I am Back

Wheeeeehh! It seems that this is my first blog post again.  I was not able to write and even visit my blogs for almost a month.  Last month has been a very busy month for me.   Isn't it obvious that I only have one post last May.  And its about the meet-ups of my father and my son.  Well, its also the reason that I was not able to be active in the blog sphere for quite a couple of  weeks.  My attention has been focused to my father and my son.  I was very happy because after almost 3 years, my papa was able to go home and take a couple of months staying here in the country.  And I want to have and make the most out of it.  From morning till evening, I am busy cooking and baking in the kitchen.  Because my father loves to eat especially porky and meaty dishes.  Because that what he was deprived to eat at Saudi Arabia.  I have been busy cooking and preparing all the foods that he craves to taste. 

Garren also loves the presence of his lolo.  Every afternoon, they would go to the supermarket and just roam around inside. A great bonding moment of  a grandfather and grandson.  But the joy would soon be over because less than a month from now, my father will go back to Saudi for work again.  And it will take another 3 years or more before they would see each other again personally.

But on the lighter side of it, I will have an ample time again in updating my blogs. Honestly. i really missed this stuff. Because writing and reading blogs are my "ME" time. I got to enjoyed and be inspired reading fellow blogger s posts.  In almost a month of not blogging, I felt that I've missed a lot from reading the beautiful stories of my online friends up to joining into different online contest.  Now that I am back, the first thing that I will do after writing this post is to visit all my favorite blog sites.  

Welcoming myself again to the blogging world....

Garren Meets GrandPa

My father has been working at Saudi Arabia for almost 2   decades now.  He started working from other country when I was 13 years old.  From that time, i could still remember the feeling of sadness every time there's an occasion to celebrate and he is not present. Only phone calls and letters from him makes me smile.  He needs to work there to give us a comfortable life plus the fact that he is sending me and my brother to a private school.  He can only go home here once every 2 years but since his job really needs him, the two years sometimes became 4 years.  For the times that I haven't see and be with him, there's no enough words that could every describe how I misses him.  His absence made me love him much more. Its not easy for him to be away from his family esp from his children.   But I perfectly understands him. 

When my Garren was born, he is not there but I still feel his presence through a not stop cellphone calls just asking my condition and Garren's health.  Though my son, was not his 1st grandson, he made us feel that the feeling is just the same as the first time.  He loves all his grandsons.  Though. we keep on telling him that he should resigned from work and stay here in the Philippines, but he refused because he wants to give to all his grandsons  the things that he were not able to give us before.  Garren was already familiar with his voice because he would call everyday and talk to my son. I couldn't wait for the time that they will meet each other personally.  But the long wait is over, because finally after 3 years, his boss allowed him to take a 2 months vacation here.  We picked him up at the airport with my mother, my son and my two nephews.  I could clearly remembered the big smile on his face when he first saw and carry my son.  And I'm also super happy that Garren gets acquainted to him very easily.  Garren keeps smiling and hugging my father.  Its really a good grandpa and grandson's moment.  Now, I am looking forward on their bonding moments while he is here in the Philippines. 

Get Ready for Summer GIANT GIVEAWAY

It is almost end of April but summer is still on, and another GIANT GIVEAWAY is awating for all of us.

The prizes at stakes are the following:  

1. CHANEL PARTICULIERE 505 nail polish from Spring 2010 collection (Do I need to tell you it is SOLD OUT everywhere? ;))

2. THE BODY SHOP Neroli Jasmin shower gel & body lotion (both 50ml)

3. MAYBELLINE Dream Sunglow Bronzing Booster

4. CHINA GLAZE ENTOURAGE nailpolish

5. CIATE : One Coat a Day (base polish), Hang Over Cure (treatment for cuticles), Super Sexy Dry (drying drops)

6. CALVIN KLEIN Ultimate edge Gel Eyeliner in shade 301 Cocoa Sheen (with mini brush)

7. H&M BRACELET (pink coral color with gold, perfect for spring/summer)

8. CIATE Pink Nail File

9. JILL SANDER SUN EDT 100ml (without alcohol, perfect for summer)

10. NYX LIPSTICKS in 3 colours: Electra, Indian Pink, Circle

11. NAIL ART FIMO fruits (3x10)

12. ELDORA FALSE LASHES B127

13. MORGAN STREET Lip Balm Chocolate Cake

14. 5 SHE STYLEZONE Nailpolishes

15. OPI nailpolish LA- PAZ-ITIVELY HOT normal version + MATTE version

16. THE BODY SHOP RASPBERRY Body Butter 200ml

17.  FRUCTIS Elastic Power Fix Hairspray


The contest is open internationally and will end on May 15, 2010.

My 2nd Award

I was very happy and overwhelmed for this award from Mommy Ria of Something To Live By.  Thank you very much mommy Ria for including as one of the recipient of this award. I do really appreciate it so much.

Now here are the rules:

1. Put the logo on your blog or post.

2. Nominate up to 10 blogs which show great Attitude and/or Gratitude!

3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.

4. Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.

5. Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your award.

 

And here are the  blogs that I loved so much...

1.  Mareng Czarm of A Woman Remembers

2.  Kayce of My Life and My Journey Online

3.  Mommy Liz of Pinay Blogger sa Amerika

4.  Mommy Chris of The Mommy Journey

5.  Sam of Proud Mommy and Wifey

6.  A.C of Happy Home Working

7.  Mylene of Online Mommy

8.  Azumi of My Kawii Prinsesa's Story

Thank you very much for inspiring me in  blogging world.

