It is not unbeknownst to our dear readers that we, from time to time attend blogger events, launches and the like. While we know that there are some people who are absolutely appalled at the idea of brands taking advantage of the online media (and vice versa), we figured that it really is just a matter of filtering through the invites.  For one, there are a handful of innovative brands and services that we came to know via this avenue.

So when I learned about Blogapalooza holding its very first event last month, well, let’s just say, I was curious to check it out. Aside from being able to catch up with blogger friends, I also got to hear from brands (most of which we already patronize) and got acquainted with an interesting few that we only heard about at the event.  It was all in all a very good avenue that WhenInManila came up with that allowed for brands to be introduced to the online community. And what savvy and catchy name, at that.

Marikenya.com, MarriageAndBeyond.com and PinayAds.com

Did I mention that I also scored a huge Carlton luggage at the event when I helped solve a fellow blogger’s dilemma of having to commute the enormous hard case luggage home? At a price that she could have refused but chose not to.  Thanks again, Nicely! It will be perfect for my next getaway with my boys. Thanks to Tripologie too! They have branches in Eastwood and Alabang. It was my first to hear about Tripologie. We only go to one travel bag shop before. Now, there’s another travel stuff store we can check out that also carries the quality brands we love – Tripologie!

And here is when I launch another blog contest. I’m raffling off 5 of the Gift Certificates I received during the Blogapalooza event and 1 Phiten Rakuwa Bracelet.

5 Gift Certificates:

1. Galileo Free 2 Week Scholarship –> Here’s an article I wrote about Galileo Enrichment Learning Program.

2. Sparkle Gift Certificate –> Check out their website www.sparkle.ph

3. Jap-Ok! Resto and KTV GC –> complimentary use of KTV room for two hours with complimentary Golden Chicken Shots. (good for 4 persons).

4. CreatiVoices Productions GC –> 1 Hour recording time worth P3,500

5. 360º Fitness Club Free 7 Day Pass GC –> www.completethecircuit.com

Phiten Rakuwa Aqua Tita Bracelet in Maroon

Here are articles I wrote in the past on what I have to say about Phiten Rakuwa bracelets:

–> Road Testing Phiten’s Rakuwa Bracelet
–> Lovin’ Phiten’s Rakuwa Bracelet
–> Phiten Product Relaunch

You know, the drill. Here are the Contest Mechanics:

1. You have to be a “liker” of Marriage and Beyond on Facebook.

2. Share this contest on your Facebook wall. To share, click on the Share button located at the bottom of this post. Then post on your Facebook Status: “Marriage and Beyond is giving away GCs from Galileo, Sparkle Spa, Jap-Ok! Resto ktv, CreatiVoices and 360º Fitness Center and a Phiten bracelet. Join now!” (To tag, type the “@” symbol then follow it with “Marriage and Beyond.” Then type in the rest of the required phrase )

3. When you’re done with the Facebook status wall update, go to the comments section of this post and paste the link of your Facebook entry with your name and email address. (To get the link, hover to the time of your shared post (e.g. 4 minutes ago) and copy link address. Paste this to your comment to make your entry count.)

4. Contest is open to everyone who has a local address. Free Shipping.

5. One entry per person.

*To be fair with other contest joiners, I will be requiring the drawn winner to send me a scanned ID for verification. There were a few entries in my previous giveaways that were suspicious.

6. Deadline for entries is on October 24, 2011. The winner of the GCs from Galileo, Sparkle Spa, Jap-Ok! Resto ktv, CreatiVoices and 360º Fitness Center and a Phiten bracelet will be raffled via random.org.

I cannot help but notice that there are a whole bunch of people who are joining my beauty giveaway than those that I give away on Marriage and Beyond. We’re actually thinking of giving away a PS3 and an Xbox game next, gears of war 3 ashes to ashes. These giveaways are running until Christmas season. Contest joiners, please make sure to follow the easy instructions.

UPDATE:

Congratulations, Jeniffer Gangan!

Please email me via jenaspacio (at) gmail (dot) com your Full Name, Shipping Address with Zip Code, Mobile Number and Scanned ID so I can send your GCs and Phiten bracelet the soonest!

If there is one credit card issuer I am happy with, it is RCBC Bankard. I’ve been a subscriber since 1999 and we never had any major issues with them. I have 4 cards with them to date. I wish I can say the same for other credit card companies. First off, we have to remember that credit cards are not for everyone. If you do not have self-discipline, then use cash or debit card instead. I am happy to report that every single cent on our billing statement gets paid in full every month. It is the only way you can do to make the interest rate NOT work against you.  This works for us even as we get away from having to pay annual fees because of our good credit standing with them.

RCBC Bankard cardholders and shoppers have one thing to look forward to very soon — The 2nd Mega Brands Sale at the Megatrade Hall 2 & 3, 5th Level, SM Megamall on September 30 to October 2, 2011. With over 120 brands participating, and with discounts of up to 70%, who says you have to go to Divisoria for your Christmas shopping? In fact, with the wide array of high quality brands to choose from, you could end up shopping more for yourself than for friends and family.

This year, I don’t plan to do last minute Christmas shopping like I did the previous years. I want this coming holiday to be as stress free as possible. I’m not sure if I can score the kenneth cole reaction shoes that I failed to get for the hubby for his birthday. But I’ll make sure to check out the 2nd Mega Brands Sale at the Megatrade Hall 2 & 3, 5th Level, SM Megamall on September 30 to October 2, 2011.

