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“Kids Ahoy’s Superrrrrrr Summer 2010″

Let your kids experience a different summer at Kids Ahoy!

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We are a proactive community of Filipino parents, educators, kids and kid-lovers. We are kids and play advocates. Our aim is to create a village which will help raise a truly Filipino global child—one with local roots and global dreams! Our dream is to establish a community center in as many cities in the Philippines as possible so we can impact lives of Filipino kids all over the country.

Kids Ahoy is a social, creative &learning playground for our kids. We believe in exploring all possibilities and opportunities to encourage learning, creativity and discovery through play. It is a meaningful & valuable support group and network for Filipino parents—whichever part of the country and the world they are. It is a place where the best teachers and kid-lovers can share their brilliant ideas for kids and implement them.

Kids Ahoy is so much more than we can ever explain in words, you have to experience it!

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We’ve been with them since Yona was 2 years old and 5 months and all we can say is thank you for welcoming us.

Check out their programs for this summer:

http://kidsahoy.multiply.com

http://www.facebook.com/kidsahoyshop

#56 Lantana cor. New York Sts. Cubao, Quezon City

(02) 473.7896

Posted in Kids.


Pulse Yoga Experience

I dislike getting sweaty that is why I avoided P.E. classes in grade school and going to the gym when I was older. This year, I promised myself that I will do something I haven’t tried and that includes YOGA. I’ve been wanting to do this but because it’ll make me sweaty, it’s off my things-to-do list. One more reason why I wouldn’t try yoga is I FEEL SO FAT. Ever heard of ‘flex your fats’?

Last week I got an invite from Belle de Jour ladies to attend their Passion Series and the first activity was YOGA. Do I have a choice? No. So off I go to the mall to purchase sweat pants, yes, you heard it right. I don’t own sweat pants!

Here are some photos of the studio:

Pulse Yoga

Pulse Yoga

Yona was all sweaty!

Pulse Yoga

Forgot your yoga outfit? yoga mat? water bottle? No worries. You can buy one from their shop.

Pulse Yoga

The shower rooms were immaculate clean!

Pulse Yoga

The studio

So how was my experience? It was simply great, felt rejuvenated after the series of activities. We tried Hatha Yogapronounced [ˈɦəʈʰə] in Hindi, is also known as hatha vidya or the “science of hatha” yoga. The word Hatha comes from combining the two Sanskrit terms “ha” meaning sun and “tha” meaning moon. The word “ha” refers to the solar nadi (pingala) in the subtle body and “tha” the lunar channel (ida). However, when the two components of the word are placed together, “hatha” means “forceful”, implying that powerful work must be done to purify the body. Yoga means to yoke, or to join two things together, hence hatha yoga is meant to join together sun (masculine, active) energy with the moon (feminine, receptive) energy, thus producing balance and greater power in an individual.

For a first timer I did well, I just have to lose some flabs so I can do the other poses Madeline, our Swedish Yoga Instructor has shown us. She makes it all appear oh so easy. I guess I’ll do better in my job as a merchant account reseller than be a Yoga Instructor. :)

Pulse Studio Makati
2289 UPRC III Building, Pasong Tamo Ext.
1231 Makati City, Philippines
+632 4684165
+63917 83PULSE

Pulse Studio Greenhills
23 Florida Street, Greenhills
1501 Mandaluyong City, Philippines
+632 7217900
+63917 84PULSE

Posted in Personal.


LE BISTRO VERT Sustainable Food

When it comes to dining out, I always stick to what I know.  I am very partial to Italian and Chinese cuisines so you will always find our family in popular Italian and Chinese restaurants. Trying somewhere or something new can be a bit hit or miss and I don’t want to pay out a hefty amount for something I wouldn’t enjoy.

Let me share with you my  great experience with the sustainable foods at Le Bistro Vert and my  fondness to all-natural products.

The Atmosphere

Le Bistro Vert is French for “The Green Bistro” so it is not surprising to see lots of green on the interiors of the restaurant. Architect Dan Lichauco created an interior reminiscent of a green glass house  that is why the restaurant contains many panes of textured clear glass that provides abundant light. Stenciled golden bamboos, vines and flowers on the walls and the relaxing colors of teal blue and green create a very relaxing atmosphere – and it is what every one needs during breaks or after a chaotic day, right?

The Food

Le Bistro Vert offers breakfast, lunch and dinner offering fresh menu options created by Chef Sau del Rosario. The dishes on the menu is a fusion of Asia’s local flavors and European cuisine.

Here are some of the favorites in the menu that’s worth giving a try.

For the salad, I got myself Arugula, Davao Blue Cheese and Cashew (P175). It was served with cherry tomatoes, apple shreds and dressed in Balsamic dressing.

Thumbs up for the Thai-style Dory Fish Cakes (P155) appetizer. The citrusy flavor of pandan leaves adds twist to the tasty Dory meat. It was served with cucumber relish and a very unique sweet tamarind dip.

