melting chocolate

Meet Manila's Top Photographer for Kiddie Events

2012-01-29T15:16:00.001+08:00

SHINING MOM interviews Ging Lorenzo, Manila's top phtographer for kiddie events and family portraits. In the interview, Ging shares her life a new mom and unveils how she became a photographer. To read the interview, visit www.shiningmom.com.

Pacquiao, Mayweather Fight Could Mark a Cash Record

2012-01-29T14:59:00.001+08:00

Half a trillion dollars. That's the estimate earning of Manny Pacquiao and Flloyd Mayweather Jr. on their much-awaited mega fight. That has been estimated by Long Beach Boxing Examiner which was computed considering all factors like live gate ticket sales, sports bet, pay-per-view buys, sponsors, and other merchandise.

It has also been reported that Pacquiao is being generous to offer a 50-50 split for their megabuck bout to push through. Their fight is now starting to create a clamor as more and more people are excited to see the two boxers squaring up against each other.

If the big thing happens, let us expect both fighters to stand toe-to-toe.

photo courtesy here.

Teach The Teacher Course for Doctors

2012-01-29T14:10:00.003+08:00

More and more doctors nowadays are looking for medical training companies where they could learn various skills involving medical teaching. Since being a doctor of medicine is a life-long learning profession, experienced doctors have also seen the importance of being able to confidently share their knowledge and skills to others. Hence, they look for a medical teaching course where they could learn teaching strategies and methodologies. As the GMC’s Good Medical Practice (2001) states, “all doctors should be involved in medical teaching activities during their career.”

Are you one of the doctors looking for a company which offers a great teach the teacher course? Consider having enrolled in an interactive, small-group course which will you formal training on how to teach. One of the most recognized companies which have a national reputation for excellence is Oxford Medical. You can browse their site to check their clients’ feedback as they often receive 12 CPD points.

Oxford Medical also offers Medical Management Course for doctors which are given by expert NHS clinicians and managers. This small group course runs regularly in Oxford and London and has consistently excellent feedback of 18 CPD points.

The company is also known for providing Consultant Interview Course with a very small class size. They have a maximum of 8 delegates per class to ensure interactive and quality feedback. What is also remarkable about their program is their extensive post-course support and training.

You really need to consider enrolling in a medical training company where you could gain confidence in teaching and develop strong presentation skills because teaching is an integral part of a doctor’s role.

Top Affiliate Network

2012-01-13T22:19:00.000+08:00

Every business run online should take full advantage of affiliate programs. If you’re a website owner running an affiliate program or an advertiser targeting to reach more costumers online, you should look for an affiliate network that will give your business a prominent spot in the marketing world

Looking for the best affiliate network is a bit challenging. Athough there are several service providers seen online, your greatest challenge is to be able to choose which company offers the most optimized conversions and sales rate to your bussiness allowing you to reach out to millions of customers within your budget. One of the service providers on the top list is the Blue Global Media. This company is known for its cost-effective strategies driven by measurable results. It promises maximized earnings both for affiliates and advertisers.

Nowadays, there is also an increasing demand for payday loans online. This resulted to several companies emerging which offers various competitive loan packages. Selecting an affiliate program is easy, but selecting the best Payday loan affiliate program to complement you specific marketing strategy is a bit difficult. Blue Global Media also offers the most return out of your payday loan traffic as it constantly makes efforts to bring you more conversions, higher payouts and better earnings.

Visit My Online HOME

2011-12-02T22:05:00.001+08:00

I am a lifetime away from being THE ideal mom. Join me as I talk about my (mis)adventures as a new mommy over my new digital playground, SHINING MOM.

visit your new site!

Let us prettify motherhood together!

Join the happy moms on Face Book: www.facebook.com/pages/Shining-Mom

How to Get Your Body Energized to Work!

2011-08-20T21:43:00.000+08:00

Tired at work? Drive that feeling away! Learn how to keep your energy up and high in your workplace. Here's how!

1. Be "Intrinsically" Motivated!

Having an extraordinary energy to work most of the time comes from being “intrinsically motivated” to do it. If you are intrinsically motivated, you work even without your boss observing you or your payslip getting an increase. You work because you feel to pursue a valuable task purpose and have found a sense of meaningfulness in what you are doing.

Finding a sense of meaningfulness eliminates the feeling of being tired at work and it is the first key to keep your energy high. If you are "intrinsically motivated", you're always glued to all the positive reasons to stay alert in your workplace. For example, a teacher is motivated to work because she finds meaning in what she does- to mould young minds, a doctor-- to save lives, while a carpenter-- to shelter the homeless.

To stay motivated, it is then necessary to find truest essence of your work to know that “you are on a valuable mission and that your purpose matters in the larger scheme of things.” Keep that sense of purpose in your heart and yiu'll find yourself loving what you are doing.

2. Go to an Island Alone

After hell days of work, give yourself a quite time. Go to any place and be temporarily detached with your busy world. Try to watch the chirping birds and the splashing of waters alone. Experience the sunset and the falling of rain alone. Know that in your moment of solitude, you'll realize that life means more. In that way, your mind is decluttered, your heart is rested, and your body energized.

In life, we all need private moments. After a busy work load, we have to schedule a personal vacation. Everyone needs time to rest and be alone. The teacher needs to b alone to find inspiration, the engineers to reconstruct themselves, the bishops to pray and you, to rest. You need time to pause. And energize yourself.

