Bierra Paluto Restaurant

This is a must try place this holiday season. :-)

From the moment you walk through our door, you can expect a warm welcome, lively atmosphere and a burst of exquisite flavors.  Take a look and you’ll find a host of authentic features, the freshest ingredients and mouth-watering delicacies that capture the very essence of all things Filipino in Tex Mex Style.  Put all of these together and you’ve got a vibrant and laid-back fiesta feeling that Bierra has become famous for.  So sit back, relax and enjoy as Bierra takes ordinary dining into an extraordinary experience.

Bierra’s extraordinary experience will take you to a good food experience that no other Paluto Restaurant can do. Bierra’s must try dishes are the following: Buttered Shrimp with Garlic is sumptuous and very buttery with a hint of garlic. Sinigang sa Misong Tanigue will surely make your day, the soup is not too sour and the fish is very delectable. And last but not the least for their must try food is Sizzling Gambas has a lot of flavor and spiciness that you will ask for it every time you go to Bierra.

The Bierra’s menu boasts a wide variety of delicacies of seafood, chicken and meat.  To excite your appetite, here is a glimpse of what’s in store at Bierra:

Seafood:

Calamares, Buttered Shrimp with Garlic, Baked Tahong with Cheese, Sizzling Tanigue Steak, Prawn in Chili Sauce, Sinigang sa Miso, Halaan Soup and Ginataang Kuhol.

Chicken:

Sizzling Chicken, Tinolang Manok, Buttered Chicken and Fried Chicken

Meat (Beef / Pork):

Sinigang na Baboy, Pork Adobo and Ihaw Marinated BBQ.

Veggies:
Adobong KangKong, Chopsuey, Ensaladang Lato and Ensaladang Mangga.

Bierra’s décor  is engaging and have earth hues, it has Mexican feel and ambiance, but truly Filipino in taste. They have a nice wooden glass door, 4 wall light fixtures. The dining room can seat 100 plus people and they accommodate Baptism, Company Christmas Party, Debut and other occasions. They also have Live bands, Acoustic Nights, Stand Up Comedian, Videoke Nights and Rock Bands.

It’s all here waiting for you at Bierra Paluto Restaurant!

Bierra Paluto Restaurant is located at Unit 105 Seaside sa Ortigas, Brgy. Ugong, Pasig City is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.  Street parking and public lots are readily available. Visit the restaurant on their Facebook Page, facebook.com/BierraPalutoRestaurant.  For reservations, please call (650)367.7974.

ProMama: Coping with pregnancy Anxieties

Before we become moms... we became pregnant women first. We took a transformational journey that made us who we are now. :-)

Pregnancy is a new journey for every woman and whether it is meticulously planned or comes unexpectedly, one thing is definite – a woman’s life will never be the same.  It is an experience that will reinvent your world for you.

Like any other journey, you tend to guess what lies ahead. The idea of uncertainty, added responsibility and pressure makes you start to reassess yourself and your competencies. And whether or not you think you are ready for motherhood, you are forced into this new, but wonderful world.

A grand adventure begins

The good thing is, pregnancy is designed to naturally prepare you for motherhood. While it is inevitable that you feel uncomfortable, anxious and scared about what comes next, there are moments you will be filled with joy.

Being apprehensive about the responsibility for another human life is normal, but know that this should not hinder you from enjoying the journey towards motherhood.

Someone once said “Motherhood is the only place where you can experience heaven and hell at the same time,” and so whenever you think of all the challenges of your pregnancy, know that it is worth it.

Redefining a spectrum of Fear

Fear originates from the sense of not being in control. One perspective of fear is life threatening while another spectrum is one that holds you back from living the life that you deserve. It is common to randomly worry about pregnancy and all the other aspects related to it but whenever you feel anxious towards those, its better to try to take control of things you can manage and channel your energy towards something positive. Indulge yourself in self-reflection and positive self-talk. Think of an empowering and convincing statement that will oppose your limiting belief.

The secret to coping with your worries is redefining fear. You can simply look at fear as an opportunity for self-discovery, the gateway from simply wishing and wanting, to doing and being.

Redefining fear with a touch of optimism can be a form of reaffirmation within yourself.  ProMama assures you that, yes you can cope with your worries and you can and will become a good mother.

