March 31, 2020

How to Explain an Employment Gap on Your Resume


Having a gap in employment on your resume can be intimidating when it comes time to apply for new jobs. Hiring managers generally look for candidates who show they’re dedicated and consistent, and these gaps in your work history might leave your resume overlooked. The reality is that many of us take time off work for reasons that sometimes are out of our control or that are intended to better ourselves. Maybe you took a few years off to raise your child, or you decided to go back to school to actually improve yourself to be able to earn more with your next job.

Having a gap in your work history doesn’t have to mean you give up on the application process altogether. Learning how to explain this lapse in employment is the best way to ensure you don’t get passed up on a great opportunity. Taking time off doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It gives you a new perspective, and research even suggests you’ll come back more motivated to work than before. Let’s talk about the best ways to handle different situations, and the best way to navigate this tricky area during the application process.
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When You Don't Need to Mention It
First, we need to talk about some situations where you don't need to bother explaining an employment gap on your resume. There is no formal requirement to include your entire history on your resume, and if your gap in employment was decades ago, feel empowered to leave it out completely. 

If you’ve been employed since your lapse in employment, you don’t need to formally call attention to it. While you should never lie on a resume, you don’t need to discuss any gaps in employment that happened years ago or after having worked elsewhere since this time.

Formatting Your Resume
If your employment gap is recent, you should include it on your resume to avoid getting called out during the verification process. You might also need to be specific on any job applications that ask about your work history. There are some resume formatting tricks that can make these gaps less noticeable to hiring managers, especially if they’re short gaps. 

First, don’t list the months you were employed if you were at a company for several years. Instead, just list the years. For example, instead of listing “Receptionist, May 2013 - August 2015” simply put “Receptionist, 2013 - 2015.” You can also use a resume format that doesn’t draw excessive attention to the dates of employment. Avoid bolding the dates or listing them on their own.
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Another option is to skip some experience from your resume. As said before, you don’t need to list every single job you’ve had before applying for this position. After being in the workforce for many years, it’s acceptable to only put the most recent and applicable experience on your resume. Your college job waiting tables doesn’t mean much to hiring managers after years of working in an office!

Finally, consider including other experiences during the gap in your history. If you spent time freelancing, volunteering, or consulting professional, these are perfectly acceptable things to include on your resume to show you were active during this time you weren’t formally employed.

Addressing the Gap
No matter how you arrange your resume, sometimes it’s better to explain these personally to hiring managers. This is especially true if you weren’t active in your field or taking a class during your time of unemployment. Being forthright, honest, and clear with future employers is always a good idea. 

The first line of defense is to use your cover letter. You don't’ need to bring the situation to the employer’s attention if you don’t feel comfortable doing so, but a line about how you left to care for a family member, and you’re excited to jump into the field again can go along way. Be brief, and don’t let it overshadow your other experience. 
Image via Pexels
Finally, you might be addressed about the gap during your job interview. It’s best to practice your response in advance so you aren’t caught off guard. Be honest, but don’t feel pressured to go into detail. Sometimes life happens, and as long as you’re clear about wanting to do your best work, you shouldn’t burn any bridges. Always try to focus on the positives.

Returning to Work
It’s not impossible to return to your field after a break in your career. As long as you keep the focus on the positive things you accomplished during your gap in employment, you’ll be able to work the application in your favor. It’s always a smart idea to emphasize your commitment to this position, and how motivated you are to continue your career growth. If you’re the right fit for the job, your enthusiasm will speak for itself.
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March 27, 2020

Urban Gardening Update


Now that we are under the Enhanced Community Quarantine because of COVID-19, we are advised to stay at home. Pero nakakainip din ng nasa bahay lang the whole day.

Why not try urban gardening to make the day a bit productive. I made a post several weeks ago on how to start your own garden at home.

Here is short update on my own garden on roof top.

It looks messy but the plants are growing healthy. By the way, I haven't applied any fertilizer not pesticides.

The string beans started to bloom. 
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And in week or two, I will be harvesting bunch of it. 
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The tomatoes have already their fruits. Ang sipag mamulaklak and soon I will be getting a basket of it.
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By the way, I already havested 2 pieces of eggplants. 
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Perfect for tortang talong. Recipe will be soon posted on Home Cooked Meals.

I will keep on updating my Urban Gardening.
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March 25, 2020

How to Recycle Household Items

If your city or county offers curbside recycling, simply ask for a bin and follow their instructions. If curbside service is not available in your area, you can still save recyclable items by designating a special container in your kitchen or garage to keep them. Once the container is full, take it to the closest recycling center. Here are some of the items you can save.
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Plastic
Different types of plastics can be identified by a number on the bottom of the container. Ask your local recycling center what types of plastics they recycle, and begin saving those containers after using them. Be sure to rinse them out and replace the lids, which can also be recycled.

