currant7

J.Co donuts ETA February 2012

2012-01-24T22:20:00.005+08:00

I can't wait for February and it's not because of Valentine's Day...it's because of these...

I'm excited!
Doesn't it make your mouth water!

It's from a donut company called J.Co and it's been around Asia for awhile now.
I heard from a friend who was lucky enough to get these early as a "preview" that there are more interesting flavors and that it's not overly sugary/sweet compared to other donuts in the market...so you can eat more than just one without having to grow tired of donuts on the same day! Yummy!!!

More information about this delicious donuts is here.

Chiquita Feature Alert : That Dog Next Door

2012-01-10T21:52:00.001+08:00

It always amazes me on how much appeal our little Chiquita even without us promoting her.
In Nov 2011, someone approached me to do a feature on out little girl for a dog website. I was pretty surprised with the pitch but was game.
It wasn't till I saw the feature a month after that I have to say...I'm uber proud of the "star appeal" this girl can garner. To the point of having strangers do feature on her. Amazing!

This is a shout out for our baby Chi's recent feature online at ThatDogNextDoor. Thank you so much for the feature Denise!

There's supposedly another with a feature of her as what my friend, Maiko, informed me...another store feature of Chiqui but I'm still tracking this down. Will update accordingly.

Kikay Kendz' Christmas giveaway

2011-12-12T23:40:00.008+08:00

After a BFF's Christmas gift of make-up lessons and a photo shoot after, I've been more keen in knowing what make-up's would work for me and got a few valuable tips on applying make-up better. (Thank you Tam!)
It's a pretty intense class offered in PureBeauty in Serendra...that teacher beginners to professionals. My favorite segment was shaping our eyebrows!

So when I found out that a fellow blogger friend of mine will be offering make-up...correction -good suitable make-up for me up for grabs, there was no hesitation for me to try my luck!
Who would say no to Good quality make-up!?!

More details are on KikayKendz' site : http://kikaykendz.wordpress.com/2011/12/08/birthday-christmas-give-aways/#entry
The requirement are easy so why not?

Go give it a go for those Filipina friends of mine!

Dainty Mom & Latch A Babe Contest

2011-11-23T23:42:00.004+08:00

Being a mother who wants the best for her child, I try to do the best that I can for my son's betterment. Breastfeeding is one of the best things I can do for him. So, finding the right nursing wear to further make breastfeeding easier when I'm out is tough. I'm thankful that there are other enterpreneur mothers saw the need and did something about it. Currently, there is a surge of nursing top options out in the market that is both functional and stylish for everyday use at affordable prices.
Thus, if there's any way to promote (and maybe have the chance to win) them, I'm all for it!

I've been a fan of Latch a Babe for a while now but never got the chance to really visit them. I'd just be checking out their Facebook album and be having wish list toughts in my head. Obviously I didn't expect to have the chance to get any of their items till now!!! Check out below.

Dainty Mom and Latch a Babe is having a contest wherein one can walk away with these prizes:
1/ Latch a Babe top.
2/ Discount Coupons from Latch a Babe, giving you 20% off on any of their products

Check out some of the options below. Aren't they so cute!!!

Game Mechanics are below:

(a) This contest is governed by DaintyMom’s contest policies.

(b) You must be a resident of the Philippines.

(c) You may submit your entries until December 1, 2011 11:59 PM via Dainty Mom's site - http://daintymom.com/2011/11/latch-a-babe-nursing-and-maternity-wear-review-contest/
More details are indicated in her site.

So join if you can!

Autumn Rising...Outing to be

2011-11-02T23:16:00.006+08:00

There's now a breeze in the evening and the days are shorter compared to nights. You all know what that means...it's closing in Christmas...and what perfect way to commemorate this than by taking in the new kit by MKC called All Spice: the Kit available at TDC. :)

I was inspired by the labels in this kit that I found my inspiration for a recent family photoshoot for this kit.

Credits: All Spice: the Kit by MKC available at TDC; Font: Trubble

All's well with the family right now. No one is currently sick so I'm happy.
Bazaars are popping left and right around the Metro. I'm starting on Christmas shopping to avoid the rush and having to worry about not finding the "right gifts" for friends, family and relatives.

Also, we are planning a short trip this coming long weekend so we are all excited since it would also mean it's Colin's first out-of-town trip, aside from coming home from HKG around a year ago. My my my...how fast time flies!

2012 Calendar Project

2011-10-28T00:16:00.005+08:00

It's that time of the year...when calendar templates are the biggest essential for a scrapper like me. I know I started these early on when we first got our little chihuahua, Chiqui then the year after, we did a whole spread of Colin. Now, I'm hoping to do a balance of the two but with so many new photos of Colin, we shall see. :P Poor little Chiqui...

I used MKC's 2012 Calendar Dots & Stripes available at TDC for my 2012 calendar project. I loved how easy it is to use with some frames and some templates - you can add your photo and some cute comment as easy as 1, 2 and 3. How can you go wrong with this kit???!!!

Here's my take on this really cool calendar template!

Credits: MKC's 2012 Calendar Dots & Stripes available at TDC, elements from other MKC kits like Planes, Trains & Automobiles, Just So You Know, and Thirfty Finds.

So far, Colin and I are doing better but we still need to watch out. There's a few bad virus lurking around town and from what I've been hearing from other parents, it's hitting them pretty hard. Be safe everyone!

Long weekend is around us but I've scheduled a few Halloween parties for Colin this week. Todays' the start till Saturday. I'm hoping to also squeeze in another for Sunday &/or Monday but we shall see how it goes. It's one crazy weekend!

Boys & Their Toys

2011-10-20T15:40:00.006+08:00

Oh, it's great to be back and well again.

After taking a short trip to HKG, I caught something and had to be confined for about 3 days...this upon learning that my fever wouldn't go away for 3 straight days. To make matters worst, Colin was also sick (not from me but from a virus going around while we were away) so the tough part of juggling getting well and taking care of the little one. I'm thankful for supportive parents, spouse and nanny to boot.

On another note, It's great to be back scrapping and with tons of great goodies to use, finding the right photo for the kit is key. I got excited when I learned of MKC's Planes, Trains & Automobiles - The Collection available at TDC. It's so perfect for Colin's recent photos and his love for any vehicular. I believe it's his father's brainwashing is to blame.
It's a lot lot lot of papers and elements that made me giddy in my knees when I saw the collection. The colors are vibrant and the vehicle elements so rocks! I recommend this kit whether it be for boys or girls since it can work as a travel kit &/or a boy exploration topic.

I've got the perfect photo for this kit...Colin's 1 year photoshoot! It was a sure hoot to take and I'm so happy to have the photo below be scrapped. :D

Credits: MKC's Planes, Trains & Automobiles - The Collection available at TDC; Font - Foxjump

agnes b. Store Update (Enfant & Layette)

2011-09-18T09:46:00.004+08:00

I'm excited for this...

anges b. ENFANT & LAYETTE is now officially launched in Hong Kong!!!

Passionate for freedome and unrestrained lifestyle, Agnes B. loves children by their innoncence and pureness! Their simplicity and virtue echo to her “young at heart” essence, which makes her to create the agnes b. ENFANT and LAYETTE collection.

agnes b. ENFANT & LAYETTE
Shop 305, The Lee Gardens, Causeway Bay HK
852.2907.2386

Also available in
Shop 3089-97 Podium Level 3, ifc Mall, Central Hong Kong / 852.2805.0678
Shop LG I-40, Festival Walk, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon / 852.2265.7018

12 Reasons Babies Cry and How to Soothe Them

2011-09-02T10:13:00.004+08:00

12 Reasons Babies Cry and How to Soothe Them
by Dana Dubinsky

Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board
Last updated: January 2011

Hunger

A dirty diaper

Needs sleep

Wants to be held

Tummy troubles (gas, colic, and more)

Needs to burp

Too cold or too hot

Something small

Teething

Wants less stimulation

Wants more stimulation

Not feeling well

What to do if your baby's still crying

There's no getting around it: Babies cry. It's how they communicate hunger, pain, fear, a need for sleep, and more.

So how are parents supposed to know what their baby is trying to tell them? It can be tricky to interpret your child's cries, especially at first.
Here are the most common reasons babies cry. If your little one is wailing and you don't know why, work your way down the list. Chances are you'll find something that helps.

1. Hunger
This is probably the first thing you think of when your baby cries.
Learning to recognize the signs of hunger will help you start your baby's feedings before the crying stage. Some signs to watch for in newborns: fussing, smacking of lips, rooting (a newborn reflex that causes babies to turn their head toward your hand when you stroke their cheek), and putting their hands to their mouth.

2. A dirty diaper
Some babies let you know right away when they need to be changed. Others can tolerate a dirty diaper for quite a while.
Either way, this one is easy to check and simple to remedy.

3. Needs sleep
Aren't babies lucky? When they're tired they can simply go to sleep – anytime, anywhere. Or so adults like to think.

In reality, it's harder for them than you might think. Instead of nodding off, babies may fuss and cry, especially if they're overly tired.

Parents' voices
We thought our daughter was colicky for the first five weeks of life, until we read about how babies get really cranky if they're exhausted. After we started putting her to sleep as soon as she yawned the first time at any time of the day, she cried a lot less and had fewer problems with gas.
— Anonymous

I've noticed that if my baby starts crying after being played with, fed, and changed, and she's been up for a while, she is overtired! I just hold her close, talk to her in a soft voice, and let her cry. She doesn't cry hard when I hold her like that. She makes funny fussy noises with her eyes closed. Before long, she's sound asleep.
— Stefanie

My 2 ½-month-old is so interested in everything that she doesn't want to stop being part of it by falling asleep. Yet she's tired and cranky at the same time. Minimizing sensory input sometimes helps her feel like she's not "missing something" by settling down. (And then there are the times when she's just going to cry no matter what I do.)
— Anonymous

4. Wants to be held
Babies need a lot of cuddling. They like to see their parents' faces, hear their voices, and listen to their heartbeats, and can even detect their unique smell. Crying can be their way of asking to be held close.

You may wonder if you'll spoil your baby by holding him so much, but during the first few months of life that isn't possible. To give your arms some relief, try wearing your baby in a front carrier or sling.

Parents' voices
I like to lightly wrap my daughter in a soft blanket, hold her in a nursing position and lightly stroke her face and head. She loves feeling my hands in her hair and calms down pretty quickly.
— Tiffany

My son loves to hear my voice, so when he cries uncontrollably, I hold him close to my chest and tell him that Mommy is here and will protect him. Within minutes, he is sleeping in my arms!
— Jey

5. Tummy troubles (gas, colic, and more)
Tummy troubles associated with gas or colic can lead to lots of crying. In fact, the rather mysterious condition called colic is defined as inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day, at least three days a week, at least three weeks in a row.

If your baby often fusses and cries right after being fed, he may be feeling some sort of tummy pain. Many parents swear by over-the-counter anti-gas drops for babies or gripe water (made from herbs and sodium bicarbonate) . Get your doctor's okay before using either of these.
Even if your baby isn't colicky and has never been fussy after eating, an occasional bout of gas pain can make him miserable until he works it out. If you suspect gas, try something simple to eliminate it such as putting him on his back, holding his feet, and moving his legs in a gentle bicycling motion.

Discover other possible causes of babies abdominal pain, including reflux, stomach flu, milk allergy, lactose intolerance, constipation, and intestinal blockage.

Parents' voices
One time when my daughter was 9 months old she cried inconsolably for two hours. She had never done that before (nursing was always the answer to everything, but this time she wouldn't even nurse) and we had to catch a cross-country flight. The doctor told me to take her to a nearby clinic. While we waited in the exam room, she let out a big fart, and after that she was fine. It was just gas.
— Kate

When my daughter was a baby she was gassy a lot, and would scream and cry in pain. I would give her some infant gas drops, lay her on my bed on her back, and gently push her knees up to her belly in a rocking motion and sing a little song. Soon she would let out some farts and be fine.
— Wife & mommy of two

If your baby is wearing any kind of pants, especially with a somewhat snug elastic waist, try pulling the waistband away from the belly to see if it helps. Sometimes that little bit of pressure hurts their tummy.
— Mom of 2

Just found out why my baby has been crying badly for the last day and a half – he was constipated! He finally passed a 4-inch poop that was very, very hard. Suppositories work wonders.
— txblondetori

6. Needs to burp
Burping isn't mandatory. But if your baby cries after a feeding, a good burp may be all he needs.
Babies swallow air when they breastfeed or suck from a bottle, and if the air isn't released it may cause some discomfort. Some babies are intensely bothered by having air in their tummy, while others don't seem to burp or need to be burped much at all.

Parents' voices
My little one often cries because he has a difficult time burping after a feed, even with back rubbing and patting. What I found helps is some "tummy time." He'll often let out a great big burp after a few minutes on his tummy.
— Anonymous

I can't count how many times I've burped (or tried unsuccessfully to burp) my little one when she's fussy after a feeding. Some more walking around and patting on the back will sometimes let loose a HUGE belch – no wonder she was crying!
— NovPiglet

7. Too cold or too hot
When your baby feels chilly, such as when you remove his clothes to change a diaper or clean his bottom with a cold wipe, he may protest by crying.
Newborns like to be bundled up and kept warm — but not too warm. As a rule, they're comfortable wearing one more layer than you need to be comfortable. Babies are less likely to complain about being too warm than about being too cold, and they won't cry about it as vigorously.

8. Something small
Babies can be troubled by something as hard to spot as a hair wrapped tightly around a tiny toe or finger, cutting off circulation. (Doctors call this painful situation a "hair tourniquet," and it's one of the first things they look for if a baby seems to be crying for no reason.)
Some babies are extra sensitive to things like scratchy clothing tags or fabric.And they can be very picky (understandably) about subtleties ranging from the position they're held in to the bottle you offer.

Parents' voices
It helps me to think, "What could be making me uncomfortable if I were her?" These are some weird ones I've come up with: Is my finger or foot stuck/cramped? Do I need to sit/lie differently? The pacifier tastes gross and needs washing. This tag or outfit is itchy. It's colder near the floor. The light is too bright and the TV is annoying – I want soft music instead.
— cunnincl25

Something I've found that irritates my son is a hair wrapped around his penis. If you have a baby boy, be sure to check for hair in his diaper, since it is very sensitive down there.
— Anon

My 2-month-old cried whenever we fed him. But sometimes he'd drink ravenously, so he was obviously hungry. The problem vanished when we switched to a different brand of nipple.
— Anonymous

9. Teething
Teething can be painful as each new tooth pushes through tender young gums. Some babies suffer more than others, but all are likely to be fussy and tearful at some point along the way.
If your baby seems to be in pain and you're not sure why, try feeling his gums with your finger. You may be surprised to discover the hard nub of a baby tooth on its way in.
On average, the first tooth breaks through between 4 and 7 months, but it can happen earlier. Find out more about teething and how to ease the pain.

10. Wants less stimulation
Babies learn from the stimulation of the world around them, but sometimes they have a hard time processing it all — the lights, the noise, being passed from hand to hand. Crying can be a baby's way of saying, "I've had enough."

Many newborns enjoy being swaddled. It seems to make them feel more secure when the world gets overwhelming. If your baby's too old for swaddling or doesn't like it, try retreating to a serene spot and letting your baby vent for a while to manage a meltdown.

