Before I've been frustrated by money. My lack of it, mismanagement of it; everything to do with money frustrated me, except spending it. Well this confusion has led me to that dark road of debt. It's scary, let me tell you, but even with all the fear that I have I am still going to get through this and learn through my mistakes.
I've already began understanding that I don't need to fear money. Money doesn't control me, I control it. Managing money is the best way to go, not saving all or spending all. Right now I have decided that although a cell phone is a necessity in this day and age, I am unable to sustain one at the moment so I will do without. Yes people will say get a cell phone, but I don't live up to their standards. I make things work for myself. It makes no sense for me to have a cell phone and I can't eat. When I become financially stable and comfortable then I shall opt to get a new plan and be connected with the world.
This dance with money has taken a turn. I am now the leader. Money...follow.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Please, Be Selfish
I love having a blackberry, or any other phone for that matter than can play music aloud. I also love having headphones to listen to my music as I travel on the bus or walk down the road. It is a pet peeve of mine when people pass walking on the road, or are on a bus and they are playing music from their phone for the world to hear. NO! HEADPHONES WERE CREATED FOR SUCH SITUATIONS! Yes, please be selfish and keep your music to yourself. Even if I like the song, it doesn't mean that I want to hear it right now. It's even worse when you're on a bus and the bus is providing music and someone sitting on the bus decides that they don't want to listen to that music and everyone else on the bus must listen to what they want, so they start playing music from their phone while the music on the bus still runs. So as a paying customer of the bus you are forced to listen to a clash of musical notes and lyrics. Just in case you didn't get the memo...Headphones were created for situations like that. Please be selfish and keep you music to yourself. I don't want to hear it.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
It's A Baking Double Whammiiii
Time is running out on me so I decided to make my last two sets of cookies together. I owe so many people cookies that it's ridiculous lol. So I'm like those Elf cookie guys...you know the ones I'm talking about. Anyways. Here are are the recipes for the cookies made. Unfortunately, my camera is still down and my blackberry was out for a cleaning, so I was unable to take any photos of the cookies. But they came out well and tasted great. I'm having some friends over to taste 'em. I'll encourage them to go give feedback so you know.
Lemon Cookies
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
dash of salt
1 1/2 cups cups sugar
3/4 (6 ounces) butter, room temperatue
1 large egg
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons finely grated lemon peel
Preparation:
In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, baking oda and salt. In a separate bowl, beat together 1 cup of sugar with the butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, lemon juice and zest, then gradually blend in the flour mixture. Form the dough into 2 rolls about 2 inches wide and 7 inches long. Wrap the rolls in waxed paper and refridgerate until firm, about an hour.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Unwrap the cookie dough and cut into slices about 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle slices lightly with remaining sugar and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned around the edges, about 12 minutes. Cool the cookies on a rack and store in an airtight container.
Makes about 5 to 6 dozen lemon icebox cookies.
Ginger Cookies
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup margarine, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
1/4 cup molasses
2 tablespoons white sugar
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Sift together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
2.In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the water and molasses. Gradually stir the sifted ingredients into the molasses mixture. Shape dough into walnut sized balls, and roll them in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Place the cookies 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet, and flatten slightly.
3.Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
Lemon Cookies
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
dash of salt
1 1/2 cups cups sugar
3/4 (6 ounces) butter, room temperatue
1 large egg
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons finely grated lemon peel
Preparation:
In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, baking oda and salt. In a separate bowl, beat together 1 cup of sugar with the butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, lemon juice and zest, then gradually blend in the flour mixture. Form the dough into 2 rolls about 2 inches wide and 7 inches long. Wrap the rolls in waxed paper and refridgerate until firm, about an hour.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Unwrap the cookie dough and cut into slices about 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle slices lightly with remaining sugar and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned around the edges, about 12 minutes. Cool the cookies on a rack and store in an airtight container.
Makes about 5 to 6 dozen lemon icebox cookies.
Ginger Cookies
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup margarine, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
1/4 cup molasses
2 tablespoons white sugar
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Sift together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
2.In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the water and molasses. Gradually stir the sifted ingredients into the molasses mixture. Shape dough into walnut sized balls, and roll them in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Place the cookies 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet, and flatten slightly.
3.Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
This Is How The World Works (pt 1)
I've trying to think how do I do this post for some time, but somehow the things I wanted to say weren't really gelling together. I think I've finally discovered how I want to express my opinion on how the world works.
Maybe I should be more specific and say by the world I mean North America...or maybe it's just America. I was watching television and the Chef Boyardee ad comes on; you know the one with the mom who is on time out because she almost told the childern that there's a full serving of vegetables in the Chef Boyardee, and I get upset. Why is it so wrong to tell your children that what they are eating is good for them? I guess it's the same way there isn't firm enough discipline to make the children eat their vegetables and other foods that are healthy and good for them. Instead you (the parents) lie and deceive your children, raising them to not eat properly but instead take dietary suppliments like Pediasure. When these children get older now, they are trained to make poor dietary decisions, get obese, get heart disease, have high cholesterol and then they hate their bodies because it is not what they see in the magazines, on tv, or even what it should be so says their doctor. So they diet to lose weight but they take diet pills and diet drinks and diet plans like Jenny Craig and the South Beacch Diet. It's a cycle. Or maybe just a straight obvious line and people don't like straight lines.
