Thursday, December 24, 2020

Christmas 2020

Wishing everyone a Safe and a Healthy Christmas. Celebrating Christmas this year is quite different because most parties are done virtually, food are ordered online and parties are not held at some hotels or some places coz big gatherings are prohibited. The pandemic we experienced now really changed our lifestyles and directions in life....But really, these changes did not bother me that much maybe because I have long accepted that I am an introvert person and socializing is not my thing these days.

Don't get me wrong, I still love to go out and get dressed once in a while but won't do it every week. I think going out to see nature is much suited for me, inhale fresh air and beautiful views of mountains are the things I'd like to see these days. How about you, what are your plans this Christmas?

The picture I posted in here is a pic of myself (of course) holding a yummy chocolate cake. That's for our virtual Christmas party but my kids consumed half of it after my photo session, ha, ha.

Merry Christmas everyone!πŸŽ„πŸŽ…

Thursday, November 26, 2020

My Daughter Won 1st Place in an Art Contest

Congratulations to my daughter Chloe who won 1st place in DENR's Environmental Art contest for Grades 10-12 in Region 10. The theme was about New Normal Challenge: Sustainable Actions for a Sustainable Future.

The contest this year was a bit different and perhaps quite new for all the contestants. They submitted their entries online that included the story behind their drawings and a video of themselves doing the artwork.

As far as I could remember, my daughter started sketching at the age of 2 and a half. It was Christmas time and we bought her a gift at the mall already but she caught the eye of a MegaSketcher (she called it magic board that time) and she didn't want to leave without it. We never spoil her with material things but it was only at that time in her life that she sat on the floor and didn't leave the mall without getting that thing. We gave in but told her to promise us to never to do it again and she nodded (and she never didπŸ‘). As it turned out, the Megasketcher helped her improve her drawings in her growing up years. Later, her sketches were more developed until she finally let her younger sister inherited her 'old toy'.

Now, she's 17 years old, had joined many school competitions on traditional arts (won some, missed some). She started joining digital art only last year and even won a place at her school.

But DENR contest was a big thing for her (and for us as well). It was the first time she won first place in an inter-school competition and with no coach (because of Covid19 pandemic). She joined before but only landed in top 7 or top 10. Anyways, just wanna flex myself for guiding her this time and acted like a 'caoch', hehe.

Actually, I am not good in art and I have no talent like my daughter and the only thing I could be of assistance was to check if her drawing was in line with the theme or if her drawing was able to convey the message in one glance...oh, I took videos of her while sketching but it was she who did the editing then submitted it via email.

Anyways, I also checked the other entries and wow, I was really impressed to see the artworks of those talented kids. They all deserved to be in top 10 with their God-given talents.

So, congrats to all but most especially to my daughter who put much effort in this artwork. I should know coz I saw how passionate she was, how she slept late at night just to finish it but I was also glad that she somehow listened to me when I suggested something what to include and what to exclude :D

Again, congrats Chloe! You deserve itπŸ’“

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Lamoiyan Corporation Donates 1-M worth of Hygiene Products for DepEd’s Basic Ed Learning Continuity Plan to VisMin

DepEd Region X Northern Mindanao received hygiene products from Lamoiyan
Lamoiyan Corporation, a leading manufacturer of personal hygiene and home care products in the country, has donated over one million worth of Lamoiyan products to Department of Education (DepEd) in Visayas and Mindanao as it celebrates the 5th year of Kilusang Kontra Kuto (Movement Against Head Lice) initiative.

In support of DepEd’s Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan amidst the pandemic, Lamoiyan Corporation distributed packs of Licealiz Head Lice Treatment Shampoo, Hapee Toothpaste, and Dazz Dishwashing Liquid to selected regions for distribution among the students.

Selected regions include Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Davao. Lamoiyan also recently donated hygiene products to Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and National Capital Region.

The total value of donated hygiene products nationwide amounts to over three million pesos.

DepEd Region VII Team accepted the donations from Lamoiyan
Lamoiyan Corporation’s Licealiz Head Lice Treatment Shampoo initiated Kilusang Kontra Kuto (KKK) in 2016, a coalition that has been battling head lice infestation nationwide for a kuto-free Philippines. The campaign includes yearly nationwide shampoo activity in schools in its commitment to fight head lice infestation or pediculosis and eliminate the social stigma associated with it.

In light of the 5th year of this initiative, Lamoiyan Corporation’s Licealiz aimed to support DepEd’s Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan in the time of COVID-19 (BE-LCP). This is the department’s response to the challenges posed by COVID-19 which covers the most essential learning competencies, multiple learning delivery modalities for teachers, required health standards in schools, and more. 

“We are grateful for DepEd for being very supportive of our KKK campaign. With our long-running partnership with them, we were able to visit several schools in Visayas and Mindanao, do shampooing activities among students, and share the correct way of combatting head lice since 2016,” said Lamoiyan Corporation Vice President for Marketing Bing Cavestany.

“Although students now are practicing distance learning and we temporarily cannot do our annual activities due to the COVID-19 crisis, Licealiz would like to consistently promote health and personal hygiene through our humble donation as children or even family members are still susceptible to head lice infestation no matter the circumstances, especially with many staying at home and in close quarters during the pandemic,” she added.

Region XI also received Lamoiyan products

Aside from encouraging good oral hygiene, Lamoiyan is also advocating the correct way of treating head lice infestation, which is considered the second most common health problem of public school children after tooth decay.

