i am krissy

12-Week Protection for Cats with Bravecto® Plus

2025-09-23T15:16:00.002+08:00

I don't think I've already blogged about them here, but my family actually takes care of rescue cats. They were strays that sought solace in our old house in Valenzuela, and then when we moved to our new house in Malabon, my family brought the cats with them and had them vaccinated and spayed/ neutered. Sharing here some that I have photos of, because there should be no shortage of cuteness in the world. ♡

BatCat and Robin

Robin
Don't mind the mess. I love this photo so much HAHAHAHA

Mochi

Choco Butternut

Pet protections come and go. The bad news: parasites are always on the move. The good news: you can stop them from coming back with the 12-week protection from the pioneer in longer protection. Keep your feline friends safe from fleas, ticks, mites, and worms with Bravecto® Plus.

What is Bravecto® Plus?

Bravecto® Plus is the game-changing solution in longer-lasting parasite prevention for cats. Unlike others that fade in just a few weeks, Bravecto® Plus provides 12 weeks of continuous defense against fleas, ticks, mites, and worms—three times longer than other monthly options.

Why Bravecto® Plus is here to stay.

Other brands may promise relief, but all too often, they require monthly reapplications—leaving gaps in protection and putting cats at risk. With Bravecto® Plus, you no longer need to worry about missed doses or any gaps. It is formulated with fluralaner and moxidectin that fight against internal and external parasites providing 12 weeks of protection. Every single dose offers longer duration of efficacy which keeps parasites from multiplying in the environment in one topical solution.

A single dosage means:

-12 weeks of protection against fleas, ticks, mites, and worms
-Easy, convenient spot-on application that dries quickly
-Less frequent doses, less stress for your feline friends
-Suitable for cats aged 9 weeks or older; weighing 1.2kg or more

The time is now. Parasites pose serious health risks all the time — a great inconvenience to furbabies and furparents like you. That’s why choosing Bravecto® Plus means choosing unmatched protection—longer-lasting and pet-approved so you can focus on playtime, not downtime.

Time is of the essence. So, why settle for protection that does not last long? With Bravecto® Plus, pet protection is not here today and gone next month — it lasts even longer.

Now available in any vet clinics and pet supply stores with veterinary services. Ask your vet about Bravecto® Plus today! To learn more, visit www.bravecto.ph.

Dear Evan Hansen in Manila

2025-09-22T23:37:00.001+08:00

My sister Valerie and I watched Dear Evan Hansen at the Solaire Theater last night and it was transformative. I didn't watch the movie but I have been listening to the Original Broadway Cast Recording on Spotify since 2017 and there are days that it reduces me to tears, but seeing the full production live was so much better because I finally got to hear the dialogue and learn how the story unfolds.

I couldn't help but be emotional hearing my favorite songs from the musical performed live, like Waving Through a Window, For Forever, If I Could Tell Her, and of course, You Will Be Found. Even though we were seated in the balcony area, I was blown away by the raw emotions the actors conveyed.

I acknowledge how this musical could be divisive given how Evan Hansen is an anti-hero who lied and doubled down on his lies until they all caught up with him, but as someone who has also felt invisible and unappreciated and broken, I was able to relate to his character.

We made a beeline for the stage door when the show ended to catch the actors for autographs and photos.

Rhys Hopkins as tragic character Connor Murphy

Tom Dickerson as Jared Kleinman provided excellent comic relief

The star of the show, Joseph Peacock was excellent as the shy, clumsy, bumbling Evan Hansen

We got home very late because of the long lines in each photo area, but I'm so happy we were able to score these photos.

Great night! Thanks, GMG Productions for bringing Dear Evan Hansen to Manila! ♡

I try.

2025-09-18T20:13:00.002+08:00

A quick search through my inbox for a purchase confirmation of an ebook I remember purchasing led me down a rabbit hole of forgotten conversations and email threads. I saw an email response to a TinyLetter I sent out back in 2015 and I thought, "Wow, people used to subscribe to my thoughts and actually bother to send me emails to reply." I read through old blog posts and marveled at how I used to recount my day to day no matter how mundane, and now I regret not following through. A chunk of my late 20s and early 30s would have been fun to look back to when I get older.

Writing is still my preferred method to express my thoughts but I don't have as much time to wax poetic about my everyday experience, and so I thought of turning to this current generation's platform of choice: video. My husband and I got a new Insta360 Go Ultra in the hopes of documenting our domestic bliss, and I am excited to bring it everywhere.

Lately I had been feeling the need to reconnect with friends and create new connections. I am very happy with my husband and I never get bored with our little life, but I still feel that hankering for community. Here are the things I was up to in the last two weeks. (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

Community Garden Club

One of the reasons why I love living here is the many activities the Property Management Office and residents come up with to engage the community. One of this is the Community Garden Club held two Saturdays ago to encourage plant-lovers and greens enthusiasts to plant herbs and vegetables in the community garden.

We even got to go home with our chosen seeds to plant at home. I will plant these in our living room balcony when we move to our new home.

Journal Club at The Beach House

My friends and I started doing this years ago (nine years, to be exact) but it became just another forgotten hobby. I am so happy we revived it!

With Ashley, Ava, Ana, and Sarah ♡

My Coconut Cream Cloud Matcha

I worked on a quick wedding spread ♡

The best thing about journalling with friends is all the yapping that comes with it

Our beautiful mess

I also donated stickers for the benefit of Cats of Kapitolyo. Here is Shelly, The Beach House's resident cat, as cat photo tax. When you visit The Beach House, please consider buying these stickers and/ or donating!

Watercolor date with sisters and friends old and new

It has been years since I picked up a brush but I had been on a roll with trying and reviving things so, why not? It was an impromptu invite to our wedding photographer turned friend Mykee of Willow, and I am so glad we got a lot of other friends to join! We held it at Seltsam last Saturday while it was raining hard outside, and the venue was perfect for some quiet and cozy painting time accompanied with sprinkles of girl talk.

