Cafe Molinari

Cafe Molinari is a restaurant along V. Cruz (near the corner of Taft Avenue). DLSU, DLS-CSB and St. Scholastica students are sure to know this one. It offers a sor of finer dining option from the other fastfood chains in the area. Meals (rice with viand) start at P99.

The ambiance is cozy and the meals are a joy. Not sure if it offers wifi but I've seen a lot of patrons with their laptops on or playing their ps3 undisturbed. The staff are real friendly and the service is great.

It's becoming a regular haunt for my classmates and I. Try the sardines meal and their blueberry cheesecake if you do get to pass by.

Run United for Wellness with UNILAB

An internet friend asked me to help spread the word for UNILAB's "Run United for Wellness" that's happening at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig on March 7, 2010.

Here is the press brief:

Get started on fitness at Unilab Run United for Wellness

Starting a healthy lifestyle is made easy with Unilab Run United for Wellness at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig on March 7.

Unilab Run United for Wellness is a health and wellness event for the family with running as a core activity. Besides the 3 km, 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km categories for adults, there is also a 500 meter dash for kids to help parents get their children started on a fitness lifestyle.

Family members can also consult for free with running coaches and fitness experts at the Unilab Wellness Village. It is divided into health zones such as Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Children’s Health, Seniors’ Health, and General Adults’ Health to cater to the specific needs of each family member. Aside from free consultations, the health zones also have interactive games and challenges that family members can enjoy.

Runners and their families can register online at www.unilabwellnessevents.com.ph until Feb. 15 or through in-store registration at Runnr store at The Fort and Planetsports outlets in Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Rockwell, Glorietta, Alabang Town Center, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, and Marquee Mall Pampanga starting Jan. 30 until Feb. 28.

Unilab Run United for Wellness is the first corporate-initiated wellness event of Unilab, the country’s largest and leading pharmaceutical and healthcare company that’s behind trusted brands like Alaxan, Ceelin, Enervon, Myra E, Skelan, and Solmux, among many others.

Organized by Finishline for the run and AdStaunch for the wellness village, the event is also made possible by partners like New Balance, Timex, Fitness First, Summit Water, 100Plus, Nature Valley, Photovendo, Bullrunner, and Run Radio.

I'm sure many are not keeping their New Year's resolution to become healthier already. But the thing is, we cannot raise our children with a good attitude towards diet and exercise if we don't practice it ourselves. And we cannot wean our kids from video games and hours of TV if we don't offer them alternative activities that are fun and healthier.

Here is a chance for the family to have fun together. Get the kids cheering for Dad! Get the kids high on endorphin rush from exercise! And take advantage of the free consultations. Forewarned is forearmed and many have been saved due to early detection of illnesses. If there's nothing wrong with you, at least an expert will get to validate that too!

So go and register now and then mark your calendars! (or have Facebook alert you!)

Amber's Best Food Pakners

Amber's Best Ihaw-Ihaw and Restaurant included their pricelist for packed meals they call Fud Pakners.

Just click on the pictures to take you to the bigger scanned pics and call in your orders now. I guess, for offices, you can just call in your orders for the following day. That way, you get a reprieve from the cafeteria food.

Fun in Summer Learning

Most schools offer field trips for their students which are hopefully intriguing and enlightening. But parents can do more for their kids this summer by making learning fun, and I don't mean just academic subjects.

Sure, more trips to museums (the Science and Discovery Museum at MOA, Museong Pambata along Roxas Boulevard, etc.) may result in a mesothelioma lawyer in the family someday but there are other things that families can go to that will be equally stimulating.

A trip to nature parks and even the La Mesa Dam will remind you of your biology subjects and your kids are more likely to remember what you say than their own teachers about water, plants and how creatures depend on both to survive. Holidays at the beach will teach them about the simple wayof life, of how fishermen depend on nature for a bountiful catch and what their role is in ensuring there will still be something to be caught in future. Provincial trips and hiking trips will be immersion trips in local culture, so try to avoid the usual bustling touristy cities. Go where Filipino culture is alive and not overwhelmed by commercialization and Westernization.

Get your kids involved in marketing and grocery shopping. Get them to plan the family budget and meals as well as the trips and nice purchases. Or get them working for extra bucks that will teach them the value of hard work. Just make sure you engage your kids and not let them waste their summer away just playing ball or watching TV.

All About Clay Dough

Parents and teachers alike all say that homemade play dough are still the best. For a traditional recipe, you can try this one:

1 cup flour
1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon oil
1/4 cup salt
food coloring

Mix all ingredients, adding food coloring last. Stir over medium heat until smooth. Remove from pan and knead until blended smooth. Place in plastic bag or airtight container when cooled. Will last for a long time. Source

For other variations, you can check other fun play dough recipes. But if you really don't want to bother, you can just buy from Ilog Maria or department/toy stores (Play Doh).

Now, Play-Doh seems to have a monopoly of the commercially distributed clay. They're selling four tubs for P130 which isn't bad since their clay has been tried and tested to last and not irritate.

But what do you do if you want more clay molds but don't want to pay a higher price for it? For that, you can go to Divisoria. Anding's Toy Store has several box sets of molds that you can buy (there's even a farm set with a Play-Doh-like fun factory squeezer). They'd cost between P130-150 per set and each set contains clay also. Of course, if your child is still prone to tasting things or if your child has sensitive skin, i'd suggest not to use the clay that comes with these molds anymore. Maybe you (the adult) can use them instead.


sample of molds you can get at Divi

You can also freely use your kid's other toys. Toy pans and pots sometimes have bottoms that can create texture on clay. Other fun shapes from other toys can be used as molds also.

And what do you do when the clay has hardened? Just add some water and knead the dough, and keep adding some water until you get the desired consistency. Also make sure that the clay dough is stored in airtight containers. If you're not using them for a while, store the dough in the airtight containers with some water, which the clay will absorb while it's stored.