Be fit and fab by taking control

Take control of your pregnancy and do not let your pregnancy take over you. You make a continuous effort to transform fear into power – power to decide on how you will act on your anxieties and live your life the way you’ve pictured it to be. It is a chance for you to know and understand you and your baby more.

Since pregnancy is all about coping with your new role as mother, this is a most opportune time to adjust your lifestyle in a way that you live the life you dream for yourself while ensuring to provide the life you dream for your child as well. Nine months is enough time to form good habits and to prepare yourself for motherhood.

For starters, drink ProMama to help you feel more at ease because only ProMama contains Vitamins C, E and A. It’s coupled with Mental Enhancers like DHA, a nutrient important for a child’s visual and mental development; Folic Acid, which is essential for the development of the nervous system and in preventing neural tube defects; and Zinc, which assists in fetal neurodevelopment. ProMama’s formula also contains Bone and Muscle Builders such as Vitamin D to support an unborn baby’s bone development; Protein, the building block of all tissues; and Calcium, which supports bone development.

With the help of ProMama, you can enjoy your pregnancy, discover the mother in you and marvel at the miracle of your baby.

Remember, when you have worries that haunt you, there is no one formula to be a perfect mother, but there are a million ways to be a good one. By being true to yourself and taking control, you can be the good mom that you hope to be.

Place this in your mind, “Mama yes you can take control. Mama yes you can be fit and fab.” You already know the secret to coping with your anxieties and so do not be afraid, rather, look forward to what comes next.

10 Gift Ideas from The Mind Museum

Check this out mommies... great gift ideas for kids, for kids at heart and for those with generous hearts. :-)

10 Gift Ideas from The Mind Museum

Considering that we celebrate an extended holiday season--starting from the ber months to late January—you would think people would have enough time to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts that are well thought out. That's hardly ever the case, though.

Year after year, people rush to stores at the last minute, grabbing run-of-the-mill mugs, picture frames, toiletries, and what have you. Fun, right? Let's face it; getting an ordinary gift doesn't exactly usher in the spirit of the season. Why not wrap something remarkable? If your loved ones are that special, you'd think of giving them the stars—something they clearly deserve. You can't exactly give them that, but a close alternative is made possible by The Mind Museum—along with other unique gifts that not only add a twist to your usual holiday flavor, they also inspire learning and further celebrate the season of giving.

1. The Scientific Date: How about a date in an artsy but science-themed gallery, or stargazing in cozy couches in a custom-made planetarium?  Surprise your loved ones and the young ones with All Day Passes or gift certificates to The Mind Museum! With over 250 hands-on, minds-on exhibits and live experiment demonstrations that unveil the remarkable science behind living and non-living things, a date or two in The Mind Museum is definitely a unique and exciting way to spend time together this Yuletide season. (The Mind Museum tickets all day passes is sold for only Php750/php)

2. Name the Stars after Your Loved Ones: Do you know that you can literally leave your mark in The Mind Museum by naming one of their virtual exhibits?  You can leave your names or your loved ones’ on digital exhibits found in the different galleries in the Museum, through a fixed donation that come with e-certificates.  Imagine the delight of seeing your family’s name imprinted on the virtual stars that make up a constellation, or name a specific kind of dinosaur that inhabits a virtual era in history. What’s more heart-warming is that all proceeds for this program go to supporting the institutions’ project of giving free museum visits to public school kids. (Virtual exhibits’ price ranges from Php1,000 to Php5,000, depending on your choice of show. For more information, visit http://exhibits.themindmuseum.org.)

3. The Key to Endless Discovery: A year-round, all-day admission to the first world-class science museum in the country—how does that sound? Interactive exhibits, a thoughtfully designed planetarium, meticulously laid-out 3D shows, and exciting science demonstrations await your lucky gift recipient. The Mind Museum’s Unlimited Science Pass also gives free admission to over 300 worldwide science museums, discounts on travelling exhibition tickets, birthday packages, and purchases inside The Mind Museum Store. And because the institution always interlinks its efforts with expanding the knowledge of today’s generation, this unli-pass directly supports free museum passes for underprivileged kids. (For a group of four or more, avail the Unlimited Science Pass for only Php2,250/pax. Visit https://www.themindmuseum.org/science-alive/63/membership-program for more information)

4. All for Science, All for Love: To celebrate the holidays in a different, more meaningful way, why not sponsor a trip for public school kids this Christmas? You can even ask your family or friends to join you in spearheading this project to further enrich the sense of wonder of these young ones. Don’t worry, The Mind Museum’s doors are open to plan and accomplish this advocacy of embracing and sharing the true spirit of the season. (To inquire about this project, please send your email to inquiry@themindmuseum.org.)

