Everything Green

A Search Engine for Businesses

2011-04-25T10:22:00.000+08:00

It's true in what they say "A business with no sign is a sign of no business". A business will not run on it's own. It has to have a very good advertising campaign or else people will not know that one exists. It will always start by word of mouth but it is also very important not to rely on other peoples words and comments but a business for it to proper must have a very reliable and means of advertising. In my case for instance, I have a landscaping business but I don't just rely on other people to tell their family and friends that I have this kind of business but I also have a very good visualization of what my business is all about and of course an advertisement through the internet. People around the world always rely on the internet now a days for them to get what they needed and a good ppc services is what people with businesses like me needs. So don't just rely on other people's words but let the experts do what they do best. A good search engine for our business is the right choice to have if you are looking for a better profit and worldwide access.

Panagbenga Festival 2011

2011-02-24T08:47:00.001+08:00

This year's Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City will be on Feb. 26 with the Grand Street Parade and on Feb. 27 with the Grand Float parade. This festival is done yearly which showcase the beautiful flowers of Baguio City. Yes, all the flowers that will be used here are all fresh blooms. I just wish I could go there for the very beautiful and colorful display of floats from different Baguio organizations and colorful costumes of the young and old participants and dancers all over the City.

*photos courtesy of last year's festival from different sources.

Plants from Baguio City

2011-02-24T08:30:00.000+08:00

Whenever we visit Baguio City it always takes my breath away. Once you start travelling along the zigzag roads and start gazing at the beautiful landscapes and waterfalls of the mountains, it seems that it's always my first time to go there. Besides the cold weather and clean atmosphere of the place, I can't appreciate enough the so many variety of foliages and flowering plants that can be found just about anywhere in Baguio. In Manila we only have to make do with the tropical plants and some common plants that are planted anywhere. But in Baguio, you get to see many plants that can only be grown in cold areas.

Like this one for instance, in Manila we had the small variety we called "Kalanchoe" plant. The local version of the plant had only red blossoms but the imported varieties had red, orange, yellow and white. But when I saw these kind in Camp John Hay Club House, I was really surprised to see a different flower of the plant. I don't know if they're still buds about to open in a few more days or it's the way its flower should be, like a bud.

Another kind of flower I saw was this grass like aster. Again in Manila, you can only find the white ones with small blooms. But here in Baguio, these flowers grow abundantly and I guess lasts longer because of the cold weather there.

And of course, all the plants, grass and trees in Baguio have a very striking and lush colors compared from the plants that are grown and maintained in Manila. So again, maybe because of the cold weather and clean air surrounding these beautiful landscapes.

This is one of the golf courses of Camp John Hay located at the back of the Club house. While having your lunch here, you can also enjoy watching the golfers play their game.

Kuya Reg's Work of Art

2010-12-11T16:28:00.000+08:00

I just want to share this. This photo was taken from the garden of my hubby's cousin, Kuya Reggie. My hubby's family is known for their landscaping business. But having seen this very beautiful and well maintained garden made me think that besides having knowledge in the field of landscaping you also have to have a passion and love for it too...... because without it maybe this garden will not look like this. It's like having visited a famous tourist spot or park from another country.

Camping to the Next Level

2010-09-15T10:34:00.000+08:00

My sons and husband love camping. In the school where the boys went, they have a "Father and Son" camping year where each one together with their fathers will go camping for three consecutive days on a preferred place of their school. They enjoy the setting up the tent, the fun games organized by each class parent representatives, the unlimited food and the support of all the parents who participated on the event. Each section has their own class color so that they can be distinguished from one another. My husband and sons had their four years of camping and now they miss doing it again. When we went to Baguio, I think that was December, we tried camping on the lawn. We set up tents, a big one and two small ones good for one person only. My husband and I and my youngest slept on the big tent while my daughter and eldest son slept on the small tent. We didn't realize that the temperature would drop to 10 degrees and we awoke almost frozen to the bones! At 3 am we were all sipping hot chocolate drinks and hot coffee that day. It's no use camping outside with that kind of weather. So we are thinking of acquiring an rv so in case we plan to go camping to a far place, we can really enjoy the trip and the camping on a comfortable vehicle without having to worry about the temperature outside plus the convenience of having your personal space without having to rent a place or go to a hotel to rest.

Today's Flowers

2010-09-15T10:16:00.001+08:00

Fresh picked roses, perfect for a table centerpiece for the day......

Ordering your Business Cards Online

2010-09-13T12:54:00.001+08:00

There is a saying, " A business with no sign, is a sign of no business ". Do you agree? Me, of course. How can anyone know if you're offering something if you don't have proper advertising or a simple sign board telling what business you have. To attract customers, is to have an attractive sign on your place. Make it simple but pleasing to the eye and the customer will know what you offer in an instant. You may also need some business cards to give out to your prospective clients and customers for future reference. Who knows if they are satisfied in what they see in your business they will surely call you back for more inquiries.

Looking for business card makers is also sometimes very tiring because you don't know who to pick. As a landscape designer, I would choose a company that specifically designs or make business cards for artists like me. They call it the artist business cards. The first to look is of course in the internet or just browse the web for graphic artists that designs these business cards for your liking. I found one and in their website, you can customize the business card you want to order by designing the card yourself or you can pick one of their pre-designed cards and just order them online they they will ship it to you. All you have to do is pick your design, place your order, pay online and that's it! You can now have a business card of your own.

A Study on A Fruit to treat Cancer

2010-09-13T11:07:00.001+08:00

Here in the Philippines, this fruit is called Guyabano. In English, Soursop because of it's sweet soury taste. I like eating this fruit because I believe that it helps in our digestion because of it's very fibrous. We heard so much about this fruit and just recently, someone told us that study is still undergoing for it's possible treatment for cancers.

If it will be proven that this fruit could treat cancer, then I would plant the tree starting right now on my own backyard. I am very conscious of my health because my family has a history on cancers. So I am doing everything including researching what can prevent me from having it. Some infos courtesy of the Philippine Herbal Medicines.org has it's say about this fruit.

Guyabano/Soursop Fruit Nutrition

Guyabano belongs to the family of Annonaceae, (A. muricata L.). The flesh of the fruit consist of a white edible pulp that is high in carbohydrates and considerable amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Potassium and dietary fiber. Guyabano is low in cholesterol, saturated fat and sodium. No only is guyabano a good health food, it also taste delicious. The tree and fruit is known in various names: Guyabano in Filipino, Soursop in English, Graviola in Brazil, and Guanabana in Spanish.

About the Guyabano

The heart shaped / oblong guyabano fruit has a dark green, leathery and spike-like skin that measures from 8 to 12 inches long and can weigh up to 2.5 kilos. The creamy and delectable flesh contains from 60 to 100 black-brown seeds that are indigestible and non-edible.

The guyabano tree is relatively small. It usually grows from 8 to less than 20 feet high and is sensitive to very cold temperatures. The guyabano tree requires a lot of water, warmth and humidity and is usually grown in the tropics. It is cultivated commercially in Central & South America, West Africa, Asia and South Florida in limited numbers.

Products made from Guyabano fruit:

Aside from being eaten raw, the guyabano fruit is processed into candies, tarts, shakes, ice-cream, sherbets and other beverages.

Medicinal Uses of Guyabano

Guyabano has been used as folkloric herbal medicine in many regions thought the world. It is considered to be antispasmodic, sudorific and emetic. A decoction (boiling in water) of guyabano leaves is used to kill bedbugs and head lice.

To reduce fever, a decoction of leaves can be taken internally or the leaves added to bathing water also has the same effect. The crushed fresh leaves are also applied on skin eruptions for faster healing. A poultice of young guyabano leaves is applied on the skin to alleviate rheumatism and other skin infections like eczema. Applied during the healing of wounds, this can result in less or no skin scars. The decoction can also be used as a wet compress on swollen feet and other inflammations.

The juice of the fruit is taken orally as a herbal remedy for urethritis, haematuria and liver ailments.

Studies are underway by leading medical institutes, universities and pharmaceutical companies of the healing properties of guyabano against cancers. Initial findings show that certain compounds and chemicals extracted from guyabano leaves, seeds, fruit and bark appear to kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells remain unaffected.

Other uses of Guyabano

Pulverizing the guyabano seeds and mixing it with soap & water is used as effective spray against caterpillars, armyworms and leafhoppers on plants.

The guyabano leaves are believed to have a tranquilizing and sedative properties. In the Netherlands Antilles, the leaves are placed inside pillows or placed on top of the mattress to induce a good night's sleep.

