Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear - Aria Nursing Tank Review

I bought My Aria Tank Top (black, size medium) after I've given birth so I can't vouch for it's stretchiness for preggy bumps. But since it's longish, it's still flattering for my post-pregnancy flab.

I fit the mocha/black one in Aura Athletica (where Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear are sold) but decided on black because I had issues with the black strap on the brown one: the drop cup part doesn't jive with the rest of the top when it's attached so you see some of the brown too (gee, I wonder how I can better get the idea across?) instead of the black parts overlapping and looking seamless.


worn under my Infinitude, it's real easy to unclip once you get the hang of it


as you can glean from the picture, it doesn't offer the same coverage as the Sake tank top or Corsierre as the top of my breast was still exposed


i'm looking more exposed here because the right clip of the tank top is actually undone


i'm the one in your right, with a red boncho


It already has a bra under it and thus provides some amount of support (not as much as a Sake tank top does though) but again, I'd have appreciated some padding. And no, you can't put breast pads on this one. However, I think the webbing in the bra sort of diffuses and flattens the nips.

One other reason why I bought the Aria Tank Top is that I needed a nursing top to use with my boncho (breastfeeding poncho from Indigo Baby) and the Aria's spaghetti straps would look more flattering under a poncho than a Sake tank top's padded wide straps would.

The Aria Nursing Tank comes in the following colors: midnight/black, mocha/black, ash/black, snow (white) and carbon (black) and costs P1,000 each. Compare that with the cost of nursing bras, it's actually cheap because with such a tank top, you need not put on any bra anymore. And this one, you can wear even if you're not nursing anymore or while pregnant (as it stretches).

In closing, I'd just like to say that I intend to get it in white too!!!

* Remember, nursing tops are slightly more expensive than usual tops because of the special nursing openings and the material used since it's usually worn longer than maternity wear

You can check out the clothes at Aura Athletica at Power Plant Mall or check http://shopeden.multiply.com

Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear - Infinitude Review

I was very impressed with the Infinitude when I saw it at the launch of Eden Maternity Wear because I saw for myself how they can be worn a number of ways and flatter different body types.

It's material is Viscose/Spandex which allows it to be flowy and allows you to tie it in knots easily. It's also very easy to wash and dry and doesn't really require any ironing. You can just let it drip dry.

I made a sort of mistake though when I ordered my first Infinitude because I ordered it in Ash (gray) and most of my clothes were dark-colored so it didn't create much of a contrast as a cardigan. Because I also ordered it while I was pregnant, I didn't feel good about using it as a wrap (especially if am pairing it with my Sake tank top which already has all those extra fabric in the ruching).

But by golly, was I a fan!


DURING PREGNANCY


with my Sake tank top and Maki pants, Infinitude worn the Cardi (cardigan) way


worn The Bangled Cardi way


I'm third from the right, Bangled Cardi way again


worn the Jacket style at Unilab's Mommy's Day Out


It's supposed to be in the Nursing Drape style but I did it wrong but anyway, this is me about to be cut up at Asian Hospital

POST-PARTUM / NURSING


with FSL friends, me in Infinitude in Peach Blush, worn The Jacket way


it was hot at Malate Church during my son's baptism so I converted to the Cardi way, especially when I have to nurse


nursing while chatting up friends


nursing while posing with guests


Buding is wearing Infinitude (in raspberry, I think) over her Duchess Dress in the "bat wing" style she thought up; Jenny is wearing Infinitude in mauve the Jacket way


rocking my ash one at the Run United 1, side tie way


same event, so you can appreciate how bulges are covered

The Infinitude comes in only two sizes: 1 and 2. Most Filipinas are a size 1 (yes, it allows the rest of us to wear the same size as Audrey Tan Zubiri and Bianca Araneta Elizalde, how cool is that?). Size 2 is for the really big or tall women out there. It's very stretchy, yes.

The short-sleveed one costs P2,200 while the long-sleeved one costs P2,500. Women who work in offices are sure to maximize the long-sleeved ones especially. And yes, it's a little pricey but again, it's basically a multi-wrap which you can wear pre-pregnancy, during, post-pregnancy and while nursing. That's two to three years (or more) of your family life wherein you'd look fab. However, you do also have to invest in tank tops (if you don't have much of them), at least. I only had a blue and brown one when I was pregnant and the brown clashed with my Ash Infinitude. Of course, the Infinitude can be worn with other tops and dresses as well and can take you from the office to formal occasions like weddings then to super casual places like the beach (as a bathing suit cover). It can also be worn by itself as a dress (a mini).