The Mind Museum is a gallery of endless activities and possibilities so, of course, we have more in The Mind Museum Store for you!

5. If these shirts could talk: Let your friends “wear their wit” with these design shirts that are exclusively available in The Mind Museum Store! These shirts come in different colors and are tastefully designed with vibrant graphics and statements that will truly make science a cool fashion statement of choice this holiday season. (Prices range from Php379.75 to Php499.75)

6. Of Puzzles, Papers, and Pencils: Instead of those tired old notebooks or planners, try giving the young ones (or even your family and friends) these funky Human Anatomy Notebook and Science Alphabet Notebook! They’re, indeed, a safe space for random thoughts, important lists, or mind babbles. Here’s a tip: pair these notebooks with Puzzle Color Pencils and let its colorful tips become their wand to create their DIY-diary. (Human Anatomy Notebook and Science Alphabet Notebook are sold for only Php379.75, while Puzzle Color Pencils set is sold for only Php649.75.)

7. Own the Universe: While these kids are taking baby steps towards their dreams, you can show them the momentary short-cut in seizing the universe, literally, through the Star Planetarium! Projecting 3D stars, planets, and constellations, this amazing contraption also includes 3D glasses for a more mesmerizing virtual representation of what’s above and beyond the world we’re living in. (The Star Planetarium set is sold for only Php2,579.75.)

8. Unearthing the Dinos: Be a paleontologist and travel back to the era of dinosaurs with the special edition of Dino Excavation Kit. Dig for the bones hidden in the gypsum block, assemble them and enjoy your very own miniature dinosaur skeleton replica. Top it off by learning more about the fossils you have just uncovered. (The entire Dino Excavation Kit is sold for Php2,699.75.)

9. Tricks and Treats: Put a little ease and fun in teaching kids using playing cards that are exclusively sold at The Mind Museum store. You can either get What’s GNU?—a 3-letter learning game deck or go for a game of speed and visual tricks with Hyperswipe! Grab these cards now, be the learning and game master at the same time, and let the enlivening game itself, too, serve as an added gift to these kids! (What’s GNU deck costs Php9,49.75 while the Hyperswipe set costs Php1,349.75.)

10. Build Your Own, Learn on Your Own: Teach your young ones the basics of gardening, without having to worry about landscaping your backyard, with these innovative plant miniatures! You can either let them grow the Sweet Leaf, which grows leaves that be used as a natural substitute for sugar; the Mini-Melons that will actually produce sweet mini cantaloupes in less than 2 months; or get really out-of-this-word with the Curious George Outer Space Adventure Garden that will even allow them to experiment right in their mini pots! (Sweet leaf and Mini-melons cost Pho829.75 each while the Curious George Outer Space Adventure Garden is sold for Php1,229.75.)

Happy Holidays and Have a Merry Meaningful Christmas!

Mommy hugs,

Mel

I'm now a certified Cuisinera

Last Saturday, I joined the prestigious club of Cuisineras and I'm so excited to meet and cook with them soon. :-)

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH DOÑA ELENA CUISINERA CLUB

It’s once again time for you to whip up your favorite recipe or boast about a new one! With dinners left and right this holiday season, Doña Elena invites you to be a Doña Elena Cuisinera and be a member of the club. It’s easy – if you have a Doña Elena Olive Oil, Doña Elena Al Dente pasta, or any Doña Elena Mediterranean product in your pantry, give us a shout-out on Facebook using #Doñaelenacuisineracluband you can claim to be a certified Doña Elena Cuisinera!