With my sisters-in-law Chelsea and Courtney, close friends Kookee, Vanessa, and Mykee, and new friend Lovi ♡

Our beautiful watercolor creations

I burst into tears when Vanessa handed me her watercolor painting of one of my and J's favorite photos from our wedding.

Mykee
Thankful for ~work connections turned friends

Boba, Seltsam's resident cat

(ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

All these and my other attempts at other things/ hobbies will be documented on my revived TikTok account, Krissy Tries. Please connect with me there if you feel inclined to do so. As always, thank you for your support, and I hope you are well. Please take care of your hearts.

Yearlong protection for dogs with Bravecto® 365

2025-08-05T09:46:00.000+08:00

Words are not enough to describe how much Lucy has changed my and my husband's lives. J's family has always had dogs but I personally didn't know how much impact a dog can have until I got one. Every waking moment I reach out for her, every time I am out of the house I miss her, and every night before I go to sleep I sniff her head and give her lots of good night kisses. My and my husband's relationship improved even more ever since we got her.

If only I can shield her from any harm or illness I would. Sometimes I am scared to walk her outside because ticks and fleas are on the go 24/7. They don’t rest and they certainly don’t wait around for you to do the first move. These parasites hide in the grass, lurk on the ground, and wait for the perfect moment to latch from outdoors to indoors. But the same time I don't want to box her inside the apartment all the time. She deserves to be walked and play outside like other dogs.

When I learned about Bravecto® 365, my interest was piqued. If parasites don’t take breaks, why should Lucy's protection? With Bravecto® 365, you can stop the hassle of monthly doses and go with the ONE FULL YEAR worry-free protection.

Why Bravecto® 365 is a breakthrough.

From the trusted Bravecto®, the pioneer in longer pet protection, Bravecto® 365 lasts ONE FULL YEAR — keeping your dog safe 12 times longer unlike other protections that require monthly administration.

As the first and only ectoparasiticide with the longest duration of protection, less hassle and less stress for you and your furbabies!

One-dose wonder.

All it takes is one single dosage. Bravecto® 365 (Fluralaner) comes in an injectable suspension that prevents ticks and fleas on dogs six months and older. Uniquely formulated with slowly dissolving crystals, expect efficacy that is continuous and longer-lasting.

What a single dose of Bravecto® 365 means for your furbabies:

-Non-stop protection against ticks, and fleas for ONE FULL YEAR

-Unique formulation for continuous efficacy in just one dose

-Less hassle, more playtime with your furbabies

With Bravecto®, I don’t have to set reminders or worry about missing a dose. Lucy can stay protected around the clock, every day, for one full year.

Launched last February 2025, Bravecto® 365 is now available in vet clinics nationwide. Visit this directory to know where to get 365 protection for your furbaby.

Ask your vet about Bravecto® 365 today.

This product is for veterinary use only and should be administered by a licensed veterinarian.

Krissyfied is 17 years old!

2025-07-22T01:09:00.000+08:00

Hello, friends! It's been a while. I hope you have been well. ♡

Today I got an email alert about my blog's domain renewal; my blog is 17 years old. Wow. I realized how much I missed just typing away here, not really minding if anyone reads what I write. But as my blog stats show, krissyfied.com still consistently gets views despite the lack of updates so if you are reading this, thank you for visiting my little corner in the world wide web. I hope you enjoy your stay.

So much has happened since I last blogged here: my 39th birthday and our spontaneous trip to Boracay just so I could take J parasailing, our quick beach trip up north, the M2M concert, our first wedding anniversary, and the various pockets of joy in between. I'd still like to yap about them all and I think I will, but right now, at half past midnight this rainy Monday evening, I want to take a moment to appreciate this little life.

As a child I had a very active imagination, always conjuring dream scenarios in my head about what my future would look like. This life that I am living now? Infinitesimally better than any dream scenario little girl me came up with all those years ago.

I hope you're all warm and dry and safe in this weather. Talk to you again later. (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

Happythankyoumoreplease.

2025-04-01T21:57:00.004+08:00

Hello, you. It's been a while. I hope you have been well. ♡

I have been too busy enjoying my wife era that I hadn't been able to blog as much I would have wanted, but hey, I'm still here. Domain's still being paid, et cetera, and I thought I'd drop by to say hi.

So many things have happened. most notable of which is that my brother got married so I gained a new sister.

It's my birthday month this month and my husband and I have two beach trips planned. My birthday trip was a bit spontaneous as I planned it while tossing and turning at 2am, suddenly getting the urge to go parasailing, while the other is a trip with our Man of Honor Ed and friend Myk.

Things are looking up, and although there are a lot of things I still yearn for like an honest and effective government and an efficient transportation system, my heart is happy and content.

Happythankyoumoreplease.

My Wedding Hair c/o JuRo Salon Exclusif

2024-11-26T00:42:00.001+08:00

Time flew by when we were still planning our wedding, and now that it is done it felt like time flew even faster. I can't believe we'll be celebrating our half-year anniversary in about two weeks!

And because I want to retain the memories and have something to look back to when we are older, I would like to dedicate some posts to document how we prepared for our wedding. With these posts I also aim to share the spotlight with our wedding vendors who helped turn our vision into reality. We couldn't have had the most beautiful wedding without their help ♡ I also hope to help future brides out there who might stumble upon these posts.

We are starting this series of wedding posts with my fairy hair godparents Jude and Rose of JuRo Salon Exclusif. A quick search in this blog will lead you to other hair makeovers they did with me in the past.

With Miss Rose and Sir Jude

Sometimes I look at my salt and pepper hair and think I look chic especially with that streak of white hair in front, but most of the time I feel blah and wish I could regain my raven black hair from my youth.

The BEFORE photo

No thanks to genetics, my gray hair is here to stay, but for my wedding wherein I wanted to look and feel my absolute BEST, Sir Jude and Miss Rose came to the rescue and gave me my most amazing hair makeover yet.

