Breastfeeding in Public

January 6, 2015, 9:35 am

≫ Next: Joy Felizardo's Chocolate Chip Cookies

One of the things I promised not to do this 2015 is to meddle in other people's lives. Let me clarify this, I don't meddle just for the sake of meddling. I meddle when I feel the need to be of help to a friend, to a niece, to a nephew or even a stranger. But most of the times I get blamed, so I bow only to meddle when it concerns my family, especially my children.

Pero ika nga ng kasabihan, "it's hard to break a habit". Yesterday, as I was waiting in line to pay the bills at Bayad Center, there was this baby, about 5 months, who was crying so loud that everybody were staring at the young mom. The mother is probably in her early 20s. The baby was crying non-stop for 10 minutes so I went near the mother...

Me: Gutom na baby mo (hmmm, nakialam na naman!)
Young Mom: Opo.
Me: Padedehin mo na.
Young Mom: Ahmmm...(shy tone)
Me: Bakit breastfeed sya?
Young Mom: Opo.
Me: E ayun naman pala. Aba, e padedehin mo na.
Young Mom: Nakakahiya po, andaming tao.
Me: Ha, nahihiya ka sa mga taong yan, titiisin mo ang gutom ng anak mo dahil lang nahihiya ka sa kanila (sabay turo sa napakahabang pila ng mga magbabayad ng bills). Alam mo ba na naiilan na lang ang mga nanay na nagpapa-breastfeed ngayon? Only 16% of mothers in the Philippines breastfeed their babies. Dapat nga proud ka na isa ka sa 16% na yun! Ako, I breastfeed my 3 kids. Ang bunso hanggang pitong taon ko pinadede. (Sabay pinaupo ko sya sa bakanteng upuan para padedehin ang kanyang sanggol).

The moment the baby latched on her mother's breast, tumahimik ang buong kapaligiran. Sabay kanya kanya ng kwento ang mga nanay at lola na nagpadede din pala noong unang panahon. May mga manong at tatay na pinauna na ring makabayad ang batang ina. Aba, akalain mong, mula sa dulo ng pila, sya ay nauna pa. O hindi ba, ang pagpapasuso ng anak ay may magandang benepisyo! Dapat pala sinama ko si Juancho at pinadede, para nauna na din ako sa linya (hehehehehehe!)

Seriously, I am an advocate of breastfeeding. Second to giving birth, it's the best thing I did for my children. I am proud and happy to say, there's no shame in breastfeeding in public!

Ang mga sumusunod na larawan ay kuha sa ospital, sa unang araw ng pagpapasuso ko sa aking mga supling. Hindi naman po ako ganyan magpadede in public, tago naman ang bahaging dapat itago. I just wanted to share to empower mothers that breastfeeding in public is an act of love for thy children.

Julia

Rafael

Juancho

Organizations that Promotes Breastfeeding in the Philippines:

The Breastfeeding Clinic

is run by Nona D. Andaya-Castillo, IBCLC and Elvira L. Henares-Esguerra, MD, FPDS, FABM, IBCLC, RPh., both International Board Certified Lactation Consultants. The clinic supports mothers from pregnancy to parenting through the following services:

Pre-natal classes

Couple or One-on-One Counseling

Specialized massage for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers

Training of fathers or parenting partner on how to support breastfeeding mothers

Assistance during childbirth until the very first breastfeeding

Professional fees collected from the clinic are used to fund scholarships and projects of Children for Breastfeeding, Inc. and Nurturers of the Earth, Inc..

Arugaan Day Care

Arugaan Day Care is a crèche operated by Innes Fernandez in Marikina City. The day care center operates 10 hours a day and accepts babies two months old to three years old. Part of the crèche’s policy is to require mothers to continue breastfeeding their babies even when they go back to work. This is done by asking the mothers to leave expressed milk to be fed to their babies during the day or to allow their babies to suckle milk from their nursing caregivers. Fernandez also teaches the fathers to support their breastfeeding wives and to fully participate in child rearing.

LATCH (Lactation Attachment Training Counseling Help is a breastfeeding support group led by trained peer counselors who have also been breastfeeding mothers themselves. Their services include:

Breastfeeding workshops

Hospital or home visits

Phone, SMS, and email support

Pre-natal and post-partum classes

Mom & Baby Success Programs

Mom2Mom Hookups

LATCH-Pro Pedia Pool

Peer Counsellor Training

Pro-LATCH Membership Perks (Discounts on products and services)

La Leche League (Philippines) is the local chapter of La Leche League International, a global non-profit, non-sectarian breastfeeding support group. The group provides education and support to breastfeeding women through accredited La Leche League leaders. In the Philippines, meetings are held in Greenhills, San Juan and in Silang, Cavite.

The Breastfeeding Club is a club for pregnant and nursing moms. Members are given access to three breastfeeding classes, namely: Beginning Breastfeeding, Sustaining Breastfeeding, and Toddler Nursing & Weaning/Special Cases. They also get to enjoy discounts to products and services, exclusive invites to parenting events, and an online support system. The club is led by Abigail Yabot, a La Leche League leader and one of the two Philippine Certified Lactation Counselors who was trained at the UP-PGH.

