tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80991000756395040442024-03-13T06:10:36.289-07:00Marias on the GoAn Online Community for Filipinos who are currently living away from home.TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-40319648359638456732011-09-24T04:01:00.000-07:002011-09-24T04:12:05.039-07:00"The Learning" - A Documentary Film"The Learning" is a documentary by Ramona Diaz. It tells the story of four Filipino teachers with high hopes and ideals of working in the United States. It shows the joys, pains, and struggles of the Overseas Filipino Workers being away from Home. <br />
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We highly recommend this film for everyone to see. <br />
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<object width = "480" height = "270" > <param name = "movie" value = "http://www-tc.pbs.org/video/media/swf/PBSPlayer.swf" ></param><param name="flashvars" value="width=480&height=270&video=1855489212&player=viral&end=0" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name = "allowscriptaccess" value = "always" ></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www-tc.pbs.org/video/media/swf/PBSPlayer.swf" flashvars="width=480&height=270&video=1855489212&player=viral&end=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" wmode="transparent" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="270" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object><p style="font-size:11px; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #808080; margin-top: 5px; background: transparent; text-align: center; width: 480px;">Watch the <a style="text-decoration:none !important; font-weight:normal !important; height: 13px; color:#4eb2fe !important;" href="http://video.pbs.org/video/1855489212" target="_blank">full episode</a>. See more <a style="text-decoration:none !important; font-weight:normal !important; height: 13px; color:#4eb2fe !important;" href="http://www.pbs.org/pov" target="_blank">POV.</a></p><br />
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<a href="http://www.pbs.org/pov/learning/full.php#.Tn2zoK_AuT5.blogger">POV - Watch Video | The Learning: Full Length | PBS</a>TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-77620221358052623372011-09-04T05:46:00.000-07:002011-09-04T05:47:23.248-07:00Tuna Carbonara (Filipino Style)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NONz9rso_2c/Tlb3y1gX7iI/AAAAAAAAAMk/vRg0mBStoOU/s1600/IMG_2347_ed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NONz9rso_2c/Tlb3y1gX7iI/AAAAAAAAAMk/vRg0mBStoOU/s400/IMG_2347_ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Tuna Carbonara (Filipino Style)</b></i></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">500 g of pasta (fettuccine)</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 180 g canned Hot &amp; Spicy century tuna</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 7.6 oz can of Nestle cream</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 12 oz. can of evaporated milk</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 small onion, finely chopped (preferably red)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> 2 tbsp. butter</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">Kraft quick melt Eden cheese (alternative)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">½ tsp. of ground black pepper</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">¼ tsp. sea salt</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 ½ tbsp. of corn starch (dilute in cold water)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>For toppings:</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">broccoli, chopped (steamed)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 stalks of celery, finely chopped</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">In a large skillet, sauté onion in butter. Add tuna chunks and stir. Cook it for 2-3 minutes. Add evaporated milk and cream, cover it and let it boil for 3-5 minutes at a low heat. At the boiling point, add diluted cornstarch to thicken the natural sauce. When adding the cornstarch, stir it constantly to avoid lumps of congeals starch and sauce. Stir it for 3-5 minutes. The sauce will return to its original transparency and appearance as the starch cooks out. Add the Parmesan cheese and ground pepper and turn off the heat. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">For proper way of cooking pasta please click on this link <a href="http://busycooks.about.com/cs/pastarice/ht/cookpasta.htm">How to Cook Pasta</a>. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, steamed broccoli and garnish with celery on top.</span><b></b></span><br />
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></span></div></div></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span>TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-4942386402510377982011-09-04T05:30:00.000-07:002011-09-04T05:30:54.113-07:00Beef Broccoli<br />
