Tips: How to Clean A Stained Toilet Bowl

Pasensya na sa topic ha... Usapang inidoro kasi eh. Hahaha! Feel ko lang i-share dahil natuwa ako nung nilinis ko yung toilet bowl ng common CR namin.

Yung common CR kasi namin, bihirang magamit. Usually, we only use the master's CR. Nagagamit lang yung common CR namin kapag may visitors kami. Since bihira ngang magamit at I don't have a helper, bihira ko rin masilip. In short, nagkaroon ng stain yung toilet bowl which mukhang nakakadiri. Yung tipong malinis naman pero mukhang madumi.

Here is the picture...

Ang yucky ano? Actually, ang dami ko nang pinaglalagay diyan. Nandyan ang cleansing powder, Domex, Zonrox at kung ano ano pa. Ang dami ko na ring brush diyan na tipong ang sakit na ng braso ko pero ayaw pa rin matanggal. Ayaw ko naman gamitan ng muriatic acid dahil nadala na ako dun sa CR ng apartment namin. Hindi kasi ako marunong gumamit eh. So puro kong binuhos sa tiles, kaya ayun, nangitim dahil nasunog! Hahaha!

Then, nagkaroon ako ng light bulb moment. Sabi ko, lihain ko kaya? So ayun na nga, bumili ako sa hardware ng waterproof na papel de liha (sandpaper) yung pinakapino. Around Php 10.00 lang ata yun.

I tried muna a portion then nung napansin ko na hindi naman nasira yung bowl, niliha ko na lahat. Sobrang natuwa ako dahil natanggal yung mga stain!

Here it is...

Ok di ba?

How about you? Paano niyo tinatanggal yung stains ng toilet bowl or tiles niyo?

Frugal Tip No. 8: On Credit Cards

It's been a while since the last time I posted a frugal tip. =)

Now, I want to share some of my tips on using credit cards:

Photosource: From Google

1. Limit the Number of Your Credit Cards

One or two credit cards are enough because it is very hard to maintain and monitor if you have too many cards cards. Aside from that, the more credit cards you have, the higher the chances you will be tempted to spend.

Before, I used to collect credit cards. Name it! I almost have a credit card from each bank - HSBC, Citibank, Union Bank, Standard Chartered, Eastwest Bank, etc. I don't actually use them all. You know, just a collection. Also, I get thrilled every time my credit card application was approved.

Later on, I became mature already. I just cut the number of my credit cards to 3.


2. The Primary Use of Your Credit Card Should be for Emergency Purposes Only

As much as possible use cash on your purchases. At least, you don't need to worry about paying something in the future, right?

The problem with having credit cards is that you'll have a tendency to think that you have an immediate cash that you can splurge anytime. If uncontrolled, will later on put you into trouble. That's why if you have a credit card, you should only use it for emergency purposes only.


3. Make Sure You Have a Ready Cash to Pay for Your Credit Card Purchases

If ever you use your credit card, make sure that you have an available cash to pay for it. Not the other way around - the thinking that you'll have a money in the future to pay for it. What if something bad happened like you lost your job or you need some money because there's an emergency? I'm sure that you'll be dead broke and you won't be able to pay your credit cards which will later on make you heavily indebted because of high interest rates and various credit card fees.


4. Use Your Credit Card to Your Advantage

Credit card companies are very competitive now-a-days. They have different form of gimmicks to attract credit card holders to use their cards. There are instant rewards, rebates, points, etc.

I use my credit cards to my advantage. I take note of the promos available for each of my card. Applying Tip No. 3, I just use my credit cards just to avail of their promos. Because of that, I get a lot of freebies such as gift certificates, meals, drinks, etc. Isn't that great that you get something for free from your purchases?


5. Always Request for Waiver of Annual Fees

Credit card companies usually charge you for annual fees both for principal and supplementary credit cards which you could request them to waive.

Your request will have a better chance of approval if you are a good credit card holder. Meaning, you religiously pay on time and in full. Sometimes, they will just give you options in order for them to waive your annual fees such as using your accumulated points, subscribing to their e-statement, utilities payment enrollment, giving you spending requirement, etc. In my case, I usually choose the spending requirement option.

Then if they don't agree to waive your credit card annual fee, you can just have your credit card cut since it's very easy to apply for a new one.


6. Pay Your Credit Card Bills on Time and in Full

Make sure to always pay your credit card bills on time and in full. In this way, you'll avoid paying credit card charges and high interest rates.

Don't be tempted to pay only the minimum amount due for it will later make you pay more. Later on, you'll realize that you are just paying for the interest and credit card charges. Thus, making your debt balloon.


7. Leave Your Credit Cards at Home

Not unless you have high-self control, you should always leave your credit cards at home when you go to malls. In this way, you can resist temptation and you can think twice or thrice before purchasing something.


8. Keep Track of Your Credit Card Purchases

You should keep track of your credit card purchases by having a notebook where you list down all your credit card transactions. This will help you have a check and balance once your credit card statement arrives. Aside from that, it will also create awareness on how much you owe already.


9. Avoid Zero Percent Interest Purchases

Again, there is no such thing as zero percent interest. I suggest that you just save up for something and buy it in cash. Choose delayed gratification over instant gratification! In fact, delayed gratification will give you greater pleasure.

You'll also be amazed if you offer to buy something in cash. They will give you additional discounts which is actually the hidden interest if you use your credit card.

10. Request for Lower Credit Limit

This is weird right? Anyway, this will help you control your spending.


That's all for now. I hope this blog entry helps you. =)

MERALCO POP Rates Program

Guys, hubby and I just discovered that Meralco has an ongoing program wherein you could save on your electricity bills. It is called Meralco's Peak/Off-Peak (POP) rates program. Unfortunately, we are not qualified for the said program because our average monthly electricity consumption is less than 500 kWh. Baka kayo you are qualified that's why I'm sharing this to you.

Here are the details of the program for residential consumers which I got from Meralco's website (www.meralco.com.ph):

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Meralco's Peak/Off-Peak (POP) rates program (formerly known as "Time of Use" or "TOU) is an alternative energy pricing scheme that is based on the time of day electricity is generated and on the cost of supplying electricity during that time. With this pricing scheme, Meralco customers can avail of lower generation costs in their total electricity rate during pre-defined off-peak hours:

                                               PEAK                            OFF-PEAK
Monday to Saturday     8am to 9pm (13 hours)        9pm to 8am (11 hours)
Sunday                        6pm to 8pm (2 hours)         8pm to 6pm (22 hours)

Compared to standard rates, the POP program more accurately reflects the cost of electricity generation during specific time periods.

