My experience in purchasing a Pureit Classic Refill Kit

It has been more than 2 months since we first started using the PureIt Classic Water Purifier by Unilever. The Germkill filter is past due since water already leaks in the middle which means that the water won't go through the last chamber because of its automatic shut off feature. Instead, it would go through into where the Germkill filter is.

On a Sunday, the merchant shop where I bought the water purifier gave me the PureIt Excella refill kit which costs around 1198 pesos and insisted that they are the same though I specifically asked for the PureIt Classic Refill kit. Upon returning home, I still have lingering doubts. My mother would say why not try it out but I'm thinking that if I take her advice and opened the merchandise, there is a great possibility that I won't be able to return it. And so I searched the internet if there is a difference between the two and found out that there is. In the PureIt Excella refill kit, you get the 4 filters: the mesh, the carbon polisher, the germkill filter and the sediment filter. On the other hand, PureIt Classic refill kit consists of 3 items: the half sphered carbon (which was missing in the Excella), the carbon polisher and the germkill filter. In order to solve the current problem, I ask directly in the PureIt Water Purifier contact page and they replied that the PureIt Excella refill kit is different from PureIt Classic refill kit. PureIt Excella refill kit should only be used in a PureIt Excella water purifier unit and the PureIt Classic refill kit is intended only in a PureIt Excella water purifier unit.

To be honest, I was quite expecting this answer but I was disappointed. The shop would just sell you something without really knowing it. The next day, I returned the item to the shop. When I aired out my concern, the manager at first firmly told me that they sell only units with the same model unit which was displayed and same type of refill kits. Negotiation is not my kind of thing but this time I insisted that I was able to buy the unit that we are using in their shop in 2 months before. I told him that I was actually looking forward to buy the PureIt Excella unit because I'm thinking to purchase the refill kits in the same shop. I told him that the salesman who sold me the unit said that it was the newest model and they were phasing out the Excella unit. Then he said that he is reaching out to the designated salesman. He asked if I could show him a picture of the purifier in which I did. Later, he found out when they went through their stock room (perhaps) that I was right and that what we had bought is the newest model. Another salesman, and a bunch of them went to us (maybe in order to pry or were curious with the current situation) and they are agreeing with the manager that the contents are just the same. I replied that I don't have an issue with the 3 items: the mesh, the carbon polisher and the germkill filter. But I posed them questions like: what am I going to do with the sediment filter? How about the half-sphere shaped filter? They even browsed through the PureIt pamphlet and discovered that there is the half-sphere shape. I came prepared so I even showed them a YouTube video on PureIt Classic refill kit replacement. Then that's when they apologize. The manager offered that I get another item with the same price but I inquired if I can get it later, maybe they be having the correct refill kit soon? I told him that I'm in no rush can get it later provided that I get the refill kit that I needed. The manager then told me that they will try to contact Omnibus (I think, their merchandiser) and the merchandiser would directly contact Unilever. He gave me a contact number and said that they will keep me updated but it would take some time. As per the manager, refund was not possible as I had used debit card.

The next day about 2 pm, I missed a call. I was suspecting that it was the manager of the shop. I was able to answer his call when I was riding in a tricycle on my way home at around 5:30 pm. He said that they were able to contact the Unilever hotline and that the refill kit for the Classic is still not out in the market. If there was, it is only available in their service center which was situated in Pasig. He also added that he inquired if there is an online shop such as Lazada where the refill kit can be purchased but there was none. I was thinking if this manager had really contacted Unilever or is just not resourceful enough. I cut the bull shit crap that he's feeding me and I said to him (in a polite manner by the way) that in the PureIt page, the brand has advised that classic refill kit is available in their online shop in Lazada. I also informed him that if the product is not out in the market like he was telling me then why did I was able to buy it in Landmark Makati? I was able to buy it for 1398 pesos and bought it the same day before I aired out my concern regarding their sold product. He again offered me to just exchange for another item but I was adamant that I have no need for their other products. We agreed into a deal where they'll just give me a receipt telling that I had a deposit of the amount 1198 and I can use it anytime. He instructed me to bring the original receipt. I told him, I'll drop by the next day in which I did. Hopefully, the Classic refill kit would be available soon.

Dog bites: What to do?

 Dog bites: What to do?

We were supposed to go to Divisoria today. Unfortunately, something happened: my mom got bitten by our own dog. One lesson that she learned the hard way: never enforce something to an anxious dog. No matter how long it takes, wait patiently and let him go to you on his own.

Since Kobe (my brother named him, don't ask me why XD) had finished his routine walk and had already taken a dump, we decided to let him outside the apartment but just inside the mini gate as he begins to become unruly. My mother opened the door not knowing that she forgot to lock the gate. Before we know it, he ran out like he was a free dog. He was off the leash so she went after him with the leash.

