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Sunday, November 30, 2008

Making Memories On My Own!


The other week, I started my first Special Sunday where I combine my and in one post.


I missed it last Sunday since I opted to rest my colds...


Today, I want to make it official, every Sunday here will be a celebration of life through sunset and sunrise...in different forms!

Below is just one of the many facets of Mariposa's life...

The writer in her...

The ironies in her life...

The fond memories she gathers from the magic of her imagination...





As the last rays of sunset lingers
a moment over the silent fields...

As it slowly surrenders into
the oblivion of the night...

I find myself humming softly
not to some melody

but of something else...
some place else,

a place remembered...
some moment reminisced;

eternal fields of green
where no one else has been

and the memory is strengthened
by the feeling of you,
with me dancing in your arms.

Ah, memories with you always feels good,
even those which I have only imagined!


To join Sunday Sunrise - Sunset, click HERE.

To know more about Sacred Life Sunday, visit this LINK.

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Fun Monday's Next Host!


THIS IS A STICKY POST


Please scroll down for my regular entry...

Let me send out my warmest THANK YOU to all of you who participated Fun Monday this week. I really had fun reading your entries...they were both entertaining...and inspiring!

Ari_1965 will host next week's Fun Monday, just visit her anytime this week for next week's theme! She can be found HERE!



Friday, November 28, 2008

Battling Insomnia






sweet evening breeze roars
like a monster ordering
"You go to sleep now!"



Please don't forget to visit other people's wonderful haiku at A Mommy Story!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Attitude of Gratitude

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today.
Have you used one to say "thank you?"
-William A. Ward



Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything,
by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,
present your request to God.
- Philippians 4:6


Years back, I used to have so many wishful thoughts! I wished I was somebody else...somewhere else...something else. It took several miracles and that one special moment in my life to realize how blessed I am. Now, with God's grace I wake up every day with a prayer of praise in my heart. Truly, there are so many reasons to be grateful for...and that an attitude of gratitude can certainly put meaning into one's life.

Each day offers us an opportunity to learn that just as we are blessed when we give, so are we when we accept grace with a grateful heart.

Be inspired with God's loving gifts, come join us at Word Filled Wednesday!

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Some TMIs...

Before I start with my TMI...let me first send out my warmest THANK YOU to all you participated Fun Monday this week. I really had fun reading your entries...they were both entertaining...and inspiring!

Anyone who want to host Fun Monday next week, please let me know so I can make an announcement here...or I end up giving a more challenging theme next week! LOL

Seriously...just drop me a comment or a mail!


1. What is your favorite Thanksgiving food?


First, we don't really celebrate Thanksgiving in the Philippines the way US and Canada and maybe other countries do. Though there were attempts of declaring some dates as such, it did not happen at all. I guess this is due to the fact that as an archipelago we are clustered as regions and each regions/ provinces celebrate several feasts (both Christians and Muslims do have their own festivities) and they are in a form of thanksgiving. Also, I personally believe that the way we celebrate Christmas here is more or less like Thanksgiving...

Most of our festivities here (Muslim occasion an exception!) is not complete without the LECHON (roasted pig).




2. You can flip a switch that will wipe any band or musical artist out of existence. Which one will it be?

Okay, don't kill me, but maybe I will wipe out boy bands! LOL

3. You seem to be having an excellent day because you just came across a hundred-dollar bill on the sidewalk. Holy crap, a hundred bucks! How are you gonna spend it?

I will save it for my outreach program for children.

4. What is your favorite curse word?

Actually word and words...

I used to say...

F.U.C.K

and

F.u.c.k.i.n.g Unbelievable!

Though lately, it's been very rare...if it comes out from my mouth at all!
Mom keeps telling me what comes out from my mouth is what's in my heart, so I'm trying to stay away from it!

So...now, if I do curse...I say...

Freak...or Freaking...something!

Who am I kidding...at least, it's a different word!

5. Rufus appears out of nowhere with a time-traveling phone booth. You can go anytime in the PAST. What time are you traveling to and what are you going to do when you get there?

Wow, this is tough. Not really sure if there is that particular time I'd like to go to or return to.

Bonus (as in optional):You accidentally eat some radioactive vegetables. They were good, and what's even cooler is that they endow you with the super-power of your choice! What's it gonna be?


The ability to teleport!

Ha, imagine me visiting you every time I hit publish on your comment box! ;)

That would be cool huh?!


For more TMIs, please visit the HQ!

Happy Tuesday everyone...


Monday, November 24, 2008

High Five!!!

Mariposa's Tales is now three years!!! WOOT!

It's a beautiful Monday...and I'm hosting FUN Monday this week...oh, what a joy!

The theme for this week is High moments...in our lives!