Me in one of JuRo's magical chairs

I went to JuRo exactly a week before our wedding and was treated to a precision haircut c/o Sir Jude, a luxurious nano hair treatment, and a custom mauve caramel balayage c/o Miss Rose.

The AFTER photo

I felt MAGICAL! It's amazing how much impact beautiful hair has on one's self esteem! I was ready to get married right then and there! I felt and looked my absolute BEST on my wedding day even though I didn't get to sleep properly the night before and had jitters the whole day, thanks to Sir Jude and Miss Rose, our derma treatments c/o J's derma aunt Tita Gel, and my HMUA team who I will talk about on a future post.

After my JuRo Salon makeover, we met up with my Man of Honor Ed for dinner and for a quick visit to our wedding venue. I remember that night as if it was yesterday. Fun day even though we had a million things left to do. (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

Prior to my JuRo appointment, J and I paid them a visit for a quick consultation so the duo could already conceptualize what to do with my hair. It's been almost six months now and even though my stubborn gray hair has appeared yet again, my hair still shows hints of my custom hair color and I am still in love with it. ♡

TL;DR, I could never recommend JuRo Salon Exclusif enough and will endlessly sing them praises to everyone who would listen. Sir Jude and Miss Rose have magical hands and eyes and will make you feel your absolute best after your visit. Watch my Reel here.

Name: JuRo Salon Exclusif
Location: Kensington Place, Taguig, Philippines
Price available upon request
Set a free consultation by messaging them on Instagram.

Maya takes your Landers membership to the next level

2024-11-12T00:15:00.083+08:00

Even when I was still living alone after moving out from home, one of my favorite errands has always been doing shopping for groceries. Walking across the aisles with my cart in tow, comparing brands and prices is therapeutic for me. Now that J and I are married, it's even more convenient because the errand is halved between us; we have a Shared Note on our iPhones with a list that we tick off every time we cart an item, plus I now have someone to carry heavy grocery bags for me. He also does an excellent job of monitoring our purchases by keeping a close watch on his credit card statements.

Yesterday I went to a next level affair to celebrate the launch of the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya at Landers Arca South, and I had so much fun saying hi to people and catching up with friends old and new! J had work so I took my mom-in-law Mommy Judy as my plus one because I knew she would enjoy the event and the grocery shopping after.

With Mommy Judy

With Ashley, Nikki, and Ava

With Ashley and Ruth

With Ruth, Ashley, and Seph

With Angelu

During the event, we were shown a cooking demo and a mixology demo with ingredients shopped from Landers on the day! And of course, we were given a special presentation on the perks of using the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya and why you should get one.

With the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, you literally get cashback e-ve-ry-where! 3-5% at Landers, 2% on dining, and 1% everywhere, it is simply a card that gives you a portion of your money back every time you use it. Can't beat it! What's more, this credit card also serves as your membership ID for Landers, so you can do your grocery runs in their expansive aisles with their wide selection of goodies and necessities in peace. We were only able to shop a bit as we needed to get home before rush hour, but I really liked my haul and I am so excited to bring J there.

Convenience is also at your fingertips when you avail this card because everything can be done using the Maya app. You need to freeze your card a bit? Do it on the app. You need to activate your card? Do it on the app. You need to pay your bills? Do it where? On the app.

One of the goodies I brought home is this whole Landers Signature Roasted Chicken Biryani and it's so yummy I will make sure to grab one again when we go back.

You may apply for your Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by logging in to your Maya app, tapping on the Cards tab, and tapping the corresponding banner.

Happy grocery shopping! (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

Tips for finding a home that suits your budget and lifestyle

2024-11-04T23:42:00.003+08:00

The year is coming to a close again and with it comes something we are almost certain of: increase in rent again. I co-own a home that my family and I built together in our own lot in the North, but my husband and I are renting closer to his family in the South with our dog Lucy.

Finding a home that matches both your budget and lifestyle is something that a lot of couples our age experience, and I know it can feel a bit like you’ve got to juggle lots of ideas at once and that you have to drop something in order to get what you want (or close to it, at least). Although with so many housing options out there, it might actually be easier than we think to keep all those balls up in the air after all. With that in mind, here are some tips for finding a home that suits your budget and lifestyle:

Know Your Budget

Before you start searching for houses, it’s vital that you work out your budget and decide what’s reasonable for you so you don’t end up in financial difficulty and regret buying your new home. Take a look at your income, savings, and future expenses so you know precisely what you’ve got to spend, and then think about how much of that ‘leftover’ money you’re happy to pay out. You don’t really want to spend every penny because there’ll be nothing left for emergencies or fun, and that’s not an ideal way to live.

Once you’ve got your budget, you’ll find it much easier to search for a home because you can narrow things down and you’ll have fewer options. That might not sound great, but when there are so many homes to choose from, easily creating a shortlist is going to save a lot of time and stress!

Think About Your Lifestyle

Different home styles offer different things, so think about what matters most to you and that’s another handy way to whittle down the list. Are you someone who needs plenty of room for their hobbies, for example? Do you like a minimalist lifestyle with less to clean and keep tidy? Do you want outdoor space or would you prefer not to worry about it? All these questions and more will give you the results you need to find the home that ticks all the boxes.

One option to consider that might not have come to mind but that could be ideal would be a mobile home. Take a look at mobile homes for sale and you’ll see that many of them are in communities with shared facilities and amenities so the upkeep isn’t so difficult, and they’re both comfortable and affordable, so they could be just right.

Explore Neighborhoods

Your home’s location is something that’s sure to have a huge impact on you, so as well as looking for something in budget that’s the right size and has all the right components, you’ll need to consider where the property is as well - it’s not use finding a wonderful property if it’s in a neighborhood you don’t like or that has a bad reputation or that’s far away from where you work and so on. It just doesn’t make sense, and in the end you’ll be unhappy with your choice.