Parents' voices
Swaddling is a huge help, especially to infants. Being tightly wrapped mimics being in the womb and my daughter loved it.
— anonymous

My 6-month-old gets very excited (overexcited would be the right word) after we have fun together. He starts laughing at the most ridiculous sounds and when everything is quiet he starts to cry. That's when we sit on the bed with propped pillows and I read to him in a very low and soothing tone. He calms down in no time and goes to sleep!
— wajiha06

11. Wants more stimulation
A "demanding" baby may be outgoing and eager to see the world. And often the only way to stop the crying and fussing is to stay active. This can be exhausting for you!
Try "wearing" your baby in a sling, front carrier, or backpack. (Watch our video on baby carriers.) Plan plenty of activities. Hang out with other parents with babies. Go on regular outings to kid-friendly places, whether that's your local playground, a children's museum, or the zoo.

Parents' voices
My 7-month-old wants constant activity going on around him. If I put him on the floor with his toys while I work on the computer, he fusses. He's happiest when I pop him in a baby carrier while I wash dishes, do laundry, and other housework. He's also especially peaceful in stores and other public places because he's so interested in and curious about the world.
— Anonymous

12. Not feeling well
If you've met your baby's basic needs and comforted him and he's still crying, he could be coming down with something. You may want to check his temperature to rule out a fever and be alert for other signs of illness.

The cry of a sick baby tends to be distinct from one caused by hunger or frustration. If your baby's crying "just doesn't sound right," trust your instincts and call or see a doctor.

What to do if your baby's still crying
Full tummy? Check. Clean diaper? Check. Fever-free? Check.
So why is your baby crying? Babies have their own good reasons. But even the wisest parents can't read their babies' mind – and babies don't have the words to tell us what's wrong.
Fortunately, you can offer comfort without knowing the cause of distress. You'll find lots of tried-and-true methods in our article on what to do when your baby cries for "no reason."

What to do when your baby cries for "no reason"

Something to suck on

Snuggling and swaddling

Music & rhythm

White noise

Fresh air

Warm water

Motion

Massage

More ideas : Give yourself a break

Full tummy? Check. Clean diaper? Check. Fever-free? Check.
So why is your baby crying? Babies have their own good reasons. But even the wisest parents can't read their babies' mind – and babies don't have the words to tell us what's wrong.

If you haven't already looked at 12 reasons babies cry and how to soothe them, you may want to start there. If you still need strategies, read on. Fortunately, you can offer comfort without knowing the cause of distress.
Here are some tried and true methods:
Something to suck on
Sucking can steady a baby's heart rate, relax his stomach, and calm flailing limbs. Offer a pacifier or a finger to clamp onto and let your baby go to town.
Snuggling and swaddling
Newborns like to feel as warm and secure as they did in the womb: Try swaddling your baby in a blanket, wearing your baby, or holding him against your shoulder to re-create that feeling. Some babies find swaddling or cuddling too constrictive and respond better to other forms of comfort such as rhythmic movement or sucking a pacifier.

Parents' voices
My daughter loves to be swaddled . . . TIGHTLY. The tighter the swaddle, the bigger her smile. She also has a favorite fleece blanket that I warm up in the dryer for a few minutes before wrapping her in it.
— Anon

Music & rhythm
Try playing music, singing a lullaby or your favorite song, and dancing around the room. Experiment with different kinds of music to see what your baby responds to.

Parents' voices
We've found the best way to soothe our little one is to put on some music and dance with him. His body relaxes after about two songs and he even falls asleep sometimes. The rhythm and movement seem to do the trick.
– Tracee

White noise
The growl of a vacuum cleaner might not seem very soothing, but many babies are calmed by a steady flow of "white noise" that blocks out other noises – much like the constant whoosh of bodily sounds they heard in the womb.

Parents' voices
One thing that soothes my baby is the sound of water. I stand with him cradled in my arms with the tap running and humming his favorite song close to his ear. Within a few minutes he has calmed down!
— Melissa

The white noise of the bathroom fan works great. I carry my daughter into the bathroom and run the fan in there. It usually just takes a few seconds and she is calm again.
— Anon

My two boys love the sound of the vacuum. Several times, when my now-5-year-old was a baby, we just let the vacuum run outside his bedroom door.
— Anon

I had read about white noise as a soother for babies. So I recorded a few minutes of the fountain in front of the pediatrician' s office. Now whenever my son gets a bit fussy, I play it on the home stereo and BAM! Within seconds he calms right down. The sound of my guitar works too, as I used to play a lot while he was in utero. — Dave

Fresh air
Sometimes simply opening the front or back door and stepping outside with your baby stops the crying instantly. If it works, savor the moment: Look around, look up at the sky, talk to your baby about the world around your home – whether it's a quiet cul-de-sac or a busy city street.

Warm water
Like fresh air, warm water can soothe and put a stop to your baby's tears.

For a change from a bath, try holding your baby in your arms under a gently running shower. Don't push it if your baby doesn't like the noise or splashing water, but some babies really take to it. Just make sure your shower is slip-proof.

Motion
The movement involved in being carried in your arms or a carrier may be enough. Other ways to get your baby in motion: a rocking chair, swing, or bouncy seat; setting your baby in a car seat on the dryer while it's on (don't walk away, though – the dryer's vibrations can cause the seat to move and fall off!); a ride in the stroller or car.

Parents' voices
When my baby has her "evening fussiness" I hold her and bounce on an exercise ball. This soothes her to sleep and I get in some exercise and cuddling at the same time.
— Emmezmommy

Massage
Most babies love to be touched, so a massage might be just the thing. Don't worry about not knowing the perfect movements — as long as they're gentle and slow, they should bring comfort.
More ideas
For more tips on soothing a fussy baby, see our article on coping with colic. Even if your baby doesn't have colic, take a look. You'll find strategies that work for all sorts of fussy babies.

Parents' voices
If I've tried everything and my son is still crying, I just start over. I take off all his clothes, change his diaper, rub him down with a bit of calming lotion, get him dressed, hold him close, and if he's still crying, feed him. It always seems to work.
— Anon

Give yourself a break
A crying baby who can't easily be soothed puts a lot of stress on parents. Thankfully, as your baby gets older, he'll be better able to soothe himself and much of the crying will stop.
In the meantime, don't feel guilty about taking care of yourself as well as your baby. It'll make you a more patient and loving parent. When you're reaching your limit, try these tips:
Put your baby down in a safe place and let him cry for a while.
Call a friend or relative and ask for advice
Let someone you trust take over for a while.
Put on quiet music to distract yourself.
Take deep breaths.

Remind yourself that crying in itself won't hurt your baby – and he may just need the release.
Repeat to yourself, "My baby will outgrow this phase."
Whatever you do, don't express your frustration by shaking your baby.

Parents' voices
I'm a first-time mother. I can handle the sleepless nights and dirty diapers, but the crying can be a bit overwhelming. I've cried with the baby. Sometimes when it gets to be too much, I just step back, take a deep breath, hand the baby over to my husband and tell him it's "me time."
— Anonymous

When my son cries for no reason, I try reading books and showing him the pictures. Sometimes he is just gassy and I let him lie on his tummy and it helps. Other times he just needs to cry so I let him cry for five minutes or so and then try soothing him.
— pnk_da_z

I always try to remember what someone once told me: "Sometimes everyone just needs a good cry. How would you feel if you needed to cry and someone wouldn't let you but tried everything to stop your crying." Now I just hold my baby and let him cry. He knows I'm there and he'll stop when he feels better.
— Anonymous

It took me a while to learn that it was okay to put my baby in his crib for a break during crying fits. Sometimes just a five-minute break from the crying is enough to refresh a weary and frustrated parent and give you the energy to continue your comforting and investigating.
— luke & max

Sew...long over due...

2011-08-04T00:33:00.005+08:00

Got some partial news - I made some life-changing decision for myself and my family. It's definitely something I had thought long and hard. I had to weigh in so many things but is happy with my decision. I will tell you more when it becomes official. Stay tuned...for now, I'm so happy to be back scrapbooking again. As a start, I played with Sew Cute by Sugarplum Paperie, Danielle Engebretson Designs and MKC.

Show off your Beautiful Handmade Crafts with this adorable kit from Sugarplum Paperie, Danielle Engebretson Designs and Mari Koegelenberg Creations. Packed with Gorgeous Shabby & Chic Papers, Unique Elements and the cutest set of Word Art you will love creating special keepsakes with this Collaboration Kit.
Have a look below:-

I had to use one of my favorite photos of C - he's my original little man, made with love.
Credits: Sew Cute - a Collaboration between Sugarplum Paperie, Danielle Engebretson Designs and MKC

Lactation Coaches in HKG

2011-06-29T21:51:00.002+08:00

Before calling up any of the lactation coaches below, I would recommend that you first go to a La Leche League meeting. I think LLL is one of the best resources for breastfeeding mothers in Hong Kong. Often, a leader from the group can help you with problems before you need to hire a lactation consultant. Sometimes, breastfeeding is rough no matter what you do.
http://www.lllhk.org/Englishindex.html

If after the meetings, you still find a need for a lactation coach/consultant, you can try to below. A small disclosure...I didn't personally try them. I just compiled the list for a friend and thought this might be useful for other breastfeeding mothers.

1.) Lotus Lactation. Sarah Hung has been active with LLL. time with breastfeeding.
http://www.lotuslactation.com/about.html

2.) May Hui does home visits. Note that I have heard that she gives painful massages with sometimes moms get a fever the following day. May Hui's number is 852 9070 2668

3.) Wendy at Annerley - her direct number is: 852 6575 8564.
http://www.amidwife.com/doula.htm
http://www.amidwife.com/pricelist2.htm

ALENDRONATE - FOSAMAX WARNING

2011-06-11T08:31:00.010+08:00

This is a late update but I do want to spread the word about this medication for osteoperosis and its side effects that affected my family.

GENERIC NAME: ALENDRONATE - ORAL (a-LEN-droe-nate)
BRAND NAME(S): Fosamax

DECEMBER 2010
My mom broke her right femur (thigh bone) in December last year. She didn't fall or anything. She was talking to my dad at home beside the bed and was leaning to her left. She moved to her right and maybe twisted her leg a bit or maybe moved her full weight on her right leg then she then heard a "crack" and fell to the floor.

My dad and I & E were there and I called my brother and his wife. My mom was in pure pain but her being a doctor, instructed my dad and I calmly find something to immobilize her upper leg.
By the time my brother and wife arrived, mom was lying on the floor with her leg in a makeshift splint. We called the ambulance and she was rushed to the hospital.
The doctor came to see her around lunch time the following day and looked at the Xrays and said it was most likely a metastasis of her breast cancer.

Actually mom, a breast cancer patient (2 years and counting), had been experiencing pain/weakness in her legs for a few months. A few weeks before this accident, her bone scan showed some suspicious areas in both her femurs. A subsequent MRI showed that they more likely were not cancer cells but the doctors could not rule it out. Her oncologist said that likely they were not cancer cells because they appeared in symmetrically in both femurs and in the exact same spot of each femur.

Anyway, we were also thinking that it might be because mom has been taking Fosamax for 10 years now. Recently, there have been more cases of strange fractures (hip, femur, etc.) for people who were taking Fosamax long term.

Mom's X-rays are below. The cut was very clean, no jagged edges. The doctor said they only see clean breaks like these if one was hit by a car.

Her operation was scheduled at 8pm that evening but was actually operated on at 10pm and then everything was done by 12am. She woke up at 3am and was wheeled to the room. Dad stayed with her in hospital that evening.

At any rate, when they did the operation last night, they put a pin and bone cement into the leg. They also did a biopsy of the bone area, but the doctor said after looking at it he has changed his mind and thinks that it is Fosamax, not Cancer. So that is the great news!

The doctor was so sure that it wasn't Fosamax before the operation because he reasoned that most of the Fosamax cases he's seen are fractures in a slightly higher area, than where mom's is. Now that he has changed his mind, he is now equally sure that it is not Cancer.

Anyway, we waited the official biopsy results which should be out in a week and the fracture is caused by long term Fosamax use until anything else changes.
Everyone was in good spirits after knowing this and everyone is in a good mental state.

Also, we will have to think of what to do with the left femur. The bone scan also showed the same suspicious area. The family is thinking that we should also put a pin and bone cement (and also get a biopsy). Otherwise, we will just be waiting for another fracture down the road, but we'll see what the options are. The doctor seems to think that if it is not cancer, there are other ways to strengthen the bone rather than operating to put a pin and cement. We'll see.

Please tell your family and friends to to stop taking Fosamax for more than 5 years. The side effects are pretty limited in writing but I know there are some here and the list seems to grow by the day.

*********************************

Further updates...

JANUARY 2011
Mom, with the support of the family, to have her left femur operated on to ensure no further fractures to happen. The doctor recommended this time to cement and pin the leg, unlike what was done on the right femur.

FEBRUARY 2011
After much complaints from mom that she is still unstable when she walks up to now on her right side, mom also had her right femur operated on by replacing a thicker rod (cement) and place a pin on both top and bottom of the rod for added stability and balance.

Baby Essentials (updated 20 Apr 2011)

2011-04-26T23:00:00.003+08:00

Our Top Baby Essentials are:-

Bibs, lots of them since Colin drools a lot and we used these little tissue paper!
Moving mobile like the ones from tiny love because it was a handy toy that kept him busy while we changed him
Baby carrier that can be used for enfants up to 2 years old like from Combi's Magical Compact; very handy when we travel or take walks
Baby pants because they are good cover-ups from bugs/mosquitos during the evenings especially when Colin is asleep and kicks his blanket often
A good breast pump; preferably one that can also be used in the car because you'll be married to it for roughly 6 months or more; it gives you the freedom to still pump anywhere...especially for working mothers
Teether - whether it be with water or not, it helped a lot for babies with fast growing teeth.
Baby safety bed railing especially for parents that cohabit with their babies; avoid the risk of having baby fall out of bed during midnight feedings and it can later be used for when they star sleeping on their own beds
Bib clips like these because not all bibs fit exactly to your babies and sometimes the necklines have gaps that aren't effective in soaking baby's drool or milk...with the clips, you can adjust as the grow

Top 5 "shouldn'ts" are:-

Infant shoes...b/c they don't really get used aside from maybe for parties and they get outgrown quite quickly; get baby socks instead
Baby nail clippers especially if you don't have steady hands and a light sleeper baby...better to just use a nail file to avoid accidents
Pretty maternity tops...best to invest in nursing tops instead because you'll use it more after pregnancy; get normal stretched tops when you are pregnant or borrow if you can
Too much infant/newborn baby cloths...they outgrow it too soon; I know it's too tempting due to the sheer amount of uber cute baby cloths but do resist and borrow if you can...also babies don't regularly attend parties so do resist buying too many party cloths
Baby sleeper like these because they outgrow it too fast and in our case, Colin prefers body heat a lot than sleeping alone in this bed...FYI our parents were concern that I'd roll over Colin when we cohabit so this was our solution. Borrow if you can instead. This only lasted us for two weeks!

Easter Festivities

2011-04-21T23:47:00.005+08:00

It's officially summer already in MNL. The sun is high and hot. We are all getting ready for Colin's 1st Easter celebration. One way to commemorate this 1st moments is with this jam-packed collection from Mari Koegelenberg called Easter Bunnies The Collection available at TDC.

It's filled with adorbale bunnies, decorated egss, spring blooms and handy journaling tags and fun title strips creating your Easter memories cannot be easier. My favorite things in this collection is the printable quotes and cute bunnies!

