Pass. Our date wasn't a total loss, we still had a nice time talking with each other.

Because of the economic downturn, DD (darling daughter) lost her job and got-laid off. So yesterday, Sunday, she moved in with us until she figures out what to do. This is going to be a big adjustment, she hasn't lived with us and had her own apartment for the last 3 years. Come to think of it other than summer and holiday breaks, she really hasn't lived with us since she left for college in 2003.

Wow, I didn't think I have that much to say! I guess I better stop for now before this becomes a big wall of text.

Until then,

Philippines in Pictures

2009-04-02T05:38:00.044-07:00

The Aguirre family residence - where I live when I'm in the Philippines.

Some of the fruit trees in the property - my brother picking some "Kamyas", a sour fruit that can be made into candies and use in various Filipino dishes. There are mangos, papaya, bananas and several fruit trees in the property.

Rice field in front of the house - time to harvest!

The Neighborhood - just a glimpse of the discrepancy between the "haves and the have not". The property owners in this neighborhood are mostly "Expats" and when the lot is vacant it is sometimes "squatted" by poor people.

"Palengke" (Wet Market) - seaweed vendors, misc seafood, coconut, rice & flower stalls and a vegetable vendor smiling for the camera.

Stay tuned... more pictures to come!

Spring, where art thou?

2009-03-24T07:37:00.003-07:00

The gray and cold weather is starting to get on my nerves! Today, I woke up and there's frost on the ground! Weather forecast for snow today and tomorrow. Grrr!

I've been having a very bad cabin fever for the last week. I want to start my vegetable garden but it won't be frost free until May 15th. So, I must wait until then.

To my friends down south, won't you please send warm sunny days in my neck of the woods!

Adoption Update

2009-03-20T17:42:00.029-07:00

I hired an attorney to help me with the adoption. I was interviewed several times by the local social workers who will be handling the case. They came by the house to do a child and home study report. Consent papers were signed, and when I left the Philippines, my attorney was ready to file the petition for adoption. He told me, it's going to take 6 to 12 months for the final hearing.

I need to get a home study report done here in the US and I was given a number to call in Seattle, so as soon as I get that done, I need to send the report to my lawyer and the Social Worker who's handling my case.

So far, it's looking good!

Once she is legally ours and we have the birth certificate to prove it, we can file the necessary paper work for her visa so we can bring her to the US.

In the meantime, DH and I continue to provide for her financially and we talk to her on the phone at least once a week.

Please continue to pray for her, for the adoption process, and that our hearts and home will be ready for her.

Here are some photos of her to enjoy!

at the beach...

girlie tent & a new doll...

say cheese..!

my new bike...

mommy and me...

Computer Virus, Spyware & Malware

2009-03-18T20:53:00.006-07:00

This week I had a really bad computer scare! My system was infected with Spyware Protect 2009. It happened the day that DH left for Florida. So I had to deal with it myself. DH told me what I needed to do while waiting for his flight. So with the help of Spybot Search & Destroy and Ad-Aware, I managed to remove it from my computer.

I've always known NOT to click on any unknown pop-ups. But Spyware Protect 2009 looks very legit. Regardless to say, I learned my lesson the hard way. I'm just glad my computer is working now and it is virus free at the moment.

I'm Back!

2009-03-09T21:15:00.002-07:00

Just a quick note that I am safely back home with my DH! It was snowing when I left for the Philippines and it was snowing when I arrived in Spokane. At least I had almost 3 weeks of heat and sunshine. :)

I will post some photos as soon as I can.

Sunday Round-Up

2009-02-21T21:16:00.007-08:00

Philippine Week-in Review:

Monday, 2/16 - Arrived in Manila International on time (11:00pm local time). Then took another 3 hour drive to get to the house from Manila to Pamatawan, Zambales. We got in around 3:30 am Tuesday.

Tuesday, 2/17 - Not much sleep! We went into the city (Olongapo City - about an hour drive) to do some shopping. When we got there, the whole city doesn't have any electricity. Electric company was doing some maintenance and the power was out all day. Regardless to say, every store we went in was like a hot spa inside. I was sweating or should I say... perspiring like a pig.

Wednesday, 2/18 - Stayed home to recuperate! I had a home-service massage for 1.5 hour for the cost of measly $3.00... that's not a typo, it's really $3.00!!!

Thursday, 2/19 - It's the local "Market Day"! Niece #1 and I along with my brother went to do some shopping. We bought a lot vegetables, fish, a big sack of rice and other "stuff" that I can't find in the states.

After lunch, we went in the city for some pampering at one of the high-end salon/beauty spa. We had our hair done, facial, manicure, spa pedicure and also had face waxed. We were treated like royalty and service was excellent! Can you guess how much it cost for all this? ... $50.00 ! ! !

Friday & Saturday, 2/20-21 - We left for Baguio City, the Summer Capital of the Philippines for the weekend! Got up really early since it's a 7 hour road trip. We decided to take the bus which is called Victory Liner. The bus itself is very much like Greyhound bus, the seats are comfortable and it's air-conditioned. The scenery was lovely and we stayed in a very nice bed & breakfast type place instead of a hotel. Our excursion was alot of fun!

Sunday, 2/22 - Finally managed to find an Internet cafe close to the house. I was able to chat to DH. Also saw DD online so we chatted a little.

Philippines Part Deux Update

2009-02-19T02:03:00.006-08:00

Well, I made to the Internet cafe today! Woohoo! So here's a quick update about my trip.

Day 1
When I left Spokane, it was snowing and I got to the airport around 8:00am, the airport wasn't busy so I was able to check-in fast and was able to get in an earlier flight. As the plane took-off, the passenger beside and I started talking. I had mention that I was on the way to the Philippines, and he asked if I was going thru Tokyo, Japan on flight NW7. I told him that I was, and he then told me... "Well, I will be flying you there!" The guy that I was sitting with was my Pilot! He was wearing a leather jacket so I didn't notice he was wearing a Pilot's uniform.

Flight from Seattle to Tokyo was late. The plane was already out of the gate and was proceeding to the runway when we were told that there was something wrong with the plane and that we had to go back to the gate. I really can't say what time we took-off since I fell asleep waiting. We landed in Tokyo at 5:30pm (Japan time) and my connecting fligth started boarding at 6:05pm for a 7:00pm departure. By the time it was my turn to leave the plane, I didn't have much time to go thru security and find my gate! I was so frantic!!!

Flight from Tokyo was uneventful. Got in MIA on time and my brother, his wife and my nephew was waiting for us. We then had a 3-hour drive from the airport to my sister's house.

