Happy 4th of July, USA!

Here's a big applause and a happy cheers to U.S.A. for the celebration of its Independence Day!

(Photo credit: yahoo images but I added text)

Wednesday Anime - Axis Powers Hetalia Part 2 - U.S.A. and Canada

Another personal favorite of my mom - U. S. of A.!

Basic Statistics:

Name (Human name): America/Alfred F. Jones

Age (by physical appearance): 19

Gender: Male

Birthday: July 4

Hair Color: Blond

Eye Color: Blue

Height: 177 cm (5’9.6”)

Appearance:

He has short and dusty blonde hair with an **ahoge, representing Nantucket, sticking up and blue eyes. He wears a tan uniform and a brown bomber jacket with the number ‘50’ on the back (representing the fifty states). His glasses represent the state of Texas. America is often seen holding a hamburger or a large-sized soft drink (usually cola) and flashing a ‘thumbs up’.

(Note: **Ahoge is similar to a cow-lick. And I’m pretty sure that a lot of you know what a cowlick is.)

Personality and Interests:

Alfred is a cheerful, energetic and somewhat conceited young man who is obsessed with heroes, justice and freedom. He has an annoying habit of sticking his nose into everyone’s business, which make it difficult for him to make friends. He especially loves eating hamburgers and junk food, to the point of breaking into tears if he doesn’t get one, and can even eat strange and (almost) inedible-looking things due to inheriting England’s sense of taste…or lack thereof because as a child, he grew up eating England’s food (Poor kid.) Alfred is also known for not being aware of how “the atmosphere” is when he’s around others (at one point, he was told to read it.) He and the personification of Italy share that same trait and thought that it was a book and made a pact together to find and read it. It has been noted that it’s not that Alfred lacks the ability (unlike Italy, who clearly lacks the ability) to “access the situation”, he simply chooses not to. 

On multiple occasions in the comic, it has been shown that when calm OR serious, Alfred can become very logical, reading further into things than he usually would, and can actually read the atmosphere. His hobbies are sports, games and making movies. Furthermore, when he introduced himself to Japan, he stated that his hobbies were “quick-draw, archaeology and adventures” which Japan misinterpreted (to him) that Alfred’s hobby was lechery. Notably, he also possesses an abnormal amount of strength, shown that even as a child, he easily swung a full-grown bison around (much to a shocked England) and once seen running around, dragging a heavy Rolls Royce that belonged to England, behind him for an hour in order to ask permission to borrow it. In a crossover game (also made by the same mangaka), he was able to stop a car with the heel of his foot.

Alfred is shown to be ignorant of the geography outside his own home, believing that maps of the United States constitute the “world map” and that he can simply get to other countries by car travel. Also, he was shown becoming concerned about his weight and it is mentioned that he has invented strange diet machines as well as becoming obsessed with exercising (in which he became paranoid about his rising weight, as he was unaware of his building muscles…typical.) Aside from being afraid of ghosts and weighing scales, he’s scared of Marmite. It was also revealed that he has at least 238 weaknesses, one of those being Dora the Explorer (I’m sorry…what? I’ll pretend I didn’t know that). As he is obsessed with heroes and happy endings, he hopes that his future would also be that way.

Though he is friends with an alien named Tony and other weird creatures, he doesn’t believe in England’s magical friends, faeries or unicorns, except on Halloween. 

It was also mentioned in a Hetalia Christmas event, he was jealous of all the kids in his country that get presents from their fathers. That may have stemmed from (or referenced) to his fast growth (as a nation) and young age, and how he missed out on a lot of his childhood things by growing physically mature so quickly, as well as what seemed to be the lack of parents for most of the nations, even if he was practically raised by England (on a more brotherly relationship) and having a brother, namely Canada, who was raised by England AND France.

Along with USA, of course, we can’t forget his dear brother: Canada!

Basic Statistics:

Name (Human name): Canada/Matthew Williams

Gender: Male

Birthday: July 1

Hair Color: Dark blond/ Blond Orange

Eye Color: Violet

Appearance:

Matthew’s hair is wavy and most of the times depicted as two-toned; lighter blind on top and more of an orange (or darker blond) shade on the bottom and tips. He has violet eyes and sports a curly ahoge off the top of his head, just like his brother: Alfred. 

