BEWARE OF CRAIGSLIST

You have found this page by searching for DAVID HOWER, HR MANAGER, VILLACOM LIMITED,  WELORIS STAFFING, DAVID HOWER AND THOMAS some junk, am I correct? 

Because you applied for a job and he was the person who responded, am I correct?  Well, it's messed up.  People just don't know when to stop the nonsense and be good.  Many people need jobs, and sometime, some of those many people use sites like Craigslist to job hunt.  People like me.  You see, I was on Craigslist and was very excited to see
a job paying $16 - $20 bucks per hour.


Who wouldn't apply, right?


I was very surprised to have actually run into A SCAM while searching for part-time work.

In short, I replied,  I sent my resume and a cover letter.  I received an email acknowledging my submission which also stated some interesting reading material.  I have copy and pasted it here:

===============================================================================

========================================================================

Hello,

Thank you for sending your resume to me. So the job responsibilities are clear, you will be answering the phone, scheduling meetings, and running company errands such as buying office supplies and making bank deposits in a company car. When running errands you will be provided with a company credit card to make supply purchases, etc.

We have had some bad experiences with prior employees taking advantage of having access to a company credit card in the past, so before we can schedule an interview, we need you to get a credit check. We prefer you use http://creditcheckcentral.org/promo2 to obtain this information as they currently have a free trial. We have also found their reports most accurate. When you submit your information they will send you your credit score.

When you email me your credit score, we can schedule for an interview. Please do not email me your credit report, as this may have private information in it. If you have a low credit score, that will not prevent you from having an interview with us, but it does show us that you are trustworthy and responsible. Please send me your schedule with availability for an interview along with your credit score. I am looking forward to your response.

Sincerely,

David Hower

HR Manager

Villacom Limited

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Now, please Excuse my way of saying this, but that's bull!  

DON"T EVER CLICK ON A LINK WHICH ASKS YOU FOR PERSONAL INFORMATION!!!!!! 

I'm pissed but I feel bad for the people who do fall for these kinds of scams and consequently have their identities stolen....

  If you have found this helpful, please click on the banner to vote for my blog.

  BEWARE OF CRAIGSLIST and the SCAMS.

Read full history - BEWARE OF CRAIGSLIST

Thanks to Facebook

compassion practice it

So one of my friends posted a quote from the Dalai Lama : "We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves."  

And so that prompted me to Google some Dalai Lama quotes.  Then I ran into the wonderful word COMPASSION.  A virtue I am so desperately trying to possess.  What I can't' understand is how one can so easily feel anger and not be able to submit that to compassion.  Why can't I wrap my head around that thought?  

Anyway, here are a few other Dalai Lama quotes I ran into that I'd like to share.

---Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.

-

--If you can, help others; if you cannot do that, at least do not harm them.

---If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.

----Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.

---If you have fear of some pain or suffering, you should examine whether there is anything you can do about it. If you can, there is no need to worry about it; if you cannot do anything, then there is also no need to worry.  (This is my favorite because it's basically saying DONT WORRY BE HAPPY)

----Human potential is the same for all. Your feeling, “I am of no value”, is wrong. Absolutely wrong. You are deceiving yourself. We all have the power of thought – so what are you lacking? If you have willpower, then you can change anything. It is usually said that you are your own master.

--- We must recognize that the suffering of one person or one nation is the suffering of humanity. That the happiness of one person or nation is the happiness of humanity.

---Through violence, you may ‘solve’ one problem, but you sow the seeds for another.

---A spoon cannot taste of the food it carries. Likewise, a foolish man cannot understand the wise man´s wisdom even if he associates with a sage.

 ----In our struggle for freedom, truth is the only weapon we possess.

Great words of wisdom, right?

Read full history - Thanks to Facebook

Ugly hand stitched ragdolls: Baby Big Head Dude

Ugly hand stitched ragdolls: Baby Big Head Dude: "Ugly hand stitched ragdolls, Baby Big Head Collection. This is Dude! He's pretty cool as you can see."

Read full history - Ugly hand stitched ragdolls: Baby Big Head Dude

Reality TV Junkie

Ok, So I have been plagud with the reality tv junk.  I will be back soon with the wonderful updates of my son, his milestones and our fun together.  After, Jersey Shore of course..

Read full history - Reality TV Junkie

Family Disaster Plan Supplies KiT

Are You Ready?

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit

You may need to survive on your own after a disaster. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it might take days.
Basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days, or even a week or longer. Or, you may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You probably will not have the opportunity to shop or search for the supplies you need.
A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items that members of a household may need in the event of a disaster.

Kit Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work, and vehicles.

Home	Work	Car
Your disaster supplies kit should contain essential food, water, and supplies for at least three days. Keep this kit in a desig­nated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept. Additionally, you may want to consider having supplies for sheltering for up to two weeks.	This kit should be in one container, and ready to "grab and go" in case you are evacuated from your workplace. Make sure you have food and water in the kit. Also, be sure to have com­fortable walking shoes at your workplace in case an evacuation requires walking long distances.	In case you are strand­ed, keep a kit of emer­gency supplies in your car. This kit should contain food, water, first aid supplies, flares, jumper cables, and seasonal supplies.

Water

How Much Water do I Need?
You should store at least one gallon of water per person per day. A normally active person needs at least one-half gallon of water daily just for drinking.
Additionally, in determining adequate quantities, take the following into account:

• Individual needs vary, depending on age, physical condition, activity, diet, and climate.
• Children, nursing mothers, and ill people need more water.
• Very hot temperatures can double the amount of water needed.
• A medical emergency might require additional water.

