iPhone 4

I just read an article about an8 year old punk try steal white collar worker's iPhone while he was waiting at a bus stop in downtown Chicago. He mentioned that this has been happening lately at a busy express commuter stop.
Pathetic story.  Broad daylight and crimes committed from youngsters during the weekday is a common mishap in the area. Do you think Chicago area police officers would be able to easily spot these kids who should be in school.  Unfortunately, it's another typical day in the city.  Alot of criminal activities that seem to be the norm lately. Pretty sad.
As for the iPhone, I'd say try to NOT use them at a bus stop-- geez, everyone please be more alert in public surroundings especially in a big, busy city like, Chicago!
Use common sense. Put your phones away and pay attention to the creeps around you, walking by you, watching you. 

No arm muscles yet?

I have been working out religiously for one year now.  I started on the treadmill last October and at that time, I could only walk at a normal pace for 20 minutes at a time.  As of today, I can walk at a very fast pace, sometimes jogging (in short bursts) for one whole hour.  My mileage?  A whopping 2.75 miles.  To me, that's a lot of walking! To some, it maybe a laughter.  But, I'm happy to be able to just complete an hour on the treadmill.

In between the days I don't do aerobics, I lift weights, mainly because I was inspired by Kelly Ripa's toned arms which I have blogged about earlier this year.  Unfortunately, it's been about 4 straight months of working my arms by lifting free weights using 5 pound dumbbells and 10 pound dumbbells, and there are no toned muscles showing.  Unless of course, I flexed my arms; that's the only time you can see definition.

A friend of mine said that I should try to lose 5 to 10 pounds which will help show off my hard work that I put on my arms.  She said that I need to lose alot of fat (I weigh 135 pounds, 5'4" tall), in order for my muscles to show through.  I work my arms out like crazy and enjoy feeling that burn!

She said I need to reduce my caloric intake,  and I said, "I'll starve!!!" Cause man, I get hungry--alot! 

The Midas Touch

Today, I talked about business tycoons during the Industrial Revolution and the words "he has the Midas Touch" was discussed.  I also talked about idioms in my English Conversation Group for ESL Adult Learners on weekends. This idiom is not as popular as the others we have brought up in class so I thought I'd write about it briefly here.

He has the Midas Touch:
(A person who touches everything and turns it into gold). Refers to a person who can make anything profitable. Having the "Midas touch" allows a person who can take anything that was failing and make it profitable and successful.







On another note:
A song "Midas Touch" was actually written and recorded by Midnight Star.  You can listen to an mp3 sample on itunes or Amazon.com.   

A simple video I found on YouTube:

Change of Weather

Freezing!  That's what it's like around here. The last few weeks, we've had weather here in Chicago in the mid to upper 90s, tons of  humidity and sunshine, that the heat index was near 100.  Then of course, a sudden change in weather:  In the last two days, it was in the 60s during the day; the temps last nite was in the 40s. A big change--a 30 degree difference and my fingers are a little frozen. 

Just like my heart.  I've gone cold towards certain people I've known in the last decade.  Have you ever met someone for the first time, and as soon as that person opened their mouth, you were just "turned off" by them?  That you can "smell" their sneaky, dishonest personality? You're hoping you never have to deal with this person again?

What if it turns out that you have NO choice? You have to deal with that "rotten spud" is what I will call him.  It turns out that your best friend decided to go out and keep dating Mr. Rotten Spud and the relationship gets serious.  You try to warn her in an ever subtle way, but hey, it's her life and you can only say so much of how you dislike spoiled taters without breaking your own relationship with her.  After all, it's only a gut feeling I had when I met Mr. Rotten Spud and my woman's instinct kicked in uncontrollably, that there was something just not right with this potato.

So, in the last decade, I had to talk (nice) to Mr. Rotten Spud and include him in our parties and get-togethers, because I really didn't have a choice!!! I was trying to be cool, pretending to "get along" with him all to please my best friend.

My best friend called to tell me that Mr. Rotten Spud was becoming a maggot. ( as if I didn't foresee this) It turns out he was lying to her, being mean to her friends, and actually thinks he's righteous.  I listened to the details unfold in their relationship in the past years. He promised her many things and change his ways, and after so many years) of dealing with "his noise", she was fed up; I grew weary, and emotionally upset with her.  My instinct was right nearly 10 years ago, that Mr. Rotten Spud, couldn't possibly be the right person to stay with her forever.  Should I have spoken up then?  That's my regret now.

Change of weather around here? You bet it got very cold.  My friend who's still with Mr. Rotten Spud, (on and off again) needs to get strong and confident to help herself grow emotionally. I myself quit talking to him as I told her not to bring him here anymore because there's no need for spoiled vegetables--they belong in the garbage!

Life of Fred - A Math Curriculum Review

(This is from Amazon.com)
Just one of the books in the Life of Fred Math series.

Who is Fred?  Fred Gauss is a fictional character created by Dr. Stanley Schmidt is a retired college math professor who decided to write books on teaching math.  According to his website, he began with drawing a face of Fred to help his then, high school students understand Algebra at that time.  He worked for many years, using his character he drew and made up: Fred, the rest is history.  His book series began and now everyone can enjoy the rich concepts he explains thru Fred in an easier way. Whether you want to learn fractions or decimals in elementary grade or Calculus, Statistics, or Linear Algebra in college. 

I purchased our very first Math book for this year's homeschooling of my 7th grade (gifted) child.  The book came and so far, we are very amused and learning at the same time.  My child enjoys the story and also found the math problems challenging and easy to grasp.  The hardcover book has picture drawings in black and white. There are some answers included but if you want more (answer) keys, then an option would be to order the Home Companion Algebra book, which not only gives the answers but provides more practice questions.

I really like this book so much because Algebra is so much more interesting (not to mention funny; you'll chuckle along the way), that we also ordered the Advanced Algebra book and it's Home Companion. We read that since we do math everyday, we can probably cover the whole Algebra book in half  of our school year.

I highly recommend this series! Dr. Schmidt's website (you can order books thru his site too.  Psst! It's cheaper and the shipping is free in the United States as an option) is:

http://www.stanleyschmidt.com/FredGauss/index2.html

You can also download sample pages (pdf files) to check out the lessons for yourself.

Keurig Coffee Maker

Keurig (B70 Model)

Every morning, the first thing I have to have is my cup of "Joe". Yep, COFFEE!  It's my "peaceful, morning ritual", along with watching TV to get the weather forecast or catch the early morning shows, or sometimes, I read my magazines.

