(¯`•¸Divalicious Pinoy Mom¸•´¯)

The Secret: Happiness Attracts More Happiness

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 13:38:00 +0000

Whatever feelings you have within you are attracting your tomorrow.

Worry attracts more worry. Anxiety attracts more anxiety. Unhappiness attracts more unhappiness. Dissatisfaction attracts more dissatisfaction.

AND…

Joy attracts more joy. Happiness attracts more happiness. Peace attracts more peace. Gratitude attracts more gratitude. Kindness attracts more kindness.

Love attracts more love.

Your job is an inside one. To change your world, all you have to do is change the way you feel inside.

How easy is that?

$500 Paypal Cash Giveaway ~Open Worldwide~ ends 12/30

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:26:00 +0000

Another $500 Cash Giveaway for you my beloved readers and it's OPEN Worldwide! This time, I want one of you to WIN. (Maybe you can spare some for me if you win. Haha just kidding!)

All you need to do is enter via rafflecopter below. Easy! If you get tired, bookmark this page so you can get back to this giveaway whenever you have free time.

Everyone can use a little cash right? Yeah just a little cash $500, y'know ;) So we've teamed up with some other amazing bloggers to bring you a Paypal $500 cash giveaway!

This is a super awesome giveaway so you see I'm super excited for you my dear readers!

Imagine this...

We’re giving away $500 cash via PayPal to one lucky person.

Enter to win $500 Cash via PayPal.

Did I say it enough? Cash prize is $500 !!!

Complete the tasks below to earn entries into this giveaway. One winner will be chosen at random from all valid entries.

Open Worldwide.

Starts 12/22 12:01am EST on December 30th, 11:59pm EST

Off to Mystical Garden... in my new #Oasap Dress!

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:31:00 +0000

First off, micro mini dress is not my thing to strut. I do wear short dresses, micro short pants and mini skirts but not micro mini dress! I didn't realize how short this mini-dress (beneath the black sheer dress) was when I looked at the online catalogue and chose this as one of my picks.

Nonetheless, I must admit that I sort of love it now, thanks to the longer black sheer dress over it.

It was the Oasap Super Giveaway last July that I joined in and luckily, I was one of the winners. The dress arrived just after a month but took me 4 months after to get the nerves to put it on so I can have my photo taken for this blog post.

It was my sister who gladly snapped away lots of photos of me in this lovely Oasap black sheer dress. Thank you sis!

I'm glad I did put it on and had my "photo shoot" (hehehe) because now I know how se*xy it feels to walk around in black sheer dress even if I was just inside my house full of my entire family, partying for the birthdays of my two nephews.

I, then, accessorized it with pearl earrings, pearl necklace and silver belt.

I love the feel of the sheer dress on my skin because fabric is so soft, flowing, and delicate. The inside mini dress hugs the curves right. So I'd most probably wear it again. However, if I wear this at a party, I'll wear dark tights or leggings underneath the dress and a pair of black boots. ( Now, where's my wand? :)

Please note:

All opinions are 100% mine.
-Geca

What do you think?

Thank you Oasap for this cute and lovely sheer dress you sent me!

Visit Oasap now and browse their awesome collection of cute dresses, shoes, bags and accessories. They offer free shipping worldwide, 30 days and unconditional return. The best part is you save 30% off on all 20,000 Oasap items by using the code: XMAS.

But wait! 12/12/12 The Most Unusual Day Give You The Most Unusual Discount!

Go ahead, check it out and do some shopping!

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Kodak Easyshare Z981 14mp DigiCam Giveaway! ~Worldwide~ ends 12/18

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Sun, 09 Dec 2012 23:50:00 +0000

Capture your family's precious holiday moments with this gorgeous Kodak Easyshare Z981 14 MP Digital Camera with Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon 26xWide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and 3.0-Inch LCD Screen.

All you need to do for a CHANCE to WIN this Kodak digital camera is enter this giveaway via Rafflecopter below.

Open World Wide! If winner is outside the USA, they will receive the cash value via Paypal or Amazon (their choice) NO EXCEPTIONS!

Sponsored by: Kodak

Co Host: Mom Blog Society | Route249 | Jackie's Reviews | S.O.S Mom | Swank Savings | Mom Does Reviews | Contest, Giveaways and Everything Nice | As Mom Sees It |

Science of Couponing | A Medics World | Cotton Ridge Create

The event dates: 12/10 12:01 am EST- 12/1812:59 pm EST

Bring your world closer for everyone to see. The Kodak EasyShare Z981 digital camera is where creativity and versatility come together. It zooms in faster, wider, and closer than ever, giving you sharp, steady shots you'll be proud to share. Kodak's Share button lets you tag pictures directly from your camera for uploading to YouTube, Facebook, Flickr, and Kodak Gallery sites, plus e-mail too. And its unique vertical shutter release and detachable grip give you the flexibility to go from horizontal to vertical shots with ease. From dramatic wide angles to the convenience of ultra-zoom, the Z981 delivers extraordinary performance.

14-megapixel resolution for stunning prints up to 30 x 40 inches
26x optical zoom and 26mm wide-angle lens; 3-inch bright LCD
One-button upload to YouTube, Facebook, Flickr, and Kodak Gallery sites, plus e-mail
Vertical shutter release, detachable vertical grip; Fast click-to-capture speed (<0.2 sec.)
Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

Thanks to Kodak you have a chance to win this amazing camera! For your CHANCE to WIN, simply enter via the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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How To Manage Stress with Food - The Healthy Way

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Sat, 08 Dec 2012 16:47:00 +0000

Brows furrowed? Barely able to breathe and can't sleep? It's time to relax and de-stress.