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Qiaj99DYAo/TmAdbld80WI/AAAAAAAAANo/0K27cJlnSyI/s1600/IMG_2537_ed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Qiaj99DYAo/TmAdbld80WI/AAAAAAAAANo/0K27cJlnSyI/s400/IMG_2537_ed.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Beef Broccoli</span></b></i></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3/4 lbs. lean boneless beef (flank, round, skirt or tenderloin)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Marinade:</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 tbsp. rice vinegar (substitute rice wine if desired)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3/4 tsp. sugar</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 tsp. soy sauce</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2 tbsp. water</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2 tsp. cornstarch</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sauce:</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3 tbsp. oyster sauce</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2 tbsp. soy sauce</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">¼ cup water</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 tsp. cornstarch mixed w/ 4 tbsp. water (cornstarch mixture)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2 lbs. fresh broccoli</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3 garlic cloves, crushed</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 medium onion, chopped (white)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">½ tsp. of salt</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">ground pepper</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">5 tbsp. canola oil (butter if desired)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 stalk scallion, cut 1 inch long</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Directions:</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Slice the beef into thin cuts. Add the marinade ingredients then put cornstarch on the meat spreading it using your fingers . Leave it for 30 minutes. Set aside.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After marinating; heat the wok and add 1 tablespoon of oil. When the oil is hot, add garlic and stir fry until aromatic. Add the broccoli and a touch of salt. Mix everything together. Turn down the heat if necessary to make sure it doesn't burn. Add ¼ cup of water. Cover it for 2 minutes until broccoli turns bright green and is tender but still crisp. Remove from the wok and drain.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Clean up the wok with paper towel. Add 3 tablespoons of oil. Fry the beef for 3-5 minutes. Do not overcook the beef! Drain off the oil and set aside.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Use another saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon oil, then add the beef and stir for 1 minute. Add onion, scallions and broccoli mixture. Stir and cover it for 1 minute. Add oyster sauce and sprinkle the remaining salt and pepper. Stir briefly and cover it for 2 minutes. Add cornstarch mixture and stir quickly to thicken. Turn off the heat and serve hot over steamed rice.</span></span></div>TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-24279181229698369352011-08-20T09:26:00.000-07:002011-08-20T13:12:58.554-07:00MISSING HOME<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">by Ritchie Raymundo</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It’s been 6 years since I left our home country, the Philippines and settled with my husband here in United States. I never thought that I would end up sacrificing a LOT of things in my life. Here is a list of the things I’m missing terribly back home;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">FAMILY</span></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The most depressing and heartbreaking thing to do is to leave my family behind. Even with the technology nowadays, a video chat or a phone call is so much different compared to a jeep or a taxi cab away right?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I really miss doing things with my loving Mama such as shopping or going to the mall for a stroll. But the thing that I miss the most is my Mama's nurturing and love. I miss her being a best friend to me and my sister.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><u>FRIENDS</u></span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On my first year here, I had a difficult time getting into groups of our fellow Filipino brothers and sisters. There wasn't any connection and I never felt close to any of them. At that time, I terribly missed my friends from back home and felt so sad. I’m missed the days when I can confide and tell them anything I desire.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">But after I was able to adjust to my surroundings, I am proud to say that I found some new people whom I can consider as real friends. I am one blessed person.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As for my friends in the Philippines, I will keep them for the rest of my life and will always treasure them in my heart.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><br />
</span></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">FOOD</span></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><br />
</span></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am very fortunate to be in a country where many different races and nationality live. With this said, I have the luxury to try different kinds of food such as American, Mexican, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and even Moroccan once in awhile. But even with the diverse food choices around me, I still prefer my acquired taste for the Filipino Cuisine. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I miss the taste of the different variety of fresh fish like dalagang-bukid, sapsap, galunggong, sword fish, bangus, lapu-lapu, etc. as well as tuyo, daing and tinapa. I also miss some home cooked meals especially the vegetables.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><br />