Playing with clay is really relaxing and helps your little ones with hand dexterity and creativity. Just make sure they don't ingest anything (even if homemade play doughs are non-toxic) and don't play with small parts that could pose a choking hazard.

Hair Loss After Pregnancy

This often surprises women after giving birth. Hair starts falling around three months after delivery and they wonder if it's the stress of adjusting to a newborn that's causing it or should they be concerned already about female pattern hair loss and more serious things like alopecia.

Chances are big that it's actually just hormones stabilizing after the pregnancy that's causing the hair that did not fall off during the pregnancy to start falling after the delivery. Part of the pregnancy mask or glow is having thicker, faster growing hair during pregnancy as hair is locked in the growing stage. Then these are shedded after 100 days or so from the birth of the baby and can last up to even a year.

Of course, stress can aggravate hair loss which is why it's still important for new mothers to get all the help they can get. To minimize the shedding, here are some things that a new Mom can do:

1) keep taking prenatal vitamins (the Zinc and fish oil are especially great for overall skin health)
2) scalp massage (using fingers or boar brittle brush on detangled hair)
3) have a great birthing experience, with enough support before and after the delivery
4) use mild hair care products that won't clog pores
5) avoid hairstyles that put extra stress on the hair (harsh chemicals, braids all stress your hair)
6) eat more fruits and vegetables

Know that this kind of hair loss IS temporary but if it's really bothering you, feel free to consult a doctor for help.

Summer Travel with Cebu Pacific at P999!

As received in e-mail
-------------------------------

Cebu Pacific's sparks summer travel with international fare as low as P999!
Explore your favorite international destinations with Cebu Pacific's seat sale from now until January 18, 2010 for travel from April 1 to June 30, 2010.

Get P999 "Go Lite" promo fare for travel from Manila to Kota Kinabalu and Taipei; Clark to Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and Bangkok.

Enjoy P1,499 "Go Lite" promo fare for Manila to Hong Kong, Macau, Canton, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok and Saigon; Cebu to Hong Kong and Singapore.

For those planning to go to Incheon, Jakarta and Shanghai from Manila, get your seats for as low as P1,999 "Go Lite" promo fare. The same low rate is available for those intending to travel from Cebu to Incheon and Busan.! Osaka seats are also up for grabs at the "Go" fare of P1,999.

We have a total of 14 international destinations to choose from this summer.
Hurry, log on to www.cebupacificair.com and plan your summer travels as early as now!

Passengers without credit cards can book online and pay through CEB partner banks (Bancnet, Megalink, Metrobank, Banco de Oro and Robinsons Savings Bank).

-------------------------------

Meanwhile, complaints about Cebu Pacific's website, phone lines, customer service, etc still continue. So I suggest that everyone book early and to also arrange your schedule to minimize change of plans possibilities.

3-Day Photography Seminars

reposting schedule I got from my e-mail

3-Day Basic Photography Seminar
Schedules for January to March



Batch 35
Dates: Jan. 16, 23, 30 (Saturdays)
Time: 9:00am to 6:00pm
Venue: Valdez Rm., UP Bahay ng Alumni
Address: Magsaysay Ave., UP Diliman, QC
Registration Fee: P3,500.00


Batch 36
Dates: Feb 13, 20, 27 (Saturdays)
Time: 9:00am to 6:00pm
Venue: Valdez Rm., UP Bahay ng Alumni
Address: Magsaysay Ave., UP Diliman, QC
Registration Fee: P3,500.00


Batch 37
Dates: Feb 21, 28, March 7 (Sundays)
Time: 9:00am to 6:00pm
Venue: Tin-aw Art Gallery
Address: Upper GF, Somerset Olympia Bldg, Makati Ave cor Sto. Tomas St., Makati City. (click MAP)
Registration Fee: P3,500.00



Batch 38
Dates: March 13, 20, 27 (Saturdays)
Time: 9:00am to 6:00pm
Venue: Valdez Rm., UP Bahay ng Alumni
Address: Magsaysay Ave., UP Diliman, QC
Registration Fee: P3,500.00



Batch 39
Dates: March 21, 28, April 4 (Sundays)
Time: 9:00am to 6:00pm
Venue: Tin-aw Art Gallery
Address: Upper GF, Somerset Olympia Bldg, Makati Ave cor Sto. Tomas St., Makati City. (click MAP)
Registration Fee: P3,500.00

For details of current and future seminars: please visit:
nathanielsalang.com
For inquiries: please contact Nathaniel Salang at 0915-548-0214 or Tel. # 824-2305. You may also e-mail him at learntoshoot@nathanielsalang.com

This is perfect for those looking to learn new skills this New Year. Also perfect for those expectant parents so that when their little one comes out, documentation of their baby's moments will be a cinch.

Stressed Skin

Post-holiday, more people probably have zits and breakouts or dry skin. It's from all the partying and bad food and long nights and other stresses we get during the holidays. Heck, it could even be from all the make-up from having to go to everywhere and anywhere. Some even enjoyed the sun in Boracay last December to enjoy the really clean waters during that time of the year.

Aside from hydrating, eating well and resting and using natural anti-acne/wrinkle treatments such as cucumber, papaya or egg whites, there are other sites that sell products that will help you with your dermalotogical maladies. One such site is www.neutrogenaskinid.net. Neutrogena is an established name in the beauty industry because of its hypoallergenic products that actually work. People swear by Neutrogena and they have taken pains to get more feedback from users to improve their products. So if your smooth skin is taking a holiday, get it back to work through one of their time-tested products. Maybe all you'd need is their soap!

Dealing With Low Testosterone

A man in their early 30's up to their 50's may suddenly experience several different symptoms that affect their quality of life enough to be a cause for concern. Premature balding, hair loss, weakening bone mass, mood swings and anxiety, slower metabolism, impotence and a reduced libido can be a sign of a decreased testosterone level in the body. Before, men experience this generally after hitting 40, but considering the diet and lifestyle of the modern man, stress alone can get a man in his 20's to experience the above symptoms.