Image by: www.ehow.com

There are a lot of ways to cope with stress that life throws at us. One of which is through meditation that requires determination and patience to stop the momentum of anxiety and nervousness. Others relieve stress through yoga or pilates, which combine healthy exercise with breathing and meditative movements.

Image by: Yoga Therapy Program at TK

We all have the capabilities to de-stress. In fact, we don't even need to go out of our comfort zones to relieve stress. Watch your favorite DVD collection, open a window to let the air in, reread your favorite book, dress up, play a video game or drop the F-bomb about your boss or colleague.

Those, as mentioned above, are just a few of many strategies that we can all do to de-stress. Now add to that list: eating the right food.

The first thing that comes to mind to de-stress is comfort foods like a bag of chips, ice cream or a candy bar. Eating these types of food in large quantities and frequently is a bad habit that should be avoided because they are, generally, not good for the health and do not help in relieving stress. These foods may comfort you but it is for awhile only, thus the effect doesn't last long.

Here are the list of Healthy Foods that Can Help Manage Stress:

Image by: jdemirdjian.com

* Wholewheat oatmeal or cereals - Start your day right with healthy breakfast like any complex carbohydrate-rich foods because they prompt brains to make more serotonin which is feel-good chemical and can also help you feel balanced by stabilizing blood sugar levels.

* Fruits that are rich in Vitamin C like oranges - can curb levels of stress hormones.

* A Handful of Nuts like pistachios, walnuts and almonds - they help keep stress hormone levels low.

* Dark Green Leafy Vegetables like spinach and kale - these veggies contain B-complex vitamins that help calm the nerves and magnesium which help keep headaches and fatigue at bay

* Fatty fish like salmon and tuna - has Omega3 fatty acids which can prevent surges in stress hormones

* Banana and Avocado - high in potassium which aids in regulation of blood pressure and can also relieve heartburn

* Black Tea - helps reduce the amount of high stress levels (cortisol).

* Green Tea - reduces the output of tension-making beta waves.

* A Glass of Cold Water - drink this before going out for a walk to get your blood moving and the air invigorates by stimulating the endorphins that help de-stress.

* Dark Chocolate (with cocoa content of 70% more) - most potent endorphin-producing food.

Image by: tendertips.co.nz

* Asparagus - rich in folic acid that prevent irritability and fatigue.

* A Glass of Milk - contains calcium, magnesium and potassium.

* Raw Celery or Carrots - munching veggie sticks helps release a clenched jaw, therefore they can ward off tension.

Please Note:

This is intended for general informational purposes only. Consult professional medical advice in seeking treatment.

Visit the references for more information.

References:

How To De-Stress in 1 Minute

Managing Stress Through Regular Exercise

Pilates and Yoga Techniques to De-Stress

16 Ways to De-stress

Diet for Stress Management

11 Healthy Ways to De-Stress with Food

Have a stress-free holiday!

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How To Manage Unwanted / Dumb Posts On Your Facebook News Feed

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 13:43:00 +0000

Sometimes it's hilariously entertaining but mostly pathetic that social networking sites have become the mecca for dim-witted to show off how proud they are about their wee-brains, which they have no clue. These people must have desperate need for sympathy from online community, which they don't get from their own family.

Image courtesy of Taoty
FreeDigitalPhotos.net

You know, other people don't need to know if you are on your first day menstrual period or if you are having diarrhea. Goodness sake!

Some would even post photos of their dead toes or of some phrases that they don't have a clue what it meant. If you can't get out of the countryside, let your finger tips do the traveling through Google search, especially if you only know or can only fit one language in your wee brain. So you know what to post or how to respond instead of making fun of or ridiculing something that you are clueless about.

I know it's harsh. Sometimes you just got to be harsh to get through.

Now then, I don't claim to be the smartest of my bunch but it only takes common sense. And I never see the need to respond to hate messages, especially if it's coming from people who are either ridiculously jealous or just hateful about everything or everyone else who did better than them. Worst is hate messages coming from those who owe me and those who stole from me.

Sigh. I just let go of this negativity because I believe in karma.

If not for my blogging, I'd deactivate my social networking accounts, not just for awhile. Thank goodness, I figured it out how not to see on my Facebook News Feed the posts that I do not particularly want to see without the need of unfriending or blocking the poster (and that's if I can help it). Now I can freely browse and interact with people who share on News Feed the updates that bring happiness, positive thoughts, inspirational messages and blogger giveaways too!

Here's how to manage unwanted posts from your Facebook News Feed:

Hover over your Facebook friend's profile name or picture, don't click either.
Move the cursor over the Friends as shown below.
Uncheck the "Show in News Feed" by clicking it.

This is not a hate message towards haters. I'm just stating a matter of fact.

Hateful or jealous messages, stupid photos, whining about random craps doesn't deserve to get attention. I just don't have the time to those whiny posts and I don't get it either why people have to show or share their stupidity. Some beg for attention and expose themselves by showing off distasteful half-naked self-portraits. It's a pity, really. Worst, recently I noticed that online bullying is the new entertainment for others. Sigh. I think I have unfriended most of these types.

