Hotel-like Bed right in your Own Home

One of my project this year and probably would take a big slash out of my bonus is to purchase a bigger bed for the 4 of us.  Currently, we are using a Full size bed (54in x 74in) that can only fit up to 3 persons. It has been our bed since we got married. And having the 4 of us in it is already crowded.

My eldest in her tender years. That's our bed.
Imagine how we could fit the four of us now.

Waking up every time feels tiring, backaches here and there. It really is not a total relaxation and sleep for us except for the two girls because they are still small. How much more to my husband that he is kind of big and his sleeping position is always his legs hanging at the edge of the bed. Imagine that! How we wish we could stretch our backs and legs freely. Now it takes a conscious effort every time we change position in our sleep.

As you could see, that mattress we have is only 4 inches thick.
I want the 6 inches thick one. More durable and comfortable to get cozy and sleep.

I am planning to get a Queen size bed (60in x 80 in) because beyond that, we cannot move in freely in our room. I would love though to get the California King size (72in x 84in) but I have to consider our space. Since I cannot get the bigger one which I prefer, I saw this trundle bed from Uratex. It's multi-functional that I can just pull out the bed below when in use and pull in after.

Now, one cannot fully achieve a complete and comfortable hotel-like bed if it aren't for comfortable linens and beddings to match it with like that of a luxury bedding collection from Parachute. I told myself the moment I'm gonna find that "perfect" bed for our family, I will really dress up our bed with the "perfect" linens that would complement the whole look. That look when the moment I see it, I will imagine a restful and peaceful sleep and cannot wait to hit the sack. 

The Weeks That Were

Forewarn: There's no photos ahead. It's all words. So I hope you bear with me as I was just unloading baggage to release me and make me feel better. Nevertheless, it's not an intention on the other hand to pass it on to you as I don't wish you feel the same way as I do.


I'm all out of words, nothing to say. But my mind is full of stories to tell and concerns to address. I'm full packed now. Maybe I'm just all too stressed out thinking on things that I have in mind. I'm making paramdam here because it's almost 1 month after my last blog post. But I am grateful and thankful to those who stumble across my blog and patiently and took their time reading it. I know there are people reading here because of my ranking that is actively moving in numbers. Yehey to that!

Okay what keeps me busy from the past few weeks? Let me enumerate it because I too lost track. More than two weeks ago, both my kids were down with flu and hit with fever. My 3 year old's temperature went up to 40. I got scared. I brought them to their Pedia and antibiotics were prescribed. Oh gosh! The thought of that makes me weak. For one, my kids and I have a hate-relationship especially the youngest whenever taking in antibiotics. She dislike its pungent taste (yes, I tasted it) and in full force, with all our joined forces, we really and literally hold her like someone has to hold her feet, her hands and her head just to give her that 5ml dose otherwise she wouldn't take it or worst spit it. I couldn't afford to see my kids fighting with all their might, screaming and struggling for a dose of that medicine. It's not only stressful to us but more so to the kids. Second, antibiotics are expensive prescribed drugs and it's the last thing I would want them to ingest in their system. Besides that, I noticed from my youngest daughter rashes from her legs spreading to the body and arms which became more profound and itchy, to which the doctor told us is just heat rashes. I never mind for the first three days of medication thinking that the antibiotics he gave to my daughter is not only for the phlegm but for the skin infection/rashes (I read in the leaflet of the medicine) she had. I thought it may be the effect that the rashes gradually is coming out and because of the heat. On the 8th day, I sensed that it is not already the normal rashes though she don't have fever anymore. It's more bigger, itchy and red. So I went back to the doctor and blurted out measles! I got worried right away because she already had contact with my eldest daughter and what if she might get the virus? Luckily and thank God I can see no signs of rashes from Mariella since then. So I packed the things of my dear one and send her for the meantime in my parental's house in order not to pass on infection to the sister. We're missing her already. It's been a week of not seeing her and only talk to her daily through the phone as I speak. 

Another thing that keeps my motherhood so alive in between those happenings is I crammed for my eldest daughter's projects in school. Create an Alphabet book and using recyclable materials, make an illustration of a human body parts. After all the sleepless nights and the worries, I still manage to think of it overnight to be submitted on the next day which is 2 days late already. During the medication of Mariella, I didn't send her to school so not to infect her classmates thus the delay of her project's submission. The pictures of the Alphabet Book, I slowly collected it days before. But finishing everything was done overnight. Then there were school requirements to be bought for their 2nd Annual Family Day at school which was held last Sunday which was a whole day event and this week is there examination. I thank God still because it was a long weekend where I got to take time and rest a bit.

