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White Christmas Ideas: How to Decorate Your Home This Holiday Season?

 




White Christmas décor lends a winter charm to your homely dwelling. The best Christmas tree decorations come in an array of styles, and white stands out better!

When you reside in an area that does not receive snow, you need to replicate that wonderland that depicts Christmas most convincingly. Besides giving your tree an all-white look, you can choose to place decorations in this Christmas-inspired color all over your home.

Enjoy the festive holiday cheer into your home by decking it up for the season. Focusing on incorporating clear glass, metallics, and whites into your holiday décor, fittingly recreate the white Christmas you crave for.

Embrace White This Christmas
Creating a pure white Christmas ambiance is elegantly chic and welcoming for your loved ones. Gently handle your best Christmas tree decorations and strategically position them to elevate the overall look of this showpiece.

The ideas enumerated below focus on the magical white Christmas theme and will transform your home into a cozy and inviting space:

Bring Nature Indoors
Baby’s breath with their tiny white flowers adds a floral touch to your interiors. Moreover, it closely resembles snow, so liberally incorporate sprigs of baby’s breath into your holiday décor. Scatter some on your tree for a natural snowy appeal and place them around the home in visible locations.

String White Twinkle Lights
You need not restrict tiny twinkle lights to adorn your Christmas tree alone. Positioning them around your holly, doors, mantle, artwork, and windows creates a charming appeal. These sparkling white lights convert your home into a welcoming abode for family and close friends.

Go Monochrome
Opt for white linen, crockery, and cutlery in fine china, crystal, and silverware when laying your Christmas table. Ensure the other table accessories like candles, their stands, and coasters also conform to the white theme – sprigs of white fragrant flowers in a matching vase complete the monochrome look.

Brighten Up Your Storage Corners
You can give your cabinets and other storage corners a festive appeal by tucking white Christmas ornaments in between, on tiered trays, and in baskets. Sprinkling fake snow at intervals and hanging banners that display a relevant message elevate the appeal of these otherwise insignificant corners.

Customize the Décor
With Christmas wreaths made of whitewashed evergreens, fake leaves, faux fur, and handmade white ornaments, you can create a fairytale décor in your home. Even pinecones can be whitewashed and placed together with pearls, beads, and candles to create a Christmas centerpiece.

Faux animal figurines, even when in silver, lend a whimsical shiny touch to your home’s Christmas décor. Fake white berries also imitate snow in a classy way, especially when you string them over your uniformly colored drapes.

Positioning white throws and faux fur rugs in your living area and a snowy evergreen garland down your stairway railing effectively contributes to the white Christmas theme. As do all white stockings when hung from your fireplace.


Transport your holiday invitees to a dreamy paradise by decorating your home in snowy white this holiday season. You can recreate a white Christmas within your familiar territory with these doable ideas.

Importance of a 24 hour AC repair service in Houston

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There are a number of reasons to live in Houston, including job opportunities, affordable houses, good schools, and standard healthcare. The only problem is the summers, which can be hot, humid, and extremely uncomfortable.

According to a study, it is the fourth warmest city in the United States of America. Even though you are helpless about the heat outside, what you can do is keep your house cool and pleasant with an AC.


But what if your air conditioner breaks down in the middle of the night or early morning? The only solution is calling a 24 hour ac repair houston technician who will arrive minutes after you contact them.


Why are emergency services necessary, and what can you expect during one? Read on to find out.


When do you need emergency AC repair services?
The reason emergencies are called so is because they present themselves when you least expect them to. Just when you seem to be enjoying a good night's sleep or a relaxed evening in your house, something unexpected happens. The air conditioner stops working all of a sudden, or you smell something burning.


The only option you have, under those circumstances, is finding an emergency repair service that will arrive at your doorstep as soon as possible.

Here are two cases when you will need them.

Electrical issues
The three most common electric issues related to an AC are fraying and rusting of the wires, a malfunctioning capacitor, and an overloaded circuit breaker.

It's dangerous to ignore even the slightest hint of faulty wiring since it has the potential to start a major fire. In fact, according to a report released by the US Fire Administration, outdated wiring in air conditioners was one of the top five causes of fires in the country.


Strong smell
While a rotten or musty smell might not cause concern, it is advisable to switch off your air conditioner immediately if you notice a powerful odor.

The first is a burning odor, which is usually caused by a mechanical issue with your fan or compressor, or it could also be an electrical component failure. A burnt circuit board or fan motor will cause it to release a gunpowder-like smell.


You should also be concerned if your house has a natural gas connection and there is a gassy smell from the ducts or vents. The gas could be leaking into the ductwork, which could be hazardous.


Why DIYs are not ideal
It can be tempting to try a DIY repair for issues related to the air conditioner. However, that might aggravate the problem rather than solve it.

In most situations, you might not even be able to identify the problem in the first place. You might also not possess the equipment required to carry out the repairs, and even if you do, you lack the expertise to handle them correctly.


Often, you might even lose your warranty rights if you attempt to repair something instead of contacting a professional. Most AC manufacturers in Houston have a warranty period between 12 to 15 years, and you should take advantage of that.
Whatever the issue is with your AC unit, you must call a company that offers 24 hour AC repair in Houston to examine and fix it. They have the licenses, training, and equipment to repair a multitude of AC issues safely and efficiently, and will be able to get your AC up and running in no time.

10 Main Plumbing Issues That Need an Expert Attention

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Are you experiencing any plumbing problems? You can't blame yourself if you are. Plumbing is not something that most people learn how to fix when they live independently, so it might be time for you to call the experts.

Every one of these issues could be fixed by a professional plumber damascus md, in no time at all and helps you to remain at ease.

1. Water Pressure Problems

According to reports, most homeowners in Damascus, MD, spent around an average of $396 for emergency plumbing in 2021.

If you notice that your water pressure is low, this could signify a more significant plumbing issue. Low water pressure can be caused by several things, such as a clogged pipe or a leaky faucet.

The best way to determine the cause of low water pressure is to call a plumbing professional.