This is how I see it: I am a parent. I have a child. My child shall eat properly, with me leading by example. There is nothing wrong with having a snack. There is nothing wrong with having a chocolate or a sweet (or candy as others say), but you eat in moderation. I teach my children that snacking is ok and I can snack on healthy foods too. Along with eating fish, greens and other vegetables, dairy, fibre etc. I take care of by body by being active. Run around and play games with the children. Have a garden and do gardening or housework or something as simple as dancing in our living room. I show my children that the one and only body I have is the one and only body I will take care of. No correction, only good habits from the beginning. After that if my child/children get obese later in life that will be their responsibility but as a parent I would know that I have brought up that child to be healthy.
This is my opinion and if you don't like it...don't read it.
Maybe I should be more specific and say by the world I mean North America...or maybe it's just America. I was watching television and the Chef Boyardee ad comes on; you know the one with the mom who is on time out because she almost told the childern that there's a full serving of vegetables in the Chef Boyardee, and I get upset. Why is it so wrong to tell your children that what they are eating is good for them? I guess it's the same way there isn't firm enough discipline to make the children eat their vegetables and other foods that are healthy and good for them. Instead you (the parents) lie and deceive your children, raising them to not eat properly but instead take dietary suppliments like Pediasure. When these children get older now, they are trained to make poor dietary decisions, get obese, get heart disease, have high cholesterol and then they hate their bodies because it is not what they see in the magazines, on tv, or even what it should be so says their doctor. So they diet to lose weight but they take diet pills and diet drinks and diet plans like Jenny Craig and the South Beacch Diet. It's a cycle. Or maybe just a straight obvious line and people don't like straight lines.
This is how I see it: I am a parent. I have a child. My child shall eat properly, with me leading by example. There is nothing wrong with having a snack. There is nothing wrong with having a chocolate or a sweet (or candy as others say), but you eat in moderation. I teach my children that snacking is ok and I can snack on healthy foods too. Along with eating fish, greens and other vegetables, dairy, fibre etc. I take care of by body by being active. Run around and play games with the children. Have a garden and do gardening or housework or something as simple as dancing in our living room. I show my children that the one and only body I have is the one and only body I will take care of. No correction, only good habits from the beginning. After that if my child/children get obese later in life that will be their responsibility but as a parent I would know that I have brought up that child to be healthy.
This is my opinion and if you don't like it...don't read it.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Lie By Omission
I am having some relationship problems with my parents this summer for some, possibly not so odd, reason. I was walking down the hill today to go home and the thought of me always considering what to tell my parents when I get home popped in my head. Do I say a lie or do I say nothing at all? Then the words "lie by omission" came to mind. I decided to really check out what that means, beacuse I remember hearing about it from church lol.
According to Wikipedia, the definition is as follows: "One lies by omission by omitting an important fact, deliberately leaving another person with a misconception. Lying by omission includes failures to correct pre-existing misconceptions. An example is when the seller of a car declares it has been serviced regularly but does not tell that a fault was reported at the last service. Propaganda is an example of lying by omission". With this information I ask myself again, am I still lying to my parents when I don't say exactly where I am going and/or what I am going to do?
What do you think? Let me know. Leave your comments below :)
According to Wikipedia, the definition is as follows: "One lies by omission by omitting an important fact, deliberately leaving another person with a misconception. Lying by omission includes failures to correct pre-existing misconceptions. An example is when the seller of a car declares it has been serviced regularly but does not tell that a fault was reported at the last service. Propaganda is an example of lying by omission". With this information I ask myself again, am I still lying to my parents when I don't say exactly where I am going and/or what I am going to do?
What do you think? Let me know. Leave your comments below :)
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
India Arie-Strength,Courage,& Wisdom
There is no other person in the world who has ever had this title. Jason Mraz came really close, but he's just a bit shy. India Arie is my all time FAVOURITE artiste. Nothing beats India to pick up my spirit and my soul.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Sugar Cookie Party!!
I'm definitely on a roll people. First I made bakes, now I'm baking cookies!!! I don't want to discourage myself, so I'm starting off really simple and easy. I'm making Sugar Cookies. Recipe taken from
Ingredients
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
2.In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
3.Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
Sooo I've got a bit more practice to do with the baking, but I won't stop practicing :)
Ingredients
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
2.In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
3.Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
Sooo I've got a bit more practice to do with the baking, but I won't stop practicing :)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Yeast! Flour! Sugar!
Guess what people, I'm finally back in the kitchen and back cooking. I've learnt from an awesome university course that people should eat their power foods. Power foods are those foods that basically go with your body and have been in your culture for millenia. I study in Canada, but I'm born and bred in the sweet Helene of the West, St. Lucia. The moment I get to eat anything remotely similar to what I eat at home, it lifts my spirit and I feel awesome. So I'm trying to learn how to do a few things that are from home, and possibly, most likely actually, from other Caribbean Islands.
Today I'm going to make bakes. From my discussions is basically a fried bread mixture. I've also decided that I'm going to do it the "real Lucian way" and not use any measurements. I enjoy cooking that way. It makes me feel like I know what I'm doing...although half the times I don't hahahaha.
So here is what I do.
Add flour, baking powder, a little salt and some yeast to a bowl.
In a cup add sugar and dissolve with water.
Pour sugar solution into bowl and fold with spoon until dough is formed. If a bit runny, add more flour. It's easier to add more flour if it's not right (that's what I was told)
Add as much flour is needed to make the dough...doughy lol.
Let sit for a few minutes.
Knead dough.
Roll dough out into a long snake, about an incha nd a half thick and cut sections off about an inch wide.
Take the each cut part (individually) and roll it into a ball, then using a floured rolling pin roll it out to a thickness of one centimeter(ish).