KBEE Happy

Last March 2010, Garren won in the Best Themed Photo Category from Kid and Babies contest.  He is wearing a racer outfit for the theme "My Star Loves Sports".  His prizes are Printable 8R certificate, 500 worth of Jollibee Gift Certificate and one JolliNation doll.  I picked his prize this afternoon at Trinoma Mall.  My son loves Jollibee very much.  He keeps on smiling every time he plays and embraces the Jolli doll.

Late this afternoon,  I brought him to Jollibee Fast Food near our place. We spent part of the GC's he won and of course we brought along with him his Jolli Doll.

This may not be a very big winning but for me this is one of the best.  Because my son enjoyed the contest and the prizes very much.  Seeing his face with a big smile is priceless for me.

Thank you Kids and Babies for this award...more to come for my son.  And thank you also to Sis Hanna Chan for meeting up with me to give the prize.

Big Three-Oh Blowout

Expanding Territories will celebrate her 30th birthday with a big blow-out for all of her beloved followers.  She will be giving away lots of awesome prizes. The contest will run for the whole month of April and will be giving away prizes every week.  For the first and second draw , the deadline is on April 7, 2010.

One Winner Gets All:

- Mesh Drawstring Backpack  

- Extreme Water Bottle with Pop-up, No Spill, Drink-thru Lid. 

- Space Juicy Kiss Body Spray 

- Nouvo Anti-aging Facial Wash (Cleanser and Moisturizer in 1)

- Fuller Life Beauty Touch Face Powder in Natural Light Color 

- Two-Piece Set Coco Clutch, beautifully hand crafted by the local weavers of Calape, Bohol 

- Sexy Summer Necklace Made of Shell and Rice Pearls

- Ever Bilena make-up Pouch 

 

 

Prizes for the 2nd Draw

One Winner Gets All:

- Stainless Steel Vacuum Bottle from IBM 

- 2010 Planner from Pioneer 

- A Nice Black Pen 

- Two Tickets to the NATIONAL G.A.S DAY 2010 (Annual Gear Show) which will be held on April 10 at the Magnet High Street Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (Tickets cost P150.00 each inclusive of 1 drink and a raffle entry for a chance to win cool prizes )

 

 

My friends...visit and join this contest.

N3r3n First Ever Giveaway!”

In the celebration of reaching 50+ followers, My Life, My Thoughts will be having her first ever giveaway.  This will end up today, March 31, 2010 at midnight that's why I am taking my last chance to join.

3 Easy Steps to Enter

You must be a subscriber of  My life, My thoughts! as this giveaway is to say thank you to all the lovely people that  follows  or read her blog… Important Notice: Please sub only if you read her blog and if you like it – it’s really not fair to sub just for the giveaway. (Click here to subscribe.) or in the sidebar subscription box *Make sure you verify the email address you will use.

Write or re-post this in your blog, make sure it’s a separated post.  The title will be  “N3r3n first ever giveaway!”

Write ‘Enter Me’ into the comment of this blog post / followed by the link of the blog post you created / and your email add. (Please include all the info in one comment so Ina won’t be confused.) Thank you so much and Good luck!

                                                                   Example entry:

Enter me 

blog post: http://www.n3r3n.com/2010/02/first-ever-giveaway-for-my-readers.html

email add: neren_nathan@yahoo.com

Read more: visit HERE

My Thoughts, My Heart, My Turf 1st Anniversary Blog Contest

Want to win lots of prizes???Bambie of  My Thoughts, My Heart, My Turf will celebrate her 1st blog anniversary with a fabulous contest.  She will be giving away EC credits, cash and ad spaces as her prizes.  This contest will run from March 15, 2010 until April 15, 2010.

Thanks to all her blog sponsors in making this anniversary contest possible:

A Woman Remembers - 1,000 EC credits, 1 month AD space and $5.00
Azumi...Lil Dolly Princess - $5.00
Best Vacation Places - $5.00
Brisbane Hotels - $5.00
Diva Fabulosa - $5.00
From this Side - 3,000 EC credits
Girls Rule! - $5.00
Just About Anything - $5.00
Live for Life - 4,000 EC credits and 2 months AD space
Living Life to the Fullest - $5.00 + 1,000 EC credits
Momma Wannabe - $5.00
My So-Called World - $5.00 + 1 month AD space
Niko's Blog - $5.00
Stalking Minds - $5.00The Hunger Games Trilogy - 3,000 EC credits
The Mommy Journey - 5,000 EC credits
The Snoring Queen - 5,000 EC credits
Travelin' with Marie - 8"x8", 20-page Photobook ($20.00 value) and two 1 month AD spaces
Wahmaholic - Wordpress or Blogger template based on the winner's choice of theme and color

And here's the lists of her secondary sponsors:

Chris Chronicles - 2,000 EC credits
Cornyman's Blog Reviews - 2,000 EC credits
Cornyman's Money Blog - 1,000 EC + 10 x Spikes from CMF Ads worth 1$ (250 visitors)
Earn Money Online with Red - 2 months AD space
Earth Friendly Momma - 1,000 EC credits
Fashion Explorer - 1,000 EC credits
Gene + Experiments - 1 month AD space
Health and Beauty Diva - 1,000 EC credits
Her and History - 1,000 EC credits
Here Anything Goes - 1,000 EC credits
Home Buddies - AD spaces in her PR3, PR2, and PR1 blogs
I Empower Myself - 1 month 125x125 AD space
Inspirational Insights - 2,000 EC credits
Life Can't Wait - 1,000 EC credits
Life of a Filipina Blogger - 1,000 EC credits
Liza's Online Journal - 1,000 EC credits + 1 month 125x125 AD space
Mariuca Wishing on a Falling Star - 1,000 EC credits
Mariuca's Perfume Gallery - 1,000 EC credits
Meow Diaries - 1,000 EC credits
Moms Write Stuff - 1,000 EC credits
My Daily Thoughts and Ramblings - 2 months AD space (winner can opt to have 1 250x125 AD or 2 125x125 AD)
My Journey to Life - 1 month AD space
Pinkville - 1 month 125x125 AD space
Proud Mommy and Wifey - 1,000 EC credits + 1 month 125x125 Ad space
Runaway Blogger - 1,000 EC credits
Samantha’s Own - 2,000 EC credits
Simple Pero Rock - 1 month AD space and 2,000 EC credits
Spread the Word - 1 month 125x125 AD space
Tasty Exploration - 1,000 EC credits
Teaching Moments - 1,000 EC credits
The One Minute Guide - 1,000 EC + 10 x Spikes from CMF Ads worth 1$ (250 visitors)
The Pinay Blogger at Home - 1,000 EC credits
Up Now and What's Next - 1 month 125x125 Ad space
Wonderful World of Peachy - 1,000 EC credits + 1 month AD space

A Realization

In my previous blog about Outfit Hunting, I have mentioned that most of my time were consumed in campaigning  for my son's entry at KB (Kids and Babies) contest.  It was at the end of the voting period when I have decided to pursue and give everything I can so that Garren can make it on the top 4.  This month's contest was really a tough and intense one.  All mommies and daddies are very determined to put their child and babies on top.  At the beginning of the contest early this month, I was not yet decided if I will use my points earned to vote for my son.  But as I have observed towards the end that I can fight simultaneously with the top 3 and top 4, for their votes is just more than a thousand and I have enough points to beat the said number of votes.  Though I have enough points, its not been easy for me to cast it for I only have 2 days to do it.  I even asked my husband's help for this. 2 more hours left before the voting period ends, I am happy that Garren is already on the top 4 but as the saying goes "expect the unexpected".  I was surprised that 30 minutes before the voting period ends Garren has been in the 5th rank.  I immediately asked favors and help from all the mommy friends  in KB.  And they've never failed me for they helped in casting votes for Garren using their hardly earned points. Then the voting period ends, its time to see the babies/kids who made it on the top 4. I am disappointed and very sad that my Garren didn't make it. 

I just stared in front of my computer's monitor for a few seconds for I can't accept and believed with the results of the contest. Then few more minutes after the announcement of the top 4, I received so many PM messages from fellow KB mommies saying that its okay and there's always a next time. Little by little I have started to accept and feel better.  I just thought that this contest made me realized that my love for my Garren is immeasurable and I will do everything for him. It never made me less of a mother because I was not able to put him on top but rather I was able to proved to him and to everyone that I am a mother with full of love in my heart for my son. I am also thankful for all the support of my KB mommy friends for casting their votes for Garren even up to the last minute of voting period.  I may not know them personally but it never been a reason for them to help me.  I was even touched when one mommy friend stopped voting for her own daughter in exchanged of voting for my son.  

My son may not made it on the top 4 but this is just a contest that soon will be over and forgotten.  What is important is because of this experienced I gain friends that I know ready to give their full support anytime even if I don't ask for it.  I would like to extend my deepest "Thank you" to all of you. And for my son, let me assure you that mommy is always and will always be here for you and will never stopped until you make it on the top.

Outfit Hunting

Hello friends...I was not able to do blogging for a few days now because I have been very busy being a stage mommy to my little angel Garren.  I have been campaigning him on Facebook for the My Star Loves Sports Theme of KB (Kids and Babies). Then, we are on hunting mode for his outfit on the upcoming open photoshoot this coming March 21.  We have been an everyday visitors of malls for quite a few days now.  And its giving me a hard time buying him barongs and formal clothes because Garren really hates wearing clothes with sleeves what more long sleeves and ties.  But thank God that we did his outfit hunting with his two favorite cousins.  While I am fitting the clothes onto him, his two cousins keeps on playing with him that is why his attention was diverted.

First stop is at SM North Edsa Department store, Kids Section.  I have seen this Napoleon's black vest which is good for his polo and long-sleeves.  I have been able to fit this one that easy and no sweat at all.

After that, we had his necktie fitting.  OMG....this necktie really gives me a headache. Garren hated to wear this because he is very uncomfortable.  But still because I still wanted him to look good on the photoshoot, I insisted to buy him this Armando Caruso stripped necktie.  But for sure, i will be challenged to convince Garren to wear this on Sunday.

I love this Florsheim shoes because Garren loves it too.  Ever since we started buying him shoes., this is the only shoe brand that he likes wearing all the time.  No sweat at all when he tried this black shoes because he instantly get acquainted to it though this is his first time to wear this kind.

I really liked this Garfield Orange Polo that we bought in SM Valenzuela.  This is not too rugged nor too formal.  And I think Garren is very comfortable in wearing this one.  

Woooh...those clothes are still not enough for the photoshoot and we still need to look for some this coming Saturday.  But in addition with these, we also bought him a Barong Tagalog and black pants that he doesn't want to wear that's why no picture at all.  Just keeping my fingers crossed that I will still able to convince him to fit all of the clothes on March 21.