Beauty, Brains, and Breastfeeding is a non-government organization that has worked with UNICEF on several advocacy projects since 2006. The organization aims to accomplish the following:

To convince as many people possible that “breastfeeding is not just for those who cannot afford to buy “formula”, but that “breastfeeding is in fact a choice among the informed and affluent in our society;” To change their mindset from “breastfeeding is very hard” to “breastfeeding is a breeze;” and, To support and empower all mothers to successfully breastfeed beyond 2 years without supplementation of formula milk, but complemented with a variety of healthy indigenous foods starting 6 months.

Mommy Sense is a Davao-based breastfeeding support group initiated by Lyn Buyco-Tan. Aside from being a breastfeeding resource person, Tan and her group organized “Portraits of Love” a photo exhibit which showed photos of breastfeeding mothers. The group’s Facebook page shares various information and external links about breastfeeding. Fans also get to ask questions and also exchange breastfeeding insights with fellow fans.

MOMIMOR (Moms, Milk, and More) is a non-profit breastfeeding group started by natural childbirth and breastfeeding advocate and 1975 Binibining Pilipinas-Universe,Chiqui Brosas-Hahn. The group is made up of breastfeeding moms and couples who meet up to share their breastfeeding experiences with other members. Breastfeeding classes are free although attendees are asked to bring food to share with everyone.

Medela Moms, Inc. is the exclusive importer and distributor of Medela Breastfeeding Products in the Philippines. Mom-owners, Beng and Maricel, both breastfed their children and are actively sharing their breastfeeding insights with other breastfeeding moms. The company, with the help of Abbie Yabot of The Breastfeeding Club, regularly holds breastfeeding classes at the Medela House.

Bosom Buddy is a manufacturer of breastfeeding pillows, baby slings, and nursing wear. It is owned by Pamela Magallon, a breastfeeding counselor who conducts breastfeeding classes and baby care talks to fellow parents. The company’s website has a special Breastfeeding Guide page where visitors can read various breastfeeding resources. (Source: WikiPilipinas)

↧

Joy Felizardo's Chocolate Chip Cookies

January 7, 2015, 3:21 pm

≫ Next: Metro Vigan Inn Review

≪ Previous: Breastfeeding in Public

Joy Felizardo is one of the bloggers that I look up to in the blogging world. She's one multi-tasker, mom of four, baker, businesswoman, foodie, and a loving wife.

I'm trying to learn baking, here sharing with you Joy Felizardo's Chocolate Chip Cookies.

↧

Metro Vigan Inn Review

January 8, 2015, 1:47 am

≫ Next: Mommy's Health

≪ Previous: Joy Felizardo's Chocolate Chip Cookies

Part of the prize I got from winning Caribbean Slippers Blog Contest last April 2013 is an overnight stay at a Vigan Hotel. I was supposed to used it December of the same year but I lost contact with the person-in-charge, and eventually got busy with the construction of our house. When we finally had the house blessing, I contacted Azrael and asked for the number of the person in-charge. Francis then introduced me, via email, to the owner of Metro Vigan Inn. From there, Ms. Karen and I scheduled my stay to Metro Vigan Inn.

First, I'd like to thank Ms. Karen for the warm accommodation. She was very understanding about the many times I changed the date of our arrival.

Finally, after a couple of re-schedules, we headed to Vigan last January 1. We reached the place at 2am because we used TPLEX. Although we were expected to arrive at 7am, for humanitarian reason, the front desk lady allowed us to check in 5 hours early because I had children with me.

I like that Ms. Karen booked us at Deluxe Twin because it is conveniently located on the ground floor. This is good for 2-4 pax (rate for this accommodation, Php 1,700.00).

. Since there were 7 of us, the room keepers were quick to add two mattresses to accommodate us all

Breakfast in the morning at Metro Vigan Cafe

This art piece and the buffet table are on sale

The staff, starting from the guards, the room keepers, the restaurant and the front desk personnel were all very polite. They were actually most of the time coy, yet very attentive to the guests needs.

Small shop for souvenir

METRO VIGAN INN is fairly new in the market, about two years, but their twenty (20) clean, spacious, low-cost rooms equipped with complete hotel facilities like controlled air conditioning, LED cable TV, bathroom with hot and cold shower, free WI-FI sufficed my family's needs, and that of other kinds of travelers (backpackers, lovers, groups).

Other details:

All rooms are inclusive of complimentary breakfast.

Rates are subject to change without prior notice.

Rates are quoted based on the minimum capacity per room.

Extra bed/person/breakfast charge will apply

Peak season surcharge applies (Holidays, Convention Period, Holy Week).

Complimentary accommodation for 2 children aged 10 years and below sharing a bed with parents/adult.

