SUPERSIZED Games!!!!

April 12, 2014, 9:10 am

≪ Previous: Make a Difference in Life with MADiL Flip Flops!

We're here again at The Bellevue Hotel at Alabang (Thanks to Jane Go of Sugar and Spice blog!) and as always, we're having a blast! Yesterday afternoon, part of our schedule was to lounge by the pool and play some board games. Not just any ordinary board game. They're SUPERSIZED!!!

Huge games blown up to Supersized sizes were laid on the floor for everyone to play on! So cool! It's the first time we encountered this type of entertainment!

Even Rain who usually couldn't resist glistening swimming pools, became mesmerized with the big things on the floor even though she didn't know how to play with them. They have Tic Tac Toe...

They have Snakes and Ladders with giant dices too!

Richie had a blast playing it with Lauren...

Guess we all know who won hehe.

They also have the classic Scrabble game. Here's Rain forming the word RUSUPERSIZED for 500 points! (We let her win. )

... And they even supersized the Pick Up Sticks! Can't remember the last time I played this game! It has been ages!!!!

...Oh! And how can I forget the gigantic Jenga?! This game is extra thrilling because the blocks are real wood therefore, heavy! It's scary if it tumbles down. But I was told that when kids play it, they provide helmets. Good call! Safety first!

Slooooowly....

TADAAA!

Awesome party activity for kids and the kids at heart from SUPERSIZED!!! For inquiries, follow them on Instagram (@supersizedph).

Shameless plug: Rain's super cute nautical dress is from Bug and Kelly Kids Wear! ;-)

↧

Welcome Back The New Beetle!

April 14, 2014, 9:46 am

≫ Next: SPAM Tocino, Limited Edition!

≪ Previous: SUPERSIZED Games!!!!

I remember when my cousins and I were a couple of years old, we would go out in the garage and go on our slide. But it's not the usual park slide. It's my aunt's Beetle. I don't know how we did it but we would climb from the back and then slide down the wind shield. That's my fondest memory of the Beetle. And I believe that we didn't break it in any way. Aah, fun times!

Here's a quick look-back on that iconic bug car we all know and love:

And now, the Bug is back!

Brought in by Ayala Auto Holdings Corporation (AAHC) and Automobile Central Enterprise, Inc. (ACEI), lead by Fernando Zobel de Ayala (President and COO of Ayala Corporation), with his brother Jaime Agusto Zobel de Ayala, and with CEO John Philip Orbeta.

This new generation carries a new design updated with new technologies. Now I may not really know much about cars but Electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering and Bi-xenon head lights with automatic headlight activation and LED daytime running lights, and 7-speed DSG transmission and New Direct Injected Gasonline Engine with Twincharger all sounds pretty bad-ass!

As for the new look, the new bug is now strutting the runway with a more sporty look, with the wind screen more swept-back, it's bonnet extended, and has a longer wheelbase.

The interior gives a more improved feeling of space because of the longer roof section.

Dashboard. Very clean and sporty-looking!

The back seat. It's actually quite spacious!

The trunk. I think Rain's umbrella stroller would fit in here along with other overnight bags, or a couple of big grocery bags

Sidings look clean as well.

The Engine:

For the Beetle 1.4 TSI Design DSG

- Beetle 1.4 TSI with 240 Nm at 1500 - 4500 rpm

- Power: 160 Ps at 5800 rpm

- New Direct Injected Gasonline Engine with Twincharger

- 7-speed DSG transmission

- Electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering

- Bi-xenon head lights with automatic headlight activation and LED daytime running lights

For the Beetle 1.2 TSI Design MT

- Beetle 1.2 TSI with 175 Nm at 1400 rpm

- Power: 105 Ps at 4500 rpm

- New Direct INjected Gasoline Engine with Turbocharger

- 6-speed manual transition

- Electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering

- Halogen head lights with automatic headlight activation and separate daytime running lights

The bug's shoes!

And the bug's sexy back!

Other Specs:

Beetle Colors:

Dark Silver

Black

Light Silver

White

Red

"No other car evokes as much nostalgia, tradition, and heritage as the Beetle. As such, I am especially pleased and excited to launch a car as iconic and celebrated as the one we have launched tonight"

- Fernando Zobel de Ayala

"The Beetle has always been special to me. I first learned how to drive with a Beetle and will always have fond memories, as I'm sure many Filipinos do. And now I am extremely proud to be heralding the return of the world's most iconic car back to Philippine shores"

- Mr. J.P Orbeta

I'm also really glad that I was able to invite my sister who's currently trying to build her car blog :-) So if you want to read more from a car enthusiast's point of view check out her Beetle blog entry here!

Let's all welcome the New Beetle!

↧

SPAM Tocino, Limited Edition!

April 14, 2014, 6:32 pm

≫ Next: Lysol Disinfectant Spray for Baby's Room & Lysol Liquid Hand Soap

≪ Previous: Welcome Back The New Beetle!

My favorite meal of the day is breakfast. Not just because I'm starving in the morning and need food for energy, but because I looooove breakfast food! I love hotdogs, crispy bacon (of course), I really love eggs, and I am a big fan of SPAM as well!

We've been seeing photos of a certain Tocino SPAM spreading all around the net. And we've been dying to try it ever since. But we never do see it in supermarkets near us. It's one of life's greatest mysteries. Like a breakfast unicorn!

