The Power of Bitcoin Cash Community
I received outpouring support after I share the battle of my Aunt Rose with Liver Cancer just after beating Breast Cancer. It was devastating to the whole clan as we know they haven't recovered from the bills of last chemotherapy.
Here's the article. https://read.cash/@tired_momma/every-bitcoin-cash-counts-support-and-save-a-life-5b547ae1
We as a family, all us trying our best to raise money to help in our way. Being on this platform I didn't think twice to ask for help and I'm overwhelmed with your support.
With your donations we raised money from read.cash, noise.cash and the Bitcoin Cash account I created for Tita Rose Chemotherapy.
UPDATE
In total, we raised $77.82.
read.cash
**noise.cash**
From QR Code
Bitcoin Cash Account
I first send then Php 3000 ($60) to my cousin letting her know that it's from Bitcoin Cash Community.
I still have the almost $20. I'm hoping to make it up to $50 then I will send it to her again.
Edit Update: I already send to her.
**For those who wants to send donations here's the BCH Address:**
bitcoincash:qrppp99ql2klzunv24zz45q8g6nj8uz4tq6ru38mdk
**Thank you for this great help to my Aunt and the whole family. I'm very touched by your kindness and generosity. To all those who lend a helping hand, and offer prayers I can't name you all,** ***THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.*** **🙇 The good Lord bless you all more.**
**💚💚💚**
We are in need and yous people didn't hesitate to help. Thank you for your kindness and generosity and to everyone who prays for my Aunt to win back her health from Cancer. Thank you will never be enough but I say still. Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart. I'm deeply touched, didn't expect the outpouring of support. 💚💚💚
@LykeLyca
@PVMihalache
@Glez
@Idksamad7869
@D.B.Cooper
@Snezana28
@eommaZel
@HappyBoy
@MarSou
@Zeshan3333
@Olasquare
@leejhen
@dziefem
@Ruffa
@damelindz
@Meyzee
And everyone 💚💚💚
Every Bitcoin Cash Counts, Support and Save a Life
***I've been here on this platform for 8 months now and witness the unbelievable generosity of many users. It feels so good to see many people helped by this platform. This is my first time asking for help. I'm humbly knocking in your hearts for Aunt of mine.***
*She is Mommy Rose, 58 years old, a full-time housewife and a Mom of four*. She had the biggest battle of her life after being diagnosed with Stage III Breast Cancer and got operated on last May of 2020. She undergoes 8 sessions of chemotherapy that cost around Php 200,000. Her biopsy result indicates that she's HER-2 Positive wherein 95% of tumour cells tend to grow more aggressively. Furthermore, this results in her having 9 more sessions of treatment by taking the Trastuzumab. This drug used to kill cancer cells and cost around Php 30, 000+.
After raising money for her chemotherapy by all means and still in debt she victoriously finished her sessions. And on the 27th of April 2021, on her 58th birthday, her breast ultrasound reveals that everything is Normal. What a great birthday present that is!
But the happy moment and brave hearts are being tested once again. Just recently she experienced unbearable pain which restricts her movement and even coughing causing too much pain. They take her to the hospital and the ultrasound reveals 3 cysts in her liver, 2 small and 1 big cyst. They say it's on Stage 4 but we are a family and we all believe in miracles and trust that the Almighty God will help us gets through this. And that He will send us generous people as an instrument to help my Aunt.
The pandemic hit them hard as my cousin lost her job and currently doing a freelance job. They weren't even done paying debts from the last chemotherapy and another chemotherapy must be done but they don't have enough money. They've given choices:
Injectable Chemo worth Php34,000 or Php28,000
Oral chemo which is the medication will cost 1500 per day or 720 per day
She stops the chemo before getting started because they cannot raise the money. She should be taking medication for two weeks, but they lapse as the medicine cost Php 720 and she has to take 6 times a day plus the high dose pain reliever. She will have her CT Scan tomorrow. They don't know how to continue and how can they raise more money.
My Aunt is very brave and fighting hard because she wanted to see her grandchildren grow up. She wants to be there every step of their way. She's not giving up.
https://youtu.be/bHVR9lHumXA
It's painful seeing her like that, in so much pain. 😭😭😭
My sister started a raffle for a cause which we did last year to help raise money for Tita Rose. I also talked to my husband to send money back home.
***And here I am trying to raise money with your help. Any amount is much appreciated. And any tips that this article will get will be donated to my cousin and I'll make sure to let them know that it is from my Bitcoin Cash family, everything will be documented. I ask for the permission on posting this and I hope this will not be used by USERS.***
Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/judzperez
If you wish to ask for further validation, please let me know. Direct donations to my cousin Judith Rose Perez will be appreciated, I just ask you to put a note, a simple Bitcoin Cash family note so to let her know.
The real Jack and Rose in our big family. Love to see her smiling. Keep smiling Tita. Thank you for your support. 💚💚💚
THANK YOU NOW IN ADVANCE BEAUTIFUL SOUL. I cannot give anything in return but letting you know that you already help my Aunt and her family. God will bless you more.
Thank you @milanlukic for the sponsorship! 💚💚💚
Thank you @MoreGainStrategies for the sponsorship! 💚💚💚
Tips to a Happy Relationship
*My husband and I created a special bond. A string that connects our hearts and mind. And that string we made it stronger throughout the years. We didn't start so perfect, we started broken. But as time goes by if love is true and you are fit for each other despite differences then love grows stronger giving smile in your heart and your life full of happiness.*
It feels so good when you share the same level of thinking with your partner. I love the fact that my husband is full of humour and fun to be with just like me. It's funny when he gave me that look and I know exactly what it means. I can play a song that is running through his head and would be amazed how could we be thinking the same thing. We can laugh at the silliest thing. We enjoy each others company.
It's not easy to find someone that can fit perfectly in the gap in your hands. But there are instances that you are willing to compromise because you are sure that it will work out with some polishing and some healthy changes.
One thing I love about being in healthy relations is that ***I am me and He is him*** and that is important*.* We are both aware of us being an individual, our flaws and differences. We didn't try to change each other, well I tried and found out it never works that way.
I don't like him smoking and I tried my best to stop him but I didn't push it. One day, he just stops smoking and never tastes one after. People will change if they want to. I used to be an over jealous woman. I'm serious. I used to check his phone and everything but those were the days. You get used to the system and get to know the right path for a better relationship.
Let me share these golden words with you about men, "**Men will not know what you want unless you tell them**". Women, if you want something from your man, you have to tell him straight. Don't give hints because they don't get that. Don't make faces because you didn't get what you want or your partner wasn't what you want to be, ***you didn't tell him!***
***Communication is very important***. It was as simple as when you asked, what do you want to eat? And you say anything. And he comes with pizza and you get mad because you were expecting spaghetti! Why didn't you say so?
If you want a happy and healthy relationship you should know how to communicate effectively. If you want your needs met, then tell your partner so he/she can work it out. Don't expect that he/she should know it. Say it.
Let me share these tips with you:
1) Respect
This will always be number one. You should always respect each other. I know that in a relationship there will be a time that you will not agree on the same thing. You both have to listen and understand each others point of view and be open in each others opinion. In decision making, there will always be two of you who made that decision.
My husband respects me and I respect him. There's no one way of giving respect. My husband is the one making money in the family but if he wants to buy something big, he will ask me first if I say yes it's yes but when I say NO, then there's no more question ask. If he wants to go somewhere with friends, he will tell me first. It's not being under but a man who knows how to respect his wife.
2) Know each other's love language
I learn from my Psychology class that there are five love languages and it's according to Dr Chapman. These are:
words of affirmation
physical touch
quality time
acts of service
receiving gifts
Now, you have to know what are your partners love language and that will guide you on keeping the fire of love alive.
My husband's love language are all of the above but most especially the physical touch. He will play with my hair with his hands, he loves holding my hands and love hugs. There's no single day we didn't say "I love you." We always do. Every time I make dinner, he will thank me and say I love you. And the way he appreciates what I do, I do more with a happy heart.
Remember not all are showy or vocal with how they feel. They show their love in different ways. He/she might not tell you "I love you" often but surely he/she is showing it in different ways.
3) Spend Quality Time together
No matter how busy and exhausted your daily life is, find time to be together even for a night movie on the couch. It doesn't have to be grand. A good chat while lying in his arms is the best.
We always have our weekly date doing our shopping for the whole week. We take out food and go to the nearest place that we can enjoy the view. We walk hand in hand and it's the same feeling as the first time.
4) Teamwork
If my husband put food on the table then I will be turning it into a dish, I cook. If I wash the dishes, my husband will dry them. If I wash clothes, my husband helps me put them in the line.
If he sees me getting tired, he will ask me to rest and massage my head or feet. My husband will always help me when he is around but not on kids homework.
5) Dream and Plan together
We dream together. We plan together. We talk about it. What we want in the future we enjoy dreaming about it. If you are not dreaming about your future together then there must be something wrong.
We want our Bread and Breakfast in Spain or France, somewhere in the heat. I will be the chef and cook for the guest. The land is cheaper there and many Brits in that place so it will be easy to adapt.
Men that I know including my husband doesn't like a nagger. They say girls love and good at yacking. But why we yack, it's never for anything just. There has to be a reason.
Do we fight?
We seem to have a perfect relationship right, but do we fight? Of course, we do! Misunderstanding, arguments but never a physical fight. But you know what? If someone is mad, the other will walk away so our heat won't clash.
We grow in that. We know when to say time out. Give space. Sleep apart and when we cool down then we apologize to each other. And that's how it should be. Not, we fight we break up. I hope I share some good words with you.
Thank you for reading.
Once Upon a Time in Blackpool
**Blackpool is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the country which is located on the northwest coast of England. It's one of the places that people all over the UK go to visit especially during the summer holidays.**
Blackpool is England's *Happy Place* for everyone regardless of their age. Its abundance of attraction both indoors and outdoors made it a family favourite. A whole day won't even be enough to see all of the attractions!