Have you guys watched the movie 'The Love Affair'? I am in awe of Dawn Zulueta's timeless and ageless beauty. Richard Gomez charisma is still undoubtedly remained despite her age. Kinikilig ako sa kanilang dalawa ni Dawn in the roles they played. And Bea Alonzo, very beautiful, fresh and she's very flawless. I was affected by the story because I can relate to it and it brought back bitter memories. I watched the movie together with my husband and I don't know what effect it had on him. But I'm certain that he can relate to it as well. No discussions done after because my eyes are all red when I came out of the cinema. My eldest daughter asked after if I cried. Of course, I couldn't lie because it's all over my face. We just laughed it off!

I'm not yet through. Work-wise it's manageable and it helps that my boss is very considerate. But what pisses me off are  people who are taking advantage of the opportunity that their favors are granted almost all the time and that they couldn't help asking for more. They are not yet satisfied of the help they are getting and I feel that they are making that generous person like a milking cow for their own needs. I know for a fact what they are asking help for because I'm also a mother. But I hope they should find a long term means to support the needs of the family and not to always ask money for whatever it is to other people on a regular basis. I don't know if they know what shame and gratitude is. They are not ill or disabled people who cannot find ways to sustain the needs of their family. And to think even their family in their own blood had already said to ignore them. 'Nuff said.

I feel that my PMS is somewhere down the road. Even a little detail affect my emotions. Recently, I posted something in a social media for my loved ones to see but it was nowhere to be found. It was deleted. Even if I don't want to feel anything for it, I felt hurt. I prayed that my hurt will just let go because it's not really a big deal after all. But I don't know. I felt a pinch in my heart. I got affected.

To end, I want to do many things to erase all these challenges that came my way lately. I'm thinking of pampering myself with facial and body massage, going to a retreat to embrace myself and meeting people who can be an inspiration for my everyday living, making memories with my family like going somewhere and doing the unusual stuff.

Thank you God for making my life not dull. I am not asking you to get rid of those unpleasant instances but I am asking for enough strength, wisdom, patience and heart to do all the things you let me encounter in this lifetime of mine. Everything that I have now -good, even the not so one- I thank you for I know you are molding me to be a person for others.

Women Can't Have Enough…

I finish the title phrase by saying shoes and shopping! I'm sure the rest of the women couldn't agree more should I say. Some women would add up clothes, bags, make-up in the long list of can't-have-enoughs. But I prefer shoes more, apart from home and kitchen furnishings and kid's stuff.

Last night, I took the opportunity to go "malling" in Abreeza while the hubby have something important meetings to attend nearby. And since I want to spend for myself muna because  it's my birthday naman, I took off finding a pair of ballet shoes that I've been wanting to buy. Ako naman talaga si Ballet/Flat shoe girl. Since I become a mom, this is my go-to shoe whether for causal or office attire. It's just comfortable and I can move with ease.  

Aldo has an ongoing sale on selected shoes and accessories.
I got mine at Php800.00 (Regular priced at Php 1,595.00). 

Payless also has an on going sale: Buy 2 (regular priced item) and get
Php500.00 off on the total amount.
(with a minimum purchase of Php1,000.00)

I love my haul from Aldo. I'm looking for a black shoe that would not look too casual when I use it for office. I was already eyeing this about 2 weeks na. I like it because it's the jelly type good for rainy days. I won't worry that much when it'll be soak in water because it won't destroy the texture of the shoe that much. Easy to clean too. It's pointy toe design makes it more formal even if it's not heeled. Not to mention the comfort it brings to my feet!

The second (and third) find I scored are these casual flats from Payless. From the original price at Php695.00, I got this two items for only Php890.00. 

I'm suppose to buy the red one but I love the redness more of Celine and the effect of the color on my feet. That is about Php899.00. I was thinking of buying it, but again guilt sinks in. Too much! Maghunos dili naman. If it's meant for me, I definitely will have it in the right time. 

So that's my shoe shopping spree! I hope you like my new purchases as much as I do. 

Happy Days ahead!