</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">STREET FOODS</span></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Majority of the Filipinos who grew up in Pinas are familiar with different kinds of street foods. What I miss the most are taho, binatog, quail egg (tokneneng), fresh lumpia, penoy, isaw, adidas (chicken feet), fishballs, kikiam, etc.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have also listed some of the places & restos/fastfood chains I miss in the Philippines: MALLS, MRT, BUS, TAXI, JEEP, JOLLIBEE, MAX’s, GOLDILOCKS, RED RIBBON, BARRIO FIESTA, GREENHILLS, DIVISORIA and many more.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">How about you? What are you missing back home?</div>TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-77080894588715983622011-08-20T06:37:00.000-07:002011-08-20T07:49:41.428-07:00GAS UP (for the first time)<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Sigrid M. Dimaano</span></i><br />
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2009: I was on my way to school one day when suddenly I had to pass by the gasoline station and gas up for the FIRST TIME! <br />
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"This is it!" I told myself. For I was dreading to do this for the longest time. Somehow, I always find a way to let my husband do the dirty job for me. <br />
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</i><br />
<i>*Note: In the Philippines, there are people who do this for us.</i><br />
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So I went down, swiped my card and unscrewed the cap from my gas tank. I took the gas hose with the spout and pressed on it as hard as I can. And there I was, waiting for the gas to pump out and NOTHING happened. I cancelled the credit card transaction and went directly to the cashier.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
"Hi! I tried to put gas in my car and I think that one over there is empty." I smiled at her. Of course, I was pretending that I knew what I was doing.<br />
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"All right, I'll check on it." she said. After awhile she said that it wasn't empty. So I told her "Oh, so maybe my card has a problem then. I think I might have to pay cash.". I gave her cash and then I immediately ran back to my car and tried again. <br />
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For the second time, I failed! I went back to her and she insisted that there was nothing wrong with the pump.<br />
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Getting frustrated, I tried again for the third time and still, NOTHING as in NOTHING happened. Since I have been there for almost 20 minutes and I was already running late for school, I had no choice but to ask the other person opposite my car.<br />
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I swallowed my pride and approached him.<br />
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"Hi, I can't seem to do this right. I'm new at this. Can you help me?"<br />
"Sure", he said.<br />
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After checking everything I did, he smiled at me and said ""All right, now I know what the problem is. You forgot to lift the handle of the gas hose from its stand." <br />
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Kaboom! Epic Fail!<br />
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TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-1823898319846074732011-08-19T08:53:00.000-07:002011-08-19T11:56:06.577-07:00THE POWER OF THE PIGGY BANKI uploaded this on my personal website last month and I thought this is worth sharing. <br />
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For more Parenting write-ups, visit: <a href="http://wearepairents.blogspot.com/">We are Pairents Blog</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_e1KrUqOTMo/Tk6HV7J1cDI/AAAAAAAAABE/Eua4vVnH9es/s1600/DSC_0185.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_e1KrUqOTMo/Tk6HV7J1cDI/AAAAAAAAABE/Eua4vVnH9es/s320/DSC_0185.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="http://wearepairents.blogspot.com/2011/07/power-of-piggy-bank.html?spref=bl">On Being PAIR-ents...: The Power of the Piggy Bank</a>: I recently uploaded this photo on my Facebook account showing my son putting coins in his piggy bank. This picture brought back many memories.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 23px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My first piggy bank gave me the chance to buy my very first "taho". A street food in the Philippines which is made of silk tofu mixed with brown sugar and vanilla syrup topped with tapioca. I think I was only four at that time. It was the most delicious "taho" I ever had in my entire life. My first piggy bank had taught me to diligently save up for my next "taho".</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">My second piggy bank was a replica of a Coca Cola Freezer back in the 80's. The kind that we see from the "sari-sari stores" (<i style="line-height: 23px;">Philippine version of an old style convenience store</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 23px;">). It was a present from my beloved grandmother. It held more coins than my first. I didn't open it until it was full and from what I remember, it went to my first bank account. The coins I put there were the loose ones I found at home and from the Christmas gifts I got every year. It was something very important to me. I was able to develop a habit of saving by not being "kuripot" (</span><i style="line-height: 23px;">economical but stingy</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 23px;">) but rather by being "matipid" (</span><i style="line-height: 23px;">spendthrift</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 23px;">). Which means I also indulge sometimes whenever I can afford it. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 23px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As a teenager, I remember asking my parents for everything that was in style from computers to fashion. And they would always say that I should either earn it by giving them good grades or save up for it which I will have to take from my allowance. So most of the time, I end up not getting the most expensive ones but still manage to be trendy at that time by being resourceful. I would use only half of my savings for my wants and half of it went to my bank account. At this time, I have learned the value of hard earned money.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The discipline I learned from my little piggy bank had passed on and well made use of until my adult life. I am also very lucky to have a very hardworking husband whom I think is way more spendthrift than I am. His very first savings from childhood went to the purchase of our house. Now, isn't he something?<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am very fortunate that I was exposed to this kind of lifestyle at a very early age. My parents taught me well and I thank them for that. They have prepared me well in facing the world of capitalism. Living in the United States makes it so easy to lose my grip on money. Especially when they (<i>the capitalists</i>) make it look like you need something but in truth, it's only a useless luxury. Today, we may not own the most expensive house, the most luxurious car nor the most fashionable clothes but we are a least proud to say that we have saved up (<i>and still saving</i>) for the rainy days which is enough for our family's needs.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Someday, we pray and hope that we'll be able to prepare our child for his own future too. And that he will also learn the value of money through hard work, perseverance and discipline. We have started it with his very own little piggy bank.</span></div><br />
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TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-1701348145376053942011-08-17T20:51:00.000-07:002011-08-20T10:18:03.122-07:00AN IMMIGRANT'S FIRST MOMENTS<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>by Melody Gutierrez</i></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Do you still remember your many <i><u>firsts</u></i> living abroad? Well, I’m sure you do. Perhaps, your memory needs a little nudge so allow me to share my first experiences that may take you right back; something that is worth remembering.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>First Travel to the US</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The farthest place I’ve ever been in the Philippines was in Vigan, Ilocos Norte. It was a tiring 8-hour ride. But it was nothing compared to my first trip to the US East Coast that took almost 26 hours. This has been the most backbreaking trip I’ve ever experienced.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>First Taste of Cuban Food</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">My husband is Cuban American. One day, I got curious with their Cuban sandwich called "Pan con Bistec" so I asked him to buy me one. </span><br />
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It was served in a large bread (Cuban bread) with beef steak, onions and tomatoes in it. One thing that caught me by surprise was that it had <i>picnic fries</i> on top of it. It was delicious though.<br />
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<a name='more'></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>First Holidays</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">On my first Independence Day (4th of July), we had the chance to go to the beach and saw the fireworks display. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">On my first Thanksgiving Day Celebration, I was able to taste a sumptuous Turkey for the first time.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>First Christmas</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">When the <i>BER</i> months came on my first year of residency, my homesickness turned from bad to worse. </span>Especially after reading my friends' status on social networking sites that they had started playing Christmas Carols all over the metro. That the traditional Caroling has also started which I used to be part of.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">In my experience, I cannot consider my first Christmas here as my best. I came from a country with the longest Christmas in the World (September-December) and I miss it so much. Truly, there's no place like home.</span><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;">First New Year</span></u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><div style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Even though they say that firecrackers and fireworks are very dangerous, that's what makes the New Year in the Philippines so special. I miss the ear-splitting fireworks on New Year's Eve. </span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I remember our yearly Media Noche with all the different round fruits on the table which symbolize good fortune. I miss wearing new clothes on the Eve and who would forget the traditional jump done three times at 12MN? </span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">My first New Year in the US wasn't the one I expected. It was too quiet and there weren't any fireworks lighting up the sky. Totally different from what I was used to.