When Ervin Tan of Electrolux Philippines contacted me last month for a video shoot of an actual consumer of their air conditioners for their upcoming launch, I made it a point to clear out my schedule for it. Not because I love being in the limelight. On the contrary I have always been more comfortable working on the sidelines, thank you. Even backstage, as my dear hubby can attest to.  But with my sincere satisfaction on the Electrolux split type air conditioner that we bought last year and especially their service, I felt it was the least that I could do to express my appreciation.

with Ervin Tan, the man behind the Air Care Category of Electrolux

I first heard about the Electrolux Split Type air conditioner last year during the Electrolux Midsommer Festival luanch held in Shangri-la Hotel last March 25, 2010. Being in the middle of summer around that time, it slowly became a torture for me to homeschool and work from home at the same time. It did not take long until the hubby and me canvassed air conditioners around the malls and we actually found the deal on the Electrolux air conditioners affordable.

But trouble came in when the contractor the mall we bought our split type air conditioner from messed up on the installation – from the survey process to the installation proper. First, they came to survey our place to give us the exact amount we need to pay for (materials needed) and when they came back to get it installed, they hiked the price up without us knowing it, which totally defeated the purpose of surveying. But the worse part that the contractor did was mess up our wall. They left an ugly crack when they got it installed. This is something Electrolux clearly has no say on. I just hope Appliance Centers choose their contractors more carefully more than just giving them the job by default on who bids the lowest.

our office nook (my son’s school office and mine side by side) is where we got our Electrolux Air Conditioner installed.

I wasn’t anymore going to bother with it. Let it go and maybe have it fixed when we got our second storey built. But Electrolux called in to survey for feedback on their air conditioner and installation and I had to tell the truth. Electrolux tried to work it out with the handpicked contractor of the Appliance Center we bought the air conditioner from. The contractor did not just belittle the crack on the wall that they caused, they also did not press on the “fixing.” Being swamped with things to do as I homeschool my son and my crazy schedule as a virtual assistant working from home, I actually told Electrolux to drop it altogether. But they were persistent on having my wall fixed and sent in their preferred contractor in no time. My wall wasn’t the only thing that got fixed, my compressor too, which I then found out was also poorly installed outside, with tubes and wires hanging – it was all the while, an eye sore.

with fellow mommies/homemaker and blogger friends, Mauie, Iris P and Iris A, during the Electrolux Halsa Launch held at Sofitel last March 1, 2011

The kind of service Electrolux has is very impressive, in my opinion. I have yet to find a brand who will go the extra mile.  As Filipinos, we are most of the time, expected to just suck it in and let it be. Poor service is the usual default. NOT WITH ELECTROLUX and that’s something I can sincerely vouch for.

As for energy consumption, in almost one year that we have the split type air conditioner – the highest electricity bill we had was P3,500. The peak of summer last year when we had the split type air conditioner on most of the day. We have a separate window type air conditioner in the room as well.

Electrolux air conditioners not only provide pure, fresh air (with the Bio HEPA Filter, Follow Me, Plasma Air Purification, Vitamin C Technologies), but they are also among the most energy efficient in the market, helping you save money on your electricity bills.

When the hubby and I received an invite last week for Max’s Pre-Valentine event happening on our 14th anniversary as a couple, we were not able to confirm right away since we were not sure if we will be celebrating elsewhere. But since we are slated to go to Batangas on V Day, we thought we can drop by and check out Max’s Valentine offering.

True enough, Max’s Valentine event cannot be more timely. The theme was love and and everything sweet. We have known and loved Max’s Caramel Bars for as long as we can remember but have not really tried for ourselves their other offerings.

What is more sweet about this is we were not just handed with their sweet cupcakes and truffles. A cupcake decorating demonstration also took place.

We were challenged to design a cupcake and dedicate it to a person. For both the hubby and me, since it is our anniversary, we were told to dedicate a cupcake for each other. After racking my brain for some cupcake ideas and wasted a few minutes on trying to figure out (and failed) how to design a soccer ball cupcake, I just thought I’d design a simple one which may very well still describe of the hubby. Unassuming (a sweet excuse for my lack of creativity) but full of substance – he is one full package of brains (a Mensan, at that), love (for God, first and foremost), manly vigor and everything I could ever wish for in a husband.

My 14th anniversary cupcake for Jeff. It may not look spectacular all right. But the “Jeff love” should say it all.

Jeff dedicated and said I was his sunshine for 14 years! Aww… I know I am not exactly all bright and shiny everyday in that 14 years. Those who knew us from the beginning would be the first to attest to that. The good things must have made up for the not so good ones enough for my husband to conclude that. To be a better wife, that’s what I’m still constantly working at.

We shared some caramel bar loving during our Valentine banquet in church last night.

We have always believed that we should not wait until the hearts day to give some loving to whom it is due – or even to those who we think don’t deserve it. But whoever said that we can’t during V Day, right? We might as well jumpstart with these sweets. I really would rather receive sweets than flowers on any occasion. The hubby knows that very well by now.

my love and me in our Max’s Corner Bakery aprons. After the launch, we headed right to a pastor/friend’s place for yet another celebration of life and love. We received the invitation while we were on our way to Max’s that night. So we thought we can still drop by on our way home.

