Online Presence for Small Businesses

I am starting to support small businesses more and more and I do not just mean the usual cottage industries. I have Mom friends who have turned their advocacy into income-generating endeavors. They sell nursing wear, cloth diapers, earth-friendly soaps, wooden toys, etc.

I also have friends who turned their fashion obsession (and the fact that they now have daughters) into money-making endeavors. They sell and resell clothes, clips, shoes, accessories. 

Other friends channel their other talents and go into party planning, or selling crafted toys or decor. Even crocheted stuff is now becoming a more lucrative business idea (one I have not responded to accordingly!). 

One way all of them have increased their online presence is through thoughtfully designed blogs and websites which their friends and family can direct their network of friends to. Just share links to sites on FB, supplemented by Instagram and Pinterest postings and maybe one or two blog giveaways and your market has just expanded.

Those looking for webhosting for these might want to check out www.webhostinggeeks.com/wordpresshosting.html for price brackets and package offerings. They may also have to pay for premium photo sharing accounts but the costs are really a small price to pay for the trade it brings. One thing I like about websites having a blog feature is that clients LOVE it when you post pictures they share with you for goods they have bought from you... and that keeps them coming back for more.

Countries with Tough Visa Applications

Getting a permit to enter or visa to other countries can be a breeze, although in some cases it depends on your country of origin. However, there are some countries where getting a visa is complicated no matter the color of your passport. This is why most people prefer to engage the services of immigration and visa consultancy companies such as Global Visas which know the ins and outs of the visa application process of most countries. Before you give in to the lure of cheap accommodations or decide that travel to exotic places is just the right move for you at this particular juncture, find out first what you’re getting, or not getting, into.

The visa application process differs from country to country. In some, such as Angola and Russia, th process requires a multitude of documents, such as medical tests, letters of invitation, financial sureties, educational background, or employment history. Small mistakes in the application form can mean a rejection, and in the case of Angola, approval takes a long time.


Cuba is off-limits to most Americans, especially if the passport is stamped by a Cuban Embassy. Most Americans may also be denied entry into North Korea, which doesn’t even have an embassy in the US. Getting a visa for Saudi Arabia is not difficult, but chances are if you don’t know what you are doing you are applying for the wrong kind. They have very specific visas for different types of visitors, and women especially will be subject to close scrutiny.


Iran has no embassies of its own, so visa applications are handled by other countries such as Pakistan in the US and Switzerland in Tehran. To get a visa, you must have an Iranian sponsor, and if you are not careful, you could end up in prison for any number of violations. The case for Brazil is that their visa application process can change from day to day, and there is no fixed timetable and if you are smiling in your passport photo, you can kiss your chances of approval goodbye.


It is expensive to enter China; the visa costs $140 for a single entry if you apply yourself. Additional fees apply if you send a representative, but they do process quickly. However, if your medical history indicates you have suffered from a contagious or mental disease, you will probably be denied a visa.
The US and the UK are very difficult you get a visa for because they have strict security measures in place. Even if you do get a visa, you may still be turned away if they find any reason to suspect you are
not what you represent yourself to be, especially in post 9/11 US. Students are particularly given a hard time; in the UK, foreign students must have employment waiting for him or her at the end of their studies coming with a government-registered employer.


If you like to travel to other countries, getting a visa is a crucial step in the process. Most people do not have extensive experience in applying for visas, so doing it yourself is probably not going to end well for you. At the very least, you will have wasted your time and money, at the worst you could be turned away at the airport or detained. If you are considering taking the plunge, consult with professional visa assistance companies like Global Visas and avoid headaches and problems when you travel.


Global Visas has won for its clients the most difficult battles as far as visa facilitation is concerned, such as immigration to Australia. The expertise of the Global Visas team allows it to deliver the best quality service in the lodgment of spousal, fiancée, tourist and working visas. The company holds the distinct advantage of having personnel in destination countries as well as constant updating of visa regulations in these areas: the USA, Canada, UK and other parts of Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Asian territories. Visit http://www.globalvisas.com/ for more information.

