I was pretty happy with her face and of course it wouldn't be Catwoman without her ruby red lips! Here she is in all her glory!
Watch how she was created on YouTube. Click this...
Here she posed for everyone!
CLICK THIS ARTWORK TO ENTER GALLERY
CLICK THIS PHOTO TO ENTER GALLERY
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
CATWOMAN AT MY PARTY
Ok, so it's no secret that I love Catwoman (secret identity -- Selina Kyle). For my birthday party, I wanted to have a Catwoman theme. Besides having black gumballs, candy and chocolates, I wanted to have a life-sized Catwoman as well. I have always been Catwoman for Halloween but it's not halloween so it would be creepy to show up at my own party in a full Catwoman suit. So without further ado, I wanted to personalize a blow-up mannequin and suit it up as Catwoman. For that I ordered a black colored plastic blow up mannequin online. Here are the steps to personalize her face and suit her up.
I was pretty happy with her face and of course it wouldn't be Catwoman without her ruby red lips! Here she is in all her glory!
She is now ready to meet the guests and pose for their photos!
I was pretty happy with her face and of course it wouldn't be Catwoman without her ruby red lips! Here she is in all her glory!
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Day 10 - VENICE
Venice
So Venice beautiful but I don't think I would be able to live in a sinking city where you have to take a boat ride to get everywhere. It's a touristy town and it is what we know Italy to be when we think of it. Well, the flavor is much different here. I noticed the business owners are all about business and serious. Too bad they don't realize that customer relationship has more possibilities of repeating business than not. Oh well, se la vie, right?
The gondola ride was awesome, exactly what I had expected however, the guy didn't sing to us even though I asked him twice and even started singing, o so le mia... To get him started. He just said people from California should Bay Watch, whatever that meant? After the ride we had lunch at a Bistro. Wow! The meat plate had 4 types of sliced pork but the funny thing is, it tasted so fresh and lean. Then the gorgonzola cheese was yummy!!!
We got lost, there were so many channels and bridges we passed and crossed over, but about an hour and a half walk in 90 degree humid heat, we finally got to the ship but had to go through two security gates, hehhh???
Oh well back on the ship and on the last leg of this vacay! I am excited to see my babies back home, the fam and english speaking people lol! I love em all but ready for home. Tomorrow is another sea day then Messina blah blah blah... Hey can someone update me on whats going on with Big Brother?
Till my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!!
So Venice beautiful but I don't think I would be able to live in a sinking city where you have to take a boat ride to get everywhere. It's a touristy town and it is what we know Italy to be when we think of it. Well, the flavor is much different here. I noticed the business owners are all about business and serious. Too bad they don't realize that customer relationship has more possibilities of repeating business than not. Oh well, se la vie, right?
The gondola ride was awesome, exactly what I had expected however, the guy didn't sing to us even though I asked him twice and even started singing, o so le mia... To get him started. He just said people from California should Bay Watch, whatever that meant? After the ride we had lunch at a Bistro. Wow! The meat plate had 4 types of sliced pork but the funny thing is, it tasted so fresh and lean. Then the gorgonzola cheese was yummy!!!
We got lost, there were so many channels and bridges we passed and crossed over, but about an hour and a half walk in 90 degree humid heat, we finally got to the ship but had to go through two security gates, hehhh???
Oh well back on the ship and on the last leg of this vacay! I am excited to see my babies back home, the fam and english speaking people lol! I love em all but ready for home. Tomorrow is another sea day then Messina blah blah blah... Hey can someone update me on whats going on with Big Brother?
Till my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!!
Saturday, July 28, 2012
FUN DAY AT SEA?
Oh and our day at sea. Turns out people love the sun like one loves an abusive spouse. Tanning all day even though they are well aware that it could kill them someday! So very early in the morning they save their lounge chairs with books or shoes so that no one can take them. I saw one lady dragging hers into her cabin.
As imperfect as we Americans are, at least most of us are not rude to one another and that is what I miss about home. Here, people push their way through if you're not moving fast enough. There is no moral compass or human filter. It is all about them. How sad. I think you know who you are! You are the ones who take more food than you can eat, you have no consideration for people when you talk so loudly walking through the halls of the staterooms, the ones who don't discipline your kids when they run around like crazy knocking people over. The ones who cut in line without even asking if others were there first, just to name a few. It's not even about what country you are from it's realizing that you share the world you live in with others and it really isn't all about you. Being polite goes a long way, why not try it on for size?
One thing I would never do is go on another Carnival cruise. I don't know if it is just this one but there are way too many kids! I have nothing against kids, its just majority of them are unruly! Also, the cruise catered more to them that most of the entertainment and activities were geared toward kids, even the food was really substandard. The staff was great except for guest services, ironic isn't it? Just a note to self, no offense to the good parents with good kids.
Biggest peeve... Wait for it... Big Gutty men on speedos! There ought to be a law against that! As a matter of fact.. Ban speedos period! I didn't even see one buff guy with it on. Just saying...
Don't ever think you can do your laundry on the ship, everyone has the same idea to wash clothes on days at sea, what a mistake. The laundy system was miraculously "down" so desperate people have to use their laundry services for a 15x12 paper bag that costs$15 per bag. Bring movies because there is nothing at all on tv. Plus on days at sea everyone is everywhere!
There are some good points, the gym is not crowded on days with ports but suddenly people work out on sea days. There is an endless supply of frozen yogurt, omelettes are good, the staff is friendly, there are towel animals that may or may not remind you of your pets.
Over all it was nice to get away for a fraction of what you would normally pay if you went to a hotel, nothing beats a good cruise! Thank the Lord for this opportunity, experience and knowledge! Till my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER... For real!
As imperfect as we Americans are, at least most of us are not rude to one another and that is what I miss about home. Here, people push their way through if you're not moving fast enough. There is no moral compass or human filter. It is all about them. How sad. I think you know who you are! You are the ones who take more food than you can eat, you have no consideration for people when you talk so loudly walking through the halls of the staterooms, the ones who don't discipline your kids when they run around like crazy knocking people over. The ones who cut in line without even asking if others were there first, just to name a few. It's not even about what country you are from it's realizing that you share the world you live in with others and it really isn't all about you. Being polite goes a long way, why not try it on for size?