For the main course, I got myself Cashew and Herb-crusted Sole Fillet (P295). You will get a  2″ x 5″ Sole fillet (approx.) for each order. Served with Pea Puree on the side and Burnt Lemon Butter Sauce on a bed of sliced potatoes, ahhh this dish is mouthwatering!

As I eat, I was dipping Pappadums on my Spiced Pumpkin Soup (P90). This soup reminded me of my all time favorite comfort food, guinataang kalabasa. The incorporation of curry to the pumpkin soup has given the dish a distinctive ‘Indian’ taste. It was delicious!

Tamarind Iced Tea (P75) A must-try drink. I never thought that tamarind-flavored iced tea will taste this good!

A perfect drink this summer.

And of course, I did not leave the place without tasting a cup of their Kape Isla Philippine coffee (P85).

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PROMO ALERT

Have a FREE cup of Kape Isla sustainable coffee at Le Bistro Vert, Fraser Place, Valero Street, Makati City. Just use the code: “KapeIsla164″

Promo is valid until March 31, 2010

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Why Sustainable Food?

Le Bistro Vert shares with you the joy of eating sustainably by eating healthier, and at the same time enjoying the abundance of fresh, wholesome, locally grown produce. Most of Le Bistro Vert’s ingredients are sourced from local farmers and producers, community groups, small organic farms or those which do not use any chemicals that are toxic to the environment.

It feels good knowing that by dining in Le Bistro Vert, I was able to support earth-friendly initiatives and help sustain local farmers.

Le Bistro Vert is a brainchild of Chit Juan, Jeannie Javelosa, and Reena Francisco, all food lovers and the founders of ECHOstore Sustainable Lifestyle – a local store selling natural, non-toxic community fair trade products. Our whole family personally use all-natural products that’s why ECHOstore Body Basics, a line of chemical-free body products is really an addition to the brands I trust when it comes to caring for our skin.

Body Basics Bar Soap and Hand Sanitizer in Rosemary Mint

The scent is divine and the infusion of mint in the soap and sanitizer gave me a reviving cleansing experience.

I am giving Le Bistro Vert 5-stars since they have spruced up local cuisines to pass global standards and because the business is all about sustaining oneself, the community and the environment.

Le Bistro Vert

Streetside, Fraser Place Valero St. Salcedo Village, Makati City
Telefax: 403.1841
Email: lebistro.frsr@gmail.com
Website: www.lebistro.ph

Posted in Food, Promos.


The 1st Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

SM Mall of Asia
Pasay City

Performance schedule:
Sunday February 14, 2010
Philippines – Platinum Fireworks, Inc – 7:00 PM
Australia – Howard and Sons – 8:00 PM
Sunday February 21, 2010
United Kingdom – Jubilee Fireworks – 7:00 PM
China – Liuyang Jinsheng Fireworks Company – 8:00 PM
Sunday February 28, 2010
France – Brezac Artifices – 7:00 PM
Japan – Tamaya- Kitahara Fireworks Co., Ltd. – 8:00 PM
Sunday March 7, 2010
Singapore – RedHub Entertainment – 7:00 PM
Malaysia – Pyro Splendour Services – 8:00 PM
Sunday March 14, 2010
U.S.A – PyroFire Display – 7:00 PM
Philippines – Platinum Fireworks, Inc. (Exhibition) – 8:00 PM

Tickets are available for P1500 (VIP with dinner), P500 (VIP), P300 (Gold), P150 (Silver) and P100(General Admission).

For inquiries, call (63 2) 359-1486, (63 917) 811-4001 or (63 922) 884-8799. You can also get your tickets by calling Ticketnet at (63 2) 911-5555 and Ticketworld at (63 2) 891-9999.

Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

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Posted in Events.


Nurture Network

When it comes to taking good care of our kids, we need advices from experts and support from our family and friends as well.

When I was pregnant with Yona, I made sure that I check parenting sites often for advices and tips on giving birth and parenting. It made me feel comfortable that I wasn’t alone in the journey, and that other moms can relate to what I was experiencing.

Last month, I discovered Nurture Network, a support website for parents who want nothing but the best for their families. The site has various sections created to assist us parents in every aspect of parenting and family life. It aims to address every possible issue that we have to deal each day like making meals, tantrums, and dealing with household issues in general. The experts at Nurture Network is constantly researching and finding ways to help us properly raise our kids and manage the family.

Become a Member

Posted in Home, Kids.


Brothers Burger Lunch

I have always wanted to try the famous Brothers Burger but I promised myself that I’ll only do IF I’M SUPER HUNGRY since I know that their servings are in American sizes.

Yesterday my uncle treated us out and look what I’ve got for lunch:

Crispy Chicken Sandwich (P160) It’s TOO large, I must say. So it’s really sulit!

Grilled Chicken Salad (P180) Succulent tossed greens, tomatoes and grilled chicken
served with ceasar or garden dressing

Vanilla Shake (P100)

Onion Rings (P60) Way bigger than BK’s!


