Mom-Style: Tina the Phenomenal Mama

For today's Mom-Style, allow me to introduce one of the first ladies who have supported my blog from the very beginning.  She is one domestic diva I truly admire.

Though we've known each other since we were kids, it's only recently that we've been able to meet and get in touch again because of blogging! Amazing right?  The spotlight is now on phenomenal mama Tina Ong of Our Phenomenal Life.

Mom rules! =)

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Mom-Grocer: Danesita Cookies - Apple and Figs Strudel

Mom-Grocer: Danesita Cookies

One fine day at the supermarket, I was off to find some snacks for myself (and for the kids too! hehe).  I chanced upon a stack of nicely packaged imported cookies.

I guess it's obvious with this new Mom-Grocer category that I enjoy trying foodie discoveries from the grocery aisles. The latest I bought was a pack of Danesita Apple Strudel.

As I recall, I saw four Danesita cookie flavors:

• Apple Strudel
• Fig Strudel
• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Brownies

Of course I went for the less common variant.  Chocolate flavors can be quite predictable. 

That same afternoon, I had something new to snack on. You'll smell the freshness once you open the pack.  Each rectangular cookie is about 3 inches and every bite will give you that sweet natural apple flavor complemented by chewy raisins, and a mild fragrant cinnamon spice. One of my fave dessert mix, this time, in cookie form.

If you like your cookies soft and chewy, well, this is like a 2 in 1.  You need to catch the crumbs at each bite. The raisins, apple bits and puree are the chewy parts --  a perfect contrast to the crumbly strudel cookie. This proved to be such a delightful snack for me, with it's fruity mix of textures and natural sweetness. One cookie is definitely not enough.

Danesita cookies are quite pricey for a pack of 8 bars (150g), at P68.50 from Unimart.  Of course I intended for this whole pack to be just for me. Turned out my kids liked it too, except that they asked me to pick the raisins out!  But this is perfect for kids, having (bits of) fruits in a scrumptious cookie.

I am not watching my weight so calorie counting was never in my vocabulary. For those of you who are, just see the numbers and ingredients for yourself if this will pass as a good snacking option. =)

I bought another pack of Apple Strudel, and Fig Strudel too, at my recent grocery trip.  I remember my fondness for Fig Newtons years ago so I tried this cookie flavor. The Fig and Apple variants look and taste similar except the Apple Strudel is more complex with the raisins and hint of cinnamon. Both are yummy but I'll have to choose apple over fig. Maybe I'll try Brownies next time.

@ Php 68.50 / pack (from Unimart supermarket)

What's your latest grocery find?

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Mom-Finds: Smooth-365 and Filextra by GoodSkin Labs

Last Friday of the month:  Mom-Finds / Raves

I rarely spend on cosmetics. I want quick and simple steps to beautify. I do believe in good basic skin care though.  And since I don't put much make-up on, I really need to have nice, healthy skin.  But don't like to "invest" on a full line or range of products and then follow so many steps for application to get the promised results.


I'm not in my 20s anymore (huhuhu...) and lately, I became more conscious of my skin, especially on my face and neck. Over the years, I've kept a very basic regimen of mild liquid cleanser and facial moisturizer, for day and night.  I don't even put on sunscreen (a crime for skin experts)!

Early this months, I was introduced to GoodSkin Labs. Thanks to the fine ladies from Estee Lauder Company (Phils.), I was able to try their unique products and got to know more about this premium skin solutions brand.

Filextra, Tri-Aktiline, Smooth-365 sampler

GoodSkin Labs was created by BeautyBank, a division of Estee Lauder Co.
What differentiates GSL products?

• produces highly-targeted skincare products with both instant benefits and long term results
• addresses agin skin's unique needs
• advanced formulas that ensure real, visible and measurable results
• products are fragrance-free
• can be used by anyone to boost their anti-aging skincare regimen

I was very vocal about wanting a low maintenance skin care regimen, with less products to use as possible. BeautyBank's marketing executive Rizel Magno explained that the products are targeted on specific "problems" and assured me that there's no need to change or dump my basic skincare products to be able to benefit from GoodSkin Labs skin treatment line.

