TechTalk - How to spot a FAKE Samsung Galaxy Note 3 (and eBay tips)

UPDATE 01/10/2014: NEWEST VIDEO (SIDE BY SIDE COMPARISON!)




UPDATE 12/16/2013 - Special Thank You to T-Mobile for writing a letter stating this is a fake!

READ LETTER HERE!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

OVER 2,000 RETWEETS!  =D

UPDATE: 12/17/2014 - Getting my money back, I had to sign an affidavit that I destroyed the phone, which I did - AFTER taking tons of photos - SCROLL TO BOTTOM to see pics!

Picture of item on eBay

MORE PICTURES WILL BE UPLOADED SOON.

IF YOU'RE DEALING WITH PAYPAL - SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM!

SARCASM - Paypal doesn't even click on the links before they respond!

@hawaiiinsomniac Hi, You are very welcome! We are here to make your all your transactions awesome ;-) ^AT
— Ask PayPal (@AskPayPal) December 2, 2013

I recently purchased a  +Samsung Mobile Galaxy Note 3 from +eBay and I was so excited to get the package, after all, I waited an entire week before the package arrived.

After opening the package, I grew with anticipation, I have been wanting a Galaxy Note 3 for quite some time.  Unfortunately, the more I played with the device, the more I felt that it was not quite right.  Some people have been asking me, why shop on eBay in the first place?! Well, as an English teacher, my salary isn't that great and I don't mind buying used goods for myself.  In fact, I've been an eBay customer since 2006.

First, the stylus didn't seem right, I've watched enough videos (in anticipation of my device) to know that this stylus was a fake.

FAKE STYLUS: The "button" was a fake, not to mention the tip was too big.
For new buyers, the phone will open "Air Command" once you remove this stylus, so you would think that it was real - DO NOT BE FOOLED!

REAL STYLUS: Major difference, there is the logo on the handle.  Another main difference is the button is actually two-toned (and press-able).

SOURCE: SAMSUNG MOBILITY

Besides the stylus, you are buying a PREMIUM phone.  Any bleeding from the display (SEE VIDEO), discoloration or cheap feeling from the phone should raise flags.  In fact, my phone when turned on, did not even show Samsung, it showed Android.  The fastest way to see if you have a FAKE NOTE 3 is to download an application: aptly titled Genuine Galazy S4/Note 3.

CLICK HERE - to download this app.

Once you open the app, it will automatically tell you at the top if you have a Genuine Samsung or a FAKE!

The phone that was shipped to me only had 1 GB of RAM and 720p resolution, as opposed to the 3GB of RAM and 1080p resolution that is suppose to come with the Galaxy Note 3.

If you prefer, here is a video where you can see that this phone is a fake.

UPDATE: 12/17/2013 - ALSO SHOT A PART 2 VIDEO...
This is more condensed and more detailed

If you have a genuine phone - congratulations.

If you have a fake and you bought it from eBay, file a claim immediately!

To prevent this from happening to you, here is some advice:
1) Always pay with Paypal - if you are purchasing from eBay, directly sending bank transfers does not cover you from this type of transactions.

NOTE: I have filed a claim with Paypal, and they have asked me to provide documentation from an unbiased 3rd party.  I have included a screenshot of my fake phone, but I am not sure if it is enough.  Most 3rd party companies, such as a dealer, will probably not write this letter since you didn't buy the product from them, and this is assuming you live in the city or in the suburbs where you have access to a 3rd party company.

UPDATE: 12/01/2013 - Unfortunately eBay will only accept this "LETTER" from a 3rd party.
This phone is so blatantly fake that it's ridiculous!

2) Buy from someone with feedback!  Do not buy a product from someone with 0 feedback selling an expensive phone!
3) Buy from someone with pictures with watermarks.

Example, when I sell items on eBay, I take a picture with my USER ID someone on there, so you know I have the item in hand.

PROBABLY FAKE: This was the picture used by the person who sold me the counterfeit Samsung device!
Stock photo, with no differentiating factors.