To fry bakes: Add some oil to a pan, with burner on high. WHen oil heats up turn burner down to medium heat. Place a few bakes in the oil. You want them to be a golden brown colour or a little lighter, or darker depending on your taste. When ready and both sides have been cooked, remove from oil and dry on paper towel or cardboard or something to soak up the extra oil. I was told butter cannot be used in place of oil. It won't work.
Ooops...I forgot to turn down the fire lol. But they tasted good for my first try on my own :)
To make roast bakes: Use a dry frying pan, non-stick might be the best but if you don't have a non-stick just add a little flour to the pan. Place the bakes in the pan and let them cook lol. They should rise a little and start turning a bit brown. It may not be perfectly leveled so the entire thing may not start changing colour so you have to be careful. You don't want it brown brown, you want it more white with brown. Cook on both sides. Remove when done.
If you want to jazz up your bake as you take it out, cut it open and slip some cheese in there. Be careful because it will be hot. Mmmm mmmm mmmmm tastes sooo goood. Yummy.
Give it a try and let me know how it goes for you :) Happy cooking!
Today I'm going to make bakes. From my discussions is basically a fried bread mixture. I've also decided that I'm going to do it the "real Lucian way" and not use any measurements. I enjoy cooking that way. It makes me feel like I know what I'm doing...although half the times I don't hahahaha.
So here is what I do.
Add flour, baking powder, a little salt and some yeast to a bowl.
In a cup add sugar and dissolve with water.
Pour sugar solution into bowl and fold with spoon until dough is formed. If a bit runny, add more flour. It's easier to add more flour if it's not right (that's what I was told)
Add as much flour is needed to make the dough...doughy lol.
Let sit for a few minutes.
Knead dough.
Roll dough out into a long snake, about an incha nd a half thick and cut sections off about an inch wide.
Take the each cut part (individually) and roll it into a ball, then using a floured rolling pin roll it out to a thickness of one centimeter(ish).
To fry bakes: Add some oil to a pan, with burner on high. WHen oil heats up turn burner down to medium heat. Place a few bakes in the oil. You want them to be a golden brown colour or a little lighter, or darker depending on your taste. When ready and both sides have been cooked, remove from oil and dry on paper towel or cardboard or something to soak up the extra oil. I was told butter cannot be used in place of oil. It won't work.
Ooops...I forgot to turn down the fire lol. But they tasted good for my first try on my own :)
To make roast bakes: Use a dry frying pan, non-stick might be the best but if you don't have a non-stick just add a little flour to the pan. Place the bakes in the pan and let them cook lol. They should rise a little and start turning a bit brown. It may not be perfectly leveled so the entire thing may not start changing colour so you have to be careful. You don't want it brown brown, you want it more white with brown. Cook on both sides. Remove when done.
If you want to jazz up your bake as you take it out, cut it open and slip some cheese in there. Be careful because it will be hot. Mmmm mmmm mmmmm tastes sooo goood. Yummy.
Give it a try and let me know how it goes for you :) Happy cooking!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Traditional Food Remedies
It's not a science to stay healthy. Treating yourself with love and respect is all you need. If you truly love and respect yourself, you will eat right and exercise/take care of your body. Eating right means eating your power foods, eating healthy foods prepared in healthy way and eating appropriate amounts of foods. Exercise is simple. You don't have to do sit ups or push ups to exercise; walk if you can instead of driving or emailing someone, cleaning your house and it's environs (I swear that's exercise, at least when I do it), playing with your children or pets for example all constitute great, easy ways to keep active. Don't just work work work, have time to play also.
My dad has this book entitled "The Top 100 Traditional Remedies: Home Remedies for Health and Well Being." I wanted to share a few with you to help you naturally boost your immune system and make positive change in your life.
Grapefruit
Originatin in Jamaica in 1814, grapefruit shares with other citrus fruits a high level of vitamin C and plenty potassium.
Properties/Actions: boots immunity, lowers cholesterol and supports digestion.
Parts used: whole fruit, peeled.
Chickpea
Chickpeas are grown from the equatorial tropics to the temperate northern latitues of Russia, and are among the most nutritious of pulses.
Properties/Actions: mimics oestrogen, antiseptic, diuretic.
Parts used: whole pulse
Oats
Oats are highly nutritious and are a traditional rememdy for soothing nervous conditions and aiding digestive complaints.
Properties/Actions: nerve tonic, eases digestive problems, anti-depressant, prevents heart disease, anti-spasmodic, emollient.
Parts used: whole grain
Rosemary
A potent, stimulating herb, rosemary is an old-fashioned rememdy for everything from colds and colic, to nervousness and eczema.
Properties/Actions: astringent, anti-spasmodic, invigorating, nervine.
Parts used: leaves
Extra tid bit: used in shampoos, rosemary is also reputed to prevent premature baldness.
Tumeric
Grown for its root, tumeric is the most common flavour and colour present in Far Eastern cooking, and the root has a host of medicinal properties.
Properties/Actions: treats liver, stimulates secretion of bile, analgesic, fights cancer, lowers cholesterol.
Parts used: root
Seaweed
Seaweed is a mrine algae, the oldest form of life on the planet, and it contains a host of health-giving properties, particularly minerals.
Properties/Actions: high in iodine, supports thyroid and metabolism, mucilaginous, clears liver stagnation, lymphatic cleanser.
Parts used: whole plant
Oyster
Oysters are a type of shellfish that is not only a renowed aphrodisiac, but also full of health-promoting vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.
Properties/Actions: high in iodine, enhances the reproductive system, rich in zinc, high in vitamin E and omega-3 fats.
Parts used: oyster.
Extra tid bit: Oysters are bisexual, or inter-sexual, changing from males to females.