Ms. Rizel Magno applying Tri-Aktiline to demo it's instant line-reducing effects

In short, GoodSkin Labs products are like anti-aging spot treatments. One-step, no fuss and easy to use. I like that!  While their innovative skincare line works synergistically to improve the overall quality of your skin, you can simply choose one that you really need and incorporate into your existing skincare regimen.

SRP @ PhP 2,000/tube (est. US$46)

SMOOTH-365

A skin perfecting super serum

• has clarity-promoting agents for even, luminous complexion
• latest optical diffusers that counter imperfections, lines, wrinkles
• power peptides that stimulate collagen production to lift away unwanted lines for smoother skin tone and texture

The cream spreads easily and absorbs quickly that leaves skin velvety smooth.

For best results, apply all over face and neck, morning and night before moisturizing.

Even with just the sampler sachet, I was able to see, feel, and measure the results from using it 2x a day, for the past 2 weeks. I applied a small drop and pressed mainly on my cheeks. I like how smooth and light it felt, AND it did clear up my skin and prevented an impending breakout!

SRP @ PhP 2,800/tube (est. UD$65)

FILEXTRA

An all-over moisturizer and Facial Revolumizing Treatment

• Natural Collagen Boosters create more stable skin structure
• has a potent mix of ingredients to restore youthful skin plumpness/volume, counteracting the "mid-face sink" and thin looking skin
• tone correctors and optical diffusers provide instant healthy glow and diminish hallows and sunken facial contours

The rich moisturizer leaves the skin hydrated, with a slightly firm feeling on the skin.

For best results, apply all over face and neck, morning and night.

I used Filextra in tandem with Smooth-365, 2x a day, for the past 2 weeks. I squeezed a pea-sized amount, rubbed between fingers, and pressed all over my face and neck.

I have combination skin so I use this sparingly on my T-zone.  After a few weeks, my face did seem to look healthier, skin is not pale and pasty anymore. It worked well under make-up too!

Despite my (major) hesitation to flash and scare you with my face again, I need to show how the products worked for me.


Please focus on the cheek area.
Days before using the products, I already noticed slight redness (signs of growing pimples) on my left cheek.  I used Smooth-365 & Filextra after shower, and took a risk, not knowing if it will aggravate or improve my skin's condition at that time.  Lo and behold, the morning after, the redness subsided. Great right?

I continued to use and observe since the zits might resurface at any time. To my delight, after 2 weeks of continued use, I am still clear of cheek pimples!

Here's the 'Before and After' shots in a span of 9 days, photographed under very similar lighting conditions, without retouching the face.  (I wished those veins can be erased!)

Sorry, my photo did not capture the pasty texture and bump on my skin (on the left).

       Before:  pimple breakout-in-the-making     After:  pimples did not develop; clearer cheeks

This spot on my cheeks has been a problem for me ever since I started having adult pimples in my mid-20s, and resulted in enlarged pores on that area. From time to time, these annoying tiny red dots will make their appearance, which I just try to ignore and hide under face power. 

In my case, I want to banish fine lines, blemishes, baby zits here and there, improve my pale pasty skin and uneven skin tone.  I'm quite satisfied with GoodSkin Labs' potent products which successfully addressed "problem areas" on my face.


So far, Smooth-365 and Filextra are working well with very visible results, and slowly improving my (aging) skin. I guess I have to get the regular-sized Smooth-365 tube now!

A great afternoon of beauty talk with blogger friends and beauty gurus Rowena and Michelle, (Mom-Friday, center), with Rizel and Krishna from Estee Lauder Co.

GoodSkin Labs skincare products are available at selected Watsons Personal Care Stores, Beauty by SM Department Stores and Marionnaud Mall of Asia.

To learn more about these amazing products, head over to GoodSkin Labs' official website.


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Kindermusik (Philippines) Classes & Scholarships with Teacher Suzette

2011 recipient of the Maestro Producer Award and the Maestro in Outreach Award, Suzette Yu - Kho is the first Filipina to be recognized by Kindermusik International for outreach work.  Kindermusik with Teacher Suzette and Friends is ranked among the top 5% of Kindermusik programs worldwide.