One thing I would never do is go on another Carnival cruise. I don't know if it is just this one but there are way too many kids! I have nothing against kids, its just majority of them are unruly! Also, the cruise catered more to them that most of the entertainment and activities were geared toward kids, even the food was really substandard. The staff was great except for guest services, ironic isn't it? Just a note to self, no offense to the good parents with good kids.
Biggest peeve... Wait for it... Big Gutty men on speedos! There ought to be a law against that! As a matter of fact.. Ban speedos period! I didn't even see one buff guy with it on. Just saying...
Don't ever think you can do your laundry on the ship, everyone has the same idea to wash clothes on days at sea, what a mistake. The laundy system was miraculously "down" so desperate people have to use their laundry services for a 15x12 paper bag that costs$15 per bag. Bring movies because there is nothing at all on tv. Plus on days at sea everyone is everywhere!
There are some good points, the gym is not crowded on days with ports but suddenly people work out on sea days. There is an endless supply of frozen yogurt, omelettes are good, the staff is friendly, there are towel animals that may or may not remind you of your pets.
Over all it was nice to get away for a fraction of what you would normally pay if you went to a hotel, nothing beats a good cruise! Thank the Lord for this opportunity, experience and knowledge! Till my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER... For real!
WATCH YOUR TONGUE -- PART 2
The bible says that the sting of the tongue is more lethal than any venomous animal in this world. It mentions the word “tongue” 93 times. “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” is a schoolyard phrase that is a bunch of “bull”oney!
People wound each other with their words. Our words have an overly destructive power. The bible does not compliment us about the words we say. It warns us what will happen if we don’t measure and watch the words that we speak.
What comes out of our mouth is a reflection of what actually goes on inside our hearts. Our speech reveals us and it is an indication of what type of people we are.
Monks took vows of silence because they knew that their silence, the likelihood of sin will be minimal. Less talk, less trouble.
How do we tame our tongue? Those who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways but if one is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his body in check, but no one in this world is perfect.
Much like the bit in a horse’s mouth and the rudder that stirs a big ship, the tongue is a small part of the body but it makes great boasts. Consider a forest fire starts off from a small spark. A tongue is a fire, an evil part of the body that corrupts the whole person. It sets the whole course of the life on fire and is itself set on fire by hell.
All kinds of animals are being tamed by man but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our father and curse men who had been made of God’s same likeness. Out of the same mouth our tongues and our words have unbelievable power to do harm.
It’s in our nature to have tongue problems. We all have a problem with our tongue. But progress is realizing we are not perfect people.
God knows we need help to tame our tongues. To do that we should lead with our ears and then follow up with our tongue and let anger straggle along in the rear. Another way to say that is STOP, LOOK and LISTEN. If you do that it will improve your communication whether it is in your family, business, or relationship.
People wound each other with their words. Our words have an overly destructive power. The bible does not compliment us about the words we say. It warns us what will happen if we don’t measure and watch the words that we speak.
What comes out of our mouth is a reflection of what actually goes on inside our hearts. Our speech reveals us and it is an indication of what type of people we are.
Monks took vows of silence because they knew that their silence, the likelihood of sin will be minimal. Less talk, less trouble.
How do we tame our tongue? Those who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways but if one is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his body in check, but no one in this world is perfect.
Much like the bit in a horse’s mouth and the rudder that stirs a big ship, the tongue is a small part of the body but it makes great boasts. Consider a forest fire starts off from a small spark. A tongue is a fire, an evil part of the body that corrupts the whole person. It sets the whole course of the life on fire and is itself set on fire by hell.
All kinds of animals are being tamed by man but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our father and curse men who had been made of God’s same likeness. Out of the same mouth our tongues and our words have unbelievable power to do harm.
It’s in our nature to have tongue problems. We all have a problem with our tongue. But progress is realizing we are not perfect people.
God knows we need help to tame our tongues. To do that we should lead with our ears and then follow up with our tongue and let anger straggle along in the rear. Another way to say that is STOP, LOOK and LISTEN. If you do that it will improve your communication whether it is in your family, business, or relationship.
Friday, July 27, 2012
DAY 7-DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
It gets better and better each day of this adventure. Dubrovnik Croatia is a sleepy town whose principal economy rests on tourism. Therefore, they work 9 months out of the year and off for three months. Everyone in this small town know each other because the population of locals is so small. This new country is only 21 years old. In the 1600s they built the walls in case of war but it wasn't until 1991 that Dubrovnik was attacked by the Serbs when it wanted to be liberated. However, because of the monetary contributions of American and Australian Croatians, they were able to afford artillery to fight back at which time the Serbs realized it may not be their war to win.
I was very impressed with the warmth of the ones we did come in contact with. I wouldn't mind living in this mediterranean town with its rich history, blue green seas and laid back people.
We went to a little farmhouse where they explained how olive oil is made, where the figs are so sweet and they served this orange rind that was so delicious!
These people are proud to have what enough they have not really wanting more and more that the whole town predominantly owned Yugos, the cheapest cars, to get them from point A to point B. There were a lot of them zipping around! Lol!
Trivia: after the attack it was decided that when the houses were rebuilt, every house would have orange tile roof. Hmm if I can move my house there it would already have that!
Learned a few words too:
Dobra dan - hello
Hvala(sp?) - thanks
Koliko costa? - how much does it cost?
TILL MY NEXT RANT... Love one another!
I was very impressed with the warmth of the ones we did come in contact with. I wouldn't mind living in this mediterranean town with its rich history, blue green seas and laid back people.
We went to a little farmhouse where they explained how olive oil is made, where the figs are so sweet and they served this orange rind that was so delicious!
These people are proud to have what enough they have not really wanting more and more that the whole town predominantly owned Yugos, the cheapest cars, to get them from point A to point B. There were a lot of them zipping around! Lol!
