"As you walk and eat and travel, be where you are. Otherwise you will miss most of your life." -BUDDHA

Monday, April 30, 2012

CHAMPS BURGER in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City



CHAMPS BURGER in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City

A few days back I discovered a new burger joint situated inside the Sikatuna Village  in  Quezon City. It is just one among the many other casual dining restaurants in the stretch of Maginhawa Street.  CHAMPS BURGER is situated near the  Teacher's Village wherein  me and my close friends recently tried one restaurant early this year. Actually, last week was my initial ordeal at the street packed with  small, very modest and often out-of-the-way place. Yup! you read it right.  Out-of-the-way because you really have to do few foot works and/or google map help for first a first-timer like me. I do not live in kyusi (Quezon City) but I daresay I could muster to find a specific place with some helpful tools at hand armed with charm to have the guts to ask some strangers a nice direction.  Besides I reside at the smallest town of Manila yet right at the heart of it making each and every place around me quite accessible.

CHAMPS BURGER in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City
The counter area

I had the chance to meet the owner of this place along with Eugene, a foodie like me and two beautiful and good-hearted sisters from BigDeals, a budding yet successful group buying site in the Philippines. Mr. Tierry Garcia hosted the intimate dining experience with us that afternoon. He toured us around his humble casual burger joint, explained the menu and how come it will generally satisfy our cravings, he even let us see the back of the house which is in my opinion, a very well-maintained and clean space so is the 'time out' room.

Chef Hasset Go Bloggers Night: The Il Mercanti Experience

Photo by Dessert Strip. Poster by Gian Pisuena.

Chef Hasset Go Bloggers Night: The Il Mercanti Experience is to be held at Il Mercanti Food Bazaar (Metrowalk) on May 5, 2012 from 7:00pm to 11:00pm.

This event is strictly for food bloggers only who are committed to submit a post-event article about the event on or before May 12, 2012.

To sign up, please visit this link.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

20 Lucky Winners of SUMMER FUN GIVEAWAY ^_^




ANNOUNCING the winners of my first-ever SUMMER FUN GIVEAWAY courtesy of Firmoo Optical.


1. Jhay Ramones
2. Manelli Fernandez
3. Manilyn Bombarda
4. Rachel Rebollido Canales
5. Karen Chayne Sanchez


6. Gemma Puno
7. Fragila Anna Cruz
8. Ellen May Sitier Sumido
9. Lorelie Ann Bataycan
10. Elnalyn Valmores 

11. Chel del Rosario
12. Allan Reyes
13. Esmundo Credo
14. Tina Elaine Mendoza Resuelo
15. Ma. Paula Rhove R. Ortega

16. Kimberly Camille Tiu
17. Lorna Puno
18. Karen Romero
19. Jennifer Aguirre
20. Berlinetta Corazon Tan


CONGRATULATIONS!

May I refer to you this link wherein you can also see the final result generated by Random.Org.  
Kindly wait for my email within 24 hours as I will be asking some pertinent questions on how to claim your awesome choice of sunglasses.
Thank you guys for joining! Now I can hear you saying that 'Summer has never been this good with FREE Firmoo Sunglasses of your choice'.

For those who were not chosen by Random.Org and those who were not able to join this SUMMER FUN GIVEAWAY worry not as I still have one more blog giveaway left which you may also join. Food vouchers at stake! Who knows it is your time to shine. Check it out here.

Because a Picture is Worth a Thousand Words, Give Mom a Caricature from Marriott Manila




If there’s one person that has a penchant for delicious, gourmet meal, that’s mom. For someone who cooks up a meticulous meal for the family, it’s no wonder why she has discerning taste buds. With this, there’s surely no other venue where she can indulge and celebrate her love for good food other than Marriott Café. Bring the whole family for Sunday Brunch, where it offers an upscale but a cozy venue to enjoy a promise of bigger, better, and heavier selections for brunch. And not to mention, everything gourmet!

