On retirement

Time flies so fast and at our age, we should already be thinking of retirement while we are still strong and able to work. A month ago, I just finished reading the book, 8 Secrets of the Truly Rich by Bo Sanchez. That book was truly an eye opener for me and I truly recommend everyone to read this book especially those that are working, employed or self-employed.

I have heard stories of people who have been working hard all their life only to know that they don't have anything for their old age. I guess that's my greatest fear. Although I believe that I taught my kids well that they will not abandon me when I grow old, that will be too much to ask for my children.

For now, everything that we do is invest, hoping that in the future, we will reap all the fruits. You do not prepare for retirement, when you are old. You prepare TODAY so that you will have something in the future.

I just pray that everything will fall into place... so by that time we get old, we can enjoy life, have fun with our grand kids. Just literally live a happy and contented life ....


~~~
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Consolidating my stuff

Just recently and in time for the Chinese Lunar New Year, I did some spring cleaning. Just like when I was in a corporate office, I always give some time for administrative stuff. It's my way of getting re-organized. These included backlog filing of document, cleaning my home-office desk, and since I am entering a new business I have to give way for the new files to be placed.

In time management sessions, they will tell you that if you want to accomplish more in less time, you need to organize your office and work-life. It does not matter if you are in a corporate office or a home office, organization will increase your productivity.

It does really makes in practical point view. Let's say you're trying to look for something and when you are not organized, it will take so much time to find which will drain your energy and lessen your productivity.

As for my home-office, I love to consolidate stuff into manageable number of items. Instead of looking for a gazillion number of items, I have lesser places to look for. I just hate clutter that's why I love boxes like those apluswarehouse storage cabinets, where you can keep all your files organized.

So, organize and consolidate your stuff.. it's a good way to start the year!

Laptop conking...

Mid of last year when I realized that my laptop's battery seems to be getting shorter life. it's actually my fault. I should not plug it while in use to preserve its life. Oh well, now my laptop's battery has conked out!

Sad, sad, sad.... I tried looking for battery replacement and was surprised at how expensive it is.

Now, I am seriously thinking of replacing the whole thing. A more powerful laptop. Problem with technology nowadays, they just upgrade so fast. When I bought my laptop, I thought I had the power I need. Now there are more advanced features.

Oh well, I should probably search for good deals on laptops. I'm sure I can find one these days.

Eager to start anew

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I just came from a New Year's weekend in Boracay, and I was so revved up to start the New Year. I woke up this morning with all the To-do Lists on my head... I was so inspired  to get up and accomplish what I needed to do.

And so I went with my day....

But as the morning progress, I can already feel the itchy throat, the runny nose and the headache. Why is this happening? I guess my allergies acted up as we landed in Manila with the thick air pollution left by fireworks. "Kung kelan naman New Year ganito pa nararamdaman ko!" That's what all I can say. The mind is willing but the flesh is weak. Sometimes you really need to give in and so I rested half of the day and gave myself anti-histamines. I slept early and prayed that tomorrow would be a better day.

But the following day was no different but I managed to wake up did a bit of exercise, heard mass (it's First Wednesday!), bought my daughter's book, and did the grocery. After all that, I already felt my knees getting weak. So again, I have to give in and take a nap.

As I write this post, I gave myself a pat in the back for having the strength to write. I have to get an inspiration somewhere so I won't be too hard on myself for not being strong enough to do what I needed to do. Maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something... and as I browse my facebook page, I saw Bo Sanchez' page and this message struck me.

No Matter What Trials Come, Keep Doing The Good You’re Supposed To Do

Alright, this is just a stumbling block but no one can stop me from accomplishing the things I need to do.

Acts of immaturity

A few days before Christmas and our country once again faced another disaster, as floods brought about by Tropical Storm Sendong killed thousands, hundreds were missing and a lot more families were displaced. These families were not able to celebrate Christmas the way they should be. It was however heartwarming to see on the news, that people still find time to attend the "Midnight Mass" on Christmas Eve and celebrated Christmas in the simplest way they can.

 As an ordinary citizen, the amount I have donated and the clothing I have donated may seem little but I know however small it can be, it can go along way.

Today as I heard mass, I have offered my prayers once again for these families that they may find strength in the Lord to get up despite the tragedy in their lives. In the homily, the priest reiterated the "Feast of the Holy Innocents"... that still in these modern times, the innocent children are the one suffering from the immaturity of the adults. He cited abortion for instance, child labor and of course, the floods in Mindanao. The devastation brought about by the flash floods were attributed mainly to illegal logging. You can actually see the logs going along the strong current and smashing whatever is on its way. It's sad to know that these people have engaged into such irresponsible business venture only thinking of filling up their pockets without seeing the bigger picture. How bad is that? This tragedy is not the wrath of Mother Earth, it's the action of immature, thoughtless and inconsiderate people.

As we teach our children to help Mother Earth by practicing the 3Rs -- reduce, reuse, and recycle, they can now see that there are people who are really irresponsible and selfish. As a child, even before the 3R term was coined, my mom has taught us to do composting. It's fun! I however, cannot practice it today since I do not have a piece of land which I can use.

