Fancy a pitstop on the way to Tagaytay or Batangas? Drop by Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, Laguna for a truly novel experience. Developed by AyalaLand, the entrance to Nuvali boasts of a relaxing promenade along a man-made lake where visitors and residents alike can wind down in one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area. Children and adults will both enjoy viewing and feeding the multitude of beautiful Koi fish swimming at the edge of the lake, waiting for their daily meal from captivated tourists. Packets of special Koi food are available for sale at a reasonable price.
You can also opt to rent bikes and cruise around the area, or pay a little extra to take a boat ride around the lake. The lake is rather small, and the ride will just take you through a mini tunnel under a bridge and around 2 or 3 fountains (literally just pillars of water shooting up from the lake). It lasts no more than a few minutes and is quite tame for adults. It is sure to be quite thrilling for very young children though!
Another perk of Nuvali is that it is literally next to Paseo de Santa Rosa commercial park, well-known for its variety of sports and clothing outlet stores (Dockers, Crocs, Speedo, etc.). You can have a mini-shopping spree here and make your way to Nuvali to relax and cleanse yourself of the noise, crowds, and cars speeding down the main highway.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Top 3 Reasons To Drop By Toy Kingdom This Christmas...
(1) 10% discount on selected items if you have an SM Advantage card.
(2) Variety of discounts and promos available - I recommend the 3-pack travel edition set of Monopoly, Upword, and Mastermind. Each game is worth P400-P500 on its own. If you buy all 3 games, the cost is just P800 (P267 each). A great deal and a classy find for your godchildren ;)
(3) Free wrapping. No matter what you buy. No matter the size or price. The only drawback is that they don't have a package counter so you need to wait while they wrap. It is best to drop by early in the morning when there are less people in line. Much, much better if you do your shopping well before the mid-December Christmas rush ;)
Another interesting find this season is the newly opened ToyTown outlet in Glorietta. Ignore the expensive toys that are not discounted and be on the lookout for items whose price tags have been crossed out. You can get as much as 50%-70% discount on premium toys, particularly on Disney characters and playsets.
(2) Variety of discounts and promos available - I recommend the 3-pack travel edition set of Monopoly, Upword, and Mastermind. Each game is worth P400-P500 on its own. If you buy all 3 games, the cost is just P800 (P267 each). A great deal and a classy find for your godchildren ;)
(3) Free wrapping. No matter what you buy. No matter the size or price. The only drawback is that they don't have a package counter so you need to wait while they wrap. It is best to drop by early in the morning when there are less people in line. Much, much better if you do your shopping well before the mid-December Christmas rush ;)
Another interesting find this season is the newly opened ToyTown outlet in Glorietta. Ignore the expensive toys that are not discounted and be on the lookout for items whose price tags have been crossed out. You can get as much as 50%-70% discount on premium toys, particularly on Disney characters and playsets.
Games for Moms: Puzzle Quest
Are you addicted to Bejeweled? Then this game is for you! Puzzle Quest takes you on an adventure where you defeat monsters and enemies by solving a puzzle game that requires you to switch adjacent tiles to make a row or column of at least 3 same tiles. The damage inflicted depends on the number of tiles you remove through this switch-and-match process. You can also learn and use a variety of spells to help you diminish more tiles.
The game is available on both PSP and DS, though PSP gets higher marks for better graphics and of course, the ability to switch the power off and take up where you left off once the baby finally settles down for her nap ;)
The game is available on both PSP and DS, though PSP gets higher marks for better graphics and of course, the ability to switch the power off and take up where you left off once the baby finally settles down for her nap ;)
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Books For Tots: Interactive Storybooks
I brought my toddler to Fully Booked, Bonifacio High Street, Taguig; for our usual jaunt to the children's section at the second level. We never made it to the 2nd floor! At the foot of the escalator, fronting the Romance section were stacks upon stacks of interactive storybooks for kids covering nearly all the favorites - Baby Einstein, Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Thomas The Tank Engine, Barney, Dora the Explorer, and so much more!
We've seen technology innovate at a rapid rate these past years, and children's books are no expection! Simple push buttons for sound effects have been replaced with card readers and cards that can produce a hundred sound effects per book. Remember the books that came with plastic CD players and around 3 mini plastic CDs to add music to the reading experience? These have now been replaced with (or should I say, upgraded to?) a plastic iPod!
I couldn't resist buying Dora's Music to Go for my music-loving little one. The book features lyrics and pictures for 20 songs, all of which can be heard through the music player attached to the book. The player has a small screen showing simple, pixel animation in order to identify each song. Songs can be chosen via a click wheel. There are also 3 control buttons available - Start, Shuffle, and Stop. Honestly, think iPod for nursery rhymes. Browsing through the pictures in the board book while listening to the tunes will give you the story behind this Dora musical adventure, but if your baby just wants to sing, you can opt to detach the toy and give your child his/her own portable music player!
Other books that caught my eye were those that came with a mini-steering wheel and controls for car/train adventure stories. There was even a Mickey Mouse book with a baby laptop embedded in it. At nearly P1000 per copy, though, I could only afford the Dora adventure and allowed my daughter to pick up a Barney book as well (this had a simple selection of around 6 sound effects, but it's just so hard to find Barney books!). Ah, to be back in the days when I threw a tantrum after my mother refused to buy me a P25 Ladybird book (A Little Princess - I eventually got it ;))!
We've seen technology innovate at a rapid rate these past years, and children's books are no expection! Simple push buttons for sound effects have been replaced with card readers and cards that can produce a hundred sound effects per book. Remember the books that came with plastic CD players and around 3 mini plastic CDs to add music to the reading experience? These have now been replaced with (or should I say, upgraded to?) a plastic iPod!
I couldn't resist buying Dora's Music to Go for my music-loving little one. The book features lyrics and pictures for 20 songs, all of which can be heard through the music player attached to the book. The player has a small screen showing simple, pixel animation in order to identify each song. Songs can be chosen via a click wheel. There are also 3 control buttons available - Start, Shuffle, and Stop. Honestly, think iPod for nursery rhymes. Browsing through the pictures in the board book while listening to the tunes will give you the story behind this Dora musical adventure, but if your baby just wants to sing, you can opt to detach the toy and give your child his/her own portable music player!
