#milaOOTD: Christmas Edition

One of our baby style pegs is Cobie of Crazy For Cobie. We just love her unique modern bohemian look. This little girl is so pretty and stylish without having to go mainstream style and none of the too-sexy-it's-indecent baby outfits. Her mom Len is so pretty too, it's obvious style runs on their blood.

I've been stalking their IG shop for a while, for Cobies's preloved stuff and exclusive designs by Len. Weeks before the holidays, I was sure what I want Mila to wear - the lovely Burgundy Fringe Scarf with matching Crochet Headband from Laila and Lyra. The same color had been grazing the red carpet the whole year. Part of its color family: Marsala had been voted Pantone's Color of the Year. I just couldn't resist. 

source: pantone.com

Then I was lucky to score a pair of Zara Boys shoes that Cobie only wore once. Got it for less than half its price and it's our favorite since. We got space to grow into so I know it'll be months before we have to give it up. So worth the money spent. 

Throw in a white shirt and cool jeans, and we have a festive outfit that looks good without going over the top. Very fitting for our cold afternoon in Tagaytay. Christmas is meant to be spent with family and that's just what we did.  

Of course, I can't let the season pass without dressing Mila up in costume. The pictures may not give justice to the fun we had dressing up in front of Lola Leonor's big Christmas Tree, but believe me, it's another wonderful day. Here's our Christmas Card for 2014. 

Hope you all had a wonderful celebration too!
Happy new year! 

Ps. This is not a paid post. We really just love Laila and Lyra and we support local small businesses. 

Recipe: Nutella Poppers

One day, I wanted to make Creamy Spinach Empanada. But I don't know how to make the dough. I was already in the supermarket and no time to look for a recipe so I decided I'll use wonton wrappers.

That afternoon, as I was preparing the ingredients, I realized the spinach was missing. Turned out we had the most expensive "kangkong" for our Sinigang at lunch. Yaya Nanay used my spinach. And I was left with lots of wonton wrappers and no snack.

I searched the cupboard and found an unopened jar of Nutella. I can make a Nutella sandwich but hey, let's make things more interesting. Why not Nutella Poppers instead? It's easy to make, and so much fun to eat.

Ingredients:

Nutella
Wonton wrappers
about 1 to 2 cups of Oil for deep frying
Powdered sugar (optional)

Preparation:

1. Take a wonton wrapper and put a teaspoon of Nutella spread right at the center.

2. Brush the edges with water. Bring two opposite sides together to make a triangle. Make sure it's completely sealed. Use a little more water on the two sides and press the side corners to the top corner. (see picture)

3. Deep fry for twenty to fourty seconds, just until golden brown and crispy. Dry on paper towels and serve. You can sprinkle some powdered sugar for that extra oomph!

Yield: Make as much as you can. I can consume a dozen pieces in one sitting, and Mila can eat as much as 3 Nutella Poppers. I think this is a nice addition to your Media Noche feast. Enjoy!

"Ano Ba Yan?!"

My DSL woes and the Holidays had kept me from posting new entries on the blog but today is extra special and I just can't help but make sure I share this: Mila said her first sentence!

We were eating breakfast and my sister Paullette was preparing for work. As I prepare Mila's food, her tita started teasing my little girl, biting her nose and smooching. She can't contain her gigil and Mila is getting agitated but we just kept on laughing at how cute she is. Then all of a sudden, Mila shouted: "Ano Ba Yan?!" Hilarious and amazing! We were dumbfounded! I must admit she got that from me. I really have to watch my words around my little parrot.

Then later in the day, Mila was latched and time was ticking until I have to prepare for work. I was hoping she'll be asleep before I had to stand up. At 9pm, Mila was still wide awake so I whispered to her "Babe, Mommy has to go to work already." She suddenly stood up and talked a mile a minute in a hushed voice. She's speaking elvish but it felt like she is trying to explain something to me. I can just hear it on her tone and see it in her eyes. I want to understand but she has her own secret language. Then after "our talk" that lasted for a couple of minutes, she stood up and got her milk bottle and lay down on the bed, taking back her spot next to me.

I was teary-eyed. She knows. She understands. We always struggle when it's time to leave for work because she can't let go of the breast. I didn't know that all I had to do is to tell her gently that it's time to leave. She knows she is a big girl now. She can handle going to sleep without mommy. I think her elvish talk translates to this:

"Mom, I love Booby Milk than formula. But I know you have to leave and go to work. The bottle will do for tonight but you'd have to promise to go home early tomorrow so I can get more fresh Booby Milk when I wake up. You know how I love you right? I'll miss you tonight. I'll be a good girl to dad and nanay and tita. No crying, promise. Just don't forget my reward ok? Take care mom. I love you!"