How Should I Store Water?
To prepare safest and most reliable emergency supply of water, it is recommended you purchase commercially bottled water. Keep bottled water in its original container and do not open it until you need to use it.
Observe the expiration or “use by” date.
If you are preparing your own containers of water
It is recommended you purchase food-grade water storage containers from surplus or camping supplies stores to use for water storage. Before filling with water, thoroughly clean the containers with dishwashing soap and water, and rinse completely so there is no residual soap. Follow directions below on filling the container with water.
If you choose to use your own storage containers, choose two-liter plastic soft drink bottles – not plastic jugs or cardboard containers that have had milk or fruit juice in them. Milk protein and fruit sugars cannot be adequately removed from these containers and provide an environment for bacterial growth when water is stored in them. Cardboard containers also leak easily and are not designed for long-term storage of liquids. Also, do not use glass containers, because they can break and are heavy.
If storing water in plastic soda bottles, follow these steps
Thoroughly clean the bottles with dishwashing soap and water, and rinse completely so there is no residual soap.Sanitize the bottles by adding a solution of 1 teaspoon of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to a quart of water. Swish the sanitizing solution in the bottle so that it touches all surfaces. After sanitizing the bottle, thoroughly rinse out the sanitizing solution with clean water.
Filling water containers
Fill the bottle to the top with regular tap water. If the tap water has been commercially treated from a water utility with chlorine, you do not need to add anything else to the water to keep it clean. If the water you are using comes from a well or water source that is not treated with chlorine, add two drops of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to the water.Tightly close the container using the original cap. Be careful not to contaminate the cap by touching the inside of it with your finger. Place a date on the outside of the container so that you know when you filled it. Store in a cool, dark place.Replace the water every six months if not using commercially bottled water.

Food

The following are things to consider when putting together your food supplies:

• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty. Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals, and canned foods with high liquid content.
• Stock canned foods, dry mixes, and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water, or special preparation. You may already have many of these on hand. (Note: Be sure to include a manual can opener.)
• Include special dietary needs.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

The following items are recommended for inclusion in your basic disaster supplies kit:

• Three-day supply of non-perishable food.
• Three-day supply of water - one gallon of water per person, per day.
• Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• First aid kit and manual.
• Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper).
• Matches and waterproof container.
• Whistle.
• Extra clothing.
• Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener.
• Photocopies of credit and identification cards.
• Cash and coins.
• Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries.
• Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers.
• Other items to meet your unique family needs.

If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat. Think about your clothing and bedding supplies. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including:

• Jacket or coat.
• Long pants.
• Long sleeve shirt.
• Sturdy shoes.
• Hat, mittens, and scarf.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket (per person).

Be sure to account for growing children and other family changes. See Appendix B for a detailed checklist of disaster supplies. You may want to add some of the items listed to your basic disaster supplies kit depending on the specific needs of your family.

Maintaining Your Disaster Supplies Kit

Just as important as putting your supplies together is maintaining them so they are safe to use when needed. Here are some tips to keep your supplies ready and in good condition:

• Keep canned foods in a dry place where the temperature is cool.
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers to protect from pests and to extend its shelf life.
• Throw out any canned good that becomes swollen, dented, or corroded.
• Use foods before they go bad, and replace them with fresh supplies.
• Place new items at the back of the storage area and older ones in the front.
• Change stored food and water supplies every six months. Be sure to write the date you store it on all containers.
• Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family needs change.
• Keep items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as an unused trashcan, camping backpack, or duffel bag.

Read full history - Family Disaster Plan Supplies KiT

Rosca de Reyes - Kings Cake

Once upon a time, not long ago, I dated someone of Mexican descent.  My point in mentioning this is to write about one of the traditions I learned while we were together.  See, I am an American, born in New Jersey who follows typical American traditions with a little Puerto Rican twist. This was due to the fact that my parents were both part of the same generation of Puerto Ricans, raised in America.

So for example, Thanksgiving dinner typically consists of not just turkey but also a pernil, not just mashed potatoes but also arroz con gandules and that's to name a few.  I was also taught that Christmas came on Dec 25th and its polite to leave milk and cookies for Santa as visits via the chimney to leave gifts to to good and put coal in the socks of the bad (this is why I felt like I had to create at least a FAUX FIREPLACE for Christmas 2010). Then there was the Three Kings Day, a day in January that my Grandmother seemed very adamant about giving us (kids) gifts.  She would bring us to a Catholic Spanish mass but a a child with English being my primary language, I couldn't keep up with or understand the Lector, and so I barely understood what it meant, but the after party was a fun and unforgettable event where three men dressed as the Three Kings would give out gifts to the children.  As far as in school, all I remembered is that we were taught about the arrival of the Three Kings, something about the Star in the East and that they came bearing gifts of frankincense and myrrh.  

Well, the tradition that I learned, is a Spanish tradition which is associated with the Three Kings Day and it's how I experienced the ROSCA de REYES.  I am glad that I had the opportunity to learn about that piece of Spanish tradition so that one day, hopefully, I can incorporate it into the traditions that I teach and enjoy with all of my family.  It's a lot of fun and a great way to host family get-togethers that are kid friendly, have meaning and aren't only about someones birthday, graduation or marriage etc.  [Wow! I have a reason almost all year round to have some kind of celebration.  Starting with my son's birthday in September, Halloween in October, Thanksgiving in November, Christmas in December, Three Kings in January and Early February, My Birthday in February, My Partners birthday and Easter in March, Memorial Day in May and the 4th of July.  That's without counting everyone Else's birthday!!]

In a nutshell on January 6th, the family and friends get together and celebrate the Three Kings Dday by giving gifts to the children and eating cake with some hot chocolate.  This cake, "the rosca" has a little figurine of a child baked inside.  When the cake is presented the people in the party they take turns cutting off a slice of the cake.  The person who receives the figurine is supposed to host the next get together on Feb 2nd and also visit the church to bring the figurine there.

