My eagerness in learning more about proper make-up application began in 2010 after my youngest child was born. During that time, I was still connected with Amway Philippines and Artistry. I was then given an opportunity to be part of one of the company's Artistry Certificate Course which included Basic Make-up Workshop conducted by Artistry Ambassador, beauty expert, and salon chain owner, Mr. Victor Ortega.

The Artistry Certificate Course that I attended was featured on Amway Philippines Newsletter (2011).

I was a newbie and late bloomer in terms of make-up knowledge and techniques. In college, I would just apply baby powder on my face and moisturize my lips with lip balm. I also chose to have very short hair to save time in styling it. This minimalism in terms of grooming myself continued as I started working. Well, I leveled up by putting eyeshadow as an addition to my beauty routine! What an improvement, right? All I did was to get a small amount of the product using my index finger and dab it to my eyelids.

Attending the above-mentioned workshop brought out my eagerness to bring my make-up knowledge to the next level. During my stressful moments, I would apply make-up, take a selfie, and post it on Facebook. I even became a make-up hoarder!

It took quite some time for me to stop from doing those. I was thinking, "Siguro nauumay na ang mga friends ko sa face ko!" Naumay rin ako sa kase-selfie! LOL!

I became more busy while my kids were growing up and didn't manage to apply religiously what I learned until I forgot most of its important details.

I am just a girl who loves make-up. #allaroundpinaymama #aapmcosmeticfixation #throwback #experimenting #makeupnewbie #artistrymakeupandskincare #workshop #makeup #basicmakeupworkshop #certifiedartistrybeautyexpert #amwayphilippines #victorortega #2011 #mommybloggersphilippines

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Feb 28, 2016 at 12:24am PST

Hubby knew that make-up was one of my passions. He gave me a Bobbi Brown Make-up Manual as a Christmas present two years ago. I began reading it. Again, due to time constraints, I set aside my passion.

From time to time, I would also update my make-up and brushes stash.  This would make me happy and inspired, hoping that someday I could find time.

Your kikay friends and relatives will surely love this @sueshmakeuptoolkit Salmon Pink Holiday 2015 Brush Set! It's so affordable and the quality is superb. #allaroundpinaymama #allaroundpinaymamarecommends #aapmtipidfinds #aapmpracticalgifts #mommybloggersphilippines #mommybloggersph #makeupbrush #kikay #pink #suesh #sueshholiday2015brushcollection

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 22, 2015 at 5:52pm PST

It was last year that I decided to give time on personality development and further studies based on my interests. Taking short courses and workshops could be a good starter, perfect to squeeze in to my very hectic schedule as a full-time mom.

True enough, while browsing on the "Activities Section" of Ensogo Philippines, I saw "Mineraux Cosmetics Make-up Workshop". What made me more interested was the fact that the workshop would focus on using mineral cosmetics instead of the conventional drugstore or high end cosmetics. The experience could be something new to me.

The following were the packages to choose from as stated on the website:

DEAL 1: Basic or Ultimate Workshop for Php749 (Valued at Php3,000)

DEAL 2: Basic or Ultimate Workshop + 12 piece Professional Brush Set for Php1,249 (Valued at Php4,800)

DEAL 3: Basic and Ultimate Workshop for hpP1,449 (Valued at Php6,000)

I chose DEAL 3 because I already got a make-up brush set from my previous make-up workshop and I was more after the knowledge that I would gain from it. I immediately processed my order with Ensgo Philippines. As expected,  I had a fast and smooth transaction with the company.

Then I visited www.minearauxcosmetics.com to learn more about the company and the facilitator as well. Reading the information HERE made me more excited! There were so many interesting things to learn from the workshop.

I reserved a schedule through the cellphone number that was indicated on my printed Ensogo Philippines voucher. The exchange of text messages came out smoothly. Instructions on what to bring and the exact location of the workshop were clearly stated.

