My Son's Pasalubong from his XCE

My son got back from his out-of-the-country school trip last Sunday night. We picked him up in school at 1030 in the evening.

The first order of business was a quick stop at Burger King. He was so hungry daw.

Of Sons and Daughters

Sons don't really talk much, ano?

Unlike my messages with my girls na full of chismis, my fave son is concise, "gonna shower na" - which is really his way of saying "I'm done training. Please pick me up."

Choosing The Right Postpaid Plan For My Teen: Globe MyStarter Plan

My second daughter turned thirteen earlier this year.

As expected, she has started to want to spend more time with her friends. Luckily for me, she has chosen her friends very well.

When they want to "hang," it is usually just in one of her friends' houses or the occasional birthday outings.

I'm thankful that at least I can get in touch through her phone even when she is out with friends.

at a Mad Science birthday party 

Hello, Blog Reader + Rundown of TPM Top Posts

Just like other writers, there are days when I seem to not have anything to write about, or I feel too overwhelmed with real life that I can't seem to stop and calm my mind enough to write about things I am passionate about.

I have certainly felt that way the early part of the year, hence the silence here. I hope you don't mind it too much if you hear less from me. Just know that infrequent posting means real life is happening - in mega BIG doses. hahaha!

Anyway, if you follow me in my social media accounts (if you don't yet, then you can follow me now: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook), then you must have seen this post already. But please forgive me for still posting about it on the blog. You see, this is the first time ever I was stopped by a reader. So I'm still kilig about it - big time!!! Hahaha!

I really felt "legit" Meron palang nagbabasa other than my family and friends. Hahaha!:)

Happy 13th to My B Girl!

Happy Birthday my sweet and strong B!

They say parents can determine their child’s personality within the first month of life. As a mother of three, I have found this to be true. I remember when B was a month old, as soon as the sun went down, her mood seemed to shift as well. She would cry incessantly for upto an hour, and no amount of cuddling, rocking, feeding, playing could distract her high-pitched cries. The doctor said that she developed colic and it would soon go away on its own. But for months on end, I was stressed from her screaming.

My Not So Li'l Man

"Why do you always think of me as a rabbit being chased by a zebra? 

You should think of me as a jaguar being chased by a turtle."

-words of wisdom from my newly minted 11 year old 

He prefers to be likened to a jaguar... not a rabbit! Teehee!

My son expressed his frustration as I expressed my concern that I don't see him studying enough. He insists he's on top of everything daw. Sometimes I keep on forgetting that my youngest son is already a pre-teen whose parental leash needs to be loosened... a bit!

Betty VS Veronica

R and one of his sisters were on the dining table after breakfast a few days ago.  As usual he was reading Archie, and his sister was on her iPhone.  From nowhere, his sister asked him, "who do you like better, Betty or Veronica?"

Which took a long and really insightful reply from him... yung talagang pinag-isipan ha. :)

I eavesdropped on the conversation...

Todd English Food Hall

Seems that everyone in Manila is waiting for a chance to dine at TODD ENGLISH FOOD HALL!  At least that's what it seemed to me, when we waited for our table to be ready last Sunday.  It's a good thing we went right after Sunday Service, and when we got there the list wasn't that long yet.  But a few minutes after, super haba na...

The curiosity about the place is well-placed; after all, TODD ENGLISH is the first restaurant by an international celebrity chef to open in Manila.  Todd English Food Hall started in the Plaza Hotel in New York.

 

Back to regular programming... after taking a {spiritual} break!

With school having started for all of my kids a month ago, it's now back to regular programming as far as my schedule is concerned.  I was looking forward all summer to when school starts, but now that it has, I find myself actually missing their noisy squabbles, the peals of laughter from harmless teasings, the seemingly endless "mom, I'm hungry!."  

I must admit that the house is now boring in its stillness.  There are moments in the morning when the silence seem to shout at me, and my first instinct is to look for my two younger ones; suspicious that they are again in cahoots. They have formed in my mind a long-running history correlating their suspicious silence with mischief and mayhem: cutting a siblings hair haphazardly just for the fun of it; hanging themselves from the window blinds, and putting a small hole in the ceiling because of it; rough-playing inside the closet, and breaking the closet rod... there are so many others that cause me to force myself to a spiritual break, less I say something hurtful.