That’s why it’s a good idea to research and explore all the areas you’re considering before you make any final decisions. Do as much research as you can to find out about the things that matter to you, like public transport, schools, shops, road networks, crime rates, and so on. In that way, you’ll be sure of making the right choice, and with a purchase as large as a property, that’s crucial.

The Beach House is the newest café/ hangout spot in Kapitolyo

2024-10-23T22:44:00.057+08:00

One of the coolest things in life is seeing your friend's dream come to life. I am honored and stoked to be there during the very early days of The Beach House and be privy to how my friend Sarah saw her vision through.

From planning to scouting the perfect spot in Kapitolyo,

to online window-shopping furniture and decor to early taste-tests,

to focus group discussions turned chika sessions --- what a beautiful process to witness!

Congratulations, Sarah and team! My husband and I can't wait to visit again soon! ♡

Friends, if you are looking for a new café or a cool new spot to hang-out in, or if you are a WFH corporate slave like me who likes to work outside their home from time to time, come check out The Beach House. They are located in 11C East Capitol Drive, Pasig City, Philippines, or you may just look for The Beach House Kapitolyo in Waze. They are open every day from 9AM to 9PM. Aside from coffee and snacks, you may also get your favorite Beach Born products there or have your bottles refilled. There is also Monkey on 3rd at the third floor if you like your drinks a bit on the stronger side ;)

Hope to bump into you at The Beach House one of these days!

Krispy Kreme launches Hello KItty 50th Anniversary Doughnuts

2024-08-02T11:36:00.004+08:00

Experience a burst of color and a bunch of delightfulness as two brands with rich heritage come together to introduce a one of a kind sweet treat experience. Krispy Kreme Philippines brings Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Doughnuts, a great celebration to cap off the doughnut brand’s 87th birthday since it was founded in 1937. ♡

Here's a sneak peek into the delectable lineup:

Hello Kitty Doughnut: The all-time favorite Sanrio character comes in the most lovable present made with a ring doughnut dipped in white chocolate, drizzled with apple-flavored chocolate, topped with sprinkles and Hello Kitty candy topper. This is my favorite!

Kuromi Doughnut: It isn’t always a dark day with Kuromi when you bite into a ring doughnut dipped in white chocolate, drizzled with cotton candy-flavored chocolate, topped with sprinkles and Kuromi candy topper.

Cinnamoroll Doughnut: Voted #1 in the recent Sanrio Character Ranking Contest, this charming character is paired with an adorable doughnut dipped in white chocolate, drizzled with bubble gum-flavored chocolate, topped with sprinkles and Cinnamoroll candy topper.

Pochacco Doughnut: This cute and lovable pup is represented in an equally cute treat in a ring doughnut dipped in white chocolate, drizzled with honey dew-flavored chocolate, topped with sprinkles and Pochacco candy topper. A sweet treat for Pochacco, our sweetheart.

My Melody Doughnut: All hail to our favorite pink princess that matches the energy of a pink party doughnut dipped in white chocolate, drizzled with strawberry chocolate, topped with sprinkles and My Melody candy topper.

Pompompurin Doughnut: This little ball of sunshine brings in a gift that will make you feel the sweetness of a warm day in a ring doughnut dipped in white chocolate, drizzled with banana-flavored chocolate, topped with sprinkles and Pompompurin candy topper.

It was a purrfect launch event as Sanrio fans got together and enjoyed the Krispy Kreme x Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Photo Zone in Krispy Kreme's SM Mall of Asia Fresh Shop to celebrate this collab!

Time to get your hands on this cutie collection for Php70 per piece. Complete the whole Sanrio experience with a limited edition Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary doughnut box of 6 for only Php420.

Enjoy this #SpotHappy surprise via dine-in, take-out, Curbside® and in-store pick-up, drive-thru, or through their delivery channels:

● 🖱 Order Online

● ☎️ Metro Manila Hotline at 888-79000

● 🛵 GrabFood, FoodPanda, Pick.A.Roo, OrderMo, and Groover.

Terms and conditions apply and these limited edition cuties will not be available forever, so make sure to grab your favorite Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary doughnuts while they last!

Genius Strategy to Quickly Remodel and Sell an Old Car for Profit

2024-07-09T00:34:00.004+08:00

Interrupting wedding-related posts to share news from our blog's friends. :)

Remodeling and selling an old car for profit can be a great business if you have a plan. Here’s a genius way to remodel and sell an old car for a big profit.

Check the Vehicle

First step is to check the vehicle’s current condition. This includes engine, transmission, brakes, tires and overall body condition. Knowing the major issues upfront will help you estimate the cost and time needed for the remodel. A vehicle with a good engine and transmission is better as these are expensive to repair or replace.

Budget and Timeline

Once you’ve checked the vehicle, set a realistic budget for the remodel. This budget should include cost of repairs, upgrades and cosmetic enhancements. Also set a timeline for the project, so you can complete the remodel as soon as possible to minimize holding costs and capitalise on market demand.

Fixing Mechanical Issues

Start by fixing any mechanical issues. A good running car is key to attracting buyers. Basic but important tasks like oil change, filter replacement and fluid check are a must. If the vehicle has major mechanical problems, consider if it’s worth fixing. Sometimes it’s better to sell the car as-is if the repair cost is too high.

Interior

The interior of the car is key to making a good impression to potential buyers. Start with a deep clean, remove all dirt, stains and odors. Shampoo the carpets and seats and use specialized cleaning products for the dashboard, doors and other surfaces. Replace worn out floor mats and add seat covers to make the interior look better. If the car has outdated or broken components like radio or aircon, consider upgrading to modern standards.

Exterior

The exterior is the first thing buyers see so make it look as good as possible. Start by washing and waxing the car to make it look fresh and shiny. Fix any dents, scratches or rust spots. Depending on the condition, you might need to get professional paint touch-ups or a full repaint. Add custom vinyl stickers to make the car look more appealing and stand out in the market. These stickers are a cost effective way to give the vehicle a personalized touch without breaking the bank on paint jobs or custom bodywork.

