Liquidity ratios in accounting

Liquidity ratios test the business firm if it has sufficient cash and assets that can be immediately converted to cash to pay off liabilities within a year. This is particularly helpful to financial institutions that had extended or are intending to extend credit to the business firm. At the same, the business firm will be guided through its financial planners on how they should manage their current assets taking into consideration the over-all financial picture of the firm.

In financial parlance, a ratio of 1.0 would indicate that the firm can pay all its current liabilities at a given period of time by cash and other short-term assets that could be readily sold and converted to cash. A more than 1.0 ratio would mean the firm has ample cash to settle its current obligations. A below 1.0 ratio, on the other hand, is indicative that the firm has negative working capital.

There are many possible scenarios that the firm might be in by analyzing liquidity ratios. The common types of liquidity ratios are:  Current Ratio, Acid-test Ratio and Cash Ratio.

The Current Ratio (or Working Capital Ratio) test is to divide Current Assets by Current Liabilities. Basically, the current assets include cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, marketable securities, accounts, receivable, inventory, prepaid expenses plus other assets that can be converted to cash in less than a year.  Most financial analysts believe that a ratio between 1.2 to 2.0 is adequate. Meaning, the firm is in the comfort zone.  If the firm has 1.0 or below, the management should start checking their inventories if these can be immediately converted to cash. If not, the firm will soon face serious liquidity issue. Having above 2.0 is not also good. It means the firm is not investing its excess assets, rather being left dormant.

The Acid-test Ratio (or Quick Ratio) is a stringent test that resolves whether the firm has sufficient short term assets to cover immediate obligations at short notice without selling inventory. Hence, this ratio only includes Cash, Cash Equivalents, Short-term Investments, Marketable Securities, Accounts Receivable, Prepaid Expenses divided by Current Liabilities. Example of a business that usually has below 1.0 ratio is a retail store that is highly dependent on inventory.

The third of the liquidity ratios is the Cash Ratio. This ratio further refines both the Current Ratio and the Acid-test Ratio.  The Cash Ratio measures the degree to which a firm could quickly pay its short term liabilities. The creditors are more interested to know the Cash Ratio of the firm they had or are exposing credit to. To get this ratio the sum of Cash, Cash Equivalents + Short Term Investments is divided by the Current Liabilities. This is the most conservative ratio for it only considers the short term current assets minus the assets like the inventory that gives no assurance of being converted to cash at short notice.

Top money market funds

If you are planning to invest your cash in the money market, know first how it works, how much you would earn and what the top money market funds have in store for you.

Money markets are network of banks, credit unions, institutional investors and money dealers who borrow and lend among themselves for a short-term. Money market funds have become popular as cash management tool because of its open-end features.  You earn income in the form of dividends usually on a monthly basis. You can easily get your money back within a short period.  Also, you can keep your money invested that will adjust to the markets while earning rising interest rates.

What you should know.

Be familiar with the different money market funds from the fund’s prospectus. Understand the terms and conditions in their prospectus well.  You may also get these information from the financial institutions. There might be added charges on top of the expense ratio. There are also fees charged to every withdrawal you make. Remember money market funds are investments. As such, it should yield the best from where you put your money.

Money market funds have a value of $1.00 each share. Aim for a money market that protects the full value of your investment at all times. It should earn a dollar for every dollar you invest.

Don’t be deceived by money market funds that are tax free, but give a lower yield for your investment. Some funds give higher yield, however you pay tax for what you gain. Be aware of this feature.

Check on the best rates on money market funds from online listings. There are sites that maintain up-to-date lists of these funds, more particularly considered as the top money market funds.

Be warned too that money market funds are not insured with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). There is a risk that you can no longer get back your money if these money markets go bankrupt. Always check the financial standing of the money market where you invested your money. Even before you make the investment, check their liquidity. It is one basic feature of money market funds, you can anytime get back your money.

You, as owner of the money, need to be your own investment chief.  Never assume that investing your money even to one which is considered as among the top money market funds. They are not always safe and risk-free.

How to make friends at a new school

Getting enrolled at a new school is not easy.  Everything seems different.  You wouldn't know what to do, where everything is, and the least, finding your classroom.  Worse, you cannot avoid being ignored, stared at or ogled?  Making new friends is difficult.  It would take time before finding your new set of friends.  Here are some tips how to make new friends at a new school.

1.  Dress presentably on your first day.  Walk with confidence into your new school.  Keep that chin up, but keep a flashing smile on your face.  Wear your best body cologne, leave a trail of captivating scent behind you.

2. Don't forget to equip yourself with the things needed for the first meeting with your teacher.  You don't want to be humiliated, don't you?  Avoid getting shamed by a terror teacher.

3.  Make an impression, however be yourself.  Don't change who you are just to make an impression.  Be neat and check your breath.

4.  Be a Samaritan to someone.  Offer help.

5.  Don't be ashamed to start a conversation.  Initiate a talk on general topic about a favorite subject perhaps, new trend of learning, or some basic personal details.  But feel the pulse first of the type of person or groups of persons you introduced yourself to.

6.  Some schools already post their extra-curricular activities.  Participate an after-school activity that you have an interest in.  Meet the people that you have a common interest with. This is the fastest way how to make friends at a new school.