My husband and I made it to the Blackpool last week from our long drive from London. And since we have some time to spare before our ferry schedule in Scotland going back to Belfast, my husband decided to take me for a quick tour at the place as this was my first time.
Last week was not as crowded as what I saw in the news today for it's a favourable day for everyone to enjoy the sun in a perfect place like Blackpool. And I felt so disappointed not to see the bustling crowd that makes the place alive. But still, I had a lovely time.
I will start at the parking lot because I was so excited I jumped out of the car as soon as we park. I already can see the Blackpool Tower!
And all the amusements are surrounding me. The parking is quite a dear well to be fair every parking comes with a good charge here in the UK. Have a look at the rates.
Just in front of me is Coral Island which is a massive amusement! Since it's pandemic and just recently open you must check-in in NHS Covid 19 app before you're allowed to get inside.
And off we walk down the street. The seasides vibes are so refreshing! I can see the ferries wheel at the heart of the coastline. They have amusements, shopping and shows in this Central Pier.
And we head to one of its world-famous attraction The Blackpool Tower!
Blackpool Tower
Blackpool Tower is one of the most popular landmarks and is recognised in the world for its home to the famous Tower Ballroom, The Blackpool Tower Dungeons, The Tower Circus and the Blackpool Tower Eye. Sadly, it was close at the time of my visit so I've missed my chance to see the inside and check out what's in the tower.
Blackpool Tower Ballroom
The Blackpool Tower Ballroom has stunning architecture no wonder why this is famous all over the world dating back to 1894. It even makes me feel like a princess looking at its elegant dance floor while my prince holding my hand. Of course, I'm daydreaming. This is a great venue for events be it your perfect wedding or a team building. It's at the top of the tower so guaranteed the best panoramic view. You can also book a table for an afternoon tea, that would be a wonderful experience to have an afternoon tea in this world's grandest ballroom.
If you're watching Strictly Come Dancing just like me then you should have seen this enchanting ballroom in their Blackpool special episode!
**The Blackpool Tower Dungeon**
Want to experience a fright-filled adventure? Come and visit the Dungeon and it will take you to Lancashire's past telling the story of Blackpool's murky last with an amazing cast, stages, special effects and rides that are perfect for a family. You will have a good laugh and a good drop!
My husband visits Blackpool many times and he been to every attraction so I can only dream of his experiences.
While on the street I saw this gorgeous Cinderella Carriage that you can hire to tour you around the place. If I'm with my daughter, she will surely ask to have a go on this.
I didn't make it to Pleasure Beach which my husband was eager to show. But let me show you what it looks like.
It's the best-loved theme park here and it has The Big One which is the highest rollercoaster in the UK.
More Blackpool Attractions
**The Blackpool Tower Circus**
**Madame Tussauds Blackpool**
**Blackpool Illumination**
**Blackpool Zoo**
**Sea Life Blackpool**
**Stanley Park**
**Sand Castle Water Park**
And loads of shows, concerts and sports.
Went inside a souvenir shop and bought some for the kids and Mum and of course the Blackpool magnet is a must!
You can have an overnight stay because there's a stretch of hotels on the seafront. There are many to choose from. Shops and restaurants are everywhere and we end our time there with a lovely dinner at Viva Vegas Diner which is the only one open at that time and it's only like past 8.
I ordered Mac and Cheese, Chicken Fillet, Chips, Rice and Chocolate Milkshake which cost £40 including tip. I wasn't impressed with their serving bowls as you can see the rust in them. But for the perfect view of the beach in front, it's a 10!
And that's my almost 3-hour experience in Blackpool. I hope next time, we will be going back with the kids and we can all explore every place and see different attractions especially the ones I've missed which are most of them.
I hope you enjoy my short virtual tour and thank you for reading.
The Best Hair Routine to Treat Hair Fall
Just like any parts of our body, our hair needs tender loving care. You can wash it normally as you do or step up your hair routine to achieve healthy-looking gorgeous hair.
But not everyone especially women are gifted with healthy hair. We face problems.
Hair Fall Problem
Hair loss is normal they say and that on average we lose around 80 strands a day!
Seeing my brush full of hair puts me in dilemma. I can always get a handful out of it! I vacuum the floor, the carpet and my hairs stuck on the vacuum cleaner. I take a shower and I can see my hair clogging the shower drain. And it's so depressing to see my hair everywhere.
If you remember I share with you that exact problem before in this *article* and my plan to use castor oil for the test because my hair getting bald as you can see in this photo. https://read.cash/@tired_momma/castor-oil-uses-and-benefits-87b4c608
We experience hair fall for many reasons like:
Stress
Hormonal Imbalance
Anemia/ Iron Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
Dramatic weight loss
And many more.
I have a hormonal imbalance due to my Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS giving me excess androgen causing hair loss. So in my case, it's my underlying condition triggering hair loss.
I experience extreme hair fall after giving birth and I read many women experienced the same.
Castor Oil
And here comes my saviour, my shining armour. All hail to castor oil.
***Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid which increases scalp blood flow promoting healthier hair and growth while also cutting down on inflammation. This oil also has antimicrobial properties to keep out harmful bacteria and protect the scalp from diseases and infections!***
The first week I've tried this, I didn't do it again. Because what I did is, I applied the pure castor oil on my wet hair and it's so sticky and it's hard to apply. I can't make it even throughout my long hair. And it's so frustrating. So I stop doing it.
I don't know why but just a month ago, I said let me try this castor oil again because my husband said my hair at the back is getting bad and bald. So what I did is I mix castor oil with my shampoo. Just use your normal shampoo and mix castor oil in it. A good amount of castor oil!
Depends on the length of your hair mix your shampoo and castor oil. And while you apply it, massage your scalp. I have long hair so I make sure that I have enough on my hair. The good thing about mixing it with your shampoo is that it's not sticky, still foamy and it feels like you're just doing your normal washing.
Leave it for 30 minutes so that the castor oil can absorb your hair. You can use a shower cap.
I only do this every Sunday, just once a week. Castor oil is very thick and it's heavy to one daily. You can do it once or twice a week but no more than that because it can cause build-up and lead to issues like matting.
I finished it with a hair conditioner to lock in the moisture, to soften and detangle my hair which helps reduce split ends and breakage.
After that, my hair feels soft and it feels thicker and full. Let me show you my before and after.
So the before photo was 5 months ago and the after is a month after castor oil. Did you see the difference?
My hair is thicker now. I can even see baby hairs growing back in my forehead, along my hairline. I still have hair fall but that I think is normal as it's not as bad as before I use castor oil.
My husband said, which I'm so happy to hear, "You're not bald at the back of your hair anymore." Like I know castor oil did the job for me!
And should I say my hair is ready for a selfie more than ever.
I hope you can try this too and see it for your selves. You can use castor oil even just to maintain the life in your hair. It will feel so much fuller and healthier than before. That, I can promise to you!
Thank you for reading.
A Long Journey from Northern Ireland to England then Scotland Back to Northern Ireland
Our car has broken down and we send it to the mechanic shop but we don't hear anything from it yet. It's not easy to have no car around although we still have the van that keeps us going. We look for cars in the market online, view some but didn't find a good one. We're only looking for a used car not brand new.
Most of our cars are from England or Wales. Why? Because it's cheaper and we get a better deal. So upon checking in eBay, my husband finally finds what he is looking for and it is in London. Upon negotiation and paying a deposit we got the car and ready to collect anytime. So we booked our flight for Monday, 24th of May from Belfast to London Heathrow.
The plan is to fly from Belfast to Heathrow then take a taxi to the place where we collect the car which is in Wembley. Then from there, we will have a long drive until we reach Larne in Scotland where we take the ferry back to Belfast.
Monday, 24 May 2021
It was a bright sunny day in Comber. Our flight is at 11:05 am, we arrive at the George Best airport at 10:30 am as we already checked in online.
Unbelievably there are no queues and it's because of the flying restrictions brought to us by the pandemic. I first checked if we need covid-test or the passenger locator form before the flight and glad we don't need to as it is a domestic flight. Mask is a Must.
Everything was smooth from boarding to landing. We had a good flight!
Take the taxi
We arrive at Heathrow Airport and unlike the bright sunny day in Belfast, it was raining pretty bad in London. Upon arrival, we take a taxi to take us to Wembley which is only about 10 minutes or so. I was shocked because we pay £55 for that taxi ride. It's very dear.
Got our Car
Reach the destination, full payment made, got the document for and we got our car, NO. it's a jeep! Why can't we just have a normal car like a family car? If it's not small like the Audi TT it's this big. But no matter what I can't complain about my husband's taste and choices as I'm one of them. Haha
The long drive has started
Ready for the long drive but we headed to get some food in the nearest Food Service up the road. And whoah, it's full! We had KFC as usual and I able to spot Krispy Kreme doughnuts that I haven't tasted for two years now. I brought it back home to my kids to enjoy.
After eating, we head back on the road. From England, we're heading to Blackpool as my husband promised to show me around the place as he been there many times and loves it! It was almost 5 hours of drive from Wembley to Blackpool. Glad we had some chocolates, crisps and drinks and music playing while on the road. We are enjoying the ride.
Touchdown Blackpool
Finally, after hours of sitting in the car, we can stretch our legs as we reached Blackpool! I love watching Strictly Come Dancing and love the Blackpool Episode. I can now see the famous Blackpool Tower.
And oh had pictured with it at the background. What a happy place it's like Disney Land for the kids. Plenty of amusement parks and rides, food stalls and the beach what a lovely place!
Blackpool is famous for:
Blackpool Tower
Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Illuminations
Blackpool Zoo
Sandcastle Water Park,
the Winter Gardens, and
the UK's only surviving first-generation tramway.
Because of the pandemic, businesses were hit pretty hard. You can see most of the hotels are closed and it wasn't like it was before. We had our dinner before we leave.
