Harvard’s Blog ng Bayan

Having been “disabled” since for 4 days, I witnessed certain advantages that I wish to share with you. As the movie As Good As It Gets reminded me- always look at the bright side of life. This note aims to encourage myself and others who are in a similar situation.

So what happened? Last August 10, I tried to be a super player in badminton (am such a beginner) - reached for an impossible shot. In seconds, I found my left knee cap badly dislocated, it went to the extreme left. Nothing compares to that pain. Worse- I took the first pain killer after 45 minutes. Worst- I found out that my shot didn’t even count!
Harvard as per docs advise has to be in cast and crutches for 2-3 weeks. Rehab comes after to strengthen my leg muscles. So here’s a tip of a lifetime before you play sports.

1. Stretch those muscles especially your legs- no shortcuts. Take time per muscle area.

2. Know your family’s history. I found out only after the incident that my father has stretchable ligaments- this has passed on to me. My 3 older siblings all had past dislocations.

3. Your physical limitations are important. Use accessories like a knee brace to assist.

4. Too much fire can kill you. It’s called an impossible shot for a reason.

Back to the Pros of Disability. I realized things that happen are also opportunities- a time to share your experience to others. A moment to relax and think- another reason why am doing this note.
Now for the Top 10- in order of realization.

1. More people reply to your FB post if it involves accidents. Its one way to see if your friends really care or they added you just because.

2. People who are there for you- are there for you. The more effort seen is like the deeper their importance in your life.

3. Free Food! I have save alot of money lately. Even better, they tell me what I want. Have to watch on my weight though.

4. Everyone becomes more gentle. They have more patience and they even open doors for you.

5. Family becomes closer. I have witnessed the love even more. My parents and my sister has drove for me. Others have volunteered- if I need anything, let them know.

6. It’s a perfect time to interact to strangers. Best part is that they initiate- so less effort. In retrospect these has benefits- acquaintance to friendship to possible clients. hehe.

7. We can finally park in handicap. It has always dawned to me- when can I get to use those parking near the entrance? God, I won’t ponder on that anymore.
8. More ME time. It’s a time to pause and see where you are. Time to read, do FB note (this explains again), plan and get in touch with friends.

9. A time to strengthen your upper body. Crutches done repeatedly can build you muscle. Does it?
10. God has plans for me. Reflect and go back to God. This morning I was able to finish the book of James- with Maxwell’s insight in leadership.

I would like to thank 10 people most especially in this “journey”. Note on the ” ”

1. Mom- A 40 minute drive from Antipolo was cut down to 15 when she found out. She was there for me in the ER the whole time. Mom also made possible a docs return visit to Medical City.

2. Dad- Encouraged me that dislocation of knee is just “normal.” In fact, he wanted to re-aligned for me in the hospital. (yikes) Dad also paid for the bill, drove me back home, carried me up to my room and took time to give me business tips while doing all of those.
3. Natalie- For being there for me since the start of the fall. She was literally a shoulder to cry on. She got me everything I need since Day 1- and over doing it. 4 visits, tons of food, comfort, texts, prayers and calls.

4-6. Czarie, Yanie, Marge- the 3 people who invited me to join Kids Church Victory Fort were the same 3 people who stood by me from the incident. They drove my car, assisted in the hospital and prayed for me.

7. Joy 1- She surprised me on the 1st day at home with food and encouragement. She came from crutches for a long time- and she let me borrow her pair. Joy was also a source of docs contacts. Also for the Hobbes and Tintin Comics.

8. Harvie and Eira- the couple was with me in full spirit. They were giving me tips and advice- constant check up all the time. Check- ups are very encouraging.

9. Joy 2- My maid at home was a HUGE help. From food, cleaning up, plug the DVD, get me shirt, ice, towel and assisting me standing up. She was my constant “partner” and relief.

10. Joana- She’s a worrier. So when I wanted to tease her, I don’t reply. hehe. Joana visited me as well with ramen and a piece of brand new crutch. She was just there if i needed someone to talk to.

There were many others who have stood by me.