3. Sleep Well

No matter what you do, if you don't get enough sleep, your body will surely react violently. Getting enough sleep at night is crucial to stay healthy and alert the following day. You need at least six hours of sleep to meet your body’s daily demands.

3. Eat Healthy

To keep your body energized, you have to nourish it with the right kind of food. Carbohydrates are the primary sources of energy. They contain enzymes responsible to keep energy level high which will make one feel energetic, enthusiastic and always on the go. Eat the right amout of cereals, rice and bread. You also have to remember eating your fruit and vegetable since these contain micro-nutrients and phyto-chemicals that are beneficial for your body’s metabolism.

5. Plan Tasks Ahead

One primary cause of energy loss is stress. When one is stressed, he/she tends to be disorganized, unmotivated and feel tired. Workers usually feel stressed when they have missed deadlines and are loaded with piles of work. These make it necessary to make a work plan.

In your work plan, include the issues that you need to resolve, the tasks that you need to accomplish and goals that you need to accomplish. Set the big rocks and small rocks in your workplace and make sure to work ahead of your deadlines. This strategy will greatly improve work performance and will make you feel happier and stress-free!

6. Master the Art of Power Nap

What should you do when the day drones and you still have lots of work to do? You have done several measures to keep from drifting off to sleep but you really can’t help it. The solution is simple: take a nap!

A nap can bring your body functions back. This makes you feel refreshed and energized. Just master sleeping for 10 to 15 minutes so your attention will not be called by your boss! It is also necessary to keep in mind that you can only do this during break time.

7. Armour Your Drawer with Chocolates and Coffee.

Although chocolates and coffee are just artificial stimulants that give sudden energy spike, they are usually the readily available source when immediate alertness boosters are needed. Just keep in mind to drink lots of water after drinking coffee or eating chocolates since these are diuretics.

You can also use chocolates and coffee breaks as motivations: eat and drink after accomplishing targeted outputs. With it, you will stay alert as you have something to look forward to while working.

8. Indulge in Exercise

Without exercise, our body feels tired and sluggish.

Walk around in your workroom once in a while to make you not feel sleepy. This kind of simple exercise will enhance your mood by releasing the ‘feel good’ chemicals called endorphins which increase energy levels. Also, find time to go to the gym or workout at home before or after your work hours.

9. Stay Away from Draining People

Naturally, there are just ultra negative individuals who rant all the time to release their bad energies and if you happen to be with them always, those bad energies will certainly be transferred to you. Is there anyone in your workplace who drains your energy? If yes, keep distance from that person immediately.

10. Maintain a Positive Attitude

A negative work attitude creates a vicious cycle that sips in positive energy making everyone feel tired at work. If you're that draining person previously mentioned who is famous for being moody, sarcastic and full of awful rants, try something new.

Be a force of positive attitude in your workplace. In that way, your co-workers will benefit from your infectious positive outlook in life thus you'll create a happy and energetic workplace! Soon you'll get noticed by your bosses and who knows, you might be chosen to lead your group for being that person who is positive, "intrinsically" motivated to work, and always-on-the-go! Good luck and love your job!

This is originally posted on my Parenting Blog.

References and Resources

Images:

Bussinesswoman Holding a Pen:http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/Ambro

Swimming Man: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/Pixomar

Sleeping Bussinesswoman: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/Ambro

Pahiyas Festival

2011-06-09T18:08:00.006+08:00

Heading on over to the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon last May 15 was definitely unforgettable. The small town's truly festive and colorful decorations wowed me and my friends. We all enjoyed the extravagant displays of the bountiful harvest (the payas or pahiyas), the colorful hats, and the mouth-watering delicacies of the charming small town!

The festival is a colorful feast in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saints of farmers, as a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. The houses along the old and narrow streets of Lucban were decorated with the harvests of the owners.

Those who had bountiful rice harvests decorated their homes with rice stalks and "kiping" or homemade wafer made out of pounded rice that were painted in different bright colors and then carefully crafted as chandeliers or lanterns. Homeowners who had bountiful vegetable harvest also showcased their artistic talents by decorating their homes with their harvested vegetables such as fresh tomatoes and beans. Those who make a living from handicrafts showed off their hats while the butchers displayed garlands of longganisang Lucban.

Truly, Pahiyas festival is the fiesta of all fiestas in the Philippines. The small town has big offers to its visitors. Thanks to Paul Pazibugan, our high school friend, for inviting and warmly accommodating us in his beautiful town.

Photo Credits: Jaja and Wally

Earn More and Save More with Branders!

2011-06-09T07:15:00.005+08:00

Are you a businessman serious on getting your company name noticed? You've landed on the right site. You will be reading on this article the most convenient website that sells and prints promotional products for marketing and sales. It's great discounted offers on customized items with your brand logo can be used greatly as your company’s promotional items or giveaways!

Printing Options

Looking for silk screening, embroidery, engraving and photo printing? Branders.com offers them all. The company also assists you in creating your company logo if you have none yet through their online graphic design studio-- for free! isn't it a great opportunity?

Item Standards

No-frills-approach. That is the company's stand on quality. If you're choosing to have promotional apparels or other items, there is` no doubt that you'll get high quality products.

Shipping Services

If you want it rush, then there's no problem. The company offers rush services and a guarantee that covers price, shipping speed and quality, so if you have any concerns with your order, you can return your item for a full refund within 30 days. The company also guarantees that they offer the cheapest product in the market so if you happen to order products from them and later on find out that other stores offer exactly the same product at cheaper price, you'll have the full refund of your money. What a big deal!

