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The Monacan Indian Exhibit

As you pass beyond the Natural Bridge while visiting the area, you'll find yourself walking along the Cedar Creek Trail.

A few minutes along the way, you'll find the Monacan Indian Village in which you can step back in the past 300 years of their history and explore their lifestyles, homes, their skills and their products inside a small authentic village.

As you enter the village, you can obviously see the Ceremonial Lodge covered with exterior barks. There are also some few small mini workshop shelters made of tree barks.

There wasn't much to see that time of my visit except some few exhibits, but still has some valuable info you can pick up regarding on how they make a living during their time.

The entire exhibit area is surrounded by a wooden fence made up of smaller pieces of wood branches and twigs. One interesting thing to know about was their hunting skills showing animal skin exhibits such as elks and skunks!...out of these come a beautiful coat that they make to protect them from cold.

Upgrade Your Kitchen Cabinet Organizers

Are you getting bored of your kitchen cabinets and pantry organizers or perhaps you hate those outdated designs and you wanted a more modern ones and yet you are too scared to risk hiring a professional designer or handyman because your budget doesn't allow you to? 

Actually, you don't need to spend a lot of money hiring a professional to do it for you. Just a basic knowledge of DIY techniques is a smart idea to start up with, and then you can get your budget-friendly cabinet hardware and woodworking supplies from here.

Tons of designs, brands and smart ideas to choose from. You can directly shop the items you need without any hassles. :)

The Natural Bridge and "Drama of Creation"

Being a nature's wonder, the Natural Bridge is one attraction worth seeing, located in Rockbridge County in Virginia. Once owned by Thomas Jefferson, it is now considered a National Historic Landmark, located adjacent to The Natural Bridge Hotel in Natural Bridge, Virginia. 

Thomas Jefferson bought the Natural Bridge in 1774 including its 157 surrounding acres from King George III of England for about &2.40! ; - equivalent to the sum of 20 shillings of good and lawful money. But prior to Jefferson purchasing the bridge, it was said in the legend that in 1750, George Washington who was still in his youth visited the bridge and scaled some 23 feet up on the left wall of the bridge, then carved his initials "G.W", which can probably be still seen today. (I was there while visiting but wasn't able to see it though :(..)

Prior to the coming of the white people, the Monacan Indians who used to reside in the area called the Natural Bridge "The Bridge of God."

The Natural Bridge is carved by fingers of nature, composing twenty stories of solid rock, a stunning, majestic monument ingrained in America's past. It was formed when a cavern collapsed and still now appears as it is like today.

The Natural Bridge's "Drama of Creation" is also one of the attractions that is open seasonally, and is only available from April-October beginning at dusk. The new scheduled show times is now every 5pm every Fridays and Saturdays.

The "Drama of Creation" shows the Natural Bridge through a moving lighting effects while a dramatic narration about the 7 days of creation of God based from the Bible is being heard from the background. It is accompanied by a gripping music as the lighting effects move and change into various colors.

The Woodrow Wilson's Presidential Library & Museum

The library and museum is the ideal place to visit when you need a better and more concrete information about your class history, particularly about the life and achievements of the 28th president of the United States; - Pres. Woodrow Wilson.

The library-museum is located in historic Staunton and you can freely take a self-guided tour at your own pace. There are 7 galleries inside, which show all Wilson's early years, his presidency and all the historical events that occurred including the WW1 era.

Inside the museum also includes the restored presidential car of Wilson, - a 1919 Pierce-Arrow limousine that serves as one of the highlights of your visit.

One part of the museum also worth visiting is the World War 1 trench exhibit complete with lights and sounds as you step inside it and experience what was it like for those soldiers while they were engaged in the battle. Displays of authentic weapons, uniforms and other battle gears during the war are also in the museum.

Cool Customized Glasses With A Twist!