7.  Don't isolate yourself in a corner.  Be among the crowd and be friendly.            

Most employable college degrees

It may be too early to decide what course the graduating high school students should take, but it is always an advantage to have a mind set.  To guide them in choosing, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chief Secretary Patricia Licuanan during the PIA press release conducted on May 31, 2011, advised would-be college students to take the hard to fill but otherwise most employable college degrees and avail of the scholarships that CHED is now offering.  She mentioned courses like mining, aeronautics, geology, and software engineering.  CHED is currently providing its Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAPs) for these courses.  This program is open to bright Filipino students who got the highest score in the NCAE and must belong to the top ten of the graduating class.  Their parents' combined Annual Income Tax Return must also not to exceed P300,000.00.  More good news is that, scholars under this program can enroll in any government or private college/university Higher Education Institutes (HEIs).  Interested applicants are advised to visit CHED regional offices or go to the agency's official website at http://www.ched.gov.ph.

Let us expand our information further.  A survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers in USA revealed the top ten areas of study from which to hire this year.

10.  Management Information Systems/Business Data Processing

The job involves different ways that technology can propel a business with an average starting salary of $47,407.

9.  Computer Engineering

Companies need people who know how to design and develop software and systems for a computer network. Employers, who on average, were offering a $55,920 starting salary in 2007, range from software engineering to telecommunications firms.

8.  Marketing/Marketing Management

Major in this field study to build a successful image or campaign for a business or product and can be employed by any number of companies in a variety of capacities.  Marketing graduates average a starting salary of $39,269.

7.  Information Sciences & Systems

Students majoring in this area learn the ins and outs of creating computer systems or a web site.  Information Sciences & Systems graduates were offered a starting salary of $49,966.

6.   Economics/Finance

With the state of the economy, who doesn't need an economist to put it all in perspective?  Finance and economics majors are expected to rank sixth on the hiring list.  When it comes to starting salaries, economics majors had a slight edge with an average of $47,782 and $46,442 for finance majors.

5.  Business Administration/Management

Majors in this area, who earned an average starting salary of $47,407, are trained to successfully lead a team and complete a business' plans and goals efficiently.

4.  Computer Science

Computer Science majors graduate knowing how to develop computer programs and how the machines work.  Their skills earned 2007 graduates an average salary of $53,051.

3.  Electrical Engineering

At an average starting salary of $55,333, electrical engineer majors are able to design and oversee the electrical aspects of everything from a car to the electrical wiring in a building.

2.   Mechanical Engineering

Majors in this field can become mechanical engineers where they design and manufacture mechanical devices like an elevator or a generator.  Their first salary out of college averages $54,057.

1.  Accounting

Take out your calculators.  Employers said they expect to hire accounting majors more than any other group from the class of 2008.  Accountants averaged a starting salary of $46,292 in 2007.

Keep checking the internet for any current listing of the most employable college degrees, but I doubt if there is a change of the above list within the next two years.

Help kids get up early for school

One of the hardest part when kids go back to school after the summer vacation is getting up early.  It would probably take awhile for moms to persuade their kids to wake up or if she has started preparing breakfast, to take her a number of times going back to his son's or daughter's room to make them to finally leave the bed.

So, as a mom, after months of extended sleep, how do we help kids get up early for school?  How do we get them used to waking up early without creating "civil war" inside the household every morning?

Here are five ideas to help your kids get ready for school.

1.  Plan ahead.

At least a week before the school schedule begins, start preparing your kids to getting up early.  We, parents sometimes tend to dilly-dally and postpone the practice of leaving bed early for school, until it has become too late.  Plan with your kids; let them have also that responsibility to start earlier wake up time. Explain to them that sleep is likewise important as food. Studies reveal that lack of sleep can hinder physical and mental health.  Common effects are physical pain, depression, and anxiety.  It also affects school performance, inability to pay attention in class lectures. Help the kids to understand that getting enough sleep is only to help them feel good while at school.      

2.  Set bedtime.

In order for kids to go back to sleep on time, have dinner at a set time and most importantly, limit the time for TV, computers and video games.  Expect complaints from them when there is control in the use of computer and cell phones.  Once again, talk about responsibilities.  Parenting tips suggest telling kids that having cell phones, PSP or any handheld games, and any other gadget is a privilege.  But if they keep on using them even after bedtime, it means they can't manage it.  To help them, you have to take the gadget/s away from your kid if he or she can't follow the plan.    

3.  Routine check.

Set alarm clocks during that one week of helping your kids get used to earlier wake up time for school.  Let them retire to bed an hour earlier and wake up an hour earlier as well.  Set an hour earlier than their usual wake up time. Start your wind down routine day after day until they have gone back to their usual sleeping and waking time for school.

4.  A little motivation helps.

Motivate your kids to follow certain sleep schedule.  Tell them a reward of their choice is at stake if they stick to the plan.

5.  Avoid morning rush.

If there is something that can be done the night before to give way for extra time in the morning, do it.  For instance, prepare the school uniform at night in order to free you the hassle of ironing it in the morning.  Check for some neat socks and clean the shoes.  Are all school supplies needed the following morning inside the bag?  Freeing 10 or 15 minutes the least for morning work can help avoid the rush.

