Day to day life has it's regular rhythm and pace. Okay, that's a nice
way of saying that life can be one big routine. But routines are good,
they provide us with some semblance of order. However, every once
in awhile, doing something different can do one some good.
Yesterday was 090909. It was an auspicious date for some. Fo me, it
was a chance to check off something from the 101 Things to Do in
1001 Days List. 090909 was a chance for me to look for something
extraordinary from an otherwise ordinary day.
The day started where the previous day ended. H decided to work until
really late. At around 1:45am, H decided it was time to hit the sack.
Oh man, I had to get up as I was "resting". I had to do my night routine
as I was too lazy to have brushed my teeth earlier. Then I noticed that
the toilet did not want to flush; no problem, it just needed a minor fix.
And then, our roof started to leak from the heavy rain; no problem,
nothing paper towels couldnt fix. So before you know, it was 2:45am.
Okay, this day was not turning out the way I was expecting it to.
H and I were celebrating a birthday so we decided to take the day off.
We were supposed to just pass by the office. "Passing by" rarely or
never happens. So, I was not surprised to find ourselves there until
lunch time. For lunch, we decided to try the new Jollibee Chicken
Barbeque. Not bad. I have to hand it to Jollibee, they're R&D is pretty
good.
Tsk tsk tsk, half of the day had already gone by. We decided to spend
the rest of the day doing what needed to get done. Unfortunately, my
doctor did not pass by the clinic. H, on the other hand, couldn't have
his haircut as the guy had his day off. So, H worked on his paper. I
then decided to just kill the next few hours searching for a new baby
book. Before you know it, it was 6pm and we were off to mass.
Our day ended with a nice dinner at Crustasia. Boohoo, I forgot my
camera. We had Tom Yum Soup, Shrimp Pancakes, Singaporean
Chili Crab (Wow! Was that crab huge!) and Pad Thai (complimentary).
Yum yum.
As a whole, I'd say nothing extraordinary really happened in 090909.
But as a whole, it was a good day. H and I are in great shape. Sure, we
have our fair share of joys and "challenges/opportunities". But at the
end of the day, I'm glad everything is under His control.
Showing posts with label lists. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lists. Show all posts
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Things to do this September
Today is September 1, 2009. In the Philippines, the start of the
"BER" months used to signify the start of the Christmas Season.
However, due to more financially difficult times, the Christmas
Season now starts at around November or December; depending
on whether it's a good year or a bad year.
Last year, I started preparing for Christmas as early as September.
It was our first Christmas as a couple. Suddenly, I had to learn
how to shop for 2! Of course, I had to make a "career" out of it!
As serendipity would have it, the 2008 Ramadan Season started
on the 1st of September. It was a Legal Holiday and I decided to
grab the chance to check out department stores in Makati.
I can still vividly remember the Christmas displays at Rustan's!
The Christmas decors just lifted my spirits and put me in a
holiday mood.
In the end, I made the right decision as I was on bed rest the
entire month of December. By that time, I was already done
with my shopping and was not stressed out over Christmas
preparations.
Here are a few things I picked up from last year's experience.
Spoiler Warning: this is not for those who enjoy the adrenaline
rush that comes when doing things last minute!
Things to do this September:
1) Start your "Spring Cleaning".
Spring Cleaning is not really a part of Philippine Culture. The
closest thing we have is the tradition of cleaning up the house
before Christmas and/or New Year's.
Starting this early will give you ample time to really assess your
home environment. Something you will not be able to properly
do if you start on December.
Do yourself a favor. Don't just do some cleaning. Go do some
clearing! If it doesn't work, doesn't fit, will never get used, etc
do dispose of it! If it is still in a decent condition, donate it to
family, friends or a charitable institution. Otherwise, throw
it away! Don't unnecessarily burden other people with your
junk!
2) Finalize your Christmas Shopping List.
Last year's Christmas Shopping was a breeze. It didn't feel as
"painful" as previous years. Firstly, my expenses were spread
out over a period of 3 - 4 months. Also, instead of buying things
at regular price, I was able to wait for sale events and bought
things at sale price.
I also had a "tea box" theme for a few relatives and friends. I
found a bazaar stall, with reasonable prices, to buy quite a
number of items from. This worked to my advantage as I was
able to bargain for wholesale prices.
3) Work on THAT SCRAPBOOK.
I have a few scrapbooks that I need to get done before the baby
comes. They're scrapbooks on stuff H and I did together. I'm
sure if I don't get these done within the year, these scrapbooks
will never see the light of day.
Each year has its own fair share of memories. You may want to
work on "documenting" this year's precious moments within
THE YEAR. Trust me, next year, you too will find yourself too
busy with other "more important" things to do. And do count
on next year to have its own share of adventures and
misadventures, wanting to be documented.
Let me know how things work out for you...
I hope these tips will help you experience the Holidays in a
a more enjoyable way!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
"BER" months used to signify the start of the Christmas Season.
However, due to more financially difficult times, the Christmas
Season now starts at around November or December; depending
on whether it's a good year or a bad year.
Last year, I started preparing for Christmas as early as September.
It was our first Christmas as a couple. Suddenly, I had to learn
how to shop for 2! Of course, I had to make a "career" out of it!
As serendipity would have it, the 2008 Ramadan Season started
on the 1st of September. It was a Legal Holiday and I decided to
grab the chance to check out department stores in Makati.
I can still vividly remember the Christmas displays at Rustan's!
The Christmas decors just lifted my spirits and put me in a
holiday mood.
In the end, I made the right decision as I was on bed rest the
entire month of December. By that time, I was already done
with my shopping and was not stressed out over Christmas
preparations.
Here are a few things I picked up from last year's experience.
Spoiler Warning: this is not for those who enjoy the adrenaline
rush that comes when doing things last minute!