Philippines Part Deux - Travel Day

2009-02-15T00:26:00.009-08:00

DH and I are off to the airport! My flight leaves at 9:30am and I'll get in SEA-TAC (Seattle/Tacoma) an hour later, then catch my flight to Tokyo, Japan where I will meet with Marty, Niece #1. We will travel together from Japan to the Philippines. We should be arriving in Manila International Monday, Feb. 16th around 11:00pm. Whew!!! This is a very long flight!

Please, pray for travel mercies - safety, smooth boarding and comfort.

I have my new iPod Nano (DH gave it to me for Valentine's), books, travel pillow and Flexeril for my back. So, I think I'm pretty prepared for this long trip.

Bon Voyage!

Philippines Part Deux

2009-02-14T23:59:00.012-08:00

It's Saturday midnight... and as usual I left some of my preparation for my trip at the very last minute. But I am all pack and right now DH and I are listening to some music, drinking a bottle of Pinot Grigio while we talk and play on the computer.

I am very excited! The main reason I'm going to the Philippines is so I can get the adoption paperwork started. That's right you read it right... adoption! I have been keeping this a secret, other than our immediate family and 2 or 3 close friends I shared with, very few people know that we are planning to adopt a little girl.

I am not yet ready to share the details about her, other than she is a beautiful and a very smart little girl. I fell in-love with her the first time I met her. But I will share a picture.

@ 18 months

So I covet your prayers, that the adoption process will go smoothly. I was given a name of an attorney, who was well recommended and I plan to use him. I have done my research online and I am bringing the necessary papers with me. I just hope I have everything I need!

Polka Dot...

2009-02-13T06:47:00.002-08:00

Not so much! I had to go back to a little more brown.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-02-11T09:23:00.005-08:00

A Walk Down "Computer Memory" Lane

2009-02-10T13:03:00.035-08:00

Recently, Kelli wrote "how did people live without internet" in her blog. That got me thinking how computers and the Internet is such a big part of my life.

I remember when Paul bought his first computer in 1984, I didn't know at the time it was the beginning of his love affair with computers. He studied electronic engineering in college, but when he bought a Commodore Vic 20 computer he immediately started learning all he can about Basic Programming. Then a year later he upgraded to Commodore 64. And of course, for you "geeks" out there... who can forget the Intel 8086 Microprocessor! The x86 architecture is the foundation of every PC--Windows, Mac, or Linux--produced today.

Right after Commodore 64 Paul started "building" his own computers. He bought his motherboard, and all the other parts and put it together. He also taught himself computer programming from Basic, to Pascal and anything in between. He can troubleshoot anything, I was amazed how fast he learned about computers. It's like teaching a fish to swim!

Back in the old days, if you wanted to get online, you had to connect to your local Bulletin Board Service or commonly known as "BBS". I remember playing chess with someone in my local BBS. I guess I was a gamer even back then! :)

Remember CompuServe?!?!

What about DOS? I'm sure some of you remember or know about DOS. When I started using computer there's no Windows... no mouse... to use for point and click! Everything is so much more user friendly now. I'm spoiled!

My very first personal homepage was in 1998, I remember getting my own ISP and part of the plan was you can create a webpage. I read and learned HTML code so I can publish my own website. Now you can publish your own website with just a few click of your mouse! How easy is that???

Of course I can't forget to mention how I met my Dear Husband. Before MySpace, Facebook, Match.com or any of these social networking sites... there was ICQ! That's where we met... in an ICQ Christian group. How we met is a story for another day. Maybe I'll get around to posting it on our wedding anniversary... but I digress!

If you really think about it... PC's have not been a common sight in American household for that long. Now it's not uncommon to have a desktop and laptop. DH and I both have our own desktop & laptop computers. That's four computers in one household and not including our "smart phone" which we can also use to get online.

Like Kelli, I am thankful for the creation and invention of computers and the Internet. Otherwise, how can we share our stories in this wonderful world we call "blog-o-sphere"!

What about you my fellow blogger and readers? How has the computer revolution affected your life?

Manic Monday #154

2009-02-09T13:50:00.007-08:00

What is your favorite candy?
I really don't have a favorite candy, I prefer dark chocolate!

Name one thing that you'd want to receive as a gift for Valentine's day.
Hmmm... more EarthBoxes!!!

Can we truly love someone who loves another?
Of course! There are many kinds of love. I don't see why we can't truly love someone who loves another.

Now if you're talking about a husband loving another woman instead of his wife... well that's a different thing entirely!

Join the Manic Monday Meme here!

As Promised

2009-02-06T00:13:00.008-08:00

Dear Husband looking disgusted. I don't think he was happy with me taking a picture of him at 6:00 am.

Pretty spiffy in my new hairstyle!

Tear One's Hair

2009-02-05T20:15:00.006-08:00

"tear one's hair, to manifest extreme anxiety, grief, or anger."

That's exactly how I felt when I first walked into the hair salon this afternoon. I wasn't angry but I was sure anxious! I had such a bad experience with so called "hairstylist" in Charleston, WV that I haven't gotten around of finding one here in Liberty Lake.

A few weeks ago, I saw an ad in the local newspaper so I cut it and put it on my fridge. Also, when I ask my massage therapist who cut her hair, it was the same person in the ad. So, last week I took the plunge and called the hairstylist and made an appointment for today. I'm glad I did!!!

She did an awesome job cutting and coloring my hair. I am so happy that I found a stylist to keep. My experience at her salon was great, they are not only very professional but they are very talented as well. The owner Karen is very friendly and funny. I like her right away. Briana, the young lady who works for her is a Paul Mitchell The School grad. Not just your ordinary grad but a Phase 2 graduate. Apparently it's a big thing and great honor to be one. Since they only take 10 grads to continue to Phase 2 and you have to be invited. She's pretty knowledgeable and talented. While Briana was styling my hair at the end, she was telling me all these "how to's". I felt like I was getting a private lesson. Karen from "Karen Does My Hair" Salon is indeed a find and a keeper!

I have some after photos but I still haven't had the chance to install the software for my new Canon camera, so I have to post it another day. I promise, I will! So you can see how cute I look in my new hairstyle!

Update on Dear Husband

2009-02-04T07:22:00.005-08:00

Most of you know that DH had an RNY Gastric Bypass done in Sept. 2008. You can read his adventure here.

It's been almost 5 months since his surgery. Almost immediately, he has stopped taking ALL of his prescription meds, no more insulin and best of all his Diabetes is in remission. He is down to 227 lbs. (the heaviest he weighed was 350 a few years ago in Alaska). Lost 15 inches around his waist. He's wearing 44 waist pants now and he told me today that I'm going to need to get him some size 42's pretty soon! And he went from size 20 neck down to 17. I am telling you, he's almost a different person looking at him! He's always been a very handsome man, but he's really looking mighty fine these days! :)

I snapped a picture of him early this morning before he left for work, but I haven't figured out how to really use my new Canon camera. So I'll post a photo of him another day.