I. Overview

Intro

Approved by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), the Meralco POP (Peak-Off-Peak) rate program is an energy-pricing scheme which offers two power rates, computed based on the time of day electricity is produced and the corresponding generation cost during that time.

What do Peak and Off-Peak periods mean?

Peak periods are hours of the day when the demand for electricity is high. Energy prices during peak periods are substantially higher than the charges during off-peak periods. This is because more power plants, including those running on expensive fuels, are needed to run during the peak hours to supply and meet the demand for electricity. During off-peak or low demand, only plants runing at low operating costs supply the electricity.

II. Mechanics

What are the POP Rates?

Airlines and hotels offer cheaper rates during off-season or periods of low demand for travel. Telecommunication firms extend to its subscribers lower rates at nights. The Meralco POP program is a similar scheme that specifies different pricing depending on the time of day, day of the week and season of the year.

Meralco's POP pricing consists of:

1) Two time periods
    a) Peak
        Monday to Saturday 8a.m. to 9p.m. (13 hours)
        Sunday 6p.m. to 8p.m. (2 hours)
    b) Off Peak
        Monday to Saturday 9p.m. to 8a.m. (11 hours)
        Sunday 8p.m. to 6p.m. (22 hours)

2) Two Seasons
    a) Dry/summer (January to June)
    b) Wet/rainy (July to December)


                                                             PEAK            OFF-PEAK
                                                         (Php/kWh)          (Php/kWh)
DRY                POP rate                         7.48                   3.55
                    Non-POP rate                     5.69                   5.69
                       Difference                       1.79                  -2.14

WET               POP rate                         7.28                   3.55
                    Non-POP rate                     5.57                  5.57
                       Difference                       1.71                  -2.02        
               
                  *With approval from ERC

Under the POP program, the peak rate will be Php1.80/kWh more expensive than Meralco's default non-POP rate, but to encourage customers to consume electricity during off-peak hours, the off peak rate will be lover than the non-POP rate by P2.14/kWh.

What's the difference between the old TOU (Time-of-Use) program and this new POP pricing scheme?

The Off-Peak rate under the new pricing scheme is even lower than the Off-Peak rate in the previous TOU program.



                                                              TOU                 POP
                                                         (Php/kWh)          (Php/kWh)
DRY               Peak                                7.25                    7.48
                       Off-Peak                          3.86                    3.55
                       Difference                        3.39                    3.94

WET               Peak                                6.95                   7.28
                       Off-Peak                          3.94                   3.55
                       Difference                        3.01                   3.73


Note: The above rates include the generation cost adjustment (CGA). Meralco's POP rates consist of the basic generation rate plus (or minus) the generation charge adjustment (GCA) for the month. The GCA will adjust the basic generation rate for fluctuations in generation cost as well as other rate adjustments as approved by the ERC.

III. Benefits

Intro

Customers can take advantage of using applicances with high power demand during off-peak periods since they will be charged with lower electricity rates.

The POP program is most beneficial to those who:
   a) Normally use their electrical appliances during off-peak hours (e.g. use of air-conditioners,
       water heaters, clothes dryers at night or early morning)
   b) Can shift a considerable amount of their high electricity usage from peak to off-peak periods.
   c) Can reschedule power-intensive tasks to off-peak periods like Sunday (e.g. operating washing
       machines, clothes dryers and vacuum cleaners)

This would result in savings which could be used for other household expenses.

What are the power-intensive appliances to watch out for? These typically include:
   a) Air-conditioners
   b) Flat irons
   c) Clothes dryers
   d) Washing machines
   e) Vacuum cleaners
   f) Water heater

IV. Requirements

How would I know if I'm qualified to apply for POP?

   a) Residential accounts with a 12-month average consumption of at least 500 kWh.
   b) No pending service irregularity or violation of contract cases
   c) No overdue accounts

How do I apply?

   a) Inquire at the nearest Meralco Business Centers
   b) Call the POP Helpline (632-8008)

What are the POP application requirements?

Qualified customers must submit a signed POP application form.

What are the corresponding fees?

   a) Upon application to the program, enrollees must pay a one-time application fee
   b) Monthly incremental costs:

     1. Metering charge, which refers to the cost of reading, operation and maintaining power
         metering facilities and associated costs attributed to the provision of metering service
     2. Supply charge, which refers to the cost of rendering service to customers such as billing,
         collection, customer assistance and other associated services.

                  One-Time Application Fee                    Additional Monthly Charges
                      P999.00 + 12% VAT                           POP Metering Charge
                                                                                           P 0.66
                                                                                 POP Supply Charge
                                                                                 P 0.01/kWh + P1.94

Note: One-time application fee includes cost of installation of a POP cable meter. Unlike the existing meters, POP-capable meters have a computerized clock that is able to keep track of the energy consumed during different times of the day. This will be the basis for the peak and off-peak consumption where the special POP rates will be applied.

Does the program have a lock-in period?

Customers are required to enroll in the POP program for a minimum of 12 months, which will also serve as the lock-in period.

If the customer wants to leave the program prior to the end of the 12 month contract, the following should be submitted:

   a) Formal letter to Meralco stating their intent to discontinue their enrollment with POP
   b) Payment of a pre-termination fee equivalent to the remaining portion of the incremental  
       metering charge and additional costs associated with their POP enrollment

What if I am currently enrolled in the Meralco TOU program?

The POP program is the new Meralco TOU rates program but with lower rates. In effect, existing Meralco TOU customers do not need to re-apply for a new contract (or terminate their existing contract) to enjoy the new POP rates, based on the current contract's provision that allows them to be billed on whatever POP rates are approved by the ERC for the duration of their contract period.



For non-residential consumers, you may click here for more information.

Frugal Tip No. 8: Kurot Principle

I want to share you guys an excerpt from Vic and Avelynn Garcia's book entitled "Kontento Ka Na Ba Sa KaPERAhan Mo?". This is a good read and super nakakarelate ako. I'm proud to say that my hubby and I are practicing Kurot Principle. =)

Here it goes...