With 17 stations including Cru Steakhouse and chocolate room for only P2, 500 net per head, Marriott Café got everything what a family would crave for from the healthiest greens, house-made pasta, savory steaks, to well-crafted cocktails.
To pay tribute to the woman that matters most, for every minimum of P12, 000 net worth of receipt is entitled to an instant free caricature for mom! Since we believe that whatever hat she wears, mom is always at her most beautiful. On Mother’s Day, we’re adding a dose of cuteness with an exclusive souvenir caricature of her on Sunday Brunch.
And if the whole gang is in the mood to celebrate the day for dinner, Marriott Café offers Ocean Surf exclusively for this Sunday of mother’s day for only P1850 net per head. We know how most moms enjoy getting their hands dirty on rock lobster, crabs, oysters, clams, and shrimps. That’s why our spread is stocked up only with the freshest and tastiest selections, whether it’s enjoyed as is or have our chefs make an exciting twist from it.
What’s lovely about this buffet is that, it’s not only about shells and seafood. The spread is pumped up with big slabs of beef and lamb slices from the carving station and other delicious options from the rotisserie. Swing by at the Chinese Station for authentic dim sums, pork barbeque, marinated chicken, and Beijing style duck. The dessert station decks out as well large array of choices both for sweet toothed and weight watchers.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

SWIMSUIT PHOTOG




One windy night, a past midnight at that, while me and my friends are preparing for bedtime inside our conducive room at Potipot Gateway Resort in Zambales, it occurred to me to kill time by means of photography. I cannot see much panoramic views that time as the whole resort was covered with darkness. The only light I see was coming from the restaurant at the middle of the resort. I cannot sleep tight yet so to be able to manage the late-sleeper-me I conducted a brief one on one session with the Canon DSLR I have. I am done reading books and scanning magazine pages so maybe the solitude of taking photo shoots out of the ordinary things would suffice. Guess what was my subject???? Since it is summer I suddenly took interest with the two-piece swimsuits I packed with me on a 3-days, 2 -nights staycation. These are just some of the swimwear I have collected for the past five years. As a matter of fact there were still four pieces left at home which of course I rarely use. ^_^  So here they are..sorry for some lousy shots.  


On Higher Ground Concert by Gary Valenciano

       


I was among the lucky ones to see the spectacular concert of Mr. Gary Valenciano entitled ON HIGHER GROUND last April 19, Thursday. With my fellow bloggers we really enjoyed the night together packed with twenty something songs in just one and a half hour show. Admittedly, he should be undoubtedly called Mr. Pure Energy! It was so sulit! Given his age (47 years old) he still managed to give all his best to make the crowd ask for more. Below are just some of the song and dance numbers he performed, some solo, some with back-up singers and dancers. These were taken using my iPad 2 and I still have more  which were recorded using my digicam (a lot clearer because those were HD recorded, yet a lot time-consuming to upload on YouTube) which are still in the process of uploading. I will certainly share that with you once they are fully done. So stay tuned. 

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

WINNERS of THE BIG SUMMER OUTLET SALE 2012 Giveaway Tickets ^_^




The following are the winners of  free tickets for 
THE BIG SUMMER OUTLET SALE 2012! 



Monday, April 23, 2012

SPONGE COLA for 2012 Beale Street Music Festival



Gosh. Armo. Ted. Yael. Do these names ring a bell to you? Well I hope so. They are members of a very popular band here in the Philippines called Sponge Cola. A band I admired since I was in college (even if they came from a rival University). Their talent  are so original and pure.  Did you know that this Filipino pop/rock band will hit Memphis next month? Huwaaaaaaaaaaaattttttt? Oh yes! This band who has been consistent in delivering  us their collection of original and certified hit songs will be the one to represent our country in the upcoming Beale Street Music Festival which will be happening on May 4 to 6. Impressive. Indeed. 

SPONGE COLA for 2012 Beale Street Music Festival
Photo source
This is the famous Beale Street in Memphis, United States of America where diverse and notable contemporary musical talents will be present along with our pride band Sponge Cola. They are as follows: Dave Matthews Band, Van Morrison, Flaming Lips, John Mellencamp, Foo Fighters, Stone Temple Pilots, Bob Dylan, Kid rock, John Mayer, MGMT. Santana. Cee Lo Green, Jack Johnson, Aretha Franklin, Beck, James Killers. Steely Dan, Fall Out Boy, Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, B. B King, Shinedown, Fleetwood Mac,John Lee Hooker,Sarah MLachlan, The Allman Brothers Band, Cat Power, Elvis Costello, James Brown, Widespread Panic, Nelly, Godsmack, Willy Nelson, Iggy Pop, My Chemicaal Romance, ZZ Top, Big Star, Korn, Al Green, 30 Seconds to Mars, Steve Miller Band, Three Doors Down, and Jerry Lee Lewis.

