Being a Stay at Home Mother is Overwhelming

     Mothers deserve the utmost respect for dedicating so much time and energy to raising a child. Being a stay at home mother can be an overwhelming experience, and it can sometimes lead to the development of stress or mental health problems. 

      In addition to this, a lot of mothers try to put on their ‘happy face,’ all the while struggling with taking care of kids, juggling a million errands, and running on minimal amounts of sleep. In this article, we’re going to talk about some of the hardships of being a stay-at-home mother and some of the tips that could help other mothers maintain their sanity.

Being a Stay at Home Mother is Overwhelming
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Promil Four Spot The Gift App

     It sounds cliche but it's true that we have asked our child a couple of times what they wanted to become when they grow up. I presume you've heard different answers too like "I'm not sure, maybe a doctor?" or a resounding "I'll be a race car driver". It's too early to tell what they really want that's why we base this matter on the talents and the skills they're trying to show.

     I believe that there's a hidden talent waiting to be discovered in our children. We parents need to spot and nurture the gifts while they are growing up. How do we spot their talents and gifts that are waiting to be discovered? It will only take 15 minutes or less with the help of Promil Four Spot The Gift App. We took the test and were surprised that the results were accurate to what talents my son is showing now.

Promil Four Spot The Gift App
Kenzo loves race cars! 

Feature: Easy Soft Shoes by World Balance

     One of the most exciting yet can be a stressful season for kids and moms is back-to-school. Time for new beginnings- classmates, friends, teachers, school supplies, and uniforms. This is the season when moms like me make a to-buy list of school essentials that kids will use for the school year. One of the essential that is overused and abused is the school shoes.

     Love the rhyming there but this momma loves a pair of school shoes that is easy on the budget, can withstand rainy days, comfortable to walk and run with and looks nice when worn. We've tried a handful of brands before that's over my budget thinking that it is durable and will last until the end of the school year but Nah. After months of wearing, the school shoes of choice will either have a detached sole (because my son runs a lot) or it's not nice to wear anymore because dents and scratches are already visible. This school year will be different because I was introduced to a brand that will pass all the criteria I'm looking for school shoes- meet Easy Soft by World Balance.

Feature: Easy Soft Shoes by World Balance 

Back-To-School Baon Hacks with Jack n' Jill Magic Junior

     Reality sinks in, the kids are really back-to-school. Time to wake up early five days a week, prepare healthy baon and no fuss snacks. My son is so excited to go back-to-school and see his old classmates and meet new friends.

     We are also giddy to do our weekly grocery to buy Kenzo's snacks. My son is active in school and there were times that he skips eating his baon if he sees the same thing every day. Let’s make preparing baon extra special for our little ones by offering them a variety of snacks that will definitely make their school days more magical!

Back-To-School Baon Hacks with Jack n' Jill Magic Junior

Manila Mini Faire Maker 2019

     Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these "makers" to show hobbies, experiments, projects.

     It is called the Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth - a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness. Glimpse the future and get inspired. Now on its 3rd year, the Manila Maker Faire 2019 will be happening on June 22-23, 2019 at The Mind Museum Canopy Plaza, Bonifacio Global City Taguig. This is a free event for the public :) Read more below what you can expect from Manila Maker Faire 2019:)

Manila Mini Faire Maker 2019

Jack ‘n Jill My BFF (Baon Favorites Forever)

     It's back to school again. After shopping for school supplies last May and early June, now is the time for the kiddos to see their friends, meet new teachers and have fun in class. The kids are also looking forward to seeing what's inside their lunchbox because I believe that snack time is one of their favorite time in school.

     As for me and the hubby, this is the time to wake up early, prepare breakfast, and make sure that Kenzo is ready for school. This is also the time where we will resume our grocery shopping for his baon. My son likes biscuits and cakes that's why we got giddy when the latest baon bundle from Jack ‘n Jill BFF (Baon Favorites Forever) arrived in our doorstep. Meet our new BFF after the jump!