Other books that caught my eye were those that came with a mini-steering wheel and controls for car/train adventure stories. There was even a Mickey Mouse book with a baby laptop embedded in it. At nearly P1000 per copy, though, I could only afford the Dora adventure and allowed my daughter to pick up a Barney book as well (this had a simple selection of around 6 sound effects, but it's just so hard to find Barney books!). Ah, to be back in the days when I threw a tantrum after my mother refused to buy me a P25 Ladybird book (A Little Princess - I eventually got it ;))!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Games for Moms: Cooking Mama!
What better way to de-stress than to slide, slide, slide and tap, tap, tap furiously on your touchscreen to peel and chop potatoes? Dexterity and speed aren't all that matters, though! Good timing is also required to create that perfect bowl of stew.
Cooking Mama is a cooking simulation game that helps you make savory (albeit, purely digital) dishes through the directions of "Mama". Each dish is typically created through a series of minigames encompassing the preparation, cooking, and presentation stages of a meal.
While utterly simple and somewhat repetative, the mouth-watering, cutesy, anime-like images of food flittering across the screen manages to keep you engrossed. Well, at least long enough to go through most of the meals and variations available!
I do have it on good authority - from friends who know how to cook - that the process (from the ingredients to the timing) can be more than a little unrealistic. But hey, to someone like me who burns something as mundane as hotdogs, this game is a gem that puts me at the level of an actual chef - of 2D meals, that is! :)
Cooking Mama is a cooking simulation game that helps you make savory (albeit, purely digital) dishes through the directions of "Mama". Each dish is typically created through a series of minigames encompassing the preparation, cooking, and presentation stages of a meal.
While utterly simple and somewhat repetative, the mouth-watering, cutesy, anime-like images of food flittering across the screen manages to keep you engrossed. Well, at least long enough to go through most of the meals and variations available!
I do have it on good authority - from friends who know how to cook - that the process (from the ingredients to the timing) can be more than a little unrealistic. But hey, to someone like me who burns something as mundane as hotdogs, this game is a gem that puts me at the level of an actual chef - of 2D meals, that is! :)
Books For Tots: My First 1000 Words
My First 1000 Words books are a good stepping stone in teaching toddlers the words used to identify everyday objects. My daughter received a copy on her 1st birthday and immediately took to the book. She enjoyed pointing at the colorful objects on the page and asking questions - usually a simple What's this?
I found that showing her the actual object to compare against the picture and explaining its use made it easier for her to commit it into memory. Soon she was able to identify most of the commonly used household objects. I was extremely pleased that her first set of words included practical ones that deviated from the persistent "Barney" and "Pooh Bear" mantra. My daughter has just turned 2, but can already speak short, complete sentences that clearly explain what she wants.
The First 1000 Words books are quite common and can be found in almost any bookstore. As there are numerous variations to this book, I recommend reviewing it for the following before you actually buy a copy:
(1) Ensure that the pictures are large and colorful, and that there are just enough words/pictures in every page. With the success of her first copy, I bought another book featuring other words/pictues, but found that too small pictures crammed into a single page confuses and bores my baby.
(2) Get a copy that already includes pages on shapes, colors, and numbers so your baby can learn these basic concepts as well.
(3) As much as possible, choose a book featuring pictures of items that can be found in your house or neighborhood. A book featuring seasons such as fall and winter, for example, would be harder to grasp by a child living in the Philippines.
(4) Baby girls may enjoy Disney's Princess Word Book, which showcases everyday objects used by (what else?) the beloved Disney princesses! My toddler was fascinated at the idea that Princess Aurora also goes to the bathroom and brushes her teeth. ;)
(5) Check the content of the book. My baby actually has a magnetic letter board that says "X" is for "Xmas". Granted, this particular error wasn't printed on a book, but you can never be too careful!
I found that showing her the actual object to compare against the picture and explaining its use made it easier for her to commit it into memory. Soon she was able to identify most of the commonly used household objects. I was extremely pleased that her first set of words included practical ones that deviated from the persistent "Barney" and "Pooh Bear" mantra. My daughter has just turned 2, but can already speak short, complete sentences that clearly explain what she wants.
The First 1000 Words books are quite common and can be found in almost any bookstore. As there are numerous variations to this book, I recommend reviewing it for the following before you actually buy a copy:
(1) Ensure that the pictures are large and colorful, and that there are just enough words/pictures in every page. With the success of her first copy, I bought another book featuring other words/pictues, but found that too small pictures crammed into a single page confuses and bores my baby.
(2) Get a copy that already includes pages on shapes, colors, and numbers so your baby can learn these basic concepts as well.
(3) As much as possible, choose a book featuring pictures of items that can be found in your house or neighborhood. A book featuring seasons such as fall and winter, for example, would be harder to grasp by a child living in the Philippines.
(4) Baby girls may enjoy Disney's Princess Word Book, which showcases everyday objects used by (what else?) the beloved Disney princesses! My toddler was fascinated at the idea that Princess Aurora also goes to the bathroom and brushes her teeth. ;)
(5) Check the content of the book. My baby actually has a magnetic letter board that says "X" is for "Xmas". Granted, this particular error wasn't printed on a book, but you can never be too careful!
Jobs For Moms: Shady Interview
About a month ago, I decided to apply for a work from home job that just required good computer and typing skills. The company was not well-known, but as work from home jobs were scarce (and still are!), I decided to give it a go. I submitted my resume and eventually got called in for an interview.
Since I had applied for the job online and was not familiar with my prospective employer, my mother cautioned me to bring some company during the actual interview. I actually thought it unnecessary, but humored her anyway and had my husband tag along.
On the day of the interview we followed the directions sent via email. I was a bit disconcerted to find that the address was different from the one posted on the company website. My husband and I found ourselves in a rundown building at the edge of the business district. The guard had us sign in and told us to proceed up the stairs. We walked through a deserted hallway, passing units that were either locked or empty.
When we got to the interview site, we found ourselves in a room filled with stacks of computers and ledgers. The only other people in the room were two other interviewees (both female) and the company owner, who was conducting the interviews. The owner claimed that the room was usually filled with employees and remarked that it was odd that he was the only one in that day. While nothing untoward happened, I was grateful for my mother's advice and my husband's presence.
Learning Points:
(1) Better to be safe than sorry. If you're not familiar with the company and are called in for an interview, it would be best to have someone come along (even if only to drop you off after surveying the interview site).