I love to drink wine as much as I also love to collect wine glasses in different designs, shapes, colors and sizes. They can be an attractive decor at home as well, if placed in a special, separate glass rack with mirror covers. :) 

 I love looking at the hurricane glasses due to their shapes. How cool will that be if personalized designs will be on them. don't you think? I haven't thought of it until I saw some samples of a customized cocktail glass at GlassWithATwist.com. 

 I am actually thinking of probably getting some few of their existing designs they have online, but at the same time, I would also want to have my own unique personalized design. It would be fun having some of my chosen glasses customized from scratch!

It was really a perfect idea for me to install some hanging cabinets at my home in the Philippines! At least, now I know where would my customized cocktail glasses go! It would be something looking forward to when I go home for a much needed vacation. :)

Stay-In Vacation at Golden Berries Hotel & Convention Center

After almost 20 years since I departed Tabuk, Kalinga, - the place where I grew up, it was a blessing indeed to be able to go back and visit. 

Now considered a city (Tabuk City), some hotels have already been up.

It was such a good place to stay while I and my family had a vacation for a week.

Early morning infront of the hotel

Another good thing is the fact that this is the hotel closest to our relatives' residences which are only 5-minute drive going to the houses. While I and my husband got a room in the hotel, the rest of our family chose to stay with our relatives. They enjoyed bonding with them that way ;).

There is one inn much closer to the house and much cheaper, but it didn't have the hot shower my husband wanted. It was basically more on a transient boarding house and we were not so sure about its security as well.

Golden Berries Hotel is located along the provincial road of San Juan, Tabuk, Kalinga province in northern Philippines. This makes it easy to locate because it is close to the road. The hotel is also a popular venue for seminars, conferences, wedding and other occasions.

Golden Berries Hotel has 15 rooms and 3 convention halls for various functions. Rooms are clean and regularly maintained, with amenities; - A/C, cable TV, wi-fi, and with hot and cold showers.

My husband loved their brewed coffee! We actually bought 2 regular packs of this to take with us to the US ;).

Our stay in the hotel also came with a complimentary Filipino breakfast, but only good for one person :(. It wasn't a big deal though, because our family was always cooking for us big meals 3x a day...LOL!

The pool was a plus! Our nieces and nephews went there for a swim while the adults stayed at the poolside, eating! hahaha! It was fun being together with loved ones together with food. :)

We ordered from the hotel and they were all good! 

Woodrow Wilson Home, Birthplace & Museum

The museum is located in historic Staunton, Virginia where I had an informative experience in an engaging guided tour of Pres. Wilson's birthplace, - his home, and did a self-guided tour of the museum as well. The house sits on top of the crest of a hill in downtown Staunton's Gospel Hill Historic District.

Inside the house, photos and videos are NOT allowed, but unlimited photos/videos are allowed outside the house. I was able to get a shot of the entire house, so that was nice.

The house tour includes visiting the various rooms of Pres. Wilson's house as we stepped back in time as to what life was like during the 18th century in the pre-Civil War era.

The house is a Greek Revival style brickhouse, with 12 rooms, has center halls and four chimneys. During the 18th century, it has been revealed by church records that the total cost of the house construction was about $4,000...an already expensive amount during those years!

Some parts of the house were restored, so don't expect the house to be a 100% original in its condition. The restorations were done for parts that were into a partial collapse, by replacing some parts and repainting the walls too!

Most of the decorations in the house are from the Wilson family including period furnishings. It was in 1856 that Pres. Wilson was born in this house.

When he was elected president of the US in 1912, he visited his birthplace to celebrate his 56th birthday in the house on December 28th.

The Famous "White Carabao" Landmark in Bulanao

Our tour group ;)

While having a tour around Tabuk, we happened to stop by at this famous "white carabao" landmark in Bulanao, Tabuk.

It surprised me now located in a different spot. I learned later that the city government moved it from its old location which was at the middle of the road intersection to the side of the street fronting St. William's Cathedral. It also looked brighter with its tri-colored green-orange-yellow combination and is now a waiting shed, making the carabao on top of it.

