As we get older and busier with life, it seems to get harder to keep in touch with friends. At least that's been the case for me and three of my great friends and former roommates from college.

Continue reading "Girls just want to have Fun!" »

Posted by Tess Rafols at 9:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Okay, have to talk about American Idol again. I remember watching Jordin Spark's audition and said out loud to my husband.. she is going all the way and winning this thing! And since I'm seldom correct, this time, I get to say, "I was right!" I think like most AI fans, I was grinning ear to ear, cheering, clapping and even got choked up (okay, mabye my eyes even got watery) as Jordin sang her final song when she was named the newest American Idol. When she was in town a couple of weeks ago (you remember, the big one day trip home where she was treated like the biggest celebrity we've ever seen in the valley?).... anways, I covered that story and was at her high school when she made the appearance. Despite officials telling us we wouldn't get a chance to interview our hometown girl, I was determined. So photographer Adrian Campa and I found a way to catch up with her as she left the school pep rally. She quickly talked to us and she's just like she is on television. Jordin was full of personality, sweet, excited and humble! Her mom told me the whole experience was all still unreal. I can't even imagine how much their lives are changing now. I'm so excited for Jordin and her family. Congratulations Jordin!

Posted by Tess Rafols at 6:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

So do you get your 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day? That's the recommended amount according to the National Food guide Pyramid. Sure I've heard that somewhere before, yet I was definitely not getting my share of fruits and veggies.

Continue reading "5 to 9 Servings a Day?!" »

Posted by Tess Rafols at 10:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Another season and I am addicted again. I found myself racing home today after work so I could be in front of the television by 7pm to watch the girls sing their hearts out on American Idol. I even told my husband I wouldn't have time to pick-up dinner as originally planned because I'd miss the beginning of the show (turned out to be sandwich night). I know, pathetic. But there's alot of you out there in the same boat who has to get his/her fill of the show even though you may not like to admit it.

I think this season the girls are way better than the guys. And as cruel as Simon's comments can be, I find myself usually agreeing with him! I definitely think there are a few people who stand out: Lakisha Jones and Melinda Doolittle are in a league of their own; our hometown girl Jordin Sparks is also incredible and she has a shining personality that I think will take her far in the competition; I think Stephanie Edwards is also one to watch. As for the guys, I like Chris Richardson, Jared Cotter and Nick Pedro. But I truly believe the next Idol will be one of the ladies.

So for the next few months, my Tuesday and Wednesday nights are booked... as I get my fill of American Idol. One thing I would change about the show though.. the results night! They drag that out so bad, it kills me!

Posted by Tess Rafols at 10:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

It's so funny how there's so much hype and promotion over Valentine's Day. Sure, it's a great holiday to let your someone special know how much he or she is loved... but the holiday has become one of expensive dinners, hiked-up prices on roses, jewelry, lavish gifts, etc. I'll admit, I was one of those girls who expected flowers, I expected a big gift. But years ago that changed. Remember being in grade-school and getting so excited to write out those little Valentine cards to classmates? And being equally as excited to get those little one-sided cards in return (like those cute Barbie ones, Scooby Doo, or the Smurfs-- I know, I'm aging myself). Why can't we be happy anymore with such things as a simple card? Well, we can. My husband and I have made Valentine's Day even more special with personal, home-made or inexpensive gifts. My best gift ever was a hand-written poem he wrote a few years back. He titled it "Valentine's Day Poem" and wrote it on just on a sheet of lined paper, folded it up.. no fancy stationary, not even an envelope! The other day I was cleaning out a box and found the poem. It warmed my heart, put a smile on my face. I can't wait to find it years later, when we're old and grey. This Valentine's Day... may your heart be warmed in such a simple way.

Posted by Tess Rafols at 9:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

I can't believe there are just several days left in 2006! Where did the year go? I think as I get older, the minutes, hours, days and weeks zoom by faster and faster. Why is that?

Continue reading "2007.... Already?" »

Posted by Tess Rafols at 10:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Everywhere I go, Christmas music is playing. But I don't mind at all. I don't know about you, but for me, holiday tunes just instantly put me in a good mood!

Continue reading "Play that tune!" »

Posted by Tess Rafols at 11:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Forget about MySpace, forget about Friendster, how about Dogster? Yes, there is such a thing!!! My sister recently told me about this website that's literally gone to the dogs. So of course, being the dog lover that I am, I had to put my two pooches on the website.

Continue reading "Gone to the Dogs" »

Posted by Tess Rafols at 5:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

There's nothing like a home-cooked meal from Mom's kitchen. These days, I've been lucky enough to have several meals a week made by mom! Last month, my parents moved to the greater Phoenix area from California. They decided to retire here. I haven't lived in the same city as Mom and Dad in about 12 years! Now they live just five miles from me and my husband. Some may think five miles is a bit close, but it's perfect for us.

You have to understand, I'm Filipino and Filipino families are usually very close, very big. (Many people wonder about my nationality... yes, I'm from the Philippines). Having moved several times over the past decade for work, it's great to be close to family again. Best of all, my husband is Italian, so he also understands what it's like to be part of a big, close-knit family.. where everyone is loud and nosey. So he gets along great with my parents. Infact, he spent all Sunday at their house watching football! After so many years away from "home," its fantastic that I can now call the Valley home and have my parents here too.

Posted by Tess Rafols at 12:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)