Just Passing Thru

Coping With Grief During the Holidays

2023-01-01T18:24:00.004-08:00

I don't exactly know how I survived this first Christmas after losing my husband. Maybe the anticipation of holiday grief is more dreadful than living through the actual day. It's also possible that the people surrounding me just did a good job in making me feel that there is life even when grieving.

Based on observation of other people, I seem to be coping with grief fairly well. If coping means I still have the energy to wake up and go about my daily work; if it means being able to still laugh, sing, and dance; if it means taking care of myself, if it means I still fight fiercely for what I believe in, then yes, I am coping.

What many don't know is that for me to be able to cope on the outside, I need to accept and go through the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with losing a loved one. It is not an understatement to say that every corner of where I go is a constant reminder that future memories will no longer include him. Knowing this, is responsible for much of the pain.

Calm Days and Moments of Melancholy

Calm days are something I am most thankful for. It gives me a sense of normalcy in this particular life disruption. Moments of melancholy or having feelings that go beyond sadness come in waves, usually unexpectedly.

The struggle not to have these moments noticed by others is real. I don't like spoiling the mood of festive activities. Most of the time I am able to fake it, but sometimes it is just too much. Family and friends are incredible sources of support and love, accept them.

Moving Forward

Going into the 10th month without my husband, I can say that things and situations associated with him have become more bearable. I have no illusions that all pain will go away in time but I truly understand now that we learn to live with it and still live a fruitful life. I totally believe that I can honor my husband's life best when I am able to carry on. For now, our children remains the priority. Self-development is a close second.

Our memories will remain with me whatever I decide to do in the future.

My Say

Deep in my heart, I wish he is still with us. That said, I pray that he can still guide our family from above as I try my very best to complete our parental duties.

We will never forget you Ramon. I am so sorry I was not able to put up the Christmas Tree for this past holiday. It has always been your "job" to do it yearly.

When is it Wise to Consider Borrowing Money for Business?

2022-08-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

Borrowing money for business is not a simple decision to do. No one can really tell whether expected returns for taking on the financial responsibility will be realized. There are essential aspects to consider to determine whether it is a wise move.

Whether borrowing is something regular or seasonal for business, it has its purpose. Debts are not necessarily a liability specifically in business. Not in the right business hands, they aren't.

Photo by Mike Petrucci on Unsplash

Business owners who learn to maximize the advantages of business loan use end up enjoying the results of calculated risks. Cash flow management is more efficient. Credit worthiness reputation is built with responsible repayment. Possibilities for expansion can be unlimited.

So when is it wise to consider borrowing money for business?

Sufficient Planning

Prudent business owners do not simply decide to borrow money. Such decision is best arrived at after careful planning. This means giving time to research financing options and determining suitability based on actual business needs and circumstances. The loan process may also take some time to be completed so it makes sense to file the application way before the time of actual need.

There are standard business loan requirements that borrowers need to comply with. While there may be some challenges in completing them especially for new business owners, there is nothing to prevent them from complying. It is important to have a strategic plan in place so that borrowed funds will definitely go to intended reasons. It is always wise to borrow when plans are in place.

Expanding Operation

It is not rocket science that business expansion requires more capital. Unless business owners have their own unlimited funding source, borrowing is a sensible option. It also bears knowing that the cost of equity is higher than the cost of debt.

There are different types of business loans. Term loans where borrowers get a lump sum of cash to be repaid with interest over a predetermined period, are suitable for business expansion. A business cash advance is extended to the borrower based on a business' future revenue. Another is the business line of credit provides access to funds based on credit limit. It is wise to borrow for business expansion as it creates financial leverage to a profitable business.

Machinery and Equipment Purchase

For a business to make increase in production possible, upgrading machinery and equipment is necessary. Of course this requires money. So does investing in new technology that will help boost production.

Increased production means more clients served. More clients mean more income. More income means more profit. It is wise to borrow to purchase machinery and equipment that strengthens business infrastructure.

My Say

A business loan is a useful tool for growth. When utilized the right way, it can be a business owner's best ally. When availed of irresponsibly, it can be the heaviest burden to carry.

Risks will always be part of doing business. Taking out a business loan is one such risk. That said, risks are worth taking as long as they are calculated to increase business profitability.

How to Support Small Business Mompreneurs

2022-05-24T03:31:00.003-07:00

Never has there been a time when small business mommy entrepreneurs (or "mompreneurs") needed a boost than now.

Times have been especially challenging because of the pandemic. Many mothers try to help in family finances through income generating activities that will not take them away from their families. Home food business is one of the preferred options since it generally does not need a large capital to start.

Still, small-time mompreneurs can benefit from corporate initiatives that will empower them to keep their businesses booming. It is very common for many budding entrepreneurs to give up at first, whether it is due to finances, a lack of family support, or physical exhaustion brought about by many responsibilities.

The ALASKAkaibang Summer Kit provided by Alaska Milk Corporation is just one of the very simple ways of inspiring mothers to continue with their endeavors. Aside from tall-time favorites such as Classic Sweetened Condensed Milk, Classic Evaporated Milk, Condensada, Evaporada, and 2-in-1 Crema-Asada, the kit also contains easy-to-do recipes which mompreneurs can make and sell.

There are also some things that we can do to help mompreneurs succeed:

Buy their Products

Relatives and friends can help small business owners by buying their products. If you really like to help, forget about asking for discount and freebies that may eat up their small capital. After all, they need to get their capital back plus profit if they are to continue. Anything less can mean closing-up shop.

Promote their Products

If you think you've stumbled upon an excellent product, then promote it by all means. However, if you think that some improvements can still be made, then your business owner relative or friend will benefit from honest feedback. Successful business owners know how to listen.

Alert them of Business Initiatives

Many mompreneurs would be happy to know of available initiatives that can help them develop their businesses. Whether this be for learning skills, access to additional capitalization, or market exposure, these are opportunities to attain business stability.

My Say

I believe that owning even a small home business empowers women to take an active role in providing for the needs of the family. Making difficult decisions in choosing between work and family can be avoided. That said, mompreneurs need the support of family members if they are to make a real go of their business.

Preparing For Your Portrait Photoshoot

2022-01-29T02:42:00.000-08:00

Preparing for a portrait photoshoot can turn out to be overwhelming. You need to do many things to ensure that you get a quality portrait and have the best experience. Therefore, preparing for your portrait early is critical. These tips are what you should have on your mind while preparing for a portrait photoshoot.

Photo by Harrison Haines from Pexels

Choose a Reliable Photographer

Before you do anything, look for a portrait photographer with extensive experience specializing in portraits. You can visit their websites to read previous customers' reviews. Also, go through their professional portraits gallery to see whether they have a picture with a style that you would want. You can talk to them about your portrait session and choose a day, time, and location. They offer the best portrait services for personal and business use.

