G&G Rocks in Sydney Australia

Discount Disney Tickets

2007-12-17T21:33:00.000+11:00

I guess every child’s dream is to visit Disneyland in the USA. I must admit, I had been dreaming about that trip ever since I watched Mickey Mouse Club when I was little. I know I will realize this dream someday bringing along my darling little girl and hubby.

Discount Disney Tickets or tickets to all Orlando theme parks and attractions are easily available for purchase at Orlandofuntickets.com which also guarantees the lowest prices and best personal service. There is no excuse not to go to Disneyquest, Downtown Disney Pleasure Island, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach Water Parks, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure just to name a few!

Maybe you would like to bookmark Orlandofuntickets.com, it’ll probably come in handy for you too.

Don't forget the lyrics!

2007-12-17T21:20:00.000+11:00

Before I had my girl, I never missed my favourite TV game show, "Deal or No Deal" but I hardly watch it since my girl was born. Lately, I've been able to catch a show or two on TV when she lets me.

Now I am hooked on Don't forget the lyrics! Simply because once upon a time, I frequented Karaokes with my group of close friends and we had the time of our lives belting out numbers from the 60's to the 90's! I even had a BBQ party at my home where all my friends Karaoke'd at my home after stuffing ourselves with chicken wings, sausages and lots of food! Wow, those were the good old times! The things you do when you're young and not married yet.

Anyway, I really enjoy watching the contestants who are so brave and oblivious to their surroundings. I also loved trying to sing along and see if I could remember the missing words which I failed all the time *LOL*

Volatile market

2007-12-17T13:18:00.000+11:00

Eventhough I am no longer slaving away in the corporate world (office politics is cruel but interesting to observe and indeed I have learned soooo much from it), I still follow the Business section of the news with keen interest. Why? Because it helps me plan our budget and savings.

With the US cutting interest rates and speculation that it might fall into recession - how will it affect the Aussie market? Will we and rest of the world fall into recession too? Already, the Aussie dollar has weakened against the greenback but when will the Reserve Bank of Australia start to cut interest rates instead?

Stone Hawk friendly program

2007-12-17T12:23:00.001+11:00

Suffering from drug addiction is never easy. Often it requires a lot of courage to take that first step to check into a drug rehab. A center that feels homey and peaceful such as the Stone Hawk Rehabilitation Center in central Michigan located at a water frontage on a private St. Mary’s Lake could probably help to make things easier.

You can take an online tour of the treatment facility at its website. Stone Hawk as an impressive 76%+ success rate compared to the traditional 12-step programs.

Stone Hawk emphasizes on health and fitness throughout its program as it believes they play an important factor in maintaining a drug free life. As such, every student goes through a full medical physical in order to begin the addiction treatment program.

Complete and detailed information may be viewed at narcononstonehawk.com

Chores

2007-12-16T16:29:00.000+11:00

What do I do when hubs took bubs away for several hours just to give me some time off? Relax? Nap? Nooooooo ....

I mopped the floors, did the laundry, did some planting at the backyard, played around with some plugins for blog, checked/answered emails, etc. It's not easy being a mom nowadays, hehehe. Blessed are those whose husbands are able to help with cleaning the home. Mine would help but I prefer him not to due to his sensitive skin coming in contact with detergent. And I really do not want to trouble him to put on gloves all the time.

I did try to nap but only managed to lie down for 3 minutes because I couldn't fall asleep. All that was on my mind was wanting to utilise the toddler free time that I had by doing something rather than sleeping away the precious time. Pathetic eh? Doesn't even know how to relax.

Hot day

2007-12-15T21:02:00.000+11:00

What a hot and humid day it was! The temp was a high of 31.4C We went out and the car felt like an oven after being parked under the sun for a short while. There are many more hot days to come, yucky, yucky, yucky!

The best place to be was at Coles Supermarket's frozen food section, haha! Bought some sweet junk food and chips to satisfy our "itchy" mouths! The best part of being married is that you don't feel guilty piling on the pounds as you have someone more than willing to pile it on together with you, hahaha.

Push Bar

2007-12-14T20:45:00.000+11:00

There are so many car accessories these days, most of which are only for “cosmetic” purposes only. One thing which I will not mind having if I own a 4WD is a push bar. I have always seen that on some 4WDs and sure, to some people, it might just be yet another car accessory but I think it would give others that added sense of protection if they have one installed.

Go for a good make such as those manufactured by Steelcraft and T&H which produce high quality one piece construction and made of heavy duty corrosion resistant. Be sure to get the best lowest guaranteed price at buyautotruckaccessories.com

Bubs & Daddy

2007-12-14T20:38:00.000+11:00

It's Friday already. How time flies and I've been saying this over and over again since my 25th birthday which was of course a stone age ago! I think this is the first time that hubby hasn't seen bubs for the whole day.

Reason being that bubs is usually still asleep when he goes to work and today hubs is attending a farewell for his colleague straight after work. Meaning, he won't come home until prolly 9pm or 10pm. Bubs is already asleep at 8.30pm.

Surprisingly bubs didn't ask for "DaDa" not even once today. She'd usually ask for him once or twice during the day.

I'm not sure about bubs but I know DaDa sure misses his little princess.

Been awhile

2007-12-13T21:23:00.000+11:00

Been awhile since I blogged here. Just been lazy and it is getting more difficult to use the PC during the day with my little girl being sticky as ever! She doesn't allow me to type in peace - always trying to help me! I'm very conscious about her accidentally sending out emails via my Microsoft Office Outlook and believe me, there are thousands of email addresses in there. Touch wood, this has not yet happened! I hope I won't have to resort to password protecting my Outlook as I hate to have to type in the username and password each time I access it.

Sooooo my little girl, please grow up and be less out of control otherwise mommy will really go bonkers.

E-commerce Software by NetworkSolutions

2007-11-20T08:49:00.000+11:00

I have been using NetworkSolutions to host one of my domains since 1999 until today and if you are familiar with domains, web hosting and such, you would know how reputable NetworkSolutions is. I am happy to see that they have now expanded its services to offering Ecommerce Solutions.

This new Shopping Cart Software enables you to start your online business instantly with a starting package price of just US$49.95/month with no hidden fees.
Some of the shopping cart highlights are:

• Professional storefront designs
• Powerful shopping cart checkout
• Real-time credit card processing
• Flexible inventory & shipping options
• 24/7 FREE customer support
• NO transaction fees
• Industry-leading reliability & security
• Easy Shopping Cart Interface

See some of the screeshots of how the shopping cart software works by screenshots. Or better still, view the online demo of a sample store and control panel.

Unlike other newly established providers of shopping cart softwares, NetworkSolutions has been in business for almost three decades backed by award winning customer service support. So you know you are dealing with a truly reliable and well known company here.

They have a toll free number to ring or simply contact them by email if you require any assistance or have any questions on its software package.

Movies

2007-11-20T07:32:00.000+11:00

Going to the cinema has been impossible for me since we had our bubs. I'm not keen on going to the "moms and bubs" movie sessions available on certain days at Hoyts. I'm not the type who can enjoy a movie while keeping an eye (and ear) and tending to bubs. I really like to enjoy my movies or tv shows undisturbed *LOL* It's either that or I don't watch them.

Anyway there are two movies I'd particularly love to watch ie Elizabeth (for some reason I like medieval movies) and Beowulf (I love fantasies too). Sigh but I guess I'd have to wait for the DVDs, huh?

Our garage floor

2007-11-10T20:08:00.000+11:00

I always envy my neighbours’ garage floors which are free of oil stain and so clean! Eventhough our garage is about 1.5 years old, it looks like it has been there for a decade!

Firstly, we noticed a long crack line on the concrete floor a few months after we moved in. Secondly the concrete floor is dirty with traces of soil (due to our constant landscaping work) and maroon colored powder when the contractors were coloring the stencilled driveway. Thirdly, there a little bit of oil stain from the car.

If only we had known about treating our garage floor with epoxy coating before we even moved in, it would have helped a lot. Maybe we can still do it once we clear our garage of the remaining boxes of junk. Here is a photo of what our current garage floor looks like.

Petrol price increase?

2007-11-08T20:37:00.000+11:00

The news on TV announced that petrol prices are expected to increase to AU$1.45/ltr in the next 10 days and by Christmas, it would be at least AU$1.50/ltr. Hah! Very nice! Looks like we'll have to tighten our belts. If things go on like this, it really won't be much fun. It'll be interesting to see who will win the election. *Yawn* politics.

Change of topic. This week feels a bit like winter! Cloudy and gloomy with showers throughout the day but I like it as it's so nice to sleep at night with cooler temps. Next week is forecasted to be more like summery weather.

Nursing home search at Bettercaring.com

2007-11-08T20:34:00.000+11:00

Looking for a nursing home for our loved ones or even planning for ourselves in old age, could prove to be a difficult task. There are so many choices of nursing homes, it simply is impossible to visit every single one to make a decision.

We can shortlist a number of good nursing homes through the help of Bettercaring.com, a dedicated online service providing answers to crucial questions about care for ourselves or loved ones. Its care home search allows you to search through its database of all registered UK care homes.

Simply pick the care options available on its website and they will arrange for the right kind of care including providing daily care news and views as well as healthy living tips.

There is also a forum at Bettercaring.com where we may contribute to discussions and talk to others about their experiences within the care system.

Give Bettercaring.com a visit and try using its search option. The website user friendly and colour coded for easy navigation.

Big W Christmas Competition begins

2007-11-07T20:50:00.000+11:00

If you frequent BigW as much as I do, don't miss out on its Win a Family holiday to Santa's homeland in Finland competition. Simply spend a minimum of $30 to get one entry form. Competition commences 8 Nov 2007 and ends on 20 Dec 2007.

This Saturday they are having a one day special sale. How come we always get the printed catalogue only after each week's sale has begun?? Good thing I registered for their e-newsletter and often check its website for specials, otherwise, we'd always be missing out on what's on sale if we rely on the printed catalogues.

