Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Finding Fun & Distraction: A Stay-at-Home Mom's Gaming Adventures

Life is quite challenging lately that I tried to distract myself by either reading a book or watching my favorite TV shows or films that are streaming online. Being a stay at home mom doesn't mean it's easy or convenient, especially in my case since I have a child with spectrum. I am just glad, so far, everything has been manageable. However, there are times when I find myself in uncontrollable situations that I just really have to pause and do deep breathing exercises to calm myself down.

So, it’s just timely that I recently discovered some games online which have helped me a lot. Some games are made just for kids, but there are also some which I feel are made for people like me, aimed not only to take away boredom but to also divert the mind to something analytical and fun.

My youngest daughter and I have played this Watermelon game and it turned out to be very addictive! At first, I thought that the objective was to drop all the fruits until it got full but then I realized that to stay longer in the game, I not only needed to bump identical fruits but also to push down the bigger fruits by using the smaller fruits. If the fruits fill up and reach the top part, it's game over. Also, in the game, when you bump two smaller fruits, it will create a new bigger fruit. Like if I bump 2 strawberries together, it will create new grape fruits. If I bump 2 grape fruits, it will create a brown coconut, I think. Two coconuts will create green apples and two green apples bumping each other will result to an orange fruit. And so on until it gets bigger and then I can finally create a watermelon. Here is a screenshot of the game I played. So far, the highest score I got was only 2533 but I’m already proud of that! lol.

This game may be easy but it is very effective in de-stressing. My daughter enjoyed this game a lot as it gave her focus and the feeling of satisfaction when creating many fruits just by bumping them.

Another game that I played was the Open Bar. I don’t normally go to bars anymore but this game made me curious of what it is the bartender was exactly doing, and so I tried playing the game. As it turned out, the game was more complex than it looked, especially since you’ll be the only one serving the customers. You have to learn how to prepare their preferred drinks and serve the right amount so that the customers won’t end up fuming mad with your service. You also need to clean the area once the customers leave after paying. I must have enjoyed the game so much since I tried so many times to perfect my serving. At first, I got a lot of bad feedback, but eventually I received some good remarks from my virtual customers, lol. Here are some screenshots of the game I played. I’ve edited it and put them side by side so it's easily understood. Some of the customers would order a beer, some cocktails or ladies drinks. Sometimes in the game, four customers would arrive together so that I’d have work fast in serving them then clean up the area before I can receive another customer. So far, the highest tip I received was $2,300 which made me very happy already :)
There was another game that I have tried, the Tap Supermarket, and I found it interesting. It took me awhile to understand how business-minded people works but, in the end, I earned $135,000 from selling, as well as buying other items to provide them to my increasing number of customers. However, it seems that the game never ends so I finally stopped playing since I was satisfied with the progress and my profits were already highs. This kind of game was not made just for entertainment but also taught me about entrepreneurship.
If you haven't tried these games, I  highly recommend them. Just choose the ones you like or you can play some of the games with your kids. It's more fun that way!

Friday, March 15, 2024

Robinsons Appliances Opens its Newest Store at Ayala Centrio Mall, CDO

Robinsons Appliances, one of the leading appliance stores in the Philippines, officially opened its newest store in Cagayan de Oro City last March 8, 2024. They offer complete selections of refrigerators, chest freezers, and gadgets. Early shoppers get a 500 Go Rewards points with a minimum purchase of P25,000. Shoppers also get various discounts and offers until March 31 from different appliance categories.

Specifically located at 3rd level of Ayala Centrio Mall, this store is Robinsons Appliances’ second branch in the province providing more than 500 square meters of leasable place to its customer and partners.

 “We are delighted to open our second Robinsons Appliances Store here in Centrio Mall, Cagayan de Oro City, which serves as a testament to the growing demand and interest of our Cagayanon customers. We remain committed in providing the latest and affordable products that aim to share convenience to many people across the region,” shared Ms. Donna San Luis, Marketing Services Manager of Robinsons Appliances.

Following the success of the Robinsons Appliances store at Robinsons Place Cagayan De Oro, the Robinsons Appliances-Centrio Mall branch opened with top of the line selection from the most sought-after brands, exciting deals, exclusive promos and freebies, high-end selection of the best appliances and gadgets.

Led by the latest products from Samsung, Panasonic, Toshiba, TCL, Midea, Sony, DJI, OPPO and many more, Robinsons Appliances-Centrio Mall’s offers the complete selection of home appliances, tech and gadgets that fit to the lifestyle of the Cagayanons with discriminating taste.

“We highly value the growing and advancing home and tech requirement of CDO and its nearby provinces that’s why we’re bring another branch that will further entice our customers to update and upgrade their home equipment and gadgets to cope with the modernization and advancement of the world,” San Luis added.