Hoover and Joy for their need for update and guidance. Bens and Van for the hospital visit. Bens took the video of it pala! Gayette for informing people and panicking- shows much of me being “brother.” Jimson and Jegs for the help when the incident happened. Calls from Orange, Parker, JB, Sherwin. Jenny, Carlo, Meg, Ichael, Weng for doc leads plus rehab. Texts from infinite friends like Louise (who flew to HK), Ella, Rica, Kat, Shirley, etc.- you know who you are. For my office staff- for more understanding.

Not to mention more FB replies than usual. For the top 10 and for everyone else, let me tell you that I am here for you as well. God, take this time for me to hear more of you. A video of Giglio gave me a powerful insight too. People’s suffering are a megaphone to other people that God is there for us.

So for those who are in my situation… its not as bad as you think.
Thank you so much. You make life’s purpose happen.

- Soon to be back on my feet Harvard.

HEADACHE? EAT FISH!
Eat plenty of fish — fish oil helps prevent headaches. So does ginger, which reduces inflammation and pain.

HAVE FEVER? EAT YOGURT!
Eat lots of yogurt before pollen season. Also-eat honey from your area (local region) daily.

TO PREVENT STROKE DRINK TEA!
Prevent buildup of fatty deposits on artery walls with regular doses of tea. (actually, tea suppresses my appetite and keeps the pounds from invading…. Green tea is great for our immune system)!

INSOMNIA (CAN’T SLEEP?) HONEY!
Use honey as a tranquilizer and sedative.

ASTHMA? EAT ONIONS!
Eating onions helps ease constriction of bronchial tubes. (when I was young, my mother would make onion packs to place on our chest, helped the respiratory ailments and actually made us breathe better).

ARTHRITIS? EAT FISH, TOO!
Salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines actually prevent arthritis. (fish has omega oils, good for our immune system)

UPSET STOMACH?  BANANAS - GINGER!
Bananas will settle an upset stomach. Ginger will cure morning sickness and nausea.

BLADDER INFECTION? DRINK CRANBERRY JUICE!
High-acid cranberry juice controls harmful bacteria.

BONE PROBLEMS? EAT PINEAPPLE!
Bone fractures and osteoporosis can be prevented by the manganese in pineapple.

PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME? EAT CORNFLAKES!
Women can ward off the effects of PMS with cornflakes, which help reduce depression, anxiety and fatigue.

MEMORY PROBLEMS? EAT OYSTERS!
Oysters help improve your mental functioning by supplying much-needed zinc.

COLDS? EAT GARLIC!
Clear up that stuffy head with garlic. (remember, garlic lowers cholesterol, too.)

COUGHING? USE RED PEPPERS!
A substance similar to that found in the cough syrups is found in hot red pepper. Use red (cayenne) pepper with caution-it can irritate your tummy.

BREAST CANCER?  EAT WHEAT, BRAN AND CABBAGE!
Helps to maintain estrogen at healthy levels.

LUNG CANCER? EAT DARK GREEN AND ORANGE AND VEGGIES!
A good antidote is beta carotene, a form of Vitamin A found in dark green and orange vegetables.

ULCERS? EAT CABBAGE ALSO!
Cabbage contains chemicals that help heal both gastric and duodenal ulcers.

DIARRHEA? EAT APPLES!
Grate an apple with its skin, let it turn brown and eat it to cure this condition. (Bananas are good for this ailment)

CLOGGED ARTERIES? EAT AVOCADO!
Mono unsaturated fat in avocados lowers cholesterol.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? EAT CELERY AND OLIVE OIL!
Olive oil has been shown to lower blood pressure. Celery contains a chemical that lowers pressure too.

BLOOD SUGAR IMBALANCE? EAT BROCCOLI AND PEANUTS!
The chromium in broccoli and peanuts helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.

Kiwi: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, Vitamin E &fiber. It’s Vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

Apple: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low Vitamin C content, it has antioxidants &flavonoids which enhances the activity of Vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

Strawberry: Protective fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits &protects the body from cancer causing, blood vessels clogging free radicals. (Actually, any berry is good for you..they’re high in anti-oxidants and they actually keep us young……. ..blueberries are the best and very versatile in the health field……. .they get rid of all the free-radicals that invade our bodies)

Orange: Sweetest medicine. Taking 2 - 4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessen the risk of colon cancer.

