Baby Steps to Overcoming Financial Struggles - Part 1

If your goal is to learn how to be rich, you might be on the wrong page. If you ask me if I have already mastered the road to financial freedom, the answer is "No, I have not.". Maybe just like you, I thrive every day with my finances. Here are baby steps to get out of the financial freeDOOM.

The tips I'm about to give you may or may not work for you. Some you'd probably raise your eyebrows on. Am not saying you do all of them. Am saying you give them a thought. It has been working for me, maybe it will work for you too.

Do this in order -

1. Give God His.

Tithing is a Biblical concept about giving 10% of your income to God's work. Don't raise that eyebrow yet. Give it a thought.

Below are two Bible verses about it. You may search the net for more.

Make an offering of ten percent, a tithe, of all the produce which grows in your fields year after year. - Deuteronomy 14:22

And my favorite tithe verse of all -

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the Lord of hosts,
“If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
That there will not be room enough to receive it.
- Malachi 3: 10

This is the only time the Lord has invited us to test Him. Tithing is not a show-off of what one can give. God doesn't need our money. He gave us our jobs. He created the heavens and the earth, for crying out loud! But why is He asking for the 10%? It is a test of faith and trust just like when Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son, Isaac. What kind of a father would do that? It was one of the most painful scenes from the Bible but he followed because he trusted God.

God is smart. He knows it will be a big struggle for us to offer Him 10% of our hard-earned money to what? the church? How sure am I it's going where it should go? Can I just give to the poor? 10%? That's already how many cans of milk for my baby? But am saving up for a travel! But I haven't bought myself a new pair of shoes in a long time!

See how hard it is? Tithing is a result of faith. And yes! It is 10%, not 9.9% or less.

Why don't you try it and test God?

2. Pay yourself.

What? Pay ME first? But I have tons of bills to pay! 

Yes! Pay yourself! You work 9 hours a day in a limited budget. You deserve to be paid. You might be the family's bread winner and I think it's noble to be one but you gotta love yourself so you don't burn out or get fed up with what you're doing.

By paying yourself, I don't mean going beyond your means. Giving yourself that promo massage or foot spa is enough. Buy yourself a new underwear or a shirt or a hanky or a pair of socks...then stop. Remember, it has to be within your means!

3. Pay your bills and your needs.

You have to stay alive so manage your utility bills well. If you have extra money now and your electricity isn't due until after the next payday, pay ahead. These companies keep a record and offset early payments from your new bill. Just because it is not due doesn't mean you can't pay it when you can, especially when you know it is something you will continuously use anyway e.g. water, net, electricity etc. (For mortgages, ensure the company doesn't charge pre-payment penalty.)

If you have a credit card and you can, pay off your credit card every month. If you think it's hard, go for the easier - pay more than the minimum. Much better if you ask your credit card company about their payment allocation method and if there is a way that your extra payment goes to the interest. Ask.

Overall, planning is the key. Plan your expenses at home and work it within your means.

4. Pay your friends.

Did you borrow money from your trusted friends? Friends who may also be struggling financially but did not ever have second thoughts lending you money? Pay them. It is your obligation. It is your word. Your financial freedom is best enjoyed when the people around you know you deserve it. Don't flaunt your new Iphone when you haven't even paid the people you are flaunting it to. 

You don't have to pay in full. You can do it slowly. Talk to your friends. They will surely understand. P500 (or less) a month until you pay off everything. Of course, you have to mean it! When you do this, people appreciate your effort. The next time you will need some cash urgently, all of them will lend a hand.

Just because you're friends doesn't mean you don't pay what you owe from them. If that's your mindset, you have a distorted view of the friendship.

5. Pay your other debts.

If you still have old bank debts. Pay it slowly. Coordinate with them to ask for an affordable payment scheme and if they can lower and freeze the interest. I did this with one bank I owe money from and am now halfway. Yay!

