Why Employers Should Consider Giving Christmas Basket and Hamper Than Giving Cash?

Pack of Snacks from the Client or Account that I am working with.

In the Philippines, Christmas is the most awaited season in the whole year. This is because it is time for giving and spending time with families. And gift-giving is the tradition of individuals that added the excitement.

Employees in certain companies are usually looking forward to receiving Christmas Basket from the employer. Christmas-Basket giving is similar to Gift-Giving tradition but only differs on what's inside the basket. It is a traditional gift containing small nonperishable food items, particularly seasonal favorites such as fruitcake or plum pudding, chocolate, nuts, jams, biscuits, honey, smoked or dried meats, ham, wine, spaghetti noodles, and cheese that can be prepared during Noche Buena.

The non-alcoholic drink is given by the company where I am currently working.

In the US, it is called Hamper. It refers to one of several related basket-like items. In primarily British usage, it refers to a wicker basket, usually large, that is used for the transport of items, often food. But nowadays, it is now being boxed; you will still see baskets being used but it is for aesthetic and packaging reasons.

Honestly, the feeling of receiving a Christmas Basket from someone - e.g employer, friends, or relatives, is totally more fun and exciting in comparison to receiving a cash or gift certificate. It is like, you can feel the effort from the giver because it takes time to buy groceries and have them packed. It is a great way to let someone know you’re thinking of them and how important they are. Every hamper brings such joy and blessing. It helps us feel more cared for and loved. 

In a study, “There is an emotional lift when searching for the gift.” - Devin A. Byrd, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Department of Behavioral Sciences at South University — Savannah.

There is an enormous sense of satisfaction when seeing the expression on the face of someone you’ve given a gift to. A way to express feelings, giving reinforces appreciation and acknowledgment of each other. The feelings expressed mainly depend on the relationship between the giver and recipient.

📺WATCH THE VLOG:

No matter how Small or Big, how expensive or not - as long as it's given to you with love, you must be thankful.

Box of Grocery Items from Mandaluyong City Local Government Unit as Christmas Basket for 2021

🎍WATCH: Indoor Plants Collection Tour Inside a Small Condo Unit.

This is your most-awaited vlog after watching all my previous unboxing videos about my purchased indoor plants. Here we go, I will be doing a plant tour featuring my indoor plants' collections like sansevieria, aglaonema, pothos, and more. 

In this span of COVID19 lockdown, I became a Plantito to divert the detrimental effect of the said quarantine.

WATCH THE VLOG:

If you would like to watch plant-related vlogs. Consider checking the links below. 

• 1. Buying Indoor Plants from Misamis Occidental.
• 2. 🌵 RARE SNAKE PLANTS FROM CAVITE.
• 3. LAZADA Unboxing! Snake Plants ALL THE WAY from Davao.
• 4. 🌵TRANSPARENCY & RESPONSIBILITY in Buying Online!
• 5. Aglaonema Red Lipstick, Variegated Peace Lily & Jade Pothos.
• 6. Where to Buy Affordable Display Pot and Vase?
• 7. 🌵 Buying Plant Rack From Facebook Marketplace.
• 8. How I Started Becoming a Plantito? - BENEFITS FROM INDOOR PLANTS!
• 9. 🌿 Plants Collection for Small Condo Unit.
• 10. 🌱 TOO MUCH LOVE CAN KILL.
• 11. 🌱 BUYING RARE SNAKE PLANTS THROUGH Shopee Philippines ONLINE STORE.
• 12. 🌱 INDOOR BONSAI - Cuphea Hyssopifolia aka Mexican Heather - CARE TIPS.
• 13.  Repotting Indoor Plants Using Groot Planter.
• 14. 🌱 ANG DAMING INDOOR PLANTS! Where to Buy Indoor Plants.
• 15. 🌱 Buying Indoor Plants From Online Seller.
• 16. 🌱 Indoor Plants For Small Condo Unit ( EXCITED NA AKO MAGING PLANT-TITO )

👨‍🍳 UNBOXING - Kitchen and Cooking Essentials.

Doing an unboxing video lets my viewers vicariously experience a product virtually. This opportunity can benefit them - weighing multiple products before making a purchase. Unboxing videos recreate the feeling of getting something new and enjoying it for the first time. Honestly, it is addicting. 