Lamoiyan Corporation’s Licealiz Head Lice Treatment Shampoo effectively kills lice and nits after two weeks of use and prevents lice infestation from recurring. Its active ingredient, pyrethrin, a natural extract from chrysanthemum flowers, is clinically tested and proven safe and successful in killing lice and nits, while its conditioning formula keeps your kid’s hair soft, smooth and fragrant.

For more information on head lice prevention and other Lamoiyan products, log on to www.facebook.com/licealiz or visit www.lamoiyan.com.

Thursday, September 24, 2020

My Daughter The Artist

I used to post her achievements or upload her activities on YouTube. I used to make a blog about her when she was a kid until time came that she doesn't want me to write or post anything about herself. I dunno if it's just a teenage phase or maybe she's just too embarrass showing off about herself, lol. I stopped doing it also as not to pissed her off. But glad there were times that she would still allow me. But for today, I will not ask permission from her. I got a feeling that she would find out anyways as she often stalk my blog πŸ˜ƒ

This is quite late already but I was just proud that she landed 2nd place in their Filipino Digital Poster Making at school last August. She's more on visual arts and just recently joined Digital Arts so placing second was a big boost on her part. She was awarded online early September during their Virtual assembly. 

Just to let you know that my daughter is struggling so hard in Filipino. It's hard for her to speak or write in Tagalog. She speaks English most of the time, or Visayan/Bisaya to some of her friends. And for her to win in one of their Filipino contests at school was a big honor on her part. Sharing to you a picture posted from their school, which I cropped and edited by the way, hehe.



Wednesday, September 16, 2020

I Want a Time Out Just for a Day, If Only I Could...

I'm literally tired and exhausted this week. I dunno if it's a 'supermom' thing or something's really going on inside my body. Yeah, few years ago, small cysts on my liver and kidney were detected. It was too small to be seen, however, years had passed and the cysts in my liver kept growing. My doctor told me that while my cyst is getting bigger, it still functions normally well. So, I'll just have to have an X-ray monitoring every now and then. It is said that my cyst is hereditary and not related to what I ate. But still, it bothers me coz I can already feel the heaviness in my tummy :-(

Then a year later, I felt something in my throat. My EENT told me that I already had a chronic pharyngitis but not much to worry because it was secondary to my rhinitis. All I need is to do was use the nasal spray that he prescribed and take some antihistamine so that I could sleep well at night. This  probably what triggers my vertigo. Yeah, I had it since 2015 I guess.

So, just recently I had all these things going on with me like I have an upset stomach, I had a terrible migraine and my throat is bothering me and I feel so tired most of the time. I don't have a fever, don't have a cough and not even had a diarrhea. I just don't feel fine.

I told my hubby but he kept hearing me over this every so often about this so I guess he thought it's just one of those days. I so wanted to tell my mom but I didn't coz she might not be able to sleep thinking about my dilemma. Sometimes, she complained of not being able to sleep thinking over my problems so I felt guilty of sharing that burden with her. There's also my mother in law who is just my neighbor but I avoid talking to her coz she won't stop talking about all the kind of illnesses that she had and often compare her illness to mine, as if we have the same symptoms. I can't share to my friends coz they also have other things to worry especially this time of pandemic, and other people might misinterpret my condition.

So I think I best share it here where I am free to talk and express what I feel inside.

I am exhausted. I wanted to rest. But I can't. Because I'm a mom. A stay at home mom. So, I am expected to get up early (no matter how tired or no matter what I feel) to cook, to prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner. I am expected to clean the house, clean the bathroom and kept things in place but I recently neglected coz people here at home just kept making a mess and won't even to bother to fix their mess. It will just make them lazy if I do it for them all the time.

I understand it's my job and a lifetime FREE service but I'm so exhausted already, my mind and body often cannot take it. I've to take care of my mental health, too, which is very delicate these days. So, for others to easily judge people with mental health issues, I hope this won't happen to you in the future. It is not a joke and cannot be cured if all you do is ridicule or giving some unsolicited advice. Better just listen and just be there for them coz I think that would be enough to know that you care.

I've been avoiding social media these days, too, so that I can focus on myself and not abuse my eyes and my mind. There's no good news to read might as well do something else like helping my youngest child with her online school projects or review her lessons for upcoming tests. She's doing good, by the way, and that's one positive thing that I hold on to. I dunno how she would fare if no one's assisting her especially that she's a child with special needs. I'm just glad she's highly functional coz she could really catch up with their lessons, only that her speech is delayed, but has improved a lot lately. She's still enrolled in a regular class and I'm happy with the result of her online class coz she's so behave and very much focus on their lessons. I wish she will stay like this if they will go back to their campus when the pandemic is over.

Anyway, just sharing to you what my life had been this week and hoping to get fine very, very soon.

And yes, I need prayers. Let's pray each other for good health and for our safety, okay?

Monday, August 17, 2020

Realizations 2020

Sorry, been out for quite sometime because the recent pandemic had taken its tool on me. For the whole month of May and June I stayed out of social media because the news was so toxic and was hard to bear (only posted here about Mother's day and that's all). Numbers of death were rising up (I was devastated of an acquaintance who died of Covid19 last April), so many businesses closed and we've been staying home as early as March until my mental health was already affected. There were times I could not sleep at night and during daytime I had anxiety issues. 

I decided to TAKE A BREAK.

I stopped logging in at Facebook but only checked my messenger for emergency messages. I avoided reading news that would break me and instead focused on learning new food recipes, did some backyard gardening and only watched shows that would make me laugh. Instagram was the only social media that I would check often because all I could see were just pictures of beautiful scenery or delicious food.