Go For Manicure

A good portrait photographer captures every single detail. Therefore, plan for a manicure and pedicure a day or two before the portrait photoshoot. This way, your nails will look better on camera. Consider putting a dark nail color to make your nails look intriguing and prettier. You can also go for a beautiful French manicure. Avoid using bright nail colors since they will attract too much attention. However, if you choose to do your nails at home, ensure you trim the cuticles and file them well.

Get a Good Night's Sleep

It is critical to get a good night's sleep the day before your portrait photoshoot session. A good rest will make you look great. Furthermore, you will be able to wake up early and get enough time to prepare, style yourself, perfect your wardrobe, and travel. You will reach your destination without rushing, giving you enough time to relax before the photo session starts.

Keep Skin Hydrated

One week before the portrait photoshoot, ensure you take care of your skin. Avoid drinking too much alcohol but take loads of water. Eat healthy foods and avoid salty foods. Also, each day moisturizes your skin. This way, you will have an elegant look during your portrait-taking session.

Select Your Wardrobe

As you prepare for a portrait photoshoot, take with you several outfits. Pick clothing that fits well. This way, you will be more comfortable while moving, which will boost your confidence. While choosing a wardrobe for portrait shooting, avoid stripes and patterns, especially if your location is new, as they can conflict with other things. Furthermore, avoid clothes with logos since they are visually distracting. Consider wearing neutral colors like beige, white, gray, tan, or black since they are perfect for portraits. These neutral colors will avoid conflicting with the background and complement your skin better.

Hair

If you have dyed your hair, retouching the growth three or four days before the portrait photoshoot is ideal. Avoid any drastic changes at this time. If you prefer cutting your hair, trim it to look neat and vibrant. Also, visit your hairstylist to condition your hair or do it yourself. A little preparation can change your portrait photoshoot from good to the best.

My Say

Therefore, doing these things can help you prepare and get the best portrait photoshoot.

Live Safe Now with Defensil

2021-11-08T02:47:00.001-08:00

Living safe during this difficult time of the pandemic is very challenging. Not everyone has the luxury to stay home. Most of us have to venture outside the safety of our homes to earn a living, get family essentials, and just to continue living.

It is very easy to be defeated by fear and give up, but should we? For parents like me, this is not even an option, there are children who depend on me. Beyond that, there are my responsibilities as a servant leader of our community and this continues more so because there is a pandemic. With such responsibilities, I need to be safe for me to be able to do what I need to do.

Staying Safe and Healthy During the Pandemic

Basic precautionary measures have to be practiced. This includes wearing of face masks, observing proper distancing, and avoiding unnecessary activities that require face-to-face interaction. Another important safety measure is to have disinfecting products at hand such as Defensil.

Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol enables Filipinos to continue their lifestyles during the pandemic, allowing them to still do the activities they love while staying safe and healthy.

As the rubbing alcohol brand recommended by the Philippine Society for Microbiology, Filipinos can live safe wherever they are with Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol – whether commuting to work, doing essential errands such as buying groceries at the supermarket or palengke, or even working out outdoors or shopping online – since it starts to kill germs on contact and kills 99.9% of common germs and bacteria, while providing up to 12 hours of protection upon constant use.

Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol is also hypoallergenic and has moisturizing properties so you can sanitize as much as you need without having to worry about your hands drying.

About Defensil 70% Solution Isopropyl Alcohol

One way to prevent the spread of germs is regular disinfection of hands and high touch surfaces using a rubbing alcohol.

To provide a higher level of defense against germs in the new normal, the Philippine Society for Microbiology is recommending Defensil 70% Solution Isopropyl Alcohol.

Defensil 70% Solution Isopropyl Alcohol

• Kills 99.9% of germs to give people the peace of mind that they are well-defended

• Starts to kill germs on contact

• Will provide up to 12 hours of protection with constant use

Defensil 70% Solution Isopropyl Alcohol is also a pharmaceutical grade alcohol, which means that it has passed the strictest quality standards of the Philippine Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

Defensil is available in Robinsons, Puregold, and other leading supermarkets.

My Say

Having Defensil in my bag or within my reach is protection that is real. It is impossible to know for sure where we can pick up the virus. Our hands are the usual point of contact so it is always best to kill them before it reaches parts of our body where we are most at risk.

These are trying times indeed. With the continuous evolution and mutation of the Covid-19 virus, the threat remains and increases. That said, we need to LIVE SAFE NOW.

Grave Caretakers: Why It Makes Sense to Hire Them

2021-10-31T19:57:00.003-07:00

Several days before All Souls' Day, my father would pack us all in our family van to visit our departed loved ones at the cemetery. This was an annual obligation to fulfill. I remember as a child seeing my father talk to an old woman, giving her instructions for the flowers and candles we brought to be placed on our relatives' grave site on the actual date for All Souls' Day.

Our family's early visit to the cemetery was intentional to avoid the expected crowd drawn by this yearly tradition. Being the grave caretaker for our family, this woman was expected to keep the area clean and provide protection from possible vandals or thieves. This was possible because grave caretakers usually live around the area.

As time passed, this woman was replaced by a younger relative. Soon after, I took over my father's corresponding responsibility when he became terminally ill. The arrangement between us continued in this manner. From then up to now, I have learned to appreciate the sense of hiring a reliable grave caretaker.

Year-Round Care for the Grave Site

It is impossible for many of us to visit the final resting place of our dearly departed as often as we would like to. Having a grave caretaker provides regularity in cleaning the site and not only during All Souls' Day. Of course, it would be best to hire someone you can trust to do his/her duty without you discovering for yourself about actual negligence when you decide to make a surprise visit.

Special Care Under Extraordinary Times

This pandemic gives us a glimpse on what could happen if physical conditions prevent us from traveling. Grave sites are often neglected all year round. More so, if the annual visit still cannot be made. Hiring a grave caretaker can address the need to put the area in order while prayers for the dead can still be done wherever we are.

Updated Information for Unexpected Change in Cemetery Policies

It is a no-brainer that cemetery management should contact lot owners of any major change in policies. Making contact however, is an all-together different reality especially in the Philippine setting where turnover to the next generation is almost always informal and cemetery management is rarely informed. The grave caretaker can help provide needed information.

My Say

There was a time my own family and I braved the sea of humanity trekking to cemeteries on All Souls' Day. I wanted them to understand that our ancestors deserve to get at least this annual visit from us. That said, I'm sure they'll understand the limitations we have now and know that they will always be in our hearts.

Drive Mosquitoes Away in Style

2021-09-24T07:15:00.001-07:00

The Dengue season is again upon us. Has anyone else noticed how more persistent the mosquitoes have become in clinging to human skin? They're literally everywhere but it's a good thing I've discovered how to drive mosquitoes away in style.

How, you ask? With the good ol' mosquito coil or katol. Katol is essentially a mosquito-repelling incense that comes in spiral form. While it works to drive away annoying mosquitoes, it should be used in areas where there is sufficient ventilation to avoid health issues. It should not also be left unattended to avoid accidental fires.