He's really doing awesome with his new eating habits and that's good for me as well since I've lost 10 pounds. I can't wait for warm weather when we can take advantage biking/walking the trails & park around the neighborhood. I wonder if I can get him to play golf!!!

New Blogwear!

2009-02-03T04:15:00.007-08:00

I was feeling creative last night, so I decided to update and give my blog a new wear. I wanted a fresh "Spring look" without it being too "spring-y" (I know that's not a real word but, I digress). I decided to go with a blue-green/brown color palette. Also, I still need to fix and change my signature... but that's a project for another day.

I like it... I hope you do too!

Sunday Round-Up

2009-02-01T16:04:00.006-08:00

This week:
We celebrated Darling Daughter's 24th birthday. DH, me, DD and her Manfriend went to a very nice intimate dinner at Wild Sage Bistro. Food was great, conversation went from politics, economics to family and anything in between. Nice time was had by all and we thoroughly enjoyed each others company. Dinner Highlights: Espresso Martini - sheer decadence fresh espresso, made with Godiva liqueur, grand marnier, Tia Maria and Vodka shaken and served in a chocolate rimmed glass with a whipped cream float. Served with a house-made truffle. It was so yummy and rich!

Dear Husband had "thrown" in his name into a pool for a job in Houston, Texas. The position is for Support Manager at IAH. It's a very long shot... but it was one of the job on his list as he "climbs up the ladder" on the management side of the FAA. So we will see what happens. It would be nice to be back in Houston but just thinking about moving AGAIN when we haven't even totally unpack yet is mind boggling.

Took DH to the emergency room. He was having so much pain in his rib that he almost threw-up. They did some test... didn't find anything wrong. He started having this pain a few weeks ago after shoveling snow in the driveway. The pain comes and go, so I hope it's nothing serious.

DH got me a new Cannon camera to take with me for my trip to the Philippines. Yes! I said Philippines... I'm going again in 2 weeks with Niece# 1. Will post more about it later!

All in all, I had a good week! I hope you did too and enjoy your Super Bowl Sunday!

Breaking the Silence

2009-01-24T01:47:00.009-08:00

I know, I know… this blog has been really quite for the last month. Even though, I am on my computer daily, keeping up with my friends in the bloggy-world, I haven’t really given much time to my own blog. Most time that I login my site, I have all these ideas in my head that I want to write about but I inevitably get sidetrack by something else and fail to post.

A couple days ago, the day after President Obama’s inauguration, I received an email that deeply offended me. So, I decided I should post something for our new President. I just want to remind our Christian friends and family...

Romans 13
Submission to the Authorities

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
~Romans 13: 1-7

Dr. Al Mohler has a wonderful prayer for our new president, here. He sums it up with these thoughts:

Christians are, first of all, citizens of a heavenly kingdom. The followers of Christ know no allegiance of ultimate rank to any government or earthly authority. Yet, the Bible clearly teaches that God has given us the gifts of law, government, and ruling authorities for our good. We are instructed to pray for “rulers and all who have authority” and to be faithful in praying “so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives full of worship and respect for God” (1 Timothy 2:2).

As Barack Obama prepares to take the oath of office and become the 44th President of the United States, Christians should be thinking about how to pray for the new President. I offer this prayer as a place to start, as we observe the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States together.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

2008-12-18T11:17:00.004-08:00

I feel as if I am back in Alaska! It has been snowing the last few days and it looks like we have 2 feet of snow in our yard. Since my Dear Husband has been gone since Monday on a business trip, the driveway hasn't been plow at all.

As I sat in my kitchen drinking my coffee this morning, I heard someone plowing the driveway and when I opened the garage door, there was an older gentleman removing the snow. He introduced himself, and told me that he is one of my neighbors. I live in a cul-de-sac and we have a lovely neighborhood and even lovelier neighbors. I guess he noticed that DH car hasn't been seen in the driveway and he figured with all the snow, I might need some help. What a very, very nice man!

I am so blessed to be living in this house and I feel very at home, like I belong here. And, God is so good for providing for all my needs. Thank you Lord!

Home Sweet Home Part 2

2008-11-22T01:07:00.004-08:00

Well, we have been in our house for two weeks now. It's been very busy and chaotic. We have so much to do!!! With the holidays coming up we are trying to get the house in order for friends and family.

Darling Daughter has a childhood friend from Illinois visiting her for Thanksgiving and along with DD's "Manfriend" they will be having dinner with us. I still have yet to unpack my fancy china and silverware.

The rest of my Dear Husband's family will be here weekend of December 12th for family get together. And DH doesn't seem to understand that I'm a little nervous since this is the FIRST time his whole family will be visiting us. And I want this to be absolutely perfect, which I know it won't be.

New beds have been delivered for the guestrooms, sectional sofa was ordered from Lazyboy and a big flat screen TV has been shipped. I just hope they get here before Thanksgiving.

Now if I can just unpack the boxes in the garage and put away... every thing would be so nice!

Back to the World Wide Web!

2008-11-11T20:27:00.001-08:00

Oh my goodness! We finally have interwebs!!!
Will post more later. :)

Home Sweet Home

2008-10-07T10:56:00.007-07:00

After our marathon househunting over the last few days, DH and I struggled which house we were going to make an offer to. There were two houses that were on top of our list, one was in the Upper South Hill area (very desirable neighborhood in Spokane) and the other house is in Liberty Lake. After thinking and talking it over, we decided to choose the house in Liberty Lake.

This morning our Realtor called to tell us the good news, our offer was accepted! I am hoping and praying that everything else will go smoothly. We're having a home inspection done in a few days and I hope there's no major problem with the house.

This is Century 21's description of the property:

Pottery Barn Contemporary Home in Liberty Lake, WA. This Home has Lovely Curb Appeal and is situated on a wonderful view cul-de-sac location.

Within a short walk to Liberty Lake Golf Course, Liberty Lake and the beach, Pavillion Park and Liberty Lake Elementary School. Liberty Lake is a Urban Lake Community south of I90 between Spokane, WA and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho with an upscale flair. Lifestyle is at the top of everyone's list. Paved Walking, Jogging and Bike Trails. 15 minutes to Centennial Trail where you can ride or run for miles and miles. It's all about "enjoying Life while enjoying Nature at its best!" Wonderful community, Great Location.

Near everything yet has a kind of Lake Tahoo-ness to it yet located in the Inland Northwest! Much more affordable here too! Home Features 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, 2 Car Garage. 2 Master Bedrooms both with Adjoining Bathrooms. One of the Master Bedrooms has a garden window and a single french door to a beautiful backyard courtyard (wonderfully landscaped) Newer Roof, Tiled Countertops, Gas Fireplace in Family Room. Living Room is adjacent to the Kitchen and Dining Room.