New Tires and Rims

New tires and rims can make a big difference to a car. Buyers perceive vehicles with new tires as well maintained and more reliable. Choose tires suitable for the car’s make and model and stylish rims that match the overall look of the vehicle. This upgrade not only looks good but also improves the car’s safety and performance.

Detailing for Maximum Impact

Professional detailing can make a car look like new. Detailers will clean every inch of the vehicle including hard to reach areas. They will polish the exterior, clean the engine bay and condition the interior surfaces. While this service costs money, it’s often worth it as it increases the car’s value big time.

Marketing and Selling

Now that the car is remodeled, it’s time to market it. Take good quality photos of the car from different angles, highlighting its best features. Write a detailed and honest description including the upgrades and maintenance done. List the car on online platforms like AutoTrader, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Also consider traditional methods like putting a “For Sale” sign on the car and park it in a busy area.

Price it Right

Price it competitively based on the car’s make, model, condition and market demand. Research similar cars in your area to get a fair price range. Be prepared to negotiate but have a bottom line in mind so you still make a profit.

Close the Deal

When a buyer shows interest, be transparent about the car’s history and the work done. Offer a test drive and answer all questions honestly. Once a deal is agreed, make sure all papers are in order including the bill of sale and title transfer. Accept secure payment methods to avoid scams.

Let's Go Renewable: Solar Energy Now Affordable and Viable for Filipino Homes

2024-06-27T18:35:00.069+08:00

One of the things my husband (I'm still not used to calling J my husband, yet whenever I do I can't wipe this stupid grin off my face heh) and I are considering is investing on solar panels, but first we need to figure out where we will live long-term. We are currently based in the South, but it might be cheaper to live in the North. We''ll figure it out soon, but in the meantime it is good to know that more and more Filipinos are becoming more aware and switching to sustainable energy.

Filipinos can say goodbye to skyrocketing electricity bills and unreliable power thanks to a brighter, more affordable future powered by solar energy, according to renewable energy expert Ping Mendoza. Mendoza's endorsement of solar energy follows YouTuber Oliver Austria's video, "Is Solar Worth It in 2024?", which explores the numerous benefits of harnessing the sun's energy.

Oliver Austria uncovers the potential of solar energy in his “Is Solar Worth It in 2024?” YouTube video

Solar Energy: Illuminating the Philippines’ Brighter Future

Austria’s video, “Is Solar Worth It in 2024?”, breaks down the process of solar energy, highlighting its simplicity and effectiveness. He emphasizes that solar is the most cost-effective and reliable electricity source in the Philippines, perfectly suited for the country’s geographical location with abundant sunshine year-round.

Mendoza concurs, stating that solar energy is a clean and abundant renewable resource. Sunlight activates silicon within solar panels, generating electricity for household use. He assures Filipinos that solar installations are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for homes nationwide.

“Thanks to our country’s proximity to the equator, we have consistent sunlight throughout the year and across most areas in the country”, the expert added.

Beyond Coal: A Cleaner, Greener Future

Despite its suitability for solar, the Philippines still heavily relies on coal, a source of concern for Mendoza and Austria due to its environmental and health drawbacks.

“Coal and other fossil fuels are very unstable sources of energy because we could run out of coal [any time],” shared Austria. “Kasi kung nakita niyo naman, nagkagera lang sa ibang lugar na malayo sa atin, tumataas na agad ang presyo ng langis at coal. At dahil dyan, pati na rin ang kuryente natin. So that’s why I love renewable energy, specifically yung solar kasi walang may control sa presyo niyan.”

Embracing solar energy means harnessing a resource that is always present and beyond the control of market forces or geopolitical tensions. As Austria aptly put it, “The sun is always here for you," highlighting the dependable nature of solar power and its potential to transform the country’s energy landscape.

Coal-fired power generation also releases harmful carbon dioxide, a major contributor to climate change. Additionally, coal storage and combustion produce fine ash that pollutes the air, posing health risks.

Embracing the Sun: Affordability and Getting Started

The negative impact of coal makes switching to solar an attractive option. But is it affordable, and how can Filipinos get started?

Austria's video delivers positive news: solar energy is more accessible than ever. He showcases practical solar-powered products like power banks and lights for those starting small. For those considering installing solar panels, a return on investment can be achieved within just five to six years.

Mendoza reinforces this point, explaining that solar solutions can be tailored to fit different budgets and energy needs. Selecting the right system size for your home is crucial, with the potential to slash electricity bills by 30-50%. While the initial cost can range from 150,000 to 250,000 pesos (depending on the battery), the investment often pays for itself within three to six years in many parts of the Philippines.


	Photo Credit from Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities

Expert Tips for Going Solar

Mendoza advises homeowners and communities to assess their daytime energy consumption before making the switch. Solar power is most efficient when tailored to daytime usage, eliminating the need for batteries in areas with a stable power grid. This approach also ensures the quickest return on investment. He emphasizes the importance of choosing a reputable installer with a proven track record, as solar systems are designed to last 25-30 years. Strong after-sales support is crucial for long-term satisfaction and system performance.

For finding the right supplier, Mendoza suggests checking out Yuda.com.ph, a valuable resource for comparing installers and their offerings. The website provides detailed information on pricing, products, and services, allowing you to make an informed decision that best suits your requirements and budget.

Mendoza encourages those considering solar to explore grid-tied systems with net metering, a program under the Department of Energy's Renewable Energy Act of 2008. Net metering allows homeowners to sell excess solar power back to the grid, offsetting the cost of electricity purchased from the local utility when solar energy falls short. This setup offers the most cost- effective solution for solar adoption, providing the quickest return on investment and significant savings on electricity bills.

Take the next step towards a brighter future – watch Oliver Austria's YouTube video on transitioning to renewable energy. #LetsGoRenewablePH, one solar-powered product at a time.

061224

2024-06-19T13:19:00.001+08:00

Photos by David Mangubat

The happiest day of our lives yet, one week ago today.

Photo by Sundays

♡

And then one fairy night, May became June.

