Our Akemi PH Experience

In one of my previous posts, I talked about Home Improvement Hacks featuring Akemi PH. I also posted about the SM Home Fair which was held last June 28-30, at SMX Convention Center, MOA complex. Did you get the chance to visit it? I did! And, I visited the Akemi PH booth

As a mom, I really find it fun shopping for home essentials, and of course, that includes pretty, comfortable and quality bedding. But to be honest, I am quite naive when it comes to the technicality or nitty-gritty aspect, all I know is that, it should be aesthetically pleasing and something that will make me look forward to sleeping every night.

I also wanted an all white bedding, just like what you see in hotels because it looks really neat. But I guess, I have to hold off for a while, 3 kids could really be messy!

Good thing, Akemi PH has wide range of elegant bedding collection. It's so hard to choose! But apart from the elegant looking bedding, Akemi PH boasts of their technology which they call the Tencel technology.

Again, I am not good with the technicalities but hey, everyday is a great day to learn something new!

So, What is Tencel?

Tencel fibers are the ingredient of choice for mills, designers and brands focused on a better approach to comfort. Born from nature with a silky-soft texture, Tencel unveils a new standard of conscious fashion and interiors. As they say, a touch of Tencel is as good as it makes you feel! Fascinating, isn't it?

Our Akemi PH Experience

I took home this 3 set queen-sized bedding from the SM Home Fair. It's our first Akemi PH bed set and I can say that I love it! Indeed, it's soft and gentle to the touch that offers long lasting comfort which is suitable even to those who have sensitive skin. Although it is soft to the touch, you can really feel that it is high quality and durable. It's fabric is also breathable that it supports our body's natural thermal regulation. 

Another thing that I love about it is that it has moisture management feature that absorbs moisture efficiently, making it unfavorable for bacterial growth. Now, I'll feel less guilty if I don't get to change our bedding regularly. LOL!

Overall, I love our bedding and I highly recommend Akemi PH. There's nothing compared to the feeling of lying down on a your bed after a tiring day. A 3-piece set costs Php 3,600 but I can say that it is a wise investment. 

You can check Akemi PH on Facebook.

Christmas in July: Where to Get Holiday Cards Online

Oh, how fast time flies. We're already halfway through the year and next thing you know, it's already Christmas! What else would most people look forward to this second half of every year, than Christmas? 

Whoa! Christmas spirit just suddenly gotten into me! So let's talk about Christmas, did you know that Filipinos are known to have the longest Christmas Season? It starts as soon as the "ber-months" (months ending in -ber) begin. Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, people are celebrating Christmas in July.

Yes, Christmas in July is a thing. Why? I'm not really certain, it could be a tradition, but it seems like it has something to do with the season. December is summer in other countries, and doesn’t give much of a Christmas-sy feeling thus they celebrate it during the peak of their winter season which is July. Christmas is such a wonderful time of the year when you feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside which makes a cold weather ideal to celebrate it.

Based on my observation, every Christmas season, aside from the Christmas decorations and gift giving, one tradition never gets old, and that is exchanging of Christmas/holiday cards.

Do you also love giving out greeting cards? If yes, then I'd be happy to share with you, Basic Invite- a stationery website I discovered where you can find greeting cards for all occasion. Basic Invite can provide you with online Christmas cards, personalized holiday cards, and christmas party invitation template. 

Here are some features that you can enjoy from Basic Invite, which actually sets them apart from other stationary website: 

Almost Unlimited Colors - almost unlimited color options with instant previews online. Once you select a design you can change the color of each element on the card to over 180 different color options so you can make sure the card is exactly how you want it down to the littlest detail. 

Custom Samples - you can order a printed sample of your actual invitation so you can see exactly how it will print as well as the paper quality before you ever have to place your final order.

Over 40 Different Colors of Envelopes - you can choose from over 40 different colors so that you can make your invitation stand out even before it is opened. All of their envelopes are peel and seal so the envelopes can be quickly and securely closed.

Address Capturing Service - Basic Invite offers an address capturing service that allows customers to simply share a link on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or any other form of social media to request their friends and family’s addresses which will be stored in the customer’s account and can then be selected during the design process. Basic Invite offers recipient address printing at no cost on all card orders.