Credits: Easter Bunnies The Collection by Mari Koegelenberg

This is what we did for the Holy Week weekend:-

Maundy Thursday: C and I stayed at home. Woke up late to take advantage and bonded more with each other. C ate his solids, carrots and bananas, better using grandma's blender. He went to visit some friends in grandma's (C) place like S and Baby J on the 10/F. Uncle Charlie's coming over tonight. Hope to see him on Easter Sunday for lunch. Bad migrane for mom so wasn't able to bring C to the club. Cousin Jer, Aunt R and Uncle J came to visit us after their Clark trip.
All happy that grandma was able to get discharged earlier than expected so we were all able to spend Holy Week together as a family. Grandma's doing far better than before. Definitely something had to be done to make the healing easier.

Good Friday: mom plans to work a bit more but hope to squeeze in club time later in the afternoon. E's going to the province for a meeting with grandpa and Uncle Charlie.

Black Saturday: lunch with grandpa & ma (C)

Easter Sunday: lunch with grandpa & ma (E)

Is it Summer or Spring? (also old published news)

2011-04-09T23:36:00.006+08:00

I'm so sorry for the overdue post. I had to bring the good ol' laptop to the shop to fix a virus. Definitely not happy but good thing it's all done and over with already! The best part of all, I was able to save my files and the virus wasn't as bad as we expected. Yehey!!!

FYI: I'm also thankful for my iPad that came in handy as a back-up computer. :)

Also, I'm happy to report that though we don't have Spring in MNL and it's suppose to be Summer but it doesn't feel like Summer at all! It ironically feels more like Spring with cooler nights and cloudy to mild days. It brings to mind an appropriate kit by Mari Koegelenberg's In the Birdhouse Kit with its colorful spring blossoms, birdhouses and other sweet birds theme. My favorite is the handmade flowers from crumpled to rolled paper flowers that can lighten and brighten up any digital layout!

Check out the preview below.

Credit: In the Birdhouse Kit by Mari Koegelenberg; Font - Myriad Pro

Okay - now I don't know how I missed this one out but I found out just today that I got featured in DST's October newsletter! It think it was around the time I gave birth and everything was just a blur. :) The layout featured was for my Colin Edward piece.

Giving Birth in HKG

2011-03-19T13:19:00.021+08:00

There are a few people who have asked me why we gave birth in HKG.

The usual side comment are:

why go that far when you have everything and everyone in MNL to help you?
it's going to be more expensive there, why do it?
the cost would be double if you are not based there since you would need to have two doctors monitoring you?
isn't it too much of a hassle?

The above comments are valid but I would believe that E and I did it because we would want to give our baby the option of another life outside of MNL. An option that might be visible only too far down the road so if we, as parents, can do it, why not?

Also our decision's end result may not flourish now but it will later on ~ "hassles" are only a temporary thing...C will surely thank us for it.

Giving birth abroad...some Traveling Abroad Reminders

Pregnancy women should bring as much documentation as possible regarding their own medical history and antenatal care that they have received during their pregnancies. This documentation should include details of all tests and scans carried out during the pregnancy as well as any medications prescribed for the mother or any instances in which bed rest was advised. Women who plan to travel abroad to give birth should also advise their doctors and midwives of this as early as possible so that all required information can be collected before its time to travel.
Ensure you place all important documents in your handbag or hand carry bag since you might be asked in various airport gates of clarification and confirmation. Never in your check-in luggage. When in doubt, bring ALL.
Choose an appropriate itinerary. It is not recommended that pregnancy women fly more than three hours when they travel to give birth abroad. It is also not recommended that such women then travel for mor than three hours when they land (such as by car, bus or train). With these guidelines in mind, women should strive to find a travel schedule that will not over-tax their bodies, make them travel too close to the due date or restrict the items (for themselves or their babies) that they can bring with them as luggage.
Elect an appropriate facility in which to give birth abroad is important - if possible, women should be in contact with a doctor or clinic prior to leaving home so that it is known that they will be giving birth and can be put on the "schedule". Women should look for facilities large enough to accommodate any emergencies that could arise, or for facilities known to deal well with any other factors (the birth of multiples, water births, etc). Family and friends who live in the area where a woman will give birth can be a great resource when it comes time to pick a facility and doctor.
Women who give birth abroad will receive a birth certificate from that country but will need to register their child's birth with the British authorities. There are some exclusions to this rule, however, as there are some countries in which foreign births can not be registered. Women should check with the British authorities in that country to find out more about registering a birth abroad.
For more information about Secondary Citizenship Queries, please refer here.
Women interested in giving birth abroad should make this decision as early as possible to give themselves the greatest amount of time to organize their travel and medical plans. Plan early and do inform the airline carrier of your condition to check what is each carrier's pregnancy regulations. Note that as you wait longer in your term to fly, the heavier and harder on yourself it will be.

Midwife IPuiYi) or Newborn Nanny or none?

Warning: If they will want a midwife, they have to start searching (it might be too late since a friend of mine started calling on her 4th month and had some trouble picking the right midwife for them) because good and decently priced midwives are a premium. They are being snapped up like hot pancakes. It's also aluxury to have one since the price is high depending on experience and expectations.

THE GOOD & THE BAD BETWEEN A MIDWIFE / NANNY

the GOOD...

(1) trained/licensed professional ~ a midwife is licensed to take care of the baby and the mom. She cooks, cleans and takes care of both persons so it makes it a lot easier on the mother-in-laws, husbands. She can be given a budget to buy groceries to cook for the mom. Note that she cooks gelai items more and might look stricter than a mother-in-law but the mom can say no to her compared to a mother-in-law.

(2) the experience ~ our midwife taught us so many things that even the other blogs didn't tell us like how to effectively bath a baby, what to do during feedings (not to have him sleep on you so you wouldn't waste so much time of him latched on to you), baby sleep, etc.

(3) the baths!!! ~ Cantonese gelai allows for baths and the midwife can prepare ginger bath water for use as often as the mom wants though I went through two weeks of no bathing just selective washings to still go through the gelai.

the BAD...

(1) the price ~ our midwife is only on a 8hour shift so it's more like 10am to 7pm. She goes home and it's normally the evenings that are tougher...though that's why you get them in the mornings since you're tired and sleepy and would try to catch up on sleep. You can hire them for two shifts - 24/7 service but note the price.

(2) the conflicts ~ there might be conflicting gelai items between Canto vs MNL Chinese styles, etc.

(3) the language barrier ~ not a lot of midwives in HKG speak fluent English. Some hardly utter a word of English though there are some with decent vocabulary. You might have to be patient in finding an English speaking one since most of the ones we were referred to were Canto speaking. (In our case, we didn't mind since E knows a bit more and E's side of the family can communicate for us if we can't.)

My advice...since a midwife normally just stays with you for a month or two, it would be good to have a Newborn nanny already with you also since the midwife will teach or coach the Newborn nanny to continue on and assist you.

For those who would be interested - our PuiYi's name is Ying Jie (Mandarin for "English") - 852.9656.5158, if your are interested. Tell her that you were recommended by Wong Sin Sang or Cheryl Wong.

Note: she doesn't speak much English; speaks mostly Cantonese and a bit of Mandarin only.

HKG Doctors...
I love the doctors in HKG. Pricey but professional. I surely miss Colin's pediatrician since he's so close to the house and very easy to talk to. Love him and my OB who's a wonderful man.
If we are to be blessed again and to give birth in HKG, we hope to have both professionals on our side :)

OB: Dr Eric Lee (Central District)
Office: Room 1501, 15/F, Prince's Building, 10 Chater Road, Central
Tel No: 852.2521.2567
Assistant: Connie

Pediatrician: Dr Vincent Chan (Causeway Bay District)
Office: 2607 Hang Lung Centre, 2 - 22 Patterson Street, Causeway Bay
Tel No: 852.2894.8445

With regards to tips, there are a lot but some are below:

Most important places to get baby supplies in HKG...

Eugene Club @Central (next to H&M) and Windsor House; Bumps to Babies (Shanghai Tang Building); Marks & Spencer (Central); SOGO department stor (baby/kids section)
Baby Photography:
(1) Michelle Garthe (Colin's photographer)**
http://www.facebook.com/garthephotoarts
**studio is @ her home but she can also go to your home but with a small fee; more stylized photos; took Colin's photo @ 11 days old

(2) Cheeky Monkey***
***no studio but no fee for any location around HK; more natural photos
Diaper Rash Cure:-Mustela's Vitamin Barrier Cream ~ Mustela products (full range) is located in Sogo's 6/F. There's also a Mustela Shop in Shop 220-1 The Galleria 9 Queen's Road, Central HK. If you purchase 5k in one receipt, you get to have a lifetime Mustela discount card. I prefer this than the US' Desitin due to it being better smelling.
Baby Wipes Alternatives:
(1) water and cotton ~ Tenson Baby Cotton Wipes replace cotton balls and make it easier to use than cutting up cotton rolls, available @Eugene Club
(2) If you need to use wet wipes for convenience especially when out, please ensure the wipes you use wipes with no alcohol. Colin uses Pigeon Baby Wipes and comes highly recommended.
Baby Carrier: Combi Magic Compact ~ This is a great carrier since it's used for newborns until 2 years old! We used this to bring Colin back to MNL.
Where to Breastfeed and Change Baby ~ follow here (credit to Geobaby's La Leche League HKG)
I blogged more on my HKG/Chinese Confinement Regiment here.

Baby Supplies and such in MNL...

Baby Supplies: Baby Company (various locations like Rockwell, SM Makati)
For Breastfeeding/Pre-natal Classes:
(1) Lactation Coach (i went to this coach)*: Zeny C. Feliciano
(2) Birthing Coach - Chiqui Brosas (we went to this one)
*Both can do one-on-one appointments/sessions
Breast pumps:- Medela Swing Pump: My mom bought my Medela pump @ Wing-On. You can price compare versus delivery price also.
Milk storage plastics: Playtex Standard Pre-sterilized Disposable Liners
Baby Bottle Soap (MNL - far cheaper than Pigeon and works even better)
Karen Lopez
+639209055530
You can also email her at momentrepreneur1@yahoo.com
- she has a store opening in Shangri-la but can do home pick-ups either in QC or Makati
Nursing Wears:
Cher @ Plumeshop
Sherry @ Contour / Hip Moms and Babies
Au Lait Nursing Wear - a Singapore store/brand
Latch Wear - a friend's shop
Diaper Rash Cure: Desitin
Clothing Brands (department stores/boutiques): Enfant (SM Megamall, Rustan's) especially the bottoms since the garter is specially suited for enfants; Tiny Tummies (SM Megamall), GAP (Bonifacio High Street) ~ wait for sales!
Baby Cloths ~ outlet:
(1) BlueParasol Inc
Address: 58 Unit 3, Victoria Ave, New Manila, QC (two blocks away from Pizza Hut Bistro, street across St. Luke's Hospital QC)
Tel: 632.571.8576
Look for: Maila / Ina
Items sold: RL/Polo, Carter's, Gerber, etc

(2) Hello Baby / Carter's Outlet
Address: 43 Zodiac Street Bel Air Makati
Tel: 632.896.4802
How to get there, if coming from EDSA, turn right to Buendia then right again after the Shell station, you’ll go straight to the Bel-air gate. That’s already Zodiac St. go straight and find number 48 to your left. The storage room is at the back of the house. Just enter the premises and follow the arrow to lead you to the back. You might want to call first to ask what their new arrivals are.
Items sold: really cheap mittens/booties/hats/towels/receiving blankets/bibs, etc by Carter's, etc
Breastfeeding Tips:
Freezing Breastmilk
Thawing Stored Frozen Breastmilk
Expressing Breastmilk While Traveling

Other items...
The above is more for the mom and the baby in HK.
There are other items that parents need to think about aside from the birth and baby's health like the legal side of things i.e. filing baby's birth certificate, permanent resident card, passport, etc.

I found number of good sites with a concise research on being pregnant, giving birth and up to registration with the Hong Kong government:

Please note that if your baby is a Phil citizen (i.e. both parents are Filipinos) like us, you would need to register your baby @ the Philippine embassy within thirty (30 days) of birth so they would send the details to NSO else you would have to file a Late Registration of Live Birth. This would hinder/delay your baby's passport processing.

Where To Breastfeed And Change A Baby In Hong Kong

2011-03-18T00:59:00.000+08:00

~ a repost from Geobaby HKG (updated 2006 Jun 21)

The Mandarin Oriental, Central - 2nd Floor powder room/washroom near the coffeeshop. Large mirror and nice attendants.
Marriott, Conrad, or Shangri-La, Admiralty - Most have washrooms with a bench and mirror. Also look for the more secluded chairs in lobbies.
Peninsula Hotel, T.S.T. - take the lift to the 1st floor where the bathroom is nice.
Hong Kong Hotel, Kowloon side near Star Ferry. Try any other large hotels as these usually have comfy chairs in the lobbies and clean washrooms for changing babies.
Jusco Department Store, Tai Koo - On the 2nd floor near the baby department there is a changing area and a place to breastfeed.
Pacific Coffee and Starbuck's shops - Most have large chairs and some even have play areas for older children.
Many of the newer Superstore Park N Shops have baby changing/feeding areas with chairs in them. Festival Walk (Kowloon Tong), Paradise Mall (Heng Fa Chuen), Maritime Square (Tsing Yi), Citygate (Tung Chung).
All Mothercare stores have changing areas and usually a chair to sit on. The stores are in Prince's Building, Ocean Terminal, Windsor House and New Town Plaza (Shatin).
Outside Toys R Us in Ocean Terminal there is a special glassed in area to breastfeed and change babies under the escalator.
Eugene Club in Central (next to H&M), TST and in Windsor House (CWB)
Try the changing rooms of Marks and Spencer, Wing On, Lane Crawford or UNY.

If they are not too busy they will usually let you use a room. Sometimes there are chairs. If not, the carpets are relatively clean.
Ikea in Causeway Bay, Shatin and Prince Edward (not far from Fa Yuen Street market) have changing tables and sometimes a chair. Try the cafeteria for breastfeeding. Usually quiet.
Chep Lap Kok Airport - There are baby changing rooms so you can change and feed your baby before getting on the plane. This is great if you need to wait a long time for your departure. Then you can nurse all the way to your destination on the plane!
Discovery Bay/Star Ferries - The rocking motion will even help baby fall asleep!
Try feeding in McDonald's or a Chinese Dim Sum type restaurant. They are always noisy, so breastfeeding seems less obtrusive.
Dan Ryan's are good places to eat with kids and they have changing tables.
Jaspa's Restaurant, Sai Kung - A good place to eat with kids, very comfortable with breastfeeding mums in the restaurant.
Olympic MTR station/shopping centre - Padded sofas and cubicles with lockable stalls to breastfeed in.
Times Square - 9/F nursing lounge OR Lane Crawford Toilet has Chair and Counter, very quiet.
Prince's Building - Ladies' toilet on the first floor of Prince's Building. Very nice! One big chair just right for breastfeeding. There is an attendant keeping the place clean and handing you fresh towels. And in the floors above are some baby and maternity shops including Mothercare, Toto, and a toy store (can't remember the name).
Immigration Building in Wan Chai - Sitting on the floor of the MTR station at Admiralty (baby began crying from hunger in TST, so I bailed out at Admiralty and just sat down and fed.
IFC 2 Building in Central - IFC women's rooms have breastfeeding/changing rooms(the ones across from the cinema) OR 2nd floor , nursing/baby diaper room on the corridor to the bathroom; not in ladies' rm, so daddy can keep u company OR P3 Near Lane Crawford, Baby Changing Room, small room with one chair, sink, wipes and bottle warmer.
Annerley's Midwives Centre in Lyndhurst Terrace: Changing table and breastfeeding facilities
Address: Unit 1801, Car Po Commercial Building, 18-20 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central
Maritime Square in Tsing Yi has a nursing room at the same level than all the babies shops and Toys'R us. Very nice and comfortable but don't count on it on week-end, people are queuing up to change baby!
Lee Garden 1 on the floor with all the baby shops - a nice room with changer and couch to BF
Lee Garden 2 outside Habitu, very quiet in the far corner however you are surrounded by tall buildings.

