2009 ~ Healthy Living

Thursday, 17 December 2009

Runs in the Family

You Are Destined to Be Thin

Even if you aren't thin right now, you have great habits that will ensure you're thin for most of your life.

You have a great relationship with food and eating. Don't change a thing.

Are You Destined To Be Overweight?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

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When I was a stay at home wifey and Mummy, I make my time online worthwhile. Apart from blogging, I registered in a plethora of online surveys. Of course, not each one of them was really worthwhile. Little did I know that in doing so, my email inbox will be flooded with junk mails imaginable in the online world – including LCD TV
offers and all.

At first, those mails seem to be enjoyable. Later especially now that I am a working, they irk me to some extent. For sometime, I just let them sit on my inbox and when I find the time, I delete them by page. These days, I marked them as Spam so I won’t receive them ever. Thanks to that tool.

Now, you would ask if I did ever found something worth my time in those surveys. Yes, I have. There’s one that pays me $5 every month for the survey that I took and if I send a docket, they will pay me $3 for it. I don’t send dockets though as they are our records for our bookkeeping.

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I Wish

my husband would quit smoking soon. I haven't tried any trick to make him quit other than nagging and I've long realised that doesn't work on anything. I can plea and be sweet and all but at the end of the day, it has to be the smoker to have to right mind to decide to quit.

His reason for smoking is to cope the stress that the business is causing him. Fair enough but I wish, it won't go on for long.

I've read that Dutch Master is a good brand of cigars, I think it will be out of my list as I am trying and helping him to quit not encouraging him.

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Flourless Cake

I read in my fellow blogger the flourless that she made and thought that hey, I can make that for my brother in law who can't have gluten. So I looked up the recipe right away. Here it is:

Ingredients (serves 12)
Melted butter, to grease
2 oranges
3 eggs
215g (1 cup) caster sugar
300g (3 cups) almond meal
1 tsp gluten-free baking powder
Orange Syrup
1 orange
155g (3/4 cup) caster sugar
Method
Preheat oven to 170°C. Brush a round 22cm (base measurement) springform pan with melted butter to lightly grease. Line base with non-stick baking paper.
Place the oranges in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil over medium heat. Cook for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain. Return to pan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil and cook for 15 minutes (this will reduce the bitterness of the peel). Refresh under cold water. Drain. Coarsely chop oranges. Remove and discard any seeds.
Place the orange in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth.
Use an electric beater to whisk the eggs and sugar in a bowl until thick and pale. Add the orange, almond meal and baking powder and gently fold until just combined. Pour into prepared pan.
Bake for 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Set aside for 15 minutes to cool.
Meanwhile, to make the orange syrup, use a zester to remove the rind from the orange. (Alternatively, use a vegetable peeler to peel the rind from orange. Use a small sharp knife to remove white pith. Cut rind into thin strips.) Juice orange.
Place rind in a saucepan of boiling water and cook for 5 minutes or until soft. Drain. Return to pan with orange juice and sugar. Place over low heat and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes or until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens.
Turn cake onto a serving plate. Use a skewer to gently prick the top. Spoon over syrup. Cut into wedges to serve.

It sound simple (yeah sound as I haven't tried it yet) but it just takes long to prepare and cook. I might try this one of these days when I am not busy and have finished my online backup. This I really have to try to do as one of my online accounts was suspended and two of my blogs looked ridiculous without a header.

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Welcome to the Tropics

That's what Mcj said to me when I noticed that today, it feels like I was just in the Philippines. The heat is terrible.

Jens was telling me to turn the aircondition up in the car earlier. When we left the shop, I was actually scared that he'll get heat stroke. The temperature in the car was not inching down even with full aircon. Jens was drifting off to sleep and when I asked him if he is cool and he didn't answer, it gave me a fright. Normally, when he goes to sleep in the car, I just leave him there and just open the boot and all the doors but today, I took him inside the house. The fact that you are in the shade doesn't do anything to cool you down. The wind is so hot. It's one of those times that you need to avail low cost health insurance if you haven't had yet as this temperature will surely cause health trouble to some.

I think, it's time for us to hit the pool again when he wakes up.

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Vitamin A

You Are Vitamin A

You see the world vividly. You are a very visual person, and you pay special attention to colors.

And while you appreciate a sunny, beautiful day - you also like the subtle visuals of night.

You are youthful both in appearance and spirit. You are likely healthier than average.

You shine brightly and are best in small doses. Too much of your company can be overwhelming and even dangerous.

What Vitamin Are You?

Blogthings: Free Quizzes for Everyone

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Gluten-Free Cake

My brother-in-law turned 50 this year. He didn’t have a party on the day itself but he organised a square dance convention in Gympie which we missed as Mcj was really busy with the entertainment unit project (as if he has to undergo a pre-employment screening for being a perfectionist, it took him longer to construct). Then, his wife is throwing him a barbeque party this Sunday.

I’m out of idea on what to bring to the barbie. He has coeliac but I really want to bring a cake – only if I could bring cheesecake, I’d love to but I don’t know any bakery that makes gluten-free cheesecake. There are rare bakeries that make gluten free creations. Mr WWW told me there’s one around our area.

Gluten-free food is not all the time appetising as I have experienced but I tasted a yummy gluten-free cake before. The main ingredient was cocoa flour. And look at these works of art (for me, that is).

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Simple

Although, I lurk mostly on Filipino entertainment sites, I do a fair share of checking out some insightful websites as well.

Today, I’ve also been to mysimplerlife. This is an old post but I really find it relevant.

Don’t buy it just because it is on sale.
Leave the table before you are stuffed.
Think of 10 things you are grateful for before falling asleep.
Go through your clothes and check that you have what you need for upcoming holidays and events.
Use the darkness to lure yourself to bed a little earlier.
Lose yourself in cooking something delectable.
Stay in your pajamas as long as possible this Saturday.

I’ve been doing some the tips before but it’s nice to be re-inforced in what you practice.

Even if I’m busy including the whole household, I still feel that I am living a very simple life. We know how to have fun in small things and we enjoy each other’s company. If we feel we need exercise, we go for a walk as we don’t have fitness equipment at home. The fresh air do us good. We do things simply and with lots of fun.
Source

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What's With Them?

When was the last time I had dinuguan? It was around August 2006. That long. I craved for it but when I saw the preserved Goldilocks dinuguan at the Asian shop, I didn’t grab it with both hands. It looked like it had passed its best before date.

And this one? Same time as dinuguan. Among the commercial ones, I like it most when it’s from Ilonggo Grill. But most of all, I like it when my mother cooks it.

Yum. I don’t mind if I get oily face from all the pork fats (I can always get the best acne treatment in case). I just can’t resist these dishes.

*****

Hot Weather is Here

I brought lunch with me today yet all of a sudden I had Hungry Jacks cravings. I thought, I’m going to ask my co-worker if he wants to go for a walk to buy lunch. I then heard my other coworker saying that only if he can get some food without going out. I realised, the weather is really balmy even in the shade. It was predicted today to be 33 degrees. Yeah, summer is here (even if it’s just spring). Some might already have cleaned and kept their furnace filters.

