The Two Weeks That Was

I never realized that the past two weeks could be so hectic. I neglected my blog, missed joining contests and a lot more.

It started with my kid's 2nd quarter school exam. Hopefully the did well even if we failed to review for the exams. Stressed. My daughter had been absent for a week because of severe stomach pain. She even failed to take her exam in computer. Good thing, the school allowed her to take a special exam.

Their school's United Nations presentation followed after. Each grade level presented on stage, while the preschoolers wore different costumes. We're all proud seeing them as they perform on stage!

It was followed by the school's Halloween party where everyone got to wear their funniest, scariest or unique costumes. The kids had a great time wearing their costumes.

Our week ended with a Halloween Trick or Treat at Riverfront Residences, a residential community at Pasig City where my sister and bro-in-law are living. The kids enjoyed the trick or treating at the buildings, as they say "Happy Halloween!"

Yes, it had been such a hectic and busy two weeks of my kids. Nonetheless, knowing that they had a wonderful time makes it all worth it.

Thanks to everyone who still keeps on dropping by my blog. Hopefully, I could share with you some pictures from all these events. Have a great Halloween week!

Halloween Costume Ideas

It's Halloween time once again. It's a season where kids enjoy dressing-up in their favorite costumes and getting tons of candies. For them, it's a day of make-believe and fun.

Halloween parties, activities and trick or treats are everywhere. Almost every malls, hotels and restaurants have lined up their halloween activities for kids and adults alike.

For two years, my kids had enjoyed trick or treating at their previous preschool, at FunRanch, at Glorietta and SM Megamall. I always let them to choose and wear their favorite costume so they'll get to enjoy the activities without getting irritated on what they're wearing.

Weeks before Halloween, parents and kids are already on the look-out for cool and unique costume ideas. There are lots of Halloween costumes that you can buy at the stores and even online. Halloween costumes need not be expensive. For those who wants to save while unleashing their creativity, a homemade do-it-yourself costume is the best answer.

For more costume ideas, from the cutest to the DIY costumes, you can check the October issue of Smart Parenting magazine. The Tot-a-razzi section features some kids in their finest trick or treat costumes where my daughter's picture (and some of my mommy friend's kids) got included. :)

 (Smart Parenting Magazine October 2010)

Make the most of this spook-tacular season. Happy trick or treating!

Learn Math Easily

Math is one of the subject that most students find challenging and difficult. Understanding and solving Math word problems have always haunted every student. Their confidence and enthusiasm decreases whenever they deal with complex methods and calculations.

I personally like Math, and it's good that my kids don't have a hard time with this subject too. It's my kids' favorite school subject. For those students who are getting stressed with Math, an online Math homework help can really be beneficial.

Online tutoring can be convenient and good for you and your child. Tutornext.com can assists K-12 and college students to get free homework help at a very affordable rate. Tutors are available 24/7 so it's more convenient for the students to schedule their tutoring lessons. Math problem solver tutors guide each student and give each one individual attention. Expert tutors will give you step by step explanation on factoring polynomials, on how to solve college algebra problems, and a lot more.

Getting free math help will increase the student's enthusiasm and ability in mathematics. Students will develop better understanding and higher confidence in studying Math subject and other subjects as well. This can be their next big step to academic excellence.

Pizza Hut Treat and Toys Reward

As a reward for being good students, my kids got to choose toys and books that they want.

My sister and bro-in-law also bought them gifts and treated them to pizza and pasta at Pizza Hut bistro at SM Megamall.



We ordered almost every kind of pasta in the menu. We enjoyed their chef-quality Italian pasta - 3-Cheese Ravioli, Penne in Tomato Cream Sauce, Pesto Chicken Penne, Baked mac and Cheese, Pasta Puttanesca, Spaghetti Shrimp Garlic and Mushroom, Fettucine Alfredo, and Mac and Cheese duet.



Of course, we won't miss ordering a cheesy pops pizza - that's 24 pullable pops with mozzarella and cheddar.



My son, with his new Ben 10 character toys and remote control car.