He is always seen wearing a heavy tan winter coat and pants as his military uniform, though when dressing casually, he’s usually shown wearing a hoodie (sometimes with the Canadian flag emblem on it) and a pair of jeans. He wears glasses like his brother, yet he also sports a pair of goggles on his head at times.

Often drawn a little shorter in his fanarts, the official art of Canada makes it rather clear that he’s either the same height/build as his brother or very close to it.

Personality and Interests:

In contrast to his loud and obnoxious brother, Matthew is calm, shy, sensitive and hates fighting (yet it’s said that he’s a really strong fighter!). Despite that, often confused or mistaken for his brother, he always manages to find himself in trouble for some incidents or whatnot that his brother has caused. When not being mistaken for Alfred, almost all of the other nations tend to forget of his existence and because of his invisibility; he once got sat on by Russia, mistaking him for a ‘comfy’ chair. He is rather passive aggressive and was once even able to make Alfred cry by arguing with him for three hours straight and pointing out every single one of his faults. Matthew is also said to love maple syrup as in one chapter, he offered some to Alfred for his coffee. And according to the mangaka, he always has been a skilled tactician. 

Matthew also has a pet polar bear named Kumajirou, who (unfortunately) always forgets his owner’s name. In return, Matthew always forgets Kumajirou’s name as well.

Next issue will be the 2 Italy characters. Watch out for it!

-Arice215-

(Photo credit: all photos from kitayume site)

Oak Island Real Estate

I wish I have so much money so I can invest in a real estate in the US. It has been an ardent dream to settle in the US but with the way things are going, I do not see the possibility of migrating.

I am drawn to the beautiful houses in the US. I checked some nice properties in Oak Island real estate and they look very cozy and inviting. I also checked in other US states like in San Diego and San Francisco. Some properties are still being sold cheaply because of the recession. However, it is still a dream.

Trip To Miami

Working in one of the most prestigious airlines in the world has so many perks and one of the top benefits is the  opportunity to travel anywhere. Traveling is one of my family's favorite activity. We always make sure that we travel annually to any destination in the world. We can have a repeat visit to a certain place we are fond of or we can go to a new place to discover new things, experience new culture and see more beautiful scenery.

United States of America is one of our favorite counties to visit. We have been there several times and we certainly enjoy every states we have visited in the past. We are just lucky enough to have family and friends scattered all over the USA and because of that, we can save a lot in accommodation. Our family and friends are gracious hosts and are willing to give us free board and lodging during our stay. So why let that offer slip?

We recently went to New York for a very brief weekend getaway. My best friend in Miami saw our pictures from one of the social sites and called me to invite us over her place. We have not been to Florida yet and visiting her and the rest of her family will be a wonderful experience to bond again, catch up on each other's happenings and see the beautiful beaches and places of interest in Florida.

We are planning to visit her in April 2013 during my daughter's spring break. So, I have plenty of time to research about the place, air fares for our connecting flights, Miami airport transfers and shuttles, places to visit, beaches to see and even cruises. My husband really fancy going on a cruise. My best friend and her family will also love the idea of all of us taking a short cruise. There are various ports in Florida and Miami is one of them. I have to make sure that our trip will be covered even if we are taking a cruise. If ever we are short of time because of the cruise, I can rely on the fact that our transfer from the port of Miami shuttle to Miami airport will be covered. I know my friend will help us in our travel plans to make it hassle-free with smooth transfers so as not to inconvenience anyone.

I am already getting excited about this trip. I am not thinking of the cost at the moment because there is still enough time. Our airline is not yet flying to Florida but we can take other routes that will connect us to Miami airport as our entry point. Our company may offer rebated tickets to the nearest destination in Florida and I can purchase then or get other airlines' staff discounted tickets. For now, I am collecting information to make this vacation a truly enjoyable one.