Dress STRONG in Your Workplace, Doc!

2011-06-08T21:04:00.001+08:00

When you are in the work world, entering in your workplace means getting into a tough competition. You are there to impress and to build a strong self-image. It is then a must t to have the edge in every aspect possible--- and dressing for success is a great way.

The trend on wearing a well-tailored and fashionable uniform in workplaces for medical practitioners has been the talk-about in clinics and hospitals. It's surprising how far styles have gone these days days. Today, there are no more lousy and out-to-date, all-white scrubs. Several online shops, especially http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/categories/Scrubs/Scrubs-for-Women/ , now offer trendy alternative on scrubs. They have twisted linings, contrasting colors and highly fashionable designs!

If you're a medical practitioner, it's high time that you dress above the rest. Look for the latest trend on scrubs today!

What Friendly Nurses Must Wear

2011-03-07T19:01:00.000+08:00

When I was a kid, I feared going to hospitals for check-ups. I hated to see nurses wearing all-white nursing uniforms and doctors wearing plain scrubs. They all looked unfriendly and worst, scary.

Good thing, medical practitioners now look cool. Just last week, when I brought my son to his pediatrician for vaccine, I was happy to see him playing with his doctor in Barney-printed suit. Custom made scrubs like his doctor's made my son so amused!

Instead of the boring white uniform, doctors and nurses nowadays wear greatly-designed outfits. Gone were the days when they all looked unfashionable and scary. Now, they get to maintain nice and fashionable clothes while dealing with patients! I am glad the boring scrubs have been replaced by stylish medical scrubs and uniforms in different fabric designs.

My son doesn't feel scared going to clinics unlike me when I was at his age!

Top 10+1 Wedding Scrapbook Layouts

2011-02-15T20:35:00.002+08:00

So you just had your dream come true-- a blissful wedding to the man you truly love. That day was lovely and intimate-- you invited your closest family and friends to celebrate with you and you had the all the most intricate details every bride could wish to have on her own wedding! Now in your heart, you’d want to keep that memory fresh forever.

After months and months of wedding preparation, it’s time to relax and reminisce how your effort turned into a grand day. It’s time to create a memory that will last a life time, your wedding scrapbook.

Learn what you need by looking at these great wedding scrapbook layouts. Browse these layout ideas and get some useful how-to techniques on how to get the best wedding scrapbook looks!

The Romantic Layouts You Can Try

You have a big dream of organizing your scrapbook yet short on ideas on how to design it. Click the links to view the best wedding scrapbook layouts found in the web!

Spring Blossom

This fresh-looking layout is truly a must-try. By simply cutting out flowers and pinning buttons, you can get the beautiful look of spring!

Black and White Elegance

This black and white scrapbook with simple twirls of laces on the side is a work of elegance. The simplicity of the design highlights the the couple's romantic picture. Try this layout by simply pasting your sweetest photo on a black and white floral paper. Cut-out a rectangular frame and then paste laces to serve as swirls. To achieve the romantic look, get a fake pearl to adorn it.

Victorian Inspired

The pin with dangles give an overflowing look of love in this layout. To have this look, glue a pin and hang your old dangling earrings. You may also get one of the love letters your groom gave you, roll it, and glue it on the side to add a charming effect.

Sweetest in Pink

Just in case pink is your favorite color, you will love this layout. This nothing-but-pink design with three cute hearts cut-out is something breathtaking to see. You can create your own by getting a pink paper, choosing a romantic picture, and cutting out a picture of your cake. You will love this making this one!

Very Personal

So you want your scrapbook to look really personal? Try to use a hand-made paper. You may also include actual invites on your wedding to serve as photo frame and newspaper cut-outs for your lettering! To make an impression that last, make a pearl-white ribbon to adorn your scrap!

Especially for the Writer

If you love words and you want to see words in your scrapbook, this is for you writer. This very simple yet romantic layout is excellent if you keep poems, articles and short stories for your groom. These works can all be treasured on the page.

Photo Scrapbook

You don't need much embellishments for this type if scrapbook. Here, your only challenge is on how you could layout your pictures in a way that they will not look crowded and heavy. To get the look, pick photos that are of different sizes but would complement each other.

Red Rose

This very simple yet bold layout creates a very romantic look. To do this, simply choose red cardboards of different shades. Then, cut a fresh rose and tape it on the side.

My Mom and I

Creating a page especially for your mom would be special. Make this page as simple as you can since the highlight of this page would be your mom and you. To create, ask from your seamstress an extra cloth of your wedding gown. You can use this cloth to adorn the page.

Chick and Casual

Select cool pictures from your wedding. Layout them in such as way that they will not look too formal. You may also write some captions to explain what was happening. You will love the simplicity of this page!

Go Digiscrap

This is the latest buzz among the scrapbook lovers. Download the ready-to-use template and try it!

Get ideas from these wedding scrapbook layouts and create a lasting memory of your wedding. Truly, it is the day that you will cherish forever. Happy scrapbooking!

The images used in this article were created by the author. The photos seen in the image were taken by the author's friend Ronan Yabut.

How Do You Buy a New House Before Your Other House Sells?

2011-02-11T21:41:00.005+08:00

On Buying a New Home

Let's face it. Buying a new home is not easy especially if your old home is not yet sold. It's hard to raise the much-needed fund to close the deal, isn't it? What should you do to raise the money you need so you could buy the house you are dying to own?