In this vlog, I will be sharing with you these newly-purchased Kitchen and Cooking Essentials for our small kitchen in my condo unit - Microliving.  

WATCH THE VLOG:

Where did I buy it?

• 🛒 Pepper and Salt Grinder - https://bit.ly/3ewX4VI
• 🛒 Dispenser Bottle - https://bit.ly/3j7dM1p
• 🛒 Egg Beater - https://bit.ly/2ZsRTBW
• 🛒 Marinade Injector or Cooking Syringe - https://bit.ly/2CenSNp
• 🛒 Oil Pump Sprayer- https://bit.ly/3h0KmQL

WATCH: Food Trip During Pandemic in Maginhawa St., Quezon City | Food Blog

The pandemic has redefined how we socialize and enjoy food trips, but sometimes, spontaneous adventures with friends make for the best memories. It all started with an unexpected call from my friends Mer Irene Ondoc, RicJoseph Dimatulac-Buenos Aires, and Normarei Villameter while I was in the middle of a Netflix-chill session at home. Without much explanation, they invited me to join them, and before I knew it, I was inside their car, heading to PMPC Hospital in Quezon City. Their mission? To get a Covid-19 swab test, a requirement for their upcoming flight to Siargao.

 

(left to right) RicJoseph Dimatulac-Buenos Aires, Mer Irene Ondoc,  Normarei Villameter, and Jonathan Orbuda - waiting for the ordered food.

After the quick swab test, we decided to treat ourselves to a lunch outing at Maginhawa Street, Quezon City—a foodie haven known for its eclectic mix of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Our first stop was a ramen restaurant, where we indulged in steaming bowls of delicious Japanese comfort food. The rich broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and flavorful toppings made it the perfect pick-me-up after a hectic morning.

WATCH THE VLOG BELOW:

To cap off the day, we strolled a short distance to a cozy ice cream house. Nothing beats the satisfaction of creamy, cold desserts on a warm afternoon, especially when shared with good company. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, this little food trip reminded us of the simple joys of exploring good eats and spending time with friends. Maginhawa Street remains a must-visit destination for food lovers in Quezon City, and even during these uncertain times, it proves that food can still bring us together in the most delightful ways. 🌟

Having a Facial Hair, Is It Manly Or Just Messy?

Wearing your beard and mustache is something that every man should embrace as a celebration of manhood. Unfortunately, not all men celebrate this gift and I am one of them. Seems that having these cleaned – is truly time-consuming; not to mention, the expenses of buying cream and shaving types of equipment.  “The benefit of having a beard is protection, as well as aesthetics,” says Dr. Harvey. 

“It's good protection against wind, chafing, and traumatic injury. It's also a trend, so we see a lot of men with some form of facial hair.”

Undeniably, it makes you more masculine and others said, it makes a man more attractive. A study conducted by the Official Journal of the Human Behavior and Evolution Society found that men with a moderately full beard are found most attractive and men with full beards may be perceived as better fathers who could protect and invest in their children.

 “Men with beards have a powerful look,” says Dr. Harvey. “And that’s an attractive thing.”

But personally, If I were given a chance to have this get permanently rid off, I would take it. I kept shaving my facial hair but days later, it grows again fastly. I religiously shaved my facial hair because it makes me feel fresh. It feels light, makes me look younger, and is easy to apply facial cleanser. 

WATCH THE VIDEO:

Having facial hair is subjective. It is up to you if you'll shave it or not. 

Understanding SOGIE By Watching Netflix Series - Sex Education.

 Because we’ve been mentioning SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression) frequently among various platforms, it is timely and relevant that we have to deep dive into the various colors in the spectrum of Rainbow colors in the LGBTQIA+ community.

But, “What is really a sexual orientation?” If you’ve watched the Netflix series – Sex Education, perhaps you might have a little idea of what is sexual orientation. This is solely about to whom you really like and get attracted - romantically, emotionally, and sexually. These are homosexuals, heterosexuals, pansexual, bisexuals, at asexual.

It is also important to consider that individuals have no rigid label that is appropriate to each of us. It is up to you what label you would like to claim for yourself – if there is. And of course, it is a must that we have to respect the sexual orientation of other individuals; and never label anyone based on your own point of view,  if they don’t affirm such label inline to their preference.

Read this link to understand more about SEXUAL ORIENTATION: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/.../sexual-orientation

Credits: AIESEC in Myanmar.