UPDATE: 02DEC2013
According to Paypal - since they are an INTERNET company, they can only accept a letter from a 3rd party.  This is really unfortunate as most companies will not write a letter for anyone, since #1) I didn't buy the cell phone from their store, #2) it's the holiday season - they're actually going to be busy helping paying customers. #3) #DUH

+PayPal has lost all common sense in this situation.  Obviously they haven't tried going into a T-Mobile store and asking if they can write a letter that this phone is fake.

Update: 06.Dec.2013
PAYPAL IS UNYIELDING.

I have sent Paypal various documents, pictures, faxes, chats with Samsung, emails from Samsung - but it will not WORK!

THEY WILL NOT WANT ANYTHING EXCEPT A LETTER FROM A 3RD PARTY WITH THEIR CONTACT INFORMATION -  WHICH SAMSUNG CANNOT PROVIDE. WHY?  The sticker on the back shows that its a real Samsung phone (even though we've seen here and the video its blatantly a fake)

What you can do is confirm what carrier the phone is for.  For me, my model number is SM-N900-T so its for T-Mobile.  Hopefully there is a cell phone carrier near your area.

Before you go there, DOCUMENTATION, DOCUMENTATION, DOCUMENTATION!  PRINT OUT THE PAYPAL EMAIL, EBAY LISTING, ETC.  Be nice and courteous and explain your situation clearly!

SAMSUNG CHAT

PAYPAL RESPONSE

PICTURES OF FAKE SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 3

Here is the shorter (more condensed) version of How to spot a fake Samsung Galaxy Note 3



One of the prerequisites to get your money back from Paypal is to sign an affidavit that you destroyed the item.  How do you do that?  Well, you can just throw it away, I was inspired by chopped and I decided to cook an omelette.



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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

MusicTalk - Current Playlist - nov.30

After streaming Britney Spears' new album (which please don't), I'm a bit over the pop movement.

Listening to one of my favorite songs, "The Kill" by 30 Seconds to Mars - a bit of an oldie, but still great.

One of my favorite bands of all time is Matchbox 20.  They have so many great songs and this is one of their great ones.

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE:

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

FashionTalk - Things I love right now - Nov.2013!

Well, I love fashionable things, but I also rarely pay full price.  Since I've been feeling a little blue, nothing like a bit of retail therapy to make me happy - so here are my favorite things right now.

Yes, I love bags, and if I had to get 1 bag for the remainder of the season - this would be it!  It can be used as a tote, a messenger bag, big enough for a tablet, a small laptop and I love the two tone!

CLICK HERE to check this item out on BlueFly!

SOURCE: BLUEFLY

I love cardigans, I think I have about 15.  Cardigans are great, to be honest, it has the ability to dress anything up, which normally I wear a tanktop underneath, but you would never know, since I'm wearing a cardigan.  I love the color of this as well!

SOURCE: AMAZON VIP

I love these shoes: BucketFeet!

Wow, tired of the same boring designs? Well these affordable shoes are designed by artists!  Whatever your style, or your favorite color, I'm sure you'll be able to find one that matches you!

Here is the shoe for me.  

CLICK HERE to check these shoes (and others!) out on BucketFeet!

SOURCE: BUCKETFEET

Which one is your favorite?!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

GameTalk - Best 3 Free to Play Games - Nov. 2013

I've been spending quite a bit of time at home, so naturally I've been watching a lot of Hulu, and also playing a lot of video games.  With the recent release of Xbox One and PlayStation 4, gaming has been focused on consoles.  However, there are great games for PC and other consoles out there.  

One of the great things about gaming for PC (and I guess mobile devices - though they don't compare), is the concept of Free to Play - which basically means, the game is free, but there are microtransactions (small purchases) involved, if you want additional benefits to the game (such as customization, faster construction, etc).  I've selected these three Free to Play games, because you do not need to spend a dime to enjoy these games.  In fact, these games are probably even better than what you've been paying $30-60 for on your console.

These three games are for PC and have different PC system requirements, please check individual links posted to see if your PC is compatible.  

PS. My steam user ID is hawaiiinsomniac (you're not surprised, are you?!)

#1 - Path of Exile

If you like Baldur's Gate and Dragon Age, this is the game for you!  This game is just great.  The adventure, exploration, aspect is great, and I find myself exploring every crevice to kill all the undead possible, not to mention there are many different classes in which to play depending your style (I'm a witch, who raises corps from the dead to fight the undead - ironic, isn't? who also has fire and ice abilities - multifaceted, what can I say?)  Back to the game, I can't even really describe it, its just fun.  Check out the video review - Kevin reviews this game way better than I can.   

