tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11476853658418833572024-03-14T02:14:45.285-07:00Life in EnglandA new life, a new beginning for us in England. Over 7000 miles away from the U.S.; figure this way, we can stay connected and keep you abreast of what goes on on this side of the country. So be on the look out as we will continue to give you an update.Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-89678234803667723772009-04-17T07:22:00.000-07:002009-04-17T08:36:09.597-07:00Never Judge a Book by it's CoverDo you know what it's like to be judged? I was always told that before you judge someone by their appearance, you should get to know that person. Just because others have labeled them unpopular, dorky or nerdy doesn't mean that there is nothing good about that person. Most don't take the time to understand others and usually rely on what they hear from rumors, or what their eyes let them see. I am probably guilty of that sometimes.
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<br />Take a look at Susan Boyle below.
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<br /><a href="http://video.yahoo.com/watch/4853639/12942069">Susan Boyle Sings on Britain's Got Talent 2009 Episode 1</a> @ <a href="http://video.yahoo.com/">Yahoo! Video</a></DIMs.
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<br />Susan Boyle, who appeared on a TV show called "Britains' Got Talent" last Saturday, April 11th The cynical audience and the judges, including the unpredictable Simon Cowell (also of American Idol) have took them by suprise with her powerful performance of "I Dream A Dream" from Les Miserable.
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<br />What surprised millions - a person like Susan Boyle could really sing like that. This is absolutely a wake up call that you should never judge a person by their physical apperance, but by what's in their heart and what they're capable of doing.
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<br />Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-30555927295391212602009-03-28T02:57:00.000-07:002009-04-12T07:50:29.295-07:00March/April (Spring) in England<div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SeH-U_zlQzI/AAAAAAAAASo/eEaMLIxzCY0/s1600-h/Spring+picture.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323815871207260978" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 75px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SeH-U_zlQzI/AAAAAAAAASo/eEaMLIxzCY0/s320/Spring+picture.jpg" border="0" /></a> It is so tempting that the Month of March has passsed and gone and for most people, they think it is Spring time. Well, in some places (countries) there is such a thing, but here in England, warm weather comes and goes. It can be nice today and then the next day its cold. It is so tempting that some people are dressed like it is summer time wearing shorts and sandals. While some people are all wrapped up like it is winter time. Rodney and I for instance, because of this tempting weather we caught cold virus that lastest over a week and still congested to this day.<br /><div> </div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SeH-woEwOOI/AAAAAAAAAS4/zSkFnItiNLI/s1600-h/flowers.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323816345873168610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 75px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SeH-woEwOOI/AAAAAAAAAS4/zSkFnItiNLI/s400/flowers.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div> </div><div>But because it is close to spring, you can smell the freshness of the air, flowers start blooming and <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SeH-cCUcSaI/AAAAAAAAASw/hKKTWoaV6po/s1600-h/flowers.jpg"></a>people start working on their yard in preparation for a nice colorful sunny summer. Just like Rodney and I worked on the yard and planted some bulbs. Hopefully, it will grow. Of course I attempted to dig the soil, but as soon as small creation (worms) started on appearing that was the end for me, Rodney resumed the planting. I just cannot stand it. </div><br /><div>March is one of the British"s most significant month. "Mother's Day" is being celebrated on March 22 each year. Colorful gift ideas are everywhere in the stores in late February and if you do not know anything about it, you will just wonder like me until Ashley told me.</div><br /><div>April is no different still cold and raining a lot. Easter is being observed as a holiday. In fact most companies are off on Good Friday and Monday. What a long weekend for others. All public schools are on Spring break at the same time for two weeks, while we only get a week in the States. Of course, I got a week off this week. I guess, it is better that than no week off at all.</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#33ffff;">"Happy Easter To All"</span></div><br /><div>Twenty Nine months.....................counting down!</div></div></div>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-48504840379560266782009-02-03T01:41:00.000-08:002009-02-12T06:06:00.723-08:00Look Who Turned A Year Older?<div align="left">Yeah! Yeah! I have turned a year older this week, but still feeling young and active . Let's <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZNEv4JyVjI/AAAAAAAAAQs/X6ladNpFd08/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301656775663179314" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right; width: 320px; height: 240px;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZNEv4JyVjI/AAAAAAAAAQs/X6ladNpFd08/s320/007.JPG" border="0" /></a>see....so much has happened this past year..First, I got married on June 14, which happened earlier than anticipated. Second, I resigned from a job after 10 years of laughter, sadness, travels, tons of papers, and sleepless nights. And third, we departed for England on Sept. 8 to stay for a three-year tour. And this my friends and families are major, I mean major changes in my 48 years of living. Ha! Ha! Ha! Now, you know how old I am! </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">After ten years of having authority to make decisions in the previous job, it is not easy to start a new one and in a challenging environment. Dealing with middle and high school kids does not come easy either. Kids will try you to see if they can get away with murder. Same way with the adults but in a different circumstances. I just recently accepted a part time position with RAF Alconbury High School as an Educational Training Technician. I am meeting new acquaintances and learning new responsibilities but less demanding. Of course, we all know that this is just a temporary until we leave the area. What is next? Time will tell! The good part about it is, I am now in the government system. Hopefully, it will be easier for me to get a federal job in the future.</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">It has been over five months, since we arrived here in England and we only have 31 months left..yeah! Counting down....:)We've gone to Malta over the holidays and visited small towns in the area. So far, the top two local places that I like are London and Melton Keynes. Melton Keynes reminds me of Washington DC and London reminds me of New York City. Surprisingly, the first visitor we have from America is Danielle. She was here on a business<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301655656581396498" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZNDuvP5eBI/AAAAAAAAAQk/Kyjyx0CT1Lk/s320/January09+009.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301654535577173026" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZNCtfLqfCI/AAAAAAAAAQc/xwF-yhp-MZY/s320/January09+011.jpg" border="0" /> trip and we had dinner in Melton Keynes. It was really nice seeing you in England, Danielle!. and Ashley is expecting AUSTIN!!! to visit here next month. How nice! She is truly a best friend.</div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZM8ZbaD0YI/AAAAAAAAAP0/CXmURwUY-SU/s1600-h/001.JPG"></a></div><div align="center">The weather has been really weird. It ha<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZM43TSVK9I/AAAAAAAAAPk/rSF7GIBlkCc/s1600-h/006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301643709066324946" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right; width: 245px; height: 233px;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZM43TSVK9I/AAAAAAAAAPk/rSF7GIBlkCc/s320/006.JPG" border="0" /></a>s been snowing a lot and we were out of work for a few days and could not go anywhere on my birthday due to snow. So to keep ourselves entertained, Rodney and I built a snow woman...he!he!he! And Rodney's friends were freezing! <div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZM8ZbaD0YI/AAAAAAAAAP0/CXmURwUY-SU/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301647593896661378" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 320px; height: 240px;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZM8ZbaD0YI/AAAAAAAAAP0/CXmURwUY-SU/s320/001.