As an opening treat, customers who shop last March 8 to 10 were given a chance to showcase their singing talent through Sing It to Win It Promo, where the singer who gets the highest score wins an amazing prize from Robinsons. Apart from that, Robinsons Appliances’ Summer Sweep Campaign was also launched, which offers an as much as 45% discount on select appliances and gadgets plus freebies and FREE installation for air-conditioning unit. This promo will run until up to May 31, 2024.

To learn more about Robinsons Appliances, For more news, updates, latest promos, and activities, you may visit www.robinsonsappliances.com.ph or follow the Robinsons Appliances official pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Monday, March 11, 2024

The 96th Academy Award Big Winners

The Academy Award 2023 concluded today and as I predicted, the actors and filmmakers nominated in their categories won the prestigious award. Although I was a bit unsure of the Best Actress category because all nominees were really good, I decided to bet on Emma Stone. 

Photo credit: Daily Mail UK

But I was more glad that Christopher Nolan finally got his first Oscar award because, damn, he is such a good director! I've watch many of his films and was astonished to know that he tried not to use as much green screen or CGI effects and the result were still amazing. During his Wired interview, Nolan explained “I find CGI, however versatile it is, it always tends to feel a little safe to me,” he said. I guess he still use CGI but only he just doesn't overuse it like what other filmmakers are doing.

I've watched a video by one bystander on how Nolan filmed Tenet. It was in a busy street where there were trucks and the stunts were made to climb on top while the vehicle was moving. And Nolan was even there directing them and the result was unbelievable. To say I'm a big fan of this director is an understatement. Here are some of Nolan's films that he directed that I love watching over again: Batman Trilogy starring Christian Bale, The Prestige (Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale), Inception (Leonardo DiCaprio), Interstellar (Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Matt Damon, Michael Cain); Dunkirk (actors too many to mention), Tenet (David Washington, Robert Pattinson, Elizabeth Debicki) and Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey, Jr., Emily Blunt).

Wow, I didn't realized I almost watched most of his films. And to think all of these were blockbusters! I guess I'm going to watch his early works during my free time. Looking forward to watch more movies he is going to direct.

Anyways, congrats to all the winners and to the Academy Award for a good show. At least there was no drama that happened or any controversial topic that we don't want to hear. 

Oh, might just add that I was actually rooting for my sentimental favorite to win at least one of the two categories they were nominated, The Society of the Snow. They may not have won any award but being nominated in Oscars is already something that they can be proud of.

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Navigating the Storm: Lessons in Financial Resilience from the Pandemic

When Covid-19 hit the country about four years, a lot of people were greatly affected not only physically and mentally, but also financially. It had made such a huge impact on people’s lives that everyone had kept hoping and praying it would all be over soon. It took about two years before things started to slowly normalize, and soon people were trying to find their own ways to recover.

In those hard times during the pandemic, my family had to adapt to a new setup in our household. Rather than live in fear and panic, we tried to be as calm as possible but at the same time, vigilant. We would go out only when necessary like doing the groceries or gassing up our car. But other than that, I was glad that other things remained as usual. I’m a stay at home mom and my husband is the sole breadwinner for our family of four. Thankfully, my husband’s company was not that much affected by the lockdowns as they still had regular work and my husband would often work online when they were not required to report onsite. Nonetheless, we made sure that we had sufficient funds for our daily needs, or for running errands or in case of emergencies. We also set aside money for our children’s schooling, especially since their school offered online or distant learning at that time. We had to be prudent with spending since a lot of establishments were closing down and people would find themselves jobless for the time being. We also had to take care of our health and made sure we had resources in case we got sick. Thankfully, my husband’s company had that covered via their HMO or group medical insurance.

As everything started going back to normal, we still remained cautious and continued to live just within our means since we know that life can be quite unpredictable. Financial planning was very important. We were constantly managing our weekly and monthly expenses. Safe to say, our efforts had really helped us get through the pandemic period. We even taught our eldest daughter how to be responsible on her finances especially as she is now on her last year of college and will be having her immersion in a few months.

A lifelong lesson I also learned from my late father, which I passed it on to my children, was to keep their savings for the rainy days. It is important that they only spend their savings for emergencies. Life has a lot of twists and turns and we will never know what lies ahead so it is best to be always prepared.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Catch Big Bad Wolf Before It Leaves Cagayan de Oro!

Watch out, bookworms! This weekend will mark the final days of the much-loved Big Bad Wolf Book Sale in the City of Friendship. Before the big bad wolf packs up, here are some of the best-selling books that can be found at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale:
    

The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, known for its massive selection of good reads at incredibly low prices, has been a hit among locals and visitors alike in Cagayan de Oro. Seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the event, grab your next read, and avail of unbelievable deals before it’s too late!
 
