Mom-Finds: Cienta Kids Shoes from Spain

Last Friday of the month: Mom-Finds & Raves / Fashion Finds


I really dig espadrilles, and so does my girl. Thanks to a friend's referral, I was introduced to this fun, stylish and comfortable children's shoes from Spain.

It's a constant challenge for me to find footwear for my kids that has both style and function, and affordable. Children's feet grow fast so it's not practical to buy expensive footwear, I have a budget. Of course I want their shoes to provide a good fit too, with soft quality materials that will be comfortable for them to wear all day. Cienta Kids Shoes manufactured in Spain is all that, and more!

What makes Cienta different from other kids' shoes:

• designed to promote and conform to the natural development of a child's feet
• crafted with natural, high-quality materials  - entire shoe is built with porous materials
• special use of vulcanized rubber allows footwear to adapt to every movement and contour of kid's feet
• safe on any surface with non-slip grip rubber sole
• enhanced with scented, breathable in-sole paddings to minimize moisture for hygiene and comfort

I initially thought they were just like local espadrille sandals and sneakers. Frankly, they are not cheap. But I checked out the brand online and discovered their uniqueness, realized the price was very reasonable -- a far better choice than those popular, more pricey flip flops and rubber clogs!  So I went ahead and ordered "the red shoes" the girl wanted, and another pair of blue Basquet Velcro toddler sneakers as a gift.

Valenciana Sailor Espadrille @ PhP 1,300

Sorry but my girl refused to be photographed since she said "it's still too big"... yes, she's correct. She's in between sizes right now so I opted to get one with more room for her feet to grow in.  Her sweet-smelling, super soft and flexible striped espadrilles may have to wait another month or two but I know it will be her feet's next favorite.

Basquet Velcro Sneaker @ PhP 1,400

Cienta Kids Shoes are available in the Philippines via an online store and Facebook:

www.cientashoes.ph

Facebook: Cienta Kids Shoes Philippines

Email: cientashoes@gmail.com

Cel #: +63916 479-0113

Note: Cienta shoes product shots taken from their Facebook album.

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Mom-Grocer: Glico Pretz & Pocky Biscuit Sticks

My kids are not the only one that need to snack on something during the day and even before bedtime. I always crave for food items to munch on and these pretzel sticks are great tummy fillers.

Can't remember when I started buying these biscuit sticks, but I know it's because of my girl.  If you've been following my blog, you'd realize that most of my foodie discoveries and cooking experiments involve the little miss of the house.

She's as adventurous as myself when it comes to trying out anything edible and that pink Pocky Strawberry Cream pretzel started it all.  We also tried the Chocolate Cream-coated pretzel. After several purchases of this particular sweet variant for her school snack, I chanced upon the other more savory flavors, all of which I love, love, love... Glico Pretz Biscuit Sticks in Corn, Ham and Cheese, Fried, Pizza and Roast (not in photo above).

Pocky Strawberry @ Php 26.00 / 49.5g

I can finish a box in one sitting, except the pink one, alternating different flavors based on my mood. =) This is a great snack pack for kids and adults to bring along to school, the office, anywhere.  I bought these batch from Unimart, also at SM supermarkets before, and I'm sure it's available at other major supermarkets. Try it!

Pretz @ P23.00 / 36g

Another snack I keep buying:
Danesita Cookies


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Raffle Time: Blockbuster Treats from FlapJacks

Fourth Friday of the month:  Freestyle Friday / Giveaways

It's the comeback of FlapJacks' blockbuster favorites and I was delighted to be invited to dine and sample these dishes. Our family enjoys dining at their Greenhills branch so I did not hesitate to accept this treat.  Plus, they gave me Gift Cards to raffle off to my dear readers!

I know you're excited with the raffle since I asked you to decide about the FlapJacks prize earlier.  But, first allow me to share what we had for our Sunday brunch before I go into the mechanics of the raffle. This will give you an idea what you can savor and enjoy from FlapJacks.

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Private Indoor Beach

"Mommy, time for the beach play...!!!"