I have not been able to try the other ways to wear the Infinitude since I don't always go out, and when I do nowadays, it's always with my infant so I generally prefer nursing tops instead. Plus, breastfeeding makes me sweat a lot (it burns calories, you know!) so I am less inclined to layer outfits. I am still such a fan, however, as it spices up one's wardrobe in so many ways compared to breastfeeding covers (there are some really nice ones out there, but they also cease to have a purpose once you stop nursing).

The Infinitude comes in the following colors (but bordeaux is already sold out so please pray they can offer it again for every woman needs a magnificent piece of clothing in red): Ash (dark grey), Pigeon (light heather grey), Carbon (black), Snow (white), Dove (off white), Orchid (pale lilac), Bordeaux (deep red), Wood (dark brown), Riverstone (denim color), Fern (moss green), Taupe (light brown), Peach Blush, Raspberry, Bottle Green and Mauve.

I am being drawn by Taupe because it's such a creamy shade, haha, but I must maximize my two Infinis first before I can justify another one.

The Infinitude is a highly-recommended purchase and I just really wish I can afford to gift all the women in my life with one. It's so versatile that you can convert it to more styles other than the 16 suggested in their site http://shopeden.multiply.com.

You can also check out the clothes at Aura Athletica at Power Plant Mall

Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear - Bento Box Review

I have blogged about the launch of Eden Maternity Wear and have even updated you on where they'd be if you want to see their products instead of just ordering online. Now, due to insistent public demand, I am reviewing Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear, with pictures! :)

What makes me a sort of authority on their products? Well, I am using P15k worth of Eden already and intend to purchase more. And trust me, I am not that easily sold on clothes, especially when I ceased to be svelte. And no, I am not getting paid for this.

Let me just review the pieces I have. And know that as fanatic as I am, and despite knowing (and admiring and loving) one of the business partners, this will be an objective one. After all, I want Eden to keep improving :)

BENTO BOX
The Bento Box pieces are made of matte jersey material. When I first got mine, I first thought of bathing suits (especially when you handle the tops).

Each box includes the following pieces:

Maki Foldover Pants-- a wonderful workhorse for both casual and dressy occasions, not to mention a perfect pair for traveling in comfort!

Sake Tank-- A fabulous top that is both a bra and a tank with ruching around the belly. It features a built in bra for support, empire lift nursing opening and light foam straps to prevent digging into the shoulders. It provides comfort and style and flatters a woman's figure during and after pregnancy.

Sake 3/4 Sleeved Top-- Just like the Sake tank but with the added coverage of sleeves that hit just at the elbows. Sleeves have slight ruching detail.

Miso Skirt-- a versatile a-line skirt that can also be worn as a tunic length tube top or folded over as a babydoll tube top.

The Bento Box was originally offered in three colors: black (carbon), gray (steel) and brown. I got the black set in Medium (bust size of 40 and I was around 180 lbs then already). The material is soft and silky so it also makes you feel sexy and allows both the pants and skirt to be flowy.

The Sake 3/4 sleeved top feels slightly smaller/constricting than the Sake tank top. I have to grit my teeth a little when putting it on. The Sake tank top, however, is the most comfortable thing I ever put on. I literally want to sleep in it. It fit my body like a glove, during pregnancy and now, post-partum. The ruching flattered my pregnancy bump and really hides post-pregnancy belly. The Sake tops were clingy in a very good way plus, they're a little longish so you really don't expose skin even if you wear them with jeans.

The pants and skirt both have these extra fabric over the waist which is great if you're pairing them with other tops which you'd need to hitch up while nursing as the extra fabric will cover your belly area. Plus, I think they also flatter your lines more. The extra fabric in the skirt also allows the skirt to double as a dress (which I dare not, since I have massive thighs and most short dresses ride up my huge a$$) or be used as a tunic-length top.

The down side of the extra fabric, however, is that if you wear the Maki pants or Miso skirt with any of the Sake tops, it might prove too much layer and get you hot and sweaty faster. This could be a real issue with naturally sweaty people (like moi) or pregnant women (who easily get hot) and well, during summer. But for career women staying in air-conditioned places, it shouldn't be a problem. I'm just mentioning this because it's the reason why I didn't wear them sometimes during my pregnancy.