After that last post I published, good things have been coming our way and more. Good things come to those who certainly wait and it's all worth it. Such a wonderful feeling when you just claim everything to be positive and possible even if you find it impossible and unimaginable to happen. No, don't think of it that way! Don't ever allow even a little to think about it. As they say, habang may buhay, may pag asa! Ganun dapat tayo pume-peg sa buhay. Even if sometimes, things do not happen the way we want it, let's bear in mind that God has something better in store for us. Envision that thing, the bull's eye, so that life would be more colorful and exciting on the days to come. There's no reason to bum about the waiting period. It should give us hope and let's put that faith alive in us.


After a week, the waiting paid off indeed. I'll be seeing one important person in my life soon... and five more. It's too good to be true! Thank you Lord for the goodness! I'm so freaking impatient to let you know but I'm still not allowed to say anything. Nakakawalang gana ang post ko ano? No details yet but full of suspense and surprise. But I'll definitely blog it once we got there. I have the clearance to do so. One month more to go and I'm off for a great vacay! 

Lose Stomach Fats Naturally in Two Weeks

I tried, conquered and won. It's about discipline and focus. God's image and likeness for me is a being chubby person. I accepted that long before I even am conscious of my body structure. I don't hate it at all. I embrace my body the way it is. I'm not yearning to be skinny trimmed like models in the catwalk and print ads. I just want to be proportionate in every part of my body plus the baby fats. I only have a concern about my body posture that reflects a stooped back and a bulging stomach and belly. All else I can manage. I tried losing some weight before and actually I did it. But many where not happy to see me in the new me. They saw me as if I'm sick. I tried eating healthy and run on the thread mill. That's when I said to myself, I won't change the entirety of my body lest give it just a proportion.

I am petite in structure so I thought being slim without the fats would look like I'm very little, skin and bones, worst, sick. I'm not dreaming to have that packs in the abdomen and to have muscles in my arms. No. I just want that unwanted fats to get rid the area of my stomach and belly and my back to get straightened having a good posture. I know for when I'll succeed on achieving them this will boost my self-confidence and lessen my insecurities.

So without further ado, my secret to losing fats on my abdomen area for about two weeks with obvious results is by drinking green tea and warm/hot water. I mean by warm/hot water, I avoided drinking cold water anymore. I don't have an active and healthy lifestyle with me plus my metabolism is slow, thus, there's no way I can burn my stored calories, carbo, sugar, fats on everything I eat during the day. So by drinking hot/warm liquid in my system, it will help dissolve stored elements inside my body not to mention that I get to release them by constant urination. It's no secret to every one that green tea is an antioxidant and is a good source of 'caffeine'. Chinese and Japanese alike have good skin and glow. It's not only because of their genes and hereditary reasons but because they simply drink green tea which is a staple in every meal they have and helps replenish toxins inside our body.

I love how mild this brand of green tea suits my taste buds and stomach.
Other brands I tried like Lipton, Susan Baker and Twinning's give a strong
kick that I dislike both in my throat and stomach.

By the way, when I drink tea I usually pair it by drinking lots of water. I read somewhere that drinking tea too much or alone can cause brittleness of the bones. Same with calcium. Too much of it can make ones bones brittle so water to the rescue. As the saying goes too much of everything can harm you. Moderation is the key.

Exercise, eating the right amount and kind of food plus a healthy lifestyle will completely pave way to a healthier you and an active proportionate body.

Kitchen Tools for the Holidays

I really wanted to invest in small appliances particularly for our kitchen. I've been meaning to test my "sleeping" culinary skill (I believe somehow each one of us has it) for the longest time now and thinking of buying cooking aids that would surely realize what I wanted to whip up for my family particularly for my sweet tooth. Baking is my ultimate to-do wish. I know it entails a much needed time to be able to focus on making wonders in the kitchen. But I'd like to seriously start and not just wishing. I have to make a move and decide. So as I was scouting for some appliances to add up to my humble kitchen, two things I had in mind: a convection oven and the air fryer of Philips (see here or here or here).

Okay, let me start first with the oven because I had been dreaming about it for a very long time already. Before, it's the electric oven from La Germania I've been yearning to buy. Maybe today it would cost around P8,000-P10,000 pesos depending on the model. But I've been hearing about the name convection oven from a lot of mommy bloggers. It's like a turbo broiler (boiler?) pala. But now, it looks like an oven toaster that can bake and a rotisserie in one. Now I want this! It's not even that bulky and can fit in a small kitchen space like mine. Its size is like an oven toaster or a bit bigger depending on what brand. How is the two differed? You can read it here. As I searched further in the internet, I have short it to 5 designs I have to choose from.