Just So You Know by Mari Koegelenberg

2011-03-13T23:13:00.010+08:00

Last week's surely one for the books ~ Toxic Weekend all throughout!
I'm sure Colin can vouch for this since he tried waiting for me for two nights now...he was not successful and was forced to sleep on his own without me beside him. :(
I've definitely been feeling the guilt-trip with him and breastfeeding responsibilities. With the added stress at work, milk supply has been low. Good thing that I'm pretty much open for whatever so basically Colin's been a mix eater.

E's birthday was last Friday. He and my MIL shared a joint birthday lunch dimsum. Pictures to surely follow since it also gave me material to use for scrapbooking.

Want to share with you the advantages of subscribing to a scrapbook designer's newsletter. You get freebees like the one you see below by Mari Koegelenberg ~ a freebee kit exclusive to her subscription newsletter called Just So You Know! Isn't it an absolute cutie of a kit!?!
It's exclusive, versatile, complete and free!!!! What more can one really ask for!
Read more about it here.

Credits: Mari Koegelenberg's Just So You Know (exclusive subscriber newsletter kit), font - Nyala, Photos by Winnie Wong

Baby Checklist & Others

2011-02-15T04:01:00.006+08:00

last update: 14 Feb 2011

To help some friends of mine who are going to be new mothers, this blog entry is for you.
It will also be updated as I go along.

You'll need to think about the following things:
1.) Bedding - crib or co-inhabit?
2.) Bath - getting a tub or an inflatable tub, etc
3.) Bottles
- electric steamer/ microwave sterilizer
- what bottles to get, etc
4.) Laundry Detergents/bottle cleansers
5.) Nursing cloths
6.) Nursery items
7.) Cloths - pants, shorts, onsies, receiving blankets/towels, etc
8.) Diapers
9.) Lotions, creams - face, diaper creams, petroleum jelly, etc
10.) Hygiene - nail clippers, nose suction, etc
11.) Breast pumps?

To help you more, below are some Baby Checklists that I used. The numbers are suggested but it would really depend and vary when your baby comes along. It's going to be a lot of random shopping on a need basis.
BabyCity
Baby & Co

Breast pump:
If you'll be working within a month or two and going back to work, I suggest you get a pump but if you'll be on ML for a few months (like in Canada ~ 2 years, I think) you can delay getting a pump and go through direct feeding.
I have a Medela Swing (single breast) but in HK, I borrowed a friend's Spectra 2 Dual Expression electric breast pump. Both are good and useful for me.
Depending on what you want, Medela pumps are a bit noisier (it might be a deal breaker for you but for Colin, it was fine) versus other pumps. Medela and Spectra are about the same. There are other pumps around like Avent, etc. You would have to check and weigh in what you need/want. Most quiet electric pumps do not accommodate batteries at the moment.
I currently use an electric one that accommodates batteries since I sometimes pump in the car going home.
Also, it's nice to have double pump but jfor me, I need to focus and massage each breast whenever I pump to effectively get all the milk out, so single pumps work well with me. About the having the other breast leak, it really depends. For me, leaked amount is not a lot to make a big difference in my output.

MKC & Elise's Pieces' Mad 4 You @TDC

2011-02-10T01:40:00.011+08:00

It's that time of the year again...the big V is around the corner, next week to be exact.
This year's different for us (husband & wife) especially since we have a new addition in our lives.
Thus, to commemorate this special time, I scrapped the below to remember those cuddle moments with our little C - computer style using MKC & Elise's Pieces' Mad 4 You available now @TDC. You're going to love every bit like the papers and elements that come with it!
Before we know it...C's going to be breaking girls' hearts left and right.
I'm feeling like this right now...
Here's my take on this lovely kit
Credit: Mad 4 You - Collaboration with MKC and Elise's Piecesa @DigiChick.com; Font: Verdana
Photo Credit: Michelle Garthe Photography

Chinese Confinement Regiment in HK 2010

2011-01-31T23:23:00.005+08:00

Please find the below as some of the items that I ate when I was in HK.

Food to avoid during the first week only

Ginger - Delays healing of wounds and increase risk of jaundice in baby. Substitute with peppercorn or garlic.
Fish - Causes foul smelling lochia or discharge.
Alcohols which are recommended for consumption during the confinement month are: Brandy, Yomeishu, rice wine and Guinness Malta because they are 'yang'. If you are a non-drinker, this sudden consumption may cause alcohol rash, redness in the face and heart palpitations, so do take it easy. Alcohol does go to the baby through breast milk, so if you want a good night's sleep, drink the alcohol after your dinner. The content of alcohol is reduced during cooking therefore you might consider adding it to your food during cooking instead of drinking it neat. Guinness Malta is non alcoholic and has high iron content therefore is suitable if you are anemic. Pulut rice is rich in iron therefore is used to make rice wine for postnatal nursing mothers. The rice is low in fat and free of cholesterol with high dietary fiber to reduce risk of heart attack and diabetes. It is better known as Shaoxing wine.
Drinks: is believed that iced or cold drinks may cause severe shock to the system and further weaken the 'cold' body therefore it is strongly recommended that boiled warm teas are consumed throughout the day as they are supposed to help heat up the womb. For those who do not believe in these teas you may try drinking Chamomile tea which is beneficial for the baby as well, because it helps to reduce wind
Soups: is a nutritious replacement for water. You can use any meat for stock. The meat supplies fat that is essential for extraction of fat soluble nutrients. Drinking soup about 1 hour before breastfeeding may help to increase milk flow. Chinese soups are usually clear and easier to drink compared to creamy western soups and it is less fattening.

Succeeding Days...

Soups:

Food:

Pig’s Feet with Ginger
Fried Rice--> add bbq pork
Steamed Minced Pork --> Canto Style

Drink:

Longan and Red Date Tea
Ingredients : 10 pieces of dried longan flesh, 20-40 dried red dates (with the seeds removed), an optional ingredient of 4-5 g of tan kwei(angelica sihensis)

Boil and simmer ingredients in 6-8 cups of water for 45 minutes to one hour until the liquid is fragrant and tasty.

Drink throughout the day.

Another alternative recipe of the above would be : http://www.momsinmind.com.sg/milkrecipes.html / OR http://www.thechinesesouplady.com/confinement-black-bean-rice-and-ginger-water/

Do’s & Don’ts

DO NOT EAT

Seafoods aside from fish and octopus (in soup)
Congee, only rice rolls, noodles and fried rice
Plain water, only barley tea or tea in general
Softdrinks, though I cheated at times
Bananas, eggs
Foods like alcohol and certain vegetables can cause our blood thinner and are diuretic

DO eat

Nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts, chestnuts, etc) and “wild/hot” foods/veggies
Drink warm water; ideally consume red dates tea brewed with dried longan or Chinese wolfberry (Gou Qi)
Eat a nutritious diet comprising confinement foods tailored to dispel "wind", revitalize internal strength and boost blood circulation

If you must shower, use hot ginger water and take extra care to dry yourself thoroughly before stepping out of the bathroom. Try not to wash your hair for at least one week. Alternatively, use herbal dry shampoos to clean your hair.
Sleep in a cool and dry room; if you must use air-conditioning, keep it at fan mode, not lower than 26C.

Others: The links below might help you more...
The Chinese Soup Lady
Healthy Easy Food Recipes - Traditional Chinese Confinement Food Recipes

It's Halloween Again

2010-10-26T18:53:00.009+08:00

Halloween season is back and I have to say...it's one of my favorite times of the year. I think it's more of the treats that come with the holidays and playing pretend than anything else in the world. :P

Here's to promote again Monsters in the Closet by Mari Koegelenberg available at TDC. Gotta love those little monsters and papers galore! Preview is below and I recommend you add this to your check-out cart and start prepping for the little monsters that will be coming by your door!
I had to scrap this...totally true for my little Colin! This is one of his many nicknames. :)
Credits: Monsters in the Closet by Mari Koegelenberg available at TDC; font : Arial

This week's going to be interestingly great! Colin's going to be getting his passport, meeting ASM peps & Dr Lee; and also, we can start preparing to go back to Manila real soon!

I'm looking into what needs to be packed and what we can send off at a later time. It seems that Colin's going to getting more of our luggage allowance! I'm still anticipating on what will happen on the day of our departure. Colin would either be good or be bad. :P Keeping our fingers crossed on the former.

Colin's 2011 Calendar ~ done!

2010-10-21T17:53:00.019+08:00

Here's something that would brighten anyone's day for the year 2011 ~ a CD calendar! Mari Koegelenberg's 2011 CD Calendar Template is now available now at TDC!

It's a quick and easy-to-use kit. Just pick your favorite photo, place it on the template and embellish accordingly with your favorite pattern paper, with or without any other embellishments to match. Easy as pie! This is a great hybrid gift for anyone since it's used/looked at everyday/month.

Check out what I did with this kit...a potential Christmas gift to Colin's grandparents this year.
Photo Credits: Thanks so much Michelle for the lovely photos that inspired me to create this calendar! :) Credits: Mari Koegelenberg's 2011 CD Calendar Template and various Mari Koegelenberg's kits available at TDC
Photo Credits: Michelle Garthe

Here's the complete calendar covers for Colin's 2011 Calendar...

(click a thumbnail for a larger view of a particular month)

I've been hanging with some wonderful people here in HK atleast once a week and it's so far been a great ride with these awesome ladies! I was introducted to them by Michelle Garthe and it's becoming a great weekly habit for all of us. So far, we have done the following: buffet @ Marriot Lounge, Vero Chocolate lounge, dimsum buffet @Dragon-i, coffee @Holly Brown, lunch @TheOne's RoppongiSabo, coffee @Mira Hotel's Whisk are a few thus far. Can't wait to hang out with these ladies again and explore HK!

L-R: Connie, Michelle, Oxana, Svetlana, Ifat and me

L-R: Dindin, Gladys, me, Michelle, Oxana & Svetlana

New Addition : Colin Edward

2010-09-28T09:18:00.024+08:00

At long last...some creative time in my hands. :)
I'm sorry for the long hiatus but something big came into our lives recently and has purely taken over our whole being.
I'd like you to meet our !
Most likely no birthing story since I got a C-section as per doctor's advice due to the rapid calcification of my placenta 2 weeks earlier than my due date. Although I didn't go through the motions of having a natural labor, I will definitely always remember the whole experience. Some of the highlights are:-

being calm and excited when the morning came around
hearing baby's heartbeat via dopler/ultrasound for one last time, one of the admission check-ups
anticipation to be wheeled into operating room
the spinal anestheics being administered
feeling nothing, unable to move anything from my waist down when the anesthetics kicked in
being pulled/pushed all over the place during the operation --> doctor positioning the baby
this is the best one : my reaction to seeing Colin coming out over the tarp, "oh, good, there's lots of hair on him"
realizing that Colin wouldn't stop crying when he was taken to be cleaned, I thought they were already doing the cercumsition...oh, how wrong I was. Colin was crying for more than 15 minutes now...for just being cleaned/wiped over! Oh my heart!
E looking on with what Dr Lee's been doing to me...cleaning and stitching me up:- with how the cut looked like a flap, how the inside was stitched up and how my outter skin was "glued up" with hardly any markings of a cut. Good thing he didn't videotaped the whole thing. All this was going on while Dr Lee and him were exchanging information about the surgery, about beaches/getaway sites in Manila, etc. It was so crazy! I remember I was trying to tell E to not disturb the doctor so he can stitch me up faster and I can get out of the operating room already. Half awake and half immobile is not fun when you don't know what's going on especially with so many tuggings left and right. :P
after Colin's all clean, the nurses wrapped him up in a bundle and gave us (E&I) time to have our first family photo taken. Will you look at those red lips and very "powdered" face! People think that Colin's a girl based on this photo!

Now begins, the sleepless nights and toothless smiles. E&I was exhausted! Getting the hang of Colin's eradic schedule is really taking a toll with both of us, though we still strive on each day to see how we can best handle the little guy. :)
With all that has gone through

With this new addition, I remembered what my mom told me to do when the baby came out...to book a newborn photo session during the first week or two for the baby.
Let me tell you, the hassles involved totally outweigh what we got. Totally no regrets and I highly recommend this for all expecting and newly parents.
I had to find a photographer in HK and at the same time, find that E&I would like the end-product.
We chose Michelle Garthe's Photography as our baby's photographer.
Meeting Michelle was a pure joy and a blast. The photo session was filled with lots of stories, photos, laughs and definitely bloopers. I'm surprised on how fast the photo session was since Michelle informed me previously that it would take around 2-3 hours for the newborns session. We were all wrapped up and done at around 2 hours. Amazing! To think, I was pretty concern with Colin's disposition when the afternoon started. :P
Some of her test shots were posted on her site, please see below. For more information about Michelle Garthe's Photography, please clickhere.

I was able to finally squeeze in some scrapping time yesterday.
Reminder that it's $2 Tuesdays at TheDigiChick and one of the kits included in this deal is Mari Koegelenberg's Field of Dreams. Hope you would head over there and grab some wonderful digikits at such a steal!
I love the pattern papers that came with this kit...amazing stuff!

Now here's what I did with my new photos that totally inspire me!

Credits: Field of Dreams by Mari Koegelenberg available at TDC, Font - Century Gothic

Diaper Bag Giveaway @ManilaMommy.com

2010-08-24T23:11:00.007+08:00

Hi everyone! Just got to hear about this recently from a fellow blogger that might interest some of my mommy readers like me. :)
**************************

August is shaping up to be a giveaway month not just for manilamommy.com but for all the manila family blogs- ManilaReviews, ManilaFitness, ManilaShopaholic and ManilaBlogs! Please try and visit all of the sites when you have time, you never know when you'd be a lucky winner!

Anyway, as Neva of Manilamommy.com is giving away Diaper Bags for some lucky follower of her's. Instructions are indicated below.

Let me kick off the giveaway month by giving away a Froot Loops diaper and travel bag and a LifeSavers bag from our very own ManilaBaby Shop! The promo period will start on Aug. 9, 2010 up to Aug. 27, 2010.

The LifeSavers is a super light weight, canvas bag which we use to bring DW’s stuff for overnight trips. This bag has also been used as a laptop bag and can also be used as a school bag for school-aged kids!

The Froot Loops is diaper bag that converts into a stroller bag so that you can have easy access to your baby’s stuff anytime, anywhere!

Both bags have waterproof interiors with lots of pockets. You also get a free extra large changing pad which provides maximum coverage for those public changing stations and a plastic pouch!

To see more of the bags please go to

ManilaBaby Shop
Winning is easy! You only need to do three things to gain three raffle entries in the draw:
1) Leave a comment at this blog = 1 raffle entry
2) Leave a comment at the manilababyshop site (add us as a contact too!) = 1 raffle entry
3) Join the ManilaBaby Shop fanpage HERE = 1 raffle entry.