Things to do this September:
1) Start your "Spring Cleaning".
Spring Cleaning is not really a part of Philippine Culture. The
closest thing we have is the tradition of cleaning up the house
before Christmas and/or New Year's.
Starting this early will give you ample time to really assess your
home environment. Something you will not be able to properly
do if you start on December.
Do yourself a favor. Don't just do some cleaning. Go do some
clearing! If it doesn't work, doesn't fit, will never get used, etc
do dispose of it! If it is still in a decent condition, donate it to
family, friends or a charitable institution. Otherwise, throw
it away! Don't unnecessarily burden other people with your
junk!
2) Finalize your Christmas Shopping List.
Last year's Christmas Shopping was a breeze. It didn't feel as
"painful" as previous years. Firstly, my expenses were spread
out over a period of 3 - 4 months. Also, instead of buying things
at regular price, I was able to wait for sale events and bought
things at sale price.
I also had a "tea box" theme for a few relatives and friends. I
found a bazaar stall, with reasonable prices, to buy quite a
number of items from. This worked to my advantage as I was
able to bargain for wholesale prices.
3) Work on THAT SCRAPBOOK.
I have a few scrapbooks that I need to get done before the baby
comes. They're scrapbooks on stuff H and I did together. I'm
sure if I don't get these done within the year, these scrapbooks
will never see the light of day.
Each year has its own fair share of memories. You may want to
work on "documenting" this year's precious moments within
THE YEAR. Trust me, next year, you too will find yourself too
busy with other "more important" things to do. And do count
on next year to have its own share of adventures and
misadventures, wanting to be documented.
Let me know how things work out for you...
I hope these tips will help you experience the Holidays in a
a more enjoyable way!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
Friday, July 17, 2009
"Cross-functional" Information
I briefly told L that my family and I recently had an animated discussion
on the future education of the baby. She was mildly amused as my family
had all these ideas. She thinks we're all excited as the baby is the first
grand child in my family.
She and her husband are a bit more relaxed when it comes to bringing up Z.
I am the type to make a "career" out of things. So naturally, I am doing the
same with the baby hahaha...
I really just want what's best for our child. I think every loving parent does.
We all just have different ways of going about things. We all have different
personalities, attitudes, cultures, information, experiences, upbringing etc.
I guess all these factors will play a role in how we will be as parents. No
right or wrong here. All we can do is try our best.
I still consider myself as a student of sorts. No I do not currently study in
a school (except I do take Mandarin lessons in a language center). What I
am is a student of life. I've been like this probably since my grade school
days. People have different ways of dealing with information that come their
way. I get a kick out of discovering information that have "cross-functional"
applications in life. I'm such a nerd! hehehe...
Today, I'd like to share 3 "cross-functional" examples with you:
a. Always bring a notebook with you.
It has been said that writers always have a notebook with them. One never
knows when inspiration will strike.
I decided to adopt the practice. But my notebook is not just for ideas. I also
use it to jot down facts, information, questions, quotations, computations,
recipes, etc. Anything and everything that MIGHT be useful. I emphasized
MIGHT because it's possible something in there might not get used. But
that's okay. What's more important to me is that the information is there in
case I have a need for it.
In the beginning, I only had one notebook. Now, I have one for my day to day
activities, one for the pregnancy, one for recipes I pick up here and there, and
one for my blogs. I'm sure I'll one day have a notebook dedicated to the baby.
The multi-notebook system just helps me organize my life better. The day to
day notebook is always with me. The others are by my bedside and get brought
around on a "as needed" basis.
Just a side note. I used the pregnancy notebook for both pregnancies. As both
pregnancies have been delicate ones, the information from the first pregnancy
helped me manage this pregnancy better.
b. Failing to plan is planning to fail.
Planning activities are part and parcel of corporate life. You plan for strategies,
budgets, targets, policies, events, activities, etc.
I feel it is equally important that we make plans for our life. H and I have an
annual goal setting activity of sorts. We also discuss our personal and project
budgets. On our fridge you will find our list of goals, list of expenses, menu
plans, shopping lists, etc.
This year, I also made a 2 year Calendar of Activities. I am anticipating a
busier life when the baby is around. I have planned to do some things earlier
than usual for them to be accomplished on time.
Planning has also come in handy in our community service. We have been
involved in the different activities of CFC. Sometimes we're just attendees, but
sometimes we help organize things. As such, the general principles on planning
still apply.
c. Measure to manage.
Schools have report cards. Companies have progress reports. We too can make
our own report of sorts.
There are different ways of going about this. Our personal reports vary; it
depends on what it is we're trying to measure.
The personal "business" is under Project Management. It has a budget, gantt
chart plus plus. For this, H and R check if we're on budget and on schedule.
There is a database for expenses related to this. In this area, I just take note
of the "executive summary".
For budgets, H and I generally discuss a) are we up or down, b) by what
percent, and c) the justification for variances.
For certain tasks, I make tables. The first column contains the tasks I am
tracking. The other columns contain the time periods. I then put a tick mark
when a task is accomplished. A blank spot or an "x" signifies that the task
was not done.
For other tasks, a simple to do list will suffice.
As you can see. I am not the type to just take things easy. I sometimes have to
make a conscious effort to stop and relax. I have also learned that sometimes
things will not go my way. Sometimes, God has better plans. At the end of the
day, what's important to me is that I know I did my best. Sometimes, life reminds
me that I need to practice faith; "to let God and to let go." If I did my best, then
it's easier to let things be.
on the future education of the baby. She was mildly amused as my family
had all these ideas. She thinks we're all excited as the baby is the first
grand child in my family.
She and her husband are a bit more relaxed when it comes to bringing up Z.