Anyway, yep we're definitely heading that way again this weekend to get more Christmas decor and hopefully be able to shop for gifts. Our shopping days have not been very pleasant lately as the little monster does not like to sit in the stroller nor to be carried but insisted on running (yes, running, not walking!) all over the mall which is dangerous as trolleys might and strollers might bump into her. When carried, she'd whinge, whinge, whinge till we have no mood and lost concentration to shop. Gone were the days when she'd sit down and behave in her stroller!

Ho! Ho! Ho! Coupon Chief saves the day

2007-11-07T11:10:00.000+11:00

Saving every cent has never been more crucial than now. It is near Christmas time and most families with an average income must be feeling tighter in the belt due to budget squeeze at this time of the year.

Wait, don’t worry - Ho! Ho! Ho! Coupon Chief is here to spread cheer and save the day! It is well worth the habit of checking Coupon Chief for discounts that could save you money for your next purchase especially when your shopping list tends to grow longer for this coming holiday season.

It is a good time to start printing off some Christmas cards at Snapfish - take advantage of its 20 free prints + 20 free photo cards for new customers besides the discounts.

Or reward yourself with a new Dell notebook!

Whatever your shopping needs may be, get it all from Coupon Chief at discounted prices always.

Rates rise again!

2007-11-07T11:00:00.000+11:00

Thank you RBA, for another interest rates rise bringing the cash rate to 6.75%. Reason for RBA's move? The same old story - to curb inflation. I love this government! That's not the end of the bad news - economists are tipping two more rate rises next year, the first being as early as Feb 2008. Interest rates has only gone one way since 2001 ie UP!

As a result of today's rates rise, lenders are expected to lift the standard variable mortgage rate to above 8.5%. Goodness knows how people like us would manage to survive.

Full report on today's rate rise can be read at SMH.com.au

BidVertiser Referral Program

2007-11-06T09:20:00.000+11:00

Have you heard about the hottest news from BidVertiser? It is currently offering bloggers a chance to give away $20 Coupon worth of free clicks in the BidVertiser network to all blog readers, while earning a referral fee. Be quick to grab this opportunity! All you need to do is to Click Here to Signup as a BidVertiser Referral!

It is a great chance for bloggers to make some extra money through BidVertiser referrals especially stay at home moms who are often on the lookout for ways to help out with the evergrowing household expenses. Give it a go, there is nothing to lose.

Read more from the press release below.

Press Release:

BidVertiser is used by tens of thousands of bloggers to make money from their blogs by showing the BidVertiser ppc ads. Anyone can join BidVertiser either as a publisher or an advertiser, but we would like to share a new opportunity that not everyone is aware of:

BidVertiser now opens the the opportunity for bloggers to join as a referral, and as a unique benefit - a $20 coupon of free clicks is included with every referral account! This coupon can be shared and passed on to anyone - by placing a referral button on the blog, by adding the coupon link to a newsletter or even to an RSS feed

Once you signup as a referral, you get your unique referral link which will give $20 in free clicks to anyone that clicks it, adding great value to your blog as well as being a great benefit to your readers. Referral earnings are tracked online in the referral control panel and payments are made monthly, via PayPal or check, with a minimum of only $10.

If you choose to also activate your publisher account, you will also be able to get access to a new set of referral links that will both give your readers $20 in free clicks and will enable them to advertise directly on your blog via BidVertiser, increasing your earnings even more!

Spring rain is here, yay

2007-11-03T22:04:00.000+11:00

Just when I was complaining how hot and humid the weather was, take a look at next week's temps - low to mid 20's - back to Spring temps and lots of much needed Spring rain too. Great for our lawn and of course, super great for all farmers Australia wide. It also means can't play outdoors much but that's alright. Australia needs the rain.

Weeds tend to grow at a much quicker rate too but again, that's okay as I love to do weeding (anything to do with gardening, I love!) and the little monster has grown up a little to be more confident walking on the lawn, pavers and patio. Plus, she just loves to participate and imitate what I do outdoors.

Credit: Weather image Copyright (c) weatherzone.com.au

Save money with SaveBuckets.com

2007-11-02T08:54:00.000+11:00

The frantic rush for Christmas shopping has already started two weeks ago. Most people do not have the luxury of time to scout for the best deals from store to store. Fear not, help is at hand. The new price comparison site Save Buckets helps consumers save buckets of money as much as 20% for your shopping especially at this time of the year when every penny counts.

Press Release:

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST HAUNTS INDEBTED BRITS

- New price saving site launches to save Brits up to 20% this Christmas -

As the nation approaches the final countdown to Christmas, new research rings alarm bells over the financial impact of Christmas in credit crunch Britain. The research from the new money saving website Savebuckets.com reveals that as Brits prepare for Christmas, many are still paying off last year’s festive spending.

With 41 per cent of Britons paying for Christmas on credit last year, almost one in five are still paying for last year’s festivities (17%), fewer than one in three having cleared their Christmas debts when their January credit card bill arrived (29%).

Following a year of consumer confidence in 2006, Christmas spending soared 52 per cent in two years (from an average £548 per adult in 2004* to £837 per adult in 2006), with over one in five Brits spending over £1,000 on Christmas last year (22%). This year, with spending power at its lowest level for 10 years**, consumers are feeling the financial hangover from a more confident Christmas enjoyed on the credit card and loans.

Alarmingly, it is cash strapped youngsters and low income earners who, having spent the most on last Christmas, are most likely to be feeling the repercussions of last year’s spending spree (see figures below).

The research into the financial impacts of last Christmas amongst a GB representative sample of 2,000 British adults was carried out by the new money savings website Savebuckets.com which launches this week to enable Brits to get more for their money this Christmas.

With these alarming figures in mind, Savebuckets.com will give shoppers the opportunity to save up to 20% on their Christmas shopping. Putting consumers back in control of their spending, the site searches over 700 retailers for the best price on around one million products. The site includes a unique price checker which allows consumers to set the price they want to pay for items, notifying them when the price of a product falls to within their budget.

I am a Coupon person - Featherdale

2007-11-02T08:48:00.000+11:00

Updated: I noticed many people came here looking for Featherdale Coupon Voucher. Please hop over to my other blog (click here)where I posted a link to the site which you may print out the Featherdale coupon or voucher that entitles you to one free ticket for each ticket purchased. I saved AU$40 using those coupons I printed off. You may also sometimes see the coupon at the back of your grocery shopping docket from Coles if you're lucky, hehehe.

I wonder how many people would bother to cut out discount coupons from the newspapers or print them off discount sites from the internet? I know I am one of those who'd not hesitate to use coupons.

I think some of them are really useful for eg those that saves you a LOT of money on entrance fees to zoos, aquariums and such. I saved AU$40 when we went to Featherdale Wildlife Park during my parents stay here.

It only takes a bit of surfing on the net to find discount coupons. I have already printed two coupons to put in hubby's wallet for a buy one Opporto burger and get another one free (limited locations only); and a free iced Coke with every hotdog purchased at any Donut King outlet. He eats these two all the time, so why not get some free goodies eh? He should thank me, hehehe.

New Car Broker in Sydney

2007-11-02T08:38:00.000+11:00

I remember those days when we were looking at various websites and car centers to buy our very first car. I must say, I really hated the way the salesman dealt with us. He was overly persistent trying to sell us unnecessary additions to the car that we did not need.

I am sure that purchasing a car is one of the most important and biggest decision most people make. Therefore it is only natural that we would like to get the best deal available. With the help of a good Car Buying Service such as PrivateFleet.com which is located in Sydney, it could really ease your burden in ensuring your get your money’s worth.

PrivateFleet.com has helped over 400 people a month to buy their dream cars. They use over 600 dealers across the country. Most importantly you are assured that if they can’t save you money, they will refund their service fee in full. Check them out if you are in the market for a car.

Friday morning

2007-11-02T08:33:00.001+11:00

It is a nice Friday morning - even more so when bubba is sleeping in. She went to bed at 8pm last night and she is still asleep at 8.33am now. She usually wakes at about 7am. I never fail to sneak into her room just to make sure she is alright whenever she is still sleeping past 7am.

Well she did make some cute noises several times then it's all quiet again. The cute thing about her is that she falls back to sleep hugging those two rolls of towels between her. I think those towels help soothe and makes her sleep well, haha. Her comfort blankies.

Tomorrow we're gonna go look at some plants. Hubby's been itching to plant something on the frontyard garden beds.

Oh, oh I hear my little monkey singing now. Better go and start the day with my favourite girl.

Cheap Business Cards by VistaPrint

2007-11-01T21:08:00.000+11:00

We received many business cards from friends and work all the time. Most are the standard boring ones with company logos but sometimes there are ones that really stand out such as a childcare business card that we received in the mailbox. It was refreshing to see a nicely printed business card with cute graphics. I managed to find out that the card was printed by VistaPrint.

Naturally I was curious to learn more about VistaPrint and browsed its website. I couldn’t believe the amount of free Business cards templates it has. You can add a logo or image to a design or completely design your own. If you do not have the luxury of time to design one yourself, you can simply pick from its ready to go designs – you won’t be disappointed.

VistaPrint also lets you print your own Christmas Cards, Calendars, Promotional Giveaways, Marketing Materials, Magnets, Notes Pads, Stationery, Invites and much more. This is a site worth bookmarking for your future printing needs.

Maybe it would be a great idea to use VistaPrint to print your own professional looking Christmas cards with photo this year to surprise your friends and family.

Credit: Business card image Copyright © Vistaprint

Shopping for Christmas

2007-11-01T21:01:00.000+11:00

Just came home from Kmart near our estate. We wanted to buy a girl's activity set in a carry case (as shown on this week's catalogue) for a daughter of hub's colleague but unfortunately they were all sold out! Grrrr!

People are already shopping for Christmas gifts for their kids. At the toys section, I could hear people on their handsets asking what to get for so and so. Businesses really make big bucks this time of the year.

Not only that, people were also filling their shopping trolleys with Christmas tree, decor, etc as if they were free, wow!

We have not actually started our Christmas gift shopping yet - it is very time consuming thinking what to buy for individuals. And with the little impatient boss who insists on running around, it's really difficult to think straight nor be in the mood to buy gifts. *sigh* and I thought this year, it'd be easier.

I can't wait to get our first Christmas tree and start placing gifts beneath it!

