Shey_strides

Just You & Me

2011-07-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

Last Monday was our 3rd Wedding Anniversary. We've known each other for seven years now, counting those days when we became friends online. We've had struggles that involved working on different countries and states but the more time we spent apart made our bond stronger and more appreciative of the time we're together.I'm definitely looking forward to more wonderful years with my man.This brings

Bright Lights in the City

2011-07-04T21:46:00.001-07:00

Join us at& take a virtual tour around the world.My world has changed these past few months. From a big city in the bay area to a smaller one. It's much quieter here but the lights still shine as brightly, especially on the 4rth of July."Flower in the Sky"Manual, bulb mode set to infinity, ISO 200, f/9"Palm Trees""Shining Star""Super Nova"

Rare Snowfall in West Texas

2011-02-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

I grew up in a tropical country, but snow's not new to me. I've had my first taste of snowflake when I visited my friends in New York two years ago. My whole experience with snow was exciting and wonderful but I wouldn't trade it for my sun and fair weather (mostly) in the bay area. That's also why I sought the heat of Texas when I was offered a job here.Imagine my surprise when they said it

AHA’s Start! Heart Walk 2010

2010-10-05T10:05:00.000-07:00

I've participated in American Heart Association’s Start! Heart Walk 2010 around the bay area. My heartfelt thanks to these individuals who helped me raise funds:Yi Ju LinGary LongbrakeGlenn NyhanDarrell StandringDoris TannerThanks for your generosity!Donor PageYour donation will help fight our nation’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers – heart disease and stroke."The true value of the Heart Walk was

Lake Del Valle

2010-09-06T21:36:00.001-07:00

A lot of people headed out to Lake Del Valle on Labor Day weekend to enjoy the sun & water. It was also a great way to spend quality time with the family.We did the same & went fishing. We rented a boat and explored the huge lake."Lake Del Valle is located in Central Alameda County, about five miles south of the City of Livermore in the Arroya del Valle. The lake and dam are part of the

58th Sausalito Art Festival

2010-09-06T21:35:00.001-07:00

I've not yet been to Sausalito, so hubby took me there for the Art Festival last weekend. It's easily accessible by ferry from San Francisco."Every Labor Day weekend, stars of the contemporary art scene are showcased on the sparkling bay shores of Sausalito, California's Mediterranean-like seaside village. The best local, American, and International Artists bring their combined perspectives,

Cormorants Playing Tug o' War

2010-08-29T23:43:00.001-07:00

It's amazing that you can go bird watching in an urban setting but it's possible to do just that in Oakland's Lake Merritt. When I went there, I chanced upon a group of cormorants who got fascinated with a rope in their "island". I really enjoyed watching them because it looked like they were playing tug o' war."Lake Merritt, home to large breeding populations of herons, egrets, geese and ducks,

SF 49ers vs. Vikings

2010-08-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

We went to see the preseason game between SF 49ers & the Vikings. It was a good game especially since the 49ers won. They're certainly looking better than the past seasons. Coach Mike Singletary has definitely motivated them to do better. I just hope our team would keep it up during the whole season.Reviewing the playbook with the coach.Watching the skies above Candlestick Park.The bird's

Pistahan 2010

2010-08-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

It was the 17th Annual Pistahan Parade and Festival last Aug. 14-15 at Yerba Buena Gardens. "Pistahan" literally means fiesta which involves celebration of good food, culture and tradition."Over the past 17 years, the Pistahan Parade and Festival has honored the customs and traditions of Filipino Americans through arts, crafts, performances and cuisine. This is an event that promises a wonderful

Half-Light

2010-08-19T16:18:00.000-07:00

It was cloudy that day in Half Moon Bay but we stayed to watch the sunset. Still viewed a spectacular display of half-light.Join us atfor skies around the world.

Wish Upon Many Stars

2010-08-13T21:01:00.001-07:00

It's that time of the year when you can wish upon as many stars as you like. The time when natural fireworks would be on display. The Perseid shower! I learned that it would peak on the 12th & 13th of this month. So, we decided to watch it during the wee hours of the 13th.Most of the time, stargazing goes hand in hand with camping. No, we didn't go camping outdoors. We did it indoors at our

Kite Ballet

2010-08-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

These are sport kites flown in aerial ballet competition. I recorded this when we went to the Berkeley Kite Festival. We're very impressed after watching dancing kites during the "Team Kite Ballet". This one was performed by team iQuad with Stairway to Heaven as background music."Kite competitions have much in common with figure skating, with competitors being judged on their performance in