Back to the road again
I enjoyed Blackpool but it's time to say goodbye and head back on the road. Another 5 hours drive from Blackpool to Larne in Scotland. I booked the ferry halfway there. We leave Blackpool before 10 pm. During that time it's mostly big trucks, freight on the road. It's a bit scary when you get near it as it's massive. I was told not to sleep. So I told my husband I will sing then but told me not to. Haha. I still sing and do my karaoke just to keep him awake. lol
Nearly there
Finally, reach the Larne port and boarded on this majestic ship. But seeing the waves and how windy it is, I started getting nervous even I'm trying to calm my nerves as this isn't my first time. There are not many passengers and most of them are truck/freight/cargo drivers which what you expect at 4:00 am. It was a 2 hour sailing in the rough sea. I wasn't able to close my eyes because I can feel the constant rocking and swaying. I play sudoku to kill the time.
Finally
What a journey we had! Finally, we were back in Belfast and just an hour drive home I will be seeing my babies and get them ready for school before I have a good rest. And I did!
Oh! it was tiring but I had a lovely journey with my husband even it means I had a sore bum!
Thank you for reading.
I Didn't Know that That's the Last
*Being a mother wasn't easy but enjoying the moments with your little ones at every step of their growing journey is such a privilege and a very fulfilling job paid with their sweet smile and warm hugs.*
Time flies so fast. Those sleepless nights, those complaints I've had are now just a memory. Because at times goes by, my baby in my arms is now a grown-up. And I can't just believe it.
When I gave them life in this world I didn't know how hard work it is to be a mother, but you know what? It's all worth it! But they grow up too fast and I wasn't ready. I'm not aware that they're getting big. That they're no longer a baby but still are to me.
I didn't know that that's the last sleepless night I will have because you're crying when it's supposed to be bedtime. Because now you can sleep straight and have your bed without me by your side.
I didn't know that that's the last time I will have to change your nappy. Because now, you already can put on your clothes and pick which ones you like to wear.
I didn't know that's the last time I will carry you in my arms and singing you a lullaby because you're too heavy now for me to carry and you won't fit in my arms anymore but you still can sit in my lap. And sooner or later you'll be taller than me.
I didn't know that's the last time I will breastfeed you or give you your bottle because now, you can drink in a glass.
I didn't know that's the last time I will cry just for you to eat the mashed potato I made for dinner and as I try to feed you by spoon like it's a plane going to your mouth. Because now, you can eat on your own without my help.
I didn't know that's the last time we will be in the house 24/7 because now you go to school.
So now while I still can, while I'm the one you needed, while I'm your only best friend I will enjoy our moments.
I will listen to your never-ending story even that's the story you told me just a while ago. Because it could be the last and soon you will have your own friend to tell your secrets and stories.
I will keep answering the same questions you're asking me even it means I have to say the same thing. I will not get tired. Because it could be the last and before I knew it you know more than I do and I'm the one who will be asking you.
I will keep playing hide and seek with you even you're telling me where were you hiding and even you're the one who's telling me where to hide and told me to count from 1 to 40. I will enjoy it, my love. Because it could be the last as time will come you will have your own interest in games or sports.
***So while I can I will make this moment counts. I will make our moments filled with fun so if the time comes I can say that I've made the most out of it. My baby and I had a great time. And you will always be my baby even you no longer fit in my arms. ❤***
For parents out there, give your children more time and love. They will not be a child for long. Make the most of it.
Thank you for reading.
Flowers Bloom in the Heart
**The habit of enjoying the beauty of flowers has been common in all places and times. Since the ancient days, people have decorated their rooms with beautiful flowers arranged in vases, placed blossoms in their hair, or simply held bouquets in their hands. The love of flowers is very natural to us humans.**
In Japan, however, certain ways of arranging flowers in vases were refined to a peak of artistic beauty. It was a time of the battle in the Muromachi Period (1338-1573) that gave birth to this gentle art known today as *ikebana*.
Technically, Kado and Ikebana are the same. However, "*kado*" refers not only to the artistry of the flowers but also requires manners, techniques, mental and physical techniques as well. Therefore Kado's work is referred to as "*Ikebana Flower Arranging*". And the specialists of the way of the Kado are called "**Kadoka**" or flower masters.
Deities and flowers
In Japan, it is their long been custom to offer flowers to the souls of the dead. Even in the Bon Festival of today, a Buddhist event to welcome the souls of ancestors on their annual visit to this world, people place flowers picked in the fields or mountains on special shelves in front of the entrance to the house as offerings to the souls of their ancestors.
This custom of offering flowers to the souls of the dead predated the entry of Buddhism into Japan. As a result of their research, some folklorists believe that the ancient Japanese held the simple belief that flowering plants have a kind of vital spirit. When the spirit is active, the plants come into flower; when it is at rest, the flowers fade and fall. Folklorists further presume that the ancient Japanese believed that they could awaken the souls of the dead, which had been quietly asleep, by offering them flowers with a vital spirit.
The Nobles' Art
The Japanese people's sense of the seasons has been closely intertwined with their lives since ancient days. With this background, the Japanese came to have strong feelings for specific symbols of the seasons, such as snow *(yuki)*, the moon *(tsuki)* and flowers *(hana)*. New words were made by adding the suffix *mi* (seeing) to these words and Japanese have enjoyed viewing snow scenes of snowy days *(yuki-mi)*, admired the beauty of the moon on nights when it is full *(tsuki-mi)*, and enjoyed seeing flowers and blossoms at their best *(hana-mi)*. These objects symbolic of the seasons were not necessarily viewed individually. People usually gathered together to enjoy this beautiful thing of nature, and, in time, they came to gather not only to admire but to feast as well. Especially among the nobles of the aristocratic age, banquets for viewing snow, the moon and flowers were popular. Court nobles, including the emperor, often went out to enjoy places renowned for their beauty.
Flowers in Chinese Historical Drama
That scene will be familiar to you if you are watching Chinese Historical Drama. In China, the **lotus** flower represents a person with integrity. *While* ***Plum*** flowers are said to be the embodiment of a person's strength and perseverance. This flower blossom in early spring, late winter, often when it's snowing. But despite the harsh environmental condition, the flower blooms. This is used often as a metaphor for someone's ability and integrity to face hardships with courage.
I remember watching "Empresses in the Palace" when Zhen Huan recites a plum flower poem that capture the emperor's heart.
*Photo Credit*
https://www.google.com/amp/s/daydaynews.cc/en/constellation/amp/615734.html
And how each of them in the palace has their own favourite flowers that they look after in their palace.
Another example from Empresses in the Palace is Shen Meizhuanglove for chrysanthemum saying, she likes ***chrysanthemum*** for its characters which again capture the heart of the Emperor.
Chrysanthemum blooms in autumn when all the other flowers have withered, being away from the competition. Chinese scholars considered chrysanthemum as a loner and have one's own merit that is independent of the world's impression.
*Photo Credit*
I was browsing a flower catalogue that came by mail today and enjoys the beauty of the flowers and how they are arranged in the vase, I'm so amazed. This one we got the last time. It's a Sunny Marigold Arrangement in Mini Milk Churn.
I'm always fascinated by flowers and captivated by their beauty. I love how the Japanese and the Chinese teach us many styles and flower arrangement. And how each of us loves to grow, pick our flowers and arrange them in a way it pleases us.
Flowers indeed can make us smile with their beauty and admire their characters. Their lovely scent can captivate one's heart and fall in love with it. It's a great stress reliever!
***No wonder men give us flowers.***
Thank you for reading.
Thank you @PVMihalache for renewing your sponsorship! 💚💚💚
Dealing With Cough in Child During This Covid Time
**As a parent, it's not easy to see our little one struggles with cough and not being their best self. This time of the pandemic a simple cough made me paranoid and Covid-19 will always be at the back of my head as it is one of its main symptoms. And it makes me worry more and overreact.**
My daughter, Tia (5 years old) just got home from school coughing. So I gave her Calpol right away. That night she can't sleep because of her dry tickly cough and her temperature rise, she's very hot. It's Friday and the clinic is not open on Saturday to book an appointment with her doctor.
What bothers me the most is the type of cough Tia has. She never had and I never experience one before. It's very dry and persistent. It's not giving her peace. And it's not making me sleep either as I lay down next to her while rubbing her back with a vapour rub.
To make sure that it's not covid I do a Covid-19 rapid test at home. It's not easy to do the swabbing on a child. She nearly chokes and it scared me. We have to be extra careful when doing this.
The Self Test Kit is very easy to follow as there's a step by step guide included. I'm so thankful that it comes out negative. I'm so relieved. Now, I have to make some research on what can help my daughter with her dry tickly cough in the meantime that we can't see the doctor.
Types of Cough
I watch the **9 different types of coughs on Youtube.** It's very informative and parents should be glad to watch this too:
https://youtu.be/UDG6z5AiU-A
I learned that not all coughs are the same in kids. And that coughs can be caused by a virus or a bacteria while some others may be due to neither.
*****9 Different Cough Types in Kids*****
Barking Cough
Cough with Phlegm
Dry Night Time Cough
Miserable Cough
Whooping Cough
Gross Sounding Cough
Rattling Cough
Reflux Cough
Allergic Cough
But what Tia has doesn't match with its symptoms. Tia has a dry tickly cough and fever. No phlegm. No nasal congestion. So I have to give her something that might help her.
Give her plenty of fluid
Have a good rest
Let me share with you what I'm doing to ease her struggle.
Natural Remedies
**Honey + Cinnamon**
I learned this from Dra. Farrah and every time we have a cough, honey and cinnamon is my trusted natural remedy.
Honey and cinnamon boost our immune system and protect us from foreign bacteria and viruses. Both are a rich source of antioxidants and have anti-bacterial properties.
It's very tricky for me to make Tia drink this though she loves honey she doesn't like the taste of cinnamon. But she drinks it after some kind of negotiation.
**Ginger Soup**
Ginger has anti-inflammatory compounds that can relax membranes in the airways which can ease a dry cough.
I try to give her plenty of fluids as much as possible and give her ginger soup to help relieve her coughing. I only give what she can take and if she says no more then that's it.
