Shopping For The New Baby

I am so excited with the coming of my first grandchild in December. It will be my daughter's first born and we are really blessed!

Starting a family is both a joyful and stressful event in a young couple's life. I have been through that and all I thought about was "How is it to be a parent?" The worry of preparing for the baby's needs, moving into a new house, adjusting work schedules can be taxing. So, to help out a bit, I volunteered to help my daughter and her husband with some of the baby stuff.

They may be costly, but I am sure that they are a good investment because some of the things I intend to purchase may be passed on to the next grandchild.

Without much ado, here are the my gifts:

A Feeding Bottle Starter Set

I am a firm advocate of breastfeeding and there is no other substitute for breast milk. However, my daughter has to go back to work after 60 days of giving birth. When that day comes, I would advice her to use a breast pump and store enough milk for her baby's feeding schedules while she is away. Chicco - NaturalFit All you Need Starter Set - Multicolor - is a great product that can help the baby transition from breast feeding to bottle feeding. The set contains different sized bottles that perfectly adapt to the needs of the baby as he/she grows. This set also comes with two silicone pacifiers, a bottle brush, a microwave sterilizer and a teether. Everything in one set. Perfect!

A Crib

Looking for a perfect crib can be stressful. However, since I will be spending a handsome amount of money for a crib, I thought I might as well invest in a crib that could still be of use as my grandchild grows. I found this pretty Delta - Delta Children Emery 4-in-1 Convertible Crib that converts from crib to toddler bed to toddler daybed to full size bed! It would help the new parents save money because they would be able to have their child use this piece of furniture for years to come. Another great find for me!

A Changing Table

A changing table with drawers will help keep all the baby stuff organized. Da Vinci Drinkware - Emily 3 Drawer Changer by Da Vinci - Espresso has just the right height, making diaper change a breeze. The best thing about this piece is that it can be used as a dresser when the baby grows into the toddler years. I love wood furniture and this changing table would suit any room motif with its elegant espresso finish.

A Stroller and Bassinet

You may have already  noticed that I love stuff that doubles up into something else. Well, I do want to get the best value for my money, so why not look for stuff that the baby can use from birth to their toddler years? I would love showing off my first grandchild so I opted for the BumbleRide - Bumbleride Indie 4 with bassinet in Lotus Pink. Safe, sturdy and very functional, this is a great item to have when traveling with the baby.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links provided by Postpresso.

A Mother's Thoughts on Same Sex Marriage

On my commute home from work, the bus driver and his friend were engaged in a lively chat. Since I was sitting behind the driver, I could not help but listen in to their conversation.

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They were talking about homosexuality. Here is what I remembered from their conversation:

Bus Driver: "Buddy, haven't you noticed that there are so many homosexuals nowadays?"

Friend: "You're right. When we were young, there were very few who were openly gay. Maybe there were a lot more, but they kept it to themselves."

Bus Driver: "They call themselves 'The Third Sex' and I don't understand that. So, is it now 'Male,' 'Female' and 'Undetermined?' Its confusing. Can you imagine babies being born labeled as 'Undetermined?'

(heads shaking)

Bus Driver: "Now, they are even getting married! I don't know about you, buddy, but, as far as I know, marriage is supposed to be between a man and a woman, whether it is consecrated in a church or in a civil ceremony. How can a marriage be consummated if they are of the same sex?"

Friend: "I actually feel sorry for them. I mean, they usually get discriminated against. Sometimes people avoid them, thinking they have AIDS. But then, nobody was born to be homosexual. It was their choice, and their parents and society tolerated it. If you had a son who's gay, how would you deal with it?"

Bus Driver: "Well, here's the thing, buddy. If you spend enough time with your children, you would already notice it early on. Then we can correct the behavior. But of course, we cannot be with our children 24 hours. The wrong company of friends may have a big influence. If he does turn out gay, I will accept him. He is still my son. He can wiggle his hips all he wants, as long as he will not sleep with another man."

Friend: "You're right. Same with lesbians. As parents, we can guide them to do the right thing. Make them realize that marriage also entails procreation and responsibility. Homosexuals, in their old age, can be the loneliest people. They will have no children to raise and nurture. If they ever adopt, then what kind of role models will they be?"

Bus Driver: "Exactly. But who are we to judge, buddy? It all boils down to choices. They opted to live their lives that way. It is a sin, yes. Just like what happened to Sodom and Gomorrah in biblical times. But we are also with sin. We gamble, we do not help the needy, we lie, we cheat. We are sinners too. So which sin is worse? 

Friend: "I have no idea, buddy. I have no idea."

And so their conversation turns to talking about the traffic, the weather, and politics. I was about two blocks away from my bus stop. When I got off the bus, that conversation really hit me.