Christmas Is Just Around the Corner

2010-09-13T10:51:00.001+08:00

The countdown for Christmas has already began when September stepped in. Usually, when the "ber" months are already on the calendar, I would start looking for items that I give out in Christmas time. Every year, I would have the same problem.... gifts for my in-laws! It gives me a headache when I think what to give them at Christmas. I never thought that finding a perfect gift for them would be a very hard task for me indeed. It is hard because they already have all the material things their hearts desires and I really don't know what to give them. Now here I am again with Christmas is just around the corner, same problem again...sighs! I browsed in the internet to find a perfect and unique gift for them and I found some amazing mantel clock in different sizes, shapes and material. I found this one, the one on the photo to be quite perfect for my in-laws. It's a two sided clock with a brass finish and I think that they would love this because one thing is for sure, this would make a very beautiful and unique accessory piece for their house in the province because of it's vintage yet elegant style. Well now, I guess my quest for this year has ended quite early if I may say so myself, who knows maybe I would get one more for my Mom. I know she will love this.

House Arrest for 2 Weeks!

2010-09-13T10:26:00.000+08:00

It's been a week now since I had my operation. My doctor said that I should be resting for at least two weeks with no stress and heavy lifting what so ever. Being at home for two weeks is frustrated because I am not used to being here all the time. I only have to be here when I'm sick or every Wednesday when my cleaning lady comes in. Anyways, if my doctor says it's for my health then I will follow her. So here I am with nothing to do but update my blogs and make some opportunities online to pass my time. I haven't done any photo shooting lately so I don't have anything interesting to share. I just hope I'll be up on my feet next week so I can do my work at my shop.

Two months Till Halloween

2010-09-01T08:01:00.000+08:00

In my line of work, I was sometimes being called to put up some decorations for special occasions like weddings, birthdays, openings or any large gatherings that needs instant beautification by providing potted plants and flower decorations. In weddings, I arranged cut flowers mostly for the reception and some foliages and potted plants for the church. Same goes to large conferences and meetings in which I let them rent my plants in different decorative plants for the indoors. September is here and Christmas is just around the corner to greet us. Halloween is not very important here in our country but some of my clients especially those living in private subdivisions are preparing or this event. Two weeks before Halloween, I have to have some ideas on how to decorate and implement some of my plants for the said occasion. I must already have some unique and great ideas of Halloween Decorations for my clients before the end of September. The usual decor are mostly flying bats suspended on their existing trees and some frightening figures of zombies and monsters in front of their gates. Some cobwebs and giant spiders and some even have sound effects at the background and being played during the night. But I'm still would like to use some plants and flowers maybe indoors with colors for the Halloween like orange, red, bright yellow and black. I could also use real pumpkin as a centerpiece for a flower arrangement. What do you think?

3 Days to go........sighs!

2010-09-01T07:46:00.000+08:00

Today is Wednesday...... three days to go and i'm off to the hospital. I was scheduled to undergo a DNC operation for endometrium polyps. This will be my second time having that procedure. The first one was 4 years ago and now I was diagnosed by ultrasound that the polyps are back again and needed to be removed and biopsied. I wasn't suppose to feel nervous or agitated because I already know what to expect from the procedure. But I can't help feeling nervous as the day of my operation gets near. I'm the kind of person who is really afraid and don't like needles! The thought of having a dextrose poke to my veins again gives me the nerves. Anyways, like my hubby was telling me, I really don't have a choice. I just hope that my veins will cooperate this time because the last time I was hospitalized, the med techs had a hard time inserting the dextrose to my veins so I was pricked two times.......gosh make it a one time only this time! Can't tolerate the pain!

Looking for new blinds for the house

2010-08-23T13:10:00.000+08:00

Last summer we had our house repainted from the exterior. It costs us a bit but it's worth it. The house looks new again and very pleasing to look at especially with the new landscape of our garden. We didn't repaint the interior of the house because it's still intact and clean. But I can't help finding something inside the house that needs fixing or repair. I noticed that our existing window blinds are already fading and needs to be pilled down from the windows. The manufacturer and supplier of our blinds told us that we can remove the stains by cleaning it with just plain ordinary laundry soap and then it's good to go again. It's been raining hard these past few days and our lanai is always getting wet because of the heavy rains and insufficient protection from the rains.

I saw in one of my "Real Home" magazines that you can use awnings for protection against the heavy rains and can also be used during summer season as a convenient and beautiful shade from the burning sun. Now that is what I need. A shade during summer time and a rain protector during the rainy seasons. Isn't that great? I think this is practical than having to built a roof that is not sufficient for the rains and the heat of the scourging sun. I guess this will do, 2 in 1 awning. I'd better order right away before the storms hit our area. I heard from the news that a low pressure area is again forming and they are expecting it to become a typhoon in a few days. I just hope my order will come before that storm.

Benefits of Oregano Plant

2010-08-23T12:50:00.000+08:00

Many people here in our area are getting sick because of the climate change. In the morning, it's hot then come evening it will rain. Sometimes, it rains in the afternoon and then it get hot during night time. One of the common illnesses people are experiencing right now are severe coughs and flu. Toddlers are the most number affected by these illnesses.

There are many coughs and flu medicines that can be purchased over the counter but some are trying to use alternative medicines such as medicinal plants and herbs that helps cure and prevent these common illnesses. One of these herbs is the Oregano. The oregano leaves have many benefits and one of them is relieving severe coughs and mucus in the respiratory system. All you have to do is boil the leaves and then extract the juice and take 1 tablespoonful of the oregano extract everyday for about 5 to 7 days and you'll see the relief it provides. Here are also some health benefits of Oregano oil.

its strong antiviral and antibacterial properties can help destroy organisms that contribute to skin infections.
It also has antiparisitic properties which is helpful in digestive problems
It can strengthen the immune system
It helps increase the joint and muscles flexibility
Improves respiratory health.
Oil of Oregano when applied topically can help treat skin infections, itchy skin and irritated gums, (but make sure it has been diluted because oregano oil is concentrated and can cause burning sensation to tongue or skin).
The high content of thymol and carvacrol in oregano can help calm upset stomachs and aid digestion. Mix 2 to 3 drops of oil to a glass of juice, milk or water for a quick remedy for mild indigestion.
Oil of Oregano can help in the treatment of sinus or lung congestion. Just mix 2 or 3 drops of oil with juice, and drink this daily, you can notice the improvement within 3-5days.
Oregano has antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that the anti-oxidant properties of oregano may even exceed that of apples and blueberries. Antioxidant vitamins are thought to play a vital role in the prevention of many forms of cancer, as well as perhaps slowing down the aging process.
Oregano is rich in fiber
Fresh oregano like other leafy vegetables is loaded with vitamins and nutrients. It is a good source of iron and manganese as well as calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A. It also has omega-3 fatty acids.
Oregano is good in maintaining the respiratory health
Oregano oil, also acts as a stimulant, carminative, and it helps to increase perspiration when a person has fever.
Oregano can help increase menstrual flow.
When given in the form of a warm infusion, oregano relieves muscle spasms and cramps, colic, or spasmodic pains in the abdomen.
The dried leaves can also be applied in bags as a warm application to painful arthritic swellings and other conditions, including rheumatism.

*Benefits of Oregano oil courtesy of hubpages.com

Joint Pains

2010-08-19T11:58:00.000+08:00

It seems that I'm just getting old! Two weeks ago I was diagnosed with acid reflex and now I have joint pains on my right hip and on my right knee. What is happening to me? Is this due to old age or my body is starting to fall apart because I don't give attention to it? Whatever the case, I have to do something about it before I can't function anymore and do my work. I just had my consultation with my doctor regarding my abdominal pains and I really don't want to see another doctor for my joint pains. I guess it won't do me any harm if I search about this on the internet on what to do if you fell these pains on your body. I just hope that this will not lead to arthritis!

Anyways, upon browsing the internet for some medications and information about my joint pains, I saw this Review of Trigosamine, a supplement for joint pains and arthritis. In this review, they compare medicinal solution from the other treatments like the magnetic therapy or the copper bracelet therapy. They say that both can have advantages and disadvantages and may cause bad side effects if not handled well. So they suggest a medication that has natural ingredients that helps solve the problem and provides long-term relief for the patients. Trigosamine contains 100% natural ingredients like Hyaluronate, Glucosamine and Chondroitin. Studies shows that this medication really works and should be available over the counter.

My Lab Test Results

2010-08-19T11:22:00.000+08:00

Two weeks ago I got my test results regarding what caused my abdominal pains. My ultrasound for my liver and pancreas are both normal, no inflammation or thickening of the wall. But I got worried with my gallbladder. On the ultrasound, they saw a tiny polyp. When I consulted my doctor he said that it's not dangerous and it can be left alone without having any operation. Wow, that was really a relief. But the result of my Endoscopy in which my doctor performed the procedure, he said that I have an acid reflex and my stomach had a slight abrasion, which can be treated by medications he prescribed. I have to take the medicines for 3 weeks and if the pain still persist, he'll give me a list on what I shouldn't eat. He also advised me to loose some weight so that the acid in my body will be controlled. So in 2 weeks I already lost 3 lbs.! I haven't eaten that much since my abdominal attack because I'm afraid that it will hurt once I eat too much. So instead of eating big meals three times a day, I eat little portions whenever I feel hungry and I ate at dinnertime too now, unlike before that I really don't like eating dinner.