According to the WIKIPEDIA ::

""Rosca de reyes or roscón de reyes (kings' ring) is a Spanish and Spanish American king's cake pastry traditionally eaten to celebrate Epiphany.
Although the name indicates that it should be round, the “rosca de reyes” generally has an oval shape due to the need to make cakes larger than 30cm across for larger parties. Recipes vary from country to country. For decoration, fig fruit, quinces, cherries or dried and candied fruits are used.
It is traditionally eaten on January 6, during the celebration of the "Día de Reyes" (literally "Kings' Day"), which commemorates the arrival of the three Magi or Wise Men. In most of Spain, Spanish America, and sometimes, Hispanic communities in the United States, this is the day when children traditionally get presents, which are attributed to the Three Wise Men (and not Santa Claus or Father Christmas). In Mexico before children go to bed, they leave their shoes outside filled with hay or dried grass for the animals the Wise Men ride, along with a note.
The tradition of placing a trinket (figurine of the Christ Child) in the cake is very old. The baby Jesus, when hidden in the bread, represents the flight of Jesus, fleeing from King Herod's evil plan to kill all babies that could be the prophesied messiah. Whoever finds the baby Jesus figurine is blessed and must take the figurine to the nearest church on February 2, Candlemas Day (Día de la Candelaria). In the Mexican culture, this person also has to throw a party and provide tamales and atole to the guests.
In Spain, due to commercial interests, roscones bought in cake shops hide in their interior a figure - either of Jesus or others like little toys for kids and a dry faba bean. Whoever finds the figure is crowned and becomes the "king" or "queen" of the banquet, whereas whoever finds the bean has to pay next year's roscón. ""

Read full history - Rosca de Reyes - Kings Cake

Not so worried anymore.

About a month or so ago, I mentioned my worries with my son and his eating habits.  Thankfully, it seems like he's getting back to normal.  We went from five bottles down to four or three in a day and he's finally eating our food with less hassle.  I thought I was going to go nutts trying to figure out a way, besides pureeing his food, to feed him.  I read online that this kind of behavior is normal, but that didn't stop me from worrying about it.  That said, I guess it is normal and they do snap out of it within a month or so.  

He finally opened up when I gave him bananas with KIX.  Then, the next day he ate a peanut butter sandwich, with no problem, rice and beans (not too much, but he did eat a few spoonfuls) and peanut butter with jelly. 

Now, don't get me wrong.  I was giving him the stage 2 gerber foods, but I felt like he should have been passed that, especially with 8 teeth out, willing and able to chew.

So, if you're a first time mom, like me, who's child is toddler age and being picky with food, don't fret.  Keep on trying & be patient, eventually they'll be at the level we all hope for.  I hope this advice helps.

Toddler eating habits, feeding toddlers, what to feed your toddler, picky eaters, one year old eating habits, advice  on getting toddler to eat.

Read full history - Not so worried anymore.

Arroz con Dulce

When I get the cravings, I'm off to the supermarket.  After that, I'm in the kitchen, working it out.  Today, I'm sharing Arroz con Dulce.  (Rice Pudding)

Puerto Rican Arroz con Dulce

Ingredients:
2 cups Rice
2 cups Water

10 Cloves
2 Cinnamon Sticks

1 can Condensed Milk
1 can Evaporated Milk
1 can Coconut Milk
1 tsp Ginger
2 tsp Vanilla Extract
Half cup Raisins

Dash Cinnamon


*Please Note* Always cook uncovered

In deep pot, add water and rice.  Bring to boil.

• Lower the heat to simmer, add the cloves and cinnamon stick. Stir.
• Let this cook on low until the water has evaporated.
• Add the remaining ingredients (except the pinch of cinnamon), stir gently, and again let simmer on low until all liquid has evaporated.  [This will take some time, 20 mins to half hour, as the rice will rise to meet the height of the liquid.]
• Once thickened, transfer into a serving dish, garnish with the pinch of cinnamon and refrigerate.

Read full history - Arroz con Dulce

We love Pork!

Pork Adobo

We really do loves us some pork. 

We love it so much that we eat pork about 2 or 3 times a week.   Since my preference for pork is any variation with vinegar -

here, I share one of my favorite recipes- its called Pork Adobo and it's Filipino style.

I will cut right to the chase and post the recipe below.

MY PORK ADOBO RECIPE

Ingredients:

1 - 2 pounds of CUBED pork butt or CUBED rib tips

1 - 2 cups of vinegar

1-2 cups of kikkoman soy sauce

1 -2 cups of water

5 - 6 spoonfulls of minced garlic

pepper corn

In a deep pot put in your washed pork cubes. 

Add the 5 or 6 spoonfulls of minced garlic

Add a few pepper corn

Cover and brown the pork.

After the pork is browned, add one cup each of the vinegar and soy sauce.  

Add one cup of water.  If this does not cover the pork, add more of each but in equal portions - until your pork is covered in liquid.

Boil on medium low, COVERED for about 1 hour.  (stir it occasionally)

And that's it-  you're done..  Simple, right?  

Usually served with white rice.

Read full history - We love Pork!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

My Christmas Decorations:

Faux Fireplace.  

What do you guys think?  hahaha.. 

Even adults have wants...

Read full history - Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

Baby Teeth

 Babies, teeth and teething.