My little boy is precious to me so I don't want him to accidentally see / read these types of messages so he is never allowed to get on Facebook.

But oh well. Live and let live! They are happy doing such things so let them as long as they don't attack nor harass you deliberately. My easy solution is I just remove them from my News Feed.

So my dear spammers, pardon me.

All I want is positive harmony!

Don't you?

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How Soon Should You Start Using Anti-Ageing Solutions?

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 14:30:00 +0000

I received an e-mail from BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) Marketing last week regarding their Exclusive One-time Welcome Gift. To claim this welcome gift, simply use the BPI atm card to purchase anywhere through EPS (express payment system) and it must worth at least P1,500. Then confirm the transaction by texting them your full name, mailing address, transaction date and transaction amount.

The welcome gift was Olay Anti-Ageing Solutions kit. Isn't that awesome?

Great timing that 3 days before this e-mail, I paid my grocery items at Robinson's Galleria using my BPI atm card. So as soon as I finished reading the e-mail, I texted them the required details. I received response right away saying that once transaction was validated, I will receive my Olay gift pack in 15 days.

To my amazement though, the gift pack arrived just 4 days later! Here's what's inside the gift pack:

* Olay Total Effects 7-in-one day cream with SPF 15
* Olay Age Defying Moisturizing Soap Bar

Thank you BPI for my Olay gift pack!

To be honest though, I haven't considered using anti-ageing solutions religiously yet. All I use everyday is sunblock cream/lotion on my face, neck, arms and legs. And hardly go out without it. I'm too lazy to do other skin care rituals, morning or evening. For me, the less the better and keeping skin clean is more beneficial than slapping on too much products. However, maybe it's time for me to start using anti-ageing solutions. After all, I'm not getting any younger.

I read a post from Daily Mail UK, a person could get old before their time and that's because of using anti-ageing products.

Experts say that women could be wasting money on products they don't actually need and more worryingly, they could be damaging their skin permanently.
Ref: Old Before Your Time

On the contrary, and as I have mentioned, I'm not getting any younger so I guess it's about

All opinions are 100% mine.

- Geca

time that I use anti-ageing products religiously. So I did try to look for the skin care regimen appropriate for me. Find your perfect skin care regimen here from Olay experts.

What age do (did) you consider to use anti-ageing solutions?

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Proud Volunteers at Recycle Feed Run Event!

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:27:00 +0000

Out of excitement to volunteer and be part of a great cause to 'Help Make a Difference', I was wide awake the night before of 'Recycle Feed Run' event that was hosted by HyperSports Philippines. A mug of hot coffee and a quick shower at half past midnight made me more alert. Then I phoned the most trusted taxi company, Basic, to drive me to Bonifacio Global City. 10 minutes later, taxi arrived so off I went.

I arrived at the venue a few minutes after 2 in the morning. There were already a few people at the venue when I got there but I don't know what my team members look like so I started texting them to let them know where I am. Some of them were there much earlier than I was, so soon enough my entire team was complete.

As we waited for our turn to register and for our shirts and I.D.s, I briefly told them what we were going to do:

Okay team, we are going to give away water, coco quench, banana and ice-cold sponges to the runners. Which means, later we will be shouting: "Water!" "Coco Quench!" "Banana!" and "Sponge!" so that they know what we got for them.
We will be divided into two stations, and that's Aid station 3 and 4.

Then I picked who are going with me and assigned Freddie to lead the other station. It was taking ages queueing for the shirt and I.D. so I went to get the meal for the group. After getting the Hungarian sausage sandwiches for the team, I ran to get the team's shirts, holding on to the list of names and their shirt sizes. Thanks to Mr. Jobert dela Victoria who assisted me in getting the shirts for my team.

Unexpectedly, our ride to the stations was a delivery truck!

My first thought was:

Is this a safe ride for me and my team, especially the girls?

Nonetheless, I hopped in without a hint of hesitation. As a matter of fact, I ended up enjoying the ride and we even took photos (which can be viewed here) of ourselves!

A few minutes drive later, I faced another surprise that morning. They were dropping us off at station 2 because there were no one to man that station. So I quickly decided who to assign there. I sent Ron, his wife and Floro.

At station 3, I decided to send Freddie, Arlyn and Patrick. With me at station 4 are Dentist Amy, Glads and Arnold.

There were no marshalls to show where to U-turn so Doc Amy volunteered herself to marshall. And so she stood next to the Tropicana Coco Quench banner/marker, cheering and showing the way to the runners. Glads was there also too eager to cheer and marshall with Doc Amy. Arnold stationed himself next to the ice-cold sponges and drinking water, while I stood next to Coco Quench and bananas.

I should mention as well the kind help of gentlemen who delivered the goods. Thanks to them, whose names I forgot.

The first few runners that reached our station were Kenyans who mostly ignored our offers of water, coconut juice, banana or sponges. Most of them just kept running in long strides. Some have asked nothing but water.

I took photos with my dslr whenever my hands are free. I'm glad that some runners would stop to strike a happy or wacky pose so I did take their photos (viewable here). To my dismay though, my hands went sticky from bananas so I wasn't able to take photos as much as I wanted to.

On the contrary, I'm proud of my team who cheered the runners as they reach our station. Well, we were all cheering them on non-stop, down to the last runner:

Good morning runners!
Go, go runners! You can do it!

Whenever I saw runners throwing the empty cups to the garbage bin, I shout:

I love you, responsible runner!