And I’m drinking coffee and wearing jacket inside the office. Well, understandably the aircon is full blast to abate the extreme heat outside.

I wish I can have halo-halo or ice cream right now.

Yum!

*****

Satay Sauce

I really like the satay sauce of the stir-fry that I usually buy for lunch that one Sunday, I thought of experimenting something. Experimenting means trying out a bottled sauce. I can’t be bothered to make my own as I didn’t do much research about it so I didn’t realise how easy it is to make one. I tried to Kantong brand and although it turned out quite appetising (as Mcj said, it still fell short of my expectations).

I thought of making my own sauce and ehow is very helpful. It’s quite simple really, here it is:

Combine five level tbsp. of smooth peanut butter with five tbsp. whole milk in a medium mixing bowl. Use a wire whisk to thoroughly incorporate the milk into the peanut butter until a smooth consistency is achieved.

Add five tbsp. of sweet soy sauce to the peanut butter mixture. Stir well using a whisk or fork to combine. If the peanut satay sauce is too thick or you're having trouble mixing, add ½ tsp. milk and stir again.

Add one tsp. fresh lemon juice and one tbsp. granulated sugar to the sauce mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine. Bottled lemon juice may be substituted, if fresh is not available.

Add ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce, if you want more spice, and stir well. Use the same amount of freshly ground black pepper for a less spicy sauce, or omit the pepper all together, if desired.

Cover the bowl containing the peanut satay sauce, and allow it to sit undisturbed for 30 to 45 minutes before using. This will give the flavors a chance to meld and can make all the difference in the taste of the sauce.

I wrote this down to my little notebook for when we are away from home (not in isla mujeres hotels yet) and crave for this, I can easily whip it up myself.

*****

On Pinoy Foods

For days now, I’ve been craving Filipino food – any food but particularly sweet Spaghetti. I’ve been planning to hit the Asian shop only that it is a trip in itself not just on the side. The one in the city closes at 5pm on weekdays so no chance for me to drop by after office hours. Going there on weekends would be a big trip for me. There’s one close to my local area – that gives me a bit of hope.

So today for the first time, I drove the longest on my own - 30 minutes one way. Although, I got lost 3 times I made it. I bought heaps of food and a DVD of SG and JLC movie.

I'll be having spaghetti for the next couple of days until I get tired of it.

One item that I really like is the Bench cologne. The weather is getting warn (ceiling fans are must), it's nice to splash it after shower. Perfume are a bit thick on the skin.

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Craving

I’ve been exchanging emails to my friends in the US today (who lives there now not just on medical travel
) and we have touched the topic of Halloween. We don’t celebrate it here in Oz and I miss it. I also miss the food and Arroz Valenciana came to mind.

I looked-up the net for simple recipe and so far, this is what I found.

ARROZ VALENCIANA INGREDIENTS
2 cups rice, cooked
2 cups malagkit (sticky rice), cooked
2 pcs chicken thighs and legs, chopped into small pieces
1/4 kilo pork, sliced into thin strips
1/2 kilo chicken liver and giblets, chopped
4 pcs frankfurters, sliced diagonally
1/2 cup green peas
2 pcs bell peppers (red and green), cut into thin strips
2 small cans of tomato sauce
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tbsp patis
1 tbsp atchuete oil
2 tbsp margarine
salt to taste

For garnishing
2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
spring onions chopped

ARROZ VALENCIANA PROCEDURES
1. Flake rice and malagkit with fork while still hot. Set aside.
2. In a deepn pan, saute garlic in atchuete oil. Add onion.
3. Add pork, chicken and giblets. Season with patis, then cover. After 2 minutes, pour in 1/2 cup of water.
4. Cover and simmer until half done.
5. Add frankfurters, pepper, and tomato sauce. Season with salt to taste.
6. Boil for five minutes, then add rice, malagkit, margarin and peas.
7. Mix until well-blended. Reduce heat, then cover.
8. Garnish with sliced hard-boiled eggs and chopped spring onions.

It is sort of similar to what my Mother cooked back then but I’m baffled when I see tomato sauce. This might be a different version. I might just ring up Nanay and ask for the ingredients.
Credits: LutongPinoy

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Good Oral Hygiene

Even life for us is busy especially at night when the Little Boy is whiny and grumpy, I make sure that he brushed his peggies. Good oral hygiene was not really inculcate my mind when I was growing up (I don't blame my parents for that) but now, I realised how important it is.

According to Colgate, good oral hygiene means:
Your teeth are clean and free of debris
Gums are pink and do not hurt or bleed when you brush or floss
Bad breath is not a constant problem.

And to maintain good oral health:
Brushing thoroughly twice a day and flossing daily
Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks between meals
Using dental products that contain fluoride, including toothpaste
Rinsing with a fluoride mouthrinse if your dentist tells you to
Making sure that your children under 12 drink fluoridated water or take a fluoride supplement if they live in a non-fluoridated area.

Though, I missed out a lot when I was growing up, I'm trying to make up for it. I have two dental appointments coming up. If only I could get dental care discounts, I would visit the dentist more often that I used to.

*****

My View On Halloween

...sort of.

You Are Creative and Chic

You're the type of person who wears a costume that's nicely put together and not overwhelming.

You have style, but you don't have to scream it. You like to wear a costume that's as realistic as possible.

Your favorite Halloween celebration has a bit of a theme and effort thrown in to it. You like it when people dress uniquely and don't wear costumes out of the box.

Halloween is the time to use your imagination to the fullest. You embrace all of the possibilities and come up with something really original.

The Candy Apple Test

Blogthings: Cheaper Than a Therapist

Halloween is drawing near and we don't celebrate it here. Oh well, no expenses for lollies then - might save up something for eye creams.

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Wrist Pain

Two weeks ago I started to have wrist pain. I can’t pin point what caused it – what were the activities I did. It’s not a severe pain, more of an annoying thing that prevents me from doing something that requires lifting and twisting my hand.

I’ve been reading on the net what causes wrist pain and there are heaps of reasons. I just have to guess which one I feel. Mcj objects of me going to see a doctor – I’m just a hypochondriac to him. Could be.

I can’t pin point (of course, I can’t I’m not a doctor) which is causing my paid because all says it has to be inflamed and mine isn’t. It sort of in the bone. Oh well, I might just follow the advice of MIL and buy some wrist band.

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Garlic-y

I wasn't comfortable with my answers on this survey. The options are just not so apt to me. But it did turn out quite well. I thought, at least I wouldn't be subjected to identify theft (and eventually get identity theft protection).

You Are Garlic

Of all the spice types, you are the most universally loved.

You get long with pretty much everyone, and you leave a lasting impression.

You adapt yourself well to situations. You can fit in or stand out, depending on what you're called on to do.

What Spice Are You?

Blogthings: Waste Time at Work!

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Hubs Happy Today

It’s Mcj’s happy today. I thought of buying him a plane toy but changed my mind. He would like it but it’s not needed so it can go out the backdoor. Although, I can Medifast discount online – I can’t think of where to use it.