Berkeley Kite Festival 2010

2010-08-04T13:00:00.001-07:00

The Berkeley Kite Festival is usually held every year at the end of July. The Berkeley Marina is an ideal place to fly your kites all day long while enjoying the sun and the sea-breeze.The "Octopile" (giant octopus kites) is the signature piece of the Berkeley Kite Wranglers. Each giant octopus kite is 20-feet wide and nearly 100 feet long.The Berkeley Kite Wrangler Giant Show Kite team joined

A Bear Sighting

2010-07-19T08:56:00.001-07:00

A black bear sighting at Yosemite National Park caused a commotion inside our tour bus. We were informed that there's no possibility that we'll see any bears that day. Thus, the excitement. American black bears aren't all black and can have a variety of colors such as brown, cinnamon, blond and even white. The coat color changes due to climate or habitat and also used as camouflage."Yosemite

Highest Waterfall

2010-07-19T08:55:00.001-07:00

Yosemite Falls is the highest measured waterfall in North America. It's 2,425 ft from the top of the upper falls to the base of the lower falls. Yosemite Falls qualifies as the sixth highest waterfall in the world, though with the recent discovery of Gocta Cataracts, it appears on some lists as seventh."Lower Falls: The final 318 ft drop adjacent to an accessible viewing area,provides the

Alamere Falls

2010-07-05T21:43:00.001-07:00

We went to see Alamere Falls in Point Reyes - Bolinas, CA. There's a 3.5 mile hike to Alamere Falls starting at Palomarin Trailhead.This is the uppermost section of the Alamere falls.There are 4 sections, the last one is 40 ft cascading to the ocean. It's the first waterfall I've seen that cascades directly to the sea. Quite unique in this regard.The trail towards it isn't for the faint of heart

Old Thyme Inn

2010-06-26T17:45:00.001-07:00

We went to Half Moon Bay on our birthdays and stayed at the Old Thyme Inn. It's a very charming & relaxing place. A fantastic place to let go of stress & recharge.Our favorite refuge is their garden. Most of the flowers were blooming, so it was a sight to behold.We had wine & cake while enjoying the view.HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US!(yes, we have the same birthday )The Inn's living room: very welcoming."

6th Annual Asian Heritage Celebration

2010-05-16T19:47:00.000-07:00

Click on the WM badge tojoin us & share your weekend!Numerous booths along Larkin & McAllister streets; Asian performers sometimes crooning in Tagalog or another Asian language; & Asian wares and foodstuffs proffered by the vendors are some highlights of the Asian Heritage street celebration. It's also that time of the year in San Francisco where you get to enjoy the native delicacies you've

Wet & Windy

2010-04-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

A cold and wet day. Wind gusts expected to reach upper 20 mph today. BBrrrrMother Nature sketching circles in the pavement.(Click badge to join or see more watery images)

Steam Train

2010-04-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, we went to Tilden Park to try out the miniature steam train. The Redwood Valley Railway is a ridable miniature railroad that uses 5" scale model live steam locomotives on a 15 in (381 mm) narrow gauge track. Tickets for adults and children are $2 but children under 2 years old can ride free."Located just off of Grizzly Peak Drive, the Tilden Park steam trains provide an enjoyable

Camouflage

2010-04-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

Can you see me?(chanting: "I am one with the flower, I am one with the flower..")"Please don't disturb, I'm trying to fix breakfast here."COMMON NAME: Goldenrod Crab SpiderCHARACTERISTICS: This species of spider uses camouflage as its primary defense. They're able to change their coloration over the course of several days to blend in better with their surroundings. They prefer to ambush their

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

The sun came out to bestow its warmth on the families that showed upfor the Easter egg hunt at Mosswood Park yesterday afternoon.Kids eagerly rushing to pick up the sweet treasures in the grass.Loading up their Easter baskets.Sweet little girl with her Easter pickings.Some candies did not survive the running little footsteps.The Easter bunny appears.My hubby bunny.

Out in the Lake

2010-03-23T23:53:00.000-07:00

At the Golden Gate Park, my husband spied a turtle in the small lake but it went under so fast that I didn't see it right away. So, it took some patience to wait for it to come back up in the surface. Our patience finally paid off and I was able to take these snapshots.I kept muttering "come on, show up- come on, come closer". After what seemed like half an hour, it came close like 2 feet away

It's Spring!