Slowly I functioned and think better. I was able to sleep at night and my anxieties lessened. Taking a break was a really good idea and I'm gonna do this if it happens again.

When I went back to Fb, Twitter, blogging sometimes in July, I've realized muting or unfollowing 'toxic' people are the best option. I didn't block or unfriend them because hey, they might still change. Just as of this moment I don't want to be updated of their status so why bother especially if what they write will not do me any good? 

I also came to a decision to treat others the way they treat me. If they're nice and genuine with their intentions, I will double their kindness. If they are the people that hurt me or continue to look down on me because of my status in life or my family or just simply because I'm like this (or perhaps it's just the way they are), then time to build a barrier. We can still be friends (even online) BUT I will not be stupid enough to be used or to be the subject (or source) of gossip. I will not give satisfaction to their curiosity. I will still be silent but more vigilant. I'm tired of being nice especially if I am just taken advantage. 

And I will not allow myself to involve into something I am not involved because there are people who loves to bait me and stupid me sometimes allows it...BUT NOT this time. Not anymore.

I've realized that no matter how nice you are to others, they will still see a lot of faults in you especially if they are that kind who loves to talk bad to others. Remember, if they talk bad even to their best friends, don't ever think they will spare you coz they won't! I am more guarded now than before. If there's one thing I will protect now - is myself and the people who stood by me no matter the circumstances. Even if that person is often difficult to deal with, but in my lowest point that person stood by me, then I will stick to that person, too.

It is in my lowest point I have realized who are the people who cared for me and never leave my side. Sometimes, these people I had arguments with but they're the ones who showed up and have shown me sympathy. So, despite their being annoying at times, I am still thankful for them. I know I can be annoying, too. I have to see it that way coz nobody's perfect.

And there are those who talked nicely to me, tried to let me think they understand me but in bad times, they let me feel so bad about myself. There are also others who invaded my privacy and got mad after they involved themselves. Why did they get involve in the first place? That, I cannot understand.

I have been silent and silence is my weapon but that doesn't mean I won't fight back. That doesn't mean I am stupid enough to allow others to hurt me, to harm me and my well being. That doesn't mean I am stupid enough not to notice, I am not Blind. I've been in so much pain and got into depression for the past months, I will not tolerate it now. I've to admit it still bothers me from time to time but this has slowly stopped when I started viewing things differently when I took a break and give myself some respect that I deserve.

You might not understand what I'm saying here especially if I will not divulge the issue. But why should I? I will not involve you with any issues that you're not part of (that actually started as nonsense) especially now that I started trying to change its course. Just recently I told myself, if possible, try not to dwell on the past. I cannot change it but I can will it to change the path and sail for a better direction. That is my goal now.

Anyways, I think I've said too much without saying anything, hehe.

Just saying I am better now than the past few months. I've had many realizations and in the end, it's still me who can help myself. 

If someone's hurting you, avoid the cause. If something's bothering you, take a break. If things are too much to bear, know that there are still people whom you can trust no matter how annoying they are and most of all, be kind to yourself.

I often think that I am the problem. But in reality, all of us is a problem. We just see and handle things differently. If it won't work, try another formula. If it does work, then pray that it will stay that way or pray for guidance from God that that the path we walk on is right.

Lastly, issues about Covid19 still affects me. I am aware of the cases growing up but I often avoid reading about it for the sake of my sanity. It scares me about the safety of my family and the front-liners who devoted and sacrificed their lives to care for the sick. It is my utmost prayer that this will end soon.

Friday, May 15, 2020

Mother's Day 2020

Last Sunday, we celebrated Mother's Day at home. I was thinking of visiting my mom's place but since I live around 4.8km away from her, I decided not to push thru with my plan despite my brothers' request to visit and to celebrate with mom and my brothers' families. I would really love to go there but I have to follow the quarantine protocol issued by our local government. I don't want to jeopardize everyone's health, too. So, I have to be patient and wait for the right time for my family and I to go out once again. But the truth is, I so wanted to go there. I really do. But if I go there, I must go there alone and leave the kids behind. However, I don't think my kids would like that especially my little one who loves to socialize but told her not this time.

Anyways, we celebrated Mother's day at home just the four of us. Despite that, we have plenty of foods. They're actually from my mom's because coz my brothers ordered lechon and prepared other foods. My brothers, by the way, live just beside my mom's house. They live in a compound so imagine why I so wanted to go there - coz I'm the only one who lives on the other side of the city. Since I cannot go there, in the end, my husband drove all the way to my mom's place just to get the foods :D

If you're wondering why I wasn't the one who went at my mom's place, it was because I was not  feeling well lately, thus the delay of this post. I've been having tension headache and insomnia for the past weeks. Probably the effects of staying at home for 2 months. I was just glad I was still able to celebrate with my loved ones with a smile on my face...

Globe Offers up to 6 Months Installment Payment for Postpaid Customers

As Filipinos continue to face the challenges brought on by the community quarantine, Globe is offering its postpaid customers a flexible way to settle their outstanding balances through an installment payment program. All Globe Mobile Postpaid and Globe At Home customers, including business and enterprise customers, are eligible to avail of this program starting May 15, 2020. 

Under this program, customers need not worry about staying connected as they can settle their Globe bills in installment terms of up to 6 months. Customers may enroll online between May 15 to June 15. Business customers may also get in touch with Globe account managers for enrollment and other details. 