So, I thought I’m going to cook him this yesterday but we ran out of time after shopping for his gifts. Take note, gifts - Plasma TV and home theatre system.

Yoghurt-marinated lamb with potato & mint sala

I will concoct something like this one of these days. I got the recipe from http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/14664/yoghurt+marinated+lamb+with+potato+mint+salad. Hopefully, it will turn out as yummy as the photo looks. It would be a trial and error but the recipe doesn’t sound like rocket science so I’m positive to get it right.

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Sunny Side Up, Please!

You Are Eggs Over Easy

You have good taste and high standards. You are very detail oriented, and you know what you want in life.

When everything is in its place and things are as they should be, you can finally relax.

You may seem like the kind of person who has things come easy for you, but it's all an illusion.

You work hard to make your life perfect, and part of this perfection is making things look effortless.

What Kind of Eggs Are You?

Blogthings: Cheaper Than a Therapist

Somewhat true. And it sounds good (somewhat like maui), I don't want to dis-agree. Lol.

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Rye Toast

What bread do you like? White, whole-meal, rye, etc? I know whole-meal is better than white bread but I prefer the latter mainly because of the texture and the taste.

Anyway, do you crave in mid-afternoon? Bulk up your breakfast with rye toast. Based on a study, people who eat rye toast for breakfast are less hungry before and after lunch. Rye-bran bread is better of all rye bread because it has the highest fiber content of the breads.

So next time, you are at the shops look for rye-bran bread or cereal - not just for loose diamonds. Hahaha.

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Fruit and Veggie Season

Yesterday, I cooked a Ricotta and Vegetable fritters. It's a shame I haven't taken a photo of them.

I got the recipe from coles baby mag. It was easy to make and sure is very nutritious.

It's spring. Different variety of fruit and veggies are available in the market aplenty. If you miss out on some veggies for the past season because they are not available or are dear, now is the time to indulge. Greens, yellows and all sorts of colours.

Fresh veggies on the dinner table. Yum. Good for everybody and for the health. Even if you ca afford the services of Blue Cross North Carolina, it's still way better to be in a pink of health.

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Fish Cakes

I just finished lunch. I quickly made tuna fish cakes. They were yummy yummy. Mcj had been mowing the place all over this morning and he was so ravenous after it that he asked for food. He normally doesn't.

Fish is rich in omega 3 - fatty acid that helps reduce the growth ot tumor or cancel cells. It also stave off cardiovascular diseases. It also helps mature the immune function.

Don't forget to include fish in your diet.

*****

On the side track, I've been admiring this scarf for a couple of days now. It's spring here but I want to buy it for a friend instead of a holiday cards. Problem is the website does not accept paypal and I don't shop through credit cards.

Humm, I might really need to change course on the gift for a friend here.

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Cancer Fighting Fruit

that I like.

Grapefruits, like oranges and other citrus fruits, contain monoterpenes, believed to help prevent cancer by sweeping carcinogens out of the body. Some studies show that grapefruit may inhibit the proliferation of breast-cancer cells in vitro. They also contains vitamin C, beta-carotene, and folic acid.

Grapes, red contain bioflavonoids, powerful antioxidants that work as cancer preventives. Grapes are also a rich source of resveratrol, which inhibits the enzymes that can stimulate cancer-cell growth and suppress immune response. They also contain ellagic acid, a compound that blocks enzymes that are necessary for cancer cells - this appears to help slow the growth of tumors.

There are grapes at the shop whole year round but they cost much when they're not in season. But when they are, I stock up on them. They're very handy for when we go out - just wash under the tap, put in plastic container and you have something to munch on while on the road, at the beach or lining up. Even if we have guaranteed issue life insurance, we better take our health seriously lest we're leaving youngsters early.

Source

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Cancer Fighting Spices

Do you like spices? How often do you use them when cooking? Most of us do and when you realise how beneficial they are for your health, you would be amazed with these ordinary spice.

Garlic. I know this is very common ingredient when cooking. It contains immune enhancing substance that appear to increase the activity of immune cells that fight cancer and in some way help break down cancer causing substances.

Chilli and jalapenos. I do like hot food sometimes. They contain substances that may neutralise cancer-causing substance.

So the next time you concock something, throw in a teaspoon or two of galic or chilli. Lets keep cancer treatment & prescriptions out the door.

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Adventurous

Somewhat, yeah. That’ll do.

Your Refrigerator Says You Are a Somewhat Adventurous Eater

You like to be surrounded by things you love. You aren't exactly greedy, but you can be materialistic at times.
You tend to be a fairly thrifty person. You splurge occasionally, but you're mostly a saver.
You don't tend to be a very adventurous person, but you do surprise everyone now and then. You have a bit of a wild side.

You are responsible, together, and mature. You act like an adult, even when you don't feel like it.
You are likely single - and spending many nights alone at home.

What Do the Contents of Your Refrigerator Say About You?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

We mainly use fresh veggies although there are at least a packet or two of frozen ones incase I don’t feel like peeling spuds and carrots. We store heaps and heaps of meat – have a chest freezer assigned for it.

When it comes to variety, we don’t venture to unchartered territory if I may say so. We’re not adventurous in that department especially as I am a very picky eater – in and out of the house.

We seldom run out of fruit – if it did happen, you bet I would be dashing to the shops after work.
People here complain how dear the food is – yeah it is but it is highly proportion to an average household income. That, I am thankful.

Lunch

For a couple of weeks, that is.

Mcj and I saw this in the telly program when we were at the dental clinic. It was easy to do and quick. We gave it a try.

Yeah, easy and quick enough. But you know you get tired of eating the same lunch every Saturday or Sunday so I dropped it off like a hat. But it was fun making it.

I try something new every couple of weeks or not really so new. Just something out of the ordinary - sandwich, omelette recipe. This weekend, tuna rissoles are on the menu. I might try to search for more ideas later if I don't get side track with insurance quotes.

New Snack

I'm hooke to sesame snaps these days. Although, it's a big though, it is yum. Not too sweet. It doesn't make you feel off. It fills you up pretty quickly, if I may add.

I found it in the health food section at the supermarket. So now, I'm curious as to its health benefits.

Sesame seeds are good source of manganese and copper - I am not referring to metals like stainless steel tiles
, mind you they're also minerals. They are also a good source of calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc and dietary fiber. There are two unique substance that can be found in them: sesamolin and sesamin - beneficial fibers that have a cholesterol-lowering effect on humans.

In short, sesame seeds are good for the bones, vascular and respiratory system, and prevents migraine and any head-ache inducing illness.

Now, I'm going to include this on my shopping list every week until I get tired of it?

Fat?

You Are Fat

You are by no means fat, but you are like fat in that you can easily absorb what's around you.

You are easily influenced by both the good and bad people in your life. It's important for you to be around people you want to be like.

You are a comforting and calming force. Without your presence, people feel unsatisfied.

You sometimes have a reputation for being a bad influence, but you're not nearly as dangerous as you seem.

