A Mother’s Day Tribute Film for Working Moms

When you see a mom care for her family, it’s like seeing the very definition of unconditional love come to life. It’s no secret that mothers are amazing. They dedicate their whole lives taking care of their family. However, it’s the work that goes on behind the scenes, what we don’t see moms do, that makes them so incredible. 

More and more moms in countries like Vietnam and the Philippines have become empowered to join the workforce. Some of them are inspired with career growth opportunities, while some recognize the need for paid work so they can provide the best for their family. But while they are starting to pursue careers outside the home, their responsibilities to their family stay the same. No matter how many hours they dedicate to their jobs, and no matter how tired they are, they’ll always go home and make time to care for their children.

Whether it’s waking up early to prepare the breakfast, staying up late to clean the house or taking the time to tuck their little ones in with a good night story, moms always put in that extra effort whether they stay at home or not. They’ll do everything it takes to make sure their kids never feel forgotten or neglected. The small things matter as much as the big ones. Even simple gestures like shining your shoes, a simple note on the fridge wishing you luck for the game or washing your favorite clothes can mean a lot more when acted out of a mother’s love.

I just feel privileged being a work at home mom, it only means that I still get to spend my time with my kids while I'm earning a living. But, I admit that it's not that easy especially when my kids would seek my attention yet I'm busy or have to accomplish tasks from my work. My kids got used to me taking care of them that's why whenever they need or want something I'm the first one to know. My kids are the reason why I work hard, but I can't get rid of the guilt feeling that I am no longer giving them the full attention they once experienced when I wasn't working yet. 

Amidst of all the stress and the endless mommy duties, here's a salute and a thank you to the women who juggle their jobs and the toughest yet the best profession of all - being a mom. #Ariel #AhonPinay

This Mother’s Day, Ariel salutes these tireless working moms by celebrating them in a simple film that serves as a touching tribute. Working moms need to know how much we appreciate them for the time and effort they put into caring for their family, while working on their careers at the same time. In the constant pursuit of empowering women, Ariel wants to tell moms this mother’s day that they should never feel guilty for wanting to work. While traditionally, the role of women in society focused on the role of motherhood and being a homemaker, we believe empowered working women can also be great, loving mothers. Just because some mothers work, it does not mean they love their family any less.

In fact, Ariel knows that it’s their love for the family that fuels these women to work all day and still have the strength to be a caring mom when they return home at night. It’s why they wake up early in the morning to pack a lunch box with your favorite food, and brave the traffic at night so that they can be home in time to give you a good night kiss. It’s why they never give up when times get tough. It’s this immense love of family that makes every mom so amazing.

Thanks Ariel for such a wonderful video. It sure made me cry but this time not because of guilt, It's a reminder that a mother’s love never goes unnoticed and not because we started working doesn’t mean we stop being a great mom.

Happy Mother's Day to all Mommies out there!

BOOMco: Blast Better Summer Explosion

Last April 23, 2016 was an action-packed weekend for Tristan as we attended BOOMco's Blast Better Summer Explosion event at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia. 

BOOMco is the new generation blasters made by Mattel™ for boys and girls too! If you are worrying about kids safety, don't worry as these blasters are safe. The darts are made of soft, flexible and durable plastic. They also use the Smart Stick technology thus the tip of each darts stick to Smart Stick targets and shields.

When we arrived at the event venue Tristan can't contain his excitement upon seeing all these BOOMco. Blasters on display.

During the event selected blasters are sold with 40% off and this promotion will last until May 31, 2016. For every purchase of any BOOMco blaster except Clipfire, customers will get a free pass at the BOOMco Blast Better Summer Explosion they just have to present their receipt to authorized Richprime representative.

Before the event officially started, Tristan and the other kids had the chance to try out different blasters and practice for the challenge. 

Baby Brianna was there too and cheered for her kuya since she's still young and small to participate. 

The kids were grouped in 2 teams with 5 members each team. Tristan was part of the red team. They were also properly geared for safety and protection. Tristan was all smiles the entire duration of the event. Honestly, he wasn't really aware about the rules of the game he was just having fun, running and trying to shoot as long as he can. When his team lost he claimed that he should be in blue team which was the winning team, haha! He actually thought all along that he was in Blue Team, it was my fault somehow because before the game started I explained to him how to play and gave him a scenario. I told him to pretend that he's in blue team and that he should shoot his opponent which is the red team. 