(2) Sometimes, though we hate to admit it, mothers do know best. :)
Since I had applied for the job online and was not familiar with my prospective employer, my mother cautioned me to bring some company during the actual interview. I actually thought it unnecessary, but humored her anyway and had my husband tag along.
On the day of the interview we followed the directions sent via email. I was a bit disconcerted to find that the address was different from the one posted on the company website. My husband and I found ourselves in a rundown building at the edge of the business district. The guard had us sign in and told us to proceed up the stairs. We walked through a deserted hallway, passing units that were either locked or empty.
When we got to the interview site, we found ourselves in a room filled with stacks of computers and ledgers. The only other people in the room were two other interviewees (both female) and the company owner, who was conducting the interviews. The owner claimed that the room was usually filled with employees and remarked that it was odd that he was the only one in that day. While nothing untoward happened, I was grateful for my mother's advice and my husband's presence.
Learning Points:
(1) Better to be safe than sorry. If you're not familiar with the company and are called in for an interview, it would be best to have someone come along (even if only to drop you off after surveying the interview site).
(2) Sometimes, though we hate to admit it, mothers do know best. :)
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Games for Moms: Ace Attorney, NDS
OBJECTION!!!
Experience courtroom drama with this zany, addictive series from CAPCOM as you follow the adventures of Phoenix Wright, Defense Attorney.
Have you ever gone through a particularly mind numbing, level grinding, button pushing RPG and wished for a similar game with an awesome story and less action? Perhaps one that would still allow you to explore different territories, talk to people, and make decisions in order to unfold a tale; much like thumbing through pages of a book?
The Ace Attorney series will give you exactly that - a point-and-click adventure where you search for clues and eventually defend your client in court. Each clue and court session will unfold the story behind the mysterious case, often leading to a surprise, dramatic conclusion.
Each game has around 5 cases, giving you 5 full, entertaining adventures per purchase. There will be at least 1 case revolving around the personal life and history of one of the main characters, giving each one more depth and increasing their likeability factor. A wacky cast of recurring, supporting characters (or should I say - as I lovingly reminisce about the likes of "Windy Old Bag" and "Larry Butz" - creatures?) add to the mix, creating a world that you will come to know and love. It is for this reason I didn't take to Apollo Justice as I did the first 3 Phoenix Wright games in the series. I missed the interaction and familiarity with the original cast; something akin to the reluctance of letting go of a terribly worn, but undeniably comfortable, old shoe.
Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth is a spin-off featuring one of the main prosecutors in the Phoenix Wright series. This game enables you to take on a role from the other side of the courtroom. The gameplay is relatively the same as in Phoenix Wright, with investigation and rebuttal phases that give you game time in the crime scenes and courtroom, respectively. The key difference is that you can now control the character's movement as you search for evidence. The game has enough cameos and recurring characters from the original to appease die-hard fans, but really, a whole new game starring Miles Edgeworth? It's a no-brainer given his large fanbase!
Haven't had enough of our lovable defense attorney and his best friend (?), the prosecutor? Nab a copy of their manga at the local comic bookstore (also available at Fully Booked) for their further, wackier adventures!
Experience courtroom drama with this zany, addictive series from CAPCOM as you follow the adventures of Phoenix Wright, Defense Attorney.
Have you ever gone through a particularly mind numbing, level grinding, button pushing RPG and wished for a similar game with an awesome story and less action? Perhaps one that would still allow you to explore different territories, talk to people, and make decisions in order to unfold a tale; much like thumbing through pages of a book?
The Ace Attorney series will give you exactly that - a point-and-click adventure where you search for clues and eventually defend your client in court. Each clue and court session will unfold the story behind the mysterious case, often leading to a surprise, dramatic conclusion.
Each game has around 5 cases, giving you 5 full, entertaining adventures per purchase. There will be at least 1 case revolving around the personal life and history of one of the main characters, giving each one more depth and increasing their likeability factor. A wacky cast of recurring, supporting characters (or should I say - as I lovingly reminisce about the likes of "Windy Old Bag" and "Larry Butz" - creatures?) add to the mix, creating a world that you will come to know and love. It is for this reason I didn't take to Apollo Justice as I did the first 3 Phoenix Wright games in the series. I missed the interaction and familiarity with the original cast; something akin to the reluctance of letting go of a terribly worn, but undeniably comfortable, old shoe.
Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth is a spin-off featuring one of the main prosecutors in the Phoenix Wright series. This game enables you to take on a role from the other side of the courtroom. The gameplay is relatively the same as in Phoenix Wright, with investigation and rebuttal phases that give you game time in the crime scenes and courtroom, respectively. The key difference is that you can now control the character's movement as you search for evidence. The game has enough cameos and recurring characters from the original to appease die-hard fans, but really, a whole new game starring Miles Edgeworth? It's a no-brainer given his large fanbase!
Haven't had enough of our lovable defense attorney and his best friend (?), the prosecutor? Nab a copy of their manga at the local comic bookstore (also available at Fully Booked) for their further, wackier adventures!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Helper Horror #2 The Early Years
My earliest memory of a helper horror story was when I was 4 or 5 years old. The events are quite hazy in my head already. But I recall quite vividly the maid hiding me behind a couch and giving me the set of house keys. She told me to stay there and hold on to the keys. I did as I was told.
A few seconds later, I hear a horrified shout and see my brother (11 or12 years old at this time) running through the living room where I was "hidden". Hot on his heels was the same maid, brandishing a large pair of scissors.
The rest of the story I got from my mom as I honestly don't remember what happened afterwards. Apparently, my brother (yes, he survived unscathed and is still the bane of my existence or mayhap the other way around? lol) escaped to our neighbor's house. Our neighbor rushed back to our place to secure me as well. My parents came home to learn their kids were at the house next door. They got the full story from us and the maid was promptly dismissed.
Learning Points:
(1) Be sure your children know what to do and who to run to in case of an emergency (assuming neither parent is available).
(2) To be fair, my brother was an utter brat and very disrespectful of our hired help at the time. Of course, he did nothing to warrant being skewered, but it's always good to teach children to respect others - especially those who are caring for them.
A few seconds later, I hear a horrified shout and see my brother (11 or12 years old at this time) running through the living room where I was "hidden". Hot on his heels was the same maid, brandishing a large pair of scissors.