**Slice of Onion in her Room**
I put slices of onion in her bed. It's not the best air freshener but I believe that it absorbs the flu virus.
I also used to put onions on her feet but this time she doesn't want socks on as she's feeling too warm.
Right now she still has a cough and fever but the thing is she's feeling better and running around with a smile on her face. But she gets upset when the cough starting a round from time to time. I'm still giving her Calpol and cough syrup as well. But I'm looking forward to Monday so we can talk to her doctor regarding this. They are the one who knows the best and can give the right prescription. I just want my baby to get well very soon. And she will be.
Thank you so much for reading.
***Have you got any cough/fever remedy that you can share with me and other readers? Please share in the comments below.***
My Favourite Skin Care Products
**Not all are blessed to have a great skin complexion. For acne-prone skin like me, having clear skin is wishful thinking. And this how my skincare routine helps me to deal with my oily, large pores, blackheads and acne problems.**
You know, if everything is right and I feel good about myself, I feel confident. But I experienced having bad acne all over my face and my level of confidence drop. I don't want to go out because I don't want people to see me. I was hiding my face with my hair as if I'm one of the characters in a horror movie.
Using beauty products is not a capricious desire to spend money just because we want to look beautiful. And even if, what's wrong with that? It is us, looking after ourselves, making us feel good about ourselves and from there we gathered our confidence. I'm not saying that's the only source of our confidence, but everyone wants to look good, feel good and confident. And as we age, our skin age as well so we have to do something.
So what are the gems that I found and tried and say yes, this is it?
CeraVe Products
Tiktok made me buy it! Lol. Im a fan of Hyram and love all his skincare advice. And as I see other people tried the products and show the before after. I told myself, "I'm gonna buy one!" At that time, Cerave is hard to find in the shops. Like I look for it in almost every store that I know but I couldn't get it and tried getting one on eBay. The only thing was since they know that many are looking for CeraVe products so they selling them higher than their retail price.
The first CeraVe product that I used is the **SA Smoothing Cleanser** which contains salicylic acid which gently exfoliates the skin. This is suitable to use for the face and body which I'm thankful for as I have back acne and as well as for acne-prone skin. It's not only the salicylic but there is three more essential formula in this cleanser which are *ceramides*, *hyaluronic* *acid* and *niacinamide* that will help soften and smooth your skin without disrupting its protective barrier. Not only that but CeraVe smoothing cleanser is also enriched with antioxidant vitamin D, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
To tell you the truth it's my husband who empties my first bottle. I told him to try it as his face is always red and flaky. But didn't know that he will use it more than me. As a consequence, I ask him to buy the next one. His face improves goodbye flakes and hi to much smoother skin.
I have PCOS and the bad acne I blame for it. I use the cleanser on my face and my back. And my back acne dries up and now it's just the scars. And I'm happy that I don't get much acne on my face like how I used to. And if I get, normally before my period, It will dry and disappear before long.
Then I don't forget to use the moisturiser on my face and the SA Smoothing Cream into my body. Just to make sure that my skin is well hydrated especially it's cold here and my skin feels so dry.
Aside from that, I make sure that I used sunscreen that helps to protect against ageing and UV rays. I learned that sunscreen is a must!
Now, I'm glad that CeraVe products are now available in Superdrug so I can just order them online when I run out of them. And I always wait for the 3 for 2 deal! You know I always love a good bargain.
Prices
It's very affordable and is cheaper. This CeraVe product is proven and tested by many so this is worth it.
`Prices and products from Superdrug App`
CeraVe products did deliver the results that I'm looking for. I can say that my skin is much better and healthier now. If you have healthy-looking skin, you don't have to put on makeup anymore.
***I know confidence should come from within but let me tell you it also comes from what you see in the mirror. Enhancing your natural beauty if you love to is all up to you. But you are and we all are beautiful no matter what.***
Thank you for reading.
How about you what is your favourite skincare products?
Our Last Family Holiday
One of the things I've missed in the normal days when covid-19 haven't messed up in our world yet is travelling. Travelling with no restrictions, with no mask on and that I don't need to distance myself 2 metres away from people.
Let me reminisce about my last holiday with my family. As I'm not sure when can we travel safe again. Or when is normal going back to normal whatever normal is. Fingers crossed.
Dalaman, Turkey
29 August 2020. It's our first time in Turkey. I booked for a 7 Days all-inclusive holiday. We're flying from Belfast to Dalaman. As you can see our mask is on. But at that time Turkey is one of the "good to go" country on the list and we don't need to quarantine when we come back home.
After almost 5 hours flight and an hour of transfer. We finally reach our accommodation.
Welcome to Hisaronu!
Garcia Resort and Spa
We arrived around 11 pm and we are all starving. But as for me, I just want to go to our room and lay down to rest.
After all the paper works were done at the reception we got our card key and they escorted us to our room.
This is what our room looks like. I didn't take pictures when it's clean. Sorry about that.
We paid extra for the view. That night we had a lovely soup good enough to fill our rumbling stomach. We go back to our room which was the end of Day 1. And we had a good sleep to wake up in this beautiful view from our balcony.
Day 2
We get up early and had a lovely breakfast. It's a buffet and has a bit of everything. Then we meet Jack in the lobby and help us plan our holiday, show us where to go and scheduled it for us.
So on our second day, we had our first ever Turkish Bath. I had a good time in the sauna, they scrub my dead skin and feel renewed after and the massage that made me sleep.
Best spa in Hisaronu!
Lycian D Spa and Turkish Bath
Day 3
On the third day, we went on 12 Island Boat Trip in Fethiye. It's a whole day and I turned black when I'm only brown. 😂
Day 4
On day 4, we went to their local market. And to be honest it's quite dear in everything. You can pay in Lira or Pounds and they prefer pounds while we prefer to pay Lira. And at night we get a taxi and went to Hisaronu for dinner. The nightlife was amazing as its full of holidaymakers. Everyone looking so happy!
We had a lovely dinner and drinks as well!
Day 5
We went scuba diving. My son loves it. My husband tried but he's not comfortable with the regulator in his mouth. And for me that can't swim, I tried it. And when I almost there I panic and thought I'm gonna die. I took the regulator out of my mouth and I started drinking water. I cannot breathe. And my legs started to cramp. Luckily I'm still alive. But seriously underwater is heaven!!!
https://youtu.be/ecnQQfW14vc
Day 6
This is the one I enjoyed the most! We went on our Jeep Safari Adventure. I love the water fight and we all got soaked!
Our first stop was the Gizlikent waterfalls. Ahh, I'm tired of looking back walking at its freezing waters. I thought I'm not gonna make it.
Gizlikent Waterfalls
Then we do the zipline which Tia enjoyed. She wasn't scared even it was her first time.
Oh, I enjoyed that! We had our lunch in there before we go to our next destination which is..
Saklikent National Park
This is one of the deepest canyons in the world! Saklikent means hidden city. The water in here is freezing!
Then we do river rafting which I thought a short journey becomes endless. And the rock on the river hurts my back while I'm there lying on the raft!
River Rafting
I swear I thought I broke my back and my bum hurts.
And after that our last destination, we had Mud Bath!
Mud Bath
They say that this is beneficial for the skin. But washing it off under icy cold water is a No-No!
And on our last day, we had an easy day. Stay in the hotel, swim and had fun!
And that's our last holiday. A holiday to remember in the beautiful place of Hisaronu in Turkey! We will be back. ❤
**For** **Full Articles check this out:** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/airport-transfer-service-in-turkey-that-you-can-book-online-7f7a659d#check-out-my-recent-articles
**Jeep Safari Adventure in Turkey- Part 2** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/jeep-safari-adventure-in-turkey-saklikent-gorge-rafting-mudbath-part-2-cfc27f53
**Jeep Safari Adventure in Fethiye(Water Fighting and more) -Part 1** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/jeep-safari-adventure-in-fethiye-water-fighting-and-more-part-1-f4de2cf4
**My First Scuba Diving Experience in Fethiye** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/my-first-scuba-diving-experience-in-fethiye-255bf9a1
**Staying at the Garcia Resort and Spa in Oludeniz, Turkey** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/staying-at-the-garcia-resort-and-spa-in-oludeniz-turkey-6154f0d6
**12 Island Boat Trip in Fethiye** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/12-island-boat-trip-in-fethiye-614689bb
**Airport Transfer Service in Turkey that You Can Book Online** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/airport-transfer-service-in-turkey-that-you-can-book-online-7f7a659d
**The Best Turkish Bath Experience in Hisaronu** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/the-best-turkish-bath-experience-in-hisaronu-0a8ef67e
**How to Apply for Turkey E-Visa Online** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/how-to-apply-for-turkey-e-visa-online-612dfc4f
**Tips on Flying During the Pandemic** https://read.cash/@tired_momma/tips-on-flying-during-the-pandemic-8f05b0c2
Thank you for reading!
How Others Treat Me is Their Path and How I React is Mine
***Are you that type of person that always care what other people think? Have you ever advise anyone that they should stop caring what others people think? Or have you ever told yourself not to get hurt about what other people think?***
It's funny because if we really care what other people think, telling ourselves that we shouldn't care what other people think isn't really going to stop us from caring! And if we know somebody who really cares what other people think telling them not to care so much isn't actually stopping them from caring what other people think!
Thick skin vs Thin skin
Some of us have thick skin. Those who are unaffected by rejection or disapproval or if we are just more capable of suppressing that feeling.
Or some who have thin skin. Those who are affected by others words and action and take it to the heart as if we were stabbed.
And sometimes no matter how much we try to tell ourselves not to get affected by others we were still badly affected.
The truth is.
***We really can't simply stop taking things so personally.***
It's not a conscious choice that whenever people tell us to stop letting other people words hurts us we were able to just consciously choose in a snap whatever other people's words and actions don't hurt me. As if we have a button in our head that says "I don't give a f***!" Click, boom, "I don't care!" But there's none.
Now, how do we deal with it?