Until it leaves, the book sale can be found at the 5L Event Hall in SM CDO Downtown. From February 2 to February 18, 2024, readers from the city and nearby regions can explore the most extensive selection of books spanning different authors and genres. From fantasy to fiction to everything in between, there’s a book for everyone!
 
If you plan on catching the event before its last day, prepare yourself for some truly amazing bargains. The event is renowned for offering exceptional discounts, with some books marked down by as much as 95% off their regular retail prices. Not only that, but those visiting can also avail of several exclusive deals and promos which can’t be found anywhere else.
 
Additionally, be a part of something special when you visit the event venue. Visitors are given a chance to directly impact the lives of others through initiatives like the Red Readerhood Program and its special focus on aiding the children of Marawi City. In this community, many of the children struggle with not having readily accessible education, leading to limited proficiency in English or Tagalog.
 
By donating 1,000 books to these underprivileged communities, BBW’s initiative aims to bridge this gap, offering these children a window to the wider world through reading. This effort not only seeks to enhance their literacy skills but also to inspire a love for reading that transcends language and cultural barriers.
 
Visitors of the sale can help out too by purchasing a book from the Red Readerhood Program’s designated booth. For every book bought at this stall, Big Bad Wolf will be matching it for a more meaningful and accessible reading experience.
 
The Cagayan de Oro leg of Big Bad Wolf’s Book Sale tour is coming to an end, and eager readers should visit while they still can. Don't miss out on this chance to check out the latest releases, discover your next read, receive great deals and discounts, and participate in a great cause through the Red Readerhood Program.
 
For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf Books’ grand return to the Philippines, please visit: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bbwbooksphilippines/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbwbooksph/

Friday, January 19, 2024

The Charm of Popilush Shapewear: Highlighting Women’s Confidence

Looking charming and still having confidence are questions that many women are looking for when they decide to buy clothes. Therefore, this is an essential factor for them to choose what makes them most comfortable and also gives them the confidence they need.
 
In other words, for you to have confidence and feel safe, you need some essential factors when choosing clothes. So, we have some tips for you, in addition to feeling confident, you will be able to look even more charming with just one piece of clothing.
 
What are the bodysuits for this?
 
Bodysuits came to make the wardrobe even more variable and thus provide even greater confidence for the people who decide to wear them. In the case of all the comfort you are looking for in a piece that goes with everything, plus you can also look charming with it.
This shapewear bodysuit has all the requirements we look for when you want a charming piece that has a great fit. In addition, it is a piece that has a fabric that resembles lace, but with the benefit that it does not show the body, which makes it easier to choose to wear.
 
You can at this point think of it as a piece to be worn underneath another, since being a shapewear it defines the waist and abdomen, but here I leave a very interesting point that you can use to your advantage.
 
It can even be used as a t-shirt, as you just need to put on a skirt, shorts or even pants and it creates a special look for every moment. By not showing too much, it allows you to build confidence in wearing it and thus show off your entire body and at the same time enhance yourself with a beautiful piece.
 
Therefore, it is a bodysuit that will increase your confidence and will also be part of every moment you want due to its ease in creating other combinations both for parties and everyday life.
 
How to wear a jumpsuit for a more confident look?
 
Jumpsuits were created to be pieces that help you choose a look all at once and you just need to create combinations that range from an accessory or even a different shoe depending on where you are. So, they are actually very easy to use.
When you then need to choose a shapewear jumpsuit, think about the comfort it brings you and the ease in seeing those looks you most want to create, as we have a great number of options and models.
 
Here I want to leave those who have wider pants as a day, as they allow for greater movement and at the same time still give you that air of elegance that we need to feel even more confident in what we are wearing.

Popilush wide leg long sleeve shapewear jumpsuit is one of the great options, as it will also shape the hips, waist, abdomen and arms, in other words, making your body even more beautiful and being able to make just a few combinations for more different creations.
 
You can also use them at the gym, as the fabrics are comfortable and malleable, and as they allow movement, this means you can practice what you want in the best way possible.
 
What dresses are for comfort and also my confidence?
 
Dresses are usually for special occasions, so having one that will make you feel confident when worn and at the same time make you look beautiful with everything you need on display is one of the benefits we need to understand.
That's why this built in shapewear dress is the other choice you can make considering that it is a dress that shows complete privacy, but at the same time is still an elegant dress for all occasions.
 