Nevertheless, he definitely had an awesome time playing! He can't stop talking about it even as we went home. 

He was even happier as we went home with his new BOOMco.™ Farshot™ Blaster. It has single-fire blasting action which can fire up to 70 feet. It can hold 2 additional darts in the handle for quick reload. It also has a removable shields with Smart Stick technology which allows him to capture his opponents darts. It also comes with Smart stick targets which he pasted on the back of our leather chair. 

Please take note not to paste the Smart Stick targets on hard surfaces as the darts will bounce back. 

Here's a shot video of Tristan playing at the BOOMco: Blast Better Summer Explosion!

Score huge discounts up to 40% off on selected BOOMco blasters from Apr. 1 - May 31! 

For more details check out their website: BOOMco

or Like them on Facebook: Blast Better PH

  It also has removable transforming shields with Smart Stick technology, so you can capture your opponent's darts and use them yourself. And it holds two additional darts in the handle for quick re-load.And it holds two additional darts in the handle for quick re-load.

Thev darts are made of soft, flexible and durable plasticThe darts are made of soft, flexible and durable plasticThe darts are made of soft, flexible and durable plasticThe darts are made of soft, flexible and durable plastic

Say Happy Mother's Day the Baskin-Robbins Way

Just a few more days to go and it's Mother's Day. How are you planning to celebrate this very special day with the most beloved women in your lives? I'm pretty sure every mommies would appreciate even just a greeting with a hug or a kiss and "i love you". But wouldn't it make her feel more special if you surprise her with something sweet, and edible too? 

Baskin-Robbins, the world’s most beloved ice cream brand, has whipped up sweet offerings to cherish the most beloved woman in our lives – mom.

Let Baskin-Robbins sweet offerings be your way of saying “I love you mom and Happy Mother's Day!”

For the whole month of May, moms can get a free strawberry topping when they purchase any ice cream of their choice. All they have to do is present a photo of themselves together with their child/children to avail of this ‘berry’ special treat.

Liven up your Mother’s Day celebration with Baskin-Robbins’ Rainbow Cake. This pretty piece of eye-candy blooms with colorful rows of perfectly piped rossete and can be customized according to mom’s fancy. Let her choose from Baskin-Robbins 31 delicious ice cream flavors or try the flavor of the month for May – Berry Chocolate Bliss, a luscious blend of raspberry ice cream, raspberry-filled dark chocolates, and a triple berry ribbon bursting with cranberry, blueberry and strawberry flavors.

The Mother’s Day Rainbow Cake is just one of the many customizable Baskin-Robbins ice cream cakes that spread happiness to every celebration. Take your pick from an array of adorable designs, from fun and light-hearted to decadent and elegant. Just be sure to order for your desired Baskin-Robbins ice cream cake 2-3 days in advance prior to store pick-up.

Baskin Robbins stores are located at the Central Square and SM Aura in Bonifacio Global City; Greenbelt 5 and Glorietta 5 in Makati; Fairview Terraces and Trinoma Mall in Quezon City; SM Southmall in Las Pinas; Solenad in Sta Rosa, Laguna. It also has a newly opened branch in Uptown Place Mall in Bonifacio Global City. 

For more information, log on to www.baskinrobbins.ph or check out their accounts: facebook.com/baskinrobbinsph, Twitter, and Instagram @baskinrobbinsph.

Super8 Rewards Card for Practical Shoppers

These days stretching the household and business budget can be a tough challenge, especially with the rising prices of commodities. As a mom, I maximize all resources before purchasing to ensure that I'm getting value for my money. Husband and I even take advantage of these loyalty or rewards card that's being offered in almost every establishments. You know, anything that would help us even on the littlest way.

Super8 unveils new Rewards Card during their fourth annual Fun Fest at the World Trade Center last April 28-30, 2016

Now moms, homemakers, and business owners have an ally for the best “Discounted pa”selections in town with the new Super8 Rewards Card! 

On its tenth year in the business of empowering small business owners and providing great deals for the Filipino household, Super8 is strengthening its customer loyalty program by providing shoppers with rewards points for every peso spent and providing exclusive access to sale events and discounts. The country’s leading grocery warehouse chain is rolling out the new Super8 Rewards Card across its over 50 stores in Metro Maniila and surrounding provinces in North and South Luzon.