Watermelon: Coolest Thirst Quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione which helps boost our immune system.  They are also a key source of lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant.  Other nutrients found in watermelon are Vitamin C &Potassium. (watermelon also has natural substances [natural SPF sources] that keep our skin healthy, protecting our skin from those darn suv rays)

Guava &Papaya: Top awards for Vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high Vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber which helps prevent constipation.

Papaya is rich in carotene, this is good for your eyes. (also good for gas and indigestion)

Tomatoes are very good as a preventative measure for men, keeps those prostrate problems from invading their bodies

1. A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD – A must for a marriage partner. Look for someone who is spiritually sensitive and willing to follow God’s word. A spirit-filled life is one filled with love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. A Christian foundation is partnering with God in your relationship 24 hours a day.

2. A HAPPY DISPOSITON - look for a happy optimistic person. Find someone who has a sense of humor and can laugh at himself/herself… for true happiness springs from a content heart. Beware of the person who is only happy when you are around. You’re going to get tired of being responsible for another person’s happiness.

3. THOUGHTFULNESS - How does your partner treat his/her parents and yours? Chances are you’ll get treated very much the same way. Does he/she see things that need to be done and offer help? Does he/she surprise you once in awhile?

4. NOT EASILY ANGERED - Temper outburst… can be the symptoms of internal hostility. This hostility is often repressed during courtship as a person is trying hard to be on his best behavior…Take seriously any outburst you observe, and check with others who have known this person in different situations to see if they have noticed this trait. Be leery of the person who has not learned to express his anger in words and instead merely harbors angry feelings in his heart. Be sure you date a person long enough to observe how easily he or she becomes angry and how these feelings are expressed.

5. WILLING TO SOLVE PROBLEMS - It’s almost impossible to solve relationship problems by yourself. Marry someone who will be honest enough to admit being wrong, who doesn’t have a habit of blaming others.

6. PURITY - Purity is not just an old-fashioned virtue…it’s just safer to date someone who hasn’t played around… At the same time, he/she should not hold it against a person for past sexual involvements. You cannot always judge a person’s true purity by virginity alone… mind purity is equally important. Is your partner pure in his thoughts and speech, as well as behavior? What jokes does he/she tell? What movies does he/she enjoy watching? Mind pollution can lead to disrespect of the opposite sex.

7. TRUTHFUL - Too often couple play games when they are being acquainted… playing games in a relationship is a form of dishonesty… marriage isn’t a game. It’s a serious lifetime commitment. Search your own feelings and share honestly during your courtship. Be You.

8. GOOD HEALTH HABITS - No one wants to marry a slob - a few do… bad health habits are difficult to break. That is why it’s best to look for a person who has already established positive health practices.

9. ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY - Here are some questions that may detect irresponsibility…Does he/she see things that need to be done and do them? Does he/she volunteer to help? Does he/she make lame excuses to get out of responsibilities? Does he/she take her talents seriously and work to improve her skills? Think about it Just how responsible is the person you are dating?

10. GOOD SENSE OF SELF-WORTH - Often in a dating relationship, individuals with a poor self-esteem glean a sense of value from the person they are with. They become dependent on them to make them feel good.

11. LIKES CHILDREN - Before marriage you may discuss children, but unless you’re around a lot of children and can observe your date interacting with them in a wide variety of situations, you really don’t have any idea about how he or she may discipline your children in the future. Seldom do both parents totally agree on how a child should be raised. Finding someone who at least likes children is an advantage.

12. ACCEPTS JUST THE WAY YOU ARE - True love is unconditional love…The important question to ask is, "Do I love her faults?" Only when you can truly love the total person, including all the points and bad habits can you accept your mate for who he is not secretly wish you could change them.

13. WILLING TO GROW - Good marriage partners grow together. They encourage each other to maximize their knowledge, skills and potential… make sure the person you date seriously is the kind of person who is open to learning and will make changes need to be made. This is in connection with number 12.

14. AFFECTIONATE - The ability to express love through words and actions is vital for an intimate love relationship…look for tender words, acts and touches that are given naturally and "appropriately" throughout the day, and not just in private. It is good to express your love not in words alone but as well as in actions.