Trivia: after the attack it was decided that when the houses were rebuilt, every house would have orange tile roof. Hmm if I can move my house there it would already have that!
Learned a few words too:
Dobra dan - hello
Hvala(sp?) - thanks
Koliko costa? - how much does it cost?
TILL MY NEXT RANT... Love one another!
NAPLES AND POMPEII
At the port there are a lot of taxi drivers that would take you to Pompeii and if you want to continue onto the best of Naples, we were charged a fraction of what we would have paid if we took the tour guide from the ship. Our driver, Gabriel was very informative and answered questions.
The Pompeii Ruins was the result of the destruction of the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. The whole town of Greeks was obliterated and I saw two bodies that were encased in glass boxes that showed the horror still on their faces for being burned alive by the scorching lava. The roads are paved with cobblestones and very uneven. My hip was sore later.
This is where we had margherita pizza and gelato. Not very impressed but not its fault, just not too much into pizza. The gelato was really good, not too sweet or heavy I suppose it will not make me fat if I ate it every day. Ya right!
So I pretty much saw the same architectures in Naples as beautiful as the rest. We had more margherita pizza but again it was a disappointment. Maybe before we leave we will give it another shot. We were given a sample of limoncello, a lemon liqueur that is indegenous to these parts made from buffalo lemons. Huge! As big as grapefruits! I loved the cream ones but the regular is also good.
Boy, they weren't kidding about the drivers here! It LOOKS like you are going to get run over by cars but my observation was that even if the drivers actually stop short and scary, they do stop and they won't hit you. The streets have a suggestion of two lanes but in reality there are 6. There is no right or wrong way of street parking, you can park either direction on either side of the street! It was actually hilarious. You park where your car fits. What is funny though is that nobody has road rage!! They beep at you from the side to let you know their presence if they want to pass or if they block the intersection they just wave at each other and say "grazie". I learned the phrase "quanto costa" meaning how much! So proud! I love these italians, they are just to happy go lucky!
Back on the ship, we had a great dinner with a couple from Buffalo, NY. We swung by the dance club and it was dead again, four nights in a row now!
The Pompeii Ruins was the result of the destruction of the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. The whole town of Greeks was obliterated and I saw two bodies that were encased in glass boxes that showed the horror still on their faces for being burned alive by the scorching lava. The roads are paved with cobblestones and very uneven. My hip was sore later.
This is where we had margherita pizza and gelato. Not very impressed but not its fault, just not too much into pizza. The gelato was really good, not too sweet or heavy I suppose it will not make me fat if I ate it every day. Ya right!
So I pretty much saw the same architectures in Naples as beautiful as the rest. We had more margherita pizza but again it was a disappointment. Maybe before we leave we will give it another shot. We were given a sample of limoncello, a lemon liqueur that is indegenous to these parts made from buffalo lemons. Huge! As big as grapefruits! I loved the cream ones but the regular is also good.
Boy, they weren't kidding about the drivers here! It LOOKS like you are going to get run over by cars but my observation was that even if the drivers actually stop short and scary, they do stop and they won't hit you. The streets have a suggestion of two lanes but in reality there are 6. There is no right or wrong way of street parking, you can park either direction on either side of the street! It was actually hilarious. You park where your car fits. What is funny though is that nobody has road rage!! They beep at you from the side to let you know their presence if they want to pass or if they block the intersection they just wave at each other and say "grazie". I learned the phrase "quanto costa" meaning how much! So proud! I love these italians, they are just to happy go lucky!
Back on the ship, we had a great dinner with a couple from Buffalo, NY. We swung by the dance club and it was dead again, four nights in a row now!
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
ROMA - BUON GIORNO / ARIVEDERCI
Rome! What a wealth of information learned from this so very influential era that graced our earth with Jesus right in the midst of it. One can't help but marvel and at the same time be so confused at why God even chose this time to send His only Son to people who were so heartless and cruel? The only reason I can think of is to make that much more of an impact in our lives from His sacrifice and death.
There's not enough time. I felt like I missed out on so many details of the ceiling art because the tour guide was going way too fast although she didn't really have a choice as we felt like ants being herded through the entire hot Vatican Museum. It is as if all of its past contributors were right there with us. There was an eerie feeling of historical majesty consisting of God, Rafael, Michelangelo, all the saints, all the dead popes, and finally JC himself.
The Trompe L'Oeil art on the ceilings were crazy awesome! They really looked like carvings! The Sistine Chapel, whoa!! It wasn't very big in there but every inch but the floor was graced by the hand of Michelangelo. It took him 4 years to create the masterpiece without ever leaving the chapel. Well, according to the guide he never took a bath, maybe when he was born. In those days, you only bathe when born and married. He never married. Maybe here the tradition goes on.
St. Peter's Basilica was another WHOA moment! That is a big church lemme tell ya! The tallest dome, more than 400 feet tall she said you can fit the statue of liberty in it! The real popes on display were Pope John the 23rd, his body dipped in wax, Pope Innocence the 11th, his body dipped in silver. There was another guy but after taking pics of two dead popes I decided it may have been a little awkward.
The center where the pope overlooks when making an appearance on his balcony was big as well. 100k people fill that area.
There were scarf vendors out there who would trick you into thinking you were paying two euros for a scarf and then hand you an uglier one. Haha! I said gimme my money back! Finally realizing I can't be fooled, she gave in. Oyy!
The Trevi Fountain! OMG! I have never seen anything like it, not even in my dreams! Looking at it makes you just want to sit and stare at it if not for the noise and filthy surroundings!
The city itself although chockful of history is dirty! It reminded me of Oakland and Richmond. We perfected the street crossing, the motto, do as the locals do. The locals bravely cross so we follow their lead lol!
We had lunch at a restaurant and the waitresses did not impress me at all! They were kinda short with us, rolling their eyes if we request for condiments that weren't on the table already. Also, I had an upset stomach that day so I couldn't eat. They thought I didn't like the food and they were totally offended!
The coffee was another story! Little tiny cups of espresso instead of a huge cup of regular. Umm I think I'll take mine a quarter strength in a big mug with a shot of hazel nut please?