The first thing we have to do is to ask ourselves these questions,
**WHY DO I TAKE THINGS PERSONALLY?**
And,
**SHOULD I STOP CARING WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK?**
You have to answer it yourself.
But think about this.
If you stop caring what other people think, say or do, that is distancing behaviour which is what disapprovals are.
What you are doing is depriving yourself of the opportunity to see things from another perspective by not caring what other people think. We are separating ourselves from each other. We deprive ourselves of the opportunity to see ourselves in a different light. We will not develop self-awareness if we stop caring what other people think.
***The thing is we should care what every person thinks. We should not be defiant to what other people think because that is just defence.***
But remember as Teal Swan says:
*There's a difference between caring what other people think and letting our entire self-concept believe what other people think!*
I used to be with thin skin. I don't accept criticism and take everything to the heart. I don't want to get rejected. I don't wanna hear negative words or comments. Their words hurt me so badly and even if I tell myself "I don't care what they say!" the truth is I care.
But as you seek for your better self and aim for the best version of you, things started to change. You started to understand that if you see things and take them positively, you won't need to run from them and you will never get offended by them again. You deal with what other people say with an open mind. Some people are not born with zip on their mouth. And words are powerful enough to hurt one's spirit. ***But you are the one who has the last say. Your words to yourself are more powerful than the opinion of others.***
**And for all of us, may we all be aware of the words coming out of our mouth. We are not perfect and there are just things we cannot control especially our mouth and I too, am guilty of that. But we still try to be a better person who knows how to guard well thy tongue for the right reason. And to speak our mind knowing that our words are powerful to lift others or like a knife and break someone else's spirit.**
Thank you for reading.
Lead Image Credits to: shutterstock.com https://www.shutterstock.com/search/words+hurt
Bella: The Life of "Granny"
***This is a true story of a woman's remarkable achievement of love, strength and compassion in the face of adversity. A story of a wonderful woman who was born in 1874 and died in 1952 (aged 78).***
Bella was born in County Kildare in Southern Ireland. At the age of fifteen, she went to live in Scotland and worked as a cook plus other duties in the kitchen at the Balmoral House. Whilst working there, she met her future husband James Robertson who was a gamekeeper on the Balmoral Estate. James was born in Scotland.
At the age of eighteen, Bella married James who was nineteen and she had her first baby who was stillborn when she was twenty. Bella and James moved to Southern Ireland, where James continued to work as a gamekeeper. James was a heavy drinker and a bully who would beat Bella when he had been drinking. In Bella's own words "***the only time he didn't hit me was when I was pregnant***." Bella went on to have four more children in Southern Ireland, Hermione, Allan, Tynan and Jessie. Tynan died aged eight. When he died, James was in the pub all day and didn't even attend his own son's funeral.
They moved to Northern Ireland, where they had four more children, James, Agnes, Ethel and Eric. James' work as a gamekeeper was on a large country estate in Downpatrick, County Down and the relationship between Bella and James continued to deteriorate.
Subsequently, the children grew up and left home:
Agnes went to England, married and live in Berkshire.
James married and live in Belfast.
Ethel married and lived in Hollywood, Northern Ireland. Allan emigrated to America as did Jessie and Eric stayed at home.
James eventually left Bella and went off with another woman. Bella could no longer stay in the house in Downpatrick as it was a tied house (attached to James' job) so she relocated to a small cottage in Killinchy, County Down with her youngest son Eric and an adopted daughter Veronica. Eric and Vera were both still at school. To pay the rent, Bella worked for the owners of the cottage who were farmers and did household duties and odd jobs on the farm (the rent was two shillings a week).
Her daughter Agnes, who lived in England, sent her money regularly, which was a great help but she was still quite poor. After a while, she decided that since she was always so happy around children, she would become a foster mother. At that time there appeared no rules or regulations on fostering. Babies were advertised in the Belfast papers daily with a caption such as "**home wanted for baby boy**" or "**home needed for baby girl**". Bella would answer the advertisements and the mother would bring the baby to Bella and no official person was involved.
The first baby was a boy named Jackie. The mother brought him to Bella and paid her the first month's money but then never paid her again. Bella discovered that she had emigrated to Australia. However, as Bella was such a caring person, she kept the baby and brought him up.
The second baby was a boy named Alfred (Alfie) who was paid for monthly as agreed. He died at the age of 15 and the reason was unknown to them.
The third baby was a boy called Herbert whose mother paid the initial payment, then disappeared. As usual, Bella kept him.
The fourth baby was a girl called June whose mother and father were in the armed forces. They paid monthly as agreed and visited when they could.
The fifth baby was Florence (Rona) who was Veronica's baby and the sixth baby was Derek.
***Bella was a fantastic parent to all the children and they all called her "Granny".***
The foster children that Bella had were all loved and cared for. They all called "Granny" and she taught them to respect other people and would not tolerate any rudeness. She had a large garden which she tended herself and the children were allowed to have friends to play in the garden but never in the house and none of the children was allowed to go into anyone else's house.
The older children were often sent to run errands for other elderly people but were told by Granny, that they must never, ever, accept money for this. They were also taught to never take money from strangers.
On Christmas Day, June and Rona were walking home from church and a local Publican was standing outside. He came over to wish them a "Very Happy Christmas" and gave them each a florin (two-shilling piece) but they dare not take them home, so they threw both coins in the pond on the way home!
Bella although very poor was always dressed smartly when she went out. She always wore a hat, with smart boots which had laces and buttons on them and a double-breasted coat. The children all had smart clothes and shoes to go to church and school and Bella kept a spotless home although her furniture was old and shabby.
When Bella decided to foster children her own family were very hostile towards them and rarely came to visit. The daughter and son who still lived in Northern Ireland came occasionally but obviously, those who had emigrated were rarely involved. Her daughter Agnes who lived in Maidenhead, Berkshire realised that the house her mother lived in with the children was too small for all of them and bought her a much bigger house in Lisbane, County Down.
This house had quite a large garden and a field containing a small lake. There was pike in the lake and men would come and pay Bella to fish there. The fish was inedible but the men used to enjoy fishing recreationally nevertheless. Agnes always sent money to Bella but remained hostile towards the children she fostered and only ever spoke to them when she had to. She only stayed for a short time when she visited, usually a week and would constantly undermine and criticise them. The other daughter and son rarely visited as they disapproved of the children being there.
On leaving school, Jackie worked at a garage and trained to be a mechanic eventually renting his own garage and working for himself.
Herbert works on a farm before joining the army and eventually settling in Zimbabwe for a while. In later years he worked in the antique trade.
June went to work at a company called Crepe Weavers in Newtownards but as Bella was concerned about the dangers of her cycling to and from work in the dark, Agnes sold the house in Lisbane and bought Bella a house in Comber, County Down and June went to work at the mill there.
Rona first went to Comber school and then went on to the Technical College in Comber studying commercial subjects such as shorthand typing, bookkeeping and also normal "o" level subjects.
Bella always went to Belfast on a Friday and bought books to read from the market. When she had read them, she would take them on the "workhouse" with the people who are "down on their luck" were housed. She would then go to the café for a drink before catching the bus home.
And this is the story of Bella and her fostered children who she took care of as her own. For not because of her determination and loving nature, the children would never have become the close family that they were and still are.
Thank you for reading. ❤
Potty/Toilet Training Guide for Parents
***As a parent, we've been through the challenge of training our child to use the potty. There is no right or wrong way of training but choosing the right time and knowing that they are ready makes it easier for us to train them. There is no specific age to tell you that they are ready. Every child is different so it's just right not to compare them with others.***
When the children are physically ready, they can control their bowels and bladder and when they want to be dry and clean. Take note that most children can control their bowels before their bladder.
*By age 1*, most babies have stopped pooping at night
*By age 2*, some children are dry during the day, but this is still quite early
*By age 3*, they are dry most days - even then, all children have odd "accident" when they're excited or upset for example.
*By age 4,* children are reliably dry during the day
Staying dry throughout the night takes time for children to learn and sometimes, they still wet the bed at the age of 5.
When should you start?
Keep in mind that you cannot force your child to use a potty. It's a new skill for our child to use it. Learning them takes patience and we as a parent must take it slowly and go with our child's pace. Most of the children become potty trained between the ages of 2 and 3. Some are ready before they are 2 and others are not ready until after they are 3 years.
*Our children are ready for potty training when these happen:*
****THEIR BODY IS READY****
If our child can control his bladder and bowel, he is ready. As children develop at different rates, it is easier to train them when they have control over their bowel and bladder actions.
****THEIR MIND IS READY****
This is when our child knows when they've wet or soiled. Usually, the child is ready when he tugs or takes off a wet or dirty nappy. When they get to know when they're peeing and may also tell you that he needs changing. Sometimes they go hide somewhere to pee.
Common problems during potty/toilet training
Some children are easily trained and some are very challenging. Here are some common problems:
**The child won't use the potty.**
If you started potty train your child too early, this will usually happen. If the child won't use the potty, the best thing to do is to stop the training for a month or two. The child will be more likely to use it if you don't force him to sit on it.
**The child was potty trained but has started wetting/soiling again.**
This is a common problem as I had this with my daughter. She was potty trained before she was 2 and easily learned it. But when she's 3, she started wetting herself again. And from time to time have little "accidents".
****Remember****:
Don't get upset with your child when they wet/soiled themselves even if it seems like they're doing it on purpose. We can be angry but never try to show these feelings to your child.
Praise your child or give them a reward for any dry times even he is wet the rest of the day especially when he does use the potty or toilet.
**The child is constipated.**
Children vary a lot in how often they pass bowel movements. Some children go more than once a day, some go once a day, and some go once every two or three days. All these are quite normal.
If your child passes hard bowel movements once a week or less, it is likely that he is constipated. He may not want to use the potty or toilet, in case it hurts him. Make sure that he drinks a lot and eats high fibre foods such as whole-grain cereals, wholemeal bread, brown rice, beans and peas. If the problem carries on, talk to your family doctor.