2010-03-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first day of spring, so we were so excited to go out and enjoy it. We decided to take a walk at Golden Gate park. A lot of people were up and about, savoring the beautiful day as well.We headed to to the Botanical garden towards the Redwood trees and had a mini picnic under its majestic branches. We feel that it's a mystical place and deserves great respect.The cherry blossoms

Backyard Concerto

2010-03-19T23:14:00.000-07:00

"Chirp, chirppy, cchiirrpp" goes my backyard neighbors. They're having a concerto and my heart does a "taptaptippitytap" in response. I grab my camera and try to locate those swift chirping birds. I bet they're singing because spring is here.Oh look, I see the first robin of spring!(To see more animals/ critters or join in the fun, click Camera Critters badge)

Sky Trails

2010-03-18T23:23:00.001-07:00

Clear skies and awesome trailswith temperatures above 60s to 70s.Spring is definitely on its way.Join us atfor skies around the world.

Raindrops

2010-03-02T20:25:00.000-08:00

I love the rain, its rhythmic splish-splash is so comforting. I love how the earth smells and how the trees are greener after it rains. It also brings back happy memories of childhood laughter & taking showers under the rain gutter. Of course, it was when I lived in a tropical country where the rain is a welcome respite from the sweltering heat. I don't get to do that nowadays since the weather

Being

2010-03-01T19:24:00.000-08:00

(Travel all over the world by clicking icon.)Met with friends today at the Food Emporium of Westfield San Francisco Centre.I enjoy being by myself, having my own space and be immersed with whatever activity or hobby I'm fascinated at a given time. As much as I'm comfortable with my own company, there's also a part of me that wants to connect with other people. Time spent with others, especially

Storm Approaching

2010-02-26T11:08:00.001-08:00

(Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)While a snowstorm hits the east coast,the bay area braces for more heavy rain and strong winds.wind's picking up, wind chime jingles

Gray

2010-02-19T16:31:00.001-08:00

It's been gray & foggy all day in the bay area.Makes you want to crawl back to bed.Join us atfor skies around the world.

Cotton Bridge

2010-02-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

There's a cotton bridge up abovewill it take me far & beyond?Bouncing softly in its fluffy pathI'd probably forget where I'm atwhen all you behold is mostly whitewould you still think it's a lovely sight?Oh yes! Particularly when the backdropis the bluest of skies.© Shey2010or can a giant scoop it upand use it as cotton balls? (Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)

Merry Christmas to all!

2009-12-25T15:45:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't been blogging for quite a while nowbut you've been in my thoughts.To all my blogger friendsI hope you're all enjoying this blessed day as I am:MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Communing With Nature

2009-08-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

Ah, it's been awhile since I've posted here. I've just wanted to chill out and take a break. But here I am now after a few days. It just shows I can't stay away too long from blogging. I miss interacting with my online friends.One of the most relaxing activity for me is going for a hike with hubby and communing with nature. (Not forgetting the camera, of course. ) It's a way of releasing your

Elusive Hummingbird

2009-08-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

I love watching hummingbirds. I haven't seen many this summer, so I decided to buy salvia plants.Last Sunday, we bought the blue variety called Salvia guaranitica or an anise-scented sage. After 2 minutes of arranging it in the balcony, a brave hummingbird sampled its nectar immediately even if I was just a meter away from it. I called hubby and we watched it together. Alas, we didn't get to

Savory Bistek

2009-07-27T22:45:00.000-07:00

"Bistek is a Philippine dish typically made with onions and strips of sirloin beef slowly cooked in soy sauce, and calamansi juice. It is best prepared by marinating the meat first in the mixture of soy sauce or calamansi juice. Bistek is not always made with sirloin beef steaks since pork chops and liver, or even fish fillets, can be used as a substitute. The word "bistek" is derived from the

Sew Fantastic!

2009-07-26T22:45:00.000-07:00

Pangga surprised me with a gift last Friday. One that I've really wanted for a long time. It's a sewing machine! He is "sew" fantastic and "sew" thoughtful. SURPRISE! I love it! I've been wanting to sew and alter some clothes but it's too tiresome to do it by hand. The biggest "project" that I managed to do last year was a simple blouse for the RenFaire. I totally just hand-stitched this, so

We Get Along

2009-07-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

I don't know how they get along but they obviously do. These guys stay just calm and steady while the tourists take photos of them. They're setting a very good example. Why don't we all get along like they do?This was taken in Pier 1, side of the Ferry Building, San Francisco.(To see more or join in the fun, click badge)

Almost Within Reach

2009-07-24T09:36:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist capturing the clouds on our flight to Illinois. Very fluffy cottony clouds, one would wish to be enveloped in it. Oh, so near... almost within reach. (Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)