A sunny day at the beach....uhm, bedroom beach I mean. =)

For no reason, the girl fancied her colorful umbrellas for this afternoon's play time and asked me to join her for a "swim". Good thing she was game at posing for me, and so here's a peek at our colorful time at the "beach".

She set-up the umbrellas on the sand (our bedroom rug), brought out a pail and shovel, laid down a mat (my scarf), placed a bridge (an ottoman) to "cross over the chair island", and threw in some fishies (seahorse and dolphin plush dolls) to complete the whole production.

With her vivid imagination and a knack at weaving stories, plus a little help from Mr. Sun shining through our window, we have an instant beach to relax on and bask in the mid-afternoon sunshine -- indoors!

Wanna join us on our beach? ;)

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FlapJacks' Favorites are Back...Want Some?

Flapjacks brings back their all-time favorites with “Back…Better…Best!” -- another good reason to  indulge in these signature dishes again.

Savor and enjoy these FlapJacks' blockbuster dishes:

• Mango Exotica -- crisp romaine lettuce, sweet bits of raisins and candied cranberries; grilled chicken and ripe mangoes in zesty mango vinaigrette, topped with almond slivers
• Chicken Stuffed Parmigiana -- tender cheese-stuffed breaded chicken breast on a bed of linguine pasta and marinara sauce.
• Lemon-Pepper Pan Seared White Fish -- mildly-seasoned pan fried fish fillet served with herbed rice and chef’s veggies
• Original Hash Brown Burger -- a huge pan-seared all-beef patty topped with hash brown and veggies, with fries on the side

FlapJacks not only serve yummy fluffy pancakes, they also have delectable entrees, sandwiches and desserts. Begin the day or end a perfect meal with a pot of bottomless coffee!  And with their cheery atmosphere and wholesome kid-friendly food, FlapJacks is one of our favorite family restaurants that delivers the “Good food-All day” promise.

Hubby and I just enjoyed a wonderful Sunday breakfast courtesy of FlapJacks in Greenhills which I will feature on Freestyle Friday -- PLUS, Gift Cards to raffle off!  But I need your help, dear readers, I can't decide...

One (1) Winner = P1,000 worth of GCs

OR

Two (2) Winners = P500 worth of GC each

Please VOTE on the comment form below until Thursday noon.

One vote per reader. Majority rules.

1 winner? 2 winners? You decide.

Check back on Friday, Sept. 23rd, when I launch the giveaway! =)

* Update:  JOIN here! Raffle Time: Blockbuster Treats from FlapJacks

FlapJacks restaurants:

Greenbelt 2, Ayala Center

Theater Mall, Greenhills

Al Fresco, Midtown

UP Ayala Technohub

Receive special news and deals from Flapjacks. Sign up at:  mybistro.com.ph

Visit their website:  flapjacks.com.ph

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One Step to Flawless with Kanebo's Freshel BB Cream

Do you know what a BB cream is? Have you used one?
I've heard about this "secret of Korean actresses" last year but just did not care enough to even ask about it nor look it up. If you've been following my blog, you know I'm just not that into beauty stuff.

Image screen capture from www.kanebo.sg

I've been writing about products that I really like and use, but only a handful on cosmetics.  With that, I am happy to add one more to the short list with Kanebo's Freshel White C Mineral BB Cream. 

SRP @ Php 960; in Natural Beige and Medium Beige shades

This is my first time to use a BB cream = Blemish Balm (from Wikipedia), and it's all because of Mrs. Martinez' flawless look and her raves about Kanebo products.  Since I'm all for quick and simple applications, I think this one might just work well for me.  At that time, the product was out of stock from the outlets I frequent.  Luckily, I know a family member of the local distributor so I was able to order for myself and for our blogger friends Rowena and Noemi who also wanted to try this particular BB cream.