A small complaint with the miso skirt when folded and used as a babydoll tube top: the Eden tag at the back shows. Not all of it but it still shows. It's the same complaint I have with the Sake tops as well. I'm not sure though if it's because I stretch the tops so much, given my width, or it's really an issue with the tag. I'm just thinking it sort of takes away some terrific points if the tag at the back of your clothes shows. Then again, I can always use boleros or something, right?

Last Christmas, Eden sold samplers in what they referred to as Mini Bento (Sake tank top and Miso skirt, so you essentially get two tops too) and also offered another color: bordeaux or wine red.


DURING PREGNANCY


Sake tank top and Maki pants


Sake tank top


black Miso skirt used as babydoll tube top, Maki pants and Infinitude in ash


Sake 3/4 sleeved top and Miso skirt (I should have pulled the sleeves up a little and posed better)

POST-PARTUM / NURSING


the maroon skirt used as babydoll tube top


which I paired with brown tights (pic taken around 12 days after I gave birth); also note that the two lovely ladies to my right in the picture are also wearing Eden pieces: both are wearing Infinitude and Buding was also wearing a Duchess Dress.


breastfeeding in the Sake tank top


wearing the sake 3/4 sleeved top here


my mini bento in red, 3 months after I gave birth


actually wearing the red sake tank top over the black skirt here

Another small complaint with the tops is that it could use more padding (I have naturally perky nips and after nursing, nips can be quite scandalous, hehe). There are openings for breast or bra pads in the tops but I'd rather not have to use any because it's just really easier to hitch up the empire lift and nurse.

Given all of those, I still actually feel less exposed when I use the Sake tops or Blissfulbabes Corsierre because part of the top already covers the mound of your breasts. However, if your baby unlatches without you knowing (because the empire lifts make you feel covered so you might not be as vigilant about exposure), you can end up being more 'bare'! (I have an unfortunate picture with hubs' family, which I won't share here, that proves this). So, just like with any nursing top, you have to practice a little on how to use and make sure the baby's head is covering your... precious, haha. But also because of the empire lifts, I have breastfed many times in public and around friends without my friends noticing. They only realize that I am breastfeeding when they ask to hold my child and I ask them to wait after I finish feeding.

With the Miso Skirt, I just hitch down and nurse. I pair it with Blissfulbabes Nursing bandeau. I guess you can also use non-padded strapless brassieres with it but I need padding, remember?

And yes, the Sake tops offer ample support for the breasts.

If I can get the Sake tank tops in brown and gray without having to get an extra skirt or pants, I would. They are really super comfortable to wear and are really flattering. And yes, I do wish Eden will produce Sake tank tops in jewel shades of green, blue and purple. And maybe in leopard print as well, haha. But I guess the plain fabrics allow it to be more versatile ad easily paired with other pieces of clothing.

And despite my complaints, the items in Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear's Bento Box, when used together, just also makes you look put-together. The set is an effortless way to look classy and coordinated and still be comfy. And oh, how I really wished that the line was launched sooner so I could have started using them earlier in my pregnancy. I actually mourned a little that my Sake tank top won't be hugging my pregnancy bump anymore (because I got them when I was 8 months preggy already).

Some are intimidated by the Bento Box price tag (P4,800) but it's four fashionable items in that set. The Mini Bento costs P2,500. Considering that all items can be worn pre-pregnancy, during, post-partum and while nursing, it's actually a great investment. And truth be told, maternity clothes are also expensive. At least, with Eden's collections, you can wear the clothes you buy much, much longer.

To shop, just go to http://shopeden.multiply.com :) Or go to Aura Athletica at Power Plant Mall

Earthlingorgeous Blogversary Giveaway

If you don't have funds for beauty products, maybe you'd like to join Earthlingorgeous.com Blogversary Birthday Giveaway. She is offering 12 fab prizes and three chances of winning something.

You can tweet, FB or blog about the contest and then tell her what you'd like to get. Good luck to us all!

Carlo's Pizza and Italian Food Restaurant

Carlo's Pizza and Italian Food Restaurant already has many branches in the country (one even in Boracay). My husband ate at their Adriatico branch about two weeks ago and loved the fare.

