Goodbye Ox . . . Hello Tiger

Yeah, I know...it's been a while since the last time I created a post. And I think, it is just perfect to start working these fingers again before we say goodbye to the year of the Ox.

I was asking my husband lately, "Do you know the animal sign for 2010?". Unfortunately, my husband doesn't know either. The reason I asked is that, I'm born under the year of the Rabbit, and I'm hoping that if it's the year of the Rabbits maybe I'll become lucky in the year 2010...just maybe.

So I searched the net and. . .darn, its' the year of the Tiger. . .my husband's animal sign. Hhmm..I thought, don't lose hope just yet. Maybe Rabbits will get lucky on the year of the Tiger. So I searched for forecasts for Rabbits, and here's what I got (with all the other animal signs). Btw, I am not really into horoscopes, forecasts, etc. but it doesn't hurt to read and have additional boosts once in a while.

2010 – Year of the Tiger Chinese Zodiac Forecast

The Year of The Tiger begins on February 14th 2010. Drama, intensity, change and travel will be the keywords for 2010. Unfortunately, world conflicts and disasters tend to feature during Tiger years also, so it won’t be a dull 12 months for anyone. The Year of the Tiger will bring far reaching changes for everyone. New inventions and incredible technological advances have a good chance of occurring.
For all of the Chinese horoscope signs, this year is one to be active – seizing opportunities and making the most of our personal and very individual talents. Everything happens quickly and dramatically in a Tiger year – blink and you could miss an important chance of a lifetime! Let’s take a look at each animal, their major personality traits and what the prospects are for 2010, theYear of the Tiger.
The Dragon
Assertive, energetic and talented are all words to describe the Dragon personality. On the other hand, the Dragon has a tendency to be condescending and tactless without realising it. They generally enjoy robust health and tend to be very successful in anything they turn their hand to.
Forecast for 2010
Dragons will find the quick pace of 2010 very much to their liking and they will be keen to spread their wings and look for new possibilities and opportunites. As with the other signs in the Chinese Zodiac,the Dragon must make use of all the openings and opportunities that present themselves during this year. Teamwork will feature strongly and the Dragon will progress further and faster in his career if he bears this in mind. The Dragon’s financial situation will indeed be rosy during 2010 with a possible increase in income as well as a sum of money coming to them during the year. They must be careful to be disciplined about spending and not make too many impulse buys! May to August will be lovely months for socialising with friends and possible romantic encounters. Dragons do need to remember that love needs attention and if it is taken for granted, problems can arise. May, September and November see the most interesting career changes. Dragons need to take time during the year to have a holiday or getaway with loved ones – with such a busy year, they must not neglect those who matter to them the most.
Interesting Dragon Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Amethyst
Special Flower: Sweet Pea
Best Hours: 7-9 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Black, Gold
The Rat
Rats are charming, elegant and clever. They can be a bit gossipy and prone to being distracted. They’re also thrifty and very good with handling money. Family and close friends are exceptionally important to them. The Rat is charming beyond words and throughout his undoubtedly long life he will always be popular and will have many friends.
Forecast for 2010
The Rat may be feeling quite tired and deflated after 2009, which saw him keeping his head down, working and staying out of trouble. TheYear of the Tiger is going to be fast-paced for the Rat, which in itself does tend to make them slightly uncomfortable. But it is essential that they go with the flow and seizeopportunities and take adventures – this year is going to be important for them. A lot of Rats may have dreamt of travel in 2009 but were unable to take trips either due to financial or work commitments.. This year will be so different! Travel will feature strongly for many and if there is dream destination in mind, it may become a reality during 2010. February and March can bringinteresting work offers, while June to August and December will bring happy social occasions. Romantically, September and October bring tempting offers for single Rats, while those who are attached will find the summer most special. It is essential for all persons born under this sign to be extra thoughtful and caring throughoutthe year – an inadvertent remark or gesture could lead to discord with loved ones.
Interesting Rat Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Garnet
Special Flower: Narcissus
Best Hours: 11 pm -1 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Black, White, Purple
The Ox
Sturdy, earthy, no-nonsense – that’s the Ox. Affectionate and easy-going, the Ox can show a fierce temper when agitated. He is neat, tidy, quiet and studious, with a great love of his home. Music can be a great love. Family life and a loving partner are high on the Ox’s priorities. A wonderful loyal friend.