Yoghurt
A cultured milk product, yoghurt is positively brimming with "friendly" bacteria and many health-promoting nutrients.
Properties/Actions: contains "friendly" bacteria, fights infections, helps stomach ulcers, rich in calcium.
Parts used: fermented milk
Extra tid bit: Ancient Bedouins discovered that heat and movement fermented the milk to create yoghurt.
Honey
Ancient societies around the world used honey as an energy food. It has evoled as a unique and powerful remedy for a wide variety of complaints.
Properties/Actions: helps insomnia, treats fungla infections, aids healing.
Parts used: bee's honey.
Extra tid bit: In ancient Greece the alcoholic honey drink mead was regarded as the drink of the gods.
My dad has this book entitled "The Top 100 Traditional Remedies: Home Remedies for Health and Well Being." I wanted to share a few with you to help you naturally boost your immune system and make positive change in your life.
Grapefruit
Originatin in Jamaica in 1814, grapefruit shares with other citrus fruits a high level of vitamin C and plenty potassium.
Properties/Actions: boots immunity, lowers cholesterol and supports digestion.
Parts used: whole fruit, peeled.
Chickpea
Chickpeas are grown from the equatorial tropics to the temperate northern latitues of Russia, and are among the most nutritious of pulses.
Properties/Actions: mimics oestrogen, antiseptic, diuretic.
Parts used: whole pulse
Oats
Oats are highly nutritious and are a traditional rememdy for soothing nervous conditions and aiding digestive complaints.
Properties/Actions: nerve tonic, eases digestive problems, anti-depressant, prevents heart disease, anti-spasmodic, emollient.
Parts used: whole grain
Rosemary
A potent, stimulating herb, rosemary is an old-fashioned rememdy for everything from colds and colic, to nervousness and eczema.
Properties/Actions: astringent, anti-spasmodic, invigorating, nervine.
Parts used: leaves
Extra tid bit: used in shampoos, rosemary is also reputed to prevent premature baldness.
Tumeric
Grown for its root, tumeric is the most common flavour and colour present in Far Eastern cooking, and the root has a host of medicinal properties.
Properties/Actions: treats liver, stimulates secretion of bile, analgesic, fights cancer, lowers cholesterol.
Parts used: root
Seaweed
Seaweed is a mrine algae, the oldest form of life on the planet, and it contains a host of health-giving properties, particularly minerals.
Properties/Actions: high in iodine, supports thyroid and metabolism, mucilaginous, clears liver stagnation, lymphatic cleanser.
Parts used: whole plant
Oyster
Oysters are a type of shellfish that is not only a renowed aphrodisiac, but also full of health-promoting vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.
Properties/Actions: high in iodine, enhances the reproductive system, rich in zinc, high in vitamin E and omega-3 fats.
Parts used: oyster.
Extra tid bit: Oysters are bisexual, or inter-sexual, changing from males to females.
Yoghurt
A cultured milk product, yoghurt is positively brimming with "friendly" bacteria and many health-promoting nutrients.
Properties/Actions: contains "friendly" bacteria, fights infections, helps stomach ulcers, rich in calcium.
Parts used: fermented milk
Extra tid bit: Ancient Bedouins discovered that heat and movement fermented the milk to create yoghurt.
Honey
Ancient societies around the world used honey as an energy food. It has evoled as a unique and powerful remedy for a wide variety of complaints.
Properties/Actions: helps insomnia, treats fungla infections, aids healing.
Parts used: bee's honey.
Extra tid bit: In ancient Greece the alcoholic honey drink mead was regarded as the drink of the gods.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Who's Really In Control?
I have always believed that there is a Mother Earth, and her responsibility is to protect and take care of the Earth and it's resources. According to Christian doctrine, human beings were created to manage and care for the Earth and it's resources; so basically humans run tings. For many centries humans have attempted to control and rule over the happenings of the Earth, and now I question, should we?
Mother Nature is not an amatuer, she knows how to tend to the Earth. Every single nook and cranny is known to her intimately as opposed to us humans who are still searching. So when we stop forest fires, are we really doing the environment good? Or are we just tending to ourselves and disregarding the needs of others in the ecosystem? The same goes for disease. What if H1N1 or any other virus discovered was Mother Nature's way of cleansing the Earth? We have however many billions of people living on the Earth and her resources are being used haphazardly, what if a plague, hurricanes, earthquakes, mud slides and other natural disasters are her way to managing the systems on Earth, and we as human are trying to alter it? Who is right? And who is wrong? Who should give in and succomb to the wishes of the other? I wonder.
Mother Nature is not an amatuer, she knows how to tend to the Earth. Every single nook and cranny is known to her intimately as opposed to us humans who are still searching. So when we stop forest fires, are we really doing the environment good? Or are we just tending to ourselves and disregarding the needs of others in the ecosystem? The same goes for disease. What if H1N1 or any other virus discovered was Mother Nature's way of cleansing the Earth? We have however many billions of people living on the Earth and her resources are being used haphazardly, what if a plague, hurricanes, earthquakes, mud slides and other natural disasters are her way to managing the systems on Earth, and we as human are trying to alter it? Who is right? And who is wrong? Who should give in and succomb to the wishes of the other? I wonder.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Death by Cancer
This poem was written by my boyfriend and I. This is the first time I have ever written a poem with someone. It's pretty amazing. Enjoy. Don't forget to comment (if you can :S)
Journey with me
to depths inconceived
as I grow to full blossom.
Explore the realms
of subconscousness
and discover
love and trust along the way.
Raging winds try
to spin us out of control
but despite what may,
we hold on,
grounded,
and continue to explore.