Meanwhile, Sex Education is a British comedy-drama streaming television series created by Laurie Nunn for Netflix. The series follows the lives of the students, staff, and parents of the fictional Moordale Secondary School as they contend with various personal dilemmas, often related to sexual intimacy. It stars an ensemble cast consisting of Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Ncuti Gatwa, Emma Mackey, Connor Swindells, Kedar Williams-Stirling, Alistair Petrie, Mimi Keene, and Aimee Lou Wood.

Bisexuality is being interested romantically as well as sexually in both men and women (or) more than two genders. Being bisexual doesn’t mean being attracted to both genders equally. For example, it is considered bisexual even if you are 90% attracted to women and only 10% to men. There is no such thing as you’re not bisexual because you aren’t attracted to both genders equally. Your sexual orientation can be anything.

In Sex Education, Adam is a bisexual. Throughout the series, it is satisfying to see Adam figuring himself out and getting better at communications. This character grows the most out of everyone.

Pansexuals’ romantic and sexual attraction does not depend on gender. Pansexuality is a more free branch of bisexuality. Because pansexuals are open to relationships with those who don’t identify as either male or female. The extent of whether pansexuality is inclusive or not is still being debated among the LGBTQ community (especially in the bisexual community). Nevertheless, pansexuality is definitely a free sexual identity.

Ola is a pansexual. Ever since her first appearance, she is full of confidence and knows herself well. This character gives off all the vibes of pansexuality. Her behaviors and fashion, literally everything about her, just screams light and freedom.

Homosexuality is, as you know, romantic and sexual attraction between the same gender. People tend to consider themselves arriving at the homosexual destination if they’re not hetero, rather than discovering whether they’re bisexual and pansexual or not. Here, the term “gay” is used for males and “lesbian” for females. In terms of essential psychology, homosexual relationships are no different than heterosexual relationships.

Eric, Eric, Eric! Eric is a homosexual (gay). He is always interesting to look at. He’s hilarious and always colorful. The relationship between Otis and Eric is very precious.

Asexuality is the lack of sexual orientation towards other people. There is, however, a romantic attraction. Basically, there are no sexual activities in their relationships. But, asexuals take part in sexual activities to pleasure their partner, or to perceive a baby. They, themselves, do not prefer sex.

Although Florence is not the main character, she is still a great representative of the asexual community. She is more interested in her acting than sex (unlike other characters).

Non-Binary is not a sexual orientation like the above. It’s a gender identity. Non-binary people don’t identify as male or female (traditional gender binary) only. They can be men, women, between two genders, or completely not included in the gender category. Their pronouns are They/Them. Since non-binary people don’t identify as their assigned sexes, they are under the transgender tag.

Cal is a non-binary person. They appeared starting from season 3 and they definitely showed off the struggles and experiences of a non-binary person.

Heterosexuality is being attracted romantically or sexually towards a person of the opposite gender. They’re called straight. They appear the most in our environment as well as in the media. I believe everyone already knows about this sexuality.

Otis is the main character of Sex Education. His advice throughout the series is very insightful. Every one of his relationships is very interesting. (especially with his friendship with Eric).

Dirt and Shampoo Residue Accumulation on a Two-Year-Old Dreadlocks Hairstyle.

December 2019 when I decided to have my hair dreads. Having dreadlocks was one of my childhood dreams that is not easy to have due to its price. In the Philippines, if you will go to a professional dreadlocks artist, it is undeniably expensive. You might find a cheaper one, but the quality is always in-questioned, especially Filipinos who have genetically straight hair and it takes a long time to get perfectly-made dreads that will last longer.

When I got one, It was really fulfilling to see myself in front of a mirror having new hair. But getting dreadlocks is not a one-time process. It takes care and maintenance to have a clean look. You have to clean it thoroughly to avoid dirt accumulation from the dust in the atmosphere and the residue from the shampoo you've used to wash your hair.

Undeniably, I am diligent in washing my dreadlocks religiously to avoid smell without an awareness that there are areas on your head that accumulate the dirt easily and it is not noticeable until you will have your dreadlocks maintained by an artist. That will be the time you'll see how dirt your hair is, during the process of maintenance.

"Maintenance repair" of dreadlocks is something that you have to undergo every 6-12 months, according to the lockmen. Honestly, it is pricey; but it must be adhered to have a cleaner and fresh look. When I have my hair repaired, it is evidently more painful than the first session. 