Are You Protein, Carbs, or Fat?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

Yes, I want to be fat now. I gain weight like water to a sponge but I shed it off like squeezing it too. I told Mcj, maybe I'll really get fat if I have Macca's diet everyday. I've been aiming to beef up and I did, now I'm out of it again. Grrrr. That without me trying to do some exercise or energy-and-fat-burning endeavor like playing Myrtle beach golf. Anyone got some suggestions?

New Snacks

Since, I was told that I have high acidity in my mouth, I've refrained from eating sweets and try to have healthy choices for snacks.

There's a healthy food store just around the corner from the office - I frequently visit there to buy chickpea crackers. I just found it out to be nice when I was looking around. It's a good snacks when watching your bell tv. Very high in iron and gluten-free.

Unwell

I’ve been experiencing pain in the gum on the left side of my mouth. Abscessed tooth maybe. Since my last visit to the dentist, I started having tooth ache and my wisdom tooth.

I asked Mr Wiki, what really abscessed tooth is:

A tooth abscess or root abscess is pus enclosed in the tissues of the jaw bone at the tip of an infected tooth. Usually the abscess originates from a bacterial infection that has accumulated in the soft pulp of the tooth.

Abscesses typically originate from dead pulp tissue, usually caused by untreated tooth decay, cracked teeth or extensive periodontal disease. A failed root canal treatment may also create a similar abscess.

There are three types of dental abscess. A gingival abscess that involves only the gum tissue, without affecting either the tooth or the periodontal ligament. A periapical abscess starts in the dental pulp. A periodontal abscess begins in the supporting bone and tissue structures of the teeth.

My next dental appointment is not after two months – they are fully booked. I rang up earlier to get an early appointment but I was advised to see my GP and ask for antibiotics. If everything won’t get better, I can call the dental clinic again and they’re going to book an emergency appointment for me.

It’s not really painful, just a nagging feeling on my jaw and when I touch it.

What with all this pain, I got cough – just like inhaling Swisher Sweets.

Cure for Cancer

Source: email

Are you familiar with Graviola Fruit? How about guyabano? Or babana? They all are the names of one fruit.

According to a study in the US, Graviola fruit can fight cancer 10,000 times more effective than chemo. The patient won’t experience nausea, weight loss and hair loss. It is possible for this fruit to protect and boost the immune system and avoid complications and infections. And since it is natural, there is no possibility of side effects.

The tree is known to grow in the rain forest of Amazon. It can also grow in the backyard. We have that in the Philippines. It is one of my favourite fruit – depending on the quality of the fruit – it always taste good, that is if you like sweet and sour but it is more on the sweet. I can it eat on its own or with rice. Yeah, sort of an appetiser.

The information I received doesn’t say everything is definite or that there is certainty. But if you have cancer or you care for somebody who got that fatal illness, wouldn’t you try all the alternatives and options? I would. And I can see no harm in this, unless you go to the Amazon and find the plant yourself (haha) – it is a remedy and food in its simplest and natural form.

It was said that because firms have already spent millions of dollars or more to study and eventually come up Chemo as a possible cure for cancer, scientists employed by these company can’t divulge that Graviola is the possible cure stronger than chemo because of the financial implications to the shareholders. They have been emulating the substance of nutrients found in Graviola fruit so they can patent it, but they can’t. Just proves to show that there is no evolution (this is another story) as nobody can even copy nature let alone create something that is not already here on earth. Anyway, those firms who financed the study can’t patent Graviola. Hello! Hence, this fact has been buried – well, until one scientist can not contain his conscience.

I know gone were the days when cancer can't be cured. Now a days, when it has been detected early, it is easy to treat - much like treating acne with bruunhause. But when it is in the critical stage or point of no remedy, anything that can help is good. I just hope, this natural medicine is a miracle to this deadly illness.

Dental Visit

In my recent dental visit, I found out one very important thing about my mouth/teeth hygiene.

PH Level – (mine was abnormal). I was advised to lessen my sweets consumption. As if I like eating sweets which I don’t. I buy bags of lollies when they are on sale but it takes me weeks to finish them – my favourites are M&M and jelly lollies. There are lollies available at the clinic that will stave off the sweets craving and are actually good for the teeth as they useful sugar. I’ll just pass up the sweets during daytime when I can’t brush my teeth after eating. I eat cake at night and just brush right after. The way I’m looking at it, weight loss supplements won’t have any business with me. I’ve already lost weight but it’s not from not eating sweets. It’s from lack of sleep for a couple of weeks when Jens was ill.

My teeth need repair. I have at least 10 peggies that needs general dental treatment. And I thought, I only have one. And our health insurance will only cover 300 bucks. I’m booked for two sessions – one this year and one next. That way we can spread the cost and avail the extras next year. Clever, eh?

To achieve healthy teeth and gums follow these four steps; brush your teeth, floss, use mouth wash and visit your dentist regularly.

By the way, my lower right wisdom tooth is budding. Ouch.

Getting Corn-y

It’s not summertime here yet but corn was abundant at the shop last Friday. Mcj likes it so we bought a packet of four. When Jens saw it in the fridge on Saturday morning, he wanted to eat it but I’ve already prepared his breakfast and lunch. I cooked two pieces for his afternoon tea. And he ate them all. Isn’t he a garbage guts?

I cooked another two Sunday morning and Jens wouldn’t even share a piece to me. It was supposedly for Mcj. Daddy didn’t get any at all.

We’re glad that Jens likes corn as it is a very nutritious food. It is a good source of nutrients like in thiamin, panthotenic acid, folate, fiber, vitamin C, manganese and phosphorous.

Thiamin is an integral participant in enzymatic reactions central to energy production and is also critical for brain cell/cognitive function. I think, we’ll buy and eat as much corn as we can while it isn’t dear.

Really, eating two corns in the morning kept Jens going just like an elliptical machine. Plus, the food is natural, there’s no behavioural reaction triggered.

Breathing Clean Air

How often do you clean the air filters of your aircondition, heater, etc?

It is important to know that the air we breathe indoor especially in our home is clean. The quality of air in our homes can greatly affect the health of the people residing. Clean air can reduce the triggers of asthma, allergies, flu and cough.

When you buy equipment such as aircon, I think it is important to know how to clean the air vents or filters. We cleaned our aircon cum heater before the winter kicked-off and we found out how grubby it was. But it was very easy to clean, we just didn’t know how then.

The Fruit Bat Strikes Again

Jens is back to eating fruit again. He was a fruit bat but I noticed that during the colder months, he doesn’t like eating any fruit at all. I can’t find any apparent reason so I attributed it to the weather.

It’s still cold now but he’s back to being a fruit eater again. He can eat the whole large banana (to him it’s bananana). He eats watermelon any time of the day. Yesterday, he asked for grapes around lunch time. He had stewed apple after dinner. When I was packing fruit for my snacks in the office last night, he wanted to eat banana.

I’m just really glad. He’s been off with fruit for almost two months.

Maybe, he’s back to fruit again because he’s in a growth spurt. I noticed, he’d grown a bit and gained the pounds he had lost when he was ill (not because he had weight loss pills – haha). He’s not just interested with fruit but with any food.

Fitness Activity This Weekend

Yes, I want to start posting the fitness activities I've been doing every week or weekend.