2. Broken Water Heater

Water heaters are an essential part of every home, but they have a limited lifespan of about 8–12 years. Eventually, you might have to replace your water heater, which can be pretty expensive if you don't live in a place with a home warranty program.

In some cases, a plumbing professional might be able to repair your water heater instead of replacing it.

3. Clogged Drains

It is one of the most common plumbing problems that can be caused by anything from hair to food particles to grease.

If you notice that your drains are slow or not draining at all, it's best to call a plumber in Damascus, MD, to take care of the problem before it gets worse.

4. Leaky Faucets

One of the most common plumbing problems is leaky faucets with clogged drains. A leaking faucet not only wastes water but can cause damage to your flooring over time as well.

Fortunately, a plumbing professional can fix most leaky faucets relatively quickly.

5. Sewer Line Problems

If you notice that your sinks and toilets are overflowing, it's probably time to call a plumber. It is a sign that you have a sewer line problem, which will require the expertise of a professional to fix.

A professional plumber will hold a valid license approved by the Maryland Department of Labor.

6. Burst Pipes

Although you can fix a broken pipe with a plunger and tape, this is only a temporary solution. A better option is to call in professionals, especially if the water is flooding your home.

7. Water Heater Problems

If your water heater is more than ten years old, it's probably time to replace it. A plumbing professional can help you determine whether or not this is the case.

8. Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a common problem in colder climates, and they can often be fixed by a plumbing professional. Frozen pipes occur due to a lack of insulation, so adding some insulation to your pipes can help prevent this from happening in the future.

9. Garbage Disposal Problems

Garbage disposal is a handy appliance, but it can sometimes cause problems. If your garbage disposal isn't working right, a plumbing professional can help you fix it.

10. Slab Leaks

If you notice that your floors are wet or that your walls are moist, you likely have a slab leak.

It is one of the most serious plumbing issues, and it requires immediate attention.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, plumbing problems come in all shapes and sizes. If you're experiencing any of the problems listed above, it's best to call a professional plumber in Damascus, MD, right away.

They'll be able to take care of the problem in no time at all, and you can rest easy knowing that your home is in good hands.

Fun Online Games For The Fam!

 


As a mother, I choose my kids to play indoor and sometimes online games because of the pandemic. Of course, I want them to be safe. But, honestly, staying at home and keeping the kids entertained is a very challenging job. Sometimes I am actually running out of options. Before you say what's on your mind, yes they have screen time. There's a limit when using gadgets; we do pretend to play too. Sometimes we listened to stories for our nighttime bonding before going to bed, and as for me, I do love playing games online. The other day, my friends and I were chatting in our group chat about how to find or identify what games pay real money so we can have fun in our spare time and make money at the same time. Because, as you know, we cannot waste time. Everyone is actually suggesting sites to visit and try.

The above photo is of my youngest son playing games from www.culinaryschools.org which I just discovered as a website for kids and also for the whole family. It teaches kids the importance of eating healthy foods while playing. A lot of games to choose from and even I enjoyed playing games. My youngest loves to play the SpongeBob SquarePants Krabby Patty Crisis because he loves SpongeBob SquarePants and he really enjoyed playing these games. 



When I have my me-time moment I also play games, yes for my mind to relax and enjoy too! I personally love to play the  Find Pair and Guess the Food games because it feels like my mind is in refresh mode. This is also good for the kids, the Find Pair help children develop pattern recognition skills. Surely my kids will be interested in these games too! 




What I love about kids' games at Culinary Schools Org is that it's ad-free even games are free to play, sites are not bombarded with ads and not necessarily pop-ups link ads that kids don't like when they are playing. Instructions to play are easy, and there are many classic games that kids and parents will enjoy. It's an educational game actually and I hope they release an app that all the games can be downloaded in one app. 

And if you are looking for online games for your kids I am recommending this site. Ending this post because I am currently playing now haha! let me know if you tried too and tell me your favorites! 



5 Skin Ailments That Require A Dermatologist in Stamford, CT

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The skin protects your body from heat, dirt, germs, and many other things. Hence, it would help if you kept it as healthy as possible. Though you may take care of your skin, there is always a chance of developing a skin disease. As per recent data, the population of Stamford, CT, is around 129,638. Out of this, the women population in Stamford, CT, is around 50.7%. Though men experience the worst outbreaks of Acne, it has been observed that more women suffer from acne breakouts. Skin ailments can affect anyone and must be addressed timely to ensure that the problem doesn’t worsen.

If you ever develop a skin ailment, you need to consider visiting a dermatologist Stamford CT. Here is the list of five skin ailments that require a dermatologist.


Acne
Many people waste their time and money on self-treatments or the hope of treating acne problems with over-counter topical medications. However, a dermatologist is the best to consult when facing an acne problem. They are well-versed with the science of dermatology and will be able to prescribe the right treatment and medication for you.

If left untreated, they spread to other facial areas and progress into whiteheads, blackheads and leave black spots on your skin. Starting the treatment early helps prevent Acne from spreading, and you don't need strong medicine to clear them.


Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin ailment where skin cells multiply and form scales and dry, itchy patches. Medical experts mention psoriasis is mainly related to problems with your immune system. If you are battling an infection or a disease, your immune system gets hyper-activated and starts attacking your skin cells.

As per recent data, around 20.5% of the Stamford CT population is under 18 years. Medical experts mention most people who develop psoriasis are aged between 15 and 35. However, there is no scientific evidence psoriasis is related to a certain age. Stress and obesity are two factors that can lead to psoriasis flares. A dermatologist can give you the right diagnosis if you are experiencing outbreaks on your skin and prescribe the best treatment.

Eczema
Eczema refers to a skin condition where the person suffering from it experiences itchiness, swelling, inflammation, and cracked skin. According to a recent health survey, around 31.6 million people in the United States suffer from Eczema.

If you notice symptoms like rashes that occur all over the body or rashes that are constantly itchy, you need to consider visiting a dermatologist immediately.

Over-the-counter medications are not effective in treating Eczema. The rashes may vanish for some time after applying topical counter creams, but they are bound to reappear after a few days. A dermatologist will suggest a treatment based on the state of your health, symptoms, and age.