I've learned some words, here's one.. ANDIAMO! means Let's Go! I know one day I will be back. But this time I'm not going with a guide and just stay in Rome for a couple if days just to soak in the art and the wonderful architecture!!
While in Rome do as the Romans do except, do take showers.. They're free! Till my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
There's not enough time. I felt like I missed out on so many details of the ceiling art because the tour guide was going way too fast although she didn't really have a choice as we felt like ants being herded through the entire hot Vatican Museum. It is as if all of its past contributors were right there with us. There was an eerie feeling of historical majesty consisting of God, Rafael, Michelangelo, all the saints, all the dead popes, and finally JC himself.
The Trompe L'Oeil art on the ceilings were crazy awesome! They really looked like carvings! The Sistine Chapel, whoa!! It wasn't very big in there but every inch but the floor was graced by the hand of Michelangelo. It took him 4 years to create the masterpiece without ever leaving the chapel. Well, according to the guide he never took a bath, maybe when he was born. In those days, you only bathe when born and married. He never married. Maybe here the tradition goes on.
St. Peter's Basilica was another WHOA moment! That is a big church lemme tell ya! The tallest dome, more than 400 feet tall she said you can fit the statue of liberty in it! The real popes on display were Pope John the 23rd, his body dipped in wax, Pope Innocence the 11th, his body dipped in silver. There was another guy but after taking pics of two dead popes I decided it may have been a little awkward.
The center where the pope overlooks when making an appearance on his balcony was big as well. 100k people fill that area.
There were scarf vendors out there who would trick you into thinking you were paying two euros for a scarf and then hand you an uglier one. Haha! I said gimme my money back! Finally realizing I can't be fooled, she gave in. Oyy!
The Trevi Fountain! OMG! I have never seen anything like it, not even in my dreams! Looking at it makes you just want to sit and stare at it if not for the noise and filthy surroundings!
The city itself although chockful of history is dirty! It reminded me of Oakland and Richmond. We perfected the street crossing, the motto, do as the locals do. The locals bravely cross so we follow their lead lol!
We had lunch at a restaurant and the waitresses did not impress me at all! They were kinda short with us, rolling their eyes if we request for condiments that weren't on the table already. Also, I had an upset stomach that day so I couldn't eat. They thought I didn't like the food and they were totally offended!
The coffee was another story! Little tiny cups of espresso instead of a huge cup of regular. Umm I think I'll take mine a quarter strength in a big mug with a shot of hazel nut please?
I've learned some words, here's one.. ANDIAMO! means Let's Go! I know one day I will be back. But this time I'm not going with a guide and just stay in Rome for a couple if days just to soak in the art and the wonderful architecture!!
While in Rome do as the Romans do except, do take showers.. They're free! Till my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
SUMMER ART INSPIRATION AND WHERE YOU CAN FIND THEM
I have always loved county fairs and although you can expect to see your favorites every year, they are somehow able to slip in something that get your heart excited. Other than the normal pig races, cotton candy, funnel cakes, clever gadget vendors, I was laughing my head off watching the Mutton Race. Little kids get on this sheep, the herder opens the door, and they run like heck. Whichever kid could hold on the longest, wins! Some of you may have already heard of it but it was my very first time. I was very delighted!
You can use every daycation to create art. This is mine. I call it My Fair Lady... fair, get it? :)
I hope you will be able to use your fun days to create art and commemorate your day.
You can use every daycation to create art. This is mine. I call it My Fair Lady... fair, get it? :)
I hope you will be able to use your fun days to create art and commemorate your day.
Have a great day! Till my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
Monday, July 23, 2012
PISA, ITALY - DAY 3
The Tower of Pisa wow! Still not sure why it was built but whatever it was for it sure turned out to be an incredible thing! It is one of the eight wonders of the world. It was built on the 1600s and started leaning due to ground sinking. However, how it didnt completely fall is what the wonderment is all about. There were thousands of people there yesterday and also hundreds of street vendors both legal and illegal selling souvenirs and fake designer items to the tourists hoping to maybe help with Europe's sagging economy.
I can never have the words to describe this place and do it justice you will have to put it on your bucket list.
Further, I must apologize for not including photos in the blogs. Mobile devices do not allow it on Blogspot, believe me, I tried!
On the way to Pisa I noticed these pine trees but they are not your typical cone shaped trees like we have in the states. These trees are more umbrella like. So the guide said they were Umbrella Pine Trees and their fruit is... Ready? Pine nuts! Pine nuts are used to make pesto! Presto! Lol!
Next to the tower, there is another church that had intricate architactural design. It was as beautiful inside as the church we visited in Barcelona. In the past, mucky mucks built churches to display their wealth, that was how they were measured in society. Today, one's wealth is spiritual and your wealth is measured by how deep one's relationship is with God. That's my story snd I'm sticking to it!
Until my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!!
I can never have the words to describe this place and do it justice you will have to put it on your bucket list.
Further, I must apologize for not including photos in the blogs. Mobile devices do not allow it on Blogspot, believe me, I tried!
On the way to Pisa I noticed these pine trees but they are not your typical cone shaped trees like we have in the states. These trees are more umbrella like. So the guide said they were Umbrella Pine Trees and their fruit is... Ready? Pine nuts! Pine nuts are used to make pesto! Presto! Lol!
Next to the tower, there is another church that had intricate architactural design. It was as beautiful inside as the church we visited in Barcelona. In the past, mucky mucks built churches to display their wealth, that was how they were measured in society. Today, one's wealth is spiritual and your wealth is measured by how deep one's relationship is with God. That's my story snd I'm sticking to it!
Until my next rant... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!!
EUROPE TRIVIA
This cruise is The Carnival Breeze's fifth sail with a total of 4700 passengers
My chicken a la greque was hecka dry
There are a lot of folks who dont believe in deodorant and cant smell themselves
A lot of men wear the same cologne, I mean... A lot!
Maroon 5's "Move Like Jagger" is being worn out...still
The gay host of the Beatles Trivia game flirted with me and actually believed Scott would get jealous because he kept apologizing to him while calling me "sister".