“We understand that many of our customers are worried about their finances due to the community quarantine. We are offering our installment payment options in the hope that it will help ease their expenses and allow them to expand their budget for essentials,” said Ernest Cu, President and CEO at Globe. 

Customers may also view and opt to settle their bills inside the safety and security of their homes through Globe’s customer service apps -- GlobeOne and Globe At Home. GCash is also another available alternative for settling bills anytime and anywhere. For business customers, they may also use bank online payment and wire transfer services. 

To register and learn more about the Installment Payment Program and other important bill and payment information, customers can access the Globe website https://www.globe.com.ph/installment.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Big Bite 2020: The Amazing Catch of Northern Mindanao

Big Bite Northern Mindanao is here once again! The food galore started on March 5 and will end on March 8, 2020 at the Ayala Centrio Mall. So many exciting events will take place as 71 food concessionaires joined the festival plus some famous chefs/celebrities are this year's guests.

The activity formally commenced on March 5, 2020 at 11:00 am held at the Ayala Activity center attended by the local VIPs from the City Tourism and Ayala mall, and some people from the media and blogging world  were also there to witness the launching of the said festival. 
The longest Seafood Boodle fight was then prepared by the HRM students from Liceo de Cagayan University. Everybody had a sumptuous meal and left fully sated :-)

On March 6, 2020, some people from the Blogging and Media outlet were invited for a food sampling prepared by some 20+ concessionaires. Below are the pictures of the different foods presented by the different establishments:

 

Foods were from: Nanay Choleng's Muron, Cassava cake from Butter and Oven, Halo-halo from Fullhouse, Wow Tawook from Marmar Basha, Crabs in Palapa sauce from Happy Crabs Seafood, Sikwate combo from Trableya ni Mommy Sha, Strawberry Jam & fresh strawberry from Tony's, Salt and Pepper Shrimp/Butterfly squid from Shrimpips, On the Bayou Jambalaya by Jambalaya seafoods, Calaamansi Cheesecake from Omgiee!, Puto from Raypon's, Ensaymada 3 flavors from Grateful Baker, Chicken wings by M's Grill, Chocolate Chip cookies from the Pink Box by Tring Sarnaga, Milk Tea from Kenko Naicha Milk Tea, Spinach & Artichoke bread bowl by Apple's Kitchen, Cheese baby back ribs by The Happy Pig, Seafood Empanaditas by Gat's Garden Natural Products, Tofu mushroom wrap from the Echo Store CDo, Baby Octopus from Mr. Tako and Fish Turmeringa from Josephine's De Lite.

These foods were oh-so-delectable that I would really recommend them for you to try, eat and buy. I was also amazed of how they set-up their presentation, obviously it was done with so much passion and love for the food that they are offering or selling :)

As I've mentioned, the event will end on March 8, so you still have time to visit and have a big bite offered by the talented chefs and local restos in Northern Mindanao. Kita-kits! 
 

So, here's me grinning from ear to ear. Thank you Ayala Centrio mall for always having us and most especially to all the participants in this 4-day activity πŸ’“

Monday, March 2, 2020

A Mom's Tale...

It's finally March 2020 and I can't wait for my children's classes to be over soon. 4 more weeks and they're done. I am so overly-stressed already especially with my youngest child, with all her lessons, projects, long tests and exams plus her therapies every week.

My child tried her best but she is different and teachers often cannot understand her and often don't know what to do with her. She understands their lessons, in fact, she answers all the practice tests I gave her at home. It's just that when she's at school, perhaps she understands things differently. And it makes me sad the mere fact that I know that she knows, I guess because of different environment and of how my daughter copes stress at school that would result to a different outcome on her test papers or whatever that is required of her to perform.

Sometimes, I am the one who gets so anxious that my stress level cannot be measured. Tensions just kept on rising up. These are the things people don't know what the parents with special needs kids were doing. They just judge and conclude things not even thinking on what we went thru and the things we do for our kids. Just like others, we're here to provide them with our love, care and understanding and to give them the education that they deserved.

Last weekend, I reviewed Math with my child not knowing that they really have a test  today, Monday. She did well in her review but I did not follow up last night thinking they don't  have a test today. My heart sank when I saw her classmate's notebook that they really have a written output today, on a Monday. DepEd declared not to give students tests/exams on a Monday but oh, well, it's not applicable to thtem... my bad also for not following it up πŸ™„ I could only pray that she did well on her test. I pray that she passed, that's all I care right now.  I don't need a perfect score but I want her to pass the tests she took today and the other week also.

Anyway, these are just few of the things that I worry because there are other things,  too. So right now all I can think of is for their school to be over, to give myself a break and to ease up my tensions. I should not stress over these but can't help it especially if you're after of your child's welfare. Just writing this here to release my frustrations and stress even though I know it won't give me much relief. I just want to let it go and hoping against hope that everything will turn out fine...

Saturday, February 15, 2020

Promenade on February

Promenade is usually held every February in our country and it made me reminisce on my eldest daughter's prom last year and the other year. Although I am glad she's done with all of it coz she is now in Senior High, I'm still in awe looking at her pictures being  dolled up and  all.

So, I'm gonna post again her pictures taken during her prom for the past two years. Below was Prom 2018. Their theme was Vintage Hollywood. She wore a black dress with silver shoes and had her hair  curled.
Pic below was Prom 2019. Their theme  was Vogue - A Spectacle of Iconic looks. She wore a red serpentina (or mermaid) dress that perfectly fits her!
To all having Proms this month, enjoy being dressed up and have fun! Parents, just stay close, lol.