Special thank to my beloved mother (Garren grandma) for sponsoring all of these items.  You're really one of the best lola and we love you so much.

Yummy Cooking and Baking

One thing that I love to keep doing is cooking and baking.  I can proudly say that these two are my passion.  Every time that I am stress, i will just go to the kitchen and cook.  I can even stay in the kitchen forever without any complains.   I first start to love this hobby of mine when I was still in grade school.  My mother went to a baking and cooking lesson during that time.  And every time she went home, I will always check the copy of recipe she cooked and studied during that day.  I will even tried it myself without her supervision.  Without me noticing it, I am starting to learn the basic of cooking and baking.  If there's a family occasion, I am the one who is in-charged of preparing and cooking the menu.  Chocolate cakes, muffins, brownies, carbonara, spaghetti are just some of the foods that I love to make and are family's favorite.

When I become a mother, cooking for me is not just a chores that need to be done but a responsibility that I should master because my child's health is at stake.  From the day one that he was allowed to eat solid food until now that Garren is 15-months old...I make sure that I am the one and only person who makes and prepares his food everyday.  I even do some research about baby foods and nutrition.  I have a collections of magazines, articles and books about cooking and baking.  But still, for me its not enough.  I want more and more copies of delicious and yummy recipes.  This is the reason I am joining Animetric's Favorite Things Year 1.  She will giving away a lot of prizes from his favorite sponsors.  I want to grab the set of cookbooks from Yummy Magazine.  

You may visit her site to know the details of her contest.  This contest will run until March 15, 2010 only.  The lucky winners will be announced on the 18th of March.

Top EC Droppers for February

I have been very busy this past few days that I would not able to send my heartfelt thanks to all my EC droppers last February.  But as the saying goes, "its better late than never".

Top EC Droppers:

•       Pinay sa Amerika
•       Technology
•       Davao Delights
•       Azumi
•       Spinning Lovely Days
•       VSTiFx
•      KapalMukz.com
•       My Online Small Note
•       Soft Temptations
•       Top Pick Topics 

Thank you  very much for dropping and making my blog alive...Till the next drop....

GUESS and COACH Handbag Giveaway

Collecting of bags is one of my hobbies, I start doing this way back college days.  Most of my friends, keep asking me, what will I do of those bags of mine.  I said, "nothing",  I just feel satisfied and happy everytime I see my collections.  From non-branded up to branded one.  My husband got irritated sometime, but as days pass by, he gets to understand me. And now, that I don't have enough budget to buy even one, he is the one buying this for me.  That's why I am joining Beauty Bow's Giveaway contest to try my luck. She will be giving these awesome bags to a lucky winner.  

The contest is open worldwide and until March 10, 2010 only.  She will randomly pick the winner and post it on her blog.  If you want to have a change in owning these bags, visit her site for more contest details.

Organize Your Life Now

Being a full time mommy and wife is not an easy task.  I have to attend on so many things from sunshine till dawn.  Because of being so very busy, sometimes I forgot to do something that is very important.  Is this a sign of getting old? I think NO, this is just because sometimes I tend to be unorganized. I need something that will help me even a little to put things on its proper perspective.  That's why I am joining My Journey To Life's contest.  Mommy Ria will be giving away one Organize Your Life E-Organizer to a lucky winner.

This contest is open worldwide and until March 28, 2010 only.  The winner will be selected via random.org and will have to respond within 48 hours. So, what are you waiting for, join this contest now.

Freebie Friday by Maver

February is one of my favorite month of the year.  Aside from Valentines Day, this is also my birthday month.  That's why we always have dual celebration and of course two gifts from my husband.  First, we have celebrated the Valentines Day in a simple but sweet way.  We just have a family dinner but before that we brought our son to a play pen as our Valentines gift for him.  Then, on my birthday last February 24, my hubby gave me a super yummy Chocolate Heaven Cake and a personalized shirt that has a picture of my son on it.  

Love month for us is just a simple celebration but still the memories are worth reminiscing every now and then.  And with our son, Garren it makes every month memorable to me.

And like me, Maver of GOSSIP Gehl has a fruitful month of February.  And to celebrate it with us, she is holding a Friday Freebie contest. Visit her blog for more contest details and have a chance to win this Melty Kiss.

 

This contest is until March 4, 2010.  Winner will be announced on the 5th of March, 2010.

Vegetable and Fruit Eater???

I know feeding our children is a major concern of all mothers like me.  And getting worst, if the child don't want to eat vegetables and fruits especially from toddler stage. Well, in my case this is  never been a problem.  My son, Garren loves to eat vegetables and fruits from 8 months old until now.  At his age, 15-months old, he eats all kinds of vegetables like "ampalaya" both fruits and leaves, malunggay, all kinds of green leafy vegetables, potatoes, carrots, sayote, squash...name it..he tasted it already.  My secrets are these....

• I started to give pureed vegetables and fruits at 6 months old.
• When Garren reached his 8 months, and the pediatrician told me that he can now eat all kinds of vegetables and fruits except eggplant and berries, I introduced to him little by little each and every variety of veggies and fruits.
• I make sure that every meal includes veggies and fruits especially during lunch and dinner.
• Every time we go and eat out...I always have a pack of any vegetable dish that I cooked before hand.
• Since my son loves to eat, I offer different variety of dishes to him everyday.  I even search the net for this.
• When he open the refrigerator, he will see washed tomatoes in the front section of ref so that he can grab and eat one if he wants.
• Always teach by example.  I, myself is a vegetable and fruit eater.