Simple and cheap way to cover books

School time is just around the corner.  I bet your children have been demanding to start buying book requirements and some school supplies.  It is a general feeling among kids to get excited every start of the school year.  They are looking forward to making new friends, renewing ties with old pals, having new notebooks, pens, among others and of course, books.  When buying books, you may want to make certain that they don't get damaged.  One thing to maintain the quality of the book is to cover it.  But, covering may become expensive particularly to those that are commercially produced.  Crafting your own book covers using materials within your household is an easy solution, such as glossy cover of old magazines, brown paper grocery bags, shopping paper bags, unused gift wrapping papers (who cares!), and many more.  These are simple and cheap way to cover books.  Here's how to do it.

1.  For instance, you want to use a piece of wide shopping paper bag, cut down the middle and then cut out the bottom.  This will make the bag into a flat sheet.

2.  Place the book (opened from the center), onto the flat sheet.  Use a pencil and trace around the book.

3.  Remove the book.  Using a ruler, add and mark 4 inches on each side (left and right) of the paper sheet.  Cut out the form, using a pair of sharp scissors.

4.  Place the book back to the paper form.  Adjust the book and make sure there are 4 inches extra on each its left and right sides.

5.  Fold the extra paper over the right cover of the book.  Get a transparent tape and seal the top and bottom edges to fix the paper in place.  Do the same on the left side.

Now you know how to do a simple and cheap way to cover books.
  

Website for kids to chat

If TV had been considered bad for kids because they get to watch violent and sexual images, what about computers?  Are they a threat as well?

Undoubtedly, computers are rich source of learning for kids.  It also offers unending supply of entertainment for them such as video games. We are now in an era where computers and electronics have become normal part of life. Children witness how their parents use computers for surfing the net, doing work-related stuff, or enjoying the “in” thing now – chatting. Kids want to do the same. If so, parents want to know how safe and appropriate is a website for kids to chat. 

Below are some websites that are considerably harmless.

 The chat rooms at kidscom.com are checked by adults in actual time. Foul language is deleted from all chats. Parents as well can monitor their kid’s visits and to determine which chat level is fitting to their child’s age.  This site is suitable for kids ages 5 and up. It has several chat rooms to choose from that focus on environment as the main theme.

Chatting at Kidzworld.com is supervised by adults. Chat opens from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET. This site provides kids with readings about games, school, health and entertainment. It promotes interaction among kids by encouraging them to comment on articles and to contribute artistic thoughts. This site is famous among the teens.

A website for kids to chat with their friends and like kids should be constantly monitored for content and appropriate talk and conduct. Kidchatters.com is the site that parents should promote among their peers.  The chat rooms are aimed to children aging 8 to 12. Registration to this site is necessary and the collected fee (nominal of $3.95 per month) is used to pay adult monitors.

Kids-online.com is another website that connects kids of all ages to chat.  It has trivia contests that promote kids helping among themselves in doing homework, school, games and much more.  It has a number of moderators that monitor chats of children.

There are more websites:  Chibi Chat where kids can listen to music while they chat with friends; WB Kids (Wacky Bunch Kids) which is an amusing site that features chat, fun and games for kids of all ages; chat-avenue.com filters and blocks offensive chatters.

However safe a website for kids to chat may be, parents should keep in mind that chat rooms may pose a risk to their kids of becoming victims to online predators.  Parents can help in protecting their kids by being aware of the dangers and to get involved in their kids’ internet activities.

A mother's love to her son

Being a mother is not a joke, not to be regarded lightly and should be taken seriously.  When our children are still young, we try to teach them the values that we learn from our parents and from others that we feel would make our children a better person. We discipline them because we love them so much. This kind of love remains in a mother's mind that we forget our children too get old and most of the time get tired listening to a mother trying to discipline them.

I'm sure you agree, we can't avoid getting hurt being told by our children that they are not anymore kids, and tell us to "shut up, Mom, am old enough to take care of myself." What would you normally do? Keep silent then and turn your back?  Let them say the last words? Lock yourself in the bedroom and cry silently?  Or, would you insist on being the mother? You raise your voice more and bombard your child with angry words, a way of disciplining.  Rather, would you calm down, talk to your child in a motherly way, settle the issue and say sorry to each other?

Ah, mother's love indeed.

Someday, son, you will realize why I say things to you this way...

It's because I love you.

Sometimes I can't help but worry too much because you are not here with me.

I am sorry I need to be away.

I know you'll be okay, you've grown to be a man.

A mother's love raised you well.

Amazed by His love

Have you ever felt amazed by God's love?  Ever wondered "hey, I don't deserve His love", and yet here you are, been receiving so much blessings from Him that you just want to cry for happiness. God has been so good.  I really do believe He makes things happen at the right time.  He has plans for us that all we have to do is wait.  Don't rush Him.  If He says, "no, child, I have better plans for you," then heed. No father would ever harm his own child.  Just keep praying what you ask for, what you want to happen.  If it's not the way you want it, then it's not good for you because He has better plans.

It's been happening to me several times.  I now accept that He holds my life, all our lives, for that matter.

Lately, one employer left me a message to take a breather yet, stop submitting his work for awhile.  It is that no limit hour work that brings in money to me.  It was a sad message, in fact.  But guess what God has for me in exchange?  Three invite-only contracts which rate is doubled!  It knocked on my door just at the right moment.

It will keep me busy.  Thank you, God!