At four months he had all the signs, crankyness, drool etc.  The fifth month was marked by red cheeks.   So at that point, I'd whip out the HUMPHREY pellets. It's so refreshing that I still clearly remember how at  5 years old, I'd indulge on those pellets.   (I had two toddler siblings at that time. )


But back to the subject, My son started showing teeth at around 6 months, namely two on the bottom.  I remember him catching a slight fever which I took care of with tylenol.  But after that, he was pretty much symptom free.  I think at times he has been in pain, but he's a tough kid and from what I notice, he's more active at times.  Meaning, he tries to keep his mind off of whatever is making him uncomfortable.  Otherwise, he's a pretty chilled out kid.

As you can see in the picture on the right, he had 8 teeth by 11 months and today at 14 months, he still has those same 8 but they are much longer and pushed closer together.  Many people seem shocked, but I don't understand why.  

I'm interested in finding out how many teeth your child had at 12 months?  And what symptoms did your baby show?

Say Cheese.  Look at my teeth!

Read full history - Baby Teeth

What's Next?

Mommy and Me meet-up Groups!

Read full history - What's Next?

Filipinos sue CA hospital ??

There was an article on yahoo titled "Filipinos sue CA hospital over English-only rule" and I thought I'd write my take on this since I have family members of this race.

Think about this, what word sounds softer:
ya, ak
-how about between
ak, ar ?
I'd say ya and ar.   Right?
All of those sounds are parts of languages which, and let's face it, can sound rougher than others.
It is my experience that when Filipinos start talking their language in front of people, they're really not taking into account what they sound like, or how they come across. That, in addition to the fact that they don't pay attention to who is around, they will often do it around one person. How awkward must that feel?

So, Just as Arabs and Chinese sound like they are mad when they speak their language, Tagalog just sounds harsh, harsh enough to make the person who doesn't understand it think it's a negative.  Filipinos are very nice people they just need to see things from an outsiders point of view and realize that when they speak, with their tones, they really make others feel like outsiders.  Since they do, they should be kind enough to accommodate that by simply repeating to whom ever doesn't understand what it is that they are speaking of.   Case closed!

Below is a copy of the article...
By AMY TAXIN, Associated Press
Amy Taxin, Associated Press –

Tue Dec 7, 5:52 pm ET

LOS ANGELES – Dozens of Filipino hospital workers in California sued their employer Tuesday alleging they were the sole ethnic group targeted by a rule requiring them to speak only English.

The group of 52 nurses and medical staff filed a complaint accusing Delano Regional Medical Center of banning them from speaking Tagalog and other Filipino languages while letting other workers speak Spanish and Hindi.

The plaintiffs are seeking to join an August complaint filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in Kern County federal court over the hospital's enforcement of a rule requiring workers to speak English.

Filipino workers said they were called to a special meeting in August 2006 where they were warned not to speak Tagalog and told surveillance cameras would be installed, if necessary, to monitor them. Since then, workers said they were told on a daily basis by fellow staffers to speak only English, even on breaks.

"I felt like people were always watching us," said tearful 56-year-old Elnora Cayme, who worked for the hospital from 1980 to 2008. "Even when we spoke English ... people would come and approach us and tell us, 'English only.'"

A message was left at the hospital seeking comment.

In its lawsuit, the EEOC has accused the hospital in California's San Joaquin Valley of creating a hostile working environment for Filipinos by singling them out for reprimands and for encouraging other staff to report them. The agency is seeking an injunction to protect the workers against future discrimination.

[Rewind: Politician caught in English-only controversy]

The EEOC has seen an increase in complaints alleging discrimination based on national origin amid a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, said Anna Park, a regional attorney for the EEOC. That's especially the case in California's central valley, where a greater share of the complaints the agency receives relate to such issues than in the nation as a whole.

In this case, the current and former hospital workers filed a separate complaint under state law in part because monetary damages are capped by federal law, said Julie Su, litigation director for the Asian Pacific American Legal Center, which represents the plaintiffs. They want the English-only policy to be changed and for hospital staff to be trained on the new rule.

[Political candidate's statement: 'This is Alabama, we speak English']

Under California law, employers may require workers to speak English if there is a business necessity, Su said.

Delano Regional Medical Center is a 156-bed hospital located about 30 miles north of Bakersfield.

Read full history - Filipinos sue CA hospital ??

Coquito for the holidays

The HOLIDAYS are here!!!  Cheer them on with a nice bottle of DELICIOUS homemade Coquito.

Yes, Coquito!!!!! A delicious coconut cream liqueur which is a holiday tradition in Puerto Rico. Impress your family and friends with this yummy beverage this holiday season.

Coquito means little coconut.  

Based on a traditional recipe, my Coquito is utterly delicious and unforgettable. Enjoy a mixture of flavors which include coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, and more.
 

Coquito can be poured into glass bottles (wine bottles) and given as a gift to the host/hostess of a party. Just remember to keep it cold.  

Surprise your friends with something different by gifting them some delicious home made coquito.

My Coquito Recipe

1 can of condensed milk (i use magnolia),

2 cans each of evaporated milk and coconut cream (i use coco lopez)

2 tsp of ground cinnamon

2 tsp of vanilla

1 bottle of Bacardi (375ml)

**

Directions:  

In a blender, put together the condensed milk, evaporated milk and coconut cream. 

Blend so it mixes well.  

Next add your cinnamon, and vanilla and blend it up again.  

Last, add half of the bottle of bacardi.  

Taste it. 

If it doesn't have the kick you are looking for, keep on adding.  

I usually use the whole bottle.

For storage, glass bottles are best however, you can use plastic.  From what I understand, as long as the Coquito is refrigerated, since there is liquor in it, it can last up to a year!  

Buen provecho!  

If you use this recipe, please leave a comment.  I'd love to know what your thoughts are.

**Please note, some recipes call for eggs.  Since I know people with egg allergies, we just don't use it.  You can store the mix in a glass or plastic bottle.  I have tastes great mixes coming from both kinds of bottles.  However some people, like me, prefer glass.           

