Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Securing Their Future With More Than Their Finances

Being a parent comes with a lot of new responsibility which most people aren’t ready for. Now, you have to start thinking about someone else’s welfare; not just your own. This means getting up extra early to make sure they have breakfast. And, it may even mean staying up extra late. Of course, most parents want to be able to give their kids the best possible start in life. This usually involves money. But, there’s more to it than that. To help you out, this post will be going through three areas of your child’s life which you have to consider from the very start. So, now, you just have to put the work in.

Friday, May 26, 2017

Let's Unite Against Wound Infection with Fucidin and Kris Aquino


When Athena developed rashes on her body, her Pediatrician prescribed Fucidin. From then on, it has been part of our Emergency Kit.

Fusidic acid/sodium fusidate Fucidin® is a powerful antibiotic that is clinically proven against wound infection. It is fast-acting, working on the infection 2 minutes upon application and deep-penetrating, reaching the skin’s deepest layer 30 minutes after application. It also helps prevent bacteria from spreading.


Kris Aquino, well known as a celebrity mother who cares for her sons’ health and wellbeing goes full force against wound infection as she also uses Fucidin® . “I have two boys and when they get a cut or a wound, I clean it with soap and water for 15 seconds. Then, I apply Fucidin® agad,” she says. “Fucidin® is part of our wound care kit!”

Children are exposed to different types of wounds and scrapes because of their daily activities. Even in the most harmless-looking places, no matter how hard parents try to protect them, they can still get hurt.

Moms need to make sure the wound doesn’t get infected. Infection occurs when bacteria enters the wound through a break in one’s skin. Bacteria may spread and lead to more serious diseases. Usually, the immediate response is to wash a wound well with soap and water. But cleaning may not be enough. It is also essential to apply a topical antibiotic like Fucidin® at the first sign of wound infection.

Fucidin ® comes in two variants. Fucidin® cream is ideal for exposed parts of the body like the face and hands, while Fucidin® ointment is ideal for dry, scaly or cracked lesions.


Like Kris, stock up on Fucidin® and don’t take chances. Join the fight against wound infection! Fucidin® is available in leading drugstores nationwide. Fucidin® is from LEO Pharma, a Danish pharmaceutical company with a mission to help people achieve healthy skin. LEO Pharma is the pioneer in the development of fusidic acid. It has a wide range of products that are marketed in over 100 countries. LEO Pharma has more than 100 years of trusted heritage worldwide.

Fusidic acid/sodium fusidate is the generic name of Fucidin®. Fucidin® is available in leading drugstores nationwide.

If symptoms persist, please consult your doctor.

Things To Consider When You Have More Than One Kid

Image from PEXELS

If you have a child already and are currently expecting, or planning on having the next, firstly; congratulations, what lovely news! Secondly; you have some planning to do, because having more than one small child in the family is a whole different ball game, so it’s a smart idea to prepare as much as possible.

Space

Obviously, an extra little human in the household is going to require some space of their own, and for all their things. Try to remember all the stuff your first one needed (then double it, because you’re wearing those rose-tinted glasses), coupled with the fact that your firstborn will continue to grow and need more stuff. Therefore, being savvy with storage and space is a smart idea. If the kids will eventually share their bedroom, after baby’s moved out of your room, then it’s important that both feel they have their own areas within the room. Clothes, products, and toys will continue to multiply as is from nowhere; so finding specific places for everything will help the family find stuff with ease (hopefully alleviating any stressful situations). For some ingenious bedroom and storage ideas for your kids, check out Pinterest here.


Transport

Even if you managed to squeeze one small child in with both parents, and, sometimes, the dog into your first car that you bought as a couple about a decade ago (well done, that’s quite an achievement); it’s unlikely that another baby seat and a new child seat for your first child are all going to fit. As your family is growing, it’s time to invest in a suitable family car, that’s going to last a while and won’t break down on the highway en-route to a family getaway. If you’re thinking about a car upgrade, and don’t want the hassle of traipsing around a heap of car dealerships; then you could check out Cars and Co Mazda CX-5, who consider your time and money carefully, as they can deliver the vehicle straight to your door and offer competitive rates. You’ll feel much safer in a secure, spacious new car, and the whole family will appreciate it on any journey (which will also increase with an extra child).