Granted that basic safety precautions are observed, the use of mosquito coil to repel mosquitoes is economical and safer to use than most insecticides. One concern in its use is the rather unattractive appearance while being used. It is not something that you would like your guests to see while visiting your home.

Reinventing Katol

Katol nowadays can be bought in scented form aside from their original formulation. Thanks to more recent stylish innovations, you can actually keep it lighted even in the presence of visitors. The usual metal stand can now be replaced with beautiful holders that look like decorative pieces.

Photo Credit

I bought four pieces of retro-iron mosquito coil holder in gold and the design just perfectly fit our home. My online search led me to other options for katol as well as holders. Smokeless katols seem to be a good choice and so are the beautiful holders shown above.

My Say

For the longest time, I have been hiding katol while in use. That said, with the recent innovations in formulation and holder style, I don't see any reason to do that anymore. Let's drive away mosquitoes in style.

Ambos Mundos Restaurant Blog: Preserving Culture While Preserving Traditional Food

2021-08-14T23:13:00.005-07:00

The connection between culture and food has long been established. In fact, talking about a country's culture without mentioning the food is impossible. Food has helped shaped many cultural identities around the world.

It is inevitable to conclude then that in the efforts of preserving culture, we will find ourselves preserving traditional food as well. I found this out for myself during a very simple interaction I had with my young daughter. It was just supposed to be a simple demonstration of how to cook champorado but it turned out to be a travel through time to my childhood memories.

The stories on how the simple champorado evoked memories that remain in my heart flowed effortlessly. It helped that my daughter was asking questions like who cooked the champorado when I was young, did my parents prepare it the same way I was presenting it to her, was the same ingredients used, and so on. I distinctly remember the smell of cooking cocoa tablea, the manner of announcement that the champorado was ready, and how my siblings and I would rush to the table and had our fill of it. It was almost like a ritual made more special if my grandmother was in the mood for telling stories.

Ways of Preserving Traditional Food

To make the analogy simpler, I will attempt to answer this in the context of a very simple traditional Filipino food - the champorado.

Make it relatable to the younger generation

Champorado traces its history in Philippine cuisine during the country's Spanish colonization. The cocoa tablea may be alien to many young people but they can certainly relate to chocolate. While champorado is traditionally enjoyed warm with dried fish, it can be served chilled with choco shavings and choco bits.

Provide variations of the original

Traditional champorado comes in choco brown color, just as most of us know chocolate. White chocolate was a later development which soon found its way to many food applications. White choco champorado is a perfect example.

Combine with other local staple crops

Ube is an indigenous staple crop of the Philippines. Its possibilities as a flavoring for many food items have been explored extensively and with great success. Candy, ice cream, cake, bread, and now with porridge, have all been received positively by Filipino consumers.

My Say

We, at Ambos Mundos Restaurant believe that passing on traditions to the next generation is essential to preserving our culture. That said, if we can help do this through food, we will gladly do so.

5 Top Laundry Tips During the Rainy Season

2021-08-04T09:20:00.002-07:00

Doing the laundry during the rainy season can be the bane of many homemakers. It is not uncommon to end up rewashing many clothes after being in the clothesline for several days due to non-stop rain. This of course wastes so much precious time as such time can be used for other household tasks that are equally important.

Photo by Randy Fath on Unsplash

Here are my 5 Top Laundry Tips During the Rainy Season:

1. Prioritize Laundry Items to Wash

Since it would take a longer time for newly laundered clothes to dry during the rainy season, this means limited hanging space for the next laundry batches. Prioritize which clothes to wash first according to the need for them. It would be helpful for family members to consider using particular clothes such as denim pants more than once before throwing into the laundry basket so as not to create an unnecessarily big pile.

2. Invest in a reliable dryer

During the rainy season when outdoor drying of clothes is a guaranteed game of hit and miss, owning a reliable dryer is a definite time saver. Having to dry clothes indoor is extremely difficult if they are dripping wet. Make sure to adjust the heat level on the fabric.

3. Use a fabric conditioner

Drying clothes indoors may result to musty smelling clothes. Using the right fabric conditioner can resolve this concern. Downy Kontra Kulob is my preferred product for this purpose.

4. Set up a Portable Clothes Dryer

Newly laundered clothes should have a place for hanging even if already passed through through the dryer. They still benefit from some time hanging on a clothes dryer with sufficient space in between. This is best done in an airconditioned room or at least a room with a fan or slightly opened windows, if possible.

5. Iron almost-dry clothes

To give way to other clothes that need drying, ironing almost dry clothes preferably under a towel expedites the process. Once done, they can be folded and set aside. Besides, ironing slightly damp clothes makes it easier to remove creases.

My Say

The rainy season is a welcome respite especially after a very long summer. It can be very frustrating though for some domestic activities like doing the laundry. That said, nothing is impossible with the right preparation and products.

Childhood Toys: To Keep or Not to Keep?

2021-06-28T18:33:00.001-07:00

My grown-up son was going through his childhood toys one day when he was cleaning his room. He wanted to have more space for his school things now that it appears his dorm days will not be back just yet because of the pandemic. I detected a sense of melancholy as I watched him. Not sure though if it is coming from me or him. So do we keep his toys or not?

Keep the Toys that...

1. Have specific sentimental value

Be selective as it will be very difficult to choose. Let's face it, every piece has its sentimental value. You have to choose or else you will end up keeping everything.

2. You like to pass on the next generation

There are toys that can be passed on like family heirlooms. Make sure that its condition and make can last through time. Otherwise, it might be a good idea to have another child play with it today unless of course you have abilities to preserve it and good reason to keep it.

3. Younger kids in the family can play with now

Consider if you have younger kids who can play with the toys. In this case, it will just be a question of transferring the toys to another room.

My Say

You may have other reasons to keep your kids' toys and that's fine. The memories they represent are yours. That said, if you feel you can give them to other children who can still enjoy them, do so. Memories will remain with you and you will be happy knowing other kids are enjoying them like your kids used to.

Panalong Lasting Challenge by Joy Philippines

2021-06-26T18:16:00.001-07:00

Joy Philippines gave mothers all over the country the Panalong Lasting Challenge to see if a single Joy Kinsenas Pack can last for 15 days for regular home dishwashing needs. I was one of those who joined. Let me share with you the results.

First Day

I bought the Joy Kinsenas Pack for P10.50 per sachet. Frankly, I was in doubt whether the contents would actually last for 15 days. Nevertheless, I proceeded as I don't back out from challenges that would be helpful to our household. At times like these, I believe all households have become more careful with their expenses. Thus, any opportunity for savings is greatly appreciated.

Seventh Day

My family loves eating so you can just imagine the amount of pots, pans, plates, and utensils we have to wash daily. From day 1, I followed the instruction to mix a 25 centavo coin-sized drop of Joy Dishwashing to Liquid to 1 cup of water. Although I saw how bubbly it was, I still wasn't sure the Joy Kinsenas pack would last as promised.