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZM8ZbaD0YI/AAAAAAAAAP0/CXmURwUY-SU/s1600-h/001.JPG"></a></div><br />And this is the story of our life this year.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZM8ZbaD0YI/AAAAAAAAAP0/CXmURwUY-SU/s1600-h/001.JPG"></a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><p align="center"> </p><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301654517711998866" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZNCscoRj5I/AAAAAAAAAQE/i4dYerQKKSY/s320/DSC02969.JPG" border="0" /></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Rodney and I at the Chinese Restaurant while waiting to be served.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301653525268717522" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SZNByrfW39I/AAAAAAAAAP8/JCDSIOOgJgE/s320/DSC02966.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center">On the escalator in London's underground tube train terminal.<br /></p>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-22131870964514431472009-01-05T06:35:00.000-08:002009-01-09T06:02:04.474-08:00Happy 2009Happy New Year to all! The new year came in and I was sick, but still Blessed! I caught a serious cold virus where I had to knock myself down to go to sleep (e.g. Sudafed during the day and NyQuil at night) and I still have a mild cold. But, I'm slowly getting better and welcoming the new year to a more positive year.<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RJmfVQxeWqE&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RJmfVQxeWqE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />New Year-New Attitude..New Look...New job... and ????? ?Most people would ask every year, "What is your New year's resolution?" Well, if you ask me..I always break my new year resolution, that is why I don't have one. What about you? Do you have one??<br /><br />For me, I want this year to be Blessed as its always been.....most importantly, good health.<br /><br />This year, I will start it off with working on a class syllabus. I always procrastinate, my daughter's favorite word." I should have done this a few weeks ago, but I procrastinated and now I am suffering. But, it's okay because I know it will be done in time for the classes to begin. This may sound so silly, but I also accepted a part time position with Central Texas College as an Army Counselor twice a week and I am also doing substitute teaching for high school and middle school as needed. So I am beginning to get busy again. Also, I started my exercise routine after being away from it for 8 months....ouch! I received a wii fitness for christmas and that's what made me motivated. I want to get back to size "4" Ha! Ha! ha! We'll see!!!Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-35399989741398068252008-12-29T01:29:00.000-08:002008-12-29T06:33:42.081-08:00"MALTA"<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjNy6qI7kI/AAAAAAAAAMY/CV9B6oUeOOk/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+019.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285200437342432834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjNy6qI7kI/AAAAAAAAAMY/CV9B6oUeOOk/s320/Christmas+2008+2+019.JPG" border="0" /></a> It was a three hour smooth flight to MALTA. Upon arriving to the country, you see different types of people, houses,roads, types of transportation ,currency, trees (plenty of palm trees)etc...Basically, its a completely different culture all together. "Malta is a sundrenched island that sits in the heart of the mediterranean sea, with a wealth of history waiting to be explored." (More of the history below) Its so much <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjPCZ4dPfI/AAAAAAAAAMo/gtm8x-NYEgk/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+160.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285201802933648882" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjPCZ4dPfI/AAAAAAAAAMo/gtm8x-NYEgk/s320/Christmas+2008+2+160.JPG" border="0" /></a>different compared to England. It is warmer there this time of the year. Although we were not able to get into the blue water, we did the boat tour and enjoyed the scenery. If you happened to see the movie "TROY" or "GLADIATOR" both movies were filmed in MALTA a<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjOIwAid_I/AAAAAAAAAMg/8kb3Wjps6IQ/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+027.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285200812440713202" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjOIwAid_I/AAAAAAAAAMg/8kb3Wjps6IQ/s320/Christmas+2008+2+027.JPG" border="0" /></a>mong many other. It is just unbelievable how houses are built on top of the rocks. Getting on the public transportation (Buses) was quit an experience. It reminds me of the Philippines. It is so bumpy...but accessible. Buses runs every ten minutes. In fact we were not expecting to get anywhere on christmas day because we thought everything would be closed. But Many Thanks to Malta public Transportation Department, the buses were running and some of the restaurants in downtown "SLIEMA" were opened. We had a taste of some of the finest "MALTESE" meals.
<br />Do you want to know more...CATS...are everywhere here in Malta. Maltese people love cats. Even in the hotel we stayed at there were cats around the area...Meowwww!
<br />Right across from the hotel are the island of Gozo and Camino. We did not get a chance to cross over because I got sick on our last day. But we saw the outside of it from a distance and from what I've heard it's really not a lot to do but snorking and swimming, which is not the time for swimming. Although, we got a chance to get in the hotel pool and both Ashley and Katie had a blast especially in the spa. (See more exciting pictures below)
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<br /><em><strong><em><em>"HISTORY"
<br />Contributing Editor: Martin Debattista
<br />Contributors:Sonia Attard, Peter Prictoe, Joseph Vella, Alexander Borg
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<br />The Maltese Islands are a group of small, barren rocks, jutting out of the middle of the dark blue Mediterranean sea. In these conditions, they would have been relegated to the footnotes of history. Yet, ever since the archipelago was first colonised thousands of years ago, they have never been far from the centre of events and have often played a crucial role in the making of history. Their strategic situation in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea makes up for all the lack of resources that nature endowed the rest of the globe. Malta, the largest island, and her sister islands of Gozo, Comino, Filfla and other very small islands, are strategically placed in the narrow channel joining the eastern and the western basins of the Mediterranean. Or if you like, a bridge between Southern Europe and North Africa, or between Western Europe and the Middle East. This had landed the Maltese Islands right in the middle of the most important historic events: the wars between Rome and Carthage, the rise of Islam, the Crusades, the wars between Christians and Moslems, the rise and fall of Napoleon, the rise and fall of the British Empire, the fight for democracy against Fascism and Nazism, the Cold War, the rise of a United Europe and the challenges of the Third Millennium. </em></em></strong></em></div>
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<br /><div align="center">More Pictures:</div>
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<br /><div align="center">The hotel had a Christmas Eve Dinner Celebration. Luckily, they were able to accomodate us because this dinner was by reservation only. Considering we just arrived that day, we actually had a good time. We met some family who are also visiting from Germany
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<br /><div align="center"><strong><em>Katie is drinking Taquila Sunrise?</em></strong></div>
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<br /><div align="center"><strong><em>Ashley and Katie at the dinner with their cheesy smiles!</em></strong>
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<br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285207415939200146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjUJH9Q9JI/AAAAAAAAANQ/uTVw-Iqws4A/s320/Christmas+2008+2+058.JPG" border="0" />Ashley and Katie in the spa!