If you would like to see a virtual tour you can see the house here.

Hello Spokane, WA

2008-10-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

We're here! We made it safely and getting settled in our new temporary housing.

DD (darling daughter) and her "Manfriend" came over for dinner and we watch the VP Debate. We had fun watching and playing VP debate bingo.

Tomorrow, we meet with our Real Estate agent and start our house-hunting marathon.

Goodbye Charleston, WV

2008-09-25T21:01:00.001-07:00

Please pray for travel mercies, as we will have driven around 2300 miles by the time we get to Spokane.

Wall Street Bailout

2008-09-24T04:52:00.010-07:00

I'm sure most of us have been reading and talking about what's going on in the Economy right now. I thought I'd post the draft of the bailout plan if you haven't seen or read it. Please pay close attention to Section 8.

Here's another article I found very interesting:
Sackcloth and Ashes on Wall Street

Text of Draft Proposal for Bailout Plan:

LEGISLATIVE PROPOSAL FOR TREASURY AUTHORITY

TO PURCHASE MORTGAGE-RELATED ASSETS

Section 1. Short Title.

This Act may be cited as ____________________.

Sec. 2. Purchases of Mortgage-Related Assets.

(a) Authority to Purchase.--The Secretary is authorized to purchase, and to make and fund commitments to purchase, on such terms and conditions as determined by the Secretary, mortgage-related assets from any financial institution having its headquarters in the United States.

(b) Necessary Actions.--The Secretary is authorized to take such actions as the Secretary deems necessary to carry out the authorities in this Act, including, without limitation:

(1) appointing such employees as may be required to carry out the authorities in this Act and defining their duties;

(2) entering into contracts, including contracts for services authorized by section 3109 of title 5, United States Code, without regard to any other provision of law regarding public contracts;

(3) designating financial institutions as financial agents of the Government, and they shall perform all such reasonable duties related to this Act as financial agents of the Government as may be required of them;

(4) establishing vehicles that are authorized, subject to supervision by the Secretary, to purchase mortgage-related assets and issue obligations; and

(5) issuing such regulations and other guidance as may be necessary or appropriate to define terms or carry out the authorities of this Act.

Sec. 3. Considerations.

In exercising the authorities granted in this Act, the Secretary shall take into consideration means for--

(1) providing stability or preventing disruption to the financial markets or banking system; and

(2) protecting the taxpayer.

Sec. 4. Reports to Congress.

Within three months of the first exercise of the authority granted in section 2(a), and semiannually thereafter, the Secretary shall report to the Committees on the Budget, Financial Services, and Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the Committees on the Budget, Finance, and Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate with respect to the authorities exercised under this Act and the considerations required by section 3.

Sec. 5. Rights; Management; Sale of Mortgage-Related Assets.

(a) Exercise of Rights.--The Secretary may, at any time, exercise any rights received in connection with mortgage-related assets purchased under this Act.

(b) Management of Mortgage-Related Assets.--The Secretary shall have authority to manage mortgage-related assets purchased under this Act, including revenues and portfolio risks therefrom.

(c) Sale of Mortgage-Related Assets.--The Secretary may, at any time, upon terms and conditions and at prices determined by the Secretary, sell, or enter into securities loans, repurchase transactions or other financial transactions in regard to, any mortgage-related asset purchased under this Act.

(d) Application of Sunset to Mortgage-Related Assets.--The authority of the Secretary to hold any mortgage-related asset purchased under this Act before the termination date in section 9, or to purchase or fund the purchase of a mortgage-related asset under a commitment entered into before the termination date in section 9, is not subject to the provisions of section 9.

Sec. 6. Maximum Amount of Authorized Purchases.

The Secretary’s authority to purchase mortgage-related assets under this Act shall be limited to $700,000,000,000 outstanding at any one time

Sec. 7. Funding.

For the purpose of the authorities granted in this Act, and for the costs of administering those authorities, the Secretary may use the proceeds of the sale of any securities issued under chapter 31 of title 31, United States Code, and the purposes for which securities may be issued under chapter 31 of title 31, United States Code, are extended to include actions authorized by this Act, including the payment of administrative expenses. Any funds expended for actions authorized by this Act, including the payment of administrative expenses, shall be deemed appropriated at the time of such expenditure.

Sec. 8. Review.

Decisions by the Secretary pursuant to the authority of this Act are non-reviewable and committed to agency discretion, and may not be reviewed by any court of law or any administrative agency.

Sec. 9. Termination of Authority.

The authorities under this Act, with the exception of authorities granted in sections 2(b)(5), 5 and 7, shall terminate two years from the date of enactment of this Act.

Sec. 10. Increase in Statutory Limit on the Public Debt.

Subsection (b) of section 3101 of title 31, United States Code, is amended by striking out the dollar limitation contained in such subsection and inserting in lieu thereof $11,315,000,000,000.

Sec. 11. Credit Reform.

The costs of purchases of mortgage-related assets made under section 2(a) of this Act shall be determined as provided under the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990, as applicable.

Sec. 12. Definitions.

For purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:

(1) Mortgage-Related Assets.--The term “mortgage-related assets” means residential or commercial mortgages and any securities, obligations, or other instruments that are based on or related to such mortgages, that in each case was originated or issued on or before September 17, 2008.

(2) Secretary.--The term “Secretary” means the Secretary of the Treasury.

(3) United States.--The term “United States” means the States, territories, and possessions of the United States and the District of Columbia.

Manic Monday #1

2008-09-22T14:05:00.009-07:00

I decided to join Manic Monday meme (pronounced /miːm/) since I'm always racking my brain about what to post. So here goes:

Pick out the most important item you have in your purse/wallet and tell me why it's important to you.
~ My Driver's Licence... it would be such a pain in the neck to replace it.

What would you take from your house if you knew it would be flooded tomorrow?
~ Photos, our portable safe with all of our important documents in it and our computers.

If you were stuck in a room for an hour with a chalk board, what would you draw on it?
~ Faces of people... I like drawing faces and probably writing my signature in different ways. Since I do this on paper when I am bored, I assume this is what I'd do if I'm stuck in a room for an hour with nothing to do.

Highligths of the day:

* Got my haircut, (a little shorter more this time) my manicure and pedicure.

* DH wasn't feeling so good today, he thinks he might have "Dumping Syndrome", you have to ask him what that is. ;)

* Went to U-Haul for more boxes.

Seven Days!

2008-09-20T11:06:00.007-07:00

Today is my self-imposed deadline to have every thing packed. Well, let's just say it's not. Although, I am not panicking yet! I have gotten a lot accomplished and actually pretty proud of myself.