Standard check in time is 2PM and check out time is 12NN the next day

ADDRESS:Bayubay Norte, San Vicente, Metro Vigan

TELEPHONE:(077) 674-0448

MOBILE:(0917) 824-3800 / (0917) 824-4800

EMAIL:metro.viganinn@yahoo.com

FACEBOOK:Metroviganinn

↧

Mommy's Health

January 9, 2015, 1:49 pm

≫ Next: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb

≪ Previous: Metro Vigan Inn Review

I'm at it again, the crab in me just want to stay in my shell. No going out - that means no working out in the gym.

When staying home, moms do a lot of chores, like cook, eat, wash dishes, take care of the family, eat, wash dishes, nag the children to study (lol), eat, eat, eat, wash the dishes. And all those activities means gaining weight and flabs!

Thanks to Youtube and Sean for these videos, staying home does not only mean taking care of the family but taking care of mommy's health, too.

↧

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb

January 10, 2015, 5:19 pm

≫ Next: Taken 3

≪ Previous: Mommy's Health

Watching family or kid adventure movies is often my way of catching a power nap. I've seen the first two Night at the Museum movies but I slept half of the time. Forgive me, I was dead tired that time.

Last Sunday at Greenhills Cinema, I made sure I was wide awake to watch Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb because it's one of the last performances for two of Hollywood's greats - Robin Williams and Mickey Rooney. Williams is probably the most important reason why this film should be seen because this will be one of the very last times when we will see him on the big screen.

They also included new characters in the film, namely Rebel Wilson as the motor-mouth British museum night guard, Dan Stevens as Sir Lancelot and Ben Stiller as Neanderthal Laah.

Despite some lack adrenaline rush than the first Night at the Museum, Shawn Levy's Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb is still good clean fun for the whole family to watch.

And oh, if you're a Hugh Jackman fan like me, you have to watch this movie. His presence kept my laughs coming. He's sexily gorgeous even in comedy films like this!

Rating:

PG (for mild action, some rude humor and brief language)

Genre: Action & Adventure , Comedy

↧

Taken 3

January 11, 2015, 4:07 pm

≫ Next: English Only, Please Review

≪ Previous: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb

It's always great to see Liam Neeson back in action as he returns as ex-covert operative Bryan Mills. Sadly, Taken 3 is certainly nothing special as compared to the first one.

I liked the first Taken, it was packed with action and the story was well thought of. I slept a bit at Taken 2 but it was an alright movie. I didn't sleep at Taken 3 but I knew from the very start who was the killer. In short, the movie is predictable. Just the same, Liam Neeson is Liam Neeson, so go ahead watch this movie.

The story revolves around when Liam's ex-wife is brutally murdered. To protect the only thing that matters to him – his daughter, he must find his ex-wife's killer.

Starring: Famke Janssen, Forest Whitaker, Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace

Director: Olivier Megaton

Genre(s): Action, Thriller, Crime

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 109 min

↧

English Only, Please Review

January 12, 2015, 4:42 pm

≫ Next: Benefits of Pandan

≪ Previous: Taken 3

We were supposed to do a La Union escapade but due to many reasons, we're stuck in Manila. My sons were invited by their friends for a play date at their place. With no siblings at home, I brought my daughter in Greenhills for a mom and daughter bonding. After dining at Torch, we've decided to watch Love, Rosie. While I was paying for Love, Rosie movie, Julia saw English Only, Please poster at the ticket booth. She asked if it's nice so instead of watching Love, Rosie, I paid for English Only, Please.

Though I'm not a Jennylyn Mercado and Derek Ramsey fan, I'm actually intrigued by this movie for two reasons. First, I saw some FB friends wild reaction on how and why Derek won as the Best Actor and Jennylyn as the best actress in MMFF. Secondly, why English Only, Please is still being shown in cinemas, while the other movies were already forgotten?

Though this movie is pretty predictable (with the guy and and the girl falling for each other in the end) the romantic comedy formula they used is truly effective. My daughter, who only watches Filipino movies during MMFF, said "mom it's a nice movie!".

The film is beautifully funny at the very start when Derek's Ramsay was interviewing applicants over the net.

It's light and charming tone finds plenty of laughs especially with how they depicted the silliness of life in the Philippines. Like the way the characters keep using EDSA traffic to make an excuse for being late.

Love sick people will relate much on this movie as the characters keep doing the same mistake for the sake of love.

My verdict: Go ahead watch and enjoy the movie!

↧

Benefits of Pandan

January 13, 2015, 7:11 pm

≫ Next: Starbucks Mega Atrium

≪ Previous: English Only, Please Review

There are plenty of herbal plants that have unique varieties which can aid different ailments in the Philippines. I'm not just sure if most Filipinos know that Pandan leaves (P. amaryllifolius) is one of them. I have to admit that all I knew about Pandan when I was younger is that it is added into cooking to add a distinct aroma to rice and desserts, such as buko pandan.

Upon learning about the benefits of Pandan, it now has a special place in my garden, cooking, and the whole house!

I start the day by cooking rice with a piece of Pandan leaf. The smell makes the whole house, specially the curtains and the throw pillows, smell so good!

My Pandan plants are placed at the garden, but I make sure to bring them in before going to sleep so there won't be cockroaches and other insects that will attempt to invade my home.

