Chic & Cheaps

Take a Peak at Vista Land's Lakefront

2011-12-17T00:39:00.000-08:00

There is a place where kites still paint the skies with vibrant colors; where friendly dogs can run to their hearts content; where children from five to 95 can see castles in the clouds, dance in the rain and sing with the stars. Take a walk on the wild side of Laguna de Bay at Vista Land’s Lakefront and experience living at a pace that celebrates life every step of the way.

Inspired by the bohemian lifestyle of the artful City of San Francisco, Lakefront is a 60-hectare master planned development where the Manila south gathers to play. This lakeside community has been hosting a number of family-friendly fun – providing a secure environment for physical activities while injecting a sense of whimsy especially after a week of hard work.

The skies of Lakefront were flooded with colorful kites when it recently played host to Fly For Rare with the Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders, Inc. The kite-flying and kite-making event that benefited children with rare disorders saw kids and professional kite-flyers alike sending their vividly-adorned creations to the air.

While kites have taken flight in the skies, Lakefront has welcomed four-legged friends on the ground. It’s A Dog’s Life: A Presidio Dog Marathon saw a myriad of breeds of dogs racing for the finish line. Chic pups also battled for supremacy in the Dog Fashionista tilt. And proud owners enjoyed a flea market on the event grounds.

“At Vista Land, we have always envisioned our developments as more than just homes. We build cities where life is celebrated in every aspect – from the architecture to the master plan and the activity spaces. The kite show and the dog marathon are but a taste of greater things to come. Weekend markets, bazaars, concerts and performances can be accommodated within the grounds and are expected to add more color to this already vibrant community,” said Eda D. Tambologan division head for the mid rise projects in Quezon City and Lakefront Sucat

“Apart from these special events, however, Lakefront also offers a perfect venue for day-to-day physical activities that our residents indulge in. A daily exercise work-out becomes an event to look forward to when one is biking, running or hiking in the picturesque trails and paths within Lakefront,” she added.

When completed, Lakefront will count 14 mixed-use enclaves within its development. Today, six have already been built and occupied – The Marfori Tower, Presidio, La Posada, Marina Heights, Victorianne and The Wharf.

Victorian-inspired condominium developments, Presidio and The Marfori, offer a resort lifestyle to complement the sensibilities of Manila’s urban dwellers. Set in the midst of Lakefront where space is a birthright rather than a luxury, residents enjoy living and leisure facilities that provide modern conveniences in a green, lushly landscaped environment.

The Marfori offers studio, 1-, 2-, 3-bedroom, and loft units with a 180-degree panoramic view of the Laguna de Bay. Within it are specialty boutiques, fine dining, and themed restaurants, entertainment outlets, personal care shops, and convenience stores to service its residents.

Presidio is a cluster of mid-rise condominium structures comprised of studio, 1- and 2-bedroom units. Seven towers, aptly named after the great masters of art, have already risen and are ready for occupancy. But Renoir, Monet, Michelangelo, Picasso, Da Vinci, Rembrandt and Bellini are only the first of 16 structures. This haven with a commanding view of the Laguna de Bay will soon welcome the addition of Boticelli, Van Gogh, El Greco, Pissaro, Raphael, and Cezanne towers.

For an added convenience, Presidio will also have its own commercial area with specialty shops and choice fine-dining restaurants. Its homeowners, however, will continue to enjoy a high level of security and privacy at this fenced enclave which restricts access through an entry that is exclusive to its residents.

Also counted among its upscale amenities are a free-form swimming pool, lobby lounge, social halls and function rooms, fitness center, game room, meandering jog paths, barbecue pit, and private courtyards.

“Lakefront is truly an appreciation of a free-spirited way of living,” affirmed Tambologan. “From its architecture to the choice amenities and even the neighborhood events and activities it offers, every detail speaks of a celebration of life where luxury is a standard and the everyday reveals something joyfully unexpected.”

Vista Residences, the condominium development arm of Vista Land & Lifescapes, the country’s largest homebuilder, entered the market in 2006 to offer Filipinos the easy convenience of condominium living. Combining the space-planning savvy of the country’s top architects, an innate knack for selecting accessible and attractive locations to fit a wide range of needs, budgets and lifestyles, Vista Residences has set new standards for affordable mid-to-high-rise living.

Crosswinds Tagaytay's The Christmas Village: Celebrating Christmas Year Round

2011-12-17T00:27:00.000-08:00

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year especially for the kids, and guys, would it be more happier if we celebrate Christmas 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days in a year? Well, yeah, you read it right!

At Crosswinds Swiss Luxury Resort in Tagaytay, the magical feeling of Christmas is celebrated whole year round.

Crosswinds Swiss Luxury Resort Tagaytay offers series of activities for its visitors this Christmas like bazaars, food tasting, lighting of the big, big green Christmas tree, and magical feeling in the air is not complete without Christmas carols and cheers.

November 12 - A Carol Julefest at Crosswinds - De La Salle University Dasmarinas, Elizabeth Seton School and two other schools serenade the families visiting Crosswinds Tagaytay that day. The high school and college members of each chorale showcased not just voice power but also their dancing skills which made the visitors and staff of Crosswinds smile.

But before the Carol Julefest, we roam around The Christmas Village first. I can't help myself from taking pictures of the said village and the royal Swiss-inspired homes.

What I love most is the Delemont Downhill custom home. I imagine it as my parents retiree home. (",)

So, if you would like to try and experience Crosswinds lifestyle, it is located along Brgy. Iruhin Central, Calamba Road in Tagaytay City. It is anhour away from Manila and a five-minute drive from the popular Picnic Grove. Make yourway to this leisure community through the South Luzon Expressway via Sta. Rosa, Batangasor Alabang through the Daang-Hari road.

Crosswinds Tagaytay is developed by Brittany Corporation. It is the only pine estate south of Metro Manila with ver 20,000 pine trees cared for and grown inside the property, it is situated in a prime location, and has a distinctive theme, concept, and architectural design, reminiscent of the Swiss chalets.

Crosswinds is a premier Swiss luxury resort – the ideal place to spend time with your family during the weekends, or this Christmas season.

WOW World Of Wellness: SPArty Anniversary!!!

2011-12-05T15:33:00.000-08:00

World of Wellness (WOW) Direct Sales will celebrate its first year anniversary with a bang on December 17, 2011 from 9:00AM to 12:00PM at One Esplanade, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City!

For only P250 as your entrance fee, you will get FREE Facial and Derma Consulting, Back and Foot Massage, Nutritional Consulting and Medical Advice.

First 10 early birds will receive surprises too!

Samsung MultiView MV800 Camera: Shoot, Record and View From All Angles

2011-11-23T05:15:00.000-08:00

Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO), a leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, unveiled the Samsung MultiView MV800 with a 3.0” Wide Flip-out Display. With this product, the company is pioneering a new and unique MultiView category to enable today’s increasingly ambitious camera user to frame the perfect shot or portrait, from any angle.

The Samsung MV800 builds on the success of Samsung 2View technology. This is also the first premium compact model to feature a 3.0” Wide Flip-out MultiView Touch Display. Samsung has designed the device from the user-upwards in response to evolving consumer demands in the segment for maximum flexibility, enjoyment and creativity.

The 3.0” Wide Flip-out Display opens up a world of artistic possibilities. Whether it is capturing the perfect self portrait to polish your online profile or extreme low and high angled shots, the Samsung MV800 can help demonstrate your photographic prowess. The unique screen tilts up and down so you can frame every shot and easily view back your images from any perspective.

For style-conscious consumers on the look-out for a sophisticated and minimalist feel, the device’s ultra-slender design and contemporary metallic finish promises to make a visual impact.

The ultra slim and stylish device boasts enhanced picture quality and a touch screen technology. It has many innovative and user-friendly features to ensure that all users can relax and enjoy their shooting experience, confident of capturing even the most challenging images.

The Samsung MV800 camera offers an impressive 16.1 MP for premium picture quality, along with a 5x optical zoom lens to capture every detail in close-up and a 26mm wide-angle lens to capture larger gatherings in high definition. By packing this technology into a sleek and slim device, the Samsung MV800 is the ideal camera for premium-quality image capture on the move.

Its innovative Live Panorama function enables the easy photography of large groups by simply holding down the shutter button, then previewing the whole scene that’s been captured via the LCD. Moreover, by simply connecting the Samsung MV800 to a 3D HDTV, images and panoramic shots can be viewed instantly in outstanding 3D in-depth quality.

While the Flip-out MultiView Display allows you to take shots from all angles with ease and comfort, a unique Smart Touch 3.0 feature ensures a highly intuitive operation to save your fingers the effort! It enables you to drag and scroll through menu options to launch the required feature with a single touch. Smart Touch 3.0 also keeps it fun by letting users customize their background image or wallpaper.

Mr. Ariel T. Arias, Audio-Visual Business Unit Head, commented: “Our aim is to continually be at the forefront of digital compact camera innovation and the breakthrough MultiView proposition offered by the Samsung MultiView MV800 is the embodiment of that goal. The Samsung camera’s unique ability to capture images from any angle, with its stylish and ultra-slim design, demonstrates unparalleled Samsung innovation which we believe will appeal to every photographer and establish a new benchmark for the industry.”