Provillus for Hair Loss

2007-10-31T19:55:00.000+11:00

Hairloss is a major problem faced by many today, regardless of gender and age. As we know, hairloss could be genetic or due to health reasons as well as having an unbalanced diet. Whatever the cause may be, people suffering from hairloss may develop low self esteem which in the end, could result in negative behaviour and poor social lifestyle.

With today’s science, there are many products in the market which claims to assist in hair regrowth, such as Provillus. But is it right for you? It is not possible to try out every product until you find one that suits and works best for you as it would no doubt cost a lot of money to do that and bearing in mind, the time factor. Do not be dismayed, perhaps reading up what other consumers’ opinions, reviews and experiences at Trustsource.org about the type of hairloss products they have used, could better assist you to get the best product.

Skypephone by 3 mobile

2007-10-31T19:45:00.000+11:00

I have actually been waiting for this - Skype enabled 3 mobile. I use Skype to make international calls to families and to send sms overseas as well because it's ridiculously cheap.

The bad news about the collaboration of the Skype and 3 mobile network is that only Skype to Skype calls are permitted. This means no landlines or regular cellular numbers which were what I was hoping they'd enable because I can't expect my old folks to know how to use Skype on the PC.

According to an article today on The Sydney Morning Herald, the Skypephone by 3, will be available for sale near Christmas. I will not be getting one not unless landline and regular cellphone numbers can be dialed just like using my paid Skype account from my PC.

Seek help from a Mortgage Broker

2007-10-30T21:28:00.001+11:00

News has it that interest rates are set to rise again very soon. As if living expenses is not high enough already, home owners will have to fork out an even larger percentage of their household income to service their mortgages.

Maybe it would be a good idea for us to seek the help of a Mortgage Broker to see if we could switch to a better loan to save us on interest and hopefully to be able to repay our existing loan quicker.

When we first purchased our land, we went through different kinds of loans from various financial institutions. We were totally confused and undecided on which loan would suit us best. Being an inexperienced first home buyer did not help either. If we were to do it all over again, we would definitely go through a Mortgage Broker.

Summery weather - good and bad

2007-10-30T12:30:00.001+11:00

It's been awhile since I wrote an entry here. Time flew by like a whirlwind! The weather is getting hot, like Summer with temps between 29C - 32C, yucks and we're only coming to the 3rd month of Spring. I think they should rewrite Summer in Australia as between November - February instead of December - February!

The only good thing about hot sunny weather is that I could do several loads of laundry a day as each load dries within an hour in the sun! I have done 3 loads today - thank goodness for washing machine.

The bad thing is that I tend to hide at home and do not feel like taking a walk around the neighbourhood as I hate the heat and most of all, the oh so famous Aussie flies that hangs around your face everywhere as soon as we hit Summery weather!

Shop, shop, shop

2007-10-14T21:38:00.000+10:00

Buy, buy, buy, shop, shop, shop! That seems to be what we do every weekend! There is always something we NEED to get. I guess this is what it is like as we started living only with bare essentials without much furniture or anything else when we moved into our own home.

There are always things that we need. It's fun shopping but it hurts the pockets. Ah well, perhaps we can console ourselves that most things are a once off purchase and they (such as furniture) typically last for many years.

Anyway, today we shopped again. Big W is having its mid season clearance sale. Unfortunately stupid me forgot to switch off the slow cooker before we left home. So we had to make our shopping at Big W a quick one (thought we still ended up spending about 1.5 hours there itself!) to rush home. As such, we didn't manage buy several things on my shopping list.

We'll be going there again this Tuesday to continue our madness! I need to get some gift boxes for storage, from the discount shops.

Ooops, almost forgot that we also bought a foam single mattress for spare (guests) yesterday. Next on my list would be a bookshelf. The floor lamps are still pending coz we can't seem to find nice ones, those around AU$100+/- are either in silver, black or white color which I don't like.

The shopping list is NEVERENDING!

Need storage solutions

2007-10-12T14:37:00.001+10:00

I spend a whole lot of time in the study because that is where our computer and all the papers, files, bills are. I have to admit, each time I walk into the study I feel claustrophobic and try to keep one eye closed to all the mess! We are in dire need of good storage solutions that’s for sure.

Our study is actually a bedroom with nothing but a built in wardrobe that does not come with drawers or racks. Currently all files, CDs, DVDs, magazines, papers, photos, stationeries, etc are all over the floor and some dumped into the wardrobe. We had on many occasions, could not locate some important documents when we needed them because for the life of us, we could not remember under which pile of mess they were in!

Strong Aussie Dollar

2007-10-12T14:21:00.000+10:00

The Aussie Dollar hovers around AUD0.90 cents against the USD lately - a record 23 year high. It's bad news to those who are earning USD in Australia (ie paid blogging die hards *LOL*) as well as exporters especially farmers who have already been experiencing difficulties due to the years of drought in Australia.

The funny thing is, everyday goods prices remain expensive. Worse still the RBA might raise interest rates again to curb inflation! So what's all the big hoo haa about the income tax cuts ... it's all gone back to paying higher interest rates on mortgages and such.

Art of Removing Hair with Thread

2007-10-11T11:24:00.000+10:00

I used to wonder about the centuries old ancient art of hair removal with thread whenever I watched video series depicting Eastern people in the golden era using this method to remove fine hairs from the face and to shape eyebrows especially in preparation for some big occasions like marriage.

I have also watched documentaries about this method still being used in remote areas of certain cultures in the world.

Threading works by precisely twisting a length of regular cotton thread along unwanted hairs, trapping the hair and lifts it out of the follicle. Results may last up to 2-4 weeks and hair re-growth becomes finer and sparser.

Now you can see for yourself in the video below, how amazing this simple, effective and proven method works.

Interested to learn more? See how Saira Soleri teaches to thread on the face, ears, arms, legs and feet on her Threading - Hair Removal with Thread DVD.

It’s about time we throw away those tweezers and shavers and get back to basics :D

Our Sunday

2007-10-07T20:15:00.000+10:00

We had quite a relaxing day today. Bubs woke up at 6.15am and as usual, she'd babble away until I go pick her up at about 6.50am. I let DH sleep in since his body is aching all over due to the DIY job yesterday *LOL*

Mine is surprising alright but that's cause I didn't get to do much. Well, someone's gotta look after the Princess and to feed the hungry stomachs.

DH drove us to the Asian Supermarket to stock up on what-nots later in the afternoon at about 2.45pm. Then on our way home at 4pm, he decided to drive to Toys R Us at Castle Hill Homemaker Centre to get bubs a toy stroller.

We had initially planned to get bubs a Smart Trike Plus on special at AU$79.99 also but changed our minds as we feel that it would be better to get bubs an ordinary tricycle when she is a little older.

Didn't get a chance to shop around for Christmas gifts as the mall close by 5pm. I wish malls in Australia do not close by 4pm/5pm daily (except Thurs when they're opened till 9pm).

Swansea Restaurant

2007-10-06T12:00:00.000+10:00

Thinking of a special place to dine with that special someone or your loved ones? Maybe you would like to try something refreshing, go to a Swansea restaurant.

Swansea is largely surrounded by sea and has magnificent views to enjoy. Imagine good food, good company and good views. Nothing sounds better than that.

We sure would love to dine at a Swansea restaurant now.

DIY completed

2007-10-06T11:49:00.000+10:00

Whew, we finally finished our DIY job! Not sure if we'd have the strength nor stay awake to make our own lunch, or rather; brunch! *Sigh* wish we could just go and dine at a lovely restaurant. Haven't done that ever since bubba was born.

Can't wait for my parents to arrive. We'll be going Yum Cha and all :) Just hope the weather won't be terribly warm like today! It's really disheartening to experience such Summery weather in the second month of Spring. Imagine Summer! We'll be fried!! Thank goodness, all our landscaping work would be 95% completed by today.

Newcastle Plumber Service

2007-10-06T11:37:00.000+10:00

Urrgh don’t we all hate it when the tap leaks or worse still, burst at the time when you least expect it?

Every household should keep a contact number handy for emergencies like that – think Newcastle Upon Tyne plumber, a reliable source for professional plumbers you can count on.

Leave the plumbing job to the professionals. More often that not, DIY plumbing only creates more trouble.

DIY work today

2007-10-06T11:32:00.001+10:00

It is scorching hot now at 30C; more so when I had been helping out with some heavy DIY work on the lawn and the side of the house. Little bubba had been very good. She sat in her little pull out sofa and watched us through the safety fly screen door until it was time to put her to nap.

I am taking a breather before going out to help again. We just wanted to get everything done so we can completely scratch this off our "To Do" list for good!!

We are hungry as! Wish there was a 3rd adult living with us who could help take care of bubba or feed our hungry stomachs *LOL*

Cambridge Bed and Breakfast

2007-10-06T06:48:00.000+10:00

Travelling to the beautiful city of Cambridge for a holiday or to visit your loved ones at the world renowned university there?

Cambridge Bed and Breakfast might just be the perfect place to stay. It is ideally located in an area surrounded by many tourist attractions such as The Botanic Garden, boat trips along the river Cam, Linton Zoo and only an hour’s drive to Framlingham Castle.

Not to mention, close to theatres, restaurants and great shopping places too.

Almost there (template) ... I think

2007-10-05T13:05:00.000+10:00

Well, well, looks like I managed to changed just a lil bit of the template. Next to do is the header image. The current one was a rush job ... goodness me, I even had a photo of halved hard boiled egg on it, *LOL*

The problem with working with images as all who have done it would agree, is that you really do not wish to get off your seat until you complete it at one go otherwise doing it a little at a time may take the fun and interest out of it. Now which mommy has 2-4 hours in a row to spare? Unless of course bubs has gone to bed but Moms need their sleep too :)

Let's see if I can come up with something nicer and I need to place back links to my blogger friends too.

I bought a pair of shoes for AU$29.99 at Kmart just last Monday (Labour Day) but this week, those same shoes are on sale for AU$19.99 ... should I slap myself?? Oh well, things happen. But YAY it's the weekend tomorrow!

Post Edited at 9.40pm: Phew, partially completed the header image. I kinda like it :) Drew it from scratch from whatever that came to mind - tranquility, peace, the beauty of nature and the loves of my life :) Spent 1 hr 40 mins to do it, right after little bubba went to zzZZZ. Might improve on it some other day.