After cooking my rice in the morning, these Pandan platns

are returned to the garden for watering and their much needed sunlight.

Benefits of Pandan:

1. Treat leprosy, smallpox, fever, wounds, stomach spasms, rheumatism, anxiety, weak nerves, no appetite, hair loss and dandruff, and strengthens the gum.

2. Used for handicrafts, including the manufacture of Dilly Bags (carrying bags), fine mats or ‘ie toga.

3. The nice smell it secretes is hated my cockroach, so place it inside cupboards, food cabinets to shoo those insects.

How to use Pandan:

For dandruff: Seven sheets pandan leaves, washed and ground smoothly. Add 1 / 2 cups of water while being mixed evenly. Squeeze and strain. Pandan leaf juice is then applied to entire scalp dandruff. Let dry, then need to spread once again repeated. Approximately 1 / 2 - 1 hour later. Wash hair with clean water. Do it every day until dandruff is gone.

For weak nerves: Three pieces of washed and cut small. Boil with 3 clean water glass until remaining 2 cups. Let it chill. Drink a glass in the morning and one in the afternoon.

For stiff body parts and rheumatism: Brew three pieces of pandan leaves with 1 / 2 cup coconut oil Let it cook. Rub the mixture to sore body parts.

↧

Starbucks Mega Atrium

January 15, 2015, 4:27 am

≫ Next: Bench Glitter Doll Shoes

≪ Previous: Benefits of Pandan

Last week my husband asked me to bring him white choco mocha in venti size from Starbucks. I was too happy when I came home because I knew John will be happy to have his favorite drink. Upon lifting the cup from the paper bag.

John: Babe, I told you you venti size.

Joy: Yes, I paid for a venti size, here's the receipt.

John: But you're given a tall one".

So I called Starbucks Mega Atrium at the fourth floor to tell them what happened. Yus, asked for where I live so they can have the correct size delivered. I didn't want to hassle them much so Yus and I agreed that I'll drop by their store whenever I have a business to attend within the area.

Three days after, I met Yus and I'd like to commend him

for delivering a "kapuri-puring" customer service.

And by the way, I like the new look of Starbucks Mega Atrium.

Starbucks - SM Mega Atrium

Level 4, Mega Atrium Unit 419C to 419D, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong

Phone:(02) 706 5136

↧

Bench Glitter Doll Shoes

January 15, 2015, 5:20 pm

≫ Next: Sopas de Malunggay ni Nanay

≪ Previous: Starbucks Mega Atrium

I'm a certified shopaholic. For the as long as I can remember, I've been telling myself to stop buying things I don't actually need.

For 2015, I promised not to do a spur-of-the-moment purchase. Hahaha, it's just 15 days after the new year but here I am breaking my own rules. Well, I have a valid reason for doing so.

I went out for a much needed me-time last Thursday and went around Shangri-La Mall. My feet were hurting from the shoes I was wearing because it isn't mine, it's my daughter's doll shoes. We used to share shoes because we're both size 6. I forgot that just last Christmas, the shoes we got her was already size 7.

Due to sprain on my left foot, I had no choice but to buy a pair of shoes. I went inside Bench and found a black doll shoes at only P399.75. The sales lady told me it's much cheaper if I buy two. So I went home with these 2 pairs of Bench glitter doll shoes for only P599!

At dahil madami akong kinikimkim na taba, madalas akong naka itim.

Upang maging di kadilimdilim, magningning kahit man lang sa ilalim.

Diba, di naman dapat mahal para maging fashionista?

↧

Sopas de Malunggay ni Nanay

January 17, 2015, 3:58 am

≫ Next: 8 Benefits of Crying

≪ Previous: Bench Glitter Doll Shoes

I don't cook as often as other stay at-home-moms. But when I cook I make sure it's nutritious and filled with so much L-O-V-E.

Tonight's menu, dahil malamig at nakakatamad kumilos, Sopas de Malunggay ni Nanay served with boiled egg on the side, este, middle pala.

It's so easy to cook. Boil the egg. Set aside. Boil water, then add pork cubes (depending on how salty you want it). Add macaroni. When mac's al dente, add milk and malunggay.

This sopas de malunggay ni nanay is filling, helps with my no rice diet.

Juancho wants this served with rice

Julia preferred to eat it with pandesal

Rafael's choice

↧

8 Benefits of Crying

January 18, 2015, 5:28 am

≫ Next: Circles Event Café

≪ Previous: Sopas de Malunggay ni Nanay

Can you remember the last time you were moved to tears but felt a whole lot better after crying? Some people think that crying is a mark of weakness so they try to put a brave front. There are actually a number of reasons why you should cry. Here are some of them, the 8 benefits of crying:

1. Crying helps you flush out toxins.
2. Releasing your tears actually helps us to relieve stress.
3. A good cry is an effective antidepressant.
4. Crying helps you be creative.
5. Sacredness in tears after a break up or loss of a love one helps you move forward in life.
6. Tears is powerful tool to express overwhelming grief.
7. Crying actually releases endorphin into the body that can help to ease your mood, even put you into a happier state.
8. Crying might actually improve your relationship with someone. This is so true! I met my husband when I lost my mom. Twenty one years together and we're still going strong.