Super8 Business Group Director Armand Mendoza together with his team discussing future plans and expansions during the close door interview at the Super8 FunFest 2016 held at the Worl Trade Center.

“The all new Super8 Rewards Card is our tenth anniversary gift to our loyal shoppers,” said Super8 Business Group Director Armand Mendoza. “Becoming a member or renewing membership is easy, and shoppers can immediately enjoy instant, exclusive discounts, as well as earn points they can use while shopping."

The new Super8 Rewards Card will be available in stores on May 2016

Maximizing the Budget

With the new Super8 Rewards Card, members can earn points with every purchase which can be used to redeem anything sold in Super8 store. The new Super8 Rewards Card also allows shoppers to get more rebates for every single receipt of P3,000.00. The more customers shop at Super8, the more points they earn!

Buying good stuff for the family and customers doesn’t have to take from one’s savings and retailer’s profits. With the new Super8 Rewards Card, practical shoppers are rewarded with every peso spent!

I already have my own Super8 Rewards Card!

Be a Super8 Rewards Card Member today!

Becoming a Super8 Rewards Card, is easy. Visit the nearest Super8 Store’s Customer Service Counter to apply forSuper8 Rewards Card, and get the card in few minutes.

For more information on Super8 Grocery Warehouse, Super8 Rewards Card perks and special events, like the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/super8.ph) or visit one of their branches in over 50 locations in Metro Manila and surrounding provinces.

A Must Try: Just Thai in Molito Alabang

Last April 25, I was at Molito Lifestyle Center in Alabang for the Cool Summer Fest 2016 Press Conference. And next thing I know, I found myself together with blogger friends at Just Thai restaurant just within the area. Thanks to Kathy for the invite (though it was just the first time we personally met). Honestly, I haven't tried Thai food before, so I don't have any idea what it's like. I am a self proclaimed foodie, I love to eat and I like trying out different dishes. So basically that night I'm in for a surprise and I liked it! 

Upon entering Just Thai, first thing I noticed was the exotic ambiance, it somehow gave me the feeling that I'm actually in Thailand (though I actually haven't been there yet). The ceiling was high, main colors was yellow orange and brown, tables and chairs are made of wood, and the place was tastefully and not overly decorated with Thai ornaments. The place isn't that big but it is spacious enough and they also have like 2 tables outside to accommodate more customers. Don't worry though because even though it's outside, it still is very cozy with all the bamboo decorations, the Thai lady statue and a mini pond. 

The food at Just Thai are freshly cooked and prepared so there's going to be a little waiting but I tell you, it's definitely worth the wait. What's good about Just Thai is that you can request for the level of spiciness, Thai spicy, mild, or Filipino spicy. I am okay with spicy food, I find it really appetizing but not all of us in the group are, so we had the food modified into mild spicy to almost not spicy at all. So without further ado, let me show you the sumptuous dish we had. Get ready for some Thai food lovin'!

Tom Kha Gai soup P190.00

Tom Kha Gai soup or Chicken in Coconut Soup. At first, I thought chicken in coconut milk as soup? No way! But hey it's really good! It's soo creamy, sour-y with a small amount of heat. 

Pla Muk Tod P320.00

Pla Muk Tod or Fried Calamari. Calamari is one of my favorite squid dish and Just Thai's version is definitely a thumbs up! It's crispy on the outside and the breading doesn't come off unlike other calamari's I've tried. The squid itself is so succulent and tasty, you can opt not to dip it anymore but for more flavors I suggest you do.

Moo Grob P280.00

Moo Grob or Crunchy Pork Belly. It's tender and very appetizing, dip it for added spice. 

Pad Gaprow Talay P280.00

Moving on with the Main dish. Pad Gaprow Talay or Seafood in Basil. First of all, I love seafood so this is absolutely a treat! Mussels, shrimp, squid, fish fillet in rich creamy coconut milk, it's an explosion of flavors and I really really loved it. Though personally, I'd love to have it with more heat and spiciness. But again that's just me. 

BPlah Meuk Gkratiem Manao P300.00

BPlah Meuk Gkratiem Manao or Squid with garlic and pepper. This is my favorite next to the Seafood in Basil. I am fascinated with how tender the squid is. The combination of the herbs and spices give an excellent flavor. Though again, for me it's best if it's a bit more spicy. 

Gai Tod P220.00

Gai Tod or Thai Fried Chicken. Seasoned and marinated to perfection that the flavor deeply penetrates the chicken meat making it savory and juicy. It is also crispy and just like the calamari the breading isn't that thick so it doesn't separate from the meat. 