*I have no problem with potty training my daughters as she learned it herself. We just bought her a potty! The key in her potty training is we bought her a baby alive potty training doll that she played with. She learns to feed it and sit the doll on the potty to pee. And when she able to control her bladder, she goes to the potty and does exactly the same thing.*
*But when she's 3, she started wetting herself again because she waited too long to go to the toilet. At night we have to put pull-ups on her so she doesn't wet the bed. And I'm glad she stopped it herself and don't want to wear a nappy any more.*
**How about you, what's your potty training experience? Do you have any tips to share with other parents? Please comment down below.**
THANK YOU FOR READING.
My Day: Sunday Adventure in the Field
*25 April 2021*
*Comber, Northern Ireland*
What a lovely day! The sun is shining brightly and unlike the other days, I can feel its heat. We get up late today, making the most to have a good rest as tomorrow we have to get up early again.
My husband is working at the garage when I grab his hand to walk with me on the lane. He doesn't want to as he is wearing his work clothes (dirty). I told him it's fine and drag him.
We walked like lovers in Paris. He said he's not going to walk far because he is dirty. We went to the field to get some dandelions for Thumper (rabbit) because he likes them. And while he's getting some, here I am playing with dandelions seeds.
Honestly, before I didn't know that the yellow ones are dandelions. And what happens is when they die off its head become seeds so the white ones are actually dandelion seeds.
After we get some dandelions for Thumper, we walk back to the house, he told me he will get change and we can ride the bike with the kids.
And so we did.
Only I and Tia are riding Mum's mobility scooter because sadly, I can't ride a bike. 😅 Since I want to learn to drive, the husband told me to start riding a bike. And warn me not to hit on the tree again.
We went up to the fields and stops at interesting things we see. The river, the horses, the flowers I'm all showing to Tia. She likes it. She likes horses.
I told her about the nettles not to touch them because it stings, it's sore and very annoying. And if ever she touched it, she gets the dock leaves and rubs it on. That's the cure for nettle sting. And it's usually beside each other.
We used to ride a bike on the lane but what I want to see is the fairy tree that they always talking about. But the river where we should pass is under construction (pipe) so it's closed. Today I'm delighted to see that they got it fixed.
It's a rocky road. Some big rocks, not easy for bikes going uphill. I got stuck many times. But the views are very rewarding. It's worth it!
Look at this!
Have you seen the fairy tree? Haha, I was so intrigued by it. And that's the tree in the middle of the field. The daughter of the owner of this land got married in there, at the fairy tree! That's where fairies live and that's what they believed ever since. Don't ask me how they know it's a fairy tree. For they will say "Because it is!" 😅
We are not allowed to go there. So we can only admire the view from afar. And look at the stunning fields and the sight of our beautiful Comber.
What a lovely day! Did you enjoy my wee tour in the fields? I hope you do.
***How about you? How's your Sunday? Share it in the comment below.***
Thank you for reading.
**Check out my recent article:**
*Cervical Screening: Why it is important to take the test?* https://read.cash/@tired_momma/cervical-screening-why-it-is-important-to-take-the-test-bec8d00c
Cervical Screening: Why it is important to take the test?
Today, I received a letter from my GP inviting me to make an appointment for a cervical test or what you called "smear test". It's been nearly three years since I had my last test which came out negative or no changes at that time.
Some women don't know the importance of regular cervical screening so I'm writing this article for you to understand why it is important to get screened.
What is cervical screening?
Cervical screening aims to prevent cervical cancer, detect and remove abnormal tissue or cells in the cervix before it develops into cervical cancer. It is also often called a smear test. This test checks the cells from your cervix. It will detect changes to the cell in your cervix so that it can be monitored or treated. If these changes are not treated, it can sometimes develop into cervical cancer.
How common is cervical cancer?
Here in Northern Ireland, each year around 83 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer. And each year, around 21 women die from cervical cancer. 8-10 cases of cervical cancer can be prevented if detected and treated early.
What causes changes to your cervical cells?
Most abnormal cell changes are caused by the ***human papillomavirus (HPV)***. There are different types of HPV and most types are harmless but the types that cause abnormal cervical cell changes are called **high-risk HPV**.
HPV is a very common infection and most women get it at some stage in their life. The virus usually clears up naturally by our body's immune system without the need for treatment and most women will never know they had it. But in some cases where the virus persists, it can damage the cervix' cells and might need treatment.
How do we get HPV?
This virus spread easily by skin to skin contact during sex. Using a condom is not guaranteed that you're protected from HPV infection. It is possible to have the infection for many years without knowing it as there are no symptoms.
Can the test detect all changes?
**No**. It's only the most changes to your cervix but the test can't find them all. And changes might also happen between tests that's why it's important to get your test done when you're invited for screening.
Who is offered screening?
All women aged 25-64 are offered screening here in Northern Ireland. We got invited every three years if aged 25-49 and every five years for 50-64.
Cervical screening is very important for anyone in this age group who:
has a cervix
and have ever been sexually active with a man or a woman
Do you need to go for screening if..
*****You have never had sex?*****
**YES**. There's less risk of you having HPV however, the virus can be passed on through sexual activity other than full intercourse.
*****You haven't had sex for a long time?*****
**YES**. It can take many years for changes in your cervix to develop. So you need to get screened regularly if you've ever been sexually active.
*****You're a lesbian/bisexual?*****
**YES**. Just like other transmitted infection, human papillomavirus spreads by intimate skin to skin contact. If you are a lesbian or bisexual woman, you still can get infected with the virus and develop cervical cancer.
*****You had the HPV vaccine?*****
**YES**. The vaccine is now offered to pupils 12-13 years (Year 9), which only protects against two of the " high risk" those of HPV. If you picked up a virus before the vaccine, it doesn't protect you against the infection.
*****You are pregnant?*****
**YES**. You can still take the test even when you're pregnant.
*****You past menopause?*****
**YES**. Like I've told you before, women can get it at some time in her life. Women in all age group are prone and can get cervical cancer.
Where do I go for screening?
Here in Northern Ireland, screening can be done by the nurse or doctor at our GP clinic. In the Philippines, you can go ask your Ob-gyne.
What will happen at the appointment?
Wear a loose skirt or dress as you will be asked to undress from the waist down. Then they will ask you to lie on your back with your legs up and your knees apart. They will cover your lower body with a sheet.
They will use an instrument called a **speculum**. It will be inserted into your vagina to hold it open then a small soft brush will then use to pick up a sample of cells by wiling it over your cervix. The sample will be sent to the laboratory to be examined.
The screening only takes about 10 minutes and is not painful but some women like me find it uncomfortable. You may experience spotting afterwards but don't worry, it's normal.
Cervical screening result
According to data, 9 out of 10 women's result shows no changes in their cervix. While 1 in 10 women who shows changes to cells usually get treated before it turn into cancer.
The results may show:
**Normal cells**– Your sample showed no changes to the cells in your cervix and also called a *negative result*. In three years or five years, you will be asked to come for your regular screening again.
**The result was unclear -** Which may mean that there were not enough cells in the sample. Having your period or an infection may also have affected the result. You will be asked to redo the test again.
**Abnormal cells** – Your sample showed some type of change to the cells. It depends on the type of change if you need a further test to find out if you need treatment.
Getting screened regularly is the best way to reduce your risk of cervical cancer. And you can also help prevent the spread of the virus by practising safer sex!
***I hope I help you to understand the importance of cervical screening and for you to get checked regularly. If you have any questions or had screening before, will you share your experience in a comment below?***
Thank you for reading.
The Girl in the Mirror
She looked at herself in the mirror and see a familiar face. Who is she? Who is she, the one in front of me? I can't recognize her anymore. She used to be so pretty. She used to smile so beautifully. Her heart so pure, very nice and kind. Now all she has is a fake smile on her face. A fake emotion in front of others. Now, even her own reflection is betraying her.
*What happens?*
Did someone break her heart? Did someone break her trust? What badness others have done for her to suffer and change so pretty bad?
Is it a superficial wound that can be treated? When she got hit and wasn't treated right? A deep wound that leave a scar? For her to remember for the rest of time? Or a wound in her heart? That leave a hole, though it's beating, still, it's not the same as before.
*Love..*
Love, the love in her. She's full of love. But the love she had for herself are all but gone. She's empty inside. Did you take advantage of her innocent smile? Her undying love?
*Love*..
The love she gave for others, what did she get in return? Is she still a human with a heart that is broken? Are you still human, for hurting others feeling? Or maybe you don't have feelings to begin with?
Your harsh word, can you not say something nice? If you speak your mind, is there any way you can say without hurting others much? There's always a good way, a nice way, a positive way, why don't we choose that?
And how about your lies? Why keep lying to me? And when I'm doing my best, why everyone keeps trying to kill the passion in me? The fire inside me. You are crushing my soul. Your tongue is so powerful, you hit me at my core.
With all the problems in the world. Some days they come all at once. They attacked me without my guard. And poor me, I kneeled into the ground.
And what do I do?
**I pray**. I ask for light. To whom? To my **God**. I ask to bring back the smile on my face and love in my heart. I'm still in the process. I will be victorious. In the end, it should be **me** who need to ***take back my crown***. I have to put it back, ***where it belongs***.
~The conversation in my mirror.
Dear beautiful,
If you're experiencing this kind of conversation right now, please remember that you are not alone. I've been there and I know how hard and awful it feels. But always remember, you are a queen. Regain your throne. Take back your crown. It belongs to you.
I love you. ❤
THANK YOU FOR READING!
*Check out my other articles.*
Lead Image: Unsplash.com https://unsplash.com/photos/l2NRQNkQ2Qk
The Last Movie We Watched at the Cinema
One more thing I missed with this pandemic aside from travelling is going to the pictures. Why do they call it pictures here in the UK? The husband said that it's the old way of saying it but movie house or cinema they are just all the same.