Bunso attended his SpEd make-up class in school yesterday while I had mine with Miss Melissa Vergara, certified makeup artist by the School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) Manila and co-founder of @minerauxcosmetics. It was indeed a great learning experience. What a fabulous way to start 2016! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmcosmeticfixation #workshop #personaldevelopment #makeupbrush #makeup #makeupworkshop #minerauxcosmetics #mineralmakeup #mommybloggersphilippines #mommybloggersph #certifiedbloggers #momswhoblogph #pinayblogger

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Jan 16, 2016 at 5:44pm PST

The following were the points that I loved about this make-up workshop:

1   The venue was at the function room located on G/F Legrand Tower 3 in Eastwood City, Libis, Quezon City. It was a conducive venue for a workshop although the lighting needed improvement. But I would give it a pass because it was tolerable. I traveled for almost two hours but I didn't mind because the venue was accessible to public transportation.

2   We started on time.

3  The facilitator, Miss Melissa Vergara, certified make-up artist by SOFA Manila and co-founder of Mineraux Cosmetics, was so knowledgeable and cool as well. I liked her teaching style. It was methodical. She was so keen in pointing out the details on proper handling of tools and products and product recommendations based on skin tone and color aside from the professional way of make-up application as being taught in make-up school.

4  We were provided with complete materials- drinking water; free use of make-up, brushes, and other paraphernalia; and colored illustrated hand-outs.

5  There were limited slots only. We were six participants to be exact that made the workshop more engaging. Miss Melissa did one-on-one coaching too. Our learning experience was maximized.

After taking make-up courses from Miss Melissa at a fraction of a price through Ensogo Philippines, I must say that it was beyond SULIT. Imagine, I was able to learn so much and boost my confidence in professional make-up application for only Php1,449! I also met new friends and that, my dear readers, was something that money couldn't buy. 

Miss Melissa Vergara, certified makeup artist by the School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) Manila and co-founder of @minerauxcosmetics, was demonstrating how to do the smokey eye make-up through my pretty workshop classmate, @paula_paguio! Workshop details on my website soon! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmcosmeticfixation #makeup #makeupbrush #minerauxcosmetics #mineralmakeup #makeupworkshop #smokeyeye #workshop #mommybloggersphilippines #momswhoblogph#certifiedbloggers

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Jan 16, 2016 at 9:13pm PST

If you are looking for a best make-up workshop, I highly recommend Mineraux Cosmetics Make-up Workshops. Your Php3,000 per workshop is worth it.

Like my super favorite writer, Patricia De Castro Cuyugan , I would like to Konmari my blog this year. One of the topics that I would love to unleash is about my "kikay-ness" without breaking my wallet! Pardon me if I am going to post more selfies one of these days! I took this photo after the whole afternoon of doing errands. My "muk-up" lasted for hours! No retouching needed! Perfect for girls whose hands are tied. I will reveal my tried and tested super affordable but long-lasting make-up brands that I use regularly soon! Have a blessed Holy Week! *Special thanks to my make-up teacher, Miss Melissa Vegara of @minerauxcosmetics , for giving me the guts to do this! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmcosmeticfixation #makeup #minerauxcosmetics #mommybloggersphilippines #certifiedbloggers #instadaily #selfie

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Mar 23, 2016 at 9:50pm PDT

By the way, Miss Melissa also sold the super affordable and natural Mineraux Cosmetics Make-up and Brush Line during the workshop. I really regretted not bringing extra cash that time.

The correctors and loose powder foundation were phenomenal! They were among my favorites. They made  me look flawless without irrittations, promise!

Good news is, Mineraux Cosmetics can be ordered online if you want to try its products. You may check it out on this LINK. Ordering details are HERE.