Forecast for 2010
The Ox loves methodical planning and everything working out in the correct time. The Year of the Tiger will throw all this to the wind with it’s fast pace and unexpected developments! People born under this sign may find 2010 a challenge but in a good way. The Ox will have to adapt to new routines, delays and obtacles thrown in his way, but he will be well able for any task and may find new hidden talents and personal power he didn’t know existed. Hobbies, relaxing pursuits and friendships will all be beautifully highlighted during theYear of the Tiger and will provide a welcome relief to any stresses he may face. Home improvements and redecorating plans will move forward smoothly with excellent results. Careeropportunities will present themselves from April to June, while exciting, intense romantic encounters are likely in July, August and December. An important aspect for those under this sign in 2010 is to be mindful and caring of loved ones. It will be crucial to listen to them and also to accept any help they may offer during this changeable year.
Interesting Ox Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Aquamarine
Special Flower: Carnation
Best Hours: 1-3 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Yellow, Black
The Tiger
Magnetic, passionate and grand! When the Tiger does anything, it’s noticed! Indecisiveness and stubbornness can mar the sparkle of the Tiger personality. On the one hand generous, onthe other hand a little mean, it’s sometimes hard to know where one stands with the Tiger. Flexible, honest and truly entertaining, one has a friend for life with a Tiger..
Forecast for 2010
Being the Tiger’s own year, 2010 holds great promise for those born under this sign, with exciting developments happening for them both personally and professionally. Some Tigers may be feeling disappointed and disheartened after 2009 and it will be important to leave the past behind and concentrate on the future, which is looking so bright! Financially, everything improves this year for those born under this sign and money-making thoughts and ideas should be fully explored and investigated. With the fast pace of this year for all signs, the Tiger needs to take extra care in planning and thinking all projects through – no rushing headlong into schemes during 2010! Tigers looking for romance will possibly see a friendship suddenly develop into something more personal with exciting consequences. August, December and January will see a very active and entertaining social calendar, but all of 2010 will see fun activities for the Tiger. The Spring months, March to May, will bring encouraging and interesting job opportunities, but the Tiger will still have to make sure he puts himself forward and gets noticed at work.
Interesting Tiger Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Sapphire
Special Flower: Violet
Best Hours: 3-5 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue, Yellow
The Rabbit
Cuddly, warm and affectionate are the attributes of the Rabbit. Mysterious and a great party-giver and host, the Rabbit enjoys being the centre of attention once in a while. The Rabbit is occasionally over cautious and can be a bit boring. He is also one of the luckiest signs in theChinese Astrology chart.
Forecast for 2010
The focus will be on the Rabbit’s career and job prospects during the Year of the Tiger, with unexpected promotions and recognition very likely. Travel is also highlighted, with short breaks and spontaneous, fun trips featuring during the late Spring and early Summer. Healthwise,the Rabbit could find the speed of the Tiger year exhausting and it’s important he balance work with rest and relaxation. Promotion at work or in the Rabbit ’s career will be sure to feature and they need to act quickly – no hanging back to see what happens! Some Rabbits will be dissatisfied with their current living arrangements and the perfect new home may appear most unexpectedly – they must act quickly and not miss out! Friendships will play a big role during 2010 with possibly one or two friends needing extra care and help. May and October to January will bring special and fun social gatherings. February and March will be significant and fortunate for those looking to change jobs while July and August will be most auspicious for single Rabbits looking for love – an unexpected liaison could result from a work related social event.
Interesting Rabbit Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Pearl
Special Flower: Jonquil
Best Hours: 5-7 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Grey, White
The Snake
Intelligent and highly intuitive are two of the Snake’s many fine qualities. He makes an amusing and romantic friend with a definite flirtatious streak. When challenged or criticised he can be a sore loser. The Snake is very lucky with money and is fond of the odd bet or two. He is quick-witted and enjoys reading, music and occasionally the paranormal side of life.
Forecast for 2010