I was making our breakfast when I heard a knock on the door and our kind neighbor said that my mother needed me. When I went to her thanks to our other neighbors who pointed out where she was, I was surprised that she has blood on her t-shirt and said that she was bitten by Kobe. She was trying to put a leash on him when he was busy licking the excrement of the chickens. He had warned her by a playbite on her hand but maybe because she was embarrassed as she was on another private property for a long time, she enforce the leash on the dog that's why she was bitten on her left arm. She said that

What she did was to 

Notes from Game changers - Dave Asprey

Notes from Game changers - Dave Asprey

I greatly recommend that you read Game Changers by Dave Asprey. This book has profound insights and I'm bookmarking the quotes that I'd like to go over someday. Here are some excerpts:

Every adversity holds within it a profound, life-transforming advantage.

We all face adversity, and it’s up to us to decide what meaning we give to it and what purpose it serves for ourselves, our loved ones, and the greater good.

Biohacking

S-A-V-E-R-S: silence, affirmations, visualizations, exercise, reading, and scribing. 

Nobody has ever changed the game by playing it safe.

When you feel an urge to vent, complain, or think negative thoughts, seek forgiveness right away. If you don’t find it, set a timer for five minutes and let loose. When the time is up, go back to being productive.

Applying for my first ever credit card!

 

So okay. I'm sharing the news that I'm applying for my first ever credit card! 

 

Yes. I know I'm a late bloomer when it comes to this kind of thing being a 30+ lass that I am. In my defense, I don't ever see the need to own one previously as I don't usually make purchases with big amounts. In this past two years being in a pandemic state that we are still in and hopefully we'll get out soon, we were somehow forced to do our groceries, dry and wet goods included, in the supermarket. Way back into the lockdown, one trip to the grocery store would amount to 10,000+ in expenses. We used my sister's credit card so that she could reap the rewards for swiping that amount. As for me, though I paid what I owe to my sister in cash, I got to delay the payment a little later. And so it is a win-win for me and my sister.

 

Anyway, you may ask why would I need it now? The sole purpose of why I am applying for one is that I am starting to establish a credit history. As you can see, first time credit card applicants might have a hard time trying their application approved if they don't meet the requirements (which are almost higher than those who have already have approved credit cards regardless of the bank) of the banks that they are submitting their credit card application. I'm trying my luck and so I'm hoping that it gets approved!

 

Cooking Recipe: Making An Affordable Burger Steak at Home

Cooking Recipe: Making An Affordable Burger Steak at Home

If you want to make an easy-to-cook food, this is one of my recipes that you can count on. I made this yesterday and it turned out good.

Ingredients:

• 1 pack of CDO Ulam Burger (6 pcs)
• 1 whole head of garlic, chopped 
• cooking oil for frying
• 1 beef bouillon cube (I used Knorr cubes)
• 1 big can of Jolly mushrooms whole, drained then sliced off
• cornstarch or flour,
• 500 ml of water
• Buttercup butter/margarine
• 1-2 caplets of soy sauce
• Black pepper, ground

Instructions:

1. Using a non-stick pan, fry the burger patties until cooked and a bit crispy-charred on the sides. Take it out on a plate and set aside.
2. Fry the garlic on the same pan until the garlic turns light brown. Take it all out and set aside. This will be used as a topping later on.
3. Stir fry the sliced mushrooms for around 15-30 seconds in a medium heat then add the cornstarch/flour into the pan. Cook for around a minute or two or until you see some transparent stuff into the mushrooms.
4. Add 500 ml water and the beef bouillon cube in the pan. Mix thoroughly and stir until water evaporates and the liquid turns viscous.
5. Add 1-2 caplets of soy sauce and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the taste according to your preference. 
6. Put the cooked burger patties. Simmer for around 5-10 minutes. 
7. Turn off the fire. Add a bit of butter and mix until dissolved. 

Enjoy!

Review: PureIt Classic 9L Water Purifier

Review: PureIt Classic 9L Water Purifier

My mother and I had to decide to buy a water purifier as my siblings were about to transfer to the apartment. They are the ones who consumes a huge portion/quantity of  water (With them, two 5 gallons of water is only good for 1 day). Relying on water refilling stations would mean that it would cost us a ton as a 5 gallon water container in our area costs around 35 pesos each. My mother actually wants a UV type of water purifier. However, due to certain restrictions when you are renting out an apartment instead of your own, I was able to convince her (or maybe not - maybe it was her sister who was able to do it?) to let us try the PureIt Classic 9L water purifier instead. This type of water purifier is non-electrical and basically it works by gravity. It is made by Unilever and the water we put into it flows into 4 step purification process. We bought a unit at the nearest Abenson last September 5 for around 4500 if I'm not mistaken. I was setting my eye on the PureIt Excella 23L but when I confirmed with the salesman, the PureIt Classic is their latest model and PureIt Excella is already phased out. Fret not which I initial did, as Abensons also carry the PureIt refill kit if ever you have to replace the filter. Filter kits for Excella are the same as for the Classic which I believe costs around 2000+.