Well, just in case you need a professional review.  Gamespot gave this game a 9 out of 10, which scored higher than any of the launch games from Xbox One and PlayStation 4.  Did I mention it was free?

CLICK HERE for Gamespot's review.

SOURCE: PATH OF EXILE

CLICK HERE for more information and how to download Path of Exile.

Video Review

#2 - Dota 2

This game is simple - yet immense.  There are 104 total characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.  Dota 2 is a five vs. five battle in which your team has to destroy the other team's ancient (once destroyed - that team loses).  Each starts off with a set amount of funds and a very low level, once the game progresses, leveling up unlocks character specific powers which intensifies the game.  Playing with four other members also adds dimension to the game along with the three paths to the ancient (top, middle and bottom), strategies of staying as a group to push on one side to defeat one of the team's towers will leave their own towers on the other paths vulnerable.  This game is fun and yes its FREE!



CLICK HERE for more information.

#3 - Might and Magic; Magic: Duel of Champions

If you like card games (not gambling type), but Magic (2013, 2014) series, Might and Magic is for you.  As oppose to Magic, where it is a turn base with a singular row of where to deal your cards, MandM (not to be confused with the chocolate) adds a layer of dimension, as there are four columns and 2 rows in which to strategize and conquer.  This is Free to Play - PC and Steam required - LINK below!   

SOURCE: DUEL OF CHAMPIONS

CLICK HERE for more information

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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

LifeTalk - Thoughts nov.24

Let me start with the last line I wrote.

Venting, has made me feel a little better - don't make it awkward - and don't make me regret writing about my emotions.

=====================

While I've been writing a blog for over 5 years, its mostly to write about the things that I am doing.  

Most of you reading this may know what I've been up to, but a few only ever really know what I am thinking and feeling.  I wouldn't be writing this either, if it wasn't an advice given to me by one of my best friends.

I've been back in Spain for over 2 months, and to be honest - I am quite miserable.  I've been quite depressed.  I realized that since I've been here I've spent more time confined to my room in the past month, that I did in my old apartment for a whole year.  While some of you might think this is a cry for help - it isn't, I'll figure it out - I always have.  I guess I'm writing so you can see the signs if one of your friends is going through a rough patch.

I think one of the main reasons I have been feeling quite depressed, is my own expectations.  Coming back to Galicia a second year, you think it would be easier, but it isn't.  I haven't made any friends - which isn't surprising since I don't really make friends easily.  However, coming back to a different place, its like starting back from square 1.  New home, new work, new settings, so almost all of the benefits of coming back to Galicia doesn't exist, but the allure of a new place is gone, since everything is familiar.

Being in this mind space of negativity, has allowed me to explore other aspects of my life that I never thought of previously - in a negative light.  I've never been on a date here in Spain.  While I've always been awkward around the gay community, times like this - I feel undesirable. 

  Thinking about the last person I had a connection with, just makes me feel even more depressed.  I guess its a downward spiral of shame, self-defecating, and my own apartment, feels like a prison. 

I've always been an observer and seeing parents suddenly grab their children's hand when I am on my way to work, the silence when I enter the gym, or the constant stares does mess with me even more, since let's face it, I'm depressed.

It's November, and guess how many of my family members have asked me what I am doing for Christmas - ZERO.  People have this preconceived notion that people from exotic places can't have fucked up families - the truth is, I have one of the most fucked up families in the world - this is why I hold my friends in such high regard.  I don't make friends easily, but when I do, you bet that I'll be there.  It's quite amazing really, if I don't make contact with my sisters, probably a year will go by without hearing from them - but you know they have families (so it's my fucking responsibility), not only that, if I go to visit California, I have to go see them at their own time, at their own place, because you know, flying from Spain just wasn't enough.  Fortunately for me, one of my friends is flying into Vegas, just to join me and spend time with me this holiday season.  Not only that, I have a mother I haven't spoken to in almost a decade - and I have no plans of talking to her - EVER.  While most of you may judge me on my actions, you assume that your mother is like my mother - your mother actually has a heart, so its not the same.