Personalised Number Plates

2007-10-04T10:55:00.000+10:00

Whenever we are on the road, Personalised Number Plates never fail to catch our attention especially catchy, funny and witty ones.

Do you fancy one for your car? You can customize and order your special number plate online from the comfort of your home with next day delivery via AcrylicPlates.co.uk website. How easy is that?

The registration plates are regulation compliant and are 100% legal for use on UK roads.

Credit: Number plate image Copyright © AcrylicPlates.co.uk

New blogskin

2007-10-03T20:16:00.000+10:00

Finally got around to changing the skin. Much more needs to be done eg link list, categories, fonts, colours, etc, hope I can do it. I had planned to complete as much as I could tonight but I feel so terribly lazy - will do a little at a time whenever I feel like it. I tried about 3 other skins before settling on this one. Well, whatever works I guess.

I'll need to change the title too as G&G no longer ROCKS in Sydney. Gone were the ROCKING pre-bubba days, haha! We're now old Mama and old Papa.

The day temp went up to 35C where we are ... yucks!! Right now at 8.21pm it is down to 21C. Tomorrow's gonna be cooler (day temp at 25C), thank goodness. Bush fires are pretty bad already - houses burnt. I really hate the hot weather and strong winds which cause bushfires. Not to mention, arsonists who deliberately lit fires that started it all and destroyed people's livelihood.

I am currently hooked on the legal drama "DAMAGES"! Glen Close's performance is brilliant!! I gotta stop here, DH is waiting for me to watch NCIS, then I will proceed to watch Damages at 9.30pm.

Bubba has just gone to bed.

Save Money with Coupon Codes!

2007-10-02T12:33:00.000+10:00

As we went shopping during the weekend., we noticed that most major retailers have already begun selling Christmas decors. The holiday season is near and soon you’ll be stuffing stockings for your loved ones!

We all know that shopping for pressies could burn a hole in the pocket, ouch! But wait, CouponChief.com is here to help you save some money.

If you are like us, who love shopping at family departmental stores, be sure to check out Target coupons and Kmart deals before heading to these stores. Any saving is a great bonus at this time of the year.

There are just so many things I wish I could get for my family members such as bedlinen, electrical items, computer parts, etc, etc Well, mostly practical everyday items.

Now don’t we forget gifts for the darling little pets too. Surprise your loved ones and friends with gifts at PetFoodDirect or PetSmart. I am sure they will appreciate your thoughtfulness.

There are too many coupon deals at CouponChief.com that saves you money. You really might wish to check it out. CouponChief.com is frequently updated with the latest coupon codes, promotional deals and discounts and is unparalleled in the online shopping e-commerce industry.

My paperwork tasks completed

2007-10-02T12:15:00.000+10:00

Well, well, so I've completed my tasks. I have filed my tax return and wait to receive a statement from the ATO (Australian Tax Office).

I have sent in my passport for renewal and the Msian High Comm didn't ring back to ask for further information which is good. They also sent me a confirmation letter with a reference number to indicate receipt of my passport and documents. Earlier on I had to resubmit the Form IM42 as they required the Justice of Peace to indicate beside my thumb print that they witnessed my thumb print. During the first time, the JP said it was not necessary to write anything nor put the JP stamp on it which I suspect didn't seem right. Anyway, everything seemed okay now - I hope! I'll just have to patiently wait for my new passport to arrive.

Alright, what next? The "To Do" list still seem long. DOH!! But at least they're not paperwork related.

Hope to find some time to change this blogskin! The weather is not good too, it is only the second month of Spring and it is hot as! Bush fires have already begun and day temps for this week hovers around 28C - 32C ... Oh My Goodness!!! You don't have to live in Msia to get burnt! In fact the sun here is even more damaging ... stronger UV rays I think. I dread Summer, no 40C - 45C please!!

Bad Memory

2007-09-24T11:53:00.000+10:00

I noticed that ever since I gave birth to my little girl, my memory has been deteriorating. I suspect it could be due to the ageing process *LOL* ... not very funny actually.

Or simply because there are 1001 things on the "To Do" list in my mind all the time. Take for example, when I text my lil niece in KL last night just to see how she's doing as I didn't want her to think we have neglected her now that we have our own little girl. She replied immediately. I thought I'd text her back after I take a shower.

I forgot all about it until this morning! It's nothing urgent but I absolutely hate it when I am this forgetful. Sometimes I'd forget about having received and read SMS and only replied days later if I happened to go and check through the Message Inbox, alamak! I am also one who does not recharge her cellphone daily. Often, conversations got cut off halfway coz my cellphone's ran out of battery - oops!

Gâc fruit for natural healthy skin

2007-09-18T12:53:00.000+10:00

All natural products are generally good for the skin because of the countless benefits they offer.

Have you heard of the multitude of goodness from “Gâc” fruit? It is a tropical superfruit used for medicinal purposes in Asian households for decades but unknown to indigenous folks, Gâc is a fountain of antioxidants.

Gâc (Momordia Cochinchinemis Spreng), is a bright-red fruit that grows as large as a cantaloupe and all over sub-tropical Asia, especially in Vietnam.

Beta-carotene, a natural carotenoid antioxidant found abundantly in Gâc fruit, helps boost the immune system and assists the skin’s cellular rejuvenation process. Carotenoids as plant pigments function as protection of the plant against excess sunlight. As a result, their nutritional value is especially important to healthy skin.

The good news is, Gâc fruit is now readily available as R.G. Skin Revitalizer which is a daily skin nourishment exceptionally rich in antioxidants to help support our skin against damaging free radicals and provide nutrient support for strong cellular rejuvenation.

With the harsh sun and constant dry weather these days, it might be a good idea to keep our skin and body healthy with this amazing dietary supplement and it is never too late to start. All it takes is just a capsule a day.

Who's paying - does it matter?

2007-09-18T09:12:00.000+10:00

As a married couple, me and DH have never been particular about each other's finances such as who pays for what. To us, it doesn't matter. Everything is shared and is "OURS" rather than his or hers. I know to many of my friends back home, they think this is not a good idea especially when it comes to finances. Some insist that the wife should maintain a secret bank account that the husband should not know about. I personally do not agree to a secret account unless of course if the spouse has a problem (abusive, control freak, gambler, etc, etc). However, I feel it is okay and maybe more convenient to have separate accounts.

Anyway, I digressed. So my parents are coming for a visit mid next month. DH's told his mom about it when she said she wanted to come over next month too. Well, well, when she heard that my parents are flying over, guess what's her first question to DH? "Did you pay for their flights?" .... hello?? Even if he did, was it so wrong to do so??? DH has been well trained by me, so of course he knew what to answer in order not to fuel anger, lecture and more ridiculous interrogation by her, haha!

I was truly disappointed that she asked that question. It seems that she still has this backward thinking that just because I don't work outside the home, I have no income and that I rely 100% on DH for $$. Excuse me! I don't rely on DH for any $$ from day one till now.

Perhaps she thinks I am from a background like hers *vomits*. The bottom line is, I don't see anything wrong with DH paying for my parents flights - it's his way of honouring my parents. Likewise, if DH wants to pay for my ILs flights, it's perfectly fine with me, it's good that he honours his parents that way. In fact when the ILs were here, I always insisted that DH pays for their meals, shopping, etc.

Like I said, I could have easily paid for my parents' flights myself but I know DH won't be happy to let me do it.

Laundry Room Cabinets

2007-09-13T11:18:00.000+10:00

We have a rather tiny laundry room and right now things are mostly all over the floor. At one point, I could hardly squeeze into the room due to havng too many things lying in there!

We sure could use some laundry room cabinets to store things like laundry liquid, laundry powder, etc. It would not only help clear up some space but deter the little girl from being able to access things she isn't supposed to.

Hopefully we could get one soon!

MyKad arrived safely

2007-09-13T11:03:00.000+10:00

Received my IC (MyKad) on 10 Sept which my brother airmailed from KL via registered post on 6 Sept. That was really quick! Thank goodness it arrived because for some reason, the registered mail was just stuffed into my mailbox (jammed halfway as it wasn't flat as my brother had wrapped the IC nicely with styrofoam and sticky tape). I thought for international registered mail, a signature is required from the addressee and I had expected a note to pick up the mail from the post office instead of finding it jammed into my mailbox. Nice! But I am glad that I got it, phew! Else I would not be able to sleep and eat!

Now the interesting part is getting my passport renewed. We will not be driving 4 hours to Canberra, not with the little one in tow. I have decided to just send it by mail which will take approx 2 months for them to send me a new passport (very efficient! *sarcastic*).

Well I don't really care if it takes 2 months as long as they don't lose it and send me a new one before my Aussie RRV expires in Feb.

Online Personality Test, Quiz & Poll

2007-09-11T07:09:00.000+10:00

Most of us have at least taken some sort of online quizzes or personality tests before. They are a lot of fun especially when you compare the results among friends.

Check out Quibblo online quizzes. You can generate your own fun quizzes, polls, surveys and personality tests to be placed onto your own blog or site.

Quibblo.com is fun, colourful, quick to load and easy to use. Most importantly it doesn’t have annoying big flashing ads like most other similar sites do.

This n That

2007-09-11T07:01:00.000+10:00

Phew, APEC is finally over. Hopefully everything will be back to normal soon at the CBD. We in the state of New South Wales enjoyed last Friday off as an APEC public holiday, hehehe. I can't exactly remember what we did on that day. I'm pretty sure we went shopping as usual.

Two good news ie a library and a new high school will be built near our place soon, hooray! There are several existing schools nearby already (about 5-10 mins drive) but somehow, it is nice to have one in the same vicinity. The high school will be built at the neighbouring The Ponds new estate, that is good. I'm not sure where exactly will the location be for the new library - the council newsletter mentioned the suburb near us so that won't be too far off.

Beautiful Conservatories by Anglian Home Improvements

2007-09-06T11:48:00.000+10:00

Australian residents are well known for their keen interest in Home improvements. Even before we built our home, we never missed an episode of all Home Improvement programs on television. It is just a hobby we picked up.