Product price starts from Php380. (Photo Credit: Mineraux Cosmetics)

*************************

You may communicate with Mineraux Cosmetics for more information about make-up workshops and its product line through the following contact details:

Pick-up Location: One Orchard Road, Eastwood City, Quezon City

Mobile: +63.917.8870760

Email: info@minerauxcosmetics.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/minerauxcosmetics

I read raves about the effectiveness of Argan Oil and I had a privilege to try and test one brand from a local company which I wasn't able to review yet. Then I was contacted by Green Esthetics, a USA- based organic cosmetic brand, to try, test, and review one of its products. I chose Argan Oil among its other very promising products because I wanted to compare it to the one that I had on hand. 

After two weeks, Philippine Postal Corporation notified me that I should claim the parcel. I just paid a transaction fee worth Php100 to get it. The shipping and claiming were hassle-free unlike other couriers that would charge an amount greater than the worth of the product.

What a great way to end 2015! I got another love mail from USA! Thank you so much, @green_esthetics , for these bottles of #arganoil ! I am so excited to try and test this product, write a review, and share a bottle to one of my readers! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmgiveaway #aapmreaderofthemonth #january2016 #greenesthetics #madeinusa #mommybloggersph #mommybloggersphilippines #certifiedbloggers #momswhoblogph #pinayblogger #aapmbeauty #instadaily

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 29, 2015 at 5:49pm PST

Before I go further with my thoughts about Green Esthetics Argan Oil, I would like to share with you the benefits of and numerous ways to use Argan Oil on the entire body. It is indeed versatile and I must say that it is a beauty product that every individual should have.

What is Argan Oil?

Argan Oil is extracted from the nut of the Argan tree found only in Southwestern Morocco. Due to this limited and distinct location, Argan Oil is one of the rarest oils in the world. It is 100% natural and contains no parabens, preservatives, or any other type of additives.

What makes Argan Oil so exceptional is its many uses for the whole body. The vitamins found in Argan Oil are instrumental in:

- calming inflammation

- treating and preventing acne and wrinkles

- hydrating the scalp and hair to reduce frizziness

- softening the cuticles while protecting nails

What are the benefits and uses of Argan Oil?

SKIN

Argan Oil does the following on skin:

- helps restore the skin's pH levels naturally and regulates the production of sebum (oil)

- neutralizes free radicals from exposure to the environmental exposures such as the sun, weather, pollution, stress, and tobacco

- moisturizes using the fatty acids in the oil, which helps to protect skin and bring a natural glow

- treats acne and fights bacteria with its antimicrobial properties

- has anti-aging properties and can reduce wrinkles by increasing skin's elasticity

- reduces and prevents scarring and stretch marks, as well as helps to heal blemishes

- assists in the cure of skin disorders, such as psoriasis, acne, eczema by calming skin irritation and inflammation

- can be used after sun exposure to enhance the appearance of skin. Note: Do not apply before or during sun exposure.

- helps circulation and relieves arthritis pain

It is recommended to use a few drops of Argan oil for the entire face. It penetrates easily and does not leave an oily residue. Doing a light massage with the oil in the evening for the face is highly recommended. As it is gentle, it can be used around the eye area.

For the body, massage using Argan oil to improve the firmness of the skin and relax the spine. Apply oil after showering through a gentle massage to hydrate and protect the skin. Mix with body lotion in the palm of your hand or apply pure.

HAIR

Argan Oil does the following on hair:

- restores shine to lifeless, dull hair

- helps mend split-ends and moisture the scalp with its natural Vitamin E and fatty acids, promoting hair growth

- increases moisture in hair and acts as frizz-reducer without leaving build-up or weighing hair down.

- safe to use on children and babies

- reduces tangling and hydrates naturally

- tames dry, flyaway hair without being greasy

- nourishes the hair shaft to improve elasticity and strengthens it

- protects from and repairs damage caused by over-styling and using heat on hair

For an intensive hair treatment, to improve dry scalp, to restore dry damaged hair and to add shine, apply a generous amount of oil to dry hair starting at the ends, then wrap in a warm towel and leave for 30 minutes (or overnight if desired). Wash and style as usual. You can use it as a leave-in conditioner.