Well, I know that watching a movie in the comfort of your home if you have **Netflix** or an internet connection sometimes more practical than spending money to watch in the cinema. But for me and my husband it's our bonding date especially on a special occasion like Valentines Day, Mother/Father's Day, our Birthdays and when the *Fast and Furious* is showing. We're disappointed because Fast 9 should be released last year but because of the pandemic, everything was cancelled even *James Bond*.
What's the last movie we've seen?
***Bad Boys for Life***, that's the last one we've seen in the pictures in February 2020 for our Valentines Date. It is an action comedy film starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. It's the sequel to ***Bad Boys II*** in 2003.
I think I like the idea that none of us will fall asleep while watching it unlike what normally happens if were watching a movie at home. And of course, having drinks and popcorn while watching is much enjoyable.
***Let me show you how excited he is, he's trying to hurry me when I wanted to take a picture for the Nth time and asking him to smile***. 🤣
I like the fact that it's just the two of us. A time out with kids feels so good. It's like a parents break back to the future when we're just dating. At least for a couple of hours, it's just the two of us. It's keeping the love alive, lol.
I laugh when we already eat half of the popcorn and the movie not started yet. And he wanted to go out to buy more and a bar of sweets. 🙈
I told him, next time I will bring popcorn from the shop and some sweets in the house so we do not spend much as the ticket is dear enough. He just laughs at my suggestion. I will surely do it next time. Haha.
I don't think that many people watching at that time. Maybe less than 10. It's before the first lockdown was announced. Before Covid take over and ruin our plans and still is. Common Covid, leave us be! Go to Mars or somewhere with the aliens and just live us, humans, here. We already have our problems before you, then you came and gave us more. Sad.
What we really looking forward now to see is the *Fast and Furious 9.* When will it release? Hopefully this year. When it's safer. When other shops that we're closed because of lockdown reopen. When there's a go signal from the government. Finger crossed will see the end of it and can go back to normal whatever out normal is.
How about you? What's the last movie you watched in the cinema?
Thank you for reading.
Using Bitcoin Cash to Send Money to my Family in the Philippines from the Uk
***Sending money has never been easier, thanks to Bitcoin Cash. I don't need to go to the remittance centre, queue and pay a dear charge for sending money to my family abroad.***
Hi, my name is Jocelyn a.k.a tired_momma and currently living here in Northern Ireland with my family. Just like others, we love to send money back home which mine is in the Philippines especially when there's a special occasion to show our love and support. And that's just us! OFW's and Filipinos abroad can relate to that.
Before, I use **MoneyGram money transfer**. I have to go to the Post Office, queue and pay. And no matter how much I send, the charge for sending it is £9.90. Isn't it just dear? But what can I do? I have no choice. Please see the receipt.
Glad I came across read.cash and been introduced to Bitcoin Cash. Sending money was never been easier, no more fuss and just for a small .001 fee, what can I ask for? Happy days! Now this is the right choice. Why I waste £9.90 for just fee before? Unbelievable!
How do I send Bitcoin Cash through Binance? Let me show you.
**So this is my BCH account. Not much.**
**Super easy, no brainer just click the withdrawal button.**
**Put the amount you want to send. This time I want to send .32 BCH and look at the transaction fee! It says .001 BCH, not even a dollar and thank goodness, not £9.90 like how MoneyGram charges me in every transaction.**
**And then check before confirming! Make sure you're sending it to the right address. Double check!**
**Then Voila your withdrawal request is submitted! Easy peasy!**
**You will receive an email from Binance regarding your withdrawal.**
And your family just have to wait for it! We have Coins.ph back home and very easy to use to buy and sell cryptocurrency and many others and there is were I send Bitcoin Cash.
I teach all my siblings about coins.ph and they all have it. They know that it's easy to convert any cryptocurrency to Philippine Peso. And advise them to invest in Bitcoin Cash. My sisters and brother-in-law are all had some Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash on their accounts. I'm thrilled when they started.
Bitcoin Cash is the Real Bitcoin Good as Cash
***And yes Bitcoin Cash is real Bitcoin and Cash to me. Sending money at the comfort of my home and for a small fee. I will just use Bitcoin Cash to send money back home!💚***
***I send, I save!***
***How about you, what's your Bitcoin Cash story?***
Thank you for reading. 💚
Lead Image: Bitcoin.com
Share the Love with my Siblings
***10 April 2021*** *we celebrate* ***National Siblings Day****. Thanks to* @LykeLyca *after reading her article about National Siblings Day inspires me to write this.*
First of all, I am blessed to have a wonderful loving family.
I am the eldest of five. And just like other family, things weren't always easy and problem is always part of the journey. Tough times sometimes are really tougher than what you think. We've been through all the ups and the downs of life but we stayed all together.
Being the eldest is full of responsibility from a young age. That's why I grow up being independent because I have to rely on myself and my siblings rely on me. Those times my father was working very hard for us but you know, those time even you work hard, the money to feed the family still not enough. So I have to work and made my own money to help my parents.
Look at my beautiful and handsome siblings. All our names started in"**J**" so we are **J Brosters**. I'm always proud of them. I have to give up my study to support my sister. I didn't get a diploma but my sister did finish with flying colours. She is now a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). I was very proud the moment she graduates and over the moon when she passed her board exam. It's all worth it.
Then my sister, both of us help the rest and now they all have jobs and independent. I felt so light after that, it wasn't a burden but a responsibility that I, myself took. My family knows me so well, if they need me or anything I will always be there and will always help in any way I can. I don't have many friends, they are my family and my friends. They are my great stress relievers. They are always there when I need them. We always have a good laugh. We love playing cards! Of course, I always win. 😂
We are all close. We defend and help each other through thick and thin. Our bond is unbreakable. I still remember how we share a can of sardines and we still do now that we are old.
**Do you know what's the best thing my siblings given to me?**
***It's their love and respect. I am loved and more than that I'm being respected.***
**I love you J Brosters! Belated Happy Siblings Day!**
And to you who's reading this Happy Siblings Day! We're brothers and sisters in heart. ❤
Hodl your Bitcoin Cash
**Crypto trading has been a roller coaster ride for me. And I'm still on the ride still hanging tight. I'm enjoying the ride and at times screaming and worst days, puking.**
Like I told you the last time, trading is not for the faint-hearted. If losing a dollar in your account seems unbearable then trading will give you a heart attack when the market is unfavourable.
I lose thousands of pounds and cry over it. Like why I invest? To earn money. Why I'm losing money? Because I'm stupid. And in trading, you can be smart and bloody stupid at the same time. The thing with the market is you can't be 100% accurate. The market is volatile, you must play your cards right. But it is never right so you just have to play. But make sure you are holding the winning cards, cards that are worth fighting for. Cryptos you are sure of not just cryptos you just heard of.
Do you keep your Bitcoin Cash earning? I hope you do. I will hodl my Bitcoin Cash because I believe, the time will come I will tell myself,
**"Good job, I hodl BCH!"**
I hope we, all who are here in read.cash and noise.cash can say "**Cheers**!" to each other because we are hodling Bitcoin Cash when it reaches the moon. I hope we all be screaming because we hold the right card and not be puking and crying because of our weak hands.
Hodl your BCH. That's your ticket to the moon.
Cheers!
Out of the blue, I am writing this. I have a glass of wine in my hand. Don't worry I only drink some to help me have a good sleep and I'm not an alcoholic. I love my wine, it numbs my body.
It's funny that we have a cupboard full of vodka, gin and whisky but no one drinks it. Mum drinks vodka only on New Year's eve. And those drinks been there for more than 20 years.
My husband only drinks if we're on holiday. If we went to a bar, and have to order a drink for us to stay and enjoy the night. If he drinks 3 beer he will be drunk and start talking shite. Most of the time he confesses his undying love for me which is music to my ears. But it's only happened once in a Blue Moon, he drinks one or two beer just.
And me, I got drunk if I drink a full glass of wine. I put my wine in my room, red wine, white wine but most especially Moscato as I can only drink if it's not strong and I like it sweet. Too much wine is bad for me and worst for my husband for he knows I won't shut up and will be starting to talk nonsense and ask silly questions and bring back the past. In or worst-case scenario, I will rape him. I'm sure he likes it.
I remember the last time I got drunk, I slept on the floor for he will not carry me to the bed because he said I'm heavy because I'm getting fat. He's only making that up because the truth is he cannot lift me because of his back. He's getting old. And I'm still sexy, he's the fat one. Unbelievable! He used to be sexy like me. Oh well, I must feed him well. I take that as a compliment. No matter what he's the one I'm going to grow old with. I'll wipe his bum and change his nappy when the time comes.
Ok, let me get back on my drink. Before I tell you something more stupid than what I'm writing now. I'm not yet drunk, I still can write and think. I hope I can drink with yous while having a chat. And can say, cheers and have a good laugh.
Good night.
Killyleagh Castle in County Down, Northern Ireland
**Killyleagh Castle is the oldest inhabited castle located in the small village of Killyleagh, County Down, Northern Ireland. You will not miss this when you're in the area as it overwhelms the village. The castle has its parts which are dating back to 1180.**
The architectural style of the castle follows the style of a Loire Valley chateau and being redesigned by renowned architect **Sir Charles Lanyon** in the mid-19th century. If you read my article about the Scrabo Tower here in Newtownards, Sir Charles Lanyon was also the one behind its design. Killyleagh Castle was owned by the Hamilton family since the early 17th century.
This castle is currently the home of **Gawn Rowan Hamilton** and his young family. Killyleagh castle hosts concerts and some of the performers include *Bap Kennedy, Glen Hansard and Van Morrison*. Also, this castle was used to film the CBBC show **"Dani's Castle"** from 2012-2014.
There's also a War Memorial on the right-hand side of the gate.
History
***In the 12th century, Killyleagh was settled by Norman knight John de Courcy who built fortifications in 1180 on the site of the castle as part of fortifications around the Strangford Lough for protection from the Vikings.***
In 1602, large tracts of North Down including Killyleagh was owned by Gaelic chieftain Con O'Neill of Clandeboye. O'Neill's wife made a deal to give half of O'Neill's land to Scots aristocrat Hugh Montgomery if he could get a royal pardon for O'Neill when he sent his men to attack English soldiers after a disagreement and consequently they were imprisoned.