Friday, February 14, 2020

Planning the Perfect Party or Event

Event planning is widely considered to be a fun industry involving lots of glamorous parties and good times. While this may make it seem like anyone can be an event planner, the truth is that when you’re ready to host a stellar event, you really should consider relying on a professional. There is a lot of work to getting it right, and that expertise can prove invaluable.
When searching for party planning companies, be sure to consider what those companies specialize in. Some may focus on weddings, for example, whereas others may primarily offer kids’ parties with carnival games for rent New Jersey. Decide what type of party or event you want to host, then start searching for that specialty. There are undoubtedly going to be numerous options.

Budgeting

Budgeting is one area that can quickly spin out of control if you’re not careful. To pull off a truly exceptional party, professional party planning companies NY may indeed charge a premium. In the context of party planning, you really do get what you pay for, so allow for a better, bigger budget than you may have originally had in mind.

Timelines

True professionals can work quickly to pull off a great party, but do you really want that stress of having tight deadlines for theme, catering, dΓ©cor, staff, etc.? Start the planning a few months in advance in order to have time to successfully execute your vision and have wiggle room to deal with the inevitable predicament.

Relaxation

You’ve found the perfect planner, developed and implemented a realistic budget, and formulated an amazing vision. Ideally, at this point, you can sit back and relax while the professionals get to work. You will be needed to approve expenditures, decide on dΓ©cor, catering and other considerations. This should be the fun part for you – bringing your vision to life.
Once the party planning has resulted in a stellar event, the only thing left for you to do is to play the role of gracious host. Enjoy your perfect party.

One Fine Wednesday with Cousin

Glad I got the chance to see my cousin, after so many years, last Wednesday even for a short while. Actually, she's my cousin-in-law but it seems we are more like cousins than her cousin, hehe..


I've known her during the late 90's, before I was married to her cousin (now my hubby). I remembered she just came from the US and stayed at her late grandma's place during her short vacation with her family. My then bf wanted me to meet his balikbayan cousins, especially Bem2x.

We had a short introduction at their garden. I felt so awkward, maybe because she's older than me or I was just an introvert kind of person. But I can sense my then-bf was close to his cousin. We had a nice chat and I think she tried to make me comfortable☺

Years later, we met again, but it was in the US. I was already married to her cousin and Bem had a handsome baby boy. She was so warm and it seemed we were long-lost cousins coz we never stopped chatting. I never even noticed we reached the beach while strolling with her baby.
Bem and moi with baby Matty in NY, year 2002
There was not social media yet in the early 2000's so we often corresponded thru emails. Bem soon came home to the Philippines with her kids in tow and it seems nothing has changed, except for our growing families. Soon, Facebook and Instagram was created so it was easier for us to communicate.

She's in the country right now for a short vacation and she's still the same - cheerful, frank, warm, and what I liked best - she listens when I talk. Although we only spent a very short time together, I was just too glad she found time to see me πŸ’“

Top Reasons to Choose a Midwife Over an Obstetrician

Having a baby is an exciting time for new moms. However, there is a lot of care you and the baby need during this time. While the most obvious choice for your prenatal care may be an obstetrician, there are many reasons to choose a midwife.

Longer Visits

Choosing a midwife San Antonio moms can expect longer visits. You have an opportunity to really get to know the person caring for you during this time. You don’t have to worry about leaving the appointment with unanswered questions because the doctor rushes to see the next patient. The midwife spends quality time with you to help calm your fears and increase your understanding.

Location Options

The vast majority of doctors only want to deliver in a hospital. This limits the locations you can give birth to your baby and the manner in which you labor. A midwife may work in a hospital, birth center or even your home. This gives you multiple options to choose from, allowing you to find the one that works best for you.

Natural Birth

If having an intervention scares you, a midwife may offer a better chance of having a natural birth. They can help you avoid medications during delivery by offering other coping mechanisms. They avoid intervening unless absolutely necessary. Unlike most doctors, a midwife is more likely to be there throughout the labor, helping and guiding you.

Style Preference

Some moms simply like the style of midwife care over that of an obstetrician. You have a higher chance of having the pregnancy and birth you want with their diligent care. They work with you rather than dictating the best things for you.

Low-Risk Mom

A midwife is not the best choice for every mom. Women with low-risk pregnancies can benefit from the care they provide. The midwife helps you stay healthy throughout the pregnancy. You must choose the right practitioner for your pregnancy and health.

Thursday, February 13, 2020

Why I Value My Privacy

Been keeping my silence about personal matters for months and so far, I was at peace until someone broke it for me. A lot has been going on for the past year but I tried to let go and move on. Only a handful of people knew what's going on with my/our life and we also kindly asked them to keep everything private as this was very personal and it doesn't concern others.

It would have been smooth until someone broke that trust. It would have been okay if that someone didn't cross the line. However, when asked why our personal problem was broadcasted, instead of fixing it, the outcome turned out worst. We asked someone to please stop talking  to others. Instead, this someone was mad at everyone, called people who are not even involved, told them to mind their own business where in the first place, this someone was the one who started talking about our problems.

It was horrible for me to find out that our personal problem at home could possibly cause another World War III. I was appalled. I was angry. I so wanted to punch something. Instead I kept quiet... for a day... for days... for weeks. And this someone probably thought I knew nothing about it. Just like before, this person thought I was callous, ignorant and stupid. Yeah, maybe I let you believe I was those things but you don't know how close I was to  really cancel you. Thankfully, I'm not like you.

