Review of Timpla, House of Dinakdakan in Marikina

I know, we're way out of our comfort zone here hahaha. Imagine, a Southie finding herself in the middle (I think) of Marikina but I am happy to say that this was a good thing. We were actually looking for a coffee shop to while away the time because we were coding for the day and since the name of the establishment was Timpla, I honestly thought it was a coffee shop. 

I was wrong. 

The moment we went inside, this is what greeted us. 

Now, I know that dinakdakan was a dish and it was something that I haven't tried so even though I was pretty full, I had to give it a try. I convinced the husband to stay and try things out. 

The place looks very efficient. It wasn't homey but it was welcoming. 

I love that they serve these chips while you're waiting for the food. Every establishment should have this to give people while waiting for their food. It helps to pass the time. 

I ordered the dinakdakan because if I don't, that won't make sense since we are in the House of Dinakdakan. This came with 2 cups of rice. 

I finished it. Hahahaha. I was already full but this was just so good that I actually finished the entire thing as well as the 2 cups of rice. I would definitely want to have this again. 

Actually, I want to learn how to cook this because it was just so good and Marikina is too far. 

We received this tokwa't baboy as a complimentary part of our meal. Initially, I thought to myself, ugh, tokwa't baboy. Then I took a bite and I was pleasantly surprised. This was really good. Good enough to munch on all on it's own. 

These cheesy sticks were the cheesiest I've ever tried. This was pure cheese coated with breading. My husband loved it and our kids did too.  

The salted egg chicken wings were also another winner. This was really good and if I wasn't so full already from a previous engagement and from finishing a big plate of dinakdakan, then I would have eaten this all by myself as well. 

Overall, I would say that if you live in Marikina, you need to give this place a try. It is definitely worth your money and definitely worth the calories you'll be adding to your body. 

Timpla - House of Dinakdakan

Sneak Peek at Excelsior Hotel in Alabang Zapote Road, Las Pinas

In the bustling city of Las Piñas, nestled inconspicuously along Alabang-Zapote Road, stands the unassuming Excelsior Hotel. At first glance, it may appear to be just another run-of-the-mill four-star hotel, easy to overlook in a sea of options. However, as I recently discovered, appearances can indeed be deceiving, and Excelsior Hotel has a pleasant surprise waiting for its guests.

My initial impression of Excelsior Hotel was one of indifference. It looked like any other hotel in the area, with a modest façade and little to distinguish it from its competitors. My expectations were tempered, and I couldn't help but wonder if this hotel would offer anything beyond the ordinary. Little did I know that my visit would prove me wrong in the most delightful way.

Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the hotel's tasteful and understated elegance. The lobby exuded a welcoming ambiance, with warm lighting and contemporary decor that would set the tone for a comfortable stay. 

One of the first things that caught my eye was the spa area. It was clear that Excelsior Hotel had put thought and care into creating a tranquil space for relaxation. The spa featured a range of rejuvenating treatments.  After a long day of work or exploration, the spa was a sanctuary of tranquility.

Another highlight was the Jacuzzi and sauna facilities. These amenities can provide the perfect way to unwind after a day of meetings or sightseeing. The Jacuzzi was spacious and inviting, and the sauna seemed to offer a much-needed respite from the stresses of everyday life. The well-maintained facilities added a touch of luxury, elevating it beyond my initial expectations.

Excelsior Hotel didn't disappoint when it came to accommodations either. The rooms were impressively spacious, with thoughtful layouts that ensured comfort and convenience. The attention to detail was evident in the well-thought-out spaces, which featured modern furnishings and amenities that catered to both business and leisure travelers. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, promising a restful night's sleep.

One of the pleasant surprises during my stay was the hotel's buffet. While not extravagant, it offered a satisfying array of dishes that catered to a variety of tastes. The breakfast spread, in particular, provided a hearty start to the day. It wasn't the most lavish buffet I'd ever encountered, but it was more than sufficient and delicious in its simplicity.

