What Greeted us at Pico de Loro?

Welcome to Pico de Loro!


This is what greeted us as soon as we were at Hamilo Coast. By this time, the kids were already itching to go to the beach. We travelled for 3 hours on the road so they felt hot and sticky.

We went straight to our room, ate lunch then rested for a couple of minutes before we went to the clubhouse.


This is going to be a fun weekend!



On Our Way to Hamilo Coast

We've been planning for this trip for months. It was supposed to be an all girls trip but since it's just a couple of hours away from home, we decided to bring along the rest of the family.


The view was spectacular. We knew that we arrived in Hamilo Coast. We can see the ocean!


And this is our drive on the way to the "paradise".


This is going to be another adventure! Watch out for more posts and photos soon! (*wink*)

5 Ways to Reduce Stress Now and For Good by Leyla Shamayeva

For the busy Moms and Dads, here's another article I found very helpful. Read on.

5 Ways to Reduce Stress Now and For Good
by Leyla Shamayeva


Short-Term Stress Relievers

A good day can turn into a long and difficult one at any time. Luckily, the opposite is also true. A short-term pick-me-up can be enough to lift your spirit, clear your mind and revitalize you enough to tackle the rest of your to-do’s. Try:

- A change of scenery: Step away from a stress-inducing setting, whether it is at work or at home, and even if only for a few minutes. This time will offer a mental break and an opportunity to assess your situation and reframe it.

- You can change scenery after working for a set amount of time. Studies show that we are most efficient and least overwhelmed when we work in intervals, particularly 90-minute intervals, and then take a break. Use the break to take a walk, meditate, visit a co-worker and chat, or enjoy some stress-fighting foods. Another option is to vary your work settings when possible. Switch between relaxing places like a coffee shop, outside park, or comfortable library spot.

- A bout of exercise: What’s one healthy way to relieve stress? Exercise. Any sport can serve as an outlet for frustration and negative thoughts, particularly because of how exercise affects hormones. When a structured exercise program is not an option, a short walk is effective too. Another option is progressive muscle relaxation. All you need is a few minutes, some privacy, and a comfortable place (like your bed!). You can also take a fitness vacation to enjoy a change of scenery at the same time.

- A nap: The sleep and stress relationship can be a vicious cycle: too much work and anxiety contribute to lack of sleep, and lack of sleep contributes to even more stress and anxiety. Even when you think you don’t have time for a nap, a 20-minute power nap in the middle of the day is likely to work in your favor. You’ll wake up rejuvenated and ready to keep working.

Long-Term Stress Relievers

A spontaneous and difficult situation can’t always be prevented. As the saying goes, “stuff happens.” Long-term action plans can make the situation less overwhelming though. Try to:

- Establish healthy habits: This includes three crucial ones: a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and proper sleep. When a stressful situation arises, these can help you feel in control and prevent you from going completely over the edge. All three affect energy levels and how you feel about yourself, leaving you less stressed day-to-day. Start forming them with the choices you make.

- Stay Organized: Time management directly affects your stress levels, especially when it comes to taking on more responsibility. Try planning and other strategies to prioritize what needs to be done. Remember, when you stay organized and complete tasks in a timely manner, you have more time to unplug from work and de-stress later on.

For the rest of the article, click here.

Sharing a Song this SUNDAY: Bright Lights.

Another beautiful song by 30 seconds to Mars.


Have a great Sunday, everyone! (*wink*)

Flashback FRIDAY: Puerto Princesa

Another unforgettable trip that Hubby and I took, our trip to Puerto Princesa, Palawan.


The butterfly sanctuary was small but pretty.


The crocodile farm was a must-see! From small to medium to huge crocodiles. Kids will enjoy this place.


The highlight? The Underground River. Definitely my favorite part of Puerto Princesa.

Wish we could go back again one of these days! ♥

Our First to get Invited to a Retro Party

It was our first to get invited to a Retro Pary.


We didn't know what to expect, but yes, we were definitely excited about it!



It was even more fun because our close friends were there too.


Thanks again for the invite, Dong and Marit! We all had fun! ♥

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. Fun weekend with family
2. Dad is here!
3. Window shopping over the weekend
4. Good book
5. Long nap time
6. Exercise
7. Bonding with kids
8. Quick dinner at a Mexican - Filipino Restaurant
9. College friends
10. Coffeeee

To know how this started and credits of the header, click here.

Let the Boodle Fight Begin!

Every month we meet with the whole family to celebrate a "family day" and one month last year, we had a boodle fight.


Everyone was so excited. We get to eat from the banana leaves with our hands. How cool is that?

So yes, let the boodle fight begin! (*wink*)

My Much Needed Massage at Fifth Season Spa

It was my birthday month and I needed a massage so I went to avail my voucher at Fifth Season Spa.


It was my first time to try so I didn't know what to expect.


The place was so small compared to all the other SPA places that I went to. But the place smells so good and very clean.


Cozy. That's how I describe the Fifth Season Spa.

Trying Out Uncle Cheffy Again.

We loved Uncle Cheffy specially their panizza when we went to a birthday party a couple of months ago. So when we were craving for it, we went straight to the mall.


Of course we were with the kids so we went for our favorites...

Pasta


Beef BBQ


Uncle Cheffy Favorite Pizza

It was indeed a MEAL. We were happy with all of our orders most especially the kids. We will surely go back again one of these days.