Image found here

Planning

Whether it’s meal planning, or a weekly shop, or even shopping for items like clothes and books; it’s worth planning where and when you’re going to get stuff. Planning ahead allows you to pick some great deals on multi buys, and you’ll have the kitchen fully stocked up when the in-laws pop over for lunch at the weekend. Forward planning might seem like an annoying task, but you’ll appreciate the effort when you saved money and time (because nobody has to rush out to the store at the last minute). Make lists of what you’re likely to eat for the week ahead, and if it’s a large one-pot meal; it’s a good idea to make extra and freeze some, which helps if you need to feed the kids and yourself quickly, and with little fuss. Buying items you don’t immediately need, but will do something in the future, like a vacation, is a great opportunity to utilize sales and special offers. You can then be smug that you’re as ready as you can be for any occasion.

Convert Your Cluttered Attic Into A Stunning Bedroom


Have you always dreamed of turning your attic into a bedroom? -If so, why wait any longer? - It can seem like a big job, but once it's done there are so many benefits. Let alone it just being really cool!

So here's how.

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Short Term Tips For Long Term Health Gains That Are Easy To Follow



For the modern person stressed with work, family responsibilities as well as the other countless amount of duties to take care of, the words ‘health disciplines’ sound like they come from an alien dimension. How can you find the time? Surely not everyone has the discipline to keep up with a healthy diet, correct exercise as well as maintaining their beauty standards.

Surely a modicum of unhealthy activity is generally necessary in our trying times of 40 hour work weeks, raising children and trying to squeeze some recreation time out at the end of the week? 

I'd say, you’re looking at it in entirely the wrong way.

Monday, May 22, 2017

Health Routines To Help The Whole Family

Our children learn a lot from us. When they’re young, they depend on us to teach them to talk. They then look to us when learning to walk. And, their behavior often comes from us too. These are legacies we’re happy to pass down. It’s wonderful to know you’ve passed on so much to someone else. And, who doesn’t want a child who learns their best bits? The bad news is, it’s not only your good side that your kids catch. They also pick up on less flattering parts which you would rather keep under the radar. And, this is never truer than when it comes to health. If you’re feeling unhealthy, the chances are your family will, too. So, it might be necessary to change the way you do things. Here are a few areas to focus on. 

Old Orchard Cranberry’s Summer Cooler Recipes

With summer’s scorching heat around, there’s nothing more delightful than sipping something cold and fruity. However, when you’re after a refreshing drink with the right balance of sweetness-and- tartness, Old Orchard Cranberry Juice is the answer. This thirst quenching drink can complement any meal and can serve as a base for easy-to- prepare mocktails. So whether you’re at home, on a vacation-out- of-town, or at a get-together party, these delightful non-alcoholic infusions would surely be a good company and help bring along the fun!

Non-Alcoholic Sangria

Ingredients:

1 bottle Old Orchard Cranberry 64 oz.
1.5 liter lemon soda
1 orange
1 lemon
24 pieces of grapes

Directions:

1. Combine chilled Old Orchard Cranberry and chilled soda in a punch bowl.
2. Wash fruit. Halve grapes and place in the bunch bowl.
3. Cut the orange and lemon into wedges.
4. Place the orange and lemon slices into the punch bowl. Stir and enjoy.

Summertime Kiddie Cocktail

Ingredients:

1 cup Old Orchard Cranberry Juice
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup Gerolsteiner Sparkling Mineral Water
330ml 
Fresh strawberries for garnish

Directions:

1. Mix all liquids together
2. Pour in a tall glass over ice
3. Garnish with fresh strawberries

Cranberry Mocktail

Ingredients:

1/2 cup Old Orchard Cranberry
½ cup ginger ale
Ice
Fruit for garnish

Directions:

1. Pour Old Orchard Cranberry in a large glass over ice.
2. Slowly add ginger ale.
3. Garnish with a fruit slice, if desired.

Old Orchard is exclusively distributed by Fly Ace Corporation in the Philippines and is available in leading supermarkets and drugstores nationwide. For more updates, visit and like its official Facebook fan page: www.facebook.com/OldOrchardPH

Sunday, May 14, 2017

Economy and Quality with Bubble Man Dishwashing Liquid

I woke up this Mother's Day morning to a wonderful surprise from my two boys. Can you guess what was it?


They were washing the dishes using Bubble Man Dishwashing Liquid! Yes, you read it right. What a pleasant way to wake up to, right? I wish it could always be like this. Haha!


We've used Bubble Man dishwashing liquid before, and I only got good words to describe it. You can read my full and honest review here, Product Review: Bubble Man Dishwashing Liquid. That's why I'm happy that they remembered me and sent me 3 big bottles this Mother's Day. (Thank you!)