Funny thing is I almost left last week, pack up my stuff and go back.  I'm not here for the money, and if you saw my salary, you'd agree.  I realized that besides work, gym and grocery shopping, I haven't left my house almost the past month.  One of the main reasons I chose this EOI was for Spanish classes, and yeah, I haven't been to class the past week - and to be honest, I don't see myself returning in the immediate future.  I haven't studied Spanish in a classroom environment since 1997, and this structure of learning is beyond me, I have no idea what grammatical and tense terms are even though I use them on a weekly basis.  I say weekly because, let's be honest, I haven't had much interaction with the world outside.      

I guess I haven't made it easier either. I've deleted my Facebook, uninstalled my WhatsApp, cancelled my cell phone and ignored emails, but then again that is what someone does when they're in bad mental space. 

Writing this has made me feel a little better - surprisingly.  

I guess I will go have some coffee, shower (don't ask), do some school work and who knows, tomorrow is a new day.  Once I get my new cell phone, I'll activate it.

Special thanks to my friends around the world, you have no idea what kind of strength you give me.

Venting, has made me feel a little better - don't make it awkward - and don't make me regret writing about my emotions.

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

GameTalk - PS4 or Xbox One?

Since I'm at home with a cold, and a few people have been asking me about which game console I would buy, I thought I'd write a quick blog about which one and why...

Both PS4 and Xbox One have a lot going for it.  However, one of those things isn't backwards compatibility, so if you decide on a system, you will not be able to play your previous games for either system.

The current amount of launch games for each system isn't that robust, nor is there a must play game for either system, most of the exclusive must haves will not be released until sometime next year or even perhaps further in the future.

Personally, if I were to buy a game console right now, it would be a PS3 - that's right a PlayStation 3.

The previous generation of gaming, I played mostly Xbox 360 games, and in this generation, there isn't any games which compel me to commit to either side (though I'm leaning towards Xbox One, because of my gamerscore).  

My advice would be to enjoy the previous generation.  It is more affordable, there are hundreds of games for either system.  Truth of the matter is there are over 80 million installed base for each system, and only 3-4 million are projected to buy each respective system, so its not like you'll be alone.  

Yup, if you're currently a PS3 gamer, buy a Xbox 360.

If you're a Xbox 360 gamer, buy a PS3.

Tons of games, from eBay, gamestop, amazon, all with second hand games and consoles for about a third of the price of new consoles - maybe even cheaper.  There are lots of exclusives for each system to be enjoyed!

Xbox One vs PlayStation 4

WINNERS = Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

SOURCE: DUALSHOCKERS.COM

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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

ReadTalk - Interesting articles nov.21

This week, I've been reading a lot, thanks to my sheer laziness and lack of desire to get out of bed.

Girls as Engineers - CLICK HERE (this one has a video as well)

Glacier - CLICK HERE (for those of you environmentalist out there!)

Qatar - CLICK HERE

Marriage - CLICK HERE

SOURCE: UPWORTHY

These articles highlight a different perspective pushing against the norm of what we expect and believe.

Love Mindy - Check out the Mindy Project!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

MusicTalk - Current Playlist - nov.20

Here's two of my two fave songs for the week.

Hurtful by Erik Hassle

This is a song, I've been listening for about 3-4 years?! I love the lyrics and the sound of his voice.

LYRICS below.

I used to laugh it off

I used to look the other way

I used to save them troubles for another day

I kept my fingers crossed

I used to never take the blame

I'd pull a sunshine story in a pouring rain

The more I had to change I'd just stay the same

(The same, the same, I stayed the same)

You don't know what you got till you're missing it a lot

I had to go throw it away

I was wrong from the start from the bottom of my heart I apologize

What I did to you was hurtful

What I'm going through is hurtful

I used to bide my time

I used to beat around the bush

I'd rather give my ego another push

I used to be a fool

It was a foolish game I played

And it's a fool's fate counting mistakes I've made

Once I had it right it was all too late

(Too late, too late, too little too late)

Dream - Priscilla Ahn

This song is just precious - the tone of her voice is angelic and mesmerizing.

This is another older song, maybe 4-5 years old.  Still one of my favorites.