It is insanely expensive in Europe, but you can still tip in dollars
Scott feels the need to speak Spanish in Barcelona even though they respond in English then raps to him in Spanish, at which time he responds, "Ingles".
The walk/dont walk signs are merely suggestions, the unwritten law is to run for your life if you want to reach the other side of the street.
My chicken a la greque was hecka dry
There are a lot of folks who dont believe in deodorant and cant smell themselves
A lot of men wear the same cologne, I mean... A lot!
Maroon 5's "Move Like Jagger" is being worn out...still
The gay host of the Beatles Trivia game flirted with me and actually believed Scott would get jealous because he kept apologizing to him while calling me "sister".
It is insanely expensive in Europe, but you can still tip in dollars
Scott feels the need to speak Spanish in Barcelona even though they respond in English then raps to him in Spanish, at which time he responds, "Ingles".
The walk/dont walk signs are merely suggestions, the unwritten law is to run for your life if you want to reach the other side of the street.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
DAY 2 MONACO
The moment you walk into this port you are hit with a pang of jealousy. Materialistic or not, when you see the parked lines of rolls royces, mazaratis, limited editions of mercedez benzes, noticing your mouth hanging open is not an impossibility. The yachts alone with a peek of their tan owners would make one wonder what do these folks really do in their year-long sunny side of the world? Whatever it was, it seems stress free. However, they seemed annoyed with our typical tourist shocked looks while walking up
and down the designer stores streets because while being respectful, they seem to speed off with their zippy cars.
But marvel we did! It was so interesting to be walking on the same road Princess Grace roamed feeling proud that a beautiful American captivated the heart of this powerful elite of Monaco. You go on with your bad self, Princess!
For a budjzi place, the boardwalk had a variety of restaurants that were not overly priced but I can't say the same about the price of realty. Our cruise director informs us that for a 500sft apartment, it costs 4.5 million dollars. Yikes! But to be quite honest, I was impressed by how clean the streets were and how respectful its citizens were in letting you cross the streets.
We visited the Oceanographic Museum simply meant aquarium, Prince Ranier's Palace with the changing of its guards, the Casino de Monaco, Paris Hotel, the Hermitage and others. Monaco streets have surveillance cemeras installed, so smile!
So I give Monaco a two thumbs up! I hope to come back to these parts to go to Grasse and make my own perfume. But for that I probably have to save a pretty penny or euro.
Till my next rant, LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
Saturday, July 21, 2012
LIVING ON THE EDGE
Every single human being on this planet has issues. If you don’t admit you do, that’s your
issue! As you might have already
suspected, I am not one to mince words.
People who live on the edge don’t usually back away from
it. Sin is defined by the Bible as
spiritual and emotional death. Sin
leaves us empty, broken and unfulfilled inside.
It also leaves a God-sized hole in our hearts which of course only God
can fill. James 1:13-14 When tempted, no
one should NOT say, “God is tempting me.”
For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each
one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and
enticed. Then, after desire is
conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth
to death. (spiritual death) Sin attacks our peaceful relationship with God.
When we are in sin, we do not think straight and it
affects us and everyone else around us.
Then it escalates to a cover-up and we sweep our junk under the rug,
pretending we are clean, knowing that it will not go away until it is
confronted head on. We become callous
when all who are affected are clearly hurt from its deadly results, feelings
that do not adequately guide us to what is right. Why does this happen?
When we are confronted with sin, we sink lower and lower
in it and then we start to feel God’s conviction. We feel the guilt of knowing that we broke
God’s heart. That in turn hurts us and
God’s heart breaks even more when He sees us hurt. Covering up one’s sins says we don’t trust
God, which brings me to the subject of repentance.
First things first, back up from the ledge! Take several steps back so you still have
room to be safe. Then we need to develop
a predetermined moral code. In other
words, draw a line in which you will refuse to cross, no matter how
difficult! Simply, ask God to help you
avoid it, just ask, you will be surprised how much God wants to keep you out of
sin more than you will ever know.
Next, don’t say, “I need to fix myself first before I go
to church.” That’s like saying “let me
straighten up before the maid gets here to clean my house.” Instead, RUN TO GOD… and fast! When sin is fresh, run to God! It will be easier to address this right away
because the longer you wait, it becomes harder to address. God loves you and if you are feeling the
guilt, that’s the Holy Spirit making you feel it!
Then ADMIT IT.
Confess your sins. It’s not like
God didn’t see you do it. However, you
still have to admit that you did and He is there, ready to forgive you, the
loving and forgiving father that he is.
God desires the truth on the inside of us. Don’t look at Him like your
own father who will still be pissed off about what you did or maybe will give
you a punishment or the cold shoulders for a time. God said when you ask me to forgive you, I
instantly do and it is forgotten as far as the east is from the west! Wow!
Then PRAY FOR CLEANSING AND FORGIVENESS. This is like washing your hands after you’ve
handled something dirty. It gives you
that feeling of cleanliness. You know
the one, after you’ve been in the sun and dirt all day and the fresh feeling
you feel after a nice hot shower?
Here is the final but most important step. ASK FOR RENEWAL. If you skip this part, you are in trouble. Why?
This is the part where you should feel completely forgiven, given the
feeling of reconnecting with your intimacy with God that you lost. Hypocrisy is knowing that you CAN be forgiven
but refusing forgiveness. God is waiting
to do so. If God can FORGET your sins,
you should as well. This step does that
for you. It will bring you back to the
same spot of happiness in your relationship with God before the sin.
Remember that there is NO sin so big that God can’t
forgive you for. He is more than happy
to forgive you. The relief that Jesus
brings with the power of forgiveness is the best feeling in the world. He wants to clean you, restore you and renew
you to the original peace of innocence and honor before you ever sinned. Can you extend the same offer to someone else
who has sinned against you by forgiving and forgetting the sin?
Till my next reveal... LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
Friday, July 20, 2012
Day 1 BARCELONA
First of all, I dont have the full function of editing so i'M not sure what this would liik like.