If you could share to us 3-5 high moments in your lives...this could be funny moments...the you can't believe you did it moments...the "I told you so" moments...or the times we asked the ground to go open and eat us moments! You need not write a book to explain them, the highlights will do.

Today, I am naturally high because it's been a thrilling three for my blog...

Here are my high five...

5. They say history becomes a legend...and legend becomes myth. Hopefully, this will just be a myth!

I never thought she can fly...LOL

I was sitting in a table of a decent pub, mind you...sipping my iced tea...when a girl pulled my hair! Yes, folks, she pulled my pretty hair! Is she not rude?!

So for the love of my life...um...I mean hair, I stood up and just well, had to defend myself. She did her superman flight to the table...while I continue sipping my iced tea.

I have never gotten into any fight in my life...but will never allow anyone to bully me!

4. I am born lucky! Sometimes I just feel that...

Let's go back 10 years ago...I was in an Teakwondo Tournament...national competion...elemination round. My opponent did this amazing forms and show...and tried make this tuning long side kick...and Mariposa reliazing that slowness of the opponent...and knowing this kick needs speed, I simply shifted myself about 4 inches to the left...and boom, she kicked the air and fell down! The game was over...and I won, she got injured for nothing...

3. Mariposa's definition of shopping spree is below...

There was a mall wide sale and it was a weekend...and so there I was in the midst of the hustle and bustle of shopping when I overheard three ladies whispering to themselves why it's called a sales when they still can't seem to afford the items. I can understand that...bec if we are talking about
Marithé et François Girbaud and the item is $100, 50% off is still too much for an ordinary working girl here...and I was like nodding my to them on that. Then, came the three of witches from nowhere...asking the entire crowd to move to the side for them, blubbering something about if you can't afford it...go away. Things like that get into my nerve! The witches apparently wanted that red purse...black bag and brown wallet...so while they were making a conference of their life on where to use the items, I hurried myself to the counter to buy the stuff! They told me they wanted it because they saw it first...I said, I paid it first!

And I called those three poor girls whom they just tried to ummmm "bully" and I gave them the items...

Yes, I spent about $200 for items I readily gave to strangers...but I think it's worth it!

2. About four years ago, when my work was farthest from my home (an hour away via public transport is already far by my category!) it was one of those Monday when I decided to take commute! Okay...call me whatever but I suck at public transport! But that day, everything turned out fine until the moment i stepped down from the jeepney. I was about to cross the road when a cab driver was playing on me...he stepped on his brake when I paused...and when I decided to cross thinking he is on his brake, he moved forward, and stopped just when his hood is 5 cm away from my legs! And he was freaking LOL! I was freaking pissed. So I went to his side, and voila, he did not lock his door, so Mariposa opened it...and punched the cab driver in this forehead...and I hurriedly left....was red in embarrassment!

Yeah, it was unbelievable...people can't believe it, but I did it, and heck, IT Guy is proud of me with it! Ha ha ha!

1. Years ago...make that 9 years ago to be exact, I was on the road driving...when a jeepney overtake and cut on my lane...I was shocked and was so pissed! Add to that the insensitivity of the driver...so step on the gas, tried to catch up....rolled down my window...and there, "award" the driver with my out of this world nag...and since I was not over with it yet, I fake to pull out something from my passenger seat...and made a hand gun gesture...boom! Ha! You could have seen the shock of the driver's face...he turned pale...and couldn't seem to believe he was still alive! I know I know...I shouldn't have done that, but hell I did, and man...it still make me LOL 'til now!

I hope they made you high just by reading them...

Please don't forget to visit the following Fun Monday participants...

Fun Monday Participants
1. Beedancer
2. brocasarea
3. Grace
4. Hootin Anni
5. ChrisB
6. SWAMP~WITCH aka: Swampy
7. M (the misanthrope)
8. Mamalang
9. IamwhoIam
10. KarmynR
11. Swampangel65
12. Sarah
13. HulaGirl
14. Jan
15. Faye
16. celeste
17. iPost
18. Margaret, Soon To Be Mama
19. BS
20. Melanie
21. Pamela (The Dust Cloud?)
22. Sayre
23. Mal - Team Gherkin
24. Tiggerlane
25. Lil Mouse

Powered by... Mister Linky's Magical Widgets.


For those who said they'll try but did not commit and made it...please let me know so I can add you. For those who decided to join last minute, let me know here, and I will link you up!

By the way, ChrisB wanted to pass this award to all Fun Monday participants...I think she means not just this week's, but everyone who one way or another had made this fun meme successful...and still on going!



I wish everyone a high and FUN Monday!!!

I'm Hosting Fun Monday!


THIS IS A STICKY POST

For my regular post, please scroll down...