Incidentally, Max’s Corner Bakery is also launching its sweetest promo yet. For a minimum spend of PhP 1,500 from February 12 to 14, Max’s diners can surprise their loved ones with a special Valentines box of delectable chocolates – a free treat from Max’s Corner Bakery!

I spent the whole day yesterday in SM Cubao as it launched its 3 Day Sale. If you run a household like I do, you know just how this could very well translate to getting the best value for your money to have things taken cared of inside the house that needs replenishment or replacement. With my weekly roster of household necessities, the list can just about go on and on. Here is when I share some bits and pieces of how I manage our household in this arena.

Bought some rugs and kitchen utensils. What we have at home are all due for replacement. I also got some school supplies too for our 5 year old son who is soon to level up to Grade 1.

I checked out some clothes for the little guy. They are out for cheap too. Our son is growing so fast that he’s outgrowing a whole bunch of clothes in his closet.

For someone who has lived with a house helper most of her life, being a domestic goddess did not exactly come naturally for me when I got married. But what do you know, there is a mound of truth to that old adage, “Practice makes perfect.” And indeed it does. In our close to nine years of marriage, I can say that while managing a household might be challenging, that’s true, figuring out how to be effective at it can also be one of the most fulfilling things ever for one’s household queen! Because then, shopping would cease to mean just “retail therapy” but a skill that allows for your family to save a great deal. Because managing a household does not only mean that the pantry needs constant replenishment.  It is taking care of your home’s every nook and cranny. And this is where it gets tricky: working on a budget.

SM Cubao’s Business Center. I just learned that I can request for NSO copies of birth and marriage certificates here. It is super convenient, if you ask me. I do my grocery shopping every week here. So I can transact business in the same place with less effort at the lowest cost too.  Currency Exchange, Remittance and Bills Payment can also be done here. SM is giving the consumer all the reasons why there is really no other mall to go to.  I honestly have yet to see a mall that is more complete.

If you happen to have this same predicament of managing your own household, you very well know that going insane is not an option. Because it can get pretty toxic, when you come to think of it. While letting you in the details of how I do it might probably take a whole e-book to cover, but here is my attempt to share a few things to my dear readers the good reasons why I got stuck in SM Cubao yesterday.

I got a couple of this for P380 each. Regular price was P799.75. That is a huge 52.50% off!

Here is why I know that this is a good buy. When it comes to household stuff, I am very particular about the quality. This curtain is as thick as thick can be and is detailed like I want it.  It also has the same quality with that of my supplier at half the price! I love that the things in my house last for years. And here is something cheap that does not have to hurt my standard for quality. Best of all, it is just the kind of curtain that I want for our master bedroom. Black out as black out can be.

I bought my drapes for the living room some months back and I have queued the replacement curtains that I was planning to buy for the master bedroom at the back of my head. SM’s 3 Day Sale was the perfect avenue for me to get hold of the drapes for our room.

As I waited for the hubby to arrive to come pick me up, I applied for the renewal of my SM Advantage card and headed over the ladies accessories section and rewarded myself to a fab find of a lovely pair of earrings – regular priced at P329.75. I got it for half the price, at P164.86! They are low maintenance too. Just shampoo and water to have them cleaned.

When the hubby arrived in the evening from Makati, we went around some more and looked for the office table that he needs for his church office. The sale was just too timely. We know how furniture and office fixtures can cost a lot and this is the perfect time to look for the best value for money. We got the one on the right most for 20% off.  And here is something you might be surprised of – this great find was found inside the Supermarket. Just goes out to affirm all the more that SM has it all. We actually thought we won’t be able to buy the office table last night until we passed through the Supermarket as we headed over Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria for our dinner date.

One of the things that domesticity has made me is to be meticulous. While the hubby went off to the cashier to pay for the table pronto, I had to ask the sales representative to allow us to see the stuff we are going home with.  They understood and courteous enough to oblige.

I did not want the hubby to be having trouble when he gets to assemble this today at his church office.  Everything is in place. The wood portions are complete and with nary a scratch, the keys and the locks, checked.

I love that the hubby and I did not have to leave SM Cubao to have our dinner. We had our quality time devouring on pizzas and pastas at Joey Pepperoni. I will be writing a separate blog post on this too via our food blog, My Tummy is Full.

2 8inches pizzas for P199 (Beef with Onion and Pepperoni with Mushroom)

It was a lovely day of good finds and quality time spent with fellow bloggers and the love of my life.  Special thanks to SM Cyberzone for hosting this event!

SM Cubao Cyberzone

SM Cyberzone Cubao is unique for it is the lone Cyberzone that is housed in a department store.  I love that it is right smack the Supermarket. The two places in a mall that my family and I frequent!

SM Cubao’s Branch Manager, Arthur Valenzuela Jr. gave us a healthy treat at the newly launched Impressca. I will be posting on this latest food find soon via www.mytummyisfull.com.

with blogger friends

And this is what the hubby and I came home to. A giddy little guy who loves his new beach chair “pasalubong.”