Watch the video below:

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Before and After Photos:

WATCH ON TIKTOK:

@ilovetansyong

My ##dreadlockshairstyle being repaired for the first time. ##rasta ##Reggae ##dreadlocks ##hairstyle ##locstyles ##dread ##pinoydreadlockscommunity

♬ original sound - Jonathan Orbuda

Can a Religion Play a Massive Role in Evidence-Obsessed Philippine Governance Strategies?

Photo from Manny Pacquiao's Facebook

The 2022 Philippine presidential and vice-presidential elections are scheduled to be held on Monday, May 9, 2022, as part of that year's general election. This will be the 17th direct presidential election and 16th vice-presidential election in the Philippines since 1935, and the seventh sextennial presidential and vice-presidential election since 1986.

One of the presidential candidates is Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao Sr. aka Manny Pacquiao - Incumbent Senators. He is famous in the boxing industry(a sport I must say), as he is the only eight-division world champion in the history of boxing and has won twelve major world titles. 

Matthew 6:24

When he is inside the boxing ring, the whole Philippines unites to support him. But when he entered into the world of politics in 2010 - he was elected as the representative of Sarangani, the  Filipinos were divided into two - those who have faith in his clean intention as a public servant and those who are in doubt on his readiness as a politician. I must say - boxing and being a law-maker are totally different worlds - physical versus intellectual basis.

"How he would do that when he hasn't retired from boxing yet?"  Boxing and Law-Making, not to add, he became a coach and a player for the Philippine Basketball Association team Kia/Mahindra from 2014-2017. In addition, he has also starred in films, recorded music, and has presented television shows. 

(Matthew 6:24)“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

No wonder, Senator Manny Pacquiao posted the worst attendance record for senators in the 3rd and last session of the 17th Congress as it adjourned, "12 absences from July 2018 to June 2019,"  according to data released by the Senate on Sunday, June 9.2019.

Constitution of the Philippines Article II, Section 6

The 1987 Constitution of the Philippines declares: The separation of Church and State shall be inviolable. (Article II, Section 6), and, No law shall be made respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference, shall forever be allowed. No religious test shall be required for the exercise of civil or political rights.

Undeniably, Pacquiao once was not so righteous as he admitted. But his life rotates 360 degrees when his faith was born again - from Catholic to Protestant Evangelical. And his way of living is in line with the so-called righteousness. Actually, Christianity fueled Pacquiao's rise from poverty to the presidential candidacy as he has a campaign slogan "Man of Destiny: For God and Country".

There is a separation between church and state. And, having religious-driven governance is dangerous to the Country. It leads to discrimination, and all reasoning is no longer logical but biblical. The role of religion in areas of human rights, democracy, accountability, and governance has always been conflicting. 

 

In a study from the University of Nottingham, by Kwayu, Aikande Clement, The findings show that there is a relationship between government and faith groups, but that the levels of this relationship fluctuate depending on various factors - one of those the attitudes of politicians and political parties. At a general level, the positive role of religion, particularly in the fight against global poverty.

BUT WHAT ABOUT THE CONFLICTING - human rights, democracy, accountability, and governance.

 

Remember,  "Masahol pa sa Hayop" subliminal message he said, and the pain still marked on the heart of oppressed #LGBTQIA members. 

In an interview with the TV-5 group for its “Bilang Pilipino” elections coverage, Pacquiao said that “common sense” would tell you that there are no animals who engage in sex with the same gender. 

I hope you will vote wisely.

"The problem of an argument that's based on God is, it is the last resort of a bad debater." - Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago.

Dinner With My Officemates After 20 Months Working From Home.

Hello Tansyong Lovers! It was March 16, 2020, when the Philippine Government pronounced the Lockdown and mandatory Stay at Home; and that was the last time I saw my officemates. After 20 months, we've decided to meet at Manila Yacht Club for a dinner.

Watch The Video
 

Photos:

Invalid Justification From Dog Owners in Dealing Pets at the Dog Park.

As dog owners, we have some points of view when handling our own dogs and dealing with other dog owners at the dog park. Some might be acceptable but some are not. Here are invalid arguments that you should've not said - to yourself and to others.