It's such a nice feeling to be part of Fun Monday again...and moreso to host it! Though it's not my first time to host Fun Monday, I'll tell you that it's still as exciting as the first time...

Mariposa's Tales will turn 3 years on Sunday, Nov. 23 and to host Fun Monday the day after gives me such a high feeling...

Yes, I feel high...and that is what next week's Fun Monday will be...

High moments...in our lives!

If you could share to us 3-5 high moments in your lives...this could be funny moments...the you can't believe you did it moments...the "I told you so" moments...or the times we asked the ground to go open and eat us moments! You need not write a book to explain them, the highlights will do.

I'm inviting everyone to join, it will be a sure way to start your week. And if you are not so familiar with Fun Monday, Robin the Pensieve did a great job explaining it HERE.

I hope to get high with you all next Monday!

Sign up below with your main URL if you are up to get high! And make sure to come back on Monday to let us know that you are up...


Friday, November 21, 2008

A Thrilling Three





Mariposa's Tales
Will turn three years this Sunday...
I am so happy!



Please don't forget to visit other people's wonderful haiku at A Mommy Story!

The Randomness In Me!

Well, as I've said before, I'm a sucker for Memes...and though looks like I've done this one already, I still volunteered myself to do this one! Ha!

I stole snatch this from M of Misanthrope!

Here are the rules...

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them.
5. Let each person know they've been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.


Let me warn you all that I am random...and I am weird, combine both, hmmm...you get, randon weirdness or weird randonmess! Haha!

Anyway, here are another set of random facts about Mariposa --

(1) I'm a Vampire...I stay up all night, and I sleep all day...well not all the time, but most of the time!

(2) I can walk with high heels than with flat shoes.

(3) Most of the entries in my journal are in haiku...

(4) I am rarely silent, even when I'm pissed...mad...upset...sad...down and all, I am rarely silent! And when I am, then you know you've pushed me to the edge...and that enough is already enough.

(5) I feel naked without my earrings!

(6) Most of the time, I fall asleep with a journal and a pen in my hand...trying to write down things that I need/ want to do. And when I wake up, I check what I wrote and think about it while in the shower! Ha!

Okay...that's it for now! At least those are what I can think of right now...And I have gathered enough strength to tag six people...but please don't feel pressured! You can always...umm...decline gently.

So I am tagging want to know more the following wonderful people --

(1) Susan, the Wellness Writer!

(2) Vixen Kitten

(3) Cladestine Samurai

(4)

(5) Chiu Pin Teo

(6) Esthermay

It's really quite late here and I need to sleep or I might lose my sleep pattern again...not when it's getting better! So I will visit all six of you later to let you know that you've been asked kindly by Mariposa to share something about your beautiful self...okay?

And, anyone who feels like it...please feel free to share...you can make a post or just do it in the comment box.

My Friday Haiku will be 6AM in the morning EST.

I Feel so Blessed!


It's a fun Thursday, and I'm sharing 13 reasons to smile...laugh...chuckle...giggle! But before you scroll below, let me give you a short run down on what good stuff I have for the week --


Mariposa's Tales will turn 3 years this Sunday! Yes, a thrilling three for my blog! WOOT!

I am glad that my friend was able to overcome her immediate needs. Though most people may disapprove credit, I'd still say, thanks to some organizations who provide payday loans! If it helps people get by, then be it!

My outreach for the children is still going on and I am so happy with it!

My health has been excellent the past days.

Nancie already sent her pretty calendars to me and I am so excited for it!

The mallwide sale last weekend afforded me to buy stuff for IT Guy. Something I don't get to do a lot...it's him who usually buy stuff for me...LOL

The mango float I did last weekend was a big success! People at home love it!

I'm back to doing Fun Monday and I'm hosting it this Monday. I'm inviting you all to join...the theme is at the top, in my sticky notes. I'd be happy to read your high moments...

And I'm happy to announce that I'd be making a great turn in my career and that next year will change my life!!! Ha!


All these things and other little miracles in my life...and in the lives of people around me (in RL and in here) will not be possible without God's grace.
So, for my 13 reasons to make you smile today...if you haven't done that yet, here ya go!!!


Puns and Other Groaners


(1) The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.

(2) I thought I saw an eye doctor on an Alaskan island, but it turned out to be an optical Aleutian.

(3) A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class because it was a weapon of math disruption.

(4) No matter how much you push the envelope, it'll still be stationery.

(5) A small boy swallowed some coins and was taken to a hospital. When his grandmother telephoned to ask how he was, a nurse said, "No change yet."

(6) It's not that the man did not know how to juggle, he just didn't have the balls to do it.

(7) Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.

(8) Two atoms are walking down the street and they run in to each other. One says to the other, "Are you all right?" "No, I lost an electron!" "Are you sure?" "Yeah, I'm positive!"