So don’t be afraid to allow those tears to fall down your cheeks because it takes a strong person to cry.

Pope Francis' quote at the Holy Mass at University of Sto. Tomas earlier today has something to do with crying, too.

"Have we learned how to weep for someone else?

Let us learn how to weep and cry.

If you don't learn how to cry, you can't be good Christians.

Be courageous, don't be afraid of crying."

- Pope Francis

At UST, January 18, 2015

↧

Circles Event Café

January 18, 2015, 10:29 am

≫ Next: Vigan Again

≪ Previous: 8 Benefits of Crying

It’s been a while since John and I had a pig-out session in a buffet restaurant. If I can remember it right, it's more than 10 years ago because we're not big on eat-all-you-can.

We went at Circles Event Café last week for our 2015 foodie adventure. All I can say, we like our experience. Maybe we're biased because Makati Shangri-La is connected to our beloved Edsa Shangri-la Hotel, where we had our wedding reception.

We like Circles Event Café's open and intreactive theatre kitchens because chefs get to talk to diners. They event accommodate customized menu for their clients.

My husband requested for a well done steak, marinated with herbs and the chef followed it by heart. John said, "that's why I like going at Shang hotels"

Each station features its own selection of specialties, ranging from cold appetisers, seafood, meat, pasta and bread to desserts

I'm watching my diet so it's really great they have two of my favorite fruits, chico and mangoosteen

Circles Event Café

Lobby Level Makati Shangri-La,

Ayala Ave. cor Makati Ave. Ayala Center, Makati

(02) 813-8888.

Operating Hours: 6am - 10.30pm

Dress Code: Smart Casual

Accepts Major credit cards

↧

Vigan Again

January 19, 2015, 12:16 pm

≫ Next: Biggs Diner

≪ Previous: Circles Event Café

The first time we visited Vigan was in 2009. It was a brief visit, we took some photos at Calle at Crisologo and stayed a bit at Baluarte, because we were just invited my Amy to visit her family in Ilocos Norte.

As our first trip for 2015, it's only befitting to visit Vigan again, as it is recently been declared as New 7 Wonders Cities of the World on Dec. 7 (December 8, 2014 at 3:00 AM Philippine Time).

We left Manila last January 1 at around 9pm and reached the town proper at 2am. Thanks to the new TPLEX!

St. Paul’s Cathedral Also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral, it is the setting of many religious activities. The massive structure has a Baroque architectural design with neo-Gothic, pseudo-Romanesque and Chinese craftsmanship influences.

We've asked around for Metro Vigan Inn, and in less than 10 minutes

we reached our accommodation

After breakfast we headed to Bantay Bell Tower, which is just 10 minutes away from Metro Vigan Inn.

Bantay Church and Bell Tower (Bantay Belfry). This tower on a hill gives a 360 degree picturesque view of Vigan. One can go all the way to the top to witness the beautiful view and enjoy the cool wind.

We climbed Bantay Belfry, which sits on a hill. This towering structure is one of the sights that must be visited by tourists because of its historical and cultural significance, as well as its commanding view of Vigan from the highest point.

Bantay Belfry is popular among local travelers because scenes of Panday movie were shot there.

Bantay Church and Bell Tower, Vigan

St. Augustine Church

After a few meters’ walk from the belfry, visitors can enter the St. Augustine Church which was built in 1590. The Church has a deep brown, neo-gothic façade.

Don't just take photos, explore the place with the help of a local guide to learn more

about the history and the beauty of the place.

Then we went to Crisologo Mansion,

which we didn't enjoy much because they were about to close for lunch.

Crisologo Museum is well-maintained museum. Managed by the Crisologo family, a prominent political dynasty in Vigan. On the first floor is the antique calesa, the library and study, where visitors can view the book collection and numerous news clippings about this political family. Inside the house, one can see the various possessions of the family that were used in their everyday lives. The museum is open throughout the week just make sure to go at least an hour before their lunch break.

Pottery in Vigan

The kids had so much trying out for the first time how to make pots at Pagburnayan (Jar Making Factory). This can be an interesting and educational stop for families with kids. Burnay is an earthenware jar that dates back to pre-colonial history. It was used then for domestic purposes but it is mostly bought now for decorative purposes. The burnay is skilfully crafted by the potter’s hands with the use of pottery wheel and kiln. Fine sand is used to temper the clay. Once fashioned into the desired shape, it is placed inside high-temperature ground kilns made from brick and clay.

Syquia Mansion, Vigan

Medyo masungit ang mga nagbabantay at namamahala sa Syqui Mansion but if you're into huge rooms filled with exquisite and elegant antiques from all over the world, you'll enjoy this place. Syquia Mansion is the ancestral home of the former first lady Dona Alicia Quirino, the wife of President Elpidio Quirino. It showcases extensive memorabilia of the former president.