When you leave a comment at this post, please let me know that you’ve done all three. If you’re already an existing member of the ManilaBaby Shop fanpage or if you’ve already added the ManilaBaby shop as a multiply contact, let me know too so that I can give you your corresponding raffle entries.

Weekly tallies will be posted in this blog so that you could keep track of your raffle entries!

TO GET MORE RAFFLE ENTRIES AND GET MORE CHANCES OF WINNING:
4) Tweet about the giveaway in this format: I want to win a diaper bag from @manilababyshop! (http://manilamommy.com/2010/08/win-manilababy-bag/) = 1 entry

5) Re-post about thus contest in your blog = 5 raffle entries (feel free to use the images in this post)

6) Update your FB status in this format: I want to win a Diaper Bag from @manilababyshop! (http://manilamommy.com/2010/08/win-manilababy-bag/) Please don’t forget to tag us in your status update so that we can keep track too = 1 entry

TO GET EVEN MORE RAFFLE ENTRIES:
Come back to this space weekly as I’ll be giving you new ways to get more raffle entries for the draw that are worth 2 raffle entries each!!
If you do all the items here, you can get up to 16 raffle entries for the giveaway!

IMPORTANT REMINDER: You only need to do 1, 2, and 3 to qualify for the contest. Items 4 onwards are optional but they would get you more entries for the raffle!

And that’s all folks!! On behalf of the ManilaBaby Shop team, I’d like to wish all of you the best of luck and that I hope you have fun with the contest!

Play Kit by Mari Koegelenberg & 26th Week

2010-06-27T22:57:00.007+08:00

Play: The Kit is a collaboration between Jude Toone and Mari Koegelenberg available at TheDigiChick.com. It's got tons of great pattern papers and elements that bring out the "playful" side for any age!
Check out the preview below.

Here's my take on this fun fun kit!
Credits: Play: The Kit by Jude Toone and Mari Koegelenberg available at TheDigiChick.com

Some baby news...I'm now about 26 weeks pregnant and we are both excited to really prepare for the baby's arrival. We were able to attend a birthing class and I got to learn about Baby Lingo (baby sign language) and a lactation class as per my brother's advice.

I'm just so eager to attend these classes that I hope I get to use them when the time comes and use them effectively. :P

Calipso Kit by Mari Koegelenberg

2010-06-07T20:55:00.006+08:00

This you gotta see...a new kit that I got play this week - Calypso by Mari Koegelenberg available at Miss Tina.com's site. :) I love the papers and the ribbons that come with this kit. Perfect for thos summer layouts!

Here's my take on this cute cute kit. :)
Credits: Calypso by Mari Koegelenberg available at Miss Tina.com's site; font - Century Gothic

What's Cooking...

2010-05-20T20:30:00.003+08:00

Here's a cool new kit for you that involves not only memories but cooking at the same time! :) It's Mari Koegelenberg's What's Cooking Kit available at TDC today!
I love the journaling notes and pattern papers in this kit. You can also make a wonderful recipe box and index cards as a bonus on this kit. It's a win-win situation!!!
Check out a preview of this awesome kit that you can use for anything especially making your recipe collection.
Credit: Mari Koegelenberg's What's Cooking Kit available at TDC; Font - Century Gothic

Girlfriends by MKC and Sugarplum Paperie (TDC)

2010-05-13T21:56:00.001+08:00

There's a few bumps and blocks in the road recently but it all worked out well.
Check this awesomely cool and fun kit called Girlfriends by Mari Koegelenberg Creations & Sugarplum Paperie (Nicole), available at TDC

I scrapped my bestie, T, for this layout. Always cherish the friendship we have nurtured all these years...more than 15 years now and still counting!
I'm back again and so happy to be scrapping again.
Credits: Girlfriends by Mari Koegelenberg Creations & Sugarplum Paperie, available at TDC; Sketch Template: Pencillines #181 by Elizabeth Kartchner

Divine Digital Kits Galore March 2010

2010-03-30T12:53:00.013+08:00

There are a few Divine Digital kits to check out recently. I got to work with three awesome kits. See below for each of my reviews.

All You Need Is Love by Delicious Scraps (Anna F) is a great love kit. It's full of cute elements, frames and papers to great any type of love theme or red layout. It's also a great wedding theme kit for those who want something different. :)

Credits: All You Need Is Love by Delicious Scraps (Anna F) available at Divine Digitals, font - Palatino Linotype, alpha - Love is by Angel Hartline Designs also at Divine Digitals

Enchanted Dreams by Designs by Moo (Lynn Earwick) is a wonderful slumber-like kit. It got lot of great elements and papers to use for a boy or a girl kit. It's cute and definitely loving the airy feel of this kit.

Credits: Enchanted Dreams by Designs by Moo (Lynn Earwick) available at Divine Digitals, font - Stencil Standard and Myriad Pro

Brown Town Dreams by Designs by Sassy (Sarah Corfield) is a cute spring-like kit that has tons of elements and colorful papers to commemorate any spring/summer photo memories you would want to scrap. I love the vintage feel and look of all the whole kit.

Credits: Brown Town Dreams by Designs by Sassy (Sarah Corfield) available at Divine Digitals, font - Myriad Pro

Fru Fru by by Mari Koegelenberg & Jan Hasford Collab

2010-03-25T15:15:00.010+08:00

Bright and fresh for spring...I got to play with a great collaborative effort kit called Fru Fru by Mari Koegelenberg & Jan Hasford Collab available at TDC. I love the papers and the elements that are full of wild flowers and leaves. Fun fun kit!
Check out the pinks and oranges of this kit. Check out the preview below.
Here's what I did with it. :)
Credits: Fru Fru by Mari Koegelenberg & Jan Hasford Collab available at TDC; Font - Orator

Nature's Spring (more from Divine Digital)

2010-03-13T13:58:00.007+08:00

Check out Debora Pas' Nature Kit available at Divine Digital.
This kit has tons of papers, which I'm a big fan of and the clip art elements like the fish and lady bugs are so darn cute! It would work for both boy or girl themed layouts. Easy to use for anything! Check out the preview below.

Credits: Nature Kit by Debora Pas Designs available at Divine Digital, Font - Arial

Growing news

2010-03-11T11:14:00.008+08:00

It's official! Spring's in the air and all around us. :) All A Flutter Collaboration by Mari Koegelenberg and Madame Wing available at theDigiChick.com
The papers and elements are super duper cute!!!! It's a wonderful kit for new beginnings and I'm definitely coming up with one. Now...if only I can survive to get there. :) More news to be confirmed in later postings. For now, please check out the wonderful color combination of this wonderful kit below.Credits: All A Flutter Collaboration by Mari Koegelenberg Creations (MKC Creations) and Madame Wing available at theDigiChick.com, Font -Arial

Spring Summer Inspirations

2010-03-05T21:37:00.009+08:00

Do you feel that summer will be over soon...heck yes for me so I'm savouring the
I love the papers included in End of Summer by Aquarias Designs available at Divine Digital. It's a great kit for nature lovers since it also features a lot of wonderful flowers and leaves details. I love the color combinations also!

Credits: End of Summer by Aquarias Designs available at Divine Digital

Check out Craving the Inner You by BeeHaven Designz available at Divine Digital. I love the numerous papers and embellishments on this kit. It's pretty grunge but definitely vintage in feel.

Credits: Craving the Inner You by BeeHaven Designz available at Divine Digital, Font - Georgia

I want your love....love love love...

2010-02-23T22:51:00.003+08:00

This has got to be the biggest digi-love kit I've ever encountered and it's all thanks to Angel Heartline Designs' Love Collection available at Divine Digital. The whole kit also includes hybrid banner kit and a really cool mini book. Run run run to get this since it's once in a lifetime offer and I have to say...too many really cool things in this cute yummy kit! :)
Credits: Angel Heartline Designs' Love Collection, Font - Century Schoolbook

Hanging with the Gals...

2010-02-23T22:50:00.001+08:00

Full of kits to play around this week.
A lot are based on the color ranges of pinks but heck, it's still February right? :D
Lots of love and fun girl stuff going on. Enjoy! :)

Credits: Leah Farquharson's Victorian Valentine available at FunkyPlayground.com, Font - Centry Gothic

Girls so want to have fun. AnDi Design's Pajama Party Kit is the perfect digi-kit to scrap all those really cool fun gal pal photos. I love all the cool papers that fit any/all gal pal layouts that you can come out with. Loving the various word arts provided also! :D
Credits: AnDi Designs' Pajama Party available at Divine Digital, Font - Centry Gothic

MKC's Confections Digital Kit

2010-02-18T19:50:00.000+08:00

Pinks, hearts and sweets...that's what MKC's Confections Kit is made of!
Loving the many many papers and elements that come with it. The journaling pads are also great. :) I had the perfect photo for this kit and it gives me great joy to scrap my Bff, Tam and my godchild, Max!

Credits: MKC's Confections Kit available at TDC; Font - Century Gothic

MKC's 2010 Feb Grab Bag & Leah Farquharson's IheartU

2010-02-10T21:54:00.006+08:00

Check out MKC's Feb 2010 Grab Bag @ TDC!!!Gotta love all that vibrant colored papers and flowers galore!!!

Credits: everything came from Mari Koegelenberg Creation's 2010 Feb Grab Bag available @ DigiChick.com; Times New Roman Font

Bring on the love!!!! Leah Farquharson's I Heart You is definitely something to check out and spread some love! I love the color combinations!

Credits: Leah Farquharson's I Heart You, Arial Font

Deanna Patterson's Heart 2 Heart and Hopeful Kits

2010-02-07T01:28:00.005+08:00

Deanna Patterson's (Shabby Scrap Designs) latest addition are Deanna Patterson’s Heart to Heart and Deanna Patterson’s Hopeful. Check out the layouts I made for them! :)

Credits: Deanna Patterson’s Heart to Heart, Arial Font, Tracy Stroud – Hemline Alphas

Credits: Deanna Patterson’s Hopeful and Dotty Chipboard Alpha, Arial Font

Sarah's back!!!!

2010-01-24T09:20:00.004+08:00

I remember back in the day when I was lucky enough attend Lilith Fair 1999. It was held at the UBC football field. All I can say...it's like the reinvented "Woodstock" and I love it!!!! I wasn't able to get photos especially when I didn't a camera and even if I did it wouldn't have been a digital camera. :P
Lilith Fair is back and with a full force list of artists!
More information here.

Here's one recent offering is the theme song of the Vancouver Winter Olympics 2010. Check out the video below.

Starting the 2010 right

2010-01-20T19:18:00.002+08:00

With 2010, it's going to be a year of "projects" for me. So far, I have the following:- personal/family/house projects, scrap works, and new career responsibilities. It's going to be once interesting year for sure!

To start it out, I know that getting back to the "swing of things" is toughest part. So, here's a few layouts that I recently got to finish. Here's to coming back to full-time scrapping again! I got a loadful of kits for you to view.

Leah Farquharson's new kit called No Apologie available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns.com. I love the elements especially the beaded frame and the grey paper hues.
Credits: No Apologie by Leah Farquharson available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns.com; Font - Arial

I enjoyed using Miss Mis Designs'(Misty Castellano) Wild One - available at DivineDigitals.com. I love all the cute animal elements and the numerous papers that come with this kit. The colors will fit any fun-loving, wild child of yours - boy or girl alike. I love also the numerous elements that can be used over and over again since it's a really versatile kit. A preview of the kit is located below.
Credits: Miss Mis Designs'(Misty Castellano) Wild One - available at DivineDigitals.com; Font - Perpetua

Another Divine Digital offerings is FleurdeLis' Be Natural. I enjoyed the "natural elements" like the flower elements with impeccable detail!
Credits: Divine Digital's FleurdeLis' Be Natural; Font - Arial Narrow; Alpha - Tracy Stroud's Hemline Alpha

Butterfly Craft Challenge #27

2010-01-15T23:36:00.007+08:00

Butterfly Crafts Challenge #27 is up and it's all about one's favorite holiday. At first, I was going to scrap Halloween since it's my all time fav but with a new family tradition, it's hard not to choose Christmas (Eve) for this really fun holiday!

I used Leah Farquharson's Christmas Cookies available at FunkyPlayGround.com
Here is my take on this challenge and was a pure joy to create after coming back from Christmas Eve dinner! :D Little Jer performed some Chinese songs and we later played some musical chairs. Awesome awesome time!Title: Gathered
Credits: Christmas Cookies by Leah Farquharson; Arial Font
Journaling:This year, as part of my family’s Christmas tradition, My brother proposed to have Christmas Eve dinner at his home at Magallanes Village. It was a great idea since it would mean being able to comfortably stay there for as long as we want and my nephew, Little Jeremy, can go to bed whenever he wanted without having to break-up the dinner and go home. We all contributed in some way:- my brother ordered food, mom cooked and I brought appetizers to help ease the load.
It was a great night of food, company, gift-giving and the start of a great tradition!

MKC's Snow Much Fun!!!

2009-12-31T00:43:00.001+08:00

Check out this wonderful Christmas kit with fun candy colors by Mari Koegelenberg Creations' Snow Much Fun! :D

Isn't it so yummy!
The elements are rocking and there are 4 types of alphas to fit any Christmas layout that you can whip out for this fun fun season! :D

Title: Pose for PAWS
Credits: Snow Much Fun by Mari Koegelenberg Creations (MKC), Font - Arial
Inspired by: Kate Hadfield's Pencillines Birthday template

Butterfly Crafts Challenge #25

2009-12-15T11:17:00.012+08:00

Butterfly Crafts Challenge 25 is scrapping about what your child or children like to do. If you don't have children maybe a grandchild, niece or nephew or if you are a Godparent, talk about your Godchildren. Are they involved in sports, music, art or maybe the school play? Let's talk about it. Lets see your layouts bragging about the wonderful children in your lives!

This was a fun one! I haven't done this for awhile now since I scrap more random things than my family (aside from our little pet chi).
I used Divine Digital's Bless Our Nest (November Mega Collaboration Kit) to complete this challenge. See preview below.

Come join the fun here!
Title: Boy Faces
Journaling: Here are some of the many faces of my cute and funny nephew, Jeremy.
He’s now a bit older than 2 and ever since he learned to speak, we were able to understand and enter his fantasy world of marine life. He would assign people in the family names like “mama octopus” for his mommy, “daddy clown fish” for his daddy and “moray eel” for himself. After he gets tired of playing, “make-believe”, he would then tell everyone that they are all back as people family again.
That’s my nephew...a boy with a wonderful imagination. Jeremy, don’t grow up too fast, just yet. :)
Credits: Bless Our Nest - November Mega Kit from DivineDigitals.com; Font – Arial
Challenge: Butterfly Crafts DT Challenge #25

Christmas Hybrids & Digi and Chiqutta pressies

2009-12-12T23:29:00.002+08:00

Christmas was a wonderful one especially for our little Chiquitta.
Check out the wonderful gifts that came from her Secret Santa, Aunty Maiko & Panini & Loki & Chowder!I super duper love the fur harness, the hoodies and basically everything!
Cute cute and we both can't wait to use them all up!
For now, happy holidays!