Finally, Richie's friend Chef Ian of Sebastian's posted on Facebook that he was able to buy some SPAM Tocino. And Richie was able to turn up his charms and was able to get the information from Chef Ian on where he found the SPAM Tocino. So off to Robinsons Supermarket in Eastwood we go!

And there it was, on the canned meat isle, sitting pretty, with only a few cans left! Can you spot then in the picture?:)

It's P105 pesos per can. A bit more expensive than the normal SPAM. Richie told me to buy 5 cans. But I went all out and bought 6. Haha! Seeing the almost empty section of the SPAM Tocino, I felt the need to add at least one more!

So here they are sitting pretty in our kitchen cabinet!

So needless to say, we had it for breakfast the next day. Richie likes his SPAM in thin crispy slices. I, on the other hand, like it thick! We just fried them normally like how we do with normal SPAM.

But there's actually some cooking instructions at the back to make the SPAM more caramelized. I didn't see it until we were already eating. Will try it next time. But just normal frying was fine as well.

Was it good? Yes. Richie loved it because it's sweet (of course since it's Tocino), I liked it too! It's hard to have just a few slices. But I just wish there was still some saltiness left in the SPAM, which is what I love about SPAM in the first place. But it was still good nonetheless.

I'll give you a tip: There's also some in SM Aura Supermarket!;)

↧

Lysol Disinfectant Spray for Baby's Room & Lysol Liquid Hand Soap

April 15, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: A Quick Visit to B Hotel in Alabang

≪ Previous: SPAM Tocino, Limited Edition!

Whenever I hear the brand Lysol, the first word that comes to mind is really "disinfectant". It has actually became a norm for people to turn to Lysol whenever they feel the need to shoo away germs that can cause sickness. Especially for moms that has a natural instinct to protect their kids from these not-so-cute germs.

Rain's room now has become more of a toy / storage room rather than a bed room. She sleeps in our room ever since she was born. So this means whatever germs that my husband and I catch from outside the house, Rain has a good chance of getting it too. And so from time to time, we really have Lysol included in our grocery list. It's not only to make any room smell better, it's to kill not just any germs but specific germs that cause illnesses at the same time.

Yesterday, I was introduced to a new product of Lysol that makes my life a tad easier! It's Lysol Disinfectant Spray for Baby's Room, and the Lysol Liquid Hand Soap. Both great new items that is a must-have on any mom's grocery list.

The Lysol Disinfectant Spray for Baby's Room smells really good. Like a baby's powder. And of course aside from the good baby smell, it disinfects your baby's room (or any room for that matter) in just 10 minutes.

It kills specific viruses, bacteria, and fungi stated at the back of the can...

...And if you notice, these are the viruses that our babies get shots for from their Pedias. No wonder it's the #1 Pedia-recommended disinfectant brand.

So even though Rain doesn't really user her room for now, I now still spray it everyday with this spray for Baby's room because I'll never know what germ might be lurking around. Plus, it makes the room really smell like a newly showered baby hehe.

And of course, since she sleeps with us, I use it for the Master's bedroom as well.

And yes I also use it in the living room where she spends most of her time playing.

I'm also thrilled that Lysol now has a liquid hand wash! As we all know, a liquid hand wash is much more hygienic than a bar of soap especially when more than one person is using the same bar. The Lysol liquid hand wash does not only cleans and disinfects your hands but it also has moisturizers to keep those hands soft!

Stacey's Cafe's washroom uses Lysol Skincare liquid soap!

It comes in Original (green), Fresh (yellow), and Skin Care (pink).

With Lysol, you will not only have a fresh-smelling clean home. Cleaning is just the first step. Lysol gives you the second step of disinfecting, giving you a healthy home!

Follow Lysol on Facebook: Lysol Philippines

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A Quick Visit to B Hotel in Alabang

April 16, 2014, 10:29 am

≫ Next: I'm Flying!

≪ Previous: Lysol Disinfectant Spray for Baby's Room & Lysol Liquid Hand Soap

Last weekend we had an amazing time at Alabang with a lot of our blogger friends. We were split up in 2 hotels. First half was to stay at The Bellevue Hotel Manila, and the other half were also very lucky to try its little sister, the B Hotel. A nice little hotel situated at Madrigal Business Park. It's nice 3-star hotel that gives you comfort but for a more affordable price.

The hotel is not that big, but I'd say it's a good size! It has 154 rooms and 8 penthouse units, with an all-day dining outlet, and more importantly, wifi access (Yes that's important hehe)

Welcome drinks are prepared for new comers!

The lobby welcomes you with a nice huge painting

The reception area. Small but nice!

And on the same floor, is an open high-ceiling dining area where guests can dine for breakfast, etc.

Booth tables by the window

Behind the big painting by the lobby, you will see a small hall just enough to fit the yummy buffet!

I was so hungry that time and so I was really thrilled to try this Chicken rice (very tasty!)

I also really enjoyed their tamarind sinigang! Super sour! Super good! I almost felt bad for not getting a third serving :-(

And I also loved their macaroni and cheese. Very creamy! They have a lot of other really good items on the buffet but these three were the most outstanding to me. Oh, their crispy belly was also fantastic!

On the other side of the floor, lots of paintings were displayed.

The Rooms:

While waiting for the others to finish eating, we decided to go up and crash in on Yedy and Eugene's room (they're cousins, FYI hehe). Here's the hallway of their floor. Spacious and cozy!

And upon entering their Penhouse room, was the kitchenette...