Onward we press
for this journey never ends,
never, but only with death.
But the journey never ends, not even with death
so onward we press
and continue to explore,
yet ungrounded we still hold on,
despite what may, we hold on.
Takin flight into raging winds
for love and trust are etched into our subconcious
and rooted in all its realms to the greatest depths.
There is no fear for you have grown into full blossom.
Journey with me
to depths inconceived
as I grow to full blossom.
Explore the realms
of subconscousness
and discover
love and trust along the way.
Raging winds try
to spin us out of control
but despite what may,
we hold on,
grounded,
and continue to explore.
Onward we press
for this journey never ends,
never, but only with death.
But the journey never ends, not even with death
so onward we press
and continue to explore,
yet ungrounded we still hold on,
despite what may, we hold on.
Takin flight into raging winds
for love and trust are etched into our subconcious
and rooted in all its realms to the greatest depths.
There is no fear for you have grown into full blossom.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Calcium Rich Foods
I am just on a roll man! So I had a little problem with my teeth recently and since then have been trying to increase my Calcium intake. We always hear for strong bones and teeth Calcium and Vitamin D. So while looking for a series of things online I stumbled across this list of Calcium rich foods.
The daily recommended amount of Calcium for 19 - 50 year old males and females is 1 000 mg. Below is a list of Calcium rich foods and their Calcium levels:
*Yoghurt - approximately 452 mg in 8 ounces
*Cheese - depends on the type
*Cereal - fortified with a range between 236 and 1043 mg
*Soy Beverage - fortified with 368 mg
*Sardines - 325 mg for 3 ounces
*Skim milk - 306 mg, and if you're like me and obsessed with chocolate :D chocolate milk has 288 mg
*Tofu - 253 mg
*Salmon - 181 mg
*Collard Greens - 178 mg
*Molasses - 172 mg in 1 tablespoon
For more information, you can check out for the associated calories and recipes to use these foods.
The daily recommended amount of Calcium for 19 - 50 year old males and females is 1 000 mg. Below is a list of Calcium rich foods and their Calcium levels:
*Yoghurt - approximately 452 mg in 8 ounces
*Cheese - depends on the type
*Cereal - fortified with a range between 236 and 1043 mg
*Soy Beverage - fortified with 368 mg
*Sardines - 325 mg for 3 ounces
*Skim milk - 306 mg, and if you're like me and obsessed with chocolate :D chocolate milk has 288 mg
*Tofu - 253 mg
*Salmon - 181 mg
*Collard Greens - 178 mg
*Molasses - 172 mg in 1 tablespoon
For more information, you can check out for the associated calories and recipes to use these foods.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Going Green In Ste. Lici?
I am St. Lucian. I love saying that with passion and pride in my heart. I am also a university student majoring in Environmental Science. The reason why I chose such a major is because I want to make a valuable contribution to my country, to make it a better place.
There are no recycling facilities in my country, as far as I know. To me, if such facilities are not present we should be practicing precycling. According to the Wikipedia, precycling is the practice of reducing waste by attempting to avoid bringing into the home or business items which will generate waste. I think there are a number of things that we St. Lucians can do to reduce the amount of waste we send to our landfill, there by helping our beautiful island even more.
Maybe after I graduate I will create an education programme to go into schools and promote such environmentally friendly lifestyles. Anyway, here are a few ways in which we can be precycle and be more environmentally friendly:
*Bring your own bag to the supermarket, market, butcher, wherever. There are sizable reusable bags available, and you can always make your own also.
*I don't see much of this in St. Lucia, but I strongly believe it would be a great investment - metal water bottles to stop the use of plastic bottles. Justifiably one may argue that water bottle filling stations would be needed, and that is true, but it might get more business places to have those available to customers and to their own staff too.
*Give up paper towels. I know it's "convenient" to not have to wash your kitchen towels, but seriously, you don't dry yourself after a bath with paper towels, it won't kill you to designate towels for certain areas. Towels for spills on counters and tables, for spills on the floor, for your car, etc.
*Buy things you can use again in different capacities. For example, if you sew, buy mayo in a glass bottle so that when it's done you wash it out and put your thread, or buttons or something of that sort in there. Before you buy think about how you can reuse the item again before throwing it out or without ever having to throw it out.
*Encourage your utility providers to go paperless. Many people have access to computers and have email addresses. Why do business places not think of saving themselves money and going paperless. Have online services so that you can email bills to customers?
These are just a few ideas I have as to ways in which we can help St. Lucia produce less waste and possibly be more productive.
There are no recycling facilities in my country, as far as I know. To me, if such facilities are not present we should be practicing precycling. According to the Wikipedia, precycling is the practice of reducing waste by attempting to avoid bringing into the home or business items which will generate waste. I think there are a number of things that we St. Lucians can do to reduce the amount of waste we send to our landfill, there by helping our beautiful island even more.
Maybe after I graduate I will create an education programme to go into schools and promote such environmentally friendly lifestyles. Anyway, here are a few ways in which we can be precycle and be more environmentally friendly:
*Bring your own bag to the supermarket, market, butcher, wherever. There are sizable reusable bags available, and you can always make your own also.
*I don't see much of this in St. Lucia, but I strongly believe it would be a great investment - metal water bottles to stop the use of plastic bottles. Justifiably one may argue that water bottle filling stations would be needed, and that is true, but it might get more business places to have those available to customers and to their own staff too.
*Give up paper towels. I know it's "convenient" to not have to wash your kitchen towels, but seriously, you don't dry yourself after a bath with paper towels, it won't kill you to designate towels for certain areas. Towels for spills on counters and tables, for spills on the floor, for your car, etc.