The Ultimate Game

2010-08-05T07:45:00.000+08:00

Technology today is getting more and more complex. From electronics like computers and laptops, home aids like appliances, gadgets like cellphones, iPods, and play stations. I am amazed on how these little devices can be upgraded so quickly. If you buy a top of the line cellphone today, in a month or two a new kind of cellphone will be released to the public.

It also applies to some physical games like paintball or paintballing. It is a kind of game where you play hide and seek then if you see your opponent, you'll target them with a gun that fires paintball. I have heard about airsoft, in which same system or procedure of the game, the only difference is that the bullets used in airsoft doesn't have paint, just small soft balls. I would like to try this game of paintball with my family but I don't have the gadgets for it. There are some sites on the web that sells paintball gears at affordable prizes with free shipping so you won't have problem looking for the place.

Veterans of Our Country

2010-08-02T19:50:00.000+08:00

One of the most important government organizations here in our country is the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office in which veterans who serve our country are well compensated by the government for so many years now. They receive monthly pensions depending on the length of their service to our country. Those who have served longer have received housing benefits and even health benefits. Some of these programs are sponsored by big companies or other organizations which made this institution successful. Other programs are provided and budgeted by our own government. But not only that, they even have programs for burial services and mental services for those veterans who are emotionally affected during their service.

In other countries, veterans of war were also given compensation such as medical assistance and housing assistance. But they cannot supply or implement to all concerned so they solicit by having programs such as solicitation through private organizations or charities such as car donation charities in which you will donate old cars to so that the proceeds will go to the veterans who served the country well. I think this car donation is a good thing because instead of disposing your old car to the junk shop, not only that your doing a good deed but at the same time, you are helping other people like the veterans continue their lies after serving the country. It’s about time that they benefit from all their loyalty and service to the country.

More Tests Next Week

2010-07-30T21:27:00.000+08:00

As I mentioned the other day, I had a stomach pain and been rushed to the hospital. I was discharged that same day when the doctor said I could go home and rest since the pain was gone already. But she also implied that I still need to go to my doctor for further check-up because she can't tell what my problem was.

So yesterday , my hubby accompanied me to St. Luke's Medical Hospital and saw a doctor who specializes in the stomach area of our body. He told me that I need to undergo an ultrasound of my liver, pancreas and gallbladder. Then after that he'll perform a procedure called Endoscopy, in which he will insert through my mouth down my stomach a small tube with a video camera so that he can visualize the problem causing my pains. It will be performed next week and I'm a bit nervous about it because I can't tolerate even the slightest pain.

My doctor assured me that although it's not a painful procedure, I would still feel some discomfort because I can still feel the insertion of the tube. Well that's something to look forward. I just hope I can make it the whole morning without consuming any solid and liquid starting 12 midnight the day before my procedure. And I pray and hope that the results will be okay and nothing serious about my health.

Me Time

2010-07-28T14:56:00.000+08:00

I am running a very busy schedule everyday. From Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, I go to my shop to supervise our landscaping business. Every Wednesday I stay home to clean the house and organize some of our things at home with the help of course of my cleaning lady. She only comes every Wednesday when I'm at home. Come Saturday and Sunday we have to go home to my hubby's province in Bulacan. We also have a house there so when I'm there, I'm busy cleaning the house and fixing what is needed to be fixed or organized. When I arrive home after work at the shop, I have to cook our dinner, teach the kids some of their lessons and assignments then I have to be in bed by 9 pm. Then I have to wake up at 4 am to cook breakfast and fix the kids' lunch boxes for school.

I really don't have time to pamper myself unless I do something about it. So instead of going to my shop on a Tuesday, I went to the spa. They have a separate floor for the men and women. Ours is on the second floor where you have to register first and then they'll give you a key for your own locker room. I was amazed on how huge their locker area is, just like the ones I saw on some gyms where they also have their own gym lockers. Then you have to go to their swimming pool area where there's a hot jacuzzi and a cold jacuzzi. It after some time in the jacuzzi you can try their steam bath or sauna. That really felt so good after a hard days work. I'm going to this spa every week if I want to feel relaxed. After an hour you can now have the foot massage or foot spa and then the body massage in which you'll be pampered for about an hour for each treatment.

The place of the spa is really nice and relaxing but returning to their locker area I really think they should consider renovating or change the entire setup because the lockers for me seemed a bit small for my things and it's kind of old fashioned already. I might as well recommend some lockers for sale if they won't mind me saying and I think they'll attract more clients and customers if the area will be renovated as soon as possible.

Benefits of Wheat Grass Juice

2010-07-28T14:20:00.004+08:00

Did you know that organic wheat grass can now be taken as a juice. You have to extract first the juice of the grass and then blend it with your other favorite fruit juices or you can put honey in it for a tastier juice. I just heard about this wheat grass juice from my Mom and for almost 3 months now she'd been drinking a concentrated wheat grass juice with honey and she told me that she lost some weight and inches too on her waist and she feels terrific and energized.
Here are some of the health benefits of drinking wheat grass juice:
- Wheatgrass juice is a natural source of antioxidants which helps repair damaged cells, rejuvenate aging cells, tighten loose and sagging skin.
- Wheatgrass juice is good for skin problems and improves complexion, treats acne, and removes acne scar.
- Wheatgrass energizes and reduces fatigue, because the juice is immediately absorbed into the bloodstream and gives immediate energy.
- Wheatgrass juice purifies the blood which helps to cleanse the kidneys, liver and urinary tract.

Wheat grass contain loads of alkaline minerals that helps restore alkalinity and neutralize acid production in the body.
The insoluble fiber in wheatgrass gently cleanses your digestive tract and promotes regularity.

Wheat grass juice keeps hair from graying & removes dandruff.
Wheat grass juice increases red blood-cell count and lowers blood pressure.
Wheat grass juice washes drug deposits from the body.
Wheatgrass juice held in the mouth for 5 minutes will eliminate toothaches and will firm up and tightens gums.
Wheatgrass juice is an excellent skin exfoliant and can be absorbed through the skin for nutrition. Apply the wheatgrass juice on your body and let it stay for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse off with water.
Wheatgrass juice can dissolve the scars that are formed in the lungs from breathing acid gasses.
Wheatgrass juice can remove heavy metals and other toxic (mercury, cadmium, nicotine) from the body.
Wheatgrass juice restores fertility.

(this info courtesy of hubpages.com)

A Garden for Small Spaces

2010-07-28T10:59:00.000+08:00

Having a small space in your home does not restrict you from having a simple yet elegant garden. We have clients coming to our shop for estimates and quotations for small spaces like condo units, apartments and flats for those who are still single. Designing for small spaces is challenging for me because not only you'll consider the character of the building but also the needs and style of your client. If my client is a minimalist, I design a Zen garden. Just a few sturdy plants with less maintenance, more decorative stones and garden accessories like a Japanese Lantern perhaps with some lighting. I also use water fountains and bamboos for wall treatments.

If the area is really too small for these kind of garden accessories, I recommend garden planters especially to those living in high rise buildings with no soil provision of what so ever. You can put these different kinds of planters inside your home or even outside if you have a veranda or a terrace. An indoor planter made of fiber glass or steel is great for a dead corner space inside your home. It will serve as a decorative addition for your home. For verandas and terraces, you can use wrought iron planters or even concrete or wooden planters. Concrete planters are ideal for outdoors because you don't have to move it now and then. And it's easy to maintain and clean. You can also use plastic planters or the aluminum ones especially if you water your plants daily so that the planters will not produce rust. These decorative planters can also be used if you wanted to have a simple plant inside your house like putting it on top of your coffee table in your living room or in your kitchen for a relaxing aura. Any planters will do as long as feel happy having them around and you always choose what kind to use to suit your style and needs.

Not Just a Flower

2010-07-28T10:22:00.000+08:00

When I first started this landscaping business I don't have any idea which plant is this, which plant is that. I don't even know their common names much more their scientific ones. But in time, I have learned what plants should be used outdoors and what plants should be used indoors. I am already familiar with plants which are used as ground cover plants, shrubs, trees, foliages, flowering plants, air plants and aqua plants. Of all the plants and flowers that I have studied and learned, my favorite is the Bromeliad plant. Bromeliads are tropical plants that are easy to grow especially here in the Phils. Although this plant is a native in America, more Filipino plant growers are starting to propagate them. There are two kinds of bromeliads, the flowering type and the foliage types. The foliage types are those used as ornamental plants and can also be used in landscaping designs. These kind of bromeliads cost higher than the flowering ones. But I prefer the flowering bromeliads because of it's different variety of flowers. These photos shows only a few of those flowering bromeliads. I don't know (yet) the names of the other bromeliads but only one because it's my favorite :) The first photo is called Morgana, a bromeliad with spiky and strudy pink flower with some small lavender ones. I think the second photo is called Guzmania or what I heard from local growers as Cherry Bromeliads.

