Monday, July 31, 2017

Tips on Getting Your First Car

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are mine.

I'm one of those who feels excited and scared at the same time about finding that perfect car which not
only fits my taste but also my budget. The thing is what's a mom like me know about cars in the first
place? Google is definitely my buddy as it led me to Cars.com It helped me to narrow down my research and focus on the main points I need to consider. Those are if I should get a new or used car, my budget range, make and model, and miles!


I tested the site in hopes of finding that perfect match and here is the top on my list which I easily spotted:


I opt in finding a used car for my first time as it seems more practical. Typed in my budget, miles, make and model of the car I want and viola! It actually showed me lots of options but I simply filtered my options by altering the year which i chose from 2010-2011.


My favorite part about this site is how it makes researching the right one easy! If you check on the right
side it shows the number of reviews and ratings of the car, pictures and a video can be seen which is a
plus. It's fairly easy to make an intensive review and get the essential information about a wide variety of car selections.


It's always a good idea to check various dealers especially if we're shopping for a used car and that's where Cars.com comes in handy. One thing I'm definitely sure of is making sure to let a seller know that YOU know what you're dealing with. That's why it's quite valuable to make your research as to not get taken advantage of easily. Research helps on finding the true worth of the cars we're looking for to make sure that it's roadworthy.

Want to make your first car special? Check out https://www.cars.com/

Friday, July 28, 2017

Home Or Hospital? Finding The Best Birth For You


When you’re pregnant, you have a lot on your plate. And no, that’s not because you’re eating for two. It’s because you have to grow a child, and plan a birth at the same time. While few of us like to consider the birth aspect of pregnancy before we conceive, it’ll be at the front of your mind throughout your pregnancy. There are so many opinions about the right and wrong way to do it. How can you make informed decisions when everyone seems to disagree?

One of the major sticking points is whether you should have a hospital or home birth. The warriors for both believe that their way is THE way. But, when the health of you and your child hang in the balance, such blind faith isn’t helpful. You need hard facts to ensure you make the best decision possible. And, that’s what we’re going to give you here. Home vs. hospital, take it away!

Trusting Your Gut


If you've ever thought about whether you've got an intolerance to something, you're not alone there are so many of us now that seemed to not be able to stomach wheat, gluten, or lactose like we used to. And while it's important to listen to your body you need to remember that a lot of allergies and immune system deficiencies can stem from an unhealthy gut or unhealthy lifestyle habits. We need to look after our stomachs, and here is how.

Thursday, July 27, 2017

The Doctor is In: 5 Ways to Choose Your Ob-Gyne


There’s an unspoken special kind of bond between a gynecologist and a patient. You see, besides having an access to the most intimate part of the body, an obstetrician-gynecologist plays a big role in your wellness– from keeping your reproductive system at the pink of its health, to guiding you through every stage of pregnancy, down to delivering a new member of the family. So don’t take chances when you’re looking for Dr. Right. That’s why Jeunesse Anion’s Dr. Faith Suluen, ob-gyn tackles these 5 practical checklists to consider. Read on and find out here:

Old Orchard Cranberry’s Tips on How to Take Care of your Kidneys

Kidneys are part of our urinary system. They are two bean-shaped multi-functional powerhouse organs that expel waste from the body, balance body fluids, release hormones that regulate blood pressure, and control the production of red blood cells.

With all those jobs to be done, our kidneys deserve attention and care. The National Kidney and Transplant Institute has reported that Kidney Failure is the 7th leading cause of death among Filipinos and close to an estimate of 30,000-40,000 patients yearly undergo dialysis. Kidney disease often cannot be cured, but fortunately, it can be prevented early by taking care of our urinary tract. With the aid of Old Orchard’s resident US nutritionist, Amy Bragagnini, MS, RD, CSO, here are some tips that can help you prevent urinary tract and kidney infections.

1. Eating Healthy and Exercising Regularly.

Diabetes and high blood pressure cause most of the kidney problems. When blood pressure is high, blood vessels stretch to allow blood to flow more easily. The stretching eventually injures and weakens the blood vessels, impairing their ability to clean blood properly, including those in the kidneys. That’s why it is always best to follow healthy eating habits such as limiting intake of sodium (2,500 mg) and sugar and controlling weight and blood pressure through exercise. Watchful eaters should also consider the addition of calcium-filled food (milk, yogurt, calcium-fortified cereals, etc.) to their diet. However, Bragagnini notes that one must not mistake calcium supplements as an alternative to the natural food sources, as it could result to kidney stone formation when taken in excess.

2. Giving up on Smoking

If you’re smoking, you should quit now as smoking slows the flow of blood to the kidneys. This results to an impairment to function properly which increases risks of kidney cancer by 50%.