Get Creative with Magic Frame and Picture-in-Picture Shot

The Samsung MV800 has been designed as more than just a camera - it is a creative tool for users to extract maximum enjoyment from all photographic opportunities. The Magic Frame feature includes 12 fun background templates, as well as the ability for users to customize their own. Meanwhile, the camera’s Picture-in-Picture function lets you insert one image with another. You can even use the Flip-out display to snap a self-portrait and put yourself in the picture!

Maximize enjoyment with Smart Filter and Funny Face Features

Smart Filter allows users to express their own creativity through a menu of 14 artistic effects. It includes the newly added Water Paint for a stylish watercolour finish and the Cartoon capability - transforming any photo into a fun animated film format. The fun doesn’t stop there. Funny Face allows you to bend, stretch and manipulate portraits of loved ones by tapping and dragging to radically distort facial characteristics - ready to share and enjoy.

Create your own Story

The Samsung MV800 essentially allows you to become the creative director of your life with an innovative Storyboard Maker. Users can prepare a storyboard from the images they have shot by simply selecting the layout, and then placing the photos in order. Whether you are creating a movie of a night out with friends or capturing a fantastic family holiday, see it laid out on the display as clearly as you do in your head.

HD Movie Capability at the Palm of your Hands

The Samsung MV800 also boasts HD recording capabilities within a compact body that will fit at the palm of your hand. Enjoy a consistently clear and crisp video technology and capture special memories with a recording time of up to twice as long as the standard MPEG4. The innovative zoom noise reduction technology ensures that the only sound recorded will be the laughter and conversation of loved ones, not the whirring of the zoom.

The Samsung MV800’s combination of industry-leading innovation, sophisticated design and user-friendly features, provides total mobility, premium picture quality and maximum enjoyment. The Samsung MV800 is the perfect tool not only to capture an image but also to tell a fun and creative story on the move.

For more information on the Samsung MultiView MV800, please visit: www.samsung.com/multiview

The Samsung MV800 is available for P14,990 at all leading camera shops nationwide.

		Samsung MultiView
Image sensor	Type	CCD
	Size	1/2.3″
	Effective Pixel	Approx. 16.2 megapixels
	Total Pixel	Approx. 16.4 megapixels
Lens	Brand	Schneider-KREUZNACH
	Optical Zoom ratio	Optical 5x
	Digital Zoom ratio	5x (total : 25x)
	Focal Length (f)	4.7 -23.5mm
	Focal Length - 35mm Conversion	26 - 130 mm
	Maximum Aperture	F3.3(W) - F5.9(T)
Image Stabilization	Mode	Dual IS (OIS + DIS) * OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), DIS (Digital Image Stabilization)
Display	Device Type	TFT LCD
	Size	3.0"W (7.62cm)
	Bright Adjust	Yes
	Touch panel	Yes
Focusing	Type	TTL auto focus
	Range	Normal : 80cm - Infinity(Wide), 150cm - Infinity(Tele) Macro : 5cm - 80cm (Wide), 100cm - 150cm (Tele) Auto Macro : 5cm - Infinity (Wide), 100cm - Infinity (Tele)
	Multi AF	Yes
	Center AF	Yes
	Face Detection AF	Yes
	Object Tracking AF	Yes
	Smart Face Recognition AF	Yes
	One Touch Shooting AF	Yes
Shutter Speed		Program : 1 - 1/2,000 sec. Night : 8 - 1/2,000 sec (AEB, continuous : 1/4 - 1/2,000 sec.), Smart Auto: 1/8 - 1/2000 sec
Exposure	Control	Program AE
	Metering	Multi, Spot, Center Weighted, Face Detection AE
	Compensation	±2EV (1/3EV steps)
	ISO Equivalent	Auto, 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
Flash	Modes	Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Fill-in flash, Slow sync, Flash Off, Red-eye fix
	Range	Wide: 0.2 m - 3.2 m(Auto ISO)
	Recharging Time	Approx. 4 sec.
Sharpness		Soft+, Soft, Normal, Vivid, Vivid+
White Balance		Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent_H, Fluorescent_L, Tungsten, Custom
Mode		Smart Auto, Program, Movie, 3D (3D Still), Live Panorama (2D, 3D), Scene, Smart Movie, Self Shot, Picture in Picture
Capture	Scene	Magic Frame, Beauty-Shot, Object Highlight, Night, Landscape, Text, Sunset, Dawn, Backlight, Beach&Snow, Pose guide, Funny face, Intelligent portrait * Drive : Single, Continuous, AEB, Motion Capture
	Size	16M : 4608x3456 14M P : 4680×3040 10M : 3648x2736 12M W : 4608×2592 5M : 2592x1944 3M : 1984x1488 2MW : 1920×1080 1M : 1024x768
	File format	JPEG, MPO DCF, EXIF 2.21, DPOF 1.1, PictBridge 1.0
	Smart Auto	Portrait, Night Portrait, Backlight Portrait, Night, Backlight, Landscape, White, NaturalGreen, BlueSky, Sunset, Macro, Macro Text(Smart Grid), Macro Color, Tripod Action, Fireworks
	Drive	Single, Continuous, AEB, Motion Capture
	Self Timer	Off, 2 sec., 10 sec., Double
	Smart Filter (Capture)	Miniature, Vignetting, Soft Focus, Old film 1, Half Tone Dot, Sketch, Fish Eye, Classic, Retro, Oil-paint, Water-paint, Cartoon, Cross-filter, Zooming Shot
	Image Adjust (Capture)	Sharpness. Contrast, Saturation (5 steps)
Image Play	Mode	Single image , Thumbnails , Advanced Slide show, Movie Clip , Smart Album
	PB ZOOM	1.0X-12.5X (depends on image size)
	Slide show	Slide show with Effect & Music
	Smart Filter (Play back)	Miniature, Vignetting, Soft Focus, Old film , Half Tone Dot, Sketch, Fish Eye, Classic Retro, Oil-paint, Water-paint, Cartoon, Cross-filter, Zooming Shot
	Image Adjust (Play back)	Face Retouch, Brightness, Contrast, Saturation, Red Eye Fix, Add Noise
	Image Edit	Resize, Rotate, Trimming, Photo Editor 2.0 - Rotate, Trimming, Effect, Storyboard Maker
	Smart Album category	Type, Date, Week, Face
	Date Imprinting	Off, Date, Date & Time
Movie Clip	Feature	* 5X Optical Zoom enable (Max Recording time : 20min) * Due to the noise while optical zooming, user can select to record sound or not. (Voice recording selectable : Sound Alive On/ Sound Alive Off/ Mute)
	File format	MP4(Video: MPEG-4/H.264, Audio:AAC)
	Smart Movie	Landscape, Blue Sky, Natural Green, Sunset
	Size	1280x720 (30fps, 15fps), 640x480 (30fps, 15fps), 320x240 (30fps, 15fps)
	Smart Filter	Palette Effect 1, Palette Effect 2, Palette Effect 3, Palette Effect 4, Miniature, Vignetting, Half Tone Dot, Sketch, Fish Eye, Classic, Retro
	Edit (Playback)	Pause during Recording and Playing, Still Image Capture, Time Trimming
Storage	Internal	Approximately 10MB * Internal memory capacity may not match these specifications.
Storage	External	Micro SD Card(up to 2GB), Micro SDHC (up to 32GB)
Interface	Digital Output Connector	USB 2.0
	Audio	Microphone : Mono Internal Speaker : Mono
	Video output	AV : NTSC, PAL (user selectable) HDMI 1.3 : NTSC, PAL (user selectable) HDMI Type D
	DC power input	5.0V
Power Supply	Power Source	Rechargeable battery : BP70 (Typ. 740mAh/ Min. 700mAh) Charger : SAC-48(AC Adapter) Connector Type : Micro USB (5Pin) * Included items may vary depending on sales region.
Physical Specification	Dimensions (W×H×D)	92 x 56.2 x 18.3 mm
	Weight	121 g (without battery and memory card)
	Operating Temperature	0-40 °C
	Operating Humidity	5-85%
Software	Camera Driver	N/A
Software	Application	Intelli-studio (Built-in)
Special Features		16MPixel 26mm 5X Zoom 3.0” Wide Touch Flip-out LCD (WQVGA) HD movie with ZNR 720@ 30fps Movie recording / H.264 Format + HDMI (D Type) Dual IS Live panorama (2D, 3D), 3D Photo Funny Face Storyboard Maker Magic Frame Intelligent Portrait Smart Filter 3.0 Photo Editor Self Pose Shot Intelli-Studio Built-in

Going Straight Salon: More Than Just Straightening Your Locks

2011-11-22T14:52:00.000-08:00

Instead of having your usual fun group date, why not have a spa/salon party where everyone can relax and unwind? Going Straight Salon is just the place to do this, with its convenient location at all SM Malls.

Going Straight Salon Privilege Card with lots of discounts!

I've been to Going Straight Salon SM Megamall before, so comparing it to SM North Edsa, I think this is their most relaxing branch with its top of the line, red-coordinated interior design.

The bloggers salon party last week, arranged by The Lunch Break Blogger, Jhong Medina is a great example of a wellness-themed activity for office-based slash blogger and even full-time bloggers. Time to take a break from a hectic lifestyle, instead dabble in everything Going Straight has to offer.

