Backyard Playground for Children

Playground makes the kids happy and oh, who wouldn't right? I remember my childhood days where seeing a slide, a seesaw and a swing set truly delights my day. Children loves to go to a playground where they can run freely, play in the sandbox and get crazy with monkey bars. How exciting that would be if parents have all the time to bring their children to the playground but, we all know, that's not the case.

If you have a big yard, how about contacting the playground equipment raleigh nc? Above is just an example of a playground built to a family. As we can see, the playground is located down the slope and they really make a good use of the space down below. It was built perfect I should say but, if they have small kids, they can't allow the kids to play here on their own for safety precaution. I guess the children in this family are a bit older, I assumed.

My Wish for 2014: These are Few of my Favorite Things

These are few of my favorite things. Just thinking out loud that my finances in 2014 will zoom to a "quick-paced". I have listed here the things that I would love to have in the year of the horse (Chinese Zodiac). Our Buick Rendezvous has been good to us for so many years now. Our old trucker has gone for good so; if ever we need a new car, it would be the Buick Enclave. Buyers of this car gave excellent ratings for comfort, safety, exterior styling, value, reliability, performance, and interior design. Since we love our Buick Rendezvous, an upgrade to Buick Enclave will be a great option for us.

We live near the beach so; if having a boat is too much of a hassle, a jetski would do the trick and besides, it is affordable to have this baby. A jetski can stay in the garage while the boat, a storage facility is needed and that can drain a family budget on a monthly basis. A jetski is so easy to drag when it's time to hit the beach. Look at this great looking toy, isn't it gorgeous?

We are moving back to the gulf coast in 2014 and we will sell our house here in the space coast. We are praying that we will find the right home for us. Okay, here is my dream home. It is alright to dream right? How awesome to live in a house like this. Perfect. But, it will be nicer if my family in the Philippines will be able to live with me here in the US. A wishful thinking.

Lastly, I don't really need all those material things above. I wish to have those things but, what is important to me really .... is what I currently have this year:
 

My husband.
My friends back home.
My friends and family here who constantly call us to check on us.
My Mom, Brother and his family, My Aunt and her family and my relatives.

There is nothing I want next year but, GOOD HEALTH for me and all those I mentioned above. Nothing is important to me than to see their happy faces in great state of health. I pray that next year, I will find a stable job that I love so that; I can continue to support my family back home. I pray that GOD will continue to bless us with GOOD HEALTH today and always. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to each and everyone of you. I will be seeing you next year right? Hugs to y'all.

Heated Mattress Pad

How's the weather in your place today? I know that up North is snowing but down here in the South, we have a fair weather. That is the reason I love winter time in Florida. It's going to be cool as if the AC has been turned on outside but, no snow at all. 

Sometimes, it is freezing here too that is why we have a heated mattress pad. We seldom use it but, each rooms in the house have it in the closet if in case we need it. If you live up North, you should have a heated mattress pad to achieve that comfy and sweet sounding sleep each night.

New Look Using Duck Tape

When I was at the garage yesterday, I saw an old decorative frame that we have and it was stored there for a year collecting dust. I thought of giving it a new look but how? Earlier, hubby and I went to Wal-Mart and I saw in the aisle of school supplies a duck tape. I am so fascinated with so many colors of this brand. Actually, I never knew they have different designs until that time and so; I bought one roll.

This is the original look of the frame and my Duck Tape is ready.

I measured the length of each sides and cut the duck tape equivalent to it's length. In less than 10 minutes, I got the new look that I wanted.

This is an easy craft project and does not take much of my time. Try it. Check out your storage room, garage, basement and find something interesting. Make over it using duck tape. Have fun!

10 Beautiful Bathroom Inspiration/Designs

A while ago, I was browsing photos on the web and trying to find inspiration for bathroom make over. One year after we moved to our new home, I have issues regarding the paint color, accessories and the size of the master bathroom. There is no solution regarding the size unless we knock the walls and extend. That is not the option at the moment. Stretching the dollar for a soothing and refreshing bathroom oasis is attainable by selecting the right size vanity and accessories; light fixtures; beautiful tile patters; nice bathroom countertops; and the paint colors. From the many hours of watching HGTV, those tips have grown on me. Here are 10 beautiful bathroom inspiration and some of the must-try DIY's project that I have in mind:

Bathroom Paint Color

The paint color is a powerful design tool and it's easy on the budget. It can make the room calm, dramatic, soothing, cheerful and comfortable. I must admit, we have a boring bathroom in the master's bedroom. It has outdated shower area with lavender and white colors; has old lighting fixture, tiny and has a pedestal sink which I really do not like at all. As I said, we have a boring bathroom maybe because of the white paint around it. Thank goodness that paint companies offer paint collection which is truly helpful. I went ahead and check Lowe's and Home Depot, they got it on display so; creating a cohesive color palette is now easy.