Good for them, they can easily use a testosterone cream. However, they may have to deal with some side effects, which may be mild but can be annoying just the same. These can run the gamut of more depression, anxiety, and possible mood disorders, digestion problems, skin irritation from applying the cream and even hypertension from frluid retention.

Even better, there are more natural ways to boost one's testosterone levels with little or no side effects. First of, men should lose their bellies slowly but surely. Address the bigger fat deposits or bigger muscle groups first. And actually engage in more sex! Guys should also limit their alcohol intake and make sure they eat healthy, regular meals. No skipping meals or going for long hours without food intake.

Plus, getting enough rest and sleep is a sure way to boost testosterone levels so always be sure to catch zzzz's.

Now, even women can do the above worry-free.

"Last Valentine nAPO" - Perfect Valentine Date

If you're looking for a really great Valentine date idea... or if you want to give one of the best possible gifts to your parents, or anybody who enjoys/enjoyed 70's and 80's music, then Apo Hiking Society's Valentine Farewell Concert is just the thing.

Apo Hiking Society is bidding adieu to their fans in a series of concerts. They are not retiring as individual artists but are letting the APO name rest finally on its forty years' worth of laurels. The Valentine concert entitled "Last Valentine nAPO" on February 13 at the SMX Convention Center will kickoff their farewell concerts till the month of May.

Tickets are available at all Ticketnet offices. Or call 911-5555 or Twenty Plus Inc. hotline at 753-1609 loc 116 or at Star Express PLDT hotline at 334-9272 add 02 for Globe and SMART subscribers.

Ticket prices are Gold- P2675, Silver - P2140 and Bronze - P1605.

Post Feast Pains

We feasted over the holidays. More than that, we lacked sleep due to all the parties, reunions, planning, and trips we did. And we were stressed from all the shopping and maybe holiday drama.

All those will take a toll on our bodies.

So it's pretty common that people will be coming down with the colds, experiencing chest pains and seeking joint pain relief.

Some things you can however do to ease your pains include:
1) Taking vitamins, especially Vitamin C
2) Eat more fruits and vegetables
3) Catch up on rest and sleep
4) Drink tea and eat oatmeal to detoxify
5) Exercise
6) Drink plenty of fluids
7) Avoid sugar, salt and fats
8) Avoid processed food

Salt is especially unhelpful with cholesterol problems and few people know that. We just automatically assume it's just fatty foods that will boost our cholesterol levels.

Sometimes, hot and cold compress also helps pains. Aromatherapy and massage can also go a long way. If symptoms persist, however, best to consult a physician because you might need to take medicine for your condition already.

Match A Color Learning Set

This was a gift to my son and I am really happy about it. Of course, I wish the 'paint palettes' and pictures could have been made of tougher cardboard but it's still really a useful and fun educational tool for parents in teaching colors to their kids.





So far, we use it two ways:
1) I let my son choose a picture and ask him where it should do based on its color.
2) I put some pictures in the wrong palettes and let my son correct it.

There are twelve colors and seven pictures for each color.

Drug Abuse Help in Manila

Since I am helping a friend find adoptive parents for her yet unborn nephew/niece from addicted parents, I thought it only proper to post where people can seek help, counseling or rehabilitation in cases of substance abuse and drug addiction.

Agency : Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous (Support group)
Address : c/o New Beginnings Foundation
Tel. # : 814-70-81 141-154211

Agency : Center for Family Ministries
Address : Loyola House of Studies, Ateneo Quezon City
Tel. # : 426-42-89 loc. 2991 or 2992
Services : Face-to-face counseling

Agency : Christian Life Fellowship International Drug Rehabilitation Center
Address : 6 General Luna St. Usuan Taguig, Manila
Tel. # : 693-42-93 / 693-33-39 /642-88-39
Contact : Dr. Francisca Cuevas

Agency : Dangerous Drugs Board
Contact Person: Ofelia Legaspi
Address : Champ Bldg. Anda Circle, Bonifacio Drv. Port Area, Manila
Tel. # : 5275747
Schedule: Open from Monday to Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Services : Drug Testing, Free Information on Substance Abuse

Agency : Dangerous Drugs Board -European Union
Address : 25 Newport cor. Marlboro St. East Fairview, QC
Tel. # : 5275747
Schedule: Open from Monday to Friday; 8:00am to 5:00pm
Services: Counseling, After Care, Rehabilitation of Drug Dependents
Rehab Fee: P 2, 500/ month
Referral Requirement: Consent of patient and the guardian; physically and mentally

Agency : Drug Abuse Research Foundaion
Address : 15 Fabian Dela Rosa St., Loyola Heights, Q.C
Tel. # : 926-88-43

Agency : DARE - ILAW
Address : 25-a Matiyaga St. Brgy. Central, Quezon City
Tel Nos. : 924-02-70 /922-78-52
Contact : Dr. Theodore Abas / Dr. Ding Angeles

Agency : GAMBLES Anonymous Support Group
Tel. # : 890-25-08 (Thursday 7:30pm)

Agency : Kapatiran Kaunlaran Foundattion, INc. (KKFI) “ Kapatiran Kaunlaran Therapeutic Community for Men”Address : 937 P. Paredes St. Sampaloc, Manila
Tel. # : 735-46-61 to 64 loc 4 for Men loc 12 for women
Contact : Ms. Priscilla R. Atuel (Executive director)
Fax : 7351465

Agency : Life Management Foundation Inc.
Address : 2/f Yupangco Bldg. 2320 Pasong Tamo Ext. Makati
Tel. # : 892-97-19 to 20 / 812- 12-67
Services : Halfway housing to recover and Group therapy

Agency : Life Change Counseling Center & Psychiatry Clinic
Address : #105 Scout Rallos Street, cor. Timog Avenue,
Brgy. Sacred Heart, Kamuning, Quezon City
(near Quattro Grill and Bar REstaurant, turn left at the first corner)
Tel. #: 415-6529 / 415-7964
E-mail : lifechangerecovery@yahoo.com
Service : Professional Counseling, Psychotherapy, Rehabilitation of Drug Dependents, Provide interventions for substance-related cases, Attitude and Behavioral Management
Schedule : Monday to Sunday 24 Hours
Psychologist/Psychiatrist : Randy S. Dellosa, M.D., C-Psy.D. , Violeta Bautista, Ph.D.

