I Love/Hate America

MY TV OPTIONS

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 18:53:41 -0400

Right now, I am not satisfied with our cable TV provider. First of all, it's very expensive , and secondly it does not carry the Filipino channel. It is disappointing because when homesickness strikes me, there is really nothing I can count to appease the feeling. I used to go to my aunt's house just to watch the Filipino channel on her big screen. Although, she just live 15 minutes away, I don't want to bother her every time I feel like I want to be entertained.

I want to get the direct TV because I've heard there are enormous options to choose from. Our current cable TV, of course, feature wide choices but most of them are crappy. Besides paying exorbitant monthly charges to our provider, I am not satisfied with their customer service. So, I went online and found a direct TV satellite option that is available in my area. I just chose the appropriate direct satellite TV for me. The best thing is the Filipino channel is also available in direct TV which is quite important to my selection.

But I have to bug my dear hubby about this. He also wants the same thing as I do, so convincing him to transfer and get direct TV will be easy. His TV options are similar to mine because we both love sports, movies and local news. Knowing there is Filipino channel too will make him happy. I can't wait to have a new TV provider installed in our home.

AN AMERICAN WANTS TO SPEAK TAGALOG

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:33:05 -0400

Most Americans only speak one language---English. A few speak another language other than English and fewer speak 3 or more. Of course, this does not pose a problem unless speaking to some immigrants who never read, write or speak English. Well, that's another story to be told.

My husband is American and like any typical American, he speaks English only. Early in our dating moments, I had only taught 2 Tagalog (the Philippines' national language) phrases to my husband. One is "maganda" (good, beautiful) and "mahal kita" (I love you). Oh, and there's this bad word which he picked up from another American married to a Filipina. I won't say it here. Hehehe! But when we got married, I really did not think about teaching him Tagalog because he never expressed interest. Besides, I also speak Bisaya, my first language. which made me quite hesitant in figuring out what language I think he should speak and be able to understand. Yet, he was able to grasp some Tagalog words and phrases which he learned by hearing me speak them a million times such as;

Salamat ---Thank you

Talaga ---Really, Absolutely

Kain tayo ---Let's eat

Mataray ---Bitchy, bitch, arrogant

Mabaho ----stinky, having bad odor

Basura ---Trash, garbage, crap

Masarap ---Delicious, tasty, yummy

Kamusta ka? (the same in Bisaya)---How are you?

Puwet mo may sugat ---Your tushy has a booboo

Sige---okay , alright(actually no accurate English translation)

And a Bisaya word; Ambot---I do not know

However, in Filipino parties and gatherings, I could not mingle around as much as I want to, because I had to stay with him so he would not get bored listening to us speaking Bisaya or Tagalog. Of course, my countrymen converse with him, get him to drink beer and sing videoke. But there are times, he'd be left out. While he's around, we try to gab in English, but there were lots of times, we unconsciously slip into Bisaya or Tagalog again. Then the Tagalog and Bisaya chatter become noise which are all just seem to be buzzing around my poor husband's ears.

A few days ago, my mother called to make sure if my husband is coming with us to the Philippines next year. You see, Mama plans way too ahead all the time. She is a great planner and plans everything at the soonest time possible. She said she's making arrangements with her friend who can give her discounts in Pearl Farm Beach Resort next year. I told Mama, of course, he'll be coming. This is going to be his first trip to the Philippines. As expected, there will be a bountiful assembly of relatives and kin eager to meet him when we get there. Inevitably, they all will speak like sounds of humming bees.

I then realized I need to teach him the language. Now , the dilemma is, which language? Bisaya or Tagalog? I figured it would be Tagalog since it's the language that all Filipinos know how to speak. Then I started teaching him, giving him specific instructions on how to speak it right. (My hubby speaks Tagalog with a nasal twang...and it was quite hard to get him rid of it). Since I am no teacher, I did a bad job and I couldn't make him come up a sentence of his own. My method of teaching is probably no way exemplary. I just blurted out phrases and their English translations, and hoped he memorizes all of them. He told me that I need to repeat the words as much as I can, and also explain to him how those words are used. He teased me as the "worst language teacher ever " in the world. LOL!

Unsatisfied with the job I did, he went online to search for CD Tagalog learning instructions. Because he logged on to Itunes which provides listening previews, he listened to each one of the Speak Tagalog learning series CDs available. The funny thing is, they are all the same---the same method I used. Just tossing some Tagalog phrases and literally translating them.

We ended up purchasing the Rosetta Stone which comes with a pricey tag but we got it a discounted price of a little bit more than $200. Reading the user reviews, it was worth it because it guarantees quick and easy learning. We're still awaiting for the package to come.

I'm absolutely excited going back home again in 12 months. And the great thing is , my folks will finally meet my husband while never having to worry about him getting bored due to his inability to speak the language. At first he thought he'd just stay for 2 weeks, but I guess this time, I could make him linger for a month, now that I'm confident he can speak and understand simple Tagalog.

Anyway, how about you, if you're American or British, do you know any other language other than English? If not, what language are you willing to learn? If you're Filipino, aside from English, what other language do you want to speak?