I wonder if those indoor kitchen composter truly works? All I know is that this piece of equipment can help you to quickly make compost indoors, using fermentation. I should make an effort to do more research on this. It doesn't only help in building up healthy soil, you are also helping Mother Earth in the little way you can.

The most wonderful time of the year

Despite the recent tragedy that struck the country, where thousands died and lost their loved ones, the Christmas spirit never dies. As Norman Vincent Peale said, "Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful."

Today as I came home, I got a hug from my son and he told me that he wants to fast forward the time, so he can unwrap the gifts. I would have stopped him and remind him all about the people suffering in Mindanao but I had to cease and take a pause. I just had to let him be a child ...Christmas may be many things for a lot of people but for a kid like my son, it's the joy is each new toy.

I know that I have raised my children to be sensitive to other people's needs, I have reminded them to help in any little way they can. It's Christmas time and my wish is that Peace and Happiness be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through!

Gifts Delivered!

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

Yes, despite the fact that we are not endowed with material wealth, every year, for some reason, we still find the way to give gifts this time of the year. It's like the miracle of the fish and bread.

Three days before Christmas and almost all of the gifts under the tree are delivered. The only ones left are those for the family which we will be opening the Eve of Christmas.

Just like a kid, I can't wait for Christmas day to see all those bright eyes as they open their gifts. I can only imagine those families who have relatives abroad, awaiting their Balikbayan boxes knowing that there something special in store for them to open for Christmas. Good thing there are commercial truck tracking nowadays, which makes it easier for the receiver and the giver to track their shipment.

 As for the Christmas girl, the joy giving gives me so much fulfillment.

My young man

As the voice gets deeper, the shoulder broads, and the mood swings, I know that my little boy is now a young man.

We recently attended a recollection in preparation my boy's recollection and I have to keep my tears to myself knowing that he is fast growing. First, it was my daughter now it's my boy's turn to step into puberty. Oh, how time flies!

It was not long ago, when I used to cradle them in my arms, give them their bath, and prepare everything for them, now they have choices of their own. All I can do is just be there to guide them and lend a hand whenever they need it. I remember how they would call my name, just to climb up sturdy step stool just and brush their teeth. Now, they are both taller than me.

After a short business trip early this year, I remember my son asking me, "What happened Mom? Did you get shorter?" I could only laugh in reply. I must admit his growth spur was a lot faster than most of his classmates but I still feel that he is my baby and I am very vocal in reminding him that. Well, despite my hubby's disagreement, I still "baby" him in a lot of ways. You can't take that out of me. He's my youngest and I am cherishing each moment when he still allows himself to be beside me all the time for soon he will have wings and fly on his own.

Thanksgiving day

In the US today, they are celebrating Thanksgiving Day although it's not a big thing here in the Philippines, I was surprised that even the malls are celebrating it. I was at the mall to buy some stuff for my hubby and was surprised at how many people there are... it was a Thursday and not even a payday! As I go inside the mall, I saw the sign: Thanksgiving Day Sale! and so I proceeded. It was actually a good thing for me since I got all my items at 5% off, no matter how minimal the discount is, it's still a bargain. Thank you!

Everyday, it has been my habit to thank the Lord for another wonderful day. Hopeful that the day would bring so much prospect and productivity. Despite life's ups and downs, I can say that it has been a good ride for me and my family. Hard work and a lot of faith is the perfect combination that has given us the courage get into the game of life. We may not have all the riches in the world, but we have our family, relatives and friends who have been there to support us and that is the most valuable treasure we keep.

I have been so blessed! I remember there were times when I feel all the blessing that I want to document them by collating photos or even turning them into videos. That's the "emo" in me. I was reminded of a time after our first ever out of town trip as a family, I did a video for my friends and family to see. An acquaintance, after seeing the video, asked, "What's the video for?" I laughed and replied, "Nothing. I just wanted to document everything." He must have thought I was a weirdo for doing so, LOL! That time, I had to bring my laptop everywhere so they can see. Now you have youtube downloader, Facebook and other site in which you can share these moments to your friends and family even if they are miles away.

I prefer to look at everything as a blessing, no matter how small they are. That is probably why I keep on going each and every day. Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Into health and wellness

People nowadays are more conscious about health and wellness, that includes me. Even people from the pharmaceutical companies admit that the more and more people are buying health supplements (even without therapeutic claims) to help them obtain the optimum health. I personally see this as a good sign that more and more people are now mindful of their health. As the old adage goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

I have known of some people who are going through certain heath condition and refuse to do anything with it even at an early stage. Soon, their health deteriorates leaving him and his family suffering. I sometimes just don't get the point. For instance, if you know that you are suffering from hyperthyroidism, have it treated before it gets more complicated. There are a lot of treatments available, whether it is traditional or alternative medicine. Search for hypothyroid treatment austin news and you can see individualized treatment plan based on your specific test results. Bottomline, do something about it!

The young generation are not only mindful of their health but also are fitness buffs. That is why there is an influx of fitness gyms, yoga studios and even health spas. The wellness bandwagon is on the run!

With the environment deteriorating and most of the foods we eat are processed, I hope that more and more people and organizations will continue to support and promote the health and wellness campaign.