You've probably exhausted other options. You’ve tried to borrow money from your friends and family-- but none of them gave a positive feedback. Don’t worry; there are still several remedies available. Read on and learn how to buy a house before your old home sells.

How to Own Your Dream Home

Apply for a bridge loan. If you're looking for a short-term loan, this is the perfect one for you. The bridge loan, also known as the "swing" loan, allows you to avail the equity of your old home while waiting to be purchased. The money you get from bridge loan can be used to settle the down payment of the move-up home. However, you have to study your finances carefully before availing this since it is stressful to pay two mortgages and the interest added.
Try home equity loan. This type of loan is similar to a second mortgage. Equity loan allows you to borrow money from a bank and use your old home as collateral. This is easy to apply for and the interest rates are lower than bridge loans.
Discuss your situation to the seller. Talk to the seller and tell him about your old home which is still out in the market waiting to be purchased. This sounds quite creepy as he might think of you as a fraud buyer but there is no harm in trying, right? Ask if he is willing to wait for the payment of the old home for you to cover the payment of the property he is selling. You may also offer to pay a small amount so he will have an assurance that you are decided to purchase the property. Promise to immediately give the amount that needs to be settled upon receiving your old home's payment and don't forget to have him/her sign the "contract to sell" so you'll have something to hold on to after giving the earnest money. This special request is more likely to be granted if the seller is not in a hurry and if there are no other buyers on queue.
Rent out your old home until it sells. One last option you may consider is to have your old house rented. Your old home's mortgage can make it is possible for you to afford the mortgage of the new home you want to purchase. In doing this, be very careful in choosing tenants that would occupy your home as irresponsible ones might damage it which will lessen the value of your property.

Tips on How to Sell Your House Quick!

While doing all the paper works to be able to purchase your new-found home, don't forget to take the time to prepare your existing home in the market. Remember, when a house is clean, fresh, airy and well-lighted, its market value increases. Maximize first impressions by doing these:

Clean and repaint the house.
Stage your house.
Get an agent to help you sell.

Now that you've read how to attract buyers quick, you are ready to choose which is the best option to do on how to buy a house before your other house sells.

Visit Shining Mom!

Reference Resource:http://www.mortgageloan.com/home-equity-loan-bridge-loans

An Archive of Poems

2011-02-09T20:52:00.002+08:00

I miss the moments when I would just write to express and not to impress-- no editors to worry about and no deadlines to beat. The moments when my words were truly mine- pure, untouched. Allow me to share my weaved words in my own voice, poems I have written few years ago:

A Woman's Silent Prayer

Once I was so sure where to be--
With the man I promised to love
Or with him,
Who loves me.
Once I was so sure where to go
But now dear God
I don't know,
I don't know.

photo credit: www.christiansdressingmodestly.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2008

Over a Cup of Coffee

Mom and I talked
With such openness
Woman to woman
Holding, trusting,
healing.

A Silent Walk

Posted by miss khaye on September 22, 2008 - 09:49

Last night, I had a good sleep. I had a dream. I was walking with him.
It was a happy walk. We were heading briskly to a new place.
The road was wide.
It was beautiful.
The grasses we passed by were trimmed.
Everything along the way seemed to be carefully thought of.
Planned, yes. Yet mysterious.
The flowers were blooming with whispers of Hope. Mine. His.
Along the way were unknown faces. Unfamiliar yet warm.
I got excited. With the Place. The Beauty. The People. Their Kindness.
His Greatness.
I have thought of drafting a story about the peculiarity of everything.
The feeling was just magical. Strange yet special.
I thought my fairy tale story was about to begin.
Along the way, I suddenly realized that he was holding my hand.
No, he was gripping. Tight.
But I couldn't feel it.
I looked at him.
His sincerity emanated. His kindness flashed. His hope erupted.
I have seen everything beyond but not him. Not him.
Yet he was holding me, tight.
Walking me to the unfamiliar dream.
We were walking together but I was so alone.
He was holding me but I felt Alone.
Still, I decided to walk. With him.
Hoping that one day, I could feel his presence.
I even told my fairy to sprinkle love in my heart.
I wanted to love him. Not just esteem.
But I was walled.
I couldn't.
And I couldn't hurt him more.
And so I decided to step back a little.
Then I found my feet running. Running back to that old and narrow road.
Back to where I once got wounded by rough stones.
Thorned flowers. Wild grasses.
Where I cried in pain. Shouted in fright.
Back to where there's no possibility. Only hopes. Dreams. And prayers.
Back to where I have buried my heart's true longing.
Back to where the bittersweet memoirs are.
Back to my happiness.
To where my heart is.
Yes, in my dream, I walked back to that old, narrow road.
I walked back.
Silently. Yet victoriously.
The next time I'd travel,
I'll take that someone I almost left.
And I know I'll never walk alone again, never.

Published in ABC Tales.

How to Find a the Perfect Tutor Your Kid Will Love

2011-01-26T17:45:00.004+08:00

If your child is struggling in school, you should consider hiring a tutor. These tutors will provide your child with individualized instruction to meet his needs and address the specific skills that challenge him.

