NoGarlicNoOnions – Introducing Anthony Rahayel – Food, Travel Blogger

A couple of months ago, as I was going through YouTube to find some literature and information on Lebanon and Lebanese foods, I came across a video NoGarlicNoOnions, so I was intrigued and decided to click on the video that was close to an hour long, so I decided to watch the whole video, and a couple of minutes in, I became hooked, and then I watched another few following. So, these videos have been around for a few years now, and I just suddenly found this now, which is better late than never.

NoGarlicNoOnions was founded by Anthony Rahayel back in 2012. Anthony and his film crew began introducing us to Lebanese culture, food, taking us to villages, cities, and towns of Lebanon and amongst him visiting Armenia and Italy tasting all kinds of foods amongst other places he has traveled. He also travels and explores at the same time when he is tasting delicious food, that you just want to eat your screen.

Anthony’s contagious and positive approach and the way he explains how the food is made, the texture, quality is out of this world and so much fun to watch. He speaks Lebanese and also he says a few words of English as well. Thank goodness my mother and my neighbors who are my family now, translate words, phrases and sentences to me, so that I can understand what Anthony is saying and its incredible how many words and sentences I know now of Lebanese by just watching Anthony, NoGarlicNoOnions. Thanks to them all, I am more aware of what is going on when I watch.

His passion and drive toward the culinary world is extremely visible. His expression and enjoyment can be felt. He has over 2500 reviews on various topics from air travel, restaurants, gadgets, food and more.

He also goes out to search for restaurants, and small family owned eateries for them to gain exposure, so that tourists, Lebanese people who live in Lebanon and others can go to those places and support these vendors. These hidden eateries are discovered and explained so well.

NoGarlicNoOnions goes above and beyond when explaining. Thorough, detailed and never boring. When he went to Armenia especially really excited me even more about him. I am Armenian and I truly appreciate him going to visit, spending time with Armenians, tasting our food, embracing our culture and having his viewers know about Armenia and Armenians and the food. I truly appreciate him for taking the time to go there and to enjoy our Motherland. It means a lot. NoGarlicNoOnions has a special place in my heart.

You can now say that I am obsessed with Lebanon further and I have the desire to visit hearing all the stories and my desire for tasting the delicious food, desserts, ice cream, drinks, and everything. I have a lot of Facebook friends and I also have family in Lebanon as well. Anthony gave me the idea, and understanding on how Lebanon is and now I have a better picture in my mind of how it is.

Lebanon is such a beautiful country that is on my bucket list to travel to. Hopefully, in the next couple of years, my dream will come true. I hope that Anthony Rahayel will be there to give me a guided and professional tour around the beautiful country and take me to great places to eat and enjoy the ambiance of it all, to enjoy the nightlife as well.

My family and I are hooked on his videos and I have subscribed and followed all of his social media accounts online. Recently, I contacted him expressing my admiration toward him. He can be found on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and he has his own website called nogarlicnoonions.com – He also have photographs of his travel adventures, food, and so much more.

Anthony and his team have received travel, food, blogger, awards and more. Search for Anthony Rahayel and NoGarlicNoOnions and you will see what I am talking about. I am hoping that I will meet him in person. I am now a fan of him for life. Thank you, Anthony, for taking me up close and personal through videos. Hopefully, I will come and see the real deal and soon.

Following links for more information.

http://www.nogarlicnoonions.com/
https://www.facebook.com/nogarlicnoonions
http://instagram.com/nogarlicnoonions

Tweets by NoGarlicNoOnion

https://www.youtube.com/user/rahayel
https://www.zomato.com/nogarlicnoonions

Propeller’s Turning The Deep Seas

As I am on the deep sea, gazing on the horizon seeing the sunset, sunrise and the moon from afar. As I am sailing through the waters, I can hear the splash of the water from the ship, hearing the propeller’s from a distance, enjoying the sounds of the cruise ship, and taking in the pure clean air. I am on my way to the aft of the ship and can hardly wait to listen to the propeller’s do its work. A lot of thought and positive goodness comes from it all.

I absolutely love seeing the beautiful bluish colour of the water and bubbles around it and the occasional splash. I love spending time looking at it during the day, and as it gets dark, all you can see is the dark waters, but still incredibly amazing to hear and to feel it in your soul. It was amazing and my eyes were so relaxed and it was great. Often times, we are so invested into screen time, and when I went to watch the water turning, it was such a great way to relax the eyes.

I don’t see many people on cruise ships often admiring that part of the ship, and enjoying looking at the sea. Passengers are often couped up into spa treatments, massages, in the restaurants, bars, pool decks, and inside looking and buying things from the shops, but how often do we take aback from all those and simply go out on deck, take a chair, lounging and taking in the true beauty of nature and disconnect from screens and just take in the moment? I don’t really see it happen. I am sure there are people like me, but it is scarce.