Scrap projects:
Digital Layout: Wrapped Around Christmas by Deanna Patterson (Shabby Scrap Designs)
Journaling: It's Christmas in the air! Snowflakes in December Children site with Santa's toys Their gloves wiping crystalline ice, Off shiny plastic Our breath thick like fog Mingles in oneness As we stand back to Look upon the completion Of our Christmas trees Giggling from heady wine And feelings shared It's Christmas in the air!
Credits: Wrapped Around Christmas by Deanna Patterson, Font – Arial

Hybrid Project: Golden Harvest - Printable Calendar Template by Mari Koegelenberg
Credits: Golden Harvest - Printable Calendar Template by Mari Koegelenberg, random kits of Mari Koegelenberg, Deanna Patterson (Shabby Scrap Designs) See below.
Kits:
All Spiced Up Paper Pack by Mari Koegelenberg
November Grab Bag by Mari Koegelenberg
Monster in the Closet by Mari Koegelenberg
Back to School - The Elements - a Collaboration between Melissa Wilson and MKC
Sky is the Limit Collaboration - The Elements by MKC and Courney Wilson
Reminiscince - Hodge Podge Element Pack by Mari Koegelenberg
Just the Basics: Metal Bits Vol.1 by Mari Koegelenberg
Wrapped Around Christmas by Deanna Patterson – Shabby Scrap Designs

Shabby Scrap Designs/Deanna Patterson: Confirmed Scrapinator Designer!

2009-12-10T21:21:00.001+08:00

My goodness...I'm just in pure awe on how many kits Shabby Scrap Designs by Deanna Patterson cranked out after a few weeks' vacation!
I had a real field day in choosing the kits to work on. I picked the below 4 kits and 1 alpha set, namely Twas The Night Mini, Harvest Moon Mini, Dotty Chipboard Alpha, At The Beach Mini and A Day In The Life to start with. Previous are below. Tons tons more kits to offer and to know more of her new kits, please click here.

Credits: Twas The Night Mini by Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson), Font - Birch Std

Credits: Harvest Moon Mini by Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson), Font - Birch Std
Credits: At The Beach Mini by Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson), Font: Georgia & Birch Standard

Also I would like to thank my blogger wedding pal, Cris for the award below. Thanks so much dearie! Here's the criteria of the award:
1. As a dedication for those who love blogging and love to encourage friendships through blogging.
2. To seek the reasons why we all love blogging.
3. Put the award in one post as soon as you receive it.
4. Don't forget to mention the person who gives you the award.
5. Answer the award's question by writing the reason why you love blogging.
6. Tag and distribute the award to as many people as you like.
7. Don't forget to notify the award receivers and put their links in your post.

Flea Market Coutour by Wetfish Designs (DivineDigitals.com)

2009-12-04T00:38:00.007+08:00

I got a funky kit this time around from DivineDigitals!
It's called Flea Market Couture by Wetfish Designs (Cyndi Wetmiller).
I love the pattern papers and the cute embellished frames that came with the kit. The layout came out faster than I expected because of the premade items that I basically place on the layout. Total blast to work with!
Check out the preview below...
Here's what I came up with.
Credits: Flea Market Couture by Wetfish Designs (Cyndi Wetmiller) available from DivineDigitals.com, Font - Estrangelo Edessa, Poem by Emily Dickenson

Random Cards

2009-11-30T20:19:00.000+08:00

Heading back to good ol' scrapbooking. Here are some ATCs that a co-worker requested me to make for them awhile back now.
A card for a special friend of mine @ work:

A card for Chiquitta's good doggie pal, Thunder (son of a co-worker)

Hybrid Project : Golden Harvest - Printable Pillowboxes by MKC

2009-11-18T21:57:00.007+08:00

I had to post this up asap! Just finished two hybrid pillow bags from Golden Harvest - Printable Pillowboxes , a Collaboration between Danielle Engebretson & MKC Mari Koegelenberg, available at TDC.
Preview of the kit is below.
I edited some of the wordings on the template in a more general gift-giving purpose, especially with the holidays coming along. :)

Template: Golden Harvest - Printable Pillowboxes by Danielle Engebretson and MKC Mari Koegelenberg available at TDC
Credits: Metal buckle by Making Memories; ribbon and flower are from my random stash

Autumn Sunset by Leah Farquharson and Wendy Page

2009-11-17T21:30:00.006+08:00

More autumn kits for you...this time it's Autumn Sunset by Leah Farquharson and Wendy Page available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns. I love the embellishments and the pattern papers offered by this kit. It's easy and quite diverse! :D
A preview is below.
Credits: Autumn Sunset by Leah Farquharson and Wendy Page available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns; Font: Arial

CD Card Sleeve by MKC

2009-11-17T12:21:00.001+08:00

I got to play around with some hybrid projects again for Mari.
There are tons of hybrid card/cd/tag variations that would surely come in handy with the holidays coming along. Check it out!
Printable CD Card with Additional Pockets and WrapsSee what I did:- 1 card and another a CD gift card. :D

Credits: American Craft & Amanda Griffin papers, Me & My Big Ideas soft spoken word sticker, Making Memories metal embellishments, angel and trimmings and ribbons are from my various stash.

Butterfly Crafts Challenge #23 (Designs by Leah)

2009-11-15T20:43:00.007+08:00

Butterfly Crafts Challenge #23 is up!!! The challenge goes "to scrap something that makes you "happy". Full details of the challenge is here. Come join us!!!

Using Leah Farquharson's fun new kit called Varsity Kit and Varsity Alphas (see below for previews), I got to scrap some good times with EW. Closing into the two year mark and still going as strong as when we first started. :D

Title: So HappyCredits: Varsity Kit and Varsity Alphas by Leah Farquharson (available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns.com), Font - Corbel, word art - On the Line by Sugarplum Paperie (available at theDigiChick.com)

Happy Home by Leah Farquharson

2009-11-11T23:31:00.006+08:00

Have a look at this funky fun pop kit called Happy Home Mini Kit by Leah Farquharson available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns.com! I'm so loving the color combination, trees and the adorable birds!
I wanted to play around with journaling more and complete my page with this instead. I had a great time trying to also use all of the pattern papers. A real challenge. :D

Journaling: Would you prefer to live in a house or an apartment? I have tried both types and as per my experience, I prever staying in the latter. I realize that I love the view that an apartment offers while I can enjoy the convenience of locking my pad up and heading out without having to worry about somebody to house-sit since the 24hours security will help me take care of this! Apartments are too cool!!! I wouldn’t want to have it any other way!
Credits: Happy Home Mini Kitby Leah Farquharson, Font - CK Becky Higgins, Letter Alphas - Varsity Alphas by Leah Farquharson

MKC's November09 Grab Bag and Golden Harvest Banner templates

2009-11-08T08:54:00.010+08:00

Good news for digi-scrappers who love their pinks, browns and stampings!
MKC's got a great deal this month with her November Grab Bag available at TDC. I enjoyed the using the pattern papers and the stamped alphas (there are two types: big and small) that worked really well as journaling fonts without being imposing to the layout.
Check out the previews below!

I was able to scrap a cutie daughter of another Cheryl friend of mine. Her name is Chelsea. Isn't she a cute one! Congrats to the newly annoited parents! :D
Credits: MKC's
November Grab Bag available at TDC; stitching - Monster in the Closet also by MKC

Also this weekend, I volunteered to create a hybrid project for an upcoming party using Golden Harvest-Printable Banner by Mari Koegelenberg & Danielle Engebretson available at TDC. Have a look at the preview below and what I made. Kindly note that there are some color changes since we wanted to have more pinks, violets (recipient's fav color), blues and browns going on.
Credits: Golden Harvest-Printable Banner by Mari Koegelenberg & Danielle Engebretson available at TDC, Font: November Grab Bag ; stickers and flowers - random

Fall is officially here!!! Two Awesome Kits Available

2009-10-29T00:35:00.007+08:00

Loving the start of fall...you get to feel the breeze more and days seems to be shorter while nights longer. Perfect for a nocturnal person like myself! Another great thing is the warm colors around town. This is the best time of the year! Cooler weather, holidays left and right, shopping bazaars (my fav) are popping all over the place...oh and most importantly, and everyone's in a wonderful sharing mood with the upcoming Christmas season around the corner.

I'm trying to start my Christmas shopping early but with so many choices around, it's hard to decide this early.

I feel the same "good warm feeling" with this kit called Funky Fall by Leah Farquharson and Tracy Murphy of FunkyPlayground.com. My favorite in this kit is the embellishments and since it's a collaboration, the amount of embellishments was doubled! Worth every penny! :)

This is what I did for this fun and funky kit!
Start your Thanksgiving layouts as early as October! :D
Credits: Funky Fall by Leah Leah Farquharson and Tracy Murphy of FunkyPlayground.com, Times New Roman Font

Another warm fall kit I've played is by Mari Koegelenberg Creations' Golden Harvest available at DigiChick.com. My favorite on this kit is the papers that were provided! There are just so many to choose from and had a hard time picking to get my layout below finally done. :)
I had been trying to find the perfect kit to scrap how I felt in the picture below. Thank goodness, it's finally scraped. :DCredits: Golden Harvest by Mari Koegelenberg Creations (MKC)

Pulling Heaven Down by Angel Hartline Designs (Angel Town)

2009-10-28T23:46:00.005+08:00

I'm so amazed on how easy this layout came about! It's was pure inspiration at its finest and it's all due to Pulling Heaven Down Kit by Angel Harline Designs (Angel Town) available at DivineDigital.com.
I love everything about this kit! I love the button embellishments, the stamp frame and definitely the moon effect. This is one cool kit that would work for a boy or a girl quite nicely.
Here's what I did with this sweet kit!
Credits: Pulling Heaven Down Papers, Elements and Alphas by Angel Hartline Designs (Angel Town) available at DivineDigital.com; CK Becky Higgens Font

Monsters Galore!

2009-10-27T20:03:00.000+08:00

Halloween ranks the top of my list of favorite holidays. It beats out Christmas any day! :D I remember the good ol' times in Vancouver wherein mom and I would shop Costco to stock up on the candies a few days before the 31st. It was pretty obvious with the towering candy buckets and endless choices of costumes. I was the one in-charge of distributing the candies when kids would ring the door bell. It was a really cool tradition! :)
I know that Hong Kong parties are hardcore to commemorate this awesome event~ young and old alike.
This year, the office is thinking well for a theme for a Halloween party! :D
So far...I believe we are going for the movie, UP. I think I can maybe use Chiquitta for Doug, the dog. :P

Mari Koegelenberg's new halloween release, Monsters in the Closet, is exclusively available at TDC. A preview is below.

Here's my take on this really fun fun kit!
Credits: Monsters in the Closet by Mari Koegelenberg Creations (MKC) available at
TDC, Font: Arial

Happy Halloween y'all!!!!

Cowboy by Laura Pitman @ Divine Digital

2009-10-24T23:02:00.000+08:00

This you have to check out...a cowboy kit to fit your lovely little boy's scrap pages! Got to play ranch and herding with Laura Pitman's Cowboy kit, available at Divine Digital, this week.
I have to say, I had a wonderful time playing with this kit! I love the colors, mainly in the blues. I also enjoyed using the frames, ribbons and buttons! My favorites were the kit and the photo frame clusterings!
Credits: Cowboy by Laura Pitman @ DivineDigital.com, Journaling:- In the eyes of a child, there is joy, laughter, hope, trust, and a chance to shape the future; Font: Vrinda and Tall Paul; Program: PS CS3

Wet Fall but Toasty with Feelin Fall by Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson)

2009-10-21T22:12:00.000+08:00

Due to Typhoon Ondoy, it was a full week with no internet connection for about two weeks! It was really trying. Got too many things to do and worry about!
Hay...good thing, I got to finish a few works and posted what I need via Dad's internet connection. :P
Oh, plus there's another rain coming over by Friday.

Fall is surely here though it's a really wet wet fall over here in Manila especially with seemingly "never-ending" typhoons visiting us. :P
I did get to be warm and toasty at home scrapping traditionally and digitally. Here's a nice kit I played with. It's by Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson) called Feelin Fall. Here are the links: the paper and the elements.

Here's how I used this kit.
Credits: Feelin Fall Papers and Feelin Fall Elements by Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson), Eccentric and Arial font

I'm in Butterfly Crafts' Design Team!!!

2009-10-13T20:25:00.009+08:00

News time ~ Another amazing news!
I got into Butterfly Craft's Challenge Design Team!!!! More details are here.
So excited to work with these wonderful ladies and play along the inspirational challenges. You can join us here.

For the first challenge (Challange 21), we had to scrap a life changing moment for us. Check it out here.

For the challenge, I created using Grungy Geometry by JW-DigiScraps (Janice Ward), available at DivineDigitals.com.

Product Review:
I love the embellishments and the papers were very cool! It's a fun fun kit with main colors of reds and blues and greens (primary colors) that was neuralized by the browns in the background.
Overall, a fun kit that can be used for any scrap topics/themes you would like.
Title: C is for Change & Chiquitta
Credit: Grungy Geometry by JW-DigiScraps (Janice Ward), available at DivineDigitals.com, Font - Arial

Surprise Party for Jay! So Many Candles by Andi Designs

2009-10-08T21:15:00.007+08:00

My first assignment as part of Divine Digital's CT member is to work on Andi Design's So Many Candles available at DD. Here's a preview of the kit.This is my take on this really fun kit! I scrapped my brother's surprise birthday recently organized by his wife. :D Credits: So Many Candles by Andi Designs, Font: Arial, Project 365 by Sugarplum Paperie

Stained & Splattered by Leah Farquharson

2009-10-07T20:40:00.014+08:00

Want to play with paint and inks but not the mess that comes with it? You are in luck~ Leah Farquharson's Stained & Splattered is now available at FunkyPlayground.com! Check out a preview of what you get with this product.
This is what I did with this...
Credits: paint splatters are Stained & Splattered by Leah Farquharson available at FunkyPlayground.com; Paper are Lullaby by Cintia Cafe; word art are Project 365 by Sugarplum Paperie

October PageMap's Guest DT!!!

2009-10-01T21:35:00.001+08:00

Another Surprise!!!!
OCTOBER PAGEMAPS feature!!!!
I've been holding this for the longest time and wait was killing me!
So glad that October's here...

I've been asked by Becky Fleck of PageMaps to create a layout for the October newsletter given a specific sketch. Check out what I did with the featured sketches provided. For the full feature and sketches - please click here.
One of the two layouts I created was chosen to be on the site here.
Title: Love is...
Credits: All products from Big Adventure and September Collaboration by Designs by Leah available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns.com, except for the yellow ribbon by Garden Girl Designs' Safari Adventure Freebee at ScrapOutsideofTheBox.com and stitching by DPH's September Collaboration - Tea Party at DigitalPaperHearts.com; Font: Corbel; template: PageMaps October 2009 Sketch

Title: BenCab (the winning entry)
Credits: papers, ribbon element: Sky's the Limit Kit by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC) and Courney Wilson available @theDigiChick; staple reverse: Just the Basics - Metal Bits Vol. 1 by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC); paper boarder: Heather Falls by Shabby Scrap Designs; font: Arial Narrow; title: Benjamin Cabrera's own painting signature; template: PageMaps October 2009 Sketch (featured layout)

Another 1st! SisTV Catwalk Feature (Week of Sept 16)

2009-09-17T23:20:00.013+08:00

I'm jumping jumping jumping for joy!!!!!

So honored to have been voted by SisTV's Fashionista, MizzM, for my layout, Sisterly Advices for the Catwalk Gallery Week of Sept16!

Clearer feature below:

Thank you, MizzM!!!