SPONGE COLA for 2012 Beale Street Music Festival
Yael Yuson, lead vocalist of the band all smiles during the press conference.

SPONGE COLA for 2012 Beale Street Music Festival
(L-R) Armo Armovit (guitar), Yael Yuzon (lead vocals), Ted "TMAC" Cruz (drums) and Gosh Dilay (bass) as they proudly and genially explains the honor accepted by the Philippines from the Memphis International Festival .

Sunday, April 22, 2012

My CATH KIDSTON BAG




Floral prints and patterns! That is what Cath Kidston bags is all about. I got one as a birthday present last year from my brother and his girlfriend who works in Singapore. The moment it was given to me when my brother arrives home I was never aware that there was such a brand. So I did a little researching to compensate my fashion backwardness. Catherine Isabel Audrey Kidston, also known as Cath Kidston, is a British fashion designer, businesswoman and author. She started selling vintage fabrics, brightly-painted furnitures and wallpapers in London until she became successful and very influential in her chosen field. She is so admirable.




To be honest I never liked floral design be it in fabric, wallpapers and so on because I am not that 'kikay' and for me it is very feminine in style. But you know what, I learned to love this Cath Kidston bag as time flies by as  it is very roomy (works for me big time!), easy to get along with and only requires me to do little effort in cleaning. I used it almost everyday since my birthday - at work, night out, gimmicks etcetera. It became my favorite bag until such time it was replaced by my another favorite backpack brand. I just could not help it! Knapsacks are my fave type of bag since time immemorial. Moreover, months after receiving this gift Greenhills Shopping Center and its neighboring tiangge has been plaguing with these type of bags of various designs. It was a sure hit even nowadays. How about you what type of bag do you love most? You think it reflects your personality? Share your ideas if you care. ^_^

BEAUTY SCENE SALON: History and Milestone



Our name is synonymous with “professional service at friendly rates”. Established on September 8, 2000 at the Parc Chateau Condominium in Ortigas Center, the salon catered to housewives and businessmen within the periphery of the Ortigas-Pasig District. 

A month after its successful opening, the salon owner was invited to set-up and become a business partner of the Norain Salon in Brunei, Darussalam. A trusted and efficient staff of the Beauty Scene Salon was sent to Norain Salon to do the training on skin/ body care/spa services and co-manage the business as well. When Norain opened its doors to the public on November, a lot of notables- some members of the Royal Family and from the consulates, graced the occasion. The Beauty Scene Salon owner, was interviewed by the Borneo Times and was asked what is unique with the Norain Salon, she quickly replied “royal service at friendly rates”. 

After three years, and by word of mouth from delighted clients, the business expanded and found its new home at the Pearl Plaza Building in Pearl Drive (right across the University of Asia and the Pacific) at Ortigas Center. Situated in the heart of business and commerce, the salon attracted more clientele to include entrepreneurs, celebrities and students as well. A beauty queen turned actress (Bb. Pilipinas-International) who is a former Hotel and Restaurant Management student of the salon owner, Ms. Jhezarie Javier together with award winning actor of the 35th Brussels International Film Festival, Mr. Yul Servo, cut the ceremonial ribbon. 
Instead of 7107487 the number has been changed to 7886992.

On February 2005, Macro Asia Catering Services, commissioned the Beauty Scene Salon to offer relaxing massage services to the Sampaguita Lounge (1,500 square meters haven) guests located at the West Wing of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1, Paranaque City. 

Beauty Scene Salon enjoyed media attention when some of its professional services like underarm whitening, aromatherapy mint facial, and complete hair waxing were featured in popular TV talk shows like “F”, Sis, Mel & Joey among others. 

As part of its community service, Beauty Scene Salon also partners with local government units in Metro-Manila to provide livelihood lectures on aromatherapy facials and relaxing massages. 