Unfortunately, I had another problem with my replacement Keurig Coffee machine. It seems that the little dispenser where the coffee comes out is clogged.  I heard the water going through the reservoir but instead of coming out of the spout, the grounds were overflowing from the K-cup itself.  I was very irritated and decided to just get ready for work that day.

A few weeks ago, I blogged about the Keurig machines. The first machine I bought had to be replaced within 3 months since the reservoir wouldn't even move the water to the other part of the machine.  While they (Keurig) have an excellent customer service, and sent me a brand new machine immediately, I cannot tell you how frustrating it is to have yet another machine break down. 

I'm planning on calling the company to voice my problems again; I hope that they have a solution and resolve this problem with either this machine or a new one.

Tipping

To tip or not to tip?  When do you ever stiff a waiter/waitress?  The other day we went out to eat at a fairly priced restaurant, to celebrate our birthdays.  There were 7 of us.  We ordered appetizers and entrees along with our non-alcoholic drinks. When the bill came, there was an automatic 18% gratuity added on.  Our bill was about $160.00.

What bothers me about this, is the fact that our server didn't deserve 18%. Granted, the standard is 15% for decent service and to me, that's what I would have left him.  Are we obliged to give the one server 18% tip even though he wasn't a great of a waiter?

He was an OK server, but at times took too long to come to our table to ask for another drink.  He disappeared too long, and forgot a side dish we also ordered. 

Bedbugs in New York City - Yikes

Recently, I have been researching and mapping my way to Niagara Falls on the New York side.  I've been there twice only thru the Canadian side, but since we don't want to spend the money on new passports, we thought we'd drive over there from Illinois to New York staying within the U.S.

Upon reading a breaking news today on the Yahoo! website,  about an outbreak of bedbugs in NYC, forget it. I'm kinda paranoid about staying in a hotel now after reading this story. 

Dead bedbugs on paper towel from picapp.com

Apparently, there's been an outbreak of these critters on the west coast too! It's bad enough that we worry about safety issues when traveling, but not being able to sleep in peace andbeing the food for theses uninvited guests, uhh, I think we'll just stay home this year.

Fake Tan - the Banana Boat Way

 Looking out of my window on a gorgeous but humid sunny day, I always think to "lay out" and get that healthy glow from our natural, FREE sun. But of course, you can't really do that these days, since it's pretty much "pounded" in our heads that the sun can cause skin cancer. So, to avoid that, and keep my skin, wrinkle and freckle-free.... Fake it!

Yup, I admit, my tanned skin is NOT real.  I've used Mystic Tan Spray for a few years but it's not affordable all year long; besides the spray tans only last 5 days. 

In my frugal mode, I splurged on:  Banana Boat's Summer Color Self-Tanning Lotion in Deep.  It was on sale, plus I had a coupon too.  I was crossing my fingers when I first applied it on, hoping the color develops nicely.

In 3 hours, I was tanned.  Surpisingly, it worked great.  The smell is pleasant and the lotion is tinted so you can blend them in evenly.  I applied it 3 more times within 7 days to achieve the deep color I sought.  Now, I only "lotion up" my tan twice a week to maintain the deep color.  I love this stuff and it's economical, available everywhere and the color is believeably, tan, dark. I didn't use this on my face, since it's sensitive. I usually apply my Bare Minerals Bronzer. 

Faking a Tan with Mystic Tan

On occasion, I do splurge a little on myself.  Like signing up for a package of Mystic Spray Tan.  I like going to L.A. Tan the best, since they're booths seem to spray better than other places I've tried. I would guess their sprayers are used more often by their clients and they always seem to have customers in and out of their salons.

What I like about the spray tanning booths, is the convenience (except that I have to drive to get there).  On top of not having to worry about getting my bathroom messy from spilling self-tanning lotions, the color from the Mystic Tan is gorgeous!  It's application is sprayed on evenly.  I tell everyone that using a  tanning spray booth is like going thru a car wash.  You stand there and get sprayed.  In the video, you will see how it's done.  

It's definitely worth trying at least once if you are considering this method of faking a tan.  Try to go on a day where they offer spray tans cheaper.  At L.A. Tan, (as of this writing), spray tans are $10 (US) on Mondays.  Depending on how well you prepared your skin, your sprayed tan can last up to 7 days.  Though, in reality the best you can hope for to keep a beautiful tan color to look its best, is 5 days tops.  It starts to fade unevenly after that; so it's really important to apply lotion daily after your first day of Mystic Tan.  This will ensure your tan lasts longer, looks moist and dewy!

3D Programs on DirecTV

Put your 3D Glasses on!

DirecTV launched new 3D Channels

DirecTV added 3D DirectTV on Demand and I downloaded the Dinosaurs of Patagonia. Here come the dinosaurs, literally in your face!  I was very, very impressed by the quality of the picture and its 3D effects.  It's one of the best 3D effects I've seen, much better than some of the theatre movies that claim to be in 3D.

Another 3D program I downloaded from Directv on Demand is: "S.O.S. Planet". It was created by World Wildlife Fund, and hosted by Walter Cronkite.  Even though this "docu-movie" was slow at times, the 3D effect was Spectacular!  There were times when I swear, I can touch the earth hanging on a mobile, 'cause it seems to really pop out of the TV and it was right in front of my nose.  The snake "came at me" and it seemed to be only a few inches away from my face! 

As much as I was a fan of Peter Gabriel, it was for me, disappointing.  It's part of the series called "Guitar Sessions".  Mr. Gabriel bored me this time, as the songs were slow and he sat playing piano, with his giant coffee mug on top of it.  I would skip this one, unless of course, you're as mellowed out as he is now, then, watch him sing.

Jane's Addiction also played in the series.  A bit more 'moving" than old Peter, it was OK.  It's like watching MTV's Unplugged sessions, well uh, except it's on 3D Directv.  The people are so "3D-ish", you feel like you're right there on the stage with them. The picture is super-crisp.

This is great 3D programming, like I said, much better than the two 3D movies I saw in in theatres!  For folks out there with Directv Satellite subscription, tune in the FREE 3D channels 103 and up and watch some of the best 3D programming.  Afterall, you've spent the money on that 3D capable TV and have the 3D glasses-- enjoy yourself!