I am the type to make a "career" out of things. So naturally, I am doing the
same with the baby hahaha...
I really just want what's best for our child. I think every loving parent does.
We all just have different ways of going about things. We all have different
personalities, attitudes, cultures, information, experiences, upbringing etc.
I guess all these factors will play a role in how we will be as parents. No
right or wrong here. All we can do is try our best.
I still consider myself as a student of sorts. No I do not currently study in
a school (except I do take Mandarin lessons in a language center). What I
am is a student of life. I've been like this probably since my grade school
days. People have different ways of dealing with information that come their
way. I get a kick out of discovering information that have "cross-functional"
applications in life. I'm such a nerd! hehehe...
Today, I'd like to share 3 "cross-functional" examples with you:
a. Always bring a notebook with you.
It has been said that writers always have a notebook with them. One never
knows when inspiration will strike.
I decided to adopt the practice. But my notebook is not just for ideas. I also
use it to jot down facts, information, questions, quotations, computations,
recipes, etc. Anything and everything that MIGHT be useful. I emphasized
MIGHT because it's possible something in there might not get used. But
that's okay. What's more important to me is that the information is there in
case I have a need for it.
In the beginning, I only had one notebook. Now, I have one for my day to day
activities, one for the pregnancy, one for recipes I pick up here and there, and
one for my blogs. I'm sure I'll one day have a notebook dedicated to the baby.
The multi-notebook system just helps me organize my life better. The day to
day notebook is always with me. The others are by my bedside and get brought
around on a "as needed" basis.
Just a side note. I used the pregnancy notebook for both pregnancies. As both
pregnancies have been delicate ones, the information from the first pregnancy
helped me manage this pregnancy better.
b. Failing to plan is planning to fail.
Planning activities are part and parcel of corporate life. You plan for strategies,
budgets, targets, policies, events, activities, etc.
I feel it is equally important that we make plans for our life. H and I have an
annual goal setting activity of sorts. We also discuss our personal and project
budgets. On our fridge you will find our list of goals, list of expenses, menu
plans, shopping lists, etc.
This year, I also made a 2 year Calendar of Activities. I am anticipating a
busier life when the baby is around. I have planned to do some things earlier
than usual for them to be accomplished on time.
Planning has also come in handy in our community service. We have been
involved in the different activities of CFC. Sometimes we're just attendees, but
sometimes we help organize things. As such, the general principles on planning
still apply.
c. Measure to manage.
Schools have report cards. Companies have progress reports. We too can make
our own report of sorts.
There are different ways of going about this. Our personal reports vary; it
depends on what it is we're trying to measure.
The personal "business" is under Project Management. It has a budget, gantt
chart plus plus. For this, H and R check if we're on budget and on schedule.
There is a database for expenses related to this. In this area, I just take note
of the "executive summary".
For budgets, H and I generally discuss a) are we up or down, b) by what
percent, and c) the justification for variances.
For certain tasks, I make tables. The first column contains the tasks I am
tracking. The other columns contain the time periods. I then put a tick mark
when a task is accomplished. A blank spot or an "x" signifies that the task
was not done.
For other tasks, a simple to do list will suffice.
As you can see. I am not the type to just take things easy. I sometimes have to
make a conscious effort to stop and relax. I have also learned that sometimes
things will not go my way. Sometimes, God has better plans. At the end of the
day, what's important to me is that I know I did my best. Sometimes, life reminds
me that I need to practice faith; "to let God and to let go." If I did my best, then
it's easier to let things be.
Friday, July 3, 2009
How was the first half of YOUR 2009?
It is now July 2009. How was the first half of YOUR year? By now, your
New Year's Resolutions are most likely nowhere to be found. But since half
a year has gone by, you might have some regrets that you did not do this or
you did not do that.
Have no fear! I just found a great solution from Rookie Moms. It's called
the Did-Do List:
"If you’re getting sick of your “to do” list getting longer and not shorter
and wondering where the heck is all your time going, try writing a
“did do” list..."
If you're thinking along the lines of "What's the point of making a Did-do
List? AND/OR I don't need a poor excuse for not getting things done."
Then, you are missing the point. The Did-do list is a conscious pause. It is
a celebration of what one has accomplished thus far. But mostly, it is an
opportunity to reflect, assess and strategize for the second half of the year.
My Did-Do List:
1. "Survived" a miscarriage
2. Rebonded my hair
3. Moved house
4. Got pregnant again
5. Updated my blog
6. Set up our common file system
7. Updated the family budget
8. Helped organize a talk on Entrepreneurship
9. Attended the Bo Sanchez Lenten Retreat
10. Invited friends over at our place (household)
11. Completed a 3k run
12. Helped organize the Singles Engagement Retreat
13. Finished my 101 things in 1001 days list
14. Finished my bed rest for the current pregnancy
15. FINALLY got our camera back!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
New Year's Resolutions are most likely nowhere to be found. But since half
a year has gone by, you might have some regrets that you did not do this or
you did not do that.
Have no fear! I just found a great solution from Rookie Moms. It's called
the Did-Do List:
"If you’re getting sick of your “to do” list getting longer and not shorter
and wondering where the heck is all your time going, try writing a
“did do” list..."
If you're thinking along the lines of "What's the point of making a Did-do
List? AND/OR I don't need a poor excuse for not getting things done."
Then, you are missing the point. The Did-do list is a conscious pause. It is
a celebration of what one has accomplished thus far. But mostly, it is an
opportunity to reflect, assess and strategize for the second half of the year.