(9) A hungry lion was roaming through the jungle looking for something to eat. He came across two men. One was sitting under a tree and reading a book; the other was typing away on his typewriter. The lion quickly pounced on the man reading the book and devoured him. Even the king of the jungle knows readers digest and writers cramp.

(10) A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.

(11) A group of chess enthusiasts had checked into a hotel, and were standing in the lobby discussing their recent tournament victories. After about an hour, the manager came out of the office and asked them to disperse. "But why?", they asked, as they moved off. "Because," he said, "I can't stand chess nuts boasting in an open foyer."

(12) Don't join dangerous cults, practice safe sects!

(13) There was a man who entered a local paper's pun contest. He sent in ten different puns, in the hope that at least one of the puns would win. Unfortunately, no pun in ten did.

Truly a beautiful Thursday, isn't it?!


Everyday is the best time
to give thanks!

Please check Thankful Thursday
an
d together let us celebrate
all the
things we should
be grateful for!




For other 13 wonderful things....please visit Thursday Thirteen!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

In The Midst Of It,


Bloom Where You Are Planted...


Please hover your mouse over the photo.


But son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commandments in your heart,
for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you prosperity.
Proverbs 3:1-2


God empowers His people so that we all can bloom in the most unlikely of circumstances. And when wedo bloom, others witness God’s glory and splendour in us. And that is how we are remembered.



To see more wonderful captures, please check Wordless Wednesday!



Celebrate with us as we share inspiring Bible verses at Word Filled Wednesday!

P. S.

For those who are interested, I am working on my post tutorial on how to do a mouse hover technique like this one. I am trying to make it easy to understand by coming up with several screenshots. I hope to publish it this weekend.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Glitters...

Hello folks!

Yes, it's Monday...do we say thank goodness it's Monday?

So many reasons to love Monday...and let me count the ways!

M of Misanthrope is hosting Fun Monday this week...yup, yup, I'm back with my Busy Monday stuff here!

M (no, not Bond's M, another M!) says --

Do you have a piece of jewelry or other item that holds great personal significance for you, and that you wear or keep with you every day? Show us a photo of your talisman, and tell us why it is so important to you.

I love this week's theme...so here goes;

My love for pearls...yes, like my friends always associate it with me! LOL

I love pearl accessory, they're classic, elegant, feminine and it's good to be minimalist, right?



The, my love for butterflies...

This is for a hair pin...I got this in one of my travel to Europe. I rarely use this though, it always makes my hair overdressed! LOL

But I love this!



Here are a mix of my pearls and butterfly necklaces and pendants and earrings collection. They may look familiar to some of you as I have showed this in one of our Fun Mondays when we featured our collections!

The one to the left of the red pendant is butterfly pendant on top of a heart. Both the butterfly and the heart has diamond studs (little ones!).



This one is a personal favorite of mine! the pendant is attached to the chain and you just need to slide it to adjust the length, something like that! I had this made when I was in Italy. I always wear this with my black turtle neck blouse.



So, this is me wearing the necklace! This was taken years ago, when I was working with a Software Development Company...

Please excuse my grumpy look, this is how Mariposa looks after being up for 48 hours! And you may discount the smile...I always smile...even when I'm pissed! LOL



This is another butterfly necklace and earrings! It's a set...I wear this for special occasions...

The ring is not part of the set, but it means a lot to me as it's a gift from an old friend when I was still in college.



And what I can't leave the house without?!

These rings!!!

That butterfly ring from my friend...a snake ring...the tribal ring in my thumb...and the one on my left hand is a star and moon ring!

And while some people may frown at my hands, I don't care...I love it!



I have some other jewelry...the ones that makes the IT Guy shift from a bf role to bodyguard role when I'm wearing them, but I can't find my camera right now. I think I left it at IT Guy's car yesterday...so I hope you excuse me for my cheat today as all this photos has been blogged already...

Last year was a memorable year as it caused quite a damaged to my collection, I lost pair 2 pairs of earrings while at the mall!!!

But one thing I learn about buying jewelry, never get something that you can't afford to lose!

Last week, I did a quick review on Quantum of Solace and promise to make another one for Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa. I did watch it Saturday evening with IT Guy and it was fun...fun...FUN!

The opening of the movie was a bitter sweet cute scene, with Alex being away from his Dad and calling his Dad while he was floating at the sea!

Then the fun began...starting with their air adventure! What a flight it was...

Then comes Alex reunion with the his family...

Ah, I want this only to be a quick review...so let me just say we had fun. IT Guy was laughing the whole time...obviously he loves it! I on the other hand...well, I had fun, but I'm not just as passionate about it as I am with James Bond and other action movies...I guess because I can relate more of guns than animal species?! (Yeah, you can laugh but I mean it!)