Clif's Builder's Protein Bar

In my other posts, I have devoted my time to exercising, getting fit, feeling good, not gaining weight, building muscles, etc.  Usually, I am on my treadmill for 30-45 minutes six days a week.  I sweat my butt off, drips of sweat on my face, chest, back.  I feel good afterwards, because I walk/jog 2 miles a day.

I noticed my body didn't get as lean as I wanted it to, so I read up on getting tone and nutrition.  I was missing a BIG part of my nutrition-- of feeding my muscles.  To build muscles, you must also add enough protein.  (I devour tons of fruits and veggies)

The protein bars that taste the best: Clif Builder's Entirely Natural Protein Bar, in Chocolate.  I tried the Peanut Butter flavor which did not taste like peanut butter at all.  I recommend the Chocolate or the Chocolate Mint.  It packs 20g of protein per bar.

Plus, snacking on these bars are convenient on trips since I can just throw them in my purse. They're chewy and easy to bite into without straining your jaw!

New Workout Routine

After working out for many months on the treadmill and not seeing a more toned physique, I decided to try a new routine.  It's frustrating putting in all that work and sweat and not seeing results.  The scale did move maybe 8 pounds here and there, but eventually, it climbed back up steadily and remained there, despite the increase in cardio activity. 

I bought Shape Magazine last month.  I also bought Fitness Magazine too.  Then went to my local library to get books on fitness and toning as well as nutritional advice.  What I found was book by Jorge Cruise, " Body At Home".  It's about building up lean muscle mass and revving up your metabolism. 

According to Jorge's plan in the book, you workout for 20 minutes a day, 3x a week.  Precision exercises that targets certain muscles so they will become lean and tone.  Since, that's what I'm looking for now, I decided to try it.  Since last week, I lost 5 pounds! 

It's strange, because in week #1, you only have to do each exercise 3x.  It didn't seem like I was exercising at all during the time, while performing the exercises, but the next day, my triceps were burning.  It was a good burn; you know you worked on that muscle.

I also protein to my diet, which I will write about in another post.

Kelly Ripa's Toned Arms

I finally found some cool looking tank tops that doesn't make my arms look fat.  The cut that goes around the shoulder actually makes them slightly toned. After all, I've been consistently exercising for the past 10-months. Both cardio and strength-training.

Since it's summer, I'm really obsessing about making my biceps, shoulders, and triceps to look toned, like Kelly Ripa's arms!  I've downloaded alot of YouTube videos about her arms; there's alot of them. Upon watching video after video about her, I realized she does alot more than just concentrate on her arms. She's really fit!

Since I'm the same height as her, 5'3", she's become my inspiration to not only just exercise everyday (just to be fit and feel good), but to start looking as toned as her too.  Unfortunately for me, I don't think that Kelly Ripa has written any books on diet, exercise, and fitness yet.  But I'm still waiting.  I'm sure she gets lots of requests to come out with one.  She could combine all the different personal trainers she works with into one great book or DVD.
Another YouTube and googling I did was for Michelle Obama's arms. My inspiration with her? Well, she's in the same age-group as me. Ms. Obama, puts in the time to workout and stay in tip-top shape. Again, not just her arms, but her whole body is in top physical shape too.

Homeschooling: History Curriculum

It's that time again, when as a Teacher, I have to start thinking about what books, programs and curriculum we will incorporate into our second year of homeschooling.  Last year, I used the Core Knowledge Book:  "What Your Sixth Grader Needs To Know", written by E.D. Hirsch, Jr.  I included many lessons and homework using this excellent source.  I highly recommend their products to use for new homeschoolers.

I'm going to continue to incorporate  some of our school district's curriculum for 7th grade. Our school district is currently using Adventure Tales of America in addition to a world geography book. My child enjoys cartoons once in awhile, but I'm not sure if we will enjoy using this book for most of the year. What I do like, is the downloadable PDF files, FREE, which you can print one page at a time or pay a small fee for the complete download which you can print all or select pages. As a complete program, it has a downloadable Teacher's Guide and Student Activities Book too.

In addition, I am currently reviewing two History "hands-on" curriculum, and giving this approach a try.  This method claims to have students fully grasps the materials much better and supposedly more fun too.

 

At the Mall

Enjoying a cup of frozen yogurt at the mall, we saw a woman walk out Carson's with her baby, in an expensive stroller.   She was wearing a floral blouse and dark blue jeans and sandals.  As she casually walked past us, my friend,  thought it was strange that the woman was walking around with only one of her pant leg rolled up.  

Five minutes later, the same woman walked past us again, and started heading back into Carsons, when two other ladies approached her. They briefly spoke to her, and she looked down at her feet and fixed her rolled-up pants.  We were flabbergasted!  That someone would tell this lady about her one rolled-up jeans!

McDonald's Happy Meals and Consumer Advocacy Group

The Consumer Advocacy Group, which is based out of Washington, DC is giving McDonald's 30 days to pull the toys out of their Happy Meals!

They believe the inclusion of the toys in the Happy Meals are putting pressure on parents to buy them for their kids, and therefore, is illegal (in some states).   

If the Consumer Advocacy Group is really that concern about the obesity rate in children, they should also sue Burger King, Wendy's,  KFC, Popeye's, Red Robin, and all pizza restaurants and have them serve all low-fat ingredients, baked, instead of deep-fried foods.

It has absolutely nothing to do with the toys!!

Not only is the Consumer Advocacy Group wanting to sue McDonalds, but also Kellogg's, who markets DVDs, a chance to win a Nintendo DSI, advertised on their cereal boxes. They should also sue companies that has those silly "Box Tops for Education" on their processed products. 

Don't you think that the reason companies include special offers, rebates, toys, and coupons is because they want YOU to buy their product?  That gives an incentive to consumers to pick their product versus another. 

McDonald's has my support! I see nothing wrong with including a toy in their Happy Meals.  Most parents are smart.  They exercise their freedom of choice to buy a fast foods or serve their own kids a home-cooked meal.    

Fast food tastes good! Once in a while, it's ok to eat  french fries, and chicken tenders or hamburgers.  Even the U.S. Olympic Athletes eat at McDonald's-- one of their biggest sponsors! 

In the News:  Consumer News wants McDonalds to stop selling Happy Meals with toys

Raccoon Scats

Looking out my kitchen window, I noticed something black on top of the red mulch, underneath my Bradley Pear Trees, just next to the bright green Coral Bell plants.  We get alot of birds in our trees in addition to a couple of nests perched up high too; so, from a distance, it looked like dead small crow or raven.