Sun-Damage
As per recent climate data, Connecticut has around 194 sunny days per year. The UV index in Connecticut is between 0 to 2, which is considered low or moderate. However, the predicted ozone layer thickness, season, time of the day, and latitude also play an important role in the sun’s intensity.

Sun damage is more significant if you expose your body to the sun for long hours. If you notice any symptoms of sunburn or blisters on your skin, visit a dermatologist at the earliest to get the proper treatment.

Skin Cancer
Skin Cancer refers to the abnormal growth of skin cells. It generally develops on skin exposed to skin. Doctors mention that skin cancer is completely curable, provided it is detected early. Consult a dermatologist in Stamford, CT, for treatment if you notice symptoms like a large brownish spot with darker speckles or moles that bleed or change color or size.

To sum up, these are five skin ailments that should not be ignored, and you should consult the best dermatologist in the town and get treatment.

Is your home clean and safe this holiday season?

 


Create a Pine-tastic, worry-free Christmas at home with Pine-Sol Original


Last year, the pandemic stole our Christmas as if the COVID-19 virus was the Grinch. But this year, due to people’s continued compliance with safety protocols, as well as the ongoing rollout of the nationwide vaccination program, quarantine restrictions have now been less stringent, especially since health authorities record a lower number of COVID-19 cases every day.

While everything is, in a way, now slowly going back to normal, with the holiday season just around the corner, welcoming Christmas guests is inevitable. And yes, it does not mean that we need to let our guards down since the sickness-causing virus still lurks around.

Aside from continuously following health protocols, what more can you do to ensure that your home remains free from the harmful COVID-19? Here are some tips as listed by Pine-Sol, a trusted cleaner for the home since 1929, to keep your home safe and clean so you can have a merry, worry-free, and Pine-tastic Christmas this season.

Start to declutter
Admit it. There’s nothing that feels homier whenever you see your house organized—no dirty dishes in the kitchen, no traces of shoe dirt on your walkway, no dirty laundry on the floor, and no random food wrappers sitting under the sofa.

So, unleash your inner Marie Kondo, and start tidying your space as the first step to make your home clean. Also, be sure to throw away the garbage. Remember, less mess, less stress.

Wipe down your home
Regularly cleaning your home after welcoming guests reduces the risk of spreading the virus. So, with a mixture of water and Pine-Sol Original, the No.1 pine-scented dilutable cleaner, always remember to clean the places your guests' visit at your home.

As it has no rinsing requirement except for rubber or asphalt tile, you can just wipe down your entryway, floors, tables, kitchen countertops, bathrooms, doorknobs, windows, and other high-touch surfaces. And while it powerfully cleans your home and is safe on surfaces, it also deodorizes terrible odors and gives you a fresh and longer-lasting pine fragrance to enjoy this Christmas season.

Always disinfect
Isn’t cleaning the same as disinfecting? For the books, cleaning uses a mixture of water and soap for surface dirt and impurities, while disinfecting uses products to kill germs and viruses.

We don’t want our home to be the mutation ground of bacteria and viruses that cause infectious diseases, like the COVID-19 virus. That is why it is also necessary to disinfect your spaces thoroughly by using Pine-Sol Original to kill viruses on high-touch or exposed surfaces.

With the power to kill 99.9% of germs, including the COVID-19 virus, pour a concentrated portion of Pine-Sol Original in a sponge or cloth and wipe it on a wet surface. To effectively disinfect and help control the spread of the coronavirus, let it remain for 10 minutes on hard and nonporous surfaces, such as finished hardwood, cement, ceramic tiles, glass, plastic, carpet, linoleum, and granite, then wash it off.

“This holiday season, we at Clorox want to make sure that everyone is safe from the COVID-19 virus. Even if the country is slowly going back to normal, we must protect our loved ones from sickness. That’s why it’s important always to keep our home safe and clean so everyone can have a merry and worry-free Christmas,” said Monique Gonzalez, Marketing Manager for Clorox Southeast Asia.


To learn more about Pine-Sol Original, visit the website at https://www.pinesol.com/products/original-pine-cleaner/.




Is your home really safe for you and your family?


Clorox campaigns for better home hygiene amidst a rise in local transmission


As the country’s major cities prepare to ease alert levels, people are expected to go out and converge more as opposed to the last few months, making everyone forget that the pandemic is very much around and won’t go away anytime soon.

The Philippines' Covid-19 numbers have improved in the Metro Manila region and the transmission of the disease has slowed. According to OCTA Research, the latest reproduction number for the region, which refers to the number of persons an infected person can transfer the virus to, was at 0.99, down from 1.03.

While the Health Department indicated a decline in the number of Covid-19 cases as evidenced by the decreasing hospital admissions, it still urges the public to remain vigilant as a surge can still happen.

“Even though infection cases are on the downtrend, we enjoin the public to be vigilant since there is still the presence of the highly transmissible Delta variant. While regular handwashing and sanitizing are both important in preventing the spreading of the virus, it keeping the surfaces we touch disinfected is just as important,” said Monique Gonzales, senior brand manager for Clorox Southeast Asia. “However, what we sometimes don’t realize is that we can be the ones who bring this virus into our homes so it is important to always disinfect the items in our homes we come in contact with.”


However, there are steps you can take at home to ensure the safety of your family.

Clorox Philippines, one of the country’s leading cleaning and disinfecting products providers and makers of Clorox Expert Wipes shares some home safety tips to help keep you and your family safe and your home Covid-free.


Wipe down surfaces often
We touch a lot of surfaces when we go out picking up germs along the way. We bring these pathogens into our homes. Taking the time to wipe down your door handle, the groceries you bring home and any surface you touch will keep it germ-free and your family safe. Keeping a pack of Clorox Expert Wipes handy at all times will ensure that you and your family are always safe and protected.