Metal 
Most recycling centers accept aluminum cans and metal food cans. Another way to recycle metals that helps you, too is to sell them to a scrapyard. Tin, iron, steel, copper, brass, aluminum, and stainless steel can all be traded for cash. If you are curious how much money you could earn, check the current scrap metal prices PA.

Glass
Glass containers of most colors can be recycled. Separate the colors if required by your local recycling center, or leave them together for single-stream recycling facilities. Do not place items such as drinking glasses or mirrors into the bin, and do not include broken glass. Broken glass bottles may cut a worker who handles the materials, so they must be discarded in the trash instead.

Paper
Most types of paper can be recycled. Examples of paper that cannot be used again are paper towels, tissues, sticky notes, and wallpaper. Brown paper bags should be included with cardboard. Another option for paper is to put it in a compost bin to decompose naturally.

By recycling the above items, your family can do its part to help keep trash out of the ocean and landfills.
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March 24, 2020

Here Are Some Helpful Ways to Drop Those Unwanted Pounds


Stubborn belly fat or extra weight in other areas of the body can result in health problems and make it difficult to find that perfect fit at the clothing store. Fortunately, tips like those outlined below can be a big help to anyone's goal of losing extra pounds.

Nature Is Your Friend
Though there have been fads and trends that failed to live up to the hype, some nutritional supplements and additives have proven effective at boosting metabolism and burning fat. Peptides and other promising products are available on the market today while dietary experts including Ryan Smith Lexington KY provide professional clarification.

Nutrition Is the Key
Many dieters know the importance of cutting calories. Beyond that basic step, though, it is also critical to make sure those calories come primarily from nutritional sources like fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.

Exercise Is an Added Boost
While it is possible to lose weight based entirely on reduced caloric intake, maintaining an active lifestyle will help immensely. Start off slow with a daily walk or a decision to skip the elevator and take the stairs.

Finding the right balance is critical for anyone hoping to get in shape. Remember the preceding points for assistance in this regard and find a plan you can maintain.

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March 23, 2020

Urban Gardening - Direct and Indirect Seeding


In gardening or planting veggies, you need to know if the seeds needs to be directly planted into the soil or not. These are called direct or indirect seeding.
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What is direct and indirect seeding?


Direct seeding is a method by which the seeds are directly planted into the plot or soil. This is usually done in plants with big seeds, seeds that grow fast, and plants that do not need special care during germination.

In our mini-ubran garden, I used this method in planting sitaw (string beans), sitaw na turo (a non-vine variety of sitaw),  white corn, squash, and ampalaya.
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Direct Seeding: Sitaw na Turo

Indirect seeding, on the other hand, usually uses seed box or small pots where the seeds are grow first. I used this method in lettuce, tomatoes, eggplants, chilli and bell peppers, and pechay.
Eggplants started to grown in a seed box
Upon having three to four leaves, or so-called seedling, it will be transplanted to their permanent location. Indirect seeding needs proper way of transplanting to the plants to have a higher chance to survive.

How to properly transplant seedlings?
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Transplanted Lettuce 
1. Water the seedling before pulling it.
2. Carefully, pull the seedlings without removing the soil from the roots.
3. Immediately plant the seedlings into its permanent location to prevent the the roots from drying.
4. Gently, pack or press the soil around it then water the surface around it.
But how to start your own vegetable garden with limited space at home? You can check my previous post on How to Start Urban Gardening.
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March 21, 2020

Parts Of A Military Uniform


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Photo Source
What a soldier wears for a uniform makes them distinctive from a civilian. Each branch of the armed services has a different style of clothing yet the same components. These are the parts of their wardrobe.

Torso
On the dress uniform, a soldier would display their military decorations san antonio tx.on their chest. They are also required to wear a dress shirt, undershirt, and tie. When they are on active duty, they wear a T-shirt in the summer and long sleeved shirt in the colder months. Both are covered by a jacket.

Pants
Apparel worn on the legs while in the field are referred to as trousers and are puffed out above the footwear the soldier is wearing. They are the same tint as whatever they are wearing on top. If they are wearing their dress uniform, men’s trousers are well ironed with the correct pleats. Women can opt for a knee long skirt as well as the same type of pants that her male counterparts are wearing.

Footwear
Boots are always worn in combat with the pants tucked inside them. When there is a physical training exercise, troops are allowed to wear tennis shoes. While in their dress uniform. Both make and female soldiers must wear dress shoes.