Coral Bell Plant (photo by Lourdes)

Later in the day, I walked out to examine blackened object a little more closely and noticed it was poop.  For a moment, I thought it was my neighbor's little pooch since the darn thing has escaped and crawled under our wooden fence before.  However, recently, we placed brick stones and little wooden barriers underneath the biggest space from the fence and ground to keep small dogs from entering our yard.

In the 15 years that I lived here, I have never been visited by the masked bandit.  Last month, a raccoon walked on my cement patio, saw me and even came up to my glass sliding door.  Just this past week, a raccoon was walking along my house and fence early one morning.  

Photo credit: jak from morguefile.com

The appearance of the "poop" gave way to my suspicion of the uninvited.  Imagine google-ing images on what raccoon poops looks like along with opossum poop. Yes, I spotted them around lately too.  Gross as it sounds, I am convinced it is raccoon poop that's still in my yard.  

Finally, I found a link that gave some reasonable and simple advice on how to deter raccoons. http://www.getridofthings.com/get-rid-of-raccoons.htm

I'm hoping that following some simple advice such as adding ammonia using predator urine will keep these pests from walking thru my small, cozy, and relaxing garden patio area. 

Night Leg Cramps

Last night I got a leg cramp in my right calf.  I woke up just before it began cramping and tried to flex my toes to prevent it.  Too late! It cramped and as I lay there in pain, I kept thinking of what I should do to make it stop but every time I tried to move my body, it seemed the calf muscle got even tighter.

My muscles continually cramped on and off  for an hour and during that time, I was massaging my leg and looking in my iPhone for quick remedies.  Here's some advice from people who experience this excruciating pain that I read at 4am from Leg Cramp Remedies. 

I know that my leg cramp was "brought on" by the cool air from the ceiling fan.  I've had close calls before, getting leg cramps at night since I wake up just before it'd start and prevent it by putting my cold leg under the sheets.  Anyhow, in spite of trying to do that last nite, the leg cramp apparently was due.

I did take 4 chewable Tums and drank a glass of water, both are usually on my night stand.  I continued to massage the leg for an hour and needed to get out of bed and walk because I had to use the bathroom.  What an ordeal this would become since every time I tried to move, the cramp would start again! Oh, this is a tragedy! Massaging my leg aggressively now, I was able to sit up and walk to the "john" after 15 minutes and ended up going downstairs to make coffee and watch the morning news. 

My leg is sore and  I guess I will skip aerobic exercises today and just work on my arm muscles instead.

Night Leg Cramp: Natural Remedies

Some natural remedies for preventing leg cramps at night.  Gosh, if I had known this before, I could have prevented my leg cramp last nite! Watch as he talks about placing a bar of soap under the sheet to prevent leg cramps.  "Oh, now, really?"

                 

Jose is an Older Man

This guy is probably, and I'm guessing, in his late 40s or early 50s.  He's attending this week's  English Conversation Group.  He told us he never misses a chance to go and speak English, so he travels to other nearby conversation groups on different days.  What's nice about our English Conversation Group is that there's no pressure and no one looks at you funny or is rude to you, if you can't pronounce a word correctly,' it's a very relaxed environment and we talk about "whatever".

I can't believe that people can be really rude to others because they can't say a word perfectly.  Another student of mine was in a hospital attending her clinical requirements and one of the Respiratory Therapist yelled at her and told her to "learn how to speak English first and you'll be a better Therapist".  The woman who said this was from another country with a very, very, slight accent, not as perfect English either. My student felt awful and lost even more confidence in herself. She's a timid, introvert and walked away feeling hurt. 

Back to Jose; he decided to attend a local junior college to take an ESL class.  He said he paid alot of money, nearly $500 for two credit hours and a book.  Jose has not been working for over 9 months since he was laid-off from his job. 

If you were to talk to Jose, he can understand and speak English pretty well; enough for him to get by in a conversation everyday.  He doesn't understand alot of slang and idioms that we use today.  For example, we were talking about "shadowing" someone at work and he had no clue what that meant.  I never realized how much we use slang or idioms on a daily basis.  Here's a few examples:

• Take it Easy
• A Dime a Dozen
• A Drop in the Bucket
• Don't Bite My Head off
• Once in a Blue Moon
• You Crack Me Up
• Off the Record
• Hit the Sack or Hit the Hay
• Out of the Blue
• A Piece of Cake
• Bite the Bullet
• A Taste of your Own Medicine

Just by adding idioms in our daily conversation can easily confuse someone who is learning the English language.  I try not to add them in my conversation group, 'cause sometimes, it takes awhile to explain what some of the idioms mean; and that can get even trickier and more confusing for others. 

She came from Ecuador

It was Rosa's first time attending the English Conversation Group.  Man, can this woman talk alot! She's been living here in the United States for the past four years.  According to her, the reason she's attending the conversation group is because some people can't really understand what she's saying.

Rosa is a caregiver for an elderly American woman.  Since Rosa works, it helps her to speak English on a daily basis.  Many times, I've noticed that the women who are "stay-at-home" moms, are struggling to communicate in English.  Part of the problem is because of convenience.  They speak their language at home with their loved ones, and at certain ethnic stores too.  They watch TV, listen to the radio in their language, even the countless amount of paperwork their elementary-grade level children bring home from school is written in Spanish.   

Surprisingly, Rosa's English is impressive.  I have a one-on-one student, who's lived here for 11 years also a Homemaker and doesn't speak English as well as Rosa.  Rosa's advice to her and the group was to read, watch TV, listen to the radio, and download music lyrics to their favorite song and sing along with it. Rosa speaks English to her young school-age children.  Her seven year old son, sometimes makes fun of her or teases her but that did not stop her from learning to speak better.  She didn't really care if her son said, "no mom, you're saying it wrong!" She talks to them English, no matter what.

Rosa hopes to secure a job teaching in the public school system.  She holds a Bachelor's Degree and was a teacher in Ecuador.  She didn't quite understand the Basic Skills Tests that she must first take and the bureaucratic paperwork that the state requires in order for her to teach here.

Mt. Rushmore

You really don't see this view of Mount Rushmore very often.  I had to pull over and take this picture.  It was really cool to see the presidential carvings from the road as we approached the park.