FRESHEL WHITE C MINERAL BB CREAM, 50g
What it does:

• Works as "essence, emulsion, cream, sunscreen, and light makeup base"
• Formulated with adhesive collagen for moisturizing effect; fruit acid mixture and citrus peel extracts for exfoliating and moisturizing care
• Non-greasy cream provides UV protection (SPF 41) and covers dark spots/blemishes
• Easily smoothes into skin for a quick matte finish

Pea-sized amount for medium coverage of my entire face

I got the Natural Beige shade -- good for typical fair-skinned Asians with yellow undertones. If you are kayumanggi, have a light tan or brown-skinned, the Medium shade would be better.  Best if you test the shade at any Kanebo counters before buying.

Since it's an all-in-one skin cream and makeup base by Japan's top beauty brand, I know it's gonna be worth it.  As soon as I received my silver tube, I used it the following morning on a clean face and I'm ready to go.

1. Squeezed pea-sized amount and quickly dotted my face concentrating on my dark circles around the eyes, blemish spots, and a pimple mark on the left cheek
2. Cream was super fine and thick which guarantees a nice medium to full coverage, depending on amount you use
3. With my fingertips, I spread cream around my face --  I noticed it dries up fast so my first application was a bit uneven, hahaha (the mark of a true BB cream virgin!)
4. Face appeared to be slightly lighter that my normal skin tone with matte finish after application
5. Shade neutralized once it has set several minutes after, with a dewy-moist effect
6. Very good coverage, evened out my skin tone, and lightly concealed dark circles and spots

LEFT

Before                                                   After

RIGHT

Before                                                   After

Still visible are:  mole (right), chicken pock mark below the eye (right), and spider veins which will forever map my face. Though I never intended to completely mask over them since I still wanted to look as natural as possible. There was enough coverage over my problem spots. 

I was very satisfied with how it felt and looked on my skin, and it did not feel heavy as I thought it would. This is an un-retouched headshot.  A smooth, even matte finish with medium to full coverage.

My face remained generally "matte" during the day and simply blotted away oily spots.  I only touched up once under my eyes with face powder.  The following day, I tried to apply a very small amount of regular moisturizer before the BB cream and the application was smoother for me this time. :)

Freshel White C Mineral BB Cream + lash curler + tinted lip balm = I'm all set to go!
This is an amazing product. No wonder BB creams are all the rage.  I highly recommend this especially to women on-the-go, for mothers like me who want a quick and simple makeup routine that will last the day, no frills, all-in-one product with sun screen.

Another variant is Freshel Moist Lift BB Cream, with hyaluronic acid.  Choose the one that would suit your skin's needs.

Image screen capture from www.kanebo.sg

Kanebo cosmetic products available at leading department stores and Watson's health and beauty shops.

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Fun Friday: Virtual Fashion Styling on Miss-Match

Third Friday of the month:  Hobby / Recreation

Virtual styling has been the perfect outlet for me, being a frustrated designer and fashion stylist.  

"I Love Squarepants" -- my first published look on Miss-Match

First, Mom-Friday got into Looklet.com, it was short-lived...followed by Polyvore (which I haven't even touched yet)... and just recently, after a Tweet from Jennie Epperson, I registered with Miss-Match.com.ph -- the first local cyber styling site developed by Fashion Lab.

What do I love most about Miss-Match.com.ph?

• I can actually buy the brands and items used to "create my look" since all the featured items are available here.  
• The looks are realistic and achievable.
• Styling tips and help from designers and fashion experts
• Trend-spotting
• I can create a wish list and fill 'my closet' with things I love

Miss-match is what I've been waiting for after I dropped out of Looklet, hahaha...

 Sample looks I made from Looklet.com

Fashion styling has been one of my many interests.  I was just lucky that I've been able to actually be a fashion and production stylist in some of our (low budget) print advertising projects in the past. With these virtual styling sites, I can be a stylist anytime I want and relive my creatively fun experience!

Miss-Match is still in 'beta', or in preview and testing stage, so you can still expect more improvements. I have yet to explore the site myself.

I was happy to receive a welcome letter from them and I did not hesitate to share my initial experience and feedback.  Too bad for me, after my first look was published, all succeeding looks I've successfully created (for hours and hours!), 'publish' and saved (see screen caps below) did not display on my profile nor on the Fashion Feed. :(((  So my Fashion Profile is still showing one look. I guess I need to try and try again...