Complete with ref, electrical stove, exhaust...

... and microwave.

And beside the kitchen was cozy the living room well lit by the balcony (which was locked to comply with the city ordinance something. To avoid suicidal attempts. Yikes! But good call!)

The bedroom was very spacious, and again due to the floor to ceiling windows, it was very bright!

Standard Room Photo from B Hotel Official Website

We weren't able to tour a standard room but I checked it on their website and it looked nice as well! Standard rooms can be one king-sized bed...

Standard Room Photo from B Hotel Official Website

or twin beds. Nice right? Not at all shabby!

Going back to the lobby, I took Rain's photo with the Queen of the South herself, Jane Go, and her lovely girls!

No, Rain! That's not your crown!...

...okay, fine.

Thanks to Jane Go of Sugar and Spice again and again for arranging everything! :-)

Follow B Hotel on Facebook: b.hotel.alabang

Official Website: http://www.thebellevue.com/b-hotel/

B Hotel is located at

2107 Prime St. Madrigal Business Park,

Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa, Philippines 1780

For inquiries, call: (632) 828 8181

Fax: (632) 828 8585

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I'm Flying!

April 16, 2014, 10:15 pm

≫ Next: Give in to Temptation with Nestle Dutch Speculoos!

≪ Previous: A Quick Visit to B Hotel in Alabang

At 2 years old, my little Rainbow sure is has been exercising her imagination and it's fascinating to see so!

Just now, while playing play doh with her, I used the butterfly playdoh cutter to make some green butterflies.

Then she got her PinyPon figures (her favorite toy nowadays), then she got the butterflies and stuck it at the backs of her PinyPon. Now they look like fairies! (Brilliant! I didn't even think of that!)

Then she took one and waved it around and said...

"I'm flying! I'm flying!"

It's amazing! 😍👍🌈

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Give in to Temptation with Nestle Dutch Speculoos!

April 17, 2014, 10:31 pm

≫ Next: My Personalized Casing from The Diff

≪ Previous: I'm Flying!

What perfect timing for the summer! Nestle Ice Cream welcomes its new addition to the Nestle Temptations Flavors of the World collection! I'm sure a lot has already tried this but for those who hasn't, let me present to you.... DUTCH SPECULOOS!!!

(Audience sound effects: OOOooohhhhhh...)

Speculoos lovers will enjoy the summer with this cookie butter flavored ice cream... with more ribbons of cookie butter ripple PLUS cookie chunks!

Rain loves it so much especially in this hot summer...

That after only a few days, it was almost empty!

Get your Speculoos Dutch Ice Cream fix now from Nestle Temptations Flavors of the World!

And check out their other flavors!

Follow Nestle on Facebook: Nestle Ice Cream

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My Personalized Casing from The Diff

April 21, 2014, 9:11 pm

≫ Next: Fan Girl Mode at the New Greenwich Pizzeria!

≪ Previous: Give in to Temptation with Nestle Dutch Speculoos!

I'm a sucker for casing. In fact I think my phone has more casings vs. me having clothes hahaha! Exaggerating. But you get the point. But one of the best casing I have so far is one that has my blog logo on it!

It's made by The Diff that makes personalized phone and tablet casing! Plus I love the packaging!

I was especially thriller when I discovered that they made silicon cases which I absolutely prefer. I don't really like hard cases knowing that they will crack should you drop your phone accidentally.

I had my logo placed on the upper part so my hand doesn't cover it even when I'm using it or when I'm taking photos :)

I love how the crystal clear silicon embraces the sides of my phone. Volume buttons are covered as well. (Oooops sorry! Correction! It's actually TPU or Thermoplastic PolyUrethane , and not silicon)

Can't wait to order another one soon!

You too can personalize your own cases! Just go to www.thediff.com.ph , and click on customize. That's it! You can also browse from some of their cool premade designs that you won't find anywhere else.

The Diff Cases are currently available for the following phone models:

iPhone 5/5s, iPhone 4/4s, iPhone 5c, iPod Touch 5th Gen, iPad, iPad Mini, and Samsung S4

For the gadgets that are not stated there in the customizer such as the iPad, iPad Mini and iPod Touch (5th Gen), you may send your designs to hello@thediff.com.ph.

I wish they will soon make for other models because it's a perfect unique gift. Be different with The Diff!

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram:

thediffconcept

UPDATE: Price list from The Diff Facebook!

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Fan Girl Mode at the New Greenwich Pizzeria!

April 26, 2014, 4:14 am

≫ Next: Phoenix Court's Dimsum Buffet at The Bellevue Manila!

≪ Previous: My Personalized Casing from The Diff

It was a delight to see the new design and feel of Greenwich Pizeria at the 2nd floor of SM North Edsa! It's so different from the usual green and white fast food style stores they have (because I have to admit, a lot of their stores need make-overs. Especially the one in SM Taytay where the couches are all beat up). It's the same Greenwich you know and love, but this time, featuring the new and cool interior design! Red bricks, wallpaper-less walls, industrial lamps, classy graphics and artworks that all scream CLASSIC PIZZERIA but at the same time also giving a homey feel!

This new Greenwich has an open kitchen where you can watch happy workers hard at work, making sure your pizza is done just right!

They still added a touch of green around the store, like these cozy couches by the window.

To add more to the pizzeria feel, they also have bar tables with stools! Next, check out the artworks all over the store!