Let me share with you again why I love Bubble Man Dishwashing Liquid, and this time in just two words- Economy and Quality. 

Quality
  • non-toxic; it is made with biodegradable ingredients
  • safe and gentle
  • mild scent
  • easy to rinse
  • easy on hands but hard on grease
Economy
  • 270ml bottle is at Php32.50 only 
  • 880ml bottle is at for 65Php only 
  • Promo pack: buy two bottles of 880ml  for only Php120 and two bottles of 270ml for Php55 only.

Bubble Man Dishwashing Liquid is really worth every peso spent. Not only is it safe for my family but it's also good for our environment. No wonder even my 2 boys liked it!


Bubble Man Dishwashing Liquid is a product of Mikewell World of Household Products Company. It's available in 3 variants; Kalamansi, Lemon and Antibac. It's also available in various supermarkets nationwide. So make sure to check it out!

For more updates visit their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BubblemanPH/.

Make Mother’s Day Unforgettable

Mommies, I'm sure you'd agree that Mothers deserve only the best. For our hard work and dedication in caring for our loved ones. That’s why when Mother’s Day comes around, the one holiday in the year where we get to honor moms around the world, we should all go the distance and make that special day unforgettable. Here are some great ways to make that happen. 


Don’t just buy a gift, make it! While anyone would appreciate a fancy new item from a popular brand, a gift that you made on your own will surely touch more heartstrings. A gift that you crafted yourself will make your mom feel even more loved – as you put in more effort in giving her something special. The gift can be as quaint as a scrapbook, filled with photos of her life’s milestones and messages from her closest friends. 

Remake all her recipes with a twist. Every mom has built their own go-to treasure trove of recipes. Sometimes these go all the way back, recipes they learned from their mom and their grandmother before them. All of us have memories of our mom’s specialty dish. This Mother’s Day, show your mom how much you remember and appreciate everything she’s cooked for you all these years by recreating her signature dish. But this time, give it a unique twist, your own take on her specialty. If you’re willing to put in the time, you can even cook all her signature dishes the entire day – giving her an unforgettable culinary experience down memory lane. 

Celebrate Mother’s Day for an entire week. Why celebrate for just a day when you can do it bit by bit every day? You can start your weeklong celebration on the last Sunday before Mother’s Day. Don’t worry about spending big because It doesn’t have to be lavish. You can just give your mom one special, memorable experience every day. You can treat her to her dream breakfast on the first day, and take her out to her favorite brunch place the next day. What’s important here is that each daily gift or event builds up to Mother’s Day itself where you can go all-out on the fun. 


Take her on a getaway. This Mother’s Day treat requires a bit more budget and planning. To make it truly special, you have to find out everything your mother likes and you have to find a way to make it happen during your special getaway. The getaway itself can’t be a surprise, as you have to make sure everything is properly scheduled and booked – but everything that happens in it can be! This vacation has to be fun and unforgettable so if you can – tag along her closest relatives too. 

When you feel you can do something superbly special for your mom this year, you can do all four! You can make her a unique gift, and prepare signature dishes from her repertoire that can travel well – like cookies and other sweet treats. You can book a weeklong getaway for your mom, filled with all her favorite activities as she spends time with those closest to her. You can make it her best vacation ever, an escapade that celebrates her life and everything she holds dear. And there’s one destination at the heart of Central Luzon where all of this can come true. 


Give your mom an unforgettable vacation experience at Royce Hotel and Casino. Located in Clark Freeport Zone, it’s just an hour’s drive away from Manila or just 5 minutes away from Clark Airport. It’s close to great culinary, historical, and cultural sites in the region, giving your mom access to a wide range of places to visit during her stay. And on Mother’s Day itself, she’ll be pampered like a Queen only at Royce. 

In Royce’s Mom’s Special Day Promo, your mom will be treated to a day of fun, comfort, and great food. And if she dines with at least two paying guests, she gets to eat for free. She can even avail of great room rates! To learn more about Royce and its special Mother’s Day package, simply visit http://www.roycehotelcasino.com/ or subscribe to our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/royceclarkph/.

The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift

For all they’ve done and for everything they still do, our parents deserve all our love. But this May, we celebrate one of them – the selfless, compassionate, and resilient Mom. So when Mother’s Day comes around, let’s do all we can to make the mothers in our life feel special. One way to do that is by giving her a gift that endures – the gift of a happier life. Here are simple tips to make that happen.