Calle Crisologo

Vigan tour is incomplete without walking down the famous but overly commercialized Calle Crisologo. The street is lined with too many stores that it's hard to get a nice shot of the place. The Heritage Village is a World Heritage site that is famous for its cobblestone streets that have been featured in many postcards, books, magazines and other publications. This street transports you to the Philippine colonial period, especially at night when it is romantically lit with street lights and Calesas pass by so you better visit Calle Crisologo at night, during lean season.

Abel Weavers, located at Barangay Camagaan, the place offers a variety of intricately designed colourful Abel Iloco woven materials on sale and exhibits the traditional art of handloom weaving.

The kids enjoyed playing with the cute dogs

The owner of this place let us taste their wine

Hidden Garden

You have to put Flores Pots and Hidden Garden in your list when in Vigan. Discover a place enveloped in colorful blossoms and indulge yourself with its special Vigan empanada, bagnet, sinigang na bagnet at iba pang masasarap na pagkaing Vigan tulad ng poque-poque!

FAmily from Pasig that we met at Hidden Garden

Baluarte

Baluarte has mini zoo with animals from the Philippines and all over the world. You can ride a pony for free. No entrance fee for this massive property, which is owned by the former governor Mr. Chavit Singson. There are caged animal viewings, a butterfly garden and a scheduled animal show.

Plaza Salcedo

Features the 17th century Juan de Salcedo monument, the oldest of its kind in Northern Luzon; Gabriela Silang was executed here by public hanging in 1763

Arzobispado

The only surviving 18th century arzobispado, it served as headquarters of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo in 1889 and the official residence of the Archbishop of Nueva Segovia. This is the residence of the Archbishop of Nueva Segovia. In early years it used to be an ecclesiastical court. It also served as General Emilio Aguinaldo’s headquarters in 1898. In 1899, the invading Americans, under Lt. Col. James Parker used the building as a garrison.

Plaza Burgos

Plaza Burgos is the smaller of the two major plazas in the city of Vigan that can be found right beside Saint Paul Cathedral’s Bell Tower. It was built to remember the martyrdom of Father Jose P. Burgos, one of Vigan’s sons executed by the Spaniards.

We stopped at Quirino Bridge before heading back to Manila. Quirino Bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges in the Philippines, enabling motorists cross over Abra River.

Here are other Tourists spots we weren't able to visit. Hopefully, on our third visit, we'll be able to accomplish it all.

Santiago Cove (A stretch of golden sand beach in Santiago with amenities for picnics and water sports

Tirad Pass (This is where the young general, Gregorio del Pilar and his men made their last stand against superior American invaders in 1899),

Cabugao Beach (Cabugao is a 30-min ride from vigan. from vigan, go farther north, and pass by bantay, sto domingo, san ildefonso, magsingal, and san juan. when you reach the town proper, ask for pug-os. the beach resort is just a few meters off the high way.

Pinsal Falls features Angalo’s footprint, the legendary Ilocano giant. The falls is a few kilometers of rough road from the highway. Located at Barangay Babalasiwan, Sta. Maria.

Other waterfalls in Ilocos Sur are CANIAW FALLS in Bantay, GAMBANG FALLS in Cervantes, AWASEN FALLS in Sigay and BARASIBIS in Sinait.

Museo Nueva Segovia. Features artifacts and archdiocesan archives and other Episcopal paraphernalia.

Museo San Pablo the first and only museum in the region committed to conservation of religious heritage through a distinct faith-cultural approach.

Damili Village

Experience the unique art of moulding terracotta in different forms by hand and foot.

Burgos Museum

The museum houses a collection of Father Burgos’ memorabilia and photographs, family antiques and jewelry. It also has Father Burgos’ quarters and a mini library containing his student Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, given to him as a gift.

Leona Florentino House

Leona Florentino, the mother of Isabelo delos Reyes, was the first Filipina to receive international attention as a poet. The house has been designated as the Provincial Tourism Center and administrative building of the Vigan Heritage Commission.

↧

Biggs Diner

January 20, 2015, 11:29 am

≫ Next: 3rd MOMPRENEUR SUMMIT

≪ Previous: Vigan Again

Our trip to Bicolwas planned in less than an hour so I had no time to check out which restaurant is popular in that area. From CWC I FB messaged Lea Bongalonta, a former officemate in Bayantel, the places we must visit in Naga. Lea suggested churches, falls and Biggs Restaurant. While touring the province, we've seen more than 5 Biggs Diner but we didn't eat. On our way back to Manila, we got a wrong turn so the kids asked if we can eat first. Rafael suggested, "how about Biggs, mom?". I replied, "for as long as there's one along the way. If not, we'll eat somewhere".

We had another wrong turn. Luckily there's one Biggs Diner where we actually had a wrong turn! We were meant to try the biggest food chain in Bicol after all.

My family liked Biggs scrumptious dishes and American diner ambience. Plus the "kapuri-puring customer service from the manager. We ordered five breakfast meals, coffee is included in each meal. I asked if she can replace the three coffee for juice for the kids. Andaling kausap, no ifs and buts!