My faith has me going totally against this same sex marriage. Look, I am a Christian. I was born and raised a Catholic and educated in the best Catholic institutions. These are my beliefs and these are what I stand for: That marriage is between a man and a woman; and that there is no "third sex." Homosexuality is a choice. That God made Adam and Eve, not Adam, Eve and Steve.

Now that same sex marriage has been legalized in all the 50 states, the world rejoices with slogans such as "Love Wins," "Equality Wins," "Fight For Love" and others. The LGBT community is ecstatic about the legal rights that will be accorded to the couples who would seal their relationship in a civil ceremony. My opinion? If they really want legal rights, they can simply write down their every wish in a document, like a last will, have it notarized and kept in a safe place. They can name their beneficiaries, their legal executors, and divide their properties as they wish in the event that one would pass away.

Why am I so upset about this? I am upset because I am concerned about moral decadence. How are parents going to raise their children in a society that will openly accept same sex couples publicly showing signs of affection? The only option left is to strengthen the family, raise the children in a way that is morally right, and to turn to God when faced with temptation. I do not want to judge, because I have also sinned against God. 

However, I do have friends who are openly gay. I have a cousin who is also gay and he married his long time boyfriend. They have been together for several years, living a quiet life in Europe. I do not condemn them, because, again, it is their choice. They make sure that they are discreet in showing signs of affection and act like the best of friends just enjoying each others' company while traveling the world. That I can deal with. Not because he is my cousin, but because he and his partner both show moral responsibility not to offend others who are heterosexual.

As long as same sex marriages are kept as civil unions, maybe it is okay. (Although I cringe at pictures of same sex couples kissing) If these couples stay discreet so as not to corrupt the minds of the younger generation, then that would be even better. And as long as the state does not force the church to officiate a same sex wedding, that would be BEST. 

I can go on rambling about this issue for years and years, however, I know I have to stop somewhere. My apologies, I just really needed a channel to express my thoughts and feelings. 

For those whom I have offended, I am sorry. 

I believe that I too, am entitled to my own opinion.

Tapping Influencer Power at TapInfluence

I know that most of us has linked up with their favorite social media marketing group. However, I cannot resist but to share my experience with TapInfluence. This is such a great company and I really wish you would try them out. Their clients are big name brands and they perfectly suit your niche.

When I signed up for TapInfluence, I was not expecting anything big because I was just a greenhorn in blogging. However, after filling up all details for my profile and setting up my media kit (no need to purchase, it is free and easy to do directly on their website), I got my first offer to write a blog post for Toyota. I was floored. Write about a product from Toyota? Wow.

If you are interested to sign up and start a more fulfilling career as an influencer, click here and complete your social media profile. Easy as 1-2-3! See you there!

SLIMQUICK® Pure Protein: Weight Loss Supplement Formulated for Women

Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires constant monitoring and careful diet planning. I have had this disease for 14 years and I have to admit, it is difficult.

One of the biggest challenges with diabetes is watching your weight. Ironic as it may seem, diabetics' blood is full of glucose and yet, we are constantly hungry. It is because we cannot absorb the sugar in our bloodstream, giving signals to our brain to eat because we are "essentially" hungry. I used to weigh only 108 pounds in my tiny 5'2" frame. Now, I am up to 130 pounds, placed on 18 units of insulin and 2000 mg of Metformin everyday. There is no other time for me to lose weight than now.

There are many diet preparations all promising the same thing - weight loss. I am so happy to have been chosen to receive a free sample of SLIMQUICK® Pure Protein in French Vanilla flavor. My endocrinologist has no worries about me using the product because it is 100% all natural and provides the necessary protein and fiber I need to help me lose weight. The active all natural ingredients are whey protein, anti-oxidants, calcium, Vitamin D and Bio-Pure Green Tea™.

I got the product in the mail. It was packaged perfectly and was just about the right size. I made myself a glass and was surprised at how delicious it was. I had tried other protein drinks before but most of them had a funny aftertaste. Slimquick® was different. It was refreshing! It addressed my hunger pangs and kept my tummy satisfied for hours.

Slimquick® Pure is the only weight loss supplement designed for us women. We are subjected to daily stress, shuffling between different roles - from career woman, to homemaker, to wife and mother. This may leave us tired and turning to stress-eating to calm us down. However, with Slimquick®, we can get the necessary nutrients we need to boost our metabolism, increase energy, reduce stress, and eliminate excess water in the body.

This might be the diet supplement that would help me get back to my ideal weight.Slimquick®, diet, and exercise are my new buddies. Soon enough, I will be able to fit into my clothes again, keep my blood sugar in check, and feel great about myself!

Note: This is a sponsored post powered by Brandbacker for Slimquick®. I received the products for free in exchange for my honest review.