So think about what you have done. Think about the consequences of your actions. You have even hurt others. When will you ever learn?

I chose silence so that when everything cools down, it's easy to fix things. But about what you did, you just burned bridges with other people. You do things your way but did it give you peace? 

This is the reason why I value discretion and privacy especially where my life at home is concern. I don't even talk about your life unless you started provoking me. I don't share to others what you went thru and I don't share, most of all, the things you tell me about other people especially if it's too personal because I know it's none of my business and I am not nosy like you.

Wednesday, February 12, 2020

4 Unique but Useful Types of Insurance

Insurance is a generally useful tool people use to keep themselves afloat in case of an accident. Most people have or know people who have life insurance, dental insurance, or health insurance, but there are other types of insurance that are just as important but are not as well known.

Livestock/Animal Insurance

Farmers, ranchers, or anyone else who owns large animals can get insurance to protect them. Some animals have separate types of insurance specifically for them, such as horses. Since horses are large and can be dangerous, it can be beneficial for horse owners to invest in horse insurance if their horse hurts itself or someone else.

Car Key Insurance

Car insurance is pretty common, but car keys are not something that often comes to mind as needing to be insured. However, some types of car keys can cost a few hundred dollars to replace depending on the technology used to make them. For that reason, some car owners choose to have their keys insured as well as their cars.

Event Insurance

Whether you're hosting a birthday party, wedding, Bat Mitzvah, or another kind of event, you might want to consider getting the event itself insured. For example, if the weather doesn't cooperate, and you need to reschedule or cancel the event, event insurance can help. The same goes for any unforeseen injuries or mishaps. Event insurance can help.

Fantasy Football Insurance

Perhaps the most bizarre, but still useful type of insurance on this list is fantasy football insurance. If you're involved in a fantasy football league, and one of the players on your team gets injured and can't play, some insurance companies will reimburse you for things such as the entry fee.
It might seem crazy, but some types of insurance that sound strange at first could turn out to be useful. You can insure anything you want as long as there is some monetary value behind it. So keep on the lookout for valuable things in your life you might want to protect.

3rd Ayala Centrio Art Tents to Showcase Filipino Global Talents


February is National Arts Month and in keeping with tradition of being the home of the local arts and creative community, Ayala Centrio will again host “Art Tents” from February 7 to 12, 2020 at the Activity Center. 

Art Tents is a 5-day affair whereby Ayala Centrio turns its grounds into spaces for painters, animators, designers, poets, writers, performers and visual artists to share their work and expertise and where mall-goers indulge in various artistic experiences. 

Now on its 3rd run, the event this year will also take a major leap as it will not only showcase the unique craft of well-experienced, global artists but will also aim to raise funds for a tent city. 
Yours truly on the 1st day of Art Tent 🎨
“What started as a community project has now certainly evolved into a colorful, safe and exciting avenue that everyone looks forward to and learns from every year. Ayala Centrio takes tremendous pride in this synergy that we have with the community,” shared Ayala Centrio Mall General Manager Hammer Roa. 

The resource speakers for the art talks are the following: 

Unchalee Anantawat – Born in Bangkok, she studied animation in Melbourne. In 2012, she and her friend Thomas Menard opened “Speedy Grandma,” an independent-run space that aims to support local and international artists and give them an alternative to the Thai contemporary art scene. She also opened “Poop Press,” an independent publisher that aims to energize the self-publishing culture in her native Thailand. 

Leeroy New – Born in General Santos and now based in Manila, multidisciplinary artist Leeroy has worked on immersive and psychedelic installations in New York, Paris, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Japan, Sydney, Thailand, Taipei, Singapore and Melbourne. His work intersects with different creative industries including installation, sculpture, fashion, production design, costuming and performance. He was a recipient of the Asian Cultural Council residency in New York in 2015 and was part of the Singapore Biennale 2008. 

Anjo Bolarda – An artist, muralist, graphic designer, illustrator and cultural worker. His works have been exhibited in several local and international venues. He will also be creating a mural at the Centrio Garden. 

Karl Adrian Aguro – Based in Cagayan de Oro, this graphic designer runs Uncurated Studio, a one-man graphic design studio founded in 2017. He won the championship during BluPrint Magazine’s 6th Design competition under the graphic design category in 2016. His works have also been published in BranD (Hong Kong) and IndieType (China) 

Chingkee Te-Motoomull – The woman behind homegrown milk tea shop, Chingkeetea. She is part of a community that knows how to appreciate the value of art, the people behind it and the role it plays in the business setting. Currently, she is running 5 branches of her milk tea shop. 

Chris Gomez – A mentor accredited by the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship under Product Development, Chris was a finalist in the Habi Kadayawan 2019 Fashion Accessories Design Competition (Professional Category). A multidisciplinary creative and advocate for sustainable design, he creates relevant works that push his philosophy of solving problems without sacrificing good design. 

Ivan Macarambon – An award-winning artist, Ivan uses a wide range of materials, techniques and styles, He makes murals, assemblages, 3D objects, installation art, sound art and digital art. He was a finalist in the Lethbridge 20000 Small Scale Art Award in Brisbane and the ANL Mission to Seafarers Maritime Art Award in Melbourne, Australia’s national still life painting award. He also served as representative of his region in the Committee on Visual Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts from 2004 to 2007. 