In conclusion, Excelsior Hotel may not shout its greatness from the rooftops, but it quietly impresses with its well-rounded offerings. It's a four-star hotel that goes above and beyond the ordinary, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for its guests. From the spa and Jacuzzi to the spacious rooms and thoughtful amenities, the hotel manages to strike a balance between comfort and affordability.

While it may not be a destination for those seeking opulence and extravagance, Excelsior Hotel is a hidden gem that offers a pleasant and satisfying stay. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best surprises come from the places we least expect. So, the next time you find yourself on Alabang-Zapote Road in Las Piñas, don't pass by Excelsior Hotel without giving it a chance to pleasantly surprise you.

Unlock the Holiday Magic with these LEGO® Buckets

As the holiday season approaches, parents of toddlers and young kids have an exciting reason to light up their children's faces with joy. Beloved toy brand, the LEGO® Group, is inviting families to embark on a delightful journey with their LEGO sets.

With numerous learning options available for kids, the world-famous toy company doubles down on its engaging and enjoyable approach. Cris Opeña, Senior Brand Manager for Ban Kee Trading, the LEGO Group Philippines distributor, echoes this, sharing, "As we usher in the holiday season, the LEGO Group brings the gift of fun learning wrapped in colorful bricks. Our mission is to turn playtime into a magical journey where children can build, create, and discover the joy of learning while crafting their own holiday tales. After all, learning should be as fun as opening a present.”

In a time where screens often dominate children's attention, the LEGO Group reaffirms its commitment to hands-on, creative learning. LEGO playsets offer an opportunity to break away from screens and make holiday memories that will last a lifetime. These inspire kids to build, design, and tell their own unique holiday stories through the enchantment of colorful bricks:

A Canvas for Creative Minds

Think of this set as a treasure chest of vibrant bricks, perfect for crafting personalized holiday scenes and decorations. It's a canvas for young builders to bring their unique holiday visions to life, making the season extra special.

Tiny Hands, Big Ideas

With this set, the possibilities are endless. As your child builds towering structures and imaginative holiday tales, they're also learning about spatial reasoning, problem-solving, and storytelling. It's a chance to nurture their budding engineering skills while crafting holiday memories together.

Nature-Inspired Holiday Magic

The oversized Duplo bricks are perfect for those tiny hands eager to join in the holiday crafting. Building simple holiday scenes with your toddler isn't just about constructing; it's an opportunity for early STEM learning and quality bonding time.

Bigger Bricks, Bolder Dreams

As your child grows, their creativity knows no bounds. With larger Duplo bricks, they can dive into collaborative play and imaginative storytelling. It's an excellent choice to create moments of bonding and shared excitement during the festive season.

Holiday Blooms, LEGO Style

This charming set introduces kids to nature and organic concepts while letting them enjoy the beauty of the outdoors during the festive season. It's a unique way to connect children with nature and add an educational touch to holiday celebrations. 

Embracing kids' love for fun-filled learning, this season rolls out a joyful treat for parents as well – the chance to save up to 20% discount on select LEGO sets. As a bonus, select Toy Kingdom stores are offering gifts with purchase (GWP) promotions. Buy eligible LEGO DUPLO or LEGO Classic sets and receive exclusive LEGO gifts, expanding your collection with unique items. These special offers are available until the end of the month, making it the perfect opportunity to introduce the gift of creativity and imagination to your little ones.

Whether it's constructing a miniature winter wonderland, crafting personalized holiday decorations, or weaving imaginative tales of holiday adventures, LEGO Classic Bucket sets are the ideal tools for holiday preparations. Mothers can now unwrap the true spirit of the season – one filled with laughter, learning, and boundless creativity, all shared with their cherished little ones.

To learn more about the LEGO Group, check out www.bankeebricks.ph or go to your nearest LEGO Certified Store (Alabang Town Center, BGC, TriNoma, The 30th, UP Town Center) now! 