My daughter with her ballerina Barbie doll, Barbie fashion doll and Barbie Fashion Fairytale book.

Kids Ranked Number One in Class

(my son, my youngest sister and my daughter)

Proud mommy and sister moment.

When my kid's and my sister's 1st Quarter school report card was given, our family felt so happy with the the grades they received. Both my daughter and my youngest sister rank First in class! My son, who's in Kinder 1, also received excellent letter-grade equivalent. I'm amazed that he got perfect exam scores even if we've spent only five to ten minutes review time.

(daughter's report card)

 

(son's report card)

I'm happy that my kids are passionate about learning. They enjoy going to school everyday. They listen attentively to their and are well-behaved.

They're not pressured and we don't require them to get perfect marks nor high grades. They're not enrolled in any tutorial centers and there are no tutors to assist them. They can play and watch TV after doing their assignments. It's good that their school does not give assignments every Fridays, so they'll get to enjoy their weekends more.

They're not gifted-kids, but they are the best gifts that I have in my life! I'll always be proud of my them!

Fossil Watches and Kate Spade Kikay Kit

Quicker8.com is holding another blog contest. She's generous to give away these fabulous prizes:
1st prize - Fossil Ladies Watch
2nd prize - Fossil Ladies Watch
3rd prize -Kate Spade kikay kit (orange)

Hopefully, I'll be lucky to win one of the prizes.
Contest ends on December 18.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion

I tried using Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion that I've won from Frannywanny's contest (sponsored by Jean and Rosz) last month.

This is a good sun protection that I can use everyday. It's really light and easy to apply. The consistency is almost watery and is absorbed fast by the skin, like it's not even there. The fragrance is also mild and not distracting.

It's SPF50+ PA+++ assures your of maximum protection against UVA and UVB rays. With breakthrough Helioplex(TM) it can effectively block out harmful UVA/UVB rays and helps neutralize free radical damage. It's also oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it will not clog pores or cause breakouts.

Sun exposure is really bad for the skin. Everyday, and not just during summer, we should protect our skin from the sun to avoid damage and premature aging. Sunscreen is good even under cloudy or rainy skies. Some doesn't want putting sunscreen as because of the thick, greasy and sticky feel that some sunscreen brands have. You can try using this Neutrogena Ultra Sheer lotion for everyday shield.

International Freebie Items Received

After the post office's registered mail final notice, my husband picked up these items from Hongkong, USA and Singapore. I also received a luggage tag thru mail from the Netherlands.

Luggage Tag from KLM, Royal Dutch Airlines. It's not the typical luggage tag, it's more of a laminated picture with a hole on top. 

Memo Pad from Artscow. I really enjoy Artscow' freebies, discounted items and free shipping deals. 

Holy Bible from LeSEA Broadcasting as a generous gift from Wanda R. I already received a copy of this King James version 3 years ago. 

Stitch Beach Towel and Keychain from Disney Channel Asia. This is my daughter's prize for being one of the winners at Disney Channel's Party with Stitch contest.  

Icebreaker and BuzBox Scrambles, Anyone?

Scrambles! It's the best street food (aside from taho, fish balls and dirty ice cream) that my siblings and I enjoy when we were kids.

I remember how my sister used to wait for "manong iskrambol" and line up with the other kids to buy this pink slush. Wayback, scrambles were topped with browncow, eaten with a wooden stick, plastic spoon or a drinking straw.

Amazing how our favorite pinoy street food got "sosy", but still yummy and affordable!

Scrambles is now the new food craze at food stalls. This pink ice shavings topped wtih chocolate and strawberry syrup is a big hit. I can always see long lines of people, from kids to kids at heart, wanting to grab a cup of this commercialized scramble.



My youngest sister and I enjoys getting a cup of BuzBox Scrambles at SM Megamall food court and Icebreaker Scrambles at Starmall Edsa. We always opt for plain scrambles without toppings.



BuzBox Scrambles costs Php 10 (small), Php 14 (medium) and Php 17 (large), while Icebreaker Scrambles cost Php 7, Php 10 and Php 17. You can add toppings such as rice crispies, marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles and rainbow sprinkles for an extra twist.