Monday will not be complete, so here is my take for Music Monday, I Just Don't Want to Be Lonely by Ronnie Dyson...this is my favorite version!

And what prompted me to post this song? Well, this was played in the cab on the way home while I was from the bank this morning...and it get stuck in my head!

In 1973, Ronnie had released the Thom Bell
produced album 'One Man Band' for the CBS imprint,
an album that included this song -
Just Don't Want To Be Lonely
(covered a year later by the group the Main Ingredient).





ADDED:

Took me long to find the theme for this week's Manic Monday, turns out, Mo, moved it to a new site...and since I've been away from Busy Monday...I just saw it now.

The theme for this week is SEASON! So this is my last minute...MANIC contribution!

“And you would accept the seasons of your heart just as you have always accepted that seasons pass over your fields and you would watch with serenity through the winters of your grief.” - Kahlil Gibran quotes

I wish everyone a Musical and Fun...Manic Monday!

For for MUSIC, please check SMID...

For more FUN...please the lovely M at Misformisanthrope...

And if you are feeling rather MANIC, check Manic Monday!

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Money Talks...




can all these be real?
i see debits all over
checkbook's sinking!

i need to balance
all my spending must at least
equal my income!

it's now mid of month
payment from my work come
must try to save more!

but they say a friend
in need is a friend indeed...
so when my friend called

i offered my hand
and give whatever i can
i've got only much!

i told her to get
a cash advance to take care
her issues at hand!

we're in worst of times--
no time for consequences,
no time for caution

let us just get by
one day at a time and
we will all be fine!


I always feel bad everytime I see friends struggle financially, it makes me ask so many questions. On the lighter note, I am just glad I am able to help them in little ways I can. I feel sorry hearing stories about people losing their jobs, but I'd love to look at it as an opportunity for them to get better ones!

It is in times like this we need to pull ourselves together not as an individual nation but as a citizen of the world. People should stop panicking and stop pulling out investments! Stocks are going down the drain because our panic and want to have more and fear of having less gets the better of us! So that last week, I decided to put more money on long term investments...I hope that helps too in any ways.

Let me share to you the following inspiring lines --

When you get into a tight place
and everything goes against you,
until it seems as though
you could not hang on a minute longer,
never give up then,
for that is just the place
and time that the tide will turn.”
-Harriet Beecher Stowe

Please don't forget to visit other people's wonderful haiku at A Mommy Story!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Little Miracles...

It's a beautiful Thursday once again...another week to be grateful for!

My health is really picking up...and I am just so happy and thankful. I thank God for sending me good people who are able to share with my their talents in medicines...and for the people who prayed for me...I thank you. God bless you ALL.

My post for today is dedicated to wellness...I'd like to share to you that wonderful substance that God sent me!

It will be a long post...so, you are warned. You can go through it quickly though, but it may be worth your time as well. Who knows, this is what you just need or your loved one!

Wellness Writer, Susan has been writing on the topic Managing Depressive Episode. I'd like to believe that most of us knows what a down moment is and that once in our lives we've been through it...it's just a matter to degree.

I told Susan and as I have also mentioned here a couple of times, getting Vitamin B and B complex shots helps me get that energy my body needs to pull myself out of the pit when I am with my lows...and I promise to talk about it, it's wonderful effects on me and what are its benefits.

Before I start, I'd like to remind everyone that I am not a medical practitioner and please feel free to do more reseach on this topic.

Those who have known me quite long here knows what are my challenges...I mean mood wise. Also, most of you know that more than the mood swings, my greatest health issues are my asthma and my allergies...which are interrelated.

My problem though is it took me long to realized (especially when I started working) that sometimes my lows get to influence my physical health and vice versa.

It always starts with unexplainable fatigue...followed my anxiousness...irritability...insomia...lack ot appetite...then boom, my immune system goes weak then I get sick...then very sick...then I go through this cycle of feeling sorry for my ailing body...then everything spirals down!

The past 2 years has been like that! And IT Guy always says it must be my working environment, plus the fact that I am working in an evening shift. I don't really agree since my schedules before were worst! Plus, before I used to travel alot and it has not affected my sleep and all that. So is it age?! *blink*

So I had this sort of a conference with my doctors...well, just my cardio, my OB, and neurologist and my spiritual director, whom I might need to add is a psychiatrist and we discussed on what happened along the way! What has gone wrong? I mean, I have been well without any mood pills and I managed...but lately, I've been sick again and it is really draining me!

So we review on what meds I have stopped taking. All those IVs that are good for my brain and neurons were gradually withdrawn and they were really scheduled to stop. So it's not that.
Then...they all looked at me and said, you stopped taking your cocktail shots!
And we were all laughing...out loud.