But if these things doesn't work, just don't give up.  Your child may not want this for now but you can try and try all over again.  Don't ever push your child to eat vegetables and fruits if he is not ready.  Remember everything has its own time. Just wait for it patiently and who knows without even noticing it, your child will be the one asking you to serve him a kind of vegetable and fruit.  

Post Valentine Blog Giveaway

Lipstick Addict will be hosting her first every contest. This is a post Valentine giveaway and a celebration of her daughter's birthday last February 26, 2010. She will giving away wonderful prizes.

Giveaway #1

1. 4u2 Dreamgirl Baby Love Lipgloss in (02)
2. Sample Cream of Mosbeau Underarm and Inner Thigh Whitening Cream (Made in Japan)
3. Strawberry Lipice
4. Avon Ideal Shade Liquid Foundation in Shell
5. Olay Natural White 30ml with SPF24
6. Carmex Lipbalm
7. Special Limited Edition from UK Erase First and Only Spray on 8-in-1 Body Lotion
8. Avon Supershock Mascara in Black

 

Giveaway #2

1. Careline Extra Shine Lipgloss with Vitamin E in (01)

2. Avon Simply Pretty Fresh Radiance Make Up Base in Pink Glow

3. Ever Bilena Silver Collection Lipstick in Margaret

4. The Body Shop eyeshadow

 

Giveaway #3

1. Avon Solutions Refined White Dual Powder Foundation with SPF 16 PA++

(Light Pink)

2. Avon Longest Lashes Ever Mascara in black

3. Elf All Over Color Stick in Lilac Petal

4. Natasha Beauty Glam and Glide lipgloss in Glamberry

5. Avon Simply Pretty Lip and Cheek Tint

This contest will run from February 25, 2010 till March 15, 2010.  Winners will be picked via random.org and will be announced on her blog on the 16th of March 2010.  This contest is open within the Philippines.

To know more about the contest detail, visit here.

Beautynomics Turns 4

Are you vain about beauty and all things that goes along with it?  Like beauty products, beauty tips and product reviews? Well, Beautynomics has been doing it for  FOUR years now and want to celebrate its four years with a big blast. Join her contest and win big and awesome beauty prizes.

Haircare
One winner gets 1 gift pack
4 Schwarzkopf Essensity Gift Packs ( includes a shampoo, conditioner, and texturizing mud ) - oh, I promise you’d love this ! They smell heavenly, the texturizing mud is the best I’ve tried so far - instantly makes your hair looks soft. Like naturally soft.
Fragrance
1 bottle of CK Euphoria perfume - as a CK loyalist, this is definitely an amazing addition to the CK fragrance line - the king of fragrances!
1 bottle of Kenneth Cole Black perfume - too yummy to resist. I’m so tempted to keep this to myself to give to my beau!
Skin Care Loot
( 1 winner for each item )
1 pc PCASkin C-Quench Antioxidant Serum
1 pc. Sunforgettable Perfecly Clear Retractable Brush
1 pc. Obagi Sunblock
1 pc. Colorescience Tote Bag
1 pc. Glytone Facial Wash
3 pcs. of House of Obagi Gift Certificates worth P 1,000 each
Cosmetics
Three sets of Avon Cosmetics gift pack - 1 Eyeshadow Quad, 1 Avon Glazewear Lipstick, 1 Supershock Mascara or Curlacious Mascara
Three sets of Charm Makeup Brush Set that consists of Dual Fibre brush, 2 eyeshadow brushes, and 1 concealer brush

Isn't it amazing, contest period will be until March 9, 2010.
For more details, visit here.

2nd Blog Anniversary Treat

It' s more than 2 weeks since I first read Earthlingorgeous.com contest.  This is her 2nd Blog Anniversary Treat for all her followers and commentators.  And now that she is updating it again, I can't resist for not joining.  Maybe, it's really my calling to be one of the participants and eventually if lucky enough, win some of her awesome prizes.

Just to let you know how wonderful the prizes are, I am listing all of them.

         
First Prize:
* $100 cash via Paypal
* Blogging from Home Book
* I love Pilipinas Shirt Collectors Edition
* 1 Massage Oil
* Ad spaces which includes: 1 year running link ad, 15 125×125 banner ads for 1 month and 1 125×125 banner ad for 2 months*
* 15,000 EC Credits

Second Prize:
* $25 cash via Paypal
* 15GB Webhosting
* Blogging from Home Book
* I love Pilipinas Shirt Collectors Item
* 1 Massage Oil
* Ad spaces which includes: 1 year running link ad, 10 125×125 banner ads for 1 month and 1 125×125 banner ad for 2 months*
* 5,000 EC Credits

Consolation Prize:
* $10 cash via Paypal
* Blogging From Home Book
* 1 Massage Oil
* 5 125×125 ads for 1 month*
* 2,000 EC Credit

Top Commentator:
* $5 cash via Paypal
* Blogging from Home Book

This contest is until March 21, 2010 only. So, what are you waiting for, visit Ms. Earth site and join.

I am a Beautiful Blogger and So Are YOU

 

It has been almost two months since I have started blogging.  And yes, two people thinks that I am beautiful.

Mommy Czaroma and Mommy AC, gave this Beautiful Blogger Award to me. Thank you very much for including me on your lists.  It's indeed a milestone for me since this is my first award.