Foil - Foil cards are available in gold, silver, and rose gold. Customers can choose flat or raised foil on all of Basic Invite’s foil designs.

If you are already prepping for Christmas this coming December or is celebrating Christmas in July, then you're in luck because Basic Invite is offering 15% off with coupon code: 15FF51. Enjoy personalizing and card shopping! 

4 Things To Love About The All-New Johnson's® Gentlest Product Range

Johnson's® has always been a household name for over 125 years. I grew up using their products, from being a child, even as a grown up adult and up to this time that I have children of my own. 

Recently, they had their biggest relaunch which re-sets their baby care standards.The All New Johnson's has been transformed inside and out; new packaging and reformulated to be the gentlest ever!

And, over the weekend, we received a package from Johnson's® containing their gentlest product rage. I really love how beautiful and sustainable their gift packages are. I didn't get the chance to take a picture of the unopened box on its own, but here's a picture of the box with the girls. Last year, we also received a package from them and we are still using the wooden box. You can check what it looks like here.

Unbox with us!

All three kids, most especially Athena and Brianna love unboxing packages. They also love vlogging, actually we made them a YouTube account and filmed several videos but we're not able to sustain it. I guess, for now, we'll just use one YouTube account which is mine.

Look how pretty the new packaging is and they also smell so good! On the package, we got 2 Johnson's® CottonTouch; the top-to-toe-bath and the face and body lotion. The CottonTouch is Johnson's newborn care innovation. 

After unboxing, they immediately used the products. These photos were taken just before bedtime, they were using the bedtime lotion.

For Johnson's relaunch, Johnson's put the parents at the center, listening to more than 26,000 parents from around the world, and paired their feedback with the latest science to improve their products inside and out. 

So, here are 4 Things To Love About The All New Johnson's Gentlest Product Range:

1. Purposeful ingredient choice

Johnson's® carefully considered every single ingredient in the range. It now have 50% lesser ingredients. Totally free fro parabens, phthalates, and is now also entirely free from sulfates and dyes- only 2% of cosmetic ingredients globally meets the standards of gentleness. 

2. Fragrances designed with mom and baby in mind

Smell, memory and emotion are intimately connected, with decades of research showing that multi-sensory experiences are a key part of happy, healthy baby development. Johnson's® has not only retained the iconic scents for which their classic products are known and loved for, but also designed to maximize bonding moments between parent and baby. All the fragrances are now formulated to be free of allergens, and continue to follow the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) global standards.

3. Parent-friendly packaging

The new Johnson's® bottles are now equipped with pumps designed for easier and one-handed use for parents, and have also been developed using patented system that allows the products to be biodegradable, nontoxic and will not bio-accumulate in the environment.

4. Products specially designed for every age and stage in a baby’s life

Johnson's® products don’t just simply cleanse and moisturize—each are specially formulated to address special skin needs of babies and to turn moments of care into opportunities to strengthen babies’ connection to their parents and to nurture their healthy development. The new range features four ‘Ages & Stages’ to help parents easily navigate between the products within the ranges. 

Indeed, Johnson's® has set a new standard of gentle. If you loved Johnson's® before, you'll love the New Johnson's® even more! 

Have you tried the New Johnson's® product range yet? What's your favorite?

HIS & HERS: Good Things Come in Pairs

There’s a thin line between the idea of being thoughtful and practical when choosing the perfect gift for couples. Striking a balance can be a real challenge. You have to consider their shared interests and make sure that you pick up something neither of them owns. Novuhair is here to help you decide and make the process simpler.

Introducing 2 gift ideas that fit couples of all forms and are guaranteed to be loved and used by your favorite duo. These gifts are perfect for couples who share the same passion to couples celebrating major milestones together such as engagement, housewarming, and anniversary to name a few.