We have been working with our mortgage officer and Realtor from across the country and someone in Spokane are previewing houses I emailed to them, so when we get into town we can do a "marathon" house hunting. I have been looking online and making a list of the homes I'd like to see when we get there.

I was on the phone today and reserved our temporary housing while we wait to close on our house. So for the next month we will be living in a "corporate housing". I re-confirmed our movers, and asked them to store our household goods when our "stuff" gets there. Merry Maid and Stanley Carpet Cleaner has been scheduled. Now I need to "kill" all my vegetable and herb plants, so I can pack my Earth Boxes.

My Dear Husband got the Expedition ready for the long road trip, has our route mapped & printed and hotels picked out for when we stopped for the night.

There's still a lot to do for the next 7 days, so please keep me in your thoughts and prayers, that I will manage the remaining time I have here in Charleston well and get my tasks done.

PostOp: Day 2

2008-09-10T11:26:00.002-07:00

It's day 2 after DH's surgery and he is doing very well. I'm so happy that everything went well and he came out of the surgery with flying colors. We're hoping he can go home this afternoon. We're waiting for his doctor right now.

I've been here since Monday, so I'm getting a little tired of hospital cafeteria food. Also, DH is getting a little stir crazy in this room. ;)

Prayer Request

2008-09-07T21:44:00.007-07:00

My DH (dear husband) is having his surgery today. Please pray that everything will go as plan and there will be no complication.

Packing our household is coming along nicely. I hope to get all my packing done by September 20th. I'm really getting excited about our move to Spokane and I'm looking forward to this new chapter of our lives.

Another birthday, another year older!

2008-08-24T22:18:00.005-07:00

Happy birthday to me!

I got a very nice Dooney & Bourke handbag from DH this year... I love it!

Summer in a Basket

2008-08-02T10:23:00.007-07:00

After a very heavy rain this morning, I decided to harvest some of my vegetables. Here's my beautiful bounty!

Zucchinis, Eggplants, Squash, Leaf Lettuce, Early Bird Tomatoes,

Yellow Pear Tomatoes and miscellaneous herbs.

Gardening has given me so much enjoyment. I didn't know growing your own food is so much fun!

DH and I will be eating zucchinis, eggplant and squash in the next few days. I harvested a couple of my bell peppers a few days ago and made some beef stir-fry with it. And it seems like every time I cut some of my lettuce from my Aero-Garden, they just keep growing back.

I am planning to have an SFG (Square Foot Garden) next year along with my EarthBox. I might even join a gardening club in Spokane!

Congrats Tex!

2008-07-21T21:01:00.003-07:00

Texas regulators have approved a $4.93 billion wind-power transmission project, providing a major lift to the development of wind energy in the state.

The planned web of transmission lines will carry electricity from remote western parts of the state to major population centers like Dallas, Houston, Austin and San Antonio. The lines can handle 18,500 megawatts of power, enough for 3.7 million homes on a hot day when air-conditioners are running.

The project will ease a bottleneck that has become a major obstacle to development of the wind-rich Texas Panhandle and other areas suitable for wind generation.

Read the full story here.

Congratulations Texas. Great move!

Zucchini

2008-07-19T17:46:00.003-07:00

For dinner tonight, I sauteed some zucchini from my garden with pork, onions, tomatoes and some herbs. It was yummy!

My garden is growing like crazy... I have tons of Ichiban eggplants, some of my grape tomatoes are starting to get pink and my bell peppers need to be harvested soon. My leaf lettuce are getting big and herbs are coming out of my ears. ;)

I love all these fresh produce coming from my garden. Gardening rocks!!!

73 Days!

2008-07-17T13:13:00.004-07:00

WHAT?!? You're probably wondering what happened to the other 14 days.

Well... while DH was out for his doctor's appointment Seattle HR called again and told me that he needed to call them back because the date got changed. When I mentioned that I was his wife and we knew that it was changed to Oct. 12, she said... "Well, his new pick-up date is now Sept. 28!"

GRRRR!!!

Fortunately, 80% of our boxes are still packed. Since, we were planning to do a "touch and go" here in CRW, we decided not to unpack everything.

I just finished talking and making reservation for the moving company. They will be here Sept. 29th to load and take everything. So, Tuesday, Sept. 30th were on our way out to Spokane, Washington!

Now, I just need to make airline & hotel reservations and get a rental car for Spokane. We're planning to go at the end of August to do a "marathon" house-hunting.

Of course there are still a lot of editing and packing to do. I'm getting stressed-out thinking about it.

87 days

2008-07-17T08:58:00.004-07:00

AUGHHHHHHH!?!?

DH just got off the phone with Seattle HR and they told him that his pick-up date for his job in Spokane is October 12th. That's 87 days from now!!! I really need to get busy!

Please, keep me in your prayers that I will use my time well and focus on the task at hand. I get so distracted easily when I'm packing, that I lose track of what I'm doing.

In Loving Memory

2008-07-14T17:05:00.000-07:00

Paul Rene Saunders
May 5, 1959 - July 14, 1997

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."
~Psalm 116:15

One of the worst days of my life

2008-07-13T00:02:00.007-07:00

Sunday, July 13, 1997 exactly eleven years ago today.

Some things I remember about this day:

It was an extremely hot day

I did not go to church - Paul and Autumn went

Paul made some sort of chili-pie for lunch

Paul had a "things-to-do list" - mow the lawn was on it

Someone else usually mow the lawn - I do not know why he decided to do it

He was going on a business trip the next day - maybe this was the reason why

I was in the garage doing the laundry - getting his clothes ready

I didn't hear the sound of the lawn mower

I went outside to check on him - I thought he was resting on the grass

Life as I knew it ended.

I'm So Excited!

2008-07-09T20:57:00.005-07:00

...and I just can't hide it
I'm about to lose control and I think I like it – Pointer Sisters

So, this afternoon DH found out that he got the job in Spokane. You can read more about it in details here.

I am so excited!!!

So much to do and there still so much I want to see around here. There’s a possibility that we can be out of here mid November. That’s only four months away! I was hoping that we can go back to Washington, DC before we leave the area. And I had plans for a Niagara trip for our anniversary but more than likely we’re going to go to Spokane for a few days to look for a house.

However, I am going to take advantage of my remaining time here in West Virginia and try to see as much as I can of the surrounding area.

Please keep us in your prayers that everything will go smoothly and there’s no SNAFU with the paperwork this time.

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-03T21:41:00.004-07:00

Just Another Day

2008-06-19T15:16:00.014-07:00

My apologies for the non-post! I've been busy with my "current obsession" at the moment, EarthBox gardening and Digital scrapbooking. Besides, there wasn't much exciting going on right now and I've been spending my online time reading about gardening and digi-scrapbooking.