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<br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjbsTZv-0I/AAAAAAAAAOY/DfyOx307vT0/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+114.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285215716888279874" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjbsTZv-0I/AAAAAAAAAOY/DfyOx307vT0/s320/Christmas+2008+2+114.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjXfMwF_zI/AAAAAAAAAN4/IzIziF4JfOk/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+160.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285211093718138674" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjXfMwF_zI/AAAAAAAAAN4/IzIziF4JfOk/s320/Christmas+2008+2+160.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjbsNQcKFI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/c29E4MxqGVw/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+158.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285215715238619218" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjbsNQcKFI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/c29E4MxqGVw/s320/Christmas+2008+2+158.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjdw-HLQtI/AAAAAAAAAOw/RbU5KdTaWY8/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+060.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285217996095832786" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjdw-HLQtI/AAAAAAAAAOw/RbU5KdTaWY8/s320/Christmas+2008+060.JPG" border="0" /></a></p></div></div></div></div>
<br />Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-33360855971435146372008-12-29T01:13:00.000-08:002008-12-30T03:36:02.630-08:00"BIG 20th CELEBRATON"<div align="center"><em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Can you guess who this child is?</span></em><br /></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Ashley at 21/2</span></em><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285507542812088882" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 225px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVnlGzr2WjI/AAAAAAAAAPA/R-TGu2O9iAU/s320/Ashley%402_20001.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285509017392900082" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVnmco7T5_I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/TCVc8UVMC1g/s320/Christmas+2008+2+163.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><em>and at 20!</em></span></p><p align="center"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><em>(still loves Hello Kitty)</em><br /></span><em><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">What does that make me??? Don't even wanna talk about it!</span></em></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjJsZfmMwI/AAAAAAAAAL4/7L7ylM8XH0A/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+011.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285195927314117378" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right; width: 320px; height: 240px;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjJsZfmMwI/AAAAAAAAAL4/7L7ylM8XH0A/s320/Christmas+2008+2+011.JPG" border="0" /></a>December 23, 1988, when Ashley was born. It feels like it was just yesterday when Ashley was the "BIG 2" still crying in my arms. NOW, she is the "BIG 20" and still crying in my arms...:) We celebrated Ashley's birthday by cooking some of her favorite Thai food; roasted duck, pad thai and brussel sprouts. It was the first time I cooked a roasted duck and it turned out pretty good. Rodney, Katie and Ashley enjoyed the meal. We even had a bottle of wine. Needless to say I was drunk. Unfortunately, when it came down to a surprise cake, Rodney and I could not find a lighter. Rodney even went to the next door neighbor to borrow one, but no one was home. So, Rodney took the chocolate cake in the dining <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjJIHHLo3I/AAAAAAAAALw/zmtDKlvUVys/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285195303904584562" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right; width: 320px; height: 240px;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjJIHHLo3I/AAAAAAAAALw/zmtDKlvUVys/s320/Christmas+2008+2+010.JPG" border="0" /></a>room and we had a make believe light on the candle and Ashley blew the candles out and made her wish.<br /><br />Soon after dinner, we all gathered in the living room to open christmas presents. I know, you are wondering why are you opening presents two days away from christmas? Well, the next day we are off to MALTA....<br />'HAPPY 20th BIRTHDDAY BABY GIRL"<br />WE LOVE YOU!!!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285198947558109442" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjMcMx4MQI/AAAAAAAAAMI/J90Da5aqQcU/s320/Christmas+2008+2+009.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285199525367758674" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjM91Sbv1I/AAAAAAAAAMQ/5NtBC8YlwWs/s320/Christmas+2008+2+014.JPG" border="0" /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SVjLph0kodI/AAAAAAAAAMA/oOtvubjNeOc/s1600-h/Christmas+2008+2+009.JPG"></a>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-87498528888233483072008-12-21T04:55:00.000-08:002008-12-21T09:42:18.812-08:00"X-Factor"/American IdolI cannot beleive that I am watching "X-Factor." Yes, X-Factor is just like "American Idol" in the US. I never watched American Idol in the states, but now i am hooked on this show. It is still produced by Simon Cowell and American Idol is supposed to be modeled after this show. And I love it. When we go out on Saturdays, I make sure we are back on time I can't even go anywhere on a Saturday night because I have to stay and watch this show. I am so proud of the winner Alexandra Burke. Here is her cover of "Hallelujah" and also her duet with Beyonce!!