NOVUHAIR Travel Kit

Promo duration: October 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019

DOH-FDA-CCRR Permit No. 0929 s. 2018

*NOVUHAIR TRAVEL KIT SRP: Php 4,220 (Save Php 202.25)

Two of the country’s leading brands packed in one travel kit exclusively available at participating Watsons stores nationwide and online:

• NOVUHAIR, nature’s answer to hair loss, the No.1 hair loss treatment brand in the Philippines
• NAFLORA, made delicate for your generation, the No.1 most prescribed feminine hygiene wash in the Philippines

HIS: Experience nature’s makeover at home

NOVUHAIR 2-IN-1 PACK contains one 200ml. bottle each of the Topical Scalp Lotion and Herbal Shampoo, highly recommended if HE is:

• experiencing hair loss - excessive hair shedding, thinning hair, receding hairline and bald patches
• in need of a natural solution to help prevent hair loss, keep healthy hair and scalp, and stimulate hair growth
• opting to regain hair luster and vibrancy
• looking for a natural alternative solution to help prevent dandruff and scalp itchiness
• in need of scalp cleansing and detoxification

NOVUHAIR TOPICAL SCALP LOTION has a unique combination of 19 natural ingredients that work in synergy to help prevent hair loss and is clinically proven safe and effective.

NOVUHAIR HERBAL SHAMPOO cleanses and prepares the scalp in an optimal way prior to the application of NOVUHAIR topical scalp lotion and helps enhance the effect of the topical scalp lotion.

HERS: Experience a special protection made for your delicate flora

NAFLORA PROTECT is a feminine wash formulated for women of reproductive age and in need of special care to help maintain and protect their natural flora during monthly periods and everyday use. It is formulated with antimicrobial ingredients that help prevent vaginal irritations and infections.

To order NOVUHAIR Travel Pack visit https://www.watsons.com.ph/topical-scalp-lotion- herbal-shampoo-free-naflora-protect-feminine-hygiene-wash-travel-organizer- pouch/p/BP_50002150

NOVUHAIR 3-IN-1 Plus 1 Promo Pack

Promo duration: September 1, 2018 to August 31, 2019

DOH-FDA-CCRR Permit No. 0581 s. 2018

*NOVUHAIR 3-IN-1 PLUS 1 PROMO PACK, SRP: Php 5,280 (Save 1,100)

HERS: NOVUHAIR 3-IN-1 Pack

NOVUHAIR Herbal Conditioner has been formulated specially to complement the use of NOVUHAIR Topical Scalp Lotion and NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo.

Regular use of NOVUHAIR Herbal Conditioner and NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo helps prepare the scalp for the application of NOVUHAIR Topical Scalp Lotion in order to maximize its effect, improve the overall cosmetic qualities of the hair, giving it a shinier,  softer and supple look.

HIS: NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo (free)

Chemical-based shampoos contain ingredients that may seem to clean the hair but does not preserve its natural texture. These harsh chemicals strip off the hair’s natural protective layer making it more prone to damage.

A good herbal shampoo like NOVUHAIR herbal shampoo may help leave a stronger, healthier-looking hair and aid in preventing excessive hair shedding which may lead to hair loss. This will be a healthier alternative for him.

NOVUHAIR 3-IN-1 PLUS 1 PROMO PACK contains one 200mL. Bottle each of the Topical Scalp Lotion, Herbal Shampoo and Herbal Conditioner plus another extra 200ml. bottle of NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo for FREE exclusively available at participating Mercury Drug stores nationwide.

Without being too cheesy, these couple gifts are fun and surprising, a perfect way to express how much you value their gift of friendship - a gift that may keep them both well-groomed and well-protected. It may not be the best gift in the world but it’s the thought that really counts, agree? Anyways, that’s what friends are for.

To learn more about NOVUHAIR, visit www.novuhair.com

#nothingtolose #choosenatural #choosenovuhair

NutriShake For Kids Review

When it comes to giving my kids vitamins, I don't have a problem at all, they are even the ones who would always remind me about it. With three kids, we've already tried several vitamin brands, syrup or chewable. And about a month ago, we've discovered something new, NutriShake - a vitamin shake for kids. It was sent to us to try and review, and now I’m going to share our thoughts about it.

But before that, let's learn more about the brand and the product first.

Nutrition.ph

I honestly haven't heard about this product before, so my first instinct was to research about it.

