an attempt to remain sane in this insane world...

#HoarderDiaries | S&R EARLY BIRD SHOPPING!

2016-09-29T20:01:00.000+08:00

They say the early bird catches the worm, and so it must be true. Went to S&R today to catch the sale before it starts tomorrow. 70% of all items going on sale have already been marked down! If you're near a store, I suggest you leave and go right now. LOL.

Guys, let me be honest with you. I went to today's Early Bird sale because... well, for the first time in history, I shall be missing tomorrow's first day! Waaaah! True, I have been sick lately, and I cannot afford to stay up and miss sleep. But I really have to be in Makati for work tomorrow, so I have to sit the first day out.

But anyway, it is all good because I got what I wanted, and knowing me, I will be checking out the stores over the weekend anyway. Besides, I've already overspent. Hahaha, who am I kidding? LOL!

Anyway, let's cut the small talk, and post the photos, shall we? I must apologize though because these are the only photos I got to take today. I went to the Congressional Store this afternoon, and it was crazy. Stocks were all over the selling floor, and in fact, it was such a mess that my friend Didi (syempre, special mention kita) left me. To think I went only because she wanted to go na, as in "now na" levels, then she disappears and leaves me to shop on my own. LOL! Her mom was getting claustrophobic with all the stocks and carts weaving in and out of already-full aisles. I totally understand though, because somewhere in the middle of it all, I was getting dizzy. Must be the meds.

Anyway... I overheard one of the S&R guys talking to some serious shoppers, and he confirms what head office told me about 70% of the stocks being marked down. They mark down the rest tomorrow morning. Makes me wonder what I'll be missing. Hmmm...

The photos are not in order ha? Will post as I took them. Will not add captions anymore so I can get this out asap. Prices will be on the photos. Click nalang. They are self-explanatory. Hehe.

Twin packs. At P999.95 B1T1. That comes out to P250 a pillow. Cheap!!!

I wanted to get this, but didn't know what to use it for. Hehe.

Wanted this too, until I saw the P200 discount. P200 lang?!

Shoppers were going crazy over these shirts. They were soft, but sizes are for ladies. Maybe they'll bring out more tomorrow.

I actually regret not getting this. Hmmm... If it's still there on Saturday, I shall!

I actually went to S&R for this! Yay, it's on sale!

These are beautiful sets. I've been eyeing them since I first saw them at S&R Nuvali. Induction-ready too!

The whole line is on sale. Fast-moving, too.

Buy 1 Take 1 at P799.95!

Another thing I regret not buying.

I really want these. But have no use for them.

It was after this part where I started feeling dizzy. So I stopped taking photos, and managed my way around the narrow aisles. The usual detergents were on sale. I was making my way to the end of the store to get dishwashing liquid when this sight greeted me.

SOLD OUT!

Alas, a store personnel assured shoppers there were more. I stood next to the receiving area as more stocks arrived, and got myself a case.

Here's a tip: Go straight to the SPAM aisle and hoard. All Spam variants are on sale at P99.95 a can. That's the cheapest you'll ever find it in the market! Yay, Spam!

Because I was still dizzy, I managed one photo. But they have all sorts - Spam Lite, Spam Less Sodium, Spam Turkey, Spam Bacon, etc.

Look, Monet, your cheese crisps are on sale. Hehe.

There is a limit of one bag of fries per cardholder.

Meanwhile, here are some photos of the Christmas Gift Packs they have on sale.

Then some of the bath products...

The wash is on sale too, I think.

Yep, those are the only photos I took. Sorry, mahina ang kalaban. Will take more photos when I go back. Promise.

My loot for today.

Some things in my cart were really good deals. The Keter shelves were on sale at Buy 1, Take 1. The Epicurious 5oz Chili Pot, too. In that box on top of the drink dispensers are Kotex Unscented Extra Long Liners, 22ct. that were on sale at P99.95, Buy 1 Take 1. Beneath the heap are beach towels that were on sale at P599.95, Buy 1 Take 1.

Happy hoarding, friends!

#HoarderDiaries | IT'S BACK!!! MEMBERS' TREAT IS BACK!!!

2016-09-28T16:02:00.000+08:00

Interrupting regular programming with this announcement. Yes, a little late for the blog - only because I haven't had time to blog lately. Did I say lately? I feel like I have been absent the whole year!

Received this announcement from the folks at S&R some two weeks ago. Because I wasn't online much during that time, I managed to announce on social media last week. These are exciting times for the hoarder like me, I tell ya. We have Sale events happening left and right.

Yes, folks. It is back, and it is happening this week. Friday, to be exact.

But the good news is this: IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO EXPERIENCE THE LINES, YOU CAN HEAD ON OVER TO S&R TODAY, AS THEY HAVE ALREADY MARKED DOWN A LOT OF ITEMS.

Not all, but a lot. The rest they shall save for the patient hoarder on Friday - that's me. Hahaha!

I shall try to check out the Congressional store tomorrow if I have time. Meanwhile, here are some items going on sale! More announcements will be posted tomorrow. So stay tuned!

S&R Members' Treat 2016 is happening this weekend - from September 30 to October 2! And guess what? The SALE is going to happen NATIONWIDE - yes, AT ALL BRANCHES!

See you there, hoarders!

#MommaDiaries | RAISING COMPASSIONATE KIDS

2016-09-19T16:56:00.000+08:00

I had the privilege of meeting my favorite daily vloggers a few weeks ago. I had won a trip to the US for VidCon, but unfortunately could not go. KY went instead, and got to have lunch with Judy and Benji Travis of itsjudyslife. This was back in June.

Early last month, I received an email from Judy telling me that they were flying over for work with Convoy of Hope - the charity they had supported for Dancember, and that there was a slight chance we could meet!

Of course I was excited. But since this wasn't a sure thing, I had to keep mum about it, and only told my girls.

Judy and Benji Travis have been running Dancember, a seasonal fundraiser to give back to community, from their home garage for the past 7 years or so. Last year, their chosen charity was Convoy of Hope - an organization that helps feed street kids in the Philippines and other parts of the world. The Travis couple flew in to check on the progress of one of their projects in Iloilo.

After their trip, Judy happened to show their eldest daughter, Julianna, who will soon be 4, a video of the kids they were helping at Convoy of Hope. This is the video below.

As a parent, it warms my heart to see Julianna's compassion for these kids. Because I am tuned in to their daily vlogs, I see how Judy and Benji try to raise compassionate kids, and how they make it a point to stress the importance of sharing. I often wonder how my own kids would react to something like this.

A few weeks ago, for Linggo Ng Wika, RL came home to tell us this story.

RL, as Senator Manny Pacquiao for Linggo Ng Wika Day.

RL: "Mom, my friend Carlos came to school wearing a vest. He had no other shirt inside and the kids were making fun of him."
KAYE: "Awww. Did he cry?"
RL: "No, because I spoke to my classmates and told them to put themselves in Carlos' place. What if their moms made them wear an Igorot costume, and they had no inner shirt. And then their classmates would laugh at them. How would they feel?"
K: "Then, what happened?"
RL: "Then no one laughed anymore."