Ano ba yan, my little baby is really growing up fast! I'm just so proud of her milestones!

My FoodPandaPH Experience

I love to cook but I love to eat more. Hubs is hands down the better cook and a hard critic. On days when I get home late, has tons to do, stressed or feeling too lazy, which is almost everyday, I just purchase cooked food. That has the least chance of getting criticized for my cooking which I can really take offense on. I bet I'm not alone on this.

To make our food a little healthier, we prefer the home-cooked meals from carinderias nearby. Not the healthiest, we know but that's what our best option is on most times. There are tons in the area but the menu can get tiring. So we sometimes mix it in with fast food or restaurant meals. But that cost a lot more too.

When we got an invite from Mommy Bloggers Philippines to try FoodPandaPH, I got excited. We tried different delivery services and none had the same food and price range as FoodPanda Street Food. If you are from Makati, I bet you know JolliJeep. These are small stalls around Makati that caters Carinderia food for the budget conscious employees in the area. FoodPanda Street Food is the same except you get your meal delivered right at your doorstep.

I got a lots of Daing, Beef Mechado (Mila loves tomato-based meals), Sisig (my favorite), and Lechon Kawali (for hubs). There's only 3 adults and a baby at home and this meal cost us P250 + P30 delivery fee. The servings are generous and it lasted until dinner. 4 dishes, 2 meals, great value right?

What I really loved about the FoodPandaPH service is the prompt response. Just a couple of minutes after I verified my order, I got a phone call to confirm my order. Then right after the call, I got an SMS that the my order will be on its way. I didn't have to wait more than 30 minutes after that. Our food was delivered and served, right in time for lunch.

So if you are anything like me who often find yourself needing to order food and get it fast but wants to limit expenses, FoodPandaPH is for you. You can order from your favorite restaurants around the metro at the mkst convenient way. Register now and find the best deals and get exclusive discounts.

Feel Like Katniss at Kodanda Archery Range

I'm weeks late but I just got bitten by the Hunger Games: Mockingjay fever. I read the book series but never really got the chance to watch the movie adaptations except the first one. But since I was invited to try out Archery at the Kodanda Archery Range, I felt like Katniss and I swear I will watch the movie soon.

Kodanda is Sanskrit for he who has a bow. Kodanda Archery Range is located at the Upper Basement of Makati Cinema Square. I had passed this place a few times when I tried target shooting at the firing range right next to it. One of my work colleagues had also mentioned this range to me since he had been here multiple times and was actually suggesting this for team building. That's still in the drawing board. I've been curious but did not have the guts to try because I thought it'll be too hard. I'm glad I decided to challenge myself.

The range opens at 10:30AM and I was so excited, I was there 30 minutes early. Except for two attendants, Kodanda Range was all mine. They were really helpful and explained to me the rules and tricks on how to hit the target. I took my time before starting because I was a little intimidated with the big bow. I explored the whole room and I noticed that there was a small area of items on sale for those who are really into archery. There's also a side area behind a thick glass for spectators and companions to stay in and get a good view of the targets. I overheard the attendants discussing about an archery competition they will join so I know I'm in good hands.

The room is fully air-conditioned. On the left is the glass-protected are with a good view of the targets.

I got fitted with arm and finger protection and the quiver went around my hips. Five minutes of instructions and I was set to go. Set the arrow on the bow. Lift the bow, keeping your arms straight. Pull the string with the other hand until it's right below your chin. Keep your elbows parallel to the ground. Line the sight on the target. Let go of the string within a few seconds. Don't pull back. Just release it and the arrow will find its way to the bulls eye. I thinks thats how they said it'll be. At least that's how I do it. Haha. I'd say it worked since I got my arrows on the target. Mostly.

Hit the yellow target on my second set.

I'm not sure if it's fortunate or not that I was alone during the first half hour. I was actually very comfortable shooting arrows by myself because I did not have to compete with anyone else or get too conscious. I got to release arrows one after the other without having to mind the whistle. One whistle means get ready. Two means shoot. Three means gather your arrows. When a couple came in though, I missed hubs. I wished he was with me trying it out because I bet he'd enjoy it too. A good bet and a little trash talking will make this more fun for sure.

If you are celebrating your birthday, you get to pop a balloon!
The video of this was uploaded in Facebook and it's so cool!

One hour went by quickly. I'm not sure if it's just me because I really lack exercise but my arms were a little sore afterwards. It was worth it though. I even wanted to stay longer if not for another commitment.

Hubs and I will be back. I am even more encouraged to invite my team because they have party packages. For P550/hour (plus P30 for the target paper) it'll be a great day to feel like Katniss without having to fight for your life. I just wished I had my hair on braids for a better photo op. I think I can pass as Merida instead. I felt good and and felt like one badass archer!