There were no existing reviews about the product. Instead, my research directed me to Nutrition.ph website. Apparently, they are the manufacturer of NutritiShake and all other food supplements like glutathione capsule and weight loss capsules. And, guess what, Nutrition.ph is actually a homegrown brand which started in 2017 in Cebu City. Isn't that awesome?

NutriShake For Kids

NutriShake For Kids is a fairly new product of Nutrition.ph. I found their Facebook page and they only started posting about it in June, if I’m not mistaken. So it looks like we are among the few people who gets to try it first. 

According to their website, "by the time children hit the early teens, most receive less than 50% of the key nutrients they need for development. And, Nutrition.ph NutriShake for Kids bridges that nutritional gap with 30 essential vitamins, minerals and micronutrients necessary to keep kids growing bodies their healthy best and to help boost energy and mental performance. It is fortified with cell-protecting antioxidants, whole bean soy, plus the “brain-building” nutrients DHA, PS, and PC."  Hence, it is ideal for children ages 4-12.

NutriShake for kids is available in a 450 grams plastic tub and has only 1 flavor, which is Chocolate. And, like all other Nutrition.ph's products, it met USA FDA regulations.

NutriShake For Kids Review

We received the product around the first week of June and I was pretty impressed with the packaging. The tub is made out of plastic, color white with a brown label where all the information you need to know is written. It has a seal with the brand name (kids removed the seal before I got the chance to take a photo) and another seal inside. It looks pretty neat. However, the review container that was sent to us contains 2 stickers on the serving scoop label. Originally it should be 1 scoop per serving but according to them, their supplier included the wrong size of the scoop (10g instead of 30g) so they had to adjust it by putting a sticker making it 3 scoops per serving. We were informed about this prior to receiving the products and assured us that this will be remedied with all their other containers.

Upon opening the tub, I was perplexed to see an off white colored powder instead of a brown given that the flavor of the vitamin shake is chocolate. Though it has a mild chocolate scent. Could it be another supplier mistake? I thought to myself so I held off giving it to my kids. I responded to the email I received prior to receiving the product raising my concern but didn’t get any response. I searched for reviews and found some on Lazada. Apparently, that’s really the color. Well, if that’s the case, they should write a disclaimer on the label to avoid confusing people.

So, after several days, I’ve finally decided to give it a try. I served a warm cup of NutriShake each to Tristan, Athena, and Brianna for breakfast. Of course, I also tested it myself before giving it to the kids. And, I can say that the taste and texture resemble that of a cereal drink and other adult protein shake I've tried before. It wasn't that sweet which for me is a plus, but, I could barely taste chocolate in it. 

Kids had a different take on the shake; Athena and Brianna liked it, on the other hand, Tristan claims that it was yucky but managed to finish his drink. 

Tried serving it to them for the second time in a row but they refused. After a few days, I asked them again, Athena and Brianna agreed, Tristan was still firm, he didn't like it. Eventually, I didn't have to ask Athena and Brianna, they were the ones asking for it until they emptied the tub.

Conclusion

Overall, I can say that it is a great product, given its nutritional content. As for the taste, it will always depend on your kids. Personally, I like it because it's not sweet, Athena and Brianna liked it, however, other kids might find the taste off, compared to other chocolate drinks, especially to picky eaters. But you can serve it in many different ways; you can make a fruit smoothie and use NutriShake instead of milk, you can also make popsicles out of it. 

A 450-gram tub of NutriShake For Kids costs Php 1,900 but it is currently on sale for just Php 1,600. Php 1,600 for 15 servings, I find it a bit expensive, especially if you compare it to other vitamins. For that amount, you could already get other vitamins that will last for a month. But come to think of it, if your kids are still drinking milk, you could replace their regular milk with NutriShake. It’s like hitting two birds in one stone, a healthy treat, and vitamins in one. For us though, as I said at the beginning of this post, I don't have any problems giving my kids their vitamins so there's no urgent need for me to switch. My kids drink milk but not as often as before. But, I am thankful that we were given a chance to try it and share it to everyone, especially to parents who need this kind of vitamins for their children. 

So, do I recommend it? Yes! It's definitely worth a try! 

You might be glad to know that they offer a 30 Day BuyBack Guarantee, which means that if your kids don’t LOVE NutriShake, they will refund your purchase price, no-questions-asked! How cool is that? 

