Hoixe Cake Shop - Hong Kong

One of the real perks of staying at Hotel Benito in Hong Kong was having a Hoixe Cake Shop nearby. Google it, however, and you won't find a listing of the cake shop along Cameron Road but there is one and we were patrons the whole week we were in Hong Kong. Their bread (pork floss bread and shrimp sandwich) was both breakfast, snack and packed lunch (for Ocean Park and Disneyland days).

It's like Bread Talk but also reminiscent of Carlo's Bakery/Cake Boss for me.


a lot of the breads were self-service fare and it's pretty crowded all the time here




by Hong Kong standards, bread sold here are generally affordable


as you can see, there are many Hoixe branches in Hong Kong


and the cakes are really not bad (they have a lot of desserts with fruits on it that were very pleasing to the eyes, but I really don't like fruit on my bread and we didn't really have a down time to warrant sharing a whole cake in)

I swear by Hoixe Cake Shop's pork floss... Bread Talk's pales in comparison.

Hotels/hostels nearby include (1-5 minutes away):
Hotel Benito (Cameron Road, Hong Kong)
Fountain House Guest House (James Lee Mansion, Carnarvon Road, Hong Kong)
Guangdong Hotel Hong Kong (Prat Avenue)
Park Hotel (Chatham Road, Hong Kong)
Chungking Mansions (Nathan Road)
Majestic Guest House (Haiphong Mansions, Hai Phong Road, Hong Kong)
Tai San Guest House (Nathan Road, Hong Kong)
Lee Garden Guest House (Cameron Road, Hong Kong)
Star Guest House (Cameron Road, Hong Kong)
Sealand Guest House (Majestic House, Nathan Road, Hong Kong)
Butterfly on Prat
Kimberley Hotel (Kimberley Road, Hong Kong)

Hotel Benito - Hong Kong

Hotel Benito was indeed a lucky find for us as we were planning our Hong Kong trip. At first, we were considering the hostels in Chungking and/or Mirador Mansions but I was iffy about those since we will be travelling with kids. We knew we would be out all day and only needed a safe place to stash our stuff in and sleep in at night but I still wanted some place nice.

We chose to ride the Airport Express (for the experience, as most in our group were HK first-timers) and were shuttled by bus (for free) from the Kowloon station to Park Hotel (Chatham Road corner Cameron Road, because the driver knew where this was). We easily saw Hotel Benito's building and just walked to it (around 3 minutes, with luggage and kids in tow).

Hotel Benito's entrance is at the side street going to Cameron Lane (not facing Cameron Road). Other landmarks that will tell you you're near the place are Watson's, Aji Ichiban and Body Shop as well as KFC, Burger King and Yoshinoya signs. It's a one-minute walk to the MTR B2 exit.


the very clean (someone kept on cleaning all the glass, which our kids kept on kissing and touching) and simple lobby/reception area, with 2 elevators to the right servicing the building


standard twin room (which we got for HKD800/room/night [around P4,340/night] for the first 3 weeknights and HKD950 for our last night, which fell on Thurs-Fri; if we stayed another night, the weekend rate would have been HKD1500/room)


the twin beds can be moved together to form a bigger bed (which accommodated my family of 2 adults, 1 preschooler and 1 infant well enough), and there is ample cabinet space to stow your things in


really clean comfort rooms with a separate shower area (no tubs though); two bath and two hand towels were provided and changed daily


the separate shower area; hot water isn't a problem; shampoo and liquid soap dispensers inside (and they smelled nice enough and felt minty)


toilettries provided include toothbrush/toothpaste, razor, comb and cotton buds/balls and are replenished as used

The air-conditioning in our room was working fine. We were also provided with two bottles of water daily; an orange and apple upon arrival; and packets of coffee, milk tea and jasmine tea (electric kettle provided).

There seemed to be only 20 TV channels or so, most of which were Chinese. There was Nick Jr. so my son was happy enough. We did not bring a laptop so we weren't able to test the internet cable but our relatives in other rooms surfed and Facebooked just fine.

There was also a mini ref where we kept our drinks cold (even froze beverages for next-day outings).

The staff were really unobtrusive but quite helpful. The concierge would readily whip out a map to draw on to better direct you to where you want to go (and they spoke and understood English). They also allowed us to leave our bags in their care so we can wander around Hong Kong already before the check-in time of 2:00 PM and allowed us to leave the bags there for last-minute shopping after check-out (12:00 NN).

I also appreciated the care that went into cleaning our room. Our first night there, we pushed the beds together but without care and found it the next day (after coming home from Ocean Park) pushed together by the window, with some of our clothes that were left on the bed piled neatly on the backrest of a chair. Our scattered belongings on the dresser table often got some semblance of order too, even the nebulizer we brought will be stood upright under the dresser, ready for next use.

One other thing was the lack of noise in that area. We'd hear the occasional siren of a police car/ambulance maybe but it really wasn't noisy there, and we stayed at the 3rd floor only. If I would have a point of contention, it might be waking up to a big face (a well-lit ad from across the road) but our curtains were always drawn, anyway.

And we just really loved that we could walk to the MTR (and from there, walk to several places in an air-conditioned environment) and that restaurants that are familiar were nearby. Most of the shopping we did were also around the area (Nathan and Kimberley Road).

Hotel Benito did not offer any meals with its rates, but I guess it didn't want to compete with the restaurants near it. Less than 5 minutes from it are the noodle houses and barbecue shops and dessert cafes at Carnarvon Road... and just across it is Hoixe Cake Shop (Hong Kong's version of Bread Talk) which offered soooo many great things, we practically lived there too.