Jollibee

2009-07-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

When you're living in the Philippines, one has the tendency to take things for granted. But when you're already in another country, you'll realize that you miss a lot of things that's "Pinoy". A typical example is Jollibee. You see it everywhere in the Philippines but here in the U.S. you'll just see it in big cities. Thank goodness I live in the Bay area.Hubby didn't know it was a Filipino

Paper Anniversary

2009-07-19T12:33:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was our 4rth and paper anniversary. It means we've known each other/dated for 4 years and just got married last year. The same date, so nobody forgets. (I'm mostly the forgetful one. )We decided to go on a cruise around San Francisco Bay, have lunch somewhere in the pier area and watch Harry Potter.At Embarcadero along Market St. waiting for a cable car to take us to Pier 39 because

Radiant Rainbow

2009-07-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help sharing more photos of the double rainbow we saw last weekend. It's just so awesome! So here's a video clip and more photos. Enjoy!The rainbow is fading. The rest of the sky looked like this. *happy sigh*(Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)

Lumpia

2009-07-14T10:17:00.001-07:00

Click on the badge to join us and share your culture!I made lumpia for hubby's family when we went to Illinois."Lumpia are pastries of the Philippines and Indonesia of Chinese origin and are similar to spring rolls. The recipe, both fried and fresh versions, was brought by the Chinese immigrants from the Fujian province of China to Southeast Asia and became popular where they settled in the

Super - Spectacular Day

2009-07-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

Click on the badge to join us & share your weekend!We went shopping yesterday at Bayfair Center in San Leandro. We needed energy, so we fueled our bodies first with Garlic Philly Cheese Steak. The meat was so tender, spicy and (of course) garlicky.We bought a crock-pot so we can make home-made Italian beef and pulled pork. YAHEY! We also bought a blender, pepper mill plus salt mill, bigger tank

Favored Gyros & Deep Dish Pizza

2009-07-10T10:51:00.001-07:00

Having Zorba's gyros and Papa Del's pizza is a must/ on top of our list whenever we visit Champaign. It's located on Green St. near the University Of Illinois.We immediately had gyros for lunch on our first day.Classic Gyros (80% beef, 20% lamb), served with tomato, onion, and cucumber sauce.Papa Del's is also located on Green Street in Urbana (Champaign), Illinois. Had Papa Del's deep dish

Downtime

2009-07-09T18:54:00.000-07:00

Great company and a cold beer on a beautiful day.What else could you ask for?(Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)INVITATION:My friends Arlene, Ebie and Zee are hosting a new meme where everyone shares their activities, trips, and interesting memories during the week. Come join us!Click on the badge to know more.

Far and Wide

2009-07-09T08:12:00.000-07:00

Wide sky with rolling clouds, clean scent of fresh greenery. Captured while traveling to Monticello, Illinois. Thematic Photographic 57 - Distant

Sib Silliness

2009-07-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

(Hubby & Sis being silly.)

Relaxing Garden Pond

2009-07-08T08:14:00.001-07:00

My hubby's dad has a beautiful garden with a relaxing waterfall & fish pond. I had "pond envy" when we visited.I think it was still winter when we visited them the last time, so the fishes weren't that active and the flowers were asleep. Now that it's summer, the garden is awake with flitting fishes, colorful blooms, lush greenery and twittering birds.Mesmerizing kois and goldfishes.Dad fed them

Nature's Bounty

2009-07-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

We love my sister-in-law's place because it's surrounded with nature's beauty and bounty. There are robins, cardinals, doves, sparrows and other birds constantly entertaining you with their songs; towering trees and colorful flowers welcoming the sun. One can easily be entertained and relaxed in the patio for hours.Ahhh! I'm glad we're having this vacation. Relaxing in their beautiful patio.It

Flight

2009-07-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

Hi web neighbors! Wondering why I haven't posted anything lately? Well, we went to Illinois to visit hubby's family. I just concentrated on having a good time while on vacation.As a shutterbug, I have accumulated hundreds of images to share with everyone. To prevent image overload for visiting neighbors, I won't post them all at once. I will share it through the photo memes I'm joining

Reflection

2009-06-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

Cottony clouds reflected in a building at Old Oakland.(Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)

Filipino Fiesta

2009-06-15T21:55:00.000-07:00

(Travel all over the world by clicking icon.)More photos from the Philippine Independence Day Celebrationorganized by Fiesta Filipina USA at the Civic Center Plaza, San Francisco.Comedians from the Philippines. Ray Kilay is wearing a light blue and pink ensemble. They said other Filipino celebrities like Richard Gomez and Lucy Torres would be there later on but we didn't wait for them. I was