Inspired by Mom, just for Mom: JOLLY University Year 4 grand champion whips up special dish tribute to her Mom

Would you agree that the best cook in the world is our mothers? – no dish is as gratifying as the one prepared by Mom. Be it being fed home-cooked meals, learning her kitchen techniques, or being nurtured back to health through comforting soups or desserts, any dish cooked for the family by Mom is always hearty, thanks to her tender loving care.


For 19-year-old Bernice Angeline D. Tenorio, JOLLY University Year 4 Cook-off grand winner, she chose to honor her first kitchen hero, Mommy Lalaine, through her cooking. Unlike dishes that are inspired by trips abroad or created for personal glorification, Bernice’s award-winning recipe at the recent tilt was drawn from her fondest memories of, and deep love for, her amazing mother. 
Champion in the making

The eldest among the brood of six, Bernice grew up in a big family with modest means. Despite financial hardships, her endeavors as a child were much bigger and boundless -– she was raised a champion. Bernice graduated class valedictorian in grade school and was a consistent top student achiever in high school.

Bernice’s interest in cooking didn’t start until her grandmother, who operates a home-based kitchenette in Marilao, Bulacan, passed away in 2012. Left with the nostalgia of keeping her mother’s recipes alive, Mommy Lalaine decided to take over the business. From there, Bernice knew she needed to help her mother run it, thus they decided that she will take up Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Sto. Tomas (UST). 

A self-trained cook and home-based baker, Mommy Lalaine is a former magazine writer and reporter with a degree in Mass Communication from St. Scholastica’s College Manila. She gave up her career to become a full-time housewife and mother to Bernice and her other siblings.

“She’s my first idol and mentor. I learned a lot about cooking from her, I look up to her and I try to mirror her strength: her patience, discipline, resourcefulness, the diligence, and how she handled the nitty-gritty aspects of running our small kitchen while looking after the family’s welfare. I remember both of us staying up till the wee hours of the morning finishing bulk food orders or decorating cakes for customers. It was tiring but very fulfilling,” she remarked.

Bernice said that her Mom’s perseverance simply astounds her. “Just like she would in her cakes and pastry creations, she would strive long and hard in executing to the detail to beautifully achieve the end results.” 

Jolly moment 

When the news about JOLLY University Year 4 cooking competition reached Bernice in UST, she immediately signed up to try out, for a chance to showcase her innate cooking abilities. Mommy Lalaine, her Dad and her siblings supported her in her cook-off bid.


With much thought and a grateful heart, Bernice, with the help of her coach, came up with the Chicken and Mushroom Empanadilla dish, her prized entry in the recent JOLLY University Year 4 Cook-Off. The recipe was simple yet creative, an easy-to-do JOLLY-inspired dish with balanced elements that satisfied judges’ expectations. According to Bernice, the Empanadilla, which is her original recipe, is her “little” way of thanking mommy Lalaine for everything she has done for her and the family. 

Though the recipe that wowed judges at the JU competition took only less than two weeks to finalize, Bernice is happy that she was given the golden opportunity to show her best while dedicating a dish made just for her Mom –- win or lose. “I didn’t have a clear sense of winning; the other entries were equally great. It was a tough competition; I just maintained focus and trust in my abilities, and tried my best to apply what I have learned from Mom and from the JU boot camp. I’m pleased to have fought and won the title for my Mom,” she said.

Success beyond measure

Now on her way to breaking new and higher grounds as an aspiring professional chef -- Bernice is busy training along with fellow representatives from UST for her first out-of-the-country culinary competition, the Hong Kong Culinary Classics happening this May – she couldn’t think of anyone else to dedicate her hard-earned triumphs and delicious new dishes other than her mother.

“If there is one thing that I’ve learned in this journey with my Mom is that there is a reason behind every action that we are doing. Whether good or bad, you learn from the experience and you’ll come out as a better person. There’s still a long road ahead of me. But with perseverance, guidance, and constant love and support from my loved ones especially my mother, I know many wonderful things will happen eventually,” she concluded.

Bernice’s mom is a living portrait of the many mothers who have selflessly supported, endlessly inspired, and rejoiced in their children’s unforgettable life milestones. 


JOLLY, for its part, pays tribute to all the amazing mothers by providing quality canned vegetables and fruit products that will help Moms cook easy to prepare and healthy dishes that will inspire to celebrate jolly family meal times together. 