Kurot Principle

Ano 'yung Kurot Principle? Ay, ang ganda nitong Kurot Prinicple na ito. To better understand this, I will tell you a story of a person na balak bumili ng cellphone worth P1,000. Nagkataong mayroon siyang P100,000 na savings. Puwede ba siyang bumili ng cellphone? Puwede, kasi yung P1,000, kurot lang 'yon sa kanyang savings.

May pangalawang taong balak bumili ng cellphone. Ang bibilhin niya ay worth P1,000.00 din. Mayroon siyang savings sa bangko na P1,000. Bumili siya ng cellphone. Anong tawag dun? Dakot na 'yun! Dinakot lahat ang pera niya!

May pangatlong tao, balak bumili ng cellphone, pero walang savings. P1,000 lang naman 'yung bibilhin niya. Bumili siya. Anong tawag 'dun? Utang na 'yun!

Ang tanong: ano'ng prinsipyo ang ginagamit mo sa buhay mo? Kurot, dakot, o utang?

Magtataka pa ba tayo kung bakit tayo naghihirap o baon sa utang? Ang gagaling nating dumakot! Ang gagaling nating umutang! Gusto mong yumaman? Starting today, matutong kumurot. Kapag may bibilhin, dapat kinukurot lang! nagkakaintindihan ba tayo? Kapag ginawa mo ito, pangako, yayaman ka.

Pag-aralan nating muli ang mga pinakamayayaman sa Pilipinas, ang Chinoy. Again, bakit sila mayayaman? Ang gagaling nilang... kumurot! Tayo ang gagaling nating... dumakot! Sasampolan kita...

Pinoy vs. Chinoy Businessman

May dalawang negosyanteng nagsimula ng kanilang negosyo, isang Pinoy at isang Chinoy. Ang capital nila pareho ay P100,000.

Sa unang buwan, si Pinoy, kumita ng P10,000. Anong iniisip bilhin? Cellphone. Si Chinoy, kumita rin ng P10,000. Ano ang gagawin niya? Idadagdag niya sa puhunan.

So magkano na ngayon ang puhunan ni Chinoy? P110,000! Si Pinoy, P100,000 pa rin, pero may bago siyang cellphone. Ang ganda!

Ituloy natin. After a few months, maganda ang takbo ng negosyo. Si Pinoy kumita ng P50,000. Ang Pilipinong may P50,000, ano ang balak bilhin? Bibili siya ng home theater, DVD, at LCD TV! Si Chinoy, kumita rin ng P50,000. Anong gagawin niya? Idadagdag uli sa puhunan niya. Magkano na ang puhunan niya? P160,000 na!

A few months later pa, ang Pinoy kumita ng P150,000! Ang Pilipinong mayroong P150,000, ano ang balak bilhin? Second-hand na kotse o pang-downpayment sa bagong kotse. Ang Chinoy, may P150,000. Ano'ng gagawin niya? Idadagdag sa puhunan! Magkano na ang puhunan niya? P310,000!

Buwan-buwan, si Pinoy kumikita. Dagdag siya ng dagdag ng gamit. Magkano ang puhunan niya? P100,000! Si Chinoy, buwan-buwan kumikita. Ano ang ginagawa niya? Dagdag ng dagdag sa puhunan niya. One day, Chinoy was able to save P1 million! So ginawa niya, he approached one supplier and said, "Supplier, kung bibili ako sa'yo worth P1 million, bibigyan mo ba ako ng discount?" Hulaan mo kung ano ang sasabihin ng supplier. "Of course, ang dami mong bibilhin, kaya bibigayn kita ng additional 5% discount!"

Ngunit naisip ni Chinoy, "Hindi naman yata maganda na sa akin lahat ang 5%. Ang gagawin ko, bibigyan ko ang customers ko ng 3% discount at sa akin na lang 'yung 2%." Ibig sabihin, bababa ang presyo ng kanyang mga ibinebentang produkto.

It just so happened na magkatabi ang tindahan ni Chinoy at ni Pinoy. Pareho sila ng mga produktong ibinebenta. Given the situation, kanino kayo bibili? Kay Chinoy, because it's cheaper. Ano ang mangyayari sa negosyo ni Pinoy? Malulugi na. Kasi mas mahal ang kanyang produkto. Ano ang gagawin niya? Ibebenta niya 'yung kotseng nabili niya ng P150,000. Sino ang bibili? Siyempre, ang maraming pera, si Chinoy. Tatawaran pa ni Chinoy ang kotse ng P80,000. Dahil gipit si Pinoy, kahit palugi ay ibebenta na rin niya. Si Chinoy ngayon ay nagkaroon ng kotse na murang-mura lang!

After a few months, mauubos din ang P80,000 ni Pinoy. Ano ang susunod na gagawin ni Pinoy? Ang home entertainment niya ay  ibebenta na rin. Magkano? P20,000 na lang. Sino ang bibili? Si Chinoy. Darating ang araw na pati ang cellphone ni Pinoy ay ibebenta na niya. Magkano niya ibebenta? P2,000 na lang! Isang araw, magsasaraw na ang negosyo ni Pinoy. Ano ang gagawin niya? Malamang, magtratrabaho na lang siya kay Chinoy. Ito ang kuwento ng bansang Pilipinas!

Naalala mo ba noong araw, mas mayayaman ang mga Pinoy kasysa sa mga Chinese. Bakit nagbago? Ano ba ang problema natin? Dakot kasi tayo ng dakot! Sila, kurot lang ng kurot!

Mayroong kaming naging participant before na nagsabi, "Sir, hindi naman totoo 'yan! I know a Chinoy, he drives a BMW. That's a P5 million car! Kurot ba 'yun?" Malamang kurot 'yun! Noong binili niya 'yun, mayroon na siyang P100 million na savings! So kurot lang 'yun! Nandiyan ka pa ba?

Isang kahig, Isang Tuka

Saan ka makakakita ng mga taong isang kahig, isang tuka? Saan? Sa squatters area? Magtigil ka! Gusto mo'ng makakita ng mga taong isang kahig, isang-tuka? Sa Ortigas, sa Makati, may makikita ka.

What do I mean? Kapag hindi ka sumuweldo ng isang buwan, mabubuhay ba ang pamilya mo? Kung wala kang credit card, kung mawalan ka ng trabaho ngayon, ilang araw ang aabutin para mabuhay ng matino ang pamilya mo? Kapag nawalan ka ng suweldo, patay ka!