Because yes, not only I have stopped taking my cocktail shots, I have also stopped taking them orally. So there goes the answer to our questions.

My cocktail shots is just a Vit. B and B complex which they have specifically made for me...I'm talking about the dosage...

Yes, I used to take a weekly shots and another booster once a month. I have stopped that, and now I am on it again.

Few weeks back when I was too sick to function, the gave my that booster shot...the original Mariposa cocktail...it has contains the following - vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, B1, B3,B5, B6 and B12 (I guess just Vit. B and B Complex!). The procedure takes about 30 minutes...personally I'd say it's not painful, but hey, I have high tolerance to pain...some friends I know who had a more or less similar shots told me it's too damn painful...so you are warned! Especially this mix because the viscosity is quite high because of the components.

After the shot, I slept...like forever...and woke up like I am invincible. I don't think it's just purely placebo effect...because my cough stopped, no more colds...I felt so rested...and no more body pains for me.

Two weeks after that, I had another shots, but just the Vit. B and B Complex, 5mg for each.
Now the first shot cost me $80-100, and the second one, $25...


I did not have any shots since then but I am taking Vit. B and B Complex tablet orally, and I take them twice a day, with my Vit. E. I don't take Vit. C orally because of my gastritis, so I just let the fruits take care of it.

I informed my doctors that I will be blogging on this topic and asked him if he needed me to add anything which might be important...all he said is, though there is no such thing as an overdose of B Complex, it is still best to let your nutritionist or doctor deside on the dosage and always let a medical professional administer the procedure.

I understand in the US you can buy vials which dosage are kind of generic, and you can just let your doctor do it for you. :)

You may ask why I needed to take the shots when I can just take the pills orally, well, it is for fast absorption since I needed it that moment. Also, to have it through IV would mean most of the substance gets to be absorbed by the body.

Vit. B and B complex enters and exits the body fast, so it is advisable to have it on a daily basis, that is why, after the shots, I have to maintain them by taking oral tablets.

I also did some research and found out that these substance is also good for depression aside from providing energy to the body. It also helps in the conversion of carbs to glucose which the body uses for energy even while sleeping...so it enhances metabolism...*hint* to those who are trying to go on a diet and still feel a bit bloated!

By the way, my oral capsule has the following --

Thiamin (B1)
Riboflavin (B2)
Niacin Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCl)
Folic acid
Vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin)
Biotin
Pantothenic acid (B5)
Betaine free base
Choline Inositol
para-aminobenzoic acid

and the Vit. E (natural and in veggie caps)

Below is what I gathered in my research --

The Vitamin B Family The members of this family are key to keeping your body energized.

The B-complex vitamins are essential to mental and emotional well-being. They cannot be stored in our bodies, so we depend entirely on our daily diet to supply them. B vitamins are destroyed by alcohol, refined sugars, nicotine, and caffeine so it is no surprise that many people may be deficient in these.

B 1 (a.k.a. thiamin) helps keep your appetite stable. The brain uses this vitamin to help convert glucose, or blood sugar, into fuel, and without it the brain rapidly runs out of energy. This can lead to fatigue, depression, irritability, anxiety, and even thoughts of suicide. Deficiencies can also cause memory problems, loss of appetite, insomnia, and gastrointestinal disorders. The consumption of refined carbohydrates, such as simple sugars, drains the body's B1 supply.

B 2 (a.k.a. riboflavin) also helps with energy metabolism. Riboflavin aids your eyes and works for healthier skin.

B 3 (a.k.a. niacin) is actually made by your body. Niacin helps your metabolism, improves the condition of your skin, and supports both the digestive and nervous systems.

Pellagra-which produces psychosis and dementia, among other symptoms-was eventually found to be caused by niacin deficiency. Many commercial food products now contain niacin, and pellagra has virtually disappeared. However, subclinical deficiencies of vitamin B3 can produce agitation and anxiety, as well as mental and physical slowness.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) Symptoms of deficiency are fatigue, chronic stress, and depression. Vitamin B5 is needed for hormone formation and the uptake of amino acids and the brain chemical acetylcholine, which combine to prevent certain types of depression.

B 6 allows you to think more clearly, supports the immune system and hormone activity. (The intake of alcohol prohibits your B6 activity.)

This vitamin aids in the processing of amino acids, which are the building blocks of all proteins and some hormones. It is needed in the manufacture of serotonin, melatonin and dopamine. Vitamin B6 deficiencies, although very rare, cause impaired immunity, skin lesions, and mental confusion. A marginal deficiency sometimes occurs in alcoholics, patients with kidney failure, and women using oral contraceptives. Many nutritionally oriented doctors believe that most diets do not provide optimal amounts of this vitamin.