Philippine Independence Day Celebration

2009-06-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

"Fiesta Filipina USA is an organization that produces various Filipino community events and festivals in the US. Their biggest project is the grandest annual Filipino Festival in the Bay Area, the Philippine Independence Celebration. Their goal is to encourage all Kababayans (Co-Filipinos) to promote and uphold the Filipino cultures and values, so that, eventually, all other communities will

World Wide Web

2009-06-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

I haven't been posting regularly since I cleaned and rearranged our bookshelves. I've discovered plenty of unread books and have been going through most of it whenever I got the chance. At the moment, I'm mesmerized with Charles De Lint's Newford characters. I got hooked on it (years before and more so now), that I even forget to go online sometimes or don't go through my recent photographs. (

Happy Birthday To Us!

2009-05-31T22:25:00.001-07:00

May 31 is my and hubby's birthday! Yes, we have the same birthdays! How cool is that? Ultra cool. That way, I get to remember his birthday and vice versa.We planned to have a picnic but the weather wasn't that good. So, we decided to go to Berkeley instead, had lunch in Pho Hoa and watched a movie.Warm noodles for long life.We watched Terminator: Salvation at Shattuck Cinemas.The cinema was built

Party!

2009-05-31T22:24:00.003-07:00

We were invited to a birthday party.When we arrived at the location, it seemed like we were transported to a magical place.Roses and cherry blossoms in full bloom, different kinds of plants I can't name but equally fascinating, a towering pine tree and a majestic redwood tree. WOW! Right in the heart of an urban location. I'm in awe.Of course, the shutterbug couldn't resist capturing all these

Asian Heritage Street Celebration

2009-05-19T09:57:00.000-07:00

(Travel all over the world by clicking icon above.)"The Asian Heritage Street Celebration is organized by the AsianWeek Foundation in cooperation with over 150 organizations in the local and Asian American community. It is the largest outdoor gathering of Asians in America and features arts and crafts vendors, two stages for live performances, carnival rides, import car show, kickboxing ring,

Gorgeous Gift

2009-05-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

Huh! An angry flower fairy?Nah! It's a gorgeous gift from our friend, Darrell.Still looking up if it's a Miltonia orchid or Miltoniopsis.That's Darrell, the gift giver.So thoughtful! I love the drawing of butterflies and ladybugs in the envelope.Displayed at home with the Phalaenopsis he also gave us last Christmas.THANK YOU SO MUCH, DARRELL!(See more or join us by clicking icons below.)

Good For The Soul

2009-05-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

May 9Light on our feet & smiles in our heart.It's the beginning of a new day.Do things that's good for the soul: Stop to appreciate small colorful wildflowers. Smile often. Nourish our body with our favorite food in Pho Hoa. Bask in the warmth of a sunny day with an IPA at Jupiter's. Delight in the beauty of spring. Watch a movie: Wolverine. Smell the flowers. Witness the

CELEBRATION! Yeah!

2009-05-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

May 8After months of review and waiting for my permit to take the test, I finally passed and obtained my license! YAY!I was afraid to go online to check my result and dreaded opening the mailbox. Finally got the courage to check our mail Friday afternoon. They said that if you failed, you'll get a huge brown envelope and that's what I saw when I opened the box. Oh, crap! I was already feeling sad

Beef Empanadas

2009-05-07T09:04:00.001-07:00

I promised to post my beef empanada recipe when I made them last Saturday. So, here it is. Pastry Dough:* 2 cups flour* 1 tsp. baking powder* 1 tsp. salt* 2 tbsp. sugar, white* 1/2 cup shortening* 5- 6 tbsp. ice waterCombine flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Cut in 1/2 cup shortening and blend well. Sprinkle with ice water; stir with fork until mixture holds together.Cover and chill for

Monthly Awards

2009-05-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

I just want to let all my web neighbors know that it's always a joy to meet and connect with new people from all walks of life. I get to learn various things when we share our daily thoughts and views. Most of all, you make my day especially when you leave comments.That's why I decided to give "Monthly Awards" and this is the second month I've done this. For the month of April, I'm giving the "

Thine Enemies Convene

2009-05-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

(To join or see more, click badges)This rose plant (owned by neighbor) looks pretty and healthy at first glance but when you look closely, the leaves have holes in it already.(Click on photos for a larger image)I spy their Aphid enemies convening in the rose's petals. They're planning which areas they'll strike next.Head Honcho Aphisayre: Eerrrmm! Listen everybody! We need to clear the upper