Check out the older playlists.

nov. 09 - CLICK HERE

nov. 01 - CLICK HERE

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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

TechTalk - Preorder your Nokia Lumia 1520 for $99.99 + $20 for apps!

If you're reading this you're probably interested in the Nokia Lumia 1520, so just going to write about pre-order options and let's save you some $$$!

Just a quick review.  The Nokia Lumia 1520 is a 6" cell phone with a 1080p display and a 20MP camera - not to mention with expandable memory (takes up to 64gb microSD card) and a huge 3,400 mAH battery - this should last you at least a day without charging.

The cheapest place to pre-order a Nokia Lumia 1520, is through the AT&T website.

You can order through the Microsoft Store, who will give you a $50 app card, but you'll have to pay $199 upfront.  This is double the price that you'll pay if you preorder through AT&T's website - this is a WEB exclusive AND the only place you can order the Yellow version of the Nokia Lumia 1520.

In addition to saving $100 off your normal price, head over to Nokia promo - CLICK HERE, to get an extra $20 for apps to be used in the Windows store - this isn't restricted to the Nokia Lumia 1520, you can buy the new 2520, 1020, 928, 925 or even the 521 - the prepaid variant (which only costs $99 - without a contract!)

I'll keep this updated with the cheapest place to get a Nokia 1520 - since Black Friday is coming around the corner!  Thanks for reading!

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Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

ESLTalk - Cafe con leche with Max - Episode 3

Here is Episode 3, with our special guest, +Alex Vecchio.

This week, the episode ran quite long - a little bit under 30 minutes.

If you have any questions for Alex or myself - post in the YouTube comment section (not this blog section).

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

Black Friday 2013 - TIPS and What to buy!

Most of you know that I love my Black Friday, while most may take this day of shopping lightly, this is a day where the individuals who are most prepared, walk away the victors.

TIP#1 - Support

While Black Friday can be a success with just 1 individual, if you're looking for a big haul, you'll need an army (seriously).  If you only need 1 item from 1 store, 1 person is fine, get there super early, line up and get your 1 item and be a happy camper.

However, if you're looking to get multiple items from a store, you'll need a team.  Designating 1 person (or two - if you have manpower) to obtain just 1 specific door buster item (they have limits - normally 1 per person), is the best route to go.  It is nearly impossible to get 2 door buster items (normally the items you want are in different parts of the store).

A support team is great as well!  While you're waiting in line, they can bring you food, relieve you for a bathroom break, or more importantly - after you have gotten the items you wanted - you'll need help standing in line to check out (you will need at least 1 hour to check out - probably 2-3).

TIP#2 - Know your store

Black Friday isn't really the day to go to a new store where you don't know the layout.  While stores do have maps on Black Friday to show the doorbuster items, there are sales as well, and knowing where everything is an advantage.

Ha ha, more importantly - have fun.  Everyone is out there to shop, talk to the people around you, you'd be surprised how fun and energetic the crown can be!  =D

I could really write a book about this topic, but maybe I'll write another blog with sales and offers!  =D

What would I buy?!

TV - TARGET! 50" HDTV for $229.  BEST DEAL! 1080p

TV - WALMART! 32" HDTV for $98 (see below)

Yes, the brand isn't the best, but at this price you can afford to get the extended coverage!

iPad - BestBuy, Walmart and Target

Each of these stores are giving at least a $75 discount (Target $75 for iPad Mini, Walmart has a $100 gift card)!  Target and Walmart are giving them in a form of a store gift card.

If you are planning to get anyone an iPad and you want to save $75-$100.  Go to one of these stores!  You might as well bring a friend and buy 2.

Other than that, all of these stores will also have online sales.  Walmart, Target, Amazon, BestBuy, and so forth, all will have sales - so make sure your phones are charged and who knows you may be able to score some extra deals while you are waiting.  Friendly tip - Create an account at these stores and store your information (including credit card, address, etc) - these items are limited and you don't want your item to sell out while you are typing in your information.

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

ESLTalk - Cafe con leche with Max - Introduction, Episode 1 and 2

Episode 3 of Cafe con leche with Max will be recorded this weekend.

Here's a recap of the previous episodes.

I have subtitled the Introduction episode - if you would like to view the video with subtitles! =D

INTRODUCTION

EPISODE 1

EPISODE 2

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Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

I'm a GEMINI - That explains a lot... Doesn't it?!