With little time we have to spend with the vessel, it is important to take time to smell nature and appreciate each second we have onboard on one of the most unique and awesome ways to see the world and travel. The propellers that turn the waters of the deep seas are incredible and a huge marvel of technology, engineering and it is so powerful and incredly amazing.

Life on the high seas is definitely different. I feel the positivity, the happiness, the joy and appreciating the simplest and yet most incredible things onboard such as the propellers and watching the ship sail. Often times we are too invested in reviewing the ship with feedback, but I feel that some passengers need to up their game and to really reflect on nature and the sounds.

I remember having conversations with the master captain and officers of the vessel’s I have been on, and I couldn’t help myself with so much excitement to talk to them about the ship, to give them compliments, and telling them my story of the propellers and how much joy it brings me and my life just watching it all unfold. They had never really heard of passengers being so invested into the very interesting parts of it and going behind the scenes and actually exploring these mighty ships. They really appreciated what I had to say and to relate to their passion of these vessel’s.

So, the next time you get onboard a cruise ship, don’t forget to see the simple things and enjoy the moment and take it all in, to not be so critical and to fully live life to the fullest extent and to really hear the sounds of nature and to appreciate each moment that comes.

Cruise Reviews and Cruise Ship Travel

Cruise Ship travel is incredibly awesome. Most of the time the things we read online about cruise ships and other people’s reviews on them misleads people and There are always people with a negative approach to everything. Well, here I am to debunk those reviews and to tell you the truth from an honest traveller like myself. When it comes to travel stuff of any kind, I am serious about it. I don’t just talk out of thin air. Here are cruise questions people frequently ask…

Aren’t cruises boring?

– Far from it. Not boring at all. There is so much to do onboard that you have no time to be bored. Cruise Ships are built so big now, and with so much to do on many of their decks. You hardly have time to spend in your own stateroom. You do not have time to waste. Everything is fabulous and you enjoy every second of it.

Don’t you get sea/motion sickness?

– Now, with the ships new designs, stabilizers and the massive and huge ships that are built, you barely even feel the ship moving. Technology has come a long way.

Why do we have to be back on the ship an hour or half an hour before the ship disembarks to another destination?

– Ship crew needs half an hour or so to take off the ropes/anchors (on tendering ports), gangway disassembles, need to put ship equipment back onto the ship, and need clearance from the port to give the okay to leave the port. Captain and his/her officers are in constant contact with the port workers and pilot boat operators to leave the port, so that is why people need to be on board.

What if we miss the ship?

You need to find your way to the next port of call – call the emergency phone line on your cruise embarkation/disembarkation card and notify the ship of what happened. Sometimes ships do wait for passengers, but sometimes due to the number of people onboard the ship, they need to leave because of time constraints. If a ship is late in the port, they pay fines.

How do we know what to do onboard the ship or in a port of call destination?

Everyday on your door or in your stateroom cabin, you will receive a newsletter of events happening on the ship and excursions or whatever else. You will see dining times, the dress code for the day, theme parties, and amongst specials going on at the stores and boutiques onboard. It’s always great to participate in everything onboard and make it a fun experience for you. They also show you what entertainment shows are on for the night. Some cruise ships, you have to book the shows due to the number of people on the ship. Also, now cruise lines have Apps that you can download on your phone and it will tell you everything going on for that day. All you need to do is put your booking number and your name and you are good to go. Ask or research the onboard cruise line APP and download it before you go on board and log your information in.

Any other questions, let me know.

Cruise Ship Etiquette – Kindness goes a long way

A crew member of a cruise ship of Royal Caribbean went overboard. As you may or may not know, cruise employees get depressed and spend a lot of time alone and are always working and are away from family and friends for 6 to 8 even sometimes up to 9 months from home on the oceans and seas and different ports of call.

I’ve witnessed passengers that come on vacation being so rude to them, demanding and say the most terrible things to them. They work their tail off and I see how hard it is to keep up a smile from them, how they manage to seem strong but passengers add fuel to the fire sometimes and the crew sometimes get to their breaking point. These people sacrifice being away from home from months at a time and the only way to stay in touch is by phone and messages. It’s really hard.

Kindness and patience go a long way. Treat them with dignity and respect. The way you treat others does affect the way they work and serve. Some people don’t realize that. Cruise work is a lot more difficult than an All inclusive resort. There are a lot more people on a ship to serve.
These crew people go through a lot and they have to make a living to provide for their families they hardly get to see. They go home for 2 to 3 months then back on the ship they go.