Fashion is indeed Pablo Cabahug's passion

Pablo Cabahug apprenticed for senior designer Randy Ortiz for 8 years.  He is also a Fashion Assistant to ace Director Jackie Aqunio (JCA Productions).

Pablo first caught the public eye when he presented his first collection at Philippine Fashion Week in 2009.  What seems to be an overnight success is actually the fruition of many years of training, guidance, and close observation of some of Philippine fashion's key players.

He is currently in London enjoying his prize that he won as THE LOOK OF STYLE AWARDS-BEST DESIGNER - a two-week scholarship at Central Saint Martins.  It was a fashion competition sponsored by the Look Magazine, Inquirer, and the British Council of the Philippines.

Visit the Pablo Cabahug page for his collections.

Uploading video

This is just a test.  I'm learning how to upload a video.  This one is a clip from my favorite movie "The Notebook".

It is so simple.

1.  Sign in to your blog.
2.  Open new post or you may opt to embed the video to an old post, so choose "edit posts".
3.  Go to the site where the video clip is found; copy the embed code.
4.  Go back to you blog, click Edit HTML and paste the code.  If its a new post, click where you want to embed the video, left justify, center or right justify.  If you write something about it, choose where to locate the video, either before or after.  If the video clip is to be placed to an old post, make sure you don't accidentally delete the existing HTML codes there; then select where to embed the video.
5.  After embedding the code, you will be ready to publish the post.

JobgLing explained

A friend just commented that it should have been JOBGING.

It is "JobgLing" because as already explained, it is a combination of two things done in one effort - job and blogging.  What is the "L" for then?...to still associate the second link to bLogging and to the author's name.  I have to find a way how I arrived with that word!  Mind you, if you google "jobgling", the first result in the list is this blog.  Meaning to say, I am the first person who use the term and further means, a new word.

I like the sound of the word.  And there is an extra sensual movement of the tongue that you can play with.  I assume, all adult individuals know that tongue represents some sexual connotation. This is another theme that I am visioning this blog will progress - generally, an assortment of issues and topics - sexuality, life, love, family, friendship, networking, frustrations, environment, etc. and etc.

See you around!

JOBGLING, what this blog will soon become

Mabuhay!  It's been awhile (21 days to be exact) since I last "visited" this blog.  Visited, meaning post new topics, upload new design or widgets, edit posts, etc. I've been busy with my online jobs at oDesk, 4 at the moment, which I prefer to give most of my time because these are hourly jobs. Meaning to say, no work-no pay.  oDesk has cool application (called oDesk Team) that contractors must log in, in order for hourly works to be recorded and desktops captured every 10 minutes.  That is why, chatting and/or emailing and doing non-related oDesk activities are discouraged, unless contractors want their gallivanting mouse caught.

Due to limited time to do other things, I thought of something to make me "hit two birds with one stone."  How is this? ... online JOBGLING, working on jobs and blogging at the same time. Right now, I'm doing researches on information sources for management/ corporate short courses and these are to be written in short but thorough discussions.  I will be uploading these here soon.  They will serve as direct sources, properly hyperlinked of course, for students/researchers of specific topics on management, workplace issues, bookkeeping, and the like.

Meanwhile, I am always facing my laptop - working!  Early morning yoga has become lesser now.  Matter of fact, I haven't given time yet to go malling, shopping, movie watching, "havana-ing", "tat-ing" (lol) - the things I love most.  I might reserve these moments with the right company when pleasure would be much more than expected (another lol).

I'm loving life!

Track flights in the air

Tracking arrivals and departures of airplanes is easy and quick to do. Flight tracking was started  in the 21^st century when several institutions had subsidized websites and software development to address the need of airline companies and passengers to track whereabouts of aircrafts. If you are one of those individuals who want to track flights in the air, just follow these steps.

Before anything, make sure you have the following information ready: flight destination, airline name and flight number.

In U.S.A., you have a way of checking for flight delay information. The Air Traffic Control System Command Center can provide you with general airport conditions, but not about flights. It helps provide information if your flight is affected.

You may contact the airline and ask for assistance on the status of the flight you want to know. Most likely, the airline can give you the most possible location of the aircraft and the ETA or the expected time of arrival. Sometimes, airline hotlines are too busy and difficult for you to get through. Another option available is to check online flight trackers.

When you google search for “flight tracker international,” it gives about a million results, but not necessarily the same number of online flight trackers. Some people who have been using web that track flights in the air have their favorite sites.  If you are yet new to this service, check sites and choose which you feel is most convenient to use.

Once you have chosen the site, enter the information such as flight destination, flight arrival (some sites ask for this), the airline company and the flight number.

The following are known sites that air travelers may use.

Flightview is an application, also available for mobile devices, that easily tracks real-time information and graphic view of a flight’s progress and number of airlines being delayed at a certain airport.

FlightAware.com website gives travel users flight tracking and airport activities.

Flights.com gives status of your flight delays, cancellations, and remaining time for flights that just departed.

Another world-wide coverage is Aeroseek.com. It tracks airlines and private aircrafts, airport arrivals and departures, airport weather and security wait times.

Google too has flight tracking service, the gmapsflighttracker.com. It provides inbound flights in selected airports in America.

There are a lot more sites to choose from. We should be grateful to these companies that pioneered the development of this application that enables us to track flights in the air.  