Jack ‘n Jill My BFF (Baon Favorites Forever)

IVF: What You Need to Do to Prepare Your Mind, Body, and Spirit for It

     Infertility is an experience that can take a huge toll on anyone’s life. Being able to reproduce is one of the most basic human needs and abilities so not being able to do that can not only largely impact one’s mental state but it can also be a big stressor in the relationship. Feelings of being inadequate or “broken” tend to overshadow the aspect that just because you may be having infertility issues, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t be able to have kids.

     There are so many technological advancements that have changed the world of medicine but when it comes to infertility, IVF is the leading the way with innovative technology to give people the families they’ve always wanted. The funny thing about IVF is that despite its high success rate, people still use IVF as their last, best option, especially after years of trying the “old fashioned” way, which is okay.

IVF: What You Need to Do to Prepare Your Mind, Body, and Spirit for It
photo from pexels.com

Promil Four i-Shine 7 Celebrate the Gift Grand Recital

     I'm still on a high note! I can't believe that it has been a week since we celebrated the gift- my son's talent in dancing. We are so proud of Kenzo. He showed us that he can dance in front of a big audience, no stage fright or act of being shy. He is enjoying every step that was taught to him by one of the best choreographers in the country today, teacher Ishii of GForce.

     How did it all happen? Well, it all started on the first day of Promil Four i-Shine Talent Camp 7. A  summer talent development program in partnership with experts to help kids 6-11 years old become their very best. It is a talent camp that will help discover and develop your child's talent and passion because the kids will be enhancing their skills in performing and visual arts through mental, physical and social stimulation workshops. Sharing below the highlights of Promil Four i-Shine Dance Camp (Day 1-6), and the very successful grand recital after the jump.

Promil Four i-Shine 7 Celebrate the Gift Grand Recital
After the recital, great job Ken!

Travelzone by Lock&Lock Philippines

    When it comes to food containers, Lock&Lock is our number 1 choice. Their food storage solutions are of the best quality and dependable especially when traveling. Last April 27, the brand presented its newest brand ambassador Janeena Chan and unveiled the latest collection with Travel in Style that will cater to all things travel-Travelzone at Lock&Lock Flagship Store, Level 6, East Wing, Edsa Shangri-La Plaza Mall.

     Travelzone, the range of accessories, consist of a series of luggage accessories and containers to store things while traveling. My faves are the Insulated Vacuum and Stainless Steel Tumblers (Riga and Black Wave) and the oh so nice luggage. I’m thinking of getting one soon for my travel. Help me decide which color to get and read more after the jump!

Travelzone by Lock&Lock Philippines
Lock&Lock Black Wave Tumblers

YouTube FanFest Moms Edition 2019

     Do you have what it takes to be a mommy vlogger? This is it! Join the two-day festival filled with workshops and live performances from inspiring creators Judy Travis, Andi Manzano Reyes, Bianca Gonzalez, Fun Fun Tyang Amy and many more.

     This year, YouTube pulls out all the stops to bring the most exciting and memorable FanFest to date with the first-ever Moms Edition. To be held on May 17 and 18 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, YouTube FanFest Moms Edition will be presented by NIDO 3+ and Maggi, together with venue partner SM Supermalls. The two-day festival is set to bring top local and international beauty, lifestyle, and food creators for educational workshops, live performances, and meet-ups with their beloved fans. 

YouTube FanFest Moms Edition 2019

4 Helpful Tips for Future Trips

     Planning to tick off one or two of your destination goals this year? I'm sure that you have five or more countries to visit in your travel bucket list. Let's make that countries-to-visit list into reality by planning your trip now. I presume some of you are having a hard time finalizing your trip because there are so many things swirling inside your head. 

     I've ticked off three countries in my list and planning for the first time is not easy but on my second and third trip, everything went a breeze. Based on my experience, you don't need to be a pro or hire some professional help for this. All you need are these 4 helpful tips for your trips to be hassle-free and one for the books. Read more of the tips after the jump!