Now that we finally own a home, there are many things which we would really love to have such as the beautiful yet practical Conservatories as seen at Anglianhome.co.uk

I could just imagine how awesome it would be to just sit there with a book in hand and a cup of tea while admiring the garden in the backyard be it on a sunny or rainy day. At the same time, it's also great to be able to keep an eye on the little ones playing in the garden.

If we ever get a chance to build, purchase or upgrade to a double storey home with a bigger backyard, I would seriously consider adding a conservatory like this one.

Credit: Beautiful Conservatory image Copyright (c) Anglianhome.co.uk

Passport Renewal

2007-09-06T11:39:00.000+10:00

My passport expires next month. Fine, just need to get it renewed. BUT the problem is, my IC is in KL! I applied for MyKad back in 2004 when I was in KL but because it would only be ready for collection in one month's time, I had to ask my brother to collect it on my behalf as I had already flew back to Sydney by then. I didn't bother to have my brother mail it to me all the while because I thought I'd never need it here in Sydney.

Silly me didn't realize that in order to get a new passport issued by the Msian High Comm in Canberra, I need to submit a certified copy of my IC! DOH! So I got my brother to airmail it to me, hope it won't go missing else ... I don't even want to think of it.

According to the lady whom I spoke to at the High Comm in Canberra, it takes approx two months for new passports to be issued (if I send it by mail) but only takes a day if I were to go there personally (submit before 10.30am and will be ready to be collected by 4.00pm).

Another thing is, I didn't realize that passports are only valid for 5 years. No more 10 years option. I embarassed myself by asking her whether the fee of AU$110 was for a 5 or 10 year validity. She asked "What do you mean?" haha.

For now, I'll first worry about whether my IC will reach me! Fingers crossed!

Real Time Search Engine - MyLiveSearch

2007-09-03T17:03:00.001+10:00

Have you heard of the new and exciting Real Time Search Engine that enables you to search the web in live as well as search invisible pages that Google, Microsoft and Yahoo have trouble seeing?

If you haven’t already, you have to try mylivesearch search engine. It is the first of its kind as it delivers better, more relavant results in a truly “live” search. It works through a small browser plug-in on IE and Firefox and currently in beta.

Forget about feeling frustrated looking for information via Google, Yahoo or other search engines when you clicked onto what you thought was the link you were looking for after hours of searching, but only to be brought to a page that no longer existed! This is because most search engines’ works by building a vast index of web pages using automated “spiders” which means, the index is not always uptodate.

MyLiveSearch.com has changed all that. Searching for information on the web has never been easier and uptodate.

My Saturday

2007-09-01T20:11:00.000+10:00

I went to open a new account at a different bank today (phew, one thing to strike off from my "To Do" list) and only realized that my passport is expiring next month! My Aussie PR expires early next year. Gee, one thing after another. This time I will be smarter and get my passport renewed for 10 years instead of just 5.

SMH reported today that fees for using ATM belonging to banks other than yours will be cut or abolished altogether from October 2008 (why take such a long time??). I personally feel that RBA should also get the banks to abolish monthly savings account service fees!

Anyway, did some gift shopping for our friends' newborn. Buying gifts for a baby girl is so much fun. Pink, pink and more pink, too sweet! The mall was packed with people because tomorrow is Father's Day in Australia and I guess everyone is doing last minute gift shopping. Good thing we went early to do my banking stuff, else finding a parking spot would be next to impossible.

Free Vouchers at Webbyplanet.co.uk

2007-08-29T19:56:00.000+10:00

This coming Saturday will be September 1st! Before you know it, it will be Christmas in four month's time. Don't we all dread that last minute Christmas gift shopping and often HAD to buy something even if the price was inflated?

For all you last minute shoppers, perhaps you can try something different this year. Why not shop months ahead and make full use of any great online voucher such as the ones available at Webbyplanet.co.uk

We all know the good thing about online shopping is that it not only saves time in travelling and looking for parking spots but you can get discounts at anytime of the year within the click of the mouse too.

Before you even begin your online shopping, be sure not to miss out on the great discount vouchers, sales, special deals, free shipping, product reviews, etc updated throughout the day by staff and forum members at Webbyplanet.co.uk

With over 2000 merchant's online deals in the UK market, I am sure Webbyplanet.co.uk will not disappoint.

This n That

2007-08-29T19:42:00.000+10:00

This n That
August 29, 2007

It's only recently that certain toys by Mattel and Fisher Price manufactured in China had been recalled and now toxic toothpaste made in China too? Thank goodness Colgate is not in list as published by SMH today.

On another note, Delta Goodrem (Aussie songstress) is set to release a third album very soon. I absolutely loved and bought her first album but her second one didn't do as good, I didn't even buy it. It's also a pity that her career didn't take off in the USA despite spending 1-2 years there to promote her albums. Can't wait to hear her latest album.

This Saturday will mark the first day of Spring. Yay warmer weather but it also means more spiders! I've already killed spiders (big and small) over the past few days INSIDE the house.

Hide My IP Address

2007-08-26T17:41:00.000+10:00

As I check my stats regularly for the past few years, I have come to realised that IP addresses can easily reveal one’s identity including which company the person surfs from or works at.

Not only that, hackers can use the IP address to launch an attack to one’s computer or track one’s activities online especially when we do financial transactions using the internet.

There is a way to protect one’s online activities with a security software such as hide-my-ip-address.com (learn helpful information by visiting its website).

hide-my-ip-address.com can instantly hide IP address and secure one's identity with just a click which can run anywhere even on a portable USB Pen. It also automatically removes any trace ie all log or history files are erased as soon as one closes the browser.

Don’t wait until something bad happen before taking steps to secure your online identity.

Lions Kellyville-Rouse Hill Family Fair

2007-08-24T21:06:00.000+10:00

Anyone who loves to go to family fairs, don't miss the "Lions Kellyville-Rouse Hill Family Fair" this Sunday, September 9 at HomeWorld IV off Samantha Riley Drive, Kellyville from 10am - 4pm.

Kids will love to meet Humphrey Bear and Bob the Builder who will be there to say Hi. There will be dancing, singing and other artists performing. Crafts, food, drink stalls and family games will be available too.

Kellyville Homeworld is very near to our home, maybe about 10 minutes drive or less depending on traffic. I don't think we will be going to this one because finding a parking spot at Homeworld is a real challenge even on a typical weekend! Imagine trying to get a spot on the family fair day where 5,000 people are expected!

We used to go to Homeworld every weekend before we built our house as that is where the display home village is. Here is the map to get there. Enjoy!

Awesome, Cute baby and toddler girls clothes!

2007-08-22T12:00:00.000+10:00

Shopping for baby or toddler girls clothings is always fun and exciting. Most often than not, many of us could hardly find time to venture out after having a newborn. Thankfully there is a great online boutique girls clothing store like BabyMe

Just look at some of these irresistibly cute and sweet girls clothings. These will make every little girl look even cuter and sweeter than they already are!

I can’t help but go “awww” over this Comfy Cozy Cuddle Blanket too (see more cute ones at their online store). Doesn’t it make a great gift?

The above adorable clothings and blanket are just some of the many items available at BabyMe. This website is a great find! They have fun, hip, styles - classy and wearable. Everyday exceptional clothing that makes your princess look as special as she is! I can’t get enough browsing through this easy to navigate website and all the awesome cutest, sweetest items just make me feel like a kid walking into a candy store.

This website is not only handy for parents to purchase clothings and such for their babies or toddlers, it also makes it easy to shop for great gifts for friends and family as you can find almost everything there and gift wrapping service is available.

The best thing is that they accept Paypal as a payment option, which is great for international buyers! I am also impressed with their low shipping rates for within the USA and internationally. If you’re living outside of USA and wish to send gifts to friends and family within the USA, BabyMe is definitely a great website to shop at.

Credits: Images of cute clothes and blanket Copyright (c) BabyMe.cc

APEC Sydney, Australia

2007-08-21T11:38:00.000+10:00

There is much hype about the coming APEC to be held in Sydney. Good thing we don't need to pass through the Central Business District (CBD) often as many roads there will be closed and security will be tight.

21 government leaders, 400 international business leaders and more than 6,000 delegates are expected to attend the APEC. However, some protestors are also expected.

I would avoid going to the CBD between 2-10 September. If you must be there for any reason, here's a map where you can check out which roads will be off limits. Click Here for map

Acne Treatment - TriClear

2007-08-20T20:19:00.000+10:00

Most people, especially teenagers suffering from acne often develop low self esteem. They tend to be too self conscious to socialise because they do not wish to be seen in public with their acne prone skin. Having experienced that myself, I totally understand how they feel.

It is never too late to start using a good acne treatment product such as TriClear which provides a 3-step acne system specially formulated to quickly tret acne while leaving skin hydrated and clear. Most importantly, TriClear does not contain Benzoyl Peroxide unlike most other brands, therefore does not cause drying, redness or flaking of the skin. The TriClear system includes the Purifying Cleanser, Repairing Gel and Revitalizing Cream.

TriClear is offering a free trial of their products worth $69.95 in value (valid within USA only) without obligation. There is nothing to lose and is worth a try. It might not only clear one’s acne problem but will help to regain self confidence and social life as a result of a good, clear and healthy skin.

Christmas cards already?

2007-08-20T20:10:00.000+10:00

Would you believe it? Christmas cards are now being sold already! I saw them at The Reject Shop yesterday. Wow, the retailers sure are way ahead of time.

It makes me nervous when I see Christmas related items being sold so early because it reminds me that it's the end of the year already and there is so much I have yet to do.

Only four more months to go before Christmas. We hope to get a Christmas tree this year as our little girl is old enough to appreciate it. Accck! Come to think of it, so many things to buy ... it is a headache shopping for Christmas gifts.

I can't believe I am talking about Christmas already.

Designer Watches & Sunglasses at Discount

2007-08-20T09:57:00.000+10:00

The first ever gift I bought for my hubby was a Seiko Kinetic watch back in 1998. I absolutely love Seiko Watches not only because of its proven quality brandname but style and durability as well. I remember someone said to me, every successful man or woman needs a good watch. How true!

Now when it comes to sunglasses, my hubby will not settle for second best. I can see his point of view. For someone who drives daily and with the glaring Australian sun, he does need good sunglasses that will not decide to fall off or hinder his sight at any time. He would like to get a good pair of sunglasses for me too.