3. Following Directions for Over-the-Counter Medications.

Your kidneys can only take so much. Overdoing your medications create high toxins level in the body, posing a great burden on the kidneys. So as much as possible, limit yourself from too much chemical exposure. If you really need medications, consult with your physician and follow the instructions well.

4. Having them Screened Regularly. 

If diabetes or high blood pressure is in the genes, it is always ideal for you to have your kidneys tested regularly as part of your routine check-up. A creatinine level higher than 1.2 for women and 1.4 for men is a sure sign of a kidney problem.

5. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! 


“Fluid intake is another important step to help lower risk of kidney stone formation and urinary tract infection”, stresses Bragagini. Healthy individuals who aren’t suffering present kidney diseases should consume enough water and other fluids of at least 2 liters of fluid per day. Consuming enough fluid helps dilute the urine and helps flush toxins. Bragagini prescribes that pairing a meal with Cranberry juice in moderation is a great way to reduce instances of irritation in the urinary tract. In fact, Cranberries are power packed fruits that are rich in Vitamin C and a source of Flavonoid and Phytonutrient contents called Hippuric Acid and Proanthocyanidin. These power duo components prevent UTI-causing bacteria from sticking to the wall of the bladder and urinary tract preventing further damage to the kidneys.

Bragagini closes by saying that the most important thing you can do to keep your kidneys safe is to take care of your overall body to reduce your chances of developing diseases that put a strain on your kidneys. Coupled by prevention, it is also aided by continuously doing a consultation with your physician or dietitian.

Old Orchard can be enjoyed in three flavors: Cranberry, Apple Cranberry, and Cranberry Raspberry. There are also diabetic-friendly variants that contain 75 percent less sugar and only has 20 calories: Healthy Balance Cranberry and Healthy Balance Apple Cranberry. From health tips to fruity recipes, you can also learn more at oldorchard.com.

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

5 Things They Don't Tell You Before Having A Baby

The moment you found out that you were going to be bringing another little one into the world was the best day of your life. You wept tears of happiness, your partner was stunned into a panic, and it was a mammoth task keeping your pregnancy a secret from friends up until the twelve-week scan. You had visions of you and your partner sharing the feeding duties, changing diapers and getting up in the night to soothe your baby. Now your new little of bundle of joy has arrived and you are learning that the perfect family idyll is not quite as you thought it might be. Learning on the job is very much the order of the day. Nothing and no one can prepare you for the major shift in lifestyle that another tiny human being can cause. There’s also a ridiculous amount of stuff that you hadn’t even thought of pre-birth that no one cared to mention to you. Well-meaning friends and family kept telling you ominously that it will ‘all be worth it in the end.’ Now you’re beginning to understand a little more about what they meant. Take a look at these five things they don’t tell you before having a baby and discover how you can overcome them.

Tuesday, July 25, 2017

How Far Should You Go to Improve Your Child's Life Chances?

This is a question that is difficult to answer, and it’s something that every parent has their own perspective and feels on. However, it’s something that is definitely worth thinking about and paying attention to. If you can make sure that you are comfortable with how far you’re going and are willing to go for your child’s life chances, your family life will be much smoother. But how far is far enough? 

And how far is too far? 

Circumstances Have an Impact

There are some ways in which your family circumstances have an impact on your children’s prospects and future fortunes. For example, if you live near a poor school, it could impact your child’s educational prospects. Many parents move using smallmovinginc.com to a district with a better school. It could mean that they have greater chances of success.

These things shouldn’t be ignored, but how far you can go to improve the life chances of your kids is not always clear. Even something like moving house is to an area with a better school is not possible for many people. And lots of people would argue that access to good education shouldn’t depend on where a child is born and lives.

Home Life Overwhelm? It's Time To Make Life Easier!

Families tend to have a lot going on these days. Parents have work and chores to do around the house. Kids have school, homework, after school activities and social lives to keep up. If parents are lucky, they also have hobbies and a social life to consider! This can make home life extremely overwhelming. If you feel like things are getting a little too much, here’s how you can make your life easier. 

Taking The Stress Out Of School Bake Sales & Putting The Fun Back In

School bake sales are common in schools abroad, and are the bane of every parent's life. If you've experience this before, you'll know that it doesn’t matter if you love to cook, the problem with bake sales is the fact that the rules seem to be getting stricter and stricter each year, making the process of finding something to bake increasingly stressful. Then there is the fact that a lot of the fun has been sucked out of these sales thanks to too many rules and regulations about what can and cannot be baked. 