Visiting Relatives in San Diego

I am still thinking whether I will come with my husband to visit our relatives in San Diego this November. My daughter is not really keen about traveling to the US this time because she has been to San Diego and it's hard to keep up with a finicky teenager now. I am considering to stay here because I can't leave my daughter. I will come to a decision by the end of the month. 80% of my decision is leaning towards to "stay" here and just relax.

My husband is already thinking of the gifts he will bring to our relatives there. I told him that there's another special occasion to look forward to in April 2012. His nephew will graduate from high school. It's the right time to consider high school graduation gift ideas since there are still some sale going on after the GITEX 2011 event few days ago. A growing teenager will definitely love gadgets. We already gave him a rock star guitar which you plug on those game consoles last 2009. I think, something funky like the new MPs now or a smart phone. Well, I just let my husband decide.

Hurricane Irene Hits Landfall

The much feared super hurricane Irene has set landfall today in the Eastern Seaboard of USA. More than 2 million people were advised to seek higher grounds and move to a safe place. New York City's subway station was shut down for the first time because of this natural disaster.

The angry storm is said to pack 100 mph of winds early today. North Carolina's coast has been affected already with power outages in some areas, some roofs ripped from warehouses and damaged buildings and trees. Witnesses report that a tornado might have been spawned by the super hurricane to cause the damages.

President Barak Obama has cut his vacation short and returned to Washington to address the people to act now before it is too late.

Hurricane Irene, so far, is the first to have caused this mass evacuation in New York, North Carolina, Martha's Vineyard in Mass., including New Jersey and Maryland's affected areas.

Quake Hits U.S. East Coast

A magnitude of 5.9 quake rattled the east coast side of U.S. today at 1.51 p.m. EDT. The earthquake was centered Northwest of Richmond, Va. It shook Washington D.C as well and evacuation was conducted on the White House, Capitol and part of the Pentagon.

The rambling was felt as far as Rhode Island, New York City and Martha's Vineyard in Mass. where the US president is vacationing.

No casualties has been reported.

Lady Liberty

I remember dreaming about setting foot at Staten Island where the Liberty Statue is situated. I was five years old when I listed it in one of the places I would see when I grow up. And I did!

I never thought I would actually visit New York and some of the famous landmarks of the beautiful state of the US of A. I am very happy and privileged to be an airline staff because I get to afford all the travels my family make.

New York is such a magnet. I am drawn to it despite the negative comments of some people who have been there. I still find the place easy to navigate and everything can be accessed by train or on foot.

I miss the place. I can't wait to visit the place again. I hope very soon!

Cool Clothing for Him

My husband is not the brand-conscious kind of chap. He will wear anything as long as he likes the style and color. You can buy him 1 dollar worth of shirt for all he care and he will graciously wear it as if it is the most expensive shirt in the world.

I want to get him something fashionable and stylish like the coogi clothing in Man Alive stores. Unfortunately, we don't have that clothing shop here in Dubai so I have to check with my friends who will go to the US to buy some.

I don't want very trendy clothes for him because he's already in his 40s and we grown-ups have to dress according to our age, correct? So, the clothing line in Man Alive can give me plenty of options. I can get him casual shirts and polo and even trousers which he can wear for office during casual clothes day and when going out with his pals.

It's time to update his wardrobe and I hope he will like my project.

Is it the End of Terrorism?

News all over the world flashed the death of Osama Bin Laden, one of the top 10 most wanted terrorist known to mankind in present times. He was killed in a secret raid in Abbottabad, 150 kilometers north of Islamabad, Pakistan on May 1, 2011.

People are cheering and waving their flags as they celebrate the killing of the person who is known to be responsible for the September 11, 1991 Twin Towers attack.

I don't know what to feel. I don't know if I will rejoice. All I know at the moment is that I feel a bit scared and skeptical. One man gone, another one (or even more) can take place. Is it really the end of terrorism?

I solemnly pray so. 

North Carolina's Outer Banks

We have not been to North Carolina yet but we love to visit it someday. North Carolina boasts of many beautiful areas to visit like the Outer Banks, Raleigh, Cherokee, Pinehurst, among others.