Agency : National Capital Region
Address : Ground Flr. Champ Bldg. Anda Circle Port Area, Manila
Tel. # : 527-32-13
Services : Treatment and Rehabilitation Fee for Testing P 300
Evaluation for free
Contact : Dr. Lilia R. Mabanag or Dr. Sualog
Schedule : Monday - Friday ( 7:00 - 4:00 PM )

Agency : NARCOM Treatment & Rehabilitation Center
Address : Camp Bagong Diwa ,Bicutan, Taguig , Metro Manila
Tel. # : 722-12-77 / 837-24-71 loc 753, 745
Contact : Supt. Baltazar Balanguan

Agency : New Beginnings - Treatment & Rehabilitation Center
Address : #40 Cairo St., Phase 3 BF Homes Paranaque Mla.
Tel. # : 827-57-77
Fax # : 827-51-40
Contact : Mr. Jaime del Rosario
Fee : P 75,000

Agency : Sagip Foundation
Address : 943 J. Escoda St., San Marcelino, Malate Mla.
Tel. # : 521-41-98

Agency : YOUTH Renewal Center Address
c/o Caritas Manila, Gen. Trias, Cavite
Tel. # : 522-03-61

Agency: QUEZON CITY DRUG TREATMENT AND REHAB CENTER
Address: City Hall Compound, Quezon City Hall
Tel. # 9269535
Scedule: Open from Monday to Friday; 8:00am to 5:00pm
Services: Provide Free Counseling and Drug Test, Referral for Medical Examination, Referral for Rehabilitation of Drug Dependents
Client: 12 yr. and above; male and female, priority are residents of Quezon City

Agency : Sheperd Drug Rehabilitation Center (A private rehabilitation center for drug dependents, alcoholics, depressed individuals and teenage mothers. It is being managed by Christ the Living God fellowship.)
Open from : Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Address : #3 Scout Albano Street, Quezon City
Telephone Numbers: 414 1544 / 410 5698
Services : A complete rehab program for 7 months, Counseling, Rehabilitation, After care, Psychotherapy, Attitude and behavioral management
Service Fee : P17,500/month
Contact Person/s : Ms. Rose Benitez, Administrator
Requirements for Referral: Phone call, walk-in
Source of the directory is TeenFad website

The Department of Health also has a listing of drug rehab facilities which can be found here.

In the States, a great source of drug abuse information can be found at the NIDA website

Filipino Sign Language Classes

I advocate sign language. But most videos available that are fun and make it cool are American/Western and may confuse a typical child. After all, we don't have snow, not really fans of pears and use local things like duyan (hammock) or eat rice and viand instead of bread.

I am also advocating Filipino Sign Language with the hopes of helping more Deaf be given equal, however different, opportunities as hearing folks. It is just a crime not to tap their strengths and abilities or expect them to contribute the same way hearing people can.

By the way, Filipino Sign Language is a combination of American Sign Language and Filipino cultural gestures.

Anyway, if you're for either or just want to pick up a new skill, Filipino Sign Language classes at DLS-College of St. Benilde are ongoing till Jan. 22, 2010. Just approach the FSL booth along PEN-MLC hallway between 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. You can also contact them at 526-7441 to 47 local 131 and e-mail balizaj@dls-csb.edu.ph .

What to expect when signing up for a class?
1) Ms. Ana is Deaf. It can be quite intimidating trying to ask questions but the general steps have been printed already and she will point to them. They also have pen and paper ready for you to write questions on.

2) Keep your questions/sentences short and simple. The Deaf don't always get big words, don't care for perfect grammar and the right articles/tenses/sentence construction.

3) You will be shown a list of possible class schedule and asked to write your name (and number rank according to preference). They won't open a class until there's at least five students willing to enrol.

4) Last term, tuition fee was P2,200 I think (P200 for the orientation for incoming FSL 1 students). Anyway, prepare at least P3,000 (P2,000+ for tuition fee and P450 for CSB ID).

5) If there are enough students already, you may be advised to pay enrolment fees already. If not, you can still enrol at the start of classes.

6) There would be at least 10 class sessions.

7) Prepare to be surprised about how rich Deaf culture is, and how empowered Deaf people are.




See also:
Baby Sign Language FAQs
Why Baby Sign Language?
Deaf Festival at CSB 2009

Hydrating for the Summer

Have you noticed how it's a little hot already? And they did say that El Niño would be longer this year (which I somehow still don't believe because we had like eight months of rain last year). So it wouldn't be too early to start hydrating and moisturizing your skin for the summer. Drink more water, stay out of the sun, try arcona products, put on moisturizers before turning in for the night, use body butter (Human Heart Nature sells a cheaper kind that is equally great on the skin), avoid diuretics and get enough sleep at night. Do all these and your skin is less likely to be parched and wrnkled come summertime.

Oh and yeah, wear lip balm even if your lips aren't chapped!

Feel Pretty By Going Healthy

I have never been pretty. But I have always felt attractive, at least, until a year after giving birth when I gained all the weight back. And for over a year, I have posed in lesser pictures, I have bought less clothes, I have even skipped weddings for lack of something to wear.

But I just noticed that you do not have to lose that much before feeling the benefits of diet and exercise. In fact, there'd be a spring on your step and you will just clearly have more energy to go about your business during the day even if you haven't lost a pound yet.

I even started feeling sexy and attractive again even if I am still panting my way through the treadmill.

