Quiet celebration

Welcoming this new year quietly was not something we've planned on doing, but it just fell into place. After all these years that we've lived in Sydney we were either in the city or at a friend's place watching the fireworks live, or at our place watching the fireworks from our balcony.

Last night we celebrated quietly. And, I actually enjoyed it. We planned on cooking a nice, scrumptious dinner. However, we had a super late lunch at 5PM. So, we ended up having a quick dinner at 10PM with the little girl with us. Just leftovers from our big NYE lunch. With the mud cake to cap it all off. Then we watched the fireworks on telly. Ahhh, relaxed life.

I am one who usually would love to have people over for a celebration, or organise something at a restaurant. I surprised myself by not itching to have people at our place. (Well, well, we had a big Christmas eve last week anyway!!).

Sometimes, these quiet celebrations mean much more than a loud one. Occasionally we need to have this rest, so we can enjoy our louder celebrations later on. I'm sure next year when the little one is almost three years old, we would celebrate it loudly. For now, let's enjoy the peace.

Happy new year's everyone! I hope everyone celebrated the way they want to... safely and in the presence of the ones that matter most in your life.

NOTE: Photo above from http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/national/12476862/sydney-welcomes-2012-with-a-bang/

Ah, what's time management

Since I started working from home, officially last week, I struggle to find time for everything. It is overwhelming! I suppose I shouldn't pretend I am supermom and try to not make impossible goals. Frustrating! Hopefully I get better at this.

I am both hands up to those working at home moms. It is not as easy as it sounds. Not at all. Log on time is pretty much anytime, and one is on call the whole day/and night!

Amidst all the work and home duties, I am wishing for more time to do things I enjoy... cooking, baking, blogging. Hmm, perhaps next year will be a better year to do these things. When my little one is older.

Luxury in the Himalayas

Tranquil.

No other word can describe the beautiful Ananda in the Himalayas. It is a destination spa, which offers a truly relaxing experience. One where you can indulge in solitude, immerse in nature's wonder.

The resort is perched on top of the hill, and has a splendid tree top deck which overlooks a heavenly masterpiece. Ananda also offers a number of activities which interests a range of visitors : yoga, cooking classes, golf, billiards, white water rafting, safari .. endless options. Of course I would probably choose to have a spa every day if I were there.

The Ananda has rooms, suites and villas to suit guests who are either there on an executive retreat, family getaway or a sweet couple's honeymoon. Rates range from USD 335 to about USD 1460 plus taxes. Their website provides the tariffs, including special packages available.

Ananda - In The Himalayas

The Palace Estate
Narendra Nagar
Tehri - Garhwal
Uttaranchal - 249175
INDIA
Telephone: 91-1378-227500
Facsimile: 91-1378-227550
Email: sales@anandaspa.com

Conquer the fear of flying

Today I read about this course to overcome fear of flying. Imagine they say that about 1 in 4 persons are afraid of flying. My boyfriend had this as well, so I immediately told him about this course. He's not as scared of flying anymore though. I told him that the more you fly the less scared one gets.

I guess in a way taking courses from experts can make one more excited about flying, and make flying a comfortable experience. I know a lot out there love going to new places. But, sometimes the actual travel method can be a bit too much. Imagine 15 hours straight flight. It can wear out one's body, it can drain the mind. Having a positive outlook to flying can help alleviate all these travel-related stress. (I guess flying business or first class would help as well!).

Knowing the ins and outs of the aviation industry could possibly help. Sometimes it's all in the mind. And, that is a pretty big thing to conquer.

Photo from: http://flickr.com/photos/georgedthompson/

Questions and Wants

There are a few things that’s been running in my mind the past few days. A lot of it involves money, my time, and my future. In a world where everything seems so uncertain, I am trying to juggle my priorities in order to achieve a balance of life. So many questions asked and there’s just not enough time to think about all of them, or come up with an answer: should I just go and do part time work so I can focus on my research about travel agency business? When my boyfriend and I get married, will it work if we have separate savings accounts or a joint account? Should I go to Manila and spend one or two months on a business and leisure trip? Or, should I just not go? Should I go on my solo trip?

I guess I am just feeling that life at the moment is going too fast. So fast that I just want time to breathe, and enjoy the moment. After all, I am not getting any younger. I would like to be able to do things that I want to do, such as jogging in the morning at the park, study my finances, come up with a weekly healthy food plan, go to the parlor and spa to do my hair and have a massage, hear mass every day if I can, etc. There are just too many activities that I would love to do. But I can’t or I won’t. One day, I hope I get around doing all these and more.

The Rocks Market Rocks

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!)