The Snake likes to make slow and steady progress and the Year of the Tiger will find him swept along with unexpected developments – they need to adapt and keep up the pace. On the career front, the Snake will have quite a bit of competition and needs to stay ahead of the game in order to be in line for any promotions or career advancement opportunities. He needs to seek advice from those who can help and not appear too independent – working with colleagues will pay off handsomely during the year. Money management will be crucial during the Year of the Tiger and with careful planning, they should have little to worry about. Time spent with loved ones, either on a well-earned holiday or at home, will rejuvenate the Snake’s spirit during a busy and intense year. February through April will favor work endeavors and promotion. July through December will offer many opportunies for single Snakes to meet a special romantic partner. Travel looks most likely during March and June through August, with fun and romance well starred. Snakes can be shy and loners, but the Year of the Tiger will ensure they have many happy social events to attend.
Interesting Snake Facts
Zodiac Stone: Opal
Special Flower: Passionflower
Best Hours: 9-11 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Brown Gold, Green
The Horse
Fun, charming and attractive sums up the Horse’s traits perfectly. They love parties and crowds and being the centre of attention. They can also be egotistical, hotheaded and impatient. The Horse is a considerate and protective friend and partner and when in his company, there will always be excitement around the next corner.
Forecast for 2010
The Year of the Tiger will be an exciting and lively year for the Horse. On the home and family front, there may be some changes with family members moving in, moving out or relocating to another location altogether. On the social front, the Horse will be in much demand with invitations to parties and gatherings increasing as the year moves on. Health wise, with such a busy year and added pressures, the Horse must ensure that he looks after his diet and gets adequate rest. Otherwise, irritability and heated arguments could arise unnecessarily. Those born under this sign will do exceptionally well career-wise this year. However, they must follow up leads and career openings with vigor in order to take advantage of the fast paced energy of the Tiger year. A word of caution for the Horse – they need to keep a careful eye on their finances as overspending could happen very easily. August through September will bring fantastic opportunities for those looking for love. March through May will be lucky for changing jobs or careers while November and December will bring fun and lively social gatherings.
Interesting Horse Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Golden Topaz
Special Flower: Rose
Best Hours: 11am-1pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Orange, White, Yellow
The Goat
Graceful and optimistic, kind and easy going, would describe a Goat personality. They can also be petulant and discontented, likely to throw the towel in at the beginning of a problem. They can be charming without revealing their true feelings. The Goat is very talented and imaginative and can turn his hand to most creative pursuits.
Forecast for 2010
The Goat likes balance and moderation in all areas of life and the Year of the Tiger will ensure that he discovers new aspects and strengths of himself he didn’t know he had! For the artistic and creative Goat, 2010 will bring offers, opportunities and encouragement, leading to new projects and job offers. If they can remain adaptable, open to change and focused, this year could have long lasting positive implications. Study and developing specialist skills is also highlighted for this year. For those wishing to change jobs or find employment, there may be many frustrating moments and it won’t be easy. But then, out of the blue, a job offer or an opportunity will present itself. Be ready! September to November will bring the best chances for work related success. May to September will have outstanding moments for making new, special friends and enjoying the company of loved ones. All Goats need to be aware that the Year of the Tiger is not the time for taking financial risks. If in doubt or worried, they need to be sure to get the advice of a professional.
Interesting Goat Facts
Zodiac Stone: Emerald
Special Flower: Larkspur
Best Hours: 1-3 pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue
The Monkey
The Monkey is playful, lively, fun and a quick thinker. They get bored very easily and find it hard to settle down to doing any one thing. The Monkey can also be vain and offhand. They are ambitious and usually very good with investing money. With their quick wit and wonderful sense of humour, they are a great party guest. The Monkey’s life will never be dull and predictable!
Forecast for 2010
The Monkey’s energetic nature will resonate well with the energy of 2010 – but he will definitely need to pace himself or he will burn out! Changes on the job front could startle the Monkey near the beginning of the year, but by adapting and staying calm, he should weather any storm. It would be wise to take a well-earned break mid-year as all Monkeys will be feeling the pressure that the Year of the Tiger is putting on them. Family expenses may very well increase this year and the wise Monkey will do a little bit of forward planning and budgeting to ensure a smooth passage through 2010. August to October will shine for romantic encounters and the unattached could possibly find the partner they’ve been searching for. July to November will be the best time to start making moves for anyone who wishes to change their job. All those born under this sign will appreciate the support they receive this year from loved ones and friends. Advice will be well-meaning and helpful; be sure to listen carefully.