I couldn't seem to find answers to my question as to why they transferred the monument, except that there was an issue of the old monument being abused by placing lots of advertising banners, political, commercial ads, etc...losing the monument's historical purpose, thus, there was an executive order issued by the governor of Tabuk prohibiting any streamers and banners of any kind on the landmark.

The "White Carabao" monument symbolizes the main occupation of the residents of Tabuk, - which is farming, and is always a prominent historical landmark when you reach the town of Bulanao - the town it became popular with.

I've witnessed the presence of this monument 15 years in this town while growing up, and being a small child those days, I actually called Bulanao "white carabao" everytime I see it. :) That would also meant I am already 5 minutes close to home! ;)

Honestly, I couldn't complain about the landmark's new location now with a waiting shed below it. it looks like it is now serving its purpose much better with its much improved looks...just my opinion! :)

Choosing The Right Connectors For Your Gears

Do you think you know more than enough about your cable connectors for your gadgets or gears? Better yet think again...if you're not a professional about connecting cables for them or you are not so sure about the type of connectors or cables you are getting, it doesn't hurt to ask help from accredited professionals.

 If you are buying one, be sure a store assistant equipped with the knowledge about cable connectors is around to help. It also would help to read about cable buying guide depending on the type of cable you are needing. If you are trying to buy audio connectors for instance, it is also a good idea to have some knowledge about audio connector types that should match your gadget. Better safe than sorry, right? Well, have a good one shopping! ;)

A Quick Look of St. William's Cathedral

We were not actually able to step inside this cathedral for a detailed visit. Due to other trip itineraries we had in mind, we thought of just taking its photo as we stopped by on the other side of the street.

St. William's Cathedral is located in Bulanao, one of the towns in Tabuk which is like 2-3 kilometers away from Tabuk town proper (Tabuk City). It is located right along the road fronting the "white carabao"-turned waiting shed so that everyone in the area can easily see it clearly. Its architectural design is quite catchy so that someone with a camera couldn't resist taking photos on it :).

It's known for its modern architectural design obviously seen on its facade. At the back of it is the St. William's Academy, a school named after Msgr. William Brasseur, who were then the apostolic vicar of the Mountain Provinces. This is how ST. William's got its name, - for both the cathedral and the school.

Passing Pasunglao Bridge/Canao Bridge

From Tabuk town proper, 3 kilometers away is the Pasunglao Bridge. This bridge is already replaced by a new bridge called Canao Bridge, named after Antonio Canao in honor of the first Kalinga native congressman.

The Canao Bridge is considered to be the longest bridge of its kind in the Cordilleras.

Pasunglao Bridge was not replaced until lately in 2008, under the North Luzon Agriculture Quadrangle (NLAQ) program of former president Gloria Arroyo.

Canao Bridge is now a road linking Tuguegarao-Tabuk-Bontoc roads, and mainly linked to Mt. Province, Abra and Apayao from tabuk City.

Bass Drum Mallets Online

If you are currently looking to buy for your musical accessories, you don't need to waste your time driving around town in search for musical shops or stores. It is of big possibility that all items listed on your shopping list are available online. And another good thing that happens when you shop online is that you would always find good deals of discounts and coupons, which means saving big from your budget. 

 For instance, you might wanna check some innovative items such as a mallet for bass drum. The Woodwind & Brasswind online can give you some collections for better choices with low price guaranteed items. Check them out! 

The Chico River Dam Tour

It was Holy Week but we got the chance to hire a van and a driver to take us to places worth visiting. We tried our luck to contact a tour guide who could give us information as we tour around, but nobody was available since it was already Holy Thursday. So, we just went ahead and tour on our own. The actual visits with some few good photos were good enough to enjoy the trip. :)

The Chico River dam has a rich historical past. It used to be an electric power generation project in 1973 for the purpose of increasing the electrical power by 50% in Luzon.