Given I have extra, extra money, I will give Hamilton Beach Countertop oven with convection and rotisserie (31103 model) a shot. It's price is less than $100. In Philippine peso including racks and trays, it will just cost me less than P6,000.00. I tried buying online through Amazon but the shipping, handling and import taxes hurts a lot amounting to a whooping P18,000.00 (super ouch!)! Ridiculous no? The product itself is very cheap compared to the tax and shipping I'll pay. I'll just ask a family member residing outside the Philippines to buy for me and ship it here. A review of the product here.

 

Or maybe a Cuisinart CSO-300 Combo Stem/Convection Oven which priced a little bit higher for $300.

 

A Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven 1800W Convection Toaster Oven with Element IQ would also suffice my choice for a good convection oven that would cost around $250.

 

But if I have a budgeted money, I'd settle for a Japanese and affordable brand, Imarflex. My rice cooker, oven toaster and blender are all Imarflex brand which I assure of good quality. I saw this from Ms. Aileen Apollo's blog including the photo below when she raved about it here. Maybe for a starter like me, this is good enough because it's already a 3-in-1 technology. What's important is I can bake. That's all that matters to me.

I encountered Mommy Juvs blog in this particular post. There's this one photo which shows an oven from behind one of her son's photo. Funny because it wasn't that of her topic but I just saw at a glance and asked her what particular oven (convection oven to be exact) she is using. I was touched because she emailed me back with the photo of her Kyowa oven she's using. Here's what she says about her Kyowa oven.

I think the KW-3307 model (photo below) she is using because of the design against the one she emailed to me. It's much clearer from the manufacturer's website as the photos below.

Image from here

I'm beginning to get excited for my new convection oven. I really wanted to start baking hopefully during the holidays and the start of the new year. I wish I'll pick the best and the one suited for my baking moods.

How about you guys? Would you recommend a good and user friendly convection oven applicable for a newbie like me? Please share.

If Only I Could...

...Know how to drive, and have my own car. I don't have interest in driving at all unlike the many who wished they could. It looks good in women. Having this mindset that women driving their own 'thing' looks empowered, sophisticated, rich, controlling and confident. It could represent too their personality of being strong, independent and with authority. But I realized, and despite of the adjectives I said, driving is a skill, practical and necessary especially when there are emergencies. Being able to drive, I could just go wherever I want without hassling others time.

...Swim. This is one of the basic thing and probably the most important skill one should have in order to survive. I don't know how to. I was traumatized when I was young I drowned in a canal with water almost mid-leg deep. You might wonder why I drown in that shallow water, but I did.

...Bake and Cook. I love sweets, chocolates and desserts. Period.

...Have the skill in business. I want to earn and buy things not waiting for the payday. That's it.

...Protect my kids from harmful elements and sickness. It's really heartbreaking when you see your kids in pain. If only I could take that away from them and put it in mine. I want them to be happy, carefree and active always. It's heartwarming to see them smile, laugh, eat and sleep.

If only I could makes this world a better place to live in. I wish I could.

How about you? What's in your wishlist?

What's Sale-ing at Taste Central

Th only downside I could think of of this "heavenly" online store, Taste Central, is it only caters and delivers customers from Manila area. How could you!? What about us living in other parts of the country? Actually, to my dismay, I emailed them. They said they're working on it and can only cater around Metro Manila only for the meantime. Well, at least they're working on it. It's still better than never ever considered it (hehehe). I can only just wish for now and make my list to name a few:

Left side (from Top to bottom): Sparkly Cross Bracelet from Vain Accessories (Priced at P1,200.00, discounted at P720.00); Roxy Must-Have Wrist Candy (Priced at P2,999.00, now at P1,465.00); Shu Uemura Perfect Poreless Set (Priced at P2,500.00, now at P750.00); Moroccan Argan Oil Hair Repair Oil (Priced at P1,750.00, now at P1,400.00); Beansprout Walk Together Shoe bags -Set of 6 (Priced at P600.00, down to P500.00); Butter Twists Satin Sylvia Ballerinas (Priced at P999.00, now P350.00); Michael Antonio Glitter Riordan Heels (Priced at P2,999.00, now at P1,500.00)

Right side (from Top to Bottom): Studded Cross Metal Bangle from Vain Accessories (Priced at P1,000.00, now at P600.00); Shu Uemura Skin Radiance Set (Priced at P2,500.00, now at P750.00); Made by David Organics Peppermint & Tea Tree Shampoo Set (Priced at P514.00, now at P412.00); Moroccan Argan Oil Gentle Soap (Priced at P350.00, now at P315.00); Butter Twists Victoria Fold-Up Ballerinas (Priced at P1,299.00, now at P650.00); Michael Antonio Thorpe Ankle Strap Platforms (Priced at P3,400.00, now at P1,700.00); Michael Antonio Glittery Red Kashmir Heels (Priced at P2,799.00, now at P1,400.00)