Empanada Smile to Blowing Bubbles

2009-05-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we were invited to a send-off party for our friends who were moving to Oregon. So I decided to make some empanada for them.The empanada smile.Yummy beef empanadas with cheese and veggies.I promise to share the recipe on a different post.At the BART station, waiting for our Fremont ride.It was a cold day because Mr. Sunwas busy elsewhere in the U.S.I still see beauty in the skies.(

Beholding Bromeliads

2009-05-03T11:19:00.000-07:00

These beautiful bromeliads are from my Sloat Garden Center archives."Bromeliads are members of a plant family known as Bromeliaceae (bro-meh-lee-AH-say-eye). The family contains over 3000 described species in approximately 56 genera. The most well known bromeliad is the pineapple. The family contains a wide range of plants including some very un-pineapple like members

Unexpected Sighting

2009-05-02T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I went to the farmers' market in Oakland. This was an unexpected sighting at the heart of Chinatown market. It was perched on top of a car for a good 20 minutes. It wasn't bothered by the people walking in the sidewalk. Maybe it just needed a rest. I'm not familiar with this bird so I don't know if that's their normal behavior. If anybody knows, please tell me. Thanks!Update: Kayleen

Harmonious Hues

2009-04-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the breathtaking sunset in New Paltz, NY when I visited my friends there.Cottony clouds over a church in MacArthur Blvd, Oakland(Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)

Brother Wind’s Voice

2009-04-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

I’m brother wind’s voicea channel for his musingsover peoples, lives, events from far and wide meanderingshere he comes, richly filledwith stories and fancies to tell,now I’m spinning and chimingof tales remembered very wellcome, hear his stories allbe still, be silent as I singlisten to melodies as I weavethe story he's imparting© Shey04/29/09Thematic Photographic 47 - Musical(Hosted by

Splashes

2009-04-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

(Hubby was the shutterbug this time. To join or see more Watery & Wordless photos, click badges below)

Frog Legs, eh?

2009-04-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

(click badges to join or see more)We were supposed to go fishing last Saturday with our friend, Jonnie in Fremont. I wasn't feeling well and didn't feel like traveling or waking up early in the morning. It was that time of the month. (Sorry Jonnie!) But I'm definitely looking forward to more fishing in the future.We were just puttering in our apartment, but then decided to go to the pet store

Delightful Daffodils

2009-04-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

(To join or see more, click badge)This garden is located between Embarcadero Center and Hyatt Regency SF.I'm glad I bring my camera all the time (already grafted to my hand ). It's rewarding to capture flowers such as these delightful daffodils.Daffodilsby William Wordsworth I wandered lonely as a cloudThat floats on high o'er vales and hills,When all at once I saw a crowd,A host, of golden

Like a Secret Garden

2009-04-26T18:26:00.000-07:00

I love flowers and even if I'm not very familiar with all of their names, I capture their beauty as often as I can. My favorite flower snapshot of the day often ends up as my background. I think I've changed my background 3 times this month. For those who come here often, don't be confused. It's still the same ol' me. But I think I'm keeping the latest template for a

Snail Stare

2009-04-25T07:49:00.001-07:00

(To see more or join in the fun, click badge)These captures are from my Quarry Lakes archive. We love to go fishing there, sometimes I get fish and sometimes only nature shots like these. Both situations fill me with equal excitement because I never go home empty- handed. Well, from a shutterbug's point of view anyway. (Click on picture to view a larger image) I was lucky to chance upon a snail.

Birds in Flight

2009-04-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

(Click badge to join or see more Sky photos)(To view a larger image, click on picture)It was a beautiful day when we went to the SF zoo last Easter Sunday. I saw these birds (seagulls) in flight when we were outside the Leaping Lemur Cafe. It was a beautiful sight to behold.Then I felt something warm on my forehead.I asked my hubby to check it out. He burst out laughing! You guessed right, it was

Rainbow Swirl

2009-04-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

Thematic Photographic 46 - Round(Hosted by Written Inc.)My hubby bought me ice cream (orange-lime-raspberry swirl) yesterday because I told him it was too hot and I wanted something to cool me down. (One advantage of having a sweetie. Thanks Pangga!)I'm still enjoying it now even if it's a cooler day. MMmmm.

Ahhh!

2009-04-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

(Click link above to see more Wordless photos)HAPPY EARTH DAY!How to Celebrate Earth DayEarth Day Network

I'm Back!