Kind attitude goes a long way. It does matter more than you think.

Atlantis Hotel, Resort, Casino – Nassau Bahamas – Disappointing

Atlantis Hotel, Resort, Casino
Nassau, Bahama’s.
MSC Seaside Cruise — Last Port of Call.
January 18, 2019
Disappointing –

In 2002, when we were on Costa Atlantica cruise ship, we went to Atlantis and we were able to visit the whole facility and to walk around without being heckled and stopped by hotel security saying these spots are for people who are staying at the hotel and we need to see ID. Now, in 2019, we decided to go after many years later, and we were not permitted to access key points to the hotel. Oh yeah and unless you pay a large amount to enter everywhere its ok.

After a day of walking, taking a water taxi boat ride for $4.00 per person per way, we walked quite the distance to reach the hotel/resort, we were excited to be back on the grounds. Little did we know that almost all areas were blocked off, except for the Casino and the shops where they know they are places where people will spend money, but then some areas where you do not have to spend money and they don’t allow you through. We were so disappointed. We had told the security that we just walk a long distance from our ship to come to visit, and we get turned away.

We told them that what if one day we come and stay here at this hotel? Now, we know not to. It is so overrated anyway. We were so tired and the sun was shining hot. We said time to walk the distance again and go to the water taxi and go back to our beautiful ship and relax. It was absolutely disappointing.

Cruise Travel Inspiration — Cruise Ship

Did a lot of thinking about so many details while I was on my cruise… ⚓️⚓️⚓️

As I was looking at the deep sea/ocean sailing through the many miles of salt water, I can see fellow cruise ships from different cruise lines and sizes, cargo ships, and other vessel’s from afar wondering where they are going. I also noticed parts of land which belongs to the Caribbean islands as we were sailing to our next port of call. I Was waking up fresh and happy every morning way before sunrise to see we have reached another place and a couple of days of sailing on the seas.

I was taking in the fresh clean air of the sea spending every day on my balcony morning and night, just looking at the moon shining down on the water so clearly and beautifully admiring mother nature’s beauty and gazing at the sunrise enjoying the little time I have on the vessel. I was living in the moment, embracing life and how beautiful it can be.

Often times we are too invested in being too busy with life, and we don’t take time out of our lives to embrace life’s pleasures and how beautiful it can be. I was happy to disconnect from my device that week to really remember to enjoy the scenery without a screen in my face, especially when you travel and when you are on a cruise ship.

I remember saying a few words to myself in my head, and thinking about how interesting travel can be and there were so many different types of transportation we used during that week starting from a van, aircraft, bus transfer to port of Miami, a cruise ship vessel, a water taxi boat and a tendering boat(which takes you to shore from the ship that is anchored in the water).

When we were visiting Costa Maya, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Nassau Bahamas and Miami all in a week, I said to myself cruising is the way to go and it’s such a great way to get around.

As I experienced cruising many years ago; the industry has come a long way since then with these vessel’s that are enormously huge and massive with thousands of passengers and crew onboard. The terminology and phrases used on ships are very different. I love the food, the entertainment onboard, the ambience, seeing different cultures and backgrounds, and so much more. I loved every moment.

Don’t even second guess, don’t look at negative reviews from negative people. If you ever get a chance to go on a cruise, please go and don’t waste any more time. Don’t even think twice about it. Just go. It was my 5th cruise and I can’t wait for the next one. Panama Canal is my next more than Europe. Europe is overrated and it gets tiring. Your life will change forever and it did for me. ⚓️⚓️⚓️

The Key Component to Genocide Prevention

The Armenian Genocide

101 Years
1915-2016

On April 24, 1915 the Turkish Government and the Ottoman empire committed a terrible criminal act against humanity, tried to wipe out a whole race and culture. They killed 1.5 Million Armenians, stole our precious landmarks, churches, lands, Mount Ararat, pulled the rug right under us. The blood, flesh, bones, decapitation, tears, fears, displacing people from their homes, families, with Armenians changing their Armenian names to something Turkish so that they will not be targeted and where they will feel protected from harms way. The Turkish Government still denies and lies about ever committing Genocide against the Armenians and also still fails to recognize.

We will prevail, Justice is timeless.

This is why it is imperative to spread Genocide awareness as much as we can so that history will never repeat itself again.

In 2015, we commemorated the centennial. 100 years have gone by and this year in 2016 is the 101st. After 100 years, we will still continue to spread Genocide prevention.

Recognize, Acknowledge, Awareness, Educate, Prevent.

Those are the key components to Genocide prevention.

Not just for the Armenians, but all those in the world who have had to unfortunately, deal with Genocide in other cultures, races.