Now, and who wouldn't freak out? These are amazing mark downs knowing that the products are of high quality with real discounts. I still have a lot on my wish list but it would be unfair for those who will read this post of mine if I'll put here everything. It will be mind drooling. I'm starting to have a headache because of envy (aarrgghh!). By the way, they not only offer things for women. They are a lifestyle shop. Sigh! I wish a genie will appear and make me have my 3 wishes come true. First in line, that they could deliver nationwide. Second and the last one, is that I will have lots of money to purchase everything on my wish list. I believe in miracles.

Okay, I know you have also your own personal choices, so feast your eyes and minds on their on going sale here. They have new products available every Sunday, so better check out and be the first. But wait, in order to avail of their line of products, you have to become a member. Don't worry, it's for free!

My Favorite Things

Foreword: A prologue of my post "Ultimate Wishlist for 2013". This will be a series of posts. Like a saga, by chapter and the like. For sure, in my everyday exposure to blog, the World Wide Web (www) and my daily personal encounters, I will have endless of favorite things and wishlists that will build up through time.

My previous post was all about my wishes for this year. But as time goes by I know it will be multiplied as I get to be aware of the most coveted things one has. I blame the power of Blogger and the World Wide Web. I know it is not their fault but simply because having something new on-hand is like being an achievement for me. I work hard for it and I deserve to have it. Not just for my own need but for my family's need that I think they deserve to have.

In just a matter of hours, I am adding up my cart of favorite things on my wishlist. I have 2 new wants.

1. Aquasana Complete Countertop Filtration System. This for me is the best I can give for myself and family. Safety for me is one of my top priority. In this time that our water and water system is not that potable anymore even if I'm living in a place where it has the 2nd cleanest potable water in the whole world (2nd to Italy and I don't know if it's still until today), rapid development and abuse of our environment makes everything polluted. I'd like to have a clean and safe drinking water right in my own faucet at home and straight into my stomach without any worries. The thing is expensive though but for me it's already affordable knowing that it can benefit my family a lot.

2. Panasonic Lumix LX-5. I have my own Sony Cybershot DSC-S700 series (I'm going to sell it) but I'd love to get a new one and replace it with this Lumix LX-5. I love that it has white color. I saw this in Mommy Michelle's blog. I am inspired and admire her for being a multi-faceted woman. Her and so many moms in her circle I support daily and read each of their own blogs about parenthood, family and being a woman of this age. Any how, What do you think of this?

How about you, do you have favorite things and wishlists too? Until my next!...

Ultimate wishlists for 2013

Each and everyone of us has goals every new year. I do not have goal lists in particular but this year I feel that this is worth something looking forward too. Even if 3 months has passed already I still can feel that this year is something good for me. Good vibes, positivity mode: on! Well, I have so many things I wanna have and to achieve may it be materially, spiritually, emotionally and physically (literally!) For one, I already enrolled my self in Zumba classes which I see myself to be healthy this year to start off everything. Because being able to move and actively participate in such health and wellness program promotes positive vibes and a good aura on oneself and to the people around. I believe being healthy in mind, body and spirit makes one a happy person. Would you agree?

So, here's my ultimate wishlists/ goals for year 2013. I am listing 10 of my possible and make-it-happen things. I still have more than 10 but those are still impossible to achieve for now unless I make a bet in lotto and win the jackpot. So here it goes:

1. Good health: for myself, my family and loved ones. Staying fit and healthy. Hitting it with Zumba! A living proof below.

Source

Zumba and being healthy!

April 1, 2013 marks the start of my daily healthy regimen. It's not related to April Fool's day you know. This is true. How? Well my officemates with the support and approval of our office management joined together and have our M-W-F (Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays) Zumba class program. Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance-fitness program created by a Columbian dancer and choreographer during the 90's. 