There are some rules that's needed to be followed when receiving this award, and they are:

• Thank & link to the person that gave you the award.

• Pass this award onto 15 bloggers you’ve recently discovered and think are fantastic.

• Contact said Blogs and let them know they’ve won.

• State 7 things about yourself.

I am done with the first rule, now it's my chance to pass this award to other beautiful bloggers.  Here's my random lists:

• All About My Life 
• Expanding Territories
• Golden's Diary 
• Miss P's Guide to All Things Beautiful 
• Mommy Cow 
• My Happiness and Sentiments 
• My Journey To Life 
• My Life and My Journey 
• Proud Mommy and Wifey  
• Spinning Lovely Days  
• The Mommy Journey 
• U.T.O.T.M.O.P.I.N.K
• Azumi 
• Babies and Contests
• Stay at Home Blessings 

Seven Things About Me:

•  I love cooking and baking though I am not a professional one.  This serves as my therapy every time I'm stress.  I can be in the kitchen forever without any complaints.
• Dark chocolates is my weakness.
• I am not a fight starter but would not run from one if provoke.
• At mg age, I still don't know how to swim and how to ride a bicycle
• I hate cockroaches, give me one if you want me to die.
• I am not a sporty nor an outdoor person.  I just prefer to stay at home to watch t.v's and surf the net
•  I am CERTIFIED Stage Mommy to my one and only son, Garren

My Life @31

I had celebrated my 31st birthday yesterday.  OMG, i am 1 year older again, hope a year wiser too.  But one thing I am sure about that I am not only  feeling a year of additional happiness but instead a million of joy and happiness because of my son and husband.  12midnight of yesterday, when my husband got to surprise me with my favorite chocolate cake and a candle on it. He was singing a "happy birthday song", then he gave me a very nice shirt with Garren's picture on it and has a caption I love you mommy. Then early morning, when my son woke up, he gave me a sweet birthday kiss, without me even saying him to kiss me.  Then late afternoon, when I have decided to cook carbonara and baked chicken wings, our family's favorite.  After cooking, I brought Garren and his two nephews in a mall to enjoy playing.  Then, dinner afterwards.We just have celebrated my natal day in a simple way.  But the love and joy I have felt is immeasurable.  Thank you to all my friends way back highschool and college, former offiicemates, relatives, kumare and kumpare, new found online friends and to all stage mommies who took time to greet me.

 
But most of all, thank you to my husband and my son Garren, for making my life worth living.  The two of you are my inspirations on becoming a much better person everyday.  I always pray to God to please give me more years of life because I still want to show to the two of you how lucky I am of having you.

Join Miss P's 200+ Follower Make-up Giveaway

To all make-up and beauty fanatics here's your chance to win some make-up products from Miss P's Guide to All things Beautiful. 

Prizes include:

• Sonia Kashuk Limited Edition Glitz & Glam Travel Brush Set with Case (1 blusher brush, 1 eyeshadow brush, 1 angled eye shadow brush, 1 crease brush and 1 black zippered case)
• Revlon Fantasy Length Lashes in "Flirty"
• NARS Duo Lip Gloss in Boogie Nights/Giza
• MAC Eye Shadow in "Straw Harvest" from the 2010 MAC Spring Colour 2 Forecast Collection ("Straw Harvest" is a gorgeous shade of warm peachy gold in a pearl finish)
• Maybelline Eye Studio Eye Shadow in Ivy Icon

All you have to do is:

1)  Be a follower or subscriber
You will be disqualified if you are not a follower or subscriber

2) You must be at least 18 years old to participate

3)  Leave a comment with your email address and also tell Miss P what is the one makeup product that you can not go without (I can not go without my Carmex lip balm...dry lips are not cute)

4)  Spread the love! Blog about the giveaway with a picture of the prizes and include a link back to this post on my blog. You must leave Miss P a link to your post in the comment section as a proof.

For more details, visit here

Garren turns 15-months old Today

Today, my beloved son turned a month older.  It may not be celebrated as extravagant as his 1st birthday but still for me, its an important milestone.  It's been 15 months of joy and happiness, he is bringing into our lives.  To mark this day, I am listing below his milestones and achievements.

Physical Development

•   His very keen on trying different ways of moving.  He climbs the stairs very fast, run outside our house and non-stop jumping from one place to another.
• He is very good on pulling things off the shelves like the Cd's, books and anything that within his reach.
• He is good in imitating others.  
• Knows how and where to use certain things and gadgets like cellphones, lipsticks, comb, hairbrush, cottonbuds, remote control, spoon and forks.
• Use of hands and fingers are improving.  Knows how to use his crayons and turn the pages of his book.
• He also loves playing his shape-sorter toy.  Can already distinguish the round shape from an oval shape.

Cognitive and Mental Development

• He can follow simple instructions, like "get your book". "read your book", "drink your water", He can turn on and off the tv and electric fan if you ask him.
• He can understands the meaning of "No," "look," "Come here," "show me" and "give me"
• He loves to read books most especially the colored-ones.
• Hooked in pretend playing such as closing his eyes to pretend that he is sleeping, sounding "huhuhu"as if he is crying.

Emotional and Behavioral Development

• It seems that the attention we are giving him are still not enough.  He always wants to be the center of anyone.
• Experiments which behavior  of him will get the desired effect on other people.