Upon setting up and installing the purifier. I had to discard the 2 cycles of filtered water (with a total of 18L of water) first before the water can be consumed just to be sure. The process took me around an hour or two. The filtered water was okay taste wise but several days later one thing my brother noticed is it's chlorine-like taste when the water is taken directly from the faucet.

And so in order to avoid this, my mother would fill the 5 gallons water container that we have and would set it aside for at least 24 hours. I was amazed to discover that when I drain out the latak or the water that remains in the water container, it was yellowish in color. 

Realizations

I've learned the hard way not to make yourself too available for anyone. Things or people who'll pose as a safety blanket will always be taken for granted. It irked me at that time but then I realized that she was wise all along. Finally understood what she meant not my business and I don't care. It's not your business to make people happy at your own expense. Got burnt and will never go there again.

THINGS TO REMEMBER FROM REDDIT

THINGS TO REMEMBER FROM REDDIT

Don’t memorize answers, understand answers.

Get an advanced degree. BS is good and you will always be employed, but MS is better to move up. It is possible but harder to move up with just a BS. BA’s are worthless, don’t do that.

Competency outweighs bullshit.

Be a “get things done” person.

Stay competent. Study, read, learn constantly.

People skills, if you want to get along you have to get along. If you are a techy nerdy type (like I am) take some courses in working with others.

Making Pork Steak!

Making Pork Steak!

My mother went to the province to have her long awaited vacation that's why I now cook for me and my siblings. The first recipe that I decided in making is the pork steak. This recipe was inspired by my co-workers. They said that pork steak is easy to make and their baon seemed delicious. Here's how I did it:

Ingredients:

• 3 pieces of pork chop, halved
• 9 caps of soy sauce ( I use the cap in the PET bottle of the soy sauce)
• 6 pieces of kalamansi, juiced
• Pinch of rock salt
• Ground black pepper
• 1 medium red onion, cut into rings
• 1 big size white onion, cut into rings
• 1 tablespoon of oil

Instructions

1. Marinade the pork chop in soy sauce, kalamansi juice, rock salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the pan/wok and put the oil. 
3. Pan fry first the meat without the marinade. If the meat has already turned into light brown, add the onions and fry it for a few seconds to a minute or two.
4. Add the marinade into the pan and let it simmer until cooked.

The finished product was a success as it turned out not too salty and sour. I was wondering why my pork steak has no sauce. My co-worker said that I should have put water in it after the marinade. She also fries the onions first in the oil and she'll put them later after the meat is cooked.

Anyway, it was a learning experience. So there!

Making my First Nilagang Baboy (Pork Stew)!

Alright! How are you all doing today? I've been meaning to do this viand but laziness got me as I was tired coming from work and bought siomai instead for our dinner yesterday. I was able to make my first pork stew this night and it turned out okay according to my brother! Too bad, I forgot to buy ripe saba because my mom don't usually put saba in pork/beef stew but I heard it would enhance the flavor. And so here's how I did when making pork stew:

Ingredients:

• 300 grams of pork adobo cut (I've cut it in smaller portions, put a pinch of rock salt and pepper, let it sit for an hour or more)
• 3 medium size cloves of garlic, crushed
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of whole peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon of oil
• 3 pieces of potatoes, peeled and halved/quartered
• Around 5 pieces of Napa cabbage 
• Around 5 pieces of cabbage (In case you're wondering why it's pieces and not one cabbage halved for example, it's because I was using the outside portion of the vegetable only and would use them for later - para tipid!)
• 2 liters of water
• 2 pork cubes
• A pinch of salt
• Freshly ground pepper

Instructions:

1. Put the oil into the pot under medium heat. Pan fry the meat for around 1-2 minutes until light brown.
2. Sauté the garlic, onion and whole peppercorns.
3. Add water and let it boil under low heat. Upon boiling, turn it into medium to high heat and skim the foam in the soup.
4. Drop the pork cubes and the potatoes into the pot. Add a pinch of rock salt. Let it simmer until the potatoes are soft. 
5. When the potatoes are cooked, put your napa cabbage and cabbage into the pot in low heat setting and let it cook for awhile. Put on some freshly ground pepper and adjust according to your preference.