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<br />Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-17209228290523090302008-12-08T06:04:00.000-08:002008-12-18T07:56:59.098-08:00Month of "December"Just like every year, we tend to get excited when December comes. Commercialism normally advertises in every news paper. But, will it be the same this year in spite of the economic crisis? With the number of properties being repossesed, Department stores are filing for bankruptcy and job layoffs are drastically increasing, but do you think this will stop consumers???<br /><br /><div><div>CHRISTMAS is celebrated around the world. Some are excited because "Christmas" is right around the corner. But often we ask "Why" do we cebrate and "HOW" do we celebrate "Christmas.? For many, christmas is being celebrated with their families and friends, exchanging gifts, and having a moments of "Peace, Joy and Love." WHERE do we fit in???? Well, As I was acustomed to say, "Christmas is Everyday." Although, we do things that we can only do during Christmas time e.g. decorate the house with ornaments. </div><br /><div>Well this year for the first time after so many years, I decided to put up a "pre-lit christmas tree" and a few decorations on top of the fire place. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281157817931658210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 310px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 165px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SUpxDfyX8-I/AAAAAAAAALY/CjEroT75HS8/s320/DSC00032.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281157808819121666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SUpxC91xrgI/AAAAAAAAALQ/CMLSJtEdWRc/s320/DSC00031.JPG" border="0" />It actually looks nice and feels like home. As a tradition, our family travels every year during this holiday. This year is no exception. Our destination this time around is Malta.<br /></div><div></div><div>Where is Malta? Malta is in Europe and located South West of the italian island of Sicily. It is North of the African continent and sits in the Mediterranean sea. The island is about 315 sq. km.</div><div>Well so much about the history, I will be able to share more after we come back from the trip.</div><div>Enjoy your holidays!</div></div>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-56966882211517875552008-11-30T01:36:00.000-08:002008-12-08T06:04:46.321-08:00"Thanksgiving Day""Thanksgiving Day" is a holiday that the "British" do not celebrate. Statistically, there are only two American families living in this village including us. Needless to say, we had some cars parked in front of our house and you could tell that we are having a party while the rest of the neighborhood are quiet and had their lights and windows closed.<br /><br />Back to the "Thanksgiving Dinner," just like any American family, we had turkey, ham, stuffing, corn bread, cranberry, vegetable and the traditional filipino food(of course). Deserts: sweet potato pie (home made, which according to my family was good), cheese cake, fruit salad, leche flan and home made fruit punch..I made four bowls.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274565039751218130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/STME9TMQw9I/AAAAAAAAALA/K22pLhjOdkY/s320/005.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277419219912053602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/ST0o0c2tU2I/AAAAAAAAALI/zlrftjFNX5E/s320/007.JPG" border="0" />Everybody loved it. Along with the entertainment, our guests participated in playing wii and karoake which put a bit of spark on this celebration away from home.<br /><br />It was a bit of hard work, but overall we had a wonderful time and I hope you did too!<br />Thanks Ashley for helping out! You did a good job!!Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-45722132898370130402008-11-20T09:42:00.000-08:002008-11-30T12:58:46.939-08:00" A Truly Blessed Day"<div align="center">Imagine when you cannot sleep at night because you have so much on your mind. Well, I was like that the other night. My mind was so active and i don't believe that I even went to sleep. All kinds of things were on mind e.g. home, family and job. I prayed and prayed that <strong><em>He</em></strong> protects us and provides us all the things that we need. I got up the next morning with a purpose to go to RAF Alconbury and take care of some business such as; to submit my application package and visit the Education Center to see the University of Maryland Representative. I reviewed my application package before I left the house and printed a few copies of my resume using fine linen paper and put everything in a nice folder. I dressed up like I normally do when I used to work...looking presentable LOL. Anyway, I arrived at the school and spoke with the office manager. She reviewed my paper work (50 pages). Yes, it was a lot of documents to fill out. I guess when you are dealing with children and government, it is not a joke. So, some of my friends may be called for a background investigation (of course with permission from you guys). However while I was there, I was put behind close doors feeling that something was wrong...unbeknown to me that I might be considered for a full time position, I will know more later. And it did not stop there..once I arrived at the Education Center, the UMUC rep wasn't there. So as I was leaving the Ed Ctr when the CTC rep called my attention and ask me if I was still interested for a part time position...I now know that there is something for me out there.<br />Having said all that, when you need something <strong><em>"just call on Him and He will provide." </em></strong>It may not be exactly what you ask for, but <strong><em>"it's a sign that He listens to you."</em></strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><em><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">"Matthew 7:7 - Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."</span></em></strong></span></div><p align="center"><br />It has truly been a blessing because I know that <strong><em>"He always hear my prayers and so are yours."<br /></em></strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://smiley.smileycentral.com/download/index.jhtml?partner=ZSzeb112_ZNxdm117YYGB&utm_id=7920" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.smileycentral.com/sig.jsp?pc=%5Bobject" pp="'ZNxdm117YYGB" border="0" /></a></p>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-74800406928155779982008-11-13T02:08:00.000-08:002008-11-20T10:27:00.546-08:00Hill House Gardens Here We ComeSix weeks leaving in the temporary housing was quite an experienced. We moved into our house (rental property) on October 14. The first two nights, we basically slept on a blow-up bed. Luckily two days later, our household goods arrive before I could finished unpacking the first shipment. Needless to say, this is when the fun begins. You see boxes everywhere, it took me three weeks to finally put things in order. However, it doesn't <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGhdegy8uI/AAAAAAAAAIs/vbj2jhIxn-w/s1600-h/005.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269670566779089634" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGhdegy8uI/AAAAAAAAAIs/vbj2jhIxn-w/s320/005.JPG" border="0" /></a>mean that it is in perfect order yet. There are still quite a few things that I may still move into different section of the house. You know how women are??? It will probably take a few months to really get the house to where I can be comfortable (how perfectionist!). Anyway, take a little tour of the house today.