Ang mga Chinoy, kahit hindi muna kumita o magnegosyo, mabubuhay ng maganda. Bakit po? Kasi many years ago, kumahig sila ng kumahig at tumuka lang lang konti. Kaya marami sa kanila ngayon, tuka na lang ng tuka. Maraming Pinoy, kapag hindi tayo kumahig, wala tayong tutukain.

Ito ang masakit-sometimes, kahit matanda na tayo, kahig pa rin tayo ng kahig. Gaano karaming Pilipino ang 60 years old na ay trabaho pa rin ng trabaho? Puwede ba, simula ngayon, kumahig ka nang kumahig at iwasan munang tumuka. I-deprive ang sarili ng kaunti.

Ang pinakamasakit sa lahat ay ito-one day, you want to work, but you cannot work. You are already old. Why? Nagpakasasa ka kasi noong bata ka pa. Inubos mo na lahat ng lakas at kalusugan mo sa bisyo.

Tanong: Masama ba'ng bumili ng mahal? Sagot: Hindi! Basta kinukurot lang! Kapag nakakita ka ng kasamahan mong naka-Nike shoes, huwag mong husgahan kaagad iyong tao! Malay mo, kinurot lang niya iyon. At the end of the day, what is happening to other people is not important. What's more important is what is happening to you.

The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 4:1, "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life. You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you."


Ang ganda ng message ng excerpt na ito right? It's just like saying that always believe in delayed gratification. Darating din ang panahon na mabibili o magagawa mo ang mga bagay bagay na kurot na lang sa iyo. Eh ano ngayon kung ang ibang tao may ganun at may ganyan? We should stop keeping up with the Joneses. As long as nabubuhay tayo ng maayos at hindi tayo nagugutom, ok lang yan. We should not be insecure or feel that we are inferior dahil wala pa tayong mga bagay na mayroon na ang iba. Malay mo naman, panlabas lang pala nila yun di ba?  You know what I mean?

Anyway, super natuwa lang ako dito sa excerpt na ito. I hope may napulot din kayo dito.

Happy Sunday guys!!!

How to Get Rid of Blackheads and Whiteheads

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Sa mga nagtitipid and ayaw gumastos sa pagpapafacial, here are some home remedies on how to get rid of blackheads and whiteheads from Useful Information FB Page...

Maintaining a clear and beautiful skin, takes time, consistency and effort. Dermatologist may recommend lots of products, but some of them can be expensive and may actually take a long time to work. You can, however, incorporate some home remedies for blackheads and whiteheads into your daily beauty regimen and in a few weeks, you will experience a drastic reduction or even total elimination of the problem.

• Toothpaste - Toothpaste is an effective blackhead and whitehead remover. Apply a thin paste to your infected areas and let it sit on your face for at least 25 minutes. You will probably feel a burning sensation when you apply the toothpaste, but this is normal and will pass. Once you remove the toothpaste, the top of your blackheads and whiteheads will disappear, but you still need to thoroughly wash your face to remove the buildup underneath. Repeat this home remedy every other day for two weeks.
• Tomato - Tomatoes have natural antiseptic properties that dry up whiteheads and blackheads. peel and mash a small tomato. Apply the tomato pulp to your blackheads and whiteheads before going to bed. Leave the tomato pulp on your face while you sleep and then wash your face in warm water in the morning.
• Lemon - Wash your face in warm water. Then, squeeze the juice of one lemon into a bowl. Add in a pinch of salt and stir the mixture. Apply the mixture to your blackheads and whiteheads. Leave the mixture on for approximately 20 minutes and then wash your face with warm water again.
• Lime - You can also use equal parts of lime juice and cinnamon powder and apply this mixture to blackheads. Leave it on overnight and rinse it off in the morning.
• Cornstarch - Mix about a three-to-one cornstarch to vinegar ratio into a paste. Apply it to your problem areas and let sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Remove the paste with warm water and a washcloth.
• Yogurt - Mix three tablespoons of plain yogurt with two tablespoons of oatmeal. Add one teaspoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture. Stir the mixture thoroughly and apply it to the effective area of the face. Let the mixture sit for five to seven minutes then rinse off with cold water.
• Almond or oatmeal - Mix either oatmeal or almond powder with just enough rose water to make a spreadable paste. Apply it to your problem areas with your fingertips first and then apply it to the rest of your face. Let it set for about 15 minutes and then rinse your face with cold water.
• Rice - Soak rice in milk for 5 hours and then grind this in a blender until it is paste-like in consistency. Use the paste as a scrub on affected areas of the body.
• Potatoes - Grate raw potatoes and then rub the area with the mixture. Wash it off after 15 minutes.
• Fenugreek leaves - Crush some fenugreek leaves and mix with water to form a paste. put this on the face for 15 minutes and then remove it. Do this every night to keep your face free of blackheads.
• Coriander leaves - Mix some coriander leaves and a little turmeric powder with water and form a paste. Use this as a mask to eliminate blackheads.
• Oatmeal - Grind oatmeal into a powder in a blender and then add some rose water. Use this on affected areas for 15 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.
• Baking soda - Prepare a mixture of equal parts of baking soda and water and rub it onto your face or other body areas prone to blackheads. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water.
• Honey is also good for removing blackheads. Spread honey on the affected area and remove it after 15 minutes.

Remember - Be gentle to your skin. Never pinch, scrape, poke, press, or squeeze to hard!

10 Tips to Improve Your Body Language

I discovered Useful Information page in Facebook and they give useful and practical tips. I want to share you some...

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Excellent Tips by Warren Buffet

Warren Buffet is one of my life idols. I want to share you some of his tips...

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Globe's Erroneous Billing Statement

I got our Globe DSL + Landline Billing Statement for the month of February and I was surprised because we incurred extra charges. I reviewed it and discovered that it came from NDD calls. Ang weird lang because (1) we don't have NDD  and (2) calls were made last February 2 eh we were in Bohol that time.

I asked hubby to call Globe's customer service hotline to question it. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to talk to a customer service representative since it is already late. He tried reaching Globe also via SMS pero fail pa rin. He'll call na lang daw tomorrow.

Anyway, I want to share you this...

In general,

• It is a good practice that you review all the billing statements that you are receiving (credit cards, utilities, etc.). 
• You need to be aware how much is the basic charge of your plan. From there, you will know if you incurred additional charges.
• Hindi dapat bayad lang ng bayad. You need to check each items in the billing statement para alam niyo if talagang nag-avail kayo ng chinacharge nila. Kagaya nitong experience namin, napaka-impossible naman talaga na magka NDD call kami that time. 
• You should not be afraid to question these additional charges. Call their hotline and tell them your concern. 
• Don't hesitate to demand full reversal of these erroneous charges. Why should you pay for something that you did not avail di ba?