Unfortunately, the project didn't push through and finally shelved in the 1980's because the local residents didn't approve of it, particularly the Igorots who were living in the villages. The local residents who resisted the Chico River Dam project continued fighting against it for 3 decades and finally won, causing the project to be shelved for good.

If the dam was pushed through, it would submerge villages of some local residences along the Chico river, including the terraces, their burial grounds and their sacred groves.

Basically, the dam project meant destroying all their property, - which their way of life has been based upon.

The residents who fought hard against the dam didn't find it easy. The Chico River Valley became a war zone where many casualties were involved. High-powered arms were used between the rebels and the government militaries. There were a lot of groups involved during the fight and it would be a long story to tell in detailed information.

I didn't remember much about this while growing up. I was only a 5-year old innocent kid who wanted to play and enjoy the kid's world...:)

But visiting a  place with a noted historical past is way more than enough to have a memorable trip such as this, - with the company of loved ones of course!

Is Your Water Healthy?

Water is a vital component in human lives - we can't deny that! But water sufficiency at home is not enough. Our responsibility for the safety of our home and our loved ones are just one of those things we need to consider as well. 

Considering and making the habit of making aware about the kind of water we use at home is another important thing to consider about. Water can be harsh without us knowing it, the reason why we need to consider having it checked and analyzed.

Avon Water Softener Company can help, particularly if you are around Indianapolis. Having a water softener system in your home does not only help you preserve the quality function of your home appliances and protect your laundered clothes, but can also protect your family members health as well. Did you know that water softener system can help your skin from drying too? 

Consider getting in touch with them today for free water analysis and estimate in your home. You can start by calling them by phone by visiting their site online. You know it will all be worth it! ;)

The Old And New San Juan City Tour (via Royal Caribbean)

San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico, - a commonwealth of the United States. It was founded by the Spanish and made it their settlement in 1521. Today, it is considered to be the second oldest European settlement in the Americas, and one of the largest natural harbors in the caribbean.

No wonder why many tourists are very much attracted to its colonial past that reflects its architectural landmarks which now can be frequently seen through out the Old San Juan.

If you love exploring culture, arts, sports and many more, the tour of Old & New San Juan is perfectly made for you.

This guided tour will first lead you to New San Juan where guests will see common landmarks such as the Capitol Building, the Convention Center, Hiram Bithorn Stadium, Museum of Art Puerto Rico, Roberto Clemente Coliseum, Plaza Las Americas, and others. (Take note that this is a driving tour and hopping off the bus is not allowed except for a visit to Fort San Cristobal,)

The tour will then proceed in Old San Juan where visitors will be given the chance to explore inside San Cristobal Fort and can take as many photos as they want ;). Tour inside the fort is 45 minutes. There is a passageway going up the fort through a tunnel. ;)

My hubby going up  the fort.

Other historical buildings will also be seen like Museo de Ateneo, Antigua Casino and Casa Olimpica where you would learn each of their cultural significance.

The ending part of the tour will be a shopping time at Plaza Colon. Items such as crafts, arts and souvenirs will be the common choices.

You will also get the option to stay a little bit at Old San Juan as you prefer and go back to the ship on your own or choose to be taken back to the ship by the tour bus.

Power Up Your Gear With Superalloy-5

Are you currently looking for guitar bass strings that can deliver you an excellent modern tone for a better sounding-bass of your guitar? You don't need to look further. Perhaps you might want to consider checking on super alloy 5 with super sounding quality! :)

The items are now on sale online. Check them out yourself. This is a chance worth grabbing when you are tight on your budget.

A Perfect Day To Experience Labadee, Haiti

Labadee is considered to be a private tropical paradise owned by Royal Caribbean for five centuries now.
There are two main historical monuments on Labadee, - the Nellie's Place and the Old Bell Tower. These 2 monuments are frequently visited by many tourists where they will learn about their historical facts.