Interesting Monkey Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Peridot
Special Flower: Gladiola
Best Hours: 3-5 pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: White, Violet, Green
The Rooster
The Rooster is always popular, extravagant and creative. They can be brutally honest and generally like being showered with attention. They are wonderfully loyal friends and also give advice freely – whether they are asked for it or not! Family means the world to the Rooster and they are fiercely loyal to those they care about.
Forecast for 2010
The Year of the Tiger will have mixed fortunes for the Rooster, but by staying calm, observant and flexible, the Rooster will glide through 2010 coming out much wiser, stronger and with great success behind him. He will be in much demand for his sage advice and experience and, at work, this will come to the notice of his employer. Many will also decide to go back to college this year or completely change the direction of their career. Travel features quite strongly with the Rooster seeking out adventure, fun and new places to visit. A word of caution: all Roosters must ensure that they don’t overdo things – exhaustion and a depleted immune system will result if proper rest isn’t taken. Home life will bring many joys and will be seen as a cosy sanctuary throughout the year. The Spring months and November and December will be excellent for intimate romantic encounters. March and July to October will be the optimum time for making career decisions or to change jobs.
Interesting Rooster Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Citrine
Special Flower: Aster
Best Hours: 5-7 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Orange, Green
The Dog
The Dog is wonderfully hard worker, a perfectionist and someone who loves the small details. He is also a bit anti-social, pessimistic and stubborn. They are one of the most honest and loyal signs of the Chinese zodiac and will always go to bat for a worthy cause. The Dog is a fantastic listener and his advice is usually very intuitive.
Forecast for 2010
The Year of the Tiger will be an excellent one for all Dogs with a significant improvement in fortune all year long. They must leave the past behind, for the Ox year was a challenging one, and look forward with optimism and determination. There will still be challenges this year for the Dog, as for all the signs, and it is important that he talk over any potential problems and worries rather than bottling them up. Socially, this is the Dog’s year to shine and many new strong friendships and alliances will be formed. The Year of the Tiger will see increased finances for the Dog with many receiving bonuses or even gifts throughout the year. However, it is important that he takes his time regarding financial matters, checking details and ensuring that he has read all the fine print. May to August will be very significant for single Dogs and all invitations should be carefully considered! September through November will have crucial career opportunities – don’t miss them! Recreational activities and hobbies will also feature strongly, with some able to turn their hobby into their career with great success.
Interesting Dog Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Diamond
Special Flower: Marigold
Best Hours of the day 7-9 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Silver and Red
The Pig
The Pig is an innocent, sweet and lovable personality. They can also be quite melancholy and over-sensitive. The Pig loves the company of others, and adores parties, gossip and chit chat. They are highly intelligent, but prefer to keep this side of their nature under wraps. The Pig does not care that much for money, but is one of the zodiac signs that is very lucky.
Forecast for 2010
The Pig loves activity and challenges and the Year of the Tiger will certainly provide this. There may be additional financial pressure on the Pig this year, but with prudent spending and consideration, this need not be a problem. The Pig is an open, friendly soul and very trusting, but this year he must be wary. It’s possible that gossip may prove too tempting or that he may listen to false advice, causing upset and trouble. Be guarded and careful this year! The Pig must ensure that he follows up all correspondence or financial dealings – to delay or overlook details will prove costly. Short, fun, unplanned trips will feature throughout the year and will be excellent for off-setting any stresses and pressure the Year of the Tiger may bring. Interest in spirituality and self-development will be to the fore and any opportunity to study and explore these should be taken. November to January will provide excellent opportunites for changing career direction or to find a new job. August to December will prove particularly social, with many fun occasions and opportunities to make new friends.
Interesting Pig Facts
Zodiac Stone: Ruby
Special Flower: Chrysanthemum
Best Hours: 9-11 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Purple, Red, White