Freezing green beans

Green beans taste good and are known for their high nutritional value.  They are loaded with Vitamins A, C, B₁ & B₂, omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, iron, calcium, copper, phosphorous, manganese and dietary fibers.  However, fresh green beans are not available all year-round.   For steady supply, many people freeze green beans rather than have them in cans. Freezing green beans is the easiest method and yet maintaining their dietary value.  This can be done in very simple steps.

To start with, prepare at hand desired quantity of the freshest green beans to freeze.  If the beans are taken from your own backyard, harvest early in the morning.  The flavor is at its best if picked while the weather is hot.  If purchased from the market, you can test the freshness by breaking it in half.  If it cracks, then it is fresh.  Freshness can be seen as well from its color.  It is fresh if the color is bright green and has no brown stains.  If there is time gap between harvesting/purchasing and freezing, put the beans in the refrigerator.  Never use beans that are already overripe or had dried out.  Freshness is crucial when freezing green beans, otherwise the freezing process doesn’t serve its purpose.

Wash the green beans in lukewarm or plain cold water in a colander or strainer.

The next step is to remove the stem ends of the beans and the strings, if any.  You may cut them to pieces that you prefer.

Blanche the green beans.  Fresh vegetables contain enzymes and bacteria that change the color, texture and taste of vegetables and destroy the nutrients.  The blanching process removes these enzymes and bacteria.  This is done by first dipping the beans in boiling water for at least 3 minutes (or enough time to prevent the action of enzymes and kill the bacteria, usually 3-3.5 minutes).  Don’t overdo it.

After 3 minutes or so, the beans should be cooled immediately to prevent overcooking.  Immerse the green beans into a big bowl with ice-cold water.  Keep adding cold water until the beans have lost warmness.  Cool the green beans the same duration as they were blanched.  Drain thoroughly.

Place the cooled beans inside a vacuum food sealer or zeeper bags. Remove as much air from the bag and seal tightly.  Store the bags in the freezer. 

In less than an hour, we are done.  Freezing green beans consumes lesser time and only a colander, pot to boil water with, a container for ice-cold water and vacuum food sealer or zeeper bags as tools. 

Frozen green beans usually last until 12 months.  Beyond that, it won’t taste as good.

Effects of Nuclear Radiation

Talking about the rush of messages coming from unknown about the radiation leak at Fukushima, who wouldn't get worried? Imagine how people reacted - passing the text message to as many as the phone prepaid load can spend, calling loved ones to come home quick (before 4 pm!), rushing to schools to pick up sons and daughters, closing doors and windows (any holes, if possible!), betadine!, face masks!, movies about the effects of nuclear radiation suddenly recalled.  What an ugly sight!  As it turn out, the message is not true, a hoax.  According to the Department of Health Secretary Enrique T. Ona, that Philippines is safe from radiation exposure as consequence of the damage to Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan. Nakakatuwa, nauwat tanan.


If it was true, we should be scared. The effects of nuclear radiation on humans and animals are very harmful:  cancer (known to skin and thyroid), tumors, and birth defects.  The rate of survival decreases as dosage of radiation exposure increases.

We should be thankful to God Almighty that the radiation leak at Fukushima was a false alarm. However, since the nuclear plant was indeed damaged, we must be prepared.  Know how we can prevent ourselves from getting harmed.  Be informed of the current news.

Erroneous text

In relation to earlier post, the radiation leak is a hoax.

Radiation leak at Fukushima

I got text messages to my mobile phone apparently flashnews from BBC network, that says:

Japan government confirms radiation leak at Fukushima Nuclear Plants.  Asian countries should take necessary precautions.  Remain indoors first 24 hours.  Close doors and windows.  Swab neck skin with betadine where thyroid area is, radiation hits thyroid first.  Take extra precaution, radiation may hit Philippines at starting 4pm today (March 14, 2011).  Please send to your loved ones.

We have to be vigilant.  Check the veracity of this news; then take necessary steps to prevent yourself and your loved ones to be exposed to this harmful radiaton.

How to cook new potatoes

Learn how to cook new potatoes and thereby get most of its nutritional value. New potatoes, also called creamers, baby potatoes, chats, potato nuggets, or earlies, refer to harvested potatoes before they reach maturity and not fully grown. You can tell new potatoes by the look of its skin.  Skin of new potatoes is flimsy and thinner and can easily be peeled off with your fingers.

Since new potatoes are gathered before they are completely full grown, they are prone to damage easily. When you buy new potatoes, carefully select those that are without discoloration. They are susceptible to sun damage too, because of their thin skin. Avoid new potatoes that have green patches under its red or yellow skin. This green patch contain toxic alkaloid solanine; so either you throw them away or just cut off the entire green patch before cooking. New potatoes spoil easily and will only keep for about a week. Thus, buy new potatoes as you use them while they are still fresh as possible. You are guaranteed the best flavor when new potatoes are fresh. Fresh potatoes will look firm, no wrinkles, no discoloration, odorless and solid to touch. New potatoes are tasty and more nutritious if cooked with skins. So just scrub and wash off the dirt gently.

There are different ways how to cook new potatoes, but they are best boiled and roasted because of their small size and can be cooked whole. Many people love new potatoes because of their moisture content and smooth grain.

Old and new potatoes are treated differently by experts when they are boiled. Obviously, new potatoes take only about 20 minutes to make it tender. So, when cooking new potatoes, match their sizes as much as possible.