:o)

Read full history - Coquito for the holidays

Love the face

I am so ridiculously in love with this little boy. No matter how tough a day may seem, just looking at his face makes it all seem worth it. How can I stay mad at a face so precious as that? How do I keep myself from melting or giving in to all his demands?

I never knew that motherhood was this emotional, with this overwhelming feeling of love, this enormous amount of love that makes you feel complete. Even though I have never even heard him say "I love you" somehow I know and feel that he does. This is true love in the simplest yet complex form.

Read full history - Love the face

ABC by mom

Soooo....

I was messing around with a few programs and this is what I created. Its silly and kind of boring but it's the beginning of me using technology to help my baby boy figure out the world.

Read full history - ABC by mom

Nikki Minaj

This is Nikki Minaj

I have to say it.. Nikki Minaj is to me, what baggy jeans and hip hop were to my parents... Absolute nonsense...  (chuckles)

It makes me feel weird how people find this "BARBIE" chik amazing.

TO ME... There's nothing amazing about someone who took rap and remixed nursery rhymes.  Sure her sound is catchy but come on, give me a break!  She's made the hip hop game a children's riddle, why don't these youngin's see it?   Its as if Taylor Swift made an E,I,E,I,O country song... Get what I'm saying.

Listen "Nikki Minaj" leave the nursery rhymes at the daycare. I don't care about the itty bitty piggies in the market.  Dungen dragons were cool and all, but seriously? It upsets me that your songs are so catchy, and although I hate em, I end up singing along to your nonsense. Stop confusing the youngin's, if your making up something new, call it that.. Don't mix your work with rap or hip hop.  Maybe your doing Chip Chop... calling yourself a BARBIE! HAHAHA! Of course the younger generations think your hott cause really, no real rap chik is signing on, going commercial and sellin' out like her.  



I mean seriously, what was P. Diddy thinking?

Oh! I know- he saw dollar signs, and thought, let's commercialize this. Let me arrange some featuring with the top names in the game, Let's style her so that she reminds the fans of the female rappers of the 20th century, causes a controversy. She's not LADY GAGA, and even that's a clever name when compared with the Minaj. Diddy, listen to me for a second - you cant compare or confuse or blend 21st century rap with 20th century rap. That's like mixing disco and rap. There's a whole underground going on, full of talented people who won't sell out and sign with record labels because they know there's politics to it. They are going to have to change their flow, their style. Rap is deep, deeper than silly nursery rhyme metaphors. Leave that to lil MS WILLOW .. You heard NIKKI..

My support goes to the one and only, Lil Kim

Read full history - Nikki Minaj

Baby laugh

Welcome to the best baby laugh contest!

This is a pretty simple and straight forward contest.

Here's what you do:

1. Record a video or audio of your baby or any baby laughing.

2. Submit the content.  

(I suggest uploading to youtube and then leaving the link as a comment.)

3. Let people know so that they can support you and vote for your entry.

Here's what I do:

Once the entries are in, I will ask for votes and then I will announce the winner. 

Pass it on and get others involved.  

Let's hear it!                          Best baby laugh

Read full history - Baby laugh

Eek! I'm worried.

My toddler hasn't been able to eat carrots, sweet potatoes or anything orangy for almost 3 weeks now and since then, I noticed he has been very picky.  I'm seriously about to start sticking food in the blender and making it soupy because if there is any texture to it, he spits it out and plays.  He takes about a half hour or more of insisted self feeding until he realizes he's still hungry and now tired of fooling around.  

"Wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!" he screams at me, kicks his tray and slams his hands on it repeatedly.  I try to feed him and he shakes his head - NO!  Slaps the food off the spoon and sometimes is fast enough to slap the spoon off my hand.  The only way to calm him down is to immediately follow up with the bottle.   Talk about bossy!!!    

I've started adding rice cereal to his greens and today I got away with adding cooked ground meat to the rice and greens without him bothering to do his spit and examine routine.  I also mix his milk as a shake often adding banana or apples and even chocolate and rice cereal for a tasty and hearty shake.

Read full history - Eek! I'm worried.

Potty Training?

Imagine potty training this 13 month old. Is it really possible? Or are we fooling ourselves as parents?

So, I am a member of this group called Circle of Moms and the topic of this week was potty training at 13-14 months. Are you thinking what I am thinking? Are they nutts?

They mention something about EC (elimination communication) which is how infants or toddlers communicate to you that they are ready to go. What cracked me up about this EC method was how other mother, who have tried it, say it is done. For example, one mother said when she sees the signs of her baby going poop she removes the diaper and places the baby on the potty, so that they make the connection. Are you kidding me? Why not wait for the child to be able to tell you or at least point out that they need to poop or pee.
Personally, my opinion is that I don't understand what the rush is all about. Maybe diapers are too expensive to dirty. Who knows right? But am I crazy or old fashioned that I don't see the logic in EC???

Read full history - Potty Training?

Activities

He knows where home is. 

Our favorite activities include taking walks to the store, every day.  He passes by a variety store, where he is the star.  Then by the Chinese restaurant,  where they always give him a fortune cookie.  Of course, I don't let him eat it but it's cute that they always give him one when he passes though to see them.  We have a dog, but he lives around the corner with 3 other dog and a really nice family.  So when it's nice out we pass by there too.  But if we come home without passing by the train tracks, he throws a fit at the front door.  It's soo cute.  We also take trips to the library, but no one really pays us much mind there.  We go in, look at the people, I pick up a book and usually he tries to take it from me, so before he gets all rowdy, we go.