I first learned about Kindermusik when my boy was in preschool. They offered the supplemental program 'ABC Music & Me' for building early literacy and language skills through music, conducted by a licensed teacher.  I loved how the program enhanced listening and communication skills, promoted camaraderie, respect and compassion for others, and simple life lessons that children his age can relate to. It was such an enriching experience for my little boy, and for me too.

Not so long ago, I discovered that my classmate in elementary is a certified Kindermusik Maestro! Suzette is a proud mom of two boys and was running a daycare and kiddie salon before she became a Kindermusik educator. So, allow me to introduce Teacher Suzette as she shares with us how Kindermusik helps in the development of infants and kids up to 7 years of age, what programs they offer, and her passion and advocacies in teaching which I find to be truly admirable.

Teacher Suzette Kho

"Kindermusik has always been an advocacy for me.  I believe that education and programs such as Kindermusik should be within reach of parents from all social classes and for children with special needs. This is why I started a scholarship program in 2007.  I became the first Filipina to receive the Ruth Anderson grant from the U.S., allowing Kindermusik International to recognize my outreach work. 

When I see that an enrolled family has more than two children already, I automatically offer a scholarship for the third child, no questions asked.  I want families to experience the program without the financial burden.  I believe that Kindermusik is so beautiful that every child should be given the opportunity to be a student. 

Unlike other child programs focusing only on the kinesthetic development of the child, Kindermusik aims to enhance the 6 domains of child development:  physical, social, emotional, language, cognitive and musical aspects."

Parents and teacher on the floor with kids and their instruments

All educators are well-trained and are required to be updated on professional development knowledge and skills in order to maintain their licenses. Teacher Suzette tend to hire educators who are mothers themselves as their personal experience allows them to better understand the journey of parenthood and the needs of other parents.

Happy students with Stephanie Pe - Perez, a co-teacher

Kindermusik's 4 core curricula:

1. Village (newborns to 1.6 y.o.) : Includes infant massage, bi-lateral/cross lateral exercises, circle dances, vestibular stimulation, vocal plays, age-appropriate instrument exploration. Promotes bonding time with parents.
2. Our Time (1.6 to 3 y.o.) : Has a lot of movement, lap bounces, more chants and rhymes; ehancing speech and movement coordination, as well as improving your child's vocabulary.  As proven by Northwestern University, the activities in 'Our Time' greatly affect your child's reading skills by third grade.
3. Imagine That! (3 to 5 y.o.) : Imagination and mathematics are seamlessly included in the program, delving into one-to-one correspondence. Want your child to learn a new language more quickly?  This unit is excellent with working on intonations and pitch range.
4. Young Child (5 to 7 y.o.) : Teaching notes and musical notations in a fun way. Children are encouraged to compose their own songs. In Semesters 1 and 2, program focus on a percussion instrument called a glockenspiel.  In Semester 3, there's a dulcimer which is a string instrument. Semester 4, the children are taught a wind instrument called a recorder.

All core curricula includes imported take-home materials so learning can be continued at home.

 

Interested in the program? Call Teacher Suzette and schedule a FREE trial class!
La Mia Scuola

1 Capitol Drive, Capitol Hills, Quezon City
Tel.:  (632) 216-5677  / 881-4859
Mobile: +63917-853-0225
Email:  kindermusikwithteachersuzette@gmail.com

Other venues with teacher Suzette:
Gingerbread House of Learning - Congressional Ave., Quezon City
 Tel.:  (632) 426-2909  / 216-5677
KIDS Academy - White Plains, Quezon City
 Tel.:  (632) 913-1096  / 216-5677

Apples and Oranges - Mariano Marcos St., San Juan City
 Tel.:  (632) 723-8849  / 216-5677


Note:

All photos provided by Suzette Kho

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A Father's Day Greeting

A father is a guide on the journey to adulthood, a teacher of morals and values.
He listens to problems and helps to find their solutions.
He is a friend, always there to share the good and the bad.
He is someone who gets respect because he deserves it, trust because he earns it, and love because of all he is.  -- by M. Joye, from The Language of Parenting

To my papa, my brother, and to all the fathers out there, 

especially to the most responsible and dedicated father of our precious boy and girl,

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

A simple school art project that the girl proudly brought home for daddy... with pink pants!
And no, daddy is not bald! :)

Side note to dads:  Just don't forget to thank the woman who made you a father! =)

Daddy moments you might like:
Double take with the babies
Tale of 2 Dads
Daddy wish list
Craft for dad
Hubby's birthday

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Fun Friday: The Art of Plants vs. Zombies

Third Friday of the month:  Hobby / Recreation

My kids love to draw. They draw everyday whenever they get the chance.  They get inspiration from their toys, the shows they watch, games they play, the memorable characters that make them sing and dance...whatever's the favorite of the week.  It's their number one creative outlet and they love showing off their works of art!

In today's Fun Friday post, allow me to indulge them with their request to "put it on the computer" and "show everyone" their drawings.

You can say it's a bit late for them to be going ga-ga over the popular game of Plants vs. Zombies, which they enjoy playing on the iPad.  After laugh-out-loud moments with Angry Birds and many other fun apps and games for kids, these odd looking plants and zombies characters finally caught on and eventually translated into their recent daily sketching activity.

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Coach Signature Fragrance for Everyday

"The first fragrance from Coach embodies the many personalities of the Coach woman…timeless, chic and sophisticated."

Yes, Coach has a fragrance line. From the same prestigious American brand of leather goods comes this crisp, vibrant scent I've been wearing everyday since I received this gift. It's light and citrus-y with a faint floral scent. I am loving my Coach Signature cologne!

This is the first time I am featuring a fragrance that I am actually using.  If you could see my dresser, I only have a handful that I use alternately, from body sprays to colognes.  I don't wear much daily so I haven't used up most of them.  But this unexpected surprise may have sparked a new addiction. Call me crazy but I just can't stop smelling myself after every spray! Hahahaha!

Pretty, chic and playful:  a lighter version of our original Signature scent, blending soft, fresh fruits and florals with a heart of fragrant yellow blossoms and warm hints of amber and cedar wood. - Coach Fragrance

You may have to agree with me that it's most challenging to describe a scent. To smell is to believe. :)))  Many thanks to Aramis and Designer Fragrance (ADF) -- a division of Estee Lauder Company.  I don't need to attempt to describe this wonderful fragrance and will just share the official product description. ADF also carries other fragrances for men and women including DNKY, Sean Jean, and Tommy Hilfiger.

Signature Eau de Toilette - SRP @ P3,700 / 50ml

The scent is classically inspired with a unique blend of soft florals. The topnote sparkles with tart green mandarin, guava, lush violet petals and giant waterlily. Its complex scent melds honey, orange flower, mimosa and a touch of jasmine. To further enhance the floral signature, the drydown adds a luxurious finish with smooth and supple sandalwood and amber-wood. The result is a beautifully blended fragrance that represents modern beauty, elegance and charm.

The clear elegant glass bottle carries Coach's signature pattern, the Lozenge logo shaped cap, accented with metallic print hangtag charm detail.

You have to smell this fresh scent for yourself ladies. A spritz will surely perk up your day! Use sparingly if you like a more faint scent. They also have Coach Signature Eau de Parfum if you prefer this.

Signature Eau de Parfum - SRP @ P4,600 / 50ml  (Image courtesy of ADF)

Go to the nearest Coach counters and spray some on.  Coach’s Signature Fragrance is exclusively distributed in all Rustan’s Department Stores (Makati, Shangri-la, Gateway, Ayala Town Center, Ayala Center Cebu), and Robinson’s Place Manila.

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Family Friday: LTO Gives Me License to Drive (again!)

Second Friday of the month:  Family Friday - Parenthood


I hate to say it but it's back to daily driving for me (sob, sob, sob)!  For the past 18 months, and counting, we have been very fortunate to have a stay-in family driver.  And for the past 18 months, I've been carrying around an expired driver's license!