The first thing that you have to do before hiring a tutor is to talk to your child. Let him know that having one is very important. Tell him that tutors provide Chemistry Help and Physics Help on topics he may be challenged at in a student-friendly approach. He may be resistant to the idea but explaining the value of having a tutor and encouraging him with you motherly words can make a big difference.
Choose a location that will be great for both your child and the tutor. If you can't find any tutor near your place, never attempt to hire one who is not within your area. Travelling far will tire your child and he will lose motivation to learn. Consider getting tutors online. There are tutors who are accessible and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These tutors can offer Homework Help such as Chemistry Homework Help and Physics Homework Help .
Look for a tutor with a caring heart. The key to intrinsically motivate you child to learn is to give him a tutor who has a passion to teach. When a kid sees that his tutor is very enthusiastic and he provides him an academic edge in his education, he will find enough reasons to love learning. When your child needs Organic chemistry help or any help of a tutor under the sun, it's high time to give him one!

Get a tutor for your kid and see him with the following benefits:

He will have better a understanding of lessons.
He will gain higher self esteem and confidence.
He will be happy and excited to go to school!

Image Credits: http://www.dokwayne.com/2010/on-being-a-great-teacher/

How to Get the Right Web Host

2011-01-23T21:59:00.001+08:00

Are you planning to create a website yet troubled what web site hosting to choose? One of the trickiest decisions you will have to make to is to get the right host. This will play a very important role for the success of your site. Will it be able to move your blog down the road? How can you pick the most reputable one from the pelothra of webhosts available? Here are a few pointers that should help steer you in the right direction:

Speed of the servers and the uptime. Does it have enough space for your needs? How long will it take to upload and post entries on your site?
Customer feedback. Research online and gather customer reviews and check if they have received any web hosting awards from reliable sources, this might also help.
Customer service. Does the business offer 24/7 phone support? Check out their average response time and their true uptime guarantee.

After looking at different web hosting companies and narrowing it down to a few, don't forget to check the price. Keep in mind that cheap hosting can have problems and it's probably not something you want to mess around with but don't forget that not all expensive websites are of the best quality as well. Carefully decide what's best for you.

What is the Best Way to Invest?

2011-01-17T21:44:00.004+08:00

I always find the fabled Marcos wealth story interesting. The Marcoses, they say, have tons of gold bullions deposited in several banks in Switzerland. They knew what to invest. With gold, their wealth grew tremendously. But where did they get these gold? This question makes the "Marcos vs. Enemies" story gerts more fabulous, juicy and entertaining.

Nowadays just like the Marcoses, more and more people invest in gold IRA. Gold IRA transfer is an ultimate asset which has been proven and tested to be the most durable wealth-preserving asset in the world. IRA gold has survived every economy ever witnessed. It has gone through a series of oil crisis, inflation, devaluation of the U.S. dollar, and internet bubble yet it remained to be of high value.

As we are now fighting world enemies we cannot exactly foresee, we need to invest safely. Just like the Marcoses, we can also invest in purchasing gold. Not only can gold 401k can give us a lot of profit potential, it also can provide a tremendous amount of protection. Imagine having invested a $25,000 of gold bullion coins in the early 70’s, you can get as much as $524,999.00 if you would have sold it during the inflation. Calculate how much you would have earned in your 401k gold account.

Let's invest in gold. Start placing physical gold in IRA's and see your property grow!

Being considered as one of the most influential blogs, is something BIG.

2010-12-20T09:54:00.004+08:00

I created this blog few years ago as an avenue to write some fleeting experiences I've observed during my moments of silence. I talked about things like that torrent hitting the pavement, bouncing to the leaves, then sinking into the grasses. Experiences that I only got to recognize when I paused for a while, feeling in my veins the suspended mysteries wanting to be described.

Without my knowing, I've somehow hooked audience wanting to listen to my stories. Most of them stumbled on this site just by accident; then some of them left, while others patiently stayed.

Time passed and I found myself enjoying blogging. I have found friends allover. Like Desiree Norland, a great Swedish scirptwriter and Jenna Isle, a free-spirited Filipina and other Juans out there who I love exchanging conversations with. Since then, blogging has become my small voice to the world.

Today, I feel truly grateful that five years ago, I created this blog. I didn't know it would reach this far. Being considered as one of the Top Five Most Influential Philippine Blogs of 2010 by a well-recognized website is just heart-warming. I know being one entails lots of responsibilities and so I've vowed to myself that never will I sound stranger to it. I'll forever speak in my own voice. The kind of voice that could not be tampered by any amount.

I hope that my readers out there will continue listening to my stories that will pretty much sound like their own. Thank you Noynoy of Cebu Davao Journey for this great recognition.

Baptism

2010-12-18T00:13:00.007+08:00

Last October 23, 2010 we had our son baptized in St. Francis de Assisi Church. It was one solemn event which marked our son's first step in his spiritual journey.

Photographed by Redyi Madrid

Party Venues in Metro Manila (Part Two)

2010-12-14T06:05:00.006+08:00

Looking for a great party venue? Read on and choose the right one from this list of venues. Is your party just a few weeks away? Are you really ready ready? Let's get started!

Since I have received a lot of queries via email asking for other venues that I know, I am posting this blog (read my first entry here) to again help moms out there who are looking for great party venues for their child's first birthday party. Rock on mom!

Oceana Events Place
Contact Number:556 3197

Email: marketing.oceana@gmail.com.

*A highly recommended venue!

Bounce

Warehouse A1, Prince Arcade, CTIP Compound Ortigas Ave. Extension, Rosario Pasig City

Contact Numbers:655-0424, 916-3760, 0922-812-6370 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0922-812-6370 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Email: bounce@i-manila.com.ph
*This venue is great for kiddie parties as they have the best inflatables in the Philippines. Kids will surely love to bounce and play here but I must also say that the location isn't that nice since it is just a warehouse.

