If we focus on the silver lining this pandemic has brought us, one of the perks of being under the community quarantine is having quality time with our families and aligning ourselves to the things that truly matter to us. In our case, this was the longest time our whole family spent time together 24/7 which made us happier. Then due to the presence of Paps and Kuya, we had a chance to do Swedish Death Cleaning that prompted us to dispose of the things that we didn't intend to use and organize our home including our analog and digital photos.

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I did #Dostadning or #Swedish Death Cleaning last month and it was so liberating. Now I can say that what we own is truly what we use. . You may visit my Facebook Page @allaroundpinaymama for more details by typing the hashtag #aapmtips. . #allaroundpinaymama #decluttering

A post shared by 𝙶𝚗𝚐. 𝚂𝙹 𝚅𝚊𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚣, 𝙻𝙿𝚃 | 𝙰𝙰𝙿𝙼 🇵🇭 (@allaroundpinaymama) on Jun 7, 2020 at 5:10am PDT

With our analog photos, we were already updated in storing them chronologically but with our digital photos, they were so plenty that we didn't have the luxury of time of having them printed or compiled into a photo book. It was time-consuming for us to do the layout and printing it here at home. We were also hesitant in getting the services of a professional due to the cost aside from time constraints. Good thing, we heard from a friend that doing the layout in Photobook PH App and website would be easier and cost-efficient compared to other photo book services in the market today. Aside from being user and consumer-friendly, the finished product would be high-quality. 

Buti naniwala kami. We were impressed with Photobook PH's services.

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A post shared by 𝙶𝚗𝚐. 𝚂𝙹 𝚅𝚊𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚣, 𝙻𝙿𝚃 | 𝙰𝙰𝙿𝙼 🇵🇭 (@allaroundpinaymama) on May 18, 2020 at 12:26am PDT

• There are so many pre-made layout options to choose from which makes creating an album or personalized merchandise quick and easy.
• No available photos on your phone or personal computer, no problem! There is an option of getting your photos from your Facebook or Instagram account.
• If you happen to choose a low-resolution photo or committed a mistake in your layout, there is a prompt that reminds you to change your photo or adjust the layout.
• Checking out is easy and there are more paying options.
• It offers promos often like free or discounted services. Just type the given promo code upon check-out to avail. In some cases, you'll get a free service and just pay for the shipping fee.
• Aside from a photo book, you can also order personalized pillows, tumblers, name tags, and a lot more!
• You are assured that your orders are delivered in good condition because they are packed neatly and properly.
• You are reminded of the status of your orders through an email or text message.
• The delivery is prompt and efficient.
• All products have superb quality, worth every centavo! Kikiligin ka sa sobrang ganda, promise!

I believe that most mothers have a recollection of their experiences of having urinary incontinence after giving birth through Normal Spontaneous Delivery (NSD). I know how it feels. I am not an exception to that. It's messy and embarrassing because it would come unexpectedly anywhere, anytime. I would like to share with you two of the most unpleasant situations when I had urinary incontinence. The first one happened when I was grocery shopping with my husband that I had to purchase a new set of underwear because I wasn't able to unzip my pants just in time my urine went out. The second one was the time when I was done closing a business deal that I needed to rush immediately to the washroom but again, I wasn't able to hold my urine until I reached the cubicle. It prompted me to have no choice but to pee on my pants because I could no longer hold my urine. It was so unfortunate that I needed to go home while covering my pants and making sure that a person who knew me would not see me as I rode a cab. How troublesome and humiliating! If only I discovered So Sure earlier, I could skip those two embarrassing moments! 

The makers of So Sure Bladder Control Pad claim that it is designed to keep you dry and worry-free in times when you feel that you need to be protected from leaks and mess due to urinary incontinence.


Each pad has a superior absorbent core or blue acquisition layers that absorb moisture, locks in wetness, and reduces odor (can absorb three times the amount of normal urine level based on June 2018 laboratory test).


It has an easy-stick and wide adhesive that securely and smoothly holds the pad in place and elastic strands that create a discreet, secure, and comfortable fit.


