Advantages Of Buying A Used Car

With the frail economy, more and more people are looking for ways to stretch their money. Hence, buying a used car is now more popular than ever. Hubby and I were talking over dinner that since our SUV will turn 5 years old October next year, we will have to move one to a newer model and hopefully, one that we can use for off-road trips.

We are fully aware that 4x4 are quiet expensive but maybe it will not break our bank account if we consider buying a used car. We have been reading used car reviews lately and convinced that for a cheaper amount, we will be able to get the same car. Apart from the affordability pull and lower cost of insurance, we learned that there is a program called "Certified Pre-owned." Cars belonging to this category undergo rigorous inspection and repair (if needed). Also, they generally fall under the manufacturer's warranty. CPO cars maybe of slightly higher value but any buyer will have better peace of mind.

Perhaps we will miss the smell of a new car but hey we have experience that once. Now we are looking to enhance our expatriate life. We want to start with off-roading adventures on weekends and some outdoor camping trips. My son would really like that! Therefore, will be checking new car deals frequently in the coming months.

Gift Shopping (Part II)

I went out today to buy a few more things to wrap. I picked some random stuff at H&M and Splash in case we will have unexpected visitors who will drop by come holiday season.

A couple of polo shirts, Black vanilla moisturizers, beauty pots, and other stuffs for pampering ((^_^))

IPIN Hotel Quiz

Who wants to spend Christmas at a Hilton Hotel?

Do you know how much it costs per room? Well, it could just be within your budget. Take this fun hotel quiz courtesy of IPINGlobal and you might just be surprised you can afford to stay at an Intercontinental Hotel or even a Marriott Hotel. It also gives a peek inside their room furnishings and layout. Those details really matter to me. =)

Anyway, answer the quiz now because it won't take so much of your time. Ready, set go!

Bellagala For Everything Your Wedding Needs

My head is still hurting from too much champagne. ((^_^))

We attended an intimate engagement celebration last night for M and G. It was a small gathering at the rooftop Shangri La Hotel with only eight of their closest friends invited. G is going to be June bride and though the engagement announcement party was by-invitation only, their upcoming wedding is going to be huge. They both have big families and both sides are willing to help out and make it one big, grand celebration.

In between champagne and caviar canapes, we asked G how come she looks very calm and composed. They both work in two separate international companies so we know there will be plenty of guests. With only six months to prepare, she looks far from worrying over the preparation. Then G shared that her cousin recommended the popular wedding vendor, Bellagala. It is the only one in the United States to offer complete wedding services. Apparently, G spilled she has exchange calls and emails with them it seems she bought their complete service for her sunset beach wedding! She has chosen her wedding planner and is now taking care of every little detail. From motif, venue, catering, wedding cake, wedding favors, the wedding entourage gowns, bridal hair and makeup,everything you can imagine. All she ever worries now is finding that perfect wedding gown. We all went oohh in delight!

For those interested and engaged, Bellagala has over 10 years of experience in wedding business. They have been nominated last year as one of the country's Best Wedding Vendor. G learned about the company when her cousin sent her own garden wedding photos. G was foremost impressed with their digital wedding photography service. But what pushed her further is that Bellagala donates a portion of their profit every year to Sweet Children's orphanage fund in India. It's like hitting two birds with one stone: she gets her very best special day and at the same time, the couple is able to help those children in need.

Stocking Filler: Decorative Quilt

I found this beautiful decorative quilt at Souk Madinat yesterday. It's a wonderful gift for the ladies of the house. But I think even more perfect as family giveaways. You can add to embroider your family initials and it's a treasured gift that will pass on for many years to come.

 I also wish to take this opportunity to thank Tracy for the thoughtful Christmas card she sent us from New York complete with Christmas stamps. =)

An entry for

Green Monday

Postcard from Tatry

Fellow postcard collector, Mirek sent me this beautiful card showing the Tatra Mountains in Poland. They are the highest part of the Carpathian mountain range, and for centuries they were Poland’s natural border with Slovakia.

 Tatry, my third postcard from Poland.

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It is very popular with tourists as one will find stunning views and pristine nature as well as the best skiing in winter and hiking, rock climbing, cave exploration, cycling, paragliding, etc. through the rest of the year.

Beautiful Polish stamps

John Lewis Christmas Ad

Beware: your eyes will stung.

After watching the child countdown to Christmas, I went out to complete our family gift list.

The track, "Please, Please, Please let me get what I want"was originally recorded by the Smiths in 1984 but re-recorded by emerging artist Slow Moving Millie.

Red Leather Sofa For A Trendy, Festive Home

Do you want the quickest way to make your home ready for the holidays? Start with the basic red-hot leather sofa.

Few uses red in interior design. Red is a flaming color which gets noticed. It is for the proud and brave. But a few also know that it will also save you money since you don't have to buy so much festive decorations. You no longer need to stress yourself with bringing in a giant Christmas tree to make a focal point in the room because your red leather sofa is the focal point.

How then do you decorate around it? The trick is to tone down everything else.

 An exclusive leather sofa from SCS

1.Your living room walls should not compete with your sofa. Paint it in light neutral color.

2. Enhance your leather sofa with a plush white rag or throw a pillow with holiday decor.

3. If you wish to create a modern feel, opt for glass as statement pieces. Glass top on end tables, glass vase, an entertainment system covered in glass.

4. Balance everything. Have  a red frame or hang Christmas stocking or red curtain on your neutral walls.

5. Don't forget the fresh flowers on your vase. Your living room should stand out not blend in.

U is for Umbrella

Umbrellas for a holiday feel when you dine alfresco.

Umbrellas with animal prints for sale at Al Ain Zoo.

An entry for

ABC Wednesday

1969 Chevrolet SS Camaro

Vintage American muscle car on display at the 2011 Emirates Classic Car Show.

First generation Chevrolet Camaro

An entry for

Orange Tuesdays