It was not intentional. Honest. Since I was not really driving anymore, it just did not occur to me that my driver's license had expired already.

My new license with a decent "mug shot" -- good for the next 3 years

So what has changed? 

It's back to school and the kids have overlapping schedules! Sucks!

The boy should clock in at 8:20 a.m. while the girl at 8:30 a.m.  They go to different schools. No choice for me but to drive the girl every morning while the driver brings the boy to his school and then bring hubby to work.  Good thing the preschool is just a mere 4-minute drive! After over a year of procrastinating, I have finally renewed my license yesterday.  I need to.

For months, I imagined I'd be wasting half the day at an LTO (Land Transportation Office) Driver's License Renewal Center (DLRC) applying and going through the steps, then waiting for the license card to be released.  It was refreshing to find out from friends that the system has greatly improved, more centers opened in malls, and that applying for renewal was just a breeze, depending on which branch I visit.

I decided to go to the LTO-DLRC in SM Center Pasig in Frontera Verde (near Tiendesitas). I got there before 10a.m.  Though I can also go to two other centers in nearby malls, I opted to go to this branch since it's less crowded.  I'm glad I made the right choice!

Surprisingly, I only spent 45 minutes from the time I arrived to leaving the center with my new driver's license!  It pays to be early too!  Our family driver also renewed his license at this branch last April and told me he spent around 90 minutes and he was 10th. That's just about right since there were only 4 ahead of me when I entered, and went along to follow the simple steps, as described on the signage below.

4 Easy Steps in Applying for Renewal of Driver's License

You only need to bring your old license and official receipt. Between Steps 1 & 2, just accomplish the forms and submit yourself to a "Drug test" and "Medical test" in the other room, and pay P400.00 (P300-drug test with urine sample; P100-medical test with  very brief Q&A, vision test). 

Customer service was helpful in guiding all of us applicants with our queries. No snooty staff here, thank God! And I don't mind waiting in an airconditioned commercial center, making it more comfortable and convenient for everyone.

Here are the requirements and fees:

Mine was expired for more than a year, so penalty for me. Done. I also updated by address so that's additional P100 for 'Revision of Records' -- I don't get this one. Why do they have to charge for this? It's like paying them for typing in a different address!

Anyway, I got my license now and I'll be back on the road again in two weeks.  My mornings will be more stressful from then on...at least for the next 10 months.  That does not include parking and finding one!

Make way...driving momma is back!


Find the LTO Driver's License Renewal Center near you:
LTO - DLRC Directory



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Be Your Own Boss as Sun Life Financial Advisor

Do you want to steer the direction of your own success? 

Do you want to maximize your potential and get rewarded for it? 

Do you have the passion to help people achieve financial freedom? 

If you answered 'Yes' to each question, then you could be have a career as a Sun Life Financial Advisor!

Don't be intimidated by the title. Whether you're looking for a second job or a business, you're a stay-at-home mom, a freelancer, or even a fresh grad, YOU can find bigger prospects as a Financial Advisor as long as you are driven to succeed.

Image from www.sunlife.com.ph

Over the years, I have embarked on sales-related activities on the side -- offering cosmetics, personal care products to nutritionals, and even loose diamonds and jewelry!  This was something that allowed me to earn on my free time to supplement our family income, plus extra shopping money for me! :-)

I sold, I earned, I stopped.  I knew I cannot devote more time into it.  But I can proudly say I had an open mind to explore these business opportunities that came my way.  Eventually, I realized my true calling is to be engaged in creative endeavors and be a full time/stay-at-home mom.  The experience taught me so much about myself and about other people who succeeded in their chosen field.  I would not have known what I am capable of achieving have I not tried.

That is why I am sharing this great opportunity with you, my dear readers, since I am sure many of you are in a crossroads in your careers, are considering a business venture, or maybe in search of better prospects to secure yours and your family's future. This might just be what YOU are looking for to hit it big and become your own boss!