source : http://mikeyip.com/2010-year-of-the-tiger-chinese-zodiac-forecast/

Prevent Your Messenger Account From Being Hacked

On Sept. 5, 2009, someone hacked on my cousin's YM account and the crook used it for his/her evil plan, to get free prepaid cellphone loads. After 3 days, my cousin informed me that one of her friends listed in her hacked YM account received the same message. Then the crook told her friend to click on a link to view my cousin's picture to prove to her that it was her. Her friend clicked on the link only to find out that her YM account was now being hacked.

Her friend later on learned that her relatives in the US and in the Philippines as well, received YM messages asking for financial help. What's also very bothering about the news is that she uses that same YM account in some of her banking transactions. My cousin advised her to contact her friends, relatives listed in that account to warn them not to fall for the trap. And also, to make a quick move to change her bank info containing the hacked account.

As for my cousin, she already received a lot of phone calls asking if she's in financial trouble. This really is very alarming considering it only took a matter of days to spread. And with only one person to fall for a trap, it could spread that fast.

This led me to thinking, it didn't happened to me yet. I wasn't hacked yet. But how can I prevent my account from being hacked? This are what I stumbled upon in the net :

1. Avoid P2P file Sharing Through Yahoo Messenger

Be it known or unknown, prefer not to receive any file from your friend unless you know what he is sharing and why. Avoid downloading .exe or .zip files from them as they are more likely to attack your computer or install trozans without you being aware of it. Never trust a stranger when he asks you to click on any site you haven't heard of.

2. Avoid Clicking on Spammy Links

If you were chatting with someone else and suddenly a PM box flashes on the screen with a lucrative offer/interesting site which has a spammy look, don't click on it. These websites have a lot of spyware who get silently installed if you go and surf them. Never download a toolbar unless its as authenticated as Yahoo's or Google's.

3. Use Ignore Option Effectively

Yahoo has an ignore option that lets you ban a person or mark as spam so that he can't disturb you once again. Use that option effective. Go to Yahoo Messenger main box -> Preferences -> Ignore List. If you want to avoid talking to strangers (which I always recommend)i.e. wanna talk to your buddies only, Check Ignore anyone.. option. That helps you be safe and block on the unwanted and potential hackers from reaching you. See the screen-shot below.

4. Use other Chat Clients

Yahoo Messenger has too many loopholes. It doesn't have a strong security to block contents either. So, if you want to get rid of spams and porn contents all under one go, then you should go for some popular and secure yahoo chat clients like Yazak. You can also go for Yah-Elite and Yam They may not have the same sophisticated GUI or entertainment features but they will increase the security of the chat sessions by many folds.

Here is a link that can help you with some more chat clients. I don't recommend any except these.

5. Always Use Newer Versions of Yahoo Messenger

Remember, the more you stay with the older versions and feel lazy to get upgraded, the more you are helping the hackers. Yahoo or any software, brings out these updates not only to extend features but also due to security reasons. A newer version of yahoo messenger 9 is hardly bootable by DoS attack whereas Yahoo Messenger 7 can be booted out or hacked by a script kiddie.