© photo by 📷 3_Utah_Pitbulls

(1) "It's okay, my dog is harmless." Your dog's behavior around you in your home should not be expected as same outside. Numerous factors come into play outdoor - noise, the smell from other dogs; so stay vigilant because if humans get stressed outside the house, dogs as well. Manage your dogs’ environment so they don’t have the opportunity to antagonize each other. Stress in dogs can happen anytime and be anywhere. Remember that it’s the sum total of a dog’s stress that pushes him over his bite threshold, so the more of his stressors you can identify and get rid of, the more you’ll ease tensions between your canine and others while sauntering at the dog park.

📷 (Left) Jaggo the American Bully and (right) Escobar the American Bully  at Greenfield District, Mandaluyong City

(2) "The other dog started it." Uhm, no... Animals don't have morals like what we expect from hoomans; they act on instinct. They might grab the food from other dogs or from someone dining at the park. They might get excited seeing kids and will eventually lead to running after them. They might get jealous when their owner touches other dogs. They better need training, socialization, routine and mental enrichment. 

(3) "You should not have let your dog approach mine." No blaming others. The Ethics of Pet Ownership is something that needs to be displayed in times of argument between hoomans. You control your own dog. Know their cues, look at body language and take him out of heated/heating-up situations. Many fur-parents will get offended if their dogs get hurt by other dogs, and so they also react accordingly. 

I personally, encountered two dog owners at the park arguing due to an incident - an off-leashed, big American Bully dog run towards the other owners of three leashed-little chihuahua, due to excitement after seeing those little puppies. The chihuahua owner thought that the American Bully was attacking her dogs, so she quickly pulled the leash of the three chihuahuas away. The three chihuahuas were swinging and flying in the air but the Bully kept jumping up - just to reach the chihuahuas.

My Dog was also off-the-leash at that moment, and he noticed the commotion and also joined. The other pack of big dogs also joined and the chihuahua owner was literally surrounded by big dogs trying to reach her small dogs. Good thing, I was able to grab my dog and stay away from the commotion, so the blame was focused on the remaining Big Dog. Until the two owners got emotional and the argument between them was intense. 

From then, I never let my dog off-the-leash whenever we go for dog socialization. Honestly, it is not fun seeing your dog without the freedom to run but I have to control the temptation of letting him free to run because I have to consider that not all dog owners understand your dog's behavior. Usually, I went for a dog walk during twilight when no one is at the park so I can let him run freely without hesitation. 

(4) "I just left him unattended for a little while, I didn't know that was gonna happen.".  If you cannot have your full attention on your dog, just leave them at home if you need to do quick errands. On average, you can expect to spend at a minimum, 1 - 2 hours each day on providing dedicated attention for your dog. This can be in the form of a walk, play, enrichment activities, training, or general cuddle time. Dogs are pack animals so most of them love attention and company. 

📷 Escobar the American Bully sleeping under the table while I am working.

With Escobar, my American Bully pet dog, he is very attached to me since I had him starting from the lockdown in 2020 due to Covid19 Pandemic. We stayed together inside the small condo, so we really have a strong bond which leads him to be anxious every time he doesn't feel my presence. He slept under the table while I am working from home. He guarded me whenever I go to the bathroom. He slept on the floor adjacent to my feet when I am lying on my bed. And, when I slept, he will secretly transfer beside me. 

📷 Escobar the American Bully secretly transfer to my bed to sleep beside me.

Recently, I started him to teach to sleep separately from me by putting a hinder between my bed and his sleeping area. And, I can now also leave him at home whenever I go for an errand.

Also, if your dog has aggression problems, DO NOT PRACTICE ON OTHER DOGS IN THE COMMUNITY. We walk our dogs for peace of mind and healthy socialization.

Why 80s and 90s Kids Are Amazing?

The year 2000-2004: My Highschool Days were pretty hard but fun. These were my girl classmates.

People born between 1985 and 1995 are the most unique generation of all time. Here’s why:

They are in-between two generations: the one before the internet and technology took over and the generation after.

2003 High School Tour (left-right), Margie Abonete, Melgerie Samuya, Jovelyn Merencillo, Jonathan D. Orbuda, (next to me, I forgot the name), Noel Tinaja, Diosdado Sumipo, Joebert Samuya.

The generation before us was old school and believed in working hard. The generation after us believes in working smart. We're in between and trying to adapt and be resilient.