2009-04-21T12:25:00.000-07:00

Hello guys, I'm back! Just for a little bit to join Watery Wednesday. I couldn't help sharing the photos I took last weekend when we went fishing at Horseshoe Lake in Fremont. I will be fully on board starting Saturday to visit you and catch up on your blogs.Thanks for leaving comments when I was gone. I miss all of you too!

Hiatus

2009-04-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Just wanted to let my blogger friends and neighbors know that I will be on blogging hiatus for 2 weeks. I have to finish some important matters that I've left out too long. That means I won't be here to visit your sites, check on your interesting stories and leave my comments. I will try to catch up with you as soon as I get back. Rest assured, I will miss all of you. Before going, I

Reminisce: How To Get A Drink

2009-04-10T08:54:00.001-07:00

(See more fun animals @Camera Critters!)Instructions: Open front legs;Spread; ( easy...easy )Stretch forward ( stretttccchhh )and maintain your balance.Mr. G: "Yep! It ain't easy getting a drink around here".Photo taken at Oakland Zoo: Reticulated Giraffe.For humans, here's a detailed instruction:( Just in case you want to get a drink like Mr G does. Kidding! I do practice yoga so I know its

Flowers

2009-04-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

Chores + Relaxation

2009-04-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

I have been busy lately, so my posts are not up to date. Anyways, I still wanted to share and upload photos which I took last Sunday.This was the day we had to do chores: one of them is the dreaded laundry. Although I like the accessibility of our apartment, the one thing lacking is a washer and dryer. Oh, well. It's just something we've got to deal with until we can move to a better place. With

Beads, Hats & Volcano

2009-04-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we spent our time with our friends, Jonnie & Katy in downtown Berkeley. It has been quite awhile since we last saw them, so we were happy to see them. Our main route was in Telegraph Avenue. On weekends, there are stalls along the sidewalk which displays colorful and interesting wares or crafts.First, we stopped by the "Beads and Rocks" store. If you're into bead jewelry, this is the

Monthly Awards

2009-04-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

I just want to let all my web neighbors know that it's always a joy to meet and connect with new people from all walks of life. I get to learn various things when we share our daily thoughts and views. Most of all, you make my day especially when you leave comments.That's why I decided to give "Monthly Awards". For the month of March, I'm giving the "Valuable Reader" and "Humorous Blog" of the

Phalaenopsis in Bloom

2009-04-02T21:28:00.000-07:00

Phalaenopsis is a genus of approximately 60 species of orchids. The abbreviation in the horticultural trade is Phal. It's one of the most popular orchids in the trade, through the development of many artificial hybrids.I have been watching mine closely in the last couple of days. I wanted to see how long it takes for a bud to blossom. The photo above was taken 17th of March. 27th of March: It

Quotes That Inspire

2009-03-31T21:59:00.000-07:00

I love reading inspiring quotes, poems and motivational books. It's such a comfort knowing we're not alone and what we're experiencing at a certain moment, is also being experienced or had been experienced by other people. That there's hope; that we can overcome whatever trails or frustrations we have; emerge as a winner: stronger & happier as a person. We might not know it yet or believe it but

North Indian Cuisine

2009-03-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

I took pictures of these pretty pink daises when we went to Berkeley today. It was a beautiful sight to behold.Posing with daisies while waiting for our friend, Darrell.We had lunch at India Palace Restaurant along University Avenue. It's one of our favorite restaurant. The place has a relaxing air, its walls adorned with bold and colorful paintings depicting village life in India. I would

Earth Hour

2009-03-28T23:37:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I joined Earth Hour 2009.We had wine and played scrabble by candlelight. It was fun except for the part where I lost the game this time. Unlucky draw of the tiles. Oh, well. Got to have a rematch soon!Of course, observance of Earth Hour has sparked a controversy. The real question is its real effectiveness and impact.I think it's a start. It's a reminder to turn off the lights when

Friday Memes: Recipe, Poem & Photograph

2009-03-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

PHOTO FRIDAYThis week's challenge:'Extreme Closeup'Meme ExpressPoem: FORMS OF LOVEby Sheystrides(Click on picture to read poem and view larger image.)Four Foods On FridayHere are this week’s four questions:1. What’s your favorite cereal?Choco Crunch 2. What do you use to flip food on the stove?Chopsticks, fork or tongs whichever is available.3. What’s your favorite type of donut?Glazed chocolate.