We know that designer sunglasses can cost a lot but with a discount retailer like www.redbird.com.au which carries brandname designer sunglasses such as Prada and Arnette as well as watches like Seiko, Nixon, Timex and Casio G-Shock, we will not have to pay full recommended retail price.

Investing in a good designer watch and sunglasses is well worth the price.

Eventful weekend

2007-08-19T09:48:00.000+10:00

It has been quite an eventful weekend. I think hubby is hooked on attending kids fair and such after our last weekend's visit to the new Toys R Us outlet at Castle Hill Homemaker Centre. That is good. It means we can now go to more kids fairs that is happening all the time.

Can't wait to bring her to Taronga Zoo and Sydney Aquarium come Spring time - I just know she'll love it so much after having seen most animals only on books and DVDs, it'll be great for her to see the REAL thing! Though she did see pigs, lamb, chicken and such at Parklea Markets the last two weekend where a special outdoor barn was set up but it was soooo windy, we had to leave after a short while as the hay kept getting into all our eyes.

Truly, the joys of parenthood is indescribable.

Massage Therapist

2007-08-18T11:18:00.000+10:00

Which of us adults do not need some sort of massage therapy every now and then to treat painful, tired and overworked muscles? I think everyone would certainly say "yes" to getting a massage.

I have never gone to a massage therapist in a very long time, more than 10 years I think. The only body massages I recently had were courtesy of my kind hubby. Though I appreciate his effort as my personal masseur, I wish he knows how to do a bit of Swedish Massage, mmmm.

I also gave him massages to help soothe his body aches due to playing Cricket in the warmer months. Again, I wish I knew how to do massages properly to avoid causing more pain on him instead.

Unfortunately both of us have no time to go to classes specializing in massage theraphy. However there is the option of online schools offering massage therapy for busy people like us.

And for those who would love to make a career of being a massage therapist (good choice by the way - you will never run out of clients), there is a comprehensive list of schools and colleges at www.GuideToHealthcareSchools.com offering courses for massage therapy, which can be sorted by state.

Rate and Rent Rise .. yet again!

2007-08-17T18:45:00.000+10:00

Everyday it is always about the possibility of yet another rate rise. Yes another one as mentioned on SMH today!

I thought rates would drop because of the effects of the recent Wall Street slump but I am of course totally wrong. The Aussie dollar has weakened as a result of the weak share market here. Unfortunately interest rates remain strong, ridiculously strong!

On the property side, it is reported that house prices actually fell but bad news for renters, as rents will increase yet again!

So why do people still love to live in Sydney?? I dunno, for me, it's simply a matter of having built our nest and planted our roots here. It's hard to adapt to a new environment, make new friends, etc and start all over again in another state.

British Gas Launches Greenest Energy Tariff

2007-08-17T07:24:00.000+10:00

British Gas has announced it is launching two new green energy tariffs, Zero Carbon, which will be the greenest tariff available on the domestic market.

Not only do we increase investments in green energy generated in the UK but we leave absolutely no carbon footprint from the energy supplied to us because British Gas offsets the carbon emissions associated with our homes’ electricity and gas consumption. Please read the full Press Release below:

Press Release:

BRITISH GAS LAUNCHES GREENEST ENERGY TARIFF

9 August 2007: British Gas has announced it is launching two new green energy tariffs, Zero Carbon, which will be the greenest tariff available on the domestic market and Future Energy. British Gas has launched the tariffs, in response to the increasing demand for green energy products.

Householders signing up to the Zero Carbon tariff will:
• reduce their household energy carbon emissions to zero through Kyoto compliant offset schemes which will meet the new Defra requirements
• help fund a direct increase in investment in renewable energy generated in the UK
• contribute to the new British Gas green fund which will:
o invest in developing new renewable technologies such as wave power
o oversee a programme to help schools in the UK reduce their CO2 emissions

Gearóid Lane, Managing Director British Gas New Energy said,”Our new tariff responds to consumer demand for truly green energy solutions. It is essential that customers have confidence in green energy tariffs and that their credibility is not damaged by tariffs that claim to be green but in reality do not deliver any incremental environmental benefits. Green tariffs are moving from niche to mainstream products and we’re leading the industry by offering a tariff that will do more for the environment than any other product currently available.”

Under the government’s Renewables Obligation (RO), electricity suppliers in the UK are already required to produce an increasing percentage of their electricity through methods such as wind farms which, unlike traditional power plants, produce zero carbon emissions. For 2007/2008 this figure is set at 7.9%.

In a recent report, the National Consumer Council (NCC) raised concerns that some energy suppliers are packaging electricity which is produced under the RO scheme as “green”, yet it delivers no additional environmental benefits. The NCC called on energy suppliers to take steps beyond their legal requirements and offer green energy tariffs that provide genuine additional environmental benefits, in particular CO2 emissions reduction.

British Gas worked with Global Action Plan and The Climate Group’s “We’re in this Together” campaign to develop Zero Carbon which goes further than any other green tariff in meeting these requirements offering consumers the only zero carbon option on the market.

The tariff carries a premium of £84 per year, reflecting the higher cost of producing energy through lower carbon emission schemes.

Virginia Graham, Chair of Global Action Plan, said, “The British Gas Zero Carbon tariff delivers on all three of the essential requirements of a green tariff which are: additionality, transparency and verifiability. As such it is a very welcome new offering in the market. Consumers signing up to the tariff can be confident that they are getting 12 per cent more renewable energy than they would otherwise have got. The carbon emissions from their electricity and gas will also be offset with emissions reductions from projects accredited by the United Nations.”

Zero Carbon is one of the first initiatives launched through the ‘We’re in this Together’ campaign, which was launched in April 07 as an alliance of some of the UK’s biggest brands who are all working to help their customers reduce their impact on the climate.

Dr Steve Howard, CEO of The Climate Group and founder of ‘We’re in this Together’ said, “We’re committed to offering people ways to make a real impact on climate change through Together.com. We’ve worked with British Gas to ensure that Zero Carbon is a genuine step forward in delivering more environmental benefits than any other tariff currently available.”

British Gas’s second green energy tariff, Future Energy, offers an alternative green electricity tariff at a premium of just £20 per year. Customers signing up to this tariff will contribute to a green fund which will provide solar panels and other renewable energy technologies to UK schools. Money from the fund will also be invested in development of future renewable technologies and sources.

To sign up customers can call British Gas on 0845 604 0055 or visit www.britishgas.co.uk

Toys R Us Castle Hill

2007-08-17T07:00:00.000+10:00

For maps and directions to Toys R Us Castle Hill, please click here

Received a brochure in the mailbox yesterday - Wow Toys R Us has finally opened an outlet in the Hills area! And I was wondering how come there was none in the Hills area. Because we get everything within the Hills district itself, we are often lazy to venture further and unfortunately all the other Toys R Us outlets are located at least 30 mins drive from our place.

Well another place to shop at I guess *LOL* It's at the Castle Hill Homemaker Centre (just opened their South Building, wow expansion!), even better because we frequent that place often. Good place they picked as it is always filled with people shopping for household furniture, decor, etc. Most major retailers like Harvey Norman, Good Guys, etc are already there.

Daddy said to me yesterday "Let's Go" as Thursday is "late night" shopping (malls close by 9pm) and I said "for real?". He said "yeah". So I said "sure, let's go". Then I remembered I had to rush to complete something for my brother. I said "cannot, cannot, I have something to complete asap". Hehehe, oh well, guess we'll save it for the weekend then :) Daddy likes to look at StarWars, etc toys, that's why he never tires walking into Toys R Us!!

I'm only interested in the sales items such as nappies, going for AU$29.99 instead of the usual AU$36.98 elsewhere. Toys R Us often have big sales too of which I can now take advantage of, yay!

Property Viewing Tours

2007-08-16T11:14:00.001+10:00

Australian property market is finally cooling off. Perhaps this is the time for local investors to look at overseas property investment instead?

It is often difficult to decide or know where to begin with when it comes to overseas property investment. Most importantly there is the time factor.

Perhaps taking Property Viewing Tours would be a great idea as it not only helps to save time and cost but you get a guided tour by someone who knows where the best and hottest property markets are.

Property Viewing Tours are available from just £49 per person to view beautiful and emerging markets like Bulgaria, Turkey, Cape Verde, Egypt, Italy, Portugal and Morocco. Sit back, relax and let the professionals guide you to view countless beautiful properties of your dream. It also enables you to enjoy, see, and sample the country and properties first hand without obligation. It is a good start to making your overseas property dream come true!

Those carefree days

2007-08-16T00:40:00.000+10:00

Whew! Here I go again, into another short period of ultra busy mode beginning tomorrow. Only now do I truly appreciate the carefree days during the first 6 years of our marriage *LOL*. That time, one would see me on MSN, Yahoo and ICQ throughout the day (though not necessarily be chatting away but always appeared online) and I would reply to friends' emails on the spot, no delay.

I was sooo carefree during the day that I had insomnia! Because I was never tired enough! Too bad back in those days paid blogging didn't exist, haha!

These days, I get complaints from friends for not having replied them more than 3 months! And I am hardly ever seen online on any Instant Messenger because I don't turn it on - no time to chat. And I get sleepy by 9pm!

Motherhood has certainly changed my lifestyle and I do realize that I won't be experiencing those carefree days not at least till another 5 years. I have no regrets though, as I am already reaping the fruit of my labour as my little girl grows each day.

But if we were to have another one, fuiyooooooo I'd probably feel sleepy every other hour!

Smorty - get paid for blogging

2007-08-15T07:38:00.000+10:00

In the past, people always told me they wish they had some sort of talent so that they could sell something online. Well, I guess these days, you do not need talent! All you need is a little bit of hard work coupled with honesty and integrity and you can get paid for blogging about the things you love, your daily life experiences, food, travels and many more!

Smorty helps businesses advertise on blogs to reach out to a wider market and increase their online presence on search engines with thousands of link generated by bloggers worldwide. The power of blog advertising should not be underestimated.

Similarly, Smorty enables bloggers to make money when advertisers pay them to review their products and services with a link back to the advertisers site. If you have a penchant for writing and a little time to spare, you should give Smorty a try.