We saw it all: Radio, TV, Mario, Waptrick, Nokia, Nintendo 64, Samsung, iPhone, PS4, Tape, CD, DVD, MIXit, MIG32, Netflix, Snapchat, Emojis, and Virtual reality…

We experience using both multiplication tables and Microsoft excels to solve mathematical problems. We both indulge in the Process of Change. So we both understand and are grateful for both sides - the difficult life and luxurious living.

We grew up during the era where-in if you acted too feminine, then you're gay; if you acted too masculine; then you're Lesbian. But recently, being taught and able to understand that Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression are not the same.  And we're able to see the wide spectrum of LGBTQIA+ and able to embrace diversity and inclusion.

San Isidro High School Batch 2000-2004 (left-right) - Adonis Astronomo, Julifheil Bahulay, Carlo Lobregas, Lenibeth Astronomo, Antonette Montemayor, Daisy Robin, Mirazol Gumanid, and Jonathan Orbuda.

The generation before us can be scammed with simple emails asking for money and offering love. The generation after us knows it’s better to have four emails: one for serious stuff, social media, financial transactions, and one for experiments for things you don’t trust

We are the generation that knows the tradition and questions it… picking from it what makes sense to us. The generation before us knew no questions. The generation after us knows no tradition.

We are the gap between the industrial age and the internet age. We understand both sides from experience. We should be running the world! The old guys don’t understand what’s going on anymore; the new guys don’t fully understand where what’s going on came from.

San Isidro High School Batch 2000-2004 at San Isidro High School, San Isidro Bohol on May 9, 2017

WATCH: Live Sound Card V8 - How to Use and Product Review.

 Hello Tansyong Lovers! In this #UnboxingVlog, we're gonna feature this Live Sound Card V8 - which is perfect for live streaming and recording with greatly enhanced audio. I got it from Jhen whom I have ex-dealt my pre-loved ceramic planters. 

 V8 Audio External USB Headset Microphone Live Broadcast Sound Card for Mobile Phone Computer PC Feature: 1. 112 kinds of electric sound, 18 kinds of sound effects, 6 kinds of effect modes. 

• The buttons of the live sound card are made of silicone, which is comfortable to the hand, and the fingers will not feel painful when live broadcast for a long time.

• The multifunctional live sound card has 12 electroacoustics, 12 sound effects, and 10 effect modes, and the volume can be adjusted at any time without entering the specified software.
• The volume can be adjusted to meet your different needs according to different places. Reverberation size adjustment, microphone volume adjustment, high and low bass adjustment, recording volume control, music volume control, monitoring volume control (headphone function).

• Support mobile computer use, support single headset use. In addition, the package comes with a USB cable, which can be connected to a laptop, desktop, or phone. Compatible with dual mobile phone live broadcast, mobile computer live broadcast simultaneously, one computer live broadcast, computer accompaniment mobile phone live broadcast, and musical instrument input mobile phone live broadcast.

• The package includes: 1 x sound card, 2 x audio cable, 1 x USB cable, 1 x English user manual, size: about 125x105x25mm

  📺 WATCH THE VIDEO

How To Set Up Live Sound Card V8

🎥SOLO LIVING IN THE CITY - MicroLiving Philippines

In this #LifestyleVlog, I will be sharing with you my life as #SoloLiving in the City of #Mandaluyong. There are many disadvantages when living solo; Lack of company, Boring life, Loneliness, Lack of safety, No one to help, and Endless Chores, but there is so much something amazing when living alone. You have your own space—and usually more of it. You're no longer confined to a bedroom for privacy and storage. When you live alone, the entire place is your personal bubble. You can do whatever you want, wherever you want. You're free to place items anywhere you choose and decorate to your heart's content. 

  Watch my Vlog  :

A Week After My Accident While Walking Escobar

Life as a dog parent can be full of unexpected twists, and last week was no exception. I had an adrenaline-rushing experience while walking my American Bully, Escobar, at Greenfield District, Mandaluyong City—a day that left me with an injured pinky finger and a new appreciation for caution.

The Scene at Greenfield District

With the designated dog park closed due to pandemic restrictions, I decided to let Escobar stretch his legs at a large, open parking area. It was 5 AM, just after the curfew had lifted, and the quiet, vacant lot seemed perfect for some off-leash play. The parking area is divided into two sections—one bustling with parked cars and the other completely empty. Naturally, I chose the vacant section, thinking it was safe.