We received a lot of Global recognition last year which was incredible with all the coverage, letting people know about us, being put on the map, and addressing this very important subject.

Let us utilize the same energy we had during the Armenian Genocide 100th Centennial in 2015 and bring that same drive into 2016, to be big in numbers once again during peace demonstrations, marches, vigils, and so much more.

The Armenian Genocide – 101st Commemoration in 2016

To The Armenian Community of the World and as well as everyone,

2016 has officially arrived. It is never too early to remind and educate ourselves as well as others that this year in April on the day of the 24th, we must continue to strive to spread and raise awareness of The Armenian Genocide as it marks the 101st commemoration. Let us all continue that same energy we had for the 100th commemoration. We must not stop at 100. Recognition is the key component to prevention. No matter how many years have gone by. Never stop the peaceful demonstrations, the many events and the marching.

We must be big in numbers again all across the world to come together like how we did in 2015.  However even bigger. It speaks in volumes. We should always remember. We are still here on this earth, we have a purpose, we have a mission. It all begins with how we instill that to everyone and the importance of how crucial it is to spread Genocide prevention. Not only in Armenians, but everyone in the world who have been victims of genocide and to kill, torture and so many unspeakable, unimaginable criminal acts that we need to address.

Now, I know some people’s mentality that okay,  the 100th commemoration year of 2015 is now come and gone, next year is the 101st, it won’t matter anymore, and some people will not end up participating in Genocide peaceful demonstrations, and other events. That is what some people have told me and I was absolutely baffled and was in disbelief that some people actually said that. So, I guess the bloodshed of our ancestors and the horrific, and terrible days and years our people went through with all the suffering doesn’t matter anymore. Well, it does matter. These people’s lives were torn upside down, these children did not see life growing up because they were killed, women, men, babies all taken away, displaced, and massacred. They were also left to walk in the desert, and when they were tired and could not walk anymore, The Turks, punched, kicked, slapped and put them down to the ground and demanded them to get going and keep walking. Women were raped from Turkish soldiers too, while their children and spouses watched. We owe it to these victims, our ancestors and be there for them. Not only by just saying prayers and remembering, we must do more by going out and putting our time and effort to raise awareness. It is crucial.

We owe it to these victims, our ancestors and be there for them. Not only by just saying prayers and remembering, we must do more by going out and putting our time and effort to raise awareness. It is crucial. It is a way to pay respect and to take extra measures. I am not just talking about the Armenians, but the whole human race of the world.

The Turkish Ottoman Empire tried to destroy the whole Armenian race and wipe us all off the face of this earth, and they killed 1.5 Million Armenians and they also stole our precious land and our Mount Ararat in 1915. The Turkish Government still denies, lies, as well as make up stories that they never committed such terrible criminal acts to humanity of Armenians, and many other people in Greece as well as other places. They must admit their guilt. Justice and Recognition must be enforced.

Everything starts with how much of an impact we have and can spread around so that history never repeats itself. Where there is a will there is a way.

From:

Talin Orfali

Conan O’Brien Takes Assistant Sona Movsesian to Armenia

Dear Conan O’Brien, Sona Movsesian, Team Coco, and Crew,

I would just like to say thank you to you all for making the trip to my homeland Armenia and for taking Sona Movsesian who had never been to Armenia. That is such an incredible and beautiful gesture that you made for Sona and that flair was definitely felt throughout the Armenian community of the world. Not every boss in the world would do those beautiful and thoughtful things for their friends/workers and that there tells a lot about a person’s character and personality and Conan, I have a tremendous amount of respect for you and your crew, not only because you took Sona to Armenia, but you as a person who demonstrates quality, who is dedicated, and put your employees first. That is a rare occurrence.

You have no idea on how much we Armenians appreciate all that you have done and continue to do. Now, a lot more people know about us and that is something that I/We will forever be grateful for.

It is so awesome on how the #ConanArmenia show was presented to the world. Thank you for adding humor into the show, which made me laugh hysterically. I have watched the episode at least 10 times by now, if not more. I just cannot get enough of it. Sona is a beautiful person who is so full of life and I would love to meet you Conan and Sona someday and tell you in person.

As the show was airing, I was sending out live tweets and explaining to what was going on and I was so excited about it. I must have sent hundreds of #ConanArmenia hashtags throughout the world.

On behalf of all the Armenians in the world including myself, thank you for introducing Armenia our homeland to your viewers and fans, thank you for taking the time to travel thousands of miles to be with Armenians, getting to know and embrace our culture, language, heritage, making Armenian friends, putting us on the map and as well as addressing an important and integral part of our history about The Armenian Genocide, for saying the word Genocide, visiting the Genocide memorial with Sona in the end of the show really put a sweet and touching tribute and for recognizing what had happened to 1.5 Million Armenians who were displaced, massacred in 1915, and for letting people know about it.