Collecting Rain to Save Water

2010-07-26T12:41:00.000+08:00

It's rainy season starting last month but the water level of our local dams are still not enough to provide and supply each and every household of clean water here in Metro Manila. So starting this month, the government instructed our local water suppliers to cut off our water supply by schedule. Here in our area, our water is being cut-off every other day, so we really have to save water so that it can accommodate our needs for at least two days.

But in my shop since we do not have a water line to supply us everyday water, we have built our own water tank made of concrete. During summer times we have to buy our water supply through delivery trucks which is too costly for us. So since the rain began, water is now abundant. We collect rainwater through the downspout of our roof by letting it flow through the concrete tank. We call it rain harvesting. We can also do that in our residences especially in areas in which the water is cut-off for almost a week. Have you heard of rain water barrels? These are hard plastic containers that are installed directly to roof downspouts to collect rain water. You can check out different designs and styles but basically it just looks like an ordinary barrel that will also look good in your backyard or your garden.

In other countries, they have state of the art rain barrels or what they call the rain barrel system in which they will install a full rain tank collector from your downspout and through your water line in the house. I think filtration is also installed so that the rain water will be filtered first before they can use it. So just think of the water that we will be saving if we also have a system like that. Not only that we have save a lot of money but also we have helped saving the environment. If you browse the internet for some of these rain barrels for sale, you can choose any design that will suit your lifestyle and needs. If you want to have everyday rain water, you go for their rain barrel system, if you only want water for say, watering your plants or for small cleaning purposes, you can avail of these lovely but very useful rain barrels.

Finished at Last!

2010-07-26T05:20:00.005+08:00

Last month after the summer season, we renovated our little garden here at home. Summer is already here and has been knocking in our door with a blazing heat! The old grass was destroyed and the soil became so hard because of lack of water. So when our new dog house was incorporated within the landscaping of the area, we started planting new plants and replaced the old grass. So this is our finished project. :)

Protein Bars for My Diet

2010-07-24T00:10:00.000+08:00

After my incident that early morning of having abdominal pain, I'm already afraid to eat too much food. The doctor said to try to eat just crackers to lessen the pressure of food intake to my stomach to avoid having pains again. So I only ate crackers for breakfast and lukewarm water. After an hour I felt hungry so I ate another cracker. But still, after an hour I felt hungry again. So I decided to try protein bars like the oh yeah protein bars with three varieties. They have the protein wafers, the natural protein bars and the high protein bars. I tried the natural protein bars at first because I was afraid that if I took too much I might have a painful attack again. The protein bars are more filling than the crackers. It doesn't feel heavy but it will satisfy your hunger longer. I tried so many protein bars in the market but this one I recommend greatly especially for those who are trying to loose their weight. Maybe a bar or two for the whole day will help me with my abdominal problem. And I hope it will also help me loose some pounds especially on the waist. I'm not getting any younger and I'm already near my 40's so I guess I have to watch my health starting today. I have to eat healthy foods and exercise more at least three times a week so that I won't be needing to go to the hospital or see my doctors anymore.

A very Painful Moment

2010-07-23T23:51:00.000+08:00

I was rushed to the emergency room of Paranaque Doctor's Hospital at 5 am this morning. While I was cooking our breakfast, I felt pain in my abdomen and it was excruciating I can't even walk. I screamed for my kids to help me and hubby brought me to the hospital. It's a good thing the hospital was only 5 mins. away from our house. The doctor there gave me some injectable medicines for the pain, took my blood for a CBC and we waited. After 5 minutes of administering the medicine to my veins, the pain was gone. I really don't know what happened to me at home. I thought I was going to faint for I never in my entire life felt that kind of pain. After three hours of waiting for the result of my CBC which turned out to be normal, my blood pressure also normal, I was discharged and went home. The doctor said that I should have my abdomen checked to find out what caused the pain. But her guess is too much acid so I really have to go to my doctor at St. Lukes for further check up. I have medicines to take every first thing in the morning to prevent the acid of my body to rise from my stomach up to my lungs for 14 days. If the attack will reoccur within that 14 days, I really have to be hospitalized. I just hope and pray that it won't.

Effective Online Marketing

2010-07-23T21:42:00.001+08:00

It's not enough for any business to have an office and a signboard to let people know that you're offering something. Most entrepreneur will use flyers, brochures, TV Ads campaign, tarpaulin signs and even radio advertising to promote their products and services. But what is the really effective and guaranteed marketing for proprietors like me nowadays? Using the internet today has become our daily routine. People are now a click away on finding what they need everyday without having to go out of their houses. So I guess the most effective way of marketing one's business is online marketing. The goal of having this kind of marketing is that even when your on the go, your business is making a profit everyday. Having a good and reliable SEO will help you earn more by having a high rate of traffic on your site. The higher the traffic, the better, the more you earn from your investment. Just make sure to choose wisely and confidently which online marketing company that will accommodate you anytime you need them and make sure that they can answer any questions or queries if the need arise. Having an effective and reliable online marketing service is a sign of a successful business.

Unique riches of Mindoro

2010-07-23T18:03:00.002+08:00

Did you know that Mindoro is famous for their different kinds and color of stones? These stones can be found along the beaches of White Sand Puerto Gallera, Mindoro Oriental. We've picked up a few stones especially the white ones, they're all so pretty and they can be placed inside an aquarium so you can always see their true colors.

The Passing of a Great Artist

2010-07-23T16:58:00.000+08:00

I'm not a great fan of paintings whether be it on oil or on charcoal. I can remember admiring a single painting or any kind of art whenever I see one. I am an Architectural graduate and I appreciate old buildings and interiors more and I consider them all works of art. I always wanted to visit Barcelona and Italy for they have the most beautiful and amazing buildings ever built. I only saw their works on magazines and books and how I wish that I could go there and admire these said buildings. During my browsing on the internet for more works of art I came across some artists and painters who just passed away and left their works of art for the world to admire. One of them is Pino Daeni. Like I said, I am not a great fan of fine paintings but when I saw what can be found in Pino Art I can't help but admire the paintings. Pino's painting where all hand embelished and all of his paintings where women of all types and ages I think. He captured their faces in his paintings as if the painting were alive. All of his works where beautiful! I love one of his paintings entitled "A Soft Place in my Heart", where there's a woman , I think it's a Mom with a little boy and a little girl. Pino just passed away recently but his art will always be remembered and admired. May you rest in peace .

The Pomelo Tree

2010-07-23T16:30:00.002+08:00

Have you seen a Pomelo fruit? Yup, here it is..... we saw this fruit when we went to Sabang Mindoro to celebrate our 17th wedding anniversary with my kids and sister-in-law. The tree was planted just below the resort area and I didn't noticed this tree at first, I accidentally glanced up and saw that there's a fruit hanging on this tree LOL! The fruit will change it's color into light yellow when it's time for harvest. Some say it can help treat diabetes because of it's sour taste.

Where can I find the best Web Hosting Hub?

2010-07-23T15:44:00.001+08:00

It's been more than a year now since I started this blog about my business in landscaping. I started it so I can share to others what I do for a living and at the same time express my love for the environment. This blog gives me the inspiration to learn from other bloggers too on how to take care of some of the plants and foliages that I am not familiar with. I came across with many bloggers who also have a passion for taking care of the environment and their love for different plants and trees. I feel now that having to post my thoughts and knowledge about landscaping is not enough, so I decided to take my blog to the next level and that is to publish this site on the best web hosting site that I could find. The problem is, there are so much to choose from and I don't know where to start. I visited my friends' site who are now having their site hosted and asked them what should know about web hosting and how can I find the best for my site. They told me that the first thing that I have to do is to read some of the web hosting hub reviews. In that way, I would know what is the best web hosting hub and what are the most popular among bloggers. Like in some sites offering web hosting services, they have the top ten best web hosting site with popular reviews. These web hosts have unlimited and guaranteed web hosting services that are surely affordable and reliable for small-business like mine. Getting the best web hosting will surely invite more readers to my blog and I will surely have more clients to serve.

Camayan Resort in Subic - renovation complete!

2010-07-22T15:55:00.001+08:00

This is the second time that we went to Camayan Beach Resort and I was surprised to see that the place was renovated and new buildings were built. As you can see, the canopy in the middle is a newly added attraction to the resort's hotel lobby. Very nice indeed. The second photo is also a new building. This is the newly built 2nd hotel building of the resort which has accommodation up to the third floor.

I also like their new path walk here which will lead you to their old hotel accommodation. That was where our rooms were located. You can also see here that their landscaping were also been improved and more plants and trees were added to have the full nature effect of the resort.

