BAKE Cheese Tart, A Welcome Delight from Hokkaido

It's true that Japan holds the magic to lure tourists,  especially during spring, making it a dream destination for many.  While Japan goes into a craze each spring, gathering millions of people catching a glimpse of the elusive cherry blossom -traditionally known as Sakura, it's also when the tourist would flock famous pastry shops and savor the fine food Japan could offer.

Cheap and Hassle-free Gifting

Sometimes giving a great gift means thinking outside of the box—literally. Stop thinking about what you can give them and start thinking about things you can give them that will enhance what they already have. For most people, a solid gift is something that won’t clutter up their home or can be used in multiples ways something that need not be expensive but are practical and useful.

Dona Elena Quick Fix Sardine Pasta in Tomato and Tricolor Pepper Sauce

Did you know that October 25 is celebrated around the globe as World Pasta Day?

It was first celebrated in the year 1995 when the World Pasta Congress was held in Rome on 25th October 1995, and since then has been established as the day to celebrate pasta.

Keep Food Fresher Longer with the Samsung Twin Cooling Refrigerator

The Samsung Twin Cooling Refrigerator is the family’s partner in their journey to living fresh. It enables the busy homemaker to provide better-tasting food through innovative features such as the Twin Cooling System, Smart Conversion, and Digital Inverter technology.

Saying I love Samsung products is an understatement in the house, as I have been dependent on the said brand for all my digital needs.  My phone, tablet and yes our fridge, they are all Samsung.  That is why it is to my pleasure sharing you more facts about Samsung's latest innovation in modern home-living. 

At the Mothers Who Brunch Affair: Because Moms Like Me Need a Break

Lovely photo of the attendees, photo credit from MWB

Motherhood is wonderful and magical yet awful and hard. But when you’re feeling all of the awful and hard and none of the wonder and magic, don't you think It’s time to take a break. Actually, it’s past time. You are right in feeling spent because that’s exactly what you are.

Was there a day when you start the mental countdown to bedtime before your first cup of coffee?  It's a sign, one of the many, that you are spent and you needed to find a little bit of pleasure with others other than your family.

If you can't seem to get your focus on and game-face isn't working either, by all means, Mom - have a break!

Mommy breaks can be a 10-minute escape to a regular once a week habit, or once in a month (but has to be counted in days.).  I don't have the luxury of having an hour break a day, but glad my husband and I was able to fly to Kalibo and onto Boracay last month for that much-coveted break from the kids and the household.

Not long after that weekend, I was back to my daily grind and for some reason, my work doubled and our home became stress-stuffed, as one of our dogs was about to give birth to another batch of litter.  Felt the knots on my back and shoulders and my hands looked more prune-y than ever.  I turned to gardening to relieve some stress, but it seemed that it added to my workload and now the signs have shown up that I'm totally spent.

So I heeded and said yes to my inner voice, and what timing when I received an invitation from my favorite cooking besties, the kitchen divas behind Mothers Who Brunch - Mish and Sab.

Both Mish and Sab are moms who take delight in creating delicious moments in their own kitchen and in somebody elses' kitchen.  Despite mommy duties, they also tend to their own blogs.

The pretty amazing moms behind Mothers Who Brunch

Mish Aventajado shares her family stories and recipes at Momma n' Manila while Sabrina Cristobal-Go ardently shares her recipes on her blog Sinfully Sabrina.  I love it when like-minded mommies join their wits together and come up with something spectacular, mostly when it's for moms.

Mothers Who Brunch have been around for years already and had opened up friendship within a clique of mom bloggers who share the same interest - love for food, family and "me-time." The two have always been great hosts to their events, I should know, I've been to three of their awesome events for moms and foodies.

Mothers Who Brunch
Facebook: https://www.facebook .com/MothersWhoBrunch/
Instagram: @motherswhobrunch

The last Mothers Who Brunch was held at the sassy 81 Cafe and Bistro at the Madison Galleries in Alabang Hills.

I couldn't tell what happened first but I knew they did a demo on how to make Frose which I missed (sigh).

It was an instant favorite, as it was refreshing and perfect to banish the stress brought about by the terrible traffic that caused me to come late.  Good thing Sab shared the procedure on her Facebook page.

81 Cafe and Bistro (and Madison Galleries) is one of those hidden gems in the South.  If you needed a good meal on a venue that isn't too crowded or noisy, this is the place, plus its  right smack in front a beautiful red brick church.

Will allocate a separate post for the cafe as their food is really top notch and worth writing about, and ought to be discovered by many foodies.