A spiritual break is similar to the "time-outs" we give our kids when they were toddlers whenever they disobeyed; the difference is, with a spiritual break, the time-out is being enforced on the one actually doing the disciplining. I purse my lips and say a short prayer for the Holy Spirit to control what comes out of my mouth. I need to physically close my lips this way, otherwise I let out a slew of words that are hurtful to my kids' feelings.  There are times when I am not as spirit-filled, and all I can manage is to count from 1-10. But even so, it really helps control the damaging words which comes out of my mouth in anger.

via

7 Layer Dip Roll-Ups

 

One of the things I couldn't escape from this summer, aside from the heat, is my kids' big appetite. They are in the house a lot, and so it would seem that I am always in the kitchen cooking up a storm. I find that it takes up a lot of my time just to feed them; so whenever I can, I try to make a huge batch of something, and keep a good deal of second servings in the fridge. Whenever they are hungry again, like maybe after two hours (I kid you not!), they could just grab one roll and eat!:)

One of my favorite recipes to do whenever I go this big batch route is the 7-Layer Dip Roll-Ups. It keeps well in the fridge for upto 2 days, and it can be eaten cold which works really well for busy moms like me. Tee-hee-hee!

Phenomenal Tip: Eco-bags and Grocery Shopping

The city where I live in has implemented the Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance since September of 2012.  All business establishments are instructed to encourage the use reusable bags instead of plastic bags.  As stipulated, the city shall be imposing a  fee of P2 to consumers who insist on using plastic bags. 

It took me some time to get used to doing my grocery shopping using eco-bags.  There were days then when I had to ask the bagger to put everything in a box for me because I forgot my eco-bags at home. In the early days of using eco-bags, one of the problems I encountered was how the bagger would just dump everything I bought in the 2 large reusable bags that I brought along, without any regard for grouping items together.  Thus, the toiletries would be mixed with the pantry items, cleaning supplies and vegetables.  This makes packing away at home a major headache also, since everything is topsy-turvy.  I just couldn't stand the disorderly way of bagging that I have since always placed 5 reusable bags in all of the cars so I am never caught empty handed, just in case grocery shopping is an errand I have to do for the day. 

Phenomenal Tip: DIY Light Switch Dress-Up with Washi Tape

There’s something about simple projects that makes me really happy! I have purchased several rolls of washi tapes the past month, and they've all just been sitting idly.  I intend to do some crafts with the kiddos using washi tape, but since we have not gotten around to agreeing on what to do yet, I just went on ahead and got crafty yesterday afternoon - by myself!  

Oh how fun it was to just have some time to do crafts by myself!  When it comes to crafting, I usually supervise the 2 younger kids, so I do not technically do crafts, instead I watch over them as they do the project.  This is one fun project to do when you're one crafty momma who doesn't have a lot of free time on your hands.

Doing this lightswitch dress-up with washi tape took me less than 5 minutes, from taking off the switch plate to finally putting it back up.  Really!  It is that easy.  The only materials you need are:  washi tape and scissors.

1.  Remove plates from the wall  using a metal spatula or scissors.

2.  Choose washi tape to match the theme of the room.  The girls' room is painted a combination of citron and aquamarine.  So I chose my teal colored washi tape for this project.

3.   Make sure to apply tapes in straight line.

4.  In addition, make sure the patterns are lined up against each other.

5.  Cut tape with scissors when you reach the ends and tuck it under the back of the plate.

 

6.  When you reach the corners, simply cut along the edge.

7.  Then tuck one part in.

8.  The other remaining part, you cut diagonally before you tuck in. 

9.  Makes for a clean finish!

10.  Put back plates.  Step back and admire your handiwork!  

 

You can view more washi-taped light switches right here. 

What's In My Cart: My Favorite Pancake Mix

One of my family's favorite breakfast food is pancakes. They love it when it is piled this high and layered with maple syrup, whipped cream cheese, and bacon.  Scrumptious!