The following is a "healthy food hot list" consisting of the 29 food that will give you the biggest nutritional bang for you caloric buck, as well as decrease your risk for deadly illnesses like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Along with each description is a suggestion as to how to incorporate these power-foods into your diet.

FRUITS

01. Apricots
The Power:  Beta-carotene, which helps prevent free-radical damage and protect the eyes. The body also turns beta-carotene into vitamin A, which may help ward off some cancers, especially of the skin. One apricot has 17 calories, 0 fat, and 1 gram of fiber. Snacks on them dried, or if you prefer fresh, buy when still firm; once they soften, they lose nutrients.

02. Avocados
The Power:  Oleic acid, an unsaturated fat that helps lower overall cholesterol and raise levels of HDL, plus a good dose of fiber. One slice has 81 calories, 8 grams of fat and 3 grams of fiber. Try a few slices instead of mayonnaise to dress up your next burger.

03. Raspberries
The Power:  Ellagic acid, which helps stall cancer-cell growth. These berries are also packed with vitamin C and are high in fiber, which helps prevent high cholesterol and heart disease. A cup has only 60 calories, 1 gram of fat and 8 grams of fiber. Top plain low-fat yogurt or oatmeal (another high fiber food) with fresh berries.

04. Mango
The Power:  A medium mango packs 57mg of vitamin C, almost your whole-recommended daily dose. This antioxidant helps prevent arthritis and boosts wound healing and your immune system. Mangoes also boast more than 8,000 IU of vitamin A (as beta-carotene). One mango has 135 calories, 1 gram of fat and 4 grams of fiber. Cut on up and serve it over leafy greens. Bonus: Your salad will taste like dessert!

05. Cantaloupe
The Power:  Vitamin C (117mg in half a melon, almost twice the recommended daily dose) and beta-carotene - both powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from free-radical damage. Plus, half a melon has 853mg of potassium - almost twice as much as a banana, which helps lower blood pressure. Half a melon has 97 calories, 1 gram of fat and 2 grams of fiber. Cut into cubes and freeze, and then blend into an icy smoothie.

06. Cranberry Juice
The Power:  Helps fight bladder infections by preventing harmful bacteria from growing. A cup has 144 calories, 0 grams of fat and 0 fiber. Buy 100 percent juice concentrate and use it to spice up your daily H20 without adding sugar.

07. Tomato
The Power:  Lycopene, one of the strongest carotenoids, acts as an antioxidant. Research shows that tomatoes may cut the risk of bladder, stomach and colon cancers in half if eaten daily. A tomato has 26 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Drizzle fresh slices with olive oil, because lycopene is best absorbed when eaten with a little fat.

08. Raisins
The Power:  These little gems are a great source of iron, which helps the blood transport oxygen and which many women are short on. A half-cup has 218 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Sprinkle raisins on your morning oatmeal or bran cereal - women, consider this especially during your period.

09. Figs
The Power:  A good source of potassium and fiber, figs also contain vitamin B6, which is responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin, lowering cholesterol and preventing water retention. The Pill depletes B6, so if you use this method of birth control, make sure to get extra B6 in your diet. One fig has 37 to 48 calories, 0 fat and 2 grams of fiber. (Cookie lovers - fig bars have around 56 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber per cookie). Fresh figs are delicious simmered alongside pork tenderloin and the dried variety makes a great portable gym snack.

10. Lemons/Limes
The Power:  Limonene, furocoumarins and vitamin C, all of which help prevent cancer. A wedge has 2 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Buy a few of each and squeeze over salads, fish, beans and vegetables for fat free flavor.

VEGETABLES

11. Onions
The Power:  Quercetin is one of the most powerful flavonoids (natural plant antioxidants). Studies show it helps protect against cancer. A cup (chopped) has 61 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Chop onions for the maximum phyto-nutrient boost, or if you hate to cry, roast them with a little olive oil and serve with rice or other vegetables.

12. Artichokes
The Power:  These odd-looking vegetables contain silymarin, an antioxidant that helps prevent skin cancer, plus fiber to help control cholesterol. One medium artichoke has 60 calories, 0 fat and 7 grams of fiber. Steam over boiling water for 30 to 40 minutes. Squeeze lemon juice on top, then pluck the leaves off with your fingers and use your teeth to scrape off the rich-tasting skin. When you get to the heart, you have found the best part!