High Quality Mail Boxes

2010-07-21T11:02:00.000+08:00

In my line of business, which is landscaping on residential and commercial buildings, I have to know the needs of each of my clients. Some of them would prefer soft landscaping, meaning... my designs should only include plants and trees. But some would prefer the complete package, all kinds of plats and trees plus some garden accessories like lighting effects, water falls and even their own mailboxes may it be pre-designed or customized to their own liking.

Here in the Philippines, mailboxes are sometimes incorporated in the design of the building. Some doesn't need one but more are likely to have one specially those living in subdivisions. In our area, all residential houses here are equipped with their own mail boxes just outside their main gate of the house. The mailboxes here are all the same but I guess that we have the right to alter it if we really wanted to. For my mail box for instance, I really don't like the design of our mail box so I browsed the internet to see if I could find some quality mailboxes that are affordable. I found some unique and modern designs of wall mount mail box that I know my neighbors will surely be envy once I installed it to my house. Have you seen anything like this one that will make you stop and wonder, is that a mailbox? Well, I really love this modern style of mailbox and I can't wait to have for my home! The company is shipping worldwide and I think the price is very reasonable. Kindly visit their site bu following the links above and see for yourselves what will suite you well. They have different designs both modern and contemporary depending on your taste and style. My house is modern so I chose from their wide variety of modern mail box designs. Enjoy your browsing guys! :)

Updated Disclosure Policy

2010-07-21T09:43:00.001+08:00

This policy is valid from 20 July 2010

This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.

The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content.

The owner(s) of this blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements, we always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the bloggers' own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

This blog does contain content which might present a conflict of interest. This content may not always be identified.

To get your own policy, go to http://www.disclosurepolicy.org

The unhelpful heritage vanishes.

*** 2010 Philippine Travel Mart

2010-03-03T13:11:00.002+08:00

My husband's family has a resort in Bulacan where we went to every weekend after school days of my kids. It's called DJ Paradise Resort and Hotel, Inc. located 5 mins. after Tabang exit in Malolos Bulacan. Every time Travel Mart Phils. will hold an exhibit, the company participate in the event that is usually shown in SM Megamall Bldg. A. Today is the opening for the year 2010 and Paradise is once again invited to join this event.

My husband and I helped with the setting of the booth. We brought some plants and greens that will compliment the mega-pool model of the resort and the added waterfalls from our office . My husband's family had an eye for beauty. Although the booth is only 2 mts. by 2 mts., they decorated it to attract people and it really looked very nice and soothing with all the water and greens in unison.

Spreading the Love

2010-02-14T21:39:00.001+08:00

I just want to greet everyone a Happy Valentine's Day! Hope everyone is enjoying and spreading the love with their loved ones.....

Looking at the Sky on Friday

2010-02-11T09:02:00.004+08:00

A long drive going back to Moreno Valley is not that boring especially when you're at the back seat sleeping or just waiting what time will you arrive at your destination. This sky photo was taken by my sister-in-law while his boyfriend was driving from Las Vegas where we spent the New Year of 2010. We were already going back to Moreno Valley to pack our things for the following day. We were only visiting my hubby's sister and we came from the Philippines. All the good and happy times together were ended the following because we already have to go home. The skies here are really beautiful compared to our place in Manila.

Mowers on the Go

2010-01-19T13:29:00.004+08:00

Having a landscaping company or should I say, when you're in the garden and landscaping business you don't have a reason for not having a well kept garden at your home. It's so ironic why others with all the access to their equipments and garden tools still maintain a non-kept garden.

Summer is just around the corner here in Manila and the weather forecast today till end of May will be very hot. This is the right time to tend our gardens especially our lawns because they tend to wilt easily during this summer season. What we do is we first mow the grass using lawnmowers so that the cutting of the grass will be even. Then we soak the lawn with water every morning so that the soil will still be a bit damp in the afternoon. But if the weather is really too hot, we water our gardens twice a day or we use our irrigation system in which timed sprinklers are being used to help us save water.

One of my favorite brands in lawnmowers is the Bosch Rotak mowers. These are electric rotary mowers that works well on small areas. These mowers consists of innovative combs that will give your lawns a very neat touch and trims the edges perfectly. Like the petrol-driven lawnmowers, the bosch rotak provides the power that will satisfy every user with it's unimaginable power.

But for those who are saving power and electricity, there is also the option of petrol lawnmowers. These lawnmowers are powered with the use of petrol oils which can be diesel or gasoline. For me, these are ideal for large areas especially when dealing with golf courses and putting greens that stretches for miles. I think these mowers conserve more power and less maintenance when it comes to its parts.

Whatever kind of mower you'd prefer, the beauty of your home on the outside depends on the beauty of your garden. And its beauty will also depend if you will always have a well-kept lawn and garden. Always make time to keep your lawn neat and well trimmed by using these mowers. They will really make the job easier, faster and worthwhile. It's a very good investment for your family and home.

Today's Flowers #11

2009-05-17T23:28:00.005+08:00

Medenilla

Okna Multi Flora

Tooth Implants

2009-05-13T20:10:00.002+08:00

I have heard so many implants these days starting on hair implants, breast implants, organ implants like the heart, liver, and kidneys. In the dental world, tooth implants are also peformed. I am so afraid of procedures that requires operations like implants. Even though they will administer anestecia so that I will not feel anything, I really can't see myself doing the procedure. But if you ask me when the time comes when the dentist will ask me if what do I prefer, false teeth or implants? I would definitely choose implants. I can't imagine myself using false teeth!

I didn't take a good care of my teeth when I was still a child so I'm paying for it now. I already have 2 molars gone and there ar spaces between my teeth. So since I'm not going to use false teeth, I'll make do with the implants so that my teeth will have no spaces in between. I think the first thing the dentist will do to my teeth is to have the implants in place then I will have to have braces so that my teeth will be tighten to minimize the spaces in between in teeth. I have read from the internet that the best dentists that uses this kind of procedure can be found in Arizona Dental clinics. They have the best Arizona dentists in town especially Mesa Arizona dentists. So if you're planning to have a tooth impalnt procedure, be sure that your dentist is well informed about this procedure. Although it's an out-patient procedure, it's still an operation.

My Labor of Love

2009-05-11T21:56:00.004+08:00

I just want to share with you all what my labor of love is. I arranged a basket of roses, carnation and a very beautiful flower which I don't know the name, LOL.... as a gift for my mom on Mother's Day. I can easily buy a bouque of roses or an already arranged flowers on a flower shop but I know that my mom will greatly appreciate these flowers because she knows that this is truly my labor of love for her. Happy Mother's Day Mom!

Today's Flowers #10

2009-05-11T17:34:00.007+08:00

~~ Coral Tree ~~

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Advertising on Blogs

2009-05-08T23:08:00.003+08:00

Blogging has been my stress reliever for quite some time now. It's been 2 years now since I started I blogs and I've been having fun doing posts about my everyday activities especially with my work and business. It's like having an online journal of your daily happenings. I can also stress out all of my worries and problems here whenever I feel I needed to. Like I said, blogging is a stress reliever.

But did you know that some bloggers monetise their blogs by having advertisers advertise on their sites? Some will requests original and honest product reviews from websites and you can get paid to blog. It's like having an online job at the comfort of your own home. And I think it's going global and many bloggers are grabbing this kind of revenue and opportunity. You can get paid from $5 up to $100 per post depending on your page rank and traffic. The higher the traffic and rank, the higher the offer advertisers will give you. One blog advertising that I discovered is PayingPost.com. Not only that they help bloggers but advertisers as well to build up their business.

Like me for instance, I have a business in landscaping and pest control at the moment. Blog advertising will help me bring in more cortumers if I advertise on related blogs like mine. It will also save me thousands instead of spending on billborads and telephone directories for advertising. More and more people now are depending on the internet for information so I guess this is really a very good way to gain more profit not only as a blogger but as an advertise ras well. So advertising on blogs will really help any business.

Today's Flowers #9

2009-05-04T21:32:00.008+08:00

~~ White Powder Puff ~~

This is the first time that I saw a white powder puff. Usually there are red ones and I'm really amazed to see this one of a kind powder puff. Do you know any other color?

Exterra at work

2009-04-05T22:24:00.004+08:00

Here's a peek on how Exterra works. This in-ground station had already been infested with termites after a day of installing just right besides a termite colony. The Focus, a termite attractant really works because you can see here that after 24 hours of installing this station, the termites are already made their way inside it, devouring the 6 pieces wooden interceptors. I've already put the Requiem bait to start the elimination of the whole colony.

Today's Flowers - Water Lily

2009-04-05T18:19:00.005+08:00

Camera Critters #7 - Kingdom of Kois

2009-04-05T14:42:00.005+08:00

Camera Critters #6 - Thinking of a New Pet

2009-03-30T19:51:00.004+08:00

I was thinking of having another pet dog on our house. We already have a Belgian Mallinoi and a Shitz Tsu. I was having seconds thoughts weather to have another Shitz Tsu or another breed this time. If I'm going for another breed, I think having a Siberian Husky in the house would be very cool. When we went to the Vet's clinic last Saturday to buy Coffee's powder (my Shitz Tsu pet), we saw this very big and friendly Alaskan Malamute on the petshop besides the vet's clinic. They also have two Siberian Huskies there, a male and a female. This Alaskan Malamute is a male named Boxter. I was scared at first especially when he stood up to greet me and my two kids. The caretaker assured us that Boxter is very friendly. True enough, he let my daughter take his picture and even let her pet him. He is a year old and would grow even more bigger. Wow! Maybe I'll just stict to the huskies, LOL!