The Salon is a member of the Asean Federation of Beauty Therapists, an organization committed to professionalize the beauty industry. The current president of the AFBT is the owner of the Beauty Scene Salon, who had 20 years solid experience in the health, fitness and beauty industry. She has managed the first figure-forming salon in the Philippines and the largest chain of skin/body care salons in the country. 

Every year and during the month of November, Beauty Scene sends representatives to the prestigious Cosmoprof Asia Event in Hongkong – the biggest beauty event in the world to be updated in the industry. The Salon, in the past have also organized skin/body care seminars for other international companies from Australia, Canada, France and Germany. Its unique contribution in the beauty industry is the offering of in-house seminars that tackles “Etiquette in the Beauty Industry” and “Professional Image for Beauty Therapists”. 

BEAUTY SCENE: Professional services at friendly rate!





Little did I know that one of my favorite professors in my major subject in college owns this skin care clinic in Ortigas which to my great surprise has been operating for the past 12 solid years. I do not only consider M' Zhenie Velasco as one of my colleagues in the Nutrition and Dietetics industry but also an idol who excels so much with her chosen endeavors. I have always been enamored with her teachings and instructions in our field of study. Hence, I never took second thoughts about blogging this clinic of hers even if it is way beyond dietetics but still tackles about well-being.

This salon and skin cake clinic is something to look forward to ladies, most especially those who love and need to relax and relieve themselves from stress brought about by many factors including work. Pampering session you want? Hit this place which is situated in Unit 5D2, 5th Floor Pearl Plaza Building, Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. So if you guys are around and within Ortigas Center this relaxation hub is the next best place to visit after being affected by too much life's stressors.
Cope with those by trying these Services from the Heart:

Bequeathing my Firmoo Eyepiece





April 12 and it was  noontime when I received another package all the way from China. And oh! this was the package I was expecting when I returned from a brief staycation in one of the islands of Zambales with friends. Grateful was the feeling and I want to nurture it. Thank you so much Firmoo Optical for being so accommodating with my needs. You guys were really true to your promise of providing me another pair of corrective eyeglasses. See here for the very first parcel I received from these good guys. 

Again, I paid for PhP 40 for the PTCC which I think is payment for the tax or for the freight. Just a small cashing out for a necessity that is most important for my eye. I was so excited to see and feel the difference from the first package that I received less than a month ago ^_^

Tadaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!! I got the pink spectacle case and eyeglasses bags this time around. Before what I got is colored black. I received the same design that I already got before which is the company's prerogative. I just you know cannot ask for more. Isn't pink-colored case and bag so girly for me? 

Thursday, April 19, 2012

THE BIG SUMMER OUTLET SALE 2012! PLUS Giveaway Tickets ^_^


It's SHOPPING TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Whoa! From 50-80% discount. Jaw dropping!


WHEN: April 27-29, 2012, Fri-Sun 10am-9pm

WHERE: SMX Convention Center, Hall 1, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

WHO: FREE Entrance to ALL BPI cardholders (w/ a valid ID)

– Additional discounts & Raffle draw for BPI Edge Cardholders

– P50 entrance fee to non-BPI Cardholders

WHAT:  Everything ON SALE! Up to 80% off on select items from selected brands!

Now who among you guys would like to have free tickets for you and your dear friend, or your mom or dad, or could be your better half to this summerriiiiiiiiiifffffffffffic event brought to us by BPI Express Credit Edge, The Philippine Daily Inquirer AND Malibu Enterprise???

Eight (8) lucky winners will win 2 tickets each and will be chosen via Random.Org. Simply follow the steps below:
Please do not forget to leave your complete name and email add on the comment form below so that I can contact you should you win in this giveaway ^_^  Thank you!


Girbaud offers 50% discount exclusive to Le Jean members







While sales have become synonymous to long weekends, Marithe + Francois Girbaud shows that you don’t have to wait for the next long weekend just to get a great deal! Girbaud offers a 50% discount on its best-selling accessories and all basic jeans and knits for men and women, exclusive to the members of its loyalty program, Club Le Jean

Make your Thursdays to Sundays count by visiting any Girbaud branch from April 19 to 22, and April 26 to 29, and simply present your Le Jean card and rewards booklet to avail of the discount. 