Check these bathrooms and tell me, do you like the colors? Which is your favorite?

Bathroom Light Fixtures

A well-lighted room is important for it creates the comfort and style. Lighting fixtures surely improve and enhance the efficiency and design of the bathroom. Adding a functional and fashionable lighting fixture will definitely make the bathroom relaxing and have that soothing ambiance in it. Check all the photos in this post. Which lighting fixture would you choose?

Bathroom Backsplash

Backsplash truly helps create a spa-like bathroom ambiance. Let me ask you, would you like a mosaic tile? Well, go ahead and check out these bathrooms. You may find the inspiration. Backsplash is available in many shapes, colors, and styles. The selection is endless but, the backsplash below is my best preference. The clean white and black in horizontal pattern create elegance.

The photo below is simple but has the calm ambiance to it. It has double sinks which are great to have in the master's bathroom.

This is a powder room with bold green colors. Do you like it?

Now, check out this bathroom. This is such a spa-like comfort isn't it? Do you like the lighting fixture? How about the color? Would you change anything in this room? I wouldn't change a thing but, I can add a huge rain shower in the shower room. What a relaxing space this is.

I love the tiles in the photo below but, I am not a fan of the light fixture. We had that in my FIL's old house. It is hard to clean that's why.

Take note that all photos here are not mine. Anyway, last but not the least, check the photo below and take a look at the shower area. The big rain shower is a must have if we renovate the bathroom. I love that! The backsplash is nice but, I will pick a different color. I am not a big fan of the blue lighting fixture on the vanity area either. If you will change something in this room, what would it be?

I'm glad to see the design and style of these bathrooms. I now have an inspiration on what to do and what accessories to add to make our bathroom functional, comfortable and relaxing to use. Until next and thanks for stopping by.

Seize the Moment: Go Out and Have Fun

I was doing yard work the other day and I always have my camera in handy if in case I saw something awesome to capture. Then, I saw this beautiful creature. You know, life is too short. Let us learn to appreciate all the good things and the comfort that we have right now. The gift of life itself is already a blessing.

Though we may have something that is impossible to have or wishes that is impossible to realized ... but, time will tell. Let the Creature Above takes control of our lives and let us continue to live a happy and contented life. Things happen for a reason and as long as we breathe, let us strive to be happy and pray to God to make us strong amidst the trials that we have right now. God loves you and I know in my heart, someone out there cares and love you more than you know.

Have a good one today and cast your burden away. Just like this butterfly, spread your wings and inspire others by showing them that though you are vulnerable and weak, you have God to lean on who is mighty and powerful. Do not spend your day worrying but, go out and have fun. We live one day at a time so; today is a blessing that we should enjoy. We don't know what tomorrow comes so; seize the moment. Thanks for stopping by.

Happy Mother's Day Mama

What have you got for your mother this year? Your time with her is worth more than enough. If you have the money, give her something she likes. I talk to my mom everyday on Skype. Yep, everyday for the last 5 years. There are days that we skip talking on line but, I made sure that I call her on the phone to inform her where I was. My mom is the most important person in my life and my husband knows that.

A year ago, I treat my brother and his family for a week trip to Manila, Philippines and booked their hotel at Bayview Park Hotel. It was their anniversary and my brother's birthday. Of course, my mom was with them too. They went to the Manila Ocean Park shown in the photo below :-) I never been here you know :-) I was only at the gate when I visited this place.

 
Here is my mom in her usual mood. Charming and serious hehehe.
 

Look at her strides LOL ... she's wearing her red strips and white capri pants. Excited to see what's in Enchanted Kingdom.

I think this is in Museo Pambata. Look at little Nadeen beside her , both of them are tiny :-) .

Here they are on the last day of their Manila vacation at the Mall of Asia. They're just lounging and preparing to have lunch. Ready for their flight back to Cagayan de Oro City.

Here they are ... taking wacky photos LOL.

