Lux Thinking Aloud Ramblings Of A Neophyte Michael Jackson Fan 3:35 AM I think the reason why God entrusted such a huge amount of talent to Michael Jackson is because He knew only a heart as humble as Michael's could handle it. Ramblings of a Neophyte Michael Jackson Fan They say an artist will only be truly appreciated when he's gone. I guess that's true for Michael Jackson and this neophyte fan. Much to my regret, I only got to appreciate him as an artist a few weeks ago. In my defense, I was busy playing with my Barbies when Michael Jackson was in his career's prime. I would also hear more negative things about him than that his talent was overshadowed, so to speak. So I ignored this man who could walk backward and moved like no other. One fateful day, I decided to watch Superbowl videos on YouTube, and it was his video I clicked first. I didn't know what was coming. I didn't know I'd be hooked and in awe for the next few hours. I watched every interview, live performance, and music video I could find. I was entranced. I was suddenly under Michael Jackson's spell. More than his exceptional talent, though, I was drawn by this star, this legend, this record-breaking artist's mystery...and the sadness in his eyes. When you read between the lines, when you look at him, you'd know deep down that despite his stardom, the phenomenon, the inexplicable adoration of his fans, and the obsession of the paparazzi, he was a lonely, vulnerable man—a deprived kid trapped in a man's body—a lost soul. I believe he was kind, gentle, generous, pure, and humble. All he wanted was to help others, experience what it is to be a normal child, live normally, and be loved and appreciated. All he wanted was to give what he could and what he had to those who needed it more. In return, he received bashing, criticism, and condemnation. His haters knew they couldn't bring him down, attacking him as an artist because he was perfection. No one could ever move and sing like Michael Jackson. No one else has that same passion and magic. No one could give it all like Michael Jackson could. Or that's just the amateur fan girl me talking. But, whatever. For me, Michael Jackson was and will remain the ultimate undisputed best artist in all history. No one comes close.They couldn't say anything wrong about his talent, so they attacked him in other aspects instead. Those trolls. Heartless, cruel, selfish, greedy creatures. Why can't they just applaud with the rest of the world? Why can't they write about this superstar who, instead of strutting the streets with arrogance, wasting money on booze and prostitutes, was helping children in need, trying with all he had and could to make others happy and change the world? Why do they have to point at his flaws? Fabricate stories and call him names? They made Michael Jackson who he was because of what they say: freak. In an interview, he said that people do not know the effect of the words they say. This hurt and devastated him. Do people care? Maybe some did. But the majority loved to turn his life into a fiasco, using his weakness and vulnerability to try to put him down. He's just human. He may be the brightest star to ever shine, but he's got feelings, too. He got hurt. Deeply apparently. He missed many things just to give the world the kind of entertainer they wanted. How ungrateful of the world to treat him like a joke instead. The world destroyed Michael Jackson. What could a single man do against the whole world ganging up on him? In retrospect, where were his friends then? Where were those who hero-worshiped him when he was crying himself to sleep? We should have paid more attention to the message of his songs. Most of them are cries for help, cries of a lonely, hurt heart desperate to make the world a better place. He wasn't eccentric. He wasn't weird. He wasn't a wacko. We don't know half the truth of what the man went through. I believe he's innocent. No monster could write songs about healing the world, protecting the children, being there for someone, and singing it with all his soul. No monster could have done what he did for the children in need. No sick, selfish person could have donated his time and money to charities. The only thing Michael Jackson was guilty of was that he cared too much. He cared too much about the world, the children's future, and other people. He cared too much about what people said about him to the point that he let it destroy him. He was vulnerable and naive because his heart had no evil thoughts or ill emotions. Someone so loving and genuine like him couldn't do what they said he did. And for the police to invade his privacy like that? It was inhuman. I hope they're happy now. Whatever happened to Michael Jackson was a thing of the past. But you can never erase someone as great as Michael Jackson in the history of mankind. For all it's worth, I think he's happy now, at peace, and surrounded by great Love and appreciation. I think he's dancing for God and singing with the angels. I want to always remember him alive, invincible, awe-inspiring, historical. He will remain the brightest and biggest start this world will ever see. Michael Jackson. Gone too soon. Forever the king of pop.