The theme this time around was "Gather, Inspire, Feast."  It wasn't only a quick escape we had from our mom lives (as if we truly could), it was also an opportunity to meet other moms and learn a thing or two about how they cope up with mothering and how they take time for breaks.

What can I say, they really stuffed us up, as we can't help to have bites after bites of their Filipino-type of tapas.

81 Cafe and Bistro
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/81eats/
Instagram: @81eats

The gathering was made more special with beautifully arranged florals from Flowers by Yumi and Orly.PH

Aside from 81 Cafe and Bistro, we also checked out another spiffy place in Madison Galleries, just a few steps away from the resto- Coco Nail Studio.

I was totally envious of the moms I was with.  The invitation came with a friendly reminder - "please hold off your manicure and pedicure session as we are treating you to one."

Well, I did, it's just that I couldn't join them that day cause our dog was left at the hospital, however, it still took him a few more days to pop out.

I was envious because this seals that utterly relaxing mommy break. The relaxing studio was hidden way at the back where there are cozy sofas with throw pillows you can just bury yourself in.

Coco Nail Studio's interior is my kind of design.  It has that classy, clutter-free design scheme with light gray to white hues.  I've heard that they offer a one of kind service that makes clients go back for, plus they only use quality products that do not harm even the youngest of their guests, and brands like Orly Philippines, you can't go wrong choosing them to take care your nails.

Coco Nails
Facebook: https://www.facebook .com/coconailstudiomadisongale ries/
Instagram: @coconailstudio

Photo credit from MWB

Especially now that Orly offers breathable polishes in 18 beautiful shades (USA and Germany).

They are 10-free and have a permeable formula which allows better adhesion and less chipping. Your nails won't only look good but Orly also cares for your nails without the need for a base coat. They contain argan oil, pro-vitamin B5, and vitamin C. This one does not really require having a top coat, thanks to the no-chip formula.

When you say 10-free, it refers to the non-toxic nail polishes that are free of all toxic ingredients like formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, camphor, formaldehyde resin, xylene, triphenyl phosphate and parabens, and they also tout a lack of animal ingredients and/or fragrance.

To know more about their products and promotions check their Facebook page.

Orly Philippines
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orly.ph/
Instagram: @orlyph

Lastly, thanks to Flowers by Yumi, I came home like I was on my first date with a large fully-bloomed red rose.  Flowers by Yumi is a Japanese-inspired flower arrangement.  Do give their store a visit at The Bellevue Business Center, North Bridgeway Alabang.

Flowers by Yumi
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowersbyyumi/
Instagram: @flowersbyyumi

I have always been a follower of team MWB, and their guests, you should too as you'll definitely get enough inspirations in motherhood and learning the art of sharing your life passions.

Attendees of the MWB at 81 Cafe and Bistro

Grande Rice Bran Oil for the Healthy Foodie in Us

I was just on the TV and Solenn Heussaff was being interviewed regarding her diet to which she attests that she don't eat fried food, to maintain her sexy bod.  Aww, so how can we (who eat fried food, a lot) then have that same bod without having to succumb to cholesterol and rich, oily yummy dishes?

Eat Well, Live Well "Fitness Activities " at The Gourmand Market

Media representatives were given a one-of-a-kind preview for the next #TGM at Bonifacio High Street Central. This will make every fitness enthusiast envious and for sure can get into the excitement as The Gourmand Market by Nawwty's Kitchen announce their new marketplace concept.
The food tasting this time was held at Ride Revolution at the Steps Dance Studio.

Buendia Food by the Court, Makati's First Food Park

The wave of food parks' success have been phenomenal. Foodies and gourmands alike have been enticed by these food havens that started to germinate around the metro and even in Pampanga. However, traffic always seems to get in our way whenever we decide to drive up north to experience this so called food phenomena.

Healthier Drinks with Gerolsteiner Sparkling Mineral Water

After the festivities, it’s time to focus on fitness and wellness. Since Gerolsteiner Sparkling Water does more than just hydrating and refueling your body, why not add this refreshing aid that helps fight off the bloat, constipation, and may even improve indigestion?

Unknown to many, Germany’s Volcanic Eifel where Gerolsteiner originates from is of unique geological character that produces highest quality of mineral water coming from the special combination of carbonic acid and prehistoric volcanic activity. Interestingly, this special mélange of minerals and trace elements produces a naturally smooth taste that helps to neutralize the body’s acidity. The best part? One liter of Gerolsteiner Sparkling provides more than 1/3 of the daily calcium requirement (108 mg).