When Sona was explaining about her family and what had happened in the village we lost of Sepastia which is now in Turkish lands, really made me all the more emotional as I am sure the Armenian community of the world. I started to cry too with Sona and I felt her feelings about it.

Again, we cannot thank you enough for doing this. We love you Conan, we love you Sona, and may you all have continued success with your show in Los Angeles or wherever life takes you.

Sincerely,

Talin Orfali
talinorfali.wordpress.com

Memories Flamenco Resort – All Inclusive is Beyond Excellent

In November of 2014 after the anticipation and impatiently waiting for my southern destination vacation to Cayo Coco, Cuba from November 27 to December 4, 2014 to Memories Flamenco Beach Resort, I automatically fell in love with it when I saw the pictures and did extensive research about Memories Resorts. From the moment I landed and arrived at Jardines Del Rey Airport in Cayo Coco with Sunwing Airlines, I knew it was going to be an excellent week. I just felt it from Toronto Pearson’s YYZ Airport.

As we had checked into Cuba after the customs/Aduana, We ventured off to the Transgaviota Bus to take us to Memories Flamenco Resort, but before we boarded the bus, our rooms and wristbands for the week was all ready for us and very well organized and prepared. From then on, I fell in love with the resort and the excellent service so far. As we arrived to Memories, we were greeted with a welcome cocktail drink in the front lobby area before getting our baggage and the memories Managers and team leaders greeted us happily with friendly smiles which warmed my heart. They are beautiful people whom I had the pleasure of meeting and spending this beautiful week with, which went by so quickly.

All vacations go by so quickly. The resort was so beautiful, everything, the layout, the convenience and everything was greatly thought of. Everything is close by with the bars, restaurants, lobby, the pool, the beach, and easy access to everywhere which was incredible. The food was delicious, clean and the bartenders, waiters and the cooks worked so hard, quickly and efficiently. The place is so spotless and everything is awesome. I also love how the managers, the resort administration staff, the customer service managers were walking all around the resort to ensure that everybody is having a fabulous time and everything is well taken care of.

I couldn’t believe how fast the bartenders, and waiters were. They were faster than the speed of lightning. I do not know how they have so much energy to do that for so many hours. They work so hard and come to work everyday from Ciego De Avila or Moron cities which they travel an hour and a half each way just to make ends meet. They only make so much in a month, and they are always happy and smiling and with a great attitude. They are so friendly and give great customer service. I appreciate them so much and I thank them. God bless them all and continue to give them energy. It is not easy to take care of so many guests, their requests and everything. It is not easy to tend to so many people at once. I have a tremendous respect for each and everyone of them. I was so observant the whole vacation and I tell you, It was awesome.

Our rooms were spotless, everyday I would get freshly washed towels, mopped floors, the bathroom and beds were super clean with new sheets, as well as my fridge stocked daily with water, cola’s, beer/Cristal cervesa’s, and everyday I’d walk into beautiful decorated towels with flowers on them. I was amazed. Best resort I have been to in all the times I have been to Cuba. This was my 12th trip to Cuba. this was by far the best. The resort was super clean with cleaners and housekeepers working around the clock to upkeep the resort. The public washrooms were spotless, the staff presence 24 hours a day was comforting as well.

There are some points though that need to be improved, but its just the beach area needs a little work, which I am told that it is still under construction because its a new resort of over 4 years old and they will be completing it within the year and then just the lighting around the walk ways and the pool area so people will not slip and fall, but no other issues… They will be working on all of that which I heard.

I made new friends from parts of Ontario and Quebec also from the UK, and partied at the disco, got to enjoy the snack bar and all the restaurants, the a la carte restaurants which I booked from the first day and got to enjoy the whole resort. A week sometimes is not enough. 2 weeks is the best way to really enjoy it all thoroughly without rushing to do everything all in one week. Time permitting and it depends on a person’s personal budget and finances and convenience of course. it all depends on your preference.

The entertainment, disco, the nightly shows and audience participation was excellent, there is a Cuban night where people learn about Cuba and then the entertainers give us traditional Cuban dances and give us a crash course on Cuban culture and history.

Everything else is excellent and excellent does not even describe this beautiful resort. Unfortunately when it came time to the last day to leave the warm tropical weather, 3 bus loads of people who were on our flight back to Toronto, The resort manager and other managers greeted us farewell by putting on their memories resorts theme song and gave us a speech before we took off to the airport which left an unforgettable and long lasting impression on my family and I. I cannot wait until I return back to Cuba and to Memories. I am impatiently waiting until my next voyage. I give this resort a 6 star. Not a 4 and a half to 5 stars. Thank you Memories Flamenco resort staff. You all put the most beautiful touch to an awesome and lovely week in warm weather and so much more.