This really makes me want to try even harder to impress!!! :D

Beach Bungalow by Shabby Scrap Designs

2009-09-15T21:31:00.002+08:00

A new beachy feel kit before summer officially ends from Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson) - Beach Bungalow.
Here's my take on this easy breezy kit:
Credits: Beach Bungalow by Deanna Patterson / Shabby Scrap Designs, Myriad Pro font, staples are from Just the Basics - Metal Bits, Vol.1

Fruity Papers and Solids from Designs by Leah

2009-09-13T21:47:00.006+08:00

Designs by Leah have something that will make you gaga over fruits with these Fruity Papers and Fruity Solids, available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns. Check out the previews below:
Here's what I came up with this a fun fun kit!
Credits: Papers are by Fruity Paper and Fruity Solids by Designs by Leah available at FunkyPlaygroundDesigns.com, Elements are by Just the Basics: Metal Bits Vol.1 by MKC available at theDigiChick.com, Arial and Arial Narrow Font, template are by Pencillines 143

Tea Party (September Collaboration) @ DigitalPaperHearts.com

2009-09-12T09:19:00.004+08:00

Check out the newest September collaboration kit offered at DigitalPaperHearts.com.
Have a look at the neat elements and papers on this kit!

Here's my two takes on this!
Look out also for the QP's offered to the layouts below. It's going to be a really cool add-on for this kit. :)
Credits: Tea Party (Sept Collab) from DigitalPaperHearts.com, Popsies font

Credits: Tea Party (Sept Collab) from DigitalPaperHearts.com, Segoe UI font

Back to School by MKC

2009-09-10T09:32:00.002+08:00

School's back and it's time to get those books, pens and bags ready for higher learning!
MKC's celebrating this with a digi/hybrid kit called "Back to School" at the theDigichick.com. Check out the preview below and what I did with her really cool and fun kit!

Credits: Back to School by Mari Koegelenberg, Arial Narrow font

Kinda Campy and Big Adventure from Designs by Leah

2009-09-07T00:53:00.001+08:00

Another one of the awesome kits offered by Designs by Leah. Check out the below previews. Kits are all available on FunkyPlaygroupDesigns.

Kinda Campy
Big Adventure
This is what I came up with:
Credits: all items are from Designs by Leah and available at FunkyPlaygroupDesigns.com; kit - Kinda Campy Solids and Big Adventure; word art - September Collab, font - Corbel

Sky's the Limit and Lovie-bovie Lovebug by MKC

2009-09-03T07:50:00.007+08:00

Reach for the skies! Sky's the Limit by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC) and Courtney Wilson (Skittles and Scraps) available at TDC, would uplift and help soar to creative heights! This kit is great ~ double the fun by two of TDC's great artists. I'm getting to love these duo kits!

Here's what I did for this fun kit!
Credits: Sky's the Limit by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC) and Courtney Wilson (Skittles and Scraps) available @thedigichick, Times New Roman Font

Here's a not-so-oldie but no doublet goodie to the max! I had to create, using the full kit again. Here's Lovebug by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC) that I super duper love since it can work both ways ~ for guy and girl. Look at the textures that come with this kit ~ it's so like the real thing!!!
Check out my retake for this kit.
Credits: Lovebug by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC) available @thedigichick, 8/24 TDC's Sketch Challenge, Arial font

Guest CT for September (Designs by Leah F)

2009-09-01T10:52:00.002+08:00

I'm so excited and honored to have been asked to Guest CT for Leah Farquharson of FunkyPlaygroundDesigns. My first project is on Leah F's contribution to the FDP's Sunshine & Fun (September Collaboration) kit. I love the kit a lot!!!! Go go get it and give it a go...before Summer ends. :D

Here's my take on this kit.
Credits: part of FDP's Sunshine & Fun (September Collaboration) kit - Leah F's collaboration, Word Art: extra freebie piece (be a part of a scavenger hunt @FPD) by Leah F, Font: Arial Narrow, Alpha Stitches: Hemline by Tracie Stround

Many more to come...I'm excited and loaded at the same time!!!!

Cool Cool Summer by MKC Collaboration

2009-08-27T11:10:00.007+08:00

A refreshed, repackaged collaborative of Mari Koegelenberg and Sara Jones for TDC, is up for grabs again - Cool Cool Summer! Isn't it "cool"?
Here's my take on this kit.
Credits: Cool Cool Summer Kit by Mari Koegelenberg and Sara Jones available @TDC, 8/17 Sketch Challenge by Jubeefish @TDC, Arial font

Christmas in August :D

2009-08-20T22:30:00.001+08:00

Christmas is early this year...before September! It's defnitely a new record, especially for Philippine standards. That's because I got to enjoy and be creative with Mari Koegelenber's Noel kit, exclusively from TDC. I guess it's time to start with the Xmas gift/card layouts! :D
Check out the preview below. It's available now over here.

Here's my tate on this fun christmasy kit.Supplies: Noel by Mari Koegelenberg Creations (MKC) at theDigiChick.com
Font: Raavi

*******************
Foodscape News:
Some gal pals and I checked out Lime88 in Mandaluyong City. It's basically street food with a twist...a new twist!
My favs were the Tuyo Pasta, Cripy Pigs Skin and the Lime88 Scramble (drink). It's a random taste of the olden days. Priced decently and quite away from the hussle and bussles of the city, it's located in a residential part of Mandaluyong City. I miss some of these types of food ~ honest with real homey service. Pictures are below:

Slumber Party by Doodleboogs @ SOTB

2009-08-18T23:09:00.011+08:00

Got to play with Slumber Party Kit by Doodleboogs and Daniel Designs at SOTB. Check out the preview below.

It was a pure fun fun fun and got to scrap some old photos of my high school pals. :D
Slumber Party Kit a collaboration by Doodleboogs & Danielle Designs available at SOTB
Arial Font Slumber Party Kit a collaboration by Doodleboogs & Danielle Designs available at SOTB
Arial Font

Summer Fun Fun Fun!

2009-08-16T23:57:00.001+08:00

Got to play another kit at DigitalPaperHearts:- Summer Fun Collab by CPZ Designs. Doesn't the kit look so summer fresh for you?

Check out my take with this kit below:
Summer Fun Collab by CPZ Designs, available at DigitalPaperHearts.com
Font: Plantagenet Cherokee and Raavi

Summer Fun Collab by CPZ Designs, available at DigitalPaperHearts.com
Font: Plantagenet Cherokee and Raavi

New Kits by KrazyMary & DPH

2009-08-10T23:43:00.017+08:00

KrazyMary's new kit available at SOTB here. Check out the preview below.

Here's what I did with it. :)
Garden Mist Kit by KrazyMary available at SOTB
Font: Tekton Pro
Garden Mist Kit by KrazyMary available at SOTB
Font: Candara

If you are looking for a more vintage kit, why not check out Jacabean Designs' Vintage Chic? It's available at DigitalPaperHearts here. A preview is below.

Here's what I did with this really cool and fun kit!
Kit: Vintage Chic by Jacabean Designs available at Digitalpaperhearts.com
Font: Gloucester MT Extra Condensed

Kit: Vintage Chic by Jacabean Designs available at Digitalpaperhearts.com
Font: Popsies

Sweet Feature and Kits

2009-08-06T07:51:00.010+08:00

Mari Koegelenberg Creations (MKC) is proud to announce a new girl themed digikit called Sweetiepie Kit. This coordinates well with the boyish Luvbug kit.
Check out the previous below! Sweetiepie is available here.
Here's what I did with this kit...fun fun fun!
Sweetiepie Kit by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC) available at theDigiChick.com
Font: Tekton Pro

Also, Shabby Scrap Designs (Deanna Patterson) also has a new offering to fit the Fall season available here called Heather Falls. A kit preview is shown below.
Here's my take on this kit. :D
Preisley Press Template (PencilLines #130)
Heather Falls by Deanna Patterson (Shabby Scrap Designs)
Font: Tw Cen MT

Even after close to 2 years ago, our wedding in general still gets to people and gets randomly featured. It's wonderful to hear from strangers on how wonderful our wedding was. WeddingsatWork recently featured our caker, Peachy Juban's works and our wedding cake was no less featured again. :) Check out the full entry here.
A short preview is below:

Tita Cory...RIP

2009-08-04T07:26:00.017+08:00

Inay Ng Mga Tao (Mother of the People)
Inay Ng Demokracia (Mother of Democracy)

Why all the hullabaloo with this one woman to a nation?

A brief history summary,
1970, Marcos regime:- a government full of power and control that it lost sight of what's truly the role of a president ~ to serve to and for the good of its people
Aug 1986:- Assassination of Senator Ninoy Aquino - the senator opposition of what the Marcos regime turned out to be and his death fueled a lot of civil unrest
Nov 1985:- Snap election - to legitimize his control over the country, Marcos declared that a snap election was to be held, one year
23 Feb 1986:- People Power Revolution: rising mass support, the capture of Channel 4,
25 Feb 1986 - 7AM:- two inaugurations occurred, one that proclaimed Cory Aquino as the legitimate president, another Ferdinand Marcos
25 Feb 1986 - 3PM:- Marcos' departure - the paradigm shifted; Marcos left the Philippines and fled to the US for sanctuary

23 February 1986
I was 8 or so years old when the first People Power started that would change the way Filipinos view politics.

In this revolution, the Church had a say and it rang loudly by Catholic Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin's message though Radio Veritas' to take Justice "to the streets". The most famous of all picture of this revolution in my mind is the human barricade to offset any violence that may erupt.

Although my family (and extended relatives) were staying in Chinatown, helicopters sounds and gunshots could be heard echoing around. My whole family sat in front of the television set and watched the live-feed that brave journalists/cameramen took. In the midst of it all, all I remember thinking that we were watching a war movie - very surreal. I believe I was too young to realize what this woman, Cory Aquino, was doing and what she represented.

Then the announcement came:"The Philippine Military has ceased to support the Marcos regime. The Military has defected to the people..."

Pandemonium broke...a big toast to freedom from tyranny and oppression.
A dictator was overthrown by an ordinary housewife named Cory Aquino.

To know more about the People Power Revolution, please click here.

******************************************** Maria Corazon "Cory" Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino (January 25, 1933 – August 1, 2009) was a Present of the Philippines and an advocate of democracy, peace, women's empowerment and religious piety. She served as the 11th president of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992. She was the first female president of the Philippines and was Asia's first female president.

She is a self-proclaimed "plain housewife" and was married to Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr (1932–1983), a leading figure in the political opposition against the autocratic rule of President Ferdinand Marcos. After her husband was assassinated upon his return from exile in the US on August 21, 1983, Cory, who had no prior political experience, became a focal point and unifying force of the opposition against Marcos. She was drafted to run against Marcos in the 1986 Snap Presidential Elections. After Marcos was proclaimed the winner despite widespread reports of electoral fraud, Aquino was installed as President by the peaceful 1986 People Power Revolution.
During the reception, a dove from the wedding bell landed on Cory’s head. The old folks believed it was an omen of a higher position, power and peace. But due to the bride’s quiet and simple demeanor, the good sign was taken to mean it’s the groom who would be president someday. Cory would later confide that one knew then the dove landing on her head would mean she, not Ninoy, would be president someday.

August 5, 2009 has been has been declared a special non-working holiday nationwide under Proclamation No. 1851 to give the entire Filipino nation the opportunity to grieve and honor the late former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino. Pres. Aquino, who succumbed to colon cancer early Saturday, will be laid to rest in Manila Memorial in Sucat Paranaque.

***************************************
Some of this amazing woman's quotes:
• Politics must not remain a bastion of male dominance, for there is much that women can bring into politics that would make our world a kinder, gentler place for humanity to thrive in.

• It is true you cannot eat freedom and you cannot power machinery with democracy. But then neither can political prisoners turn on the light in the cells of a dictatorship.

• Reconciliation should be accompanied by justice, otherwise it will not last. While we all hope for peace it shouldn't be peace at any cost but peace based on principle, on justice.

• As I came to power peacefully, so shall I keep it.

• Freedom of expression - in particular, freedom of the press - guarantees popular participation in the decisions and actions of government, and popular participation is the essence of our democracy.• One must be frank to be relevant.

• It has often been said that Marcos was the first male chauvinist to underestimate me.

• National leaders who find themselves wilting under the withering criticisms by members of the media, would do well not to take such criticism personally but to regard the media as their allies in keeping the government clean and honest, its services efficient and timely, and its commitment to democracy strong and unwavering.

• The media's power is frail. Without the people's support, it can be shut off with the ease of turning a light switch

• I would rather die a meaningful death than to live a meaningless life.

More wonderful entries are available at WeddingsatWork here that gives a more candid/personal look at this influencial family over here through pictures. (Thank you Papa John for such wonderful research! I had to post the dove photo!)

August Grab Bag by Mari Koegelenberg Creations (MKC)

2009-08-01T01:25:00.008+08:00

Scrap News!
Mari Koegelenberg Creations' (MKC's) August Grab Bag is now available HERE.
It's jam packed with lots and lots of goodies like papers, elements, a brush and a font set. Check out the preview below and a layout that I got to do for this kit.

Everything came from August Grab Bag kit by Mari Koegelenberg (MKC)
Font: Popsies
Program: Photoshop CS3

More Creating on the way...

2009-07-29T01:25:00.003+08:00

Wonderful news!!!! I'm going to be one of the five (5) additional CT members of Digital Paper Hearts! It's going to be awesome since my work will be for a digital scrapbooking site, which would mean working with a whole load of designers!! I'm all excited and can't wait to start with my first assignment. :)
Also, one of my recent layouts was featured at my work. Check out the photo below:

I submitted a layout aside from the photos #1 and 2, aside from #5 (from left to right).

Some scrap news. KrazyMary's Audrey kit is out today! You can find it here.

Check out some layouts I did for this kit.

Kit: KrazyMary's Audrey Kit
Program: Photoshop CS3
Font: Cooper Std

Kit: KrazyMary's Audrey Kit
Program: Photoshop CS3
Font: Cambria Math & Cooper Std

Sweetly Life

2009-07-20T22:31:00.006+08:00

Weekend was good. I had a few pending layouts to handle but aside from that, it was all smooth sailing. My own challenge this week was to do a 2-page digital layout with a new kit - a recipe layout! It was very fitting with Krazy Mary's & Rachness Designs' new collaboration kit with called Sweetly! It's available already at SOTB over here. I got my recipe at Simple Recipes.

Here's another site that I found that offers some, if not a lot of interesting cupcake recipies. It's called the Vanilla Garlic. Have a look and check it out yourself!
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Kit Name: Sweetly (available @ SOTB here)
Designers: Krazy Mary & Rachness Designs
Font: Rage Italic & Pristina

Kit Name: Sweetly (available @ SOTB here)
Designers: Krazy Mary & Rachness Designs
Font: Rage Italic & Calibri

Kit Name: Sweetly (available @ SOTB here)
Designers: Krazy Mary & Rachness Designs
Font: Calibri

My Studio Azul's Scrap Buffet (2009.07.11)

2009-07-12T22:47:00.012+08:00

I had a very productive and packed weekend. I signed up for My Studio Azul's Scrap Buffet this weekend over here. It was pure awesomeness since I got to finish so many layouts at one go and got to meet new friends, aside from reuniting with an old Jungolfer friend of mine.
Six hours of work and I accomplished six layouts and two cards! :) There are a few that I might add more journalings but we shall see. I was cranking layouts at a slower speed at first but got the extra boost to push myself further when I realized that I only got three layouts and one cards done! :P I focused and was able to better choose the paper and cardstock that I wanted. I pictured that papers that I wanted to use and the colors/design that appealed to me than basing myselout on the photos that I got (that was over and beyond needed). Time went so fast and before I knew it...the event was officially over!
Thank you to the organizers (especially Tin Yao) for a successful event - can't wait for the next one! :D
See the below what I was able to "crank out" for this event.