2024-06-01T10:50:00.013+08:00

Photo by Ganap

One year of planning and daydreaming will almost come to a close. We're getting married this month! ♡

Our bridal registry experience with Rustan's Weddings & Beyond

2024-04-07T23:37:00.001+08:00

I had a different kind of celebration for my birthday this year.

One of the things I was looking forward to since we got engaged was the bridal registry. I love receiving presents and although I am always ecstatic over receiving surprise gifts, there's just something about being gifted an item that you know you really like, so suffice it to say I am a fan of wish lists.

For my 38th birthday, J and I set an appointment with Rustan's Weddings & Beyond to choose items to include in our wedding registry. We actually tried to register back in September but we were advised it is better to return at least two to three months before our wedding to ensure availability of the items, especially since Christmas season was coming and stocks might run out. We went back last month, and chose April 6 as our appointment date.

We were assisted by Miss Ailene of Rustan's Makati

Since J and I have already built our life together, we actually have almost everything we need so it was a bit challenging to think of what items to add to our registry. We would love contributions to our honeymoon fund, but we also understand that some people would prefer to pick out presents. The bridal registry is a great way to ensure that we really get items we need and that we do not get multiple duplicates of the same item.

Each appointment runs for two hours, so it would be helpful to go around the department store prior and make a mental list of the items you feel you would want to add. To be honest, I imagined the scene to be like in the movies wherein we would be given a scanner and we could just scan the barcodes of the items we want, but Miss Ailene actually accompanied us during our session so she could take photos of the tags of the items we liked, together with our chosen quantities. This method also works because it felt like we had a personal shopper throughout the process, and Miss Ailene was also able to offer advice regarding the products as well as helpful suggestions.

We forgot to take photos dueing our session so here's me deciding between luggage colors.

Whoever avails gifts from our bridal registry are entitled to 10% discount, while J and I could enjoy 10% discount to regular-priced items in Rustan's up to six months after the wedding. Amazing deal!

Aside from one tiny thing that everything is done manually in that you have to get in touch with them via Viber as opposed to say getting on the website and entering a code to see what's available to purchase for the couple, I'd say the process is pretty seamless. The shop assistants in Rustan's Makati were also very helpful and accommodating, while Miss Ailene is quick to answer whatever questions we might have in our Viber group chat. 10/10 would recommend this experience. :)

And because it was my birthday, J INSISTED on getting me another gift aside from the DIY Monica's Apartment kit he already got me.

Get you a guy who treats you SO WELL all other guys pale in comparison

When we got home, we were also able to add more items to our registry by checking the website and noting the product names and product URLs.

65 days to go. ♡

Kismet.

2024-03-21T00:06:00.009+08:00

It's past midnight and I should be sleeping as tomorrow is another busy workday but we just got the analog film photos from JP of Film8 for the prenup session I won from a giveaway, and I am filled with butterflies.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by D A D C A M (@dadcam_weddingcamcorder)

I am so thankful I went back to that dating app on that one fine day in April. I found the person I'd like to hang out with for the rest of my life. What a blessing.

Krissy and JJ: DIY Wedding Ring Class with Studio 925

2024-01-19T00:01:00.000+08:00

My New Year's Resolution is to be update my blog more constantly. Here's hoping I can follow through.

For our 103rd month together as a couple and five months before we get married, J and I took a DIY Wedding Ring Class offered by Studio 925 and created each other's wedding rings.

Ever since we got engaged we already know we want our wedding to reflect our personalities as much as possible. We’ve always been a couple who loves tinkering with things and making stuff with our hands, and what could be more personal than making our own wedding rings?

We both took days off from work and trooped to Studio 925 located in Jupiter Street in Makati. It was easy to find, but parking is quite a pain, so I suggest you go there early if you're bringing a car.

We started with a strip of silver alloy Our teacher, Teacher Kris, was super patient and accommodating. She explained all the steps and made her own ring alongside us so we could follow her example. I opted for a chevron ring and I appreciate that even though she has never made one before, she accepted the challenge and did not say no.

Another thing that made the experience extra kilig for us is making each other's rings and not making our own, which actually makes a lot of sense now that I think about it. Aside from the class being a great bonding experience for the couple, it's also a wonderful display of service, making sure that the ring you are making for your amore is flawless.

Ring size needs to be precise.

I didn't think it was possible, but seeing how happy J looked while making my ring made me fall in love with him a little bit more.

I now have a deeper appreciation for jewelry-makers, as it was not easy. I think my least favorite part is the sanding as I found it extra challenging and the grating sound almost gave me a migraine, but OMG the output made it all worth it.

My favorite part would probably be the hammering part to give texture to the ring. I almost didn't want to do it but J specifically asked for a textured ring so of course I had to oblige. I am happy I did because it gave the ring more character. We are thinking of having it engraved with our wedding date on the inside band but we can do it some other time. :)

They're so beautiful I can stare at them forever ♡
Knowing how hard we worked on them makes me cherish them more.

My chevron wedding ring points toward my heart, while this engagement ring (J gave me two engagement rings and this is my favorite of them, hee) makes me look like I have a mini bouquet everywhere I go.

The fee for the DIY Wedding Ring class (silver-smithing) is ₱9,600 for the two of you inclusive of usage of the studio and all equipment you will need to finish your rings, all materials, and instruction manual. They also have option for gold-smithing. What a great experience!

Thank you, Teacher Kris!

The class is four hours long but they typically extend to five hours. If you need more time, you also have the option to rent the studio for ₱200/ hour. Because our designs are a bit more complicated and it was also Teacher Kris's first time to make a chevron ring, we finished after a little more than six hours.

Huge thanks also to our diligent photographer Kookee for these great photos ♡

I'd marry J with paper rings but our hand-made wedding rings are so much better
(ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

Now let's go get married!

To love and be loved is to rest.

2023-12-25T10:18:00.002+08:00

Merry Christmas, world.