I would really highly recommend Hotel Benito to others looking for a nicer place to stay in Hong Kong and would definitely book rooms there again should we return.

Book rooms now!!!
Hotel Benito
7-7B Cameron Road,
Tsimshatsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Tel: (852) 3653 0388
Fax: (852) 2369 1283
Email: info@hotelbenito.com
http://www.hotelbenito.com/eng/index.htm

Please note that we travelled as a caravan of 8 adults, 3 preschoolers and 1 infant and were in Hong Kong between August 22-27, 2011, the height of summer (and summer sale) there.

What to Put in Party Loot Bags

Most parents who are planning their child's party will gravitate towards candy to include in the loot bags they are giving away. Here are some intentional suggestions and food for thought:

1) You don't have to put food there. This way, you're sure nothing gets spoiled by a guest who doesn't eat that food item, or has a Mom who disapproves of that food item.

You can put puzzles instead, or sticker books. You can put crayons, bubbles, glow sticks, even mini books. You can put erasers, pens, a small stuffed toy. A lot will depend on your budget and theme but pretty much any little thing a child can appreciate (and a child is usually easily pleased).

2) If you must include food, choose healthier alternatives.

Commercial cupcakes, crackers or wafers will be nice. Welch's fruit gummies instead of the usual gummy worms. A muesli bar or honey sticks or a small pack of nuts (just forewarn parents that allergenic products are in the bag so they will check for sure).

3) If you want to give away sweets, think local.

Chocnut will forever delight people. Also those pinipig bars sold at bus stations. Or ampaw/pop rice (plus, kids don't see much of these anymore... they are sold at wet marketplaces still). Make your own sugar lumps or candies from bao/amis which is pure sugarcane goodness. Give yema or pastillas or polvoron instead. This way, you know what ingredients were used rather than buying the more affordable but often dubious China-made stuff sold in Divi.

4) If you must give sweets, think chocolates instead of candies.

Chocolates, though sweet, are not as acidic as hard candies and are still kinder to teeth. Buy chocolate crisp balls or chocolate eggs in bulk and just repackage to give away. Give small tubs of bread sticks with chocolate or strawberry dipping, or a chocolate lollipop. Plus, 3 pieces of chocolate kisses still say a lot more than a slew of cheapo candies (that may or may not raise manufacturing issues).

5) Never put gum in there.

Some parents do not check and not all children will know it's gum and not supposed to be swallowed.

6) Don't go overboard.

Sure, we all like freebies and kids will always love free candies and sweets. But one or two (or three) IS enough. You did not invite kids to your party to give them cavities nor did you attend a party and gave gifts to be given diabetes in turn. Control your desire to please, conform and/or be perceived as well-off or generous or cool. This will save you money, which you can channel on more important aspects of the party (like the entertainment).

7) Don't give away anything you won't give your child.

If you're not letting your child play with plastic toys with uneven edges or let him eat candies with ingredients you cannot pronounce, then don't give any like those away. If you're an intentional parent, chances are, your invited friends are the same.

8) Feel free to do away with a loot bag, especially if there's already a cool giveaway.

Save money and energy, just give something more substantial (but not necessarily more costly) as a token of your appreciation for your guests having come... instead of having a souvenir and a loot bag. If they're taking home a book or a stool or a tumbler, they aren't likely to forget your party anyway. It may even save their parents a meltdown from the over-stimulating party because there will be nothing else that would have to be opened/eaten/played with in the carride home.

9) Give away intentional stuff.

DIY finger puppets will get your child guest (and hopefully their parent) using their imagination. Busy bags will be appreciated by parents and little books will be used a lot longer. A child can also never have enough stickers or crayons.


Good luck with party planning and filling those bags up!

Summer Abroad: Time for Repairs

It's summer abroad and the perfect time for repairs.

Adding a verandah to your house? Cement is sure to dry faster! Paint will dry faster too.

In a location of drastic winters? Time to do repairs on the roof, check your fireplace inserts, clean up chimneys and check (or replace) heaters

Located in areas known for terrible storms? Check your storm shutters, revisit your cellars and panic rooms.

This is also a good time to take stock of your furniture and appliances. Anything you haven't used for the past two years, consider selling (to maybe would-be college students), giving away or throwing away. And then make the repairs and refurbishing in your home to give it a fresher, uncluttered feeling.

Make lemons out of the lemonade that is intense heat. Take advantage of the kids being home as there will be extra hands to do the work.

LATCH's Get It Off Your Chest Campaign

If you're undecided about going to the All About Baby Fair for fear of going into debt from all the possible purchases you may end up doing (especially if you have a girl and see all the cute, fab outfits being sold there) then I have a wonderful solution for you.

LATCH will kick off their "Get it Off Your Chest" campaign at the fair. One part of the campaign is an exhibit of inspiring moms and their take on breastfeeding. Another is a backdrop to be provided for people (men, women, children alike!) who will pose with their answers to LATCH's breastfeeding-related questions. The shy, on the other hand, will be provided with Post-Its to post on a board for their answers. The pictures will then later be used by LATCH to come up with a hopefully inspiring photoslide on breastfeeding.

So, the solution is simple: hang out at our booth! Answer our questions and ask us about breastfeeding! :) You will also meet a lot of phenomenal women there.

Batangus Grill Restaurant: Affordable Steak Goodness

Suddenly, I am craving steaks and ribs. Hubs said the reviews on Batangus grill, a restaurant we often pass on the way home from my son's school, is generally great. And since my father hails from Batangas, I loved the play on the name and we checked the place out.