ESL Conversation Group: Hawkeye

His name is "Hawkeye". He and his wife left China and arrived in Canada 10 years ago.   He's attending an English Conversation Group to improve his speaking skills, so he can fulfill his goal of  practicing medicine in the United States. This is his story. 

He worked in Canada as a Medical Researcher in a Lab. His heart was always to pursue a career as a family doctor.  You see, back in China, he held a Medical Degree and was also a Surgeon for one year.  But because he needed to pass the licensing exams in America, he moved to New York and lived with his parents and brother, attended school and received his Master's Degree.  His wife continues to live and work in Ontario Canada and waiting to get her visa papers.

For the past year, he has been shadowing doctors to observe their skills, see how they communicate with patients, learn administrative duties, and a myriad of medical responsibilities. He's still unemployed and is taking advantage of this learning experience. 

Not an easy task to shadow or follow a doctor all day in a hospital setting. 

Hawkeye has to contact a doctor individually by phone and/or email and ask if he can shadow them.  Often times, he has to pay the individual doctor for their time since most of them are too busy.  Sometimes, it can take awhile before he can find a doctor who will meet with him and agree to mentoring. 

Hawkeye then "practiced" his interviewing conversation for next Spring.  He added that he came from a big family, and there were alot of elders living with them, including his grandparents.  His grandmother lived a very old age and became paralyzed.  Helping sick people feeds his soul and completes his life. He knew at a young age that he would pursue an education in medicine, earn his medical degree and become a doctor. 

His dream is to be able to speak English clearly, utilize the leading-edge technology in medicine while helping people feel better and get healthier in America.

Note:

If you're interested in learning to speak, write, and read English and would like more information, here are a couple of links:

http://www.toastmasters.org/

http://www.literacyvolunteersillinois.org/about.asp

http://literacyvolunteersdupage.org/

http://www.literacychicago.org/

Even better---  Volunteers are always needed!  Training and certification is free!  Help others learn the English language, the hours are flexible and you'll make new friends too!  Contact any of the organizations listed above for more information on how you can become a Literacy Tutor. 

Pineapples: How to Peel and Slice 'Em

I'm so happy to see many fruits in season and on sale at my local produce store in the Chicagoland area.  I've been making alot of salsa, guacamoles, and fresh fruit salads! One of my favorite fruit is the pineapple, and I usually cut the tops and bottoms off then slice the fruit. I wasn't even "google-ling" on  how slice pineapples or anything like that. How this video came to me, I have no idea.  Nature must be telling me that I wasted too much of the fruit by slicing the skin off too thickly.

I found this video on how to slice up a pineapple the correct way.

Thanks to FaeyStar for sharing this educational and entertaining video!
You can visit her blog site at:
http://newfaey.com/

Nordstrom Customer Service Decay

As I was walking thru the Cosmetics Department at Nordstrom, I tried the Kiehl's Creme de Corp lotion from a tester.  I smooth it on my arm and a salesperson quickly began talking about the Kiehl's line and promotions. The lotion had a slight scent and it felt luxurious so I decided to purchase a bottle and walked out of the store and into the mall to the Apple Store and Bare Escentuals Store.

My arm began to itch an hour later so I walked back to Nordstrom to return the lotion.  I approached the salesperson's co-worker and and told her I was returning the lotion I purchased earlier. She was putting inventory away, and briefly acknowledging me, she can continued to put 3 bottles in a drawer below the counter. A clerk from another cosmetic counter stopped by and asked for a lipstick which the salesperson, whom I was waiting for, stopped and helped her. Then the phone rang and she answered it and almost walked away from me so she can look for someone on the sales floor.  I had to ask her to stay and start processing my return since I was here first before the phone rang and before another clerk asked her for help.

It's a bit irritating to me when sales clerks are hired to wait on customers, and provide a service whether it's a return or a sale.  I once worked in retail and we were always told the customer comes first and we only put inventory or perform 'back office" duties when the store is "dead". 

For decades, Nordstrom was known for their outstanding customer service and happy returns. Today, was not one of those days, I guess.  I was turned-off by this salesperson's ignorance and I'm so glad my Nordstrom credit card is paid-off.  I won't be shopping there for a long, long, time.

Clutter

I went to a friend's house and it was beautiful with a carefully planned layout of the furniture and a couple of pictures hanging on the wall; it was simple, relaxing and inviting.

Later, when I got home and walked into my home, all I saw was clutter.  There were cell phones, laptops, and Dsi, chargers laying around on the carpet, an empty coffee cup here, magazines there, junk mail piled, and library books stacked on the staircase.  I can't believe how messy this domain has gotten, because only a week ago, it was spotless!

Procrastination? You'd think that I'm too busy to initiate a small effort to carry the books up the stairs instead of creating the steps into an instant, make-shift bookshelf.  Or put the coffee mug in the sink, rather than leaving it on the coffee tables all day long. It all catches up--the clutter. 

The "staircase bookshelf" is my worse habit. I should invent some kind of vexatious alarm that can help me break this annoying convenience.  

A simple fantasy, that one day can become a long-term reality:  A clean, de-cluttered territory everyday, forever.

I'm Not a Soccer Fan

I'm not a soccer fan because I really don't understand the game.  I mean, obviously, scoring is easy to figure out.  Other than that, I am clueless about the penalties, how the forward, square and backward passes are suppose to look like and all the other complexities of the game. That includes the many different arm movements the referee makes, the yellow or red cards he raises, listening to the long or short whistle calls just to name a few.

At a party over the weekend, a few people were talking about the World Cup, and  at times, referring to it as "futbol". As I overhear their conversation here and there, I wondered which sport they were talking about, football or soccer.  Unlike the NFL Football in the United States, the world of soccer has never really intrigued me until now.

Last Friday,  ESPN started broadcasting the FIFAWorld Cup in 3D on channel 106. On my other post, I wrote about my broken plasma TV.  Now, I have a new TV that supports 3D viewing.  So, naturally I tuned in to watch the soccer games. Soccer is an exciting game, like NFL Football; always moving, fast-action, ball is constantly moved across the field, the strategies of the players reactions. 