WHAT D'YA SAY, YOU HAVE NICE BITCHES TOO?

TO BAG OR NOT TO BUG? (WHAT D'YA SAY PART 2)

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FAST CASH

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:32:27 -0400

Many people now are suffering from financial difficulties brought by the world's economic crisis. We struggle with credit card debt and other financial loans that we really need to make. We sometimes wonder if we could just borrow money for necessary purchases and those that require immediate action such as emergencies without the dangers and traps of debts from credit card companies and banks. So, wouldn't it be great if we could just lend money in cash and pay in cash also to avoid creating another pile of debt? Paying it back in cash directly from our pay cheques liberates us from high interest rates normally charged by credit card companies. I have heard of those payday loans which actually makes this possible by lending us money instantly.

Payday loans are cash advances that we can get the next day after we apply for it. It can be done online, such as through Cashnetusa.com. Online approvals for loans up to $700 can be done right in the privacy of our homes. When we really need money in a jiffy, we can now apply for fast cash. It's quick , easy and does not require a lot of those extra paperwork. The best thing about payday loans like these, it lets us clinch money without raking up a credit card debt or the risk of overdraft account fees. The money is sent right to our bank account on the next business day. And on the next paycheck date, we can easily repay.

But what about those who have bad credit? The good news is, as easy it is to apply, and as quick as the money arrives, the " bad credit loan " is briskly available to people with bad credit. It's a great thing that they do understand that there are always be money problems desperately crying for help. Payday loans is a means that can control the situation, without trapping us into more debt. Especially, in times like these, we really need measures to help us in our dire financial needs, without really having to wait and having to fear of more credit card debt.

I LIVE IN THE RICHEST STATE

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:34:33 -0400

When Filipinos asked me where in the U.S.A. I live, I would reply, "Connecticut" and then add, "that's a state north of New York." Outside the U.S. shores, Connecticut does not ring a bell. A few foreigners know where exactly it is. What's familiar to them are the popular states such as California, New York and Florida. Others also have the knowledge of such states like Massachusetts, Illinois and Texas but don't know where are their locations. However, Connecticut---it sounds strange and seems to be somewhere around the middle of the American mainland.

Geographically, Connecticut (CT) is located on the northeastern-most part of the U.S., north of New York and south of Massachusetts. It is actually a "bedroom community" of New York City. A lot of of people who work in New York City travel home each day to CT. Connecticut is not recognizable for any striking and remarkable tourist spot, nor of any distinct geographical feature. The state is a picture of mainstream America, but there is one asset that Connecticut holds---its money. It is "home of the wealthiest of the upper class."

Connecticut had been ranked number 1 in the top richest states in America for 7 years in a row. Last 2007, it was outranked by Maryland and fell down to 3rd among the 50 states. New Jersey who placed 1st too for several years went down to 2nd. Though there is a drop in its rankings, the decrease is insignificant because Fairfield county in CT, is ranked the 5th richest county (based on the median household income) in the whole of America if not the world.

1st    Maryland                    $68,080
2nd   New Jersey               $67,035
3rd    Connecticut                $65,967
4th    Alaska                       $64,333
5th    Hawaii                       $63,746
6th    New Hampshire           $62,369
7th    Massachusetts           $62,365
8th    California                   $59,948
9th    Virginia                    $59,562
10th   Washington (state)     $59,551

Aside from this ranking, Connecticut is also the number 1 state with the most number of towns/cities that earn above the national average household income.

1st     Connecticut            82.8% (meaning , more than 80% of its towns/cities earn the                                                     national average household income)
2nd    New Jersey           76.4%
3rd    Massachusetts         73.6%
4th    Rhode Island            69.2 %
5th    Maryland                 53.8%
6th    New Hampshire         52.4%
7th    New York                48.4%
8th    California                40.3%
9th    Florida                   37.8%
10th   Delaware               37.3%

It's a normal sight in the tree-lined suburbs in CT, the ridiculously expensive houses, luxurious fast cars and gas-guzzlers, and snooty neighborhoods. Porsches, Hummers, BMW's, Rolls Royces, and Bentleys wheel on the roads. A million-dollar home is considered average-looking dwelling. Because of Connecticut's proximity to Ivy League schools such as Yale, Columbia, Harvard, Princeton, and Cornell, its residents boast of the most intelligent people.

Although Connecticut is the wealthiest and most intelligent state, it contributes the least amount to charity and the highest usage of teen heroine. It is also a state where Yankee fans thrive among the Red Sox die-hards. It's also one of the coldest states where winters can really be bitter.

When my husband and I just got married, I moved in to his tiny one-bedroom apartment in Greenwich, a town in Fairfield County. He chose to reside in Greenwich because it is the nearest town to his New York workplace. Our neighbors then include Diana Ross; and Greenwich was the film locale of the movie, "Stepford Wives." At the time we decided to be homeowners, we could never find a property in the Fairfield county that we could afford. So we moved up north of CT where most of the poorest towns are. So, don't be fooled by its "rich title", there are still poor souls eking out among CT --amidst the cracks of Bridgeport, Stratford, New Haven and Hartford (the state's capital). We were able to buy a condo unit in between New Haven and Hamden towns. It's the only place we could purchase a property within our budget. Even if we earn $80,000 a year, it's just like making $40,000 because of the expensive housing costs. It's like having to be rich in order to be poor in CT.