Even though I am not there with her, she is surrounded with friends and neighbors who treasured her friendship. Most young neighbors in our village calls her Nanay or Lola which means "mother" and "gradma".

Here is another wacky pic with mama and my brother LOL.

This is in Intramurous, Manila a tourist destination in the Philippines. This is the oldest district and historic center of Manila. This place is known as the Walled City and was the seat of the Spanish government during the Spanish colonial period. The walled part was called intramuros, which means "within the walls".

 

Here they are again... the "I was there photo" moment LOL. This vacation is significant because its their first time to travel to Manila together. First time for my brother and the kids. With the wife , countless. With mom? Maybe this is her 4th time.

  

Even if I am not there with her, my friends take time to check my mom from time to time. I was lucky to have friends who are so loving and caring. It was actually my birthday and they surprised me for this. My mom was there to say thank you for the effort.

  

My brother and I are so grateful, lucky and thank God for having you mom. We wish you all the good health and we pray that God bless you more years of good health. I wish for the day that you and I will be together with me here in the US. I love you mom.

Lilly the Ladybug From Zoobies.com

As a blogger, one of the activities that I did this month was sending a pitch letter to companies. I made 15 pitch letters and all companies replied positive. I was overwhelmed! First product that arrived on our doorstep was from Zoobies.com and boy, I am like a child. I was thrilled and loving their stuff toy. What was surprising for me was their stuff toys have a dual purpose. It is a toy and a blanket. Moms and dads, you should get this toy for your children. See the face of my niece? She was so happy isn't she? She lives in U.K. and because she is doing well in school, I thought Lily the Ladybug is a good companion when she is doing a homework.

I am a child at heart and a stuff toy like this truly melts my heart. Look at the face of Lily the Ladybug, isn't it cute? Much as I wanted to keep this for myself, there is a pretty face in UK who is waiting for Lily's arrival hehehe. I am so glad that I send Lily to her because look at that angelic face, I can almost hear her giggling and laughing. You bring so much joy Lily the ladybug (wink).

Would I recommend this item? Sure! If you want to buy any product at Zoobies.com, you will get a 20% discount if you use the code: Parenthood. Check out my review and giveaway post of Lily the Ladybug: HERE. Thanks for stopping by.

JOIN HERE : a Rafflecopter giveaway

Marriage: For Better or Worse

Weddings are always a happy event! Remember the excitement, pressure, the arguments, compromises and fights during the planning and all? I bet you had those moments one way or the other but, on wedding day, it always happens in a snap. Before you knew it, it's done! What's left are the memories of how you hurdle the odds to make it a successful and blissful event. Check out this interesting info graphic about weddings and tell me, is dowry system still being practice in your country?

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For centuries, Dowry system has been one of the controversial topics being debated. Parents wanted for what's best for their daughters and they seek for men who are stable, secure and good provider for their daughter's future. In modern civilization do you think dowry still exist? Are you in favor of dowry? I can't imagine how horrible it must be for young brides in early days having to put up with the norms and tradition of the society. What if the man she truly loves can't afford to pay the dowry? Or, what if the man who provides high-priced dowry did it for status symbol and not because of love? Brides will be doomed in sadness don't you think? Anyway, as long as the man is a good provider, respects and loves his family, these are the most important characteristics for success in marriage.

Extraordinary Woman on Mother's Day

She is my strength and I owe everything that I have become to my mother. She is a single mom to my brother and I. I have seen her struggles to make a living. Me, being the youngest was tagged along wherever she goes. She worked as a saleslady as I was growing up. It is the only job that she can have...after all, she only finished up to third grade in elementary. My grandpa who came from a Spanish descent told her that women stays at home to take care of the family so; education is good for men only, the provider of the family. She cried rivers when she was forbidden to go to school. Mama was our first teacher. My brother and I skip nursery and kindergarten, and learning to read and write was easy, thanks to Mama.

She was a saleslady for so many years and when that company bankrupt, gone was her source of income. She was worried but, I never saw her gave up! I never saw her cry and worried. Not until I was in high school. Education is very important to her so; she wanted to enroll us in the best school in the city but, she can no longer afford that. To make ends meet, she accepted doing odd jobs and I go with her and helped her out.

My uncle took my brother away from us and send him to a nice school. Washing the nastiest laundry of other people was heart-breaker. But, we did it every time my tuition is coming. I did good in school so; in college, I was accepted in Xavier University, the most prestigious school in the city and my mother was so happy. It was like a fulfillment of her own dreams.