It is breathable and has a cloth-like back sheet for added comfort.


So Sure Bladder Control pad is suitable for men and women.

Courtesy: https://shopee.ph/jeunesse.anionpads

So Sure Bladder Control Pad has two sizes:

So Sure Bladder Control Pads are available in Mercury Drug Stores nationwide or online via Lazada PH and Shopee PH.

I tried using both when I was traveling for hours and staying in school for eight hours. I also used size 340 mm as a substitute for my favorite sanitary pads, Jeunesse, when I had my period.

Well, the claims are true. The leak and odor control, smoothness and cloth-like feel, plus the anti-bacterial properties are considered its best points for me because they promote peace of mind, hygiene, and comfort. 

In line with this, there are three common types of incontinence or bladder leakage that may help you determine the perfect pad for you just in case you want to use So Sure: 

Stress Urinary Incontinence- The involuntary loss of urine that occurs when pressure is suddenly placed on your bladder whether it's cough, laugh, sneeze, exercise, or lifting a heavy item.

Urge Urinary Incontinence- Unexpected contraction or squeezing of the bladder muscles that causes a sudden and involuntary urge to urinate immediately.

Overflow Incontinence- The inability to empty the bladder completely causing urine to overflow and leak without feeling the urge to urinate.

I may say that I am not too vain. I am not very particular with the latest trends in beauty and fashion.  I sport a low maintenance haircut. I am a classic dresser. I am minimal. As long as my body and clothes are clean and descent, I am good to go. I do my own pampering at home as well. I am in my midlife years but I haven't experienced visiting a dermatologist or aesthetic center for facial treatments. It shows that I am comfortable with my own skin although some people may think that I am too lazy. Well, I don't mind at all when people tease me due to my frugal choices. I don't even mind if I have scars and stretch marks on my body because I believe that they are part of living. 

Talking about "physical or body scars" that are visible to the naked eye, I have plenty. I have friends who are conscious of having those that's why they make sure to treat them until they disappear. I haven't thought of doing so until a friend of mine encouraged me to try using Contractubex. She said that I should not be scared of trying the said brand because it works well in removing her scars and it's safe. The notion just slipped my mind until finally, I had the chance to try it myself when Contractubex sent me a gift. Amazing, isn't it?

I have received an ointment and patch version of Contractubex together with the product collaterals, which are very helpful because, of course, who would want to use a product without learning about its properties? I am very particular with the safety of the products that I try and use above all its efficacy and price. These are the things that I've learned that have prompted me to use it with confidence:

1. Contractubex Gel

Active Ingredients:

Cepalin Extract (Onion Base)- 10 grams

Heparin (used to treat and prevent blood clots)- 5000 IU

Allantoin (usually found in cosmetic products; promotes moisture)- 1gram

Presentation:

Gel available in 10 grams (SRP Php600) and 20 grams (SRP Php990) 

Channels Available:

Mercury Drug, Watsons, Rose Pharmacy, Southstar Drug, and other drugstores nationwide under OTC (over the counter) status. It can be purchased online through Contractubex Philippines Facebook Page.

How do the active ingredients work on the scars?

When the three active ingredients are combined, they are considered to be the "Tri Total Recovery with Three Hard Workers". They serve as an anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-bacterial, regenerative, promotes wound healing, stimulates keratin production, increases skin permeability, softens collagen structure, inhibits fibroblast proliferation, relieves itching, and moisturizing. 

Where can we use Contractubex Gel?

Contractubex Gel is indicated for hypertrophic scars and keloids, movement restricting and optically disfiguring scars after surgery, amputations, burns or accidents, contractures (shortening of muscles due to excessive fibroblasts), and cicatricial strictures. 

How is Contractubex Gel applied?

It is highly recommended to start treatment as soon as the wound is closed and Contractubex should be applied correctly for best results. For new scars, apply Contractubex two to three times daily for at least three months while for older scars, it should be applied three times daily for at least six months. Using a compression plaster may improve its efficacy.