The rest of the story I got from my mom as I honestly don't remember what happened afterwards. Apparently, my brother (yes, he survived unscathed and is still the bane of my existence or mayhap the other way around? lol) escaped to our neighbor's house. Our neighbor rushed back to our place to secure me as well. My parents came home to learn their kids were at the house next door. They got the full story from us and the maid was promptly dismissed.
Learning Points:
(1) Be sure your children know what to do and who to run to in case of an emergency (assuming neither parent is available).
(2) To be fair, my brother was an utter brat and very disrespectful of our hired help at the time. Of course, he did nothing to warrant being skewered, but it's always good to teach children to respect others - especially those who are caring for them.
Games for Moms: PSP and DS
NES, SNES, 3DO, Sega Saturn, Neo Geo, Playstation 1, Playstation 2 - consoles I've known, loved, and tucked away in favor of handheld DS and PSP as soon as my little bundle of joy came out. Spending hours in front of the TV just won't cut it anymore! Thankfully, modern technology has evolved the simple Game & Watch into more sophisticated machines with more memory, better graphics, and less accessories (anyone else remember the bulky magnifying glass you can hook up to your Gameboy to create a bigger screen?) such that I can still enjoy my gaming experience without ignoring my child.
With the advent of handheld devices such as PSP and DS, I can still explore and conquer 3D worlds! And when my baby starts to holler - a menu here, a click there, and my journey is saved, ready to be resumed at the next nap time! PSP gains extra points for me for being able to remember where you left off even after you power down. This is something I take for granted when I pick up a DS. I sometimes turn it off thinking I'm holding my PSP - a true disaster after an hour of level grinding.
As a multitasking mom, I tend to look for "casual" games that are simple and straightforward, but unique and entertaining nonetheless. DS games often top the list in this category, simply because developers tend to inject more creative aspects to the games to make up for lower graphics and memory. Controls such as a touchscreen and a microphone leave plenty of room for innovative, ground breaking game concepts (Scribblenauts, anyone?). Still, PSP should not be dismissed - for where else can we enjoy our classic RPGs with graphics that are at least at par with PS2 games? Games like Patapon prove that you don't need to deviate from standard control buttons to develop something new and fresh.
This series of blogs will tackle my favorite handheld games and is dedicated to all gamer moms who have had the audacity to face the curious toddler who innocently picked up the bubblegum pink PSP and say,
"Sweetie, this is not a toy!"
With the advent of handheld devices such as PSP and DS, I can still explore and conquer 3D worlds! And when my baby starts to holler - a menu here, a click there, and my journey is saved, ready to be resumed at the next nap time! PSP gains extra points for me for being able to remember where you left off even after you power down. This is something I take for granted when I pick up a DS. I sometimes turn it off thinking I'm holding my PSP - a true disaster after an hour of level grinding.
As a multitasking mom, I tend to look for "casual" games that are simple and straightforward, but unique and entertaining nonetheless. DS games often top the list in this category, simply because developers tend to inject more creative aspects to the games to make up for lower graphics and memory. Controls such as a touchscreen and a microphone leave plenty of room for innovative, ground breaking game concepts (Scribblenauts, anyone?). Still, PSP should not be dismissed - for where else can we enjoy our classic RPGs with graphics that are at least at par with PS2 games? Games like Patapon prove that you don't need to deviate from standard control buttons to develop something new and fresh.
This series of blogs will tackle my favorite handheld games and is dedicated to all gamer moms who have had the audacity to face the curious toddler who innocently picked up the bubblegum pink PSP and say,
"Sweetie, this is not a toy!"
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Helper Horror #1: Threats, Lies, Thievery
Helper horror stories? I've got tons of these! This series of blogs will chronicle our worst, personal experiences as well as our learning points.
Our worst experience thus far was a maid/cook we hired via an agency. She stayed with us for a little over 3 months and was quite competent. She quickly became a family favorite, well-liked and trusted by everyone. One day she expressed agitation over her baby (not yet a year old) upon hearing the news that he had been admitted to a hospital due to a high fever that had already been raging for 3 days. My mother gave the maid her wages and advised her to take a leave already instead of waiting for her scheduled leave 2 days later. Oddly enough, she wasn't in a hurry to leave (I'd be panicking if my baby was taken to the hospital without me!). It took quite a bit of prodding to get her to rush to her baby's side. She reluctantly left in the afternoon.
A few days later, she asked for a loan of P5000 to pay for her baby's hospital bill. We usually don't agree to loans until a maid has been with us for at least 6 months, but due to the emergency, we agreed and sent the money via LBC.
Two weeks had passed and she still continued to request for extended leave - and more money! We contacted the agency by this time to explain that we badly needed a maid and requested for a replacement with the following conditions:
(1) Our current maid would be given a job elsewhere as soon as she was able. The agency claimed there were a lot of openings and this wouldn't be a problem.
(2) She may keep the initial P5000 we lent her as our aid to her child. We will give her more based on her latest plea for more money, which she could pay back in installments once she was working again.
The maid did not take to this well. She started sending threats and curses via text messages. Alarmed and confused at her rage and as to why she'd want to go back (most would be thrilled at not having to pay back P5000), we questioned our other helpers. They told us that the maid kept a locked drawer that no one was privy to. We jimmied it open and discovered stolen items including health cards belonging to myself, my husband, and my daughter; and a picture of my baby. We also found a pack of MSG, which we assumed she'd been putting in our food. It would explain the sudden spike in my mother's blood pressure (she's allergic to MSG, hence, we ban it from our kitchen) that couldn't be explained or controlled despite medication.
We reported the incident to the barangay office. Later that same day, the maid also went to the barangay to claim that we hadn't been paying her wages! We had no proof save for the testimonies of our other helpers. Thankfully, the maid's story had a lot of loopholes during the hearing and she refused to sign the documents presented by the barangay, so her complaints were dismissed. We still have the option of taking her to court for thievery.
Learning points:
(1) Keep a logbook and have your help sign every time you give them their salary.
(2) Make sure your hired help (especially if they come from an agency) can present an NBI and barangay clearance.