But alas, when I woke up this morning and went out to the back deck to check on my veggies and herbs; look who I found hiding in the corner!

It's the Sneaky Gnome!!!

DH said he took pity on him and let him come home with him when he was out and about this morning. Besides, he said I really wanted to take him home the first time I saw him, so he did it for me! Isn't my hubby sweet? :)

So, I guess I'll let him stay outside and guard my tomatoes!

My container garden is growing like crazy. I have six varieties of tomatoes, two Ichiban Eggplants, three summer squash, three zuchinni, three different types of bell pepper and of course our herbs.

I can't wait until my veggies start producing! I'm planning to get 15 EarthBox for next year. So, if you're thinking of giving me a gift for my Birthday, Christmas, etc... an EarthBox gift would be perfect! ::wink wink::

Blogwear Design

2008-06-09T01:04:00.012-07:00

I'm really excited about learning and creating "blogwear". So far, I made two complete layout. The Winnie the Pooh layout is for DD. I'm not sure if she'll use it or not but I wanted to make something for her. It might be too cutesy for her taste.

If you want a new blogwear or a signature (like the one I have below) for your blog, let me know and I'll try and make one for you.

Sunday Roundup

2008-06-07T23:54:00.030-07:00

It was a good week. We got our “container garden” done. DH and I went to visit Capitol Market a couple of times this week to check for veggies and more herbs to plant. I discovered gardening with “Earth Box” a few days ago and we went to Beckley (closest dealer within 75 miles radius) on Saturday to buy one. It’s not cheap but I’ve read some great reviews about it so I decided to spend the money.

There’s another garden container similar to Earth Box called “Garden Box” it’s less expensive so I ordered one online as well. I’m going to experiment with both boxes and compare to see which one I like better. Next year, I plan to expand my “garden” beyond tomatoes, peppers and herbs. I was hoping to plant some leaf lettuce in the 2nd box but I found out its too late in the season. I ended up getting some summer squash and zucchinis instead.

These are some photos I got from the forum I visits so you can see what an Earth Box looks like. I’m excited about it; people plant all kinds of things using EB… from tomatoes to corn to strawberry to watermelon.

Patio Garden

Rooftop Garden

Rolling Garden

DH got busy working and imported his Wordpress blog to our own domain. The Thompson Chronicles site is looking good. If you have his blog linked, you might want to change the URL address. You can check his blog at the new digs.

I also got my first complete blogwear design finished for a friend. I used a digi-scrapbook kit I purchased to create the banner and the background. I learned to tweak the existing “Minima Template” from Blogger and it turned out nice.

Beginning next week, I’m going to start getting organized and edit more stuff to prepare for our move. We are either moving across town when we buy a house or across the country if he gets the job in Spokane, WA.

I hope you had a good week as I have.

Wordless Wednesday - DH in Caricature

2008-06-04T13:35:00.011-07:00

Before

After

A plug for the company

Wordless Wednesday - Sen. Obama my presidential nominee!

2008-06-04T11:21:00.006-07:00

Google Docs

2008-06-02T16:11:00.001-07:00

~~Testing 123~~ Hey it works! I'm checking out Google Docs, using it to write and post. So far I like it! You get 4 more extra fonts and there are more features, like ~~Strikeout.~~ I'm not really sure if I'll be using Google Docs much when posting on my blog. It's easy and very convenient to use my Dashboard, click "New Post" and I'm done!

Anyway, I guess I better get going... DH is going to be home soon!

Why do I blog? Let me count the ways!

2008-06-01T13:09:00.010-07:00

This week when there’s something fun, clever or sad that happened I find myself thinking “Oh, I need to blog that!” I remember the reason I started this blog, was to write about my trip to the Philippines.

So, here’s some random reasons of why I blog.

~ for my own personal pleasure and amusement
~ to connect with far away friends and love ones
~ to pass time and share my experience
~ to keep my friends and family stay informed of my life (in case any of them care!)
~ because it's fun

Those are just some of the reasons I am here; and if you, the reader, find something amusing or entertaining, then it's been twice the fun.

What about you? Please, feel free to share why you blog.

Cute Banner

2008-05-31T18:26:00.003-07:00

I was feeling creative today and made a new banner. DH suggested I should delete "one day at a time" since I only blog occasionally. I decided to incorporate both. I like it! :)

Green Stuff

2008-05-29T19:45:00.014-07:00

DH and I went to Capitol Market today to look at some plants. We weren’t really planning to do any “gardening” this summer. But, there were some heirloom tomatoes that sprouted and growing from our old container last year. So, we’ve decided to go ahead and plant some other things.

(Black Krim from our original tomato plant)

We purchased some herbs, bell peppers, a flower plant, more tomatoes and more herbs.

"please take me home!"

This little guy wanted me to take him home... but I decided to leave him there for now. I might come back for him one of this days!

I apologize for the bad photos... I used my Moto Q to take these pictures instead of my Cannon.

Memorial Day Remembered

2008-05-26T14:35:00.008-07:00

Caricature Portrait

2008-05-24T13:24:00.007-07:00

Look what I got in my inbox today! Wheeee!

I ordered this from a guy in Thailand. I think he did a great job! I'll spend some time later to design a new banner and look for my blog befitting my new cartoon.

What do you think? Does it look like me?

Strolling Down the Avenue

2008-05-22T22:10:00.030-07:00

No, it’s not me and my shadow, it’s me and my Dansko… clog that is.

I have always had a love affair with shoes… from ballerina flats to boots to stiletto heels. When I was younger, I chose fashion over comfort. Now, that I am older and wiser, I would rather be comfortable than fashionable.

I was first introduce to clogs the first year DH and I were in Alaska. He came home one day with a pair of Stegmann Woolfelt Clog as a gift for me. Apparently, one of the lady controller in Anchorage would come in to work and would change to her Stegmann’s and would rave how comfortable it was. So, he got me a pair! I didn’t really wear my Stegmann’s outside the house and mostly wore it at home as my house shoes.

One day at church, I noticed many of the women wearing this particular clog and I asked one of them what it was. She told me it was Dansko and that I could get them locally at Skinny Raven, one of the few specialty shoe store in Anchorage.

So of course, I asked DH to take me to Skinny Raven since I didn’t know where it was located. When we got to the store, I was surprised to find out how expensive the shoes are. But, when I tried on a pair, my feet were in heaven! They are the most comfortable shoes I have ever put on! We left the store with my first pair of Dansko stapled clog. I chose the “Professional” style in Cordovan Cabrio color, which is the dressiest style of all the clogs!

This is how I started my love affair with Dansko shoes.

I pretty much wear my Dansko 99% of the time. It is my choice of shoes for travelling especially if I am flying. You can slip in and out of it going thru the security screening at the airport. Moreover, if you are going to do a lot of walking, well there is just no other choice but my Dansko. Oh sure, I still wear other brand of shoes… I might wear them for a few hours for church, or if we have a “fancy” engagement and my clogs just doesn't match that fancy dress.