Being inside Bigg's is not only a gastronomical treat but a feast for the eyes as well. Old stuff are hanged on the walls like typwriter, vintage toy cars, skateboards and many more.

We love their paper place mats. We asked to take home a few pieces.

Bigg's Diner is a 50's inspired diner, located right in the heart of Naga City. It was established in 1983 three friends who wanted to give running a food business a shot, namely Nene Bichara, Nienie Buenaflor, and Maricar Manjon.

The manager told me that it was first named Mang Donald’sA on January 18, 1983. On September 13, 1990 they had to change the name Carl’s Diner when McDonal's filed legal rights.

By October 21, 1994, Carl’s Diner became Bigg’s Diner as a reflection of the business growth. Bigg’s Diner at present is a major Bicolano success, being known as the best food chain in Bicol but also as a popular catering service.

↧

3rd MOMPRENEUR SUMMIT

January 22, 2015, 3:21 am

≫ Next: Wizard's Chef

≪ Previous: Biggs Diner

The 3rd MOMPRENEUR SUMMIT is happening on January 31, Saturday at Edades Tower, Rockwell, Makati City, from 9:00am to 4:00pm with the theme LIFE+BIZ.

About the theme:

Mompreneurs are a class on its own, made up of women who are driven to succeed and go after her business goals while equally fueled with unceasing passion in leading an active and purposeful personal and family life. Mompreneurs are the type of entrepreneurs who have their lives integrated into business endeavors, making her needs quite unique and more complex.

With talks focused on successful work-life integration, money smarts, DIY PR, intentional branding, attendees will be able to gain more tools to maximize resources and potential for success. This year’s summit also brings to light success stories and testimonials of women entrepreneurs in different categories and industries, namely beauty, retail, food and fashion.

Through this event we hope to provide inspiration, motivation and added knowledge to our attendees and mompreneur community.

Programme line up

REGISTRATION STARTS AT 8:30 AM

MORNING SESSIONS

On the Filipina Mompreneur

Janice Villanueva, Founder, Mommy Mundo and Mompreneur Manila

Life+Biz : How Mompreneurs Successfully Integrate Life and Biz

Mutya Laxa Buensuceso, Founder of Spinkie & Country Manager of Luxasia Philippines

Raising your Mompreneur FQ (financial quotient)

Rose Fres Fausto, Financial Expert, FQ advocate

PR the Right Way

Featuring a media panel: AA Patawaran, Lifestyle Editor of Manila Bulletin, Mia Fausto Cruz of Smartparenting Magazine/ Summit Media

AFTERNOON SESSIONS

SUCCESSFUL MOMPRENEUR CASE STUDIES IN VARIOUS CATEGORIES

IN RETAIL FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Concept, Culture and Value Creation

Eileen Juan, founder and CEO of The Picture Co.

IN BEAUTY

From Insights to a World-class brand

Rissa Mananquil Trillo and Jacqe Yuengtian Gutierrez, co-founders of Happy Skin Cosmetics

IN WELLNESS

How Business Can Grow from Life Choices (IN WELLNESS)

Hindy Weber Tantoco, founder of Holy Carabao Farms and the Fun Farm

IN FOOD

From Family Recipe to Creating the new Filipino Fried Chicken

Jill Gerodias-Borja, founder of Manang’s Chicken

The 3rd Mompreneur Summit is supported by Epson, Smart Communications, FERN-C, BPI KaNegosyo, Geiser Maclang Communications, Homegrown.ph and ARUGA by Rockwell.

Conference fee

P2,500 inclusive of lunch, a snack and conference kit

↧

Wizard's Chef

January 23, 2015, 4:28 am

≫ Next: Celebrate Valentine's Day at View Park Hotel

≪ Previous: 3rd MOMPRENEUR SUMMIT

Wizard's Chef is a small take-out burger joint born out of the owner's addiction to Clash of Clans. She said she was addicted to the game for a long time. Realizing that she's wasting her time playing, she turned her energy in creating her new found love - making burgers!

I know the owner, Aizhel. I met her 5 years ago at Super Bowl in Megamall. She's one-of-a-kind employee as she was always happy serving the clients. I've written about her in 2011, A Hero In Her Own Right. I knew wasn't an ordinary woman. And so when I got an invite to visit and try Wizard's Chef, I'm lost for words. Ang nasabi ko lang kay Aizhel, "ang galing mo, bilib ako sayo!". Aizhel prepares the patties herself and the marinade. Her iced tea is also good. She made it from all natural ingredients.

Wizard's Chef opened last December 8, 2014, with a P20,000 borrowed capital from her friend in Canada. In less than a month, bawi na sya! WOW, KUMIKITANG HANAPBUHAY!

Ang kagandahan pa ng Wizard's Chef, it's in Mandaluyong! They are open Mondays-Sundays from 5pm to 2am.

745 E. Pantaleon Street, Hulo, Mandaluyong City
0923 435 8335

↧

Celebrate Valentine's Day at View Park Hotel

January 24, 2015, 3:36 am

≫ Next: Cavinti Falls

≪ Previous: Wizard's Chef

The perfect way to celebrate Valentine's Day is at View Park Hotel. Get high on romance as you spend this very special hearts day with good food, massage at The Spa, a refreshing pool and lots of photos!