8 Wackwack Condominium Function Hall

Wackwack Road, Mandaluyong City
Type: Function Hall
Capacity: 80
Rate: P3,000 each for 3 hours, P500 per hour in excess
Contact Number/s: 5354836
*This venue is okay if your planning to hold simple and intimate parties.

Ayala Alabang Country Club Ballroom 3

Acacia Avenue Ayala Alabang Village Muntinlupa City
Type: Country Club
Capacity: 80
Contact Number/s: 8421107 loc 152
* This venue requires sponsorship.

Bell Air Phoenix

Jupiter Street cor Paseo De Roxas, Makati City
Type: Function Hall
Capacity: 100
Rate: P6,000
Contact Number/s: 8954011
* This venue requires sponsorship.

Chateau Elesee Clubhouse

Bicutan, Paranaque City
Type: Clubhouse
Capacity: 150
Rate: P8,000

Gloria Maris Greenhills

Club Filipino Ave., Greenhills Shopping Complex San Juan
Capacity: 500 pax
Rate: It depends on the menu package you will avail
Contact Number/s: 722-5508 to 10, 721-3504, 722-5760
* Since this venue is a restaurant, it does not require sponsorship. Highly recommended for its great food and affordable packages!

Green Meadows Clubouse

Type: Clubhouse
Capacity: 150 pax
Rate: P22,500 + P10,000 security bond
Contact Number/s: 637-3311, 637-3399

* I really like the ambiance of this venue. Very bright and you can transform it into anything you like according to your party's theme. This is great for kiddie parties.

Makati Sports Club- Ayala Room

L.P. Leviste cor Gallardo Sts. Salcedo Village, Makati City
Capacity: 200 pax
Rate: consumable
Contact Number/s: 8178731 loc 446
* This venue requires sponsorship. My friend celebrated her son’s first birthday here and it’s really affordable.

Prestige Tower Ortigas

Emerald, Ortigas Ave, Pasig City

Capacity: 150

Rate: No fee if food ordered reaches 15k and above

Contact Number/s: 9106361

* This venue is the cheapest that you can get if you’re on a tight budget and I must also mention that the place is good.

Racks - Ortigas

Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

Type: Restaurant

Capacity: 200

*Since this is a restaurant, there is no sponsorship required. Rate depends on the menu

package you will avail. This is a recommended party venue for simple occasions.

West Greenhills Clubhouse

Greenhills, San Juan

Capacity: 250

Rate: P11,000 + P5,000 security bond and P2,000 for the platform

Contact Number/s: 7221487

* This venue requires sponsorship.

If you're looking for the best party suppliers in the Metro, you may check out his list!

photo credits: Ging Lorenzo

How to Self Publish a Book

2010-12-04T20:38:00.003+08:00

Self Publishing a Book? Which Book Publishing Company are You Going to Choose?

Do you easily get dejected by rejection? Are you tired waiting responses from publishers? Is your book a great project worthy to be read by many? If you've answered "yes" then it's high time to take control over the entire publishing process!

Getting the company to produce your book is not an easy task. There are many companies out there all promising great deals.Learn how to self publish a book. Here are the "must-ask" questions which will guide when choosing a good self-publishing company:

Printing Cost. Will they be able to produce the book within your budget? Will it give you profit in each book sale?
Creative Control. Can you set your own design? Will they assist you in the book's layout?
Book Quality. Will they be able to meet your expectations in terms of book quality? Will they be able to produce a book which will make you feel proud of it?

Here are some of the highly recommended self-publishing companies you may consider:

Book Masters, 2541 Ashland Road, Mansfield, OH (800-5337-6727) www.bookmasters.com
Evanston Publishing, Inc., 4824 Brownsboro Center Arcade, Louisville, KY( 40207. 800-594-5190) www.evanstonpublishing.com.
Infinity Publishing, 1094 New Dehaven St., Ste. 100 W. Conshohocken, PA. (289-2665) www.infinitypublishing.com.
Dog Ear Publishing, 4010 West 86th St., Ste. Indianapolis, IN. (866-823-9613) www.dogearpublishing.net.

Are you ready to "sell" your book?

You have printed your book and you have piles of them delivered to your front door. Now what? It's time to sell your books! The key to selling books is promotion and the secret to promoting it successfully is planning. I'll walk you through the ways:

The very first thing that you should do is to create a Web site for your book and give out your web address to all the people you know. Make sure to include an intriguing synopsis of your book that will surely hook visitors of the site to buy a copy of it.
Distribute your book to bookstores but don't ever believe that bookstores are the only and best places to sell your book, trust me, they're not. Only few people really go to bookstores to buy. Snail mail, Internet, specialty markets and advertisement sell books like crazy!
Write a handwritten letter to your friends informing them about your new book. Convince them to buy one and include ordering information.
Send copies to libraries and editors of local newspapers. If you have friends in the media industry, ask them to write a short review of your book on their next issue. This will hype your target readers!
Make opportunities to do book signing.

Apply all these tips on how to self publish a book and you publication will certainly be of huge success! Good luck!

Resource:

The Writer's Handbook 2004 by Natalie Golberg

Stylish Scrubs

2010-12-02T20:01:00.001+08:00

Doctors, caregivers and nurses need to wear comfortable clothing. Since their work require them to move freely, they often wear very simple white scrub suits.