I've went through a lot of firsts in Going Straight Salon. First mani-pedi and first hair color! We'll have another post on my experience. So keep coming back for my next entry.

If going straight is not your cup of tea, well, Going Straight Salon offers an extensive range of treatments for your hair and for your cared hands and foot as well like the paraffin.

If you're ready to throw next party or just ready to take a break from a hectic lifestyle, Going Straight Salon will not disappoint.

HISTORY ASIA: Hidden Cities Season 2

2011-11-21T18:35:00.000-08:00

Calling all HISTORY buffs out there! Of course, non-history lovers are invited too to appreciate HISTORY in a no-nose-bleed way (haha) as Hidden Cities, History Channel Asia's flagship series, will soon conquer your TV sets again on November 23rd, Wednesday at 9 p.m. for its second season.

Hidden Cities returns with eight episodes across Asia to include Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, China, and to my surprise -- Philippines! I am excited to see Anthony Morse's episode here in our archipelago. I wonder what he has uncovered.

But what made me more excited was when I saw Anthony Morse here in Manila for his press conference at the Manila Hotel where he gave us a sneak preview on his adventures.

Vietnam

Premieres 23 Nove

Vietnam

Premieres 23 November, Wednesday, 9pm

In Vietnam, he investigates the fascination the Vietnamese have for turtles – and the powerful symbolism of wisdom attached to the creature.

Singapore

Premieres 30 November, Wednesday, 9pm

Thailand

Premieres 7 December, Wednesday, 9pm

In Thailand, Morse uncovers the temple relics of the ancient city Wiang Kum Kam where once the majestic kingdom of Lanna stood ground.

China's Yangtze & the Grand Canal

Premieres 14 December, Wednesday, 9pm

While in China, he finds out that ancient imperial musicians faced the threat of beheading if the note they played were out of tune.

Sumatra

Premieres 21 December, Wednesday, 9pm

In Sumatra, he unravels the dark past of a mining community during the Dutch occupation.

The Philippines

Premieres 4 January, Wednesday, 9pm

And in the Philippines, he rubs shoulders with former First Lady Imelda Marcos in the very same presidential palace she once housed her infamous shoes collection.

And a lot more episodes from different "Hidden Cities"!

*I love the episode where he showed to us his cooking skills (hihi). I can't remember if it's in Vietnam or Thailand. I would really love to see more dishes from other Asian countries because I know food is also part of a country's history. Hope in Season 3, Hidden Cities can also unravel a little bit of the traditional culinary cuisines of each "Hidden Cities" he visits.

For more updates on the episodes, visit Hidden Cities Facebook Page and http://www.historyasia.com/hiddencities/!

THE GOLDILOCKS BAKEBOOK: Best Loved Goldilocks Recipes Right at Your Home

2011-11-21T17:34:00.000-08:00

In celebration of 45 Goldilicious years, Goldilocks, the Philippines’ number one bakeshop, writes a new chapter in its storied legacy – the Goldilocks Bakebook.

The Goldilocks Bakebook is a historic collection of 108 recipes, 211 pages of eye-catching photos of Goldilocks’ Signature bakeshop favorites, such as fluffy mamon cheesy ensaymada, ever-soft chiffon cake slices classic polvoron and mocha roll, among many others, and an overview of the company’s beginnings. The bakebook took 7 years in the making, endless kitchen-testing, and the invaluable effort and dedication of a hardworking team in order to pass on a priceless legacy to loyal Goldilocks consumers and followers.

Flip through the pages of the Goldilocks Bakebook to discover recipes and make your own sweet Goldilocks moment, the ingredients towards building your own fairytale story.

Goldilocks Winning Recipe

Far from being just another recipe book or coffeetable book, The Goldilocks Bakebook is a unique recipe in itself, a product of love, devotion and gratitude to millions of Filipinos who have made Goldilocks a part of their lives

The Goldilocks Bakebook by Milagros Leelin-Yee and Clarita Leelin-Go, two women have tirelessly and relentlessly pursued the perfection of each Goldilocks product, (with Food Styling done by Chef Heny Sison and Food Photography done by Neal Oshima) is available in all National Bookstore branches, and select Goldilocks outlets.

*Proceeds of the bakebook will also be given to Goldilocks chosen charity.*

DepEd and Magnolia Philippines Launch “Healthy Drink Choices”

2011-11-21T04:33:00.000-08:00

Together, the Department of Education (DepEd) and San Miguel Corporation’s Magnolia Healthy Beverages launched the “Healthy Drink Choices” advocacy project at the Chateau 1771 in El Pueblo, Pasig City.

The joint project will produce inspiring and engaging elementary school activity books and interactive modules to help teachers instill the value and benefits of choosing healthy drinks among their pupils. These books shall be given away free initially to over 200,000 children from selected schools nationwide on the first year of the project.

Magnolia Health Beverage’s top executive Bernard Marquez thanked the Department for the partnership. The “Healthy Drink Choices” project is part of Magnolia Healthy Beverages promoting a sound mind and healthy body among the youth.

“It’s an honor for the Department of Education to be given this wonderful gift from Magnolia Healthy Beverages because we don’t have such kinds of materials,” said DepEd Undersecretary Yolanda Quijano during the affair. “We understand that our children really need to develop this kind of healthy drink choices at an early age.”

On this years 3rd quarter, Magnolia also concluded the “Sayaw Barangay” dance competition, which I also blogged here, as an alternative and productive activity among the “batang Pinoys”.

SMC has its line of affordable and ready-to-drink Magnolia teas and juices to give children and health-conscious consumers in general with a nutritious alternative. The products are packed with vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, and B9 and low in sugar.

Magnolia';s other non-alcoholic beverages are Magnolia Purewater, and Magnolia Lifedrink in Papaya and Four Seasons flavours. Magnolia Lifedrink Four Seasons is loaded with Pycnogenol, a premium herbal supplement that result to healthier cells and stronger immune system. Magnolia Lifedrink Papaya, meanwhile, contains glutathione, which helps the skin achieve a youthful, radiant glow.

Also present in the gathering were Magnolia Healthy Beverages’ Executive Assistant Jun Medrano, Sales Manager Manny Factor, Group Product Manager Cecille Caling, and Mary Lindbert International’s CEO Erlinda Legaspi, and Albert Rosal.

High School Days - When Life Was Simple... NO INTERNET YET

2011-11-10T05:16:00.001-08:00

I remember, when I was in high school, I am still not aware of the Internet! Yes, I know how to use the computer since I was in kinder but really no idea of the world wide web way back in high school.

I studied in a public school in Pangasinan. We only have access to books through our library if we have assignments and research stuffs. It was only in college when I get to know about Yahoo, Google, and other search engines and websites.

I stayed in a computer shop with my friend and I was like a kid staring on what she is doing (by the way, she does not know that I am not aware of the net!) Getting the idea on how to do it. I was actually pretending I know how to surf!

Then when I got home, I went to a computer shop close to our home and tried it myself. Wow! I was really amazed. Everything can be found on the web!

This thing goes in my head, "If we had it during my high school days, maybe I got better grades! If we have this during high school, it would make my homeworks easier.

We have projects in literature in college and it is just a click on the Internet. I got all the stuff I needed and everything is hassle-free and "free" literally. Free essay, poems, myths, scripts,, authors' biography, even a copy of a whole book is present on the Internet with photos and other stuff. My life in college was easier than in high school. But come to think of it, I still miss the days when we go to the library. You would really know what your school report was all about than just copying and pasting like students are doing now.

One time, I remember a friend of mine forgot to edit her work. She copied the whole page and did not delete the links, the Ads, etc. It was obviously "copy-paste" as they say. Our clinical instructor just laughed at his work and reminded him to erase those details next time.

But still, I am thinking, why not bring the "world wide web" to my little old school. I am planning to donate a computer to my Alma Mater and help them get a nice Internet connection. It would be a great help for the students and even for the teachers for sure. I still have 4 months to save money to be able to buy a set of computer. But sponsors are welcome, too! Hahaha! Just kidding!

Women’s Business Council of the Philippines: Women to Women Mentoring on November 8

2011-11-07T14:43:00.000-08:00

This, I could say, one of the best events I have ever attended because all of the people who got to the event have positive auras (all of them are smiling specifically the speakers). And although, this was a woman empowering gathering, men attendees are still welcome.

Set at Le Bistro Vert in Makati, Women’s Business Council of the Philippines invited us to have an afternoon of "girl power" as The WBCP organized WOMEN CONNECT: W2W Women to Women Mentoring Summit which will happen on November 8 at the PTTC. They gave us a little hint on what will happen on that day.

“We hope to inspire many more women to get into business or to find a career they wish to shift to,” says Chit Juan, current President of the WBCP. “We have many women leaders in usually male-dominated fields like IT and Innovation, Automotive Industry and also services like Law and Outsourcing,” she continues.

WOMEN CONNECT: W2W Women to Women Mentoring Summit is a whole day event where you can meet many inspiring women, and get familiar with other women entrepreneurs, other women-led businesses so you too can get ideas on how to get started.

You may register at www.wbcp.ph or email wbcphils@gmail.com to get more details about the Women Connect summit.