At home, he has a room where he can make a big mess of all his toys.   He usually gets an hour of alone time there.  When that hour is up, and I'm done with my house chores, we play together.  My favorite is when I ask him to give me things.  Many times he doesn't but once in a while he does.  He has a few favorite TV shows which include, Yo Gabba Gabba, Olivia, Oobies, and the Upside Down Show.  I can  dig all of them except the Upside Down Show, it's just too weird for me.  You know, those two grown men, but they are admittedly silly.

There's a learn and play teddy which sings songs like, ABC's and Head Shoulders.  He's really into head shoulders but still not sure how to coordinate his hands.  He loves clap time.  He actually learned to clap at 13 months.  I thought that was a little late but as they say, better late than never!  

Read full history - Activities

Umpa Lumpa

So, it is totally possible to have an "umpa lumpa" toddler. 

My son loves carrots and sweet potatoes and because he does, he has some everyday.  Little did I know that by not eating peas or green beans, there would be an effect on his skin color.  At his one year check up, the first words out of the doctor's mouth was, "Does your son eat alot of carrots?"  I was shocked that she knew he liked carrots and at that same instant I wondered if it was his shiny black hair or stature that gave it away.   So, I replied, "Yes.  Why do you ask?"  To my surprise, her response was that she noticed his skin looked a bit yellow or orangy.  Then she opened his palm to point out where there too we observed the orangy tone to his skin.  

To make a long story short, she ordered some blood tests but assured me that it was probably the food because his eyes and lips were of normal color.  In other words, if the whites of his eyes were yellow or his lips and gums were discolored, then there is something to be alarmed about -one such problem is called bilirubin.  I am still waiting on the results of the test and I really do hope and pray it was the food.  

But who would have thought, that carrots and sweet potatoes could actually turn your skin tone to an orangy yellow????  I think I've found a way to keep my tan all year round.  

Updated: So, I went back and found out that his blood test results were normal. It really was the carrots and sweet potatoes. She said it will take some time for his skin to return to normal color. She also said, "Tomatoes are good!"

Read full history - Umpa Lumpa

Ever hear of Listeria?

You can get very sick from some ready-to-eat foods if you wait too long to eat them. The sickness is called Listeriosis. A germ called Listeria causes it. It's unusual because it can grow at refrigerator temperatures where most other food borne bacteria do not. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it. Only heat can kill it, but if heated food cools, listeria may grow again.

You should avoid some foods and take special care with others to prevent listeriosis

Who’s at risk?
• Pregnant women and their unborn babies
• Older adults
• People with cancer, AIDS, and other diseases that weaken the immune systems.

How can I reduce my risk?
• Keep your fridge set at 40 degrees Fahrenheit/4 degrees Celsius or colder.
• Use precooked and ready-to-eat foods as soon as you can.

Danger: Avoid These Foods
All pregnant women and others at risk should not eat certain foods.
• Don’t eat soft cheeses:
– Mexican-style soft cheeses including: queso blanco, queso fresco, queso de hoja, queso de crema and asadero
– feta, brie, Camembert, blue cheese, and Roquefort
– cheeses made from raw milk.
You don’t have to cut all cheeses from your diet. Cheese can be a good source of protein, vitamins, and calcium when you are pregnant.

• These cheeses are safe to eat:
hard cheeses (such as cheddar and Swiss); semi-soft cheeses such as mozzarella, pasteurized processed cheeses such as slices and spreads, cream cheese, and cottage cheese.

• Don’t eat refrigerated smoked seafoodright from the package:
- like salmon, trout, whitefish, cod, tuna, or mackerel. They might be called “nova-style,” “lox,” “kippered,” “smoked,” or “jerky.” It is safe to eat smoked seafood if it is cooked in its dish, like a casserole.
- Canned seafood is safe. Examples are canned salmon or tuna in a pouch.

• Don’t eat refrigerated pâtés or meat spreads. Canned meat spreads and pâtés are safe.

• Don’t eat raw (unpasteurized) milk or foods that contain raw milk.

Be careful with these foods:

• Ready-to-eat foods: Hot dogs, cold cuts, lunchmeats, deli counter meats, and other ready-to-eat foods. Eat these foods only if they’re reheated until steaming hot. Even cured meats such as salami must be heated.
• Meats and seafood: Cook these all the way through. Stay away from rare meat and seafood.
• Leftovers: Reheat all until steaming hot.
• Fruits and vegetables: Listeria can grow on some fruits and vegetables. Do not buy sliced melon. Wash all fruits and vegetables with water. Scrub hard produce such as cucumbers and melons with a clean produce brush.

How can I keep my kitchen safe?
• When you buy pre-cooked or ready-to-eat foods that go in the fridge, use them as soon as you can.
• Clean your fridge often.
• Make sure that the refrigerator always stays at 40 degrees Fahrenheit/4 degrees Celsius or colder. Use a refrigerator thermometer.
• Read labels. Follow instructions on foods that must be kept in the fridge or have a “use by” date.
• Wash your hands with warm soapy water after you touch raw foods. Wash any knives or other tools you used with hot, soapy water before you use them again.

You can get sick from two to 30 days after you eat food. Pregnant women can start early labor if the infection spreads to the unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you get any of these symptoms:
• fever and chills
• headache
• upset stomach
• throwing up

Check out www.fda.gov/food for more information.

Read full history - Ever hear of Listeria?

First year, food and baby.