To take advantage of this free service from Directv and the 3D technology, I'll be watching futbol or soccer as I prefer to call it (not confuse some Americans) and learn what the flags mean, the penalties and the DFK (direct free kick) while enjoying 3D sports on TV.  By the way, the commercials on 3D TV is absolutely stunning! Beer anyone?

iPhone Software Upgrade

The software upgrade, iOS4 for the 3GS phones:

• will allow my camera to make 5X digital zoom 

• the video feature allows users to touch the screen and focus during videotaping

In addition to that exciting new features for the 3GS software upgrade (iOS4): 

• wireless keyboard support via Bluetooth

• Organize apps into Folders

• give apps as gifts to friends and family

Their other upgrades also includes better email, multi-tasking without draining the battery life, a spell-checker that works in other apps. 

Although the upgrade will allow iPhone 3GS users to have some of the new amazing technological improvements as the iPhone4 version, I was lured to watch the online video demo, which I'm especially blown away about the video conferencing feature. The video conferencing feature allows me to show someone what I'm looking at by switching the view to focus on me or the what's in front of me. In other words, let's say I am on a video conference with you and I see your face and you see mine, but then I want to show you what I am looking at from across the room. All I have to do is switch the camera view since there are lenses on both sides of the camera.  How cool is that?

Will this feature of the video-conferencing, make me replace my 3GS iPhone?  Hmmm, only time will tell. 

iPhone 4G

Again?! Another new iPhone?  It's supposedly exact replica of the proto-type stolen in the bar, a few months ago, remember that news? I always thought that was a planned hoax anyways.

I've seen the pictures of the new iPhone online and so far, I myself, am not that impressed.  It looks boxy and I don't like the side button design.  I like the curvy feel of my iPhone now. New Features such as multi-tasking, 4G, extended battery life, and video conferencing with HD quality?

I am multi-tasking already. I read books using Amazon Kindle application, I read email, play "Words with Friends" and "Chess with Friends", while I answer and talk on the phone.  

In a few days, we 3GS iPhone users will be able to upgrade our software iOS.

Oil Spill Live Video Link

Here's a link for a streaming live video feed on the oil leak currently going on in the Gulf of Mexico. http://www.ustream.tv/pbsnewshour

As we watched in horror the gallons of oil gushing into the gulf, I have to mention that the other day, listening to the radio talk show, the DJs reported that the oil being drilled there was exported to other countries; while our gas prices just continues to rise. 

What oil shortage were they talking about? They're selling "our" oil to other countries.  In the last couple of years, the oil companies has forced us to pay for as much as $3.50 for a gallon of gas.  Many of us gave up driving vacations because the prices were jacked-up. Some sold their gas cars for electric cars. What oil shortage were they talking about then? I didn't think there was an oil shortage, just a "pocket shortage" from the oil executives. 

BP Oil Spill in the Gulf

Normally, I listen to Satellite radio, but for some odd reason, I thought I'd surf the local radio channels and came across a talk show discussing the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The talk show was not impressive. I was disappointed that both of the DJs were bashing comments from Gov. Haly Barbour on his comment about "humans being covered in toothpaste" and BP CEO Tony Hayward's comments on "I'd like my life back."

We're all upset about the oil continuing to leak into our waters. What's sad to me was having these two radio personalities just waste energy and radio time on "what he said or she said". After about 20 minutes of the bashing back and forth, they finally moved on real facts, meaning real numbers of wildlife affected, or how BP supposedly had some of the cleanup crew sign a paper asking them not to speak to the media about the wildlife being affected and the "real" grim pictures they see ashore.

Spring Roll Wrappers-- Found!

After going on a three-day "mission" to look for the rice paper/spring roll wrapper, I finally found them!  They were being sold at a large Asian market in the northwest suburb of Chicago.  Even then, I asked two people that worked at the market, to help me locate them since the market was huge; a supermarket!  They even boast a Shiseido Cosmetic Counter, sushi bars/restaurant with tables, chairs and booth eating area, health and drug store, gift and housewares area, video store, and a major bookstore all in the supermarket.

At last, the specific type of spring roll wrappers are in my cart.  My next "mission" is to practice assembling, and wrapping the vegetables in the rice paper wrapper.

The plan for Saturday, today:  Making a few spring rolls, so I can serve them next week for a party I'm hosting. 

Spring Roll Wrappers

I bought my first Fresh Spring Rolls from Whole Foods Store last weekend.  It was so fresh and delicious.  The  price of paying $8 for just one whole fresh roll, was to me, an expensive splurge. So, I thought I can make this; how hard can it be?  Just have to get the veggies and dipping sauce.

On the other hand, finding the rice paper wrapper is another story.  The spring roll wrapper that Whole Foods used was made from rice and it was transparent-like. At the two stores I shopped at, they had egg roll  wrappers; but  one was made out of wheat, the kind you used for won tons; and the other store had a different kind of wrapper, white in color and used for Filipino egg rolls called lumpia.  Again, this is opaque in color, not the kind I was specifically looking for.

So, off I go again...on a crazy mission to find that transparent rice paper wrapper. All for the sake of making more than one fresh spring roll!  Afterall, who eats just one spring roll?

24: The Final Hours

The last two hours of the series delivered by the writers of 24 consumed intense emotions, and I was not disappointed. 

I'm at peace now with Madam President Taylor, redeeming herself and being a true friend of Jack Bauer.  Chloe too, a true-trusted friend and co-worker of Jack Bauer, risked her life and her career to find him, even though she thought he went "postal" just a few hours ago. We watched Jack Bauer's final moments on television "disappear" once again from the face of society; and I am glad that his character wouldn't be killed-off" forever, as some had presumed.

It was a wonderfully scripted drama with intelligent writings so believable and the timing couldn't have been better from the beginning to its finale ending.  We could easily relate to the story-lines of the terror and nuclear threats to our world.  It was nice to have such a hero who would go to any extremes for the sake of his country, his president, and justice.  We were vicariously hooked week after week to watch the suspense unfold, while it had us all on the edge-of-our-seats, glorified our nerves to the maximum adrenaline rush and we waited for Jack to watch him acquire by any means, the information from his enemies, unbeknownst to the rest of the citizens of the United States, was unfolding right in the streets of America. Jack would always seek the truth, the moles of the world, and would stop at nothing until he acquires it.

He was a true, American Hero, who's real heart and conscience was to always protect the lives of innocent people, no matter what it takes. He was true to us.

Music and Mangled Senses

I was editing some pictures I shot this morning and was feeling a bit disgusted that half of them were disposable. A bit disappointed and realizing that I have to shoot more pictures, I spotted my old iPod across the room, laying on the round ebony coffee table. I put the earbuds in, hit the Rock playlist and suddenly, my senses were mangled.