Montgomery obtained the pardon, however, King James I divided the land in three wherein the area from Killyleagh to Bangor went to James Hamilton who later becomes the 1st Viscount of Clandeboye. Killyleagh has a map from 1625 showing that the castle has a single tower on the south side of a residence. Hamilton moved from Bangor to Killyleagh Castle in about 1625 where he built the courtyard walls.
And this castle has been home to Hamilton ever since.
I've been here yesterday after taking the kids to school and finishing some errands. Unfortunately, because of the pandemic, the castle is close to visitors so I can't go inside. But still, I had my moment to make the most out of it.
❤Thank you for reading and hope you enjoy it! ❤
Tia Turns 5
**Time flies, a baby in my arms who used to cry at the top of her lungs is now 5. I'm a proud Momma. ❤**
She enjoys her birthday last Friday. We rent a bouncy castle (that her dad enjoyed 😜) and I cook her favourite spaghetti and got her unicorn and Peppa pig cake. This is the first time that she celebrates like this. Nothing fancy except for her smile which matters the most.
Let me share with you our story.
It all started with this,
I can't tell you how many "****F* me***" words her Dad had when I put in his hands those pregnancy test. He almost fainted. It wasn't planned, but everything is meant to be.
At six months my cervix is already open and she's so excited she already wants to come out. It's just that Daddy wasn't there, he needs to fly to Northern Ireland and come back as soon as possible.
At that time I'm still working full-time. My doctor wants to confine me, for a week I just lie in the bed in the hospital with dextrose and after a week, I couldn't take it anymore. I signed a waiver for me to go home and I will just continue my bed rest in the comfort of our house without paying the hotel rate, I mean hospital rate.
I think she just waiting for her Daddy to be home so she can come out. Daddy's home and my water broke. She's only 8 months. She was given a steroid to help her lungs as it's not fully mature.
During a time in the hospital, my labor pain starts. It was unbearable. I cried. The baby is coming out but my doctor wasn't there yet. She's really coming out, I scream! The nurse tried to close my legs but I didn't let her. Scream. I passed out.
When I wake up I thought I'm still giving birth only to find out that their just cleaning me.
The first question I ask my doctor was "What colour is her eyes?" 😅 I really want her to get her Dad's blue eyes but let's face the truth that she's my child and got mine.
And though she's not a full-term baby she's the biggest in the nursery at that time. Her skin was yellow, jaundice you call it but after weeks of the morning sun, she's perfect.
When I went back to work her Dad is the one looking after her in the house. I'm not really a house person at that time and I won't give up my job. And that's why I don't complain about being a full-time Mom now because my husband did it while I was working back home in the Philippines. And never did he complain.
See? All the pain is worth it for my little princess. And on her 5th birthday, we tried our best to make her happy. She said, "**This is the best day ever!**" And she hugs me tight and said "**Thank you, Mommy!**" That was amazing. I'm over the moon. ❤
Thank you all for the birthday wishes at noise.cash! 🥰 You all are awesome! 😊
*It's nice to be writing again. It's been 3 weeks since my last article. The lockdown and homeschooling held me back as my kids are my priority. But now they are back in school! Hooray!*
Let me get back on track. I missed writing and I missed you all lovely people!
Thank you!
How to Save Money the Japanese Way?
**In this modern-day world where spending money was as easy as just a click to pay or just one tap of our card, spending becomes effortless and saving money becomes a challenge for most of us.**
Have you ever been to the shop to get a couple of items and went back home with two bags in your hand, even forgot what you went there for? It happens to me. And it always happens if I let my husband do the shopping alone.
Shops did a very good job to make us buy something impulsively. They know where to put an item to catch our attention and for you to buy them without thinking. Hence, overspending becomes our issue.
Do you struggle to manage your finances?
Let me show you this Japanese method of saving money which is very simple and doable. Anyone can start this simple trick to save!
Kakeibo
Kakeibo comes from the Japanese term meaning "*Household Financial Ledger*". It was invented in 1904 by a woman named Hani Motoko -Japan's first female journalist.
***This Kakeibo method is a solution to our mindless spending habits. This budgeting system combines tracking our spending with the habit of being mindful of our purchases to cut unnecessary spending and help us achieve our savings goals.***
You don't need much, no technology involved, just a notebook and a pen and this will be your budgeting journal. First, you have to ask yourself these questions and set your financial goals:
**How much money do you have?**
**How much would you like to save?**
**How much do you spend?**
**How can you improve?**
This method includes tracking your expenses, put them in categories and review your expenses at the end of every month.
Kakeibo requires us to write down everything we buy and to simplify our budget by grouping our purchases into four categories:
**Needs.** The essentials, things we can live without like food, groceries, bill payments.
**Wants**. Purchases we enjoy but unnecessary like-new clothes, takeout food, entertainment.
**Culture**. These are the spending on cultural activities such as books, going to pictures or museums.
**Unexpected**. These are other expenses that we were not expecting like medical bills or home repairs.
The four-category system can help us become more mindful of our spending habits and avoid wasting money on things that don’t align with our goals.
Why Use Kakeibo
Kakeibo is a great tool we can use to save money because it teaches us to be mindful of our purchases making sure that our hard-earned money goes to where it should be with less regrets of unnecessary purchases at the end. Our purpose is to save money and as the research says, kakeibo can make you 35% richer overtime.
Did you know the benefits of writing our finances by hand helps us to be more present and aware. It helps us to become completely honest about our needs and wants. Therefore, it helps us to become **self-aware** instead of being **image-conscious**.
Some benefits of kakeibo are:
It simplifies our finances by grouping spending into four distinct categories.
It encourages realistic monthly savings goals.
It pays attention to the present, past and future.
It encourages saving small amounts daily rather than occasional big sums.
It celebrates small achievements.
How to use Kakeibo
**Establish your Budget.**
Write down your monthly income and your fixed expenses. Then take away your expenses from your income to determine how much money you have left to work out for your monthly spending.
**Set your saving goal for the month**.
You have to set a goal. How much do you want to save? Make a realistic saving goal as this is an important part of kakeibo. Once you’ve decided your goal, set aside that money by deducting your goal amount from your available spending money.
**Keep Track of Your Spending**.
Using the Kakeibo method, before purchasing non-essential items or things you want but not necessarily needed, you must ask yourself these questions:
Can I live without this item?
Can I afford it?
Will I use it?
Do I have space for it?
How did I come across it? (While window shopping?)
How do I feel about buying it and how do I feel before buying it?
**Calculate the money spent in each category.**
How much money did you spend on needs, wants, cultural and unexpected expenses? Keep track, write it down, compute.
**Calculate the money spent and saved.**
Now you have to add it all up, all the purchases and deduct it from your budget. The amount left is the money you save. Now compare it to your desired goal.
**Assess your performance.**
Did you meet your goal? If yes, well done if not, cheer up and work it out the next month.
*To master this saving method, you have to remember to be mindful. You have to pay close attention to your spending. You must write down your spendings as you go. Remember that this is your journal to be updated from time to time. And make sure at the end of the month after assessing your performance to embrace setbacks if you didn't meet your goal for that month. Reflect on what had happened and move forward.*
**This takes time to master, if you keep doing kakeibo, it will be a habit.**
**Let's go save money the Japanese way!**
Thank you so much for reading.
Unsolved Mystery: Death of Elisa Lam
While browsing the Netflix I saw this on the trending page "**CRIME SCENE The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel**" which sounds familiar to me. I can't remember how so I play it and then I realize it's her, the girl in the elevator which go viral in 2013 as she went missing at the Cecil Hotel and the shocking find of her body.
**Elisa Lam Story**
Elisa was 21 years old when she disappeared in 2013 at the Cecil Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. She is a Canadian student and travelling alone across the US at the time.
She was reported missing by her family when they find it strange when they didn't hear anything from her. So the police investigate.
**Strange Behavior at the Elevator**
https://youtu.be/pdq1wdx9ggs
The last moments that Elisa Lam was seen alive was caught at the CCTV footage at the hotel's elevator which was released by LA police. You will see in the video that Elisa steps in and out and keep checking the hallways and did it several times as if someone in there.
One last time, you will see her standing outside the elevator as if she was talking to someone unseen and making these creepy hand gestures. And that's the last time she was seen alive, she was never seen again.
**Her Body Was Found**
Finally, her body was found 19 days after she was reported missing. This was after guests in the hotel complained about the low water pressure and the foul smell and weird taste of the water. The hotel manager told the maintenance.
The hotel maintenance checked the water tank at the roof and saw Elisa's body floating. The police arrived at the scene. She still has the same clothes when she was missing and all her belongings were inside the tank. Her body was in decomposition state
**The Infamous Cecil Hotel**
The Cecil Hotel was not a typical hotel. It has already had a bad reputation before Elisa's death. It has a history of suicides, overdoses, and several killers had stayed in this hotel.
And the fact that it was in the centre of downtown LA which has a massive homelessness problem. People are living on the streets. The police looking at this angle as well.
**My questions before was:**
*How did she get into the tank?*
*Is there someone outside the elevator?*
*What is that weird hand gestures mean?*
*Is supernatural have to do with her death?*
*Did she do it herself because she's hallucinating, the fact that she has bipolar disorder?*
And thinking that some guests in the hotel drink water and use the water from the tank with her decomposing body is really disturbing.
**CRIME SCENE The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel is available to watch now on Netflix.**
https://youtu.be/UkoboFsY9_g
*This is a docuseries with four episodes. I haven't seen it yet. Maybe I will tonight. What's new, any updates? I don't really know if they will find the truth about her death but everyone wants to know,*
What really happened to Elisa Lam?
***Thank you for reading.***
***Tell me, have you already seen this on Netflix, what's new?***
***Cheers***!
@tired_momma