Arrange the new potatoes in a pan and cover with enough water.

Cover with a lid and leave it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, until just tender. After 15 minutes, check with the point of a sharp knife or a fork. If they pierce easily, they are tender enough if not, boil for a little longer. Add a drop of lemon juice to the boiling water in order to retain the color of the new potatoes.

Once done, drain immediately. The Vitamin C in new potatoes might be dissolved in the water.

Arrange the newly cooked potatoes in a nice dish. Serve with a lump of butter or sprinkle with salt and pepper, and your favorite herb, chopped.

If you like roasted new potatoes, just add ¼ cup of olive oil to a large pan where potatoes are arranged in just one layer. Add 1 clove minced garlic and toss to coat. Add 3 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary, salt and pepper. Bake at 400⁰ for 40 minutes until tender.

The easy way how to cook new potatoes and you still get the same nutritional value. 

How To Make Hard Boiled Eggs That Peel Easy

There are many ways to cook an egg.  The simplest and classic way to prepare it is to boil.  However prepared, whether soft- or hard-boil, we want it to look good when cooked.  That is, egg still in its original form, shiny white and no crates when peeled.  Ah, peeling egg shells is fun and messy, too.  Sometimes we can’t avoid breaking the outer layer or leave bits of shells.   Removing egg shells is an effortless thing if we know how to make hard boiled eggs that peel easy.

First, we need the following :  a stove, a large pan or a pot, cold water, kitchen or any timer and uncooked eggs .  Check for cracks before boiling.  Others use eggs refrigerated for a few days because they said new eggs won’t peel easily.

Ok, let’s start. 

First, pour cold water into the pan until half-filled.  Add the eggs (don’t drop! Avoid cracks).  See to it that the water level is above the top of each egg.  Add more water, if necessary.  If the eggs are not as cold as the water, let the eggs sit in the cold water for awhile.  The water should not be warmer than the eggs, otherwise the water will heat up faster and the eggs may crack.  If cracks are unavoidable, add a teaspoon of salt or a drop of vinegar.  This will prevent the insides of the egg from leaking out. 

Second, position the pan on the stove and turn on high.  When water starts to boil, turn heat to medium and set timer to 15 minutes.  Make use of any timer available, if you don’t have the kitchen timer.  Learning the skill on how to make hard boiled eggs that peel easy is really simple, no need to use urbane kitchen tools. 

Third, when the timer goes off, turn off the stove.  Move the pan to the sink; be careful, it’s hot! Let cold water run in the pan and pour out the water.  Be wise not to pour the hot water directly to the sink, it might damage it.

Fourth, dip the eggs in the cold water for about 30 minutes.  Replace the water if it gets warm.

Fifth, remove the eggs from the pan and refrigerate immediately.  The quicker the boiled eggs get cold, the better.

Follow these simple steps how to make hard boiled eggs that peel easy and you will have nice looking deviled eggs .

I am now earning from home....

Seriously devoted some time (two full days) in January 2011 to finding and applying jobs at oDesk.com.  My first contract is (still active) on article rewriting.  The task is to rewrite articles, with given keywords and link, to compose 400-499 words and should pass against plagiarism or Copyscape. Fortunately, out of 27 articles I'd rewritten, only one didn't pass.  Arghh... from then on, I stopped rewriting medical-related ones.  It was fun.  I was forced to do quick researches  about the topic and to actually do original writing.  Just a minimal earning, but what matters most is that I learned a lot - information and web browsing/researching; and the importance of keywords, as well.

While rewriting articles, I didn't stop applying for other jobs. Perseverance paid off, I got a second contract and a third, after a month.

Now, I'm managing my time to do jobs on data entry/research and transcribing.  I decided to let go of article rewriting. I requested my employer to end my contract and to leave feedback on how I rate as rewriter as some jobs require certain feedback rating of contractors.

If you wish to stay at home but earning, try at oDesk.  The application is superb and easy way to track your earnings.  It is true, not a scam.

Glad to be back!

After more than a year, I am finally back to my refuge. I regard this blog as my way of expressing myself, share what's in my mind, actualize the learnings about the net technology, among others. There was a long pause because I was still learning; I forgot what google account I used for this blog (as simple as that LOL). Well, the disadvantage of having many "personalities" was yet working on me. Now, I am maturing, so to speak. Expect many things to happen here. Let's begin with how I start earning from home.

Funny kids!

Can't upload videos here. Please follow link to my facebook account.

This is taken at home. See how my granddaughter, Ellen Abigail, does "wang-wang" and "strong" funny faces. She also loves imitating adults while praising Jesus by raising her hand and trying to sing. She is still a year old.

A new me?

Hi! I'm still here. It's just that, there is a very crucial moment in my life that I have to take a day at a time. It is a complete turnaround actually. I hate to hurt the feelings of some people, but at present, I am loving every moment of it. I have found myself with God.

Applying on-line jobs

I am now giving serious time applying for on-line jobs through oDesk. I have read a blog from a likewise oDesk provider and a successful one, that applying ahead of the line is an advantage. I search from administrative support jobs every 2-3 minutes. And if I qualify one, I submit a cover letter or proposal instantly. Surely, for the first time, I made it to the first 5 applicants.