13. Ginger
The Power:  Gingerols may help reduce queasiness; other compounds may help ward off migraines and arthritis pain by blocking inflammation-causing prostaglandins. A teaspoon of fresh gingerroot has only 1 calorie, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Peel the tough brown skin and slice or grate into a stir-fry.

14. Broccoli
The Power:  Indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane, which help protect against breast cancer. Broccoli also has lots of vitamin C and beta-carotene. One cup (chopped) has 25 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Don’t overcook broccoli - instead, microwave or steam lightly to preserve phytonutrients. Squeeze fresh lemon on top for a zesty and taste, added nutrients and some vitamin C.

15. Spinach
The Power:  Lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that help fend off macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in older people. Plus, studies show this green fountain of youth may help reverse some signs of aging. One cup has 7 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Add raw leaves to a salad or sauté with a little olive oil and garlic.

16. Bok Choy (Chinese cabbage)
The Power:  Brassinin, which some research suggests may help prevent breast tumors, plus indoles and isothiocyanates, which lower levels of estrogen, make this vegetable a double-barreled weapon against breast cancer. A cup will also give you 158mg of calcium (16 percent of your daily recommended requirement) to help beat osteoporosis. A cup (cooked) has 20 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Find it in your grocer’s produce section or an Asian market. Slice the greens and juicy white stalks, then sauté like spinach or toss into a stir-fry just before serving.

17. Squash (Butternut, Pumpkin, and Acorn)
The Power:  Winter squash has huge amounts of vitamin C and beta-carotene, which may help protect against endometrial cancer. One cup (cooked) has 80 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Cut on in half, scoop out the seeds and bake or microwave until soft, then dust with cinnamon.

18. Watercress and Arugula
The Power:  Phenethyl isothiocyanate, which, along with beta-carotene and vitamins C and E, may help keep cancer cells at bay. One cup has around 4 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Do not cook these leafy greens; instead, use them to garnish a sandwich or add a pungent, peppery taste to salad.

19. Garlic
The Power:  The sulfur compounds that give garlic its pungent flavor can also lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol, lower blood pressure and even reduce your risk of stomach and colon cancer. A clove has 4 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Bake a whole head for 15 to 20 minutes, until soft and sweet and spread on bread instead of butter.

GRAINS/BEANS/NUTS

20. Quinoa
The Power:  A half cup of cooked quinoa has 5 grams of protein, more than any other grain, plus iron, riboflavin and magnesium. A half-cup has 318 calories, 5 grams of fat and 5 grams of fiber. Add to soup for a protein boost. Rinse first, or it will taste bitter.

21. Wheat Germ
The Power:  A tablespoon gives you about 7 percent of your daily magnesium, which helps prevent muscle cramps; it is also a good source of vitamin E. One tablespoon has 27 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber. Sprinkle some over yogurt, fruit or cereal.

22. Lentils
The Power:  Isoflavones, which may inhibit estrogen-promoted breast cancers, plus fiber for heart health and an impressive 9 grams of protein per half cup. A half-cup (cooked) has 115 calories, 0 fat and 8 grams of fiber. Isoflavones hold up through processing, so buy lentils canned, dried or already in soup. Take them to work, and you will have a protein packed lunch.

23. Peanuts
The Power:  Studies show that peanuts or other nuts (which contain mostly unsaturated "good" fat) can lower your heart-disease risk by over 20 percent. One ounce has 166 calories, 14 grams of fat and 2 grams of fiber. Keep a packet in your briefcase, gym bag or purse for a protein-packed post-workout nosh or an afternoon pick me up that will satisfy you until supper, or chop a few into a stir-fry for a Thai accent.

24. Pinto Beans
The Power:  A half cup has more than 25 percent of your daily requirement of folate, which helps protect against heart disease and reduces the risk of birth defects. A half-cup (canned) has 103 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Drain a can, rinse and toss into a pot of vegetarian chili.