Streamlining School Enrollment: A Hassle-Free Experience with PSA Certificates

Are you gearing up for your child's school enrollment? We understand that the process can be quite overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. However, thanks to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), getting the required documents has never been easier. In this article, we'll talk about how simple it is to order PSA certificates, the speed of delivery, and the convenience it brings to parents during school enrollment.

Effortless Ordering and Swift Delivery

Ordering PSA certificates has become a breeze, thanks to their user-friendly website (https://psa.gov.ph/birth-certificate). Whether you need a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or any other vital document, the process is straightforward. You'll find clear instructions and easy-to-fill forms, making the whole ordering experience hassle-free.

One of the standout aspects of ordering through the PSA is the speed of delivery. In most cases, you can expect to receive your requested certificates in less than a week. This quick turnaround time is a game-changer, especially for parents who are juggling numerous responsibilities while preparing for their child's enrollment.

Simple Pickups with a Valid ID

When it comes to picking up your PSA certificates, simplicity is key. All you need is a valid ID with the same name as the one on the certificate. This streamlined process eliminates the need for extensive documentation or complex verification procedures. It's a sigh of relief for parents who are already dealing with a mountain of paperwork during school enrollment.

The Convenience Factor

The convenience offered by PSA's certificate services extends beyond the ordering process. It directly contributes to making school enrollment smoother for parents. Here are some ways in which PSA certificates save you time and effort:

Online Ordering: With the option to order certificates online, you can avoid long lines and time-consuming trips to government offices. This means more time to prepare for school enrollment and less stress for parents.

Home Delivery: PSA offers home delivery services, ensuring your certificates reach your doorstep promptly. This service is a godsend for busy parents who can't spare the time to pick up documents in person.

Accuracy and Reliability: PSA certificates are known for their accuracy and reliability, reducing the risk of enrollment hiccups due to incorrect or missing documentation. This reliability translates to a smoother enrollment process for your child.

In conclusion, if you're a parent gearing up for your child's school enrollment, PSA certificates are your trusted ally. Ordering is a breeze, and you'll receive your documents quickly. The simplicity of the pickup process and the overall convenience offered by PSA certificates can save you valuable time and reduce the stress associated with school enrollment.

For more valuable information on school enrollment and the necessary documentary requirements, check out these helpful blog links from PSA:

From Kindergarten to Confidence: A First-time Parents’ Guide to Enrolling their Child in School

Preparing Ahead for Your Child's School Enrollment: The Ultimate Guide

Make the most of these resources and PSA's efficient services to ensure a smooth and hassle-free school enrollment process for your child. Remember, your child's education journey starts with the right documentation and PSA certificates have you covered. 

How to do a No-Spend Year if you are a Mom

Being a mom and a former shopaholic, I know how easy it is to constantly buy things for our children and ourselves. Shopping can be addictive and can quickly drain our bank accounts. However, after realizing my shopping habits' impact on my finances, I decided to take on the challenge of a no-spend year.

A no-spend year is a commitment to not spending money on non-essential items for an entire year. It may sound daunting, but with a little planning and self-control, it's possible to achieve. Here are some pointers to help you get started:

1. Make a budget: Before embarking on a no-spend year, it's important to make a budget and stick to it. This will help you understand where your money is going and where you can cut back.
2. Identify your triggers: Everyone has different triggers that lead them to spend money. Whether it's boredom, stress, or impulse buying, it's important to identify these triggers and find ways to avoid them.
3. Create a savings plan: A no-spend year is a perfect opportunity to focus on saving money. Set a savings goal and create a plan to achieve it.
4. Find alternatives to shopping: Instead of shopping, find other ways to entertain yourself. Take up a hobby, read a book, or spend time with friends and family.
5. Use cash only: One of the easiest ways to stick to a no-spend year is to use cash only. This will help you keep track of your spending and make you more conscious of your purchases.
6. Keep yourself accountable: Share your no-spend year journey with friends and family. This will help keep you accountable and motivated to stick to your goals.