Steps:

1. Apply only to wounds that are already closed or upon suture removal.

2. Start at the center and work towards the edges, massaging the gel gently into the scar.

3. Continue with a small circular motion until Contractubex is completely absorbed.

The question is, is it effective? The answer is a big YES!

I saw a huge difference in my small old scar (keloid) in my finger in just 5 days! It became thinner and smaller although I guess the scar removal would depend on the size and depth of the scar. In my case, it worked so quickly without feeling any discomfort or itchiness.


It is non-sticky, smells great, has an awesome cooling effect which I really, really like. It may look or sound pricey but a thin film is only needed per application so a small tube would thrive longer. Awesome!

2. Contractubex Overnight Intensive Patch (OIP)

The active ingredients of this product are like its gel counterpart except for Heparin. SRP per patch is Php157 while SRP per pack of 21 patches costs Php3,290. It is available in selected Watsons branches nationwide or online via Contractubex Philippines Facebook Page and Lazada PH. It is under Medical Device Status. 

Presentation:

- Dimension: 12 cm x 3 cm

- Acrylate based adhesive

- Polyolefin packaging foam

- Shelf-life: 36 months

- 21 patches per pack

Where can we use Contractubex Overnight Intensive Patch?

It is recommended for new scars, post-surgery scars, or fresh scars after incisions (post-surgical scarring prevention). It must be applied right after wound closure or after the suture has been removed. It protects the immature, sensitive tissue during the first weeks. It is best used by convenience-oriented patients (once-daily application overnight), where continuation with the patch till the end of treatment is advised (three months or 12 weeks).

How is Contractubex Overnight Intensive Patch applied?

1. Thoroughly wash and dry the scar area. Make sure the wound is completely closed and the skin is intact.

2. Peel off the transparent backing of the adhesive side of the patch.

3. Apply the patch so that the scar is completely covered.

4. For a smaller scar, the patch may be cut to size using a clean pair of scissors. Cut before peeling the transparent backing.

5. For larger scars, apply patches side by side.

6. Keep the patch in place for a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 hours overnight.

7. The patch is not reusable.

8. Use daily for three to six months or witch to Contractubex Gel after three months and complete the treatment for six months.

It is easy to apply, waterproof, can be cut into small pieces according to scar size, and clinically tested safe and effective in scar management.

I haven't tried using the OIP yet but I will choose one of most deserving reader to try it together with the Contractubex Gel through a Facebook Giveaway.

Here are the steps to join:

1. Like All-Around Pinay Mama on Facebook.

2. Like Contractubex Philippines on Facebook.

3. Comment on this post by answering the question "Why do you need Contractubex Gel and Overnight Intensive Patch?" plus leave your Facebook Name and URL.

Example: I need Contractubex Gel and Overnight Intensive Patch because...
                Juan De La Cruz
                https://www.facebook.com/juandelacruz

The winner will be chosen and announced on February 14, 2020. 

Yours truly will check if the participants followed all the steps. Only those participants who completed all steps will be eligible or qualified. My son and husband will read the qualified participants' comments and they will choose the best answer. 

This giveaway is open to residents of the Philippines only. The winner will get a 20-gram tube of Contractubex Gel worth Php990 and three Contractubex Overnight Intensive Patch worth Php471 or a total of Php1,461 worth of Contractrubex products. The shipping fee will be shouldered by yours truly.

When all family members are swamped with school and work-related tasks, my husband and I find it difficult to follow our usual dating/parenting routines with each of our kids. It's been ages since my eldest and I had our date together. I miss it. I miss him. I miss our simple routine of catching-up and getting to know each other more while dining together. I miss the times when we watch a movie or a show together and talk about our reviews after. 

The ALL-NEW GRAND CHINA ACROBATIC CIRCUS is a heart-stopping show of daring and thrilling performances guaranteed to be a hit among audiences young and old. It features mind-blowing tricks, death-defying acts, graceful choreography loaded with color and excitement deftly presented by internationally renowned and multi-awarded Chinese acrobats from Beijing, China. The China National Acrobatic Troupe has amazed audiences with feats of strength and daring acts performed cleverly, precisely, and accurately, and the ability of retaining balance in motion. Audiences will marvel at the world-class skills of the acrobats as they perform routines of compelling choreography practiced over centuries, making this a perfect show for families to enjoy.