Clean all your carry-ons
Your carry-ons such as your handbags, laptops, and mobile phones are perfect places for germs and microbes to settle onto. When arriving home, give your bags, phone, keys, jewelry and laptops a good wipe down. Preferably, use a disinfectant wipe to make sure that your personal items are safe.


Change your clothes immediately
The clothes you wear are magnets for viruses and germs. Every time you sit at a restaurant, go to the grocery or go to the office, your clothes can pick up these germs and you in turn, can bring in these unwanted guests into your home. To avoid this, make sure that you put away all the clothes you wore in a clothes hamper. If you can soak it immediately in a mixture of bleach and water to kill the germs.


Take a bath as soon as you get home
Aside from your clothes, you are also a germ magnet. Germs and other pathogens can land on your skin and hair and you can, in turn, get these unwanted visitors all over your sofa, dining table, and bed. So, when arriving home from work or an errand, make sure you take a bath right away. That way, you can give your family all the affection they deserve without any worries.

“We at Clorox are one with the government in ensuring that Filipinos stay safe in the midst of this pandemic. We enjoin everyone to keep promoting a hygienic and safer by regularly cleaning and disinfecting our surroundings,” Paulo Lao, Sales and Marketing Director for Clorox Southeast Asia.


Following these simple tips can help us not only stay safe and healthy but help us better cope with the challenges posed by the pandemic.




Just Hold On



If there's a personal thing that I wanna share in this blog is that I am happy to share with you guys that I am now a student-mom. So much realization this year that I decide to enroll again. I believe that it's not late to reach for my dreams. life is not a race. Sometimes our journey is far from what we are expected but hey at least we are trying on the right path and it's not late for everything no matter the age you are now just like me. What made me decide was my kids are growing fast and I felt any moment from now they'll leave the house and maybe this is the right time for me. To think back on what I want in life, my dreams.


Aside from being a student-mom, I do the usual things that I love to do like shopping online, and I found this perfect store that matches my mood hbcu varsity jackets lot of varsity jacket collections to choose. In every LegacyHistoryPride™ sale, a portion of the proceeds specifically benefits the College or University through their Licensing Agreements.


Everything changes, our plans changed in every situation but it is always for the good. Whatever your life may be right now, there's always a sun that will shine any moment. So, hold on and keep on dreaming. 

Hitting “Reset”: Digging Yourself Out of Your Lowest Ebb




Everybody feels that they hit a low point on occasion. Perhaps the abundance of parental stress means that you raise your voice at your child or you are telling yourself you must try harder. But this is where we have to remember when we are hitting a low point from our perspective, that we learn from life’s many lessons. Here are some things to think about if you feel you are at a low point.


Help Is Not a Bad Thing
Help is one of those things that so many people feel they shouldn't ask for; that they have to dig themselves out of their hole themselves because this will make them feel that they have achieved something more. But help is not a sign that you are reaching for handouts but it's that you have the courage to admit that you need extra insights. There are so many professional approaches that can help. In terms of addiction, there are infinite resources, some of which you can find on https://www.sunshinebehavioralhealth.com/texas/lubbock/. But help is one of the things that will give you the step-up you need after your lowest points. If someone offers something, it's not going to make your life easier, but it's going to give you a different perspective of the situation.


Take it One Day at a Time
When you are in a horrible place, you've got to focus on one action and take small steps. Because if you start to think about the bigger picture, this is going to overwhelm and this is where stress becomes the default setting. Breaking it down to finite components, for example, doing your morning routine will help you to focus on what is happening right now. You can't change what's happened in the past and you cannot predict the future, but you can focus on what is going on right now.


Accept the Circumstances
You need to remember that when you are in a difficult time, improving your conditions and minimizing pain is about accepting what is going on. It's not easy to do but you can practice acceptance. There is a handy little guide on https://tinybuddha.com/blog/3-steps-to-practice-acceptance-have-a-peaceful-life/ to get you started. You cannot make progress if you do not accept the situation or the circumstances. Someone going through a separation or a divorce can put their head in the sand, but while it may take some time to accept that there will be changes to your life arising from this situation, you can stop blaming and deflecting, and focus on healing.



Starting from Scratch
Starting from scratch is not a bad thing. We all feel we've built up a certain life for ourselves and we fight to keep it. But sometimes we are living a false existence with values that do not align with who we really are. Sometimes the big things in life give us the stark message that we need to start over, whether it’s divorce, the death of a loved one, or losing your job, the reality is that hitting your lowest point can be the best way to hit the reset button.

How to Spot a Malag-KATE in 5 Easy Steps

The name “Kate” has been making rounds online with celebrities even revealing that they’ve been called this name before. If you have missed out on who Kate is, she’s the type of girl you have probably encountered before. You’ve encountered her online, at social events, and you might be a Kate too!

Kate is like any other girl who’s on the lookout for products that can keep their hair well-maintained. As she settles with shampoos and conditioners that she thinks are best for her, it transforms her into malag-KATE. Her once smooth and straight hair has now turned oily and greasy. Does this sound familiar? Are you a malag-KATE as well? Here are the 5 signed to look out for a malag-KATE.

Is your hair oily?
Having oily hair can happen to anyone but it’s different when it is caused by the hair products you use. When you use the right hair care products, your scalp should normally produce natural oils. It’s when your shampoo isn’t effective in removing excess oil and built-up debris, or when your conditioner clogs up your strands. This is when your hair and scalp get oilier than usual.

Does it feel sticky?
Feel each strand of your hair. Is it sticky? Hair that’s clean and smooth should not feel like they’re clinging to each other. Sticky strands could be a result of too much product or residue from your hair conditioner. Some conditioners can feel heavy on the hair even when washed thoroughly making you feel like a malag-KATE.

Wet look or is it greasy?

The ongoing trend of wet looks can be quite confusing especially if your hair looks greasy. Rocking a greasy look may look cool in photos but it can also turn some heads when it happens even after you wash your hair. Over-conditioning or built-up products can cause your hair to look greasy over time.

Frizzy when it’s not supposed to be
Choosing hair products can lead you to incredible-looking hair or being a malag-KATE. Sometimes, the weather and humid conditions can be blamed for frizz but if your hair sticks out all the time it may be because of the products you use.