The very eager me just could not wait the next day. I got the boys to install the drapes for me as soon as we got the chance. Our five year old kiddo loves helping around the house and being a “team” with his papa. So he just has got to have a part on everything his papa does. He was the one who handled the other end of the rod and curtain and “assisted” his papa as he got the curtain up. They didn’t waste a sec too, because they went on doing their “Thumb Wrestling Federation” (that’s what the little guy call it) as soon as they are done before I even got to properly fix the drapes’ edges. I was out to get those edges fixed when I decided to just grab a hold of my cam instead to capture my boys playing. Priceless!

So there’s the sneak peek of  how I manage my household when it comes to the shopping department. Bottomline is, with the influx of great finds nowadays via these sale events, we might as well take advantage of them and get more value for our money. Don’t forget to catch SM Cubao’s 3 Day Sale from October 1 to 3, 2010!

]]> http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/2010/10/02/getting-more-value-for-money-sm-cubaos-3-day-sale/feed/ 4 http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/2010/08/17/bisolvon%e2%80%99s-alagang-supermom-kid-photo-contest/ http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/2010/08/17/bisolvon%e2%80%99s-alagang-supermom-kid-photo-contest/#comments Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:27:58 +0000 Jennie http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/?p=6265 Last August 7 was a busy day for the little guy and me. Jed has been looking forward to this weekend full of kiddie events. Our first stop was the launch of Bisolvon’s Alagang SuperMom Kid Photo Contest. We headed to Bubba Gump right after to attend a Pirate-themed children’s party. The Bisolvon event was [...]]]>

Last August 7 was a busy day for the little guy and me. Jed has been looking forward to this weekend full of kiddie events. Our first stop was the launch of Bisolvon’s Alagang SuperMom Kid Photo Contest. We headed to Bubba Gump right after to attend a Pirate-themed children’s party. The Bisolvon event was held at probably the most colorful corner in Serendra, Marta’s Cakes!

It is always a delight to get together with mommies and their kids. There is just never a dull moment. This brings me to applaud the event organizer for pulling off a fun launch. I can only imagine the challenge it can be. Here are some of proof snapshots of how fun it was. Kids were given colorful icing goodies to decorate their own cookies and cupcakes. They went busy and had the time of their lives. Seeing them enjoy the activity makes for a lovely quality bonding time with them. Priceless!

Jed registers on the list. We were early birds again.

Jed is getting busy decorating the last of the cupcakes he was given.  He already finished the first cupcake when he learned about the instruction. I tell you, this little kiddo of mine doesn’t waste a second when it comes to tummy tickling goodies.

Photo by AzraelColadilla.com

Bisolvon is giving away P50,000 (tax-free) to the Winner and 8 runners-up are going to receive P8,000 each (tax-free).

A dinner at Ibayo by Barrio Fiesta was what we had a couple of weeks ago. I have a busy man for a husband and we have to make sure we take time out to go out once in a while and just leave the grind for just a few hours.  This time the invite came from Ibayo by Barrio Fiesta.  And as the name suggests, it was a feast through and through. Another addition to our growing list of favorite hangout places where we can spend some quality time together.

For the most part, I love the whole concept of Ibayo.  A contemporary take of the more classic Barrio Fiesta as we know it.

Jeff and I enjoying our hearty dinner at Ibayo.

Ibayo transforms from a casual dining atmosphere to a “chillax” place that escalates into an ultimate night-out for family and friends.

Check out the well designed contemporary interior.

Artie of Eventus Kinetix introduces Ibayo owners Tristan & Tyrone Ongpauco with their Tita Monica Asuncion who manages the resto/bistro.

Ibayo Firesticks. My favorite Ibayo appetizer. While some would prefer their mini egg rolls filled with jalapeno and cheese a little more hot, I’d say this one is just right for me. I could eat a whole bunch if there was not anything else left on the table.    There were a handful of other appetizers to try out: Green Mango Salad, Chicharon Bulaklak, Kilawin Tanigue (our favorite which we forgot to order that night), et. al.

Watermelon fruit shake, P105

Ginataang Kuhol

Ibayo White Adobo, P280

This White Adobo is Ibayo’s twist  on Philippine’s most popular dish. Chicken and Pork Adobo made without soy sauce. I didn’t exactly know what to expect as I was about to dig in to this dish.  Suffice it to say, it made it to my list of favorites for the night.  A must try!

Ibayo Crispy Catfish, P199

Deep fried catfish with a twist. Ibayo serves it with their special Barrio Fiesta Bagoong and green mango salad. Yumm!

Kare-kare, P220 (regular) | P350 (family)

A Pinoy favorite! Tender oxtail and tripe stewed in creamy peanut sauce.

Crispy Pata, P480

What’s a trip to Barrio Fiesta without a sampling heap of their famous Crispy Pata? Unheard of, right? An indulgence through and through, I know.  Deep fried pork knuckle at its best.

Bicol Express, P160

Bulalo Steak, 280

Tender beef shank served on a sizzling platter served with buttered veggies and gravy.  When they said tender, they were not kidding. And for its price, it’s really a steal.  The serving is huge enough to feed two.

Putobungbung

Turon ala Mode, P75

Banana fritters  with langka, served with ice cream

Ibayo by Barrio Fiesta is located at Bldg. G Unit 7-8 San Miguel by the Bay Seaside Brgy. 076 SM Bay City, Central Business Park 1-A Pasay City, open from 3pm to 12mn on weekdays and 3pm to 2am on weekends. It is also open for lunch on holidays.