Low fat Yogurt
25. The Power:  Bacteria in active-culture yogurt helps prevent yeast infections; calcium strengthens bones. A cup has 155 calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 grams of fiber. Get the plain kind and mix in your own fruit to keep calories and sugar down. If you are lactose intolerant, never fear - yogurt should not bother your tummy.

26. Skim Milk
The Power:  Riboflavin (a.k.a. vitamin B2) is important for good vision and along with vitamin A might help improve eczema and allergies. Plus, you get calcium and vitamin D, too. One cup has 86 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. If you are used to high fat milk, don’t go cold turkey; instead, mix the two together at first. Trust this fact: In a week or two you won’t miss it!

SEAFOOD

27. Shellfish (Clams, Mussels)
The Power:  Vitamin B12 to support nerve and brain function, plus iron and hard-to-get minerals like magnesium and potassium. Three ounces has 126 to 146 calories, 2 to 4 grams of fat and 0 fiber. Try a bowl of tomato-based (and low fat) Manhattan clam chowder.

28. Salmon
The Power:  Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna are the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce the risk of cardiac disease. A 3-ounce portion (cooked) has 127 calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 fiber. Brush fillets with ginger-soy marinade and grill or broil until fish flakes easily with a fork.

29. Crab
The Power:  A great source of vitamin B12 and immunity-boosting zinc. A 3-ounce portion has 84 calories, 1 gram of fat and 0 fiber. The "crab" in sushi is usually made from fish; buy it canned instead and make your own crab cakes.

1. Be closer to God- must attend Sunday services, monthly Kid’s Church teaching and acting, bible study on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, discovering more books about Him, prayers all the time and consistent bible reading.

2. Bring at least 15 new people to Church- to assist them in having a greater relationship with God. Join me, its great being with Him…

3. Life partner- if your out there… yoo hoo! call me okay? Am single!

4. More active in poor children initiatives- continue visits at Kuya Center Orphanage, join medical missions, initiate community initiatives and constant support to other groups for sponsorships and volunteerism.

5. Breakthrough year from Columbary of the Divine Mercy Shrine (www.columbary.com) - hitting 15M in sales! Increase dollar investments -to $150,000.

6. Save 40% of my income this year- lessen social events and dining out.

7. Hit the gym at least 3 times a week- increase muscle and lessen fat to 10%.

8. Realize together with Youth Alliance Philippines and @62!- the goal for a better voter’s education for the youth.

9. Another Boracay vacation- maybe with you guys! so when you free?

10. Invest in a new business- if you have something in mind, let me know.

So whats yours?

50 excited, enthusiastic, energetic McDonald’s lovers… 50 poor kids but rich in spirit and life… 50 unfortunate kids of the nearby community in the Katipunan area had the time of their life last December 11.                                     

The mascot was birdie… she got beaten up. (happens every year). The kids ate chicken McDo, sweet spaghetti, apple pie and orange juice. They got home a package of toys, school supplies and food… The organizers gave me a free pairs of metal angel earrings that say “made for an angel” at the back of the charms.

The extra funds of this worthwhile project will be donated to the UERM Medical Center to help with the renovation of their charity pediatric ward.

Here are some of the pictures:

There will be another McDo Party for the second batch of kids on December 18, Sunday, also from 330-530pm… Its your opportunity to be part of them this Christmas… calling for your support once again. See you!

For sponsorship, please deposit your money (thank you) at i bank wack wack account number 040120002610, Harvard Uy de Baron. I need the donations by December 9, 2005 (Friday) for December 11 event and December 16 (Friday) for December 18 and December 23 events. Please fax to me deposit slip at 9151390 (my office). RUSH GUYS!!! Reply na…

The problems you face will either defeat you or develop you - depending on how you respond to them. Unfortunately, most people fail to see how God wants to use problems for good in their lives. They react foolishly and resent their problems rather than pausing to consider what benefit they might bring…

Here are 5 ways God wants to use the problems in your life:

1. God uses problems to DIRECT you.

Sometimes God must light a fire under you to get you moving. Problems often point us in a new direction and motivate us to change. Is God trying to get your attention? "Sometimes it takes a painful situation to make us change our ways." Proverbs 20:30

2. God uses problems to INSPECT you.

People are like tea bags…if you want to know what’s inside them, just drop them into hot ever water! Has God tested  your faith with a problem What do problems reveal about you?