If you’ve experienced all these signs, you or someone you might know maybe a malag-KATE. Fear not, because it’s just a phase! Anyone can experience being a malag-KATE, but you can look forward to always being Salontastic with Pantene.

Do you feel Salontastic?
Your hair speaks volumes about the products that you choose to provide it the TLC it needs. When you don’t feel confident and Salontastic, it’s time to make the switch to haircare products that can give your hair the salon-like results that it deserves.

Don’t Be malag-KATE, Be Salontastic
With the help of the new Pantene 3 Minute Miracle Keratin Smooth Conditioner, you can get the kind of smoothness that's inspired by salon Keratin treatments! Manage frizzy, stubborn, and brittle hair with the 3 Minute Miracle Keratin Smooth Conditioner that gives your hair the ultra-rich moisture it deserves to achieve that Keratin-smooth hair you've been dreaming of.

 



Say goodbye to 3 months’ worth of damage in your hair, in just 3 minutes. Pantene’s proven Pro-Vitamin formula strengthens even the weakest part of the hair, so you could have stronger, longer hair from root all the way to the tip. Gone are the days of being a malag-KATE with oily, sticky, greasy, and frizzy hair when you switch to Pantene.

Be #Salontastic now with Pantene and treat yourself with a well-deserved salon-at-home experience by purchasing through Lazada or Shopee.



















Mega Global celebrates 3rd National Sardines Day with successful Mega Bigay Sustansya Program, business updates and first-ever Mega Sardines Piso Sale

As the Philippines marks this year’s National Sardines Day, Mega Global Corporation, the company behind Mega Sardines, the leading sardines brand in the country, honors it through a program that supports undernourished children nationwide, even as it focuses on innovations and expansions that will help drive the company move forward.

Mega Global Celebrates 3rd National Sardines Day
To add more meaning to the National Sardines Day Celebrations, Mega Global showcased its various initiatives that would help elevate not just the Philippines’ sardines industry, but the economy and people’s lives as well, at a roundtable event held on November 23 to kick off the celebration of the holiday on the 24th. Alongside this, it has also shared the successful results of the Mega Bigay Sustansya Program, which was done in partnership with Reach Out Feed Philippines (ROFP), reflecting its deep malasakit for Filipinos.


Marvin Tiu Lim, Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, Chris Fernandez, executives of the Mega Global conglomerate, alongside Dawn Marie Cabigon, founder and director of Reach Out Feed Philippines were present at the event to discuss how the Mega Bigay Sustansya program will bring long-term gains to its program beneficiaries.


Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) is a CSR program led by the Mega Tiu Lim Foundation that hopes to give a meal planning and distribution program to over 881 children nationwide. The program has supported children in six provinces nationwide for sixty days. Children ages 4 to 12 have received house-to-house delivery of meals every day that included at least one sardines meal, made using Mega Global’s nutrient-packed high-quality sardine.

“Mega Bigay Sustansya is one way for us to support communities who need us the most. Canned sardines is one of the Filipinos staple foods throughout the years and through this program that target to feed malnourished children all over the country, we hope to use the same staple product to nurture the health of these children and sustain it through leave-behind materials that will help them prepare nutritious meals in the long run,” Marvin Tiu Lim, Chief Growth and Development Officer of Mega Global said.

On top of the updates on Mega Global’s MBS program, Mega Global executives have also shared in the discussion how they strived to continue elevating the sardine industry through innovations and the building of new infrastructures. These expansions would maintain the double-digit growth of the company in 2022, allow it to create a more sustainable avenue in producing its products, as well as create new products that will surely be a hit to its customers.

Host Shawn Yao with Marvin Tiu Lim, Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, Chris Fernandez, executives of the Mega Global conglomerate, alongside Dawn Marie Cabigon, founder and director of Reach Out Feed Philippines were the speakers for the event, who discussed Mega Global's innovation for its flagship product, sardines, its CSR effort Mega Bigay Sustansya, as well as brand updates, and other pertinent information


For the past 46 years, Mega Global has been leading the way in supporting Filipino communities through its investments in the sardine industry, which has provided job opportunities for thousands of Filipinos. The company continued to upgrade its Zamboanga facility, where its state-of-the-art operations, including its can-making plant and offices, are based. As part of its sustainability endeavors, it is using solar energy for its warehouses.
Mega Global also discussed details about a new plant in Batangas that will be opened next year. Located in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, it will house state-of-the-art technology in manufacturing using sustainable energy sources and is expected to help add dynamism to the economy as it continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic.

Mega SardinaSaya: Game Show Bonanza
On November 24, Mega Global will also be celebrating National Sardines Day with an online game show bonanza. Kicking this off is an Instagram and Facebook challenge that will determine the players for the much-awaited Pera or Sardinas game during the online event which will be broadcast live on Mega Sardines’s Facebook page and Shopee app.

The game show bonanza will have three major segments representing the tagline of Mega Sardines: Sarap, Saya, and Sustansya. For the Sarap segment, Mega Sardines’ ambassadress Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo will do a cooking demo that will serve as an introduction to new dishes that mommies can easily create for their loved ones.

For the Sustansya segment, the audience can learn about the Mega Bigay Sustansya program, the company’s nationwide feeding program being undertaken in communities around the country with the help of its partner, Reach Out Philippines Foundation.

Lastly, there will be a series of virtual games for the Saya segment where fun games such as Pera or Sardinas, Call A Ka-Mega, and Trivia Game will be available for the audience to participate in. There will also be a grand raffle, where they have the chance to take home a wide selection of prizes.

For added fun, Mega Sardines is launching a Tiktok Challenge where participants can show off their moves and have some fun in the process of creating videos to win prizes. Mega Sardines is also holding an eye-popping Piso sale in Shopee for Mega Sardines in Tomato Sauce, Tomato Sauce with Chili Added, Corned Sardines, and Mega Fried Sardines in Tausi--definitely a sale that will have customers rushing to add to the cart!