Thank you for giving us memories to cherish for the rest of our lives.

Do you go on all inclusive resorts? Do you travel to sunny destinations for a getaway to relax and enjoy the hot weather? What resort have you been to? Did you enjoy it as much as I did? Would love to hear your stories.

The Purpose of Blogging – Why do we do it?

In the past few blog posts with the subject of communication and along the lines of what is relative to that, the way we feel, how we get our words and points across to the world and how we do it to reach out to others, and to share with the world our points of view, opinions, suggestions, to raise awareness on issues, to advertise, promote, social issues, recipes, tips, organizational ideas, simplifying life and so much more. We all have our own perspective and our own purpose when blogging and writing about our life. The question is why do we do it? Why do we spend time with writing? Why do we post our blog entries?

To answer those questions is quite simple. We all have a voice and existence in this world and there is just so many stories, journeys, experiences, moments, memories, being helpful, useful and beneficial information about life, travel, food, the holidays, situations, issues to address to the world and things that happen to us to share, to give our insight, and so much more. We spend time writing is because it gives us a boost, and the most important thing is how we feel, and how we want to communicate to the world. Blogging is a therapeutic yet rewarding feeling. It is like writing in our diary, but a virtual diary that we want to post public. We post blog entries to contribute something, an idea and something to share with the world.

Now with this being a virtual diary, there comes responsibility and thinking before we press the post button. There are private issues and things that should not be published of real private matters in ones home, in ones personal life. back in the day and maybe until now people have a personal and private diary, and I am sure you do not want certain people to open it up and unlock your diary of real personal things that you do not want people to see, its almost like the same thing with public blogging. You do not want to post private matters for the world to see, so always be mindful and think before you post something so personal.

Never keep your blogging private. It defeats the whole purpose of writing and expressing to the world. If you want to keep some of your writings private, make a diary, and keep it for yourself in hiding, but hiding a blog is pointless. Somehow no matter how private a blog is, somehow it can always be seen in a way.

Never stop blogging, never stop writing and most importantly never lose your purpose and perspective on why you started blogging in the first place. Never give up what you enjoy doing, never ever let anybody tell you to stop doing what you are good at. Well, nobody is perfect, however that should not define anything. You are in control of your own destiny, your own goals you want to attain from blogging and writing to the world. Remember you do not have to be a perfect blogger, its how you feel and what you want to accomplish. The beauty of blogging is something that is indescribable and the future of journal writing which is now.

So, what is your purpose? Why do you do it?

Communication Style – What is your Type?

As we go through life from the moment we are born, communication is and will always be a vital asset in our day-to-day lives. We need communication when we speak to our family members, boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, husband, partners, groups, friends, colleagues, our bosses, fellow students, teachers, traveling, in social media, sending e-mails and so many different types of communication.

I attended a seminar “Inspire For Tomorrow” at my Armenian Community center and it was about communication, and I learned so much in a couple of hours. It put things into a new perspective, it gave me new light, new ways to deliver our speech, our stories, and so much more. There are several ways you can communicate, but here are 4 styles of communication, that I have observed in my life and my thoughts on it all:

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– The Driver — Someone who is direct, to the point, detail oriented, who speaks their mind, who produces results, attaining goals, gets into competitive situations, taking charge and being in control, wasting no time to beat around the bush.

– The Relater — Someone who cares about a situation, who can connect with others by thinking of the other person first, who’s relationships and friendships mean the world to a person, someone who is relaxed, and feel cared for, becoming silent, introspective and withdrawn, being helpful, coinciding with others, comforting others.

– Analyst — One who always seeks data, second guesses people, making decisions after analyzing a situation, testing people, giving people to focus on interpersonal and communication skills, those who despise making mistakes, double-checking everything, not being able to trust situations and people until doing further research on a person.

– Expresser — Someone who recognizes emotions, who expresses feelings, and what that person wants to say, the over sharing person who keeps on talking, and beats around the bush, making a small story into a big one, gets excited, giving feedback, boring people because of overusing communication, explaining ideas to the core then saying things out of turn which then makes it into an argument and problems can arise of sharing too much information.

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All those 4 styles have good and the bad, but we must find a way to be consistent when we communicate with others, using the right tone, words, following up with someone privately about something that you feel is gone wrong, not announcing it in a public, group setting, taking up issues with the person directly, instead of involving others in the mix. People will appreciate it when someone brings the other person to the side and discuss with them a problem, situation or something going on, then finding a solution to the problem, solving whatever issue, and finding the right words, tone to express those feelings.