6. Don't download Yahoo Plug-ins from Unauthorized source

Do not ever download a plug-in of Yahoo messenger from any other site however lucrative it be. Plug-ins like these exploit the vulnerability once installed and send your account details to a third party revealing and cracking down your id. So, better be safe than sorry. No?

7. Use Proxy if you have a Better Firewall

Yahoo also gives you option to change your proxy. Go to Preferences and hunt down Proxy servers. You will see that you can set your own proxy server so that Yahoo gets redirected through yours giving you a better chance to protect yourself and secure by your network. But if only you have that faith on your network security. You can change it by going to Yahoo Messenger main box -> Preferences -> Connection

8. Use Word Filter

You can also use your word Filter in Yahoo messenger. It just discards all the obscene or threatening words by intelligent filtering system if you choose StrongYahoo Messenger main box -> Preferences -> Chat. option. But be aware, there may be some times when your own friend can get banned while cursing your jokingly. Word filter is another good option to be within your network and not let some specifically targeted spammers to arrive. It increases security too. You can change it by going to

9. Be sure to Delete Your Profile after Chatting from a Public computer

Most of the users don't know about it. Whenever you sign in to yahoo messenger, yahoo makes a profile of yours in the directory Yahoo -> Messenger -> Profiles by the name of your yahoo id. There is an option by default at Yahoo messenger that messages will be saved as long as you are signed in to your account for that session. A good hacker can have access to that file and decrypt it to learn your private conversations.

What you must do if you are sharing a public computer to chat from, is, you can change it by going to Yahoo Messenger main box -> Preferences -> Archive.No, do not save any of my messages and you are done. Oh don't forget to delete your profile from Profiles inside Yahoo folder after you sign out. Change it to

10. Apply Your Common sense and Use a good Antivirus and anti spyware software

Applying your common sense is the least you can do to prevent your account from being hacked. A good anti-virus and anti-spyware always warns you about dangers that you may have overlooked. So its better to have them as well. If you implement the above 9 tips, you won't need to worry much I gues until you personally hand over your information to the person willing to crack your computer down.

Yahoo messenger and other messaging tool are fun and very useful to stay connected with our loved ones and also gain new friends. But there are some inconsiderate persons who will not hesitate to ruin your reputation. It wouldn't hurt to follow the simple tips above rather than fixing the problem caused by the hackers.

source : blog.taragana.com

Messenger Hacking

September 5, 2009 / around 10:00 pm - I was busy doing a website in my computer at home. I was online in YM but my status was invisible to everyone. Suddenly, I received a message in YM from my cousin who's in UK, so I thought it was. The YM id was my cousin's but I know she uses a new id. Her opening line was, "favor naman, importante lang" (favor please, this is important). So I asked what is it. She asked me if I could buy her cellphone prepaid cards. According to her, she can't reach her supplier here in the Philippines. She would pay me the next day.

Hhhmmm...this doesn't sound like my cousin. First of all, everytime she would start a chat with me, her opening line is, "Hi, cuz". Plus, she's doing well in UK so she doesn't need to have a sideline selling prepaid cards which is just small time. And I can't figure out, why she would sell prepaid cards applicable only in the Philippines in UK?

I got suspected and a bit nervous that time. I told her that I'm a bit hesitant with the idea. I asked her if she really is my cousin. Her reply was, "Yes, it is me. What's wrong with you? Do you not trust me? I will not fool you." Again, this doesn't sound like my cousin. I asked her for proof that she really is my cousin. Then she replied, "If you don't trust me and can't help me, that's ok". I even apologized but I still insist for proof. I asked her if I can view her in webcam. She said her soundcard is not working. Huh?? I told her, your cam will still work even if you don't have soundcard. No reply. I asked again for proof. I asked for the name of her parents, my parents and my siblings' name. She didn't respond.