So make the choice to eat and live healthy asap and notice the positive things it immediately brings to your life. And when you start seeing results, am sure there'd be plenty more to be happy about.

No Space for Exercise Equipment?

Especially for those living in the city, space is a premium. And not only do exercise equipment cost money, they cost space too. Take for example a treadmill, possibly the best exercise machine there is, and consider the amount of space it uses up. Same space can easily accommodate a bureau instead. Or a desk.

Sure, some equipment are foldable and can be hidden. But the exerciser might also get too lazy setting it up again and again. So what can be a great solution when space is a resource you don't have?

Go for other exercise accessories instead!

Think of dumbbells, leg weights and jumping rope. Skipping rope is a great cardio activity, leg weights will provide the resistnce you need as you go up and down your stairs (or a step stool) and dumbbells will help in toning those flabby arms.

You can also get an exercise video instead (or a bellydancing video for that matter) and use your living room, however small it is, for some taebo and yoga. The thing is to just find alternatives and work around your limitations. DO NOT GIVE YOURSELF AN EXCUSE NOT TO EXERCISE. You owe yourself a healthy body to enjoy the life you have!

Cheaper Barbecue

I say cheaper because a pig's head is usually cheaper than its other parts. What my SIL used here is the same part she uses for tokwa't baboy, and those are the pig's cheeks and jowls.

It looks like it's a lot of fat but not really. Just boil the meat seasoned and then cut into pieces big enough to be skewered with a stick. Then grill as usual with your favorite sauce (we even grilled ours on a grill over a pan of some water on the gas stove, which used up a lot of gas, but also resulted in no charring and crispy greatness).

RedLily Products

My friend is selling RedLily products which are basically home and personal care products of top quality at affordable prices. Currently available with her right now are the following:

HOME CARE PRODUCTS:
Laundry Detergent powder (same as Ariel or Tide) 1kg = Php 59.50
Fabric Softner (same as Downy, Vernel) 500ml = Php 79.00
Dishwashing Liquid (scents:Apple, Orange, Kalamansi and Lemon) 250ml = Php 45

PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS:
VSecret Lotion 250ml = Php 165.00
VSecret Cologne 188ml = Php 139.95
*Victorias Secret inspired scents: Endless Love, Love Spell, Pretty Woman, Purple Berries, Secret Story, Sweet Temptation. Lotions already include Whitening/Firming formulas.

B&B Cologne 188ml = Php 139.95
*Bath&Body inspired scents: Cucumber Melon, Cotton Blossom, Plumeria, SunRipened Raspberry, White Tea&Ginger

FOR KIDS:
3in1 Shampoo, Body Wash & Bubble Bath (Lavander and Cucumber) = Php 140.00
Liquid Powder with SPF 15 = Php 89.00
Hand Sanitizer Spray 60ml = Php 59.00

RedLily has a lot more products to choose from and Janice is willing to show you their catalog so you can order what you want. She's based in the South though. Anyway, for inquiries and orders, e-mail her at janiceruth_seva@yahoo.com .

Disney Crayons for Giveaways

This is actually a good find by my sister-in-law. It's being sold in Uniwide stores, however, and the staff may have to really check storage for them. They're crayons with Disney shapes and they color nice. The pink one breaks easily though.







Each pack of eight crayons sells for P15 each.

Lighten Up Your Party with Glowstick Glasses

Well, there really isn't any glass. They're more eyeglass frames. I failed to take a picture of the packaging but I bought it for P15 each at the 2nd floor of New Divisoria Mall. Each package will contain connectors and two glowsticks. They were perfect during the Holidays and will be perfect in other parties, concerts, as giveaways or wherever you're going anywhere that could be dark. They add interest to you, a certain level of cool and quirkiness and they're really cheap. They could even be great talking points!

And you really only need to buy a set for the connectors the first time. After that, you can just buy a whole canister of glowsticks and change colors at will.







The most luminous colors are green and yellow. Blue doesn't seem to glow at all.

White Beach de Boracay Weekdays Promo

White Beach de Boracay is offering a WEEKDAYS PROMO for the months of January to March 2010. Bookings during this time for family rooms (good for 4 pax) will be given a most affordable rate of P4,498 for Beach view Rooms and P3,598 for Garden view Rooms (3D/2N).

Bookings must be made on or before January 31, 2010 and the promo is not valid on Holy Week. E-mail boracayreservation@yahoo.com asap to make your reservations!

White Beach de Boracay is also offering a LOVE MONTH PROMO for the month of February. Couples can avail of 3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS (Beach view Rooms P5,998, Garden view Rooms P4,998; 1 free pair of Havaiianas slippers) or 5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS (Beach view rooms P11,588; Garden view Rooms P9,588; 2 free pairs of Havaiianas slippers).

Win an iPod Nano

Five bloggers have teamed up with Coca Cola and Real Leaf Green Tea and are giving away an iPod Nano each, with all contestants joining in also having a chance to win P10,000. cash and a year's supply of the drink.

Just check out the blogs of Yuga, Noemi, Chris, Anton and Apples for details asap.

Job Hunting in Forums

Usually, when we go job hunting, we go to job listing sites or look at the Classifieds in the paper. But sometimes, looking for job openings in message boards/forums could yield you better results.

It is firstly, a fact, that Human Resource people also like posting in message boards. Even managers, lawyers, and other professionals even. And when they need to hire asap, posting openings in forums is the easiest way to get applicants. It could even be a plus that you're both into the same things (say, you're both from motorcycle or photography forums). Even the adult site manilatonight.com has a Classifieds section.

So if you're a member of some forum already, do take the time to check out if they have a Classifieds/Netwroking section. Even a Harry Potter forum may just land you a job that a Fort Lauderdale job search in Google cannot generate. Plus, you may even get an idea or two on how to improve your interview skills.