Fifteenth Day

The day for the final verdict came. It was truly a surprise that it did last enough to manage our dishwashing needs for 15 days. I'm happy that my doubts were put to rest and gained a lot of savings in the process.

My Say

It is really true that we should not judge before even trying. If I just relied on my initial thoughts that a small pack cannot possibly last for several days, I would not have discovered how budget friendly the Joy Kinsenas Pack is. That said, this challenge will be a daily routine in our household.

Is it Costly to Live in Calgary?

2021-06-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

For the average Canadian, thinking of Calgary brings to mind cowboys on horseback and modern players playing hockey. Although this rugged energy is a tradition that the city prides itself on, sitting at the oil capital of Canada: people are never really sure what to expect when they arrive.

Photo by Deane Bayas from Pexels

To many, Calgary sounds like a large city with a small-city energy. They're not wrong! Sprawled out flat across many lands, living in Calgary can feel a lot like vanishing into dozens of towns molded into one piece.

What does that mean about home price, though?

Here are the top things to consider when deciding if Calgary homes for sale are going to fit your budget.

The Expanse of Land

It can feel like there’s endless land in Calgary. Stopped only by the surrounding mountains and developers' wallets, the city seems to lose space quickly. This is driving up the cost of homes, increasing the expense people have to pay on fuel, and leaving many fed up with city life.

The ample open space can also work against homeowners, especially if they live on the outskirts because the traffic and distance they have to travel to work or enjoy the city can add up to a lot of missed time. For many, it's worth buying a condo instead.

The Types of Jobs Available

Because of Calgary's past, many may assume they'll have to find a hands-on job; it's not the case! Most of Calgary's workforce makes between $50,000 and $500,000 a year, depending on the role and the company. Calgary's central money-making functions are those involved in oil and those in the technology sector. Although this city isn't known yet as a technological metropolis, it's gaining a more techy reputation by investing a lot in start-ups and smaller companies.

These jobs bring in more money than the average hourly job.

The Snowbirds

Although you may not think snowbirds (people who fly South for the winter) would affect much of the price in Calgary, it does! Although many people slip south in the winter: there are even more who come up north during the summer for cooler weather and partying.

Calgary has a severe issue with landlords renting out entire apartment buildings on listing sites like Airbnb because it limits the living situations for those who spend every day of the year in the city. This can boost up the prices of housing that is available and stops many people from being able to buy a home.

The average cost of a house in Calgary is 1.5x the price of a home in a larger city like Houston in the United States. Although you can get a Houstonian home for $225,000 easily, in Calgary, similar homes sell for $350,000.

My Say

If you can balance out the cost with saving money in other parts of your life, buying a home in Calgary is a great idea! That said, you’re almost guaranteed to gain money in the long term, as long as you can handle the upfront cost.

Impact of School Awards on Parents and Children

2021-06-06T00:00:00.004-07:00

School awards have made schoolyear endings fulfilling or disappointing to many parents and children. Whether the resulting feeling will be the former or the latter depends on whether a recognition was awarded or denied. The impact of school awards is undeniable but should it be so?

Signals of Approval

Whether or not parents voice out their expectations on their children bringing home school awards, the pressure is there. It is but natural that parents feel proud of their children's accomplishments, no matter how small. Recognition of such accomplishments by teachers and peers fulfills to a certain degree the human need for acceptance and validation.

Awards can serve as signals of approval and receiving them feels good. Does it follow then that not receiving one represents disapproval? Of course not, but it may sometimes seem so especially to young children who may relate getting an award to their "worth" as they perceive it.

Sibling Comparison

What should parents do when one child excels in school and another is not doing as well? Should they dim the light of the academically successful child to pre-empt possible feelings of jealousy and resentment? It might be construed by the other child as creating pressure to up the ante.

Should they "celebrate mediocrity" as others would call celebration of seemingly trivial achievements to avoid assumptions of playing favorites? Let us try to look at this based on standard measurements of success. After all, there is no such thing as small achievements for parents when it comes to their children.

My Say

Wanting to get awards is not bad, actually not at all. It only becomes so when it becomes a major basis for parental approval. It becomes bad when it is the sole goal of students, regardless of how it was obtained.

That said, awards should not be the only reason for doing our best. It is simply a bonus that we get along the way of reaching our dreams. In the family, we celebrate achievements and acknowledge failures. Like it or not, awards have a big impact in the family and it is up to its members to make sure that it will not be a source of pressure, or basis for measurement of value.

Debut for Men at 21

2021-05-17T02:06:00.009-07:00

A debut or coming-of-age celebration for men is not as common as those for women. At the age of 21, men usually mark this day with less formal celebrations or none at all. This does not make it any less special though.

Why 21 and not 18?

Considering that the legal age in the Philippines is 18, one might ask why the celebration of the male debut comes at 21 years. The celebration of debut in the Philippines has much to do with Spanish influence. It is of note however that 21 is considered the age of independence in several countries. It is possible that this might be the reason for the designating male debut at 21 years.

In the United States, the age of 21 signals the freedom to purchase alcohol or firearms. A deep connection to the rituals of knighthood is said to be the basis for celebrating the 21st birthday of men in the United Kingdom. Some countries see the 21st birthday of both men and women as special

How Are Male Debuts Celebrated

If female debutantes have their cotillion balls, male debutants have their equivalent in beautillion balls. Very few male debutants though look forward to such formalities. Most would choose to celebrate in other ways.

Suggestions include:

1. Organize adventure activities with friends

2. Make it a Road Adventure

3. Photo Session with Friends and Family

4. Sports Activities

5. Community Service

There are no hard and fast rules in celebrating. Celebrants can be as imaginative and practical as they can be. Making it a "Me time" is another great idea.

My Say

My son just turned 21. Many years ago, we planned to make it a special celebration by traveling. The current pandemic condition totally removed that option.

That said, we still hope to push through with this plan when circumstances permit. None the less, today is still a happy day for my son and our family.

A New Beginning for Ambos Mundos Restaurant

2021-01-14T07:25:00.003-08:00

Surreal...that was how it felt when I received a call from my lawyer that the registration of the trade name Ambos Mundos Restaurant is finally back under my name. The many years of disappointments left me unprepared to hear news favorable to my cause. More than twenty-two years after I filed a case to get back what has been wrongfully denied us, which is the very use of a trade/business name established and built by my family, it is back. The worse may be over but the real work of rebuilding is just beginning.

The food business landscape is way different now from what it was twenty-two years ago. The Covid-19 pandemic has been brutal specifically to restaurants. With the steep decline in the number of dining customers, restaurants had to reinvent themselves to keep going. Take-out did not exactly fill the gap forced wide open by the behavioral shift of customers.