My Did-Do List:
1. "Survived" a miscarriage
2. Rebonded my hair
3. Moved house
4. Got pregnant again
5. Updated my blog
6. Set up our common file system
7. Updated the family budget
8. Helped organize a talk on Entrepreneurship
9. Attended the Bo Sanchez Lenten Retreat
10. Invited friends over at our place (household)
11. Completed a 3k run
12. Helped organize the Singles Engagement Retreat
13. Finished my 101 things in 1001 days list
14. Finished my bed rest for the current pregnancy
15. FINALLY got our camera back!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
Monday, June 15, 2009
101 Things to Do in 1001 Days
A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the Day Zero Project. Back then, it was
"something nice to do". Nothing I needed to take seriously. Boy, did I change
my mind when I got around to making my list.
I have been on bed rest for about a month now. Today is my first official
"normal day". However, my ob-gyn has advised me to take things easy.
The last thing we'd want is for me to end up doing bed rest again. After
six months, H and I are expecting the arrival of the baby.
I have to emphasize now that this is our first baby. As such, we have to
prepare everything from scratch. We will have to clear out tons of our own
stuff to make room for the baby. We will have to buy the baby's things. And
of course, we will have to learn how to have a baby-friendly life.
All these we have to accomplish before the six months. As I see it, I need
to get most of the baby preparation part done by November. Otherwise, we
will be overwhelmed by the Christmas activities we usually attend.
Some realizations:
- Some ideas were inspirations I got from others. I hope my list will inspire
others as well.
- I left a just in case portion. I don't know what life will be like in the next
six months. I think I deserve an allowance hehehe...
- I have to finish H and my "first year together" scrapbooks/albums. I'm sure
these will take a back seat to the baby projects. Better to get them done now
while I still have the time.
- Cooking is something I really do. In fact, I tend to "make a career" out of
it. Sooo, I consciously want to follow the weekly menu instead of doing something
creative or different.
- How I wish I had a decent oven. Then I could have listed some baking projects.
- Traveling is something H and I enjoy doing together. However, I had to put
less of this. I highly doubt we will be traveling much while the baby is this
young.
- I always had the baby in mind. Some activities will have to wait until the baby
is older. I guess that's part and parcel of being a parent.
My 101 List
Start date: August 1, 2009
End date: April 28, 2012
Solo flight
1. Fix my personal files
2. Fix our common files
3. Make the directory
4. Finish the birthday list
5. Get rid of clothes I no longer wear
6. Make an emergency kit
7. Read 5 classics (0/5)
8. Learn Morse Code
9. Brush up on Philippine History
10. Practice Mandarin 30minutes daily for 1 month straight (0/31)
11. Watch 30 TED talks (0/30)
12. Take a class
13. Master 5 skills from 75 Things Every Woman should Master (0/5)
14. Have a reunion with the old gang
15. Have someone else cut/style my hair
16. Have a "fabulous" day - mani + pedi + outfit
17. Wear a "look for less" outfit
18. Wear a dress
19. Buy new clothes (post-pregnancy)
20. Sleep by 11:30pm for 7days straight (0/7)
21. Be aware of and have good posture for 3 weeks straight (0/21)
22. Do a 5K
23. Do a 10K
24. Make a will
25. Do Assignment 51 of Learning to Love You More
26. Write a letter to myself to be opened in 1 year
27. Write a letter to myself to be opened in 5 years
H and I
1. Do an annual review of our goals
2. Learn a new language (French?? or Spanish??)
3. Experience the Manila Bay Sunset
4. Repair the wedding ring
5. Buy a jumper cable
6. Take a first aid course
7. Finish Verdana1 GK Project
8. Finish Verdana2 GK Project
9. Give away the good stuff we dont use/dont have space for
10. Have a fantastic all white theme for the bed (think Martha Stewart)
Artsy Fartsy
1. Wedding Scrapbook
2. Honeymoon Scrapbook
3. Hong Kong Scrapbook
4. Make 10 homemade gifts (0/10)
5. Read the camera manual
6. Do 5 projects from Keri Smith's 100 ideas (0/5)
7. Do 1 A Day in the Life project
8. Do 1 Q & A : The Photographic Interview project
9. Take head shots/portraits of family members
10. Do a photo series on the color red
11. Make a 2010 Christmas Journal
(inspired by Ali Edwards and Molly Irwin)
12. Document 09/09/09, 10/10/10, 11/11/11 (0/3)
13. Calendar Project
14. Make a collage
15. Make a beautiful floral arrangement
16. Make 30 entries in my food blog (0/30)
17. Dress up for Halloween
18. Do 1 sewing project for myself
Yummy
1. Faithfully follow a 1 week menu (0/7)
2. Faithfully follow a 2 week menu (0/14)
3. Make a bento meal
4. Make an okonomiyaki
5. Make a scallion pancake aka cong you bing
6. Make bread from scratch
7. Make pizza from scratch
8. Make sangria
9. Make a gingerbread house
10. Make bread pudding
11. Make a romantic meal for H
12. Buy Kulinarya and make something
13. Make a fantastic Filipino meal
14. Make a fantastic Filipino dessert/merienda
15. Make a soft copy of my recipe notebooks (important recipes only)
16. Try 10 new desserts (0/10)
17. Try 10 new tea flavors (0/10)
19. Try 10 new ice cream flavors (0/10)
20. Try 10 new coffee blends (0/10)
Moolah
1. Discuss with H our year end financial report
2. Read 5 new finance books (0/5)
3. Complete Jomar's Internet assignments
4. Get an online project/work
5. Finish 1 ebook
Our Baby
1. Do a 365 Project (0/365)
2. Do a The Year I was Born project
3. Teach baby "Baby Signs"
4. Get baby at least 10 Dr. Seuss / Berenstain Bears books (0/10)
5. Make reading flashcards for baby
6. Make something wearable for baby
7. Make something edible for baby's 1st birthday
I heart God
1. Read the bible from cover to cover
2. Go on a retreat
3. Pray the Rosary for 30 days straight (0/30)
4. Distribute 1000 copies of religious booklets/prayers/etc (0/1000)
5. Forgive
6. Let go
7. Have a thanksgiving mass and party for THE answered prayer
Where in the world is...