For over 7 years now, the Doña Elena Cuisinera Club has been a growing community of individuals who champion a healthy lifestyle without compromising the quality and flavor of food. Through cooking classes, nutrition talks and food tasting activities, the community is able to learn, cook, and share tips with each other. “Through the club, we aim to encourage and teach Cuisineras easy ways on achieving a healthier lifestyle through better nutrition which can be achieved through the use of Doña Elena products in their daily meals ,” shares Karen Saguiped, Fly Ace Corporation Product Manager for Noodles, Pasta, Condiments and Sauces.

“To be a club member, purchase both theDoña Elena Olive Oil and Al Dente Pasta products and keep the proof of purchase. Call Fly Ace Corporation at 807-9999 and look for Peter Geronimo or leave us a message through the Doña Elena Cuisinera Club Facebook fan page. You will then be guided on the next steps to confirm your membership,” continues Saguiped. 

What are the perks of being a club member? Get access to themed cooking classes. Two to three new dishes are taught by the Doña Elena resident chef, Golda Laurel Liamzon. A nutritionist is also present in every class to talk about the health benefits of the dishes being served. Aside from learning new recipes, members get to meet like-minded Cuisineras.

In 2010, the classes were themed according to the holidays such as Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day. In 2011, the cuisines of Mediterranean Countries such as Italy and Morroco were shared. The Philippine Festivals was the highlight in 2012 while in 2013, the recipes from International Celebrity Chefs inspired Cusineras to be their own gourmand. 

Cuisineras unite as they enjoy affordable international cuisine with Doña Elena’s wide selection of products sourced from the Mediterranean countries of Spain and Italy.Doña Elena provides for international flavors with a wide selection of products sourced from Spain, and Italy. Doña Elena Olive Oil is the consistent No. 1 Olive oil brand in the Philippines with its three variants Extra Virgin Olive Oil for salads, pizza and bread dips, Pure Olive Oil for your pasta, Italian and French Cuisines and Pomace Olive Oil for your other frying needs.

Whip up a Mediterranean feast with Doña Elena's line of Mediterranean products and add in Black and Green Olives, Capers, Flat Fillets of Anchovies, Spanish Sardines, and Canned Tomatoes. With these ingredients in your pantry, gourmet cooking is quick and convenient.

Doña Elena Al Dente is the only pasta brand in the Philippines bearing the Artisan Quality claim as it uses special bronze dies which create ridges that help sauces stick to the pasta better. Unlike other pasta with only 6% protein content, Doña Elena Al Dente has 13% protein, a result of the slow-cooking process which preserves its nutrients. Doña Elena Al Dente is also GMO-free, 100% certified all natural. It comes in five variants: Spaghetti, Fettuccine, Fusilli, Penne Rigate and Lasagna.

Last Saturday, for the Holiday Special event, we learned how to cook LenguaEstofado, Salmon Ceasar Salad, Mediterranean Lasagna, and Chocolate Chip Olive Oil Cookiesfrom Chef Golda Laurel Liamzon. 

Learn more about Doña Elena products and its nutritional benefits from Professor LuchieCallanta. Interactive booths around the venue will allow you to experience the products. Be a club member by purchasing both the Doña Elena Olive Oil and Al Dente Pasta products in the selling booth and sign up to be a member. Get a chance to win exciting raffle prizes too!

Learn more about Doña  Elena at http://www.flyacecorp.com/ Connect with other Cuisineras via #Doñaelenacuisineraclub. Like on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Doñaelenacuisineraclub, and follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/decuisineraclub and Instagramhttp://instagram.com/Doñaelenacuisineraclub. Want to watch recipe videos, log in to Youtubehttp://www.youtube.com/user/decuisineraclub! 

Join us and be a certified Cuisinera! :-)

Mommy hugs,

Mel

P&G AND SM JOIN FORCES TO PROVIDE BIG SAVINGS TO PINOY CONSUMERS

            These corporate giants have come up with something that we would all love. :-)

My personal favorite... next to Olay ;-)

Procter & Gamble (P&G) Philippines and SM have teamed up to launch a campaign that aims to educate consumers on the benefits of buying bigger size household products.

The campaign called “Wag Kang Titingi-tingi, Buy BIG” encourages consumers to buy big packs of P&G products including Ariel, Tide, Downy, and Joy to enjoy huge savings. The collaboration was launched during the opening of SM Center in Angono.