We must always think about how we are going to present ourselves, no matter where you are, whether it is about self-regard, being assertive, emotional self-awareness, self-actualization, independence. It could be a beautiful thing, but it is in the way we utilize it all.

Communication is a never-ending learning process, and nobody is perfect and makes mistakes, however to always learn from them and progressing to do better, to improve in relationships, friendships, is something that is imperative. If you believe you have made a mistake, do not worry, focus on the future and make it better, improve the way you speak to others, always ask for advice, always have a mentor, someone whom you can talk to a person whom you can trust if you are unsure of how to deal with a situation if you are unsure yourself. It is always good to ask, then to stay silent.

Always be confident, express your ideas to others, be in communication, always tell a person how you feel about something without offending them. There is always a way to go around it. How do you normally handle situations that are presented to you? What have you learned from it all?

Why is communicating and expressing yourself so important? Everyone has a voice, everyone has something to contribute to the world, that is why everyday in technology, and things of the world are being invented, new innovations, new concepts, context, perspectives, theories, discoveries are being made across the world, because many people communicate, and want to get out what they feel is right for the benefit of the world and its people. Each one of us can make a difference in this world, and communication is one of them and we begin just doing that. Without that everyone would not have a voice and this world cannot continue to move forward. That is exactly why Communication is key and so important in our daily life.

So no matter how we express ourselves, the most important thing is the way we do it and a way where it will not hurt others, and where we can find common ground with everything in our lives.

How do you communicate? What is important to you to get across to others? Best wishes to you in your journey. We can all do something positive, say great things and to avoid messy situations, by just changing our tone and the way we communicate.

Never Apologize for The Way You Feel

A lot of the times in life we go through many feelings, emotions, and sometimes we tend to apologize for what we are feeling and telling people our emotions. You have every right to feel what you are feeling, You never have to explain yourself to anybody. Never be ashamed of your feelings. I know they say that you have to express your feelings everytime and tell people exactly how you feel, however sometimes you cannot control feelings, you cannot explain the way you feel due to a certain situation. I know no matter what you have to tell someone how you feel, and not keep anything inside of you, but some circumstances say otherwise. It depends on the person and whom you can confide into easily.

If you keep on living your life on other peoples terms and the way they want you to feel, the way they want you to live your life always telling you what to do, forcing, commanding you to do something is not somebody you want to associate with. Find the path and the people who can relate to you, do what you feel is right for you. Sometimes you need to get out from the norm, and do what is best for you. If you keep on living your life to please others, to always try and impress others, to always keep proving yourself and working hard for other peoples approval, you are not going to get anywhere in life and all you are going to do is just live for other people.

Sometimes you need to put your foot down and say, okay enough is enough. People talk so much about you and your life, gossip, spread rumors, put words in your mouth and what you should do with your life, however sometimes people need to look at themselves in the mirror first before they point fingers, criticize and belittle you. Some people have nothing better to do, than talk smack about other people, when they need to sort out their life and what they need to do. Remember nobody full knows you and about your personal life and what you are going through, and you never have to explain yourself to nobody.

Ignore people who talk so much bogus about you, and ignore people and block them out of your life. Life is too short. Be happy, be you, live your life on your own terms and your own comfort, and do not worry about anything else. People are always going to judge and point fingers. Don’t let it affect you and your life, well-being and who you are. True, compassionate and understanding people will be there for you every step of the way without explaining yourself. Remember others opinions of you, do no matter. Its how you make an opinion of yourself that matters. As long as you feel good about yourself and bring yourself up with good thoughts, confidence, the way you are is what matters the most.

People will always do and say mean things, but never let that take control of yourself.

I have realized a lot of things in the last little while, that you cannot expect people to understand you, your feelings and be on the same page as you, not everybody will be your friend and agree with you. I recommend that people should never stop being themselves, be who you are, feel what you want to feel. In the end we are all human beings in this world, we do make mistakes, we do wrong in social issues, we tend to sometimes associate with people whom we always have to try to fit in, do things to stay in the loop, however you never need to try to fit in, try so hard, and try to stand out, because there will be people who will appreciate you for you and there will be people who will love and cherish you and the memories shared and will share in the present and the future.

Wishing you the best with everything and remember never apologize for the way you feel. Always be thankful and just go on with life. There is only so much you can do and life will never give you more than you can handle.

The Benefits of Writing and Blogging in Social Media

All of us in this life have something special and incredible to contribute to this world, and whatever it is, each and everyone of us are gifted with something great. In this day in age with social media, blogging, writing and contributing to the digital world with our thoughts, words, feelings, emotions, issues, and other things is something so fabulous and the rewarding feeling of stepping out to social media and the benefits from it all is something that some people do not realize what an impact an individual puts on other people reading and engaging into peoples blog sites.