Yea I live in the poorest town in the richest state. If you think that's not bad, I have to tell you that it's worse than anyone think. 31 % of Connecticut's households live below the poverty line with incomes lower than $34,999. Although we don't earn that measly, being in CT makes us feel poor.

It sucks to live in a very cold, very expensive, very rich suburbia in Connecticut. It's kinda depressing. But one of these days, soon, my husband and I would be leaving this place and move down south or head west. Some place where we just belong and somewhere that we can afford to live. Soon that day will come.

Meanwhile, I still live int richest state.

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KEYLESS LOCK SYSTEM

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 21:58:38 -0400

My mother is 66 years old and she is a very active and sprightly lady who still enjoys working, gardening, reading and watching movies. Although her mind is alert on remembering dates and important events, however, my mother has a hard time keeping her keys with her all the time. She keeps misplacing them, leaving them everywhere or losing them. There were so many times she had to call us up for help or her friend's help. It can be really frustrating.

She lives in New York , with a roommate. However, there are times, the roommate is not home. So it's really a big dilemma whenever she forgets her keys or loses her keys. I then suggested that they get these keyless lock and have it installed in their apartment. This is a lock system where she can just place her finger on the lock , and there the door opens. People lose keys but it's rare that people lose their fingers. Hence, this innovative way of fingerprint door locks is really great for someone like my mom who constantly forgets her keys or loses her keys.

I recently learned about this concept online. Aside from residential fingerprint door locks, there are also commercial fingerprint door locks available for businesses, offices and enterprises. Most of them fit most doors and even decorative doors and come with a variety of types to suit one's preferences. I really would like my mother to have this in her apartment. It's like an assurance for me that my mother is safe, and will never have a hard time again even if she forgets her keys.

THIS MAY LOOK COOL BUT MAY UGLY-FY YOU

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 21:33:31 -0400

Have you ever wondered that those appliances in one's teeth signify coolness? Or un-coolness? Actually, both. In a tiny country in the Pacific, orthodontic braces strike up a status symbol. But in the U.S.A., those dental appliances apply images of "geeky-ness, nerdy-ness, weird-ness, dolt-ness and dorky-ness. Nobody desires to wear those tacky metal thingies around the mouth. It is probably the least idea of something Americans need to wear even for children. It makes anyone unattactive, though, no matter what they promise---to produce a better smile. Braces are branded simply unappealing.

But to those who live in the Philippines, braces picture an image of "coolness" and "wealth" --anyone wearing braces around the teeth are "rich." Donning orthodontic braces meant a very important status symbol. Grin wider and you'll announce to the whole world that you've got the bucks and living a trendy lifestyle. I am not kidding, but braces in the Philippines connote such images similar to wearing a Rolex in your wrist. In those tiny islands, almost every material thing bespeak an image. Louis Vuitton bags, cellphones, Starbucks, and clothing from American retail stores represent the kind of life you're living.

I know a lot of people back home wanting to have those metal appliances installed to their teeth though their smiles are perfect. Even if nothing's wrong with the teeth, they pay big bucks to have those painful metals placed. Didn't they know it uglifies them? I used to wear braces when I was a teenager. I never liked it but I had to. But I never knew then those foolish representations others attached to those metal brackets. So when someone I know expressed her desire to get those orthodontic fixtures, I told her to get the Invisalign instead. She said she preferred the metals because invisible braces are not seen by others. "Who would know I am wearing braces?" she asked, and then added, " I want others to see I am wearing them---you know, status symbol." And I told her, "But you're 39 years old. Only kids wear those metals. It's better for you to go for the invisible ones, so it does not make you look like a kid." She insisted on the metal ones because contending that having them symbolizes that she is "trendy, hip, chic and rich."

I cracked up. Why in the world that is something that makes you look "unattractive" gives you an image that you are "attractive"? I want to slap both my cheeks and tell myself, she's just trying to pull my leg. Oh please!

In America, there are only 3 things that give off symbols that you're moneyed---the house you live, the car you drive, and the girl you're dating. Well, add the amount of bling you wear. The rest pales or either fade like invisible. Dental braces are shun by adults. Kids hate them. Media typifies them as repellants.

A few years ago, I decided to get those fixtures attached to my tusks again. Although I had braces when I was a teenager, I still felt my teeth kept moving and creating gaps. The specialist said I don't need braces but Invisalign because I'm too old for those brackets. But when he took an X-ray of my teeth, it was found out I neither need Invisalign nor braces. I had periodontitis which required immediate attention. And a more costly price; a set of 5 dental implants with all procedures amounting to over $12,000. It's not even covered by insurance. With that price, I could buy a new car. I later realized the orthodontist I had in the Philippines missed diagnosing the real problem. With hardly any expertise in periodontitics and no periodontists around at that time, she just thought I had an overbite. It was a erroneous diagnosis. My teeth were on the verge of falling out.

