Eat and Play with Kimy Playstix

This surprise package came two weekends ago - I knew my girl would love it since she loves eating Kimy Yummy Jelly ice cream.  What I did not expect was the Playstix!

When I got home, I saw this unusual toy on the table.  I could not figure out what it is.  The helper told me it came with the ice cream.  I opened the package and there were more Kimy Playstix inside!  It's a great idea, quite unique, and allows the kids to be creative with it.  I knew there will be trouble coming when it's time to share this new toy between the youngsters.

See how Kimy Playstix work:

As expected, when I called the kids to see the surprise, the girl got her choice - Kimy Swirl, and then the box of Playstix included in the pack.  Another surprise is that the Playstix is the one holding the ice cream!  So, she quickly ate her ice cream, washed the Playstix and added to her creation.

They did not want to dismantle the "Playstix Tower" that we got with the gift, but it was tempting when the boy and the girl started quarreling over it - counting who got more, and what colors they needed to create and complete their own toy.

Despite the petty fight over this novel toy, I'm really glad they enjoyed playing with this and gave them a break from their gadgets.  We can't deny there's lots of fun in simple toys and they'll find something new to try with these.

Okay, so the boy said he's still missing a piece and doesn't want me to take a picture yet.  The girl doesn't want to share hers.

If you're following me on Instagram, you might have seen my post with this snack ... this is my creamy Kimy Lava.

Well, eventually, my purple Kimy Playstix went to the boy.  His creation is now complete.

"Look mommy, my chair is done! And it reclines!"  =)
(I think it fell over and did not recline, hahahaha)

With Kimy, it's literally eat and play!  I approve.

Kids, and even the big boys and girls, will surely have endless fun with Kimy Playstix!

Have you tried Kimy?  What's your favorite?

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Fun Friday: Photo Shoot at Blow-Up Babies

Third Friday of the month:  Recreation / Event / Family Activity

This was our first family pictorial in almost eight years, so I am considering this session a family event.

After the boy turned two, we did not have a photo shoot with the whole family anymore, even after the girl arrived.  I regret that now.  We only get a chance to take family pictures during parties and special occasions. That's why I was thrilled when Blow-Up Babies tied up with the SoMoms to have all our portraits taken with each of our families.  This is my chance to have professionals take our pictures -- something that I can blow up and have framed.

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When Eating for Two

I AM NOT PREGNANT.

I have to make that clear from the beginning so no one will ask me just by reading the title. =) Mother's Day fever is still in the air and there is so much to share and be thankful for.  I'm sure my new mom friends out there enjoyed their first celebration.  I also know a few expectant moms who can't wait to pop and embrace motherhood.  

One thing I really enjoyed about being pregnant is eating - eating a lot.  Eating whatever I feel like it.  Eating for me and for the baby.  Yes, I was literally eating for two, sometimes for three! Heeheeh...

This was my preggy self during my first time... I look dreadful! I think I was almost 8 months here.  I got all the pimples in the world, bloated from face to toes in my last trimester, gained over 50 pounds, and feeling itchy all over.  It did not help that my mother keeps saying I'll be having a boy (kasi pag pangit ka magbuntis, lalaki ang anak). 

The second time around was a breeze, and I felt and looked waaaay better (I had a girl)!  This was a few weeks before I gave birth.

Despite having no control of what I was eating then, I made sure I ate what I needed to eat, and avoided what I had to.  Experts say, "What you eat and drink is the main source of nourishment for your child.  You’ll need about 300 extra calories per day, especially in the latter stages when your child grows quickly."

If you are expecting, make sure to include the following in your diet:

• Protein and Iron : lean meat and chicken, fish, eggs, and beans/lentils
• Vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B3, B6 : fruits and vegetables, can be fresh, frozen, driedm or a glass of juice
• Starchy foods : bread, pasta, rice and potatoes
• Fibre : wholegrain breads, pasta, rice, fruits and vegetables, to prevent constipation
• Dairy : milk (like Anmum Materna), cheese, yoghurt, which contain calcium
• Foods high in folate : green vegetables, brown rice, fortified bread and breakfast cereals
• Other minerals like : Calcium, Iodine, Zinc and Selenium

I also learned from a nutritionist that pregnant women require these specific nutrients to meet the needs of the growing fetus, and help build reserves to prepare the mother for delivery and lactation.