At the end of the day, us volunteers were overwhelmingly joyous for being a part of a great cause and for serving runners. Most of us are runners too so we know what runners want. Cheering them on and greeting them wholeheartedly was our way of saying "We care!". I hope we made all runners of "Recycle Feed Run" happy.

Thank you HyperSports Philippines for letting us be a part of this advocacy. See you again next time!

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Siamese Cats Bring Good Luck

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:30:00 +0000

Surprisingly, having Siamese cats brought additional happiness to the family and they are great companions at home too.

If you do not own a Siamese Cat, maybe it's time for you to get one.

You know why?

According to Siam (Thailand) legend, Siamese Cats bring Good Luck to their owners and they keep evil spirits away.

I recently spent a couple of days in a house full of Siamese Cats. And I can tell you that they are very outgoing, social and affectionate.

They are also very vocal when they want something but their voices are easy on the ears, unlike other breeds.

I noticed too that while they are very playful, they catch insects and lizards too. I even witnessed one to be meowing at a queue of ants!

They are curious about almost everything around them and seem to be intelligent pets.

Siamese Cats only require to be bathed once a month and their coats need to be brushed once in awhile.

And, if they are well taken care of, they can live up to fifteen or twenty years old.

A Siamese Cat / Kitten can be delivered FREE in San Pedro, Laguna or nearby towns and in Ortigas Center, Pasig or nearby.

For more details, please contact this number: 63 999 4053730 and mention that you read and commented on this blog post to get a 10% discount.

http://www.ayosdito.ph/Siamese+-3523667.htm

$500 Christmas Cash Giveaway! ~ends 12/5~

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 05:00:00 +0000

49 days to go until Christmas!

Here's what I got for you my awesome readers:

$500 Christmas Cash Giveaway Event!

Hosted by Mom Powered Media

Please take a moment to visit our sponsor: Emperola.com!

Emperola.com was founded in summer 2012 in order to provide visitors with daily updated list of contests, giveaways, sweepstakes and deals. Enter your email here for a chance to win $500 in cash. If you host any kind of giveaway or contest feel free to submit your contest at Emperola for free.

Stop by and say congrats to Mom to Bed by 8 who is celebrating their 3rd annual gift guide!

Finally a special thank you to our lovely co-hosts whom without them great things would not be possible: Bay Area Mommy, Coupon Gator, Frugal Mom Eh!, An Ordinary Housewife, Spend With Pennies, To Sew With Love, Funny Postpartum Lady, Giveaway Bandit, Stay a Stay at Home Mom, Confessions of a Messy Mama, CountingToTen, The Dragyn's Lair, Lovingly Mama and Saving My Family Money!

An extra $500 cash in our pocket would be a huge help so we can buy everything in our Christmas shopping list, wouldn't it? Maybe have some extra for the holiday feast and decor too!

One lucky reader will receive $500 {winner's choice of Visa Gift Card, Paypal Cash or Amazon Gift Card}!

Giveaway ends December 5th at 11:59pm, open to worldwide, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below.

Please make sure to bookmark Divalicious Pinoy Mom so you can come back any time you have free time to complete your entries.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Campus Book Rentals $100 Giveaway! -ends 11/16-

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 07:00:00 +0000

$100 Holiday Cash for lucky rafflecopter participants!

Madame Deals Media and Campus Book Rentals have teamed up to provide this great giveaway event!

***Powered by Madame Deals and Mommy Needs Her Coffee***

For some of us, buying college textbooks is a luxury we can't afford. We are mostly tired from doing our best, saving just to be able to afford a high-priced college textbooks from stores. Campus Book Rentals is heaven-sent for struggling college students because this company was one of the first to offer textbook rentals.

Whether you could use some Holiday CASH or help with your 2nd semester text books, we've got you covered!

Winner can choose either $100 PayPal or

$100 towards text book rental from Campus Book Rentals!

Campus Book Rentals offers new and gently used textbooks for typically less than half the price or more than you’ll pay in your school bookstore. Search for the college books you need and start saving money today!

One amazing example of big saving is when you rent this Business Communication Today (pictured on the left) versus buying it from Amazon. If you need to rent the said book for a year, all you need to spend is just $30.33. On the other hand, if you're going to purchase it from Amazon, it will cost you twice as much!

Check out Campus Book Rentals and see how much you can save!

Giveaway will run 11/2 12:01 am EST and run through 11/16 11:59 pm EST.
Wait for the rafflecopter to load and enter below:

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Most Parents Avoid Talking About This With Their Own Kids... I Do!

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:30:00 +0000

Recently, my 9-year old son has been asking questions that I don't know how to respond to. I usually have answers right away for his endless questions about life, meaning of words and phrases. This time I was tongue-tied when he asked these type of questions. My son is growing fast so I guess I must deal with it.

I asked a few experts to help me how to respond or how to talk to him about... er drum roll please... it's about...

s3x.

Yes! That's what he has been curious about! Oh Dear!

For instance, the other night we were watching Apollo 13. I was confident that the film doesn't need parental guidance until one particular scene appeared on screen. Kevin Bacon got out of shower to answer his phone then his girlfriend poked her head out of the shower.

A scene from the movie Apollo 13

EJ was a little bit shocked and said,

That's rude! And, how did they fit inside the shower? I don't think they should do that!

All I said to him was,

They were saving water.

EJ went on

Maybe the woman was wearing bra and panty.

I didn't say anything further.