School bake sales might be a great way to raise funds for a charity or for your children’s school, but they aren't as popular as they used to be. This means if you are in the middle of planning one, you might have to think carefully about how to go about it, to ensure that it is a success. 

To help make the next bake sale you organize a success, here's what you should do: 

Monday, July 24, 2017

Cool Bingo must Know

Elderly people with markers, an announcer, cards and a very crowded place. Those are normally what
comes in mind when we hear the word bingo. Change definitely is inevitable and this game is no exception. Technology has taken this fun game into a whole new level.


A different ranges in age now plays this game as it became more accessible and easier to play at the comfort of your own home. It's a fun and relaxing during times when you need to unwind and possibly get an opportunity to win some amazing prizes. Various sites offers unbelievable amount of jackpot.



You can get an awesome first time experience with online bingo through Boomtown Bingo because you will receive a lot of bonus offers and get the chance to win a jackpot without splurging. Another great advantage is the reward that comes with signing up as a new player.

Everyone is pretty much familiar with how Bingo works but some may find it overwhelming to play online bingo. It's almost the same bean but much better!

Here are some Perks and Facts about online bingo:

 Get extra bonuses and special promotional offers!
 Play with millions of players!
 Most online bingo players play at least once a day!
 Online bingo also contributes in increasing the economy's earnings!
 Playing bingo can keep you mentally agile compared to non bingo players!
 Bingo can alleviate stress!
 Online Bingo use random number generator than traditional bingo balls!
 There's a chat feature in most online bingo sites which lets you expand your circle of virtual friends!

If you're looking for the Best bingo games with sign-up bonuses then visit Boomtown Bingo! It's one of the best place to spend time and relax, possibly win cool prizes, get rewards and meet new friends!

Saturday, July 22, 2017

All Things Baby Sale For The Whole Month of July at Baby Company


Baby Company, our to-go-to "All Things Baby Shop" is once more having an "All Things Baby Sale" this whole month of July! Nowadays, mommies are now getting wiser and practical when it comes to spending. So surely, mommies and expectant mommies are very excited about this. Who wouldn't be, when you can score up to 50% off on select baby items across all item categories!  

Brianna, our youngest is already 3 years old but I got excited upon hearing about the sale because I was able to score good deals at the All Things Baby Sale last March, not just for her but for my godchildren as well. So last Sunday, before going to work, Jaear and I went to SM Mall Of Asia and dropped by at Baby Company to check. Ber-months is fast approaching which could mean, gifting season, so as early as now might as well take advantage of every promotion there is to save money, time and to save me from any hassle. Besides, I have a lot of mommy friends, relatives, and godchildren so it's better to be prepared, right? Haha!

I really wanted to take Brianna shopping with me just like last time. However, she and Athena just recently got discharged from the hospital. Wednesday and Thursday are my off from work but they got classes so I really couldn't find a perfect timing just yet. Seriously, I feel so busy ever since I started working again and not to mention, I'm in mid-shift (3PM-12MN). Anyway, let me share with you the things that really caught my attention during our visit. 



It's the rainy season, time to hoard some socks to keep your babies teeny tiny toes warm! Baby socks and shoes at 50% off! Far behind, 10% off on bedtime essentials.

30% off on The First Years sterilizers and Php 50.00 off on MamyPoko diapers


50% off on Nuk sterilizer, breast pump and breast pads for the mommies.


Goo.n diapers, a leading diaper brand is now in the Philippines and look at this awesome deal; Free Gift worth Php 300.00 when you buy 3 packs!


50% off on Strollers! A day out with a baby is pretty exhausting so a stroller is always a good idea.

During the March All Things Baby Sale, I shared with you, my Top Picks for my mommy friends which mostly breast pumps as I am an advocate of breastfeeding. This time around, my top picks are for my kids!

Top 1: Humidifier

10% off on Humidifiers 


The bee humidifier is so cute, it's yellow so Brianna liked it a lot because it's her favorite color!

Humidifiers add moisture to the air to prevent dryness that can cause irritation in many parts of the body. Humidifiers can be particularly effective for treating dryness of the skin, nose, throat, and lips. They can also ease some of the symptoms caused by the flu or common cold.

Top 2: Princess Sofia Sofa Bed



A comfy sofa convertible into a bed! I think this will solve my afternoon nap time drama with Brianna. Haha!

Spotted anything you like? There's definitely a lot more waiting for you. And, of course, here's something exclusive for all "Mom Card" holders. For every Php 3,500.00 single-receipt spend in Baby Company, you'll get a free Popbrella! You can choose between Kitty Pop, Doggy Pop, Foxy Pop, Piggy Pop, Panda Pop and Bear Pop.