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Jobless for the First Time</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><div style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">When I got my green card, I was very excited to get a job. </span><span style="line-height: normal;">I immediately went to my first job interview. I</span>t went well but after a week; I received a phone call and was told that they hired someone else. On my second interview, I was able to pass the interview but again was told to wait until they find a company that will accept me even if I don’t speak Spanish. Unfortunately, I didn't receive any calls from them. I was jobless for almost a year.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>First Job</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">After being turned down on my first job applications, I opted to apply to Publix or Target and sadly my husband didn’t allow me. He told me to wait until the right opportunity comes. Then one night, I cried and prayed to God to help me find a job. And with His grace, our Pastor in the church I’m attending to approached me and said, “Do you want to work with me part-time?” and I immediately said “yes” without any doubt. Thank God! It was an answered prayer. Because of this, I was able to send money to the Philippines every month.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>First Plant</u></b></span><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I am 95% vegetarian and I missed eating vegetables. Hungry for veggies, I asked my hubby to bring me to the Oriental market. I spotted a bitter melon or “ampalaya” at the store. With so much excitement, I immediately grabbed it not knowing how much it cost. I was so surprised seeing the price in the receipt. It was so expensive!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Then one day, I thought of something brilliant to satisfy my cravings for veggies. I decided to buy another bitter melon and planted it in our yard right next to our mango tree. A week after, I saw the sprout came out. I was ecstatic so I immediately asked my father-in-law to create a mini-garden for me. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">My hubby gave me the idea that I can sell those to the market but at the time of harvest; it only goes straight to my pan. Now, aside from bitter melon, I also have limes (calamansi) and sweet potato leaves (talbos) growing in my garden.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>First Driver’s License</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I didn’t bother getting a driver’s license in the Philippines simply because I didn't have a car to drive anyway. When I got here, I knew that it is essential to have one. I was afraid to get it because I haven’t driven a car for a long time. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Being supportive and patient, my hubby was the one who taught me to drive. In just two months, I was able to drive successfully. And only recently that I got my driver’s license. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Being new in this country, I will surely have many more <i>firsts. </i>These moments will definitely be engraved in my memory and will forever be treasured.</span><br />
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</b></span></div></div>TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-47497653380932439672011-08-14T04:30:00.000-07:002011-08-19T00:04:25.548-07:00ENGLISH MADE ME CRUMBLE<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: purple;"> by Sigrid Dimaano</span><br />
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Filipinos are known as good English communicators. I am one of those who truly believe in this but not until I finally <i>settled </i>and <i>lived</i> here. <br />
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Before I came to the United States, I was pretty confident that it was going to be easy since English was a part of my daily life in the Philippines. But I was wrong, I guess you'll never really realize it until you settle and try to be a part of a society where English is the first language. I was so critical of myself which made me think twice before I utter a word. <br />
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At first, I thought I was the only one but after talking to several people, I learned that they had the same feeling and I was assured that it was NORMAL to feel that way. Here are common experiences we have encountered.<br />
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1. Just right after I got here, I was more comfortable putting an <i>all tagalog status</i> in my Facebook account. Take note, I used not just regular Filipino words but complicated ones which maybe some Filipinos won't be able to understand. Why I did this? Probably because I wanted to prove and convince everyone including myself that this is something that I'm good at and they won't be able to criticize me for this.<br />
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2. There were several occasions where I would ask my husband to order food for me in a restaurant with a matching <i>"pa-cutey"</i> smile. <br />
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3. I let the phone ring for <i><u>as long as possible</u></i>. Thank God for the answering machine! For some reason, my stuttering became more apparent on a phone conversation. I never thought a phone ring would make me so nervous!<br />
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Funny, isn't it? But these really happened. I became this timid and shy woman that I never was for probably six months. I am good now and finally adjusted to the norms here. I am not proud of it, but I am not ashamed to admit it either. I shared it because I know that these will probably happen to somebody out there again. If this is true, don't feel bad. You are not alone. TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-38512431930169551662011-08-14T03:32:00.000-07:002011-08-19T00:09:25.653-07:00RE-INVENTING ONE'S SELF<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: purple;"> by Sigrid Dimaano</span><br />