6. Share.

Cook for a friend. Donate an old shirt to charity. Share a sandwich. Share a book. Share a candy. Treat your mom to a foot spa. Buy your sister a new hanky. Give the janitor a box of biscuits. Hug your dog or your friend's cat. Not everything is in cash. Yes, blessings come back tenfold.

7. Save.

Most people don't save if there's not much left. Just because you can only save P50 a month, after settling all five above, doesn't mean you will give up the idea. Save within your means. After all the paying, you can save more.

Save in whatever way you can - piggy bank (let go of that idea that it brings bad luck, you get sick because of health issues not because of saving money and having the discipline to do it), open a bank account (deposit whatever you can, be it a small amount), sign up in reputable financial company that will grow your money (you have to think this over a hundred times). No more excuses! Save!

I hope this helps you a bit. Don't rush! Remember, baby steps! We'll get there.

I have more tips for you on the next entry.

*******************

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LOVE in 100 Shoe Boxes

Last July, we asked our friends to put all the love they can give, for a child, inside a shoe box. We coordinated with a partner organization who gave us a list of underprivileged 100 kids from the slums of Baseco, Tondo. This isn't our first time to meet the kids but the experience is brand new. The response to the project is overwhelming.

We interviewed the volunteers who joined us in the field and here's what they have to say:


FOX LLANTE
President & Co-Founder, The Project Tenfold Circle

Photo from Sugar Canto.

I have done this many times. But the difference each experience brings to my life never fails to amaze me. This is the second time Project Tenfold went to Baseco, Tondo. This is extra special because we didn’t just bring food or supplies as we did last time. We brought 100 boxes from 100 different people who made each box special by spending time thinking of the kid’s needs, happiness and amazement. It was a task dedicated to sharing a piece of oneself to a total stranger in need where we all spent more time in making it meaningful rather than just beautiful. There were 9 of us on field work, but it did feel like there are 100 people more with us.

The streets in Baseco are shallow. It was hard to maneuver our cars to the location. Every resident who got a chance to check us out did; just imagine the amount of attention we got. What are they here for? Who are they? It felt like we were invading a very private property and any wrong move will get us into trouble. But the after-event was entirely different; we were smiled to, held tight, hugged even, and waved at, on our way home.

Poverty can take away one’s hope, trust in humanity and even one’s faith in fellowmen. But LOVE can always bring it back. LOVE, no matter what shape, size or form, heals all.

Thanks to all who made this project a reality.

SUGAR CANTO

Treasurer  & Co-Founder, The Project Tenfold Circle

This has been the second time I've been to Baseco for a Project Tenfold project, and the experience brought back memories of hope and gratitude when we were there the first time.

You can't beat the joy you feel when you see happy smiling faces the moment the children see you arrive to when they get to eat and receive their "shoebox presents". That experience changes you. It brings you a different perspective, and you begin to realize how trivial the many things you complain or stress about everyday. You worry so much about your wardrobe or "OOTD" when this child was all smiles getting a new pair of underwear! You obsess about taking pictures of your food but not even finishing it, when this kid doesn't even touch his because he wants to give it to his mom since they don't have dinner.

Simply put, it was bittersweet. It made me realize what I have to be thankful for everyday and how much more I can give even though how little.

ARMAN SICO

District Leader,The Project Tenfold Circle

Perhaps majority of us will agree that Tondo is definitely an opposite of what a paradise is.

So I got a little skeptic when I was asked to join Project Tenfold’s Love in 100 Shoeboxes. But I thought this may be a chance of a lifetime so I gave it a go.

When we got there, I was thrilled to see how excited and happy the kids were for the event. Their happiness and excitement even amplified when they got their chicken meal and their own shoe boxes. It was mind-opening. I never thought how lucky I am until I saw their faces. I can’t explain how proud I was to be part of it - to hear their delight after opening their shoe boxes. Realization – I should be thankful for what I have for these kids barely have something.

I wouldn’t say it was fun – it is enlightening. It feels good when you know how happy others are because of what you did.