My Do-It-Yourself Dishwashing Liquid Review

As you might know already, I recently made a do it yourself 15-16 liters of dishwashing liquid from a dishwashing liquid kit that I bought from an online shopping site. We are currently using this in our household and I would like to give you my opinion regarding this product.

The finished product is thick in consistency. In comparison to your usual dishwashing liquid, the lemon scent in the product is more pronounced. Without diluting the product with water, the product can eliminate the grease in your pans, plates, utensils easily which actually surprised me as you don't get this the first time with other products. If you are going to use it as a hand soap, you might be disappointed as it won't bubble as much. However, when I put this dishwashing liquid in a good sponge and try to make a foam, it makes a lot. For only less than 20 pesos a liter, I can say that I can vouched for this product. As long as it can do what it is supposed to do, I think that you get way more of your money's worth with this product.

Making Do-It-Yourself Dishwashing Liquid!

Making a Do-It-Yourself Dishwashing Liquid!

A portion of what we typically use in the household on a daily basis is the dishwashing liquid. When washing the dishes by hands, you'll need water and either a dishwashing paste, dishwashing liquid or if without those aforementioned, a laundry bar soap can suffice.

One goal that I always have in mind is to find ways to lessen my expenses without compromising comfort. As long as the product works, I'm fine with it.  

I ordered a Do-It-Yourself dishwashing liquid kit in Shopee. I picked out the Wise cleaner kit with a lemon scent. This kit would yield around 15-16 liters of dishwashing liquid. The kit costs around 230 pesos while the shipping fee is 45 pesos. So in total, the cost would be 275 pesos. If we are going to compute the cost per liter excluding the materials like the pail, stirrer/PVC pipe and the water, a liter of this dishwashing liquid would cost around 17.1875-18.3333 pesos which is a lot more cheaper considering that an SM bonus dishwashing liquid of 190 ml is at 23 pesos already. I was using Maxglow dishwashing liquid before but because of the shipping fee, a liter of that product would shoot up its price from 32 pesos to around 40-50 pesos.

The DIY Wise Cleaner Dishwashing Liquid kit comes with an instruction manual that you should strictly comply.

Here are the materials included in the kit:

Let's start off with 14 liters of purified water as per instruction. You can use tap water but I prefer to use the purified water so the end product would last longer. By the way, I got the 5 gallons Megabox pail for 175 pesos at Landmark Makati while the PVC blue pipe is around 70 pesos at Handyman.

The second step:

This is what it looks like after you put the surfactant. No mixing yet. You have to let it stay first for 10 minutes.

Time to mix in one direction! See the transparent gelatinous like coating in the pipe? It is the surfactant. It took me about 45 minutes to an hour to completely dissolve the surfactant. Patience is the key! 

It would look like this after mixing the materials in the step 3 and 4.

After dissolving the thickener completely, cover the pail and let it sit for around 12 hours. And because I was eager to do this DIY as earlier as possible which is at 4:30 pm, I had to wake up at 4:30 am to mix the last ingredient (Viscosity enhancer). Then afterwards, let it stay again for another 12 hours.

 

Finally after 12 hours, you can transfer the dishwashing liquid that you just made to your preferred clean containers. 

The end product would look like this:

On Shampoo bars: MediHerbs Aloe Vera Shampoo Bar Review

On Shampoo bars: MediHerbs Aloe Vera Shampoo Bar Review

Shampoo bars are not new to us Filipinos. They were already introduced and became a trend in the Philippines way back 2019 or earlier as part of going green. Shampoo bars were considered as environmental friendly as they contain less chemicals. Though it may be one of the reasons why I'd became curious on trying to switch from the usual liquid shampoos, I thought that maybe it would cost me less. 

For quite some time, I've been browsing shampoo bars on the online shopping website Shopee but I didn't have the courage to check out as I find these expensive. However, I came across MediHerbs Soap Aloe Vera Shampoo Bar as I was searching for an oatmeal bath soap at Landmark. I decided to finally take the plunge and try it out because for a 150 grams at 74.75 php, I could say that this shampoo bar is very much affordable.

First impression: The shampoo bar soap comes in a violet package. Upon opening, you can smell the mild scent which is a plus for me.

The instruction in the package goes like this:  Wet hair thoroughly with warm water and use Mediherbs Aloe Vera Shampoo Bar. Lather and gently massage scalp working thru hair strands. Rinse off well. It is optional to use light hair conditioner to smoothen hair strands however, avoid the scalp area. Safe for daily use.