A Quick Compilation of Valentine Food Ideas

I missed picking strawberries in La Trinidad and we do not have plans celebrating Valentines on Tuesday like any other past years.  Also, I'm not expecting to receive anything like any other years either.  However, I know many of you are in a tizzy getting inspirations from the web.

Well, because I got a bit of inspiration from fellow bloggers let me share you some of the things you can do and prepare for your loved one, or if you don't have one, you can always make it for your self.

#Lakasmakaromantic

This V-day, Let Red Ribbon Mamon Say It for You

Are you courting someone, or have just ended a special relationship?  Or maybe, you're still waiting for that perfect partner or just someone to bond with over a great snack?  No matter what state you are in the love spectrum, there's Red Ribbon to help you express what you're feeling specially this love month.

This February, Red Ribbon, one of the most loved bakeshop chains in the Philippines, joins its customers in celebrating Valentine’s Day with its new limited edition “Team Kilig” and “Team Hugot” Valentine Mamons that are guaranteed to make this Love Month more memorable.

Wiser Choices at Shopwise Harrison Plaza

Women in the modern society had assumed the role of shopping agents or gatekeepers for the family. Like many other women, I exert tremendous spending power, making over 80 percent of buying decisions in our home alone. This role is so entrenched in our culture that shopping has been institutionalized as a "life skill", as part of the nurturing of the family.  Everyone, I mean everyone has to do some shopping or buying somehow.  Wouldn't you want to have a complete stock of things inside your home?

A Sweet Escape at Providore SM Aura

When I heard all about Raintree Restaurant's new baby from a common friend in FB, I got excited and have been expecting more info about it, which Mela have been successfully executing.

However, it took me quite some time to finally visit SM Aura and get to see their new resto concept.

Happy Cows Produce Creamy Jolly Cow Fresh Milk

Apart from Jolly Cow Fresh Milk’s creaminess and full-bodied texture, the best part about it is its free-range quality.

A Preview of Circuit Makati's Christmas Bazaar Glamorized with Six Villages

Santa Clause dropped his gifts off early together with fabulous tidings!

As the demand for more unique shopping finds, that are more affordable, Circuit Makati made the efforts to bring all this in one big event and venue!

Christmas will be merrier, I bet you, as the bazaar opens to the public on November 18 and will run until the 20th!

Rustan’s Supermarket Pushes Forward Social Enterprises with Super Goods

Rustan’s Supermarket is the country’s premier supermarket, where everyone goes to get the highest quality products sourced from all corners of the globe. While loyal customers come to their stores for a taste of the best that other countries have to offer, the supermarket does not hold out on proudly showcasing our own Philippine products.

“Noble Grape” @ The 16th Grand Wine Experience

Did you know that there are more than 5,000 known grape varieties in the world today?

Though only a few is chosen and considered to the class of “Noble Grape” based on its reputation, source, and quality. They are the hallmarks of the upcoming 16th Grand Wine Experience!

Come November 4, 2016, at The Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel Resorts World Manila, Philippines the Grand Wine Experience once again prevails as the unforgettable night for
wine enthusiasts, experts and novice, alike.

Shopr18es, Shopwise' !8th Anniversary Festival

Grocery shopping is synonymous to a walk in the park, I guess in my book it is.  But what makes me linger more in this kind of park, is my money's worth and discovering new items for my kitchen. Like a giddy girl in a candy store, I go about the grocery isles wondering what I would come home with.

Now that the news is out about Shopwise' 18th Anniversary, I couldn't help but get more excited. Together with my girly pack (coz my kids are like wolves ready to devour any dishes served on their plates, and yes they fight like wolves too), we merrily drove to Shopwise Harrison Plaza to check out what promos they offer from September 16 up to October 31, 2016.

Crafty Party Inspirations at A Handmade Affair

Whether you're an event specialist or just a mom trying to make living more beautifully,  A Handmade Affair: Crafty Celebrations  and Wedding Expo is an event for you.

Happening this August 20 and 21 at the Bridgetowne Tent along E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave, QC, expect creative inspirations to make affairs, from kiddie parties to weddings, the stuff of DIY dreams.

Here are what you'll be missing if you won't attend:

Hunt & Gather, The Father's Day Edition

One of the things my girls and I get all excited about is going to food and craft fares. Thinking it's a fashion event, my girls came all dressed up, good thing it wasn't what they were expecting, coz, we'll end up bringing home more stuff for their closet, which will not make their Dad happy..