Get ready to join and have fun on National Sardines Day with Mega Global! Check out Mega Sardines’s Facebook page for more information.

In-Store Robotic Displays: How FMCG Brands Launched The Most Disruptive Innovation in Trade Marketing During This Pandemic


Brands have depended on the same-old in-store marketing and visual merchandising to enhance engagement and sales strategies for decades: cardboards, shelf stoppers, sampling initiatives, and price discounts.

So, naturally, there is a strong desire for upgrading the shopping experience within physical stores, as customer behavior changes at a rapid pace.

Then enter the pandemic and everything about what we know was thrown under the bus!

Consumers only visited groceries that follow appropriate health safety protocols, decreased their shopping time, and prioritized only the essential categories.


Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) brands faced obstacles in trade marketing, such as how to announce brand promotional offers and perform activations inside the store.

So, given how shoppers refuse to engage with human promoters due to Covid risks and some stores banning promoters altogether, we offered the In-Store Robotic Display (RD).

Enter Youthopia's Robotic Display Solution
Youthopia's robotic display solution is the ideal program for brands to achieve their goals specifically in driving awareness and trial for newly introduced products to the market – may it be new flavors, new scents, or new variants, and ultimately conversion for new products.

Youthopia pioneered Tokinomo here in the Philippines, a shelf advertising robotic display that highlights products and allows for a completely new sort of brand communication at the point of sale.

One that has never been seen before!

The interactive approach used by Tokinomo is disruptive, memorable, and effective. Tokinomo creates things that talk, dance, move, or sing to market themselves! Imagine a robot advertising superstar!

Besides winning the trust of top FMCG brands all over the world, Tokinomo Robotic Display has won several international awards for being the best retail innovation and digital POP display solution.

The Holy Grail of In-store Marketing in this Dark Age
It was out of the question that the In-Store Robotic Display would cause market disruption, and since it will be the first in the Philippines, brands are more optimistic that it will result in growth for the participating brand.

The RD is simple to install inside the store and is affordable! And to prove this, more and more brands have tried it, counting Alaska Creamy Evap, Alaska Powdered Milk, Alaska Condensed Milk, Kellogg’s Choco Magic, Similac Gain School, Similac Tummy Care, UFC Soup, UFC Gravy, UFC Fun Chow, Wow Sarap and Locally as its early users.

Robotic Displays for FMCG brands
The supermarket aisles had grown silent the past year or so, as the country goes through a series of lockdowns.

This development is an opportunity for FMCG brands to set themselves apart from the competition through innovative solutions such as Robotic Displays. As a matter of fact, FMCG brands around the world are already using Robotic Displays with outstanding results in terms of shopper engagement, and sales.

In this time of pandemic where safety is the most important consideration of doing brand activations, the RD program will serve the purpose of human promoters.

And we are here to see it for more years to come.






New Holiday Video Captures ChristmaSaya at SM


There is nothing quite like the joy that the Christmas season brings! And SM is spreading even more good vibes and Christmas cheer as it unveils its newest holiday video, Ngayong Pasko, ChristmaSaya sa SM, which you can watch here

The 45-second heartwarming video, which aptly plays a re-arranged rendition of the Boyfriends’ iconic Sumayaw, Sumunod, shows split screens of families and friends happily celebrating, dining, or shopping from home via the SM Malls Online app or at SM malls, signaling that we now have many safe options to enjoy the holidays this year.


As quarantine restrictions have eased, SM malls are ready to welcome us back with safety measures in place to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being. As one of the first establishments to acquire the Safety Seal in all its malls nationwide, SM ensures that all its malls are regularly cleaned and sanitized. All SM employees are fully vaccinated and all health protocols of the IATF and the LGUs are strictly implemented for everyone’s safety.


For many of us who missed the incomparable taste of piping hot specialty dishes such as ramen or paella when dining out, SM’s new video shows us that, with social distancing measures in place, one can safely dine at one’s favorite restaurants, indoor or al fresco This is also the perfect time to Christmas shop for those high value gifts that are best bought in mall, such as gadgets and phones at Cyberzone where a salesperson can explain the latest hi-tech features to you, smart appliances that require a personal tutorial and – last but not least- shoes! One is never sure what shoes chosen online will look like when they are delivered, while a trip to an SM Mall offers an endless variety of choices you can try on for that perfect comfort fit.


If you opt to stay at home this season, SM’s ChristmaSaya video shows you can complete our gift list from home through the SM Store Gift Registry and the SM Malls Online app. It’s easy! Just ask family and friends to register via The SM Store Gift Registry (https://www.thesmstore.com/pages/gift-registry) and come up with their wishlists which can be shared through SMS, Viber, Facebook, or email. Plus, it comes with exclusive perks such as free delivery and free wrapping of gifts. You can take the kids with you to pick the gifts up at the curbside, too.


So, whether you’re celebrating Christmas from home or getting into the festive spirit by marveling at the dazzling decor at the malls, joyfully embrace the season and have a festive celebration with your loved ones, as SM’s new video happily sings: Sumayaw, sumunod ka sa indak ng panahon, makisama, mag enjoy ka ngayon!


SM implements strict #SafeMallingAtSM protocols nationwide and offers an equally convenient online shopping option with the SM Malls Online app on Google Play or App Store. To know more, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.






 








5 Things to Take When You're Taking Your Baby Outside

 


A change of scene is always welcome for your baby and you. If your little one has learned to walk, sourcing good walking shoes for baby is preferable. Your daughter or son will enjoy exploring the outside world on their two feet.

Equipping your baby bag with all the essentials ensures you have a memorable outing. Knowing you have all you need for your child at hand is reassuring and allows you to venture out with a peaceful state of mind.

Baby’s Day Out
Depending on how long you will be away from home with your baby dictates the extent of baby stuff you ought to carry. Investing in neutral pairs of good walking shoes for the baby will thrill your kid no end.

For a longish stay out, pack an extra pair of footwear for your little one. Enumerated below is a list of five items you must carry along when you step outdoors with a baby in tow.