"Zumba involves dance and aerobic elements. Zumba's choreography incorporates hip-hop,soca, samba, salsa, merengue, mambo, martial arts, and some Bollywood and belly dance moves. Squats and lunges are also included.^[2] Zumba Fitness, an organization that sells Zumba videos and products, does not charge licensing fees to gyms or fitness centers.^[3] Approximately 14 million people take weekly Zumba classes in over 140,000 locations across more than 150 countries.^[4] In 1986, Alberto "Beto" Perez forgot his tape of aerobics music for a class he was teaching. He took the tapes he had in his backpack – consisting of traditional salsa and merengue music – and improvised a class using this non-traditional aerobics music." (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

Normally, a Zumba class takes an hour of your physical strength. It is rigorous yet a satisfying feeling after all the sweat is coming out in your body. It is also challenging since my goal here is to shed of unwanted calories and burn those excess fats sleeping in my tummy. Last month, our office personnel invited some nutritionists and doctors and gave informative facts about eating the right food at the right time. Though I wasn't able to attend it but one of my officemate told me that for breakfast one should eat protein rich foods. Among them are: 

• Poultry (Chicken, light meat only/ Turkey breast, deli, skinless)

• Beef (Sirloin top steak, broiled, lean only)
• Fish (Salmon, fresh, Atlantic farmed, baked, broiled/ Trout, rainbow, fresh, farmed, baked, broiled/ Tuna, bluefin, fresh, baked, broiled/ Tuna, canned, solid light in water)

• Dairy (Milk, fat free)
• Soy, Nuts, Eggs, Beans (Black beans, canned/ Boca Burger, Vegan/ Egg, hard boiled/ Egg, white only/ Peanut butter, creamy/ Soybeans, green, boiled, drained/ Tofu, raw, firm)

Notice there are no carbo-overload here which means no rice or bread as what we all knew by eating more at breakfast. And by the end of the short "seminar", we weighed ourselves using their not the usual weighing scale as what we have in our bathrooms. Aside from the usual weighing, it also calculates the number of calories in our body and your metabolic age. As for me, I am 33 years old. But my metabolic age is that of a 39-year old person. And that means my body is 6 years older than my number of years of being alive. Yay!

So now that everything in me is not in proportion, I am hoping that it will lead me to a healthy lifestyle starting from attending Zumba classes and later on choosing the right kind of food and eating at the right time.

Blogging: my new personal diary

Just this morning, I felt another episode of dismay. I just couldn't express it in words to avoid further discussions and turning a bad day to my companions at the house. I just thought I would reserve it to my personal diary which is my blog. I find relief whenever I write something here. May it be happy thoughts, bad experience or ill feelings to a person. I don't know until when will I go through all of these things which bothers me a lot every single day and for these people to realize that if everybody works together without depending on other people to work on their supposed role, then there would be no heavy load. A woman plays a lot of role in the family and even in the society as a whole. She can even do what man can do. But why cannot be the other way around? Gender-sensitivity comes in. I envy women who have strong support system in their household. I don't know if there's something wrong with the way I handle myself or my household. It's just that I don't have the right vibes and I need to silence myself for a while to reflect on things because I feel my environment is very chaotic. I cannot think properly. But how can I? My hands are so full that I cannot even handle my own well. I know I've been missing my God for a long time. But I know He's just there for me. Waiting for my call. I have to start my personal contact with my Creator. I know and I'm guilty with this. It is not an easy journey because from the start I've been journeying all by myself. And I know my God is always there for me and He has been my support system all through out. I gotta save myself from going nowhere. In short, I think I'm lost. Please help!

Nuby, I got you!

Finally, I owned one. Thanks Mommy Fleur for introducing this to me. When I read her blog on this, I got interested right away. Since I have a newborn, a good quality feeding bottle is a must for me. Avent is very expensive for a budget conscious me. Searching for a way to get it, my eyes lit up when I saw it at Zalora online shop. No second thoughts, I bought it right away. For 2 working days, I got my most awaited purchase.

8 oz. bottle

Award winning!

It's natural shape and size of nipple mimics that of the mother.

The entire bottle. See how clear the bottle is. You could see what's written at the back.

What I like about this is as your baby grows till her/his toddler years (say up to 2 to 3 years), your child can still use it by just changing/ adding accessories like the bottle handle, changing its silicone nipple to a no spill spout, then to a no spill flip it drinking straw and finally when your baby gets a little bit older you can change it to a drinking rim and let him/ her drink in the bottle like a kid. Each transition spouts and straws I think are sold separately. It's a great alternative to Avent since it worth more than 50% less than of Avent. It's worth it!