There are people always searching for something, and it is quite easy to get to a website/blog that has the topics that person is looking for when blogs are put as public and visible to search engines which I recommend people do, because what is the point of writing a blog to keep it private? I truly believe that when you sign up to write a blog, it is imperative to post it as public. There can be people reading the blog and then offer insight, comments, recipes, interests, music, about family, friendships, world issues, topics, hobbies, health, love, organization ideas, notes, tips, travel and so much more. You just need to moderate comments coming to your blog and everything will be alright.

The benefits of writing and blogging is something that is very important to me and my life. I have been writing for 12 years now, and so many articles written for my local community, for websites, for other social media sites among my WordPress blog of course. I saw so many benefits from it from not only engaging into other peoples blogs, and following people, but it makes the world a much smaller place and easy to interact and reach out to other people.

You do not need to be the perfect writer, or have the most perfect blog, you do not need to be 100% in your Blog writings, it is however you feel the need to write your blog and how you know it, how you want to express yourself to other people. Just make sure that your blog and what you write is something that you should always be careful and think about before pressing the submit, send, post button. Also with Social Media comes the social responsibility of the content we post, and what to post. Always use your discretion and if you are unsure about posting something, do not post it.

Enjoy your blogging journey, take in the benefits. You never know who stops by your blog, it can be someone famous, professors, preachers, and whoever is looking for information, inspiration, positivity, or whatever their heart desires. It is an amazing journey to go through. Even if you cannot blog everyday, no matter how many times you write, its amazing. There is no time limit or rules. Besides you make your own rules when it comes to your blog, but like I said use disrection and make wise decisions on what to post, and you will see the benefits soaring and you will see a whole new world to social media and blogging.

We are all in this together, we all have something to contribute and to share around the world. We all have different perspectives, opinions, suggestions, advice, feelings, emotions and so much more to give. Once we join social media, blogging, and the virtual/digital world, we can always do something fabulous with it, make a difference in this world and making everyone welcome to it. It is the way we handle it and the way we control it.

Blogging is a beautiful and incredible thing. Thank you to my fans, supporters, family, friends and so many others. Without my readers, blogging would not be possible. So again I say thank you.

Just have fun with it, do what you do, and enjoy the benefits of your social media journey through blogging and much more. many best wishes to you all.

I want to Learn More Languages

Since I have been traveling in my life many times, especially in Spanish-speaking countries and tropical places, for many years now, I want to learn and perfect Spanish. As I go to all-inclusive resorts and I speak basic Spanish with the workers there and the locals when I leave the resort to go shopping and meet people on the streets, I want to take courses and learn Spanish from the internet as well, so as I can communicate with them with no language barriers. I only go as far as How Are you, Hello, hope all is well and all that, as well as saying thank you, However I am learning more and more as I go to these Spanish-speaking countries which is something that makes me feel awesome.

I think the more languages you know the better it is. I know 3 languages now which is Armenian, English and a lot of French. I want to learn different dialects of Spanish as well, and Arabic, German and a few others, however I want to begin with Spanish. I love to learn new things all the time and discover the world and have a universal language.

Knowing different languages and about the world, geography, and everything is so important to me. I love being aware of the world, and what goes on, and where countries are, what they speak and everything. It is so intriguing, and interesting to know. I just do not get involved in my own country and everything, I like to broaden my horizons and know the world, study maps, and places, which is why when I go somewhere I learn it right away and I am so observant about the streets and everything. All it takes is one time for me, and everything else falls into place.

It is also good to know more languages because then when you are somewhere and you hear people talking, you can understand what they say. Hopefully it will not be bad and something terrible said about me or anything. I remember one time I was in a store and I was going through the aisles, then I started talking in my language, Armenian not knowing the people in the same aisle were also Armenian, so I spoke with my mom and asked her in my language if you want to get this and what were going to use it for, then automatically both of those people said, OH Your Armenian? We said yes, then we began speaking to each other, then we became instant friends. Thank goodness we did not say anything bad or whatever, that would have been so awkward and it would not have been a good thing, so were always careful.

That is why it is always a good idea to always speak good things or whatever else that is not about the people around you in your own languages, because you never know, they may know the same language, and be of the same race, and then if something bad is said, it will not be a good thing. I truly believe that learning languages is an incredible thing. Many people find employment as translators and then they find many new opportunities and make a lot of money, they travel and do so much. I really should have gotten into that a long time ago, but it’s not too late. 🙂

How many languages do you know?