In my first time usage, the shampoo bar smells nice but is not overpowering. When I rinsed my hair, I was surprised that my hair has this waxy but squeaky clean feel. It is like when you are washing the pan and you don't feel the grease on it. When I combed my hair, it was a bit difficult even when the hair has dried off. Maybe I should really apply on some light conditioner later.

I don't know if it is just me but I noticed that my hair became less frizzier though it is still frizzy. I've been using it for a few days now and it sometimes make my hair itch and it flakes. I will still use this as it may still be a transition period for me.

Holotropic Breathwork

One thing that I discovered in the non-fiction book that I'm reading at present is holotropic breathing. It claims to induce a psychedelic state without the use of LSDs. But wait: if you have a medical condition, you might want to check it out first with your doctor before attempting this. Holotropic breathwork is an active type of meditation through breathing. I'm hoping to try it out real soon.

Reminiscing a good old PC game: Taipan!

I've been mulling over a game that I liked playing when I was in my first year in high school. It was kind of a prompt type game way back. And I can't recall the name of game for a while. 

But after a couple of tries using Google search, I finally found what I was looking for: it was Taipan!  I found it with the help of these keywords "old trading ship pc game shanghai"

This is a logo, title-card, or title-screen owned by Mega Micro Computers/ Avalanche Productions for Taipan!

I thought it was created in the 2000s but it turns out that it is a 1982 turn-based strategy game.

It was an offline game when I played it when I was younger, but now, you can access it online.

You can check it out and play at this link. Enjoy!

I Have a FEVER. Now, what?

Blog entry post made April 2009

Fever is a natural mechanism of the body when there is something wrong is going on inside the body.

How do I know if I have a fever?

• Oral temperature is above 37.5OC

• Axillary temperature is above 37 OC

• Rectal temperature is above 38.1OC

• Tympanic temperature is above 37.9 OC

(Note: There is a slight difference in the temperature of the babies, children and the elderly.)

What to do if I have a fever?

Everybody (especially moms) knows what to do when somebody has a fever. But for the benefit of those who do not, here are the things which you can do:

1. Provide TSB or tepid sponge bath.

First is that you need to get two towels: one dry and the other one is wet. Whenever we had a fever during our childhood days, my mother would use water with ice. But I learned that it was a no-no! Note that you cannot use ice water. The water from the faucet is preferable but the temperature of the water should be 80-98OF. When you use ice, the area (towel is usually placed in the forehead) where you put the towel vasoconstricts. You wash the face and body using the wet towel particularly those who are generating more heat (armpits for example) followed by the dry towel. Perform TSB every 15 minutes.

2. Take a sip of hot soup.

3. Increase fluid intake.

Basically, we increase our fluid intake in order to prevent dehydration. Did you know that there is water expelled when we exhale? Our body tries to compensate in order to maintain homeostasis so respiration is increased. Thus, the water in the body also diminishes.

4. Get bed rest.

5. Provide or remove blanket to provide comfort.

Give a blanket when the person feels cold and remove the blanket if he feels to hot. This is done in order to enhance the comfort of the person.

6. Take medication.

Paracetamol is usually taken every after 4 hours especially when temperature is 38.5C and above.

If the temperature still rises or persists for a week and though you have done your part but still show no improvement at all, then I suggest that you bring him to the hospital NOW.

-----

Update 2021: I would like to correct the part regarding paracetamol and ice bath. Paracetamol is usually taken when you have an axillary temperature of 37.8 C and up. Ice bath is only indicated when the body temperature is very hot like 40 C to lower the temperature abruptly. High temperature such as 40 C could pose a risk for convulsions in children. But nevertheless, we do first the tepid sponge bath.

Cooking Tip: What to Do When the Cooked Rice in the Rice Cooker/Pot Spoils Easily

Cooking Tips: What to Do When the Cooked Rice in the Rice Cooker/Pot Spoils Easily?

If you're new in the kitchen, there might come a time that you might encounter that the cooked rice in the rice cooker or in the pot where you cooked your rice spoils easily. It may be because of the hot weather  when you put your rice at room temperature. Or you forgot to put the rice in the refrigerator and let it in the room for a day or two or more than that.

One tip that I heard is that you put salt in the rice cooker/pot, but honestly, this tip I haven't personally tried. What I did was to scrub the pot thoroughly with soap and water then put on bleach let it sit for a few minutes and rinse. It did the trick some time but I found out that you have to do this again and again.

Consistent warm temperature makes bacteria proliferation easier. And that's why rice spoils easily. I realized that since bacteria is the problem, why not try to eradicate the problem? Since bleach might not necessarily worked every time, I thought why not try to put the pot in the gas burner and heat it up until it becomes piping hot?