It's such a huge change done beautifully! Every detail of the store really gives off that world class Pizzeria vibe. I must say, well Done Greenwich! I am definitely feelin' that new look on you!

After admiring the store make-over, we devoured on Greenwich's Lasagna Supreme which never fails to hit the spot. Creamy, cheesy, and chunky. Just the way I want my lasagna to be. The chicken that was served with it was really good as well. Juicy and crispy!

And we also had the Hawaiian Overload Pizza. It's Greenwich's new take on the usual Hawaiian pizza with 3 types of meat, a whole bunch of cheese, and dabbed with a lot of sweet juicy pineapples! My family really enjoyed it! Check it out on my previous post.

It was my first time, however, to try their new Mango Pearl Coolers which I really liked. Really perfect for this scorching hot summer!

Then in the middle of us munching on these delicious goodies, came the surprise visit of Greenwich's long-time endorser, John Lloyd Cruz!!!!! (Notice the exclamation points. Yes he's one of my Filipino actor crushes!!!! Oooops there goes the exclamation points again!)

After greeting everyone and expressing his fondness on the new look, he started handing out Greenwich's new Hawaiian Overload Pizza to the crowd! The crowd didn't expect this so of course they went wild! He even went outside of the store to give some to the huge screaming spectator fans outside.

I also secretly kinda went wild when I noticed that he was going to have his media interview done at the media / bloggers area... at our very table! Which means ...

... That I was sitting right next to him for the whole duration of his (fortunately) long interview! Bwahahahahahahahahah! Thanks Sumi of The Purple Doll for taking this pic above!!! <3 We look so happy! Hahaha!

And yes, I wouldn't miss the chance to take a photo with him. Humor me please! :-) I almost feel ashamed for that smug look on my face hehe. He's lost a lot of weight! I should have asked for tips but he might think I'm creepy...

Come and check out their new look at their very first concept store at SM North Edsa! Thanks to Greenwich for having us!

With Sumi of The Purple Doll and Yedy of Yedilicious

Follow Greenwich on Facebook for more promos and updates!: Greenwich Barkada

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Phoenix Court's Dimsum Buffet at The Bellevue Manila!

April 26, 2014, 10:56 am

≫ Next: Chorizo De Cebu, Anyone?

≪ Previous: Fan Girl Mode at the New Greenwich Pizzeria!

Knowing my Dad's love for Dimsum, Richie and I have been planning to take him and my sister to one of the best Dimsum places we've tried. And that's Phoenix Court in The Bellevue Hotel Manila in Alabang.

As soon as they announced their special promo vouchers, we immediately purchased their Dimsum Buffet!

It was also our post treat for my sister, non other than miss Pink Turbo!

Here's their Eat All You Can Dimsum menu. Eat dimsum to your heart's desire!

While everyone were serious on deciding what to have first...

The little Rainbow was also serious on deciding what to "read" first.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again... this is the best steamed nuts appetizer I've had so far! Super juicy and seasoned to perfection! Salty with a tinge of sweetness at the same time!

My dad always likes to start his meals with a hearty soup. He got the Minced Beef Soup with Leek

Actually, everything we tried was really good. I loved their Pork Spareribs with Taosi...

Their Pork and Shrimp Dumpling Siomai was really good as well. Really packed with a lot of meat.

The Barbecue Pork Pastry was one of Richie's favorites. It's a savory hot pastry that's a very good example of a sweet and salty dimsum.

The Shanghai Dumpling was quite good as well but since it was the last thing we ordered, we were all too full to really appreciate it. Sorry Shanghai Dumpling! Don't take it personal!

My dad loves Chicken Feet. He never fails to order one in a dimsum restaurant. I haven't really tried one but my dad says it's good!

The Crispy Pork Bun is very delicious! It's like fried sweet siopao with savory pork inside. Really good! This really filled up our stomachs.

Glutinous Pork Pie is always on Richie's must-order list. It's a delight to eat because the dough (or whatever you call it) that embraces the pork is very chewy like a rice cake.

And last but most definitely NOT the least is Crystal Prawns Dumpling Hakao! It's my all-time favorite hakao so far! It's just really plump, and really filled with yummy shrimps. Dip it in their special soy sauce and I'm in heaven! It was actually the first thing I ordered. This is always my first order of business when I'm in Phoenix Court!

We also ordered some Yang Chow fried rice. I like my Pork Spareribs with rice. Always.

For dessert, of course we got some deep-fried sesame ball butchi

And also the chilled Mango Sago Cream. A simple dessert but very refreshing and addicting.

Phoenix Court is really one of my favorite Chinese restaurant ever, and my favorite restaurant at The Bellevue Manila! We never fail to have a great time there!

Like them on Facebook: thebellevuemanila

Follow them on Twitter: @BellevueManila

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Chorizo De Cebu, Anyone?

April 28, 2014, 7:58 am

≫ Next: Outstanding Angus Beef Tapa by Jams Food & Co!

≪ Previous: Phoenix Court's Dimsum Buffet at The Bellevue Manila!

I remember my first food trip to Cebu with Richie. He took me to this market called Larsian. A huge lot filled with barbecue vendors selling cheap but super good grilled stuff! One of which is the Cebu Chorizo. Cute round processed meat that is juicy and sweet, and really good to eat with puso (Cebu's special rice wrapped in weaved leaves). If only I could have that everyday.

Actually, I can!

Chorizo, anyone?