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGczt4o_CI/AAAAAAAAAH8/N2-xFWGB1Ps/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269665451304614946" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 408px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 315px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGczt4o_CI/AAAAAAAAAH8/N2-xFWGB1Ps/s320/004.JPG" border="0" /></a><strong><em>Katie's room</em></strong>. Her favorite color is red. Luckily the carpet is already red and I am coordinating the room with the same color of accessories. In the same section of the room is where we place the computer desk. As you can see, Rodney is on it.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGbCNBZuLI/AAAAAAAAAHc/mdSfBTZ1iJU/s1600-h/006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269663501157775538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 296px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGbCNBZuLI/AAAAAAAAAHc/mdSfBTZ1iJU/s320/006.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGbcHZaCMI/AAAAAAAAAHk/jrWOR_srRxQ/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269663946324445378" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGbcHZaCMI/AAAAAAAAAHk/jrWOR_srRxQ/s320/007.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>Ashley's room</em></strong> the theme is "Hello Kitty" I think, she likes her room.<br /><br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Guest Room<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHY0eI8EvI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/KkxTVfejdY0/s1600-h/008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269731434955543282" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHY0eI8EvI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/KkxTVfejdY0/s320/008.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGcRAZS3KI/AAAAAAAAAH0/Ci_uCoISTnE/s1600-h/009.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269664854977993890" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGcRAZS3KI/AAAAAAAAAH0/Ci_uCoISTnE/s320/009.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div>Master Bedroom<br /><div>Kitchen<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGdmiQEFbI/AAAAAAAAAIE/50XESZaae8c/s1600-h/011.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269666324354962866" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGdmiQEFbI/AAAAAAAAAIE/50XESZaae8c/s320/011.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHc0ycvilI/AAAAAAAAAKc/gXmeecPfTsA/s1600-h/012.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269735838453828178" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHc0ycvilI/AAAAAAAAAKc/gXmeecPfTsA/s320/012.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Of course the "Kitchen" this is where I spend most of my time cooking and doing some work. It is the warmest spot of the house because the "SUN" is <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGeotmhTFI/AAAAAAAAAIU/WB3GknCHfUc/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269667461273308242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGeotmhTFI/AAAAAAAAAIU/WB3GknCHfUc/s320/001.JPG" border="0" /></a>shining through the windows, if any.<br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGgzmrQyTI/AAAAAAAAAIc/GSux4HZBvHo/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269669847415966002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGgzmrQyTI/AAAAAAAAAIc/GSux4HZBvHo/s320/003.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The <strong><em>"Living Room"</em></strong> is kind a roomy. We definitely have more room for more living room furnitures. Same thing for the <strong><em>"Dining Room"</em></strong> on your right.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGYJ3WJbuI/AAAAAAAAAG0/I2HqW8JeVJU/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269660334243278562" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGYJ3WJbuI/AAAAAAAAAG0/I2HqW8JeVJU/s320/002.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGilYqtc9I/AAAAAAAAAJM/VOCMSb1x6Qg/s1600-h/013.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269671802160640978" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGilYqtc9I/AAAAAAAAAJM/VOCMSb1x6Qg/s320/013.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The "Conservatory Room" which is a "Sunroom" . We enjoy watching "TV" in this room. On your right, parked in the front of the house is the "Acura" and a "Lexus," which we just bought as a second car. It is a 1995 and in good condition. Rodney is e<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGiScNjsxI/AAAAAAAAAJE/N5H3uGe8Uyk/s1600-h/021.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269671476694594322" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGiScNjsxI/AAAAAAAAAJE/N5H3uGe8Uyk/s320/021.JPG" border="0" /></a>njoying it.<br /><br />As the day goes by, I am beginning to learn my way around in the neighborhood. This little village called "Stanwick" is actually a decent neighborhood. About 500 ft. away from my house you will see: 1) "<strong><em>General Store"<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGRiLg6jwI/AAAAAAAAAGE/q7rAItOoqns/s1600-h/015.JPG"></a></em></strong> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHa7Czy2SI/AAAAAAAAAKE/Qapw536PVHQ/s1600-h/015.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269733746901440802" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHa7Czy2SI/AAAAAAAAAKE/Qapw536PVHQ/s320/015.JPG" border="0" /></a>they sells just about everything you will need in your daily routine; 2) If you don't want to cook, you will see <strong><em>"Chinese Take Away"</em></strong> (well know for "to go" Chinese Restaurant in the U.S). This Chinese Take Away is also talk of the town. They have the best food in the area. I kind a beleive that because Rodney and I tried several Chinese Take Away around RAF alconbury and guess what? it did not taste like chinese food. We actually like the food here better; 3) there is a "<strong><em>Club"</em></strong> and a "<strong><em>Pub"</em></strong>. What is the difference? Well, I have never been to the club. My guess is just like a typical club in the state. Pub is somewhat like "Apple Bees," Bennigans and so on..they serve lunch and dinner and they have a bar as well. We ate there once, unfortunately we don't think that we are going back..It was a bad experience, but of course that may just be us; 4) the <strong><em>"Buthcher Shop."</em></strong> I am acutally enjoying buying fresh meat there. It is inexpensive and its near by. So, when I don't have any meat in the refrigerator I can just walk and buy some fresh meat; <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGTePhP3RI/AAAAAAAAAGc/TY9oLoKcSVg/s1600-h/014.JPG"></a>5)<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHbVodlFDI/AAAAAAAAAKM/HcvpP3QiYcE/s1600-h/014.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269734203685409842" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHbVodlFDI/AAAAAAAAAKM/HcvpP3QiYcE/s320/014.JPG" border="0" /></a> a <strong><em>"Church"</em></strong> with graveyard around it. We also haven't been there and I am not sure if they have service on Sundays. But wait, every village in the UK have churches that looks like this; so I cannot use the church as a land mark because they are all identical; 6) a lake <strong><em>"Stanwich Lake"</em></strong> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGT0s1tCdI/AAAAAAAAAGk/j81QdMyV93o/s1600-h/017.JPG"></a>WOW! They are actually building a theatre by <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHb2z8N-3I/AAAAAAAAAKU/AaFP6jizXuk/s1600-h/017.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269734773702392690" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHb2z8N-3I/AAAAAAAAAKU/AaFP6jizXuk/s320/017.JPG" border="0" /></a>the lake. Rodney and I visited the lake and it is going to be our spot to get our exercise especially when the weather gets better and last but the least; 7) companies right in my backyard, <strong><em>"the <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGhu2E4-bI/AAAAAAAAAI0/ndtl-J9oH0E/s1600-h/019.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269670865162271154" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGhu2E4-bI/AAAAAAAAAI0/ndtl-J9oH0E/s320/019.JPG" border="0" /></a>horses"</em></strong> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHfid-Pr9I/AAAAAAAAAKk/G-1UN1ek5ns/s1600-h/020.