Our worst experience thus far was a maid/cook we hired via an agency. She stayed with us for a little over 3 months and was quite competent. She quickly became a family favorite, well-liked and trusted by everyone. One day she expressed agitation over her baby (not yet a year old) upon hearing the news that he had been admitted to a hospital due to a high fever that had already been raging for 3 days. My mother gave the maid her wages and advised her to take a leave already instead of waiting for her scheduled leave 2 days later. Oddly enough, she wasn't in a hurry to leave (I'd be panicking if my baby was taken to the hospital without me!). It took quite a bit of prodding to get her to rush to her baby's side. She reluctantly left in the afternoon.
A few days later, she asked for a loan of P5000 to pay for her baby's hospital bill. We usually don't agree to loans until a maid has been with us for at least 6 months, but due to the emergency, we agreed and sent the money via LBC.
Two weeks had passed and she still continued to request for extended leave - and more money! We contacted the agency by this time to explain that we badly needed a maid and requested for a replacement with the following conditions:
(1) Our current maid would be given a job elsewhere as soon as she was able. The agency claimed there were a lot of openings and this wouldn't be a problem.
(2) She may keep the initial P5000 we lent her as our aid to her child. We will give her more based on her latest plea for more money, which she could pay back in installments once she was working again.
The maid did not take to this well. She started sending threats and curses via text messages. Alarmed and confused at her rage and as to why she'd want to go back (most would be thrilled at not having to pay back P5000), we questioned our other helpers. They told us that the maid kept a locked drawer that no one was privy to. We jimmied it open and discovered stolen items including health cards belonging to myself, my husband, and my daughter; and a picture of my baby. We also found a pack of MSG, which we assumed she'd been putting in our food. It would explain the sudden spike in my mother's blood pressure (she's allergic to MSG, hence, we ban it from our kitchen) that couldn't be explained or controlled despite medication.
We reported the incident to the barangay office. Later that same day, the maid also went to the barangay to claim that we hadn't been paying her wages! We had no proof save for the testimonies of our other helpers. Thankfully, the maid's story had a lot of loopholes during the hearing and she refused to sign the documents presented by the barangay, so her complaints were dismissed. We still have the option of taking her to court for thievery.
Learning points:
(1) Keep a logbook and have your help sign every time you give them their salary.
(2) Make sure your hired help (especially if they come from an agency) can present an NBI and barangay clearance.
Books For Tots: Barney & Friends
If your toddler is as crazy about that purple dinosaur as mine is, you've most likely spent some time scouring the bookstores for the ever elusive Barney books. Unfortunately, these books typically won't be found at your local bookstore favorites - Powerbooks, Fully Booked, and National Bookstore. You'll end up feeling like you have the worst luck in the world when you hear these familiar words from the staff, "Oh, we just had some, but they were sold already. Barney sells very quickly, you know."How well I do! Because Barney is already considered outdated in the US, you would have better luck finding his books in Booksale and Books For Less. The best place would be the seasonal Bargain Books stalls that suddenly pop out in the middle of the mall. The one by the entrance connecting Landmark and Glorietta just reopened - in case you're interested ;)
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Toddler Travels: Ark Avilon Zoo, Pasig
Is your toddler or baby fond of animals? You don't need to go far to experience a real zoo - take a detour on the way to Tiendesitas and stop by Ark Avilon. This attraction is meant to be a sneak peek of the zoo's main branch in Rizal, but can hold its own by showcasing animals such as bears, deer, and a white tiger.
Best of all, you don't have to drag (or more likely, carry) your sensitive baby through miles of rough terrain under the sweltering sun to meet and greet with these wild creatures! Patterned after Noah's ark, most of your Ark Avilon experience would be in an enclosed area (both shady and clean!) with the exception of a petting zoo for farm animals at the 2nd level and a mock waterfall at the ground floor for their selection of birds.
The only drawback for me is the price - P300/person; P200/kids no taller than their ticketing counter. The admission fee is a tad extravagant given the small exhibit. Be sure to get that photo-op with the monkey to get your money's worth!
Travel Tips:
(1) Wear light clothing; though jeans are recommended for those who would be iffy at the thought of bumping into the animals that are allowed to roam around freely (mostly the birds).
(2) Call beforehand to check if there's a scheduled party or event so you can avoid a big crowd.
(3) If you have a thing against mice, stay away from the cages by the entrance. I am fond of the occassional hamster and guinea pig, but the sheer number of white mice and rodents on display made me imagine that one of the little critters may escape and find their way in our bags.
[gallery]
Best of all, you don't have to drag (or more likely, carry) your sensitive baby through miles of rough terrain under the sweltering sun to meet and greet with these wild creatures! Patterned after Noah's ark, most of your Ark Avilon experience would be in an enclosed area (both shady and clean!) with the exception of a petting zoo for farm animals at the 2nd level and a mock waterfall at the ground floor for their selection of birds.
The only drawback for me is the price - P300/person; P200/kids no taller than their ticketing counter. The admission fee is a tad extravagant given the small exhibit. Be sure to get that photo-op with the monkey to get your money's worth!
Travel Tips:
(1) Wear light clothing; though jeans are recommended for those who would be iffy at the thought of bumping into the animals that are allowed to roam around freely (mostly the birds).
(2) Call beforehand to check if there's a scheduled party or event so you can avoid a big crowd.
(3) If you have a thing against mice, stay away from the cages by the entrance. I am fond of the occassional hamster and guinea pig, but the sheer number of white mice and rodents on display made me imagine that one of the little critters may escape and find their way in our bags.
[gallery]
Friday, November 5, 2010
First Prayer
In an attempt to teach my toddler the sign of the cross...
Me: "In the name of the Father..."
Baby: "In the name of the Father..."
Baby glances at me triumphantly and exclaims, "Daddy is my father!"
Me: "In the name of the Father..."
Baby: "In the name of the Father..."
Baby glances at me triumphantly and exclaims, "Daddy is my father!"
"Micro" Work From Home
In my continuing quest for stay at home work, I stumbled upon microworkers.com. I did some research and most post/reviews indicated that this is a legitimate site that enables you to choose "micro" jobs that you can do from home - and yes, you get to earn money in the process! The only catch is that you have to reach $10 before you can withdraw. No problem. How hard can it be to earn $10?
So I check out the site to learn more about "micro" jobs. From the jobs list preview in the homepage I found that this type of work pretty much covers the following:
"Like [product] on Facebook"
"Post a blog"
"Post an entry"
"Sign Up/Register"
and each task would earn about $0.1 to $0.3. With a bit of math, it seems it would take nearly 100 of these micro tasks to reach $10.00.