A Blessing

I would just want to share to you, my readers, to the whole world, that I will be a grandmother soon! My daughter, my eldest child is due to deliver her first born in December!!!

 My grandchild's very first photo 

(taken at 12 weeks 4 days of age)

She and her boyfriend, or should I say, soon to be son-in-law will be getting married in a civil ceremony in a month or so. And then the next few months will be in eager anticipation of their bundle of joy.

What would I want my grandchild to call me? 

Lola? No. That's how all my kids call my mom. 

Maybe Grandma? Hmmm... might consider this.

Or Abuela? Abuela Bonita? Haha. Very aristocratic.

How about Nanay? Nah.. Sounds too old. 

It will be a good 6 more months so I have time to decide what I want to be called. Oh my, I am soooooooooo excited!!! I used to celebrate Mother's day. Then there came a time that I got to celebrate Father's day too (because I am both Mother and Father to my kids). Now, I am looking forward to celebrating Grandparents day too!

Thank God for this blessing. It made me look forward to waking up each day, one day closer to holding my very first grandchild in my arms.

OZ Naturals: Your Best Bet To Healthy, Youthful, Glowing Skin

Our skin naturally gets rid of dead surface cells every day. However, we sometimes have the need to show off healthy glowing skin without waiting for a month. It is known that new, healthy skin cells absorb nutrients better, therefore, to get the best results from moisturizers and anti-aging creams, it would be best to use an exfoliant preparation.

When choosing an exfoliant, we must go for an effective but gentle formulation. OZ Naturals Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme Dermafoliant is the best facial exfoliator available in the market. Formulated through years of research, it contains no harmful chemicals, only essential nutrients that would give you that healthy, glowing skin you have always desired.

OZ Naturals contain all natural ingredients, namely:

• BAMBOO - used as a natural, gentle scrub to exfoliate and unclog pores
• ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID - an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agent that helps prevent skin damage caused by exposure to the sun
• LACTIC ACID - an alpha hydroxy acid found naturally in food. It enhances the skin exfoliation process to reveal a healthier skin
• PRO-VITAMIN B5 - helps retain moisture keeping skin supple.

Moreso, this product is safe for all skin types, even for sensitive skin. In addition to that, and is cruelty and paraben free!

I tried it on the day I received it and was very satisfied with the results. It helped get rid of the tiny blackheads on my nose. The skin on my face looked refreshed and felt smoother. The product instructions suggest using it 2-3 times a week for best results. I will definitely do that, especially after seeing positive results after the first use. See those nice little exfoliants? 

I am definitely recommending this product to my friends and family.

Note: This is a sponsored post powered by BrandBacker for OZ Naturals. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review.

Be in Style This Fourth of July

The Fourth of July holiday is fast approaching and it will be a great time to spend it with family and friends we hold dear. Wouldn't it be great to show off your patriotism with t-shirts, caps, ribbons, light and even swimwear? Indeed it would be a memorable holiday weekend and a perfect photo op for families with themed attires.
Here are some items that may interest you and your family:

CafePress - Fourth of July Women's T-Shirt

For the ladies, a simple, white shirt with the flag printed in front is a great outfit for the outdoor Fourth of July barbeque parties. This CafePress - Fourth of July Women's T-Shirt in classic fit, crew neckline, made of 100% cotton is only $19.99!

CafePress - CafePress Fourth of July Dark T-Shirt

This shirt would be great for the men to wear. The nice blue color of this CafePress - CafePress Fourth of July Dark T-Shirt would be a great contrast to the female version shown above. Standard fit, crew neckline, 100% pre-shrunk cotton for only $24.00!

CafePress - My 1st Fourth of July Infant Bodysuit

For the youngest member of the family, the CafePress - My 1st Fourth of July Infant Bodysuit would definitely be a cute outfit. Made of 100% ring spun cotton jersey, this adorable outfit has a three-snap closure for easy diaper changes. Priced reasonably at $19.99, Daddy, Mommy and baby would look picture perfect in matching outfits!

ToBeInStyle - Women's Fourth of July One Piece Bandeau Swimsuit: US Flag/Small, Blue

Pool parties for the Fourth of July? Not to worry, show your patriotic side with ToBeInStyle - Women's Fourth of July One Piece Bandeau Swimsuit: US Flag/Small, Blue and have fun! Yours for only $32.99. Be chic, and be in style.

Oriental Trading Company - Paper Fourth of July Bags

Patriotic design paper bags that you can fill with favors, small toys, and treats to hand out during parades. Oriental Trading Company - Paper Fourth of July Bags can also be used as loot bags for the little nieces and nephews who will be celebrating the holidays with you. For only $3.75 a dozen, these paper bags will definitely make the occasion more memorable.