 Crab Meat Fried Rice. P220.00

The CrabMeat Fried Rice is visually appealing, loaded with julienned carrots, some herbs, spices and of course the crab which is the star of the dish. You can already eat it on its own. 

 Pad Thai P280.00

Pad Thai is a stir-fried rice noodle dish with eggs, flavored with tamarind pulp, dried shrimp, red chili pepper, served with lime wedges and chopped roast peanuts. It's a popular street-food in Thailand, and I was excited to try it. As usual, just like the other food Pad Thai is flavorful and it was just right for my taste. 

What's a meal without desserts? So let's move along...

Khao Niao Ma Muang P260.00

Khao Niao Ma Muang is a sticky rice topped with thinly sliced ripe mangoes and beautifully formed into a rose flower then sprinkled with sesame seeds. The presentation is just so beautiful that I don't want to ruin it. lol I love sticky rice and I can say that it goes well with the mangoes, don't forget the warm coconut cream!

Tha Kho P140.00

Tha Kho is a coconut pudding wrapped in pandan leaves. With my first bite I immediately thought of Maja blanca, both has corn kernels too. It's really good. 

Tamarind Juice P80.00

As I was looking at the menu for drinks, I was torn between the Lemon Grass Juice and the 

Tamarind Juice. I think I have tasted the Lemon Grass juice before so I chose the Tamarind. It's sweet, sour and surprisingly refreshing. Though I think the flavor is a bit strong to my taste bud, but it's not bad at all. I actually enjoyed it. 

I bet you are already drooling just by looking at the pictures. Yes they all look appealing and definitely tastes good too. With every bite I felt like I'm being taken to Thailand, I learned that Thai dishes aren't simple, I find it really complex. They pay attention to every details by combining different herbs and spices and choosing the right ingredients making sure that the food doesn't just taste good but is also aromatic and presentable.

I really enjoyed my first Thai cuisine experience thanks again Kathy! And because of that, last night, I took my in laws with me at Just Thai in Molito Alabang since we are just near the area. Here's what we ordered, last night.

 Tom Yum P190.00

Tom Yum is one of Thailand's famous soup. It's hot, sour and it has prawns. You can definitely taste the complexity of flavors. Though I'm not a fan of this. 

Gai Ob Bai Toey P290.00

Gai Ob Bai Toey or Pandan wrapped chicken. It's a flavorful boneless chicken which became a hit to the kids and the husband. According to Jaear he liked the orange dipping sauce, it was sweet with just the right amount of spice. 

Pad Talay Prik Pow P280.00

Pad Talay Prik Pow or Seafood in Chili. It's mixed seafood and I guess everyone of us loves seafood so much. It looks so spicy right? But guess what, it's not! So basically I'm the only one who loves spicy food, so we had the all the food's spiciness customized, since there were also kids eating. My in laws liked this one, well we all did.

 Pad Phak Kung Sod P250.00

 Pad Phak Kung Sod or Broccoli flower with Carrots and Shrimps. One thing I noticed is that the Broccoli with beef or shrimp is a staple in our menu every time we eat out so here it is once more but this time it's Thai version. It was good though the shrimp was only like 3 or 4 pieces (bitin) hehe.

Khao Krok Kapi P250.00

 As usual Jaear only ordered the steamed pandan rice. But my in laws and I enjoyed this Khao Krok Kapi or Bagoong Rice. It's savory with contrasting flavors of the sweet and salty shrimp paste, zesty green mangoes, fried eggs and dried small shrimps. It also has chili on the side if you want it to be spicy. 

Last night I ordered the Lemon Grass Juice and I was right, I actually tasted it before! Jaear who's kind of a picky eater didn't really liked it, he said it tastes like medicine. It wasn't that bad but I personally prefer the Tamarind juice.

Another night of Just Thai lovin' this time with my family where I got to taste other dishes. However, just like the first time the the food were customized not to be spicy. I guess I have to eat there alone next time so I can have the food adjusted according to my preference, spiciness wise. Haha! 

Taste authentic Thai cuisine at Just Thai

 Visit them at Molito Lifestyle Center, Alabang

Tel. No. 808-4058

For more details check out their: 

Website: http://www.justthaicuisine.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Just-Thai-194210380589164/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justthaiph/