Ipanema Philippines: Spoil Your Sole In Rio Carnival Raffle Promo

2011-11-04T05:55:00.000-07:00

Wow, a promo for Ipanema lovers like me. Yehey! Here's my first pair and still sturdy Ipanema I have for 2 years.

The ‘Spoil Your Sole In Rio Carnival Raffle’ promo is the Ipanema way of giving back to slipper-lovers.

For seven days and six nights, the lucky winner and his/her chosen friend will be treated to Rio de Janeiro, hailed as the Carnival Capital of the World, like VIPs as they enjoy a series of tours to the magnificent landscapes of Sugar Loaf Mountain, Corocovado, and Petropolis. Carnival tickets will be provided for them to witness and participate in the celebration for two days. During the parade days, a roundtrip limousine service with an English-speaking tour guide will assist them. Lastly, a total of USD1,000.00 (USD500.00 per person) will be given as their pocket money.

HOW TO JOIN?

If you are a Filipino citizen or a flip-flops lover who has resided in the Philippines for at least a year now, Ipanema invites you to join the ‘Spoil Your Sole in Rio Carnival Raffle’ promo. Just grab your favorite pair of Ipanema slippers from any participating store nationwide to get a printed promo code to be given upon purchase of every pair. Like the Ipanema Philippines Facebook Fan Page <www.facebook.com/IpanemaPhilippines> to see the Spoil Your Sole in Rio Application. Click ‘Submit Entries’ and complete the information needed for your raffle entry.

Get more raffle entries by buying more Ipanema pairs for more chances of winning the Rio Carnival experience. Besides, Ipanema features a wide selection of stylish yet comfortable pairs to choose from.

Ladies can grab a chic pair from Gisele Bundchen Seeds Collection that highlights its forest-inspired prints on the soles complemented by a metal spiral emblem on the straps. The Hot Sands Collection emphasizes reinvention in style with a nature-themed sole prints and complex yet sophisticated strap design. Simple yet classy, the Ipanema Anatomica Collection balances femininity, elegance, and comfort to match perfectly with both urban styles and beachwear.

On the other hand, the masculinity in the design of Ipanema Classics collection suits well to all style preferences of the urban men. The combination of colors, lines, and curves in its sole design allows men to transform their athletic style to beach casual look without the need to change their pairs of Ipanema.

So grab this travel experience you’ve always wanted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The raffle winner will be drawn on date January 3, 2012, 4pm. So be sure to get your comfortable pairs of Ipanema slippers before the promo ends on December 31, 2011.

For more updates on the promo, join our official Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/IpanemaPhilippines.

SO WHAT WILL I BUY NEXT to join the raffle?

Elegant pair of slippers that’s both feminine and comfortable Ipanema’s Ritmos Collection. I saw a wedge like one in stores. I could have that one or...

Ipanema’s Envolvente Fem collection. It's almost like my first pair.

Arrrgggghhhh! Can't think of my next pair! Hahaha. But will surely by one! See you til my next Ipanema post!

GOOD LUCK!

Animax Philippines: Enter the Bantorra Library

2011-11-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

Hit a different kind of library this school break with Book of Bantorra.

Opening the gates to an alternative world filled with magic, fantasy, and books, The Book of Bantorra takes you to a realm where everyone who dies gets turned into books that are stored in the Bantorra Library. Want to learn more about how a particular person lived his or her life? Just go to the Bantorra Library and read a book to plunge into their lives—literally—because all you need is to touch a stone tablet ‘book’ to see a person’s history.

Book of Bantorra follows the tale of Colio, a young boy who had his memories erased. Armed with a bomb embedded in his chest, Colio sets out to kill Hamutz Meseta, the world’s most powerful Armed Librarian. But fate takes a different turn when Colio, upon seeing his target, falls in love with her and ends up getting caught in the war between two great factions—the psychic power-wielding Armed Librarians and the religious cult Sindeki Kyoudan, which manipulates people against the Library for its sinister purposes.

What will happen to Colio and Hamutz? Who will end up taking over the Bantorra Library? How will the war end? Find out the answers to these questions on October 21 as Animax Asia premiers Book of Bantorra.

Book of Bantorra premiered on October 21, 2011 and airs from Monday to Friday at 11 p.m. only on Animax.

For more information, you may log on to http://www.animax-asia.com/.

ECHOyoga Workshops

2011-11-04T04:54:00.000-07:00

Yoga is a practice than promotes wellness when done regularly. However, even non-yoga practitioners can learn new therapies for the body. ECHOyoga's November therapy workshops, all run by certified teachers, focus on relieving pain such as Yoga Therapy for Low Back Pain, a one-off workshop on November 19 for those suffering from lower back stiffness and pain. The workshop, to be taught by Avril Rodriguez, will introduce a sequence of poses to slowly and gently relax sore back muscles, hip pain, knee injuries, low back strain, and ankle sprains.

Yoga's restorative poses likewise help seniors strengthen their bones and balance. Marilen Elizalde will lead a three-session workshop as a Senior's Introduction to Yoga on November 7, 14, and 21. This workshop will allow golden seniors to do simple yoga sequences daily for better health and mobility.

ECHOyoga balances all physical movement workshops with inner work through two course offerings this month. A Past Life Group Regression will be facilitated by Jeannie Javelosa on November 5. At a Crossroad: Making Sense of Your Life Journey, an reflective inner awareness workshop using creativity techniques to make sense of life pointers and clues to direct you to your life's work, will be facilitated by Vicky Ortega on November 26.

November Workshops

Past Life Group Regression (Inner Work Series)

November 5, Saturday, 4-6pm
Facilitator: Jeannie Javelosa
Fee: P1,000

A group regression session that opens the subconscious to visualization of possible past life connections. Includes meditation, facilitation for regression into subconscious and soul work, and group discussion.

Bring a notebook and pen. Dress in comfortable clothing.

Seniors Introduction to Yoga

November 7-14-21, three Mondays, 4:30-6pm
Teacher: Marilen Elizalde
Fee: P500 per class, or P1,200 for three classes

A three-session series of gentle-restorative classes to introduce citizens into practicing selected yoga poses for strengthening the bones, balance, and focus.

Yoga Therapy for Athletes (For Sports Injuries and Rehabilitation)

November 12, Saturday, 4-6pm
Teacher: Sen Sanchez
Fee: P1,000

This workshop will offer a series of therapeutic yoga sequences for athletes, trainers, and physical therapists. The workshop will address sore muscles, hip pain, knee injuries, low back strain, and ankle sprains. By loosening up tight muscles, yoga helps improve total body mobility and flexibility, giving a greater range of motion and improving performance.

Yoga Therapy for Low Back Pain

November 19, Saturday, 4-6pm
Teacher: Avril Rodriguez
Fee: P1,000

A one-off workshop for those suffering from lower back stiffness and pain. This introduce a sequence of poses to gently relax and strengthen sore back muscles, to decompress and improve the flexibility of the spine, and promote better posture.

At a Crossroad: Making Sense of Your Life Journey (Inner Work Series)

November 26, Saturday, 4-6pm
Facilitator: Vicky Ortega
Fee: P1,000

A one-off session offered twice this quarter. Do you respond to the following questions: Are you lost? Are you wondering where to take your life? In need of direction? Wondering how to make your life more meaningful? Then this workshop is for you. Life is a maze of intersecting paths--crossroads that raise the question Where am I going? There are pointers and clues but, to see them, we have to shift our focus and awareness from the outside to the inside--to our inner intelligence and memory. Trace your life journey with creative thinking techniques that allow you to make sense of clues and pointers that direct you to your life's work.

Bring a notebook and pen. Dress in comfortable clothing.

Reserve now

Please register via SMS at 0906 506 3958 or via email at echoyogaworkshop@gmail.com, rather than walk in on the day of the workshop. Workshops are cancelled when there are no signups.

Visit our website at echoyoga.echostore.ph for our schedule of regular classes (Gentle Flow, Led Ashtanga, and more) until December 10.

ECHOyoga Community Center
Penthouse, Century Plaza, 120 Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati
SMS: 0906 506 3958

For more information, visit echoyoga.echostore.ph, SMS 0906-5063598, or emailechoyogaworkshop@gmail.com. All workshops will be held at the ECHOyoga Community Center.

New Year, New Blog - Soon to Release Discount Coupon Posts

2011-11-04T04:26:00.000-07:00

Christmas is near and the new year is drawing near. I am thinking of starting a new blog again. New year, new blog.

Actually, I was making plans of doing it way back last year. I was planning to put up a blogsite talking about discount coupons, mobile discount codes, printed coupons, buy 1 take 1 deals - how I saved money from all these coupons.

I got the idea when I first got my copy of the Belle de Jour Power Planner 2010 in 2009, a planner packed with discount vouchers. I want to blog how I saved on my gimmicks and on my shopping with the help of these coupons. I want to encourage the readers to save funds for the rainy days without suffering little rewards they have for themselves.

I really thought discount coupons don't exist in the Philippines. There come a time when I said to myself I want to live in the states just because of the coupons that they can easily get when they buy the morning newspaper (I saw a feature of it on TV and these are the same stories my online friends tell me about coupons). They will just cut the coupons and use it in the grocery stores. They have the one-dollar store, left and right garage sales, and even online shops, especially if you're up to buying gadgets from DSLRs, cell phones, camcorders, LCD TV, they have sites offering what they call cyber Monday deal.