There is no shame in admitting that I use a pancake mix.  When I prepare breakfast, time is usually of the essence, especially if the family want to sit down and eat together on the table before C leaves for the office.  With a pancake mix, I just add egg, water and oil, and pancakes are served in no time. 

I have tried almost all the pancake mixes available in the market.  For a long time, I've been a loyal Pillsbury user, and then I shifted to Magnolia Pancake Mix.  I prefer to add my own eggs so I do not buy the one-step pancake mix, where all you have to add is water.  Between the two brands, my kids like Magnolia better, but I found it a bit too sweet for my taste.

We have tried the imported mixes like Betty Crocker and Krusteaz, but we did not find the flavor and texture outstanding; plus the gigantic boxes they came in made storing them in the pantry a hassle. 

After testing almost all the brands available, our family have found our favorite: MAYA Original Hotcake Mix.  As they claim in the package, it is really fluffy and tasty.  The 500-gram box comes with 2 plastic packets inside, but we are a family of big eaters so the entire box is just right for my family of five, with no leftovers.

 

And because the bacon bits really did make me happy today, here's a recipe I got from the web for Pancakes with Bacon, Whipped Cream Cheese, and Maple Syrup

• Pancake mix
• bacon, cut up to bits
• 4 ozs. cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
• 2 tbsps all purpose cream
• maple syrup, or if not available from your grocery, any pancake syrup

{Pancakes:}

1.follow package directions

{Bacon Bits:}

1.Cook bacon bits in a non-stick pan without putting oil.  Cook until the bacon has rendered its own fat and the bacon bits are nicely brown.

2.Drain oil, and put on kitchen towels to take out excess oil 

3.Let cool.

{Whipped Cream Cheese}

1.Whisk together cream cheese and cream until light and airy.    

Assemble in layers and enjoy! 

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The Cheese Steak Shop Food Truck

C and I are great fans of The Food Network's The Great Food Truck Race hosted by Tyler Florence.   We've always wondered how Manila would welcome gourmet food trucks.  Mobile food peddlers who sell their wares via push carts are no stranger to our streets, but we've always wondered if food trucks would hit it big in Manila.

Last December, when my family was traveling along Ortigas Ave., we saw this huge food truck parked at the complex of City Center (between Madison and Roosevelt sts.).  We knew we had to do a u-turn to get to the other side of the road where this big red truck is.

The Cheese Steak Shop is an original franchise from the U.S. Cheese Steak Shop that is famous all-over California.   The Cheese Steak Shop Food Trucks are now roaming the streets of Manila, bringing the taste of authentic Philly cheese steaks to almost every corner of Manila. I have no idea how many food truck they have; but, this food truck has been in the same spot since December of last year.  


Our server boasts that almost all of the sandwich's ingredients are all imported from the U.S. commissary.  And even the bread for the famous hoagie is imported from Amoroso's Bakery from Philadelphia.

We ordered the 7" classic philly cheese steak, King of Philly, and Italian hoagie, plus sides of onion rings and garlic fries.  Sorry no food photos aside from the one of the fries below.  The sandwiches were ginormous, and eating them in the car was a feat unto itself.  Taking photos in the car was an impossibility.  We ate all the sandwiches in the car - drips and food spills, notwithstanding.  Yeah, family of gluttons.:)

I found it a bit pricey.  But it really tasted soo good... the steak,bread, and fries, it makes it all totally worth it.  We will be having some more again very soon!

The Cheese Steak Shop Manila has two branches, located at 140 Amorsolo St. Legaspi Village, Makati and The Fort Strip, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.  The food truck goes around so it might not be at the City Center in Ortigas by the time you are reading this.

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Phenomenal Tip: Ways to Re-Purpose Your Child's Old Crib

I have long donated all my maternity clothes; my baby stroller and car seats have been given away as well; newborn onesies and booties have found new owners, too.  I've given them all away since I don't have any more plans to get pregnant - ever again. (saying this with fingers crossed... in both hands.  hahaha!)