I really wanted to share what I've been doing so I just took some 'screen-capture' to post here.  When I can squeeze in some time, I create and experiment on looks, also having my little girl in mind.

"Pretty Prim & Proper"

Create, Publish, choose a title, type in details, and Save.

Gingham dress from Zara; sleeveless dress from Rajito

"Weekend Kiddie Party"

Bubble dress with cardigan, matched with gray flats

My wardrobe has been in a fashion rut for God knows how long!  I only bought a few up-to-date pieces over the year and if you see my closet, you would agree that I badly need a wardrobe overhaul.  In the meantime, this cyber styling and virtual shopping on Miss-Match will do for now to keep me inspired while I go find (earn) myself some shopping money.

"Beach Glam"

Rajo dress with woven bag and strappy sandals

"Driving Mama"

Black tunic top over white skinny pants, large tote, and yellow flats

"Rock and Rain!"

Geared for the rain in gray top, boots, and a cheery watermelon-print umbrella

How do you find my looks?

Register with Miss-match.com.ph and start channeling your inner fashionista.  If you happen to like my set/s, share the 'love' and click the button on Mom-Friday's fashion profile.  Happy styling! =)

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World-Class Culinary Program at ADF+Enderun

"This is very extraordinary. I find myself today in front of you students and future students of the programs that we have designed in partnership with Enderun...you represent the future of our profession.  We hope to guide you in your professional careers." - Alain Ducasse

I've heard of Enderun Colleges several years ago when they were still housed in a corporate building in Ortigas Center in Pasig City, and operated Restaurant 101 at the lower level.  I thought it was just a small international culinary school but I was wrong.

Last September 10, I was part of Discover Cuisine bloggers' event hosted by ADF+Enderun.  I missed the first one so I was thrilled to be invited again and finally got to visit the school for the first time. Upon arriving, I was completely awe-struck!

Warning:
This post is photo-heavy as I attempt to give you a glimpse of the school's top-notch facilities and the original food creations by the executive chef during our exclusive visit. Enjoy! =)

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Mom-Friday's Moments on TV

Second Friday of the month:  Family / Motherhood


Tense. Awkward. Hot spot lights. Beads of sweat building up. Bad angle (for my face!).  Facets of my life revealed. And here's what I got myself into...with the participation of the boy and the girl, for your viewing pleasure (I hope).

July 16.
TV show:  Moments on Net25
Who's behind My Mom-Friday?  In 5, 4, 3, 2, 1...

Mom-Friday on Moments

*The host of the show often speaks in the vernacular, so I did the same and spoke in mixed Filipino and English for the segment.

So how did I get to be on TV talking about motherhood? Let's rewind...

May 20.

"hi mam gud day! thanks so much for the response...just wondering if we can feature you on our show, its a one on one interview talking about mother hood, family etc... anything that you wana share :) our setting will be at your home if you will permit..."[sic]
Now you know what the segment is all about.

Screen capture from the opening sequence - host Gladys Reyes

The show coordinator initially sent me a tweet, then a follow-up email above.  We also talked over the phone.  You see, I was quite hesitant even if I was familiar about Moments, the parenting talk show hosted by young celebrity mom Gladys Reyes on Net25.  First, why me? Secondly, I was not confident enough to appear on any video, more so on a TV show!  Lastly, online pranksters abound and it's best to err on the side of caution.

Coincidentally, a blogger friend tweeted about her recent taping with the said show and encouraged me to go for it.  I later learned that a couple more mom blogger friends also appeared in the past episodes, therefore erasing my doubts. And just for the experience, I finally accepted. After telling the kids they'd appear on TV, they became so excited. That got me nervous! =)

May 31.
Confirmation of shooting day -- June 7, taping at home.
They sent a formal letter from the producer which I've requested.  On hindsight, I think they should have done this from the very beginning to erase doubts, at least to make the introduction official, and the invite more credible.