Most parenting experts said that parents should respond to their kids truthfully. But how does one do that? In the Philippines, talking about this topic openly is taboo!

Here are the questions that bugged me:

How Soon Should Parents Teach Children About S3x?
At what age should children be informed about s3x?
Should it be as soon as they ask what is s3x?
How should I have responded when my child asked?

Below are some responses from experts:

One basic point would be that if a very young child asks a question, the parent

Kimberley A. Johnson, author and creator (with her mother) of Ark Stories Publishing:(have a book out for v+rgins titled The V+rgin Diaries. 72 stories from men and women describing what it feels like emotionally as well as physically to have first time s3x. It was also created as a tool for parents to bring up the awkward subject. We can offer advice about what information should be given at different ages and why telling the truth is the better way to go.)
should answer the question truthfully but not giving the child more information than they asked for. Many parents feel like kids should not know about s3x. But at very young ages, they see and hear about it through movies, commercials, internet. If parents make s3x a big deal, it becomes a big deal to the child. If the parent treats s3x like math or science, the big "mystery" of it is not as much of an issue. Last, when parents leave schools and peers to be the source of information, they are doing themselves and their own child a disservice.

We should begin to tell children about s3x at the same time we begin naming objects in their
Tara Mills, a Marriage Counselor with Subspecialty in S+ex therapy. She owns a private practice in Charleston SC that specializes in relationships and s3x.
environment( "dog", 'cup", "daddy" etc.) Start telling them about s3x at the beginning of life. Of course age appropriate material is important. Research shows that when children are informed about their body parts and s3x they are less likely to be s3xually abused.

I wish I knew in 2nd grade, .. because while being molested I had no idea... about

Ginny Scales, author of www.whatisnormal.tv
right and wrong in that area,,What bodies should do ! Young children are curious, and it is normal to play doctor/house imagine not knowing anything and a grownup wants to play......

Treat this topic as you would Santa. Don't worry about how you'll answer
Lorraine Esposito, Professional Coach, Peacemaker Coaching
Type: ACAD (Academic Institution / College / University). She is the author of Peacemaker Parent, Solving Problems for Today, Teaching Independence for a Lifetime. Professional coach, coach training instructor and mentor coach for the world's largest coach training organization.

the question, focus on the developmental stage of the child asking the question. Never, ever, lie and always, always answer the question asked.

More responses from experts soon.

What would you tell your own child?

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EJ Responded with: "Huh?! What About My Wife?"

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 23:00:00 +0000

That photo is my son, EJ, when he was just 2 years old, helping Mommy put away clean spoon and forks from dishwasher to their designated drawer.

I was transferring cleaned plates from our (automatic) dishwasher to cupboard while EJ was busy playing with his lego. I didn't see him walk up to where I was but he just started helping Mommy. He was so cute then doing that. Thankfully, my digicam was within reach so I clicked away as he did his chore at only 2 years old!

Guess what? I didn't have to tell him where to put the spoon and forks. He just knew which drawer!

I took loads of photos as he walked back and forth because I thought someday I can show him that "he used to" help Mommy. I guess this is the time, he turned 9 last summer.

At 7, EJ has been routinely doing simple household chores like putting his toys back in the toy box, putting his socks, underwear and folded clothes into his clothes cabinet. At dinner time, he sets the dinner table and gets the drinks for us. He also clears and cleans the dinner table after we finish our meal.

Last year, I've added more chores to his list. I taught him to sweep his own bedroom floor, empty the dish drainer and taught him how to fold blankets and towels.

Sometimes he does chores dutifully. Just last week, he surprised me when he folded the towels by himself without me showing him how. Most of the time though, I have to remind him, especially clearing his toys off his bedroom floor and sweeping it. He'd do it eventually after I shouted at him the third or fourth time.

But recently, he started firing questions like,

Why do I have to do this, Mommy? All I wanna do is play!

He asked that question when I was showing him how to wash dinnerware, spoons and forks. My reply was,

So that when you grow up and living by yourself, you know what to do. And so you know how to clean up after yourself.

You know son, when I worked abroad, I didn't know how to cook, how to wash my own clothes or do other household chores. It was difficult especially I was by myself. I cried and cried for months!

To my astonishment and perplexity, EJ's response was:

Huh?! What about my wife?

I almost dropped the dinner plate I was cleaning and wanted to burst into laughter, but didn't.

Dumbfounded, I did stare at him and thought to myself,

Why did he respond like that? At his very young age, does he see women as plain wives who should do all the chores at home?

It was funny but I didn't dare laugh so I told him,

Son, not only women should do chores at home. Men should also do it.

Husbands should also help their wives do chores. Your Daddy is very good at tidying, you know.

Well, I just made that last one up.

I was never taught how to cook when I a kid, even when I reached adolescent years. So I struggled a little on feeding myself when I worked abroad. Most of the time I purchased ready-to-eat meals for myself to survive.

Now, let's not blame my mother for not teaching me and my sisters how to cook and do other chores. She worked really hard to buy all our books so all we need to do was read, read, and read which I loved. I read most academic books before school days start when I was a kid.

How soon do you think kids should know how to do household chores? Do you (or would you) teach your children to help cleaning the house?

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Vous pouvez être authentique Monsieur Sonnette, mais

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 16:38:00 +0000

Pardon my French Mr. Doorbell! This ain't exactly about you and I just want to let it all hang out here without being too mean because I know you mean well. Oh that sounds odd! But if you aren't dim-witted you'll get it. Then again, you are very good looking, so you probably can be as dim-witted as the others displaying themselves topless.