Parenting is hard work. But with kids like these, I guess we are doing something right.

#HoarderDiaries | TOY KINGDOM TOY EXPO 2016!

2016-08-18T17:59:00.001+08:00

Guess what's happening this weekend? It is the most awaited gathering of toys in the Philippines, and it is happening at the 2nd Level of the SMX Convention Center from August 19 through 21, 2016 - The (Amazing!!!) 2016 Toy Expo!

Get first dibs on the newest toys at special prices and deals! Lotsa fun activities for the whole family! Also get a sneak peek on upcoming Holiday toys, PLUS! Meet and greet your favorite characters!

My kids and I are looking forward to this event, but this weekend is busy, so everything is on a "we-shall-see" basis. My kids are hopeful though. Haha!

Check out the list of participating brands, as well as the schedule of activities for the weekend! And yes, if ever the stars align, we see you there!

TOY EXPO 2016

19 - 21 AUGUST | SMX MOA

10AM TO 10PM

| toykingdom.ph

| facebook.com/ToyKingdomPH

| twitter.com/ToyKingdomPH

| instagram.com/ToyKingdomPH

#MommaDiaries | HE ISN'T FINISHED WITH ME YET

2016-08-17T15:00:00.002+08:00

Sharing with you snippets from my Notes app on the phone. I tend to type down my thoughts when I don't have enough time to blog. RL had exams the past week, and this Momma's hands have been tied with a ton of things to do. And there are tough days, as most of you would know. But then, there are also good ones. This was from one of those bad turned good days. Yesterday, I was once again reminded that God is in charge regardless of our circumstances. Whenever there are days He seems absent and quiet, I have learned that trying times exist because He wants to show you He is God. So be thankful for the bumps, He's got you covered.

AUGUST 4

So this morning, yaya told me A had lost her wallet. The wallet had P3,000+ as she was supposed to pay her club fees last week (but couldn't because of time constraints and the long queue).

My initial reaction was true to yaya's threat to A right before she left for school: "Nako, hanapin mo yan, magagalit mommy mo!"

I was angry, and frustrated. I actually typed angry words as I started composing a message to A on Messenger. Then I stopped. Caught myself and prayed. I have been praying for a change in my relationship with A (we've hit snags through the years, and aren't exactly friendliest of friends - teenagers!). This morning, God reminded me of His unconditional love and never-ending grace. So I took back my words, and instead typed "...I pray God helps you find your wallet intact. I love you."

That was at 11 AM, and A replied to let me know she has searched everywhere to no avail.

Money can be replaced, but a child lost to anger is a child lost forever. I struggled to hold my tongue, as I prayed for God to lead me so my words come out right.

This evening, as I walked in the house, A tells me she found her wallet at the Lost and Found over lunch (even though she had gone to check all Lost and Found nooks earlier this morning). "But when I messaged you, you said you already checked!", I quipped.

She did. But after lunch, for some reason, she decided to check again. And there it was.

So yes, I know this was a Mommy lesson, in as much as it was a responsibility reminder for A. I know that the Lord is fixing my heart, and I am thankful He isn't done with me. Because, man, I know I have so much more to learn.

Makes you realize that we also have to be thankful when problems come our way. Our initial reactions are human reactions. I pray I learn to turn to God first when trials come. I pray I will always react with grace at first instance.

PS. Dear cheekeegirl, sorry! Had to redo this post as something wasn't right. Didn't realize your comment didn't go through as it was on the previous one. So, publishing it here nalang. ;)

"OMG! I am touched with this experience you had. It's like me. That I need to watch my words and actions on certain situations. Thank you for sharing." - cheekeegirl

#RileyTube | MY BIOGENIC WORLD!

2016-08-12T18:00:00.002+08:00

The kids and I have been pretty busy - what with RL's exam week and all the activities we've had to do with BentoMommas. So glad we got to spend some time together as a family right before it got all busy - THANKS TO BIOGENIC ALCOHOL!

RL is about to launch his very own YouTube Channel, so I thought it was apt that we did a mini-vlog for this event. Excuse the newbie, I need a lot of practice!

So basically, Biogenic put up a mini-theme park of sorts for the kids, and provided their cleaning, disinfecting, bacteria-killing and moisturizing alcohol all throughout the event to ensure parents that it is okay for kids to get a bit dirty because Biogenic is there to help!

RL features this in his video below. Please make sure you give him a thumbs up on YouTube!

And yes, as RL pointed out, he wasn't the only one who enjoyed the event. Momma got to catch appropriate talks by Biogenic Brand Ambassadors, Jackie and Nikki.

Jackie talked about how moms can and must get some ME-TIME in their lives - something I have recently learned to actually make time for. And yes, because SHOPPING (!!!) is on the list (the hoarder in me rejoices, LOL).

Yes, Mommas, give yourselves a break. YOU.NEED.IT.

Make time for ME-TIME.

Train your mind that you need this to balance your life. No need to feel guilty, Mommas!

Look! ME-TIME includes Shopping! Woohoo!

Nikki gave us tips on how to bond with the kids, in spite of our busy schedules.

The struggle is real. I struggle with all three points. Ouch.

Well, there's a major idea for bonding time - clean the house. Hehe... Yoohoo, kids!

Nikki stresses the importance of spending time with the kids as they are only young for a short time.

Overall, the kids and I had fun. Plus I got to see my girl friends, Cai and Didi, too! Thank you, Biogenic, for a Sunday well-spent!

We love Biogenic!!!

It's a germ-free world with Biogenic Alcohol! It kills bacteria, disinfects, cleans and moisturizes. Comes in different sizes to suit your needs.

| facebook.com/officialbiogenicalcohol
| instagram.com/biogenic_alcohol

---

BIOGENIC IS HAVING A GIVEAWAY! Here's your chance to win Biogenic Gift Packs for your family! Here's how to join:

1 | Like and follow the Biogenic Alcohol social media accounts. See links above.

2 | On Biogenic's Facebook Account, upload a photo of when you usually use Biogenic Alcohol.

3 | Caption your photo by completing the statement: "I ALWAYS USE BIOGENIC ALCOHOL WHEN I ______________. ANYTIME IS BIOGENIC TIME!"

4 | Tag Biogenic's Official Facebook Account and include the following hashtags:

#BiogenicAlcohol

#MyBiogenicWorld

#BiogenicTime

5 | 10 weekly winners of Biogenic Gift Packs will be chosen!

WEEK 1: August 8 - 14

WEEK 2: August 15 - 21

WEEK 3: August 22 - 28

WEEK 4: August 29 - September 4

Promo period starts August 8, 2016 to September 4, 2016. Winners will be determined via e-raffle.

GOOD LUCK!

#HoarderDiaries | HI-TOP SALE BIN!

2016-08-04T14:25:00.001+08:00

Short post, but figured, I might as well share. I know a lot of my friends love Hi-Top. So here is what's on sale at Hi-Top today.