So guys, be mindful of your bills for you never know if you are paying for services that you didn't use/avail...

Frugal Tip No. 7: On Travelling

Here are some of my frugal tips on travelling:

• Book your flight and accommodation ahead of time. You'll save a lot when you book your flight and accommodation in advance.
• Avail of promo flights. Flights now are becoming cheaper. You should check airline websites from time to time for their latest promos.
• Take the economy class. There is huge price difference between business and economy class. You'll arrive in the same destination anyway.
• Travel in groups. You could share in transportation, accommodation and food expenses.
• Travel light. Airline companies now gives you option in terms of check-in baggages.
• DIY Tours. As much as possible don't avail of tour packages if you can do it on your own. Just do a research and plan your own itinerary.
• Bring Baon. You could save a meal or two if you bring your own baon.
• Eat brunch.
• Eat Cheap. Try local restaurants. Don't be afraid to explore on food. 
• Take public transportation. It is expensive to take a cab. I tell you it is more enjoyable and adventurous if you try the public transportation.
• Walk, walk, walk. You save while you enjoy sightseeing.
• Sleep Cheap. Try to find a cheaper accommodation since you'll be out most of the time unless you plan to have staycation.
• Stick to your budget. Avoid unnecessary purchases.
• Use cash instead of credit cards. Credit cards has high exchange rates so better use cash.
• Avail of Tax Refunds. Always ask if they offer tax refunds.
• Go off season. Usually, they charge more if it is peak season.
• Sign up for reward programs. Usually, airlines and accommodations offers reward programs. Earn points and travel for free.
• Buy your food and pasalubong in local grocery stores. It is cheaper there than buying in department stores and convenience stores.

How about you, care to share some tips on how to save on travelling?

Frugal Tip No. 6: Reuse and Recycle

Reusing and recycling things can help you save money. Here are some things that I usually reuse/recycle to save some bucks...

Plastic Bags

• Big plastic bags (grocery bags, big diaper packaging, tissue packaging, etc.)
• I use them for packing stuff
• I use them as trash bags - Since mahal ang trash bags, I usually make it a point to save big plastic bags.  
• Small plastic bags (plastic labo and other small plastic packaging)
• I use them for small trash (fish bones, chicken bones, vegetable trimmings, used cooking oil etc.)

Grocery Paper Bags

• I use them for packing stuff
• I use them as trash bags for dry wastes

Paper Bags with Handle

• Shopping Paper Bags - I use them for bringing some stuff
• Gift Paper Bags - I keep them for future gifts

Gift Wrappers

• I use them to wrap gifts
• I use them for crafts

Ribbons

• I use them in wrapping gifts
• I use them to hold curtains
• I use them to tie things
• I use them to tie cabinets so that the kulilits won't be able to open them
• I use them for crafts

Used Coffee Grounds

• I use them as fertilizer for our plants
• Some other uses of used coffee grounds that I researched:
• Deterant for cats by sprinkling around beds or pots in the garden
• Facial mask by mixing some mashed avocado
• For ashtray
• Anti-cellulite scrub
• Can be used to get the smell of onion or garlic off your hands
• Can be used as a replacement of baking soda to eliminate odors of your fridge or freezer
• Ants, snails and slugs repellant
• Brown fabric dye
• Can be used to scour away grease on your pots and pans
• Dried used coffee grounds can get rid of the stink of your smelly pair of shoes
• Can be used to prevent dandruff
• Skin exfoliant
• Can be used to color scratches of your wooden furniture
• Can be used to give paper "aged" look

Old Clothes and Towels

• I use them as rags or pamunas (cleaning cloths)
• Here are some other ways to reuse old clothes and towels:
• Patches
• Gloves
• Fabric accessories - headbands, hair ties, bracelets, necklaces or belts, little pouches etc.
• Chairs like bean bags
• Shopping bags
• Make stuffed toys or clothes for your stuffed toys
• Quilt
• Book cover
• Pillows and cushions
• Shock absorber
• Ropes
• Winter accessories - scarves, hats and mittens
• Pet clothes

Paper

• I cut them to be used as scratch paper
• Paper for my kulilits to draw/write on
• I make improvised envelopes

Old Newspaper

• I use them to clean glass and mirrors
• I use them as cushion for my ceramics or other breakable things
• I use to them to dry things
• I use them as pansalo ng kalat 
• I use them to light charcoals
• Something to sit on when I'm outside
• Other uses of old newspaper:
• Paper mache
• For dog poop
• Painting mask
• Gift wrappers
• Packaging
• Used to ripen tomatoes
• Fruit and vegetable drawer liner
• Paper funnel
• Shoe and boot mat
• Garden Mulch
• Deodorizer of stinky shoes
• Shelf lining
• Cooler deodorizer
• Grill cleaner
• Cheap rags
• Hat shapers

Tin Cans

• Small Tin Cans
• Knick Knacks organizer - safety pins, paper clips, hair pins, etc.
• Big Tin Cans
• Sewing kit
• Storage - food, detergent powders, charcoal, letters, etc.

Boxes

• I use them to organize things
• I use them as gift boxes

Plastic To-Go Containers

• I use it in bringing baon which I intend to dispose the container afterwards
• I use it for guest take outs after party para kahit hindi na mareturn yung container ok lang
• Can be used as containers for ingredients preparation
• I use it to organize things - crayons and other abubots

Liquid Soap Dispensers

• I usually buy refills na lang since it is cheaper then I refill the dispenser

Nice Bottles

• I use Starbucks bottles as coin banks
• Flower vase
• Other uses:
• Crafts
• Ornaments
• Wind Chimes

Actually, there are a lot more. How about you, what items do you usually reuse/recycle?

Frugal Tip No. 5: On Grocery Shopping

Here are my frugal tips on grocery shopping:

Make a grocery list and stick to it 

Check on your supplies and prepare a grocery list. Having a grocery list saves you time and make you purchase things that you only need. Siyempre, you should stick to it. Kailangan malakas ang fighting spirit sa mga temptation sa loob ng supermarket.

Stick to your budget

Knowing your budget sets you a limit. If may natira pa, pwede niyo itong dagdag sa ipon niyo, save it for your next trip to the supermarket or you can buy something not in your list.