Penny pinchers like me would really love to stay in the U.S. But things change! Thrift stores are now all over the country and little by little we are introduced to "groupons" or coupon-buying sites.

Yes, I admit, when it comes to money, I am stint but not to the extent that I will sacrifice the quality and standards.

But wait, guys, please help me find a name for the blog that I am having in mind, please? Drop a comment here and will surely appreciate it. Thank you, dear readers!

Ann (",)

Chicken Deli Comes to Manila (SM North Edsa)

2011-11-02T15:34:00.000-07:00

The Chicken Inasal’s (flame grilled chicken) special status in the hearts, mouths, and bellies of the Filipino people is something that Bacolod’s Chicken Deli recognizes and takes very seriously. Chicken Deli, which stands for “Chicken delicious,” was born in 1983 in the sunny city of Bacolod, which is itself the home of Inasal. The idea came about when Chicken Deli’s founder, Mamang, felt the need and the desire to feed people with the dish they so loved: Inasal.

It was obvious that Mamang took great care and put a lot of effort into serving up only the best quality Chicken Inasal, selecting only the choicest cuts and freshest ingredients to put the dish together. With that careful attention to food preparation and her super special secret recipe that makes her Chicken Inasal so different from the others, it was only a matter of time before business boomed for Mamang. And boom it did.

Before long, Mamang’s humble restaurant was overflowing with Bacolod natives, Manilenyos, and even foreign tourists who came to have a taste of the local fare. Even the most discerning foodies had something to rave about when they tasted Mamang’s savory, smoky, perfectly grilled chicken. Of course, the efficient service and affordable prices also helped in catapulting Chicken Deli to fame. In only a few years, Chicken Deli became a Bacolod institution, a household name, strong enough to withstand even the most catastrophic circumstances.

Now it’s 2011, and after taking Bacolod by storm, Chicken Deli has its sights set on conquering the Manila crowd. The speedy service and low prices, not to mention Chicken Deli’s delectable food, will surely run well with the city dwellers.

Chicken Deli is perfect for the budget conscious because for less than a hundred pesos, one gets a complete lunch or dinner meal and for less than fifty pesos, one can get a merienda that’s filling for the tummy and light on the pocket.

The restaurant opened its first Metro Manila branch at the SM City North Edsa Annex just last July, and is now open for franchisers to continue Chicken Deli’s time-honored tradition of serving delicious, high quality Chicken Inasal that’s been cooked with as much love and care as Mamang used to cook it in the old days.

Chicken Deli also serves other parts of the chicken that are flame grilled to perfection namely atay (liver), baticlon (gizzard), liog (neck), isol (butt) and pakpak (wings) with Kanin All You Can garlic rice, soup and special sinamak or “sawsawan.”

Fit for the Pinoy taste and just like home cooked and prepared meals, Chicken Deli has other famous food offerings not available in other inasal food chains like the famous batchoy, sizziling squid, kare-kare with Mamang’s special bagoong and halo-halo.

Chicken Deli is dedicated to serving the BEST and TASTIEST chicken inasal and more, all over the country at very affordable prices without sacrificing quality.

Other branches that will open soon will be at the G/F of Tutuban Center Mall, G/F of Cartimar shopping center and Rosal St. Bgy Uno Calamba, Laguna.

DOCKERS PHILLIPPINES TWITTER PROMO: WIN ALPHA KHAKIS

2011-10-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

Follow @DockersKhaki_PH and win!!!

October - Dockers, the brand that has defined khaki pants for more than 25 years, is now on twitter!

In an effort to continue engaging its consumers through social media, Dockers launched DockersKhaki_PH twitter account. Following the Dockers twitter account will give fans updates regarding the latest Dockers fashion as well as event and promotions that they can join.

As a sign of gratitude to all its fans, Dockers will be giving away three of their newest and hottest 10-year Alpha Khaki when they reach 1000 followers.

Simply be a follower of Dockers on twitter and form part of the first one thousand tweeps who will have the chance to win one of the Alpha Khakis.

Winners will be determined via raffle and announced through Dockers twitter account, so follow Dockers now!

Dockers®

The Dockers® Brand has embodied the spirit of khaki for more than 25 years. Since their introduction in 1986, Dockers® has been perfecting khakis—and the essential goods to go with them—for men and women all over the world. No compromises in quality. Just versatile, essential style. Day to night. Monday to Sunday. Wearing the pants has never looked so good. For information on Dockers® and its products, visit www.dockers.com.

TAPELLA AND GAUDI OFFERS P599 MEALS

2011-10-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

Regional Flavours of Spain at Gaudi and Tapella

Take time to explore the alchemy of Spain as Gaudi and Tapella brings Flavours de Espana, a month-long food festival featuring Spain’s most famous regional cuisines.

Spanish and Filipinos same passion for good eats are a huge part of its exciting culture—great meals over good conversation remain both preference for feasts. For this type of epicurean experience, Gaudi and Tapella offers a set menu from Spain’s different regions only P599++ per head.

From today until October 31, both restaurants highlight the northwest and south of Spain, Andalucia and Basque. Evidently, the common staple for both regions are meat and seafood but the difference lies in their unique preparation. For a rich experience of Basque, start off with chistorra (basque chorizo on baguette slice) and viruta (Serrano ham with alioli on baguette slice). A Basque cuisine is certifiably known for tomatoes and sweet or hot red peppers, the purrusalda (Basque potato and leek soup) is a tasty combo pair, followed by the freshest assorted greens--ensalada de la casa (tossed greens drizzed with house dressing). And for the much-awaited main course, it’s an amazingly tender and generous serving of estofado de cordero (lamb stew with potatoes),not a fan of lamb? Then have abonito con tomate (fresh tuna in tomato and pepper sauce) a diet-friendly option of refreshing tuna drizzled with tomato and peppercorns. To cap off the meal, it’s a decadent serving of arroz con leche (creamy rice pudding with cinnamon) velvety and thick, this will surely leave the palate asking for another plate.

Andalucia of the South is something not to be missed too. The historic Islamic influence in its cuisine gives this region a unique culinary identity with the use of olive oil, garlic, and wine as the most important native ingredients. For a truly appetite-inducing starter, croquetas variadas dos salsa (mushroom, salami, and ham croquetas with romesco and alioli dip) is a favorite delicacy brimming with rich palatable dip. The soup, is an interesting take on tomatoes— gazpacho (fresh tomato and vegetable soup) served cold but delightfully heartwarming. The salad is truly Mediterranean in taste as it is filled with healthy greens and other freshest produced. For the main highlight, paella marisco (fish and seafood paella) is tummy-filling and never boring with its appetizing blend of shapes and colors. Another Mediterranean main course option is the pollo moruno (Moorish chicken with couscous) especially marinated that gives a zestful zing to its flavor. End it light and sweet with tocino del cielo, deemed as the heavenly egg custard of Spain.

Moving on from October 3 to 31, Gaudi and Tapella guide guests to Catalan, rightfully known as the Mediterranean flavor of the northeast. As the cuisine of this region is infused with olives, garlic, onions, tomatoes, nuts, and dried fruits, the meal from start to finish offers a delightfully refreshing sensation of flavors. The crujentes de jamon (Serrano ham and cheese bites and in phyllo pastry) and ondarza (fried camembert with rapberry sauce) is great choice for a truly-Catalan starters. For a simple yet flavorful soup, sopa de cebolla (onion soup) remains a classic warm up with a certified twist of Span. Feast on ensalada de la casa (Tossed greens drizzled with house dressing) followed by parillada de carnes con patatas pobre y pimientos (assorted grilled meats with stewed potatoes and pimientos) a mix of sweet and savoury ingredients, and a mark of the inventiveness of Catalan cuisine. Or opt for the fideua (seafood noodle paella), brimming with the delicious goodness of seafood, but using unique short pasta called fideua. Chef’s recommendation for dessert is no other than profiteroles con leche (cream puff with vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate). These lovely puffs are complete with worth-relishing dessert indulgence— airy, light, and cloyingly sweet.

Perhaps one of the most famous fares of Spain, worth waiting is the Flavours of Castillan from October 10 to 31. Food here usually gets a high regard for its diversity and sophisticated preparation especially on its stews, asados, and large assortments of desserts. Chorizo al vino (chorizo stewed in red wine) prepares the palate with truly worth-relishing meals to come, with its tasty balance of spices drenched in olive oil, paired with tortilla de pimientos (traditional Spanish omelet with peppers). Soup is simple but delicate in flavor, sopa de ajo (poor man’s garlic and bread soup) followed by the aromatic pollo al ajillo (chicken in garlic and olive oil) or gambas al ajillo (shrimps sautéed in olive oil, garlic and chili). To conclude the hearty meal, it’s the well-known family dessert recipe, flan dela abuela (grandma’s Spanish leche flan).

Make lunch or dinner a family affair at Gaudi and Tapella, where the experience will take anyone to Spain’s most note-worthy regions. After all, it’s the company that truly completes the treat for a family of discerning foodies. For inquiries and reservations, please call 757.2710 and 856.0473.