Become a Club Le Jean member today and enjoy rewards on every purchase, moneyless shopping using your gift points and stamps, and the chance to swap your old pair of denims for a brand-new pair of M+FG jeans! 

For more details, visit any Marithe + Francois Girbaud branch today. Girbaud is available in SM Supermalls, Robinsons Malls, Ali Mall, Duty Free Philippines Fiesta Mall, Festival Supermall, Gateway Mall, Greenhills Shopping Center, NE Pacific Mall, Pavilion Mall, Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall, NAIA Terminal 3, and now in Robinsons Tacloban, KCC Mall General Santos, and Robinsons Calasiao. 




Tuesday, April 17, 2012

TELESERV is the SOLUTION





After registering at the small booth found at the entrance of Harvest Gastro Pubthis sheet of brain teaser that also served not just a brain cells-racking activity but a table liner as well, reminded me that I am not just at a breakfast event but most importantly I am in an occasion hosted by Teleserv. The one that is Teleserving the nation one call at a time.

As I was comfortably seated in my chosen location, a man greeted me with a huge smile and fantastic humor asking too if I have availed of their services before. YES!, I said in an outright manner. That guy was Mr. Ronald Allan De Vera, Service Brand Manager of  Teleserv . I can still recall about two years ago how swift the transaction I had with Teleserv  in acquiring my passport. If I am not wrong I shelled-out only P1300 to have everything covered, as in everything. Hassle-free! All you have to do is provide your personal info online and choose an available date and time convenient for you. I never thought that getting very important document was this fast and efficient. Since then all I know is that Teleserv will be the greatest solution for all our demands when it comes to procuring NSO certificates such as birth, marriage, death and certificate of no marriage. There was evolvement, hence no more waiting or traveling or leaving your work too!

Pilipinas Teleserv, Inc. (Teleserv) began operations in June 2000 as a multi‐channel contact center provider. The company conceptualized and developed proprietary services for various Philippine government agencies that have revolutionized the way citizens transact with government. It operates 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Photo courtesy of Teleserv

Teleserv currently have two sites located in  Quiapo, Manila and in  Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City.
The services this company has services have changed the way Filipinos transact with the government. Providing customers with a single telephone number to remember when availing the products and services of their  clients is of utmost important.

HARVEST GASTRO PUB: Getting To Know





Last Saturday I was among the lucky ones to be invited by Pilipinas Teleserv, which is an innovative company that provides teleservices solutions and efficient call center based services that effectively provides convenience in NSO Birth Certificate Delivery, POEA OFW Exit Clearance Delivery, DFA Passport Appointment System among others. One of those services I've tried already a few years back.  

The event happened  at the newest pub in The Fort at exactly 8:00 AM. Matter-of-factly. the building where the restaurant is situated was where the Alexandre, an authentic French bakery, cafe and lounge once stood. 

Facade of the newest dining hub at The Fort. Something to look forward too!
Since the Alexandre Cafe bid farewell last year it is currently  owned and operated by a Filipino businessman named Mr. Raffy David, who by the way is also the Marketing Director of Pilipinas Teleserv. Moreover,  the culinary team is being headed by Mr. Junjie Abella whom I haven't met yet. Maybe during the official business  opening in the coming weeks ^_^ Located just in front of Bonifacio Technology Centre.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Intel and WiFi Zone powered by PLDT: A New Breed of WOW



Recently, PLDT which is the leading telecommunications company in our country, and Intel Philippines, who is the world leader in computing innovation have teamed up to showcase a new era in computing. 
The above photo was something that I initially saw when I set foot on the event hall where one of the  very important and life-changing event in the wireless connection world transpired. See these peeps accessing the internet simultaneously using multiple devices. This very well presents the internet growth that has been changing the way we live and socialize.

The launching of the new Ultrabook inspired by Intel and unlimited and fast WiFi connection brought to you by WiFi zone powered by PLDT and press conference with esteemed Intel Philippines and PLDT executives happened last March 8, 2012 at OPUS in Resorts World, Pasay City. Media men and bloggers were treated to a sumptuous brunch before the official release and presentation set in. 