I was ecstatic to learn that it worked! You won't have to do this technique over and over. That is only when you feel the need to, when your rice spoils easily.

Try out this Epub Reader PC Application: CALIBRE - how to show page number and percentage

Previously in my blog post, I mentioned and recommended Calibre as an epub reader application for the computer. To those who are not familiar with an epub, it is one type of file format of electronic books or what we call e-books. One thing that I noticed is that it consumes a minimal file type size compared to when it is in your PDF format.

I wasn't able to do as much reading as I have like in the year 2019 and way back because these past year up to to this mid year have not been so kind. The laptop short circuited and a lot of not so good things had happened. It was then that might been the reason why I suddenly had no appetite to read books which I love. Fortunately, I've been getting better in getting back the control in my life. That is why I'm starting to read again.

Anyway, back to the topic. I was a user of Calibre for a couple of years now and you can download it free in their website: 

https://calibre-ebook.com/download

Download according to your computer specifications. What I downloaded was a portable type so that I could move the library files whenever I want.

Before, I was used to seeing the page number in Calibre. However, the default setting wasn't like that in the new interface. I tried to research on how and luckily someone pointed out:

This is the sample default page you'll see:

In order to see the number of pages and percentage, here are the steps:

• Once you have opened the book, right click on the page so that you can see the menu:

•  Click Headers and Footers

• From this:

• Change both the Footer Left and Middle from Empty into Position in Book:

• Click Ok and then this will show:

Hope this helps!

 A Personalized Feet Regimen

Blog post made some time April 2009

One day you stare at your feet and notice that they are not nice to see. And then you are determined to improve them.

Feet are the most overused part of the body. They take us to any place at any time. Yet some people always overlooked them. So let's give them the proper treatment that they rightfully deserve.

But first you will have to prepare what you need:

• calamansi/lemon
• basin
• warm water
• soap
• brush/toothbrush (ones that you don’t use)
• Small towel
• Dry towel
• lotion/foot lotion

We now move on to the next steps:

Second step: THE CALAMANSI/LEMON SCRUB
Using a calamansi/lemon, scrub your feet gently. Pay attention to the darker areas and leave it for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Third step: CLEANING TIME
Put warm water in the basin and soak your feet in it. Clean your feet using warm water, soap, small towel and a brush/toothbrush. Brush your toe nails meticulously. Rinse with clean warm water.

Fourth step: PAMPERING TIME
Pat your feet with a clean dry towel and put some lotion to it.


You can apply petroleum jelly on your feet and put socks on it before you go to sleep. I do this 2-3 times a week.

On Diabetes: Type I and Type II

On Diabetes: Type I and Type II

Blog post entry made sometime Oct 2010

Diabetes? Once you've got it, you'll have to deal with it for the rest of your life. But this may or may not apply to the third type.

To begin with, there are 3 kinds of diabetes: Diabetes mellitus type I, Diabetes mellitus type II and Gestational diabetes. But I'll focus more on the first two.

The first type of diabetes calls for an insulin. Hence, they are insulin-dependent. This type is usually inherited. The body cannot produce enough insulin or there is no insulin at all so they have to administer insulin for the rest of their life.

The second one is more related on lifestyle. This type of diabetes is actually preventable. In this type of diabetes, the body (particularly the pancreas) is producing insulin but there is a resistance to it. The people who are vulnerable and are most likely to be at risk are those who are obese or overweight and more often than not, those that lead a sedentary lifestyle. Do you know that it doesn't mean that if you look a little chubby, you are already considered overweight? You can be slim-looking but remember that looks can be deceiving. In order to check if you have a normal weight, you have to compute for your body mass index (BMI) and check what category do you belong. Normal? Underweight? Overweight? Obese? I remember my professor telling the class that her BMI was normal in the United States but was overweight in the Philippines. So I guess, the BMI range for each country/race differs.

As we age, our body's ability to produce insulin decreases. Insulin makes energy and glucose metabolism possible. In simple words, insulin enables the body to use glucose. Now, how do these connect with the development of Diabetes mellitus type II? For every carbohydrate that we consume, there is a corresponding insulin necessary in order for the body to utilize it.

There is a saying that goes "Anything more or less is bad." If we eat carbohydrates that goes beyond the amount of insulin produced, the first thing that the pancreas will do is to compensate. It will try to produce more insulin. And more and more insulin until such time that the pancreas will be exhausted. When that happens, there will be no glucose metabolism. Afterwards, there will be a lot of glucose in the blood. If there is a lot of glucose in the blood and this goes on for a long period of time, then... taadah! Congratulations, you may have acquired diabetes.