I've changed my weekend schedule. I take day-off (read: not doing household chores) on Saturday. That means, eating junk food and lying around most of the time. Sunday, I do the washing - two or three loads at times. It's hard work you know especially if you have a kid who keeps on messing around with the clothes while you are hanging them. It takes me more than 4 hours to do them - just loading the machine and hanging them up. In the afternoon, I have to fold and sort them out. Then iron those that will be used this coming week.

So, are they fitness activities for you? Well, they keep me fit but I know that I should do more - running around playing with my little boy.

I haven't gotten around in going to the shop to buy hoola-hoop. It's so elusive just like buying mounts in our area here or maybe, I'm just out of time to go shopping. Well, that's new. I normally have more than enough time to hit the shop.

A Little About Me

I like salads but not as a main meal, just a side dish. I don't get full and it makes my stomach queasy. Truth be told, Caesar salad is my least favourite. Hahaha.

You Are a Ceasar Salad

You are very popular and easy to love. You strike a cord with people.

You are friendly and careful not to offend anyone. You try hard to get along.

And while you may avoid controversy, you are still very sincere. People love that about you.

You are dependable and steady. With you, what you see is what you get.

What Kind of Salad Are You?

But I still believe that eating fresh and healthy food is the ticket to good health and vitality. And sometimes if you are an athlete you might need to have a little of hgh supplement to boost your performance without taking PED.

To Have Supplements or Not?

As I’ve mentioned in The Tatapilla, I’m thinking of asking our GP if we could give him vitamin supplements. Of course, before doing so I consulted the experts in the net first. So here’s what I found from raisingchildrennetwork.net.au.

Vitamins: a good idea?
There is no evidence that vitamin and mineral supplements help children’s health in any way unless the child has a deficiency of some kind. And remember – very few children suffer from vitamin deficiencies. Check with your doctor if you think that might be the case.

What to ask your doctor and pharmacist
When your doctor prescribes medicine for your child, you might like to ask:

What is the medicine prescribed for?
Will it have side effects? (For example, high doses of vitamins A and D can accumulate in the body and cause side effects.)
How soon will it start to work?
How much should I give my child and how should I give it to him?
Should I give the medicine at any specific time, like before or after food?
How long should the prescription last?
Will the medicine interact or interfere with anything else my child is taking?
Does the medicine need to be kept in the fridge or away from light or heat?
Can I put the medicine in food, or should I be giving my child certain foods with the medicine?

If you are getting over-the-counter medicine from the chemist, you should ask the pharmacist all of the questions above. Also ask about:

whether the medicine is safe for your child
how long you should wait to visit your doctor if problems don’t go away
alcohol or aspirin in the ingredients.

After reading this, I am not sure now that we would need to give him supplements. I think, we just need to be patient in giving our little boy healthy and fresh food so he will be back to his tuxedo good-looking self.

Do I really Think?

Your Gift is Intellect

You are a big thinker, and you're always playing with new ideas.

You are curious about the world. You enjoy learning and developing new theories.

You enjoy researching, analyzing, and solving problems. Thinking hard feels good!

You're the type of person who finds most mental tasks to be easy. You love to stretch your brain.

What's Your Gift?

Maybe from choosing Ferrari parts if I do have one. :)

Next to the Cookbook

I've been reading the book Love, Pray and Eat for almost two weeks now. It's taking so long, isn't it? Well, I'm just reading it when I'm in the train going to and from work but not everyday. You know, I also like people watching.

I'm learning lots of things from the book although I'm not even half way through. One thing that stuck most? I also want to have an encyclopedia in the kitchen next to the cookbook, just like Catherine, Liz' sister.

Oh, I also want to go to Italy someday. Not to learn the language of the people there but to eat pasta and pizza in Naples with my one-and-a-half men who are turning into Italian these days. I just hope we won't be indulging too much just like Liz who I reckon would be needing top diet pills after her four month stay in Italia.

Another one, the word applicable to the place and to the moment. I've been thinking one for myself but can't find a very apt one, but I think I can say CONTENTED.

Favourite Food?

We had pizza last Sunday. Now, it’s the favourite food of The Little Boy. For several days, the pizza boxes were not thrown to the bin – and every meal, Jens would say “I want pizza”. I told him next time and for him, it means tomorrow. I kept on re-iterating, next time so it is not definite. When I say, we don’t have pizza anymore, he’ll say “In the fridge”.

Some kids his age, as what I hear and see on telly, want fried chicken almost all the time. He’s not keen on them – we don’t cook them, that’s why. We also don’t buy processed food that kids wants so he doesn’t know what Cheerios, hotdogs, etc are. And I’m proud of that. Although he is like an Italian – likes salad, pizza and pasta. At least when those are his diet, I won’t be needing Stimerex ES for him.

Seafood Again

Our first dinner in the Philippines. Dinner was served in the plane but we got hungry when we got to the hotel. What with pushing the pram and our luggages - who wouldn't. Max is the closest restaurant that we like to the hotel, so after going to the shop to buy some necessities we made a short trip to Max. It was late and good thing, their bistro was open and they only serve take aways for dinner.

We had sinigang na hipon and lechon kawali. Jens wasn't taken to any of it. Haha. Good thing, he was full from the airline dinner. We didn't eat at Max again. The choices are limited when you have a kid that are used to western diet.

***

This is my last post for tonight - off to bed and if I'm going to be naughty, might do some window shopping (I'm not going to buy memory though).

This is one of the menu in our most expensive meal in the Philippines. Lobster - Mcj's favourite so we didn't really mind paying. It wasn't really yummy as it was spicy. We could have just ordered garlic lobster but it was too late. Mcj said, Moreton bugs taste better. I have yet to taste it. Maybe one of these days.

It looks a bit yummy in real than in photo. I have a crappy cam not digital camcorders.

We enjoyed our dinner with a friend. Yum!

Be Ready

I’m an amateur when it comes to planning for a holiday. We had fun on our biggest trip for this year but there are heaps of room for improvement. Overall, it was hassle-free except from the hold up at the Sydney Airport on the way back and missing our domestic flight.

One thing that made me feel at ease while on holiday was our travel insurance. It’s always better to be prepared. Thankfully, we didn’t get the need to use it.

So next time your travel, get insurance quotes from all providers and compare the rates. It won’t cost that much to be ready.

At Peace

You Feel Like Autumn

You have reached a point in your life where you feel successful and accomplished.

You have a full, bountiful life. And you're ready to sit back and enjoy it.

While you feel like you finally have enough in your life, you make find that you also have things you no longer need.

This is a time for you to reassess who you are, what you need, and where you want to go next in your life.

What Season Do You Feel Like?

I’ve long realised that I am a mediocre person. And as of the moment, I have little material things to ask for. I feel I have determined my purpose in life and although not quite at the pinnacle of it, it’s a work in progress. So, I sit back and enjoy every moment apart from those that I nag. Hahaha.

Where are my breeches, got to ride a horse to break the monotony as some may call it? But I call it peace. :)

Are You Satisfied

Your Life is Deeply Satisfying

You live a satisfying life even when it's not easy. You are dedicated to being happy.