Sufficient Diapers
Disposable diapers are such a boon, especially when your baby is not quite potty trained. Always cater for extras to cover unforeseen eventualities when outdoors.

Suppose you possess a foldable diaper changing station. In that case, cart it along, too, so you need not struggle with this exercise while on the move. Baby wipes make the cleaning process easy, and diaper rash cream keeps your baby out of discomfort when constantly wearing diapers.

Bags for Soiled Stuff
When used diapers need disposing of, you can wrap them in disposable bags. Dirty baby clothes that are pending a wash also warrant a dedicated bag on you when out. You can then conveniently segregate these items instead of mixing them with the clean stuff.

First-Aid Kit
Carrying pain relievers, ointments, and lotions is a necessity. Should your baby get hurt when out, rubbing the infected area with a soothing cream brings much relief to your kid? Equipping the first aid kit with general-purpose medicines for a common cold, fever, cough, and diarrhea prepares you to tackle the worst-case scenario.

Change of Clothes
Fresh sets of clothes for your baby are invariably needed as there is always a possibility of accidental leaks from the diaper. Babies also tend to dirty their clothes, especially when in a playful mood.

Make sure you carry pairs of baby clothes based on the weather outside. Warm clothing will make your baby miserable when out in humid conditions while adequately layering your little one keeps them snug in the chill outdoors.

Favorite Toys
Your baby will invariably have a favorite stuffed animal or soft toy that they sleep with and carry everywhere. Before stepping out, make sure you carry a couple of your kid’s favorite leisure activities.

Whether your child enjoys reading, playing with a toy, or playing games, keeping them distracted and gainfully engaged will do you good. When in a different environment, you must make your baby feel comfortable, so they do not battle with adjustment issues.

Take your charger along, so you are always connected should you need to reach out for help when out.

Equip yourself with all the requisite baby accessories, including a car seat, so you can make the most of your trip outdoors.

3 Tips In Decorating Your Home For Christmas

 




It’s a tradition for a lot of Filipino families to decorate their homes for the Christmas season. Some even do it as early as soon as September hits, while some do it after Halloween.

If you haven’t decorated your home yet, it’s not too late! You still have plenty of time to ornate your home with Christmas decors, both inside and outside. But before you start decorating, beware! It’s a fun thing to do with the whole family, but it’s not easy.

If you’re planning to decorate your home for this Christmas, here are 3 quick and easy tips.


Allot more than a day to decorate
Trust us, it’s going to take more than a day to decorate your home. If you still have the decorations from the past years, dusting them and making sure they’re still in the right condition can take a lot of time. Of course, you also allocate time for cleaning the parts of your home where you’ll place the decorations.

Make sure you plan ahead of time before you decide to decorate. Otherwise, you may end up spending more time decorating the home than you’re supposed to.


Search for themes and motif
Another struggle when decorating for Christmas is setting the theme. Going for the classic red and green never gets old, but it gets boring if that’s all you decorate every year. A cool hack would be to search on Pinterest for new themes to try out.

You don’t have to purchase all new decorations just so you can have a fresh concept. Unleash your creativity and mix and match Christmas decors.


Limit your kids’ involvement
Decorating for Christmas is a family activity, including your kids. Get them involved, but not too involved. Otherwise, you won’t complete your decorating schedule for the day. Be it letting them hang decors on the Christmas tree or placing gifts under the tree, make it clear to them what they can and can’t do.


For the final decor, involve your youngest kid to place the star on top of the Christmas tree! It’s a Pinoy tradition and a cute little note to finish your decorating.


A well-decorated home is not the most important thing this Christmas. It’s getting together as a family and as a community, celebrating the holidays together, and eating good food together. BellaVita places great emphasis on community and enjoying the holidays together.


One of life’s necessities is having a home, but have you ever had a place you can call your own? Here in BellaVita, we will highlight to you the importance of one of our brand pillars, Sakto sa Bulsa, or in other words, affordability.


In a time of great uncertainty, a voice of knowledge and reassurance can make all the difference. "Stay home" has been the consistent mantra of the pandemic, and having a home you love where you can safely shelter in place feels more important than ever. Our mission in BellaVita, to provide a quality and affordable living experience to the Filipino people, remains true and the same especially during times like this.


Having said that, we are focused on fulfilling our mission by offering a house and lot for as low as P450,000 with a 22-square meters floor area and an average lot area of 36 square meters. It only takes Php 3,500.00 out of your wallet or bank account to reserve a unit with BellaVita. Monthly amortization for as low as Php 1,887 or just about P60 per day, cheaper than branded coffee or milk teas. Spending on your own home is a better investment, don’t you think?


BellaVita offers one of the lowest prices you'll ever see in the market. Furthermore, you can choose between Pag-IBIG or a bank to finance your dream investment.


For more details about BellaVita, please visit our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/BellaVitaLandCorp)


Mickey Go Philippines at SM Supermalls!



Disney’s most-loved iconic characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse have delighted the hearts of many across decades, and this year SM Supermalls and Disney have teamed up to launch the Mickey Go Philippines collection at The SM Store, featuring a range of merchandise with a Pinoy twist! What’s more, SM and Disney have planned a surprise virtual party for Mickey and Minnie on their birthday this November 27, and we’re expecting you to join us!

Be among the first to get exclusive Mickey Go PH merchandise! 
Get first dibs on adorable Mickey and Minnie collectibles from clothes and footwear to tote bags, pillows, tumblers, kitchen appliances, and more! Mickey Go PH and Mickey & Minnie classic merchandise will be available at the live selling events on:

  • November 18 at 1pm-2m via Toy Kingdom’s official Facebook page
  • November 24 at 1pm -2pm via The SM Store’s official Facebook page

Join Mickey & Minnie’s first virtual surprise birthday party! 
After you’ve shopped to your heart’s content during the live-selling events on Facebook, or at participating SM Store branches, you will automatically get a code to enter the virtual surprise birthday party on November 27. All you need is a minimum of PHP 500 single-receipt purchase of Mickey Go PH or Mickey Mouse Classic merchandise in any participating The SM Store (Character Shop, Kids’ Wear, Boy’s Teens Wear, Girl’s Teens Wear, Kids’ Shoes, Baby Company & Toy Kingdom Express) or Toy Kingdom outlet.


