Change vs. Priority

Lately I have been feeling the 'need' to try and venture out of my comfort zone. I have been in the travel industry for more than 15 years now and I just want to explore my other interests. And by explore I mean dabble in something that would be income generating as well.

Although with our youngest still very young - I am struggling with finding time for myself, what more learn a new skill or get into a new industry. Sigh. Most days I feel this, but I know I really should get my priorities straight and focus on what is important now. Obviously it is taking care of the new little one.

I would like to dream though. Sometimes I imagine five years forward, when I would be back into building my career and having time for myself. Seems so far away from now.... Although, I know in a year's time will fly by fast. Just how it had with our now 6 year old. Beginning was slow, and then it just went turbo fast.

Credits http://www.thenewbornbaby.com/blogs/welcome-baby/index0be5.html?Tag=new%20mom

Looking up

Sometimes it's all about the angle.

From down here the flowers seem huge, sky-high, unreachable.

From across the screen the flowers seem to be real.

From behind the bunch the flowers seem to be fresh and crisp.

But really, the flowers are fake. The flowers are normal in size. The flowers are made of plastic.

Nonetheless, the flowers give me joy even if they are not real.

But, surely real flowers would give real joy!

Everything Coconut

For a while now, I have been into every single thing that's coconut! There's just that warm and comfortable feeling and fuzzy-ness that it brings to me. Especially now at the peak of winter!!

Today I am having my coconut hot chocolate by Jarrah! I know it isn't for everyone. It's not even for me when I am in my other moods. For now though, I am scooped up in my warm space, feeling wintry but tasting a bit of the tropics. I know this limited edition item will not last long in the shelves because it isn't as popular as the other flavours. I wish it can stay a bit longer though. Otherwise I should be on the lookout for other coconut things out there!

Saving for THE trip

Especially during this trying time. One can only try to think up of ways to save. And be healthy!
Cut down on junk food and soft drinks.Not only would one get to save a about thirty dollars a month, but also lose a bit of tummy bulge to be able to get ready for that beach holiday.Approximate saving per month: $30.

Walk at least thirty minutes a day.If one lived within an easy walk to work, it is smart and healthy to get exercise. Walk either to work, or from work at least three times a week, or more if one is not pressed with time. A good way to cut transportation cost, save on petrol, and get that lazy bum to walk.Approximate saving per month: $40.

Drop your gym membership.One can easily save big bucks by getting into shape the economical way. One need not be a member of Fitness First, or Gold’s Gym or whatever. We’d only need to stick to our daily regimen of walking, jogging and we’d be keeping fit and losing weight in no time. Truly being healthy does not have to be expensive. It is better to use hard earned moolah towards a much deserved holiday.Approximate saving per month: $70.

Give your plastics a break. I know some people enjoy retail therapy so much, but revert to being stressed again once the credit card bill comes in. Really, one does not need a new pair of jeans, shirt, underwear, shoes every week. Perhaps indulge every other month or two, maybe. But not on a weekly basis.Approximate saving per month: $100.

Cook at home. Bring lunch to work. I don’t know anyone who does not appreciate home cooked meals. They are a lot cheaper to prepare, way healthier (without too much salt, or MSG, or other unhealthy ingredients that restaurants or fast food put into your meal). Aside from hubby appreciating your time spent cooking that delicious and healthy food, you get to save.Approximate saving per month: $250.

At the end of the month, if you’ve been good, imagine having an extra $500 to spend towards that dream holiday. I know not everyone may appreciate that weekend away over something material (eg, hotel and spa pampering versus new camera). However, if you are a travel buff like myself, you would think up ways to save up for that goal: holiday! Come to think of it, spending wisely leads to a healthy lifestyle as well. Now, it is just a matter of putting to action all these nice things! 

Interestingly Galos

The concept of salt-iodine caves have been around since the year 2000. It's only recently that I have heard about it. The healing capabalities of the caves are still being tested, although it sure is a unique way to go for treatments. Galos caves offers an authentic sea micro climate on American soil.

There are a number of claims about the benefits when one undergoes treatment from the Galos caves. Some if them are: respiratory/rheumatic/ cardiovascular diseases. Apparently air,when seeped through salt stimulates the immune system. Galos caves are suitable for children as well as mature people. Rates per 45 minute session are from USD 15 per adult. Discounts for families or groups are available.

I would definitely be interested in trying a treatment. Who knows I could benefit from this type of treatment.

Galos Caves Open 7 days a week, 900hrs-2100hrs.
6501 West Irving Park Road Chicago Il 60634 USA

The Rocks, alive!

Every saturdays and sundays, the Rocks comes alive from 10AM to 5PM, with all sorts of people buying and selling things, trinkets, souvenirs, and a lot of other things. There are homewares, art, indigenous crafts, food items, and some other novelty items. Whether they are useful, interesting or just pretty to look at is left to one's opinion. Here are a few things that I snapped at while visiting The Rocks Market. Be sure to visit the stalls should you find you find yourself strolling in Sydney.

The Rocks Market is located at the old part of the city of Sydney, a few steps from the water's edge by the famous icons : the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. There are Irish pubs, Aussie pubs, nice restaurants along the street markets should you need a mug of beer or a pack or yummy ribs. (If you can, visit the Pancakes on the Rocks!) 

Taking snaps

I miss hearing that sound only my camera makes.
I miss the giddy feeling of taking a photo, and then reviewing them later on -
To see if the photos have captured the beauty of the moment - place and all.

Seems like I have no time or energy to do all these which I have taken for granted many years ago.
But one day I am sure I will have the time and energy to these things again! I am looking forward to that - whenever that would be!

For now, my old one is gathering dust (layers of it!) but there are more important things needing my time and energy - the little one and the big one!

From http://www.cnet.com/au/products/canon-eos-70d/