All I really needed was some good ol' Sea Coconut to help me nurse this nagging cough. Yes, four weeks after that bad flu, I am still sick. Well, coughing with a pesteng ehem. Although it seems like a dry cough, it is persistent, and I no longer wanted to riddle my body and my liver with antibiotics.

So I went next door to get me a bottle of Sea Coconut - a concoction I used to take when I was younger since my liver didn't really like antibiotics.

Traditional Cough ~~Potion~~ er... medicine.

And yes, that was all I planned to get, but you know me, I got sidetracked.

I only took photos of those that caught my fancy - mostly sweets and snacks. This is what's on sale at Hi-Top today. I actually took the photos yesterday, but a quick check earlier, and these were still in stock.

Hills Bros. French Vanilla Cappuccino Decaf | P141.75

Cadbury Wispa Hot Chocolate | P168.00

Chips Ahoy! Chunky | P148.50

TimTam Chewy Caramel | P119.25

Peanut Butter Oreo | P124.50Golden DoubleStuf Oreo | P135.50

Dora and Friends Fruit Snacks | P94.50

KitKat Chunky Peanut Butter | P31.50

Happy Hoarding!

---

Hi-Top Supermarket is located at 1650-52 Quezon Ave, cor. Sgt. Esguerra St., Quezon City.

#AWOL

2016-08-02T17:31:00.002+08:00

People, I haven't been blogging. I took a break from everything. As in everything. Even BentoMommas took a back seat, and I closed my kitchen for three whole months. Imagine that! I needed a breather. And yet, a breather I did not get.

Took two wrong turns in life, and found myself drowning in self-pity and what-not. But you know, God is good. His grace is forever sufficient, and today, I know exactly why those events had to happen.

So anyway, I am was AWOL. But you are hearing from me today, because I miss writing. I took an almost two-week trip to Sydney last month. Attended the Hillsong Conference and nursed a bad back. Came home with a cold, and a very bad case of acid reflux and IBS. Ouch.

Hillsong Church!

Day 2 of Conference!

Baking at home with my honorary godson, Marcus. Thanks, Maris, for this photo.

Obviously unwell, but loved bonding with KY.

But all is well and yes, I am eating well again. Oops. Today, I got back to BentoMomma duties, and I must say I am a tad rustyyyyy.

Back to bento-making. This one is a Pinkie Pie party for Katniss!

It's been pretty busy at work, and I need to prioritize. Unfortunately, the blog has been on the receiving end of time deprivation. :(

I hope you check back from time to time. And while you're at it, I hope you take time to follow my page on Facebook (and stay updated!).

See you around, Mate!

#FWCGiveaway | HILLSONG Y&F YOUTH REVIVAL MANILA!

2016-06-03T23:07:00.001+08:00

Go to my Facebook page for deets on how to join!

#FWCGiveaway

#FWCGiveaway | CITIPOINTE LIVE!

2016-06-02T23:37:00.000+08:00

Go to my Facebook page for deets on how to join!

#FWCGiveaway

#RILEYunboxes | ANGRY BIRDS HAPPY MEAL!

2016-05-23T23:43:00.000+08:00

I hope you don't mind another post about McDonald's, one of RL's happy places. But the little boy has been bugging me to upload his unboxing video already. So here it is.

McDonald's launches its newest Happy Meal - ANGRY BIRDS! RL was all too thrilled, as he loves this game app. My dad loves it, too, so he was as excited as the little boy (and wanted to buy a whole set so they could play).

Excited for his Angry Birds Happy Meal!

McDonald's treated us out to catch a private showing of the new Angry Birds Movie two Saturdays ago. We loved it, and the kids can't wait to get it on video. Thank you, McDonald's!

RL and Red.

RL decided he wanted his friends and neighbors, Carlo and Alex, to join his unboxing video. I wasn't around to supervise the shoot, so A took over. But it started to rain that afternoon so she had to cut the shoot short. The rest of the shoot (part where RL features the different toys and what they do) was done in the office the next day using a different camera. The kids did pretty well, given the circumstances. Please do give them a thumbs up to encourage them!

Catch the Angry Birds Happy Meal toys at McDonald's and bring the Angry Birds game to life!

| http://facebook.com/McDo.ph
| http://twitter.com/McDo_PH
| http://instagram.com/McDo_PH

#MommaDiaries | RL - AT YOUR SERVICE!

2016-05-22T14:24:00.000+08:00

This summer, RL wanted to do a lot of things. As in, he had his whole game plan on what activities to do - drums, swimming, golf, Kiddie Crew, art, etc. Of course, he couldn't do everything at the same time... so while he had drums and golf on most days, we saved a week for McDonald's Kiddie Crew.

Summer is not complete without the annual Kiddie Crew Workshop at McDonald's! We were blessed to get a slot for the ABSCBN Branch, as it is nearest the office - next to EDSA Panay, which is currently under renovation.

RL getting briefed by Kuya Deo from McDonald's ABSCBN.

This isn't RL's first time at McDonald's Kiddie Crew. He missed last year's though, so he was eager to do this again this summer. Over 400 participating McDonald's stores are conducting Kiddie Crew workshops this year. This awesome family program has been running since 1992. McDonald's is a pioneer in getting kids to learn the ropes in running a store. The kids go through a fun-filled 5-day learning workshop that encourages them to develop a sense of discipline, hard work, teamwork, responsibility and sharing.

RL and front counter duties.

Happy, little server!

RL was all too excited for his week at McDonald's. His favorite day was Drive-Thru Day!

Excited to lead the afternoon team at Drive-Thru!

Serving a Drive-Thru customer.

RL was surprised to find his first-grade classmate, Ramon, as one of the passengers in a car that drove-thru that day. So yes, that was extra exciting for him. Our HR Manager, Mikey, also drove-thru this particular branch unplanned. RL was so proud. Haha!

These cuties made the Drive-Thru section fun!

The kids also learned how to make their own McDonald's Cheeseburgers. Having done this several times in the past, and being a regular at KidZania, RL felt like quite the expert - he even asked that they leave out the dill pickle for his set of ingredients.

Let me make you a McDonald's Cheeseburger.

All done!

Aside from actual store duties, the kids also do arts and crafts, singing and dancing.

Dancing to BigBang's Fantastic Baby!

Overall, it was a week well-spent. The workshop culminated with a recognition and awarding ceremony.

RL's batch of Kiddie Crew 2016 Graduates!

Thank you, Deo, for your hard work and dedication. You are very much appreciated!

Thank you, McDonald's for being part of RL's memorable summer. He claims it to be the best summer ever... so far. Hehe.

You can enroll your kids, nieces, nephews, siblings or cousins age 6-12 years old for a fee of PHP650. Kiddie Crew participants will get a workshop t-shirt, cap, bag, I.D., workshop materials, pin/badge for every activity, apron, chef’s hat, meals for five days, and a certificate. Kiddie Crew workshops will culminate in Grand Graduation ceremonies in nine major areas around the country such as Pampanga, North Manila, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, and Metro Manila.