You make sure to what you're passionate about. You don't waste any moments.

You surround yourself with people you cherish. There is a lot of love in your life.

You are thankful for everything you have. You don't take anything for granted.

How Satisfying Is Your Life?

It’s so easy to be happy and contented with your life. Just be thankful for what you have. It is good to aspire for more but don’t get disappointed when you don’t get them. Don’t expect. And give your best shot. Don’t take the easy way or short cut like taking a diet pill. Everything is work in progress so don’t stress out if you find yourself not satisfied. Give yourself a change. Try again.

Traditional, Huh?

Your Handwriting Says You Are Somewhat Traditional

You are a laid back person with rather low energy. You aren't lazy... you *are* sensitive and empathetic.

You are very extroverted and outgoing. You are loving, friendly, and supportive. However, you are also manipulative and controlling at times.

You are very detail oriented and meticulous. You are a careful thinker and a true intellectual.

My hand writing changes every now and then. And, sometimes it depends on the pen that I'm using. Although they said, a good craftsman doesn't blame his tool. :) I am not just born to write, that's why I didn't become a lawyer just like the guys in mesothelioma.

Dreamer?

I agree.

You Are a Dreamer

You are primarily concerned with possibilities. You tend to be a fanciful person.

All of the world's opportunities sometimes overwhelm you.

You are obsessed with ideas and tend to be a big thinker. Theories interest you greatly.

You crave intellectual stimulation. You are drawn to a philosophical way of life.

Are You a Dreamer or a Doer?

Although, I am more of a realist when it comes to health insurance lead.

Stressed-Out

I’ve been so much stress lately. What with packing and not agreeing with Hubs what to pack and how to pack things. I can be quite bull-headed sometimes. If I set my mind to it, that will be it.

It’s hard when two bulls can’t meet eye to eye. They clash.

We know the word compromise but we don’t practice it. Whew! I think, I need to loosen up and just go with the flow. But there are so much stuff to do and if I won’t act on it, who will? Arggg!

Enough rambling. Have to check what’s this buzz on netbooks is about.

Keeping Our Mind Young

Do you find yourself forgetting something important sometimes? You might need a boost of brain foods.

Thinking is a biochemical process. So the food we eat does not only affect our weight and well-being, it also has something to do with our emotional and mental health. Eating the right food will sharpen our memory, improve our mood, keep us emotionally stable and keep your mind young.

For our brain cells to communicate effectively, they need a messenger that will carry the message from neuron to neuron. That messenger is called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are made from amino acid found in protein food that we eat. Vitamins and minerals are needed to convert the amino acids to powerful neurotransmitters.

So if you need a memory upgrade, eat food rich in protein, fat, carbohydrates and vitamins and minerals.

I wonder why I just don’t feel lacking in energy, sleepy and dizzy when I am hungry. I am also forgetful.

And I’m leaving you this excellent quote:
"One cannot think well, love well or sleep well if one has not dined well."
Woolfe (source: http://www.thethinkingbusiness.co.uk/brainfoods.htm)

On Holiday and Packing

Last night, I was quite busy. We had dinner early and Jens went to sleep right after. I was planning to do some ironing but when I opened the suitcases for our trip to the Philippines, I got caught up with packing. Mcj and I have some disagreement on what luggage to take but I am doing the packing so I will stick to my plan. Hahaha. I just have to make sure that all our clothes plus some presents will fit in them. It’s not that we’re going to Riviera Hotel for the stuff that we need to pack. I have some clothes left in the Philippines and if I’m lucky that they will still fit me, I would be doing less shopping on clothes.

Anyway, it occurred to me to look up some packing list and I found this cool site, http://upl.codeq.info/.

I also found some tips that you might find useful. I did.
1. Security and Keeping Details Safe
Scan your passport, passport photos and paper tickets (if not the e type) in. Store this (in an email for e.g.) in your web based email account.

You can also store the details of your emergency 'lost card' telephone numbers in your web based email account so you know who to contact if your credit card or ATM card is lost or stolen.

This way, even if you lose everything, you have immediate access your all important information. You can even email the details page of your passport to the embassy or consulate when applying for a new one. (Tip from a member)

2. Split up your valuables
Split up your bank cards, cash, travellers' cheques and credit cards as much as possible in different pockets, your bags and wallet when packing. In case you do get robbed, at least you won't be strapped for cash (unless you have all your bags AND your wallet stolen of course!).

3. Nalgene/Small Bottles
Use nalgene/small bottles to pack toiletries and other small items. There are several sturdy and (very nearly) waterproof ones, with clear/see through ones being preferable (easier for security purposes post August 2006). You can also use small bottles to repack shampoo or lotions so that you don't have to always carry a big bottle with you. This is especially useful if you normally take these items in your carry-on luggage, which as of early 2007 is much more restricted than before.

More...

On Filipino Food

I’m out of Pinoy food in the pantry. My last stash was a Ligo sardines which I cooked with eggs. It’s one of the tatak-Pinoy food that I missed.

I won’t be making a special trip to a Filipino store real soon but I’m going back “home” so I will buy as much food as we can carry and allow to get into Australia so I won’t miss any in the future.

I’m also planning on learning how to cook Pinoy cuisine while we are up there so I can whip-up anything when I feel like homesick. If everything goes right, I might be scouring the net for good diet pill reviews as I would need one. Hopefully, not. But I will learn as much as I can.

Ah, I just though I will buy a recipe book and then take-over the kitchen in my parents place. Humm, that sounds good. Let’s see.

Free Yourself with Worries

As much as I hate to admit, I'm a worry wart. I'm trying to turn the button off as much as I can as I know it's not healthy. I want to stay as positive as I can be. But well, I'm just the way I am. I am working on it and hopefully, will be successful in staying on the plus side.

It's been my mantra on dark days, "This too shall pass".

I already know the advantages of keeping positive, I just need more mental and emotional practice.

But maybe, these tips can help as well:

Knock out your concerns by writing them down (along with potential solutions).

Talk them out with people you love. Work on decisive plans of action for worries that won't go away.

Settle your mind with activities like walking or lifting weights. It won't take long -- recent research suggests that as little as 8 weeks of yoga can drop your anxiety level.

• Bonus: Kicking worries to the curb drives up your motivation and concentration, too.

And maybe, giving myself star rubber stamps when I get to the top. Haha.

Herbs for Headaches.

Do you like putting herb in your cooking? I can't say that I do or don't. I haven't done much cooking and I haven't been using much herb either. But I think when things pan out, I would love to try anything in the kitchen although my husband is not adventurous when it comes to food.

We know that herbs make food taste better. Apart from that, there are other minor illnesses that they can help cure. Got headaches? Try ginger, red pepper and thyme. Studies show that heat-giving ingredients may help prevent cluster headaches.

So while figuring out how to set-up the undermount sink, sip a ginger tea.

Shoes Again?

Why am I bombarded with shoes opps lately such as Merrell shoes? Maybe because the advertisers know that I am a shoe-aholic? Haha. I wonder when are they going to pay bloggers with shoes?