Head Protection
Every member of the military wears some form of headgear. They can vary from a baseball cap to a helmet. The commander of that particular division determines what their soldiers will wear while they serve. These accessories can protect the person from the sun if they are outside most of the day or can keep them safe while they are in battle, especially if they take a hit near the head. Any other additional equipment is decided by the head of the unit and usually has to do with whatever task the group is doing at the time. 
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March 19, 2020

3 Keys To Making the Most out of Your Next Move

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Source
Moving is among life’s most stressful events, yet it’s something Americans continue to do. In fact, changing residences is such a common practice that it typically occurs more than 11 times during a citizen’s life. That’s a lot of packing and unpacking, which is perhaps why 85 percent of movers opt for new abodes in the same city or state. Staying in a familiar region eliminates or reduces much of the stress, from temporary considerations like logistics to long-term issues like lifestyle changes. Those brave souls who embark on long-distance relocations don’t have it so easy, however. They must deal with an entirely different set of problems, from finding new friends to learning local culture. If you find yourself settling in a strange place, here are three tips to help you move from anxiety to excitement.

Meet the Neighbors
Even when moving with family or a partner, you’re going to need a new social circle. Making friends is a process, however, so start with one neighbor. He or she can introduce you to others, and before long, you’ll have a new group to call your own.

Locate Vital Services
Your new friends will be a great source of knowledge about the best – and worst – services in your new community, like restaurants, schools, churches and medical providers. Individuals also will find valuable information online, where review sites offer ratings and recommendations on everything from dry cleaners to dance studios. Many even include a message board feature where you can inquire about personally relevant topics like where to wash my car in bel air md or your new location.

Embrace the Culture
Whether you’re moving to a new country or just an unfamiliar part of America, there are brand new experiences to enjoy. It may not be the flavors, sounds or style you are used to, but open yourself up to trying something different. It will help you fit into your new surroundings, and you’ll be surprised how often you find something you love.

Moving is never easy. It can be a smoother experience, however, when adhering to these tips
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March 17, 2020

What You Should Know About Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)


The entire Luzon Island is already under the Enhanced Community Quarantine. Unfortunately, we are just received a memo from our HR that we are still required to report to our work:

"Pursuant to Proclamation Nos. 929 and 922,  Bounty Fresh is a food production (manufacturing) company which is a critical value chain of food preparation and distribution entities which are included among the exemptions in the enhanced community quarantine. "

By the way I got the article below from Mommy's Site and I would like to share this for the awareness of everyone:

Like any other parents, I am too worried about how rapidly coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is spreading. In fact, the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus a pandemic on Wednesday as it spreads in more than 100 countries around the world, which includes Philippines.

President Rodrigo Duterte puts Metro Manila under 30-day ‘community quarantine’. This prohibits traveling to and from the national capital until April 14 and banning “planned or spontaneous” mass gatherings. Also, the suspension of classes in the metropolis (and in near by province like Bulacan) is extended until April 12. This is after the Department of Health confirmed 52 cases and five deaths from the pneumonia-like disease COVID-19.

Sounds really scary but getting the right information can save lives. Here are what you should know about coronavirus disease (source: www.unicef.org);

 Coronavirus disease, health, COVID-19,

 Coronavirus disease, health, COVID-19,

 Coronavirus disease, health, COVID-19,

 Coronavirus disease, health, COVID-19,

 Coronavirus disease, health, COVID-19,

Coronavirus disease, health, COVID-19,

Coronavirus disease, health, COVID-19,

Like what I have said, spreading awareness on coronavirus disease can save lives. Proper hand washing, having good hygiene, and boosting our immune system can keep us safe from the disease. Also, in times like this we should stay calm, don't worry and trust God. He is always in control.

Trust God

Stay safe everyone!

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March 12, 2020

Simple Tips on Car Aircon Maintenance


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Scarlet
On our way to work last monday, Scarlet's air conditioning system started to malfunction so with its radiator making its engine overheat.

Good thing I was able to detect and refill the reservoir with water before it runs out.

Upon checking with a car aircon, it was found that the pressure in the compressor drops as well the freon leaked. There are no leaks found on the tubings inside the hood and I was advised to check for the evaporator.
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Checking the evaporator will require removing of the dash board and needs leave the car in the service center for few days. This will be using 
comparison of car lifts, like the one in Best Buy Auto Equipment to completely check all the tubing system.

I opted not to do this for a while. I will bring Scarlet to other specialist for a second opinion.

For the meantime, here are some tips in taking care of car air condition system:

Keep the AC running
Some used to turn off the AC system during cold weather. Aircon does not only provide cool air but it can also help remove moisture in from the car interior. This also helps prevent the formation of fog on the windshield.

Keeping the AC runs even on cold weather maintains the gas pressure and helps the compressor function properly.

Use the air conditioning (AC) system properly
Before running the AC system, let the engine heat up, turn the aircon on the highest level then open the window to let the heat exit. After a few minutes, close the windows and lower the aircon level.