You can buy NutriShake on their website: https://nutrition.ph/

It is also available in Lazada. 

Want to score a free NutriShake? Check Nutition.ph on their social media pages below as they have an ongoing giveaway, Goodluck!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.nutrition.ph/

Instagram: @nutrition.ph

Twitter: @nutrition__ph

ANNOUNCEMENT: Registration for Baristas’ Quest in Davao, Baguio and Cebu, Now Open!

Calling all Baristas and Coffee Enthusiasts in the Philippines! 

The registration is now open for Baristas’ Quest, a campaign of competitions created for baristas and coffee enthusiasts to showcase their skills in coffee that will take place in Davao, Baguio and Cebu this July. 

Three different competitions are prepared for the month-long campaign. If you can identify a unique coffee in a set of cups, you may join the Flavors + Profiles: Coffee Triangulation—a cup tasting activity that will be held at the Frog Kaffe in Davao City on July 3. 

For artists who can create designs using milk, Baguio City will be having the Coffee + Art: Latte Art Throwdown at Halfroom Coffee on July 10. 

Meanwhile, for individuals who can extract rich coffee flavors into a cup, the Kettle + Cup: Coffee Brewing Challenge is set to happen at the Tightrope Coffee in Cebu City on July 25. 

Michael Harris Lim, President and CEO of Henry & Sons Trading and Manufacturing Company, Inc., who is also the 2019 Philippine National Barista Champion and the 2019 World Barista Championship Semi-Finalist, leads the Baristas’ Quest campaign. 

“Over the years, our company is committed in championing the local coffee scene through programs that promote sustainability in our coffee industry—from the farmers down to our baristas—by alleviating their status, improving their skills, and promoting camaraderie,” said Michael Harris Lim. 

Registration is free. Interested participants may register at bit.ly/BaristaQuest-Davao, bit.ly/BaristaQuest-Baguio, and bit.ly/BaristaQuest-Cebu. 

The champions of these competitions will get the chance to represent his or her region by getting a competitor sponsorship package for the National Coffee Championships, a travel allowance and accommodation to the National Barista Conference happening in Manila this September, and a Comandante Grinder! These events are co-sponsored by the venue partners. 

To know more about Barista Quest visit www.facebook.com/baristasquest/ or contact Tony Dy at 0917.153.1188.

On Being Healthy Inside and Out

I remember having a conversation with Tristan about cleaning his ears, which he is not fond of doing, mainly because he gets very ticklish. It's really a struggle doing that, it feels like we're playing tug-o-war; I pull him close to me and the moment I touch his ears, he pulls back. And, repeat. It gets really annoying! It takes a good amount of patient, strength and talking how important hygiene is, just to get it done. I would even make up horror stories about dirty ears, and that he'd get sick if we don't get it cleaned. But he doesn't seem to be bothered. According to him, he is eating vegetable so he is still healthy. So of course, I explained to him that being healthy should be inside and out.

And, that is really my goal for my family, to live a lifestyle that is healthy inside and out (i guess it's everybody's goal). But honestly, it's a struggle especially nowadays that the standard of being healthy has gone up on a different level. In all fairness though, I really admire those mommies who are very health conscious, those who prepare healthy, all-natural, or vegan meals for their families. Mommies who are dedicated to working out and has gym subscriptions. So, if that's what you are expecting here in this post, just like my other Health related posts, sorry to disappoint you but you can't find it here. Haha. I am going to talk about our reality and what are the things that I am doing to achieve my goal for me and my family.

Just in time, Watson's also have an ongoing campaign that is aligned with my goal. They sent us a Wellness Kit that has helped us throughout our journey to becoming healthy inside and out. 

Here's a short unboxing video which I've posted on Facebook and Instagram.

Before anything else, let me give you an overview of what is it like in our household, consisting of 5 members (with kids aged 9, 6 and 5) plus 2 in-laws, no yaya and no helper. Chaos! Hahahuhu. My husband and my in-laws are working so it is I and the kids who are mostly at home, so in short, I connote domestic drudgery. LOL! But, I won't take all the credit, because we all work together, there's a help when I need it. But, the struggle is still there, we just can't completely get rid of that.