3rd Balik Bukid on April 28

As if the last Balik Bukid wasn't fun enough, they are now offering a Mud Dash and Up Dharma Down concert as well :)

And just in case you need extra incentive... I'd like to remind everyone that the kiddie zipline rocks!

Lifetime Income Solutions

One thing my husband and I have agreed on is that we will learn tabout investing this year... and will also start making our money earn, however little or much it is.

But before we could start to  compare annuity rates or trade stocks, we both need to start with the basics. And here is a rough guide of how we're doing it:

1) Meet over and agree on a financial plan.
Couples looking to invest need to be aware of their cash flow first so they can see where budget can be slashed (expenses for dining out), which expenses are non-negotioable, and just how (if any) go into savings.

2) Brush up on business Math.
Be clear about the differences of time deposits and stocks and bonds. Re-learn how to compute for interests and dividends. You will need these skills when you finally meet with financial experts.

3) Read and research.
You can buy magazines, read investment books, join investment mailing lists and float questions on the internet. Just do your research. Where are people investing? How are they doing it? What are they doing it for? What is available to you where you are? And how much money and time should you really be alloting for what you plan to do?

4) Meet with experts.
You can consult with agents or financial managers or anyone from the bank.

5) Start slow.
For sure, we will learn as we go and will make a lot of mistakes first. So, best to start slow. As we gain confidence and more knowledge, we can take bigger risks and try smarter.

6) Keep learning.

7) Do not let expenses rise in direct proportion to rising income.

8) Keep investing.


Hopefully... others will have the drive and commitment to do the same. It just won't do to be parents without savings and investments.

Money Wallets

I found these being sold (for P250 I think each) at 168 Mall over in Divisoria last December. There were also wallets in American dollar currencies and some in Dinar and Japanese Yen I think.

Imagine putting your american eagle silver dollar in something so quirky. Nice gift idea for friends who like conversation starters, eh?

I only saw one stall selling these and it's located at the ground floor of the old 168 building. Just keep an eye out, it's in one of the first two aisles from the left.

Start Online Shopping for Black Friday, Cyber Monday Steals

Planning to buy your man a coveted set of sports earbuds for his birthday? A citizen watch perhaps for your anniversary? Thanksgiving may still be over three weeks away but it just may be worth your while to start scouring the net for good finds and listing them somewhere. If these are offered on discounted rates come Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then, you can just keep on 'adding to cart' and 'checking out' with nary a worry over product review and whether you're getting a great bargain or not.

Hopefully, having a list of wants would also give you time to manage your finances, free up some credit and/or start selling some items online yourself.

Robinsons Warehouse Sale 2012

Looking for  tv stands with mounts? What about little kitchen helpers to make for better food presentation? Christmas gifts to beloved kids perhaps? Fabulous outfits? DIY kits for home decorating?

Or just a reason to shop for any bargain?

Well then... the Robinsons Warehouse Sale 2012 event poster is already making the rounds. Here's what they say that you can expect:

Get up to 70% off on these participating brands: Toys "R" Us, Topshop, Topman, Dorothy Perkins, Warehouse, Ben Sherman, Robinsons Appliances, Robinsons Department Store, Handyman, True Value, Saizen, Howards and Mini Stop! Plus more exciting deals at the Robinsons Metrobank Warehouse Sale 2012!

 Simply present your Robinsons Cebu Pacific MasterCard, GO! MasterCard or any Metrobank credit card to enter and enjoy the big discounts and deals!

Now, I know those days aren't pay days yet for most people but I guess that's where emergency cash and wise use of credit cards can help you purchase necessities (and maybe a few nice-to-have's) at cheaper the cost.