Me at 18 with the metal brackets

If in the Philippines, I would have to flaunt my assets, I could grin ear-to-ear and proclaim that my teeth is the most expensive thing I ever got in my life. It costs more than my car. It is pricier than our mortgage. But well, I don't need to. No one can tell anyway from the looks of my ceramic choppers.

But I really still don't get it. Maybe I'm too American-ized that I see braces conveying wealth and a chi-chi lifestyle is darn ridiculous. Isn't that obvious? Braces are HIDEOUS. Nevertheless, I guess, it's all relative in a culture or society. What is uncool for them, maybe cool for you. And vice versa.

In conclusion, America is really far apart from the Philippines. Society's differences maybe extreme and more extreme with how things are perceived. Being in 2 different cultures and societies, I now have a better standard for my choices to be based upon. I can decide now quickly which is good or which is bad. Which is light or which is dark. And of course, which is cool or which is uncool.

So what do you think are braces cool or uncool? What are other stuff that you think give the meaning of "coolness" and "wealth" that was not mentioned here? I'm very interested to hear and read from you and share to other readers.

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SHOPPING FOR FASHIONISTAS

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 22:11:13 -0400

When I shop, I mostly do it online. You know why? Because I don't need to drive up to stores across different towns to scour for deals. I can do it right at the comfort of my home, saving gas and time. Besides that, I can compare prices instantly and still have the time to decide on my options. Hence, an online shopping site with all the features that includes comparison of prices from different stores and a shopping guide would be really great.

Especially when I shop for clothing. A fashionista on a budget like me revels in this innovation of online shopping. This summer, my husband and I have lined up several places to go and to do while the sun is out and the weather is warm. I always make sure I have new set of summer clothes for these occasions. I would like to snag pretty, flirty dresses, and colorful shorts and mini-skirts that make me feel sexy and confident. That's why I get excited when I find a site that features a shopping guide for women's clothing.

Although I don't want to talk about it yet, I know I need to buy fall clothes before the season comes. This is the right time to purchase fall gear as they are on sale when it's off season. It's a must for me to be clothed with warm and comfy clothes during fall as I really do not like the cold. But ometimes, it is difficult to decide what fall clothes to buy so a shopping guide is really essential. With a shopping guide and a comparison of different stores and prices in one online site, shopping for fall apparel is a cinch. How I love online shopping so much more.

COOKIES FOR DIET?

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:02:51 -0400

One of the hardest things to do in life for anyone is shedding off extra pounds and maintain a healthy and normal weight. It is because weight loss involves limiting the quantity of food intake and the the types of food to avoid. Most oftentimes, a weight loss and diet program prohibits sugar and sweet foods. And these food are the ones that are tempting and irresistible to partake.

But I heard of this diet program that makes use of favorite sweet treats such as cookie squares, muffins, shakes and other kinds of desserts. Hmm...nobody ever thought that delicious treats could ever aid in the purpose of reducing weight. But really, what's astonishing is that this diet program works because all these food are formulated to be a perfect balance of protein, amino acids and fiber with absolutely no drugs or toxic preservatives.

As I researched about this cookie diet regimen, I found it is sound and effective as it is backed up by medical doctors . I haven't even thought that this cookie diet is going to work. A kind of meal that is safe, and healthy way to change eating habits which actually helps one to lose weight and keep it off by automatically changing eating habits thus learning how to eat small multiple meals each day. This is great because diets don't need to be undesirable to the palate. as most diet foods are. What a healthy and delicious way to lose weight and be healthy. And really great news for those who want to go on a diet and lose weight.

LOOKING DOWN AT INTERRACIAL MARRIAGES

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:07:08 -0400

A few years ago, I joined this discussion forum called Girltalk, powered locally in the Philippines with Filipino web administrators. Its members are mostly Filipino women residing in the Philippines and in other nations. At first, I had fun participating in various topics of discussions such as fashion, make-up and beauty tips, movies, career talks, and so much more,until I came to a topic about "Filipina women dating /marrying foreign men." Varied responses emeerged but mostly they were negative. I couldn't believe my eyes when I read the words, " Sa totoo lang, ang tingin ko sa mga babaeng pumapatol ng mga foreigners ay desperada o mga puta sa Ermita." (In truth , my perception of women [Filipina women] dating/marrying foreigners are desperate or whores in Ermita [Manila's red light district]). Another member answered, "Mga mukhang katulong iyong mga pumapatol ng Kano (Those who marry/date American men look like maids). This respondent put it this way, " Yung mga babaeng nasa bukid at mahihirap ay yung naghahanap ng foreigner kasi akala nila makatulong ang mga lalaki nila sa kanilang kahirapan (Those women who live in the hinterlands and are poor are those who seek foreign men because they think these men could help them get through their poverty.")