I knew I wasn't going to be able to sleep with all the excitement about the trip but normally when I lay my head on the pillow sleep just comes. Needless to say the Best Western in Millbrae was right next to a train station so with its pounding tracks and blaring horn, I was awakened pretty much every hour. But all that fizzled away overcome with excitement, we blew that popsicle stand with a smile. I've never been on an Air Canada flight and it was surprisingly pleasant. It helped that the attendants all had french accents. However, they really took to heart that everyone on board was on vacation so they charged their "restaurant" items up the yin yang costing Scott $5.00 for a muffin and a small bottle of water. Now I'm not certain if it was Canadian dollars or American as they would not accept cash but only credit cards. There is still an hour and a half left on this flight and Im hungry. My schedule is off but I still have that smile on my face! Let's land this baby now, eh? *sits back down to finish watching "Ghost"*
Fast forward to the Toronto terminal, we scrambled to the restrooms and off to get some lunch. We moseyed over to Carleys and ordered a Shrimp Spinach Salad that was to die for! I've always thought salads were boring especially for someone like me who's decided to change my eating habits. Whoa! What rabbit would not want to get a taste of this! It was a decadent medley of grilled shrimps on a skewer, spinach, bacon bits, hard boiled egg whites, mandarin orange slices topped with French fried onions and thin Chinese fried noodles! I can't wait to experiment when I get back home. The dressing was sweet with a hint, just a hint of tang, sort of reminded me of poppy seed dressing. The onion soup was just as boastful, not smothered with a bunch of onions in it but had French bread baked in it topped with mozzarella cheese. In fairness, I had three bites, but it was enough to make me want to come back to Carleys on the trip back.
The flight to Barcelona was a bit more cumbersome. The plane is bigger, so more passengers. However, people seem very nice and friendly. We were. It graced with individual tv screens and no charging station for my iPad so I had to pull out the power pack. I'm just wondering what's going on at the Big Brother house right now. Did Frank or Kara get evicted?
I couldnt wait to get off the plane! However, interesting on the way to the Tryp Apolo hotel, I was looking at the side of the mountain trying to figure out what those piles and plies of these boxes on top of each other and then the driver said it was a cementary. Wow they dug horizontally in the side of the mountain. I found this interesting.
After lunch, I took a nap not realizing how tired I was 2 hours later I woke up with only 1.5 hours to spare before meeting the rest of the tour group. Needless to say I was in a fog. But the 4 hour tour was worth it. We saw the works of modern artist (modern in their day not ours). We saw the works of Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia which is the whole outside of this church depicts Jesus' life carved in concrete. It was so detailed but not yet finished, more towers are going up. This is a must-see in Barcelona. We also went to the statue of Columbus and this is also a must-see! All around the base of it shows his meeting with the queen, correct me if I'm wrong but I was just so in awe about the intricate details of these fabulous architectures chock full of history!
There were a lot of authentic food, but since it is the first day, didn't want to risk getting the wrong food and getting sick. The food we did have was very good though. It was fresh and true to form unlike the food back home that is so tweaked to even taste like it's truth but hey, credit, they are all RDA approved.
We walked from the Santa Maria Church back to the hotel. I really wanted to go see the Picasso Museum but didn't get there in time for the last tour. Save for next time!
We also went to Guell Park (pronounced "well")
Back at the hotel, I tried to upload photos but couldn't keep my eyes open, so I slept through the loud concert next to the hotel! I love this place! I can't really do it much justice with photos or my descriptions but you will have to visit!
Trivial Things that I noticed:
The hotel does not give out individual hand soap or shampoo, they have dispensers
Europe they call them washrooms, America -bathroom/restroom, Philippines-comfort room, you do the math, who calls it the best?
The public stalls smell good (so far) and there is no water sitting in the bowl, they conserve
The porta potties are clean and u don't go in an open hole, it's an actual toilet bowl so the 50 cent euro is worth it
The diet coke comes are in itty bitty bottles and called "light" and they are expensive, about, 3 dollars at the restaurants oh and no refills!
Oh at the hotel rooms you put your key card in a slot to turn on the lights so before you leave, all lights are forced to be turned off.
Because almost everyone ride bikes everywhere, they are fit! You can take and ride these bikes and park them in a parking spot at your destination. Then for those who didn't follow rules and park the bikes willy nilly, a truck drives around and picks them up. The bike lanes are in the middle lane of the road and are respected by car drivers. Here's what's funny, pedestrians are not respected at all, you have to dodge the cars if you're walking, not the other way around like in America. So those people that take their time crossing the street while drivers wait, will be run over in this city. Also, cars can drive over sidewalks and again pedestrians must run for safety!
The buses are first class! The subway is like in New York, dirty and smelly. People are scantily dressed but no one cares because they all dress the same way. I noticed that unless you are selling something, no one really smiles,not that they are unfriendly, they just don't, unless you are asking them for directions, which I often did and they like that you try to speak in their language and will gladlly correct you if you are looking for the right word to say.
All in all, it's been pleasant. Now I'm excited to get on the boat! Till my next rant...LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
I knew I wasn't going to be able to sleep with all the excitement about the trip but normally when I lay my head on the pillow sleep just comes. Needless to say the Best Western in Millbrae was right next to a train station so with its pounding tracks and blaring horn, I was awakened pretty much every hour. But all that fizzled away overcome with excitement, we blew that popsicle stand with a smile. I've never been on an Air Canada flight and it was surprisingly pleasant. It helped that the attendants all had french accents. However, they really took to heart that everyone on board was on vacation so they charged their "restaurant" items up the yin yang costing Scott $5.00 for a muffin and a small bottle of water. Now I'm not certain if it was Canadian dollars or American as they would not accept cash but only credit cards. There is still an hour and a half left on this flight and Im hungry. My schedule is off but I still have that smile on my face! Let's land this baby now, eh? *sits back down to finish watching "Ghost"*
Fast forward to the Toronto terminal, we scrambled to the restrooms and off to get some lunch. We moseyed over to Carleys and ordered a Shrimp Spinach Salad that was to die for! I've always thought salads were boring especially for someone like me who's decided to change my eating habits. Whoa! What rabbit would not want to get a taste of this! It was a decadent medley of grilled shrimps on a skewer, spinach, bacon bits, hard boiled egg whites, mandarin orange slices topped with French fried onions and thin Chinese fried noodles! I can't wait to experiment when I get back home. The dressing was sweet with a hint, just a hint of tang, sort of reminded me of poppy seed dressing. The onion soup was just as boastful, not smothered with a bunch of onions in it but had French bread baked in it topped with mozzarella cheese. In fairness, I had three bites, but it was enough to make me want to come back to Carleys on the trip back.