Food Delivery as a Way for Restaurants to Adapt

With majority of the customers now choosing to stay or work at home, restaurants had to find a way to bring the food to them. Food Delivery is now a major factor in the restaurant survival equation. All too suddenly it seems, the question is no longer how cozy the ambiance or how popular the name is. From the unlimited food choices offered online, the customer's main question is "Do you deliver?"

Ambos Mundos Restaurant PH for Ambos Mundos Restaurant Food Delivery

As Ambos Mundos Restaurant rebuilds itself in the midst of the pandemic, a physical store may have to wait a little longer. Food Delivery via Ambos Mundos PH is here from now up to that time when the physical doors of the restaurant again open to welcome customers. For all we know, food delivery will remain necessary even after the pandemic.

My Say

We invite everyone to call us at 09683034729 for your orders. You can also order online via Ambos Mundos Restaurant PH. Rest assured that we are working hard to complete our menu list as soon as possible. This goes as well in our efforts to widen the scope of areas where we can deliver. We hope to serve you soon.

Women Who Have Become the Light of Hope of Their Communities

2020-05-21T01:02:00.000-07:00

Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, these women have become the light of hope in their communities.

Manila, Philippines, April 27, 2020—In this time of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), some of us might have already felt the urge to think of ways we can lend a helping hand. When the opportunity to provide assistance have come knocking on the doors of some ordinary, everyday women like Marielle Solomon, Sarah Jane de la Rosa, Pia Alviola, Melissa Olit, and Angela Lapinosa, they embraced the chance to help and made things happen! They have been voluntarily and wholeheartedly taking on tasks of providing food, of sourcing for relief goods, of creating PPEs, and mobilizing resources for Filipinos in COVID-harm’s way. They didn’t think twice to go out of their comfort zones to share a part of themselves and be a light to others.

Marielle Solomon is a marketing professional who currently spends most of her time around volunteers like herself in Siargao Community Kitchen to ease the plight of families in the island whose source of income have been affected by COVID-19. At present, they have provided over 4,000 food packs, staying true to the belief that community starts with sharing. Through her efforts, Marielle is just one of the women who bring the light to the island of Siargao.

Student Sarah Jane de la Rosa’s light has truly radiated throughout the Metro. She has proven that being a differently abled person is not and will never be a hindrance if you put your heart in the service of a solid cause. A volunteer at the Barangay Holy Spirit Person with Disabilities Association, Sarah who is afflicted with cerebral palsy, ably leads her team as their President in providing relief packages in the area. As of today, the association has provided much needed help to more than 1,000 PWD’s and their families.

Project Love PPE and Masks has produced and donated over 1,500 masks and 600 PPEs in various hospitals. This initiative is the brainchild of Pia Alviola, a Fashion Designer based in Makati City, who has found a way to bring the light among our healthcare front liners the best way she knows how, through her skills, and her desire to not only provide a source of income for her team of seamstresses and tailors, but also to be an instrument of providing protection in these times.

In Puerto Princesa, Melissa Olit, the founder of Chef Aiza’s Community has seen to it that her community in Palawan is given the proper nutrition and sustenance they need. From front liners to students, and even to hard working construction workers stranded on the island, Melissa has made sure the food she prepares, and delivers are sourced from local farmers to sustain their livelihood. Over the course of bringing light to front liners and local farmers, her group has already served more than 5,000 food packs.

Through a drive called RICEaboveCOVID, Angela Lapinosa, one of the lead organizers of the initiative, has illuminated the city of Cebu with her generosity and service. At the Cebu Institute of Technology, Angela is known as a student leader. But for the two hundred beneficiaries of the cause she represents, Angela is one to remember only with the kindest of words. The young ones also acknowledge her as someone who has shed light into their lives and has given them hope for being the project manager of “Para Kay Baby”, a project under RICEaboveCOVID that has allocated 100 relief goods to the families of infants and children in her town.

These five extraordinary women have truly become light bearers in their communities for serving as volunteers who through their service and heart, have greatly contributed to the common good. Like these women, SkinWhite has always believed that anyone can #BeTheLight especially in times of uncertainty. Every effort no matter how small, can have a considerable amount of good especially to those who are in need. Let us continue inspiring and encouraging these women by supporting their causes, as we too can be the light in our own ways.

Here are ways to reach Marielle, Sarah, Pia, Melissa and Angela as we make these challenging times lighter!

Siargao Community Kitchen - +63 939 883 4033 | visit their Siargao Community Kitchen on Instagram and Facebook page
Barangay Holy Spirit Person with Disabilities Association - Sarah de la Rosa
Project Love PPE and Masks - Pia Alviola
Chef Aiza’s Community - Melissa Olit, Community Kitchen’s page, or Chef Aiza's Community on Instagram
RICEaboveCOVID – Cebuano Youth Ambassadors, Inc. Lapinosa

Reflections on my Birthday Amidst Covid-19

2020-04-30T21:55:00.000-07:00

Birth and death are at the opposite ends of what we call life. While one signals the start, the other signals the end. That is how I found myself reflecting on the anniversary date of my birth amidst the deaths caused by the onslaught of Covid-19.

Celebrating at this time cannot be what it used to be. The times require us to be more sensitive as people struggle through sickness, lost jobs and businesses, and even death in the family. So today I will quietly celebrate these three simple things as I start another year of my life.

1. I am alive

Not all people are given this gift every day. It is true that I sometimes feel discouraged, unappreciated, and sad but I cannot depend on others to make me feel otherwise. No matter how difficult, I know I need to continue to encourage myself, recognize my worth, and work on my happiness.

2. My dream is alive

For the longest time, I fought for the legacy of Ambos Mundos. My efforts were finally rewarded late last year with the final decision that enabled me to again register the beloved trade name under my name. While we work on our restaurant's come back, our other business venture AMBOS Breads is doing great.

3. My passion is alive

I Thank God for the gift of writing. It has allowed me to serve. It has allowed me to fight for what is right. It has allowed me to see things in a better perspective.

My Say

Celebrating one's birthday during a pandemic is far from ideal. However, the present situation forces us to look on what we have right now and use it. No parties, no gifts, no new dress but we still have our lives, our dreams, and our skills. That said, this might be one of my most memorable birthdays, as I will remember it as a day when I was actually thankful for what I have. For to survive Covid-19 physically, emotionally, and economically, is a feat in itself.

You "KanDuu" the Things You Want with FWD Philippines

2020-01-10T10:38:00.002-08:00

FWD Philippines gives you the confidence so you “KanDuu” all the things you want to do, now.

Why wait?

Imagine all the things you can do when you’re confident and secured enough to accomplish them.

Jump off a plane and freefall, the wind on your face, your mind wide open.
Open your first solo exhibit or publish your first book.
Train, join, and finish a local triathlon or a marathon.
Nibble on freshly baked French macaroons you made yourself in a baking class in Paris.
Trek through the magnificent forests and high alpine meadows of Nepal, solo!
Quit your desk job to go freelance, full-time.
Explore the dive bars and architectural relics of Shinjuku’s Golden Gai.
Turn your little passion project into an online startup.
Live in a far-flung community to film your first documentary.
Go wreck diving in the Coron.