I couldn't be happier knowing that I was able to see that, even in a place like Tondo, paradise does exist.

JON GROYON

Event Volunteer, LOVE in 100 SHOE BOXES

(Volunteered to drive one of our cars)

Poverty has been a consistent problem throughout the history. No matter what the median income, unemployment or overall prosperity level is, there will be people who are homeless and hungry. Today, there are lots of people who are struggling to find better shelter, feed their kids and find warm clothing. I maybe one of them, well, not quite. Not until I joined Project Tenfold Circle by accident (or probably not), that I was able to see the difference.

It was quite an adventure going there in Baseco but at the same time the most fulfilling and wonderful thing that ever happened in my life. I will definitely miss the kids.

Thanks for the opportunity.

TEN ARREOLA

Volunteer Record Manager, The Project Tenfold Circle

It is an honor to be part of The Project Tenfold Circle. The experiences I have shared with them were very fulfilling. This is my second time to join an event. And I am very proud to say that in this project (LOVE in 100 Shoe Boxes), I really devoted time in helping make it successful… and it was!

I can clearly recall the excitement of the kids when we arrived at the site. It was already an appetizer to the main course. Words can’t express how happy I was after seeing the kids flabbergasted to see what’s inside the shoe boxes.

I realized one thing – those things we put inside our boxes are ‘just things’ to us, but for those kids, our ‘things’ were their fortunes.

In our lives, we tend to take things for granted. There are things we think are useless, but to some, these are the exact same things they have been praying for – a new pair of shoes, a new shirt, chocolates, a pencil case, etc.

A heartfelt Thank You to my Project Tenfold Circle; our statement is true not just for others but for ourselves – indeed, you help me help others.

BRYCE KIGUCHI

VP & Co-Founder, The Project Tenfold Circle

If there’s one thing I learned from my Baseco experience, it’s this:

You don’t need to be rich or famous or generous to a fault to make a difference in someone’s life.

Sometimes, you just have to be an instrument. Sometimes, your mere presence is enough. Not everyone can be there. So, I think it’s always a privilege to be physically present in order to help people help other people.

There are many different ways, and many different forms of helping people. Everyone involved in this project has helped those kids in Baseco. We served them boxes brimming with love, hope and a reminder that they are not forgotten. And in return, I believe those kids helped all of us.

DANNIE MAURO

Auditor & Co-Founder, The Project Tenfold Circle

I am struggling to find the words to describe my Baseco experience, but I know it breaks my heart. Maybe because I have not seen so much joy in having a decent meal and so much gratitude from receiving humble gifts except from those 100 kids. It made me think, “When was the last time I was hungry and was more than grateful that I had enough food on my plate?” or “Have I ever received a gift and not desired for something greater?” It probably pained me to see that some would go to the extent of depriving themselves to have something to take home to their families. “How could these little ones understand sacrifice so well, when all I could think of was myself at that age?”

Believe or not, I learned more from the kids more than they have probably learned from me. There are certain things in life that we take for granted and it feels good to have something to keep you grounded. Most think that I would say I walked away from the experience “full” however I became “hungry”. This is the kind that fuels the desire to be more and do more!

CLEM JIMENEZ

Creative Director, The Project Tenfold Circle

When I got the chance to read the news about the latest project (Love in 100 Shoe boxes) from the team, my first reaction was to smile and be glad about this opportunity to again help others and make a difference. I dearly hoped to see those adorable kids again two years back.

So we gave out the boxes and food and made 100 of these children and their parents happy. Was it fulfilling? No doubt that it was. But was it enough? Definitely not. It will never be, as long as you see hands waving, not to say "hi" but to reach out and ask for something ... or anything we could give as alms. We can only do as much and that, makes a huge difference. Even as the program went on, there were children outside with faces gleaming with hope of getting lucky. Whatever they were feeling or thinking at that time gave me an impression that this would not be the last time I'd see this place.