It has the feel of a slightly expensive beerhouse minus the smoke and noise. The staff were friendly and warm and didn't mind that we came bringing McDo fried chicken for our son.

We didn't want to be greedy so we just ordered their Barako Steak and Crispy Ribsi (?) Spicy Fried Rice. The spicy rice isn't that spicy at all and really very nice. The Ribsi wasn't that crispy but it tasted like the street food 'sebo' without the greasy threat of a heart attack.

Batangus served us steak that was just delicious. We had ours well done and it was still really tender, really tasty, really juicy. Hubs said it didn't need the so-so gravy but I loved the gravy with the mashed potatoes.


the choice of sauces


the crispy ribsi


the barako steak


clean plates after!

Hubby, the meat-eater, was really super satisfied with our meal.

We ordered a hamburger to go. It was huge and heavy and smelled so nice. It also came with fries. Unfortunately, my hubby said he thinks it's just okay and had issues with the bun. I liked it, however, which is saying something since I don't generally eat burgers.



One thing we agreed on is that it's so wonderful to have eaten all that beef without having grease on our lips. We are definitely going back there again (and again)!

Help us support our Batanggenyo Farmers :)
Batangus Grill, Savana Market
Savana Market, Pasong Tamo, Brgy. Tejeros
Makati City, Metro Manila
Philippines
(02) 403-3970

Toy Kingdom Toy Fair

Toy Kingdom at SM Mall of Asia is holding a toy fair, with most toys at discounted prices.

Got a child interested in your echo chainsaw? Buy him Handy Manny type of tools and construction toys.

Got a child needing to master his fine motor skills? Buy him play dough sets, building blocks or brick sets (I just realized that Lego costs two times more than the brand Mega Bloks!).

Got a girl into all kids of homemaking play? Get her an oven set or playhouse.

Now could be the perfect time to purchase costumes in time for Halloween too.

The Toy Kingdom fair is for the whole month of August. Don't miss it!

EcoTREElogy at Nuvali

Received this in my inbox

=====================

Journey to a present-day enchanted woodland right in the heart of NUVALI!

Make Believe Productions invites you to witness EcoTREElogy, a dramatic narration of three tales about preserving nature.

Join us in an enthralling interactive show where storytellers weave magic and also promote Filipiniana in commemoration of Buwan ng Wika.

Nature-inspired face-painting will be offered for free before the event as well as a theater workshop sampler.

AUGUST 7, 2011, Sunday,
3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Solenad 1, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna
See you guys there!
http://www.nuvali.ph/ecotreelogy-theater-series/

Cheers,
Make Believe team

=====================

Make Believe Productions also does parties and offers these services to bring a different kind of magic to a kiddie party:
Facepainting
Arts and Crafts Activities
Storytelling
Story-Making with Children
Games and Party Host
Short Performances
Mini-Musicals
Interactive Shadow or Puppet Play

All About Baby Bazaar

Working Mom (and ABS-CBN) has partnered with the Lifestyle Network and LATCH and is bringing you the All About Baby Bazaar on August 13, 2011 at the Rockwell Tent. The bazaar will allow our favorite mompreneurs to have the much needed exposure to boost their businesses while also providing the public with their quality and intentional products.

The usual pregnancy and breastfeeding-related products will be there but there will also be a lot for dressing up your wonderful tots and accessorizing the fabulous Mom. Who knows, there may even be moissanite jewelry sold there, or branded bags (after all, what better opportunity for the father to thank his breastfeeding wife for all the hard work?).

Grab a copy of Working Moms' August Issue and bring it to the bazaar to get your whole family in for free.

There will be short talks as well, on breastfeeding and keeping a life balance.

LATCH will also have a booth to offer free breastfeeding counseling, so do not hesitate to approach their (our) booth.

Fried Chicken Made Interesting by Dalandan

Make your fried chicken more interesting by adding some dalandan concentrate to it before serving.

We just use our preferred breading (the generic ones from groceries in white packets) and fry the chicken. Before serving, we just put some Willybee's Dalandan & Honey concentrate in a tub, put the chicken pieces there, cover and shake.

This is what you'll get and it can be quite addicting!

Rovelli Maxiball Chocolates from Singapore

Filipinos, when they go to Singapore, know that they can get a lot of different kinds of chocolates at Mustafa... and at lower rates too.

This was bought for us by one of hubs' colleagues and it only cost 14 Sing dollars (less than P500). I was able to fill four Selecta family pack tubs with these, so that's a lot of chocolate balls for less than P500.

What I liked about it? You can taste the cacao so it's sure to do the trick if you're looking for a true chocolate fix. It's a lot like Ferrero Rocher inside but instead of chopped hazelnuts, you get what seems to be crisped rice balls. It easily melts though.





Try it... and am sure you'd love it!

20% Off on Easter Stuff

I know... it seems a tad too early for Easter gifts. But if you can save money by ordering some now, why not, right?

Ask kids Easter gift ideas they love and you will probably get 'chocolate eggs' as the top answer. But at Happy Easter Store (find them on Facebook), you can also order flowers for adults, snack baskets for those with perpetual munchies, stuffed rabbits and bears and even pyjamas for cute little ones.

Order now and take 20% off. A steal is a great deal, right? :)

MMM Open Climb Schedule for 2011

My former mountaineering organization, Metropolitan Mountaineering Society, has released it's schedule of open climbs for this year.