The Gift of Self-Reliance

In coming up with your New year's resolution as a parent, why not commit to giving your kids the gift of self-reliance instead? Then, list down concrete strategies you can take that will give them enough opportunities to learn, develop, practice and make it a habit. Divide the strategies according to the ease and frequency it can be done, as well as considering if they are age-appropriate.

Here are example of things that will help them develop this wonderful trait:
~ Doing their own beds and cleaning their own rooms
~ Other household chores
~ Budgeting their own allowance
~ Helping you budget the weekly groceries
~ Planning a weekend or family trip
~ Coming up with ways to contribute to family purchases
~ Plan family events/parties
~ Create productions for family entertainment
~ Recycle and Reuse Program in the home
~ Babysitting or Caring for Pets

Say you asked your kids to plan the next family trip. They get to choose the venue and activities within a designated budget so they would also have to do the sourcing of service providers (from transportation to hotels to tour guides). All the research work will come in handy someday when you'd need them to help out finding Mopar parts suppliers or air condition cleaners. But more importantly, they learn that they CAN do things, and that the amount of effort and creativity they put into it is usually congruent to the results.

Now, the important thing is you ease them into it and that it becomes a lifestyle, rather than an enforced something they will forever rage about. Explain the benefits, start small, progress slowly but surely and always commend positive results. Highlight how their contributions helped exactly.

Make do without old resolutions that you really cannot feel passion for. Be a more intentional parent instead.

My Box of Treasures Collection

Not only is Scrapbooksplease.com offering free shipping for ordered photobooks, scrapbooks and framed prints, Scrapbookflair.com is also offering MY BOX OF TREASURES COLLECTION for free!

Start downloading it from here so you can digiscrap at will your pictures from the year that is about to end.

Don't Max Out Your Paypal

Leave some dollars in your Paypal account.

I know that most people have probably already spent their bonuses and are considering withdrawing the remainder of their Paypal earnings. And I am here to remind those people not to empty their accounts because chaces are, subscription payments to online galleries and domain and hosting will be coming up soon. After all, we usually open such accounts after coming into money so we really wouldn't do well to be without in our Paypal accounts (one of the safest ways to transact online) when that day comes. Plus, paying early after getting the expiration notice might just get you discounts or free online backup. Those are little things that are worth paying early for.

If you must, just withdraw what you really need to tide you over, even if it means not saving $5 transaction fee. And get creative and resourceful with your other resources. There may be things you can reuse as gifts, after all.

Boredom Busters In Kids

Kids nowadays are so used to being bombarded by multimedia that they're also easily bored. We never had boredom back in our day because we had to cut paper for play money, and crush ice candies for 'vitamins' to feed our babies while playing house. Now, fewer kids even play outside. Most of the toddlers in the city even attend preschool already where play is usually directed and stimulation is provided.

What to do, then, with a child complaining of boredom?

You and your spouse can come up with a handy list ready for activities to suggest to them. Usually, suggesting that they read a book or take a nap would result in further complaints and whines. So try wording your suggestions this way. "Awww, you're bored you say? And I guess you're also not in the mood to be reading anyway since you'd have been doing that already. Good thing though because Mommy needs help in the kitchen polishing the silver. It would be fun, come on!"

Or give them options. "I know three things that should occupy you enough: finishing your homework, bathing our dog or washing the car. What are you up to doing?"

Chances are, they will at least complain less and find other things to do instead. And they may not help with the chores much but they'd also learn that being amused is a DIY thing. Hopefully, it means they will be more creative in a productive way and there'd be less chances of them seeking thrills elsewhere.

Holidays and Fire

No matter how many times TV programs, magazines and other media remind us, there will still be several fires because of faulty or forgotten Christmas lights. Sure, your home insurance may be great but fires are very non-discriminating as to what they will destroy. Fires do not care if it's an old sofa set or a life, if it's just a painting or your entire picture and film collection.

So be vigilant against fires. Firstly, buy lights that have the proper seals. And only turn them on when you are still awake, usually between 6-10 PM. And make sure you unplug everything (except the fridge) in the house before you turn in.

Make sure also that there are no firecrackers in the house and should you be handling one, not to throw it towards your house or your neighbor's. And if throwing parties, make sure inebriated guests who might sleep over are not also smoking. Make sure there are ashtrays and garbage cans around for people to throw their butts in. And again, before turning in, inspect everything.

Sometimes, it really seems a hassle for us to always be checking for whatever could go wrong while we sleep. But these habits can save the lives of those that are really important to you, including your own.

Gift Card Mall

I found this wonderful gift idea online that lets the recipient shop for what he wants but lets you keep all the credit for the gifts. A Bass Pro Gift Card is a customizable gift card available at GiftCardMall.com. They have Bass pro shops/retail stores and catalogs as well as the site to shop from. For kids, they have gift cards for Pottery Barn, Buy Buy Baby and Build a Bear. For the women in your life, there are SpaFinder, Bed Bath and Beyond, KMart, Kohl's and Sears among other brands. Holiday gift cards are even being shipped free and inactivated, so only the intended recipients can really activate the card.

So for those in the US who still haven't shopped for their loved ones, get them a Bass Pro Gift Card asap. Just think how you're helping move the economy!!!

Art of Silence Photo Booth

The Art of Silence Photography is now offering Unlimited Photo/Prints with their Photo Booth. It costs PP6,000 for two hours and P8,000 for three hours.

It comes as one of the FREEBIE OPTIONS if you get their P45k Wedding Package (for the first 100 prints only, add P5k for unlimited shots and prints). A photographer still takes the shot (unlike the one by Photographico Geronimo) but printing is fast. The photographer will also take four shots and let you choose which one to highlight in the printing.

A booth was available at the Deaf Festival so here is a sample of the output.





They provide wigs and accessories but feel free to also provide some more if you're getting them for your party. Am sure posing wackily with friends while showing off your UGG Classic Short will be a better captured moment. This is especially perfect for Christmas parties where some people are inebriated and more likely to really project.