I decided to open my facebook account. I sent a message to my cousin in UK and I told her about the incident. It's a good thing that she immediately saw my message to her. She confirmed that it's indeed not her. I went back to YM, I told the impostor that I already talked to the real owner of the id. Then she/he suddenly signed off from YM.

I learned that one of my cousins also here in the Philippines, almost got victimized. I advised my cousin, the owner of the ym id, to inform all her friends listed in that account about the incident and not to fall for the trap.

A similar incident happened to one of my officemates. Someone used her msn account and started cursing and saying rude messages to one of our officemates. If you ever experience the same, make sure to verify first if she/he is indeed that owner of the id.

Looking Back

August 29, 2009 - My sister went home from Singapore, unexpectedly. She just sent a message to my other sister that she's already in Changgi airport, on her way to the Philippines. We were all surprised with the wonderful news as my sister has been in Singapore for two (2) years now. It was also her son's 13th birthday. It was really nice seeing her again.

There are 6 of us in the family, two of my siblings already in Singapore. We no longer all live in one roof as the three of us already have a family of our own. We have different priorities and we live far from each other. So it is very exciting for us whenever we have a get-together like this. But, less my eldest brother.

I visited our old house because my sister stayed there for a while . I saw our old pics and I can't help but reminisce every piece. The fun, the excitement, the laugh trips, the bloopers, the looks (I've got bugs bunny teeth then). Life was much simpler then. Our financial status back then was not that great as compared now. If I will remember correctly, we are the poorest family in my mother's clan. But we manage to keep our family tight and have a happy relationship. We enjoy simple things, even just sharing a half gallon of ice cream. We share interests and we support each other.

I remember the delicious home-cooked meal of my mother. While she's cooking she would sing old songs from her time. Sometimes I would accompany that with a guitar. Early in the morning, she would go to the market. She did not forget to buy fresh cow's milk that would go along with our breakfast perfectly.

But of course, it's not always sunny and rosy. A lot of family struggles came to us but it seems that it made us even stronger. There are arguments, yes. We had some misunderstandings, fights. But doors for forgiveness and understanding is always open.

Now, we are all matured persons and the bonding is much tighter. All the negative issues that we had before were all gone. We had a dinner and it was very fun. We are all like kids again, laughing so hard again, just like before. Only now, it's more fun together with our kids.

What I learned . . .

I learned to gain more humility.
I learned to do more, complain less.
I learned that in order to get to the rainbow we must first go through the rain.
I learned to respect other people even more.
I learned to appreciate all the blessings that I have no matter how small.
I learned to see the good in the bad.
I learned that the saying, in every problem there is a solution, is true.
I learned that every problem don't just have one solution, you'll just have to look deeper and make a choice.
I learned that you really cannot please everybody.
I learned that people can really make or destroy you.
I learned that I can and I will if I try.
I learned to focus on improving my own craft instead of throwing stones at others.
I learned to be more happy.
I learned to be more loving.
I learned to love myself more.
I learned to laugh and smile even more.
I learned to feel numb on criticisms and focus on what's important.
I learned that where you are right now is brought by your own decisions and actions and not just by accident.
I learned that you are what you want to be.
I learned that you make your own destiny.
And, I know that I still have a lot to learn in this journey called life and I'm willing to learn more to be a better person than I am right now.

Revisiting Blogger.com

It's been a long time since I had my last post. And yeah, it's toooo long. I again rekindling the excitement and eagerness that I had when I did my first post. This time, I'm planning to continue writing, I meant, typing. I really have a lot in mind that I can't wait to share with you.

I also changed the template of my blog to start fresh again and because my six year-old daughter doesn't want the old format. She chose this template, and I kinda say that she really had good taste when it comes to art and design. I even changed my username from Ragamuffin_mom to Earth_Angel. Well, I like Ragamuffin_mom a lot, it sounds like a very cool mom. But I like Earth_Angel even better. Nowadays, we all need some angels here on Earth. And I hope to be one.