Yes, Cebu Chorizo can now be purchased here in Manila. Thanks to Chorizo De Cebu, the yummy business of Kevin Vitug & Justyn Reyes. "Quality processed sausages made with tender love by the finest fingers!"

One pack contains... I don't know... a lot! This is probably good for 5-10 meals. Depending on your appetite of course.

And it's easy to prepare as well. Just fry it and it's done!

I love the taste of this Pork Hamonado. It's sweet but at the same time there's a hint of heat which makes it more interesting.

And of course, as per request of my dear husband, he wanted garlic rice using the oil from the Chorizo. So good!!!

Pair it with a couple of sunny side ups and you've got a champion breakfast!

Other flavors are:

Pork Hamonado

Garlic Pork

Spicy Pork

Chicken Hamonado

Garlic Chicken

Spicy Chicken

and the new VIGANISA!

To order or for price inquiries, just text 0906-334-2404 & 0915-9878882. Totally worth it!

Follow Chorizo De Cebu on their social networks! On Facebook: Chorizo De Cebu Philippines , on Instagram: @chorizodecebuph and @sirkevinmartin

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Outstanding Angus Beef Tapa by Jams Food & Co!

April 28, 2014, 9:00 am

≫ Next: PLDT HOME Bro Ultera Launch

≪ Previous: Chorizo De Cebu, Anyone?

I know I've said it one too many times, but my favorite meal of the day is breakfast! Hence my favorite type of meat to purchase at grocery stores are breakfast food. I always buy hotdog, or ham, or spam, etc. But admittedly, sometimes it can get pretty tiring. So it's nice to actually have something new. Something new but not necessarily something imported from other countries. Something new AND delicious! Something my husband and I look forward to eating! And that's Jam Foods & Co!

Jam Foods & Co by Chef John and Michelle Cu-Unjieng brings you exquisite beef that are all imported U.S.D.A. certified! I actually have been a fan of their Original Beef Angus Tapa (P556)! It's easily one of the best tapas I have tasted. Truly award-winning. In fact, it was number one on the Global Gastronomy: Ultimate Taste Test 8.0.

Their beef products are already marinated so all you have to do is fry it. That's it! It's really flavorful! Very hearty! And what's best is that all their products are premium home made!

I like partnering it with egg! And I like how thin the beef strips are. Almost like bacon!

You can also try their Angus Beef Japanese Teriyaki, and Angus Beef Korean BBQ (both at P640) which I'm sure are superb as well! Definitely trying it soon!

Like them on Facebook: Jam Foods Angus Tapa

Follow them on Instagram: @jamfoods @chefjohnph

For orders:

Contact number: 02-622-9740

Mobile: 0917 533-1371 / 0922 850-5658

Email Address: mncuunjieng@gmail.com

↧

PLDT HOME Bro Ultera Launch

April 30, 2014, 12:24 pm

≫ Next: Cool Die-Cut Calling Cards by Print Couture

≪ Previous: Outstanding Angus Beef Tapa by Jams Food & Co!

My husband surfs the internet a lot. A lot, a lot. In fact, I believe that if he were to be left alone in a secluded room with just a laptop with internet connection and leave him there for a few days, he would be fine. He likes downloading videos, and checking his social media networks all day long. And of course, writing and uploading tons of photos for his blog, thepickiesteater.net. I, on the other hand, rely on the internet as well for this humble little blog, and of course, my little Rainbow needs her daily dose of educational apps and games! Which is why I am so ecstatic when I found out about PLDT Home's newest baby, the PLDT Home Ultera.

PLDT HOME Bro Ultera is a high-speed wireless internet for your home. It's not just LTE. It's powered by TD-LTE (Time-Division Duplex-Long Term Evolution). The first in the Philippines! It uses a dedicated network with its own allocated bandwith which is different from what smartphones/pocket wifi modems use. And it is said to be one of the largest in Asia Pacific.

We were invited at the launch last Tuesday night at SMX Convention Center. There were a lot of people that it felt like a concert haha!

The PLDT HOME Bro Ultera is the must-have for the homes of digitally-active families. I'm sure a lot nowadays are since almost everything you will ever need can be found on the world wide web. Not just for entertainment but of course for research / studying / homeworks / as well as for gathering real-time information, or checking out how your friends are up to, or just simply for entertainment. Even if all the members of the family are doing their own thing on the net, it will not be a problem with the PLDT HOME Bro Ultera. And with it, PLDT can reach more people ad serve more areas that are still too far from available wired technology. (This would have been even more perfect for us a few years back when there were no wired internet service available in our area here. It was frustrating!)

TD-LTE is so fast that it is actually 21 times faster than Canopy or 6x faster than WiMax! In fact, during the event, they thought of fun ways to show us how fast PLDT HOME Bro Ultera is.

The race between eating a huge yummy burger...

...versus downloading a number of songs with the Ultera. Ultera wins!

One of the Teng brothers sprinting vs. uploading a video with Ultera. Ultera wins!

Shooting a number of hoops with one of the Teng brothers vs. uploading a number of photos with Ultera. You guessed it! Ultera wins yet again!

But this new service has other surprises. The PLDT HOME Bro Ultera can also come with special add-on services for the whole family such as watching movies from Clickplay (which is perfect for my husband and my brother in law who loves watching movies), I can also imagine my mom-in-law as she watches tons of Asianovelas (I'm guilty as charged as well for this one haha!), there's also Spinnr add-on from SMART Music which lets you listen to your favorite type of music, or my nephews can enjoy the EA Games add-on to play tons of amazing games. And for news, you can have News5 Everywhere.There's one for the whole family!