Toxic Fragrances

Part of babyproofing our home is making sure all industrial supplies and cleaning equipment are kept out of reach of children. Unfortunately, we have also started making these cleaning supplies in wonderful fragrances that somehow makes us forget thay they can prove toxic to kids.

Case in point: I just bought dishwashing liquid in watermelon, Irish Spring and raspberry scents. They came in mineral water bottles (1 liter) and candy-like colors. And we forgot to put the bottles somewhere high that my nephew thought it was juice and managed to open one. He is one and a half years old. My two year old son, on the other hand, can already prop a chair near the sink where the liquid hand soap and dishwashing liquid dispensers are easily within reach. And since these smell fruity, fresh and sweet, they don't get turned off.

Even some fabric conditioners and bleach come in fragrances that may even attract kids.

And one disadvantage of reusing some containers is that they can confuse kids, and even parents. My sister-in-law once thought she was putting alcohol on her son's hands. Good thing she smelled the different scent of the cleaning agent and washed my nephew's hands in time before they got really irritated. Clear cleaning agents, like alcohol or diluted dihswashing liquid should also not be put in mineral water bottles to avoid confusing people.

Be warned so you can be more vigilant. Sweet-smelling cleaning agents are still cleaning agents and can be toxic or fatal to babies.

Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum

The Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum is located in the Villamor Air Base Complex. It's sort of in a cul de sac, where the road turns towards the Mariott, Resorts World, etc. complex.

Entrance fee is only P20 for civilians. It's not really a big museum and unless you're really interested in Air Force history, you might be disinterested with most of what they have on exhibit. There are a lot of uniforms, guns, plane models, plane parts


view of Resorts World near the museum's entrance


tour starts here (left side)


guns used during World War II (I believe)


one of the earliest planes used in combat (sorry,
am a girl, I didn't take note of the models)


cool thing to name a plane after Sumpak, an
improvides firearm we came up with


telephone used during the war


camera used during the war


the exhibit


night vision goggles


plane model on exhibit


an old car used as Presidential ride


the simulation room which wasn't open that day
(you pay for the gas to fire the thing up, and I was
concerned about not being eco-friendly anyway)


plane part (used for bombing, I assume)


another plane model inside


plane model outside


there were at least ten plane models outside

The Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum also features a function room they rent out for P5,000 for the first 5 hours. You have to bring in your own caterer, sound system, etc. but the room is at the 2nd floor and overlooks the plane models outside. It can easily accommodate between 200-250 pax. It had high ceilings and great ventilation and a steal for the price. Perfect for aviation-themed weddings or birthday parties.



There is also a mini theater that can accommodate around 30-40 people. Air Force people were using it at the time we were there, as well as the lobby, which is why I don't have a picture of those.

For inquiries or to visit, just dial (63) 2-8323498. The Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum is open at 8:00am - 12:00pm (Monday to Saturdays).

Amber's Best Restaurant and Ihaw-Ihaw

If you're looking for a caterer for your party, try Amber's Best (if you haven't already), which is known for their pichi-pichi.

Here is their latest brochure (click on the picture to enlarge). You can contact them at 403-5555, 403-7777, 403-5556, 403-5557 and 403-7778 (telefax).

Renae Homemade Chocolates

Still looking for goodies to give away to friends and family? try my friend's homemade chocolates!

The usual chocolate lollipops cost P50 for 5 pieces and P100 for 11 pieces (yes, you get an extra one).

I bought this instead however, which cost me P150. It's a chocolate house complete with snowman and whatever in front.





For Renae Homemade Chocolates, just text 0919-7697489. My friend lives in Pasay, by the way, and works in Makati, so you'll also know if it's convenient to order from them.

A Time to Replace

Twas only two months ago that typhoon Ondoy wreaked havoc here in Manila. So many homes had something that was touched, submerged, or marinated in flood. Now that Christmas bonus has come, we can replace and repair more of them.

Since refrigerators are generally heavy and loaded, those who failed to put it up shiuld be having its motor checked and maybe replacing their refrigerator water filters. Those with tables who wallowed in flood should have these checked also for rot. You don't want a child climbing on top of it, or you leaning just a tad too heavily on it, or putting so many dishes on it only to have it collapse. Cabinets, if they cannot be repaired, should be torn down and replaced as well. Electric lines should be checked, most especially the plugs.

Carpeting and linoleum shoudl be replaced too, if you cannot have it professionally cleaned.

I know that spending more on these things is one of the last things you'd consider doing with your Christmas bonus. But not doing so may spell more trouble for you in the end. Even air conditioning units, for example, that were not submerged in flood but got rained on a lot during the typhoon season should be professionally cleaned. An ounce of allergy prevention is worth more than a pound of antihistamines, after all.

Hero Sausages

Hero Sausages purport to have NO MSG, TVP, Salitre and Food Coloring. They had at least three booths at the World Bazaar and the fat sausages sizzling on hot plates just really can't help but wheth one's appetite. One sausage in a bun cost an average of P80 and it was a very filling meal. The portion size is too big to be called a snack, see.

Hero sausages offer Schublig, Bratwurst, Hungarian and Frankfurters aside from Classic sausages. They also sell these in 500 gram and 1 kilogram packs.

And, Hero Sausages is looking to expand and is giving away free Franchise Kits. Just email herosausages@yahoo.com.ph and indicate the desired area you want to franchise to. Not all of us can afford to invest in orlando hotels anyway, and going into the foodcart business wouldn't require that much resource. All you need to have is some savings and a great location.

Got Heart 2010 Planner Giveaway

A long-time blogger friend who have long championed charities about children is giving away a Got Heart 2010 Planner.



Head over to her blog then and leave comments to qualify for the electronic raffle! Contest will end on December 26. Winner can expect the planner to be shipped to him/her in the first week of January.

World Bazaar at World Trade Center, Manila

The World Bazaar is sponsored by ABS-CBN and will run until December 16, 2009. Entrance to the bazaar is P30 per person. I was told by a friend that the wares being sold were good so we checked it out and it was indeed a good bazaar.