Their chicken pesto was creany, which is a little weird since am used to it being just olive oil and the pesto. But still, it was delicious pesto pasta. Their sausages in olive oil was very filling and highly recommended and the Quattro Formaggi (four-cheese pizza) was delicious. I believe their pizzas are all thin crust though.

So, having had a wonderful experience and being on a pesto binge, we ordered from Carlo's Pizza last Christmas. They could not deliver but took our orders just the same for pickup.


the buffalo wings


the Hawaiian pizza


the chicken pesto

The servings can be good for two, if you're not eating much or sharing with your date. The staff at Adriatico's rendered good service as well. All in all, it's an Italian restaurant I wouldn't mind frequenting.

All were good and we're sure to order from them again. For more info and an idea of their fare, just go to http://www.carlospizza.net :)

Low Testosterone = Low Quality of Life

Are you a man that's pretty much active and not really on a very unhealthy diet? But do you feel tired all the time and are gaining weight no matter what you do? Having problems pleasing your partner?

Maybe you should have your testosterone levels checked. A low testosterone level could be the reason for your muscle mass turning into fats instead and your overall needs-improvement performance in every aspect of your life. What's more, it increases diabetes risks as well as other health problems.

If found to have low levels of testosterone, your doctor might prescribe an exercise regimen, a diet plan or if necessary, a testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). The TRT, however, will not help much if you still have bad lifestyle habits like smoking and drinking. So, do continue listening to allen carr about quitting smoking and change your lifestyle, habits, even friends.

Cheese Pimiento Spread

Cheese Pimiento spread is one thing I've always loved but never thought to do. During the holidays though, hubs and I decided to bravely try making our own batch and this is our no-brainer recipe.

Ingredients:
1 margarine, softened (we use 225 gm Dari Creme)
3 small red bell peppers (we just use the local one which is 1/3 cheaper than US ones)
300-350 gms of cheddar cheese

Procedure:
Heat or roast the bell peppers using your stove, grill or oven toaster to release the flavor. Remove skin and seeds and then chop into really small pieces (some use a food processor for this).



Cream the softened margarine and add the chopped bell pepper.


we made 3 recipes so we were using our big pan

Then, mix in the grated cheddar cheese. You have to keep mixing as you add the cheese so they won't clump and will start to melt into the butter.



Refrigerate. It will take several hours before the flavor of the bell peppers really get absorbed into the margarine.

I have yet to try it with butter though, and unprocessed cheddar cheese (you know, those real cheddar ones that are expensive). I have yet to try it with Star Margarine too (just to see if it'd still be any good). But like what I said, this is a no-brainer and fail-free spread recipe for your sandwiches.

BonChon Chicken at Ayala Triangle Gardens

What's a Christmas Light Show without chicken wings right? Well, at least that's what hubs was thinking when we were at the Ayala Triangle Gardens a few nights ago. Having read rave reviews of the BonChon chicken, he ordered some as takeout while we were dining at a nearby Vietnamese restaurant.

Unfortunately, my son and nepher threw tantrums so I failed to remember to take a picture. But BonChon chicken wings are really, really, really delicous. Well, I at least loved the soy garlic because it was really flavorful without turning me off with the garlic, as I am no garlic fan. And the twice-frying seems to be a really cool trick because it was very crispy without all that batter thick with oil we're used to with our fried chicken.

I didn't appreciate the hot & spicy BonChon chicken variant much because I feel it was way too hot for a person to appreciate the other flavors or seasonings. I mean, even the spiciest sweet chili crabs from Dampa delivers on other flavors, the BonChon, for me, was just plain hot.

All in all though, I am a convert and we have started recommending people to try it. We are also intent on mastering the twice-frying trick so we can enjoy similarly crisped chicken at home.

Then again, one can just call BonChon a day ahead for their chicken orders and not deal with the long queus during meal hours.

Rationalizing the Toy Box

Are you like me, a really thankful Mom for all the presents her sons received over the Holidays but has got to be honest that there's just not room for them all in their home? Unless we want to be tripping and slipping on them, maybe, or have them blocking the TV, the tables or the door. Okay, I exaggerate but really, there are just way too many toys in our house right now.

If you are like me, then do what I am doing and intend to do.