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269738822254440402" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHfid-Pr9I/AAAAAAAAAKk/G-1UN1ek5ns/s320/020.JPG" border="0" /></a>they are becoming my everyday friends. They come and visit every afternoon to say "hello." Of course, I am just kidding! They <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGh_6TGxOI/AAAAAAAAAI8/bnbQs_qBpx0/s1600-h/018.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269671158353413346" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGh_6TGxOI/AAAAAAAAAI8/bnbQs_qBpx0/s320/018.JPG" border="0" /></a>are actually looking for Rodney.. <a href="http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=_undefined" target="_blank"><img alt="Horse" src="http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/16/16_3_164.gif" border="0" /></a> Ha! Ha! Ha!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://smiley.smileycentral.com/download/index.jhtml?partner=ZSzeb097_ZNxdm117YYGB&utm_id=7925" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.smileycentral.com/sig.jsp?pc=[object" border="0" pp="'ZNxdm117YYGB" /></a><a href="http://smiley.smileycentral.com/download/index.jhtml?partner=ZSzeb112_ZNxdm117YYGB&utm_id=7920" target="_blank"></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-47628868359799751812008-10-06T08:45:00.000-07:002008-11-20T08:38:23.359-08:00Shopping Malls<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHUE6ROleI/AAAAAAAAAJU/F2uOdma9B8o/s1600-h/126.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269726219826271714" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHUE6ROleI/AAAAAAAAAJU/F2uOdma9B8o/s320/126.JPG" border="0" /></a> A month ago since we left the U.S., there are times that I get so bored maybe because I miss home or I miss the fact that I can't jump in the car and go shopping (Is this really the case?? Who knows??). To make me feel better to my surprise, Rodney took me to the shopping mall <strong><em>(NEWLANDS MALL)</em></strong> in Kettering which is about 30 minutes away from Stanwick. Not too bad for a mall, it reminded me of "Coliseum Mall" Speaking of coliseum mall, I bet by the time we go back to the state it will be finished. Anyway going back to the "Newland Mall" unbeknown to me there is a <strong><em>"T.K. Maxx,<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SR6y2BBPPXI/AAAAAAAAAFE/1JEp1HA6-FA/s1600-h/124.JPG"></a>"</em></strong> which is TJ Max in <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHUs28olOI/AAAAAAAAAJc/-sjJ4rOiX1U/s1600-h/124.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269726906129356002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHUs28olOI/AAAAAAAAAJc/-sjJ4rOiX1U/s320/124.JPG" border="0" /></a>America. Of course, it brough joy to my face and Rodney was like so happy to see me smiling. It reminded him of my so called <strong><em>"Therapy."</em></strong> TK Maxx is like TJ Maxx where you see all shoppers patiently looking for the bargains. I bought a scarf from<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SR62bTUVW3I/AAAAAAAAAFU/PICkiOimj2Q/s1600-h/123.JPG"></a> the store and everything else is expensive. It is something that I have to get use to, instead of coverting the value of money each time I shop. Hey take a look at this <strong><em>"B&Q," which is the "HQ" back home.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHVbg6qHzI/AAAAAAAAAJk/Ygg7eqZ5IEg/s1600-h/123.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269727707669339954" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHVbg6qHzI/AAAAAAAAAJk/Ygg7eqZ5IEg/s320/123.JPG" border="0" /></a></em></strong> I guess, this is the place where we will be buying our gardenings and home improvements needs. I bet Rodney is looking forward to be a handy-man <a href="http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=_undefined" target="_blank"><img alt="Roll" src="http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_21.gif" border="0" /></a> . The <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHWLAVVtyI/AAAAAAAAAJs/7-MUOqKvRzo/s1600-h/156.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269728523556599586" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHWLAVVtyI/AAAAAAAAAJs/7-MUOqKvRzo/s320/156.JPG" border="0" /></a>mall to your left is actually located in Norwich<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGKvjVu9LI/AAAAAAAAAFk/_UufsmSBnLQ/s1600-h/156.JPG"></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSGNVYb9AQI/AAAAAAAAAF0/DZm1f5XXYWY/s1600-h/158.JPG"></a>Across from this mall is the "Norwich Castle" (to your right).<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHWkS-sfmI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/KMMhGdhHsDc/s1600-h/158.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269728958058626658" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SSHWkS-sfmI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/KMMhGdhHsDc/s320/158.JPG" border="0" /></a> We did not go inside, but just the view from the outside is pretty impressing. Of course, there are many more castles that will really take my breath away. This castle was a prison for over 650 years and in 1894, they turned it to a museum. We did not get a chance to go inside, but for sure I would like to see the inside next time.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://smiley.smileycentral.com/download/index.jhtml?partner=ZSzeb114_ZNxdm117YYGB&utm_id=7922" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.smileycentral.com/sig.jsp?pc=[object" border="0" pp="'ZNxdm117YYGB" /></a>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-77755604090151623032008-10-05T10:58:00.000-07:002008-10-06T10:52:55.416-07:00The Best Meal Since Arriving EnglandBeing in the military lodging (family suite), we do not have the benefit to fully cook a meal that<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOneQ4vRfoI/AAAAAAAAAE0/gb4DxOrYapI/s1600-h/DSC00219.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253974821994331778" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOneQ4vRfoI/AAAAAAAAAE0/gb4DxOrYapI/s200/DSC00219.JPG" border="0" /></a> would satisfy our cravings (NOT TOO BAD). So this weekend, we were invited to one of Rodney's co-worker's house for dinner. He is married to a lady from Thailand. It was a very good dinner. I felt like I hadn't eaten in so many days. A home cooked meal really tastes good, particularly if the cook is really good. Well, I must say she is good (notice how I used the wo<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOnd8SGSLfI/AAAAAAAAAEk/BFgkuyXiZNM/s1600-h/DSC00221.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253974468024479218" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 200px; height: 133px;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOnd8SGSLfI/AAAAAAAAAEk/BFgkuyXiZNM/s200/DSC00221.JPG" border="0" width="200" height="188" /></a>rd "good" several times) and yes, everything was good!. We have gone to several nice restaurants here in downtown <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOneHOBbAiI/AAAAAAAAAEs/AOc4LtW8His/s1600-h/DSC00220.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253974655908905506" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 197px; height: 136px;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOneHOBbAiI/AAAAAAAAAEs/AOc4LtW8His/s200/DSC00220.JPG" border="0" width="200" height="162" /></a>Huntington just outside RAF Alconbury, but none suits our taste yet. What made it even worse is we went to this expensive restaurant because we had a taste for sea food, we were not please because the fish was not fresh and it actually smelled bad even the people next to our table said the same thing. Needless to say, we complained. And guess what, we did not pay for the meal and they even offered us (people in the restaurant) anything we wanted from the restaurant for free. The table next to us ordered steaks, but we only asked for a glass of wine and left. You wanna bet? We will not go back to that restaurant ever.