Escobar, excited and full of energy, dashed around joyfully. But to my surprise—and growing panic—he suddenly bolted toward the active parking area where cars were pulling in. My heart raced as I imagined the worst-case scenario.

My finger looks like this.

(not mine) - this should how it looks like.

The Moment of Impact

I quickly called out to Escobar, and to my relief, he turned around and ran toward me. However, in his excitement, he sprinted past me at full speed. In my attempt to stop him, I grabbed for his chain, but instead of catching it firmly with my hand, my pinky finger ended up taking the full force.

At first, I felt no pain—just the rush of adrenaline and frustration at missing my grip. But when I glanced down at my hand, I was shocked to see my pinky bent at a sharp 90-degree angle. Without thinking, I instinctively pushed it back into place. I wasn’t sure if I had fixed it correctly, but I knew leaving it as it was would only make things worse.

The Aftermath

Once I calmed Escobar and got him back under control, I headed home. That’s when the numbness in my arm turned into a throbbing pain. I applied ice to reduce inflammation, but as the day went on, the pain worsened.

Now, a week later, the pain has subsided slightly, but my pinky is far from functional. Typing has become a challenge, and even small tasks like washing laundry can send sharp pain through my hand if the finger touches anything with force.

📺 WATCH THE VIDEO

Lessons Learned and Next Steps

I’ve decided to give myself another week to see if the inflammation and pain will heal on their own. If it doesn’t improve, I’ll need to visit a clinic to have it checked and possibly treated professionally.

This experience has taught me a few valuable lessons:

• Always stay alert and prepared when handling a large, energetic dog. Even in seemingly safe environments, unexpected things can happen.
• Don’t underestimate small injuries. What seemed minor at first turned out to be more serious than I thought.
• Adapt and learn. As much as Escobar loves to run free, I’ll make sure we stick to safer spaces moving forward.

Being a dog parent means accepting both the joys and the challenges. This incident was definitely a wake-up call, but it hasn’t dampened my love for Escobar or our shared adventures. I’ll keep you all updated on my recovery and, of course, on Escobar’s next escapades!

Have you ever had a similar experience with your pets? Share your stories in the comments—I’d love to hear how you handled them! 

👨‍🍳First Time Cooking Kare-kare - Pinoy Recipe.

 

I’ve been longing for the taste of Kare-Kare recently. Kare-kare is a Philippine stew (kare derives from "curry") that features a thick savory peanut sauce. It is generally made from a base of stewed oxtail, beef tripe, pork hocks, calves feet, pig's feet or trotters, various cuts of pork; beef stew meat, and occasionally offal. Vegetables, such as include eggplant, Chinese cabbage, or other greens, daikon, green beans, okra, and asparagus beans, are added. The stew is flavored with ground roasted peanuts or peanut butter, onions, and garlic. It is colored with annatto and can be thickened with toasted or plain ground rice. Variations of kare-kare can be made with seafood, such as (prawns, squid, and mussels, or exclusively from vegetables.

Watch my Vlog  :

Condiments and other flavorings are usually added. It is often eaten with bagoong (shrimp paste), sometimes spiced with chili, ginisáng bagoóng (spiced and sautéed shrimp paste), and sprinkled with calamansi juice. Other seasonings are added to the table. Variants may include goat meat or (rarely) chicken.

Traditionally, any Filipino fiesta is not complete without kare-kare.

A more modern twist to the classic Filipino kare-kare uses a different dish as the main meat for this dish. Pork is one of the most economical and easiest meats to cook, the most common meats repurposed for kare-kare are Lechon (which is also used for Lechon Kawali) and Crispy Pata (Crispy Pork Shank.)

Honestly, I don’t know how to cook Kare-Kare. Thanks to the help of Panlasang Pinoy Vlog because it gives me step-by-step instructions on how to prepare such a savory dish.

Watch the vlog:

In addition, the reason why I am craving for Kare Kare ; because I watched this cooking vlog from a mother-son tandem; Olry and Mommy Lulu – famous tiktokers turned Youtubers

Watch the vlog:

In preparing my Kare-Kare Recipe, I used McCormick Kare-Kare Recipe Mix. It is a powder-packed with special blend of flavors including peanut and spices such as annatto, garlic, onion, and turmeric that impart flavor to meat dishes. I actually got it when I went to the grocery and just grab it.