Responsibilities that come with adulting like bills to pay, work to deliver, a family to take care of, a future to secure, can stop us from doing things we are passionate about. It is never easy to fulfill obligations while following our dreams. One tend to contradict the other especially without sound financial planning. There is also the matter of securing ourselves and our loved ones to remove worries while we pursue our dreams.

Giving Filipinos the confidence to live life to the fullest, FWD Life Philippines (FWD PH), part of pan-Asian insurer FWD Group, recently launched KanDuu, a set of insurance products that covers you from death, critical illness, or accidents so you "Can Do" and pursue all the things you love.

Go ahead and do it!

Whether you’re an avid traveler, a fitness buff, or a lover of life, there’s a variant that’ll suit you—KanMend, KanLive, and KanGuard. And did we mention that aside from securing you and your family, each comes with really awesome rewards?

Designed with wellness warriors and health buffs in mind, KanMend gives you a cash benefit of Php100,000 once you get diagnosed with any of the 42 covered critical illnesses. Its welcome reward: Six months’ unlimited access to KonsultaMD’s 24/7 telemedicine service. No need to leave the house to consult with licensed Filipino doctors. All you need is to call.

KanLive has a cash benefit of Php200,000, in case of death and this reward: One-year unlimited medical consultations at any Aventus Medical clinics, nationwide.

Love to travel? Have a thirst for adventure? Want to live life on the edge? KanGuard gives a Php500,000 cash benefit in case of accidental death or disability due to terror attacks, anywhere in the world. Its reward? One-year global emergency services by Assist America for travels.

Insurance marketplace

Who knew you’d someday shop for insurance online the way you’d shop for gadgets or limited edition bike parts? Who knew getting insured is as fast as picking that shade of red lipstick you don’t already have? True to its vision to change the way people feel about insurance, FWD has now made insurance more accessible, affordable, and covetable to more Filipinos via shop.fwd.com.ph.

If you’re 18 to 50 years old, you can purchase KanDuu online for only PhP1,799/year at shop.fwd.com.ph, FWD PH’s new online insurance marketplace.

Just choose your variant (why not all??). Click buy. Fill out the one-page application form, pay via credit or debit card, and you’re done. You’re insured! Quick. Hassle-free. No medical. No paperwork. You just need a valid ID for verification. And with FWD’s insurance app, Tapp, you can access and manage your insurance and rewards, anytime, anywhere.

Go to bit.ly/MetroManilaLovesShopFWD to purchase your KanDuu insurance now!
Want to know more about FWD Life Philippines, part of the pan-Asian insurer FWD Group? Visit: https://www.fwd.com.ph/en/

My Say

Remember these easy steps:

Buy online at Shop@FWD and get approved in minutes!

Step 1: Visit www.shop.fwd.com.ph

Step 2: Choose one Kanduu plan you want to purchase

　　KanMend

· Protection against 42 critical illnesses

Reward: 6 months’ unli KonsultaMD telemedicine

　　KanLive

· Essential funds and protection for your family

Reward: 1 year unli medical consults at Aventus clinics

　　KanGuard

· Payout for accidents or terror attacks, worldwide

Reward: 1 year global emergency services

Step 3: Click “Buy Now”

Step 4: Fill out the application form and upload one valid ID

Step 5: Review application form summary and product summary

Step 6: Pay online via debit or credit card

Step 7: Expect a welcome email and SMS

Then live your life without worry.

Hallmark and 7-Eleven's Holiday Collaboration

2019-12-09T03:22:00.000-08:00

It’s the most wonderful time of the year as Hallmark and 7-Eleven bring love and joy this Christmas through their holiday collaboration.

The air is chilly, the mood is merry, and the lights are out and sparkling. What a joy it is to have the holidays upon us once again. This is the time to give back and share the love and blessings we have received this year, as it is what the true spirit of Christmas is.

This Christmas, Hallmark is inviting you to celebrate the season with the gift of love and care. In hopes to bring holiday cheer to street children, Hallmark is partnering with PhilSeven Foundation, convenience store 7-Eleven’s charity arm, through ‘Gulong ng Karunungan’ (GNK) project. This is a mobile school project that aims to provide education to the less fortunate street children of select local cities in the Philippines. Over the past years, GNK has helped augment the learning, supplemental feeding, and basic medical needs of over 2,000 disadvantaged youth, comprised mostly of out-of-school children and informal settlers from identified city beneficiaries.

Moreover, you as a customer can be a part of this jolly project. With every purchase of Hallmark Christmas products such as their Gift Wrappers, Gift Bags, Gift Tags and other Christmas products from 7-Eleven, a portion of the sales will be donated directly to support GNK project.

Make this season shine by celebrating it, too, with people outside your home. And when you care enough to give back, we believe that the smiles and joy of children in need are more than enough to warm your heart and make your Christmas, the merriest ever.

#CareEnough
#HallmarkChristmas
#HallmarkAtSevenEleven

*Be involved and get your Hallmark products by visiting your neighboring 7-Eleven store.
Hallmark Christmas products are also available in all leading bookstores and select online shops.

Sleep Hygiene: A Guide

2019-06-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

Proper hygiene is important for everyone. With that said, when we think of hygiene, we think about washing our hands, brushing our teeth, or putting on enough deodorant. We don’t think about hygiene in the sleep sense. However, sleep hygiene is quite important in the quest for getting a good night’s sleep. In this post, we will dive into the world of sleep hygiene and explain what you can do to have better hygiene.

Photo by Alexandra Gorn on Unsplash

Before Handling Your Issues

If you are having severe sleep issues, it could be a sign of depression or something deeper on your mind. In a case like this, it is important that you speak to a counselor or a therapist for help. You can be able to get the help you need by speaking with a counselor online. Sites such as Regain allow you to get the help you need from the comfort of your own home.

What is Sleep Hygiene?

We’ve made posts about how to sleep better before, or what to do if your partner is snoring, but we haven’t explored the sleep hygiene concept in full. Sleep hygiene are habits that can prepare you for a good night’s sleep and increase the chances that you’ll feel great all day. If you have had trouble sleeping, you can improve your sleep by practicing good hygiene. Here are some good tips to practice sleep hygiene.

Don’t Take Caffeine or Alcohol too Close to Bedtime

Caffeine is an obvious one. You were probably told by your parents as a child not to have a soda too close to bed. With that said, many swear by alcohol. The problem with alcohol is that it can keep you awake if drank too close to your bedtime.

Exercise!

You don’t have to spend hours in the gym. All you need is 10 minutes of light aerobic exercise to calm you down and make you more prepared for bed. Some people do avoid workouts too close to bedtime, as it may keep you up. However, a brief workout as you unwind is not a bad idea.

Don’t Nap Too Much

Some people take long naps to make up for lost sleep. A brief nap can help you, but it can disrupt your sleep otherwise. Make sure you’re getting that right balance when you nap.