First, reuse handy boxes to make sense of the chaos. Employ the use of plastic chests if you can afford to buy more, baskets if you have any. Use shelves for the xbox and other electronics that will be used often but really need their special place otherwise they will be stomped on. Then, set a rule: put back or the toy goes on timeout. For the really stubborn child, put the toy/toy box in storage for months or give them away. At least, this way, it will be the child's fault, err, responsibility. Plus, having special containers will allow parents to just offer a box of goodies and keep the rest of the toys away... then, the parents can switch boxes and it'd be like having new toys for the kids just because they missed playing with their old toys.

You can also donate or give away the toys. If something hasn't been played with for months, chances are, it won't be missed. Plus, there are sure to be toys that have been outgrown and toys that are already broken. And with broken toys, be honest: will you or the hubby really find time to fix it or you're just deluding yourself into thinking you're Handy Manny.

If the toys are new and unopened, you may also choose to recycle them as gifts instead and not let your child open yet another electronic book or play with yet another ball. Just make sure you don't accidentally return the gift to the originally giver.

Kids dont even need a box full of toys to be happy. Sometimes, having too much toys also get them bored because they never learn the art of make-believe.

End the Year with Thanks

For sure, you received something from the office, from family members and friends or your community group this Christmas. For the internet-savvy, you must have also been tagged on Facebook or sent e-newsletters to. If you were parents like us who just held a Christening for their son, you must have also been showered with gifts by your guests. And for sure, for even just one day, you received a remarkable amount of kindness from someone this year.

So, end the year with thanks. Luckily, our post office can be depended on so write down a quick message and send them via snail mail or overnight delivery already. If you want to save on paper, design thank you cards using Photoshop and tag your friends or send via e-mail. If you have belated gifts, send your thanks with those.

Just make sure you show your gratitude to those who made you feel special this year. It's a sure way to start 2011 right too!

Brazo de Mercedes from Shopwise Bakeshop

There will be no picture for this post.

Anyway, the long and short of it is that the Brazo de Mercedes (the more expensive one, costing around P170 per half-roll) from Shopwise Bakeshop is just way too sweet.

I love sweet. And I love custard way too much for my own good. But their Brazo de Mercedes is just really way too sweet. The custard is actually not too sweet but the meringue/egg white foam part is sweet, and it's sprinkled with sugar (as in you get the grains) plus it's also drizzled with caramelized sugar.

Way too sweet! So yeah, never again. Because as you can see, all I can say about the cake is it's way too sweet!!!

Limit Newborn-Sized Baby Clothes Purchases

This is a really practical tip when preparing your baby layette. Just buy enough baby clothes to last your child for a week without doing laundry, with two or three nicer ones for going out.

First of all, since newborns have sensitive skin, it is recommended that their clothes, especially those soiled by spit ups and poop, are washed as soon as possible. Other than those, however, the clothes basically remain clean as newborns are clean and thus won't require intense washing. So they're also easier to wash and wear.

Newborns really balloon in the first three months or so, which won't allow you much mileage on newborn-sized clothes. I bought a few 0-3 and more 0-6 months clothes and only two newborn-sized shirts.

And then, there are the gifts from friends and family, just because they're blessing your baby, attending your shower or joining your family in the baby's dedication/christening. Not to mention hand-me-down clothes as well.

So limit your newborn-sized purchases and channel the savings on more important items instead, like a fab sling or a sturdy pen.

Artscow Cosmetic Bags - Review

These are the smallest of the Artscow cosmetic bags, shown front and back that is approximately 7 inches in width and 4 inches in height. I didn't realize that I was sort of expecting the picture to be printed on something like plastic, or that material used for tarpaulins. Something with a shiny finish, at least. Instead, I got a cosmetic bag that's cloth and resembled pencil cases.

This is not to say I was unhappy with my purchase though. First, I got all these for only $8 (so make sure you take advantage of promos).

The cosmetic bag seems to be well-made but can only accommodate a compact powder, a liner, one or two lipsticks and a comb. More than that and the stitching might give, plus the pictures will get distorted. And one must not forget that the objective of the purchase was to have something personalized.

I haven't tried washing it yet (since we just got it) so I cannot comment on that yet. One other tip though is to really use good photos (with nice contrast) and dark colors (especially for the background). Using light colors just make the bag seem washed out already. Don't shy away from vivid because the printing will be vivid.

Will I order some again? Sure, why not! If the price is right.

Granny Panties after CS Deliveries

I never thought I'd wear granny panties. You know, those really huge ones that ride high over your waist, they're like binders.