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Thank you so much @mommybloggersphilippines, @aranetacity, and @thearanetacoliseum for the Christmas treat. We enjoyed our date with our kids. 💖 . The All-new Grand China Acrobatic Circus is a must-watch. Pampamilya talaga. We invite you to watch and see it yourself with your family. Light lang siya at mag-e-enjoy ang lahat! Sobrang galing! 🥰🤩😍 . The show will run from December 25, 2019 until January 4, 2020 at Smart Araneta Coliseum. You may buy tickets at www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 8 911-5555. Super sulit. 💖 . #GrandCircusattheBigDome #AranetaCity #CityofFirsts #aapmevents #allaroundpinaymama #mommybloggersph

A post shared by Gng. SJ Valdez | AAPM 🇵🇭 (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 24, 2019 at 10:10pm PST

I don't want to be a spoiler to those of you who are planning to watch the show so I would like to share with you a few of our most favorite acts.

1. Gorgeous Girls with Diabolo (Chinese Yo-Yo)
 
Starring Peking Opera's Huadan (Heroine) in beautifully choreographed diabolo techniques and dances, performers were dressed up in a splendid fashion that playfully teased the eyes of the audience. This gracefully matched the movements of the performers as they skipped and caught diabolos. It was so spectacular! No wonder it won four awards: a) President Award of the 26th International Circus Festival of Tomorrow in France, b) Golden Clown Award of the 37th International Circus of Monte Carlo; c) Gold Award of the 12th Budapest Festival in Hungary, and c) Gold Award of the 1st International Festival of Circus Art on Fontanka in St. Petersberg.

2. The Ninth Wave (Skills on Poles)

This act was inspired by the famous Russian painter Ivan Aivazovsky and his work depicting soldiers braving the angry ocean. I learned that like the Gorgeous Girls with Diabolo, it was also an award-winning performance: a) Golden Chrysanthemum Award of the 10th Chinese Acrobatic Competition, b) Golden Tiger Award of the 4th China International Circus Art Festival, c) Special Award and Silver Award of 34th International Circus of Monte Carlo. This act was heart-stopping and jaw-dropping!
     

3. Holy Warriors (Stunts through Hoops)

Masterfully tumbling through hoops with a variety of speed, coherence, precision, and dazzling somersaults of actors made the audiences' eyeballs pop! Imagine, the performers defied gravity by tumbling in the tower of hoops as high as three meters! What an outstanding and thrilling performance! It received a Golden Clown Award of the 37th International Circus of Monte Carlo. 

4. Plate Spin

This mesmerizing act composed of singing and dancing of performers while balancing and spinning 10 plates each in their hands. Award received: Golden Lion Award at the 4th China National Acrobatic Festival.

I encourage you to see it yourself with your friends and loved ones to experience the thrill and bliss that Kuya and I felt. Each act may be simple or easy to the eyes but come to think of it, what makes them special and impressive are the discipline, perseverance, tenacity, and hard work that each performer gives from the training up to the day when the troupe performs worldwide.

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Kapag ang mga nanay ay naarawan at nakalabas din ng bahay na hindi errands at work ang gagawin, ito ang kalalabasan talaga! 😂 . Thank you so much @mommybloggersphilippines, @aranetacity, and @thearanetacoliseum for the Christmas treat. We enjoyed our date with our kids. 💖 . The All-new Grand China Acrobatic Circus is a must-watch. Pampamilya talaga. We invite you to watch and see it yourself with your family. Light lang siya at mag-e-enjoy ang lahat! Sobrang galing! 🥰🤩😍 . The show will run from December 25, 2019 until January 4, 2020 at Smart Araneta Coliseum. You may buy tickets at www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 8 911-5555. Super sulit. 💖 . #GrandCircusattheBigDome #AranetaCity #CityofFirsts #aapmevents #mommybloggersph . P.S. Salamat sa mga larawan, beshiewaps @madeitthroughmum. Ramdam ninyo na ba ang ang mga sakit sa kasu-kasuan sa pinaggagagawa nating tatlo nina @momiberlin? #titaproblem 😂

A post shared by Gng. SJ Valdez | AAPM 🇵🇭 (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 24, 2019 at 10:03pm PST

I invite you to watch this video for more details and where to get tickets. Enjoy the show with your family and friends like we did! 