Gaudi is located at the Ground Level of cosmopolitan Serendra in Taguig while Tapella at Ground Level of Greenbelt 5. Both restaurants offer a patio for those who want to be seen and the large booths inside good for power talks and intimate chats. Surrounded by top Business offices, theatres and high end shops, it makes an ideal spot for a quiet coffee, a fashionable lunch or a romantic dinner.

PHILIPPINE SME & FRANCHISE EXPO 2011 (PHILSME 2011)

2011-10-25T07:03:00.000-07:00

Employee to entrepreneur. Yes, I am dreaming to become one. So I was really glad to be given the chance to attend a preview of PHILIPPINE SME & FRANCHISE EXPO 2011 (PHILSME 2011) with the man himself MR. ARMANDO “BUTZ” BARTOLOME, Franchise Guru of the Philippines last week at Freska RCBC.

We get to here from the experts and the newbies in the business, particularly from the small and medium enterprises.

We were just given a peek on what's going to happen on the expo but I think this will be the first time that I will be going to a one-stop expo wherein expo goers will not just go and seek for franchise carts or stalls but they will also be given the chance to hear from the said people we were able to meet. Hear their success stories and inspire us especially the OFWs, students, employees like me. (",)

So try to be there on the expo if you are looking for business? You want to expand your business? Wanna form new strategic alliances? Wanna know faces behind entrepreneurs in the business industry? Well, here's the place to be... PHILIPPINE SME & FRANCHISE EXPO 2011 (PHILSME 2011).

TRADE ADVERTISING EXHIBITIONS & CONVENTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC. (TRADECON, INC.) EVENT. In cooperation with the FRANCHISE INSTITUTE OF THE PHILIPPINES (FIP) headed by MR. ARMANDO “BUTZ” BARTOLOME Franchise Guru of the Philippines, TRADECON will be staging its 3rd Exposition on Small Medium Enterprises, Franchising, Direct Selling & Business Opportunities dubbed as PHILIPPINE SME & FRANCHISE EXPO 2011 (PHILSME 2011) to be held at the PICC FORUM OF THE PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER (PICC), CCP COMPLEX, Roxas Blvd. Pasay City, Manila on October 27 -29, 2011 with 120 SME & Franchise Businesses on display targeting over 8,000 visitors during the three-day expo.

PLUS get to meet Pinoy Dream Academy Scholars Bunny & Chivas to perform at the event.

Bunny Malunda, Butz Bartolome, Chivas Malunda

Things to do and Places to go on Halloween: Free Tarot Card Reading at NACI Greenhills

2011-10-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a spooktacular night at NACI Comfort Food and Dessert Bar as the Esoteric Society of the Philippines (formerly known as the Spirit Questors of the Philippines) gives out free tarot card/oracle readings. Everyone is invited to dine and experience a spine-tingling night, available for sale is Michael Duque’s book entitled “Quest beyond existence” for only Php270. Free reading is on October 30, 2011 from 6pm to 11pm. If knowing the future is not your thing, simply delve into the unknown by engaging our spirit questors in a meaningful conversation about the mystical. Ask and your questions will be answered!

Naci Comfort Food and Dessert Bar:
2F, Fox Square Building Connecticut St. Greenhills San Juan.

For reservations, call 726 7266 or visit www.facebook.com/nacicomfortfood

Nathan’s Ridge Run with a Different Route, Tagaytay Highlands

2011-10-19T11:52:00.000-07:00

Tired of running on BGC pavement and SM Mall of Asia grounds when running? Well, a breathtaking view of nature overlooking the lush greeneries of Tagaytay, an uphill road course through rolling hills, and never-before-opened running areas set the Nathan Ridge Run apart from your common fun run.

Slated for November 20th at the Tagaytay Highlands, the race is organized by renowned multi-sport accessory brand Nathan Performance Gear (Nathan), who will challenge Filipino runners in a unique test of athleticism, endurance and environmental advocacy.

Nathan will provide participants access to previously off-limits tracks, resulting in a fresh, challenging and steep uphill road course meant to push the limits of each runner. While in the venue, runners can also take advantage of several exclusive perks, including access to some of Highlands’ amenities and discounts.

The Nathan Ridge Run features three race divisions for the beginner to the elite with its 5K, 10K and 21K road distances. Runners are set to get their hearts racing for health and for nature. Beginners can hone their craft and endurance, while veteran athletes can improve their level of game.

In the spirit of greener practices, the use of environmentally harmful plastic cups will be ditched in favor of free Nathan handheld sports bottles included in the race kit or the racers’ own hydration gear. Runners can use innovative bottles such as the Nathan Quickdraw Plus, which provides them easy access to hydration while on-the-go. Runners can park, refill, hydrate and go for gold. Simple and efficient, the Quickdraw Plus is best for keeping dehydration at bay; no need to wait until the next check point to replenish, and no need to use harmful disposables.

Instead of the typical water stations you see in most city races, where plastic cups are lined up for the taking and disposed of as soon as runners are sufficiently hydrated, Nathan will be setting up conveniently placed refilling stations in different points of the road.

After our company fun run on November 5, I am also considering Nathan's. (",) Hope you could also join, guys!!!

Belle de Jour Power Planner 2012 Fresh-Off-The-Press

2011-10-14T00:54:00.000-07:00

Hey, bellas, do you wanna be one of the first ladies who will get fresh-off-the-press Belle de Jour Power Planner 2012? Well, here's the squeal IT girls!

The BDJ 2011 Planner will be launched on October 16, 2010 (2 p.m.) at Eastwood Mall Open Park, Quezon City. No idea of the price yet but I know for sure it is worth the price! As I remember, for the girls who attended the BDJ Fair last year, we got a certain amount of discount. I was able to buy my BDJ 2011 Planner for only P480 at the launch but (in malls, it costs around P550). See the big difference!

You will surely enjoy the event, guys and gals. Belle De Jour Power Planner supporters will also enjoy perks and freebies at the fair. Last year, there were free facial from Clarity, free lunch from Greenwich, free photo sessions, free glitter tattoos, and free samplers and other freebies from Ace Water Spa. And of course, I will never ever forget my bungee jump experience last year!!! CONQUERED ONE FEAR, thank you BDJ!!! (Note: These are aside from the coupons that you will get from the planners.)

The event is not just about freebies, girls. After I have attended the fair, Bellas like me were very happy to meet new friends, learn new things and feel more confident after the affair. I am sure Belle de Jour will again, this year, arrange exciting activities and a wide range of fair talks wherein speakers will talk about fashion and beauty, girl empowerment and a lot more.

UPDATE of Activities from BELLE DE JOUR POWER PLANNER Fan Page

Sing your heart out with Redbox!
Get your fortune told via Tarot Card reading!
Liberate your style at Azta's Style Clinic!
Get fancy feet with nail art, capture moments on the photobooth station and pick prizes from Fitflop and Flipsters!
K-Pop Makeovers + Free Hug and Pose with Missing-U mascots from Etude House!
Bungee Jump and soar through great heights!
Bottoms up! Drink up with with Sober Club.
Make yourself over and get makeup tips with Pure Beauty/MUD!
Gourmet away! Create delightful desserts and quick dishes with Enderun.
Stay one step ahead! Get vaccinated with Affinity Health & Wellness.
Bring out your inner sparkle with Glitter Tattoo!
Play Strip The Guy with The Strip
Pop the Balloon with Browhaus!
Pick a prize through pachinko with Ace Water Spa.
Put your freshest face on! Try the Facial Skin Analyzer with Athena and Carbtrim.
Catch yourself on-cam with Lightspire!
Get tangled on the Twister Floaters!
Book your next getaway with Ticketport and Adams Travel!
Get an image boost from John Robert Powers!

TRY OUT TEMPTING TREATS from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, CarbTrim, Selecta Gold Series, Bizu, Magnolia Drinks, Tanduay Rhum and Fiesta Bites

SHOP AND PLAY with Goody, Jellybean, Leyende, Artwine, Sinude, Suelas, Sole Sisters, Stylo Mylo, F*ART, and The Bling Project (accessories).

GET A CHANCE TO WIN RAFFLE PRIZES from: Ace Water Spa, All Flip Flops, Bayo, Beauty Bar, Browhauys, F*Art, Flipsters, Flyshades, Get Laud, Good, Michellis, Nivea, Pet Express, Promod, Parfois, Purebeauty, Serenitea, Shujikida Salon, Sinude, SM GTW, SM Ladies, Sole Sisters, Suelas, The Ramp, The Strip, Browhaus, Affinity Health And Wellness!

SWAG Samples from: Ace Water Spa, Athena, Beauty Bar, Garnier, Goody, Nivea, Pet Express, and Yves Rocher.

BIG TENT ACTIVITIES
PROGRAM to be hosted by Issa Litton

ENTRANCE Php 50 - 100% of Entrance Proceeds will go to the students of Scuolla dela Guioia (Tondo children) and SKR Program (Romblon scholars) First 1000 pre-registered guests get SWAG from BDJ brand partners: EMAIL- BDJFAIR@belledejourpowerplanner.com

WALK INS ARE ALLOWED!!! =)

GET YOUR BDJ 2012 / NAVI 2012 PLANNER AT 20% OFF ONE DAY SPECIAL PRICE ONLY!!