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I must admit, there are many things I would like to think I can do as a homemaker which I wasn't able to utilize when I was still living in the Philippines. Somehow, these skills manifest themselves when I'm bored or whenever I need to use them. <br />
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Sometimes, it makes me real proud when I can do things that I never thought I can do. For instance, I learned that it's fun to experiment with cooking and baking. That Cake decorating is so therapeutic and that<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Photo and Video documentations are worth learning. That playing with beads can reveal my artistic prowess and that writing a blog can be so relaxing. That Teaching a child how to sing is so fulfilling and who would have thought that I can sleep late at night to do the laundry and iron clothes for my family?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tBXqpSIvJ8/TkeiymNWrxI/AAAAAAAAAAU/K1f1dkxUMzU/s1600/DSC_0135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tBXqpSIvJ8/TkeiymNWrxI/AAAAAAAAAAU/K1f1dkxUMzU/s320/DSC_0135.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Posing with my student who recently won several awards in the World Championships for Performing Arts 2011</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--gnvuRYi00Q/Tkeiv4mGFsI/AAAAAAAAAAQ/_52pCoT23Xg/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--gnvuRYi00Q/Tkeiv4mGFsI/AAAAAAAAAAQ/_52pCoT23Xg/s320/cake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A cake I made for my husband's office party. (2011)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOOmoOY8r6A/Tkey1ZAViII/AAAAAAAAAAY/ExvrQmqemzo/s1600/P1011358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOOmoOY8r6A/Tkey1ZAViII/AAAAAAAAAAY/ExvrQmqemzo/s320/P1011358.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of my beadworks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For recipes I made for my baby, click this link: <a href="http://wearepairents.blogspot.com/2011_03_01_archive.html">We Are Pairents</a> </div><br />
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By doing things that I haven't done before, I'm adding a little spice in my life which makes it more exciting. There are still so many things that I have yet to learn and discover. And I hope that one day, I would find the one that would truly define who I am. <br />
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How about you? What have you been doing lately?<br />
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TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8099100075639504044.post-81725575936974453032011-08-09T14:06:00.000-07:002011-08-19T00:08:15.098-07:00FIRST IMPRESSIONS<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: purple;"> by Sigrid Dimaano</span><br />
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Many people say that the Philippines is so much alike with the United States. In some ways, this is true but in many other ways, it is otherwise. I have listed some of my first impressions when I got here.<br />
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</div><div>1. The Roads are SO WIDE and there's so much LAND<br />
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</div><div>When I first came to the United States, it was for a visit. I came with my family and we only went to the West Coast. I was amazed on how wide the roads were and how orderly the traffic was. Of course for a Manila driver, this is road heaven. </div><div><br />
</div><div>2. It's so GREEN and there are ANIMALS roaming around. </div></div><div><br />
</div><div>The East Coast is way different. It was still Summertime when I first came to the East Coast and I was in awe with all the huge trees around. I got even more excited when I saw a family of deer, squirrels and rabbits roaming at my friend's backyard. It was so cool!<br />
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<a name='more'></a></div><div>3. No Gates</div><div><br />
</div><div>Maybe I am so used to having gates and barriers surrounding the houses in Manila that this puzzled me. It was impressive though. They are able to showcase the pretty facade of their houses.</div><div><br />
</div><div>4. Beggars on the Street asking for "$ for Beer"</div><div><br />
</div><div>I was so surprised when I first saw this. Unfortunately, the United States also have this.</div><div><br />
</div><div>5. They have Accents too!<br />
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Like in the Philippines, Americans have accents too! It just depends on which part of the US you live, you have to get used to listening to their accents so you will be able to communicate with them properly. And from what I have observed, Americans are very well adjusted to different accents they hear around them. So, it's alright <i>not to try so hard</i> to have the American accent as long as you speak with confidence and be able to relay to them clearly what you want to say. <br />
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How about you? What were your first impressions when you arrived to the country where you are in now?<br />
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You can join our online discussion at our <a href="http://mariasonthego.blogspot.com/p/f-o-r-u-m.html">Forum</a> page. Thank you. <br />
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</div>TRES MARIAShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00175640184367398613noreply@blogger.com1