The first tune that came on was I-Robot from Alan Parsons Project. The non-vocal tune mesmerized me into another world; one that got me moving my keyboard and mouse with the beat. Suddenly, I felt more creative, enjoying what I was (somewhat) dreading; looking at the plant photos.  My favorite fusion of rock music in the taste of:  Sympathy for the Devil by the Stones, Coldplay, Stranglehold by Ted Nugent and Frankenstein by Edgar Winter moved me to a place of utopia while editing pictures.

I appreciate the creative geniuses of Steve Jobs and Apple by inventing iPods, and transforming my inner world.

Directv and 3D Eyeglasses

Next month, Directv will be adding 3D channel line up that include ESPN, 3D Cinema, 3D On Demand, and a few other 3D channels. You don't have to pay extra to get 3D, and the software upgrade for your HD DVR. Of course, you need a TV with 3D technology and special 3D eyeglasses.  The 3D eyeglasses are a little expensive, but you can get them free along with a 3D movie, in a Starter Kit from Samsung.

The 3D eyeglasses:  They're called 3D Active Eyeglasses- they are powered by batteries, the kind you use in wristwatches; the button batteries (CR2025).  These 3D eyeglasses are very different from the eyeglasses that you get from the theatre  3D movies (IMAX, Real 3D).  Don't think the eyeglasses you get from the theatres will work on the new 3D TVs--they won't!  Here's why:  Your 3D enabled TV sends a signal to your 3D Active Eyeglasses which then controls the built-in shutter's on and off switch in the lenses.  You can also turn the eyeglasses on or off with a tiny power button on the frames.

Just a note: The only thing I didn't like about the Samsung Active Eyelasses is the flimsy cloth case.  I mean, for such expensive "tech" eyeglasses, it would have been nice to have a sturdier case to protect them.

Directv will broadcast the World Cup event on ESPN in 3D 

I can't wait to watch football in 3D

Here's a link to learn more about the 3D technology: http://www.samsung.com/us/learningresources3D/
Here's Directv's link about the 3D Press Release: http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/article.jsp?assetId=P6770179

I think the wave of the future for 3D TV is here to stay.  Pretty soon, hologram television! (I can only hope).

Samsung 3D TV: A Simple Push of a Button

At Gamestop, I saw a new Batman video game in 3D for sale.  I asked the clerk if he can show me 3D glasses that comes with video game, and they were made out of flimsy, cardboard paper; the kind with the red and blue cellophane lenses. 

We started talking about real 3D technological effects, such as the Samsung's LED 3D TV. He told me he was hesitant to buy a 3D TV because he couldn't see himself watching 3D constantly. I explained that you don't watch 3D all the time; there's a button on the TV remote control that you lets you switch the viewing mode from 2D and 3D. He was bewildered that you can watch regular TV (in 2D mode) on a 3D enabled TV.  Also, to watch 3D movies on DVD, you need a Blu-Ray 3D DVD player.  In addition to that, 3D eyeglasses.  The 3D eyeglasses are expensive; however, you can get them free with the purchase of certain models and DVD Blu-Ray player promotions. 

Now, after somewhat "educating" my young clerk at Gamestop on 3D TVs, he said he's ready to go and buy one because of my testimonial.  He was clearly grateful and was going home after work to make room for his new TV.

Ladybugs for Adoption?

As I was shocked to see people buying containers of live ladybugs for $20 for a small cup, what I found online was even weirder. Ladybugs for Adoption!

Yes, now I think I've heard it all.  At http://ladybugsforsale.com/ website, they were serious about the availability of the sale or adoption of live ladybugs.  Oh, did I mention, they can name the critters, provide a color photograph and a certificate of authenticity?

Their ladybugs are from Arizona, supposedly. The question is: how do we really know they are natives from Arizona, or did they migrate to that state, illegally? Hmmm.

Ladybugs for Sale?

At the local nursery, there was a shelf lined with containers of live ladybugs for sale.  Are they kidding me?  It wasn't cheap either, and there's no guarantee that they'll stay in your backyard garden.  And don't you wonder how the sellers collect them? 

The ladybug collectors scoop up the hibernating ladybugs by the millions, put them in containers and place it in a cool place, then ship them out to retailers.  Similar to how bulb plants bloom; the ladybugs are dormant and won't lay their eggs and mature until they break this dormancy period. 

It doesn't seem natural to me to buy ladybugs for your garden.  It's a waste of money unless of course, you're able to keep the ladybugs from ever leaving your garden. 

What to Wear

How often do women, especially the stay-at-home moms go shopping for clothes for themselves, not for their kids?  As a teacher's assistant, working with special ed students, I don't need to get dressed up for work because we're allowed to wear jeans, t-shirts, gym shoes, casual clothes. 

As a frugal mom, I've washed the same Summer and Spring clothes over and over, for four years; they lost shape and structure.  Since I have been in the spring-cleaning mode,I will finally give them up and donate them to goodwill.  The last time I wore my beautiful business suits was back in 2007.  Yet, they're still in the closet, because someday, I think I wear it again.  Why on earth do I still have them, I don't know. They just take up space and collect dust. I really thought I would wear the suits again someday; but have only wore it once to attend a function last year. 

Today, I decided I am gonna let go of the past (clothing that is, that I haven't worn for 3 years) and open up a new space in my life!  One that is more free (or loose fitting), carefree and a start to a whole new beginning of fashion-sense and savvy!  

24 and Jack Bauer: The end of an Era

Another excellent episode delivered by Fox.  Jack Bauer don a black mask and outfit, which reminded me of Ironman, but instead of the red suit, it's a "black" ironman CTU agent.

For the last eight seasons, I have enjoyed watching the nerve-wrecking stories that unfolded every Monday.   The series finale  is next week, and I'm somewhat saddened by its ending.  CTU and Jack Bauer was created to fight terrorism in America.  A secret-agent man gone wild, in a sense, where Jack doesn't follow any protocols set by the US government, it's agencies including the presidential affairs.  Jack Bauer is the "superman" who can withstand, survive any torture, being stabbed, electrocuted, shot at, and has an amazing ability to shoot perfectly at his enemies with the first pull of the trigger, plus catch the culprit, all within 24 hours!

Every season, it's always a terrorist and a mole installed at CTU. Then, there's Jack who can't decide to retire or not, since the agency is begging him to come back (sounds like that football quarterback story?).