To join, simply scan the QR code to register from November 23-25. A confirmation email or SMS from SM Supermalls with the website link and passcode will be sent to you to join Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Birthday Party! Mark your calendars so you don’t miss out on this big day filled with fun games, activities, and surprises!


Help Plan Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Birthday Party! 
Join us as we secretly plan for Mickey and Minnie’s party! Don’t spoil the fun okay? There are lots of games and prizes to be won! Kids will also get the chance to greet both of them and create their very own birthday card which they will be making during the event! Mickey and Minnie will surely appreciate the sweet gesture! After all the fun and games, it’s time to meet & greet Minnie, so get ready to strike a pose. Mickey and Minnie are excited to meet their Filipino fans!


It’s going to be one special and memorable surprise birthday party for Mickey and Minnie, and we want you and your kids to join us! It’s time to bring back the nostalgia and relive your favorite childhood memories with Mickey & Minnie by celebrating their birthday only at SM Supermalls!


SM implements strict #SafeMallingAtSM protocols nationwide and offers an equally convenient online shopping option with the SM Malls Online app on Google Play or App Store. For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

5 Ways To Celebrate Your Newborn’s Homecoming Day

Pexels

 

The birth of a baby is a remarkable time for the whole family. And the day you bring the newborn to their home should be marked with a warm welcome celebration. Whether you're planning to have a grand party or just a small get-together, there are many ways to celebrate your joy. One of the ways to celebrate a baby's arrival is by displaying welcome home baby signs. If you have no clue how to start designing or choosing your custom yard sign for the occasion, here are some themes to take inspiration from.


Cute and Simple
If you're looking for a simple and heartfelt sign to congratulate the parents on the baby's homecoming, choosing cute and simple signs can be the most ideal. You could also choose to put a customized message on the sign instead of the usual 'Welcome Back' phrase.

Depending on whether the baby is a boy or a girl, you could also use appropriate color schemes to make the sign look personalized for the baby and parents. Ensure that it's surrounded by balloons to make it look super cute!

Extravagant Signs
If extravagance and over-the-top designs are your styles, then go all the way out with the colors and fonts. When you can't contain your happiness and excitement about having a baby in the house, choose to celebrate it lavishly by getting numerous welcome home baby signs and displaying them everywhere. 

You could choose to make one giant yard sign so that even people at the far end of your neighborhood will be able to see it. To make it seem extravagant, consider adding as much bling and sparkle to it as you can.

Sophisticated and Chic
Not everyone is a big fan of over-the-top designs that engulf their whole property. When you're looking for a modest but fun way of showing your excitement about having a baby in the house, choosing sophisticated signs is ideal.

When choosing a design for your sign, ensure that it doesn't have too many bright or neon colors. This will dismiss the elegance of the theme. It would be best to consider cursive or flowy letter fonts to make the whole sign look more classic and chic. Moreover, you should avoid sparkly letters or confetti around the sign to ensure that it remains minimalist but gets the message across.

Based On A Theme
If you're confused about what type of design or personalization would be appropriate for a baby's homecoming, choosing a theme is an easy way to prepare a sign, especially if you're short on time.

You could choose a theme based on the design of the baby's nursery or by using a kid's movie as a reference. Getting a 'Finding Nemo' or 'Lion King' inspired sign is a sure way to please everyone while conveying the message.

With Additional Decorations
Sometimes, just getting a sign isn't enough. Consider getting additional decorations alongside your welcome home yard sign when you're looking to do more with less. These additional decorations could consist of:
  • Balloons
  • Confetti
  • Banners
  • Lights
Depending on your requirements, you could customize these props after getting the sign delivered.

A yard sign is a perfect celebratory decoration when you're looking to welcome a baby with style and flair. Be a part of the happy moments of your loved ones and show them how much you appreciate them for being in your life.

Live Safe with Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol

*Defensil 70% Isopropyl Alcohol was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli or E. coli, and Candida albicans




Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol encourages Filipinos to live safe with many establishments slowly re-opening and allowing people to resume their pre-pandemic lifestyles.


With the nationwide vaccination program in full force, Filipinos can slowly enjoy various activities such as more dining options as well as doing physical activities by going to the gym. However, health experts continue to remind everyone to not let their guards down even as we gradually go back to normal.


As there are reports of new and potentially more contagious variants, everyone must remain vigilant through following established health protocols and getting vaccinated so we can all continue to live safe and prevent the cases from surging again.


That’s why when we do essential errands such as buying groceries, exercising outdoors, or simply going outside, disinfecting your hands and any surface you interact with goes a long way to ensure living safely for you and your family.


One way to prevent the spread of the virus is by always carrying a trusted rubbing alcohol brand that contains at least 70& alcohol solutions whenever you go outdoors.


Defensil 70% Solution Isopropyl Alcohol, the alcohol recommended by the Philippine Society for Microbiology (PSM), can kill 99.9% of common germs and bacteria starts to kill them on contact so that you can safely do the activities you love wherever you are. Defensil also provides up to 12 hours of protection upon constant use so that you are protected and do activities with ease.


Skin dryness from too frequent sanitizing will also not be a worry as Defensil has moisturizing properties and is hypoallergenic, giving you one less thing to worry about when going indoors.


"We are 100% behind the government in their efforts to prevent further spread of the virus. Defensil encourages everyone to remain vigilant now more than ever and do our part in this fight towards eventually resuming our normal way of life by adhering to social Distancing and sanitation protocols, especially when doing essential errands outdoors," shared Nikko Cruz, Brand Manager of Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol.
Since nowadays, I buy most of our stuff online I make sure that before I opened the packages, I sanitized them with Defensil. I really like it, this alcohol is not drying and kids love the smell too! I make to point that I have Defensil alcohol in our home and of course when going out.

For more information on how to stay protected, you may visit Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol’s Facebook page at facebook.com/defensil.philippines.