Listicle 5 Summer Survival Tips: Enjoy the Hot Season 6:00 AM Summertime is always the best of what might be. -Charles Bowden Ahhh, summer! Everybody's talking about it. But is everybody ready for summer? Here are 5 summer survival tips to not just tolerate but actually enjoy this season. via Heather Kirby 5 Summer Survival Tips 1. Get sun protection. It's the season to get that perfect sexy tan, but not to get premature wrinkles or worse, skin cancer! Never leave the house without applying sunblock. According to dermatologist James M. Spencer, MD, an SPF 15 product blocks about 94% of UVB rays; an SPF 30 product blocks 97% of UVB rays; and an SPF 45 product blocks about 98% of rays. Don't forget your lip balm and sunnies, too! Shield your skin from the sun. I personally use the SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen from Human Nature because it doesn't only effectively protects the skin from the harmful sun but it's also free from reef-destroying chemicals. Isn't it good to enjoy the summer without harming the marine life? 2. Rehydrate. With the summer heat, you'll surely sweat a lot. You might get dehydrated, so drink up. Always keep a bottle of water with you. Be sure to re-hydrate with water or natural juices and not with soda or artificial juice drinks. 3. Choose your summer wardrobe. Wear clothes that are cool, made of light fabric, comfortable, and that which will let your body breathe so to speak. 4. Plan your summer activities ahead. Whether you're going abroad, heading to the beach, or just staying home, make plans. It might be hard to book flights, the traffic to where you're going may be heavy, hotel rooms may be unavailable, or prices may go up than usual. You wouldn't want to experience these hassles on your summer vacation so it's better to book your trips earlier, plan your route and prepare for your choice of summer fun. Plan on improving yourself too. Enroll in summer lessons (swimming, surfing, diving, personal development, arts, etc.). It's wise to inquire and enroll and buy what you need before everyone else does. 5. Don't forget your hair!!! You pay attention to your skin, your body, your wardrobe, but often forget about your hair. Your hair deserves just as much (or even more!) attention and care this summer as the summer sun and saline water of the sea can damage it. Not only that, summer brings a lot of exciting new hair trends. Cut your hair short, tie it in a bun or ponytail, or dye it with the color of your choice. Use hair products that are SLS/SLES-free, organic and is not harmful to the environment. I only trust Human Nature products. Scared that hair color will damage your hair? No idea what color is right for you? How about trying out some hair wigs first? You won't regret trying them out. Don't let this hot and humid weather stop you from looking and feeling your best. Like any other season, it pays to be ready for what's coming. And summer is one season you NEED to be ready for. Do you have any summer survival tips?
Lux Thinking Aloud Dogs Are Family, Not Food 10:15 AM Dogs will lay down their lives for a friend. If you have the power to help change the world and save lives, wouldn't you? It's just a click away (links below). Dogs are family, not food. Dogs are the best things to ever happen to mankind. The loyalty of dogs is incomparable. If you've never had a pet dog (but why?!) you're missing so much. No other creature can ever love a human so purely, so unconditionally and so faithfully the way a dog does. One of our dogs one time literally threw himself in front of other dogs and fought bravely, leaving him a scar just to be sure I pass without getting harmed or bitten. And that's only one incident that these furry friends demonstrated their loyalty. I grew up with dogs around me. I can't imagine life without dogs. I can't imagine people stealing them from their families, cram them in a cage too small for them, hurt them in ways unimaginable, killing them brutally, i.e. skinning and burning them alive to eat their meat! It's atrocious. It's horrible. If you think, I'm exaggerating, Google Yulin Festival. That's EXACTLY what they do! I can't even bring myself to look at the pictures of these poor dogs. I wanted to post them here just to show you how serious the situation is but I can't. It's heartbreaking. I don't and will never understand the "fun" and satisfaction people get that they even made an annual festival out of this monstrosity. I ask you dear reader to please participate and help stop this festivity held on June 21-23. It's no festival! It's barbarism. If you could please spread the word on your social media, please use these hashtags: #StopYulin2015 #StopYulinFestival #StopYulinForever #NoToDogMeat #ItsNoFestival Please sign the petitions before it's too late: Change.org Care2 Petitions Human Society International Animalasia Forcechange Petitioncongress Thank you very, very, VERY much. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Link Up 7 Fun Activities To Try This Summer & Summer Family Fun Linky Party 6/17 6:00 PM Hey, it's summer! I went to a beautiful island called Calaguas last weekend. Now, I'm thrilled to be co-hosting a fun summer link up! This is my first time so I'm really excited. What are your plans for the summer? 7 Fun Activities To Try This Summer 1. Go to the beach. Summer seems incomplete without going to the beach. That's because it's too hot you just want to stay submerged in the water, try outdoor activities and enjoy the breeze. Or there's the lake or waterfalls for those who want some fresh water adventure. 2. Visit a museum. Mind museums, art galleries, toy museums. Be in awe of the past, the present, the future and what is beyond what you see every day in a museum. 