The Outer Banks is where we want to go if given the chance. The northern islands of Corolla can offer plenty of quiet and relaxing time. We can even book on obx vacation rentals if we want to get some great and affordable deals.

We will see if we can go this year. We have not planned anything yet though because of tight budget but North Carolina's Outer Banks is definitely in my list of places to see.

Worst Jet lag Ever!

I have tried all imaginable trips and tricks known to man to get my body clock in-sync with the time here in the UAE. Unfortunately, my jet lag has gotten worse.

Last Saturday, I slept at 4 a.m. Then I woke up at 2:00 p.m. only to remain wide-awake until Sunday (21 Nov.) of 8:30 p.m. My head was already aching. My temple throbbing. My brain shutting down and my eyes dropping like atom bombs while I was working. I finally had a semi-decent sleep last night around 8:45 p.m.

I realized that prior to our trip to New York, we went to Seoul, Korea first which was in the west and crossing different time zones. I didn't experience any jet lag so bad to affect my sleep pattern. Then we had a trans-Atlantic trip few days ago. I subjected myself to another time-zone difference and coming back to the Middle East was a nightmare in terms of jet lag.

My pilot friends are now telling me that they are experiencing what I have just gone through and they do it every single day. My hats off to them!

So, tonight, I will sleep according to what my body has been accustomed to. I will spray lavender mist on my pillow. Draw the curtains shut and put the air condition to full blast. I will also plug my iPod for some nice relaxing and soothing music. I need to psyche myself and it has to be now. I cannot walk another day like a zombie in the office. I need my sleep and I need it now!

Thanksgiving and Black Friday Deals

We just had our vacation in New York. If we had delayed it for another week, we could have experienced the Thanksgiving parade, Black Friday sale and even the Cyber Monday deals other shops and online stores offer to savvy consumers.

My husband cousin briefed us on what happens during Black Friday. People actually line up outside the malls as early as midnight to get ahead. She said, the sale is really awesome and one can actually save a lot by buying their gifts on further discounted prices.

So, my curiosity got the better of me and researched about Black Friday and Cyber Monday. I am enticed by the cut backs on gadgets and electronics. I told my husband to schedule our next vacation to the great USA around Thanksgiving time so we can experience the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

Back from NYC!

We just came back from New York City. My darling husband decided to spend the Eid Holidays there and it was a decision made in haste. We had no plans nor itinerary laid out which was unusual because I always made it a point to organize the trip.

We stayed in the Upper Manhattan area along 96th street in Days Inn Hotel. The location was perfect because it was walking distance to the metro station. The hotel was also close to the Central Park, some Catholic churches, Michael's (my favorite arts supplies store), TJ Maxx and cafes and restaurants.

People there, like in Seoul, are health buffs and exercise all the time. The metro was packed and we walked around Time Square and Central Park. I felt that I lost more than a kilo just by walking around the city. It was as if I have taken fat burners because my pants has gotten a little loose! Wow!

I like the place. I love the weather! I love New York!

Wildfire in Leona Valley, California

The other half of the world is having rainy spells while the other half is experiencing extreme summer. On 29 July 2010, a so-called Crown wildfire in the Los Angeles County, Leona Valley, California broke and thousands of homes have been evacuated.

Score of residents have already lost their homes to the Crown wildfire. The combination of hot weather and dry bushes are liabilities in this season and can cause fire.

Neighboring areas like the Ana Verde and Quartz Hill is on high alert for possible evacuation due to movement of the fire towards the east.

Business Insurance Coverage

Starting a small or medium sized business is a great idea when you are in your retirement. Some start to establish a decent business even as early as their twenties for the rainy days.

Having a business is not complete when you do not have proper coverage or getting business insurance quote at least. It is a risky issue to run a business without being wise on insurance coverage due to unforeseen events. It is also relevant to ensure that your company is insured with all the aspect of a business insurance coverage can encompass like employees benefits, loss of property coverage due to fire, theft or natural disasters, and protection of the owner's well-valued investment.