*Buy things you can use again in different capacities. For example, if you sew, buy mayo in a glass bottle so that when it's done you wash it out and put your thread, or buttons or something of that sort in there. Before you buy think about how you can reuse the item again before throwing it out or without ever having to throw it out.
*Encourage your utility providers to go paperless. Many people have access to computers and have email addresses. Why do business places not think of saving themselves money and going paperless. Have online services so that you can email bills to customers?
These are just a few ideas I have as to ways in which we can help St. Lucia produce less waste and possibly be more productive.
"All Men Are Dogs"
I'm sick and tired of hearing women say "all men are dogs." I'm sorry, not all men are dogs. My man isn't a dog, my father isn't a dog, my brothers aren't dogs and surely my son(s) [if I ever have any] will not be a dog.
Many of us women have sons, nephews or godsons. It's up to us to socialise these young males to become "real men." It is our responsibility to evoke the change we wish to see in the world. So, teach them to cook so they can cook for their girlfriend, teach them to walk on the side of the street closer to traffic, teach to be that gentleman you as a woman desire. Don't hestitate to let him know about menstration, sanitary napkins, and other feminine products, and why knowing about them is beneficial. Sensitize them to women's emotions and cycles. Mold them into "real men."
Another thing is that we women encourage and support men to do stupidness, to act and bcome "dogs." Women, HAVE STANDARDS!! Some fool will tell you "you too picky"...it's not true. It means that you know what you want and expect from a man and are not ready to compromise and settle for substandard or mediocry. This will result in rejection for the "dogs" and hopefully introspection and then change. Don't make it easy for them ladies. Make them work to get you and what you want them to be.
Now, I have to add this little piece here for great men like mine. Ladies, don't just demand demand demand or take take take. No no no. You have got to give in return. Don't nag him or chastize him if he doesn't do things to your liking. Be thankful for what he does and understand that you ought to give him a little tlc or return the favour(s) as best as possible. Don't suck them dry. It's a give and give relationship...not give and take. Why I say this is because the more both of you give and not worry about who's taking the more there is to give.
Give love to yourself first and then you can give love to others.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
CV vs. Resume
For many years now I've wondered if there actually was a difference between a curriculum vitae and a resume or if the words could be used interchangably. To my surprise, there is quite a bit of a difference and that difference in my eyes may mean the difference between getting the interview or not.
The curriculum vitae is longer than a resume and includes a complete listing of a person's professional history. A CV should include, every position that a person has ever held, a comprehensive list of academic credentials, as well as information on publications and other significant achievements. In some cases, CVs are many pages long.
A resume on the other hand is usually one page long and is geared specifically to showcase the necessary skills and qualifications needed for a particular job.
In general, CVs are required when applying for positions in the medical and academic field. Resumes, on the other hand, are preferred when applying for business positions.
I hope this information helps you to decide which to do when applying for a job.
The curriculum vitae is longer than a resume and includes a complete listing of a person's professional history. A CV should include, every position that a person has ever held, a comprehensive list of academic credentials, as well as information on publications and other significant achievements. In some cases, CVs are many pages long.
A resume on the other hand is usually one page long and is geared specifically to showcase the necessary skills and qualifications needed for a particular job.
In general, CVs are required when applying for positions in the medical and academic field. Resumes, on the other hand, are preferred when applying for business positions.
I hope this information helps you to decide which to do when applying for a job.
Tips On Starting a Small Business
I'm just doing a lot of research for changes I hope to effect in my life this coming academic year. I am an Avon representative and I must say I have not been doing a really good job at that. I have not been handling it as a business. So in order for me to take control of my financial situation, I am going to treat it as a business and try to mae the best out it. I have sourced 10 tips that are suppose to help me take this thing from the ground up. Here they are, taken from about.com
1) Do what you love. You're going to devote a lot of time and energy to starting a business and building it into a successful enterprise, so it's really important that you truly deeply enjoy what you do, whether it be running fishing charters, creating pottery or providing financial advice.
2) Start your business while you're still employed. How long can most people live without money? Not long. And it may be a long time before your new business actually makes any profits. Being employed while you're starting a business means money in your pocket while you're going through the starting a business process.
3) Don't do it alone. You need a support system while you're starting a business (and afterwards). A family member or friend that you can bounce ideas off and who will listen sympathetically to the latest business start up crisis is invaluable. Even better, find a mentor or, if you qualify, apply for a business start up program such as The Self-Employment Program. When you're starting a business experienced guidance is the best support sytem of all.
4) Get clients or customers first. Don't wait until you've offically started your business to line these up, because your business can't survive without them. Do the networking. Make the contacts. Sell or even give away your products or services. You can't start marketing too soon.
5) Write a business plan. The main reason for doing a business plan first when you're thinking of starting a business is that it can help you avoid sinking your time and money into starting a business that will not succeed. Remember, you don't have to work through a full scale business plan for each new business idea you come up with; my Quick-Start Business Plan, for instance, will let you test the potential of your business idea much more quickly.
6) Do the research. You'll do a lot of research writing a business plan, but that's just a start. When you're starting a business, you need to become an expert on your industry, products and services, if you're not already. Joining related industry or professional associations before you start your business is a great idea.
7) Get professional help. On the other hand, just because you're starting a business, doesn't mean you have to be an expert on everything. If you're not an accountant or bookkeeper, hire one (or both). If you need to write up a contract, and you're not a lawyer, hire one. You will waste more time and possibly money in the long run trying to do things yourself that you are not qualifed to do.