Gemini 

Your element: Air

Your ruling planets: Mercury

Symbol: The Twins

Your stone: Aquamarine

Life Pursuit: To explore a little bit of everything.

Vibration: Intense mental energy

Gemini's Secret Desire: To be ahead of the crowd

Description:

In ancient Greek mythology, Gemini's ruler - Mercury, was the light-footed messenger of the gods who darted back and forth across the heavens delivering news - which might explain why those born under the sign of the 'Twins' are always on the move; thirsty for knowledge and new experiences. Terminally curious and sometimes even mischievous, Geminis are multi-faceted souls who enjoy knowing a little bit of everything but generally not too much about one particular subject. It's just that variety is the spice of their lives!

In Astrology, Geminis have also gained the reputation of being the incessant talkers of the zodiac. Those Twins that don't have the 'gift of the gab' are usually talented writers or have a special interest in foreign languages. In love, they look for a partner who can keep up with them mentally and physically! And, to quote Oscar Wilde, "there's one thing worse than people talking about you, that's people not talking about you." Whether Geminis like it or not, people are usually "talking about them". Together with Scorpio and Virgos, they are a sign that is often discussed, dissected and sometimes even put down by the other signs of the zodiac. Sometimes this is a subtle form of jealousy by others, because Geminis do lead very unique and unusual lives. The Gemini personality can appear mysterious or detached to others and therefore they are often misunderstood and unappreciated for the talents they offer to the world at large.

Another reason Geminis evoke so much interest is many born under this sign are multi-dimensionally talented. In money matters, some Geminis are very adept and quick at making it...and spending it too. Many Geminis are involved in international financial wheeling and dealing. They love the adventure and game playing involved in out-thinking other people. Gemini's can be very haphazard about their financial affairs too, with many of them ending up in divorce courts mainly because their partners have become tired of living on the edge of a financial precipice.

Retrieved from: PSYCHICGUILD

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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

How to donate to the Victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines

Typhoon Haiyan was wrecked havoc on the islands of the Philippines...

And I know there are plenty of you out there who want to help!

So, I will be including various links from different countries - how you can help and support the many people who have been affected by Typhoon Haiyan.

USA

American Red Cross - CLICK HERE

UNICEF - CLICK HERE

CANADA 

Canadian Red Cross - CLICK HERE

GlobalMedic - CLICK HERE

UK

British Red Cross - CLICK HERE

World Vision - CLICK HERE

WATCH: This Filipino Climate Negotiator Warned Us Last Year and We Ignored Him Read more: Philippine Climate Negotiator's Storm Warning | TIME.com:  CLICK HERE

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 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

TechTalk - Best Prepaid for Google Nexus 5 (USA and Spain)

Congrats!  Now you have your new Google Nexus 5 or any UNLOCKED phone!  Now what?!

Time to activate that with the best and cheapest sim plan!

Here are a few recommendations to save you some $!

USA - T-Mobile

Cell phone plans in the United States can run upwards of $100+, this is the best plan in the United States.  You receive unlimited data (5GB at 4G), but throttled after 5GB, and unlimited SMS with 100 minutes of talking, all for $30.  However, you cannot get this plan at T-Mobile, you will have to go to Walmart!

Spain - Tuenti

There are many affordable plans in Spain, but one of the cheapest plans in Spain is through Tuenti.  With Tuenti their most affordable plan of 6 Euros, nets you 1GB of data.  Last month, I only used 100MB of data, considering I use WiFi at the house, at the coffee shops and at work.  To save you more money...

CLICK HERE to activate Tuenti and get an extra 5 EUROS!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

MusicTalk - Current Playlist nov.09

This week, I am listening to two songs from 2 great vocalists: Christina Aguilera and Carrie Underwood.
I've been quite down the last couple of weeks, and I guess the music here reflects that.  Sorry for the ballads and sad songs, but they are great songs, nonetheless.

This first song was originally recorded by A Great Big World, but in this version they are accompanied by the incomparable Christina Aguilera.

Here are the lyrics...

Say something, I'm giving up on you.

I'll be the one, if you want me to.

Anywhere, I would've followed you.