I am inclined to go just to see how much gets slashed on wooden toys at Toys "r" Us :)

Donate To the Established

Right now, there are many lists cropping up of where to send relief goods and donations for the Habagat 2012 victims. However, it is also the perfect time for some mercenaries to take advantage of the situation.

Personally, I would bring my goods and money to the established enterprises, like schools (all De La Salle schools in Manila, Ateneo, UP), hospitals and organizations (Red Cross, ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya, etc). Of course, donation drives may also be undertaken by villages and other groups... just don't deposit money in accounts you don't know.

Another thing why I perfer established groups is that they already have a network of contacts, and faster determine which supplies are required (be it extra medical computer  equipment at UST Hospital, or clothes/food/medicine in the different evacuation shelters.

I know we all want to help, but let's not waste our help to those who are just exploiting the hardships of our fellowmen. Here is a list that one can fairly trust for donations and volunteer work.

Bigger Isn't Always Better With Ink

As hubby and I were buying hp toner cartridges for our printer, we were asked if we'd rather buy the bigger (more volume) ones because they are cheaper in the end.

We were really tempted, because the HP cartridges we need cost us thousands everytime we change the black and color ones. However, we also realized just in time that we don't really print stuff all the time. That means, we have had more than one occasion of a cartridge running dry so the bigger cartridge is certainly not for us because our printing needs are minimal.

That is something households like ours should remember when buying things. Check your needs and requirements first... because sometimes, you may actually be saving more by not buying the bigger pack.

Of course, our printing needs are about to change in the near future as we start tackling worksheets. But that's still about a year away. Right now, I just try to remember to print a picture once in a while to make sure our cartridges aren't running dry.

Target's Summer Cyber Week

Taget has been inundating my e-mail with alerts on what's on sale in their online store all week. I am loving the "save like it's Cyber Monday all week long" because at least, one doesn't have to wait for November to enjoy great deals.

I wouldn't even be surprised if they offer Mod Kits DIY Amplifiers for sale or other musical instruments (a Paper Jamz pro Guitar is on sale!) and accessories. I am loving the current deals on laptops though.

Just manage your funds well and don't overindulge... but take advantage of the savings!

Mapping Financial Freedom with Financial Advisors

Some insurance companies offer financial advisor services, which, if you have the disposable income, might greatly benefit your family. These people will sit with you and your family and, given your particular circumstances (earnings, investments, liabilities) will help you come up with a workable financial plan that you can commit to. What's more, you would have a better understanding of where your money (the one you set aside monthly/annually) goes and how it can work for you. You can even consult with them on mutual funds, best indexed annuities and other things financial.

Managing your finances better, no matter how much you're worth, is sure to give you a better sense of security and truer sense of freedom. Whether you have your own business or is just an employee, you can work out a plan to have retirement savings you can enjoy someday.

So, consider meeting with one, at least.

Harvest Rain for Home Use

In one hand, I guess it's really easier for those still just building their homes to install tanks and rain harvester/water recycling systems. If they take advantage of http://www.poolsupplyunlimited.com/">discount pool parts> and recycle rain water, that will be a lot of savings there to cater to entertainment and exercise. Or at least, you can utilize rainwater for toilet flushing, or doing the laundry (like we do at my grandma's house in the province).

But even those without yards can take advantage of the incessant rainy climate that has been plaguing the country for most of the year in recent years. Buckets can be placed in porches (or just anywhere outside) where collected water can be used to clean garages, roofs, porches and even the bathroom. The same water may be used for watering plants and maybe washing car tires at least.

This can save you some money from the rising charges of water companies (people from an e-group have been complaining of sudden increases in their Maynilad bills) and also provides an opportunity to be resourceful and helpful to the planet. It also makes for many teachable moments with your children.

Anvil Publishing Is on Sale!

I have been waiting for them to have another mega sale like the one I went to in 2009 where I got a lot of books (77 in all) for only over P1,000.