For some, these milestones of my son maybe too late or too fast compare to other children his age but for me, still these are an achievements that need to be treasured and be-proud of.

Free-Spirits Couple

  I don't believed in destiny not until I met this man, named Orlando "Ogz" Galuza.  We first met May 23, 2005 in a mountaineering event.  I am not a mountaineer nor I love mountains especially the heat of the sun. We have met through my former boyfriend.  It was month of May 2005, when my boyfriend back then, asked me to join a climb for a cause in Benguet province.  The project was called "Big Brother, Big Sister (BBBS)".  This aimed to donate books and school supplies for the less fortunate children in Mountain Province.  But aside from donating cash, the challenge is to bring all the book and school supplies to the students that are located on top of the mountain.  We have to walk long hours just to reach them.  Since, I was invited by my boyfriend (now my ex), I decided to join despite of the fact that it will be physically dehydrating and exhausting.  There I met him, and found out that  Ogz is the founder of the said project.  I don't even gave a second glance at him  because I already had a boyfriend by that time and it happened to be his friend.  But because Ogz is a friend of my boyfriend, I got acquainted with him and share some conversation with him.  But still no spark because I am dead over heels in love with my boyfriend then.  The climb ended and we go back to Manila, without me noticing, Ogz and I are exchanging emails and text messages.  That's the start of our closeness.  I even went watching a movie with him without my boyfriend knowing it.  A month after that, I found myself talking to my boyfriend and asking him to call it quits.  I want to broke up with him.  He asked me why then I told him the whole story, my former boyfriend is so angry because of all people its his friend I am start loving.  But love really conquers all, I accepted Ogz to be my boyfriend even if we knew that his friends and barkadas are all against me.   From that time on, we shared a lot of moments together.  I am not an outdoor person but because of him, I have tried to be one.  He really makes me feel so very special every day.  We are enjoying every momEarthlinggorgeous.com  ent that we are together.  But still, we have not forgotten to iron out everything between his friends and me.  Now, I can say that everything is so much okay.  July 24, 2008 when we finally tied the knot.  Now, we have a 15-months old baby boy.  And as days, months passes by our love for each other became stronger and stronger.    And we are truly a free-spirited couple because we fought for our love no matter how hard it is.  And now as the saying goes, we lived happily ever after.

                                      

Share your love story and win some prizes from  Earthlingorgeous.com                

Win a "Lunch Box" with containers

One of the things that I love doing is to cook for my family and friends.  My husband appreciate it very much every time I cooked lunch for him and bring it to his office.  This giveaway from Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls will be very helpful for me since, there will be no-hassle anymore in packing the food for my husband. 

Visit here, if you want to know the details

Win a Kidz Gear Headphones

My son loves listening to music.  It is her hobby that every time he wants to dance and hear a song, he would grabbed my cellphone and put this on his ears.  But since, he is still very young, he has a hard time putting the earphones.  I know that he would appreciate this headphones from Kidz Gear.  Thanks to Karen of Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls for this giveaway.  I am keeping my fingers crossed and hope to win this headphones.

For more details about this, visit here.

Win Php5000 worth of Fully Booked Gift Certificates

One of my hobby during my quiet time is to read books.  Especially those about parenting, kids, babies and family.  I really saved a portion of my money to buy books that I want.  Fortunate enough that Anything and Everything's Free has its online promo for book addicts. And if I am lucky enough, I will have a chance to win Php5k worth of GC's from Fully Booked.

Three easy steps to win:

1. Answer the very short survey in http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GWSCS6X
2. Tell your friends about it through blogs/ facebook/ twitter, etc. indicating the blog site:  http://winthegc.wordpress.com/2010/01/15/three-easy-steps-to-win/ 
3. Link your post to this comment section.

Visit here, for more details

Cutest Star in Red

        

 It is really my passion as a mommy to join my one and only beloved son on any contest both in magazines and internet.  For this month of February, Ohdrei Garren Galuza is one of the candidates for the Cutest Star in Red for Kids and Babies.  And as a "stage mommy", campaigning for my son is what makes me very busy every time I am online. I need to earn lots of points through the help of my friends.  Because every comment and thumbs-up they give for my son means a certain number of point which later on I will use for voting.  But before they could comment, to be a FAN of Kids and Babies is needed.   So please, my dearest friends and followers, I need your help for my baby.  Let's GIVE ONE KB CLAP AND ONE KB VOTE to OHDREI GARREN GALUZA.

click here to be a fan of Kids and Babies

go to this link to comment for my Garren

 

First Face Painting Experience

Yesterday, the school where my two nephews are studying celebrated their foundation day.  Its a day with full of fun and surprises for the students, parents and visitors.  My baby Garren went very early to see the openning ceremony of the said program.  My son enjoyed watching his two cousins dancing to the tune of "Nobody" and "BoomBoom Pow".  I even accompanied my nephews in joining parlor games.  But for me the funniest and most exciting experience for me is when I bought my Garren to the Face painting booth.  I requested one of the student in-charged to face-paint my baby.  I just chose the easiest design because knowing my baby, he is too "makulit" and won't sit for a long period of time.  I was busy holding him while his grandma is busy taking picture of him.  At first, Garren is not at ease and puzzled what's the guy doing on his face.  But a few minutes more, he is very busy playing with crayon paint.   The whole process lasted for 30-minutes, it might not be a perfect painting but for me its a nice experience for my lovable Garren.