I will live on to see more happy faces. I can't wait until the next project!

LALU ERAMIS

District Leader, The Project Tenfold Circle

  

The Project Tenfold Circle’s LOVE in 100 Shoe Boxes is one of the most unforgettable experiences I ever had. It was my first time to step in Tondo, Manila .  I was so happy that I will be able to share my blessings to the needy ones.

As I give the gifts and food that we prepared for the kids I can really see the smile on their faces - a smile that touched my heart and made me happy. By participating on this kind of activity, I become a blessing to others.

I will never regret that I chose to spend my weekend with these kids and I thank my Project Tenfold Familia for letting me experience this precious moment with the Baseco kids.

All photos from Clem Jimenez unless otherwise indicated.


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Dear Sir

Photo from here. 

Dear Sir, 

I disappointed you big time. Yes, I have failed your expectations of me. I wanted to apologize for not being able to meet what you expected me to reach so I reached out to you the way one should. I invited you for a talk because I believe that that's what mature people do. It was also what you said you believe in. But you closed you doors and ignored me. Instead, you talked behind me while I try very hard to keep my mouth shut and only talked to the right people. Now, the right people do not seem to be the right people anymore. Now, I realized that sometimes you have to keep things to yourself in order to protect yourself. I was honest to the right people but it's hard to establish the truth when it's coming from four different conversations. I stopped being too honest. I learned.

You removed me from a social networking site, which I thought was childish but acceptable. However, you also removed me from a professional distro to prove that your circle can work without me. Maybe you were right in your assumption but you were wrong in your move. The latter wasn't just childish, it was unprofessional. You bashed me in every possible way you can, in most cases, you did not even think about the words you said. Some of my words you didn't understand, you just went ahead and bashed me the way you bash people whose appearance you didn't like. You did not support my undertakings, you blocked every opportunity I opened. People would go to me and asked me why, and I will just shut up. Some did not even find the words but just shook their heads. 

You did not settle with your cheap comments to the people around you. You used other avenues to spread your thoughts but, obviously, contradicted your own words with your own actions. You did not stop but went ahead and insult my circle of friends, judged us, and treated us like we are dispensable members of your circle, something that is not new to us. We hear, know and see so many things but we keep ourselves on the right lane because if we snap, we'll just be another version of cheap. 

If your goal was to hurt me and my team with your insults, you won. I was hurt. We were hurt. If your goal was to make me cry, I did. Oh no, I did not. I wept for hours because of you. You are the meanest person I have ever encountered in my whole life. You have made me lose a little bit of my trust in humanity. If your goal was for others to think lowly of me or my people, maybe you were successful a little bit. But if your goal was to dampen my spirit and my joy, you will never ever win. I may not get people on my side because of your power, but I will surely keep my humanity in good shape.

As you push me to my breaking point, I get to discover so many things about myself. I win. 

Exception

Entry # 409 from the Eavesdropper

Now Playing: I Need an Energy

I Need an Energy
Greg Holden

There's not a thing that you could say that could talk me down,
From all the things that I eat, sleep and dream about.
I've got a feeling that the whole world is watching now, oh
But I'm alone for the final minute of this hour.

I need a lift, I need a shake,
I need to find another chance that I can take,
I need a fight, I need an energy,
I need something that will take me quickly.
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh

In my dreams there was a whole lot more than this
Now I wander for the journeys that I chose to miss
For a feeling I have chased almost all my life
It sure feels that it's burning for the final time, oh

I need a lift, I need a shake,
I need to find another chance that I can take,
I need a fight, I need an energy,
I need something that will take me quickly.
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh

It's all that I know, it's all that I see,
It's all that's been here controlling me
It's all that I know, it's all that I see...