Zola Gonzalez-Macarambon – Currently studying at Monash University (Australia) and working towards a PHD in Film, Media and Communications, she is a teacher and writer from Cagayan de Oro. Her poetry has been published in Tingog Nanay (2017, University of San Agustin), Best of Dagmay 2 (2016, Ateneo de Davao University), Yes, Poetry, Misfit Magazine, The Literary Yard, Zombie Logic Review, among others. Her work was also featured in Peril’s Asian-Australian Arts and Culture, 10th anniversary Asians To Watch Out For issue. 

Patrick Gabutina – The person behind Tinabuan Arts and Crafts. Patrick has more than 34 years combined experience in a multi-faceted career that has connected the arts, public service (in capacities as elected official, government employee and consultant and education. He earned an MA in Government Management from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. 

During the 5-day event, there will be booth workshops, maker’s market, film marathon, indie music, public art and live mural painting. 

Ayala Centrio also partnered with the Ayala Foundation in rebuilding a tent community in Kidapawan. 

In addition, eco tote bags will also be made available from February 7 to March 31, 2020. Designed by Melissa Abuga-a, a Kagay-anon visual artist and a participant of Art Tents as well, each eco tote bag will be sold for Php 180, the proceeds of which will be added to the donation to Kidapawan. 

Among the exhibitors and workshop resources this year include Lei and Lyle, NAGMAC, Hands At Work, Indie CDO, CDO Film Society, Bowerbird, Anjo Bolardo, Write Script, D Vision, Oro Arts Guild, Bam Garibay, Artsada and Dan + Deva.

How To Accessorize Your Home

It is time to take your bland looking living room and give it a new life by adding accessories to it. The right accents can give the area a stylish yet personal look. Here are a few items to consider.

Floor Coverings

Stop by your rug store in atlanta ga to browse the floor coverings that they have to offer. You will want one that matches the color of your furniture and drapes yet is easy to clean. A rug will also protect your feet from the cold floor in the winter. Consider one that has a contrasting pattern to add a few extra shades to work with.

Art For the Walls

While you could go with a standard print from the craft store or a series of family photos, you could also add decorations with a personal touch. Purchase a blank canvas and let your children splatter paint it. Lay drop cloths in your garage to protect the walls and floor before you do. You can also schedule a time at a do it yourself craft shop to make something unique for your home.

Books

Adding books to your shelves or coffee table can give the room the perfect touch of color. You can set out ones that you own. You can also check with your local used book store to see if they have volumes with more vintage covers. Stack them in a certain pattern on flat surfaces or purchase ornamental bookends to line them up.

A Tray For Your Ottoman

This accessory can be arranged to look classic with a few decorations but it can also be versatile. You can use it to store things like that day’s newspaper or small games. You can also use it to serve guests when they stop by to visit. It will give drinks and snacks a steady place to sit on your ottoman while everyone talks to each other.

Saturday, January 11, 2020

My Magenta Kind of Hair

Meet my new hair for 2020 --- Magenta --- and I kind of liked it! 


After more than a year of not going to the beauty parlor (lol), I finally had some "Me" time and decided to drop my beautician for a visit. I needed much overhaul for my hair. I had my hair re-bonded and had cellophane treatment afterwards. It was then my beautician  told me that he ran out  of neutral and brown colored cellophane and only magenta was available. I didn't think twice. I love reddish color. I had my hair dyed in flaming red before but the result wasn't that red.  I had it colored burgundy, too, but the effect was too dark it can only be seen when I was out in the sun.

Anyway, this newly-colored hair of mine is only temporary. I was told it would only last a week or two. But I love this color so much I might re-dye it with a permanent color red/magenta when I  decide to visit the parlor again. Hopefully, it would not take a year this time πŸ˜„

The Best Options for Post-Retirement Living in Denver

After you've retired, you want to make sure you're living in a place that affords you all the comfort and support you need. You worked hard to retire, so you don't want to work hard anymore! It's important to weigh the pros and cons of various living options in the Denver area to find the best post-retirement solution for you.

Assisted Living

Finding an assisted living community Denver can be a huge relief and weight off of your shoulders after retirement. Assisted living communities often afford residents all of the independence they crave, while also guaranteeing support as needed. Assisted living communities come stocked with amenities like community rooms, organized trips and even outdoor spaces for walking or gardening. Many assisted living locations also have updated residences with all the modern conveniences you desire. If you need more support and want to take care of less around the house, an assisted living community may be right for you.

Staying Home

On the other hand, if you own a home, you may want to stay there in your retirement. After paying into your home for many years, you will have the advantages of living in a place you own with all of your possessions. Living at home can get tricky for seniors, and you may need to contact professional services about lawn care, shoveling and other tasks around the house. In addition, in-home care may become important if you require more support down the road. Still, there is a benefit to staying in a familiar place, especially if you live in your dream house.
It's important to do research into the best place for you to live after your retirement. The need for support, your desire for independence and how much space you require are all factors in this important decision. Ultimately, you want to live your post-retirement life as happily and easily as possible!

Coffees and Cousins

I'm longing for a coffee right now before I go to this afternoon's meeting. But since I have a feeling that coffee will be served later,  so, I'll just have to wait.

Below is a picture of me  and  my first cousins on my father side. I guess you  can see our resemblance - we have genuine smiles ☺ My late dad was the eldest among 13 children. My cousins' moms (my aunts) were 3rd and 4th if we're talking about ordinal positions, hehe.

Love having coffees with them. One afternoon is not enough but since we have other  plans on this particular day, we managed to squeeze our time by talking fast πŸ˜‚

I still have plenty of cousins and some of them are younger than us. I hope they could join us if they're in town as we live in different cities.  Anyways, just sharing to you a bit of my family history..