Not a "Mom Card" holder yet? See link to know how to get a Mom Card www.babycompany.com.ph/mom-card.

With Ms. Nelf, Store Manager of Baby Company in SM Mall Of Asia.

Thank you Baby Company for another round of All Things Baby Sale, this is definitely a big help for all mommies who try to get the most out of their money, just like me.

Make sure to visit your nearest Baby Company store until July 31st for the All Things Baby Sale! And, don't forget to follow their online channels for news and updates:



4 Tips to Help Reduce Holiday Costs and Get out More Often

Who doesn’t love a holiday? Whether it’s a relaxing couple of days at the beach or an explorative journey visiting some of the world’s beautiful and iconic locations, there’s always something to enjoy. However, the cost of a holiday can be daunting. We need to worry about travel costs, getting a visa (if we plan to visit a more exotic country), hotel bookings and of course, spending money. With all these things added together, it can quickly turn into an expensive couple of days out and you’ll be kicking yourself when you come back.

So in order to help you save money, we’ve put together a list of four travel tips that will help you cut down on holiday costs so you can afford to get out more. Hopefully, after reading this list, you’ll be motivated to take your family out more often and treat them to special experiences more often.

Tips on Creating a New Loft Space At Home

The loft conversion is becoming a supremely popular addition to the home. Not only does the loft conversion add another room to a home, it can also add value if you’re thinking of selling in the future. However, there are so many things you need to think about before you decide to go through with a loft conversion, and even some things you should spend money on first. Let’s talk loft conversions in more detail below:

Friday, July 21, 2017

Life After Birth: What You Need To Know About Your Miracle-Making Body


The lead up to your due date is about as full-on as life can get (pre-baby that is!). There is just so much to wrap your novice head around. Getting used to the constant changes that your body is going through. Trying to find a home that is suitable to live in and then trying to make that home as child-friendly as possible. Attending the local prenatal class every Wednesday night, which goes on until 10 pm and takes place in a church that is either too hot or too cold, while a voice at the back of your head reminds you of the fact it could be your body temperature that is fluctuating instead. Reading as many baby books as your brain will digest as you do everything in your might to get ready for the arrival of your baby. Knowing what exercises are good for you and why. Organizing a baby shower. Like we said, it is a pretty full-on time. Luckily, the support is there, as is access to all the information you could shake a diaper at; information about what is happening to you and information about what you can expect at the birth. 

How to Host the Most Amazing BBQ for Your Kids Before the Summer Is Gone

Having young kids means one thing during the summer time: lots of outdoor time! Which is so much fun, it means that you get to spend some real family time outdoors, which we just don’t get enough of in the winter. Your kids will probably want to have loads of friends over during this time as well to play in the garden. A really lovely thing to do for your children would be to host a little BBQ for them and their friends (maybe for some adult friends as well)! If you were looking for some tips on how to throw the best BBQ for the loveliest of times, then read on!

1) Firstly, you will need to get the outside of your garden looking lovely! I’m sure you have put a lot of effort into making the large parts of the exterior of your house looking fantastic! But you will want to just keep on top of it as well. So this includes doing the basics like cutting the grass and washing the walls if any bits aren't the cleanest. Just little things make a big difference like sweeping up any leaves you have on the pavement or maybe putting away any large toys that have been left out.

Find the image here

Thursday, July 20, 2017

Play Time: The Balance Of Digital And Analog


As a parent, you often have to make difficult decisions which will affect your child for years to come. For example, a lot of parents struggle to keep a healthy diet in place for their kids. Whereas, others might find it harder to enforce homework completion. Any issues like this have resolutions, though, and they’re not too hard to deal with. To help you out, this post will be going through one of the biggest challenges a parent can face in the modern world. Should your child be playing video games and using the computer to have fun? Or, is it better for them to play with more basic toys? Let’s find out!

To start, let’s think about the more popular option for modern parents; digital entertainment. Television, social media, and video games can provide a good amount of varied entertainment to a child. Video games stimulate their brain, forcing them to complete challenges and goals. Television helps to broaden their imagination, and social media helps to keep them in touch with friends. Of course, though, some argue that too much exposure to blue light from screens can be bad for your eyes. This sort of effect is debatable, though, so it’s worth talking to a doctor if you have these sorts of concerns when you’re kids are using devices like this. 

A lot of parents argue that analog means are much better for your kids. Toys which don’t require any electronics, instead relying on the child’s imagination, are becoming more and more popular. These sorts of toys have to be bought with age and gender in mind, though. Some toys like this will have small parts which could hurt your child. And, others might not fit the theme of the play you want your child to engage in. Of course, you have loads of options to choose from, so this shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Playing with physical toys is supposedly one of the best ways to stimulate a child’s imagination, helping them to unlock their creativity. They have to use their mind to create their play, instead of relying on a computer to do it for them.