For reservations, you may contact Monica Asuncion at 0906-5002782.

Marriage and Beyond supports Canon Marketing (Philippines) Inc. (CMPI) as it launched its local efforts supporting the worldwide Canon Green campaign. Dubbed as Canon GreenNation, the campaign was launched on July 8 at T.G.I.F. in Bonifacio High Street, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Canon GreenNation is a sustainable environmental program that focuses on the proper disposal of PIXMA and Selphy ink cartridges and toners. It aims to instill caring for the environment a part of the lifestyle of every citizen of Canon GreenNation.

CMPI President and CEO Alan Chng

GreenNation’s first project is an ink cartridge collection program, which was also launched alongside the campaign. With this, Canon Selphy and PIXMA users can simply place their empty printer cartridges in designated recycling bins inside Canon concept stores in malls.

While Canon ink cartridges contain no harmful chemicals, throwing them properly instills discipline and serves as an example to the younger generation.

Ms. Earth with CMPI Pres and CEO Alan Chng

L-R: Ms. Philippines-Water Emerie Dale Cunanan; Ms. Philippines-Air Rene Rosario McHugh; CMPI President and CEO Alan Chng; Ms. Philippines-Earth Kris Psyche Resus; and Ms. Philippines-Ecotourism Angela Fernando

The campaign favors the safe disposing of ink cartridges as it works better for PIXMA or Selphy printers compared to refilling them with non-Canon ink. Doing so would eventually damage printers.

Moreover, the proper disposal of used ink cartridges drastically reduces landfill to approximately 86% by separating metal, plastics, sponges and ink residues where metal and plastics are recycled.

The recycling bins are located at the Canon Showroom (McKinley Hill, Taguig), Canon Customer Care Center (Paseo De Magallanes, Makati), Canon Customer Care Center (Liberty, Mandaluyong), Canon Dzone Megamall, Canon Dzone Mall of Asia, and Canon Dzone SM North EDSA. The recycle bins will also be deployed at Canon Dzone Glorietta and Canon Dzone Trinoma before July ends.

Canon invites everyone to join GreenNation and be part of the solution towards a greener future.

My son and I attended Canon’s Be Inspired with Canon Creative Park event last Saturday at the Top Shelf in Bonifacio Highstreet.

Unlike other events, I did not find any familiar face in the crowd. But it was going to be a busy time for the little guy and I anyway, so we did not mind. My son helped himself with a lot of things as the program went along. He especially helped himself as he went back and forth to the buffet table.

Jed requesting for more cream puffs

enjoying his second hotdog…

.. and with the balloons too. But he waited till the event was over. Thanks to Ate Nicole of Agatep. She was able to save him one before it ran out. The kids were fast as each claimed his own.

Teachers introduced to the parents and the children the variety of crafts and artworks that can be downloaded from www.canon.com/c-park and off we went to work soon after.

Jed cutting out the outlined paper duck from the sheet that was distributed to the kids.

Jed had one of the teachers check if he made the artwork correctly.

Cutting the Great Panda’s outline was tricky. Parents and nannies were instructed to help the children in the next project.

I’m not sure how many times Jed went up front. But I guess this time he just wanted to show one of the teachers his work again. Other times, he told of his intention to join the games.

We also got busy making a father’s day card.  And here is what our little guy penned inside the cute card. “Happy Father’s Day! I love Papa. — Jed”

Front of the card: “Thank you for being such a great father”

Canon is currently running a promo entitled PIXMA-Back-to-Cool. Wherein Esprit and CK shades are given away for every purchase of Canon Pixma printer and Canon Genuine ink. This promo runs from May 15 to June 30, 2010.

Canon Philippines has set up empty ink cartridges drop boxes in various locations to help consumers properly dispose their ink cartridges.

We also had our picture taken in their photo booth. – Me, my little guy and his awkward smile.

This event was held one day short of father’s day. But when the husband picked us up after the event, Jed did not waste a second and requested for him to close his eyes for his surprise.  Jed handed his father his cute card while bursting into his father’s day greeting.   Which was actually the best day to do it. His father will be a tad too busy the day after as he spends it all day in church.

My boys and their “Father’s Day” moment.

]]> http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/2010/06/23/my-son-and-i-got-busy-at-the-canon-creative-park-event/feed/ 2 http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/2010/06/03/do-you-drive-smart/ http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/2010/06/03/do-you-drive-smart/#comments Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:00:32 +0000 Jennie http://www.marriageandbeyond.com/?p=5804 Now that I have Lady Rouge at my disposal, I am not anymore at the mercy of my husband to drive me places. It really helps a lot that I need not depend on his every busy schedule. But the hubby, up to now is teaching me how to drive in a more fuel efficient [...]]]>

Now that I have Lady Rouge at my disposal, I am not anymore at the mercy of my husband to drive me places. It really helps a lot that I need not depend on his every busy schedule. But the hubby, up to now is teaching me how to drive in a more fuel efficient manner. He cannot help being my backseat driver whenever I’m the one behind the wheel. His landing as a topnotch last year for a fuel efficient run is probably driving him to want to teach me how. But I did get a few fuel saving pointers he had taught me. Like not lugging around with extra and unnecessary weight in the car.   Because the more weight we lug around in the car, the more fuel it burns.