PHILIPPINE COFFEE BOARD Activities This October + FREE COFFEE

2011-10-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

The annual coffee festival happens every October since 1997 when President Fidel V. Ramos declared it as Coffee Month. The Philippine Coffee Board, Inc. (PCBI) has published the activities that coffee stakeholders can look forward to:

COFFEE ORIGINS at Greenbelt 5 Gallery, Ayala Center
October 7-16, 2011
Free coffee everyday!

COFFEE FARM TOUR
Cavite
October 15, 2011

COFFEE SEMINARS
Dates to be announced, visit Philippine Coffee Board on Facebook

4th NATIONAL COFFEE SUMMIT
October 13, 2011
AIM CONFERENCE CENTER

Call 8131028/ 090888231218
Follow us on twitter.com/philcoffeeboard
Find us on facebook: Philippine Coffee Board

www.philcoffeeboard.com

UNO Magazine: Human Nature Photography Exhibit Benefits Manila Shrine Club

2011-10-07T01:44:00.000-07:00

UNO Magazine together with MAKE UP FOR EVER invited the bloggers to have a sneak peak on what will happen on October 7, 2011 for UNO's Human Nature Photography Fashion Show at Genting Club, Resorts World.

I arrived late for this preview so I was not able to see it from scratch. The two makeup artists were almost done on the models left side. But still, I was amazed. WOW! A human canvass. The model portrays a sea creature. Detail by detail, I was really a witness on how painstakingly the model and the makeup artists go together for this human masterpiece.

Why did I only show half? Well, dear readers, come this October 7, as I said, UNO will reveal the human nature masterpiece.

The event will showcase the photographs of GT Toledo, president of IlustradosPH, a group of young photographers, stylists, make-up artists and the like, zeroing in on the basic elements of nature: Earth, Wind, Fire, Water. These photographs will then be brought to life by make up artists of MAKE UP FOR EVER through body painting. The show promises to be an extravaganza of Filipino ingenuity through art.

This is also a fundraising event supported by the Manila Shrine Club for the benefit of burned and crippled children. The Manila Shrine Club supports children up to 18 years old with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries and cleft palate.

Figaro Releases New Frost and Latte in Stores + Coffee Art

2011-10-04T23:44:00.000-07:00

I know Christmas is near once I see cherries, berries, and mint on the coffee shop menu. I am really waiting for this quarter of the year because I really love the Christmas-y feel these coffee drinks bring. But wouldn't it be much tastier if we add a Filipino twist just like what Figaro did?

If you frequent my blog, I have posted many times about how I dearly love the dark cherry mocha frappe of the other brand. Yes, yes, I still love that but Figaro Coffee Company gave me an option with their new Banana Berry Delight Frost, a double, fruity and refreshing mix of strawberry and bananas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (I promise you'll taste vanilla, not a cream!) on top sprinkled with banana chips bits and strawberry syrup drizzle. It's more of a banana split taste with a twist because of the chips bits. Every time I take a sip, I always get some bits and I try to sink them between my teeth. One more thing good about this drink is it is much cheaper than my Christmas drink. P145 for a glass of banana split madness.

Banana Berry Delight Frost

And for those who prefer hot coffee. Figaro has the newest Raspberry Latte concoction that is added to their Latte Love family. Before you'll take a soundy slurp of your latte, you'll enjoy first the latte art on top of your coffee's froth. At first, I really don't wanna take a sip because I do not want to ruin the coffee art. I wish they could have a frost version of this drink. You'll get it for only P110.

Figaro Blissful Berry Drinks

Clarity Aesthetic Medical and Dental Center: One Answer to Hair Loss

2011-09-30T03:26:00.000-07:00

One of the top-searched blog post here on ChicandCheaps is my post about Hair Loss. I have blogged about topical hair loss solutions and I am in the process of trying it. Yes, it is effective in my case I must say, but only for stress-related hair loss I think. The product, before hand, have already said that shiny areas on our head won't be treated with these topical solutions, a shampoo and a hair grower.

So one might also consider trying hair transplants as an answer to hair loss and good thing, Clarity Aesthetic Medical and Dental Center offers it now.

According to Dr. Alfredo Callanta of Clarity Aesthetic Medical and Dental Center, “Hair loss is a serious matter. A patient must consult a specialist first before deciding on what treatment option to consider.” He said that“while Minoxidil may be effective in some men, it is still not a guaranteed solution for all cases.”Dr. Callanta also warns patients on buying products that are not BFAD-approved that promise immediate results because it can lead to more serious hair problems.

For a natural and permanent solution in restoring youthful and fuller hair, Clarity Aesthetic Medical and Dental Center in Shangri-La Mall offers hair restoration transplant. This is an out-patient procedure that is done under local anesthesia. The transplant involves surgically removing hair from certain areas of the donor, usually at the back and at the sides of the head where hair is genetically designed not to fall out and planting these onto the thinning and balding area.

Dr. Callanta explained that this hair restoration option is “the only method that can guarantee restoring a natural-looking hairline and add density to thinning spots.” “Screening process for potential candidates is important to determine the case of the patient. Routine follow-ups after the procedure is also advised to ensure further patient safety. Expect results in six months after treatment. Usually, it takes three to six months for the hair to grow out; after that, it will grow about half an inch per month, which is the same rate as the donor hair” Dr. Callanta added.

Clarity Aesthetic Medical and Dental Center is located at the 5th floor Shangri-la Mall in Mandauyong City. For more information please visit www.facebook.com/clarity.ph

Skechers Streetdance Battle 7: Where to Get Tickets?

2011-09-30T02:52:00.000-07:00

The ultimate battle is on. The Skechers Streetdance Battle is back for its 7th year with more high school and college dance crews, from all over the Philippines, risking it all for a shot at streetdance supremacy.

Seven years later, the Skechers Streetdance Battle—the biggest, toughest and hottest streetdance battle—just kept getting better.

Fans, schoolmates and friends of participating schools can show their support this year by posing at their respective school banners. Unity, school spirit, and the chance to win big bucks are all thrown into the mix as Skechers is offering Php10,000 to the school with the best mob photo.

The “mobs” also get to participate some more for their beloved crews with the addition the Skechers Streetdance Battle 7 Online Voting Component. The Online Voting will decide this year’s People’s Choice winner. In order to vote, visit www.juice.ph/skechersstreetdance.

Skechers Streetdance Battle 7 Early Bird Promo:

Buy Skechers Streetdance Battle Year 7 Final Battle tickets ahead of everyone else. A minimum purchase of 2,500-pesos worth of Skechers Footwear in SM Department Stores and Skechers Concept Stores from September 15-30 entitles customers to buy in advance a maximum of two (2) Skechers Streetdance Battle Year 7 Final Battle tickets by presenting the receipt of purchase any time during the pre-selling period of October 1 – 16, 2011 at participating SM Ticketnet outlets.

Customers with an SM Advantage card, Prestige Card or BDO Rewards Card also get a 20% discount on the pre-selling Final Battle ticket prices when they present an their cards at participating SM Ticketnet outlets: SM Bacoor, SM Calamba, SM Cubao, SM Dasmarinas, SM Fairview, SM Makati, SM Mall of Asia, SM Manila, SM Marikina, SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, SM Pampanga, SM San Lazaro, SM Southmall, SM Sta. Mesa, and SM Sta. Rosa.

Catch the next elimination legs at SM Megamall on September 24 and 25 and at SM North EDSA on October 2, 8 and 9. History will be made again at the Araneta Coliseum on November 12 for the Final Battle.

Skechers Streetdance Battle – Year 7 is made possible by Skechers, Skechers Fitness and Skechers Time, in cooperation with ETC, official and exclusive female magazine partner Meg Magazine, media partners Clavel Sneaker Magazine, Magic 89.9, Jam 88.3, Wave 89.1, and Juice.ph. Official event venues are Araneta Coliseum and SM Supermalls with special thanks to SM Department Stores, and is conceptualized and organized by Brainbox.

For more information on the Skechers Streetdance Battle 7, visit www.skechers.com.ph or check them out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/skechersstreetdancebattle.

Lee Kum Kee Philippines: Celebrating 123rd Anniversary in the South

2011-09-15T01:53:00.000-07:00

Last month, it was Glorietta 5 and Edsa Shangri-La mall goers who experienced Lee Kum Kee’s cooking extravaganza. And now, it’s Alabang Festival Mall habitués who had the chance to witness the world’s oyster sauce inventor’s 123rd year anniversary dubbed as “Cook with the Masters, A Lee Kum Kee Weekend Cooking Festival.

And yes, it’s my second time around covering for Lee Kum Kee (see my previous post here). I had more fun this week as I brought my family with me. After going through Lee Kum Kee's History Wall, we tried Lee Kum Kee's dips and sauces on the second station, the Lee Kum Kee tasting area. Our little brother kept on going back for the dips and sauces area where he dips his turnip strips into Lee Kum Kee Hoisin Sauce with Mayo. Then the last stop is Lee's Kitchen for our photo souvenir.

Lee Kum Kee stamp card served as our gate pass to the cooking demo by Chef Him Uy de Baron.

Six lucky audience members shared the kitchen and stage with Chef Him cooking 3 different dishes spiced up Lee Kum Kee.

Of all the 3 recipes, our little bro enjoyed the Grilled Hoisin Pork Chops with Peach Salsa and Beef Bulgogi Taco with Chili Garlic food samples.