Oh my golly wow! I could not believe the audacity of these supposedly intelligent and educated Filipino women who most oftentimes brag about their sophisticated tastes in this forum board. Those answers must come either from sick minds or pea-sized brains, I bet. When I joined Girltalk I was already married to my American husband. So I wrote down what I thought and then tried to "educate" them that interracial marriages are now tolerated and are acceptable. I also tried to dissuade them from their distorted perceptions making them realize that even modern, educated Filipino women are marrying men from other races nowadays. After I expressed my views, I was attacked by more abrasive comments and toasted like I had to burn in hell because of my opinions. I terminated my account at Girltalk.

In my tiny country, I hate to admit, that people can be still narrow-minded about interracial marriages. They cling to certain notions based on stereotyping people into classes. Filipinos seem to place certain characteristics as basis for judging people's abilities. They think that "all domestic helpers" possess certain unattractive physical features and all "construction workers" also have particular physique deserving to be looked at with derision because all "maids and carpenters" are poor, uneducated and so plebeian. They don't realize that sometimes their repressed minds that are bound by traditions can also retardate growth---even mental growth. And that is one of the thousand reasons why the Philippines can never make a significant progress.

I was once ridiculed as "mukhang katulong" (looking like a maid) which is actually translated to "ugly." (What does a maid exactly look like for heaven's sake?). Filipinos also have a certain disposition to demean others by their job positions. It's common to hear from Filipinos mouths, " I don't like him. He is just a "sikyo" (security guard)." They regard external characteristics holding value to other people's esteems based on the work he is doing to earn a living. " Why are you attracted to that girl? She is just a saleslady. Get someone who has a nicer job." Filipinos have a hard time being open to ideas because of long-held traditional beliefs that one's job, one's economic status and one's appearance are frameworks of success, wealth and popularity.

Never in my whole life I had imagined or dreamt of marrying an American. In fact, when I moved to the USA, I had left a boyfriend in the Philippines. With that kind of distance, the relationship did not work and he found another woman there back home. After a year, I met my husband here in the American mainland. We met up in New York's Grand Central. Eight months later, we got hitched.

One of my friends who is married to an American, had gone home together once. Her friend warned her that she would might encounter some sort of "evil stares" from our own kind. True enough, this friend of mine, experienced that chilly effect when she felt Filipinos back home indeed tossed her some "contemptuous glares" while she was with her husband. She then told me, "You'd feel that our own people look at me like I'm a whore who was fortunate enough to marry a man." One Filipino woman living here in the U.S. is still trapped in this twisted view. I met her in a party where my hubby was also invited. She unabashedly said to me, "The kind of beauty you have are ONLY chased by American men....you know." I know what she meant. She was trying to sugarcoat her terms that meant "ugly'---with "the kind of beauty."

Looking down at interracial marriages does not come with such abominations towards the men of another race. The wicked judgment goes to our race instead---we Filipinos attack other Filipinos. They think Filipino women who are wedded to men of another race; be it American, British, French, Japanese, or any other,are women who either classified as ;1) sluts, 2) whores, 3) poor, 4) uneducated, 5) ugly and 6) desperate, 7) a combination tow or more , 8) all of these. Plus the bad rap that mail-order-brides and international dating sites are getting, interracial marriages are dissed like it's another form of sin.

When I first started blogging, I was so glad to find out that there are so many Filipino women married to American men in the blogosphere. But I don't know if they have encountered such experiences materialized by the shitload of crap in other Filipinos' teeny-weeny brains. The debate that I was involved in Girltalk proved to be that there are those who really do see interracial marriages like it's a filthy and the most disgraceful thing in the society.

I haven't been to the Philippines with my husband together yet but next year, we are going to. I know there will be some leery glances and glares here and there, but I will not care.

Being married to someone of another race is actually a more "powerful" test to measure one's maturity. Even being married to someone of your race is eternally a "work in progress" but being married to someone who's culture is entirely different from yours, is more challenging to one's patience, humility, maturity and selflessness. It's not only trying to assimilate how your partner feels and thinks, but a wholehearted understanding , accepting and integrating his own culture, beliefs and lifestyle, as part of yours. Marrying someone from another race is not that really hard as anyone expected it to be. In fact it is much easier because there's a whole load of patience going on even without requiring it.

In all honestly, after having relationships with Filipino men in the past, I prefer having a relationship with an American man, even if I have to live again and again. The scorn Filipinos would rail at me, is not going to matter. Even if they look down at interracial marriages, I don't care. As I've said, I really don't care. Being married to somebody who is not my color is bliss. And that's all that matters.

What's your take in interracial marriages? If you are Filipino, what do you think of Filipino women dating/marrying men of another race? If you are single, can you marry somebody who's not Filipino? What do you think are the challenges in an interracial marriage?

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SEEKING LEGAL ASSISTANCE

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:37:20 -0400

Some time ago, my aunt had an operation that was supposed to drain fluid from her pancreas and remove the diseased tissue from it. The surgeons made a huge mistake by removing her kidneys instead. It was a freakish nightmare for all of us and her family was so angered with the error committed by specialists they trusted. Our family members had one decision to make---seek legal advice for this almost fatal error.