Incidentally if you know how to drive and you think you have what it takes to be the country’s Smartest Drivers, you might want join Shell Eco-Marathon happening this coming July 2010. The contest is open to legal-aged Filipino drivers with valid driver’s license. To join the Shell Smartest Driver promo, participants will create a video demonstrating or discussing fuel saving tips that will allow motorists to increase their fuel efficiency. Close the entry by completing the catch phrase “Ang Pinoy na matipid sa gasolina, ____________.” Then simply log onto www.topgear.com.ph/shellsmartestdrivers and upload your fuel saving video clip. Entries can be submitted from May 20 to June 20, 2010.

Participants will get shell premium items, fuel and product vouchers when you are tagged as one of the finalists. The grand prize winner will take home no less than a brand new, fuel efficient car! Now this is the contest of all contests, I should say. Perhaps the hubby could join. He might as well pour out his zest on teaching me to drive the way he does to doing videos of fuel saving tips to join the Eco-Marathon.

My boys and I attended the launch of the Mind Museum’s online fund raising campaign in Market! Market! last Saturday, May 29, 2010. We also got a taste of what Mind Museum has to offer for family and kids via The Roving Space Shell – a travelling inflatable dome that would bring the wonders of the universe within our reach. The 8-meter diameter Roving Space Shell is from Cosmodome Australia and is the choice of many universities and research institutions around the world, including NASA. This inflatable planetarium can sit up to 50 people comfortably with a 360- degree view of the shows through a high definition projector. This also provides the public a sneak preview of what The Mind Museum, our country’s first world class science museum, will be offering to the public when it opens late next year.

The Roving Space Shell

My boys and I just before we got in the Roving Space Shell

Just got settled inside the Shell waiting for the 25 min. “Impact Earth” show.

This inflatable planetarium experience will be hosted at the Activity Center in Market! Market! in Bonifacio Global City, from May 29 to June 5, 2010. Those who would want to see the show will only be charged P20. The schedule of the show is hourly from 11 am to 7pm.

You can support The Mind Museum, the Philippines’ first world-class science museum through its redesigned website  - www.themindmuseum.org.  In order for Filipinos to get involved and help build imaginative minds, the Museum is harnessing cyberspace to invite individuals to donate via its first virtual exhibit: “Light a Star at the Mind Museum.”

For P1, 000 or P5, 000, The Mind Museum will light a star or a constellation in its website. Sponsorship could be done online via credit card and eventually through the ATM as well. The goal is to reach 2 million pesos to help light the night sky of The Mind Museum in the form of a Star Cloth in the Universe Gallery. The Museum will show its appreciation to donors by sending an electronic certificate of donation, and by posting on the donors’ FaceBook wall, if they have one. Donors’ names will also appear by their chosen star or constellation in the Museum’s virtual night sky, and they will also be recognized in a donors’ marker in the Universe Gallery.

The family and I will be attending an event in Market! Market! early today for the launch of the online fundraising campaign of The Mind Museum. I have looked in it and it is said to be the Philippines’ first world-class science museum. I am just thrilled that I  can tag the little guy along with us. Just like we did during our Zoobic Safari Adventure last week. This homeschooling family sure is enjoying the perks of blogging. It’s just like we’re having a field trip when we do this. We can always make use of the experiences and incorporate them in our lessons.

Later tonight I will be off by my lonesome to attend the launch of a much talked about (on the international level, at that) beauty product event. I will be covering this for my beauty blog – KikayCorner.net. That’s one beauty product launch after another. I recently just attend one that features adult acne treatments as their big claim. Will be posting updates on these launches next week.

Two ways to save big at the OMF Lit Bookshop’s 2-in-1 sale!

Buy in bulk to maximize your savings. Pick from the sale pile: any 5 books for P200, 12 books for P400, or 50 books for P1,500. Imported titles are included!

Enjoy Ukay BOOKay savings! All OMF Lit local and imported titles are at 20% off–including new arrivals! That’s 30% off for Kaibigan and Pastors’ Exclusives cardholders on June 4-5. Plus, get a load of the crazy price-drop on selected titles: now at P2, P10, and P50!

Prices so low, you’ll be tempted to bring home the bookshop!

Available at all OMF Lit Bookshop branches
Mandaluyong | 776 Boni Ave cor Pinatubo St, Mandaluyong City | (+63.2) 531.6635
Cebu
Units 111-112 Marijoy Building, F. Ramos St., Cebu City | (+63.32) 253.1525
Gov. M. Cuenco Ave. cor El Dorado Subdivision, Cebu City | (+63.32) 346.7142 or 418.1439
Davao | G/F Mitaji Building, Tionko cor. Mapa Sts., Davao City | (+63.82) 221.3416
Parañaque | 2/F The Pergola, A. Aguirre Ave., BF Homes Parañaque | (+63.82) 403.2975
Makati | G/F Greenbelt 1 (Legaspi St. entrance), Ayala Center | (+63.82) 869.0340
Cagayan De Oro | Level 2 Robinsons Cagayan de Oro | (+63.88) 852.1214
Pampanga | Ground Floor Main Mall (near Supermarket), SM City Pampanga
Quezon City | Upper Ground Level Il Terrazzo, Tomas Morato cor. Sct. Madriñan | (+63.2) 355.0519

When Alex Dizon had us sign up for a whole day event in Zoobic Safari, I knew I just had to grab hold of the opportunity for a learning experience for the little guy. Since our son has been blogging for sometime now, he also gets to sign up. Nevermind if we had to wake up earlier than usual. It was something all of us (and not just our 5 year old tot) looked forward to.