31 Oct - Deadline for tax lodgement

2007-08-15T00:41:00.000+10:00

It's that time of the year again - Tax Return! The deadline is 31 October 2007 I have not got my paperwork in order, slacker me!

Hubs wants to wait for me to lodge mine so he could input my meagre income figures into his lodgement since ATO wants to know how much the spouse earns. I told him last night that I have yet to get my act together, he said it's okay we still have time. Men, they are so much more composed huh?

Before we had Bee, we were very efficient in lodging our tax returns sometime in June/July each year. But now ... fuiyooooooo I am the slacker. Gotta get this off my back soonest possible. I hate figures! Anyway, I don't think I will get any money back this year.

Anybody out there in Australia due to lodge their tax return, don't forget the 31 October deadline! It's just two more months away :(

Fluorescent Lighting

2007-08-14T08:26:00.000+10:00

When we were deciding on the lightings for our new home, we both agreed to use fluorescent lighting throughout simply because I prefer white light eventhough it may not produce a warm, cozy look and feel.

However, fluorescent lighting for the garage is a must for us. We currently have a long one installed. We contemplated on putting two at the time but thankfully one is good and bright enough.

We have one of those bright sensor lights (I think it consumes a lot of electricity) at the backyard and might eventually change it to the more efficient fluorescent lighting soon.

Stats

2007-08-14T07:58:00.000+10:00

Stats of my website (not this blog!). This is down from a PR6 to PR5 and from 4,000+ unique visitors a day to only 1,500+ because I haven't been working on it full time like how I had several years ago.

I have recently started a blog there for website update purposes (unfortunately the blog being new, only has a PR zero unlike it's main website) but have not decided whether to monetize the blog later on as I have to be careful not to tarnish the site's reputation with loads of paid posts and adverts (as if I would even have that many). I'll ponder about it 3 months later.

Shopping Cart Software by Ashop Commerce

2007-08-14T07:22:00.000+10:00

I remember going through a whole list of shopping cart software available in Australia several years ago. It was totally mind boggling trying to find that perfect ecommerce software that would meet my requirements.

The software offered by the leading provider of hosted shopping cart software, Ashop Commerce, looks easy to set up. It is web based, no installation required meaning even the least net savvy person would be able to get his/her online store running in seconds and start accepting credit card payments immediately.

With a starting price of $69.95/month, it is an affordable ecommerce software. It allows for complete customisable design and has thousands of easy to use features such as inventory control, featured products and 50 editable themes just to name a few.

I like its online demo feature where you can actually have a better understanding by taking a test drive of how the Ashop Commerce shopping cart works.

Best of all, no credit card is required to sign up for a 10 day free trial of the shopping cart software. It looks impressive and seems to offer a complete solution for merchants to sell online.

Loudspeakers at Sydney's CBD

2007-08-14T00:34:00.000+10:00

More than 40 loud speakers have been erected on strategic locations in the Sydney's CBD. According to the news in SMH, the loud speakers would only be used in a case of "a terrorist attack, a major traffic accident or a fire".

I'll definitely have to look at the speakers out of curiosity. Haven't been to the CBD for ages! We used to hang out there with friends for yumcha, lunch, dinner and movies almost every week when we lived in Kingsford.

After we all moved on and headed to different directions in life, so did our friendships. More so after we had our daughter. Things aren't on the same level anymore with those who aren't married and still having a jolly good time till late night. It would be so nice to catch up again, maybe someday.

Free coupons, online discount

2007-08-13T08:36:00.000+10:00

I could never get enough of looking out for discounts and every single cent of saving is essential for today’s high cost of living.

With our busy lifestyles, it can sometimes prove to be very time consuming to go through individual websites looking for a discount Coupon. There is help, a great Coupon site like Webbyplanet.com does all the hard work for us. It not only offers coupons but products, sales, reviews, free shipping and rebates too.

The site is updated throughout the day so you are assured to get the latest offers, savings and most importantly, the best deals online.

Webbyplanet.com is definitely a site to bookmark and is the gateway to online savings from over 5000 merchants online in the US market!

A baby Girl or Boy?

2007-08-13T08:27:00.001+10:00

We always feel happy to hear of our friends welcoming the newest addition to their family. A good friend of hubby's just had a healthy little girl. They already have a boy a year older than my girl and they sure are thrilled to be blessed with a girl this time.

Because the trend here (whether Ang Moh or Aussie/Kiwi born Chinese) is to prefer not knowing the baby's gender until the day of birth, it was difficult for us to buy any gifts beforehand. At times we saw cute things and just wished we knew if they were expecting a boy or a girl!

I remember the time when I was carrying Bee, hubby's cousins, our friends and some strangers were quite surprised that we already knew we were expecting a girl as they all preferred not to find out before birth.

It's so different from back home where knowing the baby's gender soonest possible was the norm.

If we are blessed enough to have a second child, will we want a surprise or will we want to know beforehand? We have agreed that we would go ahead and find out if it's a girl or a boy (not that it matters one bit) but because we have no immediate family members here, we can't afford to go out shopping immediately after bubba is born (like how our friend did). We also don't want to buy neutral coloured stuff.

But if the situation is different, ie our family members are here for good, then we might consider not finding out the baby's gender. A surprise is always sweet.

Digital Photo Frame

2007-08-12T20:16:00.000+10:00

I never really put much thought into displaying photographs all around the home until I had my little girl. Like any other parents, we just cannot get enough of looking through her photos over and over again.

We have used up all the photo frames that we have and the biggest problem is not having enough table or cabinet tops to place the photo frames on. In a situation like this, having a digital picture frame would solve our space problem. Not only do LCD digital frames save space, they are stylish, high tech and can display many images in clear resolution and come with built-in stereos.

All we need to do is to transfer our memory card into the digital photo frame. It not only displays still images but movie clips complete with sound and music as well! Just sit back, relax and use the remote control (included with the frame) to choose our favourite slide show.

The best thing I like about the digital photo frame is the ability to set the period of time we want our pictures displayed and the type of transitions between pictures.

Credits: Beautiful Digital Photo Frame image Copyright (c) www.digitalframez.com

Property Market Still Hot

2007-08-11T20:02:00.000+10:00

Sydney's property market is hot on the news again despite the most recent rate rise last week.
It doesn't appear to be stopping some cashed up people from buying overpriced properties near the CBD. A couple bought a two bedroom terrace for AU$700k on an auction in Newton. That's the price to pay for living near the CBD. For that price, one could get a big huge MacMansion in our suburb!

The new estate near our area which I would really like to invest in (but unfortunately no $$), ie The Ponds is mentioned in the news as part of more land release for new housing developments. The Ponds is hot market! We often drive around to look at the progress of houses there and of course, salivate at the MacMansions! I noticed today, that one house on our road, has been sold! I wonder for how much!

WizeTrade Stock Market Blog & Tips

2007-08-09T08:00:00.000+10:00

After the property boom, most investors shifted their attention to the stock market. I am only into investment shares if I could afford so.

Whether you are into active trading in stocks or simply want to invest in a good stock, The Wizetrade Blog powerful stock trading software program and stock research tool helps make stock market analysis easy and quickly chart potential entry and exit signals on any stock symbol.

The Wizetrade Blog also updates frequently on interesting information, videos and pictures of the current happenings in the securities world and its own product.

New investors, you might find the blog entry on “10 Common Mistakes that New Traders Make” helpful.

Rate Rise

2007-08-08T15:20:00.000+10:00

As tipped, the RBA has made another interest rate rise today and another has been tipped before end of this year or early next year. Sad, sad!.

This is going to hurt small family with a tight budget like us! The current bank cash rate is the highest since 1996. Many people (old timers) kept saying rates are low compared to to the 1980's when it went up to 18%. But they fogot to factor in that in those days, cost of living and food were cheaper and house costs 3 to 5 times less than what it is today in Sydney! If they do the ratio calculations, they would not say that.

Time to sell up? Hope not!

PHP Script Works Again!

2007-07-31T16:18:00.000+10:00

Eh, I only just discovered today that one of my php programme I have installed on a different server works well again! It went kaput (not totally but unable to update new datas) since year 2004?? It was frustrating. I bought that php script for US$45 but the guy who wrote it has a reputation of not answering support emails (I found this out at a forum where many people are also looking for him *LOL*). Well, I guess I can see where he comes from as php errors mostly is a result of server permission, etc and is beyond his control. That script has helped me tremendously for years despite not being able to update new datas (not like I had anything to update for the last few years). So yeah, I'm pretty happy about it. I reckon it was the CobaltRaQ server that messed up the script as it is a shared server. It could happen again, I guess that's what I get for being cheap, getting a shared hosting account rather than a dedicated server.

It's a beautiful sunny day today, a high of 22C. Can't wait for Spring to arrive and my little one to behave better so I could let her play outside the house more. Right now she is too fidgety (spelling?)!

Rant ... GRRRR

2007-07-27T00:09:00.000+10:00

Sometimes I get easily upset when talking to some people back home. They just don't understand how different it is to bring up a baby with zero help from anyone except hubby.

Most people back home either have live in maids or their Aunt or own mom or in laws help them care for their baby/child - even 10 minutes a day would make a huge difference.

Me - I don't even get one second of help from others except from my hubby. I would be very happy if I could hire a live in maid just to play with Bee occasionally. Nevermind the housework, I could do them - I never hated housework but cooking yes, haha! All I need is to free my hands long enough to get things done.

So when I told them I've been very busy - they probably think I exaggerated. I am just so glad to have known blogs of other mommies abroad who are in similar situation like mine. They understand what it's like to juggle between a toddler, household and a job! Reading their blogs make me feel completely normal. Thank you!

Free Samples of My Daily Veggies

2007-07-26T15:35:00.000+10:00

I love vegetables and I think I could almost qualify as a vegan. But I still feel that I do not eat enough vegies, because even the most simple vegie dish needs time to prepare including lettuce (wash and peel).

Perhaps I should give My Daily Veggies Free Sample a try. It is so easy to consume, just drink it like water. It is also a good On the go food for busy people like me! Best of all it would provide me with all the necessary nutritional supplement that I need daily!