Finding the right spot in the living room for the "interview"

June 7.
It was a Tuesday afternoon. I arrived home straight from fetching my boy. Living room was set.  No time to be made-up, just a quick change, styled my hair neatly, powdered my face and put on lipstick. I'm all set. Then an outfit change for the cooking portion after the talking head sequence.

Kitchen set-up for the cooking demo with the kids

July 16.
Airing of episode on Moments

* * *
I requested the clip mainly to file for posterity and didn't plan on sharing it to the world.  I even stopped hubby from posting this on Facebook after I got the link a week ago!  With the encouragement from friends who saw the video, I mustered enough confidence to post this for the benefit of other friends and relatives who missed it on TV, and of course, for you my dear readers. ;)

Thank you for watching!
Hope you endured enjoyed my 6 minutes of awkwardness and unnecessary facial expressions.  It was too weird watching myself, but the kids loved seeing themselves on the show and my family is proud of this rare moment on TV.

Try the featured recipe here:  Peanut Butter Banana French Toast

Moments on Net25

Saturdays, 7:00 pm
Replays on Sunday 11:30 am.

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I Love Mooncake!

It's moon cake fever!

Okay, I'm kinda late on this post, the end of mooncake festival falls on Monday.  I really just want to share and rave about my favorite mooncake since last year (see watermark date)!  I've tried and eaten so many kinds and brands since childhood, from the regular supermarket variety to the fancy hotel-grade quality.  I just love eating them! I'm a self-proclaimed mooncake connoisseur. *wink*.

Lucky me, our family friend manufactures the finest mooncakes in the country -- bar none.  My standards were set so high with Hong Ley's products so I tend to compare all others I've tried (and will try) against this, and nothing compares to their superior quality.  Receiving a gift box of these traditional Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival delicacy from Hong Ley Food Products is the highlight of our festival celebration. They supply a number of Manila's top hotels and restaurants, proof of their class-A quality products.  Maybe some of you have already tasted them without knowing it.

Every bite brings me to mooncake heaven!

White Lotus Paste w/ 1 Yolk @ PhP 118 a piece

My favorite Cantonese-style premium moon cake variety is the White Lotus Paste with 1 or 2 Yolks. Super smooth, moist and chewy, decadent...it's quite filling!

Other varieties include:  Regular Lotus Paste, and Bean Paste, with 1 or 2 yolks, or plain.

Being mooncake addicts, hubby and I can eat 1 whole piece each of this dense cake in one sitting! We also quarrel when one eats more than the other. :D

Too bad these are not available for retail.  Hong Ley, a leading noodle supply company, only makes mooncakes for special orders during the festival as it entails a very tedious production process.  Even their tikoy (sticky rice cake) is by special production also.

Want to have the best mooncake in town?  You still have 'til the end of the month to order.
Although I cannot guarantee availability, you may inquire here:
Hong Ley Food Products
For volume/special orders, call: (632) 4477-882 loc. 101, 102
Email: hongleyfoods@yahoo.com
#2 Atis Road cor. Camachile St. Potrero, Malabon, Metro Manila
Philippines

I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
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Foot Spa and Pedi Treat at Cozy Nail Lounge

I think I've only had manicure and pedicure at a salon only twice since I started wearing nail polish.  I do my own nails and usually apply polish when there's an occasion.  Just talking about this makes me feel so deprived of pampering. So I could never say no to a foot spa, and a mani-pedi would be the icing on the cake!

It all started with a tweet I sent to Partricia and a few blogger friends about how we first met exactly one year ago on August 19.  She was so sweet for thinking about us getting together at her friends' nail salon and the plan was set in motion.  I helped with the invites, then several tweets, emails, and a week later, we found ourselves at COZY Nail Lounge in Libis for an afternoon of girl-talk and a much needed pampering.

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Vote and Empower the Youth with Unilab Ideas Positive

"Can your idea paint a healthier future for the Philippines?"
This is the challenge of Unilab Ideas Positive.

United Laboratories (Unilab) has initiated a project-based advocacy campaign to empower the youth, tap their creativity and social purpose in helping improve community health and wellness with their unique ideas and make them a reality through Unilab Ideas Positive (UIP).