And for my first CS delivery, I didn't need it. I was just fine using bikini panties. But for my second one, my scar really hurt. Bikinis just rubbed on the scar and made it feel more raw. And since newly-delivered moms have to contend with lochia, not wearing panties wasn't an option.

Wearing granny panties was, however.

Now, I sort of love them. They don't rub on my scar. They don't show panty lines, making one believe am wearing a thong. And they help cushion the friction from the binder I have to wear 24/7. What's more, they really are like binders and offer some tummy support.

But I guess one does not dare get caught in the usual ones, so maybe you can buy maxi panties with tummy tuckers instead. They're really just glorified granny panties but they will look sexier.

For everyday wear though, the usual ones already work.

Now, let me go back to reading testoripped reviews before I divulge some other post-pregnancy unglamorous stuff.

Chamilia for One of a Kind Jewelry

It may be too late for Christmas but am sure orders can still make it for the New Year. This is for all the husbands and sons out there who have yet to buy the important women in their life some Christmas gift.

Chamilia offers one of a kind jewelry. Since their designs are not generic, the recipient is bound to treasure it more because it will help her feel unique and distinctive. Plus, the jewelry can be great conversation pieces because she can regal her admirer on how she fashioned it herself by choosing which beads will be worn that day. Don't you just love fancy DIY?

Order now boys. Do not wait till Valentines!

Books for Less

Books for Less, Booksale, Books and Mags, Chapters and Pages... these are some of the discount boosktores to be found in malls today that offer great reading options, both for educational purposes as well as gift-giving. One would think such stores should be housed in a metal building if only to ensure the books won't burn because they're really a great resource for precious reading material.

What's more, not all are second-hand books. Plus, there can be really great finds of books in pristine condition at such a low price. A great example is my copy of Quidditch Through the Ages which I bought at Booksale for only P40. And it's really a new, non-doodled copy too.

So, if arranging to meet with someone at the mall, instead of spending already by sitting in that cafe, why not arrange to meet instead at one of these bookstores? You just might find childhood favorites there.


Curious George books bought at Booksale for P60/pc

Casa Armas Tapas Bar Y Restaurante - Jupiter

I have heard of Casa Armas Tapas Bar Y Restaurante but haven't been really interested to dine there. Last Thursday though, as we were being shunned away by so many restaurants along Jupiter since theirs were booked for Christmas parties, I had the pleasure of trying out Casa Armas and their authentic Spanish fare.

Well, the ambience was really exquisite and the waiters were pleasant/good-looking and tall men.





I was surprised to find out that it wasn't as expensive as I thought it would be especially if you consider that the servings can easily be good for two (except maybe the order of plain rice, hehe). Seven adults and one kid and we only spent a little over P2,000.

I didn't get to take pictures of all we ordered but here are some of them:


callos, and real delicious too (though hubs and I are biased and still believe MIL's callos is still the best)


Solomilio con Pimiento, basically pork tenderlon with pepper, which they said was very good


I am assumming this is the Ceasar Salad

The best part of the dining experience, for me, was knowing that the place was kid-friendly enough to allow this, which my son would have really appreciated (as he is on a knights and castles phase now):



Casa Armas in Jupiter is really highly-recommended for intimate dates and gatherings and really special occasions. Contact them at:

Casa Armas Tapas Bar y Restaurante, Jupiter St.
132 Jupiter St., Bel-Air 2
Makati City, Metro Manila
Philippines
(02) 897-3605


Other branches include:
Casa Armas Tapas Bar y Restaurante, Malate
573 J. Nakpil St. cor. J. Bocobo St.
Manila, Metro Manila
Philippines
(02) 523-5763

Casa Armas Tapas Bar y Restaurante, Greenbelt 3
G/Lvl. Greenbelt 3, Paseo de Roxas, Ayala Center
Makati City, Metro Manila
Philippines
(02) 757-4961

Casa Armas Tapas Bar y Restaurante, The Podium
1/F The Podium, 18 ADB Ave., Ortigas Center
Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila
Philippines
(02) 687-3663

Casa Armas Tapas Bar y Restaurante, Trinoma Mall
3/Lvl. Trinoma Mall, EDSA cor. North Ave.
Quezon City, Metro Manila
Philippines
(02) 900-0449

(source of contact info: Munchpunch.com)

Med.Chef Brownies

While waiting to be allowed in the ABS-CBN compound one time I was collecting a cheque, my husband was intrigued by this bakeshop offering cakes with a twist. Since he hasn't heard of MedChef before, he only bought these chocolate brownies (P100/box) that had a cream cheese topping.