Medical malpractice occurs everywhere in the U.S. and more and more law firms are offering this kind of assistance to purport the rightful judgment on the part of the victims. Many people have fallen into this dilemma and have not sought help for they do not know what to do or where to start. However, legal firms specializing in medical malpractice are everywhere now. They even have posted websites of their companies and the types of services and the information people need to know. One of them is the GallagherLawFirm.com .

The Gallagher Law Firm provides expert legal assistance to a variety of problems such as divorce and custody, personal injury, car and truck accidents, nursing home abuse, admiral and maritime, and of course, medical malpractice. One special expertise they also cater to is helping Hurricane Katrina victims with their insurance claims. One great feature in their website is their blog. The blog features entries on tips, and a lot of information that help victims and clients process their documents, prepare necessary requirements before court proceedings and so much more. And on their site, one could easily and quickly contact the firm for a free review of cases. So everyone should check this site especially those who need professional legal assistance.

INDEPENDENCE DAY: TWO CELEBRATIONS IN ONE DAY

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 23:15:04 -0400

Today is the celebration of the America's Independence Day. It also marks the Filipino-American Friendship Day. Everyone knows that July 4th is the day when the Americans had claimed their liberty and proclaimed their Declaration of Independence on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. But not everybody knows that this is also the day when Americans granted the Filipinos independence after colonial rule of the 7,100 island-nation for almost 50 years. In July 4, 1946, the Americans unleashed their dominion of the Philippines on the same day they acquired their own liberty.

Not a lot of Americans have the knowledge that the Philippines was under the American government in the past. Well, they may have learned about their history but they don't know much about the historical details such as land and territory acquisitions of their own country. So, it comes out as a surprise when I tell them that July 4 is also a day we celebrate in our country ---sort of a commemoration of independence from the American jurisdiction when the American government accorded freedom to Filipinos.

July 4 is Filipino-American Friendship Day. In fact, it was the Filipinos' Independence Day which they observed from 1946 to 1964. But on August 1964, the Philippine government, upon the advice of historians and nationalists, designated June 12, as their Independence Day when the Filipinos, along with the Act of the Declaration of Independence , restored their liberty and sovereignty from the colonial rule of Spain on June 12, 1898.

So June 12 became the Filipinos' Independence day since then, and July 4, instead was changed to Filipino-American Friendship Day. For most Filipino-Americans, July 4 is a very special day---a day filled with two causes for celebration; independence and friendship. All the more, a special day that we are blessed having Americans as our allies and friends.

For Filipinos here in America, it is a dual celebration. It is a reminder that the land we're inhabiting at this moment fought hard to regain freedom and liberty so that we can enjoy living in this independent nation. And of course, a memorable event that we Filipinos have special relations with the Americans. Though the American colonial rule left some negative Western influences on Filipinos that are still persistent to these days, it's undeniable that we Filipinos had acquired its democratic principles. Critics have pointed out that the independence Americans gave to Filipinos came with strings attached ---a legislative bill passed by the U.S. Congress to insure that the Philippines remain an economic ward and to retain its military bases. But whatever, after such uprisings against Spain 300-year regime, and now a better appreciation of the legacy of American colonialism, the Filipinos have a more acute sense of national identity.

Honestly, I am proud to celebrate two special occasions in one day today. American Independence Day is tremendously significant to me that as an American citizen, I am able to enjoy the privileges of what this great "free" land has to offer. And as a Filipino native, I am also proud that I have learned to love embrace my national identity and friendship with Americans while being an "American."

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!

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A BEDROOM MAKE-OVER OF MY DREAMS

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:05:41 -0400

This summer, my husband enjoys a 70-day respite. Together, we planned a lot of activities such as going to amusement theme parks and out-of-town resorts. But aside from that, we also had planned to do some cleaning up and reorganizing our home. After the winter chill, and the rainy spring, we did not have enough time to really polish and redo our house.

As I looked around our house, the most unpleasant place is our master's bedroom. Supposedly, it should be our sanctuary for relaxation, but our bedroom looks like we've just moved in or something like a college dorm room. The bed has no headboard, unmatched side tables, a wire-basket organizer and plastic bins stacked one above the other. The 1940's ugly wallpaper did not attract any tranquility and the lighting is not sufficient making the room look darker than it is. We just use the bedroom for sleeping as there is no reason to hang around with its dark yet sterile atmosphere.

So I bugged my husband to refurbish the room promising him we can do it without breaking the bank. I told him I could improve the bedroom and recreate a whole new aura in it within a budget. Affordable yet classy furniture and accessories are available widely around and online and I am sure the results will be pretty amazing. However, there's one thing I would not scrimp on ----a luxurious bed. I think beds should be elegant, comfy,and swanky and I absolutely want to have one.