Great Rates. Simple Rules to follow

Feeling Bad-Ass Archer ala Katniss (or Merida)

For more information, visit their Facebook page: Kodanda Archery Range
Phone# 621-9109 and 0932-436614
Email address : [email protected]

#milaOOTD: RATM

"It has to start somewhere, it has to start sometime, what better place than here? What better time than now?"

- Rage Against The Machine

Guerilla Radio

On Mila

Crown Headband from Robinson's Department Store

Colar from @moonchildphl

Rage Against The Machine shirt also from @moonchildph (bought pre-loved)

Circo Denim Shorts

Adidas Pre-Walker Shoes

A NAUGHTY SMIRK

Bierra Paluto Restaurant - All Things Filipino in Tex Mex Style

{press release}

From the moment you walk through the door, you can expect a warm welcome, lively atmosphere and a burst of exquisite flavors. Take a look and you’ll find a host of authentic features, the freshest ingredients and mouth-watering delicacies that capture the very essence of all things Filipino in Tex Mex Style. Put all of these together and you’ve got a vibrant and laid-back fiesta feeling that Bierra has become famous for. So sit back, relax and enjoy as Bierra takes ordinary dining into an extraordinary experience.

Bierra’s extraordinary experience will take you to a good food experience that no other Paluto Restaurant can do. Bierra’s must try dishes are the following: Buttered Shrimp with Garlic is sumptuous and very buttery with a hint of garlic. Sinigang sa Misong Tanigue will surely make your day, the soup is not too sour and the fish is very delectable. And last but not the least for their must try food is Sizzling Gambas has a lot of flavor and spiciness that you will ask for it every time you go to Bierra.

The Bierra’s menu boasts a wide variety of delicacies of seafood, chicken and meat. To excite your appetite, here is a glimpse of what’s in store at Bierra:

Seafood:

Calamares, Buttered Shrimp with Garlic, Baked Tahong with Cheese, Sizzling Tanigue Steak, Prawn in Chili Sauce, Sinigang sa Miso, Halaan Soup and Ginataang Kuhol.

Chicken:

Sizzling Chicken, Tinolang Manok, Buttered Chicken and Fried Chicken

pansit guisado

Meat (Beef / Pork):

Sinigang na Baboy, Pork Adobo and Ihaw Marinated BBQ.

nachos

tacos

Veggies:

Adobong KangKong, Chopsuey, Ensaladang Lato and Ensaladang Mangga.

mangga't bagoong

Bierra’s décor is engaging and have earth hues, it has Mexican feel and ambiance, but truly Filipino in taste. They have a nice wooden glass door, 4 wall light fixtures. The dining room can seat 100 plus people and they accommodate Baptism, Company Christmas Party, Debut and other occasions. They also have Live bands, Acoustic Nights, Stand Up Comedian, Videoke Nights and Rock Bands.

It’s all here waiting for you at Bierra Paluto Restaurant!

Bierra Paluto Restaurant is located at Unit 105 Seaside sa Ortigas, Brgy. Ugong, Pasig City 

Open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. 

Street parking and public lots are readily available. 

Visit the restaurant on their Facebook Page, facebook.com/BierraPalutoRestaurant. 

 For reservations, please call (650)367.7974

Our not so Little Bedspacer

Bedtime reminds me how much Mila had grown. At 15 months, this princess still co-sleeps with mom and dad on a queen-sized bed. From a tiny little speck in our bed, she now owns the whole space. Our little bedspacer is not so little anymore.

Even before Mila was born, we made a decision she will sleep on the bed with us. I wanted to practice attachment parenting. I grew up sleeping in the same room with my parents, all three of us sisters. We still do that now when we visit. I want Mila to be comfortable like that with us too.

As a paranoid new mom, I didn't feel I could sleep without being able to check up on her every minute. Neither do I want to have to stand up every time she needs to feed. That will be a disaster in the making because I'm known to go crazy if I lack sleep.

This was perfect and I felt sleeping next to Mila until she outgrew it.

I got a sleeper bed to make sure the itsy bitsy human being doesn't get crushed. Well, that worked for about a month. She quickly outgrew it because she only wants to snuggle under my arms - on my armpit to be exact. To keep us in check and for safety and comfort, we defined her space on the bed with some thin foam and blankets. Uhm, that worked just for another month. The little girl is a mover!

one month young Mila

wiggly little burrito

Hubs had been asking me to get Mila her own bed. He said he wants to kick Mila off the bed because Mila kicks him off the bed. She sleeps deeply when we are on H-position. Her head closer to mine and her feet touching dad, nudging him once a while. That sends her dad at the edge of the bed for sure. 