Don’t Look at Screens So Much Before Bed

Put your phone down and don’t be too close to the TV. Screens have blue light, which can damage melatonin, the chemical needed for an adequate night’s sleep. Of course, this is easier said than done, and many devices have night modes or blue light filters to lessen their effects. However, the mental stimulation of checking your notification can still keep you up. Go read a book.

Make Sure the Room is Cool

No one likes a burning room. About 60-67 degrees F is the optimal temperature. Don’t be afraid to turn on the AC at night. Alternatively, you can try cooling your blankets before you sleep.

Adjusting Your Bedroom

White noise machines can help you fall asleep faster, and blackout curtains should get rid of any lights or other problems when you’re having trouble falling asleep.

Practice Relaxing Activities Before Bed

You want to relax and unwind before bed. Have a nice herbal tea. Take a nice bath. Read a good book or watch a good show (preferably with night mode settings.) If there is something bothering you, learn how to discard it. Make sure the kids are unwound as well. For enjoyable and calming activities you can do with your children, you might find a few good ideas here and look here.

My Say

Observing proper sleep hygiene makes it possible to maximize the benefits of sleep. That said, it is just a matter of making it a way of life.

Teenage Kids and Household Chores

2019-05-24T18:31:00.000-07:00

Most parents of today try to be super humans who do everything for their children. A big part of that may mean exempting them from household chores. There is a view held by some parents that assigning chores to kids robs them of their childhood. The opposite view says that kids have to be taught the realities of adulthood early on because those realities are sure to come and will most definitely include household chores.

Photo by Heather Ford on Unsplash

There are 3 main aspects for parents to consider when assigning household chores to teenage kids:

Age Appropriateness

Age appropriateness refers to the physical, psychological, and emotional capabilities of a kid to handle a task. Although most teenagers of today have a tendency to act like adults, this does not necessarily mean that they have matured that far. Assigned chores should not expose kids to unnecessary danger.

Some of the tasks that teenage kids or younger can easily tackle are putting away their belongings; sweeping, vacuuming, and dusting; feeding and walking family pets; washing and putting away dishes; and washing the family car, among others. There are still actually a lot more and family members can just agree how household chores are divided. No one has to feel burdened by doing everything while other able-bodied household members do nothing.

Responsibility vs Punishment

Parents should introduce household chores as a responsibility of all family members. Everyone should contribute as a team member in ensuring the upkeep of the home. Doing one's part is expected and not to be seen as a form of punishment.

A home that is in order benefits the whole family. Many parents give household chores to kids in addition to suspending privileges as a form of punishment especially for serious infractions of household rules. While it can give the kid something constructive to do (if he does it), presenting household chores as a form of punishment only, negates the purpose of establishing a sense of responsibility. That is the very reason why introducing household chores to kids at every appropriate level is important, instead of using it just to punish erring kids. A reward system which does not necessarily involve money but hinged on availing of privileges such as more computer time for example, for a task done right and on time, may be an option.

Workable Structure

Kids should not be put up for failure in performing household chores by unrealistic demands in time and nature of the tasks. Parents cannot expect kids to make an efficient job if it interferes with their non-negotiable obligations in school, social life, and personal life. A structure has to be worked out within the family because there are always consequences if one member fails to do his share.

Expecting kids to finish school assignments and cleaning his room at the same time is unrealistic. The tasks are physically and mentally impossible to do at the same time. A proper work around would be to schedule cleaning the room on a weekend or assign a chore that can be done in between studies like washing their own dishes after use. The regularity of the motions lessens objections when minor household chores are seen as part of daily life and not as obstructions to more critical responsibilities.

My Say

I personally believe that making kids do age-appropriate household chores is necessary to their full development. This is especially so for teenage kids who are nearing the adult stage. This is just part of parents' job to prepare their kids to survive real life.

That said, making teenage kids do household chores can easily turn into an uphill domestic battle.Nagging parents and indifferent kids are common scenarios. Families will have to continuously work it out between and among their members. There are no hard and fast rules to go about it, just an understanding that every member needs to do his share for the family and the place they all call home.

3 Tips to Running Your Own Company

2019-01-16T21:45:00.001-08:00

Experienced businessmen will tell you that it is not easy to run a business. It requires hard work, a level of consistency that people who quit lack, and discipline.

Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash

You may have a successful launch; however, the maintenance and the growth of the business may be lacking. That is one of the reasons why many businesses close down. CEOs may not have a clue on how to proceed from where they are and go to another level.

Be assured that once you start your business, you have to possess certain leadership qualities. As the leader, you have to learn specific things to aid in you growing the company so that it can reach its goals.

Therefore, what are the things that you should do to have a successful company?

1. Purchase first aid products

Well, since you aspire to have premises, there are factors you should consider. One of them is to have a safe environment for your staff.

That can be one of the simplest gestures that you care about them and not that you are not about making money only. For instance, if your business is a high-risk company, where people handle dangerous chemicals or equipment, then you may require having a complete kit.

Choose the best supplier such as Save Rite Medical in your locale. Make sure that you go for a size that matches the number of employees in your organization.

Another point to consider is that it is always a good idea if you keep in a location that is easy to reach.

2. You have to find the right mentor

It is still good to learn the journey all alone. Nonetheless, it may take you a long time to learn a simple concept like leadership skills.

To counter the problem of wasting time learning a concept like the one mentioned above, get a mentor. Such people are helpful, and they will save your time because they have the right experience that you lack in running that business.

When looking for a mentor, it is also advisable that you search for one within your circles. They will give you personalized advice on a one to one level.

The thing is, learn as much as you can even if you have to go to a school to learn business management.

3. Push your employees to be better

If you have the right leadership skills, then it is your job to ensure that all your workers become better while they work there.

When looking for employees, always pick the one who fits the vision of the firm and who is capable of bringing change to it. Give promotion to people who deserve it, motivate your workers every morning when they report to work, and deal with issues fairly.

Treat everyone with respect by always listening to complaints, requests, and new ideas that they would want to implement.

Once you do this, you find that people will respond better to you and even to clients.

My Say

When doing business, always consider the fact that companies have difficulties. Learn from mistakes and move on to the next level.

That said, put everything in order. From how the office looks to how you arrange files, be sure that you remain organized at all times. Clients admire that.

4 Tips to Sleeping with a Spouse Who Snores Loud

2019-01-07T18:02:00.003-08:00

Habitual snoring is a common yet potentially serious condition known as Obstructive sleep apnea. If severe, it is known to raise the risk of chronic diseases like heart attack, diabetes, and hypertension. Its effect however is not simply limited to the one who snores.

Snoring is a big challenge to couples because it usually compromises the comfort of one partner for a smooth, peaceful rest during the night. One spouse is bound to feel deprived of his or her sleep. This results to aggravated fatigue, which runs from morning hours throughout the day.