I am praying and hoping that a buyer would choose me and consider my capability. But, as of the moment, none yet. I keep on crossing my fingers though and praying that someday soon, I could be able to use the installed oDesk Share in my desktop.

Disabled Google AdSense

I just received today the reply from the Google AdSense Team to my appeal to reinstate my disabled account. Unfortunately, they cannot reinstate it because "my account poses a significant risk to advertisers." It is not a whoopee amount, actually; but as a newbie in blogging and not a certified writer, it makes me happy seeing my little earnings.

It doesn't matter though. Maybe Google should give extra consideration to non-tech bloggers. We are still prone to commit errors especially when we just take pleasure in clicking here and clicking there. I'm still on the learning stage and this is one aspect where I should get new ideas, and eventually make myself an entrepreneurial blogger.

The important lesson there is - to continue reading more tips and learn more skills.

More views of Pablo's designs

Inspirational message for the teens

No matter how we, mothers, want our child to be independent and responsible for their own initiatives; sometimes, we cannot help but be willing (always) to lend a hand. My precious sought my help to look for a biblical passage as he is assigned to share this in the class. He is now 17 and an only child. He is not always by my side or in the safety of our home. Most of the time, he is out in the company of friends, exposed to many happenings and encounter different personalities. I would want him to be extra careful in dealing with people. Thus, I find this passage appropriate and worthy to be shared with his fellow teenagers.

2 Timothy 2:22-26 - "Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who as taken them captive to do his will."

If we just obey God's words, this world will be a safe place for our children. No killings, no street protests, no strikes, no gang wars, no Bloods, no Crips, no what-nots....

Peace, bro!

Creations of Pablo Cabahug

Sooo proud of you, bb boy!

Here are some comments -

Pablo Cabahug's structured designs emanated edginess and sexiness.

Successfully mixing femininity with impeccable tailoring, Pablo Cabahug’s collection felt powerful and sexy. His body-conscious dresses with sharp shoulders are must-haves for modern women.

Tomorrow will come...

My mind just went poooff! I like to write on something from my heart. But it seems I need to be with myself and to be alone. Tomorrow seems to be the right time...

Busy me!

I have nothing to blog yet.  I am still engrossed applying jobs on line.

On-line job

I am now reviving my account with Odesk. I feel I have to pursue my web career for extra income and possibly my full time job. Earlier, I was considering web jobs as soon to be my source of income once I retire. But, I was thinking, probably I shouldnt wait till I reach my senior years to do this. Hence, now I am bent to explore and explore.

Try this, friends.

Namaste!

I do some yoga poses almost everyday for five years now. Doing my yoga routine keeps me strength and stamina. It keeps me out of stress, too. Aside from health benefits, doing yoga regularly tones my muscles.

I first enrolled in a yoga class for a month. I familiarized the breathing technic, basic poses and the sun salutation. Then, I've been doing it on my own. Learning new poses is easy as long as you dont overdo it. If you feel a pose might injure you, never try it. I only do the poses that I feel would benefit me. I have a 45-minute routine; am not familiar with the names, though.

My sad experience with Du Ek Sam

Such a bad day for me....

This morning was the hearing of my complaint filed with DTI against Du Ek Sam. Last May 19, 2009 we bought, through financing, Honda Wave 100R (2nd hand, reconditioned) from DES. It was perfect for my son and still looked new with changed punky exhaust pipe. We were told that the only thing needed to be replaced was the battery (cannot use the electronic start yet, only the kick start). We bragged that it was heaven sent and that it was meant to be ours because the timing was in our favor. There wasnt a brand new unit that time; thus we decided to get the reconditioned one. We were just elated!

However, after barely 8 days of use, the motorcyle bugged down. It will no longer start! So we went back to DES on May 27th. According to the mechanic, the stator coil has worn out. We requested then to the management to return the reconditioned unit and get a brand new same model instead. That time then, they already had supply of brand new Wave 100R's. I was told by the lady employee that I have to add P500.00 to my down payment. I said, no problem; I already had the money in my pocket. Apparently, the top management, has another decision. Of the P4k I gave as down payment, I can only get back half of it; the P2k as payment for processing my papers with the Register of Deeds. But, according (again) to the lady employee, my papers are still with the lawyer for notarization then. Thus, what was his justification for keeping my P2k?

Anyway, to make the long story short, DES management will NOT return my P2k. He said it wasnt even enough to settle the expenses they incurred... (now in addition to the Register of Deeds processing), including registration of the motorcycle, the "effort" incidental to processing my papers.. blah blah blah. Ha? I didnt hear that before? They cannot return my P2k because of company policy...forfeiting return of down payment... (that only the management knows?... the employees are not aware of?

Didnt they know about the Consumer Act or Articles 1561 and 1562 of the New Civil Code? There was a hidden defect! A worned out stator coil can be detected by a mechanic! How could we worn it out; after just barely 8 days of using the reconditioned motorcycle? It is supposed to be their responsibility to check the motorcycle and put it back to good condition. I should be paid back the total P4k I gave as down payment.

Yes, it is just P2k, why should I resort to filling a complaint?.. or perhaps (I still have to think a million times if I should) file a civil case against DES? I would want to see their company policy in print form. I hate entrepreneurs who just demand from consumers that "sorry, it is our company policy," that not even the front employees are aware of.

My son was really disappointed.... and so am I.