For its price, it was good. Not too sweet and I loved the cream cheese topping. However, it felt more like chocolate cake than brownie becase it was so soft.

For orders or an idea of where MedChef (or Med.Chef, I don't know how important that dot is) will be (because they also sell at Sunday markets or food expos), just visit their site http://medchefhomemadecakes.multiply.com/

Mommy Mundo Events for Two Weekends

I was browsing the news and reading up on a Texas truck accident lawyer and a particular case when a friend alerted me in Gtalk to ask me if I was going to any of the upcoming Mommy Mundo events. I told her that I will check on it first. Sure enough, my inbox had the e-mail with all the details and now, I am sharing it with you.

1. Mompreneur booths (think Planet Noah's wooden toys, natural skin care products, and Ozonator; Mommy Matters' bamboo and organic cotton nursingwear; Earththreads bamboo and organic basic wear; and Fuzzibunz diapers) at MERCATO CENTRALE (weekend lifestyle market in Bonifacio Global City, located at the corner of 30th and 9th streets, right beside The Spa Bonifacio High Street parking lot). Saturdays and Sundays 6am-12nn. Visit for more info visit www.mercatocentrale.ph.

2. FREE Creative discovery for your child at FUN RANCH's CREATIVITY AVENUE to be held this Saturday, December 11, at Fun Ranch Pasig, 11am to 6pm where kids can explore, imagine and create with the first Fun Ranch Creativity Avenue that features providers in the field of arts and crafts, theater, fashion, dance and music.

Come at 11am and watch the My Masterpiece Movement open up the event with a live mural painting and storytelling show. After that, sign up for any of the following Creativity stations:

Fashion workshop by Musicfirst
Music workshop by Musikgarten
Arts and Crafts session by Closer ties
Theatre workshop by Teatro Artistas

3. The 5th Toy Fair and Mom's Favorite Finds event at Megatrade hall, SM Megamall is on Dec 17-19, 2010 where mompreneur booths will also be present as well as as hard to find toys and collectibles sold.

So, fortify everyone with Vitamin C before braving the crowds. You need not spend but make sure you do have fun!

UP-PGH Faculty Medical Arts Building (FMAB) Pediatrics

I had gushed about the idea of a pediatric complex offering the services of UP-PGH specialists in one building. I had no idea that it was an even bigger project. The Faculty Medical Arts Building (FMAB) was sitting idle in the PGH compound for over two decades but now, it's offering the latest in medical technology as well as the PGH specialists we all know are the best in the country. FMAB is allowing these doctors to hold private clinics in PGH while also allowing them to be available to PGH patients and UP students.

And I have enjoyed the pediatrics section twice already.

Most of the doctors are officially holding clinic there January 2011 but our pediatrician has already moved in since October. The pediatrics complex has at least eight rooms for the pediatric specialists. Supposedly, once fully occupied, vaccination will be centralized and performed by a tag team of doctor and nurse other than the specialist you're consulting with.

Supposedly, a play area will also be set up just outside the complex, which is in the 2nd floor.


the FMAB lobby, with staff ready to assist first-time visitors and even usher them to where they want to go


Figaro serves coffee near the entrance, this is the cashier area


just after the cashier area is the Radiology center (left) and at the end, the stairs leading to the 2nd floor, the first complex on the right being the Pediatrics one


Inside the pediatrics complex in the FMAB


me, with other parents bringing in their child, to our pedia's FMAB clinic

We actually love the new clinic because well, it's new, clean and the air-conditioning is great (as in bring sweaters or wraps!). However, we do feel it can be a hassle going there because PGH is located in the center of a block, which would require commuters to walk and those driving cars to be stuck in traffic in that area. I am also not sure if parking for FMAB guests is allowed in front of the building (I think that's reserved for the physicians) or they'd have to go park in the main PGH parking area and just walk to FMAB. Plus, for concerned parents, it would really be great to just have all the specialists in one place.

Anyway, I am guessing more chairs will be added to accommodate patients. The complex has its own rest room and there's a separate changing/weighing/measuring room for the kids (with its own sink). All doctors' clinics also has its own sink in the anterooms where the child is examined.