Scrambles is the best cool thrill. It's cheap, it's cool, it's pink and it brings back happy childhood memories!

More Halloween Activities and Events

Here are more Halloween event venues and activities to choose from!

Toys"R"Us Trick R Treat

Come in your best Halloween Costume! 
Simply Purchase a Toys"R"Us Pumpkin Pail at any Toys"R"Us stand alone store from October 1-31 to get goodies on October 30 or October 31!

Bring the designated Toys"R"Us pail with receipt or purchase to join the Trick or Treat.
Where: Toys"R"Us store



Spooktacular Masquerade Party

Enjoy Trick or treat, mascot and magic show, lootbags, snacks and Unlimited play for 1 day at Active Fun branches.

There will be a parade, a trick or treat, "The Creepy Four" where kids can participate in any costume categories - spookiest, spooky cute, little prince and little princess.

The costume contest is open to kids up to 12 years old. Tickets are pre-sold in any Active Fun branch for Php 500. For more information, visit www.activefun.ph

When and Where:
October 27 Active Fun Quezon City
October 28 Active Fun Ortigas
October 29 Active Fun Alabang



Big Red Barn Halloween Costume Party

Big Red Barn, Ortigas invites all kids to its first Halloween Costume Party!

Child tickets include a free Ride All You Can wristband, snacks, food cart treats and access to all games, sampling booths, loot bag and party activities. Adult tickets include snacks, food cart treats and access to all games, sampling booths and party activities. 

Ticket prices are Php450.00/child and Php200.00/adult. Visit www.funranch.com.ph for more details.

Where: Big Red Barn, Ortigas
When: October 23 1:30 pm - 9:30 pm



Ace Water Spa Trick or Treat Kids Halloween Party

Come in with your costume to win prizes. Ticket prize cost P350 per head with 1 Spa Kiddie ticket, food and drinks, party favors and a lot more. Please call 407-5833 for more details.

Date: October 24, 2pm onwards
Venue: Ace Water Spa, Quezon City



Animonster’s Delight Grand Trick or Treat

This is for kids ages 10 and below.

Purchase a pumpkin pail from the Department Store or Planet Toys and pay registration fee at the mall’s Customer Service Booth Phase 3 beginning October 1. Only 300 kids will be accommodated to join the grand trick or treat. Come in your favorite anime or cartoon character for a chance to win special prizes after the parade. Check Sta. Lucia Mall's Facebook page for details. 

Where: Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall

Halloween Activities For Kids

Looking for Halloween events and activities for kids? Here are some activities at SM Malls and Toy Kingdom.

Spooktacular October Happenings

Kids wearing any costume on weekends can avail of Free face painting and a chance to Meet and Greet their favorite Hasbro characters
When: October 2,3,9,10,16,23 and 24
Where: Toy Kingdom SM Makati and SM Megamall

Cartoon Network House of Halloween

A spooky-fun halloween party! Come in your most wicked Halloween costume and win prizes from Toy Kingdom.
Spend at least Php 500 at participating Toy Kingdom store to get one (1) show ticket to Cartoon Network's Halloween Party. One show ticket, admits two (2) people. Purchase must be inclusive of at least a Halloween costume or a Cartoon Network item.
Promo duration is from October 15 - 30, 2010.

When: October 31
Where: SM The Podium, Mandaluyong
Show times: 1 pm, 3pm and 5pm

Spooktober Shockers

Get ready for a marvelously monstrous carnival!

From October 1-31, get one (1) ticket for a minimum purchase of Php 1,000 of any top, inclusive of Halloween items, at participating Toy Kingdom stores. One ticket is good for 2 persons.

When: October 31, 3 pm - 9 pm
Where: SM Mall of Asia 

Halloween Masquerade

This masquerade is for all fashionista kids out there! Call 892-0842 for more details.
When: October 31
Where: SM Makati

I'll be posting more Halloween events and activities to consider after this.