This year's Anvil Publishing Sale is happening every weekend for these dates:
June 29-30 and July 1
July 6-8
July 13-15
July 20-22
July 27-29

It's going to be held at 107 West drive, Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig City.

This is a great opportunity to stock up on Adarna storybooks, other storybooks, old novels, books to give away for parties or Christmas (and even to donate). Just come hydrated, in comfy clothes and maybe even a mask or gloves if you're allergic to dust (because the books will come from old storage, well, maybe not all... but paper invites dust).

If it's the same venue as I went to, it's also going to be crowded and hot (aside from musty) so you might want to leave the kiddos at home.

Cost-Saving Tips for Back-to-School Expenses

Most parents find themselves wishing they could avoid back-to-school expenses. Not everyone are rich enough to buy gold bars anyway, let alone all the required supplies some schools impose on. But there are some ways that can cut costs, big or small.

1) If investing in new uniforms, get a size or two bigger and just get a good seamstress to adjust them for you. Then, you can also just have them re-adjusted to accommodate growth spurts in the coming months or years.

2) Save the crayons. If some have been broken, that's ok. You can use a cheap cookie sheet or microwave-proof mold and just melt crayons of the same color (or maybe even create your own shades) to turn them into coloring blocks.

3) Go over old notebooks and get all the clean pages and bind them. Either they could serve as a new notebook or a scratch pad.

4) Plan a weekley menu of healthy snacks and lunches so you can include them in your weekly grocery shopping. Skip the junk and processed food that  may seem cheap to you but ultimately doesn't provide real nourishment to your child... some may even aggravate cavities. Good meals mean better health, and medical expenses are something parents sometimes forget in their menu planning and budgeting.

5) Insist on healthy breakfasts... so your child will also avoid snacking all day. It doesn't need to be really heavy, some slices of sweet potato or a hard-boiled egg are healthy enough without requiring a long eating time.

6) Use freebie canvas bags as lunch boxes instead of buying one.

7) Make it a habit for your child to clean their shoes and bags at regular times to prolong their serviceability.

9) Walk to school if it's only ten or so minutes away. The activity is also great for better health.

10) Avoid buying themed school supplies... because your child might insist they NEED the extra bag, strap, etc of the same theme. It's a lot cheaper if your child CAN use generic products instead of having to have a Dora umbrella to go with her Dora backpack.

11) Buy products in bulk if you know you'd need them all the time. For examle, parents will be wise to invest in a ream of bond paper since their child is sure to be submitting reports all throughout high school. Make sure they are used properly though, and not wasted.

12) Buy quality for regularly-used items, like bags or shoes. Having to buy another pair mid-year is an additional cost you don't want sprung on you.


A penny (in our case, peso) saved here and there may amount to extra money for extra food, transport fare or other project materials. Plus, it will teach your child that your pool of resources isn't limitless and should be therefore respected and managed.

The Bina Wrap: Multiway Fashion Staple

I will admit to the fact that I am a fan of multiway clothes. When you have something that converts into different styles, then you ca accessorize at will and the money you spent on it will be well invested because it's something that won't grow old... or stale.

So, when I saw the Bina on Youtube, I just really fell in love.

One thing I loved about it is that it's not like those multiway dresses that promise you so many styles but you end up just using it for one or two, because there are issues about the knots and the special bra/chest support you'd require.

The Bina wrap is an accessory, mostly, and was designed to just really spice up your wardobe (but you can wear it as a top). I do not have great pics of myself wearing it (because I've been using it as nursing cover with my baby when we go out) but here's a few thathopefully gives you an idea of its versatility:


worn as poncho


makes for a really long, un-styled scarf (tying it in a knot around my neck isn't for this summer trip)


haha.. here I did the back wrap wrong, but I think it still looked okay (the Bina's just too crumpled here though because my son was wrapped in it just before the shoot)


in the turtleneck style, only I didn't close the snaps


If there's something that convertible, multiway clothes tell us... it's that fashion clothes need never be thrown away. They also need not serve just one purpose or give you just one look.