In reality, both of these methods of play can be damaging, if they’re not used in the right way. Instead of blocking out either one, relying on the other for all of their entertainment, you should be aiming to give your child a balance. You can shop online for kids toys with Bubbalove and loads of other companies. This should help you to find loads of analog options. For their digital toys, though, you might have to talk to the child. Options like Nintendo's Switch and Sony’s PS4 are very different. Giving your child the wrong one could isolate them and make it harder for them to play with friends.

Hopefully, this post will give you everything you need to make an informed choice about your kid’s play. A lot of parents fail to consider these areas when they’re choosing a play for their children. But, it’s worth making sure your child isn’t getting too much of one thing.

Conservatory Conversion: How To Create The Playroom You've Always Wanted

If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that we could use more space in our homes. This is especially true when you have kids. There are toys everywhere and no space left where you can just relax. You can’t even sit on the sofa for mess a lot of the time. If only you could take control of your house by relegating those toys to a playroom. But, who has the room? Space is tight as it is, and there’s no chance of moving anytime soon.

Which US State Should You Visit Next?

When you want to go traveling, one thing you usually want is variety. Even if you only have one destination in mind, you probably want to get as many different experiences in that place as you possibly can. The world is full of fascinating and unique destination spots, and choosing your next is always something of a mission. But there are certain countries which really do offer it all, and the US has to be one of them. Being as it is spread over such a huge range of space, with so many different kinds of places to visit, the US can pretty much provide it all to whoever wishes to go. But which states are likely to provide you with the best traveling experience? Let’s take a look at some of the top choices for travelers now.

Wednesday, July 19, 2017

A Quieter Life - Learning To Cope With Hearing Loss

Even minor chronic conditions and changes in health can require a transformation in your lifestyle. So, it’s no surprise that a lot of people who go through hearing loss, whether partial or complete, face some big changes. Thankfully, there’s a lot of information, support, and assistance on how to make the transition into a life better suited for you. Here are a few bits of wisdom shared on learning to accommodate hearing loss.

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Cheers: All The Napkin You Need Everyday!

They say that first-time moms are very meticulous. And, I couldn't agree more! I became one when I became a first-time mom myself. I'm very particular about details and you'd always see me cleaning up every now and then. I became even more so when I became a stay at home full-time mom. However, things changed when I started to work again. Sad to say but, I spend less time at home and less time with my kids. That's why whenever it's my rest day, as much as possible, I see to it that I stay home to do some cleaning and spend quality time with the kids. And for this, I've found an ally in products that make everyday life easier for on the go moms like me. 

Let me share with you some of our most used items at home right now, Kitchen and Paper Towels from Cheers! 


  • Cheers Kitchen Towel Roll: Jumbo Solo 80 pulls
  • Cheers Table Napkins: Flat Napkins – 100 sheets
  • Cheers Interfolded Paper Towels: Pull Paper Towels – 2 Ply 150 sheets
  • Cheers Table Napkins: Folded Party Napkins – 50 sheets
  • Cheers Table Napkins: Pull Napkins – 2 Ply 200 sheets

Aside from Napkins, Cheers has other party or get-together needs such as starch-based cutleries and trash bags.
  • Cheers Cutlery: 12 Spoons and 12 Forks
  • Cheers Trash Bags Large: 10 pieces 
Cheers is a brand of quality hygienic napkins, kitchen, and paper towels. It comes in a range of napkin configurations, that are useful for all types of everyday needs and occasions, thus avoiding paper wastage. It also comes in different print designs that are colorful and festive!

Having little kids means a messy house. Just imagine, toys scattered all over the house, food crumbs, and spills. I find Cheers Napkins very useful in managing their messes. 


Cheers Folded Party Napkins comes with a box container and is available in 50 sheets with 2 different print designs inside. This makes things extra special for the kids.


Mealtime gets pretty messy with this little cutie. Instead of using cloth bibs or handkerchief and worry about washing it after being stained, I use Cheers. I use either the Cheers  Flat Napkins or the Cheers Folder Party Napkins. I just tuck it in their shirts or place it on their laps to catch the spills then throw it away afterward. 


I also use the Cheers Folded Party Table Napkins to wrap the kids, baon for school then they use it to wipe their mouth after eating. Kids are really fond of the prints!

Cheers Table Napkins: Flat Napkins – 100 sheets
Cheers Kitchen Towel Roll: Jumbo Solo 80 pulls
The Cheers Flat Napkins and Towel Roll could also be used for wrapping their baon or as bibs. I also use them for draining excess oil from fried foods, drying my hands and the dishes, and wiping off surfaces.