Still, if you have some time on your hands and want to give it a go, there's really not much to lose and a bit to gain with a $1 bonus for every sign up ;)
And my search for the ultimate (paying) work from home job goes on...and on...
So I check out the site to learn more about "micro" jobs. From the jobs list preview in the homepage I found that this type of work pretty much covers the following:
"Like [product] on Facebook"
"Post a blog"
"Post an entry"
"Sign Up/Register"
and each task would earn about $0.1 to $0.3. With a bit of math, it seems it would take nearly 100 of these micro tasks to reach $10.00.
Still, if you have some time on your hands and want to give it a go, there's really not much to lose and a bit to gain with a $1 bonus for every sign up ;)
And my search for the ultimate (paying) work from home job goes on...and on...
Dissecting The Garbage Can Myth
This is an actual conversation I had with my 18 month old daughter one afternoon after I taught her to throw her empty jelly containers in the garbage can on the morning of the same day:
Baby: "Blanket garbage"
Me: "No, sweetie, you throw the blanket in the garbage, you'll never see it again. Anything you throw in the garbage you don't get to see again."
Baby stares at me a moment, then scrambles down from the bed and opens the garbage can.
Baby: "Jelly still there."
Baby: "Blanket garbage"
Me: "No, sweetie, you throw the blanket in the garbage, you'll never see it again. Anything you throw in the garbage you don't get to see again."
Baby stares at me a moment, then scrambles down from the bed and opens the garbage can.
Baby: "Jelly still there."
Amazing Race Asia Blues...
Arrrghh...I thought Jess and Lani finally got #1 spot only to land at a virtual pit stop!!! Talk about your cliffhangers...oh well, 1 week to the next ep... :p GO PHILIPPINES!!!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Toddler Travels: Gymboree, Westgate Alabang
Gymboree Westgate Alabang - unlike other kids' play areas that I'd rather not mention - proved to be kid-friendly with staff that is accommodating and courteous to Filipino and foreign children alike. My active toddler enjoyed her romp around the variety of colored tunnels, slides, ladders, balls, mats, and bridges. And mommy got quite a workout chasing her around too!
What sets this Gymboree branch apart from others of its kind (besides the competent and welcoming staff - sorry, I can't help but gripe about a bad experience with another branch) is its size, which is larger than some branches. The entrance also makes an impression. When you go through the doors, you'll first find yourself in a small space where you'll be asked to leave your shoes. The guard will also give you a generous spray of alcogel before you go through the second set of doors to the main reception and play area.
It's a bit pricey at P300+/hour (for non-members) - pretty much the same as similar kids' gyms, but of course nothing beats the price of a free run around the neighborhood playground ;) Still, if you're dealing with a baby or energetic toddler, its best to stick to playgrounds of this caliber that are fitted out with every kind of mat, foam, and safety measure.
Travel Tips:
(1) Only 1 adult can accompany the child once in the play area.
(2) Adults are required to wear socks. Children must not wear socks in the play area.
(3) Bring a change of clothing for your baby - and you!
(4) Pack a water bottle for your baby - and you!
(5) There's a sign that says you must keep your baby within hug's reach. Heed this well. Although the matted flooring keeps your child relatively unharmed from the unavoidable stumble/fall, there's little it can do against your toddler's attempt to launch herself from the top of the ladder.
What sets this Gymboree branch apart from others of its kind (besides the competent and welcoming staff - sorry, I can't help but gripe about a bad experience with another branch) is its size, which is larger than some branches. The entrance also makes an impression. When you go through the doors, you'll first find yourself in a small space where you'll be asked to leave your shoes. The guard will also give you a generous spray of alcogel before you go through the second set of doors to the main reception and play area.
It's a bit pricey at P300+/hour (for non-members) - pretty much the same as similar kids' gyms, but of course nothing beats the price of a free run around the neighborhood playground ;) Still, if you're dealing with a baby or energetic toddler, its best to stick to playgrounds of this caliber that are fitted out with every kind of mat, foam, and safety measure.
Travel Tips:
(1) Only 1 adult can accompany the child once in the play area.
(2) Adults are required to wear socks. Children must not wear socks in the play area.
(3) Bring a change of clothing for your baby - and you!
(4) Pack a water bottle for your baby - and you!
(5) There's a sign that says you must keep your baby within hug's reach. Heed this well. Although the matted flooring keeps your child relatively unharmed from the unavoidable stumble/fall, there's little it can do against your toddler's attempt to launch herself from the top of the ladder.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Books For Tots: Brainy Baby
Get a good grasp of the basics with the Brainy Baby series. These board books provide large, colorful images that introduce your child to the world of numbers, animals, shapes, colors, and letters.When I saw the word "baby" in the title, I imagined my little one would immediately take to these kinds of books. It wasn't exactly love at first sight for my baby. I learned that mere images weren't enough to amuse her and had to inject funny noises and animal sounds to make it more interesting. I also taught her that books were not toys - she could not fold, toss, or step on her books. Over time she came to respect and love these tiny tomes. These days a trip to the toy store makes her face light up, but a trip to the bookstore - ah, now there's a treat that can convince her to take a nap, eat her vegetables, or visit the doctor.
My baby now has two shelves dedicated to her in our mini library (my husband and I are quite the bookworms ourselves) and is close to occupying a third. And it all started with a little series called Brainy Baby. My daughter just turned 2 and has already memorized the contents of these books, but we still use them regularly to refresh her skills.
You can purchase a set of 4 board books at Toy Kingdom. A set comes in a bag with handle, making it convenient to lug around. It also makes it very presentable as a baptismal, birthday, or Christmas gift. ;)
Clean Up, Make Extra Money
Looking for extra cash? No better place to start than in your very own home.
Perhaps you have a pair of butterfly walking wings that were left unused when your child learned to walk long before meeting the size requirement. Or maybe you have a pair of brand new, branded, ultra expensive baby shoes that your toddler fitted perfectly, but refused to wear the moment you got home - and hasn't touched since. You may be an avid reader with oodles of old, aging books stocked on the bookshelves. And so on.
Clean up your house and earn some money by selling your used books, electronics, knick-knacks, and whatnot online. With the scores of Free Classfied Ads sites to choose from (I use sulit and olx myself :)), your modest garage sale can now reach out to millions of homes across the country.