I need a lift, I need a shake,
I need to find another chance that I can take,
I need a fight, I need an energy,
I need something that will take me quickly.
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh
I gotta just let go-whoa-oh

FOOD TRIP: The Flavors and Colors of China in Manila

What started as a commercial partnership through barter, ages ago, became a lasting relationship. From our language, to our daily products, food, fashion and lifestyle, the Chinese culture has blended well with our own. One of the best ways to experience the color, feel, and flavors of China in this country is to visit the Manila Chinatown.

Chinatown Manila was established in 1594, which is said to be the oldest in the world. It is located in Binondo, Manila. Binondo is the home to a very old church founded in 1596. Binondo Church is also known as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz, named after the first Filipino saint who served as an altar boy in the same church. Lorenzo Ruiz is Filipino-Chinese by descent.

A trip to Chinatown cannot be complete without a dining experience. In fact, when you mention Binondo, food comes to mind first. There's a long strip of eating places to choose from. You will never go hungry in this part of the world. Today, we decided to try Chuan Kee in Yuchengco St. corner Ongpin St. just behind Binondo Church.

The place was full for a morning visit. Looks like every day is a busy day for this place.

With Chinese songs in the background, Chinese-speaking guests coming in and out, and Chinese characters everywhere you look, you will surely be transported to a country, which is miles and miles away.

We asked for their most affordable bestsellers and here are what we were advised to taste:

From the inside of Chuan Kee, you can't help but notice this signage. It's inviting so why not give this a try too?

Cafe Mezzanine was featured in CNN's World's Best Chinatowns as a Must Visit Restaurant. Read more from this link.

A portion of this cafe's income goes to the Binondo Fire Department, whose iconic purple truck is parked beside Binondo church.

The place is cozy and is a nice place to hang out and chat. You will find interesting photos of firemen in action and other related displays.

You may try their signature coffee, Mezza Blend, which is refillable at P70. Not bad at all!

Or if you want a sweeter coffee, you may try their Cafe Latte. They also serve pasta, burgers, pancit, halo-halo and sandwiches.

Like I said, the food here never stops. When you pass by the newly established Lucky Chinatown Mall, you might be lucky to stumble upon any of their fun events such as this one below. We happened to have experienced their Weekend Asian Street Food Market.

We tried the following:

Dynamite (Chilli Cheese Sticks) @ P10 each

Pork and Chicken Isaw @ P20-

They're a little bit expensive compared to its real street prizes but, hey, extra bucks for the comfort.

Weekend Asian Street Food Market goes on Saturdays and Sundays of September.

This isn't my first time in Chinatown. In fact, visiting this place again brings so many childhood memories. I was born in Manila. My parents used to work in Escolta and my regular trips to Sta. Cruz, Quaipo and Binondo are memories I will always treasure.

Chinatown has, indeed, a world of its own. While walking the streets of Binondo on my way home,  I hoped that it gets to preserve its distinct culture and that it will never sell out. When I saw this roadside chapel still there, I was rest assured.

FOOD TRIP: Gayuma ni Maria

August 25, 2013

Gayuma is a tagalog word for love potion or love charm. Who would not be interested in what this place has to offer? I first heard of this place from a TV show. A fellow blogger, Bryce, and I have ear-notched this as a must go to.

With us are two great friends, who also got curious of what this place is all about.

We called in advance for a reservation. It was a rainy Saturday evening and from Mandaluyong to Quezon City, traffic can be horrible. We wanted to make sure we get ourselves good seats.

The place is homey and very simple. I didn't get to see the second floor though. It feels like home and, I guess, it's exactly what the owner wants you to feel. There's a certain touch of mystery and darkness in it, which makes it even more interesting.

The fun journey starts when you decide what food to order. I guarantee a smile or a giggle when you browse through their list of dishes. Here are what we ordered (the captions are taken from their menu):

Let this creamy combination of ox tongue and mushroom drive you wild.

Bistek pinoy made to make you fall in love.

Magical take on the well-loved Filipino dinuguan with your choice of sides.

Tomatoes and fresh basil roasted in garlic olive oil and drowned in cheese. Want the hottie version? Ask that it be added with pepper flakes.