Can't wait to start another piece here.

First Time Blogger

It’s my first time to blog. I’ve been hearing and seeing a lot about this and it doesn’t make sense to me. The word blog sounds like something or someone fell from a chair or from a bed or God knows from where. I didn’t even bother to open any blogs I stumbled over the net like in Friendster. For me, it’s just a waste of time. Why the heck would I want to read anybody’s thoughts. But then, I accidentally came upon a blog that interests me. What is it about? It's top secret…. While reading the blog, I could actually feel what the writer, I think, was also feeling while she’s writing her blog. Before I knew it, I started clicking and reading from one blog to another just like flipping pages from a magazine. This is fun! Then I realized, I like writing journals too. hhhmm…why not give it a try. So, without further ado. Here is my first post of blog.

First of all, let's have a clear understanding of what is BLOG. What is the meaning of blog?

Basically, blogs were first introduced as weblogs that refer to a "server's log file." It was created when web logging hit the virtual market. Since its inception in the mid-1990s, web logging gradually saturated the virtual community making the Internet a viable source of greater information. Like I've said, it is like a personal online diary or you can say journal which allows you to share your thoughts and ideas , you can add video, games, pictures music, you can read comments visitor leave on your blog. You can do all these things without the need of being a programming expert.Blogger is the one who creates blogs. If we will review our history, first we had websites, then email, and now blogs.All these things reflect a trend that world is becoming more formal in communication.Blog is the cheapest medium on internet through which you can express your feelings, sentiments, wishes, desires and write according to your wish about anything you like. You can be as artistic as you like. At the same time, you can read news about computers, internet, sports, politics etc. It gives you freedom of writing articles where users can give comments/opinions about your article which is also very important. With this, it can give you ideas on how to further improve your blogs.

Did this interest you? If you want to Shout Your Mind, here are some websites where you can freely express yourself, or should I say, make blogs(start to get the hang of it) :

http://www.blogger.com/
http://www.blogspot.com/
http://www.bloggerteam.com/
http://www.wordpress.org/
http://www.blogdrive.com/
http://www.modblog.com/
http://www.myblog.com/
http://www.members.freewebs.com/

So, if you are thinking on creating a blog, whether for business or for pleasure, you need to know some tips that could help you get through and make your blog one of the interesting blogs online.

1. Consider your audience

Even if your blog is generally personal, still, it would be better to consider the minds of your readers. You have to think of something that would interest them.

After all, most of the reasons of people who write blogs are not at all confined to their own personal motives. Most of them would love to be "heard" (or read) and would love to be known, in some way or another, even for just a minute. Hence, it is very important to come with a write up that everybody can understand, not necessarily that these people can relate to it but they can understand it.

2. Pictures speaks a thousand words

To make your blogging worth the browsing effort of your readers, it would be extremely nice if you will put some pictures in it. It does not necessarily mean you have to place a picture of yourself. Any photographs will do as long as it does not pose danger or insult to anyone who will be reading your blog. It would be best if you would put pictures related to your topic.

3. Make constructive and beneficial blogs

Even if you are free to write anything you wan to say to the world, still, it would be better to create some write-ups that would be beneficial to your readers, something informative and makes sense.

After all, its information technology that you have there so better be inclined to provide information rather than sheer quirky entertainment.

4. Avoid making multifaceted and complicated blogs

In order to have an interesting blogs, try not to use some highly technical and highfalutin words. After all, it is not a science discourse or a debate that you are making, so better stick to simple facts and short blogs. Bear in mind that most people who use the Internet usually do more scanning than scrutinizing each site word for word. Therefore, it would be better to come with blogs that will not bore your readers just because you have these lengthy articles.

5. Make it interactive

As much as possible and if your capacity will allow it, make your blog interactive. You can do this by placing some video or audio clips in your blog.

Now you've known what is blog, some websites and some tips, it's time for you to act now. Get those brain cells working and start typing those fingers in your keyboard.