<br /><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOnTWc8Z5qI/AAAAAAAAAEU/TwqNXP27XA0/s1600-h/128.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253962822984525474" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOnTWc8Z5qI/AAAAAAAAAEU/TwqNXP27XA0/s200/128.JPG" border="0" /></a>Back to this couple, both she and her husband are christian. So, we call this dinner a good "fellowship". On top of that, they invited us to visit their church. The church is located in Cambridge, which about 30 minutes from Alconbury and it will be about 45 minutes drive once we moved into our house. The service is similar to the way Bethel Temple is organized. I must say the female pastor (guest speaker for today) was very good. She reminds me of Joyce Myers. We have already attended the service here on base. It is not too bad, the people are very friendly. We don't mind attending the base chapel. We might still visit churches from time to time. The picture isn't the best because it was raining when it was taken. But this supposedly is the a five star hotel in Cambridge.</div></div></div></div>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-26160130209887198462008-10-01T04:59:00.000-07:002008-10-06T10:54:08.862-07:00Driving LicenseToday October 1 at 9:00 a.m.. My official 423 Air Force Driving License has been issued. But what does this mean? Well I can now officially drive anywhere I want to go in Britain. However, it doesn't mean that I mastered all the rules and regulations. There is a lot more to learn, what is imperative is I obtained a license. Yah! Imagine all the practice tests that I took and how many times I've failed...I am not proud of it :(. After so many attempts, I've finally made it.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOnMLPsn-MI/AAAAAAAAAEM/acPYIenZn8s/s1600-h/119.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253954933868722370" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 261px; height: 208px;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOnMLPsn-MI/AAAAAAAAAEM/acPYIenZn8s/s200/119.JPG" border="0" width="200" height="187" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOkIN74FMvI/AAAAAAAAAEE/u1_4Mq7MNjM/s1600-h/116.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253739475808629490" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 280px; height: 209px;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOkIN74FMvI/AAAAAAAAAEE/u1_4Mq7MNjM/s200/116.JPG" border="0" width="306" height="150" /></a>To make it more exciting, Rodney's office is the one who processes all driver's license for military, and civilians and I got to see his office and met some of his employees. His office is not fully organized yet.<br /><br />Now, I can say it's time for a serious job hunting. Right now, I am busy preparing for the 2 classes I am teaching online beginning Oct 13. This is keeping me pretty busy and a I'm a bit excited to move in into our house in 2 weeks. Yeh!!! Counting down...................Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-75118691239268360222008-09-30T12:31:00.000-07:002008-10-06T10:57:46.092-07:00"A New Found Sport"No tennis, no step aerobics, no Ross, no Marshall, and no TJMaxx. What else is there to do when it is always cloudy and cold outdoors. I tried to walk, but it seems that it is not enough exercise. Reading, writing, watching TV and cooking can get boring at times. Aerobic class can cost a fortune here. Movies get expensive, if you go everyday. So, Rodney and I walk in the afternoon for about 2 miles and then 30 minutes of raquet ball. Yes! you heard me right!! "RAQUET BALL" a more faster game. As expected, first time I played it, I bruised on my elbow, knees and arms. Too bad for a beginner. But you know what, I'm beginning to like it. It will really give you total workout and burn a lot of calories. I think, I just found a new sport. Of course, I will not forget the rest. :)<br /><br />Oh yah! Today, I drove a car for the very first time since I arrive in England. Even though, I have not passed my driving exam yet. I only drove on base where I was only driving 15 miles/hour, ha!ha!ha! I wonder, how I would react once I start driving outside the base where you will see all the fast drivers in a narrow road.<br /><br />Movie Theatre<br /><br />We finally found a movie theatre close to the base. To my surprise, I actually like it. It is a big theatre and the seats are very comfortable. And guess what, the movie goers are very serious when watching a movie. NO ONE TALKS! In fact, I got embarassed while watching a movie. I said something to Rodney, and the person in front of us turned around and look at us. it only meant "BE QUIET PLEASE!" So we know now, to be quiet!!!! Oh yah! they sell sweet popcorn and salted popcorn and it is very expensive.<br /><br />London<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOkFH0eWhVI/AAAAAAAAAD0/HKxdK_Xw_to/s1600-h/114.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253736072207566162" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOkFH0eWhVI/AAAAAAAAAD0/HKxdK_Xw_to/s200/114.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOkFiPviSXI/AAAAAAAAAD8/-KUwRs5mYjk/s1600-h/115.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253736526203996530" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 180px; height: 184px;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SOkFiPviSXI/AAAAAAAAAD8/-KUwRs5mYjk/s200/115.JPG" border="0" width="200" height="189" /></a>London is almost like New York or any major City. Nothing but shops traffic and people. Eating places are everywhere. Trains are accessible. Of course, we haven't really visited the major tourist attractions. I am pretty sure there is more to it and I will be back with you. CHEERS! (is what english people say instead of "thank you"). <div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Left picture, I though is a beautiful English Bldg and on the right is inside the train station (King's Cross) in London.</div><div> </div><div> </div></div>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-27567278610489303872008-09-24T07:35:00.001-07:002008-10-06T10:59:50.288-07:00Imagine "Driving Ms. Daisy"WOW! If you ask my former colleagues, they would tell you how much I love to drive. This time around? Its funny, but I feel intimidated. I have not touched a wheel since I have been to England. Wanna know WHY? Here is the thing...here in England you drive on the left side of the road and the wheel is on the right side. They have so many roundabouts, which is very confusing. Most cars here are very small. I see why.. Not only are the houses are small but also the roads are too small especially when you are driving on the back roads. It seems like you would fall in the ditch. You have to think LEFT at all times.<br /><br /><br />Sad to say, I have failed the driving test TWICE!. Statistically proven, most people have to retake the test several times paritcularly Americans (Hay, I am not trying to make myself feel good, it is a fact). Even Rodney took it twice. So like "Driving Ms. Daisy", Rodney is driving me around :). In a way, it is a good feeling :).<br /><br /><br /><br />Well, I know soon I will be behind the wheel.<br /><br /><br /><br />Rodney started work this week and here I am feel like a lost puppy. But remember, we are still on base where everything is walking distance. However, there is really no where to go but the small BX, commissary, libray and the Village (small cafe area where they serve starbucks). But, it's nothing like Starbucks in the U.S.<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Job???