My cousin got married and have kids so; they asked my mother to helped them out...in return, they will pay for my one semester in college. My mother took the offer and I, once again tagged along with her.

If not for a hard working mother, I will not finish my education. If not for her dreams, I could never aim higher. If not for her, I could have wasted my life feeling sorry of the life we have had.

A single mother who hurdle odd jobs was able to send her two children in Xavier University was truly an extraordinary woman. I have my own struggles at school ... financially ... so did my brother but, we graduated with good grades. Thanks to Mama, the source of our strength, our inspiration, and the pillar of our dreams.

Life is Great

I have a niece back home and she is 3 years old. Her parents were discussing about sending her to school. But, private schools are expensive for parents with minimum wage earnings. Probably they will wait for nursery. I talked to my mother last night that is why I know about it. Education is really important and I am happy that my cousins are considering the thought of early schooling for their daughter.My mother is a single parent working in one of the movie theaters in our city. As far as I remember, I grew up playing in the facade of the movie theater like the picture above. Since it was located along the busy streets, I would sit in one corner or at the bottom of the stairs with a book on my lap and just copy the plate number of the passing motor vehicles. That's how I learn Math LOL. I learn to count money when I helped my mother in the canteen of the movie theater. You know how busy it is when people buys snacks after every movie right? Well, during those years, the movie has a double.

Anyway, it's nice to remember the memories of our younger days. I enrolled for first grade skipping the nursery and kindergarten. I had no problem with writing and reading. I am an average student. Between my brother and I, he is the intelligent. He always got medals. My mother and I were laughing the whole time when we recall those days. She remember that I love wearing shorts and T-shirts, that I cry all the time when I have my haircut, and that I hated wearing dress. Our life is hard and we struggled to meet ends meet but, my mother managed to send us to school. In fact, to a university. Both my brother and I were able to finish college and we have a degree from a prestigious school in the country! Life is great because God is good to us and we rely on Him the whole time.

Prescription Glasses

My aunt complains about her headaches but, she felt it was centered and triggered around her eyes. She thought she had an ocular disorder and she did. Eyestrain is normal for her because she is a seamstress and works late at night. But, lately she was having a hard time focusing on her work because she tire easily and constant experiencing headaches too. So, she went to an optical clinic and got a prescription glasses. The Optometrist told her to rest and gives a little time to relax her eyes. The family suggested that she had to quit working. As far as I know, she did stop working and decline some customers. They are sad to know that she retired from being a seamstress but they understand her situation. My aunt is recovering well and her headaches eventually gone. I was actually thinking to buy her an extra pair of glasses from Zinni Optical Clinic because online customers recommended it. It was affordable and their glasses are quality made. They have a $6.95 prescription glasses, what an awesome price right? I am currently waiting for the information about the prescription type of my aunt as well as the PD, Lens, anti-reflection coating, lens tint and many more. Can't wait to buy her a new pair of glasses.

Happy Birthday Kuya

When I was in Elementary, I attended the best Public School in the city. I can remember my first grade teacher, Mrs. Canedo who patiently taught us how to read. Mrs. Balarrias was my second grade teacher who taught me how to write in cursive form. On my third grade, I can't remember her name but, I remember her face and her personality being so gentle. My fourth grade teacher, Mrs. de la Cruz who was very charming. Then, I transferred school on my Intermediate level. Here is my nephew, studying in the same school where my brother and I once studied for 4 years and 6 years. My nephew is the second generation in the family, studying in the same school. When he took the exam for first grade, he rank number 2 among hundreds of pupils and he immediately chosen as one of the pupils for Science class. Now on his third grade, he was active in class as well as extra curricular activities.
We have no Science Class in our time, that was in the late 70's but, we do have first section in each level. The accomplishment of my nephew being in the Science class already brings pride to us. My nephew is active but, sometimes he complains that he had no time to play. He loves school and he likes to study but, since this is the generation of technology, he is also addicted to computer games. That is the biggest distraction to his studies.
Today is his birthday and his wish is to have a McDonalds birthday party at school and a birthday party at home for family and friends. Not bad so; his wish was granted.
These pictures were taken by his mom during their ethnic presentation at school.

Happy Birthday Kuya and be a good boy always. Education is important so; aim high!