I just hope they installed sound absorbing material there because I can just imagine the noise of so many kids to see so many doctors. Maybe they can also include books in the play area they're going to set up. And at least one TV to broadcast a good children's program to amuse at least half of the kids.

Call 554-8400 or 708-0000 for more information, clinic schedules, specialist availabilities and the like.

Time to Dress Warmly

It's not yet as cool as our usual Decembers but it's still time to dress a little more warmly now. Being tropical, we have no use for muffs and thick leather jackets as well as knowledge of snow chains and snowblower parts but the time for sundresses and sleeveless tops is not now.

But what if you find yourself in a really crowded place or one that's not so well-ventilated? then, I guess you can do what they do in colder countries and just strategize by layering.

Wear that fab tank top with an equally fab scarf. Then, have either a jacket or shawl handy in your bag or car. Use coats which you can button up when the place is cooler or when night time falls.

For your kids, make sure you have jackets ready. And when outside at night, at least make them don bonnets or caps. Also, make sure you make them wear shoes requiring socks, instead of flimsy slippers that will also get their feet cold.

Christmas is wasted on the sick, so make sure you keep warm.

Klasse Murae Accessories

At the Manila Doctors Bazaar, I happened to find an accessory selle that had really great designs. Her brand, Klasse Murae basically means "classy but cheap" (klas na mura).


there were a lot of great designs but I couldn't wear anything with metal so she offered me this P300 single-string glass beads necklace and I just found a P50/pair earrings to match


this is me wearing the necklace and earrings I bought from her

I failed to take a picture of her designs, even her bags which are really fab, because I didn't have any camera with me. But feel free to drop by her shop or contact Klasse Murae:

Nicole Roxas
Fashion Accesory Designer - Klasse Murae
with branch at Shoppes at Victoria Tower, Timog and an outlet in Glorietta 1
0916-536 3199/ 0922-663 8519
roxas_nicole at yahoo dot com
nicole_roxas at hotmail dot com

Spice Up Your Home

With 2010 about to bid adieu, and you contemplating what things you could do to improve your home and spice it up a little, allow me to suggest ambient lighting. Start researching on "lighting fixtures for home" and see where some will do good in your abode.

They need not be expensive installations anyway. Maybe, a soft spotlight on your collectibles is all you need, or some back lighing in your shelf. Maybe you'd really benefit from a reading light in your bedroom that will cover the couch where you love to curl up in. And of course, there is always the garage or basement that can do with good white light to aid your chores and help prevent accidents.

Microwarehouse Yearend Sale

On December 11-12, 2010, head on to Decagon Silver City, corner Frontera Drive and Julia Vargas Drive, Frontera Verde, Pasig City and get great deals on brands like Apple, Belkin, Lacie and more!

This is a 2 day affair you sure shouldn't miss if you're hankering for a new Blackberry (or accessories) or looking to invest in more Apple products. Samsung and Philips will be there too so there might just be LCD TVs as well. I am guessing, this is a sale men will love as it will involve appliances and gadgets.

Scholastic Christmas Book Sale

Here's another sale to get wonderful books from to give as Christmas gifts!!!

From their online ad:

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, SCHOLASTIC CELEBRATES THE JOYS OF READING AND SAVING!

A CHRISTMAS BOOK SALE!
UP TO 90% OFF

DECEMBER 1 - 10, 2010
8AM - 8PM
WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY

SEE YOU THERE!

PLEASE REGISTER YOUR NAME UNDER
BEV AND JUVY
(email to your friends and relatives)
Thank you!
--
Scholastic Book Fairs TeamDistribution Center:
#70 C. Raymundo Ave. Rosario, Pasig City
Contact No.: (02) 900-1537/ 640-7696
Telefax: (02) 628-4487
Mobile No.: (0917)580-4784
Email Address: scholasticbookfairs@scholastic.com.p
hwww.scholastic.com/readeveryday

Flavored Cigars

If you're thinking of what cigars to get your puff-happy friend, why not consider flavored cigars?

I once bought vannila-flavored cigars and it was a hit with cousins because it was somehow sweet. There are at least 70 flavors out there and at least 90 brands to choose from. Maybe you can even have different-flavored ones in a canister for people to enjoy in the Christmas or New Year's Eve party you're throwing.

I normally don't encourage smoking and I really hope more people will take the risks smoking brings to heart more, but this is still an idea I thought worth mentioning.