My family had a wonderful time at View Park Hotel last year so I'm sure you'll enjoy the place as well.

Viewpark Hotel is just an one-hour drive from the metropolis. It is one of the most affordable yet elegant hotels in the heart of Tagaytay City and accessible to the city's famous tourist spots such as Picnic Grove, Tagaytay Highlands and the peak of the city, the People's Park or the so called Palace in the Sky.

View Park Hotel Address:
3500 Calamba Road, Sungay East, Tagaytay City, 4120 Tagaytay City

Phone SMS (0922) 885 1516; (0917) 544 6396;
(Viber) (0999) 883 9460
Telefax (02) 584 4090 or (046) 413 0862
Email inquiry@viewparkhotel.com
Website http://www.viewparkhotel.com

Public Transit From Manila:
- Take SLEX (South Luzon Expressway). From Sta. Rosa Exit, turn right on the Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road. As you reach Tagaytay Rotonda, please turn left. View Park Hotel Tagaytay is located just in front of Picnic Grove Park.

↧

Cavinti Falls

January 25, 2015, 4:29 am

≫ Next: Benefits of Green Tea

≪ Previous: Celebrate Valentine's Day at View Park Hotel

I first learned about Cavinti Falls in an Asian travel show a few years back. I told my husband about the place but he was probably too busy reading his graphic novel book that he can't remember about it.

Last Monday, John saw photos of Cavinti Falls from Azrael's FB account and he said to contact someone who knows the place. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to talk to the point person introduced by Az. We've been to farther places without a plan so there's nothing to worry about as we headed early (very early!) at Cavinti Falls today to experience the thrill.

We arrived around 6am at Pagsanjan. I asked directions on how to get to Cavinti Falls but people from Pagsanjan were telling me to go to any hotel in Pagsanjan to book a boat that will bring us at Cavinti Falls. So we did, and we were told that it'll cost us P1,300. I said, "for one boat for my family?". Ang sagot, "ay hindi po per head po".

We got confused because they were telling us Pagsanjan Falls and Cavinti is one and the same. Mabuti na lang, we met lovely biker couple who were kind enough to clear the confusion.

From there we went straight and followed GPS Karen going to Cavinti Church to ask for the right directions. Cavinti Municipal is just across Cavinti Church, where we met Kuya Arnel.

From Kuya Arnel, we learned that it's just P270 per head for the trek, rapel and the falls experience. We almost didn't make it because children below 13 are not allowed for this kind of adventure because the stairs are too steep. John and I explained that our children have been trekking as early 4 years old. They called their head, we signed waivers and voila, Cavinti Falls na kami!

Cavinti Falls is more popularly known as Pagsanjan Falls. The famous falls has been a cause of battle between Pagsanjan and Cavinti Municipalities. But the falls is actually located in Cavinti in the Sierra Madre mountain range in the province of Laguna, hence it it now called Cavinti Falls.

If you plan to experience Cavinti Falls/Pagsanjan Falls do not be confused (like we did). You have two options. If you want it easy, go to any hotels in Pagsanjan and hire a boat for P1,300. Your P1,300 is good for at least 3 hours. I hour boat ride going to the falls, an hour stay at the falls, and an hour boat ride going back to the hotel or resort.

If you are adventurous like us, go straight to Pueblo El Salvador Nature's Park and Picnic Grove. Talk to Municipal staff. They will accommodate you well. Pay P270, sign waivers, and experience the fun at Cavinti Falls.

↧

Benefits of Green Tea

January 25, 2015, 3:29 pm

≫ Next: Surprise

≪ Previous: Cavinti Falls

When my twin kids were studying at Angel's in preschool in 2006, I met this lovely, slim and young looking mom of one of Julia and Rafael's classmates. Well, I was wrong to think that she's a mom. She's actually a 60-year old grandma already. I asked her how she maintains her figure, she just said, wala naman, I just like drinking green tea instead of coffee.

For the last 8 years, I wanted to do her practice but I couldn't because I LOVE COFFEE! I just could not let go of my comfort drink.

Starting this January, I shifted my morning drink from coffee to green tea. Aba, aba, aba, maganda pala! I don't easily get hungry unlike before when I drink coffee. Dati ang kape ay dapat may kasabay na pandesal at pansit. Ngayon, I drink hot green tea, exercise, then brunch around 930am. I'm telling you, I feel better and lighter...o sige na nga, I feel sexier! I still drink coffee though, but not as much as 5 cups a day like before.

Benefits of Green Tea

1. Green Tea is loaded with polyphenols like flavonoids and catechins that acts as antioxidants that have powerful effects on the body such as improved brain function, fat loss, a lower risk of cancer.

2. Green Tea contains various bioactive compounds with large amounts of important nutrients.

3. Green Tea contains a powerful compounds called Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), which has been studied to treat various diseases like cancer, and may be one of the main reasons green tea has such powerful medicinal properties.

↧

Latest Images