Keeping up yet? Don't worry, it won't be too bloody. No one wants pee-brained entertainer explode his pretty head, do we?

First, your event was so unorganized that the dunderheaded host, (I don't know and can't tell if male or female) can't decide what to say or do while waiting for your grand entrance.

Second and worst, was your collection of German Shepherds!

Whether you are genuinely kind or not, Mr. Doorbell, but the German Shepherds a.k.a. bodyguards around you turned your fun-yet-tacky event into insignificant and exasperating event!

If I may suggest, on your next event, Doorbell. Decide what to do and how to execute your event without the need for shrieking uncivilized fans to chase you that others get dragged and pushed. The German Shepherds need to be sent to Cesar Millan for further training so they know how to use their wee brains more than their muscles so they don't forcefully push people.

Let me ask you this Doorbell: who'd want to be forcefully pushed away from their own child?

A protective mother can push German Shepherds too like I did when they forcefully pushed me away from my son. Y'know, If not for those German Shepherds, we'd probably patronize you even if we don't really know you and even if I had to keep translating.

I'm done slicing you up on the web.

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Celebrating Hallowe'en - Do You Even Know What It Means?

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 06:51:00 +0000

Every year around this time, most of us (if not all) celebrate Hallowe'en, which we usually spell as Halloween. We celebrate it mostly just for the fun of dressing up (or down) in a wild, fantasy or gory costumes at a Hallowe'en themed party or event. Some parents get their own children to participate in trick or treating and costume contests too.

But do we even know what Hallowe'en means? Or where it is derived from? Why do we celebrate it? What for? Just for fun?

Meaning of Hallowe'en

Hallowe'en is derived from All Hallows Even, meaning the day before All Hallows Day, the day Christian saints are honored, known to most of us as All Saints Day.

Origin

Most sources agree that Hallowe'en started 2,000 years ago by the Celts, who lived in United Kingdom. During those times, they celebrate this date to commemorate the end of the year. Why celebrate end of the year at this date? November 1 was their New Year, and this was called Samhain (sow'een).

They believed that on this particular date, the wall between the living and the dead was open, allowing either good or bad spirits mingle with the living. Thus, they thought some spirits either possess the living people or cause trouble.

More about origin of Samhain here.

Halloween Traditions

It was in the middle of twentieth century that Hallowe'en turned popular in the United States and was celebrated in parties wearing great costumes. Since then, it was a great excuse for every party lovers to celebrate, and that's without the thought of the origin and ancient meaning of Hallowe'en. It also evolved into a modern Hallowe'en event e.g. Trick or Treat.

References:
History of Halloween
Urban Legends
History.com Witch's Garden

How Do You Celebrate Halloween?

A lot of people this past week seem to be busy creating their own or shopping for their Halloween costumes. Kids are getting dressed up as little princes or princesses with their trick or treat bags.

I will be taking my 9-year old son at a Halloween event tomorrow. He wants to be a zombie! Jeez! I hope I can give him the look he wants even though I don't want to spend at all. We'll be there just so he doesn't miss out on the fun of participating and socializing with other kids.

So, what are you doing this week?

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I Can Be Body Beautiful at Any Age with Wacoal

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 09:52:00 +0000

Ladies, whether we are in our 20's, 30's or even at 40's, we always wonder what fits our womanly body, don't you? Now ask this to yourselves,

How can you be body beautiful at any age with Wacoal?

Being confident in ourselves and feeling beautiful at any shape, and especially, at any age is deemed important wherever we go and whenever. But first, confidence and beauty must come from within, believing that we are beautiful not only on the outside but also deep inside. Being beautiful inside and on the outside brings out a lady who is well-mannered and good-natured with astounding confidence!

To help us be more confident in ourselves and be body beautiful at any age, Wacoal is there for us ladies to boost our womanly curves.

For more than half a century, Wacoal have nurtured a corporate culture under which

Ref: http://www.wacoal.com/
people with great creativity are encouraged to carefully tailor intimate apparel for women.

Pictured below are my favorite pair of Wacoal undergarments:

I'm always on the go and busy trying hard making a name in the blogosphere. These Wacoal intimate apparels would be a perfect fit for my uniquely yet beautifully shaped body especially at my age and for a woman like me who's always on the go! They are perfect underneath any black form-fitting dress. Hence, I'd feel more confident and stunningly body beautiful! Oh isn't that wonderful?

And that's because of the intimate apparels created by Wacoal whose objective is for us ladies to "Be Body Beautiful At Any Age".

I can be body beautiful at any age with Wacoal!

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Tetra Pak RFR - Recycle. Feed. Run - 11/18

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 13:13:00 +0000

As organized by HyperSports Philippines, Inc. with Tetra Pak's worldwide Feed-a-Child program, Tetra Pak RFR - Recycle. Feed. Run - reaches out to all runners and their family and friends to participate. Stop by at any designated sites (see image above) to register and please bring two (2) empty and clean Tetra Pak packaging. You may bring extra five (5) empty and clean Tetra Pak packaging to get Php50.00 off the registration fee.

For every Tetra Pak packaging brought by runners, Tetra Pak will donate one (1) 200 or 250ml milk in Tetra Pak packaging to underprivileged children. So please bring more empty and clean Tetra Pak packaging as many as you can.