Just a little background about Dansko: A couple from Pennsylvania was visiting Denmark and found these clogs from Sanita, a company in Denmark who has been making these clogs by hand for 100 years. This couple got the rights and patent to sell these clogs in the US and that is how they started Dansko, Inc.

I found out a few days ago that Sanita is no longer manufacturing the stapled clogs for Dansko. In August 2007, the contractual relationship between Dansko Inc. and Sanita has ended. Now some of the Dansko clogs are being made in China. I called Dansko today and let them know my disappointment and displeasure that my favorite shoes are now being manufactured in China.

I decided to look in eBay to see if I can get some of the “original” Dansko. Lo’ and behold I found Skinny Raven was selling some of their old stocks on eBay! I got a pair of the Professional in brown velour for a great price!

I know, I went on and on about my clogs! But if you have the most comfortable shoes on earth, wouldn’t you? I know these clogs are not the prettiest, but hey, my feet love them!

What about you? What’s your most favorite pair of shoes?

Wordless Wednesday - Beautiful Daughter

2008-05-21T12:31:00.005-07:00

Sunday Roundup

2008-05-18T14:09:00.012-07:00

Well, my weekend went sour this week. Our Friday plans to go to Buckhannon, WV for their Strawberry Festival was cancelled due to bad weather. It has been raining here all week. I was really looking forward to our little road trip. Festivals are so much fun! However, we did not get to go.

Then on Saturday, I decided to get a haircut and the woman who cut it, really “butchered” my hair. I am so mad! I even brought pictures of the “haircut” I want. So, there won’t be any confusion of what I really wanted. It's “Bob hairstyle” that's longer in the front and shorter in the back. Just like the photos below!

She told me to come back Monday so she can “fix” it. I DON’T THINK SO! There’s no way I’m going to let her anywhere near my hair again! Finding a good hairstylist is so much more difficult than looking for a good doctor.

At least our weekend wasn’t a total lost. DH and I went out for a Mexican food and then watched Music and Lyrics, (a movie starring Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant) at home.

I hope your weekend was better than mine was!

Wordless Wednesday - Then and Now

2008-05-14T12:24:00.012-07:00

Ten years ago...

Ten years later!

Obama Mama

2008-05-12T17:29:00.005-07:00

Tomorrow is WV Democratic Primary election. Senator Obama was here campaigning in Charleston today. I wanted to go see and listen to him speak. But, unfortunately there were limited tickets and wasn’t able to get one.

I have been following the democrat’s primary election and I’ve been reading all these various political blog sites. Let me tell you it’s much better than any soap opera on TV. It's just so interesting what people think and say about Obama and Clinton. Some of these supporters are very hard-core-just to die for their candidate.

Poll says he will lose WV. :(

I guess I might as well confess…

Mother's Day

2008-05-09T22:36:00.014-07:00

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day! We got the flowers ordered in time to be delivered today for my MiL. I didn't know what kind of flowers to get for her. She has a bunch of bulb type flowers like tulip in her big yard. So, we decided to go with a potted gardenia flower plant. I hope she likes it.

DH (dear husband) and I don’t have really anything plan for Mother’s Day. I’m always conflicted about what they call the “Hallmark Holidays” like Valentine’s, Mother’s and Father’s Days. And I’m not at all very good at sending cards… I always meant to send them; as a matter of fact I have two or three boxes of all sorts of greeting cards. I just never get around to sending any of it.

If you could have ANYTHING you wanted for Mother's Day, what would it be? Flowers? Chocolates? Jewelry? A day at the spa? Homemade cards from the kids? Handpicked flowers from the yard? Breakfast in bed? A lunch out at your favorite restaurant?

Well, whatever it is…I hope and wish you a happy Mother’s Day!

New Look!

2008-05-09T15:50:00.010-07:00

I got tired of the way my blog looked so I decided to revamp it. I hope you like the new look. I made the banner myself, it's my first creation so it's a little sloppy.

I also added some songs... enjoy!!!

My Kadesh Barnea

2008-05-01T14:19:00.010-07:00

My Kadesh Barnea
by Autumn R. Saunders

A place where I’ve wandered tired, alone
I’ve settled for less and tried to make it on my own.
Thirsty and broken I cry out unaware
The path I have chosen is now my despair.

This is my Kadesh Barnea.

A desolate land filled with compromise and fear
My vision was clouded by apathy… Tell me-how did I get here?
Wrong choices misled me, now tears fall down my face.
God I know you can save me, take me out of this place.

This is my Kadesh Barnea.

Away in the distance I hear your voice
You are waiting for me-I must make the choice.
A longing for restoration burns in my soul
Communion with the Creator can make me whole.

It is time to leave my Kadesh Barnea.

I cling to Your promise of living water and peace
I know abundant life is what you have for me
My anguish will cease.

Goodbye to my Kadesh Barnea.

Disclaimer:
I did not penned this poem. I was looking through some old files in my computer and found it in one of Autumn's old folder; I'm not sure if DD (darling daughter) wrote it or not. But, when I read it, I felt like the Holy Spirit was talking to me.

Please pray for me that I can leave and say goodbye to my own Kadesh Barnea.

P.S. I asked DD about this poem and she said she wrote it her freshman year at Whitworth University.

Philippines Update

2007-10-25T01:06:00.000-07:00

So much to say and I don't know where to start so I'm just going to write whatever comes to my mind.

After 2 days of travelling our flight was delayed in Taipei, Taiwan. When we got to MIA (Manila International Airport) Marty being a seasoned "Balikbayan" (what they call Filipinos who are visiting in the Philippines after living abroad.) We were able to zip thru customs without them even blinking an eye. The secret is she took all four passports and she picked one custom agent who's waving at her. She then puts some money, I think $5.00 inside the passport. Mind you we have 8 huge luggages weighing approximately 70 lbs. each, 8 carry ons and we were able to just go thru customs just like that. So, for $5.00 green bucks we were able to get out of the airport without any hassle.

When we got outside the door ( we had 2 Filipino men who took care of our luggage for $3.00, the airport people doesn't get paid, they strictly work for tips) I saw my two brothers right I way. I was able to recognized them with no problems. They didn't recognized me until they saw Marty. Along with my nephew Alex ( the driver) and Fernando ( my sister Gloria's house caretaker) picked us up.

Driving in Manila, Philippines is another topic on its own. Just let me tell you I had my eyes closed pretty much while we were in the city. It was a NIGHTMARE!!! I still haven't gotten used to the traffic here. I am sure that Philippines have traffic laws BUT noone is obeying them, at least from what I've seen so far. After we got out of Manila and were on the highway, it wasn't so bad. Traffic was light they told me, it was raining hard so the temperature was not as hot.