1. Hong Kong
2. Singapore
3. *Secret*
4. Beach
5. Food trip
Just in case
1. TBD
2. TBD
3. TBD
Wish me luck!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
"something nice to do". Nothing I needed to take seriously. Boy, did I change
my mind when I got around to making my list.
I have been on bed rest for about a month now. Today is my first official
"normal day". However, my ob-gyn has advised me to take things easy.
The last thing we'd want is for me to end up doing bed rest again. After
six months, H and I are expecting the arrival of the baby.
I have to emphasize now that this is our first baby. As such, we have to
prepare everything from scratch. We will have to clear out tons of our own
stuff to make room for the baby. We will have to buy the baby's things. And
of course, we will have to learn how to have a baby-friendly life.
All these we have to accomplish before the six months. As I see it, I need
to get most of the baby preparation part done by November. Otherwise, we
will be overwhelmed by the Christmas activities we usually attend.
Some realizations:
- Some ideas were inspirations I got from others. I hope my list will inspire
others as well.
- I left a just in case portion. I don't know what life will be like in the next
six months. I think I deserve an allowance hehehe...
- I have to finish H and my "first year together" scrapbooks/albums. I'm sure
these will take a back seat to the baby projects. Better to get them done now
while I still have the time.
- Cooking is something I really do. In fact, I tend to "make a career" out of
it. Sooo, I consciously want to follow the weekly menu instead of doing something
creative or different.
- How I wish I had a decent oven. Then I could have listed some baking projects.
- Traveling is something H and I enjoy doing together. However, I had to put
less of this. I highly doubt we will be traveling much while the baby is this
young.
- I always had the baby in mind. Some activities will have to wait until the baby
is older. I guess that's part and parcel of being a parent.
My 101 List
Start date: August 1, 2009
End date: April 28, 2012
Solo flight
1. Fix my personal files
2. Fix our common files
3. Make the directory
4. Finish the birthday list
5. Get rid of clothes I no longer wear
6. Make an emergency kit
7. Read 5 classics (0/5)
8. Learn Morse Code
9. Brush up on Philippine History
10. Practice Mandarin 30minutes daily for 1 month straight (0/31)
11. Watch 30 TED talks (0/30)
12. Take a class
13. Master 5 skills from 75 Things Every Woman should Master (0/5)
14. Have a reunion with the old gang
15. Have someone else cut/style my hair
16. Have a "fabulous" day - mani + pedi + outfit
17. Wear a "look for less" outfit
18. Wear a dress
19. Buy new clothes (post-pregnancy)
20. Sleep by 11:30pm for 7days straight (0/7)
21. Be aware of and have good posture for 3 weeks straight (0/21)
22. Do a 5K
23. Do a 10K
24. Make a will
25. Do Assignment 51 of Learning to Love You More
26. Write a letter to myself to be opened in 1 year
27. Write a letter to myself to be opened in 5 years
H and I
1. Do an annual review of our goals
2. Learn a new language (French?? or Spanish??)
3. Experience the Manila Bay Sunset
4. Repair the wedding ring
5. Buy a jumper cable
6. Take a first aid course
7. Finish Verdana1 GK Project
8. Finish Verdana2 GK Project
9. Give away the good stuff we dont use/dont have space for
10. Have a fantastic all white theme for the bed (think Martha Stewart)
Artsy Fartsy
1. Wedding Scrapbook
2. Honeymoon Scrapbook
3. Hong Kong Scrapbook
4. Make 10 homemade gifts (0/10)
5. Read the camera manual
6. Do 5 projects from Keri Smith's 100 ideas (0/5)
7. Do 1 A Day in the Life project
8. Do 1 Q & A : The Photographic Interview project
9. Take head shots/portraits of family members
10. Do a photo series on the color red
11. Make a 2010 Christmas Journal
(inspired by Ali Edwards and Molly Irwin)
12. Document 09/09/09, 10/10/10, 11/11/11 (0/3)
13. Calendar Project
14. Make a collage
15. Make a beautiful floral arrangement
16. Make 30 entries in my food blog (0/30)
17. Dress up for Halloween
18. Do 1 sewing project for myself
Yummy
1. Faithfully follow a 1 week menu (0/7)
2. Faithfully follow a 2 week menu (0/14)
3. Make a bento meal
4. Make an okonomiyaki
5. Make a scallion pancake aka cong you bing
6. Make bread from scratch
7. Make pizza from scratch
8. Make sangria
9. Make a gingerbread house
10. Make bread pudding
11. Make a romantic meal for H
12. Buy Kulinarya and make something
13. Make a fantastic Filipino meal
14. Make a fantastic Filipino dessert/merienda
15. Make a soft copy of my recipe notebooks (important recipes only)
16. Try 10 new desserts (0/10)
17. Try 10 new tea flavors (0/10)
19. Try 10 new ice cream flavors (0/10)
20. Try 10 new coffee blends (0/10)
Moolah
1. Discuss with H our year end financial report
2. Read 5 new finance books (0/5)
3. Complete Jomar's Internet assignments
4. Get an online project/work
5. Finish 1 ebook
Our Baby
1. Do a 365 Project (0/365)
2. Do a The Year I was Born project
3. Teach baby "Baby Signs"
4. Get baby at least 10 Dr. Seuss / Berenstain Bears books (0/10)
5. Make reading flashcards for baby
6. Make something wearable for baby
7. Make something edible for baby's 1st birthday
I heart God
1. Read the bible from cover to cover
2. Go on a retreat
3. Pray the Rosary for 30 days straight (0/30)
4. Distribute 1000 copies of religious booklets/prayers/etc (0/1000)
5. Forgive
6. Let go
7. Have a thanksgiving mass and party for THE answered prayer
Where in the world is...