First Stations

2009-03-25T20:31:00.007+08:00

These are the stations that I installed in our house in Paranaque. I installed 11 in ground stations, 1 above ground and a bait bag inside our cabinet filled with bait because the termite infestation there is already severe.

Before installing the in ground stations, a hole should be made using an auger, then put 1 1/2 scoops of Focus termite attractant then moist with distilled water to release CO2.

In Ground Stations around the perimeter of the house

Above Ground Stations for existing termite infestation indoors filled with bait (the ceiling is already infested by termites)

Bait bag filled with Requiem

My Initial Stocks

2009-03-18T09:54:00.009+08:00

At last, I already purchased my initial stock for my new pest control business. Exterra allowed me to purchase the stocks even if I haven't submitted the requirements they needed for me to have a license. I just gave them a photo copy of my DTI application as proof that I will submit eventually. I am so excited to start right away, installing the first stations on our own house. Here are the initial stocks that I purchase to start with.

My first stocks

Car decals, brochures and Uniform Tags

In Ground Stations, Above Ground Stations and Bait Bag

Termite Attractant

Today's Flowers - Flowers from Florida

2009-03-14T21:43:00.004+08:00

Camera Critters #5 - Pawikan

2009-03-14T21:16:00.005+08:00

This lovely creature is best seen in the deep waters of Palawan. We saw this baby Pawikan when we were snorkling along the beaches of El Nido, Palawan. Our tour guide allowed us to hold this baby turtle for a photo shoot. After the shots, the turtle was set free again to enjoy the waters of the sea. I think these turtles are already near extinction if we don't do something to save them.

Update on My New Business

2009-03-14T17:10:00.004+08:00

The very important requirement that EXTERRA required me to submit to be able to sign up to their program are DTI certification, Business Permit and BIR Registration. As I mentioned before, I have to apply for new documents because this is a new business and has a different business classification from my present business which is a garden shop and landscaping services. This is a Pest Control so I have to apply as a pest control operator to be able to sign up.

I talked to their sales representative if I could submit the documents of DJ Garden while waiting for my documents for the pest control services, so that I could already sign up and purchase my initial stocks of EXTERRA. I have to do something with the termites already eating up my whole cabinet. Luckily, after she talked to their Marketing Vice-President if I could sign up already, they agreed for me to submit the documents for the meantime but I also have to submit a photo copy of the DTI application form for the new said business as proof that I will still submit the new documents. I told them no problem.

So first thing on Monday morning I will go to their office and submit my requirements and I will have the opporunity to purchase my initial stocks. I was so happy that they allowed me and I can't wait to start the new business..... starting on our own house. I'm still crossing my fingers that my new documents will be processed as soon as possible.

New Business

2009-03-11T18:00:00.005+08:00

Have you heard about EXTERRA? It's a system of intercepting and baiting termites from the ground. This is now the most effective way of eliminating termites before it gets to your house. The system is that you intercept them by putting up in-ground stations (IGS) around the perimeter of your house. It is installed every 3 to 5 meters apart. When the termites hit the stations, then the baiting comes in. The bait has an active compound that the termites will love to eat and will bring to their colony, to their queen until in such time when the compound reacts, the whole colony will be eliminated.

This is the new business that I'm putting up right now. I just attended a whole day seminar with the company who is the sole distributor of EXTERRA products and I am hoping that they will approve and issue me a license. But the process of applying for a new Business Permit, BIR Registration, DTI, and a PCO license will take long. I just hope that I can start within the month because my first project will be our own house.

Right now, and I am hoping that it will not do anymore damage as it is...... we have termite infestation already inside our house. I think this will be a good start for me to practice implementing what I learned from the seminar I attended. And I hope that I can get more clients because this product don't come cheap like the liquids and powder. And this product is very safe because it's non-toxic. No faul smells and residues that can harm your pets and other family members. I'll give more insights here when I get my initial stock and some photos of the product. All products are made in the US, so you can really say that the product is not only effective but also very safe.

Fashionable Bean Bags

2009-03-11T17:28:00.005+08:00

I'm the kind of person that's always looking for new things, new ideas and especially new designs of modern or contemporary garden accessories as well as garden furniture. There are countless of designs to choose from especially when you look in the internet. Locally made furniture here in our country can sometimes be a bit of old fashioned so I really have to look for more in the internet for the imported ones.

Upon browsing the internet, I came across to a site that offers modern and contemporary bean bags like Leather Bean Bags. Did you know that bean bags nowadays can be used outdoors? Yes! There are bean bags available in the UK that are manufactured especially for outdoor purposes like on the swimming pool areas, playgrounds, and even in lawns and gardens. These are called Outdoor Bean Bags.

As you can see here in these photos, these are called conversion lounger. It can be used as an ordinary Bean Bag Chair or can be used, as I said, for outdoor purposes like for sun bathing. Now why narrow the use of these bean bags when you can use it anywhere you like? Just imagine the endless possibilities on how you can create a modern and contemporary atmosphere anywhere by using these simple but elegant bean bags.

Winter Junifer

2009-03-04T07:30:00.000+08:00

I called this plant Winter Junifer because I saw during our visit in Florida last December. Yup.... although as we know that it doesn't snow in Florida, they had a way of making a theme park looked like it's Winter time there. I took this photo in Universal Studios, on Dr. Suess theme park. The theme is winter and wherever you look and go it's winter time there. I think they sprayed some artificial snow here so that the plants will look as if it's really snowing in Florida.

Today's Flowers #6 - My Birthday Roses

2009-03-02T16:04:00.004+08:00

Last December we went to Canada to celebrate Christmas there with my SIL and other relatives of my MIL. The day we arrive was the day of my birthday. And one of my hubby's aunt brought me these lovely 1 dozen of yellow roses.

Camera Critters # 4 - Jaws

2009-03-01T21:37:00.006+08:00

I know, I know.... it's not a critter, it's a monster! Actually, it's not real. This was taken on our trip to Universal Studios last December during our Florida trip. Scary isn't it? Anyways, I didn't have any photo of any critter so I thought of posting this magnificent creature instead.

Skywatch Friday #21 - Florida Sunrise

2009-02-20T21:43:00.007+08:00

It was indeed a very warm morning when we head out this early morning to go explore Disney World! Yup.... this is the day we went to the most wonderful theme park well known all over the world. Florida is known to be famous in growing different varieties of oranges. As you can see here camouflaging this beautiful sunrise are big orange trees growing just along this service road. We can see all the oranges from these trees while traveling on this highway.

First Project for 2009 - A Good Start

2009-02-18T11:36:00.013+08:00

2009 seems to be a promising year for our landscaping business. We've just finished a landscaping job of a residential building for Gov. Amante of Agusan del Norte. He has a new house in Quezon City where he and his father will be living whenever they are here in Manila. We also had two more pending landscaping jobs where our clients were old classmates of my hubby in high school. We are hoping it will get approved. This is a good sign for us. Hope that we can get more projects in the future.

Skywatch Friday #20 - Smiley Day at Epcot, Florida

2009-01-20T20:38:00.004+08:00

While strolling on Epcot Resort in Florida, we noticed this smiley face being made by a tiny plane in the sky. This really made our day and also made us smile too.

Skywatch Friday #19 - Across the Field

2008-12-12T14:05:00.005+08:00

I took this photo when I went with my hubby to Clark, Pampanga during his weekly visits there. This sunset is quite stunning across this rice field on our way back home.

East-West : Launching of New Varieties

2008-12-04T21:05:00.008+08:00

My husband and I were invited to attend and witness the launching of East-West Seeds Company's new varieties of their ornamental and flowering plants and also some organic vegetables. It was held this morning at Baliuag, Bulacan. I realy enjoyed taking pictures of their new flowering varieties especially the Vincas, Zinias, Petunias, Marigold and different varieties of chilis. Here is the entrace to the garden showroom. After purchasing some seeds and chili plants, we were offered some snacks and I got some souveniers too.

Sweet Bell Pepper (Emperor)
I bought one pot of this new variety of Red Bell Pepper for my vegetable garden at home. I also bought the Hot Pepper and the Django Hot Pepper.

Organic Vegetable Garden

This is where all the different kinds of organic vegetable are planted. They also offer vegetable seeds if you want to propagate these vegetables yourself.