So, think about those dresses that, in addition to shaping you, also allow for looks that have a complete design, but that help to shape your hips, waist, abdomen and arms, so that you have the best body and with a lot of confidence to wear it.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Big Bad Wolf's Biggest Book Sale Debuts in Cagayan de Oro City!

Great news to all Kagay-anons! To kick start 2024, Big Bad Wolf will take the world's largest book sale to Cagayan de Oro. Breaking new ground, this marks the first time BBW will bring its world-famous collection of books to the City of Golden Friendship.

                        Media Day held at Coffee Bean, SM CDO Downtown Premier

The arrival of Big Bad Wolf in Cagayan de Oro is not merely a celebration of the city's vibrant culture and rich history but also a testament to the company's never-ending commitment to spreading the joy of reading to every corner of the globe. As book enthusiasts in the region eagerly anticipate the event, BBW promises its Cagayan de Oro tour to be a momentous occasion, fostering a deeper appreciation for literature in the region and embracing the ever-expanding community of avid readers.

The event will take place at 5L Event Hall SM CDO Downtown, a well-known destination in the city recognized for its welcoming atmosphere and accessibility, providing the perfect backdrop for this literary tour. From February 2, 2024 to February 18, 2024, Cagayan de Oro residents and visitors from neighboring cities alike will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an unparalleled book-shopping experience.

The event will showcase the company's wide array of books, novels, and everything in between. With over 2 million titles in its collection, attendees can expect to find a literary treasure trove catering to diverse tastes and interest. From timeless classics and contemporary bestsellers to niche genres and children's literature, Big Bad Wolf's extensive selection ensures there's something for everyone. 

What's more, the event will also have exclusive perks and unbelievable deals that add an extra layer of excitement to those stopping by. With so many titles up for grabs, attendees can enjoy price discounts of up to 95% off on different books, collections, and series. Not only can residents of Cagayan de Oro find their next big read but they can also enjoy them without breaking the bank.

With the event fast approaching and coupled with the exclusive perks and unbeatable discounts, the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale in Cagayan de Oro is something residents shouldn't miss!

Residents of Cagayan de Oro, mark your calendars, gather your reading lists, and get ready to immerse yourself in a world where books are not just pieces of paper but gateways to imagination, knowledge, and unparalleled joy. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale is set for a tour in the city from February 2, 2024 to February 18, 2024 at 5L Event Hall SM CDO Downtown Premier and promises shaping a literary adventure like no other. Don't miss the chance to be part of this momentous occasion in the City of Golden Friendship!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf Books' grand return to the Philippines, please visit their website https://bigbadwolfbooks.com.

See you there fellow bookworms!

About Big Bad Wolf Books 
 
The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of book lovers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone. 
Andrew Yap, Co-founder of BBW
One of the company’s best highlights is its Book Sales, which is popular among book lovers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them. Currently, Big Bad Wolf’s Book Sales have toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.

Monday, January 1, 2024

Hello 2024!

HELLO 2024!

Every start of the year, most of us are hopeful that this will be our year, that we will be prosperous and hoping for our dreams turn to reality... well, who doesn't like that? I hope and pray that it will be granted to some of us, but if not, there's always next year 😁

My family and I spent the New Year, as usual, at my mom's place, where my two (2) brothers and family also live. I am the one who lives in another subdivision in our city so I guess that's why I have to be the one who goes to their place every year to celebrate with them.

Here's a picture of me and my family taken at 12 midnight. I was quite haggard already but maybe that's how I look? 🤔 We were all trying to wear the color of the year - Peach Fuzz - but dunno if this was indeed the right shade, hehe

CHEERS TO ALL AND HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR!🎊

Saturday, December 30, 2023

CDOBloggers' Year-End Thanksgiving 2023

Last night was CDOBloggers' Year-End Thanksgiving as well as election of new sets of officers for the year 2024. It was held at the new function room of Ribs and Bibs located at the 5th floor of SM CDO Downtown Premier. I arrived a little bit late but had so far enjoyed the party.

In my previous post, I've said that I had health issues that I had to step down as officer in a certain organization. This is the Org that I was referring to. I was elected Treasurer for two (2) consecutive years but had to let it go end of August last year. They didn't replace me, though, but am happy that someone already filled-in that position last night :-)

Anyways, here's a picture of the members present during Thanksgiving. Everyone was happy, I guess, coz we all got something from raffles and games. Giving my credits to the one who took/owned this pic from our org:

                            Me, 4th from the left wearing a headband 😁

Monday, December 25, 2023

Christmas Day 2023

Here's me and my family wishing you all a Happy Christmas!

I hope 2023 has been good to you. It was a roller-coaster ride on my part but glad to make it through and celebrate Christmas with family and friends who mattered.

Hope you had a good one, too! - Cookie🌷