4 Helpful Tips for Future Trips
image from pexels.com

Taste Australia Grapes

     It's harvest season for grapes from the Southern Hemisphere which means the Taste Australia campaign is back to entice customers to try and buy beautiful, sweet and crunchy Aussie grapes. Thanks to the diverse geology and unique micro-climates across Australia, grapes are able to enjoy a long production window from November to May. Rich soils, warm summer days, cool nights, and long daylight hours create grapes with intensified sweetness and an eye-catching red, black or green colour. A top tip when selecting green grapes is to choose a bunch with a golden tint as this means they are sweeter in flavour.

     Did you know Australian table grapes can be eaten straight from the bunch? There’s no need to peel or de-seed, just simply rinse before eating and enjoy the taste of an Australian summer. This means grapes are the perfect addition to kids lunchboxes or a go-to snack at work to re-energize and hydrate active bodies, which is especially helpful when you live a busy lifestyle.

Taste Australia Grapes

Our Wonderful Ocean Park Hong Kong Experience via Klook Travel Philippines

     Hong Kong is one of the international destinations that I will highly recommend to families traveling with kids for an awesome vacation. There are so many family and kid-friendly attractions in this country aside from shopping and food tripping. I've been to Hong Kong thrice and I will never get tired of coming back for more vacations in the years to come.

     We celebrated my son's 9th birthday in one of my dream amusement park destinations located in the Southern District of Hong Kong- OCEAN PARK :) It is the second largest in the country and considered as one massive park because it's also a marine park, an oceanarium, an animal theme park in one. We spent half a day at Ocean Park because there was an unexpected typhoon during our visit but there were no regrets because we all had a blast. Sharing our experience, tips, and what to expect at Ocean Park Hong Kong and why it is best to book your tickets online via Klook :)

Ocean Park Hong Kong via Klook 

Top 5 Best Mother’s Day Gifts to Fill Your Mom’s Heart with Great Joy

     With Mother’s Day approaching, now is the time to do something special for your mom. Isn’t it? There are many ways to celebrate your mom’s special day but this year, think out of the box. Yes! Mother is the boon of God who is bestowed to make everyone’s life a blessed and cheerful one. She acts as the backbone of a family and lifeline for a child. Really! Life seems incomplete without her. From the household work to the office work, she faces every challenge of life and still gives time to her family and kids. There is no one like her. So, don’t you think she deserves more special on her day? Of course! 

     What about the idea of presenting a special Mother’s Day gift to the most beautiful women of your life? But it’s not so easy as it seems as there is always a fear if she will like your gift or not. This fear makes you fall into the dilemma of what to buy or not? If the same happening with you, then you must check out this article listing some of the best mother’s day gift ideas that will surely make her super happy. Keep reading to adore this day with great memories. 

Top 5 Best Mother’s Day Gifts to Fill Your Mom’s Heart with Great Joy

Knorr SavorRich Liquid Meaty Seasoning

     Can I call myself a kitchen mom even if I don't know how to cook? I'm not sure if frying and cooking 'tinola' and 'nilaga' will meet the requirements of a certified mom in the kitchen but I'm sure that there are cooking partners that will let you cook like a pro.

     Last Saturday, March 30 at the Greenbelt 3 Open Park, a culinary secret that you can now use at home was unveiled in collaboration with four of Manila’s most sought-after chefs- Knorr SavorRich Liquid Meaty Seasoning. Knorr set-up the Knorr Test Kitchen and featured food from celebrated chefs Nicco Santos of Your Local, Josh Boutwood of Savage and Helm, Happy Ongpauco of Happy Concept Group, and Kalel Chan of Raintree Restaurants.

Knorr SavorRich Liquid Meaty Seasoning

Dance Camp for Promil Four iShine Talent Camp 7

     I'm a frustrated dancer. If my memory serves me right, I've dreamed of becoming a gymnast too. I envy girls who are very flexible doing backbends and an almost perfect cartwheel. If my parents are not busy in our bakery business back then, I think I'm a professional dancer now or an Olympian. Hahaha! Kidding aside, if  I can only turn back the time to pursue this dream of mine I will. I know it's impossible now so instead of having regrets, why not support and encourage my son to develop his budding talent in dancing too. 