Here's a quick look of a few of their other dishes:

And there's always room for desserts:

Rich chocolate mercilessly topped with butterscotch, cream and chocolate bits.

With a sprinkle of magic dust and a swish of a wand, seduced with this foamy Australian fruity delight.

Other than food, you may check out their great finds around - from fashionable belts and accessories, to adult items, all are worth your attention.

You may also find interest in reading some of their wall posts such as The Top Ten Aphrodisiacs, How to Obtain Love from a Specific Person, etc. There are also days when they offer free (or paid) tarot reading too. Am not into witchcraft, or potions, or fortune telling, but this is definitely a must-try experience.

Gayuma ni Maria

123 V. Luna Extension (near Maginhawa St.)

Sikatuna Village, Quezon City PH

Phone Number: (02) 4414872

Food and Thoughts: The Sequel

Photo from here.

Last year, I wrote a series of blog entries entitled Food and Thoughts. It was my attempt to change a monotonous habit of eating in the same places again and again. It was a chance to give my taste buds a good break. I dined in 50 different places with people who are dear to me. In each dining experience, I cooked something valuable to take away with me to feed, not just my hungry tummy, but also my hungry mind and soul.

I stopped at 50. But... the hunger never ceases.

I decided to write a second part. This time, there won't be too much of the drama and the lessons. It will just be about food, the dining experience, and the gastronomic overall experience

Please do not expect too much from me. I won't write a review, or, maybe I will sound like I will but I hope you honor the experience more than what my taste buds say about the food. 

Remember the rules from my first entry? The same applies to this series. 

Am excited!

Itadakismasu! Bon apetit! Selamat makan! Jemput makan! Buen provecho! Kainan na!

Furry Birthday 6

Hi Friends,

Since 2008, I have been spending my birthdays for the animals in many different ways. From collecting dog/cat food, to collecting coins to sponsor spaying/neutering of strays, to other gimmicks!

This year, my plan is to feed the shelter animals of the Philippine Welfare Society. As of August 1st, PAWS is taking care of 256 cats and 74 dogs. I have to raise funds in order to prepare the following:

1. Twelve (12) kilos of boiled "sawdust" or ground pork

2. 1-2 kilos cooked rice

3. Twelve (12) kilos of boiled galunggong

4. One (1) huge "kalabasa" or pumpkin

5. Six (6) kilos of cooked rice

6. Two (2) large plastic basin

7. Two (2) or more long-handled ladle for mixing

8. Disposable plastic gloves for deboning the fish

9. Old newspapers to line the table

10. One (1) XL garbage bag

11. Detergent 

12. Dishwashing soap and sponges

In 2009, I started collecting 5 and 10 cents from friends and deposited it in PAWS's bank account to pay for spaying/neutering of feral cats I see from around my area. I called my mini-project, MESSAGE CENT.

I like this project a lot as it sends the message that it does not always have to be a big amount of money; that one does not have to rich in order to help; that even our pocket change can go a long way.

This year, I'd like to use my birthday again as an excuse to appeal for your help. I will not ask for a big amount of money but for your spare coins and pocket change. I will be giving away empty water bottles that you can fill with Php 0.05, Php 0.10, Php 0.25, or any amount that your pocket can share.

I will collect the bottles back September 30, 2013.You have two months to fill the bottle. My birthday is on October 4 and I target to feed on October 5, if PAWS can accommodate the date. I will update you of the final details once ready.

October 4 is also World Animal Day celebration and the feast of St. Francis de Assis, the Catholics' patron saint for animals. 

Please let me know if you want to sign up so I hand over the bottle to you. You can also recycle and reuse any empty water bottle and surrender once filled or on September 30th, whatever comes first. 

You have no idea how far your participation can go. 

Thank you in advance.

Love,

Fox and all the animals in the world!

P.S. Here are a few photos of (and a blog link) the last Feeding Program.