Check this out:

July 30-31 Mt. Talamitam
Aug 13-14 Mt. Manabu
Aug 27-28 Mt. Pico de Loro
Sept 10-11 Mt. Ugu
Sept 24-25 Mt. Marami
Oct 8-9 Makiling Traverse
Oct 22-23 Mt. Natib
Nov 5-6 Mt. Pulag
Nov 19-20 batch 2
011 outreach project, zambales (mangrove planting)
Dec 26-29 Mt. Apo

It is with sadness that I note that I have only climbed Mt. Pico de Loro from that list. I didn't even get to Mt. Makiling's peak, let alone traverse it.

Open climbs tend to be more leisurely and low-impact on the knees so interested mountaineers neet not use any Black Diamond Poles in their ascent. If you're interested to join, just leave them a note at their FB page.

Hong Kong for Dummies

As my hubby's family and I are planning our Hong Kong trip (which will be a family affair of 13 people, three of which will be hyper kids and one would be a demanding infant), we really had to resort to other people's tips, reviews and feedback on which hotel to book, where to go, etc.

And it is with such appreciation that I commend the Pexers behind the thread Hong Kong for Dummies wherein they have listed all of the usual FAQs, even offering itineraries and pictures of hotels and hostels. Want to know when sale season is and where the fab finds are? Check the thread. Want to know where to get gadgets like digital cameras and an 8gb ipod nano? Check the thread. Want to know where to exchange your money or leave your luggage? Check the thread!

And if you didn't find what you were looking for in the first page, feel free to leave a question. Heck, they even critique itineraries. It's such a really helpful thread, one I'm glad to exploit... and intend to give back to, after our trip.

Curative Education and Social Therapy with Becky Rutherford

I'm sure parents of special needs kids would gladly spend all their money (and all the silver dollar they may have) just to ensure their children's health and to give them as 'typical' a life as possible.

Thus, this talk may benefit some of them, and it only costs P1,200 for the general public, and only P1,000 for teachers and students with valid I.D., and for members of anthroposophic initiatives.

So, if you're a Special Needs teacher, Educator or have a family member that requires special care, here is your chance to understand the transformative relationship between the Educator and Individuals with Special Needs.

Join Curative and Special Education expert Becky Rutherford on Saturday, July 16 at ISIP Center Makati (near Rockwell) for a one-day workshop.

In this one-day workshop, Becky Rutherford will:

• Give an introductory lecture on the “transformative relationship” between the child and the Educator;
• Present the history of curative education and the Camphill movement;
• Show a 15-min film about the Camphill Special School in Pennsylvania;
• Conduct a session on the importance of movement and how it is incorporated in the school day, and engage participants with interactive exercises in movement; and
• Facilitate a painting exercise.

This talk is organized by the Institute for Steiner's Ideas in Practice (ISIP) Philippines. Limited slots still available! Reservations required.

Call 899 4675, email ISIP.Philippines(at)gmail(dot)com​ to book your seat. Please provide name, contact number and email address. Please invite your friends!

Event will be held at 2nd floor, ISIP Center, 6241 Palma cor Manalac Sts., Bgy. Poblacion (near Rockwell), Makati City. Entrance on Manalac St. Street parking or at Power Plant Mall basement parking (ISIP Center is a 7-minute walk away from Power Plant Mall).

Estrel's Caramel Cake

Estrel's Caramel Cake is one of those things that's sure to make you put your ipod touch 32g aside, no matter how wonderful the song you're listening to because Estrel's caramel cakes command one's full attention. Why? Because its cakes are not meant to last. Best eaten upon date of purchase, it expires the following day.

Estrel's specializes in made-to-order cakes but have also taken to baking a few round cakes for walk-in patrons. The round cakes cost P600 each. a double layer of chiffon with caramel filling and icing, topped with buttercream flowers.





Estrel's caramel cakes are not too sweet which makes for easy eating. It's appeal is in the old-fashioned recipe (born: 1946), unpretentiously classy design and lack of preservatives.

Truth be told, however, much as I enjoyed estrel's, I prefer Hizon's caramel cakes more (with its light yellow caramel icing, really soft cake, and slightly more hint of lemon zest) but Hizon's don't really put icing flowers on their caramel cakes.

Anyway, to sample or order, Estrel's caramel cakes is located at 54 Scout Tobias corner Scout Limbaga Streets, Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City 1103. You can also call them at 372-2965 or 371-7938. Also check out their website for their menu and pictures of cake designs: http://www.estrels.com/

Arugaan Day Care Moved to PIA

Arugaan Day Care used to be in Marikina but it has recently moved to a really big complex at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) at Visayas Avenue, Quezon City.


the entrance at the 2nd floor


the long, wide corridor where everyone leaves their shoes and where kids can run or bike around


the main area where games, arts & crafts and even drama plays are conducted by the staff


the equally big kitchen and dining area


kids are allowed to bring in baon, but they are also provided with six mostly-vegetarian/organic meals


another big room is the sleeping area with the locally-made hammocks/cradles


an example of what the kids create with the staff

Arugaan is open to all, not just PIA employees and operates from 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays. Monthly tuition starts at P2,500 for PIA employees and is ladderized for outsiders, starting at P3,000 (please check with them for latest rates).

Arugaan can employ wet nurses for babies whose moms cannot express breast milk for them (for a fee) and toddlers are guaranteed healthy meals. The day care does not follow a strict routine but offers different stimulating activities for the children. Nanay Ines even told me that parents are sometimes hardpressed looking for the proper preschool for their child after Arugaan because kids often already know more than their peers in schools. But whether your child goes on to a traditional or progressive school, Arugaan will still have offered a very good foundation to your child academically and socially, as well as healthy eating habits and a rich background on our local culture.