Different varieties of Zinias and Dianthus

Skywatch Friday #18

2008-12-04T20:31:00.004+08:00

Today's Flowers #6 - Orchids

2008-11-30T19:09:00.003+08:00

A Phone Call from a Celeb

2008-11-22T18:32:00.003+08:00

Last week, if I'm not mistaken, that is a Wednesday, I received a phone call from Mr. Boy Abunda himself. You know the host of 'The Buzz' on Channel 2. Wow! Upon hearing his name and voice I was dumb struck because I can't believe a celeb will call me on my shop. Anyways, it seems that he went the other day to buy some Pole Bamboo from my shop and was just confirming me that he will be back soon to purchase the said plants. True his word he came back this afternoon and called me again on my mobile phone and was very polite to ask if I can give him a discount. Of course I said yes , no problem at all. He purchased 20 pcs. of my Pole Bamboos and 12 pcs. of Maki Podocorpus. My driver and shop help delivered the plants to Del Monte Avenue in QC. A delivery truck will be waiting for them and the plants will be shipped to Isabella province. He has a new house being landscaped there. Hope he'll come back again and purchase some more plants from me.

Holiday Eyewear for Less

2008-11-22T12:21:00.004+08:00

Every year when the holiday season comes, it is very hard to decide and think what's the best gift that you can give for someone special like family and friends. There's this #8 Complete Rx Eyeglasses which offers holiday glass frames from Zenni Optical. Zenni Optical has been the popular online eyglasses shop that you can find in the internet. Whether for reading or correction eyeglasses, these holiday eyewear is just the perfect gift that you can give this holiday season.

Today's Flowers #5 - Dancing Lady

2008-11-22T08:30:00.001+08:00

Camera Critter #3 - Bark Beetle

2008-11-22T08:09:00.000+08:00

Have you seen this kind of beetle in your area? Our locals here in the Philippines call these big, hard shelled beetle "Uwang". These critters are very destructive especially to our Royal palms here. They bore through the bark of palm trees with their big horns until they bore through the entire bark of the tree until it wilts. I saw this one when I was purchasing some plants for my garden shop. If you hold them they make noisy squishy sound like they are blowing something from their mouth.

Skywatch Friday #17 - Early Morning Breeze

2008-11-21T16:40:00.000+08:00

I love watching the sky every morning. These past few days has been very cold during the early mornings maybe it's because the cold season is fast approaching. We don't have snow here in our country but it gets cold during the months of December to February.

Zenni On Fox

2008-11-09T00:34:00.001+08:00

Great news! Did you know that eyeglasses with variable dimension frames from Zenni has been featured in fox news? Yes you heard it right. The company that sells great eyeglasses for less which is Zenni Optical was on Fox news just recently. This means that really sell their eyeglasses at affordable price and you can easily choose from their different frame design just like the photo here. Try browsing their site and see what I'm talking about.

Today's Flowers #4 - Morgana

2008-11-08T22:25:00.000+08:00

Skywatch Friday #16

2008-11-07T13:48:00.001+08:00

Today's Flower #3 - Mini Santan

2008-10-27T20:08:00.000+08:00

An old time favorite flower here in our country.... The Mini Santan. Mini because it has small leaves and small flowers that are bunched together in one stem just like a Million Flower. This flowers goes way back during my childhood days maybe in the 70's and 80's. But still, many garden owners prefer these flowers for it's sturdiness and high resistance to all kinds of weather(except maybe winter LOL). It is commonly used here in our area as hedging.

Skywatch Friday #15

2008-10-24T06:27:00.000+08:00

It's Friday again and it's my favorite meme day, Skywatch! This is the view when me and my kids are on our way to their school yesterday morning just before 6 am. A beautiful sunrise to start a very beautiful day, isn't it?

Wordless Wednesday # 13- Japanese Lantern

2008-10-22T17:25:00.000+08:00

Today's Flowers #2 - Unknown

2008-10-17T22:29:00.000+08:00

I saw these very beautiful flower when we visited Baguio City at my in-law's cottage house. I don't have any idea what this flower is called. I assumed that this is our local Gumamela or in scientific name Hibiscus plant. Shame one me. I am suppose to know this but really, I don't. I've known almost all the flowers and plants around me that this flower really got me LOL.

For all flower lovers out there please join us here have the fun of your life!

Camera Critters #2- Polar Bear

2008-10-17T20:36:00.000+08:00

I was always amazed by this wonderful mammal. Though we don't have them here in our tropical country because they only live where there are tons of snow. This polar bear is in hybernation..... it's winter time when we took his photo in Toronto Canada Zoo. Most of the animals here were sleeping when we visited and I love watching this polar bear on his slumber sleep. Very peaceful.

Busy Again

2008-10-16T18:20:00.000+08:00

Well as usual when I'm very busy I tend to forget to post on this blog. Shame on me. I've been very busy again these past few days because my online work has been back to 8 hours per shift again. So no time to blog at all. By the time I log out I'm so ready to rest and sleep so I really don't have time to post here. But anyways, I'll try to catch up on the weekly memes that I missed. So I hope you'll bear with me. Thanks!

Today's Flowers #1 - Petunias

2008-09-28T09:55:00.000+08:00

I saw this meme on Carol's blog and got interested since I have this other blog besides My Treasures specifically for my posts of my work and my passion for plants and flowers. This meme is perfect for my blog and I guess I'll be participating in this every week so that I'll have a reason to look up to some of our local flowers here in my country. For a start, I'm posting here different petunias that we found in a flee market in Baguio when we were there, I think two years ago. And I think I already posted these pretty flowers here andI don't have new photos of other flowers for this meme so I posted this photo again. Anyways, these flowers likes to bloom on colder areas and what better place is there but Baguio City, summer capital of the Philippines.

Hope to see some of you here and get to know other flowers as well. Enjoy!

Camera Critters #1 - Centipedes

2008-09-26T09:28:00.000+08:00

Rainy days are here again and these little creatures surely made their way out to enjoy the rain. These are garden centipedes. They don't grow big like the wild ones we see in rain forests but they just change color from brown, like the one here to black with yellow spikes at their feet. It looks like that the black ones are already in their adult stage and the brown one is just starting to evolve. Well we have lots of them here now in my garden and some are even crawling inside our house.

If you're a pet or critter lover, join us here and have fun. See you!

In Time for Halloween

2008-09-18T19:19:00.001+08:00

One of my talents aside from doing landscaping jobs and designing gardens is the art of flower arranging. I studied the basics, bridal and advance of flower arranging and I really quite love doing it and it became a hobby for me. But as a businesswoman, a hobby can also profitable. Every year during All Saint's Day, it is our culture or tradition that we pay respect for our dead by offering them candles and flowers. Not only just flowers but arranged flowers for that matter. I've been arranging fo this occassion for almost 5 years in a row now and it's been quite enjoyable everytime I make these flower arrangements for different people and especially for loved ones.

In other countries, they have a different tradition. They have a Halloween celebration before the All Saint's Day. They celebrate this occasion every year just like Christmas and New Year. They decorate their homes, have parties and even give gifts to friends and families. And one popular gift is the giving of Halloween flowers. For the kids and young alike they are given bags of goodies and candies for Halloween while for the adults of young and old alike, I think giving them flowers and other related plants to Halloween is the best gift one can give on this occasion. Since it's Halloween, I bet the colors vary from orange to red to yellow and all the bright colors of Halloween. Maybe this year I'll try giving flowers for my living family and friends instead of giving for the dead. It will be quite a change.

Skywatch Friday # 14- Before and After

2008-09-18T19:19:00.000+08:00

I've always love watching the sun set almost everyday. This is a shot from my daughter's cellphone while waiting for my sons outside their school. I fetched them too early from their table tennis training and while waiting inside our car, just across the street I saw the sun setting just in time.

And after a few minutes it disappeared and already hidden from the horizon.

Organic Mattresses

2008-09-01T20:31:00.001+08:00

I've been dying to buy a new set of bed for the past couple of months now for our bedroom in Bulacan. The bed that we are using right now is the same age as my son Rafael..... 13 years old. I've been having back pains already and sometimes I can't sleep because I can't find my right place on the bed that I am comfortable with. So all I do is toss and turn until I finally fell asleep in the wee hours of the morning already.

A few weeks ago when mu husband went to Clark Pampanga, we passed by some furniture shops that sells rattan finished and wicker furniture sets. So I told my hubby to stop by and as I went over their furnitures, I came across with this King size bed set complete with two side tables, a foot bed bench and a mattress to go with the bed frame. I liked the set very much but I don't think the mattress is appropriate for us to sleep on it. Browsing the net is what I do everyday during my spare time and as I was browsing for beds, I came across this website that offers organic mattress. Actually, I got very curious because it's the first time that I heard that there's such a thing as an orgagic mattress. I didn't know till that instant that the mattresses that we've been using for 13 years now are chemically manufactured that causes some health problems even canser and brain problems for babies. Wow. So maybe that's the reason why I can't sleep on that bed anymore. Good thing about this organic mattresses, it's all made from natural materials that are safe to use ever by small children. I guess I have to try these mattresses so that I can have the most comfortable and soundless sleep ever without the dangers to our health.