The flight to Barcelona was a bit more cumbersome. The plane is bigger, so more passengers. However, people seem very nice and friendly. We were. It graced with individual tv screens and no charging station for my iPad so I had to pull out the power pack. I'm just wondering what's going on at the Big Brother house right now. Did Frank or Kara get evicted?
I couldnt wait to get off the plane! However, interesting on the way to the Tryp Apolo hotel, I was looking at the side of the mountain trying to figure out what those piles and plies of these boxes on top of each other and then the driver said it was a cementary. Wow they dug horizontally in the side of the mountain. I found this interesting.
After lunch, I took a nap not realizing how tired I was 2 hours later I woke up with only 1.5 hours to spare before meeting the rest of the tour group. Needless to say I was in a fog. But the 4 hour tour was worth it. We saw the works of modern artist (modern in their day not ours). We saw the works of Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia which is the whole outside of this church depicts Jesus' life carved in concrete. It was so detailed but not yet finished, more towers are going up. This is a must-see in Barcelona. We also went to the statue of Columbus and this is also a must-see! All around the base of it shows his meeting with the queen, correct me if I'm wrong but I was just so in awe about the intricate details of these fabulous architectures chock full of history!
There were a lot of authentic food, but since it is the first day, didn't want to risk getting the wrong food and getting sick. The food we did have was very good though. It was fresh and true to form unlike the food back home that is so tweaked to even taste like it's truth but hey, credit, they are all RDA approved.
We walked from the Santa Maria Church back to the hotel. I really wanted to go see the Picasso Museum but didn't get there in time for the last tour. Save for next time!
We also went to Guell Park (pronounced "well")
Back at the hotel, I tried to upload photos but couldn't keep my eyes open, so I slept through the loud concert next to the hotel! I love this place! I can't really do it much justice with photos or my descriptions but you will have to visit!
Trivial Things that I noticed:
The hotel does not give out individual hand soap or shampoo, they have dispensers
Europe they call them washrooms, America -bathroom/restroom, Philippines-comfort room, you do the math, who calls it the best?
The public stalls smell good (so far) and there is no water sitting in the bowl, they conserve
The porta potties are clean and u don't go in an open hole, it's an actual toilet bowl so the 50 cent euro is worth it
The diet coke comes are in itty bitty bottles and called "light" and they are expensive, about, 3 dollars at the restaurants oh and no refills!
Oh at the hotel rooms you put your key card in a slot to turn on the lights so before you leave, all lights are forced to be turned off.
Because almost everyone ride bikes everywhere, they are fit! You can take and ride these bikes and park them in a parking spot at your destination. Then for those who didn't follow rules and park the bikes willy nilly, a truck drives around and picks them up. The bike lanes are in the middle lane of the road and are respected by car drivers. Here's what's funny, pedestrians are not respected at all, you have to dodge the cars if you're walking, not the other way around like in America. So those people that take their time crossing the street while drivers wait, will be run over in this city. Also, cars can drive over sidewalks and again pedestrians must run for safety!
The buses are first class! The subway is like in New York, dirty and smelly. People are scantily dressed but no one cares because they all dress the same way. I noticed that unless you are selling something, no one really smiles,not that they are unfriendly, they just don't, unless you are asking them for directions, which I often did and they like that you try to speak in their language and will gladlly correct you if you are looking for the right word to say.
All in all, it's been pleasant. Now I'm excited to get on the boat! Till my next rant...LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
SUGAR FREE CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES WITH FIREWORKS
What can I say? I love chocolate but because I'm trying to change my lifestyle from eating too much sugar to eating minimal sugar, I decided to transform this supersweet version into my own sugar free creation. Believe me, the flavor is not compromised. It is STILL very good! I know, I consider myself the chocolate connosieur. Without much further ado, here is my recipe that I gladly share with you... and if you feel jaded, I added poprocks to give it that extra excitement, nevertheless!!!
INGREDIENTS
½ c. unsweetened cocoa
½ c. boiling water
1 ½ c. sifted cake flour (sift then measure)
1 c. Splenda, for baking
½ tsp. baking soda
¼ tsp. salt
¾ c. butter, at room temp (30 mins after removing from ref)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
¼ c. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. line cupcake tin with papers.
2. Combine cocoa and boiling water, whisking until blended and smooth. Set aside.
3. 3. Combine flour, splenda, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Add butter and mix with mixer until crumbly.
4. in a separate bowl, combine eggs, milk, cocoa mixture an dvanilla. Add 1/3 of the wet mixture to the dry mixture. Beat on low speed with electric mixer until blended. Beat at medium speed for an additional 30 secs until mixture is smooth (scrape down sides of bowl, as needed). Repeat two more times, until all egg mixture has been added.
5. Scoot batter into prepared tins. Fill cupcake papers and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Remove and cool.
FOR BUTTERCREAM ICING
6 oz. semisweet chocolate broken into small pieces
1 c. unsalted butter
1 egg (room temp)
4 large egg yolks (room temp)
½ c. splenda
1/3 c. water
1 ½ tbsp brandy (dark rum) optional
1. Melt chocolate with 2 tbsp butter
2. reserve
3. place whole egg and egg yolks in medium bowl, beat at high speed for 1 min
4. reserve
5. measure sugar and water into 1 qt nonaluminum saucepan, stir well.