Please check the previous link for other things you can expect when you put your child in Arugaan.

For inquiries, call Ines Fernandez at 490-5452. You can also arrange for a visit (by appointment) so a staff can be sure to assist you since they will be busy, not just with the babies, but also cooking food.

Increasing Profits by Improved Marketing

Sometimes, there are really good products out there that just don't take off because of poor marketing. And while an online marketing degree is sure to help anyone running a business, it would also be good to tap onto present resources that are cheap and risk-free.

Take for example selling things online. Facebook will allow you to put up albums of your wares. Ask your friends' permission to tag them in some of the pictures because they may have friends who may be interested in your products. Or... ask them to promote you in their walls outright.

If your products are for kids, use kiddie doodles in the brochures or fold the flyers up into pinwheels.
If you want to create buzz, get blogger friends to offer your product as prize to their readers.

I am sure an online marketing degree will get you thinking up more ways to market your product better at minimum cost. But don't forget to make do with what you already have since it also usually results in strategies that are more inspired.

Enrichment Classes Resource

Mommy Pages is an online resource guide for all parents, especially moms, out there. It offers a directory of everything one might need in raising kids, from products to services. And yes, there's a lot of classes listed in their site (and handbook, which you get for free when you go to a Mommy Mundo event) to occupy and enrich your kids (and yourself) with.

So, if high school wrestling isn't being offered in your son's school, maybe you can find an alternative in Mommy Pages (like wushu, which I intend to enrol my son in when he's older). There are also classes now for budding fashionistas and theater artists. It's really a great time to be a kid for kids now, with all these options, and thankfully, the resources have been consolidated and listed down by Mommy Pages.

Just check out the website and get a free copy :)
http://mommypages.com.ph/

Entertaining Kids on a Budget

If the electronic toys with vtech batteries are not amusing your tot for hours on end, and you need some quiet time to do the chores or have your ME time but do not really want to invest in a multitude of toys (after all, there are no guarantees that they're going to be played with anyway), then invoke the power of a child's imagination and use your regular household items.

Try a box of an old appliance or your most recent groceries. Try old pots and pans and maybe some ladles too. Try newspapers. Try a malong and see them tunnel in and out of this one, or prop it up with chairs as a makeshift tent.

If you can part with it, maybe even lend the flashlight and have them shadowplay with a light-colored blanket.

You can also just let them free on chairs of different heights.

Just use your imagination so they will also use theirs. And your pocketbook will remain intact.

See an Expert for Medical Maladies

I am sure that a lot of people are just like me who think that every solution is online. How to get rid of pimples? Check online. What's this rash on my skin? Google images. What disease do I have? Compare symtoms on the web.

Make no mistake, the internet is something everyone should be friends with. Forums can even direct you to the best doctors and provide other tips and strategies in managing your baby's skin asthma. However, it is still far wiser to go see an expert, a medical professional, for your ailments. After all, what could be a gruesomely bothersome acne for you can be common fare for another, so treatment will not be the same. A doctor has to examine you first, get to know your medical history and inquire about your lifestyle for a really more personalized and effective treatment regimen.

Plus, rashes can be a symptom of so many other ailments. What you think is engorgement may not just be that, but an infection as well.

Go see a doctor and be smart about your health.

Play Pilipinas - The Philippines' First Play Festival

With gadgets, adults not knowing how nor having the time, unsafe environments, parents' fears, inadequate play spaces, premium on educational achievement and poverty all compromising the quality of play (source), Paul and Sigrid Perez (of Project Brave Kids)> have come up with Play Universal, a coalition whose mission is to 'promote, enrich and cultivate the benefits of play at home, school and in communities.'



As a first major project, Play Universal is bringing the first Play festival in the country.

Play Pilipinas will be a three-day event happening on October 21-23, 2011 at the SMX Convention center. There will be a Play Forum for all three days, targetting educators and school operators as audience, with distinguished experts tackling issues like Magic of Play (Dr. Honey Carandang), Play at Home (CEFAM), Creating Inspiring Play Spaces (Hitoshi Shimamura), Nutrition and Active Play (Kay Gibbons) and many others. The fee for the 3-day conference is P15,000.

There will also be mini workshops on music & play, arts & play, nutrition, traditional Filipino games and many more. These will cost around P3,000. Perfect for homeschooling families, no?

Then, there is the playground design challenge that is open to students and professionals alike. The top ten winning designs will be brought to life at Play Pilipinas for the public to enjoy.

And then there are the fairs: Toy Fair (over 50 booths, each featuring the latest tools and toys for active play organized by age bracket.), Book and Magazine Fair (latest and best titles covering play and child development), Children's Nutrition Fair (sample & shop for food that makes for fun, delicious and healthy eating for kids), Children's Fashion Fair (exhibition of outfits fit for active play and other children's activities), School Fair (a venue for schools or institutions to showcase their programs and the ways they integrate play into their curriculum/activities) and World Toys Exhibit (exhibition showcasing toys and games from around the world).

So, if you're an educator, school owner/administrator, Psych or Early Childhood Education student, parent, doting aunt or kid or vendor who wish to be part of the fair... mark your calendars and come to Play Pilipinas. You may also contact them directly at:
Play Universal Co.
9F Pacific Center, 33 San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City
Telefax: +63 634 0416
Email: playnow@playpilipinas.com
http://playpilipinas.org

Prevent Accidents, Manage Your Cables

Is your house like ours where there are baskets of cords and cables for the different appliances and gadgets you own? Then maybe you should invest in a floor cord cover for extensions you're using as well as make sense of the cables by tying them up together. Feel free to just use any old ribbon, even pipe cleaners, to keep them out of the way and untangled.