PLDT HOME Bro Ultera is actually fast enough to support PLDT HOME TVolution. Another service of PLDT that can turn your normal television into a huge internet TV. Cool, huh?

During the event, we were all connected wirelessly via the PLDT HOME Bro Ultera and I can really say based on my experience that night that it was really fast.

It's not only fast, it's very affordable too! Package starts at only Php 999 a month! We are already using PLDT for our wired internet connection at home but I am seriously contemplating on switching to this instead. We'll see! :-)

Teng Siblings (the PLDT HOME Bro Ultera Ambassadors) with the PLDT VIPS Ariel Fermin (Executive Vice President and head of PLDT HOME Business, Mr. Manny V. Pangilinan (Chairman of PLDT), and Ms. Ava Espanola (PLDT's Assistant vice president and head of HOME Fixed Wireless Solutions

Congratulations PLDT HOME Bro Ultera for the successful launching!

For more information, log on to pldthome.com/homebro

Here! Enjoy other photos from the launch!:

↧

Cool Die-Cut Calling Cards by Print Couture

May 1, 2014, 9:42 am

≫ Next: Dear New Mom, You're Doing Okay :)

≪ Previous: PLDT HOME Bro Ultera Launch

When my friend whom I call Ms. Ai asked for our Blog logos and contact info so she could show us samples of her business called Print Couture, I thought it was just a classic calling card format. But when she showed me, I was amazed! See what's inside this stationary box!

She actually does die cutting as well! So you can let your imagination run wild and have attractive and unique calling cards like this!

I suggested mine to look like clouds with my rainbow logo on the upper left corner. I think it's sweet!) By the way, here's my card)

And then I was even more surprised when I discovered that she also made die pad papers. Don't you just love it?! I do!

Print Couture also surprised me with this label stickers...

Regrigirator magnets / bottle opener...

And ever more smaller tickets! Thanks again so much Ms. Ai for these wonderful surprise! You really know how to exceed one's expectation!

Want your own die cut calling card? Check out her official website will officially be up this coming Saturday, May 3: www.printcoutureonline.com

For Inquires and quotations: inquiry@printcoutureonline.com

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Dear New Mom, You're Doing Okay :)

May 10, 2014, 9:00 am

≫ Next: Sometimes All You Need is A Cup of Coffee

≪ Previous: Cool Die-Cut Calling Cards by Print Couture

I remember the first few months of being a mom. I may have had a tiny bit of post partum... I think. I would obsess over how Rain always cried when I tried to soothe her thinking she doesn't love me, and a lot of other small things that make me laugh when I think about it now. But no matter how silly, one can't take away the fact that being a first-time mom is hard. Very. Often times I would doubt myself if I'm doing an okay job. And so when I saw Johnson's video for the first time, it really helped me emotionally. It helped me become aware of how I pushed my tired mind and body to the limits just to make sure Rain was a-okay. And it helped me realize that at the end of the day. Rain's sweet smile and giggles assured me that she appreciates what I do, no matter how small it is. This helps me believe I'm somehow on the right track.

To all new moms, and to all experienced moms out there, never doubt yourself! You're doing okay ;-)

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

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Sometimes All You Need is A Cup of Coffee

May 11, 2014, 10:55 am

≫ Next: New Stuff at Enchanted Kingdom

≪ Previous: Dear New Mom, You're Doing Okay :)

What did I do for Mother's Day? Simple. But very relaxing. I opted to stay home. I am still not up to going out because I feel the vacation sucked the energy out of me haha! I had so much fun, not noticing how tired I was until we got home.

So my Mother's Day was spent at home, relaxing with my family, while I enjoyed a hot cup of coffee. Sometimes all you need is a hot cup of coffee! I finally got to try the new NESCAFE Cappuccino. Aroma is amazing! Taste is delicious and very comforting and calming. Plus it comes with chocolate sprinkles which actually tastes quite delicious! I like 3-in-1 coffee mixes for home because it's so effortless to prepare.

Anyway, I was also thrilled to have my very own iconic NESCAFE red coffee mug! Thanks so much NESCAFE! Anyway try it out if you still haven't. Maybe you'll like it as much as I do :-) For the last time this year, Happy Mother's Day!

Follow NESCAFE on Facebook to get their latest updates!

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New Stuff at Enchanted Kingdom

May 12, 2014, 10:39 am

≫ Next: A Brilliant Baby Bath Tub from Youji and Me!

≪ Previous: Sometimes All You Need is A Cup of Coffee

... or at least new to me. I don't exactly remember the last time I went to Enchanted Kingdom but I'm sure it was a long time ago. A few months ago, as part of our south staycation itinerary (special thanks again to the lovely Jane Go of Sugar and Spice blog , we went to Enchanted Kingdom to try their new 7D Interactive Motion Theater. I honestly wasn't expecting it to be much, but I was wrong. It was pretty awesome!

It's at the 4D Discovery Theatre. Right beside Rio Grande Rapids.

Finally! Our turn! Yes the screen looks blurry because it's in 7D. You have to wear the special glasses. It's a 16-seater theater. And there were 14 of us. So we all went in at the same time as a group.