Sunday, April 15, 2012

FOOD VOUCHERS Giveaway




Who wants these vouchers or gift certificates? Raise your hands! ^_^ 






Oh well I bet everyone loves to have these for FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!! So foodies and even those non-foodies who want to marry food lovers (lol!) take your chances in winning one of the said vouchers courtesy of BigDeals, where you can have Big Deals Big discounts!  BigDeals and I want to surprise you with this giveaway during the Easter week although that week passed which was supposed to be the best time to have this great giveaway.  It is never too late, right? 

Joining is simple. Follow the instructions religiously (as I will be checking all the entries to make sure they qualify). Open to all Metro Manila residents only or someone (even not within Metro Manila) who can give the voucher to a friend or a relative who lives in Manila as the abovementioned vouchers are transferable. One voucher per winner only. 

Friday, April 13, 2012

Report A Resto with RESTOHELL


As a food lover I am inclined to do some write ups regarding the restaurants, food kiosks and any food hub that I encounter day to day. Just today, through a network of food bloggers I learned another site which does not involve food or restaurant reviews or critics at all but complaints which could either be one of the following but not limited to: blood in chicken, dirt in food, dirty restrooms, dirty utensils, disoriented service, disrespectful staff, hair strand in food, insect in food, restroom stinks, slow service, spoiled food, unsanitary preparation to name a few. To me it sounds like a forum that will certainly be a beneficial tool and guide on diners (like all of us) which among the branch of restaurants or simple eateries to avoid or not. It is like a catching bin where all valid complaints will be emailed to the proper authority which in that case can be through DOH, BFAD or to the Sanitation Department of the area where the food store is located. Sounds good. Even if most of restaurants nowadays have customer service to forward our trivial to big deal complaints, at least we still have Restohell which can always hear us out. You just have to make sure that the complaints you have is/are valid enough to be believable and reasonable. 



So how do we use the feedback form as seen above? Simple. 


1. Just type in the store name, include its location or branch if necessary
2. Include your full name and contact number (will not be shown in public)
3. Choose store violation and tell your moment of misery about the place, the food or the service.


One thing is for sure, Restohell   is not here to ruin any business but here to make them much better. Afterall, we as customers are the backbone of these establishments right? So I believe that one or more constructive criticism or  feedback 
won't hurt them instead it will sustain them.  


Have a great day! Use Restohell. Report a Resto now! 

Monday, April 09, 2012

My Brand New FIRMOO Prescription Eyeglasses



Surprisingly, last March 22, Thursday morning I received a small package better described as an International Express Mail all the way from China. My mother was the one who was initially handed over with this lightweight package by a delivery man who charged her P 40 which I instantly produced being awakened by her in a rush.  My instinct told me what this package is all about even without touching and beholding what is in store for me inside. Later on I caught telling myself  in a hushed voice.."'twas indeed TRUE!".

The receipt for the payment for PTTC which I searched online as I am clueless about the abbreviation. It means Philippine Trade Training Center. I dunno why that much for a small and lightweight parcel. anyways what is important that time is that I finally got it! Wohoooo!!!!! ^_^  My excitement as I unpack the package never cease. I am so grateful that I trust the advertisement I saw on Facebook last March 9, a Friday, the very day that I signed-up for the Free Eyeglasses for Bloggers. During that time I came to know Li Wenjie/ Patrick who is the one in-charge for the unbelievable offer. I bet most bloggers grabbed the chance. Did you?

 Small and lightweight yet very useful for a lady with abnormal blurry eyes :'(

Sunday, April 08, 2012

EASTER SUNDAY Breakfast Buffet




HAPPY EASTER SUNDAY! 
After all the passion and agony of our Savior everybody believes that this day is the much awaited time for everyone because Jesus Christ has risen. Thus, today we are celebrating what we call as  Ressurection Sunday and I am quite nosy as to  how do you guys plan of spending this joyous day? 

I would love to share with you this lively experience that I had last Easter Sunday of 2011  with three of my closest pals- Jenney, Jepoy and Arnel. It was actually my idea to celebrate Easter with them at Sweet Harmony Gardens in Taytay, Rizal. I came across this promo through a now defunct group buying website Salamat.ph that  offers a treat for the Easter Sunday by a breakfast buffet, getting the chance to receive giveaways and join the Easter Egg Hunt. Not only that!  Plus have a photobooth shoot with your loved ones. These things can only be eligible for the members of the site like me. Sad part is that they stopped producuing printable vouchers lately. However, when I learned about this thing I told them of an idea which we easily agreed upon. Since such a wonderful garden  which was unknown to us is just in close proximity to Manila, my girlfriend still opted to use her car to reach the heavenly place which is less than an hour drive from San Juan and Quezon City. 