Little things like this can prevent tripping or your child tugging at wayward cables. It saves you from accidents and saves your equipment from getting broken too.

Celestina & Co. - Pretty Little Things for Little Girls

My niece is cute and well, sellers at the bazaar were trying to capitalize on her cuteness by wooing her with their wares. Unfortunately, the bows they were telling her looked perfect on her cost P340 each! And she had two on them on her head!

We told her we'd run it by her Mom first... then I took her aside and told her to try my friend's bows and ribbons instead. I figured, if I was going to buy something so expensive for my niece, might as well help out my friend (who was doing the bazaar thing for the first time that time).

Well, it turned out that Celestina & Co.'s bows and ribbons are really so affordable! I bought my niece two matching classic big bows (pink with while poka dots, P85 each) and a really huge fuchsia flower clip (P90). She ended up happier too because she got three clips instead of two.

Dressing up your girl in pretty little things need not be that expensive. And it would be sad not to let her enjoy this time of real beauty, years away from accutane reviews and age-defying secrets, so let her dress up and accessorize without giving up grocery money. Besides, buying from Celestina & Co. can also be an opportunity for 'smart shopping' lessons with your budding fashionista.

Oh, and the pettiskirts are just really so nice! So check out her wares later at the Mommy Diaries bazaar at the NBC Tent at The Fort or at her online shop: http://celestinaandco.multiply.com/

The Mommy Diaries Bazaar

Unfortunately for the Mommy Diaries bazaar, it was super rainy today that the flow of possible shoppers was really affected. Even food vendors had to be moved indoors because the area outside got flooded and no one ever ventured out to buy their wares.

But, if you're a serious Mom shopper, I'd say it's a great bazaar to go to. Not only are the usual baby, maternity, nursing and feeding stuff being sold there but wonderful things like couture bags, funky clothes, accessories and makeup too.

Daddies need not fear because there are also sellers of bag organizers, bags and even vitamins and supplements (maybe even some top creatine supplements you're looking for).

And I was super happy taste testing all those cookies! Haha.

If you're coming tomorrow, and you have a girl (3 months to 6 years old) or looking for something to give a girl in that age range, do visit these two booths:

1) Celestina & Co.'s (pretty little things for little girls) - seller of bows and headbands and tutus (check her wares at http://celestinaandco.multiply.com... really cute stuff at really more affordable prices)

2) Ira Arevalo Santos' Petit Ami Dresses with Smocking and Carters Pyjamas - just beside the Stork Studio booth. (Petit Ami dresses cost $40+ abroad, she also sells sailor outfits for both baby boys and girls and some of the smocking-ed dresses can pass off as a christening gown; smaller dresses usually come with matching bloomers or a cap; some rompers for boys too)



Dress your kids warmly because it's pretty cold there (what with the rain). Feel free to bring strollers because the layout allows for movement. Plus, compared to Expo Mum, you can really appreciate the wares people are selling there. I even noticed some Longchamp bags!

And yes, the kiddos can enjoy all the glitter tattoo they want.

If you also buy the Sansfluo dental care package (P270 gets you a tooth gel, a baby tongue/gum cleaner and teething gel), you get a copy of Baby Magazine (didn't check if it was a back issue though). Mamaway and Mama.Baby.Love share a fitting area. You get disposable breast pads if you purchase even just a trial bundle of cookies from Mommy Treats (P180).

Oh and I so love the CR at NBC Tent :)

Safety Vigilance

Maybe you don't really need hot tub covers especially since you're not likely to leave a hot tub unattended, but maybe you also ought to think again.

Same way that you should reconsider reusing old shampoo and mineral water bottles as containers of potentially harmful substances like dishwashing liquid, ironing aids and solutions for cleaning jewelry and other stuff.

The thing is, we always mean well. And we always assume we're vigilant enough. Sometimes, however, just a ringing phone can distract us enough from our curious kiddos and can result in an emergency hospital visit.

So, those heavy medical or law books should nowhere be on a high shelf where they can fall and seriously harm your child. Trust me, better risk having your kid have fun ripping it apart, than it making a bad landing on your kid's head or chest.

Soyami Soya Styx

If, when you go number Two, you have to strain so hard sometimes that you feel like you're erecting metal buildings single-handedly... then maybe slight changes in your diet should be your top priority.

And I am thrilled to share that Soyami is also selling bread sticks now and that these help move things along very well. I have only tried the basil-flavored (other flavors include garlic and chili). I won't say it's delicious because it is rather bland but you do get to taste the soya, and the bread sticks are crunchy. More like, they're easy to eat and you can probably finish off one package if you'll allow yourself. They feel light. Certainly a healthier something for parties and pastas.

Do try Soyami Soya Styx if you want to stay clear off chips but also want to enjoy soya in other ways. It's soya goodness in bread form!

Introductory Afternoon for Parents at St. Michael Waldorf/Steiner Inspired Day Care

I have only begun my awareness of Steiner education. My son is enrolled in the summer parent-child program that meets every Monday even though he is already 3.5 years old. This is so because I wanted to transition him into attending a class and because I want to learn first. I want to see the value of embracing Waldorf/Steiner principles.

Suffice it to say that I am hooked and sold on the ideas, so far. And my son has absolutely fluorished and our relationship enriched by being forced to learn routines and gentleness together.