Cheers Pull Napkins are always readily available in the dining area for minor spillage. I also place some of it in the kids' lunch bags so they can use it to wipe off their mouth after eating instead of using their handkerchief. Jaear and I also do the same.

The Cheers cutlery is also very useful especially in times when I am too lazy to wash the dishes. Let's admit it, mommies, we all have lazy days haha! Cheers cutleries are eco-friendly and biodegradable thus it's very safe to use. It's also oil resistant and heat resistant up to 110°C. 



Cheers indeed have all the napkins I need every day. It makes my life easier as it offers quick fixes on some of my kitchen dilemmas. Above it all, what I like about Cheers is that it has 100% Virgin Pulp that is made for every possible tissue/napkin. It contains no artificial whiteners and elemental chlorine which makes it truly hygienic. The print designs use food grade water soluble ink so it's totally safe to use!

As a mom, I totally recommend Cheers! Make sure to check it out, it's available in leading groceries nationwide.

You may also follow Cheers Facebook Page for more information and updates.

Driving Test Success: Overcoming Nerves and Anxiety

source
Even the most cool, calm and collected person can buckle under the pressure when it comes to their driving test. It’s not a particularly nice experience for anyone, and after months (sometimes years!) of practice, it all comes down to a short period of time in the car with the examiner. While a little bit of nerves can be helpful, as heightened adrenaline can help you perform better, the dry mouth, sweaty palms, knotted stomach and racing thoughts aren’t going to be doing you too many favors. If you suffer from anxiety disorders and feel this way a lot of the time for no apparent reason, it’s important to go and speak to your GP so you can get the right treatment. But if you’re feeling this way in response to stress such as your driving test, here are a few ways we can overcome the situation. 

Practice Grounding Techniques

When you feel like your thoughts are racing ahead, grounding techniques can help to bring your focus back to the current moment. This can help to promote feelings of calmness. When there’s something stressful like a driving test on the horizon, it’s easy to get caught up in your own thoughts. Anticipation, stress and worry can quickly spiral out of control, you might find yourself thinking ‘I can’t do it’ or even thinking of ways that you can get away from the situation. You might start thinking the worst or picturing failure in your mind. If you just focus on bringing your thoughts to the here and now, it can help to calm the physical symptoms of anxiety. You will maintain a much better state of mind, and can go into the test feeling more relaxed and more confident. Meditation works well as a grounding technique, you could also ask yourself questions such as ‘where am I’ or ‘what is the date?’. You could focus on your breathing, or name things in the room you can see around you. It’s very simple but really does work. 

Practice Positive Thinking

Our state of mind really is everything. If you feel happy and positive about life, you’ll find you will come across more opportunities. If you feel down and are always looking for the worst (you may be doing this subconsciously without realizing) chances are you will find the worst. The difference between an opportunity and a challenge is just the way you look at a situation. Being more positive can help put you in the best state of mind, and if you do happen to fail, you will bounce back more quickly. Practice visualising success. Tell yourself ‘I can do it’- find a mantra or positive quote that resonates with you and repeat it daily. When negative thoughts creep in, do your best to push them away and focus on the positive. 

Use a Herbal Remedy

Products such as Kalms and Rescue Remedy are safe herbal remedies which can be bought over the counter, and can help promote relaxation and calm. Herbs such as lavender have also been shown to be effective. You could drop some essential oils into your bath in the week leading up to the test, or make up a pillow spray and use it to help you drift off to sleep. While herbal remedies alone won’t completely stop your anxiety, coupled with positive thinking and other techniques to change your thinking they can be very effective. 

Get Enough Food and Sleep

Anxiety can really do a number on your body. It can lead to sleeplessness, and let’s face it- everything always feels worse when you’re exhausted. Feelings of nausea might mean you don’t want to eat, and without the right sustenance, you will never be performing at your best potential. Practising the above techniques will help you to reduce your levels of stress so you can eat and sleep well. The morning before your test, have a healthy breakfast that will fuel your body and brain, and help to set you up for success. 

Remind Yourself That It’s Not The End of the World

Finally, the great thing about driving tests is if you fail you can just come back and try again. Be sure to remind yourself of this when you’re having a major panic! It’s not a life or death situation, no one is going to die if you fail and nothing bad is going to happen. It’s not like school exams where you have to worry about your future. If you pass right away, that’s fantastic! If you don’t, pick yourself up and go again. Failure feels awful at the time, but actually, it can make you all the more determined and also more grateful when you finally do get your licence. There’s always a lesson to be learned in failure so use it as experience and you’ll know where to do better next time. 