But of course, diabetes does not happen overnight. Diabetes type II is lifestyle-related. So before you have it, take it to heart that prevention of diseases is always way better than cure.

Hurray Hurray! I'm proud of you YOUNGER SELF!

It baffles me today on how did I manage to write *these articles in my spare time. But I'm very much proud of you YOUNGER SELF. Whenever I reread your entries, it makes me wish that I could turn back and be my younger self again. I realized that though I'm lacking self-confidence at that time, I was not afraid to try out things.

I could say that today, I'm a bit more confident that ever. I'll do better what I did before.

*these - referring to blog posts that I did way back when I was younger. I'll be reposting my old posts. Feel free to read. Thanks in advance!

• On Diabetes: Type I and Type II
  
• A Personalized Feet Regimen
• I Have a Fever, Now What?
• 
  

Note to Self

Note to Self

Things are getting brighter and interesting every day. It may take a while to get where you want to be, but you'll eventually get there, self. Trust in the process. I'm confidently rooting for you. It's your time to shine. Keep up with the positive vibes. Remember, it all starts with envisioning and mindset. You did it before, how much more what you can today? -Sanegeal Farmhear

Weki Meki's Tiki-taka (99%) and Beautybox's Rat A Tat

Part of unwinding is listening to music. I've been listening to other artists. When I heard Beautybox's Rat A Tat, some of the beats is quite similar to Weki Meki's Tiki-taka (99%). Don't you think? Nevertheless, they are a feel good music you should check out.

 Weki Meki - Tiki-taka (99%)

Beautybox - Rat A Tat

Ponder points 1

 Ponder point

"Whether we like it or not, we thrive in the kindness of others. So be grateful every single time. When you have the opportunity to help, do not hesitate to send help because it is a privilege to be in that position." - Sanegeal Farmhear

Cooking Tip: How to Cook Rice in a Gas Burner Style # 2

 Cooking Tip: How to Cook Rice in a Gas Burner Style # 2

And so here it goes. As I've promised, I would be sharing another style of cooking rice in a gas burner.

Weeks before, I was scrolling on social media about home improvement and found out that people were having conversation about cooking rice. They said that this style was taught to them in elementary by their teacher. I was baffled but at the same time amazed as I didn't know this before. And today I decided to experiment and test out to see if it really works. So here are the steps.

After washing the rice, you let the pot boil even in high heat whatever it is your preference. When the pot boils, without opening the lid, turn off the heat. Do not open the lid. Wait until the water is seeped in to the rice (probably about 10-15 minutes? ). Open the lid and put on low heat. I added a bit of water as I find it a bit dry and wait for another 10-15 minutes. And then your done!

My mother actually noticed that there was something that I did with the rice and I told her what I did. The rice was what people call "buhaghag" and there was no brown crust in the rice. Yay! It works!

Cooking Tip: How to Cook Rice in a Gas Burner Style # 1

One thing that I learned when I was in middle school is how to cook rice. This is very much a common and basic skill that every one should possess. Rice cookers weren't as much rampant and popular as way back then and people would usually cook rice typically using their gas burners or if none, cook rice traditionally with wood.

When cooking rice, what I learned is this procedure: After washing the rice twice and then put water as much as the rice using your finger as measurement, you let the pot boil and then open the lid when it is boiling. When you haven't yet open the lid you will notice that there is liquid coming out. That's the time you open the lid. You mix in the rice in the pot and wait until there is no more water. Cover then the lid and set the heat into low until the rice is cooked. One tricky part of cooking rice in the gas burner is that if you forget that you are cooking rice, the rice might turn brownish/blackish crust which we call itip and usually in our family we avoid this crust. That's why after several years of attempts, I could say that I'm confident that I could cook rice without the crust. How? Start off with a medium heat rather that high heat. After the part where the rice dried out for a while (I'm talking about cooking 3 cups of rice), cover the lid of the pot and wait for 15 minutes in lowest heat. After that, turn off the heat and wait for another 5-10 minutes. It wouldn't have the crust.

If you want to know about another technique on how to cook rice. I'll be making another entry about it. See you again soon.