Old Bell Tower
Courtesy Photo by Flickr

Nellie's Place
Courtesy Photo by Flickr

There are lots of various activities and interests you can enjoy at Labadee whether you are an adventure-seeker, explorer or a beach lover due to its picture perfect coastal location.

If you are seeking  for thrill adventures, you might want to try zip lining called the Dragon's Breath Flight Line, or go para sailing over 300 ft. above. Both of these activities give you a bird's eye view of the peninsula and the beaches.

Other activities are the Wave Jet Tour or doing the High Speed Coastal Adventure Ride, and the experience of riding the Dragon's Tail Alpine Coaster as it goes down the mountain of Labadee.

If you're the explore type, you can enjoy a walking tour of sites to learn both the past and present histories of Haiti, or you can tour it by sea on a cultural experience.

Beach lovers, you will enjoy exploring bountiful beaches and choose your favorite beach-perfect spot to enjoy and relax,while enjoying a sip of your favorite cocktail.

If you prefer swimming in calm waters of the beach, try the Columbus Cove and Nellie's beach, while the Dragon's Tail is perfect for lounging and capturing sunrays that has a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean.

There are also two types of shopping experiences in Labadee. You can visit the Artisan's Market/The Artisan's Village and the Trading Posts.

Take note that the Artisan's Market only accepts cash, while Trading Posts accepts seapass card.

Try to enjoy everything Labadee has to offer to the fullest! Visit the Dragon's Plaza, explore Buccaneer's Bay, Town Square, Adrenaline Beach, Barefoot Beach Club and the Columbus Cove.

Haitian Cultural Tour at Paradise Cove & Beach

We had this tour experience during our Eastern Caribbean cruise via Royal Caribbean. This is an interesting tour because it's a great way to learn more about Haitian culture and its people and at the same time, the tour has an extended bonus, - to relax on a beautiful, idyllic beach called Paradise Cove.

My hubby before boarding the water taxi

The tour starts by boarding on a water taxi, which is a short ride away going to Le Village at Paradise Cove. The haitian village is located on a hill from Paradise Cove wherein you will have to go up through concrete stairs.

Paradise Cove is a private location which has 121 meters of waterfront reflecting a scenic overlook that you would surely enjoy.

Please note that guests will be going off and on the water taxi through a boat ladder, and you'll be going off the boat into a knee-deep water at the beach's edge. Upon reaching Paradise Cove, there is a bamboo bar that serves you a welcome drink (complimentary) which is called a fruit rum punch.

Once at the beach, your tour guide will be leading you to the village passing through a small bamboo bridge just over a natural freshwater pool. You also have to note that in order to reach the village, you will have to climb some steps.

Once you reach the village uphill, you'll get the chance to meet the Haitian locals doing their daily routines, and have the opportunity to interact with them. You'll be able to learn, visit and see a typical rural Haitian home and the natural materials used to build them.

They will also show you their cooking techniques, and you get to learn and see how they process haitian peanut butter and how coffee is being prepared for export.

There is also a sculpture shop in the village wherein your tour guide will give you an overview on the religion of vodoo and how it played an important role in their lives.

You will see some weaved products at a small shop which are also being sold as souvenirs. A local artisan shop is also in the village where you can see paintings and sculptures souvenirs for sale. The tour ends at the artisan shop where you can choose to buy items you want, then you go back down to Paradise Cove where you can choose to relax on the beach and enjoy the cool, clear water before you board back to the water taxi back to the ship.

Knowing The Danger Signs of Blood Clots & Get Involved!

The American Blood Clot Association (ABCA) has been working daily to help and educate people about vital information they need to know about blood clot. It has been said that one person is being diagnosed every minute with a blood clot in the United States.

Blood Clots can kill if not discovered early or remained undiagnosed. The golden rule is, - knowing the signs and symptoms. The earlier it can be detected, the better is the chance of survival.

ABCA continues to extend its function for public awareness regarding the danger of blood clots. The higher the awareness we can impart about this threatening condition, the lower the death rate would be. Let's be productive and get involved! We can save a life a day.