Why You Need Fresh Flowers In Your Home


If you love flowers but don't have any inside your home - why haven't you? You shouldn't have to wait for your other half to buy you a bouquet - there's nothing wrong with buying flowers for yourself, as technically, they're for your home, so it doesn't count.

Don't you want to get that lovely warm feeling every time you walk into a room? Plus flowers don't cost a lot. You can easily buy a bunch once a week without it making an impact on your bank account, but such a little thing can go a long way.

Here are all the benefits or having fresh flowers in your home.

Flowers refresh memories

Have you ever been out somewhere and smelt some food as you walk by a restaurant, and been pulled into a fond memory of when your Grandmother used to make you her special dish? Well, flowers can have the same effect, by releasing certain smells that may be familiar to you, triggering some of your favorite memories. So choose flowers that remind you of the happy moments in your life, and then they'll be with you every day.

Flowers stimulate creativity

If you have children, take them to the store and tell them that they can each choose a small bouquet of flowers for their room. They will not only look appealing, but they may spark your children's creativity due to the vivid colors and interesting form. Not only that but it will also encourage responsibility, as you can put them in charge of watering and feeding the flowers when need be. This also applies to you, get some flowers for your desk at work and see if they inspire you.

Flowers make great decoration

If you have a boring looking table in your living room and aren't too sure what to do with it - flowers are just the thing you need, introducing the space with some pretty colors of your choice. Pair them up with a stunning vase from MERS Goodwill, and you'll have the perfect feature. Plus, your money will have been put towards a great cause.

Flowers improve your mood

Whether you have just got back from work after a long hard day, or you've been running errands and now you just want to relax at home, think of how uplifted you'll feel when you walk into a room and see a lovely bouquet of flowers smiling back. Seeing something visually appealing will take your mind off the negative things, and refocus you to see the beautiful things in life.

Flowers are inviting

What better way to welcome guests into your home than with a warm, vibrant essence of nature and life - flowers. You can decide on what emotion and atmosphere they bring to a room by the breed and color of the flowers. For example, if you are looking for something quite passionate and romantic, red roses are just the thing, whereas white roses give off more of a regal and pure feel. While an array of different colored lilies will not only smell incredible but show a playful and daring side to your home.

Monday, July 17, 2017

Common Mistakes Women Make When Buying Shoes!

Most women have complained that their feet hurt at least 100 times in their lifetime, if not more! Of course, we reason with ourselves: no pain, no gain, right? Wrong! You don’t need to be in pain in order for your feet to look fabulous. In fact, if you avoid the mistakes mentioned below, you can ensure your feet don’t hurt again.

Beware Of The 5 Unhealthy Habits You Develop In College

Everyone has little quirks that they know they shouldn’t do. Little things that you know are not the best side of you. It’s likely that you’ve developed bad habits during your life. And surprisingly enough, most of your bad habits tend to come from your experience in college. Don’t worry, though, everyone starts to get used to the freedom of college life and accidentally indulges in the odd bad habit – or maybe a couple of them. It doesn’t mean that you’re now stuck for the rest of your life with dealing with your college habits. You can break out of them easily if you begin aware of what they are. After all, a habit is only a way of behaving. It’s never written in stone, as you are the one in control of your behavior. Here are the 5 worst college habits that you might have kept. 

Sunday, July 16, 2017

Natural is still best to de-stress your tress

Striking a life balance is no easy task to do. It requires hard work and dedication which sometimes can be strenuous to achieve. Can you imagine how overtaxing it is to juggle between your career and providing for your loved ones?

Studies have shown that stress is commonly caused by interrelationships, such as having to deal with work issues and family-related complications. If left unresolved over time, it could lead to immune deficiency, which later on, might cause other parts of our body to show signs of disruption like hair loss.

Many of us could attest to that. It’s like always autumnal equinox whenever we experience chronic hair fall, most especially at the prime of stress. At its peak, our white blood cells attack no less than the follicles, thus causing alopecia. What’s more, anxiety could drive your mane into a prolonged resting phase, which is called telogen effluvium.

Stress experienced by the body or beyond our coping resources could trigger hair loss symptoms, which, if not addressed properly, could result to early baldness. Worried about this? Fret no more. You can beat it simply by relaxing, eating or flexing some muscles. 


Never underestimate the power of sleep. If you feel that you are over your head in dealing with anxieties, choose to rest it off for a while and recharge.

Let’s get physical to de-stress. It helps release endorphins, or what is known as the happy hormones, that can be beneficial in relieving the tension.