Photo by Sarah Diniz Outeiro on Unsplash

Waking up feeling tired than you were when going to sleep with errands to run the next day is not good for your physical and psychological comfort. As the spouse who has to experience all the noise, it is recommended that you keep your calm. Your spouse did not choose nor does he or she like to be in that condition. It is high time you took a step and tried the tips below; it will help. Here are tips to help you manage the distractions of a snoring partner:

1) Use Better Sleep Moldable Silicone Earplugs For Sleep

These are the best earplugs to use because they are quite comfortable. They are made from soft materials that are gentle to the skin. Wearing these ear plugs for snoring helps block out the noise. You get to sleep comfortably and wake up refreshed. The silicone is molded to fit the size and the shape of your ear canal. This helps achieve perfect blockage and also prevent discomfort since some ready-made earplugs tend to either too large or too small. For such high customization, they are quite. They are also reusable and washable.

2) Consider Sleeping Apart

Sleeping in a room with a snoring partner can keep you awake the whole night. For such severe scenarios, it is advisable to sleep in different rooms. Each of you will get to sleep peacefully. Before taking this initiative, start by discussing it with your partner. Make him or her understand the difficulties and politely run him or her through your proposed solutions.

3) Try Different Sleep Schedules

You can keep yourself busy with other duties while your partner is sleeping. The best thing to do to achieve this is to understand and respect your partner’s sleeping time. For example, if you both work during the day and sleep at night, you can decide to let him or her work during the day and sleep at night, and on the other hand, you sleep during the day and work at night. It is easy if you both talk and arrive at a mutually agreed upon schedule.

4) Play Some Relaxing Background White Noise To Help You Sleep

White noise may help your brain divert the focus from snoring noises to soothing and calming sounds. In technical terms, white noise is ‘anti-noise,’ helping weaken or cancel out unwanted sound waves. This applies to snore sounds as well. Rain sounds will work for some individuals, while other people will prefer soft human whispers close to the ears. Soft music also works for some.

My Say

At times lack of sleep can make you lose focus or forget important appointments and deadlines.

That said, you should discuss with your partner about what you are going through and try out solutions for your circumstances and his condition as well that can help.

5 Tips to Buying a Home Generator

2019-01-01T06:02:00.000-08:00

Most people find it difficult when buying the perfect generator to suit their needs. Electrical supply is one of those challenges that can deter you from having a smooth life. The loss of power can cause discomfort and inconvenience. Your cooling system will not run without power, the refrigerator will not cool your favorite drink, and you will not enjoy a movie on your television without power. A perfect generator can solve all your electrical problems and improve your overall home experience. When choosing a generator, you will come across lots of options. You will need to consider some of the essential factors to make the right choice. This article provides you with five tips to buying a home generator.

Photo by Andreas Dress on Unsplash
1. Fuel Type. You need to decide whether you want a diesel or petrol generator. Diesel generators are often more expensive than petrol ones, and they require higher maintenance costs. However, the diesel engine is more fuel-efficient compared to petrol generators. You may have to pay more to buy a diesel engine, but it may be a wise decision. A diesel generator is durable and needs less frequent maintenance. 2. Stationary or Portable. The generator family has two main branches: portable and standalone generators. Portable generators are less costly than the latter, and you can store them in your garage when you are not using them. Stationary models install permanently outside your house and start automatically when the power goes off. If you want a power that goes with you, the portable model is the best. However, if you're going to ensure power for a building that you can leave to its device, standalone generators warrant your attention. 3. Requirements. Purchasing a generator is not as simple as picking one off the shelf. Since generators provide power, you should know how much power you need and for how long. You should also consider the sensitivity of the equipment you want to power. For instance, plugging your computer directly into a generator is a bad idea. Finding out the total amount of power, you need can help choose the right home generator with enough power supply capacity. You should also consider the size of AC and other appliances at your home. 4. Fuel. When it comes to fuel, there are several options to consider. Some generators use traditional petrol or diesel, there are those that use natural diesel, and a few that rely on solar panels. Once you have decided on the source of your fuel, you can now think of ways to store that fuel. Make sure that your generator does not run out fuel while still connected to the house. 5. Noise. Generators are often noisy. Consider the issue of the noise ordinance in your area and if your neighbors will get angry. You may also have to think about disrupting your space since no one likes the sound of a loud, noisy generator nearby. There are minimum and maximum safe distances to keep your generator. Find out what will work best for your particular environment.

My Say Always spend some time online to search for the best home generator before going to the store.

5 Things You Need To Have To Sleep Well

2018-11-01T22:27:00.000-07:00

There are many things that one needs to do or have so that they can get a good night's sleep. Starting from the right number of blankets, bed sheets, mattresses, and pillows, one needs to know what exactly makes them comfortable when they are in need of sleep. There are many other factors that also determine how well one can sleep at night.

You may have the best bed and mattresses and still struggle to fall asleep. Other than having the best bedding, it is also important that you avoid bright lights in the bedroom. You should also ensure that you avoid taking coffee and other drinks that have caffeine, at least 5 hours before you go to sleep. You may also need to increase the blankets and number of pillows that you use during your sleep time.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

In this article, we shall discuss some of the things that you need to have to sleep well. Here are 5 of them:

1. Electric blanket

One of the things that can make someone unable to sleep well is lack of warm blankets and bed sheets. Electric blankets have electric cables that run out of them. As such, the blanket can be warmed through the insulated network of wires that run through it. The wires heat when the blanket is plugged and this makes the bed warm. This is definitely one of the best ways that one can sleep soundly due to the warmth that the blanket provides.

2. Use the right number of pillows

You should choose the right type of pillow for your needs. You need to align the neck bones with the spine. For this purpose, you should use less number of pillows for more comfort. Based on your body type, you can choose the most comfortable pillows for your deep sleep at night. If you are a side sleeper, two pillows would be good for you. The first pillow should be beneath your head while the second one should put between the knees.

3. Use the right kind of mattress

Your mattress plays a very big role in your sleep pattern. The right kind of a mattress will be determined by many factors. There are people who are comfortable sleeping on a soft mattress while others prefer a high-density mattress. For people with medical conditions, they may have to consult for better advice. Your mattress should allow proper air flow at night due to your snoozing.

4. Have sufficient exercise

Exercises can make you sleep well. They definitely do wonders to your body and this makes the body to require rest in the form of sleep. When you exercise, the energy levels of your body will increase. However, you should not exercise just a few hours before going to bed. This could prevent you from sleeping.

5. Have a proper meal

This may sound a little far-fetched but it’s a very important thing that you should have to sleep well. By a proper meal, we mean that you should eat sufficient amounts of food for your supper. The meal should also be balanced and should contain food ingredients that help in sleep inducement.

My Say

If you are like many people who lie in bed for a number of hours without getting the much desired sleep, it is necessary that you find out what's causing this. Sleep or the lack of it can considerably affect your well-being. That said, make sure you get that needed sleep to avoid possible related health conditions.