McDonald's Kiddie Crew workshops are running every week at several stores Nationwide. But you must hurry because last day for registration is on May 27, 2016! For more information, check out this link or visit a McDonald's store today!

| facebook.com/McDo.ph

#MommaDiaries | RL AND ELECTIONS

2016-05-10T19:18:00.000+08:00

We were in the car, on our way to the office last week, when RL noticed the streamers and buntings that lined our street. We live near the barangay and there was an LP campaign stop the day before. Today, another candidate was coming to campaign.

RL: "Mom, are these people enemies?"
K: "What makes you think that?"
RL: "Well, because they are putting the new posters of another man today. It's a different color. So are they friends? Are they going to fight each other? I saw _____ (he mentions a presidential candidate) talking on TV, he was saying bad things about _____ (mentions a rival candidate). Why are they destroying each other? If they are, then they are not friends. Because they are not saying nice things."

So I thought for a minute and I thought hard. How does one explain this to a 7-year-old? I proceeded to explain in the simplest way possible - an explanation I am sure he will understand.

K: "See, it is just like your friends in school. You are friends, but when, say, there is a competition, you have to compete against each other. And sometimes, you say things you don't really mean to say... just because you want to win."
RL: "Things like, 'Nee-ner-nee-ner-nee-ner, who is the loser??!"
K: "Well, yea, I suppose. Or like you know how you guys attend a party, and you are in a game. You guys play to win, and even if you guys try to outsmart each other to win the prize, after the game, you're all still friends."
RL: "But are they really friends? And are they going to remain friends after the elections? Because if they want a nicer Philippines, it is better to work together. Fighting is a waste of time. Just like in a game, it is more fun if everyone wins."

For the Philippines, I hope so. I sure hope so.

#FWCGiveaway | GAME OF THRONES (Part 1)

2016-05-06T18:00:00.000+08:00

So my brother and I were having lunch at Choobi Choobi earlier, and he starts telling me how awesome the new Game of Thrones season is.

"Ganda ng Season 6!"

My friends all rave about this series, but because I have been really, really busy juggling life, single parenting, work, rakets, etc., I have not had time to catch up with the GOT craze. Seriously? Seriously! All I know is that it is a book series, and well, that's all I can remember from all the stories I've heard. LOL! My Twitter gals, Ida, Liee, Ailene and Iris, have tried schooling me (well, GOT and football), but something in this Momma has not clicked. Give me time to sit down and watch. My brother says to watch the back stories on YouTube. Soon! Soon!

So anyway, because he was trying to get me to watch Game of Thrones, it made me remember that I had a GOT giveaway to run! Hahaha! Yes, I purchased some merch when I was in Sydney last year. So without any more delay, let us get to the point.

For this particular giveaway, I am raffling off this original Game of Thrones Snap Back.

#FWCGiveaway Mechanics:
1. SHARE THIS POST ON FACEBOOK. Write a nice caption with the hashtag #FWCGiveaway. Don't leave it blank. Hehe.
2. REPOST MY INSTAGRAM POST ANNOUNCING THIS GIVEAWAY. Again, write a nice caption with the hashtag #FWCGiveaway. Don't leave it blank. Hehe.
3. LEAVE A COMMENT WITH THE FF:
a. Full Name
b. Email Address
c. URL of Facebook Shared Post (set views to public so I can view)
d. Instagram User Name (account must be public, at least for the period this giveaway is running)
e. Reason why you think I should watch Game of Thrones.

Your Facebook Post will earn you one entry. Your Instagram Repost will earn you another entry. Either 1 or 2 is optional, as long as you do one. Number 3 is mandatory. Giveaway will run for two weeks - 6 to 20 May 2016. Winner will be picked via random.org, and will be announced on Monday, 23 May 2016. I shall ship your prize so make sure you provide a legit email address. THIS GIVEAWAY IS OPEN TO PHILIPPINE RESIDENTS ONLY.

That's it! Did I forget anything? I haven't done this in so long. Hehehe.

Bonne Chance!

#MommaDiaries | NEWEST BABY ON THE BLOCK!

2016-05-06T12:08:00.000+08:00

My little boy RL is no longer a baby. Nope, not at the age of seven. His activities involve more of the outdoors, so he tends to get sweaty a lot. He takes a shower in the morning, right before leaving the house, but less than two hours after, he already smells like sweat. I've been trying to find an ideal replacement for that baby wash he loves to use, but we always switch back to it since most shampoos and soaps in the market are either too harsh on his skin or unscented. He is prone to skin asthma and eczema, so we are careful with what he uses for his body.

Over a month ago, while shopping at Hi-Top, I chanced upon the new baby line from Belo - aptly called BELO BABY. Like I said, I was really on the look-out for new shampoo and soap for RL, so I thought I'd give Belo Baby a try.

New Baby on the block, spotted at the supermarket next door!

The Belo Baby guarantee caught my eye...

Read the label! I love the fact that their bath products contain cocoa and shea butter!
And look, no sulfates, phthalates and all those other harmful chemicals!

Yes, Belo Baby guarantees its products are 100% natural and 0% harmful chemicals. I was excited to let RL try this! I also took a whiff and although it has a mild scent, it also smells fresh!

Belo Baby Hair and Body Wash + Bar Soap = Perfect Bath Time Combo!

Trying out the Hair and Body Wash!

I love how RL's hair smells after using Belo Baby. He still smells like a baby, without trying too hard. And the products are gentle enough for his skin.

RL, happy with his sweet-smelling new soap!

Because I also suffer from Eczema, I thought I'd try out the soap as well. I love how it gently moisturizes and that it isn't unscented like the mild soaps in the market. I like how my skin smells after using it. Plus, I didn't get a flare up, so it is definitely safe for users with skin allergies and the like. The soap doesn't sting broken skin, either (RL didn't notice, he usually does, especially when he cleans out a scratch), so that is plus points for this Momma.

Was surprised to find out that aside from its bath products, Belo Baby also carries a Face and Body Lotion and three Cologne scents.

Trust Belo to come out with a baby lotion that is safe for use on both the face and body! I am in love with this product! I also received a small sample of this in my Mommy Mundo Kiddo Journey Box (more on this soon), and I used it right away to moisturize my elbows (they are prone to eczema). And it didn't itch all day! Yay!

Safe for both the face and body.

And those colognes! Can I just say how these made me reminisce the good ol' days?

1-2-3. Which cologne shall I wear today?

Especially the blue Cool Drizzle variant! It reminds me of babies and cloth diapers. Back in middle school, I used to bring a cloth diaper with me everyday. I would spray baby cologne on it. Belo Baby Cool Drizzle smells exactly like it, only milder, so there are no strong scents. You can be sure that I will be hoarding this!!!

RL with my fave Belo Baby cologne scent!

These colognes are mild enough not to trigger sneezes and irritate RL, who also suffers from Allergic Rhinitis. So double yay for this Momma! And because of this, RL takes a bottle with him everywhere. He proudly announced so when he asked if he could play outside, "I am armed with cologne!"

Cologne in his pocket while he played ball with the other kids.