Selling online is a tad different from dealing with a customer face-to-face in your own backyard. If this is your first attempt at this sort of transaction, here are some tips to see you through:
(1) Sell only items that are actually usable. Old is OK (it is secondhand stuff, after all), but it's main function/purpose should still hold. Books with worn covers and colored pages, for example, are still worthwhile so long as all the pages are intact (no torn or missing text). Selling quality items will increase your chances of getting good feedback/reviews, which, in turn, will help you get more customers in the long run.
(2) Take good photos of your products as this will be the main means for potential customers to inspect the quality of items for sale. In addition, most ad sites prioritize ads with photos.
(3) Be prepared to handle transactions remotely as you can get customers from any part of the Philippines. This means finding a reliable courier and knowing the corresponding fees. You also need to consider payment options such as GCASH, deposit to your bank account, or remittance via M Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier, LBC, or the like. Note that M Lhuillier and Cebuana Lhuillier are not related and/or interchangeable (i.e., payment made through ML Kwarta Padala can't be received through a Cebuana Lhuillier branch)
(4) As in all situations, especially in dealings over the Internet, always have your security in mind. Do not divuge too much information about yourself, only what's necessary to close your sale. When arranging meet ups, be sure it will be in a safe or public area. Having a companion along may be best. Think of your customer as well. Consistency between your given name and payment details (i.e., account name) will help convince your client that you're a legitimate seller.
(5) As exciting as it is to close a sale and gain some extra cash, know your limits in choosing items to sell. ;) Don't go overboard in trying to sell every little thing in your house. I know it's tempting to be rid of the knick knacks your packrat of a husband stocks in your house, but it's always prudent to ask first :)
Perhaps you have a pair of butterfly walking wings that were left unused when your child learned to walk long before meeting the size requirement. Or maybe you have a pair of brand new, branded, ultra expensive baby shoes that your toddler fitted perfectly, but refused to wear the moment you got home - and hasn't touched since. You may be an avid reader with oodles of old, aging books stocked on the bookshelves. And so on.
Clean up your house and earn some money by selling your used books, electronics, knick-knacks, and whatnot online. With the scores of Free Classfied Ads sites to choose from (I use sulit and olx myself :)), your modest garage sale can now reach out to millions of homes across the country.
Selling online is a tad different from dealing with a customer face-to-face in your own backyard. If this is your first attempt at this sort of transaction, here are some tips to see you through:
(1) Sell only items that are actually usable. Old is OK (it is secondhand stuff, after all), but it's main function/purpose should still hold. Books with worn covers and colored pages, for example, are still worthwhile so long as all the pages are intact (no torn or missing text). Selling quality items will increase your chances of getting good feedback/reviews, which, in turn, will help you get more customers in the long run.
(2) Take good photos of your products as this will be the main means for potential customers to inspect the quality of items for sale. In addition, most ad sites prioritize ads with photos.
(3) Be prepared to handle transactions remotely as you can get customers from any part of the Philippines. This means finding a reliable courier and knowing the corresponding fees. You also need to consider payment options such as GCASH, deposit to your bank account, or remittance via M Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier, LBC, or the like. Note that M Lhuillier and Cebuana Lhuillier are not related and/or interchangeable (i.e., payment made through ML Kwarta Padala can't be received through a Cebuana Lhuillier branch)
(4) As in all situations, especially in dealings over the Internet, always have your security in mind. Do not divuge too much information about yourself, only what's necessary to close your sale. When arranging meet ups, be sure it will be in a safe or public area. Having a companion along may be best. Think of your customer as well. Consistency between your given name and payment details (i.e., account name) will help convince your client that you're a legitimate seller.
(5) As exciting as it is to close a sale and gain some extra cash, know your limits in choosing items to sell. ;) Don't go overboard in trying to sell every little thing in your house. I know it's tempting to be rid of the knick knacks your packrat of a husband stocks in your house, but it's always prudent to ask first :)
Monday, November 1, 2010
Books For Tots: Hola! Soy Dora
Dora's Little Library was a big hit with my baby - and with me! One pack contains 5 books. Each book is a miniature, simplified version of an existing Dora book/adventure. At around 3x3 inches, these board books were perfect for my baby's little hands. She enjoyed flipping through the pages and picked up a lot of learning points. Dora's Little Library teaches the basics of numbers, words, and opposites in true Dora form i.e., English and Spanish ;)The second set I purchased, entitled Dora's New Adventures, introduces children to concepts such as siblings, school, doctor, dentist, and manners.
I'm quick to snap up one of these sets whenever I come across them - at less than P300 per packof 5 books, I get more value for my money than buying a single Dora book ranging from P150 to P350+. ;)
Where to Buy: Powerbooks and Fully Booked
Toddler Travels: Fun Ranch, Alabang
I went to Fun Ranch thinking I'd find animals (my daughter is overly fond of horses and ducks). Silly me! Instead, I feasted my eyes on this enormous children's play area encompassing 4-5 levels of plastic balls, obstacle courses, slides, foam, foam, and more foam.
At the time, my toddler was only a little over a year old, but already able to walk so I figured we'd give it a go. She had the time of her life. At the corner just past the entrance was the "toddler's area", a mini play area just 2 levels high in the shape of a ship. It had steps, a wheel, slide, a vat of balls, and tunnels. There was also a large cushion in the shape of a starfish where she launched herself and lay down quite happily.
Of course, I knew it wouldn't end there. Eventually she wanted to go exploring to the big kid's area. This humongous structure reminded me of the medieval "gauntlet" in the movie, First Knight. There was actually a large ball with spikes (made of foam of course) hanging down one of the levels as part of the intricate obstacle course designed for kids. Did I mention everything was made of foam? One of the highlights for me was a rickety bridge that was fully covered by a net on both ends giving you the feeling of being suspended without any danger of falling.
We didn't stay long in the non-toddler area, mostly because there was a party that day and there were a lot of screaming kids and teenagers running around and I feared my little girl would be trampled in the melee. Also, the choice means to return to the first level is via the slides. Otherwise, you'd have to go through these holes on the floor and there is the added danger of a baby falling through one. This is probably why they have a designated toddler area ;)
Other features of note are the availability of walkers and toy cars - though these were rather worn already. There was also a section with large foam (what else?) blocks wherein kids could build an actual castle or fort.