1. Hong Kong
2. Singapore
3. *Secret*
4. Beach
5. Food trip
Just in case
1. TBD
2. TBD
3. TBD
Wish me luck!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
Friday, June 12, 2009
Happy Independence Day
Today, June 12, 2009, is the 111th Independence Day of the Philippines.
As I am no expert in history, I did some research and discovered an
interesting tidbit about the Philippine Independence Day. My apologies
to my past history teachers for not paying attention in class hehehe...
"The Philippine Declaration of Independence occurred on June 12, 1898
in the Philippines, where Filipino revolutionary forces under Gen Emilio
Aguinaldo (later to become the Philippines' first Republican President)
proclaimed the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine Islands
from the colonial rule of Spain...
The declaration, however, was not recognized by the United States or
Spain, as the Spanish government ceded the Philippines to the United
States in the 1898 Treaty of Paris...
The United States recognized Philippine independence on July 4, 1946
in the Treaty of Manila. Independence Day was observed in the Philippines
on the July 4 anniversary of this event until, upon the advice of
historians and at the urging of nationalist politicians, Pres. Diosdado
Macapagal signed Republic Act No. 4166 into law on August 4, 1964,
designating June 12, which had previously been observed as Flag Day,
as the country's Independence Day." - Wikipedia
Here are some simple ways to celebrate Independence Day with your family:
1. Display the Philippine Flag outside your home.
2. Join the Independence Day activities in your village, baranggay or
municipality.
3. Proudly wear a Filipiniana attire.
4. Invite family and friends over for an Independence Day breakfast/lunch/
merienda/dinner. Remember to serve only Filipino food!
5. Skip the Frap. Instead, have a cup of Batangas barako or tsokolate.
6. Play sungka, piko, patintero, tumbang preso, or other Filipino games
with your kids.
7. Read a book by a local author.
8. Watch a local movie.
9. Stay in town and visit a local destination.
10. Buy local.
11. Say a prayer for the country.
Happy Independence Day to everyone!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
As I am no expert in history, I did some research and discovered an
interesting tidbit about the Philippine Independence Day. My apologies
to my past history teachers for not paying attention in class hehehe...
"The Philippine Declaration of Independence occurred on June 12, 1898
in the Philippines, where Filipino revolutionary forces under Gen Emilio
Aguinaldo (later to become the Philippines' first Republican President)
proclaimed the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine Islands
from the colonial rule of Spain...
The declaration, however, was not recognized by the United States or
Spain, as the Spanish government ceded the Philippines to the United
States in the 1898 Treaty of Paris...
The United States recognized Philippine independence on July 4, 1946
in the Treaty of Manila. Independence Day was observed in the Philippines
on the July 4 anniversary of this event until, upon the advice of
historians and at the urging of nationalist politicians, Pres. Diosdado
Macapagal signed Republic Act No. 4166 into law on August 4, 1964,
designating June 12, which had previously been observed as Flag Day,
as the country's Independence Day." - Wikipedia
Here are some simple ways to celebrate Independence Day with your family:
1. Display the Philippine Flag outside your home.
2. Join the Independence Day activities in your village, baranggay or
municipality.
3. Proudly wear a Filipiniana attire.
4. Invite family and friends over for an Independence Day breakfast/lunch/
merienda/dinner. Remember to serve only Filipino food!
5. Skip the Frap. Instead, have a cup of Batangas barako or tsokolate.
6. Play sungka, piko, patintero, tumbang preso, or other Filipino games
with your kids.
7. Read a book by a local author.
8. Watch a local movie.
9. Stay in town and visit a local destination.
10. Buy local.
11. Say a prayer for the country.
Happy Independence Day to everyone!
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
Monday, June 8, 2009
Tips on Preparing the Family Budget continuation
As I mentioned in my previous post, H and I are helping out with the
Singles Engagement Retreat. In the last retreat, we got a request for
tips on budgeting.
This is the continuation of List #2 - Tips on Preparing the Family Budget
6. Decide to tithe. Tithing means allotting the first 10% of your earnings
to your church and/or religious community. It serves as a reminder that
the family’s wealth is first and foremost a gift. Everything is just “icing on
the cake”.
7. Decide to set aside 20% or more of your earnings for savings
and investments. Yes, you have a right to enjoy the fruits of your hard
work. However, you must remember that additions to the family, the
education of children, sickness, retirement and emergencies are all facts
of life. It would be wise for your family to prepare for all these. Banks,
insurance companies, mutual fund companies, the stock market,
entrepreneurship, franchising, etc are some of the ways you can maximize
your savings. How much do you expect to earn? How soon can you expect
your earnings? What are the risks involved? How long will your money be
“tied” to the investment? What are your options if you need the money
sooner? Are you comfortable with the terms and conditions? Etc etc etc.
Again, do your research. A friendly warning, if it seems too good to be true,
it usually is.
8. Eliminate bad debts. Credit cards are okay but be sure to pay for
the entire bill on or before the due date. The interest can put you in a
serious debt hole. If you must borrow, do so because it is for an investment,
you are happy with the potential returns and more importantly, you’re sure
you can pay for the loan if things don’t work out. Avoid borrowing for a
“splurge item.” Save up for it. Or better yet, allocate earnings from an
investment. In this way, you can be sure that the “splurge item” is something
you can afford.
9. Avoid lending money to others. It has been said that when you lend
money to a friend, you risk losing both your money and your friend. If you
must lend, consider the possibility that you will never get your money back.