B 12 protects your nervous system and supports both bone growth and metabolism. Because vitamin B12 is important to red blood cell formation, deficiency leads to an oxygen-transport problem known as pernicious anemia. This disorder can cause mood swings, paranoia, irritability, confusion, dementia, hallucinations, or mania, eventually followed by appetite loss, dizziness, weakness, shortage of breath, heart palpitations, diarrhea, and tingling sensations in the extremities. Deficiencies take a long time to develop, since the body stores a three- to five-year supply in the liver. When shortages do occur, they are often due to a lack of intrinsic factor, an enzyme that allows vitamin B12 to be absorbed in the intestinal tract. Since intrinsic factor diminishes with age, older people are more prone to B12 deficiencies.

Folate (a.k.a. folic acid) is essential for new cell development. And yet, your body is a snob when it comes to accepting this B vitamin. While you can get folic acid from eating leafy greens, legumes and liver, your body doesn't like to absorb it from these sources. Only half of the folate you get from foods will be accepted. Instead, your body prefers the so-called "free" folate found in supplements.

Minerals

Deficiencies in a number of minerals can also cause depression.

Magnesium
Deficiency can result in depressive symptoms, along with confusion, agitation, anxiety, and hallucinations, as well as a variety of physical problems. Most diets do not include enough magnesium, and stress also contributes to magnesium depletion

Calcium
Depletion affects the central nervous system. Low levels of calcium cause nervousness, apprehension, irritability, and numbness. Zinc: Inadequacies result in apathy, lack of appetite, and lethargy. When zinc is low, copper in the body can increase to toxic levels, resulting in paranoia and fearfulness.

Iron
Depression is often a symptom of chronic iron deficiency. Other symptoms include general weakness, listlessness, exhaustion, lack of appetite, and headaches.
Manganese: This metal is needed for proper use of the B-complex vitamins and vitamin C. Since it also plays a role in amino-acid formation, a deficiency may contribute to depression stemming from low levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine. Manganese also helps stabilize blood sugar and prevent hypoglycemic mood swings. Potassium: Depletion is frequently associated with depression, tearfulness, weakness, and fatigue.


Sources:

Nancy Schimelpfening

Big.Net Health


Are you not in an awe how those small seemingly insignificant substance affects our entire being?! Some call it science...I call it miracle!


Join me and Thankful Thursday's community in celebrating life's little miracles...



Everyday is the best time
to give thanks!

Please check Thankful Thursday
an
d together let us celebrate
all the
things we should
be grateful for!



A Light to My Path


Please hover your mouse over the photo.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet,
and a light unto my path.
- Psalm 119:105


Happy (not so) WORDless FILLED Wednesday!



To see more wonderful captures, please check Wordless Wednesday!

Celebrate with us as we share inspiring Bible verses at Word Filled Wednesday!

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

TMI Tuesday #160

I'm back with TMI Tuesday!



1. Ever been skinny dipping?

Oh yeah...I will just leave the details...I usually do it when I am alone anyway! LOL


2. How often do you kiss or make out without it simply being a foreplay activity?


I love to kiss a lot! I guess it has to do with "cariñosa" and sweet nature...so the answer is many times!

I don't mind kissing at the elevator...while dining out...in the car...anywhere....and it's just that....nothing more! ;)

3. On a scale of 1-10, how content are you with your life? (1 is lowest, 10 is highest)

To say 10 would be too much, and my life is almost too much...in all ways you can imagine...the good part and the sweat it part! LOL So I guess it would be between 8-9, it swings depending on the moments.

Do you think 'content' and 'happy' the same thing?

I always believe that success is finding contentment with the things you already have...and you do that when you are happy with it...so I guess they are synonymous.


4. What do you do to relieve stress?


I jog/run with the IT Guy every weekend. We also go for massages every weekend...I'd also add that my
outreach program is also helping me...

Ah, one more thing, I might also add, I bombard myself with Vit. B and B Complex....they're good with stress!

5. What was the special trait in your first lover that made you decide that they were "the one?"


I think IT Guy is the one. Why? Well...I love him! That's all I need to decide...the person must be somebody I love.


Bonus: How old were you when you first had sex? (positive experiences here...)


(...silence...)

For more TMIs, please visit other participants of TMI Tuesday!

Monday, November 10, 2008

Find Bond!

What's up with the title?

Well, that's that! And if you are patient enough...you will know! LOL

Let me start this post with a random update on how my weekend went, though I blog about what I did for the majority of it in my Sunday Special post.

Saturday night I went out to meet our friend who has been for over a year now acts as our financial adviser.


With all the crashing down of stocks, people are panicking and well, umm...some if not most are withdrawing their investments. But for me and IT Guy, this is the best time to put our money to investments...well, money that we can afford not to have for the next 10-20 years. Long term investment it is!