Fly Ace Corporation is one of the leading food and beverage consumer goods companies in the country today. Propelling limitless multiple-category growth by bringing the best of the world closer to Filipino consumers, Fly Ace Corporation’s portfolio of food and beverage products includes house brands and exclusively distributed brands. To learn more about Fly Ace, visit www.flyacecorp.com.

JOLLY is a canned fruits and vegetable line marketed and exclusively distributed by Fly Ace Corp. For more updates, visit jolly.com.ph or like its official Facebook fanpage or follow via Twitter and Instagram (@jollyeatsph).

Saturday, May 13, 2017

Sweeten Up Mother’s Day with Gigi Gaerlan Custaroons

Nothing compares to the feeling that you are being recognized and appreciated for what you do. Just one more day before Mother's Day and I think I wanna cry because of all the surprises that I am receiving. 


Just earlier today, I received a bag filled with Gigi Gaerlan’s Custaroons® goodies. Custaroon® is a soft, chewy, melt-in- your-mouth combination of custard and macaroons punctuated with just the right amount of sweetness. They are homemade and handmade with love every day. Coined, invented and trademarked by Gigi Gaerlan to bring her customers pleasurable goodness in every bite.

Aside from her best-selling original and cheese variants, Gigi Gaerlan just released coffee and green tea flavors too.  Also available are Custaroon® Poppers -- bite-sized Custaroon® truffles that come in original, chocolate, coffee and green tea. Dusted with a generous amount of premium chocolate powder concoction makes it an ultimate favorite for chocoholics.


Honor the best woman in your life with something uniquely delicious on Mother's Day! Nothing say’s “I love you” more than Gigi Gaerlan’s Custaroons®. So sweeten up her day with this dessert that will definitely bring joy and pleasure to her palette.

These lip-smacking treats are a perfect match for tea or coffee while spending quality time with mom. So if you're thinking of a luscious and uniquely delicious surprise, Gigi Gaerlan's Custaroons® is it. The pretty and dainty boxes of these scrumptious desserts are so elegant that they won’t only catch mom's fancy but also make thoughtful gifts to others. They are a perfect gift for any occasion and are guaranteed to be a hit for the whole family. 

Gigi Gaerlan's Custaroons® are always fun to eat and are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Custaroons® is a trademark of Gigi Gaerlan and are available in the following branches: St. Pio Chapel Compound, Century City Mall, Greenhills Promenade, Robinson’s Magnolia, SM City BF Parañaque, SM City East Ortigas, SM Mall of Asia, SM Mega Fashion Hall, SM North EDSA-The Block, Alabang Town Center, Ayala Malls The 30th, and U.P. Town Center. Pick-up points are also located at 46 Tomas Arguelles St., Sta. Mesa, within the areas of Loyola Grand Villas/La Vista, and Gigi Coffee & Cupcake at Eastwood City, Libis.

For orders and inquiries, visit custaroons.com or call ‎713-1137 or ‎0918-8282929

Realizations About Being a Mom

Last night, I found myself crying as I watched Fern-C kidz Mother's Day Tribute video posted on their Facebook Page. The video comes with a very striking caption which caught my attention.

"Isang tanong para sa lahat ng nanay, sigurado ka ba na sapat na ang alagang binibigay mo para kay chikiting?" 

In the the video, this question was also asked, "Do you consider yourself as an ideal Mom?" 

The video gave the emotional me so much feels and I can't help but contemplate on how I am doing as a Mom. 


  • FERN-C kidz is formulated with vitamin C and Zinc which help build immunity.
  • It contains Sodium Ascorbate. Sodium Ascorbate is a non-acidic form of vitamin C, unlike Ascorbic Acid.
  • FERN-C kidz vitamin C has the same vitamin C used in FERN-C, the #1 Sodium Ascorbate brand in the Philippines.
  •  It has the Quali-C seal from DSM Europe, which stands for world-class quality.

Feeling Unhealthy? Here Are 3 Changes You Should Make


Now the winter is out of the way, most of us want to get our bodies in shape again. However, it’s hard to find the motivation if you feel unhealthy and sluggish at the moment. Considering that, you just need to make some simple changes to your lifestyle habits. We’ve listed three ideas on this page that should point you in the right direction. Still, it’s wise to take a look at your routine and see if you can identify any other improvements. With a bit of luck, you’ll begin to feel better in no time. That should also mean you have more energy for those gym workouts. 

How Do You Find Gaming Opinions You Can Trust?

Buying games should be simple. This is, after all, a pleasurable pursuit. It’s something you’re doing for fun; it’s inherently there in the word “games”. You don’t play games for anything other than a good time, so why is the process of buying them so difficult?