Scoot over dad!

We don't have space for her own room yet so we were thinking of having a cute little toddler bed right across ours just so she can feel it's her own. I'm still undecided. I will miss cuddling with her, playing with her hands as she sleeps soundly next to me. I will miss waking up to the intoxicating smell of my baby. I'm not ready to let go yet. Maybe another year?

How about you? When did your baby get his or her own bed?

Let's Experience A Brick Adventure at Adventure Jungle

It's been a while since I last visited the zoo. This month, one of our family weekends will be spent with animals up close at the Adventure Jungle. Here's a recent post from one of our mommy bloggers and see why I wanna go soon!

Adventure Jungle, the 2000 square meters zoo and private facility inside Manila Zoo has a new and exciting activity and just launched on November 30, 2014.  

The Brick Adventure is a place for young at heart to play this famous toy building brick (Original Lego Toys) The bricks can be assembled in different ways to breathe any object your mind desires. In adventure jungle, we created lots of different animals from Lego blocks, like a giraffe (6 feet high) or even the amazing seating lady taking care of them all name Andria, the exhibit truly is a site to see and not an ordinary brick construction because of the gigantic construction of the toys from the usual 3 to 4 inches miniatures.

A site to see and touch also among the 58 different species we have are our amazing 50 years old Mr. T (Tortoise), Blu (Hyacinth Macaw from the movie Rio) and Gabbie (Gibbon).

For this holiday season, let's go, play, check the brick adventure and exhibit then meet our amazing feathery and furry friends only at Adventure Jungle.

For more info, check Kinder Zoo Adventure Jungle in Facebook, @Kinder_zoo on Twitter or send sms to Neng at +63 928 834 3476.

Address: Manila Zoo,Adriatico Street, Malate, Metro Manila.

Reference:
Grace Bondad Nicolas
M: 09213191471
E: [email protected]

*all pictures are credited to Ms. Grace

#Headturners? Check out Torque's New Rotating Camera Phablets

{press release}

I had the privilege to attend yesterday's launch of one of the gadgets that'll be on my wish list: the #Headturners Torque Rotating Camera Phablets

In a Mardi Gras / Las Vegas inspired party at One Esplanade, I had the chance to play and test these new phablets. I am loving the rotating camera too much. Perfect for Mila who loves selfies. The colors and price point are a big yes for me too.

DROIDZ SWIVEL - The New Revolver. 

Powered by a Quad-core processor, each running at 1.2 GHz. The phablet sports a 4.7-inch qHDIPS display. The highlight of the phone is its 8MP rotating camera that can turn up to 180 degrees for Selfie/Groufie/Photo Op options. It has 8GB ROM and 1GB RAM built-in storage. Its operating system runs on Android 4.4 Kitkat and it supports Dual SIM.

Price: Php 4,599

DROIDZ PIVOT - A Different Twist.

The DROIDZ PIVOT is accentedby a trendy rotating 8MP camerafor Selfie/Groufie/Photo Op options. It runs on Android 4.4 Kitkat and is powered by a 1.2GHz Quad-core. It has 8GB ROM and 1GB RAM of built-in storage. The phablet has a 5-inch qHDIPS display. It comes with 8GB internal storage. In terms of connectivity options, the phone supportsDual SIM, 3G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS connectivity.

Price: Php 4,999

DROIDZ ROTATE - A Whirl Win.

Powered by Dual-core processors, running on Android 4.4 Kitkat, DROIDZ ROTATE features 8MP rotating camerafor Selfie/Groufie/Photo Op options.The phablethas 1GB RAM, expandable 32GB memory via Micro-SDand a 7 inch WSVGA touch display. It also supports Dual SIM,Wi-Fi, GPS, 3G and Bluetooth connectivity. Stands outas the most affordable 7 inch phablet with rotating camera!


Price: Php 4,399

DROIDZ AXIS - Your Turning Point.

The DROIDZ AXIS showcasesa 7-inch WXGA HD touch display. Under the hood, the phabletis fueled by a Quad-core chipset at 1.2GHz running Android 4.4 Kitkat OS. It includes Dual SIM, 3G, Bluetooth, and WiFiconnectivity. Its rotating camera can swing up to 180 degreesfor Selfie/Groufie/Photo Op options. The camera features 8-megapixel of high resolution.

Price: Php 5,799 

Here are other great, affordable Torque Models to be launched this Dec ’14

I had been looking for an affordable Smart Phone and aside from the Droidz Pivot, I'm also interested with the Droidz Punch LTE. I wonder who will be my santa this year?

What's your favorite?