So behold...Mariposa signing some checks and pertinent papers!





The meeting went well...we had fun chats...and it's nice to know that we're doing business with one of the world's financial institution.

After our meeting, off we go to the movies to see the love of my life the famous James Bond.

After we missed Casino Royale in the big screen, we made sure we don't get to commit the same mistake with Quantum of Solace!

Oh boy...such a great time we had!

I was proven myself wrong when I said I will not watch a Bond movie anymore after Pierce Brosnan....I am loving Daniel Craig...fast!



Quantum of Solace, a continuation follow up (not always the case for a Bond movie!) of 2006 Casino Royale, also Craig's first time to play as Bond opens with a bang! I'd like to believe so.

So many new things with Craig as Bond...and all made the movie great for me!

First thing, the movie is more into action and chasing...more brutal and messy killings and all...not that I advocated violence...but it's just more realistic to me...and it fits Craig as Bond so well!

Then, the movie had let go of the too much technological awe that other Bond movies used to have. Of course there are still good gadgets like high tech phones...but this time, it's something we all can relate to! We still see Bond drive that expensive car...like Aston Martin doing his chase...only here in this movie we get to see several cars...not the usual BMW that Pierce used to have.

Another notable thing is M's more interaction with Bond in the movie, which I love so much...so maternal and flirtatious at times. I really love seeing M...a very strong-willed woman commanding Bond and how she trusts him despite all! (Ha! Okay, Red, you can go ahead and laugh...)

One striking line from M in the movie is when she said to Bond this line - I think you're so blinded by inconsolable rage that you don't care who you hurt. When you can't tell your friends from your enemies, it's time to go.

I have to repeat it to myself - When you can't tell your friends from your enemies, it's time to go...ah, that is something for me to blog another day!

And of course...a Bond movie is not complete without the Bond girls, right? It's funny because in the early part of the movie, IT Guy was like...where are the girls? That is Bond's signature...and I was like...shut and up...007 is his signature...not girls! Yes, the jealous I am! LOL

Then, boom...we saw the girls. I love how they did the introduction...so artful...so modern...and I love the song!

So going back to Bond girls...below is a snapshot of one if the most sexy scene of the movie...



“Do you know how angry I am at myself,” says the naked, raven-haired new Bond girl as Bond kisses his way up her spine replying, "You must be furious..." or something like that!

All in all, I'd say it's a good movie...and worth your time! Please go watch it and let me know what you think...

All I'm sure of, is if Craig's a work in progress as a Bond, with this movie, he is certainly finished...and polished at that!

You can get the DVD of the movie now!






I hope to watch Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa this week and hopefully I can make another quick review on that next Monday!

Here is the movie's theme song by the way, Another Way to Die!



Oh yes, I did find Bond! And Happy Music Monday everyone!

Sunday, November 09, 2008

Sunday Special


Yes, you read it right, it's Sunday Special...and moving forward, every Sunday here will be just that, special...because I will attempt to do Sunday Sunrise - Sunset and Sacred Life Sunday here...



You can join HERE.


Here is my take for Sunday's Sunrise - Sunset.



This is sunset over rice fields in my grandparents place... The main produce in their farm is rice...and I am posting this to reflect on the world's ongoing rice shortage...and my ongoing outreach program which is mainly on feeding activities and promoting learning to children in certain communities.

This week has been really good, praise God! I have received enormous blessings...through friends...and families...especially as with my little ongoing projects with the children.

I'd like to start with thanking all the people who has shown support and encouragement in my outreach program. Your kind words inspires me more...

I'd like to thank Vixen Kitten for offering to send 35 children's books for the children in my outreach. I shared this news with the children this morning and they are so excited about it! Vix, the children are sending their warm hugs to you! God will bless you for your kind deeds.

I'd like to share with you how my visit to the children went this morning...

I'll start with the children greeted with me warm smiles...



After their activities (I will try to upload the video next time)...it's feeding time!



The other week, we had aroz caldo (rice porridge with chicken). This morning we had chocolate flavored rice porridge (sometimes called chocolate rice pudding) or champorado in our local dialect.



Me...helping out! ;)



I will never look at rice the same way again... Every walk I will have when I visit my grandparent's place will not just to see the green and golden fields of rice...but every step will now mean hope to have more to share with these children...



See how far a rice of bowl can go?



There was a time when I stare at my rice and I try to count the carbs and pounds I might gain if I eat too much of it...I am so blessed to have met these children, now I know better.

P.S. I'd like to thank IT Guy for taking the photos.



If you want to know more and read more about Sacred Life Sunday, please click the logo above.

I wish everyone a happy Sunday Special!


Hugs,


♥ Mariposa