"When you have many kinds of troubles, you should  be full of joy, because you know that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you patience." James 1:2-3

3. God uses problems to CORRECT you.

Some lessons we learn only through  pain and failure. It’s likely that as a child your parents told you not to touch a hot stove. But you probably learned by being burned. Sometimes we only learn the value of something…health, money, a relationship… by losing it. "It was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to pay attention to your laws."  Psalm 119:71-72

4. God uses problems to PROTECT you.

A problem can be a blessing in disguise if it prevents you from being harmed by something more serious. Last year a friend  was fired for refusing to do something unethical that his boss had asked him to do. His unemployment was a problem - but it saved him from being convicted and sent to prison a year  later when management’s actions were eventually discovered. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good… Genesis 50:20

5. God uses problems to PERFECT you.

Problems, when responded to correctly, are character builders. God is far more interested in your character than your comfort. Your relationship to God  and your character are the only two things you’re going to take with you into eternity. "We can rejoice when we run into problems… they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady." Romans 5:3-4

Here’s the point:

God is at work in your life - even when you do not recognize it or understand it. But it’s much easier and profitable when you  cooperate with Him.

"Success can be measured not only in achievements, but in lessons learned, lives touched and moments shared along the way."

.

Join us every Friday at our Bible study.. knowing more about God and his super works!

*** For sponsorship, please deposit your money (thank you) at i bank wack wack account number 040120002610, Harvard Uy de Baron. I need the donations by December 9, 2005 (Friday) for December 11 event and December 16 (Friday) for December 18 and December 23 events. Please fax to me deposit slip at 9151390 (my office). RUSH GUYS!!! Reply na…

Time flies certainly fast as another Yuletide season draws near. During this time, most of the children we know experience the best of what life can offer as they anticipate well wrapped gifts from parents and families. However, it is common knowledge that majority of Filipino children do not experience Christmas due to financial confines…

I am part of these 3 Christmas initiatives of which I hope you could be part of as well. I hope to encourage you to sponsor more than one child and be the person these children remember in their prayers. By sponsoring more than one child, we can invite more children to experience the spirit of Christmas through your generous provision.

MULAT (Mga Kabataang Umuusad at Lumalaban para sa Iisang Adhikaing Tapat)

MULAT, a barangay based organization will hold its 3rd gift giving event entitled "Handog Kasiyahan para sa mga Bata Ngayong Kapaskuhan 2005" on December 23, Friday, 4pm at Metropolis Village Civered Court, Barangay Sta. Lucia, Pasig City. (for directions, please contact me)

This event has been succesfully undertaken last December 2002 and 2003. This year around 200 children will once again benefit not only gifts of material significance but also an experience with you, that for us is priceless. Just 100 pesos a child can enjoy a day of fun and games, a hearty Christmas meal and gifts.

McDonald’s Katipunan Christmas Party!

This is our 3rd straight year of providing McDonald type parties for the unfortunate kids of the nearby community in the Katipunan area. Join us on December 11 and/or 18 (Sundays), 3pm-5pm. Be a child sponsor by contributing 200 pesos only, it includes:

1. McDonald’s party package with mascot

2. Your name will be written on his/ her giveaway (school items)

3. Get a free pair of metal angel earrings that say “made for an angel” at the back of the charms for every Php 100 you donate.

*** The extra funds of this worthwhile project will be donated to the UERM Medical Center to help with the renovation of their charity pediatric ward.

Kuya Center Orphanage Christmas Party!

Join us here for your donations (clothes, sleeping items, medicine, toiletries, other children needs) and food for 20 children. December 18, Sunday, 6pm at #23 St. Michael St. Brgy, Immaculate Conception, Quezon City (near E. Rodriguez).

There will be a program hosted by Lasallian Youth Commission (LYC).

Please contact me at 09175389218 if you wish to sponsor and be part of these events. Hope to get support from you!

Merry Christmas! =) 

I used to be 185 lbs with “are those muscles even” to 155 lbs now with “yeah, it looks like its muscles”. Just my share of what I did to lose that excess 30 lbs and increase that muscle…

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1. It starts with a goal- stay committed and consistent in achieving your set target. Start imagining the “new you”. You should be ecstatic! 