3. Enroll in a class. Of course it's time off for students, but you can learn so many things during the summer. Enroll in a class that offer the things you've always wanted to learn. Giphy 4. Catch up on your reading. Best to do in a beach. On a hammock. Under a tree. Or just inside the comfort of your home. 5. Plan or attend reunions. It's time to meet up some family members or friends who have been busy all year round. 6. Become an entrepreneur. Now is the best time to sell barbecues (beach and bbq, perfect combo!), thirst quenchers, ice creams. I know some people who are good in music and give voice lessons to kids during the summer. If you're any good at surfing, swimming or if you're a licensed diver, you can also offer tutorials. Google images 7. Learn something new. Dare yourself and try something new. Get a tattoo. Go parasailing. Try bungee jumping or sky diving. Or have you heard of the mermaid swim experience? Google images Your turn. Share the fun activities you want to try, have already tried or any post about summer really. Have fun linking up! Carnival business 1. Please link directly back to this post for your readers' benefit. 2. Link to your post, not your homepage. 3. No giveaways, please. Giveaways will be deleted. 4. Posts need to be family-friendly. Show your party hosts some love and follow them one way or the other. Your 30 Summer Family Fun Co-hosts Barb of A Life in Balance Lux of About Life And Love Mitzi of Written Reality Jen of Making Our Life Matter Candi of A Day in Candiland Steph of A Grande Life Laina of The Art of Living Fabulously Reesa of Momma Lew Bethany of The Southern Couture Paris of My Big Fat Happy Life Brenda of Schooling a Monkey Stephanie of Making of a Mom Katie of A Mother Thing Heather of Divas Run for Bling Stephanie of Stuck in Your Rut Laci of Sequins in the South Kristia of Family Balance Sheet Wendy of The Art Of "Why Not?" Nichole of Sweet October Angie of Joyful Journey Nikki of Tikkido hirley of Intelligent Domestications Rhonda of MultiTaskingMaven Holly of While I'm Waiting... Lisa of Syncopated Mama Tina of Mom Is Forever Vicki of Five Spot Green Living Kim of Life in a House of Testosterone Liz of Motherhood Muse Sofia of FUN WITH A MESSAGE An InLinkz Link-up
Travels Calaguas on a Budget: Group Package 11:18 PM Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller. -Ibn Battuta The first words that came out of my mouth when I could finally absorb the beauty of Calaguas right in front of me were: "Oh. My. Gosh." About CalaguasCalaguas is in the province of Camarines Norte in the Bicol Region.Also known as Mahabang Buhangin (Long Beach), Calaguas remains one of the country's must-see unspoiled beaches. Calaguas Island is now a famous tourist attraction and summer destination in the Philippines. And for good reason!With its unique white powdery sand that's almost like Boracay's, and distinguished crystal clear water, Calaguas is a paradise. It's the ideal spot for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing summer while still soaking up that beach vibe. Calaguas Trip Our Trip: Our group availed of a tour package. 3,000 PHP/pax for a 2-day/1-night stay. 3,000 Php/pax includes: Fares going to and from Vinzon (Daet) Boat ride from and to the island Food - lunch upon arrival, dinner, and breakfast before departure Tent How To Get To Calaguas:The travel agency we got provided us with vans, and our pick-up point is at SMX MOA's parking lot. But if you want to travel DIY style, here's how to get there (via Vinzons): It's a 9- 5 hour bus ride from Manila to Camarines Norte. Bus terminals for PUBs (Philtranco, Superlines, and DLTB) bound to Daet, Camarines Norte, are in Pasay and Cubao. Check out their trip hours and fare prices here. It's best to take the night trip so you'll arrive early in Daet. From the Daet bus terminal, take a jeepney to Vinzons and get off at Padawan or Fish Port. The driver or the locals are friendly and helpful, so you can always ask for directions. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes. From Vinzons fish port, hire a boat to Calaguas. The price differs depending on the boat's capacity. The lowest rate is about Php 3,000, but you can also haggle. Travel time is 2 hours. What To Do In Calaguas: Although swimming (and picture taking if you're Pinoy) is the main activity on the island, you can also try: Island hopping Kayaking ATV Trekking Snorkeling Scuba Diving Where to Stay in Calaguas: You can pitch tents around the area. There were cottages, and we saw some houses being built, which we presumed would be used for commercial purposes. However, we camped with the rest of the group. We chose one facing the beach under a tree. We slept outside the tent, though, as nothing beats sleeping under the canopy of the stars with the sound of the waves in the background. It was an awesome experience! When In Calaguas: The restrooms are clean, but they charge 20 pesos per use and 10 pesos for the shower. The shower is just outside, with no doors or covers. They provide a separate room for you to change after the shower. Expect tindahan (store) prices to be much higher than normal. 1.5L Coke was sold at 90 PHP!!! I think it's only about 40 PHP in the supermarket. So it's best to bring your own food and drinks. No network connection. What to Bring to Calaguas: Aside from your usual toiletries, travel essentials, and clothes, don't forget to bring: Sunblock Tent Drinking Water Food First Aid Kit Bug/Mosquito Repellents Camera (of course!) Although travel time is long and tiring, the place is really worth it. Even when it rained for a few minutes on our last day, Calaguas never lost its beauty. It was definitely an OMG moment for us. I have no doubt that when you get there, you'd have to say, "Oh my gosh, Calaguas!" as well. Allow me to overshare our weekend in Calaguas here (click on photos to view original size): Although the food they served was really, really good, we were not satisfied with the rest of the service. So I won't be recommending the travel agency we booked.