My daughter A has also taken a liking to the cologne. She already called dibs on the pink Sweet Snuggle variant. These colognes make me want to snuggle my no-longer babies! They smell so good, and yes, even after two hours under the sun!

Thank you, Belo Baby, for coming out with natural, safe and gentle (affordable, too!) products that leave my children fresh and sweet-smelling all day, everyday.

Belo Baby is love.

Belo Baby products are available at leading supermarkets nationwide!

| facebook.com/belobabylove
| instagram.com/belobabylove

#MommaDiaries | Celebrating 14 Years @ Miao Cat Cafe!

2016-05-02T21:03:00.000+08:00

My not-so-little teddy bear is no longer a baby. She is now 14 - imagine that! To celebrate, she decided she wanted a small get-together at a cat cafe. So she did the planning, and we took her cat-loving friends plus RL to Miao Cat Cafe on Congressional.

We've been wanting to visit Miao since it first opened. This is actually our second visit, since we went to check it out in March. The hard part in inviting a small group is you need to carefully weed out your list. A hopes her other friends would understand that Momma's budget is limited, and she wanted her guests to enjoy the cats (not everyone loves cats. KY hates them so she did not go).

I had BentoMomma Moneigh call up the owner (they used to be officemates) so at least they knew the kids were coming. Miao Cat Cafe is a cozy little cafe hidden on top of Cake 2 Go on Congressional Avenue in Quezon City. They renovated last year, so it is now bigger than when they first opened.

This is my favorite nook at the cafe. So cozy!

The beautiful thing about Miao Cat Cafe is that it is home to a lot of cat breeds. They even have a Sphinx and a beautiful Maine Coon!

Meet Aubrey, the resident Maine Coon cat.

Aside from all these purebred cats, Miao also fosters rescued Puspins (Pusang Pinoy or Pusang Kalye).

A and her fave puspin, Tiger.

Together they make such a happy place for cat lovers like my A and RL.

Meet Elfiya, the Scottishfold.

Yes, we love boxes! And crates! And baskets! And all sorts of hiding places.

We packed a cat-themed pouch with kitty goodies (we forgot the candies!). I had our baker make cat-themed sugar cookies, too!

Meowwwww... everything kitty cat.

The kids spent a good two hours (one shift) at the cafe. The entrance for each child is P150 per shift. I chose to pay the adult fee of P300 so they can order food and drinks as the entrance for adults comes with it. The child fee only includes a drink.

A said the other kids were thrilled to be with the cats. Meanwhile, my daughter played host so well, she was too busy to take photos even though she had my camera.

RL with Cotton, the alpha male.

If you're visiting Miao, do wear socks as you will be required to leave your shoes at the foyer and change to disinfected slippers. They also have a number of rules you will need to follow, plus a waiver to sign.

Happy 14th to my teddy bear, my panda, my A! We love you!

Miao Cat Cafe is located at 2F, #7 Congressional Avenue (on top of Cake2Go), Quezon City. Please take note of their shifts throughout the day.

Shifts at Miao Cat Cafe.

Thank you, Miao Cat Cafe, for allowing my daughter and her friends to celebrate her special day with your cats. She really loves your place. We will be back!

| facebook.com/MiaoCatCafe
| instagram.com/miaocatcafe

Happy Birthday, A!

#FamilySundays | THEATRE ETIQUETTE

2016-04-29T19:51:00.000+08:00

Please excuse this late post. I have been missing-in-action, yet again. I need to give up one thing to keep blogging, but right now, it is blogging that has to take a back seat. My apologies. This post was originally written on April 4 - a day after watching Les Miserables at the Solaire Theater.

Yay! Les Miserables!

We've been waiting for April 3 for a number of months, and when it finally came, Les Miserables did not disappoint! However, we would have enjoyed more if the people around us were decent enough to keep their fellow theatre-goers in mind. The man right in front of me kept moving! He couldn't decide if he wanted to sit up or back, or if he wanted to tilt his head to the left or right. HE.JUST.KEPT.MOVING. It was the same for the couple directly in front of my brother and his fiancee. They kept stretching - trying to keep awake. The girl kept fixing her ponytail (in the middle of a scene!), and they were constantly on their mobile phones. Hello, did you guys come to watch or what? And I heard, KY and my folks weren't so lucky, either.

Hence I am writing this post with a list of things to remember when watching a play, be it one as big as Broadway, or a small school play. People, please mind your theatre manners!!!

1. MAKE SURE YOU WANT TO WATCH THE PLAY, MUSICAL, ETC.

Seriously, if your boyfriend ain't interested, leave him at home. Boredom at the theater will only result in that person doing things that will eventually distract other theatre-goers. Last Sunday, somewhere behind us, a husband snored so loudly, his wife kept nudging him. I also spotted a bored teenager on his mobile 80% of the time. Of course his face was illuminated by his mobile, and you can spot that face in a dark theater. Which brings me to point number 2...

2. TURN OFF YOUR MOBILE PHONES!

The theatre isn't a place for you to be surfing the net, or texting your yayas at home. And as I've said, the light is distracting - even to the actors onstage. So it isn't enough to keep your phones on silent or airplane mode. TURN THEM OFF. There is always Intermission for you to attend to matters. And please, NO PHONE CALLS!

3. BE ON TIME.

Nothing more irritating than late-comers excusing themselves to get to their seats. Especially after the first scene has started. I know it is customary to allow people to get to their seats after the intro song has ended, but please, if you are seated way, way in the middle of a row, be at the venue on time! I remember KY and I coming in late for a small play at the RCBC Plaza once (we were really, really, really late because of terrible traffic from QC), and the only reason we were allowed in was because there were two extra seats by the door at the Balcony. Otherwise, I don't think they would have let us in! There were also only two scenes left (eeps! yes, that late). After that, we made it a point to be at every venue at least an hour early - making allowances for lack of parking, a light snack, getting lost, going to the restroom, etc. But please, people, don't come late!

4. IT CAN WAIT.
Whatever it is, if it isn't a life or death situation, it can wait. Yes, that phone call can wait. Your piss can wait (well, you should have gone before entering the theater!). The latest chismax can wait. Your sudden urge to propose to your girlfriend can wait. At least wait for intermission. Even the smallest distraction can ruin a show, not only for the audience, but also for the actors - who can very well forget their lines because you decided to get up to go to the loo. Also, I am sure you paid thousands of hard-earned pesos for your seats, so please focus on the show, and stop with the whispering. You may think no one has noticed, but your neighbor is just suppressing the urge to hush you because that, too, in itself can be annoying. I've already watched a play where someone from the audience yelled out loud to shut up someone who kept sending a text (the keypad tones were so loud). So please, people... WAIT.

5. THE THEATRE ISN'T A KARAOKE BAR.
Aside from talking, please, please, please suppress the urge to sing along. People are paying thousands to watch the show and hear the actors sing. They didn't come to hear you. When we watched Les Mis, the girl behind A had the nerve to sing along to "On My Own!" Goodness, she was even out of tune, people couldn't help it, so by the second stanza, they were already shushing her, to no avail. Her family members were already telling her to stop, but she went on singing with Eponine. When I couldn't take it anymore, I turned around and asked her in the softest voice possible if this was going to be a duet. And that was the only time she stopped. Really, people, if you want to sing in a musicale, audition for the part! But don't sing when you're supposed to be watching other people sing. You are ruining the night for others!