Happy trick or treating!

Island Getaway Holiday Vacation

A holiday vacation is something that everyone look forward to. People usually take advantage of low cost airfares, airline promos and tour packages, so they can save more for their vacation.

For those who wants a serene and quiet paradise, a beach or island vacation where they can relax, and unwind is the ultimate holiday vacation destination. It's where you can opt for the more scenic and rural setting, instead of the usual hotel-living. Renting a villa or a privately owned home can be more satisfying than staying in a hotel if you're on a beach holiday.

There are several island vacation to consider and one of this is the Hilton Head Island. It is renowned as one of the world's most family-friendly vacation destinations and one of South Carolina's top 10 family beaches. It's a place where you'll notice something special the moment you arrive. The cool ocean breeze provides the island's air-conditioning offering you the perfect amount of beauty, inspiration and serenity you've always wanted to experience.

Hilton Head South Carolina is a perfect destination for anybody who enjoys golf courses and fabulous beaches. It continues to attract families not only for its sandy beach, but its myriad of other activities that you can do with your family. There are different activities that kids can choose from - tennis, golf, kayaking and even surfing. For the more adventurous, there are selections of water sports and land sports available. Budget conscious travelers can also find inexpensive places to eat, from chain restaurants to local favorites.

This treasured coast can be best experience by staying at a Hilton Head vacation rental. Privately-owned vacation rentals and commercial commercial resort properties, are available all year round. These resort accommodations will make your stay as comfortable as possible. Villas are set in a charming setting, perfect for those who wants to relax, smell the ocean breeze and watch the sun set into the waters.

Peaceful getaway, great food, comfortable lodging and fun activities make Hilton Head a perfect tourist destination. It's time to treat yourself and your family to a relaxing island holiday vacation, and Hilton Head Island South Carolina is a great place to go.

Dhemz' 3rd Giveaway

It's Dhemz' 3rd Giveaway contest. I can't remember if I joined her first and second giveaway contest, but this time I'm joining! I've missed joining lots of contests already but I should not miss this one (though, I think my chances are slim).

Tempting prizes are at stake - from purse, cardigan, watch, earrings, sunglasses, and bonus cash prizes! Hopefully, I'll be lucky to win one.

Contest runs October 1 to October 31.

Click on the badge to join and know more about this contest.

Self Defense Martial Arts to Protect Yourself

In today’s world, inhumane acts of violence occurs everyday across the globe. Crimes and dangers can be right round the corner. It can happen anywhere - in a bank, in a workplace, on the street, at the mall, and within the vicinity. There's always a predator nearby who's planning his next robbery or attack.

As the economy and people's morality continues to decline, so is our security. We can't just rely on our government or police officials to keep us protected 24 hours a day.This is the reason why personal protection is a very important factor. We can avoid violence and handle it before it actually starts.

Here are simple safety tips to help keep yourself and your family safer:

1. Avoid places where someone could easily attack you. Walk in well-lit and busy areas. Avoid subways, alleyways and isolated car parks.

2. Whenever possible, have family member or a friend walk with you.

3. When walking, carry yourself with confidence. Avoid wearing clothes or shoes that restricts your movement.

4. Stay alert and always pay attention to your surroundings. Better if you won't wearing headphones or use your phone.

5. At home, keep your house doors locked and don't open your door to strangers. Better if your door has a peephole so you can see who is at your doorstep.

6. At night, make sure that your curtains and blinds are closed. Check that the windows and gates are completely closed and locked securely.

7. If taking a taxi cab, text the registration number to someone you trust.

8. If you think you are being followed, cross the road and walk in a busy area. Trust your instincts and take action.

9. If you have a car, don't park in isolated or dark places. When returning to your car, have your car keys ready, look around and check that no one is in the backseat.

10. Learn how to defend yourself when the situation calls for it. Teach your kids, your family members personal safety, self-protection and self defense techniques. 

It is important that we train our minds to be proactive and aware. Do not panic but think fast about what you can do if we are faced with an unavoidable situation and escape unharmed.