The burgers were bigger than Yona’s face!

Website: http://www.brothersburger.com.ph/

Brothers Burger Branches

Posted in Food.


KFC Pasta Bowl in Creamy Tomato

While waiting for the shuttle to the Canon event this morning, I decided to stay in KFC and try their new Creamy Tomato Pasta Bowl. This is in addition to the Chicken Alfredo and Kung Pao Chicken pasta bowls launched a few months ago.

The first thing I noticed was my pasta was loaded with parmesan cheese and it smells so divine because of the generous amount of tomato sauce poured on top of the pasta – read: it has REAL tomato slices.

My Creamy Tomato Pasta Bowl…

…gone in 60 seconds!

It was so bitin that I hope KFC will offer larger bowls of this.

KFC Pasta Bowl in Creamy Tomato:

Ala Carte – Php76 Combo Php86

Posted in Food.


Exercise Tips for Stay-at-Home Moms

Exercise in itself is hard work, much more if you are staying at home with kids. I did some little research and found out that even the busiest stay at home mommies can still stay fit!

  • Wear your workout clothes all day. This will keep you in the mood and will definitely make working out easier.
  • Perform little exercises. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle at all cost. If you are working online and has to be sitting 8 hours in front of the computer, then perform little exercises every 10 minutes. Stretch, move, run the stairs or incorporate strength workouts in your schedule.
  • Exercise with your kids. Bond with your kids through exercises. Run with them, walk to the grocery, do something fun with them! The list is endless, let those creative juices flow!
  • Invest in a treadmill. This is one exercise machine that ever household should have. These machines are readily available in workout shops or buy online using a nordictrack coupon to get discounts.

I am not saying that this is easy but I know that with the right goals and dedication, all of us stay at home moms can do this! Simple exercises, FTW!

Posted in Home, Personal.


RIP dear Jacelyn Rupa

I think we should look forward to death more than we do. Of course everybody hates to go to bed or miss anything but dying is really the only chance we’ll get to rest. – Florynce Kennedy

I won’t forget this day, February 24, 2010 because this very day, I lost one of my best friends – Jacelyn Rupa.

Jaz was, without doubt, a fighter. She succumbed to lupus complications after several years of battle but she never ceased to smile. I can still remember the giggles we shared the last time we were together, that was in June 2009. I feel so guilty because I felt that, as a friend, I didn’t exert much effort to help her in her ordeal.

I really thought she was already okay because that’s what she’s been telling us.

But now she’s gone.

Jaz, I know how hard your life was and I am happy that you can now finally rest. Wherever you are now, I know that you are extremely happy because in there, there’s no more pain and you no longer have to fight for your life, because you are home.

Go now Jaz. Rest in Peace.

Liza, Me, Yona and Jacelyn during Yona’s 1st Birthday (September 2006)

The last time we’re together (June 6, 2009)

Genevieve, Jacelyn, Mommy Raian, Me, Nathalie Grace

Posted in Personal.


“Miss You Like Crazy”

John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo’s tandem continues to shine. After their phenomenal movie “One More Chance” which left us all teary eyed back in 2007 and their crazy TV Series “Betty La Fea”, comes “Miss You Like Crazy”, ABS-CBN’s post valentine treat to us all.

The story of “Miss You Like Crazy” revolves around Alan Alvarez (John Lloyd Cruz), an account manager in a bank and Mia Samonte (Bea Alonzo), a front desk officer in Malaysia. Their paths crossed in a ferry boat in Pasig River at the right timing but at the wrong time. Alan is already committed to Daphne Recto (Maricar Reyes), the daughter of his employer, when he met Mia – who proved to be a person very opposite of Daphne.

Will a whirlwind romance like Alan and Mia’s survive? Would they choose to follow their hearts and hurt the people around them? Is it really possible to fall in love with someone in a matter  of days?

I already fell in love twice? thrice?  It is true that sometimes, the right one just comes along, ever willing to break the walls you have built within you and your current loved one. But is the ‘new one’ the right choice? Is all the trouble worth it? On our case, yes. We surpassed a million-mile of trials just so we can be ‘us’. We ended up a 6-year and an almost 3-year relationship for the sake of our love. We cried, we laughed and faced our exes fury because believed in our love.

Can you relate? Find out for yourself :)

Miss You Like Crazy Cast

John Lloyd Cruz
Bea Alonzo
Maricar Reyes
Jun Urbano
Ryan Eigenmann
Malou De Guzman
Ina Feleo
Ketchup Eusebio
Dianne Medina

and Bembol Roco

Special Guest Appearance Tirso Cruz III and Noel Trinidad

Introducing Gerald Hans Isaac (Malaysian Actor)

Directed by Ms. Cathy Garcia-Molina

Miss You Like Crazy opens in Philippine theaters on February 24, 2010.

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“Time is meaningless when you are in love.”

If you have faith in your love, let fate take its course.

And don’t forget: This is the Day. Believe. :)

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Posted in Movie Review.




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