We have to save for another down payment... but this time, it has to be brand new and no longer from Du Ek Sam.

Take care of your heart!

Hi, friends. Check this out:

Heart Disease is the number one killer of men and women all over the world.
High blood cholesterol is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. In fact, the higher your blood cholesterol
level, the greater your risk for developing heart disease or having a heart attack.

Drinking coffee has essential health benefits, as medical studies reveal. Coffee offers anti-oxidants and memory boosters like no other. Edmark’s Coffee King Series gives you healthy coffee options with a twist of Ginseng and Red Yeast Rice for total rejuvenation of the heart, body and mind. Ginseng is known for increasing longevity while red yeast rice provides benefits for optimal cholesterol health.

Red Yeast Coffee

Made from the organic blend of imported premium coffee beans and red yeast rice. Deep, full-bodied with a complex flavor that is bold and unanticipated. This coffee's intensity has a crisp finish that lingers in your taste buds. You can't help but just get another cup of Red Yeast Coffee.

- Lowers bad cholesterol levels, raises levels of good cholesterol and reduces triglycerides.

- Helps prevent heart disease and some of its complications.

- Enhances circulation and digestion, soothes abdominal pain and invigorates the spleen

- Offers antioxidants and anti-aging properties.

"Halo-halo", anyone?

Both my son and I love "halo-halo". So far, here in Dumaguete City, we have tasted "halo-halo" from three famous resto here - Chowking, Sta. Theresa and McNeloy's. If you are a Dumagueteño, share to us where the BEST "halo-halo" is served.

Being a Filipino mother . . . .

The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,107 islands found in Southeast Asia. With diverse ethnic groups, our country has 154 dialects (Source: Diksyunaryo ng Wikang Filipino, Sentinyal Edisyon, 1998). The translation of the word mother in the eight major dialects are similar (sourced from www.bansa.org/dictionaries).

Tagalog - ina, nanay, nay, ema, ermat

Cebuano – mama, maninay, nanay, nay, inahan

Ilocano – mari, ina, nanang

Hiligaynon – iloy, nanay

Bicolano - nanay, ina

Waray-Waray – iroy, iruy, nanay

Pampangan – inda, indu, ma, ima, inang

Pangasinan – ina, nanay

However it may sound, they all mean the same to us Filipinos. I have been searching and compiling articles from the web some basic characteristics of a Filipino mother in modern times. Here are some items that I found from http://www.filipinasoul.com//what-is-a-modern-filipina-mom:

1. A Filipino mother is hard-earner. She finds ways to earn more in order to provide her family well. Most Filipino mothers have some “side-lines”, mini-business or part-time jobs; and for those who do not have full-time jobs, are into multi-jobs at one time. I, myself, am applying for a part-time position in a call center and as a blogger mom, as well. But my purpose for the latter is not financial (although, I will never refuse if such opportunity comes); but for personal growth. At a very young age of 3, my son had witnessed his mother (me!) as the family breadwinner. My husband had no full-time job then, so he takes care of our son. So when he already had a job, he explained to our son that an aunt will take over because he already has work. My son innocently replied. “Why do you have to work? You are not a woman.” He thought that only the woman who goes to work in an office and the man stays at home to watch the kids. Well, the world through the eyes of the children, so they say.

2. A Filipino mother has high respect for herself. A Filipino woman, in general, values her being – attributes, accomplishments and position in the society. As a mother, she finds ways to improve, personally and professionally. She tends to undo her mistakes and outdo her inadequacies. I am neither a writer (not even a good English conversant!) nor an IT backgrounder (Bachelor in Business), but I tried to put myself into the net, just so I can learn the IT world and improve my communication skills. Speak out your mind… who cares?

3. Above everything is her family. A Filipino mother is willing to sacrifice for her family. If given a choice, a pinay mother will never work abroad if it would mean being away for long from her husband and children. On the other hand, if her being away will generate a comfortable life for her family, then she is willing to go through the painful experience. In all my work schedules away from home, I always see to it that the things my husband and son need are in place before leaving the house. Despite heavy work traffic, I check them once in a while through texting.

4. Education is treasured. Some say education is the best inheritance parents can give to their children. True. I know of some parents who sweat more just to send their children to the best school. Others loan money in order to pay escalating tuition fees. Sometimes, a Filipino mother becomes a “stage mother” such that she is ever present in her child’s school activities. I remember an incident during a boy’s basketball tournament for grade schoolers. While the players were running toward the other court, a 9-year old player suddenly tipped over. Unexpectedly, the mother came rushing to the middle of the court to rescue him! She never minded the game was still going on. Also, as parents, we tend to dictate what course our children will take in college because we thought it’s the best for them and employment is assured after graduation.

5. Housechores become everyone’s business. In most Filipino homes, I still believe that the mother leads majority of the chores. A Filipina is still meticulous in some things done inside her home. However, nowadays tasks are no longer gender-based, but rather on abilities. In my home, the husband takes charge of washing our delicate clothing and underwears; takes care of our mini-garden and some hard labor; the son replenishes our water dispenser, assists me in cooking (he likes culinary) and sets the dining table; the rest, myself. We always encourage our son to do chores at home. It is an invaluable achievement a man can be proud of; as well as the mother, for raising a good son.

Well, this is all for now. Am still searching for other articles of the same issue.

Till next post...