Simple self defense techniques is one way to maintain your safety and it can save your lives. Learning how to defend yourself can help you feel more confident, gives you proper mindset, self-control and even sharpen your senses.

Learning Martial Arts and self-defense is necessary and invaluable. Different forms of martial arts, just like combat training, gives you necessary skills to defend yourself. You can even learn martial arts at your own home. You don't have to be Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan, nor be muscular to defend yourself.

Protect yourself from harm and any untoward incidences. Be safe out there!

Clarity's Passion to Make You Smile

It's a great night as participants and bloggers came in their white attire to celebrate with Clarity Aesthetic Medical and Dental Center’s White Party last September 25. I came at the party with my daughter after her ballet class, our dentist appointment and my cousin's birthday celebration (see how tight are weekends are!).



Anyway, when Kumiko Mae posted her Clarity's Passion to Make You Smile contest, this photo came into my mind at once... a photo that sums up all the reasons for making me smile everyday!

(my son, niece, nephew and daughter)

And this photo was awarded as the 2nd prize winner by Clarity doctors. I simply described the photo as "Just seeing their high-spirited and gleeful faces give me a thousand reasons to Smile!" The lovely and creative photo of Suyen, was named as the Grand Prize winner, and she won a teeth bleaching treatment!

Even if I only have one photo entry, I really felt happy when I learned prior to the event that it was chosen as one of the Top 10 finalist. I even submitted an unedited and low-res photo. Good thing, my bro-in-law captured the natural smiles of the kids.

Of course, everyone’s a winner as all participants who came at the White Party received a FREE Oral Prophylaxis treatment plus a free Diamond Peel session. I also got another Oral Prophylaxis treatment from the raffle and an Oxygen Rejuvenating treatment worth P 2,500 as my prize.

I had a great time meeting Kumiko Mae (I got lucky at her blog again!) and the bubbly and pretty mommy Joy! 

(thanks Joy for these photos!) 

Everyday, I'm grateful that life gives me many reasons to smile!

Clarity Aesthetic Medical and Dental Center
5th level, ShangriLa Plaza Mall

Reliable Web Hosting Services For Small Businesses

Today, establishing an online presence is important especially to businesses. It's one aspect that multinational corporations, and even small and medium-sized enterprises consider. It's a great way to attract new clients and bring traffic to their businesses.

Web hosting and managed hosting is always a major decision, as there a wide range web hosting solutions available. Large corporations can afford to manage their own dedicated servers as they have an IT department who can monitor their servers and create recovery plans. For small businesses, establishing a website on the Internet can be crucial as they believe web hosting services can be too expensive.

This is the reason why small and medium-sized are looking for affordable services. They usually opt for cheaper web hosting, email and domain hosting services that suits their budget and requirements.

Managed hosting can be a good solution as it allows businesses to focus on your activities while web host professionals take care of the servers. Some businesses who owns their own servers are considering server colocation service, even if it costs more than standard web hosting.

Better check out what Superb.net has to offer. It's a one-stop hosting service for business web presence and e-commerce solutions. Aside from managed hosting, it also offers domain name registration, dedicated servers, shared hosting, colocation, and a wide range of hosting plans.

Nail Polish: A Vanity Treat For My Nails

Nail polishes and nail care kits are not my obsessions. I can live a month or more with getting a manicure and a pedicure. I haven't even treated myself to a nail spa or a foot spa. I'm okay as long as I'm following a healthy nail care regimen, my fingernails and toenails are clean, and my hands and my feet are soft.

I guess, my nails want to have a touch of color. Maybe this is the reason why I've won nail care kits, not just one, but two! I've shared these with my mom, who loves getting her nails done. 

I got a Cutex Nail Care Kit from Stylebible.ph promo.


Then, I won this Caronia nail polish products from the Caronia website promo.


And just hours ago, I've learned that my sister won for herself a Caronia nail polish kit too! Now, we have lots of nail colors to choose from. 

Thanks to Stylebible.ph, Cutex and Caronia for these nail products that will surely give us a well-manicured and polished nails.