The event coincided with the launch of Zoobic Safari’s newest attractions: The Zoobic Cave and The Forbidden Cave.  The Zoobic Cave is a taxidermy museum. Real stuffed animals are showcased in this cave that mimics the natural habitat of exotic animals, complete with waterfalls and a pond. The Forbidden Cave took us through a forest with two waterfalls, a shaking hanging bridge and real aetas spitting fire.

A tree planting ceremony led by Mr. Laurel Yupangco, with some representatives of Boy Scouts of the Philippines was held towards the One Big Green Park vision of the Yupangco Group for the Philippines.

Zoobic Safari has ten unique attractions: Tiger Safari, Close Encounter, Savannah, Aetas’ Trail, Croco Loco, Rodent World, Hip Hop Bay-a-walk, Serpentarium, Zoobic Park and Muzooeum. Here are some of the photos I took from our Zoobic Safari Adventure.

Close Encounter Photos

Zoombic Photo is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get pictures taken with live tigers, bear cat, iguanas and python with personalized photo frame in affordable prices. Here was a photo op with Icy, a Syberian tiger.  I thought I wasn’t gonna make it. But I just went right on even as I saw my little guy unafraid.

We were also able to witness the amazing animal show that Zoobic Safari stages during weekends and holidays.  The show features farm and exotic animals with colorful costumes riding in beautifully decorated floats.  They even have flying pigeons and guinea fowls, to name a few.

Zoobic Safari is open daily from 8AM to 4PM including holidays and weekends. Located at Group 1 Ilanin Forest, Forest Adventure, Subic Bay Freeport.

Zoobic Safari
899.9824 | 895.7142
www.zoobic.com.ph

Too cute! This is one of my photos of our little guy while we were touring around Zoobic Safari. My post about our adventure will be up soon. I’m still looking through the close to 1,000 photos I took from that excursion. I’m in the process of editing and resizing. If I could share all the photos here, I would.

It was all in all a fun time for the family and me. Save for the bus ride home which took forever. I’m not sure if the driver was sleepy or what. It was also a tad too hot! Heat exhaustion was very likely if it weren’t for the Zoobic Safari people making sure we were comfortable. They constantly handed us cold towels and cold water, for which we are very grateful. If you have some respiratory issues, make sure you have your inhaler ready. This unforgiving heat that we currently have almost have us taking inogen oxygen concentrator everywhere we go. It’s not surprising if we hear news of heat stroke happening everywhere. Aside from the heat, our adventure was really fun! Watch out for our Zoobic Adventure post, coming soon.

Yay! The boys and I are watching Shrek Forever After in 3D this coming Wednesday. Thanks to Tinay Magtira of MegaWorld! Watching this movie clip review of Shrek’s fourth and last installment makes me look forward to it with excitement!

The unforgiving heat has probably been one of the common things we all can relate to, aside, of course, from our various thoughts about the recent elections, at least in this side of the world. Mid May has come and the heat sure hasn’t dwindled a notch. Relief from it is something we all can make use of and Max’s Restaurant has recently come up with the perfect indulgence – Max’s Giant Halo Halo!

I was in for a literal “huge” surprise when I was invited to witness the biggest halo halo a restaurant in the Philippines has ever come up with. The perfect, cool dessert to cap a meal, bonding with family and friends. Now, with the years that I have been blogging in this corner, regular readers might have had noticed that Max’s is one of our family’s to go to places during special occasions. Max’s Giant Halo Halo will be a great addition to our feast line up.

“Max’s Giant Halo Halo. is a novel idea. We are actually the first to ever launch a halo halo product as big as this in the Philippines. Six to eight people can literally share one bowl of Max’s Giant Halo Halo.,” said Marc San Juan, Max’s Corporate Marketing. The refreshing and generous mix of macapuno balls, sweet beans, red mongo, garbanzoes, banana, kaong, gulaman, nata de coco and langka, shaved ice soaked in milk, topped with ube, leche flan, a generous sprinkle of rice crispies and cheese, plus three huge scoops of ube ice cream make for the perfect summer treat. I have already scheduled a date with my folks to have lunch at Max’s with us tomorrow and I am sure they are going to love this “enormous” treat. It is sold for P375 a pop and it is good for 6 to 8 persons.

The hubby and I were invited to partake of a dinner hosted by Marina Oysters Seafood Grill last week with a bunch of other food bloggers. Marina’s oysters, which they are known for, are flown fresh from Iloilo daily. So they guarantee to serve only the freshest of oysters. With oysters being their specialty, I was quite thrilled to see an array of dishes in the buffet table with different kinds of oyster dishes. I have always had a big appetite for oysters! The good ones, that is. I have had my share of not so good ones in the past, all of which are not worthy blogging about. So, I’m moving on…

This is the airconditioned area of Marina’s Timog branch

and then there’s the al fresco

Their al fresco area is very cozy, I should say. But with the level of humidity we’ve been having lately, I will always choose the airconditioned room in a heartbeat. I think it’s great that they made both facilities available for their patrons to choose from.

platters of crackers were strewn all over the buffet table

We were told to eat some crackers first before we partake of the oyster dishes, just to be sure we don’t get our tummies upset.

steamed oysters

fresh oysters

baked oysters. yumm!