By following these pointers, you can easily start your no-spend year and save significant money. Here are a few hacks to help you remain focused:

• Unsubscribe from shopping emails and avoid visiting your favorite stores.
• Create a vision board to remind you of your financial goals.
• Avoid using credit cards, as they can make it easier to spend money.
• Use apps or tools to track your spending and monitor your progress.
• Reward yourself for sticking to your no-spend year goals by treating yourself to something you've wanted at the end of the year.

A no-spend year can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. By taking control of your spending habits and focusing on saving money, you can improve your finances and achieve your financial goals. So, take the challenge and see how much you can save in a year! It's all about being mindful, self-disciplined, and most importantly, being accountable for our actions." 

5 Ways to do Self Care at Home for Busy Moms

Being a mom is a full-time job that requires a lot of patience, hard work, and love. It's no secret that taking care of a toddler can be very exhausting, both mentally and physically. In the midst of all the responsibilities and chaos, it's easy for moms to forget to take care of themselves. But self-care is crucial for every mom to stay happy, healthy, and sane.

Even though it might seem like an impossible task to squeeze in some me-time when you have a toddler running around, it's essential to make self-care a priority. So here are five things that a mom can do to keep her sanity and still look good on a budget, and at home.

DIY Home Spa Day

Who said you need to go to a fancy spa to pamper yourself? You can create your own home spa day and enjoy some relaxation right at your own home. Fill up your tub with warm water, add some bath salts or bubbles, and light up some candles. Indulge in a long bath, play some relaxing music, and put on a face mask. You can even do your own mani-pedi and don't forget to moisturize your skin afterward. This will not only help you relax and de-stress, but it will also leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Yoga or Meditation

Yoga and meditation are excellent practices to help you unwind, relax, and clear your mind. There are plenty of free yoga and meditation videos online that you can follow along with. Find a quiet and comfortable space in your home, and set up your yoga mat. Take deep breaths, do some stretches, and let go of any tension in your body. If you're new to yoga or meditation, start with some basic poses or guided meditations, and gradually work your way up. Doing this regularly can help you stay calm and centered, even in the midst of chaos.

Declutter and Organize

As a mom, it's easy to get overwhelmed with all the clutter and mess that comes with having a toddler. But a clean and organized home can do wonders for your mental health. Take some time to declutter and organize your home, starting with one room at a time. Get rid of anything that you don't need or use, and find a place for everything else. You'll be amazed at how much better you'll feel when your home is clean and clutter-free.

I like clean items like the Clean and Green All Purpose Cleaner. 

DIY Hair and Makeup

Who says you need to go to a salon to look good? You can do your own hair and makeup at home and still look fabulous. There are plenty of tutorials online that can teach you how to create different hairstyles and makeup looks. Experiment with different styles and colors, and find what works best for you. This can be a fun and creative way to express yourself, and it can give you a confidence boost as well.

Connect with Friends and Family

Even though we're living in a pandemic, it doesn't mean we can't stay connected with our loved ones. Take some time to catch up with your friends and family over the phone or video call. Share your thoughts and feelings, and listen to theirs as well. Having a support system can make a big difference in your mental health, and it can also remind you that you're not alone in this journey.

Self-care is crucial for every mom, even if it seems impossible to find the time. These five things can help you take care of yourself, even when you can't leave your home. So go ahead, take some time for yourself, and remember that you deserve it. 

Choose to be Protected: Schedule Your Annual Flu Shot

Reports show that health consciousness among Filipino consumers is increasing. In 2020, the demand for vitamin C more than doubled, and companies noted an increased interest in maintenance medicine for senior citizens, antibiotics, and antivirals. Fitness equipment like exercise mats, jump ropes, and weights became popular purchases on online shopping platforms.

Now that more than 170 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered many are excited to make up for all the things they missed during the height of the pandemic. However, because health restrictions have been mostly lifted, there is still the risk of getting exposed to different threats like the flu.