“With this program, P&G wants to educate consumers on the advantage of buying bigger packs of top household brands because it will bring them bigger savings,” said Barbra Barracoso, P&G Team Leader for SM. “We are very happy to have found a partner in SM which is known for its strong commitment to giving Filipino consumers the best value for their money.”

To kick off the campaign, a “Buy 1, Get 1 at 25% discount” offer on bags of Ariel and Tide will be available in all SM SaveMore Market, SM Supermarket, and SM Hypermarket branches nationwide on November 21 until supplies last. To help consumers make the most of buying big packs, Ariel and Downy bags now also come with scoops to help them control their usage.

During the launch, celebrity mom and P&G ambassadress Ruffa Gutierrez interacted with the shoppers and shared tips on how bigger packs of well-loved P&G household brands provide more savings in the long run.

The “Wag Kang Titingi-tingi, Buy BIG” offer is available in SM SaveMore Market, SM Supermarket, and SM Hypermarket branches nationwide.

Thanks P&G and SM for giving the opportunity to SAVE MORE. ;-)

Mommy hugs,

Mel

DIY Project: Bow

My father is good in making things out of something. He makes toys out from his own hands for my kids. His latest creation is a bow for my son. Now I know where I got my interest in doing DIY jobs and the value of resourcefulness J

I just remembered, he said that you get to appreciate more the things you have if you made it with your two hands.

One of the first toys made by Lolo for Kiko and
now being used as well by Claire :)

Have a great week ahead!

Mommy kisses,

May

SALE UPDATE: Dyson Trade In Madness

Grab this opportunity to upgrade and declutter mommies. :-)

Mommy hugs,

Mel

Zoobic Adventure

Last July, my kids and I joined my friends and their kids in a Zoobic adventure.

It was an exciting and fun day with the young at heart and the kids. To top it all, no one from the kiddos had tantrums and no one spilled inside the car. Great job kids!

Everyone enjoyed the trip. I thank also my friends who gave their helping hands that day for my two kids. It was our first long trip on our own – my kids and I. We did not bring any help from our family.

I am so proud of my two kids – they were brave. They touched the tiger! They were very curious in everything that they see.

It was a day of bonding with my friends and their kids as well.

Looking forward to do this again J

getting ready, having lunch

the kids

meeting the mighty tiger

audience participation

Mommy kisses,

May

San Marino Tuna Flakes :-)

My son loves tuna flakes in oil, he always ask me to saute one can for him... that is his comfort food next to my own adobo fish of course! :-)

So, I am definitely sure that my son will love this one! :-)

I'm so buying lots of this now. :-)

Mommy hugs,

Mel

AVENTure: Brownies

One sunny Sunday afternoon, I decided to try the baking function of the Philips Air Fryer. It did not fail me J

I used a fudge brownie premix to help me in this trial and error baking project. Just followed the directions at the back and voila! I have an instant dessert.

Since my mother and I found this new tempting ice cream flavor, it is now a mainstay in the fridge every weekend. I also have a sweet tooth that is why I have this urge to always try something new and experiment.

My version  of brownie a la mode!

Happy holiday! Enjoy the rest of the day with your family and loved ones!

Mommy kisses,

May

The Long List of Benefits of Breastfeeding

You must have read numerous reading materials stating the long list of benefits of breastfeeding. Based on my experience and observations, here is my list.

1)                 When my children are sick, they have less chances of getting dehydrated; and less chances of throwing up any solids. I’ve heard stories that babies who are sick throw up their formula milk or any solid foods. When my children do not like to eat solid foods, I am secured that they will still get the nutrients they need from my breast milk.

2)                 Strong bones. Both my kids love walking and running.

3)                 My children will never go hungry during family trips. Breastfeeding is hassle free when feeding my hungry children. I can do it anytime and anywhere if there are no available solid foods. Though usually, we do not leave our home without any food that our children can munch.

4)                 No need for bottles and water. My godmother once said when she was with us on a short trip to the mall, “May, you do not need to bring feeding bottles and water.” I replied, “Yes it is. It is built in J” The precious milk that we can provide our babies is with us.