Red Iron Bark Unit Manager Dar Uyco and (right) Red Spurce Branch Manager Christine Lee

"Sun Life Financial is not only about insuring lives. A financial advisor’s job does not get done when a client purchases a policy or invests in the company. A financial advisor serves as the light that guides one in carrying out and making wise financial decisions." - sunlife.com.ph

My friend's team from Sun Life met with us bloggers weeks ago and opened our eyes to the big possibilities that come from partnering with Sun Life.  Darwin and Christine (photo above) both shared their own inspiring stories on how they landed this "accidental career" that they now have.  Both of them did not picture themselves having a job in the insurance agency, but they tried it. And eventually learned to love their new careers and reap the rewards that go with it. Years of hard work, passion and dedication led them to their current position and are both enjoying the benefits of their success from partnering with Sun Life Financial.

So we asked them:

Who can be a Financial Adviser (FA)?

• you are driven to succeed
• you possess high integrity
• you are a people person

Though it helps, you don't really need to have a sales or financial background! Sun Life provides all the necessary training and testing to equip you with the skills to succeed and develop your network.

What awaits successful FA candidates?

• Achieve work-life balance
• Financial literacy
• Training and continuing studies
• Advisor's Provident Plan
• Retirement Plan
• Earnings of P100-200k, or more a month
• Cash bonuses
• Annual travels -- local & international leisure trips

Being a Financial Advisor also means being able to help people plan their finances and investments since Sun Life also offers mutual funds, pension and educational plans.

Having a flexible work schedule allows you more time spent with family, and let's you decide how much work you do and how much you want to earn.

Bloggers' meet-up with SLF Red Spurce team

Consider this avenue. Explore your options now and shine big with Sun Life Financial today.

To learn more on how to become a successful Financial Advisor, call Darwin Uyco, Unit Manager:
Tel: (632) 719-3815
Mobile: (63)917-8988926
Red Iron Bark unit - Sun Life Financial
Email: darwin.d.uyco@sunlife.com.ph

SLF-Red Spurce New Business Office
G/F E-Square Building
Ortigas Ave., Greenhills
San Juan, Metro Manila
Philippines


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Foodie Friday: Garlic Mushrooms

First Friday of the month:  Mom-Cook / Recipes


"Oooh, my favorite... mushrooms!"
That's what you'll hear from my girl whenever I serve this super simple starter.  Well, we actually eat this with plain steamed rice!

Whenever I am short of one more viand to serve, or when I feel that what I've prepared were not enough, I can always, always, depend on this quick and yummy mushroom dish. So this is gonna be a short quick food post too! :)

This is one of my "instant" recipes since it does not require much time to prepare and cook. Plus, you only need a few ingredients for a juicy and tasty dish that can go as an appetizer or simple side dish. That's why I always keep stock of canned mushrooms. I just wouldn't know if this would work with other edible fungi. If you have tried others, do share.

GARLIC MUSHROOMS

1 can whole button
2 tablespoons olive oil
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoons Knorr seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce
pepper
Spanish paprika
parsley, chopped (optional)
cayenne pepper, chili flakes (optional)

To prepare:
Mince garlic. Set aside.
Heat pan and pour in oil.
Open and drain a can of whole button mushrooms.
Slice in half if mushroom pieces are large. This will help absorb the flavors more.

To cook:
Saute garlic in oil until lightly toasted, then add mushrooms.
Season with Knorr, balsamic vinegar, worcestershire sauce, pinch of paprika and ground pepper.
Add ground cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you prefer hot and spicy.
Saute for just another minute or 2, making sure the mushrooms are well coated and evenly flavored.
Toss in parsley.

Serve immediately.
Good for 2 to 3.

ALL my measurements above are approximate as I just eyeball everything while I cook this. I season straight from the bottles. So adjust taste to your liking -- especially the saltiness, while some may want more balsamic vinegar.

Quick, simple, mouthwatering. Just the way we like it!

This dish was inspired by a favorite order from Dulcinea, a local cafe.

If you like this dish, you might wanna try this pasta gambasetti!
Get more simple recipes here.

Happy express cooking!

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