Just A Game We Play

I had fun times when we live in Mississippi for almost two years because my husband has a huge family there. The younger generation loves to play GAMES either in a console or online and they drag me to their activities. The teenagers are the ones who introduce me to many Dress up Games and all of us in the family loves to compete how long can we hold on to our position. It was just a game we play and we had fun memories of that. My father-in-law had this wifi ready 50 inch HD TV and everyone of us gathered in the living room to play. Playing games bring us closer and we had a good time. Every family should have a Quality bonding time and this is just one of those.

Barbie Dolls and Toy Cars

Back home, my niece requested another set of Barbie Doll. She specifically made mention this: no curly haired barbie:-). I asked why since both of us had wavy hair style. She said curly haired barbies are hard to fix and she requested more accessories too. Children have simple comforts to make them happy. This is hard to ignore right? :-)

My nephew and I shared the same interest------>CARS! I found this in BJ's Wholesale Club for only $15.00 for 50 pcs. It's truly a good deal! My nephew was so excited to see it on cam and he can't wait.
Well, my eldest nephew who is 10 years old loves books and Reader's Digest. I know, he is the type who loves to read Encyclopedia than coloring books, LOL. He loves to learn and I am so proud of him.

May 21, 2011: End of the World

When I was in High School, I was terrified to read about the apocalypse and that the world will end soon. Almost 3 decades passed, I am still reading about the end of the world but, I am not terrified anymore. I just shrugged the news!I read about the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse in one of the magazines that I read. Based in the last book of the New Testament of the Bible called the Book of Revelation, is about the four beasts that ride on white, red, black, and pale horses which each symbolize Conquest, War, Famine and Death. In the Christian apocalyptic vision is that the four horsemen are to set a divine apocalypse upon the world as harbingers or forerunners of the Last Judgment.Do you think we are seeing the apocalypse at this point in time? I snagged these pictures from google showing the catasthropic event happened in Japan. Do you think the earthquake happening this year is a sign that the world will end soon?
"MAY 21st Doomsday Movement" claims that on May 21 will be the rapture day or the Judgement Day. Look around you now! Do you think the world will end on Saturday? Or the Maya's prediction perhaps is true?May 21st Doomsday Movement say that Oct.21,2011 is the end of the world! 200 million of the people will just rapture on Saturday! Do you think this world will end so soon? If you ask me? NAH! This world is too beautiful to end on Saturday! Spread love everyone! Keep praying and stay close to your love one! This world is endless when we are with our family that we love, right?

Play Station Move

I must admit that I am just lucky to have all the gadgets that I needed to have my family activities exciting and fun. Did you know that the oldest member of my family who played with us is my father-in-law who is 90 years old? He loves to play golf and he was unbeatable in bowling. Our gaming experiences with him was all fun memories. Big thanks to all these modern gadgets which really gives impact to families by providing total entertainment at home. My dad passed away few months ago but, his last moments with us were full of fun every time he challenged everybody to play against him. I bet he will be delighted to buy this latest Play Station 3 System. He would try any games available and if it is too hard for him, he keeps the console for the family gaming activities which he loves to brag in a good way. Our evening activity after dinner was "gaming night" and he would practice before the showdown. We love sports game and playing this really bonded the family big time. It was real fun and happy memories. We missed him but, those moments lingered with us forever. Games are truly addictive but, when family gathers around, playing together and having a good laugh, the outcome is great. It can really create a quality time. How about you?

Hair Cut Day

Back home, it is so easy to find a barber. My cousin Christopher is a gifted barber and so; he service clients in their home at a minimal amount. Sometimes, it's FREE. It is different here in the US. You will spend as much as $25 to get a barber cut. A year ago, my husband asked me to cut his hair. Without experience and just for an experiment, I decided to cut his hair to save 25 bucks. That's how I became a barber....bow!LOL!

Today, my first customer (LOL) is my father-in-law and we used our kitchen as my makeshift barber shop, reason: freezing cold outside, lol. Anyway, I took a picture to show you guys how messy his hair was.

In less than 30 minutes, here it is. He is 90 years old but, looks like 50 after the hair cut, hahaha. How's that? The owner of this messy hair is my dearest husband, my second customer for the day!Wooo!

He got long and wavy hair that has a mind of its own. Curly and wavy type of hair tend to sway on its own and hard manage when you cut it.

After few minutes of nipping, my Conair hair cutting tool helper did magic.

He looks younger than I am, hehehe.

Here is the look after!