The long list of benefits of breastfeeding is endless for both our children and to us mommies. I, being a mom who is into tandem and extending breastfeeding is encouraging you to try it. I do not mean you follow me but I would like you to at least try breastfeeding after giving birth. Do not lose hope if you are facing challenges. Seek help and support. There are groups and organizations providing the support you need.

Always remember that you are doing it for your baby and for you as well – there are plenty of short-term and long-term benefits of breastfeeding.

the products of breast milk :)

Mommy kisses,

May

Brother Disney Sewing + Embroidery Machine: Another Wish

Can I just add this to my wish list? Calling friends, family and hubby. :-)

I remember saving money for the simplest Brother sewing machine (with 13 different kinds of stitches) years back for my household projects (aka DIY curtains)... but wasn't able to buy one because it was not on display anymore when I had the money and ready to buy - spell FAIL! Now look at this one... this is LOVE! :-)

Brother’s Innov-is 980D is the first embroidery and sewing machine in the Philippines that is equipped with licensed Disney stitches and embroidery designs.

Brother International Philippines Corporation, one of the leading global manufacturer of printing and sewing devices, is pleased to introduce the Innov-is 980D (NV-980D). An addition to its roster of sewing machines, the NV-980D is a computerized Embroidery and Sewing Machine that is built-in with Disney characters and embroidery patterns.

The new NV-980D lets users of all skill levels, from beginners to sewing enthusiasts, personalize projects with hundreds of built-in decorative stitches and embroidery patterns, including 40 exclusive Disney designs. Now, kids' clothes and bedroom curtains can be embellished with cute Disney characters!

The NV-980D is also lightweight and portable, allowing users to bring it anywhere. It also comes with a Disney-themed compact case for easy storage. The NV-980D is the first embroidery and sewing machine in the Philippines that is equipped with licensed Disney stitches and embroidery designs.

Alongside the NV-980D, Brother is also introducing the Innov-is 55P (NV-55P). With 135 built-in stitches, this machine is the perfect sewing solution for sewing, quilting and decoration stitches.

Both the NV-980D and NV-55P will be available in the Philippines starting this month with SRP of P59,995 for NV-980D and P24,995 for NV-55P. Purchase your new Brother Home Sewing Machine now! For inquiries, please call the Brother Helpdesk hotline at 02-581-9898 or send an email to helpdesk@brother.com.ph.

Mommy hugs,

Mel

My Own Version of Classic Recipes using Ajinomoto Products - Pritong Liempo

Another recipe that I would like to share is the perfect partner of ginisang munggo, I swear! Try it! :-)

Pritong Liempo or Pork Nuggets:

Ingredients:
Liempo (grill cut) - cut into serving sizes
AJINOMOTO Boy Tasty All Purpose Breading Mix
Cornstarch
Cooking oil for frying

Procedure:
1. Steam the liempo.

2. Coat with mixture of cornstarch and AJINOMOTO Boy Tasty All Purpose Breading Mix (1:4)

3. Deep Fry.
4. Enjoy with your perfect ginisang munggo. :-)

My Own Version of Classic Recipes using Ajinomoto Products - Sinigang na Tanigue

As promised, I am now posting some of the recipes I've tried using Ajinomoto products. :-) Please feel free to try the recipes here. ;-) I hope ypu will like it too as much our family did. ;-)

Sinigang na Tanigue

Ingredients:

1 tbsp cooking oil

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 medium sized onion, chopped

2 pcs ripe tomatoes , chopped

Tanigue fillet - 500grams.

2 tbsp patis or fish sauce

2 cups rice-water

AJINOMOTO Sinigang sa Sampalok (Tamarind Soup Base)

Kangkong leaves – 2 bundles

Procedure:

1.       Saute garlic and onions in heated oil.

2.       Add tomatoes, stir and simmer for a while.

3.       When the juice is coming out of tomatoes, season with fish sauce.

5.      Add rice water. Allow to boil.

7.       Add Tanigue fillet.

9.       Allow the soup to boil once more.

9.       Add AJINOMOTO Sinigang sa Sampalok.

9.      Add Kangkong leaves and turn-off the heat, allow the remaining heat of the soup to cook the kangkong leaves to perfection.

9.      Enjoy! J

Mommy hugs,

Mel