Instead of lending money, others have chosen to donate instead. This is with
the consideration that there is an emergency and you have money to spare.
What to do with people who’ve developed an unnecessary financial dependency
on you? “Tough love” is needed when a person is capable of earning but has
just chosen not to do so. You are doing yourself, your family and the other
person a favor by encouraging them to be financially independent.
10. Last but not the least, trust each other and make all financial
decisions together. No secret bank accounts please. It says a lot when you
cannot trust your spouse with your money. Bear in mind that more important
decisions might need to be made in the future. If you are not yet at that level,
now would be a good time to start working things out.
There are no guarantees in life. The probability of success is simply greater
when God, the husband and the wife work together.
I'm putting the sample budget in my next post. See you there!
Singles Engagement Retreat. In the last retreat, we got a request for
tips on budgeting.
This is the continuation of List #2 - Tips on Preparing the Family Budget
6. Decide to tithe. Tithing means allotting the first 10% of your earnings
to your church and/or religious community. It serves as a reminder that
the family’s wealth is first and foremost a gift. Everything is just “icing on
the cake”.
7. Decide to set aside 20% or more of your earnings for savings
and investments. Yes, you have a right to enjoy the fruits of your hard
work. However, you must remember that additions to the family, the
education of children, sickness, retirement and emergencies are all facts
of life. It would be wise for your family to prepare for all these. Banks,
insurance companies, mutual fund companies, the stock market,
entrepreneurship, franchising, etc are some of the ways you can maximize
your savings. How much do you expect to earn? How soon can you expect
your earnings? What are the risks involved? How long will your money be
“tied” to the investment? What are your options if you need the money
sooner? Are you comfortable with the terms and conditions? Etc etc etc.
Again, do your research. A friendly warning, if it seems too good to be true,
it usually is.
8. Eliminate bad debts. Credit cards are okay but be sure to pay for
the entire bill on or before the due date. The interest can put you in a
serious debt hole. If you must borrow, do so because it is for an investment,
you are happy with the potential returns and more importantly, you’re sure
you can pay for the loan if things don’t work out. Avoid borrowing for a
“splurge item.” Save up for it. Or better yet, allocate earnings from an
investment. In this way, you can be sure that the “splurge item” is something
you can afford.
9. Avoid lending money to others. It has been said that when you lend
money to a friend, you risk losing both your money and your friend. If you
must lend, consider the possibility that you will never get your money back.
Instead of lending money, others have chosen to donate instead. This is with
the consideration that there is an emergency and you have money to spare.
What to do with people who’ve developed an unnecessary financial dependency
on you? “Tough love” is needed when a person is capable of earning but has
just chosen not to do so. You are doing yourself, your family and the other
person a favor by encouraging them to be financially independent.
10. Last but not the least, trust each other and make all financial
decisions together. No secret bank accounts please. It says a lot when you
cannot trust your spouse with your money. Bear in mind that more important
decisions might need to be made in the future. If you are not yet at that level,
now would be a good time to start working things out.
There are no guarantees in life. The probability of success is simply greater
when God, the husband and the wife work together.
I'm putting the sample budget in my next post. See you there!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Tips on Preparing the Family Budget
We are currently preparing for the SFC Singles Engagement Retreat.
This is actually an enjoyable service for H and I. It's a chance to give
back to others, the gift which we had once received.
Most couples will prepare for the perfect wedding day. Sadly, some
are ill-prepared for the marriage that happens after. The Singles
Engagement Retreat is an opportunuty for engaged couples to get
to know each other better. It is a chance to discuss likes, dislikes and
non-negotiables. The retreat's main goal is to better prepare couples
for the challenges and joys of married life.
We got a request from a participant of the last Singles Engagement
Retreat; could we provide tips on budgeting? Hmm, this is a tricky
subject. There are no hard and fast rules. Different couples use
different systems. Also, you may be using a system now but you
may decide to just replace it in the future. H and I can attest to this.
H and I are still a work in progress. In the meantime, this is what
we're working on...
Let me start off with List #2 - Tips on Preparing the Family Budget
Here are some things to consider when preparing the family budget:
1. Have an abundance mentality. Focus on your blessings.
Trust that God has already provided for all your needs.
2. Pray for guidance and the right mindset. Some couples
consider budgeting as a burdensome task. Instead, think of it as
a tool in managing your family’s finances. A positive outlook will
make budgeting a more enjoyable task.
3. Research on the different systems that are out there.
Read books. Attend seminars. Check the internet. Ask tips from
trusted family and friends. Will you use a software or will you use
old fashioned pen and paper? Try and try until you find a system
that works for you.
4. Decide on who will manage the family finances. This
includes making the budget, tracking the expenses, paying the
bills, filing the receipts, and ensuring that matters, related to the
family’s finances, are in order.
5. Include in your schedules time to discuss the family’s
budget and financial goals. Anything important is worth
setting aside time for. Don’t just compute. Use the time to discuss
your reality, your fears, your hopes and your aspirations. Goals
may vary according to the family’s needs, lifestyle, stage in life,
etc. Remember that it is okay to dream for your family. Whatever
the outcome, agree to head towards the same direction.
Hmm, that may already be a lot to chew on. I'll continue this in
my next post.
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
This is actually an enjoyable service for H and I. It's a chance to give
back to others, the gift which we had once received.
Most couples will prepare for the perfect wedding day. Sadly, some
are ill-prepared for the marriage that happens after. The Singles
Engagement Retreat is an opportunuty for engaged couples to get
to know each other better. It is a chance to discuss likes, dislikes and
non-negotiables. The retreat's main goal is to better prepare couples
for the challenges and joys of married life.