Don't shop when you are hungry

I know na narinig niyo na rin ito. I read it somewhere kasi na you tend to shop more when you're hungry. Kaya before going to the supermarket, load up muna. Besides, kailangan niyo rin ng energy dahil maraming lakad and buhat ang gagawain niyo inside the supermarket eh.

Don't shop when you are depressed

Di ba tendency if you are depressed you either binge on food or shop to the highest level? Kaya if you are depressed, better palipasin muna kasi malamang sa malamang you'll end up buying more than what you need or you'll buy something that you don't really need.

Schedule your grocery shopping

Do your grocery shopping on a weekly, semi-monthly or monthly basis. Maraming benefits ito. You'll save time, save on transportation cost and mas iwas sa temptasyon. In my case, I do it on a monthly basis since wala akong yaya/maid and very hard for me to shop because of my kulilits.

Buy in bulk

As much as possible, buy in bulk. Mas cheaper kasi eh. Maspalaki ng palaki ang size ng product, mas nagiging mura since mas nalelessen ang manufacturing cost. Pero siyempre, applicable ito sa products na madalas niyo nagagamit or mabilis na nauubos. Kasi kung hindi, imbis na nakatipid kayo, masasayang lang dahil na-expire lang.

Look for promos

Normally, maraming promo sa loob ng supermarket. Mga buy one take one, may mga freebies, etc. Try to look for them.

Stock up on promo items

Kung kaya ng budget niyo, try to hoard some promo items na madalas niyong ginagamit. Minsan lang kasi ang mga promo eh and sigurado naman na makakatipid kayo. Pero titignan niyo rin yung mga promo ha, kasi minsan ma-eenganyo kayong bumili pero hindi niyo naman talaga kailangan. In my case, site ako ng some examples. (1) Nung may promo ang Drypers sa S&R (free smaller pack), talagang naghoard ako kasi kambal anak ko eh and malakas talaga sa diapers. (2) Tapos minsan, yung 1 liter ng cooking oil may free na half dozen eggs, pinatos ko rin yun. At least, natanggal yung budget ko for eggs di ba? (3) Meron din buy 1 Kilo of oatmeal then may free 1 big can of evaporated milk. Ang dami ko rin binili since ang breakfast ng mga kulilits ko and hubby is oatmeal everyday and I use evaporated milk for their favorite sopas naman. 

Try other brands

Normally, we tend to buy known brands and most likely itong known brands na ito mas mahal. Try to experiment with other brands. Kung baga sa gamot, try generic. Magugulat na lang din kayo na mas-ok pa yung iba kaysa sa mga nakasanayan niyo na.

Have a supermarket loyalty card

Madalas may mga loyalty cards ang mga supermarket. Try to get it and earn points. These points can be used in your future purchases. Aside from that, may other perks din sa mga loyalty card holders like additional discounts or promos.

Be aware of the prices of the products that you usually buy and know the supermarket that offers lower prices

Hindi dapat dampot lang ng dampot. You need to be aware of the prices the product that you usually buy. Kasi ang mga supermarket iba iba ang price nila. May mga pang-masa , pang-soso and pang-totsyal na supermarket kasi eh. Example tayo: pang-masa - Puregold, pang-soso - SM, pang-totsyal - Rustan's. Siyempre kung gusto mo makatipid, dun ka na sa pang-masa or pang-soso since pareho lang naman ang tinda nila. Pero may mga exemption din naman, for example sa akin, I buy diapers and detergent powder sa S&R kasi masmura talaga kasi doon compared sa iba. Pero the rest ng grocery items I buy either sa South Supermarket or Makati Supermarket.

Buy more fish and vegetables than meat

Malakas na ang loob ko na sabihin ito since I changed na my diet since last year. Pero in fairness, mas nakakatipid ako ngayon dahil ang mahal na naman talaga ng kilo ng pork and beef ngayon. Aside from saving a lot, healthy eating pa kami sa bahay ngayon.

Buy fresh produce at the wet market

If you have time and means, it is better to buy fresh produce at the wet market. Mas fresh na, mas mura pa. For instance, price of small eggs sa wet market is only P4.00 (P48.00 a dozen) a piece samantalang sa supermarket more than P5.00 a piece (around P65.00 a dozen). Some of the items that I buy at the wet market are fishes, fruits, veggies, eggs and rice.

Never bring your husband with you 

Etong last tip naman na ito ay para sa sarili ko lang naman (peace Doc Padu!) and maybe sa mga nakakarelate din sa akin. Hehehe. Kasi madalas, ay hindi madalas parati pala, kapag kasama ko si hubby sa supermarket, kung ano ano ang dinadampot at bigla na lang nilalagay sa grocery cart. Minsan, mas mahal pa yung mga pinagdadampot kaysa sa mga binili ko. Like for example, nung namili ako sa S&R ng diapers and detergent, aba nagulat ako at biglang naglagay ng iba't ibang klaseng beer sa cart. At huwag ka, umabot ng more than P2k ang iilang pirasong beer na yun ha! At eto pa, nung last grocery namin, biglang naglagay ng kahon ng Nescafe Dolce Gusto and some kind of cheese. Eh yung lang dalawa na yun, almost P700.00 na! Pero di naman ako makatanggi at makareklamo dahil siya naman ang sole provider ngayon sa household namin. Kung baga, reward na niya yun for working hard for us.


So there you go guys! Those are only my personal tips for you. It is up to you if you follow it or not. How about you guys, may mga tips din ba kayo on how to save on grocery shopping?

Frugal Tip No. 4: Create and Maintain a Statement of Asset, Liability and Net Worth

Normally, we often hear "Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth" or SALN sa mga politicians or government employees. Pero siyempre, hindi lang sa kanila applicable yan, you can also have your own.

When I first encountered it when I did my dad's, sabi ko sa sarili ko: "Ok ito ha, magawa rin nga!" So I created my own so-called SALN and I update it on a monthly basis. I listed down all my assets and liabilities. Then from the list, I determined my net worth that time. Exciting siya kasi makikita mo in totality how much you have and how much it grows as years pass by. Aside from that, you can determine also how liquid you are. Minsan kasi ang tendency, we only see how much cash and assets we have. We tend to disregard our liabilities kaya minsan di natin namamalayan, baon na pala tayo sa utang.