Preventive healthcare through routine immunization is the best protection from it because the strain and severity of flu changes from season to season.

What is the flu?

Influenza, or flu for short, is a viral respiratory infection that causes mild to severe illness, and even death. Its symptoms include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, or a runny or stuffy nose. Other possible symptoms include body aches, headaches, and tiredness. Vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, but this is more common in children.

The flu is contagious and is spread through tiny droplets transmitted via coughing, sneezing, or talking. Close contact is the most common way to get the flu, but it may also be transmitted by touching an object that someone with the virus has coughed or sneezed on. The virus may stay infectious for hours to days, and will stay active longer on hard surfaces like plastic or stainless steel.

Flu and cold share symptoms but they are caused by different viruses. The flu is more intense in terms of symptoms. It also affects everyone, even young and healthy people, at any time of the year. It is a constant threat, which is why it is important to protect oneself against it.

Timely immunization is the best weapon against the flu

It’s recommended to get annual immunization since vaccines change each year to match the flu viruses going around at the moment. Immunity from the flu vaccine declines over time, so a regular schedule is critical to get the best protection and you don’t even need to wait for a year to renew your flu shot. As soon as the new variant comes out, you can set an appointment with your doctor and get vaccinated. 

What is Milkana's Creamy Lollipop?

Paving the way for a new, delightful, and healthy habit of snacking for kids – Milkana, Savencia’s international brand, was born more than 60 years ago in the Alps, using excellent milk from Allgäu. The number 1 processed cheese in Germany and sold across Europe, China, Egypt, and Africa – Milkana now introduces its latest Creamy Lollipops to the Philippines.

The Creamy Lollipops were launched officially via a virtual event hosted by celebrity mommies Karel Marquez and Pat Sevilla on August 30, 2023, with media, mommy bloggers, mommy influencers, and other guests joining the much-anticipated event and engaging in fun activities prepared for them and their kids.

The nutritious and flavorful Creamy Lollipops, made with care and innovation, are new premium dairy snacks for kids with no added preservatives. They are excellent sources of milk proteins naturally containing essential amino acids, as well as calcium and vitamin D, which contribute to kids’ stronger bones.

Available in four delicious honest-to-goodness flavors: Fruit Heart Strawberry – the main variant with real fruit filling, Yogurt N Fruits, Mixed Berries, and Milky Ice Cream, these Creamy Lollipops are perfectly adapted to kids’ tastes to be enjoyed as a great snack and as a fun dessert anytime and anywhere.

All it takes for the kids is to open up the lollipop, lick, bite, nibble, and savor slowly. They can also collect the Creamy Lollipops' fun sticks and animal designs, which come in practical and fun packaging. 

With kids back at school, they’re also the perfect “baon” lunch box treats – becoming the special partner of moms as they contribute to building their kids’ health and growth development. 

Flora Guyenot, Southern Asia Marketing Director of Savencia Fromage & Dairy, makers of Milkana, says: “Here at Savencia, we are always looking at new ways to provide better nutrition to consumers worldwide. Guided by our company’s mission – To Lead the Way to Better Food – we are happy and proud to launch our Milkana Creamy Lollipops in the Philippines in the spirit of contributing and helping parents bring healthy and nutritional snacks to their young ones.”

Savencia Fromage & Dairy is an international, family-based, and independent food group among the world’s leading dairy processors.

Parents who are interested in trying the all-new Milkana Creamy Lollipops from Savencia may purchase the products from these leading supermarkets and outlets: Robinsons, The Marketplace, Shopwise, South Supermarket, SM Supermarkets (SVI, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore), S&R, Landers, All Day, Unimart, Cash&Carry, Makati Supermarket, Pioneer Centre, Hi-Top, and Alfamart.

Kids are also invited to come along to choose the flavor they want! Suitable for children from three (3) years and above.

To learn more about the all-new healthy and delicious Milkana Lollipops, please follow https://www.facebook.com/MilkanaPhilippines and

https://www.instagram.com/milkanaph/