What food to avoid when preggy:

• Raw meat, eggs, and seafoods - risk of contamination with coliform bacteria, salmonella, and other bacteria
• Fish with mercury - swordfish, king mackerel, shark, tuna (canned tuna should be eaten in moderation) - high levels of mercury consumed during pregnancy has been linked to developmental delays and brain damage
• Soft cheeses and unpasteurized milk - may contain bacteria called Listeria which can infect baby and cause blood poisoning
• Caffeine - this is a diuretic and can result in water and calcium loss; avoid especially during first trimester to reduce chances of miscarriage; take in moderation, limit to less than 200mg per day during pregnancy
• Alcohol - can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or other developmental disorders

In both my pregnancies,  I was craving for pizza, pasta, and steak.  I remember drinking more water than usual, and and having my nightly glass of cold Anmum chocolate milk.  I get hungry every night, so instead of eating before bedtime, I just drink my milk.  My OB was happy with my diet since I did not experience any pregnancy-related health issues like gestational diabetes, constipation, and U.T.I.  I just went overboard with the calories during my first pregnancy! =)

The average weight gain per trimester is 10 pounds, for a total of 30 pounds for the full term. Obviously, I went over the first time.  And with my second, I think I gained a modest 35 pounds, just right for my height and built.  This post is dedicated to my cousin and friends who are waiting for the stork to arrive.  Take care and eat well!

If you are eating for two, remember the "what and what not to eat" lists above, and enjoy the journey!
Learn from other moms and soon-to-be-moms, join Anmum Mommy Circle on Facebook and share your questions and experiences.
Follow @AnmumPH on Twitter for news and updates
Take the Folate Test here.

Anmum Materna is high in Folate, which is important to maintain the growth and development of the foetus. Delicious tasting Anmum Materna also contains Folic Acid, GA, EFA, FOS, Calcium, Iron & other essential nutrients. Just two glasses of Anmum Materna a day can give you 100% of your daily folic acid and 50% of your iron needs.

References:
Talks on Wellness and Nutrition
Food to Avoid during Pregnancy
Eat Well When You're Pregnant

Note:
Top image from Anmum.com.ph

I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
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Mothering, Milestones, and Memories

I still have a hangover from Mother's Day.  One day is not enough.  

I was not able to relax and be queen for a day.  But I expected that.  We don't really celebrate it in a big way - just the traditional Sunday lunch at a family restaurant and then have food delivered for dinner.  At least I get a break from preparing our meals for the day.

With my mama and kids - November 2008

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My Mom-Friday is 4 - Happy Mother's Day!

The poem that started this blog.  My very first blog entry here.

The inspiration behind My Mom-Friday posted 4 years ago on May 9, 2009.

Thank you dear readers and friends, for a wonderful, exciting, and fulfilling four years of My Mom-Friday.  I will try to keep this up as long as I can and hope to continue to entertain, inform, and inspire you.

To all the women with the best and hardest "job" in the world, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
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Family Friday: My Chaotic Summer

Second Friday of the month:  Home Life / Kids / Parenting

First, I have to thank Mommy Mundo for including this quote in their 2013 planner, and making this special poster.

Okay, I was trying to be humorous when I said that.  But I am also serious about it.  This summer proved that sentiment even more.

In my previous posts here and here, I shared how I dealt with having no househelp for months, and then posting this photo on Instagram when our yaya (nanny) left for her vacation last April 30.

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Feiyue, Flying Foward

I am not the sporty type when it comes to dressing.  My friends would attest to that.  My rubber shoes are used only when an activity calls for it, like playing badminton, or going to a gym. Admittedly, athletic shoes would not fit nicely with my wardrobe.

FE-LO Canvas in classic red and blue arrow

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Foodie Friday: Milk Tea and Takoyaki at Tamayaki

First Friday of the month:  Food finds / Restaurant

I'm a fan of milk tea and takoyaki.  It's a winning snack combo.  