Items were not so expensive. You can buy ladies tops for 2 for P150, P150, P300, etc. There were also a lot of stalls selling baby clothes, a lot of really cool shirts, a lot of imported overruns (you know, cutesy dresses that are intended as winter wear). There were a lot of infant PJ sets, onseies, dresses. There were a lot of clothes, and a lot of Christmas decor (that's what will greet you at the entrance), a lot of chips/snacks and vitamins.

My best buy was liquid hand soap (3 liters for P120). They sell them in 500 ml bottles with pump but as I have so many empty dispenser bottles at home, I bought the 1 liter refills instead at the same price. And they smell soooo nice! Melon, raspberry and Irish Spring scents, haha!

Expect a lot of shirts embroidered with the map of the Philippines. Even mugs were being sold with the Philippine archipelago. And yes, there were so many statement shirts (even for babies/kids).

And there's no worries about going hungry at the World Bazaar because there are so many food stalls (at least three Hero Sausage stands). There's also a play area for kids where they can run around like crazy but there is a serious lack of sitting area for those who want to rest. There are also kiosks outside WTC selling native food products.

After the World Bazaar, GMA's Christmas Bazaar is next at WTC.

Becky's Kitchen

People will fall in line again this Christmas at Becky's Kitchen. This institution of great cakes and even yummier brownies only has two branches, the main one being at Vito Cruz, Manila.

If you want a Becky's cake gracing your Christmas Noche Buena, do pay for your orders now to be picked up on the 24th. Otherwise, you'd have to line up and settle for whatever cake they have on hand that day.

And should you want to give Becky's Kitchen treats to special people and friends, here is their Christmas Gift Packs:



Current price list is here. I highly recommend the walnut fudge brownies (P270) and the potato almond krunch cake (P575). Their chocolate mousse (P435) is also wonderful and I have been a slave to their caramel cake (P455) ever since.

Why Go to Bazaars?

Every big Church community, school and village are holding bazaars aside from the really big ones at the World Trade Center and SMX Convention Center. And people may be wondering why other people don't just go to Divisoria or Baclaran... or the malls that are also having Christmas sales.

Goods are not necessarily cheaper indeed in bazaars. Usually, if you have the patience and resourcefulness, you can get the same lovely products at a cheaper price from direct sellers in Dapitan or Quiapo or Divisoria. Since bazaar sellers have to pay for their booths (St. James sellers have to pay P15,000 a day), they really have to charge extra for their wares.

But some bazaar sellers, you can't find anywhere else. A lot of them save and make products only to sell during the Holidays. A lot of them only bake during the Holidays. A lot of them are also homebased entrepreneurs who don't sell on Multiply while others are attached to big industries and this is the only time, and the only way, they sell overruns cheap. So bazaars are still a minefield for new and exciting products you can't get anywhere else.

Plus, other companies are sure to also sponsor and exhibit in bazaars to launch and distribute new products. A Promotional usb drive is just one of the things you can get for free in a bazaar. Some give away sim cards, some give away free products, while some give away coupons or gift certificates. So even if you pay an entrance fee, you don't really lose in a bazzar. At worst, your senses would still have been treated to a feast as you browsed through all the wonderful products being sold.

And if you're keen, you may just walk away with good bargains.

Fernbrook Gardens

Fernbrook Gardens is an offshoot of the success and popularity of Fernwood Gardens. It is located at Portofino South, Daang Reyna, Las Pinas, Metro Manila and was fortunately spared by the recent typhoons.

Hubs just recently attended a wedding at Fernbrook Gardens and said it was really such a great indoor venue with an outdoor appeal.



















The great thing about Fernbrook is that, as a garden venue, it sells even during typhoon months. Clients also have six caterers to choose from (Center Table Catering, Josiah's, Via Mare, Juan Carlo and Mandarin) and their Venue/Amenities Package Promo already offer choice of lighted dance panels, photo booth, mobile bar, sky lanterns or bridal car. As you can see, the bridal cars are luxury models. Plus, if you get the All In Promo, you also get to hold your Pre-Nuptial Photoshoot there which will make for a more cohesive-looking album and wedding stationery.

Kid's Party and Baptismal Rates at Fernbrook Gardens start at P45,000 plus VAT.

It would be such a dream to host a party there someday. Anyway, if interested, contact Fernbrook Gardens now:

LANDLINE: 218-2457/218-2455/505-0904/710-8608/710-8545
0917-860-5460, 0928-500-0614, 0915-871-6342, 0917-568-3972,
0917-860-6478, 0905-227-1679, 0905-227-1684
USA Phone: 1-215-717-7194
Portofino South Daang Reyna Las Pinas Metro Manila
www.fernbrookgardens.com email: info@fernbrookgardens.com

Holiday Spirit Collection at Scrapbookflair

If you still haven't sent out your Christmas cards (which you should have already) and haven't even made any but still want to go the personalized way, Scrapbookflair just might save you with their Holiday Spirit Collection.

This digiscrapping collection is more suited for those living in places where there is snow because it has frames with snowmen and Christmas Tree surrounded by snow. If you're living somewhere tropical, however, you can still use the many backgrounds and trees and word art. Grab it now!!!

December 2009 Bazaars

Somebody painstakingly scoured the net and papers and every possible network she has to come up with this December Bazaar Schedule. So if you're not done shopping or just want to broswe new trends and fads, do check the link out.

If you're also a budding entrepreneur, now is the time to do your research and see what's already out there and what isn't. Or, come up with ways on how hits could be better so that come next year, it's you exhibiting at a Christmas bazaar already.

Even gadget freaks shouldn't shun these bazaars, even if ornaments and clothes and food feature the most during this time, because some gadgets and accessories also get sold. Plus, if you really need a video card badly, chances are, shops in malls are also having a Christmas sale.

Happy shopping! Do spend your money wisely!