Before the baby, I seriously thought that they (all babies) drink milk up until they are two or three.  Call me ignorant but didn't really think that after their 1st birthday, feeding time would be a heck of a lot different.  Nonetheless, I got it together and figured out a few things when it comes to my baby and nutrition.  I wanted to make sure my son was being fed the right way and that's why I did some research.  In a nutshell, I've figured out that calcium can come from a number of other sources besides milk.  For example tofu, kidney beans, broccoli, whole wheeat bread, canned salmon, sweet potatoes and fortified orange juice are all excellent sources of calcium.  Another vitamin, Iron can come from dried beans, winter squash, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, egg yolk, meat, poultry, and grains (farina and cereals).

Today, he still drinks from a bottle at 13 months.  I've tried the sippy cup and the regular cup but he's very picky about having his bottle.

Here is an example of a day's worth 

of eating for a 1 year old.

  For breakfast I prepare 4oz of milk, a quarter cup of farina and half a banana.  The banana is the messiest part of breakfast time because I let him do it alone.  

At snack time, he gets another 4oz of milk, a boiled egg and a few graham crackers.  

Lunch comes complete with another 4oz of milk, half of a cheese sandwich, a quarter cup of peas and a half of a peach. 

Afternoon snack is usually a 4oz cup of juice, and half a cup of dried cereal.  

Dinner time is definitely chow time with another 4oz of milk, a chicken leg, a quarter cup of rice, a quarter cup of carrots, and a cup of ice cream to top it all off.

Read full history - First year, food and baby.

Qondio Review

Content is Power.

Qondio is a site where you can add your own "intel" something similar to a squidoo lens, however, with Qondio you can earn backlinks to your website or blog.   

As you know, these links are what help give a site some importance, especially when they are of high quality.  

This has worked for me and it is unfortunate that I ran into a blog, by some guy names James Colin, which calls Qondio a "low-level scam".  I hate to even link to his post but here it is for those of you looking to read his gossip http://blog-money-wiki.com/blog/2010/10/qondio-is-a-low-level-scam.php.   And what is ironic is that when you comment on his blog, it has to wait for moderation from Mr. Colin.  Low-level, huh?  What's low level, the fact that they are only charging $5?  Mr. Colin, when the web world wakes up people like you who blog about sites gaining traffic in order to gain some yourself (SEO) give the real SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION PROFESSIONALS a bad rap!  


Wouldn't it be ironic of James Colin is actually a member and is only discouraging others from Qondio so he can reap the benefits of his marketing agenda.  James, keep it real - you blog to make money from people who ran into your blog as a result of your SEO tweaking- not because you are an authority and I can see that you definately do not blog to give real advice and tips from experience.  You're something like the News - making your blog seem important when in reality, it's far from all that and a bag of chips. 

Add content, gain back links & meet intersting people.. 

Just click here to visit and see for yourself.  Qondio 

======================================================================
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Try it today!

Read full history - Qondio Review

Pregnancy and Medicine

I have come to realize that, for the most part, you still can use many medicines when you are pregnant or nursing.  In my opinion, it's best to avoid anything that isn't natural.  That's just my opinion!  In my experience, due to a wisdom tooth growing the wrong way, I used tylenol for almost a month as a pain killer, with the o.k. from my doctor.  Then, during the 7th month of my pregnancy, I was referred for oral surgery to have it removed so that I would have no more pain and thus, no need for tylenol. So the main idea to remember is talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about keeping you and your baby safe but here is some advice.

Know the facts
• If you’re not pregnant yet, you can
help your chances for having a
healthy baby by planning ahead.
You can make choices about
which medicines to use before you
get pregnant. Always talk to your
doctor, nurse, or pharmacist first!
It’s very important that you keep
getting treatment for any health
problems.
• Your heart and kidneys work
harder when you are pregnant.
This makes some medicines pass
through your body faster than
usual. Your doctor might need to
give you a higher dose of your
medicines or make you take them
more often.
• Some drugs can harm your baby
during different stages of your
pregnancy. At these times, your
doctor might tell you to stop
taking your regular medicine until
it is safe to go back on it. Your
doctor may put you on a different
medicine that is safer for your
baby.

Read the label and ask questions
• The law says that all drug labels
must list the risks for women
who are pregnant or trying to get
pregnant.
• Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist
can help you choose the
medicines that are right for you.



Don’t take:
Aspirin
• Don’t take aspirin during the last
three months of your pregnancy,
unless your doctor tells you to.
Aspirin can cause problems for
your baby or cause problems
when you are in labor.
Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
• Like aspirin, it may cause
problems during the last three
months of pregnancy and when
you are in labor.
Products like herbs, minerals,
amino acids
• No one is sure if these are safe for
pregnant women, so it’s best not
to use them. Even some “natural”
products may not be good for
women who are pregnant or
nursing.

 Vitamins
Women who are pregnant should
not take regular vitamins. They
can contain doses that are too
high.
• Ask about special vitamins for
pregnant women that can help
keep you and your baby healthy.

To report a problem Contact the FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:
Website: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/
Phone: 1-888-463-6332

These websites can tell you more about the risks of certain drugs before, during, and after pregnancy:
FDA Pregnancy Registries
http://www.fda.gov/womens/registries/default.htm
The Safe Motherhood Initiative
http://www.safemotherhood.org

Read full history - Pregnancy and Medicine

Fall is here..

Its autumn! What a huge difference in temperature from the heat wave of a summer we experienced this year. As for me, I like the heat, so I kinda miss it. The cold that the fall and winter bring, give me dry skin (so I use Johnson's Body Care, Deep Hydrating Extra Dry Skin Lotion), not to mention a pale complexion and a really good reason to stay home.