Dating Game: Different ways to find dates

2023-10-05T09:59:00.001+08:00

Finding a date can be an exciting adventure, but when you’re just starting to work out what - or who - it is you want, and the dating scene is new to you, it can feel rather overwhelming. I should know, as I was single for about seven years before I met my now fiancé. Where do you even start when it comes to finding dates?

My forever date

The good news is that today there are more ways than ever to find a great date, so it’s a question of doing some research and then picking the option (or options) that seem best to you. The world is your oyster! There are a lot of fishes in the sea! And all that jazz. With that in mind, here are just a few ideas to get you started.

Online Dating

My dream meet-cute was meeting the love of my life in a bookstore, but online dating has completely changed the way people are able to connect and meet. With so many dating apps and websites, you’re sure to find one that suits your needs perfectly. The key is to find the right platform, and whether you’re looking for a sugar daddy (no judging!) or someone to settle down and start a family with, there will be a site that’s perfect for you.

Once you know which site you want to use, you’ll need to create a great profile, and this is often the hardest part. Some things to remember to include are any hobbies and interests you have, what you’re looking for in a date or partner, and, of course, photos. Try to showcase your personality so that the right people find you, and click to learn more.

Fun fact: J and I met via Tinder. ♡

Social Events

Some people prefer the ‘old-fashioned’ way of meeting people and going on dates, and that could include a variety of social events. They could be parties hosted by friends, they could be events in your community, or they might be events that have been specifically designed to get people to meet and go on dates (speed dating is a great example).

The more parties you attend, clubs you join, and activities you get involved in, the more chance you’ll have of meeting someone, or more than one person, to go on dates with. The more time you spend at home alone, the less chance you’ll have of meeting people. It all makes sense and stands to reason, so make sure you go out as much as you can. Of course, don’t let socializing get in the way of your job or homework - you do need to have a good balance.

Mutual Connections

Another great way to meet new people is through mutual connections and acquaintances. You never know just who your friends are friends with, and it might be that one or more of those friends could be the ideal date. Don’t be afraid to ask your friendship group if they know of anyone who might be right for you - after all, your friends are going to know you well, so they’ll be able to judge who they think you might get on with from their other friendship groups.

Because of this reason, and because you wouldn’t be meeting up with complete strangers, which I understand can be worrying for some, this can be the ideal option when you’re looking for a date. The only downside is that if you don’t get on and things don’t go so well, it could be awkward - but that’s something that you can deal with if you need to, and it shouldn’t cause a rift in your friendship.

I was in the room where the Hamilfans Day happened!

2023-09-22T00:03:00.004+08:00

Yesterday was one for the books, as we were in the room where it happened: the Theatre at Solaire for the Hamilfans Day!

Fastest fingers first was the name of the game as Hamilton International Tour and GMG Productions gave away slots to the first 70 who signed up. Being an expert of ~races like this thanks to my experience in scoring fantastic finds at Instagram thrift shops, I was able to sign up immediately within .03 seconds of the link being up. Thankfully, J also got in so I was guaranteed a date heehee. My sister also got a slot thanks to her friend John who won Theater Fans Manila's contest. What a blessing!

We don't get a chance to dress up like this so when we do, I go all out. I ordered my dress and shoes online and thankfully they arrived on time, while I have had this clutch since before the pandemic but yesterday was only my first time to use it.

It's always so exciting to attend fan events because you can feel the passion and joy in the room. We were given the chance to meet the cast who was so generous in sharing their. talents and time in interacting with us fans. I regretfully did not get picked to join the games but that's okay because I would have been such a nervous wreck!

Darnell Abraham, Hamilton International Tour's George Washington

Deaundre' Woods, Hamilton International Tour's Aaron Burr

My sister painted the Hamilton logo on black canvas using gold paint, and she was able to have the cast sign it! Meanwhile, I was able to get Jason Arrow (Hamilton International Tour's Alexander Hamilton), Darnell, and Deaundre' sign my Hamilton ticket holder. I also got a souvenir programme, while we availed free holographic photos at the Unionbank lounge!

When J's sister Chelsea introduced Hamilton to me back in 2016, I didn't imagine I would be this obsessed. Up until now the songs from the Original Broadway Cast Recording are still part of my annual Spotify Top 10 HAHA! Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine they would stage the musical here, as I thought I would have to fly out just to catch it. And so to have tickets to the show to share with my sister AND attend the very exclusive Hamilfans Day is BEYOND my millennial-level imagination. What a beautiful memory. It makes me even more excited to see the show next week!

Look around, look around, at how lucky we are to be alive right now!

Review: Baumann Living Bread Maker + Recipe for Basic White Bread

2023-09-03T22:34:00.004+08:00

I love kitchen equipment that is no fuss and easy to use, and lets me do anything else while it's doing its thing. You know how the reason why I love my Instant Pot is how it makes me look like a cooking expert but in reality it just lets me dump the ingredients on it so it could work its magic? My new favorite, the Baumann Living Bread Maker, also functions this way.

J got me this Bread Maker (because I asked him to) at the height of the pandemic two years ago. That time, high off the hype of my Instant Pot, I was gung ho on experimenting with other kitchen tools and equipment. The Bread Maker caught my radar because of the reviews I found online. I was enticed by the idea of having freshly baked bread any time I want without needing to knead. I have weak arms you see, so even though I had been wanting to try making my own bread ever since I learned how to bake, the prospect of putting my arms to work put me off.

So J got me the Bread Maker, but you see dear reader, working with yeast intimidated me so. Thus the Bread Maker just got kept in storage for two freaking years.

Last week I tried to bake pupcakes using my oven, but they came out severely undercooked. After four years of being my main workhorse, I think my oven has decided to conk out on me. :( But because I was badly craving bread, a lightbulb moment came and I took my Bread Maker out of storage.

I wish I took it out of storage earlier, because my goodness, I had been happily making bread for a week now and I am looking forward to trying out more recipes!