Alam niyo ba, nung una, negative net worth pa kami kaya nakakafrustrate. So it motivated me more to save and look for ways to have a positive net worth. Kaya ngayon, I'm very glad to say that we are already on the positive side. =)

Hindi naman kinakailangan complicated ang so-called SALN eh. You can keep it simple. For example:

Assets:

Cash on Hand
Cash in Bank (list all banks and type of account)
Investments
Properties
Other Assets

Liabilities:

Credit Card Bills
Short-term Loans
Long-term Loans

Net Worth: Total Assets less Total Liabilities


Madali lang di ba? You can try it yourself and it will somehow push you to increase your net worth.

Frugal Tip No. 3: Create and Maintain an Income and Expense List

I keep track of both our income and expenses by listing them down. As in detalydo to the last centavo ha. Tipong pati mga tip nililista ko. Ganun ako ka-OC in terms of our finances and it works naman for me kasi it helps me to monitor our finances. Though very tasking, I see the following benefits in doing it:

I hope nakakatulong itong tips ko. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to message me and I'm more than willing to answer you. =)

Frugal Tip No. 2: Budget Planning

BUDGET PLANNING is the key!

According to Asian Journal, budgeting is the systematic allocation of one's limited resources (income) to a potentially unlimited number of needs and wants (expenses).

Ever since I'm single, I'm trained by my father to do budget planning. Siguro plus factor na rin na CPA ang dad ko at natuturuan niya ako about financial planning. Kaya ayun, I apply it also to my married life. I have a per event, monthly and annual budget. Ang dami ano? I do that para I'll be prepared and hindi ako mabibigla pagdating ng actual na gastusan.

I'll define each category of budgeting that I'm doing ha...

Per Event Budget

Eto yung mga one time event or expenses for me. Like for example, child immunization, change oils, wedding, birthday parties, travel plans, etc. Believe it or not, may Excel file ako in every event. Nilalatag ko yung mga related na gastos for each event and my corresponding budget for it. May column din ako for actual expenses which is for my own monitoring if I'm working within my budget or if may sobra pa ako na pwede ko i-spend sa ibang bagay.

Example:

Birthday Party

                           Budget          Actual

Venue                   xxx               xxx
Food                     xxx               xxx
Sound System       xxx               xxx
Invitation              xxx               xxx
Giveaways           xxx               xxx
Cake                     xxx               xxx
Prizes                   xxx               xxx
Games                  xxx               xxx
Balloons               xxx               xxx
Decors                  xxx               xxx
Party Host             xxx               xxx
Outfit                    xxx               xxx
and so on...

Monthly Budget

These are our monthly expenses such as groceries, utilities (water, electricity, cable, phone), gasoline, laundry, clinic rentals, toll fees, association dues and so on.

Annual Budget

These are our annual expenses such as car registration, driver's license renewal, professional license renewal, annual business registration fee, annual membership fees for professional affiliations and so on.

Very toxic kung titignan ano? At first mahirap yan, pero kung sanay ka na at nasa system mo na, bale wala na lang. Very helpful ang budget planning for me because of the following reasons:

1. It makes me in control of my money and not the other way around. Since I already prepared a budget and allocated funds for it, ready and stress free na ako pagdating ng bayaran.
2. It makes me spend less. With a budget, I avoid spending on unnecessary items or services which are not part of my plans. In short, iwas sa mga impulse purchases.
3. It makes me aware on where my money went. Since everything is listed down, I can easily review where our money went.
4. It helps me communicate with my husband about our money. In case may tanong siya about our finances or may kakailanganin akong extra money from him, ilalatag ko lang sa kanya ang Excel file, gets na kaagad niya.
5. It alarms me in case we need to work extra effort for upcoming expenses. In case may big expense or potential money problems, I'm being aware. I'll inform kaagad my hubby and we'll make some necessary adjustments for it.
6. It helps me determine if we are ready to buy extras or invest on something.
7. It makes me save more. Knowing the budget, it can help me think of ways to save on something. Like for example, cutting costs on electricity and water or paying association dues for one year (in our village, if you pay for a year you'll only pay for 11 months). Aside from that, iwas din sa mga late fees, penalties and interests if you on time or in advance.
8. It makes me debt free! Meaning, I'm stress free of debts due to unnecessary spending. 

That's my piece guys in budget planning. How about you?

Frugal Tip No. 1: Save Money

As I have mentioned in my previous blog post, save at least 20% of your earnings and take note of the following:

• Open a separate bank account for your savings. Better ito because it is safer and you can monitor your money.
• As much as possible, don't get an ATM for it. Tempting kasi if you have an ATM kasi you can withdraw your money anytime, anywhere. 
• Kailangan religious ang pagsave. Meaning, walang palya dapat. Magugulat ka na lang na unti unting lumalaki ang savings mo.
• Use your savings for emergency use only or if you want to invest on something.
• If your money is big enough, you may place it in other form of a higher earning investment. But remember, don't put all your eggs in one basket.
• If you got extra cash, save mo na lang din kung wala naman kailangan pagkagastusan. Minsan kasi if we have extra, we tend to look for something to spend to kahit hindi naman kailangan.

Yan lang so far ang tips ko in saving money. How about you guys, may mai-shashare din ba kayo?

Frugal Quotes

Sabi nila kuripot ako. Kung kuripot si Papa G (a.k.a. RFG), mas kuripot ako. Sa aming magkakapatid, ako lang ang bukod tanging nakamana ng katangian na yan kay Papa G. Kaso nga lang, sumobra daw. Hahaha!

Soon, I'll be sharing you some of my frugal tips and ideas. For the meantime, I'll be sharing you some frugal quotes that I learned from my dad...

No. 1: Questions you need to answer before buying wants

Eto ang number 1 when you plan to buy something (alam ko narinig niyo na ito). You need to ask first yourself the following question:

1. Kailangan mo ba talaga ito?

2. Ikamamatay mo ba kung hindi mo mabibili ito?

Yang mga katanungan na yan ay talagang isinasapuso ko. Hahaha!

No. 2: "A Peso saved is a Peso earned"

This is true enough. If you save from your allotted budget, you have extra money which you could either spend or save. Kaya ako, I try my best to save on things - utilities, toiletries, groceries, etc.

No. 3: "Save at least 20% of your income"

Automatic dapat yan. Once you receive your paycheck, set aside kaagad ng savings not the other way around. Yung iba kasi spend first then yung natira yun ang savings nila.