My sketch challenge entry.

The rest are random layouts that I just wanted to do based on the papers that were immense. I was able to "really play" (since leftovers during the buffet are to be left at the party; no take-homes) with Basic Grey, Sei, etc - which would take me forever to decide what to do if these were my own supplies. I have this fear of not being able to cut it to the correct size or that the layout design in my head is not going to work.

Bday Week(end)...still in party mood!

2009-07-08T20:30:00.007+08:00

Birthday week(end) came and went. It was pretty cool. I was able to party with so many types of groupies of mine and it definitely started as early as Wednesday (July 1) and I still plan to celebrate again this weekend.. :) The breakdown are as follows:-

July1 (Wed) --> lunch with officemates
July2 (Thurs) --> lunch with officemate at a different location; dinner with the pit crew
July3 (Fri) --> lunch with fav pal (K); special dinner with E
July4 (Sat) --> game of golf with pals then lunch at the club; dinner with coolgals
July5 (Sun) --> lunch with parents & E at Sango; dinner with extended family (usual Sun dinner but with extra good food)
July6 (Mon) --> dinner with best cousin, L

I'm overwhelmed with joy to find out so many people (who I didn't expect) that greeted me in random ways - email, FB, text, call, etc. It was just a wonderful surprise and definitely something I would remember for many years to come.
I'm still hoping for another party but I think I should wait till next year again. :P

There's another bday coming up in a few days...and she's with four paws. E&I are brainstorming on how to celebrate the bday. Keep you all posted on what we decide.

RESTO REVIEW:
SANGO MASTER BURGER
Rockwell, Power Plant
Dad and I had the Master Cheese Burger, which was roughly P130. See picture shown while E got the Chili Master Dog and mom got the Gyudon Rice Meal. It's okay...nothing really special. I do have to say that the veggies (lettuce and tomatoes) are so fresh!!
Sango is constantly compared to Mos Burger chain (one of the most visited establishments by us is in HKG) but E being the biggest fan of Mos, he disagree and I have to be with him on this. If you were to just compare burgers, I think I would prefer Mos Burger (since it's juicier) and Shake-’em Buns or Triple O's of White Spot. :D

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Kit: Lovebug Sampler by Mari Koeglenberg Creations available here
Alphas are by Shabby Princess' Happy Go Lucky Kit
Font: Arial

Kit: Happiness Kit available here
Designer: MKC (Mari Koegelenberg)
Paper clip: SOTB Birthday Freebee Kit
Font: Fox Jump

Bday Weekend Countdown: 1 Day left (and counting)

2009-07-01T21:40:00.004+08:00

Been busy with work and an eventful weekend ahead. It's the bday weekend for me so it's parties/gatherings left and right. Can't wait for the weekend!!!!
Taking Friday off and will be getting a much needed haircut. :D

Just finished playing and creating for Krazy Mary's Stitchy Summer, which is exclusively available at Digitalarts-Cafe.com

Kit: Stitchy Summer Kit by KrazyMary, sold exclusively at Digitalarts-Cafe.com
Program: PS C3
Font: Lucida Sans, Gill Sans MT Condensed
Journaling: Watching you grow has been the delight of my life, I look at you and wonder what dreams you will dream, what mountains you will climb, what joys you will have. I know there will be tears and struggles as well, but my prayer is that you will grow into the man you are meant to be.
Kit: Stitchy Summer Kit by KrazyMary, sold exclusively at Digitalarts-Cafe.com
Template: Sketch Challenge 6/29 by Dani Alencar
Program: PS C3
Font: Gill Sans MT Condensed
Journaling: The better part of one's life consists of his friendships ~ Abraham Lincoln

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-25T01:00:00.006+08:00

First of all, Belated Happy Father's day!!!

I know a lot of my friends are new fathers this year so I'm sure they had a awesome gathering. :)
Excited for this. Registered and all ready to go. It's now planning what to bring is the question. Got too many tools to decide on. Of course it's only 6 hours or less of scrapping but it will surely be awesome!!! I'm counting down the days to July 11

1.) Krazy Mary
2.) My Digital Art Studio (Mari Koegelenberg Creations)

Gotta get crackin'!

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Kit: A Guy Thing
Designer: Deanna Patterson / Shabby Scrap Designs
Alpha: Shabby Princess' Happy Go Lucky Kit
Program: PS CS3
Font: Century Gothic

Work.Sleep.Work.Sleep

2009-05-21T20:40:00.006+08:00

Layouts for now...too much work to handle. :)

Happy Mother's Day to all mothers out there especially to pals, ChaC, JT, LS, SS, CL!

So far, it's work and sleep. Work seems to evolving out-of-control. :P
I miss Gossip Girl...can't wait to check out the new series sooon! I have to find another series to occupy my time. Currently trying to get True Blood since Sis Steph raved about it awhile back already. :)

Kit: Momma by Deanna Patterson / Shabby Scrap Designs
Font: MS Serif
Program: PS CS3

Kit: Momma by Deanna Patterson / Shabby Scrap Designs
Font: MS Serif
Program: PS CS3

I'm a Scrapinator!

2009-04-10T20:24:00.011+08:00

I'm so inspired and with Holy Week around the corner...it's full speed scrapping!
It's also a time of rest&relaxation before pushing through the summer months of work and more work. Check out below...

If there are people who don't already know...you can get free Krispy Kreme Chocolate-covered donuts with a cup of coffee here. I think they already have reached the site's freebee limit but for those who are lucky enough to get the "prized coupons", enjoy!!!

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Cardstock: Bazzill
Transparencies: My Mind's Eye
Staples: EK Success Fastenater

Cardstock: Bazzill
Pattern Paper: others
Buttons: ButtonsGalore.com
Flowers, Brad: Making Memories
Wordart: K&Company (Words to Go)
Sticker Charm: Brenda Walton for K&Company (Charmers)

Cardstock: Bazzill
Pattern Papers: Chatterbox
Vellum: K&Company
Sticker: Pebbles Inc
Flower: Prima
Metal Buttons, Leather Photo Corner: Making Memories
Others: tag, ribbon

Cardstock: American Crafts
Word Art: K&Company
Brads, Metal Photo Frame: Making Memories
Icicles: KI Memories

Cardstock: Paper Adventures
Alpha Chipboards: Mon Petites Chipboards
Flowers: Prima
Sticker Art: Miss Elizabeth's
Brad: Making Memories
Word Art: K&Company
Pattern Paper, Fiber: others
Buttons: ButtonsGalore.com

W@W 10-10-10

2009-03-25T20:52:00.013+08:00

WatW 10-10-10 Anniversary Party!

Venue: Fernbrook Gardens, Alabang

E&I got to celebrate WeddingsAtWork 10th Anniversary years. It's 10 successful years of brides&grooms helping each other in planning their weddings. It was a wonderful night and definitely tons and tons of freebees. There were free-nups for the upcoming brides&grooms (which E&I participated in 2007). There was tons of food and there was never a problem with not having enough. The program was great and it was cool sharing all this with our good friends J&N.

Check out the pictures below...

Wall of WatWies

**WatWie Pals**
-->Sis Tina & Bro Jessie
-->Sis Steph & Bro Joel
-->Sis Kendz & Bro Lui

News on Agnes b (HK)

Address: Shop G001-005 & P101, wtc more, Causeway Bay, HK

Agnes b LPG is now open at WTC (World Trade Centre). From March 2009 till April 30, as an AMI member, you'll get a cup of coffee free upon purchase of any sandwitch or salad with your AMI card.

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Marriage:...

Supplies: Making Memories (metal charms/accents), brad alphas, laced ribbon, old wedding invitation

Photo by: Ems Van Gogh

Chiqui & the Dog Trainer

2009-02-26T22:41:00.010+08:00

Got a dog trainer for little Chiqui. Check out her new trick! She's learning a lot especially getting used to the leash and going where she needs to go than just where she wants to go. :)
She's learned to stand and walk with her two feet, jump through hoops, push her ball with her two front feet, crawl, sit properly, and get used to the leash.
She's a pure joy and I couldn't have asked for any puppy else! :D

Food Reviews:
1.) Som's Noodle House
Add: behind Rockwell's Power Plant
Cuisine: Thai
Recommendations: Green Curry Beef, Tom Yang Soup
Price: $
Verdict: Yummy!!!
**You can take

2.) Duo
Add: Serendra
Cuisine: Continental with specialty of steak & seafood
Recommendations: steak, seafood (especially fish), pasta and salads
Price: $$$
Verdict: Good good good!

3.) Zumi
Add: GB5
Cuisine: Continental with specialty of steak & seafood
Price: $$$
Verdict: efficient and attentive service; food is so-so; Good place for kids and pets due to the garden front

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Kit: A Cutesy Kind of Love by Deanna Patterson/Shabby Scrap Designs
Font: Rosewood Standard
Program: Adobe CS3

Foodie Foodie Foodie

2009-01-17T11:09:00.011+08:00

Food Trippings:
Tokyo Café (TC)
G/Lvl. South Wing, Main Mall Bldg, Pasay City, Metro Manila
(632) 556.0517
I have this philosophy, line-ups are the best. Base on the line-up we saw at TC's Mall of Asia and the colorful and mouth-watering sample food displayes, E & I were curious.
TC is exactly like it's previous resto - Kohikan, at Greenhills Promenade (Perry Chicken now). TC is Japanese fussion family resto with a Western twist. The menu of TC is impressive, wherein pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, crepes, drinks and burgers are immense. The selection is quite unexpected for a restaurant of such type. The cafe uses the traditional and elaborate Japanese Drip method, wherein exact temperatures must be used to make a good cup of coffee!
They also have their own signature coffee mix, giving a distinctive flavor.

Best Sellers:
Yoshi's Burger - the top favorite with its juicy beef burger patty, Cheese, onion, lettuce, tomato and meat sauce
Creamy Ebiko Pasta (P255)
Hamburg and Shrimp (P235)- juicy burger patties with breaded black tiger prawns
Mango Chicken Salad(P150)
Kani Crab Sandwich (P140) - a zesty assembly of Kani sticks on ciabatta bread
Dripped Coffee: Sumibi Yaki (P84) - boasts of a bold and distinctive flavor, and Tokyo Blend, a fusion of various origins of coffee beans that taste both sour and smooth. Note that the Sumibi Yaki hot coffee is distinctively bold and is different from the strong coffees Filipinos are accustomed to with the Barako.
Other Specialties:
1.) Shrimp Agli Olio, pasta with hot green peppers, garlic and shrimp sautéed in olive oil
2.) Wafu Steak, Tokyo Boneless Chicken, Unaji and Tokyo White Pizza
3.) Crepes and cheesecake galore
4.) Other coffee concoctions - Tokyo Ice and hot and iced espressos
Range: P300/pax

Terrace at 5th
1/F Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City, Metro Manila
(632) 729.6860
In Makati , Chef Ronald Manalo is part of the team that just opened The Terrace at the 5th Restaurant and Bar in Greenbelt 5. The restaurant features family treasured recipes from the kitchens of Maricris Zobel, Carol Garcia, Menchu Soriano, Ching Cruz, Ivy and Cynthia Almario, and Cecille Ysmael along side specialities from their favorite chefs. The place serves grilled items (including a Ladies’s Choice cut of only 300 grams) and modernized Filipino food.
Grams, Ma, E&I went there last night, we got the Grill Lamb Chops and the Crispy Pork Belly to share. E found the Lamb a bit on the salty side but everything else in it was great. I love the Pork Belly with Balsamic Vinegarette reduction sauce. It was a winner for me & Mom. The meat was tender for both dishes but I would vote for the latter. Price of the lamb was far more (extra P200) compared to the Pork. Grams had the Chicken Binalao, which is similar to chicken nilaga with some extra .
Range: roughly P500/pax

Ten02
43 B Scout Ybardolaza St., Sacred Heart, QC
(632) 412.-7572, (63) 915.569.5419
E&I checked out this resto/live act venue last Friday (Jan09) and had dinner there. nice pasta dishes that I/E loved and would surely come back for more. I had the house specialty Ten02's boulonnaise spaghetti. A neat twist to a classic Itallian dish. There are a lot of short orders also for the ones that come after dinner to listen to the live band performances. Referred to us by our photographer, eBe, Ten02 is small, quaint and cozy. I love the stage with the curtain backdrop.
That night we went was tribute night for Anabel Bosch, the lead vocalist of Analog, who suffered an aneurysm on Jan01. Although she fought tooth and nail for the first few days after her surgery, despite the aggressive treatments provided for her by her doctors and her sister, Dr. Marlies Bosch, Anabel passed away, quietly, ten days later, in the early morning of Sunday, January 11, 2009.
The local music industry was out in full force to contribute/support this great cause with acts no less stellar as the clear starry sky that evening by Noel Cabangon - Johnny Alegre (Affinity), Akasha (Mar Dizon, Henry K., Dave Harder), Lynn Sherman and Skarlet, Balooze (Ricky Gonzalez’s jazz quartet), Corporate Lo Fi, Helen, Reklamo, Color It Red, Ms. Emee Fortuno (wife of the legendary Ed “Bosyo” Fortuno).
Too bad, E&I had to wrap things up early since we have important appointments the following day but overall - highly recommended place to chill and enjoy great local music flavor.
FYI: the owner, Scarlet, packs a mean jazz scat!

Background: exerpt from the FB tribute account
Ever the rock goddess, Anabel chose to fly away when the moon was literally at its biggest and brightest. It was also the same night that her 11-year-old daughter Mishka had her first-ever major 'gig', backed up by no less than the legendary Blue Rats, at a benefit show held for Anabel at Hobbit House.
For those of us who were lucky enough to have spent time with her during her all-too-brief life, Anabel was the strongest, most loving, fiery, and passionate woman we knew. Her blog (http://dizzychick76.multiply.com/) was testament to that.
Anabel was a bright, burning phoenix, yes, a rock goddess, yet made of very real flesh and bone. She figured as one of the most important female musicians in our local industry, having worked with such bands as Tropical Depression, Electrikoolaid, Spy, and Analog. More than that, she was (and will continue to be) a great inspiration to many people, because she lived her life with such vigor and intensity, doing her best in everything that she did, be it as a focused, hard-working writer and editor, or as a dedicated mother to young Mischaela, or as a dutiful daughter and sister, or as an absolute whiz in the kitchen, or as a caring, loving friend.

Check These Out
I bumped into this website that I think you guys will find really interesting. :D - La Tartine Gourmande. I know the photos looked yummy!

Want to check this place out some where down the road...Acuatico Resort, Batangas Laiya

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Cardstock: Bazzill
Patter Papers: Chatterbox's Scrapbook Walls
Buttons: Buttons Galore
Woven Photo Corners, Metal Accents, Sticker Definition: Making Memories
Alpha Chipboards: Mon Petites Chipboards & Making Memories
Definition/Dictionary Boarder Sticker: Pebbles Inc
Sayings: K&Co's Words to Go and 7Gypsies
Vellim Pocket: Sticko
Ribbon: unknown