Diet and the struggle to live healthy

I am constantly on a diet, just like the rest of the female species of this world. I suppose it’s the way that society is portrayed in the movies, in magazines, on television, etc. They say that there are changes happening and that the media now shows a lot more healthy women out there. I suppose in a way that’s true. We are not all born to have size 24 waistlines, and really sometimes our body frames are not built for this. I have never been really obese or anything close to that, but I was never really skinny ever as well. I am in between, and I try to keep it that way. Age is not really cooperating though, and my boyfriend just keeps reminding me that no amount of unhealthy diet can change that, and that exercise is the real solution.

Having said those, I know a few people who resort to taking diet pills. My sisters even have tried them. I have not. It is a preference I guess, and whether one believes that these pills work is another thing. The real deal then really is to strive to live a healthy lifestyle. There are moments that we just need to indulge in happy food, but there should be more times that we should watch what we eat. Body shape is just that exact words body and shape, but healthiness is not measured by one’s dress size.

Galos Caves in Chicago

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

Tel. 1 (773) 283 7701, 1 (773) 283 7761 or Email them : info@galoscaves.com

View from our balcony at Surfers Paradise

Went to the Gold Coast early this month, and stayed at Surfers Paradise. Our room had a bit of a peek to the Pacific Ocean. Lovely. I tried taking a photo once around sunrise and once at about mid day and once at night. It was so beautiful I almost wanted to relocate to this tourist city. Almost but not quite. I suppose I'd just visit Surfer's Paradise again. This time with hubby. We both have been to the Gold Coast on separate occasions and not together.

I want A Simple Life

Does everyone aspire for a Simple Life?

Sometimes it feels as if there is no such thing. As life is composed of intertwined lives, which is driven by complicated personalities. No matter how simple a person is, when they cross paths with a complex person, they are forever changed. And no matter how much the simple person tries they are involved now.

I don't really feel the need for an Iphone, but I have one. I was already satisfied with my black and white old nokia phone when I was gifted with a complex Iphone. Don't get me wrong, I am thankful.

I was happy with my point and shoot camera, but then I was introduced to my now precious Canon 40D. I am happy using this amazing gadget and my photos are never the same now. All I'm saying is that I was happy with my old Sony Cybershot in the past.

Life can be tricky sometimes. We have the choice, and sometimes we choose to live a simple life in a complex way, either by choice or half trudgingly. Either way life goes on....

Cityscope: Hilton Head South Carolina

In planning to start a family, I've always taken into consideration the area that my family and I would be living in. Or even the places that we will intend to visit. I've come across Hilton Head South Carolina, where they offer a variety of activities and places to visit. The island town's atmosphere and environment is relaxed and laid back enough for the kids and adults to enjoy. It is safe enough for parents to allow their children to engage in fun activities such as skating, swimming, surfing, kayaking, tennis and golf. At Hilton Head, there are even dolphin tours, face painting, and fireworks that the entire family would be able to enjoy.

I've always enjoyed biking, as a child, and even now that I'm older I have rekindled my love affair with biking. Especially now that I live in a city that loves outdoors, biking has been an option to travel to and from work, but maybe I am not a city biker. Hilton Head SC offers great bike trails that suits everyone whether you are a beginner or an advanced biker. One of the many things they boast of are their public national parks. Researching about this destination excites my travel palate as I can visualise the lifestyle is very much family oriented and showcases a love for outdoor activities. I can't wait to visit this place!

Are you a serious traveller?

Many of us say we love to travel.

But are we really cut up to be a serious traveller?

Do you opt to stick to eating Mcdonalds and Burger King when you are in another city, say Beijing?

Do you prefer to go to each and every shopping mall in the city over visiting the local museum or checking out the local park?

Do you prefer to stay stuck in the hotel room as soon as the sun sets, or do you have one glass of wine or beer outside across the street to see and possibly mingle with the local yuppies?

There is nothing wrong at all in being a certain type of tourist. I have learned in one of my Tourism PostGrad lectures that there are different types of tourists. And what makes us fall under a certain type depends on a lot of things.

Perhaps we are single and thus more leaning towards the road less travelled and a lot more sociable. Or we are part of a young family with two kids aged four and six, thus makes us more likely to stay within the conventional tourist areas doing the usual activities. Or maybe, we are more mature now, wanting a relaxed and slow paced tour going to places that we may have been to numerous times, but are just really after spending quality time with our partner.

So many reasons why we are the type of traveller that we are. So do you have what it basically takes to be a traveller? I have so long found out that I was born to be one.

Another sunny afternoon at Bradfield Park

We have only about two weeks left of summer and officially we will be into Autumn at the beginning of April. So for the next couple of weeks we will be taking advantage of the warm weekend days by lazing around in the park. Whichever park that is somewhere in Sydney.

Last Saturday we went to Bradfield Park which is set under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Great views of the City skyline and the Sydney Opera House. Great day with our mat again, and a real estate magazine. Had chips again and soda. The usual company. Perfect.