Lucky participants got to take home Lee Kum Kee products by just answering trivia questions from the foodie host, Ms. Issa Litton. I got to answer one question right too, yehey, so I got my share of Lee Kum Kee products, too!

Hosted by Ms. Issa Litton

A big thank you Lee Kum Kee!!!

I can now try experimenting in the kitchen with Lee Kum Kee products!

Frenzy's UFLAIR Finale: Winners Announced!

2011-09-14T02:40:00.000-07:00

After three rounds of heartstopping bottle tricks, spins, and throws, Dolce Superclub is now set to witness the first-ever Frenzy UFlair , grand winners. Thirteen HRM students from different schools vye for the title but only one will emerge. The college student who has the frenziest concoction and frenziest flair will be declaired as the UFLAIR Idol.

The 13 finalists including 2 brave "GRILS" (yes, girl power!!!) were head-to-head in trying to snatch the grand prize and the cute portabar (see photo above) as they gave their best tosses, throws, catches and flips and of course, their coolest drinks.

Loud cheers from diffrent colleges filled the venue as everyone cheered for the exceptional performances of the 13. Look at this mommy and sister tandem cheering for their bet! I, together with the other bloggers also have our own bets.

Games and prizes were also thrown to the audiences sponsored by Frenzy Condoms, of course.

Now, the long wait is over, after 4 hours of bottle throwing, the popular choice award goes to Jayson De Jesus from Lyceum of the Philippines University who gained the most number of votes from Facebook online voting and site voting, bringing home 10,000 pesos. Another special award, the ‘frenziest flairtender’ of the night was awarded to him (I also thought he is going to be the winner, haha). While, the winner of the ‘Frenziest flair’ is Dominique Palileo.

Samuel Alcantara Jr. for the 1^st prize and winner of ‘Frenziest Mix’ special award.

And Russel Jerard Osuna bagged the 2^nd prize. He is the guy whom the two ladies above were cheering for.

And who set the bar high enough? Paulo Eiron Layao from TRIMEX Institute of Science and Technology Laguna!!!

Frenzy UFlair's grand champion, Paulo Eiron Layao, together with

Mr. Norman Campoy, Frenzy Condoms Product Manager

He did his suave flairing and bartending moves combined with his perfectly mixed concoction that made his way to success. Paulo brought home a cash prize, a trophy and a portabar, total value of 25,000 pesos.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

“We are deeply overwhelmed with the reception and the support given by the students from the elimination rounds until the finals night,” according to Norman Campoy, Frenzy Condoms product manager. He adds, “We congratulate and thank everyone for showing outstanding talents. Everyone should continue to expect that the fun will never end with Frenzy.”

Visit http://www.frenzy.com.ph/

Lee Kum Kee: Learn How to "Cook with the Masters" at Weekend Cooking Festival

2011-09-10T02:31:00.000-07:00

I really do not know what's with August because I attended a lot of cooking demos that month. I think there really is an irony here. I am the one who's excited for my brother's college course, which is HRM. Since he took that course, I also get myself into cookbooks, flairtending events, and watch cooking shows.

One of the cooking demos I attended last August is Lee Kum Kee's Cook with the Masters. In celebration with Lee Kum Kee's 123rd Anniversary, they conducted this weekend cooking festival which is, I think, also their way of saying thank you to us, their dearest consumers.

Here, not only we did enjoy the live cooking demo from the master chef himself, Chef Sandy Daza, but we also had fun at the Lee Kum Kee Challenges.

I, together with the other bloggers, learned a lot from Lee Kum Kee's History Wall, we enjoyed Lee Kum Kee's different sauces and dips in their taste test booth, and of course, I love this one, the photobooth!

Some of the lucky viewers also had the chance to literally "Cook with the Masters". They volunteered and cooked with Chef Sandy Daza. Chef Sandy showed us how versatile Lee Kum Kee sauces are. He used Lee Kum Kee with chicken, fish, tofu, and even with vegetables. He also shared to us some secrets of the masters.

Toblerone Philippines: Thank You Global Pinoy Campaign

2011-09-10T01:36:00.000-07:00

In 2009, I remember participating in Toblerone Pilipinas' Thank You Day Philippines wherein we shared our sweetest messages to the very important people in our lives. I even got a box of Toblerone Minis and 3 Thank You card after sharing my thoughts on their page.

The Thank You Chocolate -- Toblerone (",)

This year, the ‘thank you’ chocolate, Toblerone, of course, together with The Commission on Filipinos Overseas, Duty Free Philippines, Good News Pilipinas and Kraft Asia, announce the opening of nominations for the first Thank You Global Pinoy Awards.

The Thank You Global Pinoy Awards is an initiative that seeks to search for the most outstanding Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who deserve the gratitude not only of their loved ones, but also of the nation as a whole. Yes, Toblerone is now paying tribute to our modern day heroes -- our unsung heroes...

Also this 2011, together with the Thank You Global Pinoy Awards, the Swiss chocolate brand will be launching the Special Rewards Passport. The passport can be used to redeem gifts from partner establishments every time users do their shopping or go on vacation. Through this promo, Toblerone shows its appreciation to Global Pinoys by not only recognizing their efforts online, but also giving them a pasalubong that they can enjoy with their family.

Thank You Global Pinoy Awards will invite nominations of outstanding overseas Filipino workers who deserve to be thanked. Participants will have to log on to www.thankyouglobalpinoy.com to register, nominate and vote for the ultimate Global Pinoy. The top 10 stories will be awarded in January 2012.

Be part of a grateful nation. Join the rest of the country as it honors the ultimate global pinoy whom a grateful nation will say a resounding thank you to.

ROCK AND RUN FOR HISTORY WEEK: Join Rock Rizal and Run Rizal!!!

2011-09-10T00:49:00.000-07:00

RockEd Philippines and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines is celebrating History Week with a BANG! with the Rock Rizal Concert on September 16 and the Run Rizal, this September 18.

“History should not be boring. This is why the commission is trying its best to come up with different activities that encourage students to participate and be more involved,” says Dra. Serena Diokno, Chairperson of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

“Music has become the language of the youth. If we take time to listen to, say, Gloc 9 then we'll realize that his music reflects as much truth as we see in the streets of Manila--and perhaps, for this reason, we have labeled rap 'ang bagong balagtasan.' I'd also like to believe that running is more than just a fad. For some people, running is instrumental to achieving a cause, to beginning a day right, to becoming healthier. A passion for sports and an appreciation for the arts, whether visual, drama, or music--they are all attributes of Rizal.” she further enthuses.

Continuing the celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Jose Rizal and participating in the week-long celebration of our country’s history, nine of the country’s biggest artists will come together on September 16 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall for Rock Rizal, a concert highlighting the songs that reflects the life and works of our national hero.

Prepare yourself to be captured in different performances by artists Ely Buendia, Sandwich, Gloc-9, Ebe Dancel, Jett Pangan, Peryodiko, Hijo, Aiza Seguerra and Radio Active Sago Project, all of who pledged for this monumental project to happen.

“With our goal to take Rizal out of the classroom and into radio stations, the Rock Rizal concert is a true testament and celebration of the youth’s passion for learning, for music and for history” says Pepe Diokno, Executive Director of Rock Ed Philippines.

And if music is not enough to give you the adrenaline rush you’re looking for, join the Run Rizal on September 18. Proceeds of this activity will be given to continue the preservation of the three Rizal Shrines administered by the NHCP—Rizal Shrine in Calamba, Rizal Shrine in Dapitan, and Rizal Shrine in Fort Santiago.

The run starts and ends at the Rizal Monument and will wind through Roxas Blvd. and Diosdado Macapagal Avenue. Runners can participate in the 3K, 5K, 10K, and 16K categories.

For updates, you may visit the National Historical Commission of the Philippines at http://nchp.gov.ph for more details.

Relive history with RockEd and the National Historical Commission's

Rock Rizal Concert and Run Rizal activities!!!

My Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2011

2011-09-06T07:05:00.000-07:00

1. Annsaturno.com a.k.a. I Voluntour, I Voluntravel – (Ann Saturno)

The site I really longed to have.

I believe I Voluntour, I Voluntravel has a unique type of nice which is travel/advocacy.

I Voluntour, I Voluntravel aims to promote voluntourism in every reader of this blog.

2. RizalPark.org - (Jhong Medina & Renz Alcantara)

A site committed to make Jose Rizal remembered by the new generation especially in this age of technology.

3. Echusera.com – (Leira Bhagwani Pagaspas)

Not really a "chismis blog" but in this website you will be updated on what's happening to your fave stars.

4. Shopsowee.blogspot.com – (Sire Arevalo)

Interior designers should go to this site! It's a collection of her photos taken from different establishments that have cool interior pieces.

5. BLOG-PH.com – (JayL Aquino)

Anything under the sun of an event goer.

6. veggiecircle.com – (Carl Valenzona)

If we say vegetarian, it's Carl!

7. Shygirlsown.info – (Carmela Tanaquin)

The famous Ning Buning owns her new space in the blogosphere where she writes about exciting happenings in her life.

8. bloggermanila.com - (Jonel Uy)

Last year, I voted for nomnomclub.com and still Sir Jonel is part of my list this year!!!

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