If you are lucky enough to have managed to hold on to your crib and crib mattress, I found several photos that show the many ways on how to repurpose old cribs and mattresses.  The projects look so dreamy, you'll be tempted to make one yourself. 

Here is the crib re-purposed into a toddler arts and crafts table.  Just take out one side of the rail, add some chairs, hang some supplies, and your kids now have their very own crafts center.  I wished I had seen this earlier, when my kids were younger and easily impressed.  This is a really efficient and cheap way to repurpose the crib.  No additional hardware or carpentry works necessary. 

It could also just be repurposed into a simple toddler study desk... because good study habits are easier taught when kids are younger.  I love the chalkboard tabletop, where kids can doodle all they want without the parents having to worry about the walls.

The photo below shows a grown-up take on the repurposed crib. I would love to have one like this. 

Cribs can also be made into a love seat, with a few carpentry works required.  The crib matress also doubles as cushion. 

Love the "princess and the pea"  look of this multi foam sofa.  Perfect for a little girl's playroom.

with a few modifications, the crib frame can even be a hanging daybed

Should you go ahead and convert the crib into a toddler desk, the crib mattress is not a lost cause as it can also be used alone   As you can see, it easily converts into a two-seater daybed.  

This one looks right at home in a Japanese minimalist home

And even that crib bumper pad, can be repurposed into a bench cushion.  Just cut the bumper pad in half and put the two halves alongside each other and tie together.

I bet I have you looking for that old crib and mattress.:)

*double click on the photos for the source
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Posh Nails Magallanes

After all the last minute shopping for gifts, meeting up with friends and family reunions that I did last December, it was really such a treat for me to experience the pampering treatment at Posh Nails Hand & Foot Spa - Magallanes

When I entered the spa, I immediately felt relaxed for it was painted in soothing shades of of white, pink and lilac. The place looks so feminine and comfortable, especially with its soft couches and plush pillows.  The chandelier at the center of the room also gave the room an added touch of fancy.

I just love the quatrefoil pattern on the divider - certainly added to the chicness.

"Posh Nails Magallanes offers ultra luxurious pampering packages for both hands and feet. Among the most in-demand services include the hand spa, hand and arm scrub, foot scrub, foot and leg mask, foot spa, reflexology, Posh spoiling, Basic Refresh, Green Tea pedicure, Coffee pedicure, eyelash extension, Paraffin dip, nail art and waxing.

Posh Nails is the first spa chain in the Philippines to offer themed manicures and pedicures such as Green Tea, Coffee, Chocolate lovers, Margarita, Cremee Brulee and Citrus. Themed manicures and pedicures differ for each month to keep clients excited and up to date with nail salon services all across the globe. Posh Nails Magallanes also offers cocktail drinks, coffee, tea, hot cocoa along with the themed service."

The first thing I noticed as soon as I took me seat on the couch, was how immaculately clean the place was.  My attendant made sure to sanitize her hands before she started my treatment.  She said that all the instruments were sterilized with a disinfectant after every use.   She also shared that should you have the desire for instant pampering, and finding yourself dressed inappropriately (read: skinny jeans), Posh Nails Magallanes also offers the use of shorts and robes so you can avail of their services comfortably. The staff of Posh Nails Magallanes are very friendly and well-trained.  My attendant made my experience even more comfortable by offering a robe and drinks.  

After washing and soaking my feet for a few minutes, my attendant rubbed a mixture which looked and felt like a brown sugar scrub.

 

Once it was all washed off, she began to apply this peppermint mask.  

 

I had the hand and nail treatment, so I felt like a princess for close to an hour.  Thanks so much Posh Nails Magallanes for this luxurious treat!

The nail spa offers an all imported nail polish selection.

Check out the affordable rates below!

Like Posh Nails Hand & Foot Spa -Magallanes on Facebook

Posh Nails Hand & Foot Spa -Magallanes
3/F Unit 308 The Gateway Center, 

Paseo De Magallanes, Magallanes Village, 

Makati

Phone (02) 703 6517

Hours Mon - Sun: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm


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