This time around

Hola bloggistas! As always I've been out of the limelight of blogging for a long time now. However, never in a day will my support and presence in the blogosphere fails. I always read the blogs in my blog list daily. And now, I am here again since I am in the middle of a lot of stuff to search, comply, and decide. Everyday is a whole new picture of what's going to be ahead of you. It's a challenge and it's a good or bad scenario. Every day is a risk to take and every second counts. It's a good venue for me to chill and relax my mind with a short and quick blog. Because right now I'm preparing for the Valentine's day giveaways in our office, the baptism of my second child and the 2nd birthday of my first. All happening in February. Whew! A lot of stuff for me to prepare. I am praying for wisdom and miracle that these 3 things will be all right in order, place and the exact things I've been looking for.

Versatile Blogger (Part II)

Thada!! And here is my Top 15 Versatile Bloggers not in random order. I chose to not put it in order since I don't know who tops the most since everybody deserves to be in Top 1. Where in fact, it takes me days to ponder and jot down my Top 15 because everybody on the blogosphere deserves the versatility in blogging since each and everyone has its own unique pages that speaks of their own personality. But since Ate Balut just ask for Top 15, I had to make my own list. Pardon for those who are not in the following list, but those who are in my blogroll deserves in this list too. That's why I had you in my list because your site inspires me! 

And the Versatile Blogger Award goes to....

1. Balut on Balut Manila and Run! And Keep on Running
2. Joanne of My Open Notebook
3. Nikki of Askmewhats
4. Chloe of ChloeBelle's Nest and ACE'S
5. Irish of D' Explorer
6. Zenith in Heart of DNA Success
7. Mike of Explorer, First Time Networker, Jocy's World and The Researcher
8. Lester of Gateway to adventure
9. SMF of Life In Every Moment, The Blood Donor and The Flowergirl Artist
10. Shengy of Love Always, Shengy'sdelight and theLivingShed
11. Michael of The Pinoy Wanderer and Show Me Your Look Today
12. Blogger of The Pinay Wanderer (hey, what's your nick?)
13. Mai Flores of Budget Biyahera and Sinigang Junkie
14. Joanne of Joanne's Blog
15. Maxi of The Travelling Swe-Nay Foodie
16. Jenn of Tara! Let's Eat

And there you have it. I have Top 16 because they really deserve this award! I can't help it. Thank you to all of you!

Versatile Blogger (Part I)

Same as you Ate Balut, I was surprised too for considering me as one of which you think is a "Versatile Blogger." And like you also, it's my first ever blogger award! Yehey! 

There's so much joy and gratitude that I feel right now considering I'm a newbie and that I'm still creating my niche in the blogosphere. Thank you for always supporting and noticing my page, my blog posts and giving your time commenting on my thoughts. You're a love and a dear! And now, in order not to violate any of your rules and to avoid being having a punishment (LOL!), here are the following random things about me:

1.  INTROVERT. Sheepishly shy yet gladly welcomes new acquaintances that comes along. I'd wait for  somebody to approach me rather than me to make the first move.

2. DOMESTICATED. I am a homebody rather than going outdoors. However, once in a while I go out just to pamper myself and update myself on what's new around me. Haven't hang out with my college classmates for the very long time already due to my career as a working mom.

3. MUSIC LOVER. I love soothing music that relaxes my senses. I'm into rhythm & blues, jazz kind of music. I listen to the new ones depending on the beat that I like. But for my list, R&B and Jazz music is the best!

4. A LOVER FOR ARTISTRY. I can say to myself that I'm one because being an "Interior Designer" is my most coveted profession and dream. Even if I am not given the privilege and time to do my own crafts, still it remains my hidden desire until now. I like conceptualizing designs in my mind that should have been realized. Yet not given the opportunity to make it happen.

5. HAS A SWEET TOOTH. Loves coffee, chocolates, cakes & everything that is FOOD. I can drink coffee in any way it's prepared and for how many cups a day except for the strong, black one. I like it when it has combination. Same with chocolates. But I prefer the bittersweet one. I don't care if it has nuts or raisins on it. I would love to bake but don't have oven at house. So, it's still my pending thing to do

6. TRAVELER... Wanderer. Apart from being an introvert, I have this side of me that loves to go outdoors especially if means travelling for a vacation. I love to explore new places and try out their food. But that again remains in my wishlist since I have a kid to take care of, a job and constraint in my finances. That's why I'm just a wanderer in my mind as for the moment.

7. GOOD KEEPER. I am a sentimental person. I treasure things that is of value to me. That's is why I have loads of things in the house that I have to constantly check if to trash or not. I love to keep things that I think I still have to keep even if it's okay to be trashed already. Same as with the things that I do and the people around me. I am very careful with the things that I do so as not to have a bad karma. But sometimes my mouth gets out of me.