I love my Bina and want more in other colors. Of course, the price ($42.50) makes me think twice about buying more but I might just order another one come Black Friday sale. Meanwhile, just check out their website at binabrianca.com for tutorials on how-to as well as link to their videos. Supposedly, there are 12 ways to use it so that's about $3.54 per style :)  At least, the Bina wrap won't take up much space.

Saltimboca: Bacolod Budget Inn with Great Location

It was really great that I was thorough in my research when looking for a place to stay in Bacolod. I first considered Circle Inn but found that it was not located in the main streets of Bacolod, so going to and fro would pose more fare expense. Then I considered L'Fisher but still found them too expensive. Good thing I was able to find Saltimboca's correct cntact info and manged to get a reservation. They did require 50% deposit though.

At P1,400 (discounted rate, I think), their family room was  the least nice we stayed in on this trip (comparing to P1,045/night at One Lourdes Dormitel in Iloilo and P2,200/night at Raymen Beach Resort in Guimaras). It looked and felt and smelled like an unused room in someone's house, hehe. The aircon worked well, and the musty smell in the room did disappear after the aircon was turned on. We had four single beds, two of which we just pushed together to accommodate our kids.

the sign at 15th street, along Lacson

the lobby, restaurant part

our family room had a garden view, and the garden had 2-3 such gazebos where people stayed a lot for the WiFi (which they turn off at midnight)

we never did get to try their pool since it started raining the minute we got there... and it didn't stop till we left for Manila

three of the beds in the family room; smallest TV we had to deal with too, but their housekeeping changed our sheets and towels everyday aside from cleaning the room

this was weird... a long, narrow hallway to the separate toilet and shower area (and you can easily hear your neighbors from here)... but we got used to it

Despite Saltimboca having a not-so-appealing room (I dare not call it ugly, but I also didnt expect it in a city like Bacolod and it was still very comfortable, in fairness), it is the only place that had free breakfast (for two) inclusive of the rates... and the location can't be beat, which makes it highly recommended still in my book.

 

continental breakfast

chopped chorizo breakfast, which was good

area where you can eat, just off the garden; we dined here with takeout food which the inn charged corkage for (it was very minimal per head, I just forgot how much)

Just outside Saltimboca is the Balay Quince where shops and a Calea branch can be found. Across is L'Fisher Hotel, L'Cs bakeshop and L'Sea chinese restaurant. It's walking distance to Cafe Bob's, Starbucks, Casa Carmela, spas, other restaurants and bakeshops (Merci), laundromat, money changer, etc. It's a ride away from the cathedral and SM. Again, Saltimboca's location can't be beat. The savings we got from the affordable room were duly spent on cakes and other sweet things instead (but the 24/7 stores there sure charge more per item than 7-11!)

Saltimboca Tourist Inn and Restaurant's latest tariff rates:

To contact them, just e-mail saltimpension@yahoo.com.ph or text them at 0932-8779488 or 0910-4903377 (I was given the discounted rate for the family room via text, so either they've just increased their rates, or they charge less when you reserve beforehand)

Shop Smarter and More Safely this Christmas

On my way to Divisoria last week, a man sat beside me in the jeep egging the driver to go faster. It turned out, he was trying to get away from the man he snatched a cellphone from.

Cases like this are rampant during the Holidays as even the poor and the sinful are intent to give themselves a Merry Christmas. I know, it's not like people will be shopping with gold bars
in bag, but here are some tips for everyone to shop smarter and more safely:

1) Have a separate coin purse for the transport fares so people don't see the thousand peso bills in your wallet.

2) Don't keep all your eggs in one basket, in case you lose a wallet or someone picks your pocket.

3) Leave valuables behind when going into crowded places.

4) If you can, go on leave on a weekday to do and finish all your shopping. Less people about so even the lines at the cashier will be shorter too.