The problem is actually a strange one - arguably even a good one - to have, but that doesn’t stop it from being annoying: there’s just far too much choice. 

Regardless of whether you are looking for something for yourself to while away a few hours or browsing on behalf of your kids, the sheer amount of recommendations online is overwhelming. 

The Changes You Should Think About Making to Your Home When You Have Children

When a child arrives in your life, it would be foolish to think that things can simply carry on as they were before. That’s something that is just not going to happen. That’s why you need to think carefully and come up with a way to ensure that you make the right changes to your home at the right time. It’s not particularly hard to do this, and it will save you headaches and hassle later on.

Choose Stronger Materials

First of all, you need to make sure that choose materials that are strong and will be able to deal with the extra strain that you put them under when your kids are using them. This applies to all kinds of things. The furniture in your home is most important, though. When you have children bounding around and jumping in the furniture, it will only be a matter of time before something breaks if you furniture is flimsy and weak. Start taking note of what the things you buy are built from. When you do that, you can be sure you only buy strong items.

Make Everything Easier to Clean Too

Everything you use needs to be easy to clean because we all know how much of a mess kids can create when they’re let loose. Rather than having to worry about every stain and spillage, you should simply swap your home furnishings. For example, a sofa that’s made from leather is much easier to clean than one that is made from a different kind of material. It’s definitely a good idea to give this some thought. Kids drop food and spill drinks all the time. It’s one of those things that happens, and your home has to be prepared for that.



Find Somewhere Else to Pursue Disruptive Hobbies

Do you have a hobby that you have always pursued? Well, in most cases, this might now have be done away from the home. For example, if you play a musical instrument, you probably don’t want to disrupt the rest of the family with it. And if you enjoy building models or doing anything that involves small parts or breakable things, it’s best to take the hobby elsewhere for everyone’s sake. It’s not difficult to get prefabricated steel buildings build in your garden. You can then focus on your hobbies in peace away from the home.

Get Clever with the Storage Options


Storage is going to become an even more important issue than ever before when you have children. They have some many things that you have to be able to find a place for. If you don’t make sure that you have the right amount of space for all the items your children need to have, then you’re going to face problems sooner or later. So, you need to get smart and start looking for new ways to find storage spaces in your home. There are lots of solutions to this if you’re clever, so make sure that you give it some real thought.

Friday, May 12, 2017

Learning To Let Go: How To Deal With Separation From Your Children

When your children are babies, it's near impossible to imagine being away from them for even a moment. Not just because, for a lot of parents, it's impossible to even leave the room without their kids screaming the house down. For many parents, the idea of being separated from their children can be incredibly difficult and frightening. Unfortunately, it's something that you're just going to have to come to terms with. As children grow, they need more independence, that's just a fact of life. Not only that but it's a good thing too! It helps them understand their place in the world better and learn to stand on their own two feet. However, that's not to say that it's always easy, for either of you. Here are some things that you can do to make any periods of separation just a little easier.

Girls Night Win: 4 Fantastic Ideas For Home-Based Fun

Sometimes, a night out with the girls can be just what the doctor ordered. However, there are many times where a night in sounds far more attractive. This could be due to funds, no babysitter, or a host of other reasons. Whatever the scenario may be, though, you should look to do more than sit in front of the TV watching film. After all, this is a time to spend special time with your friends and family.

Here are four simple yet incredibly effective ways to ensure that your next night in ticks all the boxes. Let’s face it; girls just wanna have fun.

Baby Gifts That New Parents Love

Pregnancy is such an exciting time, and if a loved one has recently shared their news chances are you’ll be thrilled for them. A new baby to spoil and love is always an absolute joy. If you’re particularly close to the couple, you might want to really splash out and treat the parents/ baby to something really nice in anticipation of their arrival. If so, here are a few luxe options to consider.

AKG D 112 Kick Drum Microphone

Do you love playing the drums? Make all your performances outstanding with the right kick drum. Whether it's an amateur recording, home studio, outdoor events/games and even Professional recording, the AKG D112 Kick Drum Mic is the microphone to use to clean up the dirty low down. It handles up to 168db SPL with no audible distortion, has low diaphragm resonance and has an extremely robust construction. Apart from that, it comes with a 2-year parts and labor warranty. Check it out and happy drumming!