When I was small, I feared going to hospitals for regular check-ups. I hated to see nurses who wore all-white nursing scrubs. They looked cold and unfriendly with their white clothing. Good thing, trend changed. Medical practitioners can now look fashionable in their uniforms with the many new designs to choose from which are really comfortable to use.

Instead of the boring white uniform, medical practitioners nowadays can wear fashionable designs that get to maintain a nice and fashionable air even while working inside the hospital. I am glad the boring scrubs have been replaced by stylish scrubs clothing in different fabric designs.

Here’s the freshest rage in fashion scrubs that are out in the market today:

Nursing scrubs with colorful combinations;
Scrub tops and pants with large animal or cartoon character prints;
The Katherine Heigl Collection (for fans of the character Izzy in the hit show Grey’s Anatomy).

First Birthday Party Supplies

2010-11-29T09:57:00.023+08:00

Here's the third post on the party supplies we had for Kyle's party. The first blog entry was entitled "When Our Little Racer Turned One", second, "Jiggles the Balloon Lady" and this last installment is about Cakes, Balloon Decors and Photographer.

JD Partyshop

Having a great party decor does not need to be expensive. While birthdays can be costly to celebrate, there are ways to still keep your savings in your pocket. I have found an inexpensive supplier which greatly cut my expenses.

When I saw JD partyshop online and after reading reviews that they offer quality decors at a very reasonably price, I got excited. I immediately deleted the overrated Partyboosters and Polkadots decorators on my list. I contacted Jesylyn Domingo, the decor coordinator, and after discussing all the details I wanted, I was really happy! I have realized I have saved P10,000 from my budgeted party decor! She delivered all the decors for my son's party needs!

I got JD Partyshop's basic decor package which included welcome standee, styro backdrop for the stage, 5 big car standees, 10 table centerpieces, cake arch, entrance arch and 50 pieces balloonderitas. Since I wanted a really colorful party, I have upgraded her package and added more balloons! Instead of the one-layered table centerpiece, I instructed her to make it a little higher by adding another layer. I have also added lots of balloons for the ceiling and told her to put ribbons to create a more festive look and she gladly did everything for me! I just added a very minimal cost at every detail added on top the package. :D

JD Party Shop
Contact Person: Jesslyn Domingo
Website: jdpartyshop@multiply.com
Contact Number:0906-5205118

Redyi Madrid Photography

When my friend Jan Celiz Magtoto of Labski photography said she's already booked on the day my son's party was set, I was disheartened. I knew I have missed the opportunity to be captured by one of Manila's best contemporary photographers who is bursting with fresh ideas when it comes to capturing fleeting moments. I immediately contacted Ging Lorenzo, another great photographer, but she said she was also fully booked and so I was upset all the more. I told my friend Ruby about it and she immediately responded and booked her photographer friend, Redyi.

God is good. Redgi Madrid came to me as a beautiful surprise. I never expected that he'd make the phtoto coverage awesome since I didn't know much about him but when I saw his output, I was really impressed and I had nothing else to say but "a-ma-zing!". He really wowed Alex and I with his captivating photos! The photos he took have great lighting, texture, and colors! He is one great photographer I highly recommend at a price every Juan can afford! Two thumbs up for Redgi Madrid Photography!

Redyi Madrid Phtography
Website: redyimadrid.multiply.com

Sweet Home Bakeshop

My friend Mel Herrera told me that she has a baker friend who makes good cakes. She mentioned that Betsie Dilla of Sweet Home Bakeshop makes delicious cakes and pastries. Betsy won the Fonterra Pastry Challenge this year and has been featured several times on TV. Without even tasting her cake, I ordered a two-layered cake with mini cakes a month before the party and Mel was so right, Betsy's cake is good!

Sweet Home Bakeshop
Contact Person: Tess Dilla
Website: www.tesdilla.com

Head on to this blog for more party suppliers: Shining Mom

Jiggles the Balloon Lady

2010-11-29T00:08:00.023+08:00

Planning to throw a party for your child's birthday? Hola mommy, you have journeyed to the right place! Read this three-part entry on first birthday party suppliers and get some party ideas. Happy planning!

Planning a Party

When my son Kyle was about to turn one, my husband was very busy at work so I had to organize our son's party all by myself. I treated organizing Kyle's party like handling a project. Four months before the big day, I made a Gantt to make sure I'd work on time and not forget any detail. This made the planning stage easy and so much fun! The very first supplier that I booked was Jiggles. Read on to know her more!

How Jiggles Made the Crowd Giggle

I didn't like like the usual acts by clowns or magicians for my son's party so I tried to search for a refreshing host to entertain our guests. I found Jiggles the Balloon Lady (her real name is Jing Simpao Callanta) on the internet and was so amused with her balloon shows. I contacted Jiggles and booked right away upon knowing that she's available on the day our son's party was set. I was so lucky since it was the only slot left available for that month!

Jiggles was a wonderful surprise to our guests. She hosted the party and thrilled kids and adults alike with her lively games. She also delighted everyone with her extraordinary balloon show!

Manila's Best Balloon Artist

Guess Jiggles' creation and win the balloon figure.
My friend Ruby was able to guess what this one is!

Her most wanted creation: Nemo!

My hubby's good friend Fid together with his fam won this prize!

Monkey on the Banana Tree

Colorful hat created by Jiggles which our friends delightedly posed on with!