I have even made my own teeny, tiny doll already! :)

So, if you live in or near Makati (or know anyone who does) and are looking for a day care to put your child in... just attend the introductory afternoon this Saturday, May 21, 2pm to 5pm at ISIP Center (Palma corner Manalac St., very near Power Plant Mall... Rockwell area)!. It's free and it can prove very illuminating.

Kids-Agogo: The Groupon Site for Moms

Kids-Agogo is not a groupon site where you can land great la flor dominicana cigars at a fraction of their original price because it is solely for all things wonderful and beneficial for your kids. Right now, the live deals are for clothes, dental checkups and Musikgarten lessons. I am pretty sure a lot of vendors that sell in bazaars like Expo Mum will soon be offering their wares and services at discounted rates here.

So, subscribe now to their mailing list and register for an account. If you don't need it, you need not pay for it. But if it's a deal you want, no sense in also paying full price if you can get it at half, right?

A Safety Reminder

Last week, a topic of conversation in my ygroups was someone's neighbor who accidentally dragged her child with their car. It was a classic accident involving an SUV's blind spot. A friend of mine once ran over his child's foot because of the same issue.

No matter how careful we are, accidents will happen. Still, that is no reason to be less vigilant about safety and security.

Have protocols in place at home, one that you implement strictly. Install mirrors and lighting where necessary or helpful. Invest in ATV Lights if you need them. Install gates, alarms, etc. and brief your household regularly about different kinds of hazards.

Once keeping safe is a habit, it will be easy.

Conserve Water, Finish It Up

Helping the planet can be so easy and yet, so hard.

Take for example water. Drinking water. We all take it for granted. After all, we can easily get a jug of it for only P25-40. And yet, none of us think to take water from our homes to bring with us when we go out, opting instead to buy bottled water which costs between P10-30 each.

And when we're out dining, we like having our glasses filled with water and ice... but do not finish it up. Now, how about trying to make it a habit of only asking for water you can drink, and finishing the drink given you? You waste double the amount of water if you don't. Plus, aside from maybe the inconvenience of having to pee (which you can do something about by having a wee break before you go), water won't harm you. It will keep you hydrated, rid you of toxins, and be great for your skin. It may even help you feel full a lot longer.

All restaurants should also make it a habit of using smaller/leaner glasses for water. We can also employ that trick at home, just so we won't be pouring out more than we can consume. And believe me, that will already go a long way!

iPad 2 Available in the Country

iPad version 2 is now available in the country. I even know someone selling them at slightly cheaper rates, both the wifi and 3G versions. And I know many are scrambling to buy.

One complaint about it is the resolution of the camera. Then again, you really wouldn't use a big thing like it for taking pictures right? But ask yourself first if you really need one before joining the bandwagon. It's yet another gadget that can be stolen from you, which will also be fast rendered obsolete as they come up with updated models and competetive alternatives, and another reason to stop interacting with people.

I am not saying it's not a cool something that can prove useful. It even has apps for babies and kids now. But few who own one really NEED it. For the price of P41k (for the 3G one), you can already pay for a shcool year's tuition, go on a trip abroad or start your own business. So, think about it.

If you also need better pictures, invest in a good digicam instead. If you need music to help relax you, buy ipod touch instead. If you need to do a lot of computing on the road, maybe a notebook is the wiser purchase.

But yes, the reviews on the iPad 2 are really good so it is a gadget that seems worth the price.

Reminder Boards

Since we all have to wait awhile for home automation to be the norm, we would have to do with reminder pads and boards for a longer while.

A pad, however, is easier to misplace. If you have kids, they are also more likely to play with it, hide it, or pile their toys on top of it. This is where reminder boards have an advantage. Attached safely on a high-traffic wall or surface (like your fridge door), with a pen attached to it with a string, you can now easily jot things that need to be bought and done. Chores can easily be ticked off and the family schedule easily monitored.

You can also opt to use a whiteboard or a glass surface set in frames, and then just use whiteboard markers. If you have older kids, you can also freely use colored ones without fear of having an incomplete set for all your categories.

Gotti's Torante - SM Bicutan

Gotti's Torante at SM Bicutan was equally wonderful as their SM Mega Mall branch. We loved the food again!


dirty fingers (chicken strips)


the seafood pasta with pesto (forgot the exact name of the dish again); really love how they season their shrimps that go with this pasta


they also really know their pesto


carbonara


carbonara, mixed; loved the bacon pieces in it


and they actually marry well in the palate, hehe


pizza neapolitana (?)


salami pizza


quattro formaggi pizza

All their pizzas tasted great too and all are served thin crust style. These family-sized ones are around P300 each.

They said they might have a new branch at SM Mall of Asia soon and I really can't wait. Gotti's Torante really knows their pizza and pasta because their sauces are really, really very delicious and delightful.

Barbara's Restaurant - Review on Buffet

Every Tuesdays to Fridays, Barbara's Restaurant in Intramuros offers a dinner buffet for P500, inclusive of a cultural show by the Folklorico Dance Troupe. The buffet was offered in Metrodeal at half-price so I bought two vouchers and took my hubby on a date.

The buffet featured soup (tinola), rice, fish (pescado al ajillo), chicken, beef (lengua), noodles (pancit sotanghon), salad (a DIY thing featuring chopped onions, tomatoes, greens and shrimp paste) and desserts (banana & sesame seeds, and guinumis). That was it.