I have found a bed that I really desire to own. It's a leather bed with lots of storage underneath and I found it online. It's called the Rimini Ottoman Bed Frame that I saw at Time4Sleep website. My husband loves it too. As he saw this, he agreed to work together with me in this project. This is going to be exciting because we'll get our hands pretty busy. And of course, it's going to be fun shopping for all the items and the bed that I'm dreaming about to give me pleasant dreams. Now, I cannot wait to start.

NICKNAMES OF U.S. STATES AND THEIR ORIGINS

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:38:39 -0400

Before I post something for Independence Day, I think it would be fun to share to you, readers, the origins of the nicknames of some U.S. states. Nicknames of states are often seen in car's license plates, postcards and road signs.

I obtained this information from a compelling book called "Curiously Compelling Bathroom Reader." Mind you, but the book's pretty loaded with so many interesting stuff you can never put down.

Well then, I learned a few interesting stories behind those nicknames and here they are;

EMPIRE STATE (NEW YORK) --- New York City, was the capital of the United States from 1788 to 1790 (yeah, only for 2 years). George Washington, who was then President referred the whole state as "the seat of the Empire."

GOLDEN STATE (CALIFORNIA) ---Gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill in California in 1848. What transpired after was a "gold rush" bringing so many people to the territory within two years making California qualify for statehood.

SILVER STATE (NEVADA)---There was a massive reserve of silver called the Comstock Lode, which was discovered in Nevada in 1859.

GARDEN STATE (NEW JERSEY) ---Travelers who drive on the New Jersey Turnpike and see the state's oil refineries and shopping malls might be surprised to know that it was once mostly farmland.

For more nicknames, click CONTINUE below.

LONE STAR STATE (TEXAS) ---Before Texas became a state, it was an independent republic from 1836 to 1845. Texas kept its flag which features a single , or "lone" star.

CENTENNIAL STATE (COLORADO) ---Colorado became a state in 1876, the 100th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

YELLOWHAMMER STATE (ALABAMA) ---Alabama militia wore a yellow patch of fabric on their shoulders during the Civil War, prompting the nickname , "the Yellowhammers."

BEEHIVE STATE (UTAH) ---Utah selected the beehive as its state logo , not because of a proliferation of bees there, but to represent industry and perseverance.

OLD DOMINION (VIRGINIA) ---In 1607, Virginia became a British colony. It was among the English territories that remained loyal to the crown during the English civil war in the 1640's . King Charles called his loyal land his "old dominion."

GREEN MOUNTAIN STATE (VERMONT) ---In French, Vermont means "green mountain." "Ver" is green and "mont" is mountain.

BEAVER STATE (OREGON) --A lot of beavers could be found in Oregon . Unfortunately, there are not many left today. Early settlers and trappers nearly eradicated the animal from the state.

HOOSIER STATE (INDIANA)---There was a poem about Indiana written by John Finley, titled, "The Hoosier's Nest," which became popular when it was published in the Indianapolis Journal in 1833. "Hoosier" then became a slang term for an Indiana resident.

EQUALITY STATE (WYOMING) --Wyoming was the first state to give women the right to vote.

LAND OF 10,000 LAKES (MINNESOTA) --Although its official state nickname is "North Star State", it's also called the "land of 10,000 lakes" because there are actually more than 12,000 lakes in that state.

SHOW ME STATE (MISSOURI) ---History says that 19th century congressman Willard Vandiver once commented that people in Missouri were so stubborn , they did not believe anything unless they could see it.

SOONER STATE (OKLAHOMA) ---In 1884, the former Indian territory of Oklahoma was opened to white settlers, who could claim property in a series of scheduled land runs. However, some sneaky settlers went in "too soon" and claimed the best parcels of land before the rush officially began. They got the nickname , "sooners."

TAR HEEL STATE (NORTH CAROLINA) ---There was a legend that says that during a Civil War battle, a troop of North Carolina soldiers were left fighting all alone. All other battalions from other states either died, perished or fled, but the North Carolinians stayed, "as if their heels were stuck to the ground with tar." Signifying both their perseverance and North Carolina's tar industry, the state became known as the "tar heel state."

Anyway, I'm busy looking for some great spots to spend our Independence Day holiday this weekend. So, till then, I'll be back for another post.

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REPAIRING BAD CREDIT

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:51:51 -0400

One of my husband's colleagues at work expressed how frustrated he was whenever he applies for a small amount of loan such as a car loan or a minor home redo. It was his credit score that usually determines his qualification for such loans. Because of his low credit score, my husband advised him to do what he just did a few years ago---improve credit.

So the colleague inquired how my hubby did it. He was proud to tell his friend that I was actually the one who sought help from experts to seeking help to repair bad credit. I researched for some credit repair information that would help me and my husband could get needed help in improving our credit score. I am so glad I did it because we found something that made our financial situation much better.

My husband referred all the information to his friend. It was an online site that he urged his colleague to check out. This information would enable his colleague to get credit approval for almost anything without the fuss. Another thing, the colleague was all excited and hopeful about is the fact that he could actually save money by not paying exorbitant interest rates. I think it would change his life because it is expert assistance in improving bad credit no matter what his credit history is or background or anything like that. He was really grateful for this information. I think he would also be proud that he made the decision sooner before it's too late.