No. 4: "Don't live beyond your means"

In Tagalog, huwag pipilitin kung hindi naman kaya. You should only spend on things that you can afford or else mababaon ka sa utang.

No. 5: "Always believe in delayed gratification"

Huwag magmamadali. Hindi lahat ng bagay instant. Darating din ang panahon kung saan magbubunga lahat ng pinaghirapan mo.

No. 6: "There is no such thing as 0% interest"

I do have credit cards but I don't purchase on 0% interest. In doing large purchases, I either pay cash or straight charge since they offer additional discounts on this kind of transaction.

No. 7: "Kung secured kang tao, hindi mo kailangan maki-in"

Naalala ko ito nung kasagsagan ng mga cellphones. Kuntento na si daddy sa Nokia 5110 niya. Ang point dito is, you need not to be insecure kung hindi ka in sa lahat ng bagay basta alamin lang kung ano talaga ang purpose kung bakit meron ka nito. Example: cellphones are used to communicate, cars are used for transportation, etc. Sabi nga ni daddy and hubby, yung mga taong akala mo can't afford, sila pa yung talagang mayayaman.

No. 8: "If you are buying for someone, think as if it is your money that you are spending"

This is more on stewardship pero puwede na rin siguro isama sa pagiging frugal. Kasi di ba, hindi porket hindi sa iyo yung pera, basta basta mo na lang lulustayin.

No. 9: "Always look for an alternative"

Scout, scout, scout first before you buy.

No. 10: "If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys"

Popular itong quote na ito. It just means na not all the time yung pinakamura ang bibilhin. Dapat yung sakto lang or there is a good value for money.

Yan lang so far ang naalala ko. Hindi naman masyadong halata ang impluwensya sa akin ni Papa G ano? Hahaha! I hope you learn something from it too. =)

Ways to Clean Crayon from Walls Plus Kulilits Kuwento

Hello guys! How are you? I wasn't able to blog the past few days because we went out of town as I mentioned in my previous blog.

Anyway, I want to share you my experience with the kulilits this morning...

While I'm cooking the kulilit's lunch, I let them draw first to keep them busy. Before I leave them, I kept on telling them to draw only on the PAPER. Well, they did, that is when I'm only around. After around 5 minutes, I went back to the salas to check on them and I got a SURPRISE! I was shocked to see our wall and floor turned into a huge canvas by the kulilits...

Wall

Floor

Haaayyy... Grabe! Kaloka talaga! They were even excited to show me their masterpiece on the wall. Airplane daw yun. But I didn't tolerate their action. I talked to them and disciplined them hoping that they won't do it again.

I decided to clean it up kasi ang sagwa tignan. With the floor, ok lang since punas lang ang katapat. But with the wall, I tried scrubbing it with soap and water to the point na nagkanda ngalay na ang kili kili ko but the marks won't come off. Pero I didn't give up. I got my iPad and asked help from MR. GOOGLE. Then I came across this article from Reader's Digest (www.rd.com). Lemme' share it to you...

8 Ways to Clean Crayon from Walls

Fixes you can use when young artists mistake your home's walls for canvas.

Baking Soda

Have your walls been redecorated with some original crayon masterpieces? Don't lose your cool. Just grab a damp rag, dip it in some baking soda, and lightly scrub the marks. They should come off with a minimal amount of effort.

Lighter Fluid

Did the kids leave their mark with crayons on your walls during that last visit? No problem. Dab some lighter fluid on a clean rag and wipe till the marks vanish.

Mayonnaise

Here's a simple way to remove crayon that requires hardly any elbow grease: Simply rub some mayonnaise on the crayon marks and let it soak in for several minutes. Then wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth.

Pencil Erasers

Your toddler has gone wild with the crayons, but he drew on the walls and not on paper. You've tried everything to get it off, but not this: an eraser. Try "erasing" the crayon marks to get the wall back to a clean slate.

Steel Wool

Your toddler just created a work of crayon art on paper. Unfortunately, it's on the wallpaper. Use a bit of steel wool soap pad to just skim the surface, making strokes in one direction instead of scrubbing in a circle, and your wall will be a fresh "canvas" in no time.

Toothpaste

Did crayon-toting kids get creative on your wall? Roll up your sleeves and grab a tube of non-gel toothpaste and a rag or - better yet - a scrub brush. Squirt the toothpaste on the wall and start scrubbing. The fine abrasive in the toothpaste will rub away the crayon every time. Rinse the wall with water.

Vinegar

Kids often manage to get crayon marks on their clothing. You can easily get these stains off by rubbing them with a recycled toothbrush soaked in undiluted vinegar before washing them.

WD-40 

Did the kids use your wall as if it was a big coloring book? Not to worry! Simply spray some WD-40 onto the marks and wipe with a clean rag. WD-40 will not damage the paint or most wallpaper (test fabric or other fancy wall covering first). It will also remove marker and crayon marks from furniture and appliances.

I chose the last option since we have WD-40 and it seems that it is the easiest way to remove the crayons.

And tadaa!!!

It actually works! Ang galing! May other uses din pala ang WD-40. I thought it is used lang for padlocks and hinges.

Thanks Mr. Google for helping me. You're super dependable. Hehehe.

I hope you guys learned something new too =)

Credit Card Annual Fee Waived!

Yahoo! I'm so happy today. My request for the annual fee waiver of my Standard Chartered Bank credit card is granted. P 1,200.00 din yun ha. Pambili rin ng milk ng mga kulilits.

It really pays to have a good credit standing. Ako kasi, I always pay my credit card in full and before its due date. Once nag-cut-off na, I pay it immediately the following day. Hindi ko na hinihintay ang due date. Yan ang reason kung bakit ang lakas ng loob ko magpawaive ng annual fee.

Kaya you guys, if you know you have a good credit standing with your bank, you can always request for the waiver of your credit card annual fee. If your request is not granted upfront, you ask for options. Sometimes kasi banks give credit card holders options in order for the annual fee to be waived. Examples are spending requirement, enrollment to automatic bills payment or increase in credit limit.

How about you? How do you save on credit card fees? Give naman some tips! =)

45 Life Lessons

I got a forwarded email and I want it to share to you...

Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, Cleveland, Ohio.

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short, so enjoy it.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and family will.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Stay true to yourself.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement, starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye, but don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful. Clutter weighs you down in many ways.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to be happy. But, its all up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric, now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive, but don't forget.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it, now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. Accept what you already have, not what you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."