CafePress - Smiley Face Fourth Of July Cap

Shield yourself from the sun with the CafePress - Smiley Face Fourth Of July Cap when watching the wonderful Fourth of July parades. Grandma and Grandpa would also look great with these. With adjustable hook/loop tape closure, this cap fits 20" to 24". The brim also has a sweatband. Only $13.99!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links provided by Postpresso.

Three Men and A Mommy

I have three children. One daughter and two sons. My daughter lives with my mom, whose house is just 150 meters away. I miss my daughter. I miss having someone to have crazy girl talks with, or exchange magazines, or even to just sit and watch chick flicks with. She is so busy with work that sometimes, during the weekends, all she does is sleep. Someday, when things are not so hectic anymore, maybe I can spend some time with her.

My daughter (in the red shirt) and my niece (white top)

Now, I live with my two sons and my husband, making me "the only thorn among the roses." Even our dog is a male!

What is it like for a woman to live in a house with three males? Let me sum it up in two words - Tired and Chaotic.

Men always expect someone to pick up after themselves. Every morning when I come home from work, the first thing that catches my eye are the used plates, bowls and utensils in the kitchen sink. And then there are the candy wrappers, empty foil packs of whatever, and a hamper full of dirty laundry. 

Men can actually cook, but they opt not to. For some reason, I am left with the task of cooking three full meals a day. I slave over the stove, making sure they have something yummy to eat. Sometimes, I am just so dead tired, I do not even have the appetite to eat what I prepared.

Men are the worst when it comes to budgeting. I am also the one in charge of minding the family budget. It is a mind-boggling task to make sure we have a little bit of savings, enough food, paid utility bills, tuition money and spending cash. I try to cut down on as much as I can, however, these boys think that I have found Yamashita's treasure!

Men have a knack for keeping the house dirty. It really makes me wonder if there was one point in time that I paid for the exclusive rights to use the bucket, the mop, the rag and the cleaning sponge. It seems these things have labels on them that says, "For the exclusive use of Mama."

Men are the noisiest creatures on earth. Put these three together in the living room, turn on the television and make them watch a  basketball game. Serve them cold beer and some chips and you no longer need to go to a stadium. Boy, can they scream! 

Men are scared of cockroaches. So very true. All those biceps, triceps and six pack abs are no match against a one inch crawler. Once you hear a "thump, thump, thump" better be ready with a broom, rolled up newspaper or the can of bug spray. Wonder woman to the rescue! My youngest son even said, "those things think they're butterflies!"

Men are not very handy. Maybe some are, but not mine. I am a part time plumber, electrician, and carpenter too. The toolbox is mine - my pliers, my set of screwdrivers, hammer, vise-grip and wrenches. My trusted companions to help me save money and a trip to the repair shop.

I know everyday is a challenge to cope up with all these tasks. As messy, noisy, lazy and weird these men are, I love them so much. They love teasing me, and share jokes with me. Sometimes, they volunteer to help me around the house. (Which sometimes makes me scared because I know there's something they will ask in exchange). They are concerned when my sugar levels are not good, and they never fail to end their text messages with "I love you."

The men in my life

My family is my treasure. They are the most beautiful blessing I have received from God. We are the perfectly imperfect family and tired as chaotic it may be everyday, I am still truly happy to have them in my life.

Giveaway Alert: Win a Microsoft - Surface 3 Tablet!

What a perfect way to kick off the summer! Log in with Facebook or use your email to join this giveaway and get the chance to win a Microsoft - Surface 3 - 10.8" - Intel Atom - 64GB, retailed at $499.99! With the integrated Kickstand, the ability to run desktop software and touch apps, and a full-size USB port, Surface 3 is a perfect mix of innovation and practicality. As thin and light as it is, you'll be amazed at all you can achieve with this device.

Product Features:

• 10.8" ClearType Full HD Plus Display - Makes navigation simple and presents media in rich detail.
• Windows 8.1 - Allows you to stay connected and productive. 
• 64GB storage capacity - Offers room for pictures, videos, music and more. Quad-core processor - Intel® Atom™ processor with 1.6GHz processor speed, up to 2.4GHz Burst speed and 2GB RAM for efficient performance. 
• Wi-Fi - Allows you to connect to the Web while within range of an available wireless network. Bluetooth interface - Lets you wirelessly link with compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices. 
• 8.0MP rear-facing and 3.5MP front-facing cameras - Enable you to capture important moments to share with your loved ones. 

• USB 3.0 port - Makes it easy to connect peripheral devices. Integrated kickstand - Allows you to prop up the tablet for a clear view of displayed content. Magnesium body - Creates a lightweight, yet durable, design. 

[Giveaway] Giveaway Botanica Science