</strong><br /><br /><strong></strong><br /><br />I have been doing a little of job hunting. Tell you what It seems that there are a lot of jobs here in on base, but the only problem is they are all minumum wage paying job. I have not really tried to look in the local economy yet. Worse case scenario, I will try to substitute teaching here on base to give me something to do.<br /><br /><p>Oh by the way, I have been spending too much time in the library studying about driving in england :). Hopefully, I will complete MA in due time :):):).<br /></p>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-8591434366547542012008-09-24T04:55:00.000-07:002008-10-06T11:01:31.120-07:00Days of Our LifeAs days goes on, my daugter and I were feeling home sick. Although things were left unsaid, we were hoping things would ultimately gets brighter.<br /><br /><br />Getting a rental car made our days a little better. This is where we begin our house hunting. We looked at several houses and as it was expected, the houses were all nice and small with the exception of this one house where both Rodney and Ashley kind a liked. But, I had this creepy feeling about the house.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNySAtL2GvI/AAAAAAAAADk/czUqDu0N1F8/s1600-h/61237_C369_IMG_00_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250231806434089714" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNySAtL2GvI/AAAAAAAAADk/czUqDu0N1F8/s200/61237_C369_IMG_00_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a> It is a huge house, 5 big bedrooms and 1/2 acre land with full of different kinds of fruit trees and flowers. You want to hear more, well the house was built in 1920 and owned by a physician...the house is located probably 500 ft. away from the town centre (<em><strong>nice location..I really do not need to drive, if that was the case</strong></em>). The interior is really dark (<strong><em>dark wood),</em></strong> one of the bedroom has a wash sink (<em><strong>just a sink</strong></em>) and it has a butler bell in the kitchen for every room..imagine that? get the picture??? Needless to say, I don't think I can stay in the house by myself :(.<br /><br />Anyway, we have found a house! It is somewhat English/American style home. It is a 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths and 2 car garages. it located in the midst of <strong><em>stawick</em></strong> village (notice <strong><em>STANWICK</em></strong> as you would say it, but it is pronouce <strong><em>'STANICK</em></strong>"). It's not available until 14 October. Built in 1996, the couple are relocating to France (first owner). I tell you, they kept the house well maintained and well decorated.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>The House </strong><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyNCZ9W71I/AAAAAAAAACk/M24LIbdZJrE/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_00_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250226338074652498" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 199px; height: 161px;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyNCZ9W71I/AAAAAAAAACk/M24LIbdZJrE/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_00_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" width="200" height="135" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyNml0Lu6I/AAAAAAAAACs/XlxAFRkNhCU/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_02_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250226959732685730" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 202px; height: 149px;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyNml0Lu6I/AAAAAAAAACs/XlxAFRkNhCU/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_02_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" width="200" height="214" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyNsJyK4kI/AAAAAAAAAC0/lUV_-FZt3YE/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_03_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250227055287263810" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyNsJyK4kI/AAAAAAAAAC0/lUV_-FZt3YE/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_03_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Front of the house, Living Room &Dining Room<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyN5Kj-v1I/AAAAAAAAAC8/GYYVdegW5xI/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_04_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250227278834483026" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyN5Kj-v1I/AAAAAAAAAC8/GYYVdegW5xI/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_04_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyN-QAazZI/AAAAAAAAADE/koQidHZbeGo/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_05_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250227366195285394" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyN-QAazZI/AAAAAAAAADE/koQidHZbeGo/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_05_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyOEyEnfOI/AAAAAAAAADM/j_Y_YWjSELk/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_07_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250227478418914530" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyOEyEnfOI/AAAAAAAAADM/j_Y_YWjSELk/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_07_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Sun Room (they call it conservatory room), Kitchen, Deck (Backyard)<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyOJgomTeI/AAAAAAAAADU/9h1o-oCyC84/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_01_0000%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250227559637339618" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyOJgomTeI/AAAAAAAAADU/9h1o-oCyC84/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_01_0000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyTzeGvw4I/AAAAAAAAADs/295fRxPqkpQ/s1600-h/2091_RDS100787_IMG_06_0000_t%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250233778071126914" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 165px; height: 131px;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNyTzeGvw4I/AAAAAAAAADs/295fRxPqkpQ/s200/2091_RDS100787_IMG_06_0000_t%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" width="135" height="131" /></a><br /><br />More or the backyard and the master bedroom<br /><br /><br /><br />See the other side of the fence? you can actually see and play with the horses.<br /><br />Don't you LOVE it????Please don't get excited. What you see is not ours not even the furniture. All this is going away and we will replace it with our own furniture. Hope, it will look the same. I need some designer skills.Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1147685365841883357.post-22905937112441546602008-09-24T04:35:00.000-07:002008-09-25T03:53:51.917-07:00Arrival in England<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNpPXFP359I/AAAAAAAAABs/gTkby_S4IHg/s1600-h/DSC00201.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249595573618075602" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y7M60QEA2S0/SNpPXFP359I/AAAAAAAAABs/gTkby_S4IHg/s320/DSC00201.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>When you first think of England, London is what comes to mind. Well here we are, arrived in England of which is about 2 hours away from the heart of London. Staying in Britannia Inn in the military base. We will be staying here until we move into a house.<br /><br />Our first week here at RAF Alconbury is not what was expected. The base is very small where everybody knows everybody. Everything is walking distance. Which is a good thing, I guess. But wait, don't think that I do not need to drive..wrong!!!!!!!!! Remember, this is only the beginning.<br /><br />The weather is cooler compare to where we came from. It is cloudy and it rains just about everyday. There is really nothing here but farms and I have not seen so many horses, cows and sheeps in my life. Have you seen the movie "BABE"? If so, then you can relate to it.</div>Maria and Rodneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18201747958267611017noreply@blogger.com0