6. Cook over low heat until mixture simmers, cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Uncover sugar syrup
8. While beating at high speed, imeediately drizzle the sugar syrup into the reserved egg mixture
9. Continue beating until bottom of bowl is cool to touch
10. Gradually beat reserved chocolate mixture at high speed, add beaten butter, about 1 tbsp at a time.
11. When all butter has been added, beat about 5 minutes
12. refrigerate icing, stirring every 10 min. until firm enough to spread usually 30-40 minutes
13. Sprinkle chocolate poprocks on top of each iced cupcake.
**Caveat - I said sugar free, not fat free!
**Caveat - I said sugar free, not fat free!
Saturday, July 14, 2012
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A MATURE PERSON?
When someone says you are so mature, what do you suppose they mean? Is it by the manner in which you speak? By your appearance? Or maybe by the great advice you give? There are young people who are mature thinkers. There are older people who are still babes in their ways and words.
Maturity isn’t about age, appearance, achievements or academics. God determines a mature person as one who possesses a healthy character. A mature person remains positive under pressure. They understand that situations that happen in their lives are inevitable, good or bad. He understands that sometimes events are beyond his control. So instead of worrying about them, he rides the tide and handles the wave when it reaches a point in which he could gain control over it.
A mature person is sensitive to other people. Someone who is empathetic to the needs of others and genuinely listens and assesses the situation as if it was their own and extends assistance to make the other person feel special about not having to go through a rough time alone.
A mature person has mastered her mouth and tongue. By this I mean, not letting negative talk come out but instead building others up according to their needs. (Ephesians 4:29). James “If anyone considers himself religious, and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.” In the same token, whatever words your tongue produces will also control the direction of your life.
God teaches us to affirm what we want to happen to us. If we affirm with gratitude that we are healthy, full of God’s grace, and anything positive we want, it is not the universe that grants this to us because the universe is owned by God. We need to seriously recognize and thank God for all of our blessings already. Forget about the psychics, no one can tell what is in your future but God.
A mature person is a peacemaker, not a troublemaker. There are two sources of conflicts within the human race. They are selfishness and judgment. We are all guilty of these things at one point or another. Selfishness and judgment are a result of the desires that battle within us according to James 4:1. Most of the time we are selfish and judgmental, it is because there are issues inside of us that we battle and in turn create for others. Be watchful of your thoughts so as not to manifest through your words.
A mature person is patient and prayerful. There is nothing else on this earth that is more powerful than a relationship with God. When I first talked with Him I felt so silly. Now, I ask Him for everything, especially with my art. My art manifests everything that is God! He is the producer, director, subject and final finished product. I give Him praise every day! I hope you would too.
Ask yourselves these questions:
1) Are you positive under pressure?
2) Are you sensitive to the needs of other people?
3) Have you learned to master your mouth and tongue?
4) Are you a peacemaker or a troublemaker?
5) Are you patient and prayerful about life?
Until the next rant… LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
P.S. Are you proud that I quoted the bible verses? Yay! Here’s some more pertaining to this subject
James 5:7, 11
James 5:16b1 Timothy 3:8, 10
Hebrews 5:11-14
James 1:2-4
James 1-12
James 2:8
James 3:2
James 4:1
For more research on stages of maturity in adults and children: http://www.learningplaceonline.com/stages/organize/Erikson.htm
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
PARMESAN CHICKEN BAKE CRUNCH -- AND AS ALWAYS... LOW CALORIE MEAL!!
This is not mashed potatos. It is mashed cauliflower and it's so yummy! The gravy was simply 1/2 c. of cream of mushroom soup and 1 tbsp soy sauce, mix and microwave for about 2 minutes, stir until not so lumpy.
I served it with green beans and a couple of slices of mango.
PARMESAN CHICKEN BAKE CRUNCH
Ingredients: Recipe is for 5 boneless chicken breasts (sliced in three parts lengthwise)
2 c. corn flakes (crushed)
1 c. parmesan cheese
1 package Hidden Valley Ranch mix (powder)
Pepper
1) Mix all of the ingredients together and coat chicken
2) Bake at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes
There are 5 servings.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
DANCE TO THE BEAT OF YOUR OWN DIVINE DRUM
If things aren’t going well for you, are you willing to change your perspective about your situation? Are you willing to let God give you hope?
When you go through a rough patch, when someone dear to you has passed away, when was the last time you looked at your situation through God’s eyes instead of your eyes? God takes something that is difficult for you and turns it into something that is powerful in your life if you begin to get a different perspective on it.
Understand this though, it’s not always roses and lollipops when God asks you to do something, He will sometimes want you to have a conviction about Him and to stand alone. He will sometimes ask you to stand alone regarding Godly convictions. Standing alone means having a conviction in living a life that God wants us to live in order to operate in our fullest potential.
There are two key issues that are causing cultural decline and moral confusion and they are the redefining of marriage. You cannot call yourself a Christian if God is not supreme in your life by accepting the ideologies that negate God’s word in the Bible. The humble acceptance of divine authority and obedience, and obedience is not taking a public opinion poll but by reading the word of God and what He says. Calling Christians a bigot because they feel judged by them is wrong. True Christians do not judge, only God will. We are all sinners and we all need to be saved but God only saves those who want to be saved. As Christians, we all should stand up to what God says is true.
God will use your struggles to for good if you will put your faith, trust and confidence in Him and continue to go after God’s ways even if it doesn’t make sense. He will rescue you, redeem you, restore you and give you back what the enemy took away.
Ask yourself this question. Should I dance to the beat of my own divine drum, or do I conform to the world because I find myself dancing alone?
Something to think about.... Until the next rant.... LOVE ONE ANOTHER, ALWAYS!
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
TWEAKERBELL RE-PURSEPOSE!
I searched high and low for a messenger bag that is the right size to fit my camera, my ipad and bare essentials for my trip. I could not find anything at all until I hit Walmart. However, the bag had tinkerbell on the front of it. Of course I would never walk around with a tinkerbell bag! I'm not 6! So, with a little gesso, paint, pan pastel, I transformed this bag to something that is more ME! We don't have to spend so much money when we find something that works. Sometimes, we just have to make what we find work for us.
Watch the video to see how I did this! Click the link below!
http://youtu.be/KeY-tVGm79c
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