2. Drink lots of water- dehydration can cause a significant drop in your metabolism. A gallon of pure water daily is a must. Water is also very essential in digestion.

3. Eat more of food rich in protein and fiber- protein is essential, better though to eat chicken breast, fish and tofu than beef and pork. 2-3 servings of vegetables and fruits are highly recommended everyday as well. Lesser carbohydrates is the key: not much of rice, bread, pasta!

4. Go to the gym- weightlifting is one of the best ways to increase metabolic rate. Consult with your gym instructor for a tailor fit program. Follow it strictly. Must be at least 2-3 times a week. It is preferred that you use heavier weights with lower repetitions. For better results, use protein shake for muscle build up and creatine for added strength, energy and faster muscle gain.

5. Take green-tea extract- a must supplement to fast track losing weight. Visit GNC or Healthy Options for more details.

6. Do lots of cardio especially first thing in the morning on an empty stomach- fat burning is suppressed significantly when carbohydrates are ingested up to 6 hours before the exercise. You can burn 3 times more fat this way. To add, do different cardio workouts- jog, bike, other sports, elliptical machines or stair climber. Make sure you drink lots of water before, throughout and after workout.

7. Drink milk- diets rich in high calcium, low-fat dairy products can help increase fat loss.

8. Eat small meals throughout the day- its proven- eating smaller, more frequent meals increases fat utilization. Never make yourself hungry- eat- but stay away from junk food.

9. Sit-ups, push-ups using the stairs, walking- little exercises from time to time works. 

10. Don’t eat many carbohydrates at night- leads to fat storage as your metabolism is slower at night. Do protein and fiber instead after 6pm (if you still need to eat), save your carbohydrates early in the day. (breakfast, brunch and lunch)

11. Eat slowly- chew that food, eating slowly will make you feeling full faster, thus, eat less.

12. Add spice in your meal- it just simply increases the metabolism rate. It creates more perspiration and influences body temperature.

13. Get enough sleep- make a constant effort to get 8-9 hours of sleep every night. It is also crucial in recovery process on your gym and cardio workouts.

14. Avoid the drinks- softdrinks, juice or beer is just added sugar, calories and cost in your meal. Alcohol to add, slows metabolism and can increase fat storage in cells.

15. Stress contributes fat- the hormone cortisol is the so-called stress hormone. It’s released by the body in times of stress- it redistributes body fat and increases belly fat. Reducing all types of stress and getting enough sleep every night can certainly help you to manage cortisol levels to reduce fat storage. Take Vitamin C and zinc to help.

16. Read the labels- the nutritional labels based on daily value written in almost all food products sold in the grocery means everything. Read these first and understand how much saturated fat, calories, sodium or sugar you’ll be consuming. Knowing how much should make you eat less. 

17. Keep yourself busy- be preoccupied most of the time and you wont think of eating. An active lifestyle burns you more calories.

18. Reward system- reward yourself with your favorite dessert or chocolate bar once in awhile.

We always hear "the rules" from the female side. Now here are the rules from the male side. These are our 25…

1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You’re a big girl. If it’s up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don’t hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

2. Basketball. It’s like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.

3. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

4. Crying is blackmail. It is.

5. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!

6. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

7. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem. See a doctor.

8. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 days.

9. If you won’t dress like the Victoria ’s Secret girls, don’t expect us to act like soap opera guys.

10. If you think you’re fat, you probably are. Don’t ask us. Oops.

11. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.

12. You can either ask us to do something or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

13. Whenever possible, please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

14. Christopher Columbus did not need directions and neither do we.

15. All men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not a color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

16. If we ask what is wrong and you say nothing, we will act like nothing’s wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

17. If you ask a question you don’t want an answer to, expect an answer you don’t want to hear.

18. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine…Really.

19. Don’t ask us what we’re thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as basketball, action movies, or cars.

20. You have enough clothes.

21. You have too many shoes.

22. I am in shape. Round is a shape.

23. If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that.

24. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That’s what we do.                                               

25. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, we have to sleep on the couch; but did you know men really don’t mind that? It’s like camping.