Anyway, I am not complaining. I’m grinning from ear to ear actually. Who am I to complain on a paid opps? Hmmm?

I was just told by my husband, shoe-fetish runs in the blood. Hahaha.

Shopping Again

Oh yeah, free shipping and lowest price. Just some of the reasons why I like shopping online. I'm always scouring for the best site to shops and I know that ebuy.com has an edge to some. Sadly though, I'm in Down Under and it will cost me an arm and a leg for shipping. If only, they do ship international free, I would be building a whole on our hip pockets. Hahaha.

I also read and heard good reviews on mod cons and other technologies, so I might be convince to buy some if ever. I haven't really buy such stuff online, only personal effects. But it wouldn't be long that I will be compelled to buy Xbox, Nintendo, etc what with my Little Boy getting bigger and insistent.

Maybe, I just need to wait for good sale maybe to offset for the international shipping cost. What do you think?

Is Rain Water Safe

Our water in Queensland was fluoridated very recently. The state government aims to reduce the tooth decay especially on kids though some claims it is poisonous. Yes, fluoride can be hazardous when taken up to some quantity. Many are opposed to it even my mother in law. Me, I don’t know which stand to take. I don’t like poison (who does?) but I also want healthy strong teeth for my family.

My action means I just go with the flow. I didn’t take precautions to buy reverse osmosis to treat our drinking water. I brushed my teeth, so I have fluoride everyday. It wouldn’t hurt me to have a little bit more, I guess.

My mother is trying rain water but I wonder how safe it is. Obviously it is not safe drinking it straight from the catchment as there are airborne chemicals and pollutants. Rain is from the evaporated water from the ground which could be from anywhere and when the clouds get heavy it precipitates. Rain water should be filtered to make it safe for drinking.

If you’re interested on how to reduce the pollution to your rain water, here are some tips:

Roof catchments should be kept clean and clear of leaves. Overhanging branches of trees and shrubs should be removed.

Cover the inlet and turn the down pipe to one side so the water from the first good rain rinses down the roof (especially if newly clad) and gutters then runs to waste.

The inlet and overflow of the tank should be screened with a mesh to prevent birds, animals and insects from gaining access to the water.

A well maintained leaf trap will reduce the amount of organic matter that enters the rainwater tank through the inlet.

The tank should be covered to prevent light from reaching the water as it will encourage the growth of bacteria. The cover should have a tightly sealed manhole, to allow access to the tank for cleaning and inspection purposes.

Source: http://www.eastfremantle.wa.gov.au/uploaded/pdf/rain.pdf

I’ve been thinking to look for a reverse osmosis in ebay but for now, I’ll still drink fluoridated water and look forward to Argentina travel (in my dreams).

Is Your Bed Comfy?

For me it is necessary to have a comfy bed as more than half of our time or so is spent in bed. Isn't it? But with the variety of bed style available in the shop, choosing one could be a nightmare, I reckon.

Speaking of bed, I have to constantly remind (if not nag) Mcj to put our headboard on. He asked me when I first came here if I want the headboard on, I said no.. but I changed my mind. I want it on now and he seems not happy to do it. Grrr..

Anyway, heard of sleep number bed? I've seen it in ads and it looks special and unique. I want to change our bed not because it is comfy but because it is hard to clean under it. Well, if I have the means I would want to change all our furnitures. :)

Something for Mother's Day

Mother's Day is coming and although, I said to myself that I will be less materialistic these days, part of me still wants to receive something special. Mcj said, I already have everything so giving me something won't be that easy. Doing something special, is out of the question. We just can't take off anytime and anywhere. With the little boy in tow, it's not like that. How about giving me diamond hoop earrings. I have many earrings but I would love to have a new one.

Bella True has beautiful earrings on sale. I checked them out and these caught my fancy:

And guys here this. Bella True has this in their site "What Men Don't Know... Can Hurt Us." Us means the ladies and it's quite true. Men has exquisite taste but when it comes to jewellery, women are still the expert. I mean, when it comes to style. Although, Bella True can give you some tips also. Check it out.

Talking of Jobs

It was in the news that 56K jobs were lost last year – mostly full time. Jobs advertisement online has also reduced. It’s just sad for those who lost their job in this time. So to those who are still employed, work hard and stay afloat.

Related article how Aussies are trying to save jobs:

Companies and unions are negotiating for staff to rotate through shorter working weeks in a bid to save money without cutting jobs completely.

Holden and Channel 10 are among the companies trying to make the switch. Holden cut 10 days from staff's rosters for next month but are looking at slashing more.

Other workers do not have the option yet. It is being reported today that the National Australia Bank will announce next week plans to axe hundreds of jobs, while Bank of Queensland said last night that up to 150 jobs could be set for the chop.

Thousands of other jobs have already been lost and more bad news is expected as the economy heads towards recession. The most high-profile job cuts so far have come from Pacific Brands, where those staff who still have a job are urging customers to ignore calls for a boycott of the company's products because it could lead to more cuts.

More...

I think most of the jobs these days are in danger except maybe of those that are in demand and hot like immigration lawyers, bankers, etc.

Love, Love, Love

What did you get last Valentine? I said to myself and to a friend that I’m past the materialistic stage but guess what I got? A Nine West bag and coin purse. Well, Mcj didn’t really buy it for me rather I bought it for myself. Hahaha. He said, I’ve been spending much already that I don’t need anything so my trick is, I buy things for myself and convince myself and him that they’re his gifts to me. How clever is that?

I bought Mcj a pair cool thongs (and would have bought some of thebest weight loss pills if he wants to trim down).

We don’t actually celebrate valentine. Everyday is the same day for us. It’s not always heaven for us as we have moments of bickering and all but we are really doing fine. We don’t need occasions to express our love for each other.

Speaking of love, here's a nice quote from the book, The Alchemist - where I bury my head on the train.

When you are loved you can do anything in creation. When you are loved, there's no need at all to understand what's happening, because everything happens within you, and even men can turn themselves into wind.

Trimming Down

My Little Boy is trimming on the face. He used to have big chubby chops. I’m not really worried because he seems to be growing taller. Which to my delight. He was given a clean bill of health on his last general check-up except on the height department. Take it from Mum.

I should feed him more protein and carbohydrates. His diet would be cereal with milk plus fruit for breakfast, cheese for morning snacks, omelette for lunch, fruit for afternoon snacks and veggies with meat for dinner. More milk of course. I’ve been cutting him on milk these past few days as he has a very chesty cough and Mcj reckon, milk makes the phlegm stickier. It helps though.

I really want him to grow taller (although we might need tv mount so he won’t muck around with our telly). I don’t want him to be like me.

Something Free?

There’s no such thing as free, they always say that. I beg to differ as I have received so many freebies when I wasn’t working and have plenty of time to kill surfing the net. Well, they didn’t come naturally free as I spent time and effort plus use up some gigabytes of our data traffic but still they’re stuff that you need not to worry for receiving without costing you anything as they didn’t come with a catch.