This is truly a noble endeavor that deserves all our support.  College students from over 20 schools have participated, and now 11 semi-finalist teams were chosen and will need your votes on their videos.

• AweEIGHTS
• CIEMers (Community Involvement of Entrepreneurial MovERS)
• Ecobiz-Inc
• Green Minds
• High Five
• KaBaLiKAT
• PhataTeam
• Team Lypad
• Team MaNiKa
• Team SEND (Students Engaging on a New Direction)
• Timalaya

Watch their videos and VOTE here:  http://www.unilabideaspositive.com/videos.html
Authorize Facebook so you can choose and vote on the videos of your favorite UIP teams. But you can only vote once per video. 
Voting ends on September 7, 2011.

After the votes, the top 5 finalists will be selected and will then defend their projects on September 18 before a multi-sector panel of judges.

Unilab will award a total of Php250,000 seed fund to implement the winning teams' programs on their chosen community:

• 1 Winning team = Php100,000 seed fund
• 2 Runners-up = Php75,000 seed fund each

Let's vote and help make these socially responsible students' ideas transform and improve communities.

Learn more about Unilab Ideas Positive via their website and Facebook page.

Many Filipino youth want to make a difference in the country but maybe don’t know where to start and how. Unilab Ideas Positive is our way to enable them to get started so they will be motivated to do more, and together with fellow youth, make a concrete difference where it really matters. - Unilab

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Foodie Friday: Red Velvet Cake & Malted Milk Ice Cream

First Friday of the month:  Food finds


Satiating my sweet tooth... and yours.  
Carla & Elaine's Red Velvet Cake and Carmen's Best Artisanal Ice Cream.
These are my (overdue) sweet discoveries that deserve to be shared.

I regularly crave for sweets and always try to leave room for desserts like cakes and ice cream.  There are dozens of heavenly confections in my list of favorites, and these two are now part of that list.


Carla & Elaine's Red Velvet Cake
Moist and slightly dense, just the way I like cakes to be. The cake has a hint of cocoa, layered and covered in creamy-smooth buttercream and cream cheese frosting.  Perfectly balanced sweetness. It's ruby and cream colors make it all the more irresistible. This one also happens to be my girl's cake-of-the-moment.  Have a slice, or two!

6-inch Red Velvet Cake @ Php 420

I am a regular customer of the Kitchen of Carla & Elaine's and have bought many of their specialty cakes for our birthdays, or whenever I crave for their pastries. So I was really excited when they launched this Red Velvet Cake, which I quickly introduced to my daughter knowing she will love it!  I have only tried two other red velvet cakes and a cupcake in the past and this version did not disappoint.

Kitchen of Carla & Elaine's
198 Promenade Bldg., Wilson corner P. Guevara streets, San Juan City

Mondays - Sundays: 10am-7pm
Tel No.: (632) 480-9457


Carmen's Best Artisanal Ice Cream - Malted Milk
Super rich and creamy, real milk goodness with chunks of malt candy.  If you like Horlicks and Maltesers like me, then you will definitely love this artisanal ice cream creation from Real Fresh Dairy Farms, the same family farm that produces premium fresh milk Holly's.

Malted Milk flavor @ Php 380 / pint

I discovered Carmen's Best during the World Eats Food Fest at The Podium last July 31. I first tried Salted Caramel flavor and it was divine. But Malted Milk won me over so I happily brought home a pint of this one. They are produced in small batches, sold in plain pastic containers like this one.  I think they are still developing their label and packaging.

Owner Paco Magsaysay was on hand to entertain purveyors and customers and he shared with me that he mixed in crushed Horlicks for this Malted Milk flavor -- *drool*. It's very rich and sweet so try not to finish the whole pint like I did, my throat surrendered. Savor every scoop. The price for a pint is a bit steep but with the quality ingredients, it's worth every spoonful of this cool, decadent dessert. I have more flavors to try!

Carmens Best Artisanal Ice Cream and Gelato

For inquiries and orders:  (632) 893-1459
Find them on Facebook

What's your sweet indulgence?

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