6. KIDS.
If your kids aren't old enough to sit through all of 2 to 3 hours, please reconsider, and leave them at home. True, there are kids who love theater, even my son appreciates it, but because I know he'd get tired after an hour or so, we decided it was best for him to go to KidZania. But some parents brought kids! I could hear a couple of them whining from where I was. When a theater has no definite rules as to age limits, decide what's best and go from there. Hire a sitter, if you must.

I suppose I don't have to rattle off the usual rules like no eating, no drinking, etc. Overall, people pay good money to see these shows. If you have the money to buy these pricey tickets, I am sure you'd have enough to buy yourself some manners.

YOU HAVE TWO MORE DAYS TO CATCH LES MISERABLES IN MANILA! BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS WEEKEND HERE!

#HoarderDiaries | HI-TOP SALE BIN!

2016-03-28T23:01:00.000+08:00

Our net connection is finally okay! Yay! I would like to take this opportunity to thank Jerald Cruz and Kim Del Castillo from the Globe Hotline for helping this Momma out. Snaps to both of you.

Okay, so I haven't done this in a while. But I figured that the number of good stuff on sale today warrants a post. I know you guys have been waiting for these. Apologize if my Hi-Top posts have been MIA.

FAT FREE MIRACLE WHIP | SALE PRICE P84.00

KRAFT MACARONI & CHEESE (White Cheddar/ Thick 'N Creamy) | SALE PRICE P49.95
KRAFT MACARONI & CHEESE (Spirals) | SALE PRICE P39.50
Expiry | MAY 2016

KRAFT VELVEETA (Rotini & Cheese Broccoli/ Shells & Cheese Original) | SALE PRICE P78.75
KRAFT MACARONI & CHEESE DELUXE (Cheddar/ Four Cheese) | SALE PRICE P84.00
Expiry | MAY 2016

QUAKER OATS QUICK 1-MINUTE | SALE PRICE P162.75
Best Before | MAY 2016

MOO-MATES FAT FREE STRAWBERRY MILK | SALE PRICE P24.25
Best Used By | JUNE 2016

JOLLY COW NON FAT SKIM MILK 200ML | SALE PRICE P12.95
Best Before | MAY 2016

HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS | SALE PRICE P115.50
Best Used By | MAY 2016

COCOA PEBBLES | SALE PRICE P105.00
Best Used By | MAY 2016

LOTUS BISCOFF POCKET PACKS | SALE PRICE P63.00
Best Before | AUGUST 2016

ARNOTT'S TIMTAM CLASSIC DARK CHOCOLATE | SALE PRICE P119.25
Best Before | JUNE 2016

TASTI FRUITSIES STRAWBERRY VANILLA | SALE PRICE P68.95
Best Before | JUNE 2016

BBQ VEGGIE SKINNIEZ! | SALE PRICE P97.25
Best By | END APRIL 2016

CHEEZA CHEESE PUFFS | SALE PRICE P47.25
Best By | JUNE 2016

FONTANA TOMATO JUICE | SALE PRICE P48.50
Best Before | JUNE 2016

PEZ SPORTS & FUN PACK | SALE PRICE P90.95
Best Before | NOVEMBER 2016

NESTLE MILKY BUTTONS AND BARS | SALE PRICE P55.25
Best Before | END APRIL 2016

PRESIDENT 8 PORTIONS SOFT CHEESE | SALE PRICE P36.00
Expiry | END APRIL 2016

There were a lot of things on sale at the Confectionery section, but I was already in a hurry so I failed to take photos - KitKat Chunky Peanut Butter P29.50, Maltesers Reindeer P28.95, Lindt Milk Choco Bears P15.75, etc.

Hi-Top Supermarket has branches at the following locations:
| HI-TOP QUEZON AVE - Quezon Avenue cor. Sgt. Esguerra, South Triangle, Quezon City
| HI-TOP AURORA BLVD - A. Luna, Project 4, Quezon City

These photos were taken at Hi-Top Quezon Avenue at 6PM today. So there should be stocks tomorrow.

Good luck, hoarders!

#WeightLossJourney | DIE-ING WITH A T.

2016-03-23T15:48:00.000+08:00

I have to lose a lot of weight. My youngest brother is getting married in October, and I do not wish to look like the mother of the bride. I have been trying to eat healthy since the new year, but that's just it, I still eat, and have not really watched how much I stuff into my mouth.

Two weeks ago, I was told that a nutritionist was downstairs offering a diet plan to employees looking at losing weight. I went and got myself weighed and tested, and whaddya know?! I was _ _ pounds overweight!!! Let me leave you to imagine those double digits, but yes, I am way, way above the average and ideal.

So to jump start that diet, I signed up. We were to follow the diet plan, which consisted of two shakes to replace breakfast and lunch. Then overall consumption for the day, including the shakes, was a certain number of calories - my magic number was 1,100. Yes, poor me. :(

My 1,100 calorie meal plan.

So far, after 10 working days, I have lost 6+ pounds. That isn't so bad. Now because I have had liver problems in the past, I have weaned myself off those meal replacement shakes, and have decided to look for green smoothie recipes that more or less give the same or lower number of calories. Because I really love green juice, I have decided to just stick to it. So far, I've found three.

Recipe is from the Blendtec recipe site.

Today, as I drank my smoothie, I kept thinking of food. I am dreading the next few days as we go on a staycation for the Easter holidays. Why is it so easy to gain weight and yet so hard to lose some? I am telling you, all that shake, chicken and fish will shoot out of my ears soon! But my metabolic age is even higher than I thought it would be! So I really have no choice, lest I want to be obese in my senior years. Yes, it is sad and crazy!

But after two weeks of dieting, I feel better physically, really. I look at how flatter my stomach is, and it gives me good vibes. Next week, I will start joining my artist at the gym upstairs, if only for cardio exercises. Yes, this is really it. I need to start caring for myself.

Cheers to Die-ing with a T. Who am I kidding? LOL! Good luck to me!

#FamilySundays | MIRACLES EVERYWHERE

2016-03-21T15:15:00.000+08:00

Note: This post originally appeared on my Facebook Page yesterday. But I am reposting it here, in case you missed it.

Because Globe has a problem with their Broadband service, and because the technician didn't come today as scheduled, I have zero access to the blog. Thus, I am leaving this here. ‪

#‎FamilySundays‬ | MIRACLES EVERYWHERE

I rushed to Rockwell this morning to catch the movie "Miracles From Heaven" with my family. Because I had to drive all the way from North QC, I barely made it to the 1240am screening. I took the first available parking slot (never mind that it was on the other side of the mall) and ran up to the theaters. T'was a nice movie. It was a great reminder to see miracles in everything around us.