Pancit/ Shey & Ric's Series of Silly, Spontaneous Events

2009-03-25T22:34:00.000-07:00

I'm quite fortunate that my hubby loves Filipino food because those are the kind of dishes I can only cook. If he craves something else, he makes it for us.His Filipino food favorites are pork sinigang (pork in sour broth) and pancit. That's why I prepare it often.Tonight, I'm going to share my recipe of chicken pancit bihon. Pancit is a stir-fried noodle dish common in the Philippines of Chinese

Watching Shadows and Light

2009-03-24T22:02:00.000-07:00

We just had a power outage that lasted for an hour. It's my first since moving here last year. We were disheartened at first because it happened during dinner. My husband quickly recovered and said, "Well, I always planned for a candlelight dinner." That made me smile and enjoyed the soft flickering lights of the candles throughout our meal. After dinner, the shutterbug in me couldn't resist

I'm Thankful For...

2009-03-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Kasey's "Friend Makin' Mondays" featuring things we're thankful for. Here's mine.1. My husband who's very supportive, thoughtful and loving. Someone who's strong for me in times when I'm not.2. My family and friends who are there for me, through thick or thin.3. Being alive and healthy to experience a new day.4. Gardens and the breathtaking views we get to see or discover.5. My

Delight for the Senses

2009-03-22T22:37:00.001-07:00

Our Sunday was a delight for the senses.Tasty scrambled eggs for breakfast.(Please click photos to enlarge.)Fluffy clouds rolling by.The flowers danced in their beautiful garb.The sun's rays kissed my cheeks.In the grocery: the vegetables in their colorful array.The, "OH, WOW!" moment.Holding a cold British IPA.Cheddar cheese with onion sprinkled on a spinach salad.A satisfying dinner

The Smell of Spring

2009-03-21T18:17:00.001-07:00

I wrote this poem after our afternoon walk. Just couldn't resist taking pictures of the beautiful flowers.It's a shame I don't know their names. Can anyone help me out? Lionmother said:"I think the first picture is azaleas, the 2nd one is yellow daisies, the 3rd and 4th are periwinkles, the 5th is probably pink geraniums, the 6th is a hibiscus, the 7th are white daisies. I might be wrong, but

Adieu, Battlestar Galactica

2009-03-20T23:23:00.000-07:00

For all the Battlestar Galactica fans out there, we bid adieu to our favorite TV series. The long running show finally reached its finale. We held our breath for days, debating and wondering if our questions would be answered. This was such a big night for me and my hubby, who are both fans of the show. We had dinner early, prepared and made ourselves comfortable. When we watched it, we held

Blogger Bells & Whistles

2009-03-18T16:47:00.000-07:00

I've always been a curious person and couldn't resist fixing things if I knew it can be fixed or improved. For example, I can never leave a furniture alone without cutting it somehow to an appropriate height or changing its cover. This compulsion extends to my blog page.Ever since I started blogging here, I didn't completely like the templates and background. So, I started tweaking the codes

Colour Me Green

2009-03-17T15:34:00.000-07:00

The color green is strongly connected with Ireland especially on Saint Patrick's Day. It also signifies growth, life and renewal. So, I could totally understand why the Irish chose green as their national color.I didn't know that St. Paddy's Day is widely celebrated here in America until my husband told me. He has a bit of Irish blood in him, so we have the mandatory drink of Guinness to

IT Woes

2009-03-15T17:09:00.001-07:00

My hubby thought he could finish the updates needed for the computers yesterday. He was wrong. Connecting all computers to the alternative Linux log-in server needed complicated work and more time. I'm not familiar with IT linguistics and what goes into fixing a PC network, all I know is that it takes a lot of patience. Instead of our usual relaxing Sunday, we had to wake up early to meet the

St. Patrick's Parade

2009-03-14T23:07:00.001-07:00

Pangga had to work today, so I went with him to keep him company. He didn't like working on a weekend but he wanted everything ready for workweek. While he was working, I went out for a bit to watch the St. Patrick's Parade which started at 11:30 on Market St.I had fun taking lots of photos and conversing with the family next to me. The most exciting part was catching the candies and accessories

Frontier Chicken Chili

2009-03-12T18:12:00.000-07:00

Pangga's pasalubong for me last night is a favorite: chicken chili from Lee's Deli. I had it for lunch with rice (of course) and it was delicious! With just the right spicy taste, the chicken and beans just melted in your mouth. Yumminess.

Bloodstone Rabbit Pendant

2009-03-11T22:16:00.001-07:00

I bought a bloodstone pendant through eBay. It was reasonably priced and has a beautifully carved rabbit. The wait was longer since it was shipped from Hongkong but I still wanted it for Pangga. It was in good condition when it arrived encased in a pink box. Of course, I changed the box for a white one when I gave it to my man.Why bloodstone and rabbit? Well, bloodstone has healing properties and