Regularly clean the air filter
The air filter case is usually located at the back of the glove box. Remove the filter and clean it to remove debris and dust. This can be clean with soap and water and let it completely dry before placing it back to the case. 

According to some aircon specialist, the air filter can be replaced with a new one every 6 months.

Do periodical maintenance
It is recommended to have a regular tune-up of the airconditioning system. Evaporators, compressor, and condenser are the major components that are being checked during preventive maintenance.

Normally, every 2 years, the system needs to checked to prevent grime build-up. 

But beside all of the tips mentioned, it is good for a car owner to be observant of the air conditioning system. This will help reduce costly repairs and severe damage.

Do you have any tips to share on car air conditioning system maintenance?
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March 10, 2020

Create Your Soil for Urban Gardening


In the previous post, Mommy shared how she declutter and organized our kitchen. Wondering where I was?

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I was in the rooftop organizing my small urban garden.

Living in a subdivision , like us, lots for planting crops are limited. But this will not hinder your passion for gardening.

I made several attempts in growing vegetables in pots but none of them are successful since the place has only limited sunlight and teh soil I used in not good which are the most important things in growing plants.

Our kitchen roof is made of concrete and used only to store unused materials at home, this can be a perfect place to grow vegetables. There is also enough sunlight in this area.

But how to have your urban gardening?

I posted some tips on how to start urban gardening in the Chemist Dad site. Aside from the tips mentioned, picking the right soil is also important. Living in a suburban area will be quite difficult to find good soil for gardening. Doing your compost will be a great help but you will not have enough amount of soil to be used.

Where do I get my soil? Here are some ideas:

Rice Hulls
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Eggplants and Tomatoes grown in soil with ricehulls
Our hometown is Nueva Ecija and it was known to be the rice bowl of the Philippines. When we go home, I get a few sacks of rice hulls and bring them to Bulacan. You can mix this with a regular soil or with chunks of decaying wood.

Saw Dust
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Lettuce transplanted to soil with saw dust
There is a lumberware near our home here in Bulacan. I asked if I can buy some of the sawdust they produced in cutting lumber. Luckily, they gave it to me for free. The same with the rice hulls, you can also mix this in regular soil, either sandy or clay type of soil.

Home Rubbish
Trash coming from the peeling of fruits and vegetables are great materials to make healthy soil. All you need it to chop it into a smaller size to make decomposing faster, place in a container, cover with soil, and water. Keep doing this layer by layer every time you have rubbish from your kitchen. Using dried leaves or twigs can be included in your compost.

Animal Manure
Animal (chicken, cow, pigs, horses) have been used as organic fertilizer on farming. It is better if you are going to mix this first with regular soil. The manure can help improve the soil for it to hold more water and nutrients making it more fertile.

Cow dung are good source of nitrogen and organic carbon while chicken manure is highly concentrated with nitrogen and phospate which are essential for plant growth.

Having your vegetable garden at home will give you lots of benefits. You can have freshly-picked vegetables and cook them directly in the kitchen.

Here are some of the harvested vegetables straight to the kitchen.
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Tortang Talong Special
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Ginisang Munggo with Ampalaya and Sili
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Ginisang Talbos ng Kamote
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Adobong Sitaw
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March 3, 2020

Urban Gardening: Simple Tips on How to Start


Living in an urban or suburban areas provides only a limited space that seems to be impossible to have vegetation at our own home. This is not a hindrance if you wanted to have your own garden at home.

But before starting your own garden at home, I would like to share some basic things to consider.

Begin with small ones
 gardening, home, home and living, recycling, urban gardening, tips on urban gardening
Mint
Start with easy-to-grow veggies like basil, pechay, mustasa, chili or bell pepper. Once you mastered growing simple plants, you can now grow tomatoes, spring onions, amplaya, sitaw, eggplant and ecen watermelons.

Think of R-R-R
Using the Reduce-Reuse-Recycle principle does not only help saving Mother Nature.
 gardening, home, home and living, recycling, urban gardening, tips on urban gardening

Urban gardening does not reqire to use earthen pots, recycling PET bottles, buckets and worn tires are already perfect as long as it can hold enough soil to grow plants.

Do composting
Rubbish does not always go to garbage bins. You can use this to create your own nutrient-dense soil which supports the growth of plants.

These watermelons actually came from the seeds that I put here to decompose.
 gardening, home, home and living, recycling, urban gardening, tips on urban gardening

Adding rice hulls, saw dust, dried leaves, or cow dung (if available) can enhance the quality of the soil.

Cover your soil
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Soil covered with richulls
Adding a layer of rice hull or saw dust on soil helps reduce evaporation of water. This also serves food for good micro-organism in the soil and protection from direct sunlight.

Enjoy planting!
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