Say something, I'm giving up on you.

And I am feeling so small.

It was over my head

I know nothing at all.

And I will stumble and fall.

I'm still learning to love

Just starting to crawl.

Say something, I'm giving up on you.

I'm sorry that I couldn't get to you.

Anywhere, I would've followed you.

Say something, I'm giving up on you.

And I will swallow my pride.

You're the one that I love

And I'm saying goodbye.

Say something, I'm giving up on you.

And I'm sorry that I couldn't get to you.

And anywhere, I would have followed you.

Oh-oh-oh-oh say something, I'm giving up on you.

Say something, I'm giving up on you.

Say something...

This next song, is by one of my favorite country artists, Carrie Underwood.  I love all of her albums and this particular song highlights her great vocal ability.  In this song, she sings with the original artist who recorded the song, Randy Travis.

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

GameTalk - 40,000 Achievement Points!

Aloha everyone!

Considering that I have been living in Spain for over a year - sans Xbox 360, the only way for me to earn achievement points is through Windows Phone 8 and Xbox games on PC (which those of you who play Windows 8 games on both PC and mobile devices know that the selection is paltry).

Anywho, I've crossed this threshold.  Sort of wish I can get my hands now on a Xbox One, but that probably isn't likely since I am spending more into the Steam Platform - not to mention a PS3 is super cheap in the United States and there is still a whole catalog of games for that platform I have yet to play.

Well, enough gaming talk for now.

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

ESLTalk - Week 6 - Food and Environment

This week's lesson.

For intermediate level, we discussed food, but more importantly, we started learning and using skills to help us communicate our needs.  Sometimes, we forget that when we do not know how to answer a question, asking for help is perfectly acceptable.

 Intermediate - CLICK HERE for this week's lesson.

CLICK HERE to access the menu we used in this week's lesson. 

For C1 level, this week, we discussed the environment, and we had a discussion about eWaste.  While we were not able to come up with a solution, awareness is the first step to change.

C1 - CLICK HERE for this week's lesson.

This week the audio is regarding Super Typhoon Haiyan.

CLICK HERE for article.

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http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

RecipeTalk - Poli's recipe for Hawaiian Ahi Poke

Aloha everyone,

This week, our special guest for Episode 2 of Cafe con leche is +Poli P 

CLICK HERE to view the video.

Below is the recipe she uses for Hawaiian Ahi Poke.

I am hungry now. I like my ahi poke with RICE!

Below are the exact words and pictures of +Poli P 

If you drive along the coast of the island of Oahu, you’ll be able to find freshly made ahi poke at any corner store or grocery. I remember my first taste of spicy ahi poke- my wife, Sheryll, and I were driving along the North Shore. It was late at night and we were looking to catch some waves under a full moon. We pulled by a mom and pops store by the beach near Haleiwa and we picked up some ahi poke and spam musubi to go. After we hit the waves, I decided to grind on some poke and it was GOOOOOD-GRAVY-HOLY-MOLY-DELICIOUS!  I was in a different world and I licked my lips for more. It was the perfect combination of tuna and green onions marinating in soy, sesame, and spicy peppers. I don’t know how else to explain it but it was DIVINE…and it made for a perfect night out on the beach. Anyway, here’s a favorite recipe I’ve been using for some years now from this site (http://www.polynesia.com/poke.html#.UnqvP5RAjzs). It's easy, healthy, and delcious! Enjoy :)

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ahi (yellow fin tuna, sashimi grade), diced

• 1/2 cup onion, minced

• 1/4 cup green onion, minced

• 1 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

• Hawaiian salt and pepper to taste

Add these ingredients to the mix for a spicier recipe!

to taste crushed red pepper flakes

to taste- Chinese chili sauce (Sriracha)

to taste- sea salt

Method:

- Add all ingredients, mix well then chill for at least 30 minutes.

- Can be served with soy sauce.

- Serve with chopsticks or toothpicks. Enjoy!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

ESLTalk - Cafe con leche with Max - Episode 2

This week, we are joined by special guest +Poli P - who also designed the introduction of the video!

We are definitely an animated bunch!

In case you missed it - 

Cafe con leche - Introduction - CLICK HERE

Cafe con leche - Episode 1 - CLICK HERE

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.