We had just come out from the movie theater when I remembered I needed to get RL a pair of drumsticks for his first one-on-one music class this Tuesday. Right before separating from the rest of the family, I had asked KY where I could find a Lyric store aside from the other malls in the metro. I didn't want to go anywhere else since I was tired from yesterday. She didn't know.

As I walked to the other end of the mall where my car was parked, I was contemplating on checking the mall's directory to see if Powerplant Mall had a Lyric store. But since I didn't see a directory, I decided to just walk back to the car.

Thinking I didn't want to go to another mall after Powerplant, I asked God to help me find a store nearby. I needed one by tomorrow if we wanted RL to get to School of Rock ready for his lessons. I was planning on googling for "Lyric branches" in the car, when lo and behold, right when I was on the escalator heading to the parking basement, I spied a big sign that said LYRIC! There it was, a Lyric store INSIDE Powerplant Mall, at the Basement - right at the side where I had parked my car!

If you've ever been with me to Powerplant, you would know that I would never, ever park on this side. I have always had this preference to park at the very end where the Supermarket is located. I would never park here.

But today, for some reason I did. And there was that Lyric store, right when I needed one most.

Miracles happen. They are in everything. They are everywhere.

"We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him..." Romans 8:28 (NCV)

#RILEYunboxes | THE NEW KUNG FU PANDA HAPPY MEAL!

2016-03-15T21:11:00.000+08:00

Two Saturdays ago, we were invited to catch the premiere of the latest installment to the Kung Fu Panda movie series - KUNG FU PANDA 3! The kids were excited to go but we had a previous appointment at PAWS for Louis, our black siamese-persian mix. So we decided to catch the movie on another day, and settled to catch the NEW! McDonald's Happy Meal featuring some of the characters from Kung Fu Panda 3 instead!

Yes, folks, the NEW! McDonald's Happy Meal features Po and his warrior friends (and foe). My little boy, RL, unboxes the new set in his latest YouTube video.

The Philippines is lucky, because we get to collect 8 toys from this series (other Asian countries have only 6). What's more is that the Philippine Happy Meal just got a new upgrade! We now get the option to have a yummy corn cup as a replacement side (to the McDonald's French Fries option) to any Happy Meal! I have been waiting for this! And I am hoping it is here to stay...

The new corn option goes perfectly with any Happy Meal offering. I am thrilled that McDonald's has something healthier to offer our kids! They have this side option in other countries, so yay! It's about time we follow suit.

Now if only they would start offering fresh milk...

Catch all 8 Kung Fu Panda Happy Meal toys at McDonald's! Both offers are available at all McDonald’s restaurants nationwide through the front counter, Drive-Thru, or McDelivery by dialing 8-MCDO, visiting www.mcdelivery.com.ph, or by ordering through the McDo PH App.

You can also catch Po as he visits selected McDonald's stores around the metro! Check his visit schedule here.

You and your family can also join Easter Awesomeness at the McDonald's Kung Fu Panda 3 Family Fun Day! Registration is ongoing 'til March 23! Click here for details.

Share your bonding moments with McDonald’s on social media using the hashtag #McDoHappyMeal.
| facebook.com/mcdo.ph
| twitter.com/McDo_PH
| instagram.com/McDo_PH

#FamilySundays | CHINATOWN! (PART 2)

2016-03-02T08:00:00.000+08:00

If you missed Part 1, click here.

We decided we'd catch a late lunch x early dinner right after shopping at Mandarin Supermarket. Yaya J and I didn't get to eat lunch so we were hungry. We passed by both Wai Ying and President's on the way to Mandarin, so after asking Cai, Didi and April, we settled for Wai Ying. The restaurant was full, and we had to wait a good ten minutes before the waiter found us a table. We waited another five minutes for them to clean it up. Really, really slow service.

Wai Ying's Take Out store next to their fast food restaurant.

The server took our orders. I wanted to see if their Roast Duck rice lived up to its reputation. Unfortunately, this was what they served me.

My pathetic-looking Roast Duck Rice. :(

I was, however, very happy with my Iced Lemon Tea.

The kids and Yaya J each got Asado Rice. A said it was "okay lang." Do they really serve their roasts cold?

Asado. Yes, that's the actual color.

RL, right before he dug in. Hehehe.

RL wasn't too excited that Yaya wanted him to clean his plate. He says he was full since he had a cake after lunch at home. A didn't think of eating his leftovers though, so that says a lot about how good (or bad) this was. She actually loves Asado. So for her to pass was a surprise.

Good thing A got an order of their Pork Siomai. This was good. Unfortunately, they made us wait another 20 minutes for the bill. Turns out, they was a shift change and the servers all disappeared as they were changing out of their uniforms. So I took my troop downstairs and paid at the counter. Sigh.

Pork Siomai.

WAI YING (this visit, 2/28/16)
Food | 3
Service | 3
Cleanliness | 4
Wait Time | 3

April says I probably just ordered the wrong things. I dunno. Maybe. But my gauge of a good roast resto would be their roasts, of course. Will try President's next time.

Halfway through my meal, I was thinking about the Fried Siopao across the street. LOL!

Shanghai Fried Siopao.

At P17/ piece, this was a clear winner for A.

The kids unwillingly tried the bicho-bicho with sugar. RL surprisingly loved it, and went back to get another piece.

Should have gotten fruits. They have gigantic strawberries!

We wanted to explore more, but it started raining. So we ran back to Masangkay Street to get the car, drove to Mandarin Supermarket to pick up our groceries, then went off to church.

It was an afternoon well-spent. I do not regret pushing myself to go downtown. I wonder if I should push myself a little more this Sunday? LOL.

#FamilySundays | CHINATOWN! (PART 1)

2016-03-01T08:00:00.000+08:00

Starting this series on Family Sundays - not that it will be as regular as I want it to be, but the kids and I have resolved that we will make it a point to explore more of the metro on Sundays. Well, I hope!

I haven't had a relaxing, no-work weekend in weeks! We didn't have catering the past weekend, so I slept my Saturday away. I needed to rest my back anyway, so who cares if I slothed around? Hehe. My friend Cai has been asking me to check out a supermarket in Ongpin for Hong Kong treats, etc. I've been wanting to go since she bought a pack of Hi-C Lemon Tea for me a few weeks back. If you follow me on social media, you would know how much I love this product!

Photo from applesanddumplings.com

So I found myself lazily planning a trip downtown on Sunday. I wasn't sure I wanted to go anywhere, but we also needed to get to Church, so I pushed myself to go after lunch.

After plotting down my destination on Waze, we made it to Masangkay Street around 2pm. Cai had advised to park along Masangkay or Salazar, since Ongpin Street would normally be full. The last time I went to Chinatown was way, way back when I was still in Sales, handling Convenience Stores for the food group. So this trip out to Binondo was a treat in itself! It was my kids' first time in that area - that is if you don't count our many trips to Divisoria.

Crossing the estero on Ongpin Street.

My kids were thrilled that the place looked and felt like another Asian country. Even Yaya J exclaimed that it felt like we were in Hong Kong (well, minus the smell, hehe).

Established in 1594, Manila's Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in the world!