     Yes and guess what?! My son, Kenzo is joining the dance camp at the Promil 4 i-Shine Talent Camp 7 this April 22-26. Now is the right time to get excited but before that, I would like to share a little story about the little boy and why I'm confident that Promil 4iShine Talent Camp 7 will bring out the best in him.

Dance Camp for Promil 4 iShine Talent Camp 7

Summer Essentials + Biore UV Mild Milk for Kids

     Summer is just around the corner and the kids are so excited to wake up late, eat whatever they want, and play any time of the day. It is during this season that kids are so excited to go outside and play under the sun without worrying too much. 

     Expect dirt, sweat, and funky odor after playtime but fret not because that's part of growing up. If there's one thing to worry about summer, it's the skin-damaging effects of the sun. If adults need to apply sunscreen when they go outside, the kids are also highly advised to wear sunscreen before and during playtime. Their skin is so sensitive and prone to sun damage that's why a trusted and highly effective sunscreen brand is a must. Sharing some of my son's summer essentials and the sunscreen brand that we highly recommend after the jump.

Summer Essentials + Biore UV Mild Milk for Kids

How to Join Promil Four i-Shine Talent Camp 7

     Who's excited to enroll their kids in Promil 4 i-Shine Talent Camp 7? Raise your hands if you do! I can't contain my excitement because this will be my son's first dance class with the one and only Teacher Georcelle of GForce. Of course, this is made possible by Promil 4 i-Shine Talent Camp. Only less than a month to go and Kenzo will be learning new dance steps and overcome his shyness because of this talent camp.

     I'm a frustrated dancer and to see my son dance inside the studio of Philippines' premiere dance group will be a dream come true. Aside from the dance camp, there are other exciting camps offered like arts, ballet, music, and theater. If you are living outside Metro Manila fret not because some of the camps are also available in Batangas, Cebu, and Davao. Are you ready to enroll your kids in one of the camps this summer? Read more after the jump.

How to Join Promil Four i-Shine Talent Camp 7

Why Worry? Be the Best Mom with Plan B

     My mission in life is to be the best mom for my son and my life as a stay-at-home mom is not perfect but it's one of the best things that ever happened to me. As a full-time mom, my day begins before sunrise and ends past midnight. I'm in charge of the house chores like cleaning the house, doing the laundry, washing the dishes, and to look after my one and only son. I can literally say that my hands are full when it comes to family matters because from sun up to sun down, I need to have the energy to survive more than 10 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    I'm grateful for the challenges and worries that I've encountered the past years because it taught me to be stronger and optimistic than ever. I'm a self-confessed clean freak and my family's health is important to me. I always worry about three things: the nutrition that my son gets from the food that we eat, the germs that will make him sick, and the quality time that we are going to share every day as he grows older. Sharing with you my realizations this 2019 and the things that I do to have a worry-free life and be the best mom for Kenzo below.

Why Worry? Be the Best Mom with Plan B

Unique Baby Shower Ideas for 2019

     Carrying a life for nine months is such a delicate task for both the mother and father. Fathers will learn to have more patience and be more affectionate than ever to better take care of his wife. Mothers need to learn how to take better care of themselves and be healthy for herself and baby. More than anything else, being pregnant is a struggle both physically and mentally. It is going to be a demanding task that promises one worthy reward, a sweet child. Now is the time to get together and celebrate the parents to be and the little one on the way.

     Baby showers are held to celebrate the mother and the baby. This celebration is common in all cultures. Family and friends gather to show support and love for the mother and to also shower her with gifts she will need and want for the baby. There are countless ways to hold and celebrate a baby shower. Here are the most unique things to incorporate in a shower in 2019.

Unique Baby Shower Ideas for 2019
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