I've only brought my daughter to Fun Ranch that one time, but have resolved to bring her back when she's older and can explore the place in full. Also, the rather finicky and prissy mom in me likened it to a playground - I'm the type who likes to keep my baby in uber clean, open and/or semi-isolated areas. At least until she turns 2. :)
Travel Tips:
(1) Bring socks. If you forget, don't despair - they will sell you some at the ticket counter.
(2) Go on a weekday so it would be less crowded. Call beforehand to ensure there's no party and/or reservation.
(3) Bring a change of clothes for your baby. A towel and/or change of clothes for you as well. The place is air-conditioned, but is just at the right temperature (i.e., not overly cold). Your child is sure to sweat if he/she overexerts himself/herself.
(4) Be prepared to go through the obstacles courses yourself to keep tabs on your child, especially if he/she is just a toddler.
(5) When I was younger, I've read about the dangers of sharp objects that may find their way in sandboxes or pools/vats of balls. I've yet to experience this firsthand, but it doesn't hurt to inspect the area before you let your child swim in a pool of plastic balls.
At the time, my toddler was only a little over a year old, but already able to walk so I figured we'd give it a go. She had the time of her life. At the corner just past the entrance was the "toddler's area", a mini play area just 2 levels high in the shape of a ship. It had steps, a wheel, slide, a vat of balls, and tunnels. There was also a large cushion in the shape of a starfish where she launched herself and lay down quite happily.
Of course, I knew it wouldn't end there. Eventually she wanted to go exploring to the big kid's area. This humongous structure reminded me of the medieval "gauntlet" in the movie, First Knight. There was actually a large ball with spikes (made of foam of course) hanging down one of the levels as part of the intricate obstacle course designed for kids. Did I mention everything was made of foam? One of the highlights for me was a rickety bridge that was fully covered by a net on both ends giving you the feeling of being suspended without any danger of falling.
We didn't stay long in the non-toddler area, mostly because there was a party that day and there were a lot of screaming kids and teenagers running around and I feared my little girl would be trampled in the melee. Also, the choice means to return to the first level is via the slides. Otherwise, you'd have to go through these holes on the floor and there is the added danger of a baby falling through one. This is probably why they have a designated toddler area ;)
Other features of note are the availability of walkers and toy cars - though these were rather worn already. There was also a section with large foam (what else?) blocks wherein kids could build an actual castle or fort.
I've only brought my daughter to Fun Ranch that one time, but have resolved to bring her back when she's older and can explore the place in full. Also, the rather finicky and prissy mom in me likened it to a playground - I'm the type who likes to keep my baby in uber clean, open and/or semi-isolated areas. At least until she turns 2. :)
Travel Tips:
(1) Bring socks. If you forget, don't despair - they will sell you some at the ticket counter.
(2) Go on a weekday so it would be less crowded. Call beforehand to ensure there's no party and/or reservation.
(3) Bring a change of clothes for your baby. A towel and/or change of clothes for you as well. The place is air-conditioned, but is just at the right temperature (i.e., not overly cold). Your child is sure to sweat if he/she overexerts himself/herself.
(4) Be prepared to go through the obstacles courses yourself to keep tabs on your child, especially if he/she is just a toddler.
(5) When I was younger, I've read about the dangers of sharp objects that may find their way in sandboxes or pools/vats of balls. I've yet to experience this firsthand, but it doesn't hurt to inspect the area before you let your child swim in a pool of plastic balls.
Toddler Travels: Bonifacio High Street
I'm always looking for new places to visit that's both safe and enjoyable for my toddler :)
Bonifacio High Street in Global City, Taguig, tops my list. We go here at least once a week. My baby can freely run on the grass, admire the fountains, and interact with other children. There is also almost always an interesting assortment of dogs walking around, providing additional entertainment for a curious toddler. Best of all, there's no admission fee here! ;)
If you'd like to encourage reading, drop by Fully Booked's children's section. There are tables and chairs fit for your little ones and at least four "gondolas" of books that can be freely read. With a wide selection covering kids' favorites such as Dora (and Diego!), Thomas The Tank Engine, Disney, Sesame Street, etc., your toddler is sure to find a good read.
If toys are your thing, move on to Hobbes for a selection of educational and deluxe baby toys. Or simply cool down with a frozen yogurt.
The variety of shops and eateries here are sure to make this place a family favorite. All of the products are quite pricey, though. You must learn the fine art of window shopping to merit regular trips to this area. :)
Travel Tips:
(1) If you have a baby/toddler, weekday trips would be best so the place is not overcrowded.
(2) Afternoon is the best time to visit as this is when your child will be able to mingle with other kids.
(3) Most shops here open at 11AM.
(4) If your child plans to run around, pants and rubber shoes are highly recommended. Mosquito repellant never hurts either ;)
(5) If it's raining, you may want to take a rain check. The fountains are typically off when the weather is bad and you won't be able to roam around the open areas.
Bonifacio High Street in Global City, Taguig, tops my list. We go here at least once a week. My baby can freely run on the grass, admire the fountains, and interact with other children. There is also almost always an interesting assortment of dogs walking around, providing additional entertainment for a curious toddler. Best of all, there's no admission fee here! ;)
If you'd like to encourage reading, drop by Fully Booked's children's section. There are tables and chairs fit for your little ones and at least four "gondolas" of books that can be freely read. With a wide selection covering kids' favorites such as Dora (and Diego!), Thomas The Tank Engine, Disney, Sesame Street, etc., your toddler is sure to find a good read.
If toys are your thing, move on to Hobbes for a selection of educational and deluxe baby toys. Or simply cool down with a frozen yogurt.
The variety of shops and eateries here are sure to make this place a family favorite. All of the products are quite pricey, though. You must learn the fine art of window shopping to merit regular trips to this area. :)
Travel Tips:
(1) If you have a baby/toddler, weekday trips would be best so the place is not overcrowded.
(2) Afternoon is the best time to visit as this is when your child will be able to mingle with other kids.
(3) Most shops here open at 11AM.
(4) If your child plans to run around, pants and rubber shoes are highly recommended. Mosquito repellant never hurts either ;)
(5) If it's raining, you may want to take a rain check. The fountains are typically off when the weather is bad and you won't be able to roam around the open areas.
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