Local franchises of milk tea places have sprouted in our neighborhood over the past five years.  I have my favorites from each one. Then, there's the popular Japanese street food - takoyaki (octopus balls).  I have not been to Japan so I really don't know what to expect from a "real" octopus ball.  But with several I've tasted locally, the quality varies in so many degrees.  As long as they taste good to me, whether they're sold from food carts or at casual dining places, I'm sold.

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Kid-Style: Fun Prints and Bright Colors for Summer

Shopping for girls is a hundred times more fun than shopping for boys, with a wider choice of clothes and styles to choose from. I feel lucky that I have a girl who also appreciates fashion, from clothes, to footwear, to accessories.

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Shop for Moms and Tots at Nurture Nook

"Your newest cozy shop with products that help Love, Nurture, Comfort and Live."

Nurture Nook is a quaint shopping haven that's brimming with unique finds that moms would surely love!  The dynamic duo behind this charming store are cousins Janice and Candice, who also brought you the nursing wear label, Mommy Matters.

The interiors reminded me of a house in a prairie, with rustic furnishings and a homey ambiance... very warm and inviting.  Despite the limited floor space, it was very easy to browse through the merchandise, and they even have ample space for a fitting area!

Earlier this month, I had the chance to visit the store and spotted some very interesting and practical items for babies, kids, and new moms -- lots of gift ideas here!

Comfort and style in Mommy Matters clothing line

Aquasana quality water filter for your home, The Mommy Hook for your shopping convenience, and Saya baby carriers

Grandma's Secret - I swear by the Spot Remover

One of my fave brands of natural handmade soaps - By Nature

I love my BellyBelt and they carry it here... 

...and for the tots' snots and boogies, there's gentle Boogie Wipes

Lots of cute accessories for little boys and girls

Look at those dapper Bowties!

Next 9 Cloth Diapers and Inserts 

Nurture Nook is the only authorized retailer that carries the most affordable organic bamboo-cotton apparel for kids 0 - 5 y.o. from Green Sproutlets

Party stuff from Paper Chic Studio, huggable Dolldalita, and Babiators shades for kids

Fun fabric dolls and finger puppets

Soft accent pillows, perfect to your easy chairs and day beds

There are more items coming to the store so get updates from Nurture Nook's Facebook page here.

Do you have a baby? Kids? Are you an expectant mom?  Visit Nurture Nook and I'm sure you won't leave empty handed! =)

Nurture Nook
Unit D 78 Estrella St. Bel-Air Village, Makati City
(across Palm Village gate, near Rockwell)
Store hours: 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
Get instant updates:
My Mom-Friday on Facebook
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I try my best to reply and answer any questions you may have on each entry so check back if you've left one. Thank you and do visit again!
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Mom-Finds: Mustela Bebe and Stelatopia

Last Friday of the month:  Finds and Faves / Skincare

My initial impression on Mustela is that the brand is only for babies.  I've heard about it from friends and I've seen their stalls in malls, but I never really paid much attention since I felt they are not relevant to me anymore.  Irrelevant because I don't have babies nor toddlers, so I have no use for their products.  I was wrong.

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Mom-Style: Jackie of Go! Jackie Go

I can't believe I have not posted a Mom-Style for over a year!  Let me make this first Mom-Style of 2013 worthwhile for you as I present this pretty young mom with style and substance.  

We've been following each other's blogs before we met in late 2011 when I invited her to an intimate function.  I can safely say we hit it off instantly, and I'd like to think it was the start of a real friendship on- and offline.  I'm proud to introduce today's Mom-Style mom on the spotlight - Jackie of Go! Jackie Go!

1. Please share with us what your typical day is like?
My schedule is very dependent on my eldest Gabbie’s school.  She started preschool last November 2012, so we are still in the adjusting phase.

My mornings are dedicated to taking care of the needs of my kids:  Feeding, giving them baths, fixing their things & clothes to wear, very much mom-duties.  Afternoons are usually nap time, but it is also the time I do errands and for events or work.

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