But everything on the menu, we really, really loved. I especially feasted on the pescado al ajillo. And we just loved the perfectly cooked banana fritters in sesame seeds (forget about creatine products, fish and banana will help build muscle! hehe). The ambience of their restaurant was also very romantic. Plus, patriotically, I love that the dinner buffet allows the Folklorico dancers (mostly students from PLM) a venue to perfect their craft while also showcasing our wonderful heritage to foreigners (because half of the guests there that night with us were, or at least, balikbayans).







So, next time another deal is offered by a Groupon site, take advantage of it. Or just really treat your loved ones or clients there for good food and entertainment. Sometimes, you don't need the number of choices offered in other buffets, just really well-prepared food. And Barbara's will not disappoint!!! (and no, I am not biased just because they catered our wedding)

Barbara's Restaurant
www.barbarasrestaurantandcatering.com
Plaza San Luis Complex (Intramuros):
527-3893 or 527-4086

Orchidarium (Luneta):
522-9507

Sitio Victoria, Diliman:
932-8534

Don't Get Dehydrated

The heat is on and a lot of people seems to be coming down with colds, headaches and other maladies, some of which may be attributed to dehydration. Some may not even invoke the wonders of pink magic because everybody's just sweating profusely even while standing and doing nothing.

So, make sure you hydrate enough. If you can, add flavor to your water by sprinkling some calamansi, lemon or lime into it. But try to avoid too much fruit juice, unless it's buko juice. The sugar won't do you any good.

If you're not a water drinker, eat more fruits and vegetables instead.

And... avoid coffee and tea, as these are diuretics. If you must drink any, remember to drink two times the equivalent amount of water to replenish your fluids. Oh, and boiling some ginger and drinking the tea is actually refreshing because the heat of the ginger will cool you off.

Same thing goes with spicy food. :)

Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear - Showroom Launch

Enjoy discounts, showroom exclusives and Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear's second collection if you go to their showrrom today and tomorrow. :)





Call for an appointment (846-5929) and go between 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Wednesday and Thursday). The showroom will then be opened to the public starting Friday, every day, from 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM.

What can you expect?

What Bianca is wearing is the Glamouflage Nursing cover (in silk and bamboo) that you can use as a poncho, one shoulder top, shrug and scarf. I was told there will also be a few dressy dresses, a maxi dress, a pocket tube dress and wrap dress. There will also be some girly tops and an active line: reversible pants and ribbed cotton tanks with built-in bra. There will also be seamless transition tubes and sexy shorts.

Now... are you as excited as I am? :)

They will be posting pictures next week!

Expo Mom for Mother's Day

For those who still do not know what to give their wives for Mother's Day... or for those who still do not know what they want for Mother's Day, the Expo Mom happening on May 7, 2011 at Rockwell Tent could provide you with ideas. Great ideas! If wedding expos were where you found your dream wedding gown and found out how gold bars are affecting the cost of rings (or investments), mommy-baby expos are where you find the cutest little outfits (matching pieces to boot) and all the possibilities you can give your self and offer your child.




Oh, and Little People Photography is offering all their services and packages at a 20% discount if you book them between May 01 to 31 so check them out at the Expo. Check out their site too, at www.lpphotodesign.multiply.com



*~*

More info about the event:
WHAT'S EXPO MOM?
Expo Mom is the premier lifestyle event for moms in Manila. It is a
trade expo, all-day workshop, shopping destination, mommy party,
family occasion, mompreneur lab, all rolled into one!

THE EXPO MOM TRADE SHOW
It is not your regular bazaar. Expo Mom showcases the latest in mom
and baby products and services, from new brands that have been
recently launched, to latest mompreneur inventions, to new stuff
that have just come in from abroad.
Yes moms can shop and browse, interact with vendors and
mompreneurs, and learn a lot about what services are out there.

ONSTAGE ACTIVITIES*
Expo Mom features interesting talks and workshops for young, urban
moms and families. It's guaranteed infotainment - both educational
and fun at the same time. Activities such as the following have
been planned out:
- Laughter Yoga
- Modern Mom fitness- Healthy bump and beyond
- Prenatal Stimulation- How to have a healthy & smart baby
- Solo parenthood
- Creative meals
- Time Management for busy moms
There are also planned celebrations:
- Mommy Matters' 10th year Anniversary!
- Formal Launch of the Mommy Mundo Privilege Passport
- Formal Announcement of Expo Mom's going nationwide! (Expo Mom
Cebu & Davao)
*topics and schedules subject to change

THE MOMMY ROOM - Breastfeeding Lounge & Diaper changing area
MOMMY PORTRAIT AREA - Get a free mom or family photo at the Expo
Mom Portrait area Photo Booth
THE MOM RESOURCE CORNER
- Lamaze /prenatal classes
- Breastfeeding consultation
- OB consultation
- Single parents support
- For Kids with Special needs
- MomShare volunteer booth
- Mompreneur Manila booth
KIDS INFLATABLE by Fun Ranch
HEALTHY SNACK AREA (tent)

Expo Mom entrance fee is only P25, 100% of which goes to MomShare
outreach. Expo Mom discourages the use of plastic so attendees are
asked to kindly bring their own reusable shopping bag:)

For further info, email inquiry@expomom.com or visit
www.expomom.com.

Expo Mom is produced by Mommy Mundo and PACE, co-presented by
GlaxoSmithKline, Mommy Matters. Supported by Cordlife, Philam Life,
Cycles, Cradle, Flip Video, Cisco, Havaianas, Del Monte Quick n
Easy, Avent, Lactacyd Baby Bath, Citibank and RCBC. Media Partners
are Lifestyle Network, MomsToday, Smartparenting, Working Mom, Baby
Magazine and Mommy Mundo publications Urban Mom and Mommy Pages.