8) Get the money lined up. Save up if you have to. Approach potential investors and lenders. Figure our your financial fall-back plan. Don't expect to start a business and then walk into a bank and get money. Traditional lenders don't like new ideas and don't like businesses without proven track records.
9) Be professional from the get-go. Everything about you and the way you do business needs to let people know that you are a professional running a serious business. That means getting all the accoutrements such as professional business cards, a business phone and a business email address, and treating people in a professional, courteous manner.
10) Get the legal and tax issues right the first time. It's much more difficult and expensive to unsnarl a mess afterwards. Does your business need to be registered? Will you have to charge GST or PST? Will you have to have Workers' Compensation Insurance or deal with payroll taxes? How will the form of business you choose affect your income tax situation? Learn what your legal and tax responsibilities are before you start your business and operate accordingly.
Following the advice on starting a business above will make starting a business both a smoother, less stressful process and go a long way towards ensuring the busines you start lasts and thrives.
Let's hope I can follow these and reap the rewards
1) Do what you love. You're going to devote a lot of time and energy to starting a business and building it into a successful enterprise, so it's really important that you truly deeply enjoy what you do, whether it be running fishing charters, creating pottery or providing financial advice.
2) Start your business while you're still employed. How long can most people live without money? Not long. And it may be a long time before your new business actually makes any profits. Being employed while you're starting a business means money in your pocket while you're going through the starting a business process.
3) Don't do it alone. You need a support system while you're starting a business (and afterwards). A family member or friend that you can bounce ideas off and who will listen sympathetically to the latest business start up crisis is invaluable. Even better, find a mentor or, if you qualify, apply for a business start up program such as The Self-Employment Program. When you're starting a business experienced guidance is the best support sytem of all.
4) Get clients or customers first. Don't wait until you've offically started your business to line these up, because your business can't survive without them. Do the networking. Make the contacts. Sell or even give away your products or services. You can't start marketing too soon.
5) Write a business plan. The main reason for doing a business plan first when you're thinking of starting a business is that it can help you avoid sinking your time and money into starting a business that will not succeed. Remember, you don't have to work through a full scale business plan for each new business idea you come up with; my Quick-Start Business Plan, for instance, will let you test the potential of your business idea much more quickly.
6) Do the research. You'll do a lot of research writing a business plan, but that's just a start. When you're starting a business, you need to become an expert on your industry, products and services, if you're not already. Joining related industry or professional associations before you start your business is a great idea.
7) Get professional help. On the other hand, just because you're starting a business, doesn't mean you have to be an expert on everything. If you're not an accountant or bookkeeper, hire one (or both). If you need to write up a contract, and you're not a lawyer, hire one. You will waste more time and possibly money in the long run trying to do things yourself that you are not qualifed to do.
8) Get the money lined up. Save up if you have to. Approach potential investors and lenders. Figure our your financial fall-back plan. Don't expect to start a business and then walk into a bank and get money. Traditional lenders don't like new ideas and don't like businesses without proven track records.
9) Be professional from the get-go. Everything about you and the way you do business needs to let people know that you are a professional running a serious business. That means getting all the accoutrements such as professional business cards, a business phone and a business email address, and treating people in a professional, courteous manner.
10) Get the legal and tax issues right the first time. It's much more difficult and expensive to unsnarl a mess afterwards. Does your business need to be registered? Will you have to charge GST or PST? Will you have to have Workers' Compensation Insurance or deal with payroll taxes? How will the form of business you choose affect your income tax situation? Learn what your legal and tax responsibilities are before you start your business and operate accordingly.
Following the advice on starting a business above will make starting a business both a smoother, less stressful process and go a long way towards ensuring the busines you start lasts and thrives.
Let's hope I can follow these and reap the rewards
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Zodiac Sign - Cancer
I've been encouraged to learn about my zodiac sign and other related information. I've decided to share this information with you. My Zodiac Sign is Cancer and it is from June 22nd to July 22nd. This information was taken from Astrology.com [http://www.astrology.com/cancer-sun-sign-zodiac-signs/2-d-d-66919]
Cancer, the fourth sign of the zodiac, is all about home. Those born under this sign are 'roots' kinds of people, and take great pleasure in the comforts of home and family. Cancers are maternal, domestic and love to nurture others. More than likely, their family will be large, too -- the more, the merrier! Cancers will certainly be merry if their home life is serene and harmonious. Traditions are upheld with great zest in a Cancer's household, since these folks prize family history and love communal activities. They also tend to be patriotic, waving the flag whenever possible. A Cancer's good memory is the basis for stories told around the dinner table, and don't be surprised if these folks get emotional about things. Those born under this sign wear their heart on their sleeve, which is just fine by them.
The mascot of Cancer is the Crab, and much like this shelled little critter, Cancers are quick to retreat into their shells if it suits their mood. No wonder these folks are called crabby! For Cancer, it's not that big of a deal, though, since they consider this 'shell' a second home (and they do love home). The flip side of this hiding is that shell-bound Crabs are often quite moody. Further, in keeping with their difficulty in sharing their innermost feelings, it can become a Herculean task to pry a Crab out of its secret hiding place. What to do? Give the Crab time -- eventually these folks will come out to play again. When they do, they'll be the first to say so, in keeping with the Cardinal Quality attached to this sign. It's said that Crabs are first to laugh and first to cry, so you can bet they'll fill you in. That shell, by the way, isn't the only tough thing about Crabs. These folks are tenacious and strong-willed and like to get their way. If their well-documented kindness and gentleness doesn't do the trick, however, they're not above using emotional manipulation to make things happen. If that still doesn't work, they'll just go back to their shell and sulk, or find a way to get back at the source of their pain, since Crabs can be rather vindictive. That said, any self-respecting Crab would tell you that they are ultimately motivated by protecting their home and loved ones, a most noble goal.