I know of many people particularly guys, who do not like to eat their vegetables! I guess they should also try My Daily Veggies Free Sample. Maybe that would give them a kick start to their much needed daily dietary supplement.

I remember as a kid, I used to hate eating vegies. Well now, moms need to worry no more. Get My Daily Veggies Free Sample and see if your kids like them. It would sure beat all the hassle of cooking vegies only to have them splattered all over the wall and none into the tiny little mouths.

My Daily Veggies is a high-end daily nutritional supplement which can be consumed by drinking them or to use in simple recipes. It is a great start to healthy living.

Want to have a baby? Think again!

2007-07-26T15:26:00.000+10:00

I find this article very true indeed. Lots to factor in before planning to have a baby especially in such times where everything is costly especially education.

When I was a teenager, friends would always go "WOW" whenever I told them I came from a family of 7 siblings as most of them only have 2.

Now when I look back, coming from a big family is a huge blessing! No doubt we had to be contented being poor back then but many years later we are all better off and most of all, the support and being there for each other is priceless.

The only set back I now have is that I live so far away from all of them!!

Ooops I digressed. Ideally I would love to have a minimum of 3 kids but given the current circumstances, I seriously do not think we would be able to afford to raise 3 kids. Even to have a second baby needed much consideration.

Fire Ants - How to get rid of them

2007-07-26T09:42:00.000+10:00

Ever gotten stung by fire ants before? I have and I can tell you, it’s one of the most unpleasant feeling on your skin! It hurts, feels like being pinched and burnt.

A fire ant sting is nasty. You won’t want your kids getting stung by one while playing in your very own backyard but if you do unfortunately find a fire ant colony, you would want to know how to get rid of it.

Don’t let it happen before it is too late. Equip yourself with some knowledge about basic information on fire ants, how to identify fire ants, the treatments available, etc. at Controlfireants.com.

Rate Rise Again?

2007-07-26T09:32:00.000+10:00

This is absolutely not welcomed news indeed for everyone who has a mortgage. interest rates is expected to rise as early as next month.

The reason for the rate rise? Inflation again! The PM said that Oz is experiencing booming times ... yeah right, how come I see so many shops at the Mall come and go (close down sale!!) so quickly?

High interest rates means the Aussie Dollar will increase in value. I don't know about others but the rising Aussie Dollar only hurts exporters as they gain less in value when trading in USD.

I remember the days when the exchange rate between AUD/USD is AUD0.54 ... anyone dependent on earning USD almost doubled their income after the conversion rate. Of course, that stopped happening since 2001 when the Aussie Dollar continued surging and now it's like AUD0.88?

Wedding Websites

2007-07-25T09:23:00.000+10:00

The word Wedding itself often means a very special day for the couples in love but it also means busy days for the bride and groom to be! On our wedding, we were so terribly busy organising this and that, we really didn’t have time to even think of a Wedding Website. That was 7 years ago.

Today, I guess couples are more fortunate. You can have a Wedding Website that could help you in your overall planning, guest lists, invites, even sharing with family and friends of how everything is progressing right up to the wedding day and after. You can even post your wedding photos on a Wedding Website to share with family and friends. I really wish we knew of a Wedding Website during my time! This would have definitely saved us all the trouble and hassle of developing photos from negatives and snail mailed them!

But wait a minute, there are so many wedding sites around and it is time consuming to pick a Wedding Website that suits your needs? That’s what WeddingWebsites.com is for, it is a comparison and review site for personal wedding website providers. It does all the hard work for you. Most importantly, it saves you time. You can read the reviews of other couples or even contribute your own opinions.

Air Asia to Oz soon!

2007-07-25T00:24:00.000+10:00

Wow, is Air Asia flying KUL-SYD-KUL soon? SMH reported that Air Asia will announce its first Australian destination within DAYS! Oops wait a minute, but its first Australian destinations would only be Victoria, Adelaide, Gold Coast and Newcastle ... cehhhhhhhh. How about Sydney leh?

Looks like I am back to square one. Hubby has been busy shopping for the best fares online. I think I'll get someone in KL to help source for the best fares; then we TT the funds for them to purchase the tickets. Tickets are usually around AU$800 at the minimum. We found Royal Brunei the cheapest at around AU$500 return for the period of October.

I hated searching for the best fares and the brain storming sessions with hubby about when to fly, etc, my head went spinning each time we travelled overseas.

Worldwide Virtual Phone Numbers

2007-07-24T22:19:00.000+10:00

Anyone operating an international online business would sure to get emails from customers asking if there is a local phone number that they could call to make further enquiries or for after sales support. Most customers overseas would not feel comfortable having to call an international number due to the high telephone charges.

Having a local presence helps customers feel confident about purchasing from an online store. No matter which country you are based at, you can now have a local presence in almost anywhere in the world by getting Virtual Phone Numbers from JetNumbers.com. You answer the calls in your existing phone number with no installation, no hassles and activation is immediate.

Virtual Phone Numbers are particularly useful if say for example, you are an Australian based business targetting the US and European market. Customers always feel safer to buy from a business with a local presence.

Garden Stepping Stones

2007-07-22T21:26:00.000+10:00

I saw some garden stepping stones at The Reject shop selling for AU$2 (smaller ones) and AU$4 (larger ones) last week but didn't buy them as we weren't sure if we would use them in our garden. Upon coming home, we saw that we could use those stones as decor, not to step on them like how they are actually intended for.

We went back to Reject Shop today but cehhhhhhh, the nice ones (bumble bee and sunflowers) were all gone!! I knew it, I knew good cheap stuff would be gone in split seconds. Cehhhhh, next time I would just buy on impulse. Hope they will restock!

Languages for Business

2007-07-21T11:30:00.000+10:00

In this modern day and age, being a multilingual person has many advantages especially in the corporate or business world. It could also give one the extra edge to that promotion or simply for better career opportunities.

Many businesses know that the ability to speak multiple languages could mean better business ties with international clients. Perhaps it is a good idea to send some staff to attend a language course especially if it is a multinational company.

Saint George International, a London based language school offers solutions in business languages such as Spanish, French, Italian and German to top multinational organisations. They offer a choice of intensive or flexible one-to-one lesson as well as In-Company Group Programmes and Translation service.

Parents coming over?

2007-07-21T11:28:00.000+10:00

We are trying to arrange for my parents to fly over for a visit. They have never seen our little girl, Bee, since birth. The original plan was for us to fly over to KL with Bee and so would my sister together with her family from UK. But we had to abort the plan as flight tickets are too expensive in the UK for that period.

So we thought it might be a good idea to get my parents here instead so that they could get a chance to see our lifestyle here and of course, to see their grandchild for the first time.

However, we have yet to book tickets for them. Still researching for the best fare. Hope we would be able to bring them over. I really would like to honour them as much as I could. Times like this, I wish I lived in KL, I could do so much more there to honour them!

Investment Property

2007-07-21T10:54:00.000+10:00

Many would know by now that I often talk about investment properties. I have taken such a great interest in the property market in the last few years as a buyer, nothing else. Australian baby boomers seem to have an insatiable appetite towards investment properties.

Now that the Aussie Dollar is stronger than ever and according to a report by The Sydney Morning Herald, many Australians are now taking advantage of the strong currency and looking to invest in properties overseas. Whether you are looking for apartments to buy abroad, properties Fuerteventura, property Fuerteventura, try PropertyMartOverseas.com, a Spanish based real estate website that offers great service to investors and buyers alike.

PropertyMartOverseas.com website is easy to use. You can choose from a wide range of properties to many countries and could even set your search criterias by selecting the area, property type, minimum and maximum price as well as the number of bedrooms.

The article section of PropertyMartOverseas.com provides good reviews of featured properties worldwide.

Rugby

2007-07-21T05:54:00.000+10:00

I have learned to appreciate Rugby after I got married. Kiwis and Aussies are passionate about Rugby and Cricket! My hubby is a fan of both and even plays Cricket at competition level (private club only). I tried to love and understand Cricket but it is too boring for me to even watch it on TV (sorry hubs!).

However I find Rugby very exciting and I love watching the Tri-Nations, Bledisloe Cup and Rugby World Cup. More so if the All Blacks are in the finals.

The question is, which country would I support if All Blacks and the Wallabies go head to head in the finals? All Blacks of course, as my hubby is a Kiwi! However if All Blacks don't make it and only Wallabies are in the finals competing against other teams, then I would support Wallabies for sure. Okay, so I got it all figured out.

But how about our little girl when she grows up next time? She is an Australian but will she support her Daddy's New Zealand team or the team of her home country, Australia? Poor girl, what a decision she has to make.

Bledisloe Cup is on tonight!

Stop Tooth Grinding

2007-07-20T09:46:00.000+10:00

Urrghh, doesn't the sound of tooth grinding by your partner in the middle of the night bother you?

If you have a spouse or know of someone who suffers from Bruxism, The Night Guard might be the answer to help stop tooth wear and possible costly teeth repairs in the future.

The Night Guard, Doctor Night Guard, Dental Night Guard, night mouth guard also helps those who grind their teeth in dreamland, to have a good night's sleep while keeping their teeth healthy and safe.

Home prices and rents to rise

2007-07-20T09:34:00.000+10:00

Could it get any worse? Analysts predict the dwindling number of homes being built means prices and rents are likely to rise further. Read full article here. I am so glad we got out of renting just in time.

I have no words to describe the crazy property market. REAs must be laughing all the way. Higher prices means higher commission! Speaking of REAs, thanks to those who smirked and gave us the "you must be kidding" stare when we went to open houses and told them our budget of AU$380k back then.

Fitness Dates

2007-07-19T09:25:00.000+10:00

Everyone has his or her own list of criterias when searching for a special friend, a date or a potential life partner. Often it might be a little difficult to meet single like minded men and women who are into fitness and health.

If you are into taking good care of yourself and looking for someone who shares a similar interest, or simply a partner whom you could go jogging, do fitness sports or to the gym with, "fitness dating" might be just for you.

Fitnessdates.com offers the ability to search for that special date based on location, age and sex. There is also an option to block or report a member.

Most importantly, once you have signed up for free (yes, it is FREE!), you could start searching from thousands of fitness singles in the database. Happy looking!