WHAT I HATE IN MY COUNTRY IS WHAT I LOVE HERE IN AMERICA

I Love-Hate America by Bing — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:02:54 -0400

In the Philippines, there are certain things I considered detestable which I find here in America a rare occurrence. They happen only in a minuscule quantity of time, and seldom takes place. Which therefore, makes me miss them and when they happen, I either love what I hate or thank God that it's not as bad as Americans think it is.

Here are some things/events that I used to abhor in my country which I now learn to appreciate.

1) HEAT/SUN -The heat I experience in the Philippines used to cause my migraines. It could send my cranky buttons to activate. With the Philippine's constant above 70 degrees F temperature, it's like summer all year round. So, I wanted to be always enclosed in an airconditioned dwelling, and whenever outside, I would protect myself from the scorching rays of the sun with an umbrella (In America, umbrellas are for shielding the bodies from rain),

Here in America, in the northeastern part where I live, I long for the heat and the sun to come. With its onset, I herald it with a praise like a worshipping-fanatic. Instead of seeking shelter inside a cool place, I love getting out as much as I can to be soaking with all the glorious rays of the sun. After more than 8 months of the icy air, getting warm is a much welcome respite.

2) MY SKINCOLOR - If you possess fair and white skin, you are beautiful in the Philippines. It's really strange when most of the Filipino women are brown-skinned but then having your natural brown skin is always looked down and perceived to be a curse. It's a liability in every aspect of a Filipina's life even on her own country. Being brown-skinned myself, I grew up being taunted and bullied because of my skin color. Even up to my adult years, I felt inferior because only those fair and white-skinned Filipinas are esteemed in society. Whiteness of skin equates beauty. Though I had cast off my low self-esteem and transformed into a confident person, I still knew then I would never get that far if "looks" are the standards. A skincolor like mine would elicit negative impressions such as "poverty" and "dumbness." I hated my skincolor so much, that I would go at extreme lengths just to whiten my skin ---using bleaching powders, whitening lotions and other lightening concoctions.

America changed it with the way I look at myself physically. Americans love my skin ---they say it's a "lovely golden brown." In contrast to Filipinas, American Caucasian women would go also to various lengths just to acquire a similar skin color like mine---the color of "luxe, beauty and affluence." Hence, the proliferation of tanning salons, tanning lotions, tanning sprays, bronzing powders, and magazine articles dishing out tips such as "how to fake a tan look." I feel beautiful here.

3) TRAFFIC---The most urbane cities in the Philippines suffer the worst traffic in the world. With few roads and highways, and a decrepit system of implementation of traffic rules, traffic in the Philippines is a constant bedlam. Traffic there can cause either paranoia, catatonia or schizophrenia. It's abominable that I could hardly live without my heart ticking like a time bomb.The beastly drivers who are driving like loons and the gargantuan-sized buses and trucks who think they're the kings of the road, competing to who'd go faster in a single-lane road, and the traffic cops who could be bought for a price of cigar---are such common street scenes. In our country, one only needs to pay the amount of money required to access a driving license, and instantly one obtains a driver's license even without learning how to drive.

When Americans gripe about their traffic, they just really mean that flow of traffic is slow---15 mph on a 60 mph highway. I would say to my husband, "Wait till you get to drive in the Philippines and complain about traffic." I like it better here. Except for a few rude drivers, at least there is a strict and rigid implementation of road laws. No one can cheat the system and rarely you can bribe the cops. Doling money for the license is not enough because one undergoes tests that could be tough to pass. In the USA, it's so refreshing to just breeze in through the streets without feeling your nerves rising at boiling point.

I am not saying I miss the traffic in my tiny country, but I know traffic in America is something that can never stress me out.

4) FILIPINO MOVIES---Before coming to America, Filipino movies turned me off. The only ones I watched are the films where my favorite Filipino actors starred such as Aga Muhlach and Piolo Pascual. Others fall short for my "discriminating taste" for quality films. The Filipino movie industry is no Bollywood. And of course, no Hollywood either. Filmmaking technology is at its primeval stage and therefore unappealing to me. Since I prefer to watch suspense, and action, I never find any good Filipino suspense or action cinema fares.

Here in the US, I have to admit I miss watching any thing entertaining that is in the Tagalog language. I have to buy Filipino movie DVD's and watch Filipino variety shows through video streams online. Without access to TFC (The Filipino Channel) as they don't serve in my area, watching Filipino movies is a thrill for me. Recently, Comcast (our cable TV provider) launched its new service of Filipino movies and programs and I just signed up for that feature for a monthly fee of $7.99 a month. I couldn't believe I'm a sucker for something I used to avoid before. Maybe because I learned to appreciate things that are hard to come by.

I never had imagined before how I could ever get to be grateful for all the things I did not even like. Only coming to America changed all that. Sometimes a 180 degrees turn of events can really lead to flipping over the things you never knew you would never care about. How about you, what are the things that you despised before and now you learn to love or appreciate? It's great to hear from your experiences too, so please share them here.

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