Our plans came true and we reached the gates of Sweet Harmony Gardens around 8 in the morning. Finally after making some queries to some strangers around the area. 



After registering with the people behind the event and being given with pink round foldable fan with Sweet Harmony Garden's logo, this set up WOWed us. At first sight it looked like there will going to be a children's party celebration which in that case was just perfectly fine with us as we can enjoy those kid's stuff even if we are in our mid twenties already ^_^ We are certified KIDS AT HEART. 

Thursday, April 05, 2012

One Prayer a Day for HOLY WEEK





Last week, I was searching for simple prayers which I can use for the Holy Week. As I was searching online I encountered this website composed of too many powerful prayers for the season of Lent. This season is widely practiced by Christians worldwide. It is a time to reflect, to heal the wounds, to fast and abstain from certain types of food and physical pleasure  and most especially to be one with Christ. Join me as we pray solemnly the following prayers each day for the Holy Week. 


Palm Sunday

Loving God, 
I am just beginning to realize how much you love me. 
Your son, Jesus was humble and obedient. 
He fulfilled your will for him by becoming human and suffering with us. 
I ask you for the desire to become more humble 


so that my own life might also bear witness to you. 
I want to use the small sufferings I have in this world 
to give you glory.


Summer Fun Giveaway: Sunglasses by FIRMOO


Summer is so here! Can you now feel the sweltering heat of the sun? Do you already have a complete set of summer essentials to be a certified beach bum? How about a protective eyewear to prevent bright sunlight from damaging those pretty eyes? I advise you to join my first ever summer giveaway sponsored by Firmoo Optical. I am still a newbie here in the blogosphere and it is my pleasure to host such a timely giveaway for you guys. I am so excited for this summer fun fun fun giveaway!!!!!!!


Photo courtesy

You want one of these pair of chic and fashionable sunglasses right? :)
You can have it!


But first and foremost I want to give you a brief  background on what this optical shop is all about, kindly read the following:


Buy Prescription Glasses Online At Firmoo.Com

Firmoo, the online leader in eyewear, stocks a wide range of affordable prescription glasses and sunglasses in cheap price yet high quality. Our eyeglasses frames feature different fashion styles, vary from retro eyeglasses frames to fashion ones, from rimless ones to full-rimmed ones and so forth. These chic yet inexpensive glasses will not only boost your image to a greater level, but also offer you a clear vision.

What We Provide

At Firmoo, the prescription glasses and sunglasses are of various styles and types, so you really need to rack your brain to think it over which style suits you most. We offer Virtual Try-On System that helps you see how you look with glasses or sunglasses provided by Firmoo so as to help you find the right pair for yourself.

What We Promise

All eyewear provided by Firmoo go through strict inspection by our experienced opticians to ensure the quality of frames and the accuracy of lens prescription before shipping. In case you are not 100% satisfied with your eyeglasses, you may return for a full refund or exchange for a new pair. No questions will be asked. We are fully aware that each contented customer is our most worthy investment in promotion.



You do not  have to break the bank to look trendy this summer! Simply follow the instructions below one by one  and  please wait for the Rafflecopter to load.  There will be  20 lucky winners at the end of the giveaway period. That is awesome right?! Firmoo will ship the prizes at the very doorstep of the winners. 
FREE shipping!
Open Worldwide. 
So better start submitting your entries now!

Click the logo below to choose your one pair of regular non-corrective sunglasses. Each pair costs $10-$45 so better choose something that appeals to you.



MECHANICS: 


Sunday, April 01, 2012

APRIL FOOL'S DAY: Golden Rules for Pranking






TODAY is April 1 so I am greeting you all a Happy April Fool's Day!!!!!!!!!!! Though not a holiday but it is widely celebrated by many which is a perfect time to play all sorts of foolishness, jokes and humor on others. With this, I think it is but timely to share with you  this guideline which you may use today and forever ^_^ Have a great day and blessed a Sunday too! Hope our day will end in such a way that we'll be laughing out loud with all the funny hoaxes, jokes and tricks we will be receiving or have received already :)


THE GOLDEN RULES OF PRANKING



Plan ahead
Don't wait until April 1st to start thinking about strategies. Early planning means you'll be ready on the big day!