5) Use your debit/credit card instead, if you're not going to flea markets, bazaars, etc so you don't need to carry cash.

6) Try to shop early, when attendants are still alert and fresh. Shopping in the evening when all store clerks are already exhausted may result in wrong change, left purchases and poorer customer service.

7) Think of a theme so you need only go to one or two places for all your gift-giving needs.

8) Don't shop alone, so that someone will always have your back. Or...

9) Divide and conquer with a friend/partner, so that someone else can already get other things in your list.

10) Keep a watchful eye and err on the side of caution.

Prevent more stress from coming into your life this Holiday season.

Guess and Mossimo Sale at Speciabilities

Speciabilities Development Center is hosting a Guess and Mossimo Sale again this year, with other wonderful brands like Vans, Chevignon, American Rag, Avirex and Joejeans. The sale is on October 14 and 15 (Friday and Saturday) from 10 am to 6 pm.

For first-timers to have an idea, shirts that are regularly priced P850-P1,000 in the the stores can be purchased for P300 - P350 (adults). For kids, items that usually cost P650-P800 can be purchased here for only P250 - P350.

Feedback and tips from those who have gone to this particular sale before include:
1) Bring someone with you to fall in line as you rummage around.
2) It could be hot so bring fan, water, towel and DO NOT BRING KIDS ALONG.
3) Some bring eco bags where they put all the things that catch their fancy, then fall in line, and audit their loot while in line.
4) Wear comfy clothes.
5) Bring cash. You cannot use credit cards here.
6) Brand paper bags will be given so this is a good opportunity to buy items for gift-giving.

For more information and directions to the school:
Speciabilities Development Center
11 Binamaka St.
Manresa, Quezon City
Tel: 361-9178 and 364-3460
www.speciabilities.com (visit the website for details on how to get to
the school, just click on the tab 'contact us')

Convertible Clothes for this Party Season

The last three months of the year is when there are more births (so, more birthday parties), more weddings (especially around December), more events (Halloween, Thanksgiving) and parties (Christmas parties and reunions).

What to wear to each one, then, without breaking your budget and going into debt? After all, heaven forbid that you wear the same outfit to each party. You may not upload your pictures on FB but your friends might still tag you, and your other friends will notice that you seem to be wearing the same outfit in each one.

One really good answer to this fashion issue is to invest in convertible clothes (also referred to as infinity dresses or multiway tops). Eden's Infinitude is a good example of something you can use to accessorize basic pieces with to achieve different looks. ForMe also has a multiway top. You may also look into owning a Bina scarf, a Pirose scarf or some Vanessa Knox dresses.

Even hearty eaters can just shop for a cheap plus size cocktail dress and embellish it with different scarves or multiway shawls for different occasions. You can employ color blocking strategies with your accessories and also repurpose old stuff that you may have. Turn old sweaters into scarves and old shirts into cute jumpers. Youtube is replete with tutorials and there are a lot of crafty bloggers who can give you step-by-step instructions on how to make a multiway dress.

Feel free to also borrow accessories to spice up your wardrobe with.

So, don't be disheartened with the coming party season. Embrace it and look fabulous till the end of time (because convertible clothes cannot really go out of fashion!).

Eggette: Hong Kong Street Food

One real advantage of staying in Hong Kong hotels and hostels is that you really need not rent an apartment with a stainless steel sink, ovens, and all the pots and pans you'd need plus a dining area... because, well, you need not cook. Even just buying off the streets is cheap.

Take for instance this Hong Kong street food staple, the eggette. It's really a lot like pancakes and waffles (except for the hint of coconut) but it looks a little more inviting because it looks different. And for HKD10, it's a cheap, healthy snack you can bring with you as you roam the shopping district that is Granville.



Two places I know for sure where you can find a stall is at Granville Road (at the corner of Shun Yee street). Another one is just past the camera shops along Cameron Road.

Enjoy!