Win a "Monthly Bill Organizer"

Are you an OC mommy?  Do you want that everything should be in an organized manner?  Well, if yes, this giveaway is really for you.  Timeless Journey is giving away this super nice organizer.  I really loved this one since I am a mommy and I want everything in our household be organized up to the single billing that I am receiving every month.  So, what are you waiting for, kindly click here for more contest details.

Win Belle DeJour Planner and Gift Certificates

Visit and be a follower of Expanding Territories and post a comment on "How you bravely quit from something or someone". You may also want to blog this contest to have additional raffle entry.  Want to join, just click here.

A Date with Donuts

Valentine's day is coming.  All of us, single or not wants to celebrate this special day  with our family, friends and love-ones. Every year we want it to be different and extraordinary.  Why don't you try to celebrate it with a yummy and delicious donuts.  Share a bite with your hubby or friends.  Go Nuts Donuts wants to treat you and your love one a romantic date this Valentine's Day.  So, what are you waiting for, take your luck and be one of the lucky winner.


Click here, if you want to join.

Happiness and Sadness of Motherhood

I am sad every time I hear my baby's crying
     I am happy when I was able to make him stop

I am sad when my baby wants something from me, and I was not able to give it
     I am happy if I do understands what he wants me to do for him

I am sad if my baby got hurt
     I am happy if I ease his pain

I am sad when my baby has his tantrums
     I am happy when he calms down and smile again

I am sad during the times he is sick
     I am happy  if he recovers and face another energetic day

I am sad if he shouts on me without me understanding why
     I am happy when he goes to me and give me a kiss

I am sad when he is sad
     I am happy when he is happy.

Motherhood is truly a roller-coaster ride for me  There were times that I want to scream especially if I really don't know what to do.  But most of the time, I just want to smile just knowing that my son  is having a great time.  Being a mother allows me to be a totally renewed person.  Something that I never expected that I'll become.  It gives me hope that tomorrow will be a much better day than today.  It gives me courage to fight for my son's welfare.  Motherhood makes me a better person each day.  That's why every time I feel sad, I will just look at my son and it will make me smile. Then Happiness will lives into my heart.

Published Letter

One of my passion is reading parenting magazines because it help me a lot with regards on how to take care of my son.  And if I really love the current issue of a particular magazine, I cant help not to say something good.  And I usually express my thought for them through letters and send them via email.  

Last night, my husband bought me a copy of the Baby Magazines (Jan 2010 Issue), I was surprised that my letter was chosen to be published on their Reader's Feedbacks Section.  I was glad that they have acknowledge my opinions and thoughts.  I know that there's no corresponding prize for this one, but just giving a glance on my letter is more than enough.  As a reader, I will not get tired of sending letters and feedback because this is one o way of letting  them know what I feel and think about issues published in their magazines.

Smart Communications, Inc.: Win a Valentine getaway when you tag SMART!

Smart Communications, Inc.: Win a Valentine getaway when you tag SMART!

Smart Communications, Inc.: Win a Valentine getaway when you tag SMART!

Hi FB friends, Smart Communications, is giving away an overnight package to Sonya's Garden Bed & Breakfast, The Boutique or T House to three (3) Yes, three lucky FB fans.  


This is so simple, you only need to do this task;

1. Be a fan of @Smart Communications, Inc. Facebook page


2. Post your fave toe-curling, chest-thumping love quote or message on your FB status, tag a friend in that message (make sure you place the @ sign before your friend's name so he/she gets tagged properly), then tag @Smart Communications, Inc. at the end of your status. For example:
   
   
   
   

   You know that I won't last a day without you @Friend's Name! @Smart Communications, Inc.
   

   
   
   
   
3. For your post to successfully appear on Smart’s page, the link has to turn BLUE while you’re typing out the name. Please ensure your account settings allow your links/post to be viewable. A successful post will appear in Smart’s Facebook homepage. When we click on the “View Post” option on Smart's page, it should link back to your own status message (time and date should reflect the same).


4. Check if your name appears on the list of participants in the Smart FB page. If you still can’t find your name on this list (or even on the wall) you have 48 hours to message the admin so we can double-check your entry.


5. Each fan can have two posts/entries per day.

Winners will be randomly drawn on February 8, 2010. Announcement of winners is on February 9, 2010.  Smart Communications will send a Direct Message to the winners for claiming and other instructions.



So, hurry now! Share your loving thoughts now and get the chance to win! 

An INTRO of ME

Welcome to the blogger's world.  Now, i can say that I am officially a member of those people who loves blogging.  Its been quite sometime since I planned to have my own blogger account.  And my plan becomes a reality, though a little late.  As the saying goes "Its  better late than never". 

And as an introduction, please let  me share with you some information about me.  


My full name is Mary Ann Fadre-Galuza, a 30-year old woman married to a very loving, responsible and dedicated man, Mr. Ogie Galuza.  And a happy mommy of a very cute little boy Ohdrei Garren.   I am an Industrial Engineering graduate from Mapua Institute of Technology.  Fortunately, I was able to work from several reputable companies for almost seven years.  Now, I am very proud to say that I am a full-time mother to my son and a full-time wife to my hubby.  Aside from surfing the net, what I love doing are baking, cooking, reading parenting magazines and books, facebooking and joining online and offline contests and promos.


I hope that through blogging, I can earn not only money but more of friends who will follow me from time to time.  Friends and followers that will learn something from my blogs.  I hope that through blogging, I can touch others life to do good and be good.  I hope that through blogging, I can also learn some important life's lessons.