Cancers are ruled by the Moon -- the Great Mother of the heavens in ancient times. Here on Earth, this is manifested in the Crab's maternal instincts and desire to protect home and hearth. This may appear smothering at times, but that's the Crab for you. The Moon is associated with fertility, too, a quality that is most pleasing to Cancers. The Moon is also the ruler of moods, and Cancers have plenty of those. These folks can cry you a river if they're so inclined, and they usually are. They can be overly sensitive, easily hurt and prone to brooding. Even so, Crabs find it easy to be sympathetic to others and are quick to show their affection. Their intuition is also a great help to them, especially in times of stress.
The element associated with Cancer is Water. Like the rolling waves of the sea, the Crab's emotions can make quite a splash. These folks tend to pick up on things and bring them in, with the outward result ranging from sentimentality to possessiveness. Crabs need to resist the temptation to become selfish or to feel sorry for themselves, since this behavior won't help. On the bright side, Cancers are good with money (although some consider them too thrifty), probably because they value a sense of security. Crabs are also quick to help others and tend to avoid confrontation. In keeping with their nurturing bent, those born under this sign are a whiz with food. A hearty picnic in the park is heaven-on-earth to most Crabs.
Cancers often find that a robust workout session is just the tonic for their touchy feelings. Team sports are always nice, since they offer a sense of community; water polo should be elemental to aquatic Crabs. What are their team colors? The Moon is silver and white. Since Cancers have a tendency to be lazy, however, they may need someone to push them out the door. When it comes to the game of love, eager Crabs are devoted, romantic and able to get things going on their own. Crabs are wise to listen to their gut, since this sign rules the stomach.
The great strength of the Cancer-born is the tenacity with which they protect their loved ones. These folks don't ask for much, either: a comfortable home and sense of peace about sums it up. It's that nurturing instinct which makes Cancers a pleasure to be with.
Cancer, the fourth sign of the zodiac, is all about home. Those born under this sign are 'roots' kinds of people, and take great pleasure in the comforts of home and family. Cancers are maternal, domestic and love to nurture others. More than likely, their family will be large, too -- the more, the merrier! Cancers will certainly be merry if their home life is serene and harmonious. Traditions are upheld with great zest in a Cancer's household, since these folks prize family history and love communal activities. They also tend to be patriotic, waving the flag whenever possible. A Cancer's good memory is the basis for stories told around the dinner table, and don't be surprised if these folks get emotional about things. Those born under this sign wear their heart on their sleeve, which is just fine by them.
The mascot of Cancer is the Crab, and much like this shelled little critter, Cancers are quick to retreat into their shells if it suits their mood. No wonder these folks are called crabby! For Cancer, it's not that big of a deal, though, since they consider this 'shell' a second home (and they do love home). The flip side of this hiding is that shell-bound Crabs are often quite moody. Further, in keeping with their difficulty in sharing their innermost feelings, it can become a Herculean task to pry a Crab out of its secret hiding place. What to do? Give the Crab time -- eventually these folks will come out to play again. When they do, they'll be the first to say so, in keeping with the Cardinal Quality attached to this sign. It's said that Crabs are first to laugh and first to cry, so you can bet they'll fill you in. That shell, by the way, isn't the only tough thing about Crabs. These folks are tenacious and strong-willed and like to get their way. If their well-documented kindness and gentleness doesn't do the trick, however, they're not above using emotional manipulation to make things happen. If that still doesn't work, they'll just go back to their shell and sulk, or find a way to get back at the source of their pain, since Crabs can be rather vindictive. That said, any self-respecting Crab would tell you that they are ultimately motivated by protecting their home and loved ones, a most noble goal.
Cancers are ruled by the Moon -- the Great Mother of the heavens in ancient times. Here on Earth, this is manifested in the Crab's maternal instincts and desire to protect home and hearth. This may appear smothering at times, but that's the Crab for you. The Moon is associated with fertility, too, a quality that is most pleasing to Cancers. The Moon is also the ruler of moods, and Cancers have plenty of those. These folks can cry you a river if they're so inclined, and they usually are. They can be overly sensitive, easily hurt and prone to brooding. Even so, Crabs find it easy to be sympathetic to others and are quick to show their affection. Their intuition is also a great help to them, especially in times of stress.
The element associated with Cancer is Water. Like the rolling waves of the sea, the Crab's emotions can make quite a splash. These folks tend to pick up on things and bring them in, with the outward result ranging from sentimentality to possessiveness. Crabs need to resist the temptation to become selfish or to feel sorry for themselves, since this behavior won't help. On the bright side, Cancers are good with money (although some consider them too thrifty), probably because they value a sense of security. Crabs are also quick to help others and tend to avoid confrontation. In keeping with their nurturing bent, those born under this sign are a whiz with food. A hearty picnic in the park is heaven-on-earth to most Crabs.
Cancers often find that a robust workout session is just the tonic for their touchy feelings. Team sports are always nice, since they offer a sense of community; water polo should be elemental to aquatic Crabs. What are their team colors? The Moon is silver and white. Since Cancers have a tendency to be lazy, however, they may need someone to push them out the door. When it comes to the game of love, eager Crabs are devoted, romantic and able to get things going on their own. Crabs are wise to listen to their gut, since this sign rules the stomach.
The great strength of the Cancer-born is the tenacity with which they protect their loved ones. These folks don't ask for much, either: a comfortable home and sense of peace about sums it up. It's that nurturing instinct which makes Cancers a pleasure to be with.
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