After an hour or so, Niece #1 (Marty) HAD to use the bathroom. I refused to go. I'm sure DH can tell you about my public restroom "petpeeve". When Niece #1 got out of the facilities she had that horrifed look on her face! She was about to tell me what it was like but I told her I did NOT want to hear about it! I'm just glad I was smart enough not to go! =)

Halfway thru our road trip, it was time for lunch! We stop at this one place near the highway. It was a pretty decent little restaurant and 'lo and behold there was a beautiful clean restroom right next to it. They refer to public restroom here as CR (for comfort room). So of course I had to take advantage to it since we still had a couple of hours of driving. They even had a CR attendant who works for tip as well. The only drawback with my first public restroom experienced is when I got inside the stall, there WAS NO toilet paper! NOT EVEN A TOILET PAPER HOLDER!!! I was shocked... what a girl to do?! ? It's a good thing Niece #2 (Angelina) came in. I guess you have to pay for toilet paper here. There was a vending machine at the far wall corner and I didn't see it! But enough of my public restroom experienced I am sure you didn't come to hear me whine about it here! ;)

Finally got in my Sis Gloria's abode. She has a beautiful home outside the city. Visited for a couple hours with my brothers and hit the sack. It was such a very long trip and I was exhausted. I woke up at 3 am hungry, my body still adjusting to Philippines timezone and there was this awesome food at the kitchen table just for us so, started eating by myself. I quite enjoyed it!

The next day (Wed., 10/24) was the day when all my relatives came to see me. It was such an emotional day for me, I still have a hardtime processing it. It was a happy time to see them but also such a sad time. Very hard to explain. But seeing them, meeting all the nieces and various cousins and their children, the way they live. I realized how fortunate and lucky I am. The disparity between the haves and have nots are unbelievable! There is no such thing as middleclass here in the Philippines.

That night when everyone left and in bed. I cried and cried for my family and relatives. I also realized how mundane some of the problems I complained about. How DH provides for me and Autumn, and I don't let him know as much as I should, how I appreciate him for being a good family provider. Thank you God and DH for providing for me in such an awesome way!

As you can "see" I was able to post an update. I wasn't able to use my laptop because the place with the WI-FI I was going to use wouldn't let me use their ISP. They said it's only for their guests. But I was told there was a cafe someplace in the city with a WI-FI hot spot. I will brave it one day to venture there. But for now, I am using this really old slow computer with a really slow connection. But I am not complaining, I'm just glad I can update you guys about my trip. I have tons of photos and lots of stories to tell, so stay tune and come back often.

My plan is to write my update everyday in my laptop and use my flashdrive to upload, so I don't have to stay at this internet cafe. The cafe is near the highway and there's a construction outside. The smell of the gasoline and the noise makes this a very unpleasant place.

I want to thank you for all your prayers and good wishes. Please kindly keep remembering in your quite time.

P.S.
DH, I wasn't able to get the money from WU today. I only brought my AK drivers license and assuming with that and knowing the "number code" you gave me was enough. But they didn't want to give me my $ So, tomorrow I will bring my passport and AK drivers license.

Travel Day

2007-10-21T08:37:00.001-07:00

Day 1
This is it! I'm leaving for LA via Cleveland in about an hour. The Nieces and I will meet at LAX tonight for our flight from LA-Taipei-Manila around 11: 00 pm.

Please kindly remember us in your prayers. Pray for safe travels, that we won't have any issues with TSA and that we would have an awesome time with our family.

DH just told me that my plane from CRW is a 19 seat passenger. Yikes! I've never been in a small airplane.

See yah!

Driving Miss August

2007-10-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

(hmmm... dirty windshield!)

DH and I went for a drive to Clarksburg (about 120 miles from *CRW). It was a beautiful day, with clear sky. A little windy for my taste though. We had lunch at Las Trancas, it's pretty decent Mexican Restaurant in Clarksburg. All in all it was a very enjoyable day with DH.

CRW is Charleston Airport identifier, after almost 9 years of being married to an ATC I'm learning to speak their language or at least trying to anyway.

Nothing much.

2007-10-16T14:22:00.001-07:00

Nothing much to say today. Just wanted to post the most recent photo I have of me and DD.

My photoshop skill is really bad ! =(

This and that...

2007-10-14T21:34:00.000-07:00

It's been busy around here. After getting of all DH (dear husband) clothes laundered and pressed. I got a phone call from DD (darling daugther). We talked for hours until her guy friend from Iraq called. It was really nice just talking with her.

I'm almost packed! I purchased these packing cubes online and they're really nice. Now when security goes through my luggage, my clothes won't be all over the place. Still have a long list of things I need to get from the store. Also, I need to get my manicure, pedicure and brow wax done. After all they haven't seen me for almost 30 years and I want to look my best! =)

DH told me that I'm just like a cat when I want attention. I start rubbing my head on him and make him stop whatever he's doing, coz I want attention NOW! I laughed so hard because I realized he was right.

Weather here is getting cooler. I'm finally feeling like it's fall. We didn't get much rain this summer and it's been really hot until a week ago! People are saying we might not get good foliage. I hope not. I'm really looking forward to a "real fall" with lots of orange and golden colors.

10 days and counting!

2007-10-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

I have 10 days to get ready for my trip! So many things to do. I think I have most everything I need/want to take with me.

Doug will be in Pittsburgh, PA next week for 5 days for an FAA conference/training. I won't be going with him since his coming back the day before I leave for the Philippines. I wanted to stay home and make sure I am well prepared for my big trip. I would have love to go to Pittsburgh, but since he will be working all day and his Manager is going as well, I decided not to go.

We plan to do some week-end road trips when I get back in November. I would love to see the foliage in the fall. They say it's beautiful!

Pinay Expat

2007-10-09T00:26:00.000-07:00

After almost three decades I will be going back to the Philippines for the very first time. I am so excited. I left when I was 18 years old and I don't really know what to expect. So I'm going with an open mind and heart.

My three nieces Marty, Angelina and Mary Jane are travelling with me. My older sister Gloria and her husband will join us at a later date. We're planning to stay for four weeks so we can do alot of "touristy" things and spend some time visiting with my family.

They don't know that I'm coming so it will be a big surprise to my brothers and the rest of the family! I'm really excited! I will be bringing my laptop, so I can write about my trip and post some pictures.

Here I am!

2007-10-08T23:28:00.005-07:00

After joining many different forums, Myspace and of course meeting my husband in ICQ Christian group many moons ago. I decided to go ahead and create my own blog.

So friends and family, welcome to my "web log"! I will try to make this blog interesting with my ramblings and photos.