Ref: HyperSports Philippines, Inc.
Pinoy Fitness

Registration Fees:
21K - Php800
10K - Php700
5K - Php600
3K - Php500

Registration Ends on November 16, 2012.

See you there!

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Wordless Wednesday: Waggy was searching for Puppy Love!

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 01:13:00 +0000

Guess which one Waggy kept chasing at Pedigree Philippines' Puppy Love Event.

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Waggy Had a Blast at #Pedigree Puppy Love Event ^,^

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 02:17:00 +0000

The day before Pedigree Philippines' Puppy Love Event, I made a cape for my beagle dog, Waggy. I cut off my son's old superman cape in half and stitched it on a dog shirt so it doesn't keep falling off. Then I wrote W on the cape to represent Waggy's initial. I used Fabric Dye Pentel, fabric paint pen and lastly, glitter glue on top. Air dried it for a few minutes and tadaaa!

Sunday morning, the day of Puppy Love Event, was gloomy and cloudy; worse, poured a little before noon time. Waggy, EJ and I were all dressed to go out but I decided to wait for the rain to subside before we set off, otherwise we wouldn't go at all. Thankfully, it stopped pouring in the afternoon and it even seemed a perfect day to go to Eastwood City for the said event because it was bright and sunny!

As soon as we reached the registration desk located outside Eastwood Mall, Waggy was given a Pedigree scarf and a bag of treats. Then off to a photoshoot and a free Vet consultation. Here's a shot of Waggy wearing his red cape with W on it and the Pedigree scarf with a quote:

My owner's cute too!

What's more awesome that day was that Waggy met a lot of other cute beagle dogs and other breeds! For me, Waggy was the most eager to meet all dogs at the event. He's very sociable and amiable to all dogs at the event! I could hardly take a snap shot of my own dog, chasing him because he keeps running towards other dogs to meet them excitedly. I just pull him back whenever unfriendly dogs growl at him and seem want to take a bite.

There were mini-shows with celebrity guests (jeez I forgot their names!) who are dog lovers too!

Mini show at 4pm

Mini show at 5:30pm

There was also a parade for dogs which Waggy participated in:

More photos at my Facebook profile and page later.

Thanks a lot Pedigree Philippines for the lovely event for our pet dogs! See you again on future events.

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Hey Bloggers! Sign Up for this FREE Blogger Event: $500 Christmas Cash Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:59:00 +0000

Hi fellow Bloggers! Christmas time is fast approaching.

Why not do an event where your dear readers can get the CHANCE to win a whopping $500?

Christmas Cash Event hosted by Mom Powered Media

Prize: $500 Visa Gift Card OR $500 Paypal Cash OR $500 Amazon Gift Card {winner's choice}

Event dates: 11/7 - 12/5

Free Blog Event! Sign-up here, BLOGGERS WANTED

Please mention Divalicious Pinoy Mom referred you.

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Exchange Badge / Link with Me

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Sat, 20 Oct 2012 03:30:00 +0000

After you've grabbed my Fairy Badge, please leave me a comment below with your blog title, link and you may add short description of your blog too.

or my link: http://gecasrealm.blogspot.com/

Then, I'll add you to my list. Thank you so much!

Keep yourselves in positive harmony. Think good, talk good and do good!

BADGES:

LINKS:

Elf Lady's Chronicles
Ramblings of a Thrifty Momma -
Blogs Ng Pinoy -
Texan in the Philippines - Surviving in the land of smiles.

FREE Blogger Event: Tech Lovers Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 22:54:00 +0000

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I Don't Think Anyone Would Mistake You, Lucy Liu, as a Filipino Even if You Get Tanned!

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 07:04:00 +0000

Not only that Filipinos are better culturally, we are more beautiful than other Asians!

Oh yes, I boldly claim that!

When I visited China a decade ago, it irked me so much that people there insisted that I am one of them even if I say repeatedly,

No! I'm not Chinese!

There was a persistent man who while saying something in his language was pointing to the outline of his face then to my face. From my understanding he believes I am like them which I strongly disagree! I disagree so much because I believe I have the Filipino features plus I have tanned skin. Nonetheless, I just politely said no or shook my head.

I'd add as well that very few of them can speak decent English (even at the airport where I got lost and went to the wrong gate because a Chinese airport staff directed me to the wrong one!) so while I was there what worked best was do sign language or point to whatever I want done or delivered to my table, or nod to say yes and shake head to say no. I usually say

Please... (speak to me in) English only.

I'm sorry I don't understand you. English only please.

In Thailand, there was this guy who just kept talking to me in Thai even if my tour guide has told him that I'm not Thai. It was annoying but there was no point in debating if neither of us understand each other.

I was greeted with "Konichiwa!" by a tour guide when I was in New York (USA) just a few years ago. I thought to myself,

Huh?! What in the world was that all about?

I looked around and there behind me was a group of Japanese people queueing too.

Ah well, now I'm a Japanese too?! Maybe I should wear a shirt that say

Hey don't greet me in any Language other than English or Tagalog!

It is a muted fact that each one of us discriminates other people from other region, country or continent. We'd all say we are better than all of you and you'd say otherwise, won't you? But sometimes, looks can be deceiving.

When I was working abroad, I mistakenly identified a staff as someone from India. I was corrected by this person who seemed offended. Then I found out later that people from their neighboring countries don't want to be identified as the other.