Due to the recession, one's money can just go down the drain in an instant. More and more companies in the USA are getting their business covered properly especially at this harsh time.

There are numerous of insurance companies which cater to these business type of insurance coverage. Location does not matter whether you are from the East or West coast. Insurance companies are strategically situated and are also available online for quotes.

So, if you are running a business in Hawaii or Alaska, you can be assured that you can get Alaska business insurance or Hawaii business insurance which is right for your company's needs.

Be wise. Do not let your hard-earned money go to waste by not getting your company insured. Now is the right time to get your business insured so get your insurance quotes the earliest.

Battle of the Pads

This is not your ordinary pad paper competition over which one is thicker, smoother, more eco-friendly and carries more pages of endless writing fun. Nope! Not that kind of pad.

Recently, Apple launched (with bated breath) the iPad with a slightly hefty price tag. I think the features out-weighs the price anyway. Imagine carrying a net book without the keyboard part. Isn't that a cool thing and very convenient?

A German company recently released the "WePad" to rival the iPad. It is also in a tablet form but with bigger screen than the iPad. The specs for this WePad is promising as it has SD card slot, 16 GB and 32 GB memory, can play flash, powered by Intel and has Linux software. Also, Neofonie GmbH, the company behind the "iPad-killer" also claims that the WePad does not require any special software if you want to put your music in. Well, that will hurt Apple's iPad because you have to install iTunes to get your music in your device.

I can't wait to see the ending of this tech battle. Let the duel begin!

Dateless on Valentine's Day

While lovers all over the world scamper for the best seat in the restaurant or a fine date in a nice and cozy place, I am stuck at home enjoying my much deserved R & R. That's rest and relaxation which have been deprived from me for several months.

Just few weeks ago, before I learned that our vacation to Los Angeles was going to be sacked, I planned for a romantic get-away with my hubby while I leave my daughter with my aunt. I was already checking out motorhomes from the Internet. I thought hubby and I could drive off to Lake Tahoe for a romantic date. Poof! That's the sound of my dream being pricked by a needle!

So here I am, day-dreaming in sunny Dubai...

Not Going

I have been planning for another trip to the US since last November 2009. Due to unforeseen events, I had to cancel the trip for the last quarter of 2009. Come January, 2010, we planned to travel on the 2nd week of the same month but my passport got wet so we had to postpone to a later date until I get my new passport. Now that I have my new passport and ready to go next week, my relatives in the US requested if we could postpone it again to a later date because they are going through rough times in their personal lives.

So there, I am taking heed of the signs. This is the 3rd time my US trip got cancelled and that is it. I am not going there for the meantime.

I just hope everything goes well with my relatives there.

The LORD does speak to me in many ways and various forms. I shall listen.

Need A Help?

I have had the opportunity to experience the complexity and difficulty of planning, organizing, packing, and unpacking our stuff when we moved from one building to another in a different locale. It was the culmination of all headaches I have had in my life rolled in one event. My husband is contemplating about moving again to a cheaper flat but I have to tell him to hold his horses.

Moving should not be a horrendous experience. If you are left on your own devices then it becomes one. However, if you seek help from people who are professional movers then your moving experience becomes a breeze. If you are living in the US of A then there are various professional moving service companies you can choose from. I only wish we have the same kind of service here in Dubai. Unfortunately, it is a different case here.

Hire A Helper is an online site offering various professional help in the form of moving, cleaning, lawn help and day labor. The site is well-presented and you will not get lost in the process as you browse through their services. They offer listings for Moving Companies too based on your location and that covers coast to coast.

The site offers great services in terms of moving. They can help you with packing and unpacking, loading and unloading of boxes and furniture and even help you with driving. All these to make your moving experience a wonderful one!

Another great offer from this site is their learning center tab where you can get valuable tips in moving, cleaning your place, about labor and gardens and lawns. I have not seen that many service and products and even tips in one comprehensive site. Check out their satisfied customers' testimonials and you will be convinced to seek their help right there and then.

HireAHelper.com is the right venue to make your moving woes to awes!