8. BLOGGER! Need to say more?

Freebies via blog

A lot of blog sites now have their own perks to be able to get other bloggers support and attention by giving freebies. Who wouldn't like that? I myself have been participating in such promos, contests and whatever it is called to be able to get those things. But unfortunately, I'm not the lucky one. Maybe there are much more deserving people than I am who by God's mercy are lucky enough to grab those featured items that's so cool to have. Anyway, I'm not giving out giveaways because I don't have sponsors yet. I'm still a newbie and hoping that I'll be able to give out soon (if my finances would let me).

http://firmoo.com/

In the meantime, I'm sharing to you one of the bloggers giveaways. As you all fellow bloggers know that Firmoo has been giving out plentiful of fashionable sunnies and eyeglasses to lucky bloggers. I joined pretzelgurl's "pa-contest" and hoping that I'll be lucky enough to grab one of those reading glasses for my tired and suffering eyes. You see it's been more than 5 years since I have my own reading glasses. But eventually it broke because of my carelessness. My job requires me to stare on a longer hours in front of the computer so I haven't been fair enough with my eyes. Hoping this time with God's mercy and pertzelgurl's presence in the blogosphere, I'll be the lucky one. The promo is ongoing and ends on the 13th of July. Winners to be announced on the 14th of the same month. So better join now! 

Santorini of the Philippines

As I was visiting some blog sites of bloggers here in the Philippines, I came across one site that mentioned www.dealdozen.com. In here, you can purchase items at a much lower price. As I searched for the that site and started browsing for its offers, I was hooked on to the travel & adventure section. That's how amazed I was with the grandeur of one of the hidden resorts here in the Philippines: The Bellarocca Island Resort & Spa. 

Photo from their website

It is located in Marinduque, known to be the heart of the Philippines. Marinduque (Filipino: Marinduke pronounced [mɑrinˈduke]) is an island province of the Philippines located in the MIMAROPA region in Luzon. Its capital is Boac. Marinduque lies between Tayabas Bay to the north and Sibuyan Sea to the south. It is located south and west of Quezon, east of Mindoro, and north of Romblon (from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marinduque). The resort is situated at the Southern part, off coast of the island of Marinduque, the Elephant Island. When I saw the photos, it looks like Santorini. I fell in love right away and thought of blogging it. Its rates are in USD, so better check their site for complete information: http://www.bellaroccaresorts.com. It's indeed more fun in the Philippines! Proud to be Pinay!

My Beloved: It's your day!

They say that love is sweeter the second time around. Many don't know that my marriage is tested at the beginning of our lifetime together. At first it was like a bomb that hit me in pieces and denial stage has dawned in me. Many thoughts run to my head at that time because so many things were at that moment already there. It was most of me and myself alone and a friend. I want to break free but couldn't. So many reasons and realities to face and consider. But I hang on to myself and to my God. He never left me from the start until the end of my struggle. It was so real and I have to face it (come what may).

I am writing this because I want to thank my husband who strengthened my being. Despite of everything that we've been through, I will always be thankful to my Father for reasons that He only knew. It's been a roller coaster ride and I won't surrender until my dying days. To my husband, I thank you for showing me that marriage is a two way process. I know I have my downs, my weaknesses and my imperfections but still you never gave up on me. I can see you are trying and doing the best you can to provide for us. Thank you for making up and for trying to be a better husband and a father. Thank you for always being patient and considerate now with my needs and feelings. I somehow realize that being a father is a no-joke. It is a big responsibility to take as he should be the strength of the family. I salute you "Langga"/ "Papa" (to M) for standing by with us and for taking ways to support and provide for us. Thank you for showing your happiness whenever you are with us and that is enough for me to think that you love us more than anything else. I/We love you very much. Happy Father's Day!

My Blog got PR1

Yey! Finally my online diary got recognized today. For these past few days, I've been trying to check if my page rank got at least a 1. But it failed and even was invalid when I try to check it via page rank checker . And at least today when I tried to check again, I got a PR 1 today. I still have a long way to go since the highest is 10. Not too bad compared to last week with no rank at all. And here's another one, I check also my blog site if how it ranked in the top blog of the Philippines and from last week's 700++, I am now at 495 (as of writing time). Thanks to all my fellow bloggers who have been visiting my site religiously and even oftentimes. If not for your support, my site wouldn't have a face in the blogosphere.