We got a request from a participant of the last Singles Engagement
Retreat; could we provide tips on budgeting? Hmm, this is a tricky
subject. There are no hard and fast rules. Different couples use
different systems. Also, you may be using a system now but you
may decide to just replace it in the future. H and I can attest to this.
H and I are still a work in progress. In the meantime, this is what
we're working on...
Let me start off with List #2 - Tips on Preparing the Family Budget
Here are some things to consider when preparing the family budget:
1. Have an abundance mentality. Focus on your blessings.
Trust that God has already provided for all your needs.
2. Pray for guidance and the right mindset. Some couples
consider budgeting as a burdensome task. Instead, think of it as
a tool in managing your family’s finances. A positive outlook will
make budgeting a more enjoyable task.
3. Research on the different systems that are out there.
Read books. Attend seminars. Check the internet. Ask tips from
trusted family and friends. Will you use a software or will you use
old fashioned pen and paper? Try and try until you find a system
that works for you.
4. Decide on who will manage the family finances. This
includes making the budget, tracking the expenses, paying the
bills, filing the receipts, and ensuring that matters, related to the
family’s finances, are in order.
5. Include in your schedules time to discuss the family’s
budget and financial goals. Anything important is worth
setting aside time for. Don’t just compute. Use the time to discuss
your reality, your fears, your hopes and your aspirations. Goals
may vary according to the family’s needs, lifestyle, stage in life,
etc. Remember that it is okay to dream for your family. Whatever
the outcome, agree to head towards the same direction.
Hmm, that may already be a lot to chew on. I'll continue this in
my next post.
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Is that a photo project I see on the horizon???
Glass half empty. Glass half full.
Bed rest can be a nerve-wracking experience! But if you play your cards
right, you can use the time to dream and plan for your next big adventure.
Like most first time parents, H and I are excited about having our first
baby. I have been researching on things we can do with the baby once
he/she is out in the world.
Yes, we live a simple life. But no, we do not live a boring life, or we at least
try not to hahaha... Instead, we've TRIED to focus our time, energy and
resources on things that matter to us.
On my to do list: A tradition that H, the baby and I can start as a family.
No, it does not mean skipping traditions that we already celebrate together
with our families. It will be more like having or starting a tradition of our
own.
We haven't quite decided on what this first tradition will be. The current
flavor of the month involves a photo project with the baby. Here are 3
inspiring "traditions" that are on the mood board:
a) The Arrow of Time - Since 1976, Diego Goldberg and family have had
individual portraits taken every 17th of June. The result is a time capsule
of the past 30plus years of their lives.
b) Project 365 - This project involves taking one photo, daily for one year.
Choose one topic: yourself, your kids, the neighborhood, your work, etc etc
etc and watch what unfolds in the ensuing year. One year does seem like a
long time. Imagine doing this with a Polaroid for two decades.
c) The '76s and Sveinn Birkir - You will only be born once... Project 1976
is Sveinn's audio/visual anthology for his birth year. Here you'll find photos
and audios of important and mundane matters pertaining to that year.
What are your favorite family traditions? I'd love to hear what works for your family!
Bed rest can be a nerve-wracking experience! But if you play your cards
right, you can use the time to dream and plan for your next big adventure.
Like most first time parents, H and I are excited about having our first
baby. I have been researching on things we can do with the baby once
he/she is out in the world.
Yes, we live a simple life. But no, we do not live a boring life, or we at least
try not to hahaha... Instead, we've TRIED to focus our time, energy and
resources on things that matter to us.
On my to do list: A tradition that H, the baby and I can start as a family.
No, it does not mean skipping traditions that we already celebrate together
with our families. It will be more like having or starting a tradition of our
own.
We haven't quite decided on what this first tradition will be. The current
flavor of the month involves a photo project with the baby. Here are 3
inspiring "traditions" that are on the mood board:
a) The Arrow of Time - Since 1976, Diego Goldberg and family have had
individual portraits taken every 17th of June. The result is a time capsule
of the past 30plus years of their lives.
b) Project 365 - This project involves taking one photo, daily for one year.
Choose one topic: yourself, your kids, the neighborhood, your work, etc etc
etc and watch what unfolds in the ensuing year. One year does seem like a
long time. Imagine doing this with a Polaroid for two decades.
c) The '76s and Sveinn Birkir - You will only be born once... Project 1976
is Sveinn's audio/visual anthology for his birth year. Here you'll find photos
and audios of important and mundane matters pertaining to that year.
What are your favorite family traditions? I'd love to hear what works for your family!
Friday, May 29, 2009
Day Zero Project
What do you plan to do with the next 2-3 years of your life?
As luck would have it, I stumbled upon the Day Zero Project
website which will inspire you to ask yourself that question...
The Mission:
Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.
The Criteria:
Tasks must be specific (ie. no ambiguity in the wording) with
a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks
must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount
of work on my part).
Why 1001 Days?
Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple
goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating
procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days
(about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because
it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is
better for organising and timing some tasks such as overseas
trips or outdoor activities.
I'm quite excited at the prospect of coming up with my own
list. Ahhh, patience patience patience... At this stage in my life,
getting an "out of bed pass" is temptingly on the top of my list.
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
As luck would have it, I stumbled upon the Day Zero Project
website which will inspire you to ask yourself that question...
The Mission:
Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.
The Criteria:
Tasks must be specific (ie. no ambiguity in the wording) with
a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks
must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount
of work on my part).
Why 1001 Days?
Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple
goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating
procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days
(about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because
it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is
better for organising and timing some tasks such as overseas
trips or outdoor activities.
I'm quite excited at the prospect of coming up with my own
list. Ahhh, patience patience patience... At this stage in my life,
getting an "out of bed pass" is temptingly on the top of my list.
I love lists... There have been so many that I can't
recall them all...
This is my ode to the humble list...
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