I swear I could’ve gotten more if I had more room. I just love it! Oysters are P250/bucket. You can have it fresh, steamed, grilled or baked.

Wasabi Oysters

This is the first time I’ve tasted this and it’s an instant favorite! The flavor of wasabi complemented the natural goodness of the oysters.  The crunch that comes with it makes it even more fun, with mayo on the side.

Grilled Bulgan (Seabass), P99.00/100kg.

When Carlo was raving about this ordinary looking fish during the introduction of the Marina restaurant team,  I couldn’t quite relate.  But I totally dig him as soon as I had my first bite.

Sizzling Oysters

Too bad the hubby did not get to try how good this was.  It’s flavorful and everything a sizzling dish should be and it is spiced just right. I was too busy devouring on the dishes that I forgot to tell Jeff to go dig in and try this out.

Kinilaw na Oysters

Another first and I loved it too. The hubby are so into kinilaw na tanigue and blue marlin, that we sometimes go around the city just to satisfy our cravings. Just the other night we were talking about flying to Davao before the year ends to visit his dad and indulge on our kinilaw cravings until we’ve had it. Not a whole lot of restaurants here in Manila serve kinilaw dishes like we want them. And here we were served with my very first kinilaw na oysters and I was not a bit disappointed.

There were a few more dishes that we’ve tried like KBL (Kadios, Baboy, Langka), P240, which is an Ilonggo soup with red beans, pork and jackfruit.  Bihon Guisado and the Marina Fried Chicken. There was no dish I was not satisfied with.

The first time we ever tried Marina was a couple of years back, I think, when the hubby and I treated the whole family to celebrate my sister’s birthday. This food event gave us a taste of what Marina Oysters Seafood Grill has to offer. I definitely did not have an idea that they could do so much dishes with oysters.

Incidentally, Marina Oysters Seafood Grill has an ongoing Facebook Promo. This is open to all Facebook users.

Here’s how to join:
- “Like” Marina Oysters Seafood Grill on Facebook on or before May 18, 2010.
- Current fans and followers are automatically included in the contest

Contest Period
- You may “like” and follow Marina Oysters Seafood Grill on Facebook from May 12 to May 18, 2010.

How to win
- Winners will be determined via raffle draw
- Participant can only win once
- Relatives of Marina Employees up to the second degree of consanguinity are not eligible to join the contest.

Prizes
- 2 winners of Marina Gift Certificate worth 1000 php for Facebook followers

*Gift Certificate can be used on all Marina Branches
*winners will claim their prizes at a specific branch of Marina in Metro Manila (Branch TBA)

Marina Oysters Seafood Grill has branches in Market!Market!, Metrowalk, SM Mall of Asia, SM Skygarden North EDSA, Trinoma and Timog-Panay

Do Hard Things conference is an event where teens and parents gather to learn the biblical foundation and practical outworking of the Do Hard Things mentality—that doing what’s hard is a key to growth.

The main speakers of the Do Hard Things conference are twins Alex and Brett Harris, also authors of the book of the same title, and their dad, Gregg Harris. The Harrises were scheduled to come to the Philippines on June to speak at the conferences but due to an unexpected condition of Mrs. Sono Harris, the twins’ mother, they cannot commit to leaving her for a long period of time. Their mother was diagnosed with an advanced stage of colon cancer.

The outcome of the speakers’ withdrawal from their speaking engagement in the Philippines is that there would be no Do Hard Things conference on June. But the organizers of the conferences are not closing the doors to a possibility of a smaller event related to Do Hard Things. We are encouraging everyone to often check the Do Hard
Things in the Philippines Facebook page for updates.

Word about the Do Hard Things conference has already spread throughout the country, even in the provinces far north and south of Manila and Cebu. Of paramount importance now is to spread the word that the speakers are not coming on June and the reason behind it.

We recognize God’s faithfulness in the unexpected turn of events, both the canceled conferences and Mrs. Harris’ condition. We know that the efforts in the preparation for the past three months are His ways of teaching inexperienced teenagers to experience His goodness and favor among those who joyfully obey Him—even if it’s hard.

We are also very grateful for people, especially to parents, pastors and youth leaders, who have supported the Do Hard Things mentality from the very beginning. Please continue to pray with us for Mrs. Harris’ condition and for the organizers as we work on some challenges with the cancelled event.

Christin Alvarez
OIC
DHT Conference

On Mother’s very special day, treat her to an elegant brunch at Delifrance! Indulge her with the savory first course of Frittata with Stuffed Tomato, followed by the sweetly satisfying Blueberry Pancakes with Frankfurter and Fruit Plate. All this is served with a Mimosa Mocktail and Bottomless Coffee.

Brunch is served on May 9, 2010, from 10 AM to 12 NN.

The Mother’s Day Brunch is available in 7 selected Delifrance cafes: Alabang Town Center (807-5022), Greenhills Theater Mall (722-2456), C5 Libis (687-2549), Mall of Asia (556-0562), Roosevelt (721-1284), Robinsons Place Manila, and UN Avenue (523-5555). Due to limited seating, we accept reservations. Visit www.delifrance.com.ph for the Café Directory.