These are all the products included on our Wellness Kit. There are products for everyone in the family plus gift cards that we can use to buy all other things we need from hygiene products, bath essentials, vitamins and supplements and over the counter medications. It's definitely a one-stop-shop! 

Now, talking about health, we all know the basics, healthy and balanced meal, active lifestyle, and cleanliness or hygiene. So these are the areas where I am going to focus on.

Active Lifestyle

In the past years, I always work out even just at home. I just check YouTube for home workouts. But since last year, it's zero. The only workout I get to do is when I do household chores and running errands. I've been a lazy ass, you know, Netflix and chill up to the wee hours then the next day, I'm very sleepy and feeling exhausted. Haha! 

So, all I can say is, I need to work on this area. If you're like me, a work-at-home-mom or stay-at-home-mom who can't afford or don't have time to go to the gym, let's push for home workouts even for just 30 mins to 1 hour a day. Remember, a little exercise is better than nothing. It can be jogging, walking, using the stairs or dancing, just keep moving. 

Sleep

Okay, I have to add this too. Take it from me, sleep is a necessity. It's hard to function well if you lack sleep. I know this, but then again I guess I am just pasaway. Imagine, sleeping 2AM or 3AM then waking up at 6AM to attend to the kids until I work late at night. I love sleeping but I also value my "me time". So, what I am doing is, I try to limit my late night "me time" then find time in between chores to take a nap or do what I want. To help induce sleep, it's best to avoid caffeine and drink Chamomile tea instead, its calming effect can help induce sleep.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pearl Paguio (@shesthemomblog) on Jun 15, 2019 at 11:22am PDT

I guess lack of sleep is also one of the reasons (aside from aging lol) as to why I always get a headache. So this Aromatherapy roll on is now part of my must-have items. 

When it comes to the kids, I see to it that they sleep 8PM and 9PM as the latest. Time management plays a big role here. So good luck! But really, you'll be surprised how kids can keep up with schedules. When I deviate from our original schedule my kids especially my eldest wouldn't budge. It's really important to be firm and consistent.

Hygiene

This is rather easy. Taking a bath should be an everyday thing, right? Well, except for moms to newborn babies, who hardly has time for themselves; been there, done that! Toothbrush, three times a day. Handwashing, before and after eating and using the restroom or as necessary. I couldn't elaborate more on this, I'm sure you all get this. But for a family with small kids, actually children in general, this needs more emphasis, agree?    

Aside from personal hygiene, home hygiene is also important. Our home is our sanctuary so it is mandatory that the cleanliness is maintained. But I also know how hard it is to tidy up after the kids or the biggest kid in the house (ehem the husband). Still, I make sure to clean up every day then we do spring cleaning every now and then. 

Healthy and Balanced Food

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pearl Paguio (@shesthemomblog) on Jun 6, 2019 at 11:33pm PDT

This is where I struggle the most because it is not just for me, I have 3 school-age kids to consider. I find myself stuck in a rut, cooking the same food or if not resorting to fast food or instant food. Don't judge me, a mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do!

So a week before this school year started, I vowed to plan our weekly menu since I will also be starting with my work at home job. This way, I can manage my time, budget and avoid stressing about what to cook. It's been 3 weeks now since I started and so far it's a success.

I started posting photos of their baon/snack and I'm enjoying it. I'm planning to buy bento tools to make it more pretty!

Now, I get to let the kids eat more veggies and we only get to eat fast-food or eat out on weekends. Yes, we haven't totally got rid of fast-food and also chips and sweets but the good thing is, it was lessened. So I still give the kids their vitamins daily to make sure they meet their nutritional needs, and we're almost done with that bottle of Propan TLC from our Watsons Kit.  

So there you go, our health and wellness journey so far. There is still a lot to improve on but we'll take that one day at a time. With the many distractions around us, I'm glad we were able to stick to our routine. Also thankful to Watsons for being part of it.

It's true that being healthy should be inside and out and when you are healthy you will look good and feel great! And there's no better time than now to start living healthy! 

Check Watsons online and stay updated with their products and exciting promos: 

FB:Watsons

Instagram: @watsonsph