Cooking: My Menudillo recipe

Yesterday, I was asked by my mother to cook the ground pork in the refrigerator for our dinner because although she would love a soup-based viand like a fish stew, my brother however, does tend to be picky with food and might not eat if I'll go with cooking the fish stew. I told my mom that though this recipe calls for probably most sautéing and simmering, it is my first time making this and with the use of tomato sauce at that. She said it is just "tantya-tantya lang" (guessing the amount depending on your gut instinct). I sometimes reiterate that not everyone is not like her blessed with the gift of taste and can turn around a bad dish into an acceptable one that's why for a first timer in cooking, I think a recipe should be necessary as a guide. But she retorts back that the recipes found are usually salty. And so with that I rest my case. I told her that because of that no one will complain with the result of my cooking because every time she use this line, I feel that it's as if "tantya-tantya lang" is easy breezy which is not. Disclaimer: I apologize for the "tantya-tantya lang" stuff later. XD

Ingredients:

• About 1/4 kilo of lean ground pork
• 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (We use canola for our household)
• 4 cloves medium sized garlic, crushed with  a garlic crusher (I tell you, this tool is simply amazing and life changing!)
• 1 medium sized violet onion, minced
• 1 large tomato, minced
• 1  large singkamas/turnip, minced (My mom thought my sister had bought potatoes and mistook turnip for potatoes but proceeded with it anyways)
• 1 medium sized carrot, minced
• 1 large red bell pepper, minced
• 1 pouch DEL MONTE Original Tomato Sauce 200 g
• 1 pouch filtered water using the empty DEL MONTE Original Tomato Sauce 200 g
• 1/2 pouch of Mama Sita's oyster sauce
• Around 2 teaspoons of sugar
• Pinch of rock salt
• Dash of black pepper

Procedure:

1. Put around 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce and a dash of black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. My mom forgot to tell me she also puts some crushed garlic in this.
2. Set your fire into medium heat and put the oil in a wok or non-stick pan.
3. Sauté the garlic until it turns into light brown then the onions until translucent. Put the tomatoes next and sauté for around 30 seconds. Put a pinch of rock salt (I observed that me doing this brings out the sweet taste of the onion and tomatoes) 
4. Put the marinated pork into the pan. Saute until a bit cooked. You will no longer see pinkish/red in the meat and it will turn into light grey.
5. Add the turnip, carrot and bell pepper. Mix and saute for around 15 seconds.
6. Empty 1 pouch DEL MONTE Original Tomato Sauce 200 g into the pan, mix it a little and using the empty pouch, fill it with filtered water and add it again into the pan.
7. Cover the pan and let it simmer for around 5 minutes or up until it boils.
8. Add the oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Adjust according to your preference. Let it simmer again for around 2-3 minutes and then your done!

FINAL RESULT: I asked my mom the next day how was the menudillo and said it was okay. My mother approved! Yey!

How to Transfer Your Funds from BPI Express Online to CIMB digital Bank?

How to Transfer Your Funds from BPI Express Online to CIMB digital Bank?

If you're looking for a safe place to park your funds with a higher interest than your traditional banks, you can try out digital banking. And with this, I recently tried out CIMB digital bank as the interest payment can go up to 4 percent depending on their promo conditions.

But how do I get to transfer my funds from BPI Express Online to CIMB digital Bank?  Did you know that you can do it without incurring any fees? It's possible. But you should have a Gcash account and a Gsave account.

When you open your Gcash application, Select Cash In and then click your linked  BPI account. Proceed with the details and then when you successfully cash in, the funds will reflect in your Gcash account. Click the Gsave (The one with the piggy bank image). Click the Deposit button and enter the amount you wish to deposit for CIMB bank. A SMS message will notify you regarding your transaction. And then that's it. When you open your CIMB application on your phone, your funds will be credited in real time.

 

Book Reader apps

Book Reader apps

If you are a book fanatic like me and would like to consume books as a digital form like those in epub format, here are some applications I'm currently using to read my electronic books.

* Calibre - If you are using your desktop computer or a laptop, I recommend this software.

* Moon reader - If you are always on the get go, I recommend this application.

Appliance electric consumption

One aspect of adulting is paying the bills. Life hits you really hard when you're renting.

Anyway, with a meager salary that I'm getting, I'm a bit nervous for our monthly water and electric consumption bill. The rent price is quite pricey and so I'm computing how to lessen those that we can. I found out this link which can help you out in computing how much will it cost per appliance. Be sure to be familiar with your own appliances wattage.

Wattmatters

Cheers to New Beginnings!

Hey. How are you nowadays? I hope you're all safe. With what happened to us in June where somebody got positive with COVID-19 in the household due to his frequent breaking of health protocols (always going outside, talking to people with no social distancing, I don't know if he washes his cloth mask or just use it multiple times, doesn't use alcohol or sanitizers after going out) despite of consistent reminders, this horrible experience had triggered that we had to finally move out from what we thought was finally our home even though renting would cost at a steep price. Moving out would mean having a peace of mind from two decades and more of unnecessary stress. 

My mom and I finally moved to a place which had it's inconveniences and adjustments but I can say that this place is bearable. Since we have already made it internet ready, later my siblings will have to move here too.

Cheers to new beginnings!