Prank with love
Never pull a prank with a mean spirit in your heart. Do it to get a laugh out of someone you care about. And think twice about pranking strangers --it's generally NOT cool.

Know your victim
Pranks can have consequences--make sure to think about the outcome. After the initial surprise, will your victim's reaction be positive? A successful prank should always end with your victim laughing!

Match the prank to the person
The best April Fool's gags are carefully chosen to fit the victim's personality. For instance, a car prank is perfect for someone who is fussy about their car (but make sure you don't damage their "baby"!). Or, a computer gag will work best on someone is isn't very computer savvy. Tailor your prank for the best result.

Is it harmless? Really harmless?
Once you have your prank fully planned out, stop and think.... Is there any chance that someone could get hurt? Is there any possibility that something will get damaged? Consider all outcomes before you plot your prank!

Have the video camera ready
If you can get the moment on tape you'll be able to enjoy your prank for years to come. So break out the camera...as long as it won't raise too many suspicions!

Use your best acting skills
If you don't think you'll be able to keep a straight face, pick a prank where you'll stay hidden--or recruit a helper to be the perpetrator.

Time your reveal
Enjoy the moment, and let the prank sink in before shouting out a victorious "April Fool's!" Timing is important; you don't want to call it out too early... or too late.

If caught, be gracious
Playing pranks on April Fool's Day can be tricky--they'll have their guard up. So don't be too disappointed if you're caught in the act. You'll get 'em next time!

Be ready for retribution
Expect a payback, so watch your back!



Check this website for more fun and harmless pranks and practical jokes. Good luck and happy pranking!

CALIFORNIABERRY: Bringing Healthy Treats to Life



What a lovely backdrop for every guest that comes at their doorstep. You can go cam whoring as you please :)


I have been very excited about dining here at the newly-opened branch of California Berry in Mezza Residences over a year ago. That is why after having a good time with workmates and friends just last year at the Balloon Festival held at Bonifacio High Street and having had  a hefty dinner at a resto at the Venice Piazza in McKinley Hill, Gella and I have common thing in mind. That we committed to treat ourselves with something healthy that evening on our way back home. We have a lot of thing is common so it is easier for us to persuade each other when it comes to good food. We tried the newest and trendiest craze of Californiaberry then even if most of us in the group were tired and didn't join our sumptuous idea. Anyways we landed on MezzaStrip and we were the last customers to be served by Californiaberry's staffs. It was past 10:30 pm that time and the store closes at 11PM but we were not rushed by any of them. Great! It was really great to have the place on our own. It's like having a quality and quiet time together after a tedious yet happy day together with workmates. Maybe about time to indulge on a cool treat before retiring to bed. 

 This is an exciting and cute place to lounge near my home.

Something pink and white too! Stylish. The place is ultra comfy and nice. They do also have seats without backseat and colored white just like their yougurts and also a  light brown sofa like the one where we were seated. Grab a seat of your choice and no worries with them, Better if you are in a group for a more happy moments over froyo.

Earth Hour 2012 Official Video

                     
                              

So how was your participation in the EARTH HOUR? Share us.
I have crossed this video on YouTube and was inspired by this event which started in 2007 in Sydney.
I know that it is over now but we can still make it on a daily basis instead of yearly, right? Anyway isn't the event all about our collective effort and display of commitment to a better future for the planet? So why not make our mark as early as now. 
This event was inspired by the World Wide Fund for Nature-Australia wherein its initiative spread to more than 35 countries making it a yearly grand event. Beyond this extremely different kind of event which addresses climate change, WWF hopes that it will inspire the world to see what can be achieved when we all come together for a common cause. Absolutely true!

It was indeed an idea that became a symbol. A symbol that became a movement . movement that unites people to protect our planet. 135 countries and territories. 5251 cities and towns. Reaching 18 billion people. Together, everyone of us can go beyond the hour. Everyone has the power to change the world we live in.