Wednesday, May 10, 2017

J.CO Premium Affogato Series + Lifestyle Cafe' Concept Store

Wednesday last week started earlier than it should be. Before heading straight to work, I found myself braving the traffic to get to the opening of J.CO Donuts and Coffee's newest lifestyle cafe concept store in SM East Ortigas. The terrible heat is getting uncomfortable, especially for us who commutes daily going to work. So instead of waiting for Mr. Sun to cool down, we find various ways to wake us up and cool us down at the same time, this summer season. Fortunately, the innovative minds of J.CO Donuts and Coffee have come up with an Affogato concept to help us beat summer heat, in a most delicious way. The opening of the new lifetyle cafe concept store also coincides with the launching of the Affogato series.


It was also a perfect timing to catch up with one of my closest blogger friends, Lhyzie. We haven't seen each other for quite a while since I started working again. J.CO's newest lifestyle cafe concept store was the perfect place for the event. Its simplistic urban aesthetics, cozy and inviting furniture surely made the event an intimate one. So whether you’re with your family, a friend, or the entire barkada having a sip of their coffee and gorging on their donuts, you'll surely have a great time.


Aside from the Affogato series and their signature donuts, we were served with their J.Club Sandwiches or Savory Sandwiches which is available in Katsu, Sausage and Salami. I ordered the Salami J.Club Sandwich which was served with a Kani Salad, potato chips and lemon iced tea. The Kani Salad isn't available yet in any J.CO stores nationwide.

J.CO AFFOGATO SERIES
A traditional affogato is a scoop of ice cream drowned in a shot of piping hot espresso. It is then either consumed as a mildly cold beverage or eaten like an espresso “soup”.
J.CO's Affogato series comes in 3 different variants; Iced Cafe Avocado Affogato, Iced Jcoccino Affogato and Iced Chocolate Affogato. Using beans sourced from the Sumatra and Sulawesi regions in Indonesia, each cup ensures quality, delicious flavor, and intense strength.












  • Iced Cafe Avocado Affogato
The rich and creamy flavors in the Avocado Affogato blend just as well as they rhyme! J.CO has blended the smooth and creamy taste of avocado with its premium coffee blend and topped it off with a scoop of luscious chocolate ice cream which all come together to form a harmonious combination of distinct flavors.
  • Iced Jcoccino Affogato
A rich, buttery scoop of milk chocolate ice cream makes this crowd favorite extra creamy. Definitely a must-try for any coffee enthusiast looking to get a quick cooling caffeine fix.
  • Iced Chocolate Affogato
You can never have too much of a good thing. Case in point: the chocolatey goodness of the Iced Chocolate Affogato, which is a sweet serving of chocolate milk topped with a heaping scoop of chocolate ice cream. Definitely a chocolate lover’s dream realized and made available in a cup.

Don't let the summer heat take the best of you, all you need is a refreshing push to get you through the day so make sure to grab a cup of Affogato to go with your J.CO signature donuts.


The Affogato series is available in all J.CO branches nationwide including their new lifestyle cafe concept store in SM East Ortigas.

Saturday, May 6, 2017

Lips in the nude with Ever Bilena lipsticks

Recently, nude lipsticks have been sharing the spotlight with the classic red shade because of their ability to suit women of varying complexions. A perfect go-to color all year round, a quick swipe will automatically make a statement to the “no-make- up make-up” look with just the slightest color to make its presence known.

But did you know that nude lipsticks come in shades that, if not matched with the skin tone, may end up giving a pale-faced look? Good thing Ever Bilena, the country’s leading cosmetics brand, offers a spectrum of shades in the Matte Lipstick Nude Collection to ensure that there’s a perfect shade for every skin type.


Nude is in with the Ever Bilena Matte Lipstick in Nude Collection
(L-R): Mirrored Mocha, Port, and Skin

For instance, tinges of dusty, baby pink will work best for women with alabaster or fair complexion. This will warm up the lips and draw a separation between the lips and the skin. With Ever Bilena Matte Lipstick in Mirrored Mocha, they can immediately color to the face with its fabulous mix of nude and red.

Meanwhile, beige and caramel hues are perfect for medium skin tone. Go a shade lighter than your skin tone with The Ever Bilena Matte Lipstick in Skin, then add dimension to your whole look with smoky, more defined eye make-up.

Lastly, women with dark skin tone should go for shades that are darker than their complexion. To brighten the face, use bronzy browns with hints of shimmer or dusty rose with toffee shades like Ever Bilena Matte Lipstick in Port. Its subdued red color is guaranteed to flatter this skin type.