So when I see free stay at hotel, I checked it out when I had the time. We might have no spare time to go on holidays frequently, getting a free stay will surely motivate us to look and make time. Though with the list of things to pack and prepare for having a toddler in tow, planning for a holiday is really causing me pain as there are limited options of place to wander around.

Check this out.

Beefed-Up

I used to bring my own lunch to work when we were at the old office. But where we are now, there’s a convenience store that sells hot food – with Chinese cuisine, not to mention several Mexican and Chinese restaurants around the area. So, I don’t pack lunch anymore. At times, I am able to save money anyway and able to eat the food – with it freshly cooked.
At the beginning of this year, I answered a quiz to know what will be my new year’s resolution – which result was, for me to make one. There was one question that lingers in my mind – was the last vegetable you have were french fries? I always remember that when I eat the main meals which, always have veggies other than french fries.

Since, the quiz said I should make a New Year’s resolution, so I made one. To beef up. I lost weight when I started working and I think, I’m putting it back. What with me eating lots and lots of anything. I weighed myself at the airport – on the baggage weighing scale, and I weighed 42.5 kg. I used to be 38 when I was single so there’s an improvement there.

I really need to eat more and I do if I am well rested. Maybe, I should stop going to the shop burning my energy. I’ll just time my trip when there’s a big sale and buy some wholesale electronics for Hubs..

Getting Ready for the Cold Season

We are on the last month of summer and although it has been very hot on other parts of Australia particularly in Victoria (where the bushfire was), it wasn't that bad here in Queensland, which is the sunshine state. I can't complain on the weather actually, well, except when it rains for long.

Cold season is looming and it means, sickness like cold and flu would be around the corner as well.

Here are some helpful tips on how to get ready:

Step1: Know the difference between a cold and the flu. A cold can last two or three weeks; most people are better within seven to ten days. On the other hand, without proper care or attention, a flu virus can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, each of which can cause permanent health damage. Each year, more than 100,000 people in the United States are hospitalized and about 36,000 die due to the flu and its complications.
Step2: Wash your hands. Frequent washing with warm water and ordinary soap for 10 seconds is one of the simplest and most effective ways to avoid catching a cold or the flu. Use antibacterial alcohol-based foams and gels when you don't have access to soap and water.
Step3: Disinfect your home regularly. Spray the surfaces in your bathroom and kitchen with a mild solution of 2 to 5 percent bleach in water to kill viruses and bacteria.
Step4: Get a flu vaccination if you're in a high-risk population: (a) People living in long-term care facilities and group homes. (b) Adults over the age of 65. (c) Adults and children with chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, emphysema and kidney disease. (d) Pregnant women who will be in the second or third trimester of their pregnancy during the flu season. (e) People with weakened immune systems, such as HIV-positive individuals or cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy. (f) Health care workers.
Step5: The vaccine is made with a killed virus that cannot give you the flu. Vaccines are not 100 percent effective, so you may still get a less severe case of the flu after receiving the vaccine. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective in your body, so prepare yourself before the season hits.
Step6: Discuss FluMist with your doctor if you are healthy and between 5 and 49 years. Approved in 2003 by the Food and Drug Administration, this flu vaccine is delivered through a nasal spray.
Step7: Eat a well-balanced diet. It's essential to building a healthy immune system, and it provides sources of energy and nutrition for optimal growth and development. Taking a daily multivitamin-- especially when you're fatigued or stressed--also helps ensure that you will receive an adequate dose of minerals and vitamins.
Step8: Get plenty of rest. On average, humans require seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Lack of sleep can lower the immune system's ability to react when needed. Without sufficient sleep, the immune system is hard-pressed to keep up with its nightly repair work, and creates an opening for opportunistic diseases.
Step9: Stock your medicine cabinet with a supply of single-symptom drugs such as cough suppressants, pain relievers and antihistamines. Cold symptoms tend to appear in sequence, not all at once, so multi-symptom formulas often give you too much or not enough medicine for any given symptom. Avoid time-release capsules for the same reason.

And be prepare for the cold temperature. Have your heater ready. If you haven't got a wood flooring, you might want to through a rug or carpet.

A Short Trip

I've was in Melbourne for two days. We didn't really stay in the city or been to the city aside from driving around to the airport. The customer's office is in the south side which is more or less an hour drive from the airport, so we opted to stay in one of the hotels around the area (not booked through Westgate though).

I now know the feeling of a jetsetter. It is tiring especially if it's for work. I didn't see much as I opted to stay in the hotel room watching telly, dilly dallying and surfing the net. I had a great time though on the way home as I did a bit of retail therapy for pressies.

As for food, I tried the hotel's garlic prawn and it didn't appeal to my palete.

Pertussis

My sister-in-law was recently diagnosed to have whooping cough. And it has been circulating in the family. We've been interacting most of the time and we're just passing around bacteria and germs.

The little boy has been coughing and it was real bad last Friday so we took him to the doctor yesterday as we suspect it might be pertussis. The doc said, he has viral infection and was prescribed of anti-biotics.

Here are some facts about whooping cough:

What is whooping cough?Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the upper respiratory system—specifically, the area where the nasal passages meet the back of the throat (nasopharynx). The infection causes irritation in breathing passages, resulting in severe coughing spells. The illness can have three distinct stages and can last months.

What causes whooping cough?
Whooping cough is caused by infection with Bordetella pertussis or B. parapertussis bacteria. The infection easily spreads from person to person through respiratory secretions or mucus, which can be emitted during coughing or sneezing. The incubation period is about 7 to 14 days, meaning that symptoms start about 1 to 2 weeks after exposure to the bacteria.

What are the symptoms?Symptoms of whooping cough typically last 6 to 10 weeks (but may last longer) and can occur in three stages.

Stage 1: Coldlike symptoms—such as sneezing, runny nose, mild coughing, watery eyes, and sometimes a mild fever—last from several days to 2 weeks. An infected person is most contagious during this stage.
Stage 2: Coldlike symptoms fade, but the cough gets worse. It changes from a dry, hacking cough to bursts of uncontrollable, often violent coughing. During a coughing episode, it may be temporarily impossible to take a breath because of the intensity and repetition of coughs. When finally able to breathe, the person may take in a sudden gasp of air through airways narrowed by inflammation, and this sometimes causes a whooping noise. Vomiting and severe exhaustion often follow a coughing spell. But between coughing episodes, the infected person often appears normal. This is the most serious stage of whooping cough, usually lasting from 2 to 4 weeks or longer.
Stage 3: Although the person improves and gains strength, the cough may become louder and sound worse. Coughing spells may occur off and on for weeks to months and may flare up if a cold or other upper respiratory illness develops. This final stage may last longer in people who have never received the whooping cough vaccine.
Healthy adults who become infected with whooping cough often have a much milder form of the illness compared with children. But adults ages 60 and older are at increased risk of having severe symptoms and developing complications. The severity of symptoms is, in part, influenced by whether a person was immunized against whooping cough and how long ago the immunization was given. The protection against whooping cough provided by the vaccine wears off over time.

More here.

One of the reasons why I don't having pets around is because ofthe illness that we can get from animals especially those that are furry - it's not because I don't want to buy pet supplements.

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