There was some Jet Boat race going on at the Harbour which added to the spectacular view! Ever since I came to Sydney, Bradfield Park in Milson's Point has always had a special place in me. Every single one of my visitors I take here. And they all love it. Good memories of their holiday in the city. My picture says it all. It's really a fabulous place to go on a lazy picnic mode.

(Photo taken only from my Mobile so it doesn't do much justice to the view)

Quality eyeglass frames and lens

Our eyes need the best care possible at all times. But caring for our eyes need not make us feel unpretty. With a great discovery: Zenni Optical we can still be stylish. At Zenni Optical $8 Rx Glasses are made of high quality frames and lens. And because of extensive online searches, my eyes can be grateful for that one best thing found: Zenni Optical. Plus, they do cater to an international market which is really perfect.

The World joins Sydney this year on Earth Hour

Earth Hour 2007 was a Sydney event. Earth Hour 2008 is a global movement.

Don't be indifferent. Be involved. Mark your calendar March 29, 2008. 8PM.

Picnics at the Park on a Sunny Sunday afternoon

Photo taken last Sunday at the Royal Botanic Gardens.

10 Largest Malls in the world

For a mall rat like myself, this was an interesting read! Click on the link to look up the stats, but here they are listed:

(they are based on gross leasable area)
1. South China Mall - Dongguan, China
2. Golden Resources Shopping Mall - Beijing, China
3. SM Mall of Asia - Pasay City, Philippines
4. Cevahir Istanbul - Istanbul, Turkey
5. West Edmonton Mall - Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
6. SM Megamall - Mandaluyong City, Philippines
7. Berjaya Times Square - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
8. Beijing Mall - Beijing, China
9. Zhengjia Plaza - Guangzhou, China
10. SM North Edsa - Quezon City, Philippines

To some, the mall is just a place one goes to when one 'needs' to buy something. But really, to some others, it is a sanctuary. The answer to everything (At least the best malls)... Need a doctor? go to the mall. Need to visit the dentist? The mall is the place...Want to go splash some water on? The mall's got a water theme park...Feel like watching a movie in the Big Screen? The IMAX at the mall is the place to go.. Need some retail therapy? ..Visit MfG, Kenneth Cole, Target, KMart, D&G, Cue, or some other shop.. Cooking Emergency, ran out of tomatoes? Head to the mall's Woolworths or Coles. Feel like fine dining or fast food? McDonalds, or Kenny's or CPK or Guido's. Feel like a massage? Head to the Spa.

I guess at the end of the day, the Mall is there as an option. It makes life more interesting. You don't need the money, you can hang around the mall's shady trees or fountain. Or, you can have a million moolahs to spend then the mall is your playground.

But really, the mall is a lot better place if you are with good company.. Hey, sometimes I love the company of 'Me, Myself and I'. A few quality times I can remember was spent in the confines of those gigantic rubbles of cement and plaster. But that's just me, and my thoughts. What's yours?

The Marquis jet card

No, this isn't my house.. It's the interior of own of my private jet! Haha! I wish! Well, Haven't you always wanted your very own private jet? Go to any city you please, at the snap of your fingers. Have a Pilot take you to your dream world, and take a few friends with you even!

All this possible by having just one plastic card. You Marquis Jet Card can move you to your mountain of choice. With exclusive access to a fleet of over 690 aircrafts, am sure one will tickle your fancy. It will be available for you, at any time of the day (or night), all the days of the year. How cool is that? I cannot put enough emphasis on this luxurious delight. If travelling business or first class does not satisfy you, I am positive the Marquis Jet will. If they don't, then nothing will.

Top security aviation is what they're known for, and of course just the best in service excellence.

That is the Life! I would absolutely love to taste this bit of heaven... If only I can save a few more million dollars. Or, maybe, I could just apply to be part of their cabin crew!! At least, I will be riding on the Marquis Jet!

It is Movember

This Movember, support November charity event. I first heard about this from a colleague who's growing a Mo this month. It is a very cool charity slash awareness campaign targeted to men. This encompasses men of all ages, of different backgrounds to participate in this month long shared activity. I've seen people on the streets strut their Mo's as well as newscaster/host on the telly. Such a fun way to raise awareness, if you ask me.

Which ever way we look at it, men are far less healthy than women. The average life expectancy for men is five years less than for women.

The obvious question is why?
The answer is because men lack awareness about the very real health issues they face, have a "she'll be right" attitude and are reluctant to see a doctor about an illness or to go for regular medical checks.

The aim of Movember is to change these attitudes, make male health fun by putting the Mo back on the face of fashion and in the process raise some serious funds for key male health issues, including:
Prostate Cancer: because every year in Australia 2,900 men die of prostate cancer - equivalent to the number of women who die from breast cancer annually. [ Find out more ].
Male Depression: because one in six men experience depression at any given time but most don't seek help.