Gotta go now and wish me luck on my meeting. I hope this better be good :-)

Friday, January 10, 2020

Comfortable Clients are Happy Clients – How to Make Your Waiting Area Pleasant

Most people hate to wait, so service providers strive to provide prompt service. However, what they may not realize is that a 2019 study found many medical patients are more troubled by disagreeable waiting rooms than they are by extended wait times. Whether you work at an accounting office, auto shop or legal firm, your clients may feel the same. Here are a few measures that can help make your customers happy the moment they walk in the door and keep them content during delays.

Calm

In a crowded waiting room, one agitated client can put everyone on edge. Make your space a serene environment by decorating in soothing colors. Add live plants, which studies have shown to improve clients’ moods and encourage cooperation. Watching fish reduces anxiety and lowers blood pressure, so install a cabinet aquarium denver for the benefit and enjoyment of your clients and your staff.

Comfortable

Design the waiting area with comfort and privacy in mind. The layout should allow adequate room for movement and a reasonable degree of privacy. Cushiony upholstered furniture is more comfortable than wooden chairs and other hard surfaces but fabric can be difficult to disinfect, so choose seating based on the hygiene needs of your practice. Fill the room with bright natural light if possible; if you have an interior room with no windows, use bulbs that mimic sunlight. To keep clients from getting bored, offer free Wi-Fi. If long wait times are common, consider supplying complimentary water, tea, coffee and soft drinks — and make sure a public restroom is available nearby.

Quiet

You may not need library-level silence, but try to keep decibel levels low enough for multiple clients to carry on personal conversations simultaneously. Soft surfaces like area rugs and upholstered furniture absorb noise within the room; good wall and ceiling insulation should mute sounds from neighboring businesses and outside traffic. If you have a television playing, keep it on mute and set it to display closed captioning.

Cheers to 2020!!

How's your January 2020 so far? Me, I'm just wishing for good health especially after having migraine attacks for days now... But life goes on. No matter what I am feeling for the day, or whatever my doctor tells me about my health, I have to go on, stand up and face the daily challenges as it should be. And oh, I'm turning a year older in two days so lemme enjoy and forget all things that troubles me. 

Here's a picture of me on a hammock saying Cheers to 2020!

Thursday, January 9, 2020

The Best DIY Projects for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day doesn't have to cost a lot of money. For that matter, neither does updating your home or giving a gift for any occasion. All you need to do is head to your local art supply store Long Beach CA. Don't worry if you don't have an idea, there is plenty of inspiration to be found among the art supplies.

Floral Wreath

Nothing says love like red roses, but you don't have to break the bank on dried or artificial flowers. Simply take some ribbon, a hot glue gun, red or pink tissue paper and a heart-shaped wreath form and make your own. Even kids can get into the spirit and contribute to the bouquet.

Original Art

It doesn't take any experience or even expensive paints or supplies to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Just take what you have on hand or what you can easily find and create a masterpiece like this lipstick heart.

A Jar of Love Notes

This project is a precious idea for the very young to the ageless. Use your imagination on this one. You can pick any jar and leave it plain or decorate it. Paint the top or put a fabric cover on it to add some color. Then write all the ways you love your valentine and place each note folded into the jar.

A Tree Covered in Hearts

Another craft that is beautiful and simple for any age; all you need is some colored paper, string, scissors, a branch from your yard and a vase or pitcher. You can paint the branch white if desired so that the hearts really stand out. Cut out the heart shapes from red, pink and white construction paper and hang them from the branch.
Regardless of your age, your level of expertise or your budget, nothing says, "I love you" more than a gift made and given from the heart. Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best.

Family Picture 2020

Sharing to you our family picture taken on the eve of New Year 2020. This is my family on my mother side. Since this year's color is Classic Blue, we all opted to wear clothes that has a shade of blue.

I wish everyone a great 2020. May this be all our year :-) God bless us all!


Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Top Things Professional Cleaners Spot That You Miss

Have you ever wondered why so many people go to the trouble of hiring cleaners when they could just do the work themselves? A cleaning crew is not only trained to clean well, but a second set of eyes also finds the things you might miss. Here are a few secret spots they know about that you don't.

Your Dirty Baseboards

After you've lived in a house for many years, you become oblivious to grime that builds up over time. When a maid service Clarksburg MD comes in, one of the things they'll be looking at are your baseboards. You might be shocked to see the build-up of dust and spills you never noticed. This can happen to anyone, no matter how clean they are.

Tops of Doors

When was the last time you got up on a ladder and checked the top of your doors? Cleaning people know there's usually a nice, thick layer of dirt sitting over your door or frame, just begging to be removed. Heavy dust anywhere in the home isn't good for allergies and you don't want it accumulating even if you can't see it.

Mysterious Hand Prints

Speaking of doors, you may not have noticed the black stains where you have been pushing a door open for years. If you look closely, you'll see the filthy remains of hand prints. Cleaners know all about these marks on doors, walls and even light switches.

Under Your Sink

Odds are you have a sparkling sink because it's so easy to see and clean. An experienced cleaner knows that you probably missed the underside of the sink's rim. That's where yellow soap scum tends to form and many people miss it. Your cleaning crew knows and they will eliminate it.

Obscure Areas

Most everyone has missed these obscure areas that can get dirty without anyone noticing. It just means you're living an active life. Cleaning professionals know this and their impeccable skills are why so many people hire them.