Anyway, fall! There's plenty of that going on in my world now-a-days and plenty of demands to add to the stress associated with the falling. Now that the baby is a toddler, he loves walking about. In fact, his personality is really beginning to shine. He's a smart and tough kid. It takes him one to two shots at learning a lesson on his own. I've watched as he flung a toy around, hit himself with it and learn- 'ok, that hurt. I shouldn't do that'. Just the other day, I left him playing in his room while I went to use the bathroom. Of course, as our luck would have it, he bumped his head and was screaming. I ran to him & I asked what happened while I searched for a red spot, bump, or something. He was screaming but I didn't see any marks on his face, arms, legs, back, or head. So I set him down and the moment I did that, he stopped crying. Completely! Classic example of how they weren't playing when they said, "children do not come with manuals."


He is very confident & he knows what he wants. If he doesn't want to be in the 5 In 1 Convertible Crib, or hi-chair, I'll know. If he doesn't want me to lock the gate in his room, I'll know about that too. If he wants to touch something, he will go for it. If I say no, he will try it anyway - over and over and over again. When he's full, he'll push the spoon, bottle or food on his tray to the side and shake his head. His way of saying, no more mom. Well, sheesh, you're only 12 months buddy. Take it easy! But I really love how when I say, "come here and kiss me" and he does. So for every tantrum that he throws or mess that he makes, just knowing I created him and also being with him day in and out (which although can be quite overwhelming at times) makes not having a manual, meaningful.


I belong to that group of moms that are dedicated to being with their child, out of necessity. I sometimes wish I had the luxury of family nearby, who could pick him up, spend time with him and also give me some time to either rest or peacefully complete chores. When I find myself wishing for that, I take a look at how I'm doing and end up patting myself on the back for a job well done so far! I don't go out with the girls, or my hunny for drinks but I sing, dance, cook, clean and devote my undivided attention to them.

Read full history - Fall is here..

We made it through our first year, together.

 

My baby will soon be turning 1. I am so proud that we made it through this first year in one piece. Here are 12 random things I've learned over the past 12 months.

1. It really doesn't matter whether the formula is Enfamil, Similac or Good Start, if you are not breast feeding and are using formula, you can go with a doctor recommended brand or any brand you like. (Notice the word is brand in bold?  That's because the only difference between them is that - the brand.  But if your baby is allergic to this kind of  cow milk formula and needs a special diet like soy milk formula then none of these brands will work for your child.) When I first brought my baby home and the breastfeeding was giving us trouble, I went to Walgreens and felt so confused when I saw all the brands. I thought there was a specific one and I didn't know what that was so I felt stuck, I felt dumb and I almost panicked. Eventually, I realized it didn't matter. Not that day though.

2. For me, it is more comfortable to have the bassinet/crib, in our bedroom. It helps me feel secure.

3. I must always stand up for, speak for and protect my child. I can tell people not to kiss, hold, grab, pull, bite, swing around my baby and keep my baby away from shady people without feeling bad about it.

4. I carried my child to sleep for the first 4 months of his life, thereafter, he decided it was easier for him to fall asleep on his own in the crib. (Which surprised me but I was very thankful for) I didn't buy into the advice of don't always carry your baby & it's ok to let him cry for long periods of time. I did the total opposite. I didn't and still don't like the sound of my baby crying.

5. The one time I had to let my child cry for more than two minutes, (b/c I was cleaning a mess and then had to prepare his bottle) I was relieved when he didn't actually "blow up" as I had previously feared. There was just a bunch of boogies covering his upper lip and mouth. It was actually cute.

6. Rice cereal mixed with the formula and baby food is a time and headache saver. Since he was about 4 months, every single bottle had rice cereal added. When spoon feeding became a challenge, baby food mixed in there worked way better than having him slap the spoon out of my hand or spit out what just went in.

7. I am the best toy available to my child. I have tickled him so much that one of his favorite words, so far, is "tickle".

8. Aside from tummy time, I feel that babies do not need to be propped up to sit or walk. As their bodies grow and they become stronger, they will do it entirely on their own. I gave my child tummy time on our bed from 2 to 4 months but once the baby started rolling over, I left him in his crib to practice. Soon enough, at about 5 months, he would sit up on his own and eventually at 7 months, he started standing up and at 8 months, would walk around the crib. Then one day, I caught him! Not holding on to the railing!!! I placed him on the floor and off he went, WALKING, @ 10 months.

9. It is very important to be careful of your language around babies, the really do pick up on the sounds your most frequently used words. That's why when we are alone, I read to him. This way, I have something fun to chat about.

10. When around children that are the same age, they get ideas from each other and germs, so be ready & be proactive.

11. Its better to wake the baby up if they take a nap too late in the day than to let them sleep and consequently, keep you up the whole night.

12. As a stay at home mom, I have had a year of sacrificing a great deal when it comes to me. I see that some moms quickly claim "me time" & feel comfortable leaving their child with a sitter or family member. I feel as though my child is safest with me and when it comes to sacrifices, the way I see it especially after a year, is that they grow up fast and with so many milestones to look forward to, the sacrifices aren't really sacrifices..

Read full history - We made it through our first year, together.

Talking Babies

Babies love hearing your voice. When you answer your child's sounds with sounds of your own, she learns that what she "says" has meaning and is important to you.

What to Do

• Talk to your baby often. Answer her coos, gurgles, and smiles. Talk, touch, and smile back. Get her to look at you.
• Play simple talking and touching games with your baby. Ask, "Where's your nose?" Then touch her nose and say playfully, "There's your nose!" Do this several times, then switch to an ear or knee or tummy. Stop when she (or you) grows tired of the game.
• Change the game by touching the nose or ear and repeating the word for it several times. Do this with objects, too. When she hears you name something over and over again, your child begins to connect the sound with what it means.
• Do things that interest your baby. Vary your tone of voice, make funny faces, sing lullabies, and recite simple nursery rhymes. Play "peek-a-boo" and "pat-a-cake" with her.

Read full history - Talking Babies