Classic Kalesa! A took this photo when we were still in the car.

We were there with one goal: to get more Lemon Tea! So off we went to find Mandarin Supermarket on Ongpin Street.

Ah! We made it! I sent this photo to Cai and Didi right when we got to Mandarin Square!

Mandarin Supermarket is a haven for hoarders like me, especially since I really miss Hong Kong. It sells all sorts of grocery products from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan and China. I was so overwhelmed that I didn't think to take more photos. Sorry! I even forgot to Snap!

Boxed Milk and Soy Milk selection.

Tea-k your pick. LOL!

What a pretty sight!

Would you? Preserved food and snacks from China. I'm talking vacuum-packed chicken wings, chicken feet, veggies, etc.

I'm in noodle heaven!

The kids and I spent a good hour and a half in this supermarket alone. We ended up buying one huge box worth of stuff (my siblings asked me to get them Lemon Tea, too!). It was too heavy to lug back to the car, so I asked if we could leave it first then swing by for it later. It wasn't much of a problem if we wanted to explore first, because Mandarin Supermarket closes at 10pm!

Didi wanted me to post my finds, but since I didn't get to take a lot of photos inside the supermarket, I took photos of our Mandarin Supermarket loot when we got home.

Our loot!

RL's loot | From top left clockwise:
Prebiotic Drink (tastes like Yakult. Well, sorta...)
Thin Coconut Cookies (so good, but maybe because we love coconut cookies)
Hi-Chew Grape (RL ate up a lot already, so only three made it to the photo, LOL)
Woody Fan
White Rabbit Candies (the classic kind with the edible wrapper)

A's Loot | From top clockwise:
QQ Gummy Candies (P10 each!!!)
Glico Caplicocot
Meito Dessert Chocolat
Sakuma Fruit Candy Drops (Yes, like the ones in Grave of the Fireflies!)

My loot | From top left clockwise:
Serena Crackers - Seaweed, Vegetable, Green Onion, Spirulina
(My favorite cracker brand from Taiwan! Didn't think I'd find them here!)
Hi-C Lemon Tea (Our family's favorite - I bought 7 packs!!!)
Nissin Black Garlic Oil Tonkotsu Noodles
Nissin Curry Noodles
Nissin Hokkaido Tonkotsu Noodles
Toothpick (the spiky kind my mom likes)

As you can see, I do not regret taking that trip to Binondo!

Mandarin Supermarket
G/F Mandarin Square
777 Ongpin Street, Binondo, Manila

(To be continued...)

#RILEYunboxes | MAMON-IT-YOURSELF WITH MONDE!

2016-02-27T18:59:00.001+08:00

Two weeks ago, Monde launched their second Mamon-It-Yourself six-pack, this time with the Kung Fu Panda theme. The BentoMommas are quick to sniff out anything bento-related. BentoMomma Monet first spied the packs when she went grocery shopping right before anyone announced it on social media. Cool beans!

A photo posted by BentoMommas (@bentomommas) on Feb 12, 2016 at 6:49pm PST

RL loves Mamon, so we quickly went searching for this. We didn't get to take a video of the previous Minion ones, because A would scarf the stuff down. This time, we made sure to film an unboxing video before his big sister got her hands on everything (although she did manage to eat a whole pack, good thing we bought two! Yes, she is a growing teenager with a huge appetite, LOL!). We filmed this at 11PM, hence the PJs. Excuse the cat meowing in the background. Louis has been very DQ lately. He is getting neutered next weekend. Hehehe.

Get a pack of Monde Mamon from leading supermarkets and Mamon-It-Yourself! The Kung Fu Panda theme is extra special for us because A especially loves pandas! So RL made sure we got these more for his big sister than for himself. I know, he's a thoughtful little boy. I love these kids!

Hurry and Mamon-It-Yourself while they're out!

Follow RL on social media:

FB | facebook.com/RileyCatral

#MommaDiaries | SHOO, ALLERGIES!

2016-02-27T08:00:00.000+08:00

We just finished another round of antibiotics - the potent KLAZ. My little boy was once again diagnosed with a sinus infection (it runs on both sides). At the ENT Clinic, Dr. Flor had to suction his nose out, and I was told RL had so much, it took a while to clear his sinus. Sigh. It is allergy season, and my little boy has been sneezing non-stop.

And it doesn't end there. He is also prone to sore throats. Every time he'd eat chips or a choco bar without chewing it properly and chugging down a full glass of water right after, he'd automatically get a sore throat. This of course translates to a bad cough, then colds. And he'd be on the nebulizer for a week, fosho!

Sigh, poor baby.

Dr. Flor recommended a humidifier so RL can breathe easier at night. Luckily, we recently acquired a Crane Humidifier!

Mya the Monkey Humidifier from Crane, SRP P2,799.75

Humidifiers are handy as they help loosen nasal congestion. It also is known to help ease dry coughs, soothe itchy dry eyes and skin, prevent nose bleeds and helps relieve cold and flu symptoms. Yep, a humidifier is exactly what RL needs!

She matches my bedroom fixtures!

I've always been if-fy about humidifiers - as much as I need a product to help with allergies, eczema, etc., I really, really dislike those bulky and noisy humidifiers that are difficult to use and clean. But what convinced me most about the Crane brand is that it is very easy to use AND clean. The Crane Ultrasonic Humidifier does not require a filter, and is easy to fill, wash out and refill. It has a one gallon tank that runs up to 24 hours! Plus it has a safety feature that automatically shuts the humidifier off when the tank is running empty. I love it!

Watery eyes early this week.

We've been using our little monkey (RL's nickname for our monkey-design humidifier) for a few weeks now, and so far, no more nosebleeds for A, and RL hasn't been sneezing in the mornings. We stopped using it for a while (A needed to use the table for a shoot, and the nanny moved the humidifier from its spot), and earlier this week, RL's allergies became so bad, he had watery eyes. It was so bad, his right eye was shut, and we initially thought it was a case of conjunctivitis! Alas, after two nights with the humidifier, his eyes are now okay.

Other styles from Crane.
The black one in the center is a Digital Warm & Cool Mist Humidifier with ionizer!

My friend Didi has this Train Humidifier! So cool!

I also love the fact that the humidifier keeps my eczema controlled. It keeps the skin moisturized such that there is less itching at night. Did I mention already that I love this product?

The Crane Humidifier retails from P2,799.75 to P3,499.75. Check out S&R as they regularly have Crane Humidifiers on sale.

Some Crane Humidifiers on sale at S&R this month!

Aside from the regular-sized cute Humidifiers, Crane also has a handy Travel Humidifier that makes lugging this handy. The Travel Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is great for offices, dorms, hotel rooms during staycations and travel and other small spaces. Aside from its wall plug attachment, it works with a USB, too!

The Travel Humidifier retails for P1,899.75.

Crane products are exclusively distributed locally by Keywest Internationale, and are available in S&R, Rustan's, Toys R Us, Babyland, Lazada and direct from keywestinternationale.com.

Thanks to our Crane Humidifier, we can finally say goodbye to allergies! Shoo!