My indifference towards Chinese people didn't originate from nowhere. There's a lot of Chinese people residing in the Philippines who I was unfortunate to have met or crossed path with. Most, if not all, are rude and arrogant and racists. I don't think they'll ever learn politeness from Filipino people. If you don't believe me, go visit China town. Hence, you can't expect me to feel warm and cozy when they are around. However, if you're Chinese and you are certainly not this type, well then good. I'd be glad to meet you and tell you as well that my college best friend is of Chinese descent. Odd huh!

You know, despite our differences, I believe in equality. Culture, race or skin-color, and language shouldn't keep us apart. What keeps us apart is beliefs, politics or religion, which I do hope that is not the case. The world would be a better place to live if we all just get along.

But hey,

good without bad is not good at all.

I got that line from a film shown on HBO earlier, "Everything Must Go" (I think).

Oh by the way, Lucy (Liu) ... thanks for letting everyone know on 'Late Show with David Letterman' that you don't want to look like a Filipino. The world should know and don't get offended as well that feeling is absolutely mutual!

Maybe you didn't mean to be a racist, you just love that you're of Chinese descent. I do too, love that I'm Filipino which is why whenever I'm out of the country, I try my best to get more tanned so that others don't identify me as nothing else but a proud Filipino!

Mabuhay ang mga Pinoy!

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Awesome #Nuffnang / #Kojie.san Night!

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 03:42:00 +0000

It's long overdue but once again thank you Nuffnang Philippines and Kojie.san for the free Taken 2 movie screening tickets at Shang Cineplex and for the free Kojie.san men skin care products. I wish there were also products for ladies but hey I'm still grateful because boys in the family are enjoying the Kojie.san | men face and body soap and the Kojie.san cologne that I received. Now they're not as smelly as before :D

It was also great to meet the image model of Kojie.san, John Spainhour. He was kind enough to answer my questions after we had our photos taken by Jay-r Pidal (I believe that's the photographer's name).

I hope John really agreed when I told him that "It's more fun in the Philippines!" I fired just a couple of questions to John (e.g. about his hair [yes duh] and which state he is from) because it was a busy night and a lot of other people want his time and attention. I wonder though if I can get the chance to properly interview him :D

Thank you John for being so gracious to bloggers and guests. Here's behind the scenes of the making of Kojiesan Men tv commercial:

Food was awesome that night too!

Enjoying free meal with my son EJ
and 2 other bloggers, one of them is Dangal Macatangay

Before Taken 2 screening started, there was a mini-game for the guys. 10 guys were randomly called, including former child actor (Philippines) Chuckie Dreyfuss, to participate because no one was brave enough to volunteer. Each of the guys were asked "Lalaki ka ba?" ("Are you a man?"). They all responded candidly and of course they received Kojiesan men products.

See you again Nuffnang on future events!

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Runners for a Cause ~|~ Responsible Runners vs. Pea-Brained?

noreply@blogger.com (Geca Franco) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 13:08:00 +0000

For the third time, I ran to help rehabilitate the Pasig River (Philippines). Fingers-crossed, all runners' effort, time and money in this great cause aren't wasted into nothing. Runners or not, we all want to see the result that the Pasig River is free from darn stinking garbage and finally brought back to life after being declared biologically dead 2 decades ago.

Wouldn't you want that great vision to come true for the new generations to enjoy?

with Hannah
(in grey sweat and cap)

This year, I managed to encourage my sister and a close friend of mine to join me in running for a cause. Hopefully more will join me in the next runs. Will you run with me?

with Hannah's cousin

A few minutes before the gun start at 5am that day, it poured heavily so all runners were soaking wet. There was nowhere to run to so we just stayed where we were. Good thing though that my friend's cousin brought with her an umbrella so 4 of us squeezed ourselves under in our attempt to stay dry.

Rain subsided a little just a couple of minutes before the gun start, so off we went half-soaked!

This is the first time ever that it rained on a run for Pasig River (I believe) and other runs that I joined. I joked to my co-runners that maybe it's better that I run by myself. It was fun though, at least, I was not alone running wet-look style!

Unfortunately, fun ended by the time we reached the water station. No more water to refill our bottles! Behind the water station one-man crew were two empty blue containers. The same situation on the second water station. Also, no water bottles to buy anywhere near nor a mile away.

Worse, pea-brained participants, who were able to secure themselves a styrofoam-cup to quench their thirst from the water station, have thrown their used cups all over the place despite the fact that there was a bin bag!

No one gutsy to tell them off so I did shout at all of them.

Hey all of you who threw the cups all over the place! You are all stupid and irresponsible runners!

As usual, as stupid does, they just shrugged, showing off how dense they are.

Wouldn't you expect runners for a great cause to be responsible and care enough not to throw garbage and make a mess of environment?

If I cross path with you and I see that you threw garbage not in their proper bin, expect me to either remind you or tell you off! You can count on that.

After the run, there was a live show led by the organizer. You know, it's all good to see celebrities (try to) entertain the runners. However, I don't think I heard the organizer thanked the runners for participating in the event. Please correct me if I'm wrong here. But there wouldn't be river warriors if there were no runners, would there?

Live entertainment wasn't enough to make me and my sister stay, not to mention that we were very thirsty and was too hot to stand under the heat of the sun plus being pushed by pea-brained shrieking fans, so we left early.

with my sister

Better luck on the next run, I wish. Run with me!

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