When I discovered Bubble Man a few years ago, hindi na siya nawala sa list ng top dishwashing brands na paborito ko. Kasi naman, first time kong na-experience na maghugas ng pinggan na hindi sumakit ang kamay ko at ang bilis kong natapos.

Using a cloth diaper during the '70s and '80s was the least expensive option although very inconvenient unless the house had easy access to a washer and dryer or if the home care provider had ample time washing it by hand and drying it outdoors immediately. A cloth diaper that time also required the use of safety pins or soft plastic snaps to hold the edges together which would be very irritating or unsafe for the baby. For a family on a budget like we were when I was still a baby,  my mom had to think of its benefits rather than the inconvenience that using it might bring. A cloth diaper might not be as airtight like the disposable one but it could cause less irritation or rash build upon a baby's skin because it would allow moisture to evaporate immediately and it was made to be replaced often aside from using it could save a lot of money and could help save the environment.

Fast forward, the advent of the availability of a wide array of disposable diapers in the market today makes consumers open to better choices. It also leads to promoting convenience for moms. We have to admit that using cloth diapers doesn't work for everyone.

I am a mom myself and as I speak with my mom friends, the following are the things that make them stick with a disposable diaper brand: affordability, availability, cost-efficiency, and quality. They want their babies' disposable diaper easy to use and dispose of, leak-free especially during baby's active moments and while sleeping, doesn't easily sag, super absorbent, doesn't irritate baby's skin, and doesn't require to be changed often. 

Three years ago, our family decided not to avail the services of any health maintenance organization (HMO) because we were so confident that we would not get sick. Well maybe, subconsciously, one of the main reasons of doing that was because the year after that, we got the services of a very unreliable health insurance provider that we ended up paying for our check-ups and hospital laboratory tests while also paying for the insurance premium for the four of us. It was obviously a waste of hard-earned money. Unfortunately, on the year that we didn't have an HMO, the four of us got hospitalized all at the same time for almost a month. It was a chain reaction. Paps and the kids were absent at work and school respectively. I had backlogs on my freelancing gigs. I neglected my duties as a mompreneur. I had to cancel so many work-related opportunities. I wasn't able to manage and update my blog and social media sites under my care. Paps' absence at work affected his performance and salary. Most of all, our savings and earnings that were intended for other things were put on the drain. Paps and I were emotionally and physically exhausted but we couldn't do anything but learn from our mistake. After that dreadful family experience, we never thought twice of getting a reliable health insurance provider.

Well, you have to learn from our experience. Never commit the same mistake that we did. Aside from health insurance, there are also other kinds of common non-life insurance (covers people, liabilities, and property) that we should prioritize. Here they are:

(Source: www.lifeinsurance.org/blog/what-is-non-life-insurance)

Why do we prioritize non-life insurance?

Non-life insurance gives us peace of mind. Literally, when you get any type of insurance, you are paying for your peace of mind, first and foremost. It is our only shield when the worst case scenario happens to our health or property. Then health problems, accidents, and damage or a loss of property are not going to give us any burden because the insurance almost keeps everything covered like medical expenses,  hospital bills, or repairs. It unloads our burden and lessens our worries. 

In order to have genuine peace of mind and confidence regarding insurance, it is very important to be choosy, vigilant, and meticulous in getting the services of a non-life insurance provider.

In our case, one of the trusted non-life insurance companies that I know in the Philippines is Ever Ready Insurance Agency, Inc. If you are looking for an insurance company to deal with when it comes to insuring your home and vehicles, the said company is trustworthy. It's highly recommended by yours truly! 

With Ever Ready Insurance Agency, Inc., you can go places and insure things! See the posters below for more details.