Watch this Sharp Air Purifier Video and see how impressive her creations are. Truly, Jiggles is Manila's Best Balloon Artist. Book Jiggles right away and your child will have a happy birthday party, guaranteed!

NEW RATES EFFECTIVE JAN 1, 2011 (UNLESS BOOKED BEFORE FIRST WEEK OF DEC 2010)
REGULAR RATE - 8,500 PESOS FOR HOSTING AND BALLOON SHOW
8,500 PESOS FOR BALLOON SHOW AND BALLOON TWISTING
7,500 PESOS 3 HOURS UNLI BALLOON TWISTING
QUEZON CITY - 9,000 - 9,200 PESOS

OUT OF TOWN RATES:
TAGAYTAY -10,000
BULACAN 12,000
BATNAGAS - 14,000
FURTHER NORTH AFTER BULACAN 18,000
SOUTH SIDE
QUEZON PROVINCE 18,000
BICOL REGION - 20,000 PLUS AIRFARE AND OVER NIGHT ACCOMODATIONS FOR 2
VISAYAS AND MINDANAO AREA - 25,000 + AIRFARE AND OVER NIGHT ACCOMODATION FOR 2

CORPORATE RATES MINIMUM CHARGE OF 8,000 PLUS ADDITIONAL HOURS BEYOND 3 HOURS HOURS INCLUSIVE OF CALL TIME ADDITIONAL 2,500 PER HOUR.

Jing Simpao Callanta

Mobile: +63920 924-6022

Telephone Number: +632 807-8029, 807-8040

Email: jigglesballoonlady@yahoo.com

Website: jscallanta.multiply.com

When Our Little Racer Turned One.

2010-11-28T20:28:00.078+08:00

I always believe that birthday is the perfect time to celebrate birth itself, the joy of life given to us. So on our son's first birthday, my husband and I hosted a party to give thanks and reflect upon the beautiful blessing God gave us- our son we named Kyle.

Kyle's first birthday party was fun, colorful and intimate with just our close friends and relatives as guests. It was one joyous occasion of thanksgiving for the most incredible gift we have ever received. The presence of our our closest friends and relatives made his simple party not just great but grand.

Here are some of the lovely party details:

The Stage that really amused my son. He kept on saying "broom,broom" while pointing at it.

This box I made is not just your ordinary box.

It pops up and turns out to be a lovely invite!

The table centerpiece.

One of the thrilling games.

Manilas' best balloon artist who hosted the party, Jiggles the Balloon Lady.

Overjoyed guests!

The birthday boy about to blow his first birthday cake.

The birthday family.

Our little race who just turned one.

And that's my hand holding my greatest treasure.

Read how I've journeyed to motherhood,. Check out my first birthday story published in Philippine Daily Inquirer's Youngblood here.

It's High Time to Make Your Own Real Christmas Tree!

2010-11-28T11:13:00.000+08:00

It's few more weeks to go before Christmas and it's high time make our home's center of attraction- The Christmas tree!

I love big holiday trees but my budget can't usually accommodate my vision. This Christmas, I decorated a real Christmas tree.So instead of emptying my wallet, I came up with some ideas for inexpensive yet grand Christmas tree using our indoor planters. The planter I have chosen was perfect for the Christmas tree I made!

Here are some tips I did on how I decorated our Christmas tree at home by simply using the plants in our garden planter:

I placed our planter with the live Christmas tree exactly where I wanted it to be before decorating. Live trees are often not recommended to be moved since moving them too much will drop needles on the floor.
I chose decorations and ornaments that blended well with the tree and the color of the decorative planters.
I hanged ornaments on the tree. I placed heavier ornaments on the inside of the branches while lighter ornaments were placed at the edge of the branches and viola, the perfect symbol of the season!

melting chocolate

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How to Get Your Body Energized to Work!

Tired at work? Drive that feeling away! Learn how to keep your energy up and high in your workplace. Here's how!

Tired at work? Drive that feeling away! Learn how to keep your energy up and high in your workplace. Here's how!

1. Be "Intrinsically" Motivated!

2. Go to an Island Alone

3. Sleep Well

3. Eat Healthy

5. Plan Tasks Ahead

6. Master the Art of Power Nap

7. Armour Your Drawer with Chocolates and Coffee.

8. Indulge in Exercise

9. Stay Away from Draining People

10. Maintain a Positive Attitude

References and Resources

Pahiyas Festival

Earn More and Save More with Branders!

Dress STRONG in Your Workplace, Doc!

What Friendly Nurses Must Wear

Top 10+1 Wedding Scrapbook Layouts

How Do You Buy a New House Before Your Other House Sells?

On Buying a New Home

An Archive of Poems

I miss the moments when I would just write to express and not to impress-- no editors to worry about and no deadlines to beat. The moments when my words were truly mine- pure, untouched. Allow me to share my weaved words in my own voice, poems I have written few years ago:

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2008

A Woman's Silent Prayer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2008

Over a Cup of Coffee

A Silent Walk

How to Find a the Perfect Tutor Your Kid Will Love

How to Get the Right Web Host

What is the Best Way to Invest?

Being considered as one of the most influential blogs, is something BIG.

Baptism

Party Venues in Metro Manila (Part Two)

How to Self Publish a Book

Self Publishing a Book? Which Book Publishing Company are You Going to Choose?

Stylish Scrubs

First Birthday Party Supplies

Jiggles the Balloon Lady

When Our Little Racer Turned One.

It's High Time to Make Your Own Real Christmas Tree!