One last photo with my seatmates at the back! With Jane Go of Sugar and Spice, Joan and Abet Lim of The Food Alphabet

One of the added features of this ride is its inter-activeness. So grab your gun and prepare to shoot! At first I wasn't really sure what the "film" was. So I was thrilled to find out that it was a Zombie flick! Sort of like The Walking Dead. Pretty thrilling! First there will be a shooting range scene where you can practice your shooting skills. Then right after the practice mode, photos of us appeared on the screen with our shooting scores. Pretty cool!!! So it's not actually just interactive. It's a competition! Bring it on!

Over-all, it's a scary ride with seat motion synced to the film, feel effects (or whatever you call it) such as gusts of wind, or water splattering, and as I mentioned, it is interactive by shooting down zombies and trying to get the highest score among your seatmates! Final scores will again be revealed at the end along with your photo. It's fun! Supposedly the first of it's kind here in the Philippines.

What else is new?

So aside from the 7D Interactive Motion Theater, what else has changed since my last visit? Upon entering, I noticed more game kiosks where you can win huge stuffed toys. Sort of like what you see in carnivals where you try to hoop a ring in a bottle, shoot a ball, etc. The stuffed toys look pretty cute too. And huge!

Like this particular booth wherein you can win a prize even if you don't actually win the game. The fee was P50. And win or lose, you get to bring home one of those inflatable crayons which Rain had been eyeing on when we were there hehe.

Yes, she "won"! ;-) Technically I bought the crayon for P50 hahaha! Not bad though. Here's Rain showing off her prize! Wearing her super cute Bug and Kelly Music Inspired shirt!

Then I saw this. The Disk-O-Magic. Where it rocks back and fourth while spinning. I personally am okay with not trying it. Spinning rides make me nauseous.

This EKstreme wasn't also there the last time I visited. I rode one of these at Ocean Park in Hong Kong during our honeymoon and it was awesome! Except that in Hong Kong you would be overlooking the sea. It was much more terrifying. The ride reaches the top slowly, then all of a sudden drops hard. If you haven't tried it I suggest you should. It's fun!

I also visited my favorite EK ride. The Jungle Log Jam. It's still there and still looked like fun. The final drop really freaks me out but I still like riding it anyway. You will almost always get wet that's why you have to bring an extra shirt or something.

But what I wanted to point out was this Haystack Dryer which I thought was a brilliant addition to the park. It's sort of like a vending machine for a huge dryer hehe. So if you get drenched from Jungle Log Jam or Rio Grande, just step into one of these and dry your clothes away.

Other than that, it was all pretty much the same. Wheel of Fate...

Space Shuttle, etc.

Anyway, I was happy we were with Rain! Look at her, hugging her crayon!

I know she will not remember this but we can always go back.

Selfie with the hubby!

Enchanted Kingdom is located at:

San Lorenzo South
4026 Santa Rosa, Laguna
Tel. no.: 6328303535, 6325843535

Official Website: http://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/home.html
Facebook page: Enchanted Kingdom

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A Brilliant Baby Bath Tub from Youji and Me!

May 13, 2014, 9:19 am

≫ Next: Unwind at Madison's Bistro Moderne

≪ Previous: New Stuff at Enchanted Kingdom

Just saw this from an ex-co-worker's Instagram and it really caught my attention (Thanks Janice!). The Richelle baby bathtub from Youji and Me store. I think it's brilliant!

Not only does it look cute but it's very functional too! Since it's inflatable, it means there's soft cushioning for your baby.

And I particularly love the hump in the middle to stop your baby from sliding. (I actually think adult bathtubs should have this too haha! I don't know about you but since I'm a tiny little woman, I also keep sliding down). In additional to that, the material is skid-resistant for that added anti-sliding.

And yes, since it's inflatable, that means you can also put it in a big pool when you want to dip in the pool with your baby! (But of course always under adult supervision) And since it's inflatable, it's easy to stow away!

Oh by the way, it comes with it's own air pump! All for only P1,149.75! (Thanks Janice for the details!)

Brilliant! Will definitely keep this on my radar for next time ;-)

Photos from Youji and Me website!

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Unwind at Madison's Bistro Moderne

May 15, 2014, 9:00 am

≫ Next: Hong Kong Disneyland: Even More Magical The 2nd Time Around!

≪ Previous: A Brilliant Baby Bath Tub from Youji and Me!

My night life has been dead for quite some time. And I haven't been to any bar places in a long time until recently when I went with my friend Yedylicous to the opening of Madison's Bistro Moderne at EDSA Shangrila Hotel. A posh place not only for drinking but for fine dining as well. Well, since my tolerance for alcohol has gone way down since I got pregnant, I can't really say much about the drinks. But my friend Gerry of Dude4Food seemed to enjoy it. The food? Pretty special.

The place is actually not that big but it's very formal and stylish with silver and gray tones

The center black wall panels and black minimal chandelier add a nice formal touch. I imagine this would be a nice first date type of place if you want to impress a girl. Anyway, moving on to food ...

I would have to say that my favorite for the night was an appetizer. The Speck and Goat Cheese Mousse (P 550) is to live for!

The Confit Pork Belly (P 450) was also very flavorful and obviously has a generous amount of fat. Richie would have loved this. The pork belly is very tender and baked to perfection. And underneath it is a soft bed of potato gratin, and some balsamic lentils with thyme jus.

The Braised Lamb Shank (P 750) looked sexy as well. Very tender and moist. Another dish that's right up my husband's alley. Served on a bed of mashed potatoes with baby veggies on the side.