Life Lessons 6 Ds For A Simpler And Happier Life 12:18 AM Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated. - Confucius Life is better lived when lived simply. A life simplified is happiness multiplied. Remember these 6 Ds to live a simpler and happier life. 6 Ds For a Simpler and Happier Life Distinguish your needs from your wants. Reality check: You need a bag, you want a Luis Vuitton. You need food, you want ice cream. You need to quench your thirst and water will do but you want soda. You don't need to go with the trend or buy items you don't really need. Humans will always crave or desire for something. But you will only stress yourself if you try to keep up with the latest technology or fashion trend. For business to keep going, they're are obliged to keep making new inventions. They're paid to persuade you. Before you buy anything, ask yourself if it will really make your life easier or add value to it. People buy for emotional reasons.You may just be doing it to show off. That's what advertising do---convince you that your life will be better if you buy their products. But really, you should know better. Know your worth. GiphyDonate, throw, or sell.Say goodbye to all those items accumulating dusts and occupying space in your house but are not really used. Throw the junk. Donate what you think can still be used by someone else. Sell what is still marketable or of good value and quality. Remember that one man's trash is another man's treasure. GiphyDevelop a system.Nothing makes things more complicated than an unorganized mind. Create a check list. Follow your schedule but be flexible if changing it is needed. Create a system. Be lenient with deadlines and details though, or else you'll beat yourself up trying to finish everything and follow them by the book. Stick to your goal. Start a journal and write down everything you need to accomplish for the day. Rank them according to urgency and importance. Follow Mark Twain's advice: "Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day." Name your files and folders appropriately. Place the things you always need where you can find them easily so you don't have to waste your time searching and taking out things from their places. Here are some housekeeping tips from my own experience of living alone. Label your items or put them in a storage box and label accordingly. Giphy Disconnect.As helpful as the internet is, find time to disconnect. You can accomplish more things when you disconnect from the world wide web. You can rest better if you turn off your TV or your computer (studies show you sleep better if you go offline 1 hour before bedtime). Some stress comes from what we see on the internet or TV. Life's better and you'll be happier if you look at the stars at night instead. GiphyDetox. 1. Detox your body.Detox your body from junk food and sedentary lifestyle. It's not easy to shift to a balanced diet if you're used to eating fast food or if you prepare your meal through the microwave. But you actually save yourself from more trouble and complications in the long run if you simplify your lifestyle and eat healthy instead. 2. Detox your mind. Stay away from people who suck the energy and happiness out of you. Don't get stuck in a job that does not make you grow, does not pay you well, and stresses you out. Free your mind from negative thoughts; worries, fears and self-criticisms. Change the way you look at things and you'll be amazed by how it can change your life. 3. Detox from negative feelings. Science revealed that our negative emotions affect our general wellness: 💊 Hopelessness causes lung problems. 💊 Rigidity causes migraine. 💊 Anger causes insomnia. 💊 Aggressiveness causes gastric ulcers. 💊 Anxiety causes digestive problems and skin problems. GiphyDefine your own success.People often run the race without knowing what they're after. They just go with the crowd and so they often get lost, they get sidetracked, or they simply quit.Running after the prize without knowing what is it will leave you demotivated. Living a life without direction is like driving around in circles, you get nowhere and you waste gas. It doesn't make sense. We follow the lead of others and reject what we really need. We create our purpose with other people's purpose. We forget to align them with our passion. If you know what will fulfill your needs and find a way to chase your own dreams, you have found success.Giphy Every area of your life needs to be simplified if you want to be happier. There is no point in carrying heavy baggage and making life complicated. Leave Your Baggage And Move On. Live simply and you'll thank yourself later.