Destress by watching stage plays like the timeless story of Tony and Maria and their fateful love affair as the electrifying classic WEST SIDE STORY. Read more on http://www.novuhair.com/2017/07/novuhair-natures-answer- to-hair- loss-supports- west-side- story-musical- at-the- theatre-solaire/

Eat more fruits and veggies. Having these as a staple in your diet will bolster your immunity from disease, which in turn, knock out stress. We can all benefit from the vitamins and minerals of the healthy food we consume.

It’s best to complement these simple regimens with a topical solution that’s safe to keep your crowning glory at its robust state. NOVUHAIR, nature´s answer to hair loss, is made up of 19 natural ingredients that work in synergy to help remedy stress-related hair loss and promote healthy tress and scalp. 

The challenge in preventing these mane problems is to keep your locks healthy with proper care and let it grow naturally sans subjecting your hair to temporary relief with the use of harmful chemicals. Go natural.

NOVUHAIR contains natural extracts, herbal oils and essences, such as lavender that is also known to relieve stress. It also has a scent that leaves a calming effect.  

NOVUHAIR is available at Mercury Drug and other leading drugstores nationwide. For more information visit www.novuhair.com, like the brand’s official Facebook Page, Novuhair Official, and follow on Twitter at @NovuhairNatural. You may also call NOVUHAIR hotlines at 4136570 and 09228830575 and order online through lazada.com.ph and regaloservice.com.

Saturday, July 15, 2017

Personalized Gift Ideas Perfect for Baby Shower

A baby is one of the cutest blessing every couple could ever receive. When expectant parents share the news to their friends and love ones, everyone seems to be excited and happy for them. And, what better way to celebrate this blessing than by hosting a Baby Shower! I'm sure expectant parents, especially the mommy would be very happy to receive gifts for her and the baby.

To be honest, I never got to have my own baby shower. We never really thought about it before. Nevertheless, each of my 3 pregnancies were special in different ways. There were friends and relatives who would give us gifts for the baby especially after finding out the gender despite not having a baby shower. But of course, If ever we get pregnant again (not sooner though haha!), we'll definitely host our own baby shower. Imagine all the gifts we'll be getting! 

As a mom, I already have several items on my list that I wish to receive and would probably gift the same items to my expectant mommy friends. Just recently, as I was browsing online, I bumped into this new gifting website. What caught my attention is their cute and personalized mommy and baby items perfect for baby shower gifting

Check out my Top Picks below:

HOME FROM HOSPITAL GIFT SET - PINK
Out of all the many cute items there is, this definitely is my favorite! It includes softer-than-soft pink star blanket along with a cuter-than-cute bear fleece onesie for snuggly daytimes. The set is completed with our delightful bunny comforter in matching pink. This is a perfect treat for new parents!

BUMP TO BIRTHDAY - PREGNANCY & FIRST YEAR JOURNAL
Bump to Birthday provides week-by-week information on the developing bump with prompts to enable parents to tell their own remarkable story and record unique, unrepeatable experiences. With spaces for photos and scan images, the journal records the pregnancy journey, hopes and dreams, the birthing experience, and all the special moments with the new baby – from first movements to first smile, first Christmas to first birthday. A wonderful way to record all those joyous moments that are so easily forgotten.
MESSAGES FOR YOU - WHILE YOU GROW
Messages For You is a hardback book full of hand-illustrated envelopes and notepaper ready to be filled with heartfelt messages for a precious child. A wonderful way to capture thoughts and memories for your child, grandchild, godchild or any precious child as they grow filling the 16 envelopes in this book with messages and more. 
PERSONALIZED BABY SHOWER PHOTO ALBUM
While everything gets digital nowadays, it's always good to store all the precious memories of out little one’s first years in an album. Bound in a solid card cover with a smattering of stars, this makes an ideal present to take to your best friend or family member’s baby shower. The silver badge on the front can be personalized with a unique message anticipating the little one’s arrival, whilst the inside has enough room for up to 80 photos. Silky ribbon ties help keep the contents as safe and snug as you-know-who will be when they arrive.

PERSONALISED SMALL LULU LOCKET NECKLACE
Here's another one for the mommy which she can give to he baby when he/she grows up. This classic and oh so stylish Small Lulu Locket Necklace will keep cherished memories close to her heart. All jewelry arrives with luxury gift wrap which includes a silk pouch, jewelry box, swing bag and ribbons.

Aren't they lovely? The best part about it is that all items can be personalized at no extra cost! They also offer free delivery to Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the U.S! 

Other than baby items, they also have wide range of cool and personalized gift ideas for all occasions. Make sure to check them out at http://giftslessordinary.com/.

Enjoy shopping!