The Ever Bilena Matte Lipstick in Nude Collection (P165 each) has a stunning matte finish and has a rich pigment that glides smoothly. What’s even better is that each lipstick in this line-up is rich in vitamin E content to ensure that its matte finish won’t dry up the lips, making it a worthy addition to your make-up arsenal

To know more about Ever Bilena, visit Ever Bilena’s website, www.everbilena.com.ph and Facebook page, www.facebook.com/everbilenacosmetics.

Friday, May 5, 2017

Insanely Simple DIY Tips To Maintain The Home


Everyone wants their home to run efficiently, yet houses are notorious for breaking down. Whether it’s a leaky roof or a draft from the windows and doors, there is always something that needs addressing. Sure, you can call a professional and fix the problems in no time. But, where’s the fun in that? Plus, it will cost an absolute fortune! 

There is an alternative answer, and it’s DIY. Doing it yourself nature’s ways of renovating without spending a fortune. But, if you’re a beginner, you don’t want to tackle anything big or nasty just yet. So, below are the simple DIY jobs which anyone can do with a little bit of help. Good luck. 

Baby Bath Time: Tips New Moms Need

The firsts are always scary when it comes to your newborn baby. For example, the first feed can be a challenging experience, especially as you are recovering from the birth. And the first time out can often be a stressful encounter. Another first which leaves mom stressing is bath time. After all, they worry about harming their little one in the tub. And they worry about getting through bath time without a ton of tears. But bath time doesn’t have to be an awful experience. In fact, here are some tips every new mom needs when it’s time for the first bath time.

Five Easy Ways To Organize Your Bathroom In Style

I think that our bathrooms are one of the rooms in the home that often gets a little neglected when it comes to organizing. How often have we been through our bathroom cabinets and thrown away the things that we no longer need or that have been used up? So if like me, it may have been a while, here are a few tips and tricks to help you to organize your bathroom. It is a room that we use every day, so it makes sense that we have it organized. Then we’ll know where everything is and if we need to get anything more. 

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Cheeky Treats: How To Save Money On Your Luxuries

It’s good to treat yourself sometimes. You work hard, take care of your family, and cut back on luxuries wherever necessary so everyone can go on holiday. You do deserve an occasional treat, and you don’t need to feel guilty for indulging in something you enjoy. To make your treat extra guilt-free, here are a few money-saving tips to help you get your usual luxuries at a fraction of the usual cost. 

DIY Spa

While it’s nice to go for a spa retreat, there is no reason why you can’t create the same experience in the comfort of your own home. You’ll have to get creative, there are plenty of home remedies online for face masks, or hair products, which only require things you’d put on your grocery list. The best part is, you can make as much as you need and store the leftovers for regular treatments. When the holidays come around, these also make wonderful gifts. 

Starbucks at home


Whether you have a preferred coffee establishment or not, you can’t deny that you’ve sometimes popped in for a creamy cappuccino or a smooth latte. Money saving experts recommend making your morning coffee at home to save a few dollars each week, but it doesn’t quite taste the same. However, if you buy a Coffee maker with a grinder you’ll soon be able to enjoy the same fresh brew that you get in your favorite coffee place. Your dream coffee machine may seem like a big investment at first, but you will get your money’s worth once you stop popping into your local Starbucks. 

Don’t buy brand new devices

It seems that every year an electronics giant announces that they’ll be releasing a new model later that year, even though it seems like they’ve just released their old one. Fortunately for you, this means that the prices drop on the previous model, making it more affordable than it was when it first came out. More importantly, they still perform most of the same functions as the new release, so you’re not missing out on much if you don’t buy the latest gadget. 

Also, if you negotiate a good deal with your provider, you might be able to save a few dollars on your family plan. Don’t be afraid to haggle; phone companies don’t want to lose your business. 

Discount designs

Everyone needs to buy new clothes at some point, whether for practical purposes or because they’d like something new for the changing season. The easiest solution is to shop in thrift stores, where you can find some really nice clothes for a bargain, especially if you shop in high end neighborhoods. However, if you’re handy with a needle, you could upcycle your clothes into something new or simply repair a few holes. If you have friends who are also looking to buy new clothes get everyone together for a clothes swap. You’ll all have a whole new look, without having spent a penny.

Tuesday, May 2, 2017

City Versus Country Living: Which Is Best For Kids?

Parents worry a lot about their kids. One of the things that most concern them is where their children should be raised. Should they be raised in the countryside or in the city? It’s a tough question because both living inside and outside of town have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here we’re going to make a case for both. Then it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your kids.