Lemon Loaf

Banana Walnut Loaf

My favorite so far -- Japanese Milk Bread

It's so fluffy and delicious! Perfect even with just butter. Top notch when eaten with scrambled eggs!

I can't stress enough how easy it is, but I can demonstrate by sharing a recipe of a 1.5lb Basic White Bread.

270ml water + 2 tbsp oil

1 tsp salt + 2 tbsp sugar + 3 cups bread floor + 1 tsp yeast

Set the Bread Maker to 1 for Basic Bread, choose size (I chose 1.5lb), choose crust color (I chose Medium), then press Start.

Here is the finished product after about four hours (including warming time)

My perfect pairing with the Basic White Bread is cream cheese and strawberry jam. YUM!!

I love that the Baumann Living Bread Maker has a clear window that lets me check if the ingredients are being mixed and kneaded properly without needing to open the lid.

My favorite thing about my Bread Maker is that I can have warm and delicious freshly baked bread any time I want. I could do other things while the machine does the mixing, kneading, rising, and baking for me, without having to wash several mixing bowls and baking pans! And because it's homemade, I am always assured of the quality of the ingredients I used.

I am so in love with my Bread Maker. My only regret is that I wish I used it earlier.

Get your own Baumann Living Bread Maker here. This is not a sponsored post as my fiancé got this Bread Maker for me, but I will get a bit of commission if you click and buy using my affiliate link. :)

Lucy is six months old!

2023-08-14T11:28:00.070+08:00

Our prapso shih tzu Lucy turned six months old yesterday, and we celebrated at Presko Coffee with J's siblings and their dogs, and yummy food and pup cups!

Presko Coffee is our go to-café when we feel like going out without venturing too far away, and we just really prefer it there because aside from their delicious food they also give our baby her own treat. :)

Jecco and Kookee with Bonbon and Cooper

Chelsea and Hugo

Lucy's aunts and uncle also celebrated with us. ♡

My small family

In the short amount that Lucy has been with us, her impact in our lives has been so significant that I can't even imagine the time when it was just me and J living together, although of course it was lovely and we really got to know ourselves and our relationship, thus the decision to get married. But Lucy enriched our lives so much and she has been ingrained completely in our daily routines.

My heart is grateful.

Wedding planning era

2023-07-14T23:43:00.004+08:00

Hi, friends! It has been a little more than a month since J and I got engaged, and since then we have:

chosen my Man of Honor
pencil-booked the venue
enlisted our chosen officiant
inquired with an event stylist
booked a photographer

We dropped by our chosen venue the weekend after we got engaged

We are still 47 weeks away and it feels too far, but I know days fly by especially when the -ber months come, so we shouldn't chill too much.

This weekend I am looking at checking the printers and printing houses recommended by friends and strangers in the Facebook Groups I asked in, as we are thinking of going the DIY route when it comes to designing and printing our save the dates, invites, wedding programme, menu cards and place cards, et cetera. We'll mostly do evites but would still love some print copies, while we might have the wedding programme printed professionally as we would need a bunch to distribute on the day of the wedding.

My friends Ashley and Sarah will also accompany me to a bridal fair this coming Sunday. My goal is to look for an HMUA, a tailor for J's suit, and a seamstress for my dress. J is away on a company trip and the next bridal fair won't be until February, so it's best to go this weekend as February might be pushing it.

I've also started choosing flowers for my and my bridesmaids' bouquets.

Floriography by Jessica Roux has been very helpful!

Our flower girl Lucy

This evening while I was washing the dishes, ideas for my vows just came rushing to me that I had to hurry up so I could type them down. That's more than half of my vows done. :)

I am so excited. :,)

Upside Down Burger Day with Heinz!

2023-06-15T18:44:00.004+08:00

You know what a good burger looks like – a buttery toasted bun, a juicy meaty patty, a crisp lettuce – and paired with the most irresistible tomato ketchup and seriously good mayonnaise. Burgers are already great in their classic form, but why stop there? Why not make a crowd favorite even better?

Heinz has a great food hack for you: why not try eating your burgers upside down with Heinz? J actually eats his burgers this way!

Feels Wrong, Tastes Right

Although this move defies all logic (why do you need to turn your food upside down?), there is a pretty rational reason why this works! According to this Toronto Sun article, taking a chance on this food hack can actually help elevate your gastronomic experience. By turning your burger upside down, the thicker top bun is now at the bottom, allowing the juices from your patty to be absorbed into the bread and infusing it with flavor.

This makes so much sense! The toppings that usually fall out from the other end of the burger are also better protected now that they are at the bottom of the burger. Even the condiments that go with your burger, like the Heinz Tomato Ketchup made with real red ripe tomatoes and Heinz Seriously Good Mayonnaise made with the fresh free-range eggs, will hit your taste buds earlier and will not drip down on the sides. You get all the flavors you want on a burger minus the mess–a win-win foodie situation.

Heinz celebrates International Burger Day by turning it into the Upside Down Burger Day in the Philippines

The brand, in an exciting partnership with Pound, has created the Bottom-Up Burger, an Upside Down burger made with your favorite Heinz products. Launched on May 31 via social experiment at Pound X Flatterie Greenbelt 3, Heinz surprised customers with not just a first taste of the newest collaboration but the burger - yes you guessed it right, served upside down! Customers from the experiment said that from now on they will eat their burgers upside down and with Heinz for a limited time period.

This will be available in the following Pound branches for a limited time only from June 10 to July 10:

BRANCHES:

1. SM City North EDSA

2. Ayala Malls Vertis North

3. Eastwood Mall

4. Robinsons Place Manila

5. SM Megamall

6. Greenbelt 3

7. Bonifacio High Street

8. Alabang Town Center

9. SM Mall of Asia

10. Ayala Malls Manila Bay

Why not try and start eating your burgers upside down with Heinz? :)

Still Skeptical?

Head to your nearest Pound branch to try the Bottom-Up Burger, an Upside Down burger that not only changes the way you eat but highlights the good flavors that ketchup made with real ripe tomatoes can give to a crowd favorite.