Everyone was raving about this Pistachio Crusted Black Cod Fish (P650) so I tried it. But for some reason it was just okay for me. It wasn't bad but it wasn't as good as I expected.

Here are the other dishes my seatmates ordered. I wasn't able to try it because migraine and tiredness from the long day got in the way:

Grilled Angus Beef Tenderloin (P 950/200g)

Foie Gras Ballotine (P 350)

Angus Dry-Aged Ribeye (P 1,680/300g)

The rest of Madison Bistro's Menu:

Thank you so much to Yedy for making me your plus one! :-)

Madison's Bistro is located at Ground floor of EDSA SHANGRILA HOTEL. Follow them on their facebook page: Madison's Bistro Moderne

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Hong Kong Disneyland: Even More Magical The 2nd Time Around!

May 16, 2014, 9:09 am

≫ Next: Disneyland Hong Kong, New Land #1: GRIZZLY GULCH

≪ Previous: Unwind at Madison's Bistro Moderne

I never got to go to Disneyland as a child. And so when my husband and I were planning on where to go on our honeymoon back in 2008, he already knew that Hong Kong Disneyland was the obvious choice. I remember tearing up as soon as Sleeping Beauty's castle came into view. And I so vividly remember fighting the urge to cry as I watched Disney in the Stars, which is Disneyland's spectacular fireworks before the park closes. Even for an adult like me, I still think it's the magical place on earth. And just like any other newlywed, I dreamed of going back to take my child and see the smile on his / her face when she experiences the magic of Disneyland!

It took us a while to have a child but finally 3 years later, our little Rainbow was born! And 2 years and 6 months after that, through the loving hearts of my mom and dad in law, the whole family went on a 5 day trip to Hong Kong, 2 days of which was spent at Disneyland! WOOOHOOOOOO!!!! And I was especially excited about the three new lands that were built. This means a lot of new attractions! And I was also looking forward to staying 2 nights at the Disneyland Hollywood Hotel!

Taking a photo by the entrance. From here you can already hear instrumental Disney music that can give you goosebumps. Instrumental versions from your favorite Disney animation classics.

A Mickey landscape greets you by the very entrance of Disneyland Park. Right above it is the Disneyland Railroad. I would have loved to try and ride this but this service is currently suspended.

Sleeping Beauty's Castle really takes my breath away! I mean this is the icon you always see at the start of each Disney movie. I didn't tear up this time, because I was busy being excited for Rain. I wanted to see her reaction when she sees it live because whenever we would watch Disney movies with her, she always screams "castle!" during the opening credits. So upon walking inside Disneyland, and as soon as the castle came into view, as expected, Rain exclaimed "CASTLE!!!" Aaaah priceless! :-)

2-Day Pass

As I mentioned, we got a 2-day pass for Disneyland Park. We had our travel agent book the tickets for us and turns out a meal stub was included. We used this for lunch on our first day.

We ate at the Starline Diner located at Tomorrowland which offers American food. Burgers, chicken, salads, and sundaes. The Chicken was very good. Huge too! It comes with a choice of fries or rice on the side and half a corn on the cob.It's really filling! They even give you plastic gloves so you can eat the chicken with your hands. Makes it even more delicious!

The nice thing about the 2-day pass is that you don't have to use it in two consecutive days. You can use it on any 2 days as long as it is within the 7-day time frame. The ticket price of the 2-day pass are as follows (Grabbed from Disneyland Hong Kong Website):

Ticket Type	2-Day Ticket*
General Admission Ticket (aged 12-64)	HK$585
Child Ticket (aged 3-11)	HK$415
Senior Ticket (aged 65 or above)	HK$170

Click here for more details on this type of pass.

Disney Stage Shows

For our first day we focused on catching all the shows first. If there's one thing we learned during our first visit here, it's to watch all the shows because each are very spectacular in their own way. A lot of people make the mistake of not watching the shows in Disneyland. If you're planning a trip there please please please watch the shows! Do not underestimate it. It's really magical! Very well-made! Both kids and adults of all ages will really enjoy! I choose not to say much because it's better when you want it and are not really sure what to expect. If you see it on YouTube, remember that it's really different when you watch it live.

Golden Mickeys

Festival of the Lion King

I wanted to share the show times here but looks like they change every week because the Times Guide print out is specifically dated "May 4-10" Don't worry you can get a copy right after going through the entrance.

It's also advised that you arrive at the show venue around 30 minutes before the showing if you want to get seats at all. There's usually a long line of people in each showing times.

Flights of Fantasy Parade

Screenshot from the video Richie took

Also, don't miss the Flights of Fantasy Parade that only happens once a day. The floats are absolutely beautiful and this is the time that you will be able to see all your favorite Disney characters in their beautiful floats! I don't have a photo of the parade because my husband was taking a video and I was carrying Rain the whole time. You can see the time of the parade on the Times Guide as well. Make sure you get a good view by getting a good spot along Mainstreet USA, which is the route of the parade.

For the second day, that's when we went to explore the three new lands! Toy Story Land, Mystic Point, and Grizzly Gulch. All of which are really really awesome! I will be writing these on another post. I'm so excited! Stay tuned!!!

But for now I just want to thank my generous and caring Mom and Dad for making this trip a possibility! Even if it was my second time, it still felt like the first! That's what's great about Disneyland. New lands and attractions are being slowly but meticulously opened for whole new levels of magic!

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