My Passion for Flowers

2008-07-20T07:54:00.000+08:00

Aside from landscaping and designing gardens for commercial and residential areas, I also have passion for flowers. I even took some seminars and training on how to arrange different floral arrangements for different occasions. I took the Basic, Advance and Bridal training and seminars of floral arranging. It's quite fun and it's a different approach from ny usual work on landscaping. This is a very fulfilling hobby to me because as I enjoy working and arranging different cut flowers and foliages I also earn some extra revenues from it. On special occasions like All Saints Day, Valentine's Day, Graduation or Mother's Day, I don't have to go to flowers shops to order these arrangements but instead, I make them. There is this one time that when my brother got married, I volunteer to do his wedding flowers as a token and also as a wedding gift to him and his bride. On every event whether it's a wedding, debut, graduation, or just a simple gathering, there is nothing like having fresh and beautiful flowers around as decorations and centerpieces for buffets and tables. I also send flowers to my special friends and family as a thank you gift or for someone who had just passed away. For me, flowers really will make my day complete. My kids knowing that I love flowers will give me birthday flowers for my birthday. They told me that it's my day and rest day to do the arrangements so they ordered the bouquets just for me.

Is Nouveau Riche a Scam? Believe it or Not...

2008-07-18T20:00:00.000+08:00

Have you heard of Nouveau Riche University? It is a University abroad that specializes in Real Estates investing and Real estates studies. Many people enrolled in this University believing that having the knowledge and training to become a real estate investor or on any business regarding real estate, their life can be changed dramatically. I really don't know if I will believe in these testimonials by students, professors and employees of this University but I gave it a full review of their blog to find out more of what others call the Nouveau Riche Scam. According to some of the testimonials found in this blog, they even quit their jobs because of the income they are receiving from their real estate business. There is this one guy telling that after a week of returning from his college he already earned $16,000! Wow! That's really a lot from a starter like him. The blog says that Nouveau Riche Scam is not true. So why others think so? I really don't know. I don't see anything from their site and blog that will say otherwise. Maybe because it's too good to be true? How can you earn so much for only a fraction of a time? This University is really is something. Turning their students into successful businessmen and women. Check out their site and see if Nouveau Riche Scam is true or not. You'll be the judge. Believe or not?....

Wordless Wednesday #12 - Fountain of Youth?

2008-07-16T01:00:00.000+08:00

Wordless Wednesday #11 - View from Above (CN Tower)

2008-07-09T09:11:00.000+08:00

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Prescription Eyeglasses for only $8

2008-07-08T21:12:00.000+08:00

Are you having some eye problems and needed to see your eye doctor? Problems like can't see clearly when looking far ahead or by looking very near. You need to see your doctor as soon as possible because these things might get worse. Eye problems must be dealt with immediately. Now if you need the best prescription eyeglasses with just a fraction of the cost, check out some incredible stylish new frames from Zenni. They offer a wide range or variable dimension frames from Zenni. From their collection of beautiful frames comes the Zenni Optical $8 Rx Eyeglasses. Now that's the best price you can find in the market for your eyes.

No Projects, No Post

2008-07-08T21:10:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since a post something about my work in landscaping. Since my last project last May I haven't done any work at all. Well, I guess because of the storms and typhoons we have been experiencing since its already rainy season here. People just don't like buying plants when it's raining. They also don't want their newly landscaped garden be washed away by the storm is ever they contacted us to do the job. So this is the season where we don't have jobs to do......SIGH! Business is slow so I need some cost cutting to do so that my finances will not be affected. Hope that it will catch up soon. We're out of funds right now.

Spice up your home and garden with some Patio Furnitures

2008-07-08T17:59:00.000+08:00

Having done so many landscaping projects mostly on residential buildings, I don't just put plants to beautify the area but I also suggest to the owner some outdoor furnitures to go with their garden and patios. Not only that I design gardens but I always make a point to put some of these garden accessories or what they call patio furnitures like the all-weather wicker sets and some aluminum made. I make sure that my clients will be fully satisfied with my work and these outdoor furnitures are just the right accessories to go with such beautiful garden and also be perfect around the pool areas if a client have one. But most of the residences that I landscaped have their own patios. It would also be perfect and very useful if they have their own grilling area so that not only that they will enjoy the gardens but also enjoy these patio furnitures whenever they will have a barbeque party with family and friends. These grillers will come in handy for outdoor parties and activities in most homes these days. It's better and convenient to entertain guests outdoors with the addition of these said furnitures. Not only that they will have a beautiful view of the gardens but also they will comfortable as well.

Skywatch Friday #13 - The Night Birds

2008-07-03T21:50:00.001+08:00

These are bats flying from their nests as the sun sets. When we went to Palawan in Club Paradise Resort, these night birds are just a few of their natural inhabitants there. Catching them or killing them is prohibited by the resort owner. We can clearly see them flee from the pool area where we swim. They're not vampire bats so they don't attack people. They serve as additional tourist attraction for the resort.

***Wordless Wednesday #10 - "Here kitty,kitty..."

2008-07-02T09:56:00.000+08:00

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Everyone is at Risk

2008-07-02T09:55:00.000+08:00

Did you know that browsing the internet, logging to your accounts online or just checking on something unusual like the news can be too risky for us all? Yes, we are all at risk when we started to go online. Have you heard about online hackers, phishing scam or what others call identity theft? This can easily happen to anyone one of us especially to those who uses the internet 24 hours a day 7 days a week. These so called online thieves can get our passwords and even our pin numbers to access our online accounts such as our emails and most especially our online bank accounts. Millions and millions of people are being hacked everyday by these professional thieves and we must be ready for them. We must protect our identity through lifelock. This is a company or a system that will have you protected and guarantee your identity to up to $1,000,000. Lifelock.com is USA's no.1 identity protection that you can really count on. They also offer this amazing lifelock promotion code the RD17. If you apply for an annual membership fee, the first 30 days of your protection is absolutely free and you can get a big discount of $11. Now that's a really big savings for a worry free protection online.

***Wordless Wednesday #9 - Sunset at the Beach

2008-06-25T12:35:00.000+08:00

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***Skywatch Friday #12 - Mangroves

2008-06-13T06:00:00.000+08:00

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We went to Palawan last week for our summer vacation with the whole family. This is our first boat ride going to the resort.... a river with magnificent mangrove trees on both sides and then it channels to the open sea going to the resort. It's a good thing that the skies are clear with no hint of rain at all.

***Wordless Wednesday

2008-06-11T18:23:00.001+08:00

~~WW: TREASURE OF THE SEA ~~

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Secure your Identity with Lifelock

2008-06-09T18:33:00.000+08:00

Everyday thousands and thousands of people are using and depending on the internet with their everyday routines and activities. Not only adults but our children needs information to learn new things and sometimes they needed to reasearch or search the internet for their assignments in school. Logging in and out of the internet is not that safe especially when you spend almost the whole day of your working time surfing the net. When we use the internet more often, we are prone to hacking. Our daily activities in the net, the time and schedule are easily monitored by professional hackers. When they already knew your internet pattern, they can easily hacked into any account you have for example your emails and other bank accounts online. They can easily retrieve your passwords and can log-in into your account without you knowing it.

This is commonly called Identity Theft or internet hacking. Life lock can help you with regards to these dangerous hackers by securing your identity up to $1,000,000.00 with a security code. This means that you can now log-in and out of the internet without the fear of others hacking into your account by providing secure websites and passwords protected by them. In Lifelock.com you can avail of their lifelock promo code that gives you a 30 day free and a $11 savings when you became a member for a year. Now that's a big saving. I can now use the internet whenever and wherever I want without any fear from these hackers.

Sailing with the Lord

2008-06-01T21:42:00.000+08:00

Have you ever been to a cruise in the Mediterranean? Or in a cruise sailing on a yacht like ship with it's finest accommodations and facilities? Try sailing on a Christian Cruise s with Bob Cornuke and other Bible teachers on an 8 day sailing adventure. You will be brought to Athens on the first day for a tour of Mars Hills and to Parthenon. After that, sail for a day on the sea with bible teachings some sharing. Next, you're off to Dikili where you will find the two most preserved church sites called the Pergamum. This amazing site overlooks the mediterranean seas. You can stroll along the beach for relaxation or off you go to another church site. For the next tour, you will hear some teachings on the actual amphitheater where John held his preachings in Ephesus. There you will also witness the largest archeological excavation site in the mediterrennean, where Rome was laid out. This Christian Cruise will also take you to Patmos where the cave of John could be found. After that, enjoy a few hours of bicycle and scooter ride along the island. Haven't have enough? After this eight day cruise, you can avail of the extended sail of 5 days to other different religious places. So book now and have the most precious moment sailing with the Lord on these Christian Cruises.