Seriously, the writers have come up with some of the best stories about the life of Jack Bauer in a 24 hour period, season after season. Each delivered an intense drama that left the their television viewers on the edge of their couches! It was an amazing TV experience that FOX Network delivered.  We'll miss Jack Bauer and the rest of the CTU operatives! 


Going dark now.

Miss USA Shocker

Are we shocked to hear about another controversial story about the current Miss USA?  Reports are surfacing that the pageant was "rigged"?  Supposedly, there was a political concern for her to win? The resources of the funds that supported her and the Trump Organization? Her religious background, she tripping over her gown?

A VIDEO OR TWO SUDDENLY SURFACES AFTER SHE WAS CROWNED MISS USA 

Reporters who did all this research after the crowned contestant, should have fished for the "worms in her background" before she won. But that would take the fun out out of it, now wouldn't it? American reporters and journalists seems to always wait for someone to be in the public's eyes, before they release the frenzied stories.  They're so obsessed in digging up the dirt on the victims of the famous.

Miss USA Photos too Sexy?

Do you think that this year's Miss USA contestants photos are too sexy?  The media is making such a big deal about the pictures.  So what if they were wearing fishnet stockings, wore high heels, posed in such a way to show some cleavage?  Did "they" want these ladies to don the swimsuits from the 1950s and perhaps wear business suits for the PR shoots?  Who are these people complaining anyways?

Celebrity Apprentice 2010

I really look forward to my Sundays. My one favorite Sunday thing to do is watch Amazing Race (2010) and Celebrity Apprentice.  It was a really good episode because Maria got fired along with Curtis.  I was disappointed that Sharon Osborne got all emotional and crying in the Boardroom.  Give me a Break!  I hate criers in a work place. It shows a weakness that, to me, does not belong at work.  Leave the crying and deep emotions at home, ladies.  It is such a turn-off and I knew right then when she also cried to Joan Rivers that she would be fired. 
As much as I do not care for Holly Peete Robinson, she made it to the Finals against Bret Michaels. Of the two, I am rooting for Bret because he seems more reasonable, creative and much more smarter than her.  Holly will say anything about anyone if it means she moves ahead in the game-- just like the real world; you have to watch out for people like her.  She may be a strong contender but if you watched all the previous episodes, she got there also by turning on her teammates.

Pretty Much Picasso Petunia Plant

Finally! I started to get in the mood for planting; spring-clean my patio and replacing some empty plant containers with annual flowers. 

My favorite petunia this year is the NEW "Pretty Much Picasso Petunia".  I really like the combination of the purple and green flower; a hardy plant, can climb on trellis or spill over a container. I decided to grow mine in a container that sits on top of a stand.

Here's a website to learn more about this beautiful flower: http://www.provenwinners.com/plants/detail.cfm?photoID=9320

Good Housekeeping Magazine Subscription

I subscribe to Good Housekeeping magazine and I am a little bit upset that the new issue is out at the newsstands and in the stores.   I thought that part of the benefit of being a subscriber was that I would get the newer issues FIRST, before they hit the newsstands.

So, I called my friend who lives about 30 miles from me and also a subscriber to Good Housekeeping magazine and asked her if she received her June 2010 issue yet. She has not gotten the new issue either and she too noticed the newest issue at the store. I'm sending email Good Housekeeping to find out what is going on.  Because for awhile there, I thought the ladies at the post office was reading my magazine first.  (Absurd, right? But that's really what I thought.)

Does anybody out there have this problem with subscriptions to other magazines?  I'm thinking of subscribing to More and Food Network magazines.

Cilantro Lime Rice Picture

I want to share the photo from a  recipe of the Cilantro Lime Rice I made the other day.  I tweaked the recipe a bit by replacing half the water with chicken broth.  The rice dish came out really tasty.  Next time, I will chop the cilantro finely instead of just tearing up the leaves.  Nice alternative to plain old rice.

Cilantro with Lime and Rice

Salsa Recipe for Cinco De Mayo

Because it is Cinco De Mayo, I thought I'd make homemade Salsa.  Here's a simple easy recipe.

2 Tomatoes on the Vine
1 can (16oz) Del Monte Stewed Tomatoes Mexican Recipe
1/2 Medium onion
Handful of Cilantro
1/2 teaspoon sugar
lime (optional)

Add fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes, onion in food processor and chop coarsely.  Remove and place in medium bowl with cilantro and sugar.  Mix with spoon.  (optional- squeeze 1/2 of the lime juice now)  Serve with your favorite tortilla chips. We especially liked this recipe with the Tostitos Multi-grain Tortilla Chips.

What is Cinco De Mayo?

Mexico stopped making payments to France because their country was in debt. So, France invaded Mexico to collect the payment. However, on May 5, 1862,  in the city of Puebla Mexico, Mexican forces were able to defeat the well-equipped soldiers from France.

California was the first state to recognize and celebrate Cinco De Mayo, in the 1860s.  So, every year, on May 5th the people of the United States celebrate this victory by remembering the people's cultures, history, celebrations with dance, drink and food.

Cinco De Mayo

Happy Cinco De Mayo Day to all!  I had a taste for Chipotle's Cilantro and Lime Rice entre.  But since I am frugal at times, and prefer to make it here, rather than spend money on take-out food; I wanted to make it at home and so I "googled" a recipe for it. Got lots of results but I like this one particular site.  It's Closet Cooking Blog.  This guy had a recipe that I was looking for and it looks easy to make.  His version of the Cilantro and Lime Rice Recipe here.  
Along with the rice recipe, I will make a low-fat Chimichanga.  A simple recipe that a friend made and shared with me.

Ingredients:

1/2# ground tukey breast
1 Taco Bell Taco Seasoning
Low-fat Shredded Cheese, cheddar
water
Taco Sauce ( I use Ortega brand )
1 can Fat-Free Refried Beans
1/2 frozen corn kernels
12 Low Fat Tortillas

Directions:

Brown turkey breast.  Add Taco Seasoning and water and simmer following the directions on the package. Add the corn and heat thru, about 6 minutes.  Now, on 1/2 of the tortilla and spread about 1 tablespoon of the refried beans.  Add 2 tablespoonful of the turkey mixture and place in tortilla.  Add about a teaspoon of taco sauce, sprinkle a little cheese.  Roll it up and place in a 9x12 casserole glass dish.  Continue with the rest of the tortilla.  Then sprinkle cheese over the tortillas, cover and bake in 350 degrees for 20 minutes.