For a dry scalp and dandruff, massage into the roots. Repeat this once or twice a week for soft, smooth and dandruff-free hair.

To calm fizzy hair, put a drop or two on palms and scrunch into ends.

FINGERNAILS

Argan Oil fortifies the bed and cuticles to help heal dryness and prevent breakage of nails. To strengthen weak or brittle nails and soften cuticles, mix equal parts of Argan Oil and lemon juice and soak clean, polish-free nails for 10 to 15 minutes. It is recommended to use  mix of one tablespoon (20 drops) of Argan Oil with one tablespoon of lemon juice in a bowl.

Source: https://www.greenesthetics.com/faqs/argan-oil

The  uses and benefits of Argan Oil are overwhelming, aren't they? I am doing most of the above-mentioned recommendations for the face, body, hair, and fingernails for almost three months and the effects are amazing as it promises! In short, Green Esthetics Argan Oil is super effective and it exceeds my expectations.


Shhhh...The other Argan Oil brand that I have on hand works but I prefer Green Esthetics Argan Oil because it suits me very well. It doesn't leave oily spots or grease and discoloration of the skin on every use. It doesn't have that strong nutty smell like other 100% pure virgin, cold pressed Argan Oil due to the added 100% Natural Lavender and Clary Sage Oil extract to give it a relaxing nice and pleasant smell. The packaging is non-messy, leak-fee, and pump-type. It's easy to store and not too bulky so it's perfect to slip on my purse when I travel.

There was one time when I ran out of day moisturizer. I used it before applying make-up. Guess what? It could be a reliable primer to keep make-up last on the face but make sure not to expose your face to the heat of the sun.

Ordering and shipping worldwide are hassle-free. Never be afraid of paying expensive tax.Green Esthetics Argan Oil has three sizes to choose from that are affordable compared to other brands: 15 ml= $16.95, 30 ml= $29.95, and 50 ml= $49.95.



Green Esthetics offers FREE SHIPPING on orders over $99 and this is valid on all its store items.



But I have good news for you AAPM Readers! Green Esthetics is offering a 40% discount good for all products and also free shipping when buying from its store, www.greenesthetics.com. Just type the Promo Code: GREEN40 upon checking-out. This promo makes Green Esthetics Argan Oil and other products more affordable! Great!

Not only that, Green Esthetics is so generous. One (1) lucky AAPM Reader will have a chance to win One (1) 30 ml Green Esthetics Argan Oil worth $29.95! Just follow these four easy steps through Rafflecopter.

 



The giveaway is open to my readers residing in the Philippines only. You don't have to be my social media account followers to join. Giveaway period is from March 17 to April  23, 2016 only. Winner will be chosen by random.org.

You may visit and follow Green Esthetics on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, GOOGLE+, LINKEDIN, PINTEREST, and YOUTUBE.


*Photo Credit: Green Esthetics

Bunso is still learning how to write and read the alphabet and words including his name. He is also still in the process of identifying his own belongings. Although he knows most of the things that belong to him like some of his friends and classmates in school do, he still gets confused.

There are instances when Bunso's classmates in Occupational Therapy mix up their shoes and things and some kids wear the wrong shoes. I don't want that to happen to Bunso.

Putting sticker labels is the best way to solve problems like this. It's also easier for the teachers to assist the students in identifying the things that belong to them. But often, those sticker labels fade or peel off easily especially when being washed. Obviously, it's just a waste of money if they are going to be replaced over and over again.

Well, it's not an issue anymore because I've been introduced Stickerkid! This Swiss sticker brand that is out in the market since 2004 never compromises when it comes to quality of its products. It took them years to develop an innovative technology that meets our labeling needs.



Talking about quality, I can guarantee that Stickerkid labels can survive microwaves, dishwashers, water, air, and sand. Every label is protected with a thin plastic layer to ensure that the stickers withstand any challenge! In short, they are waterproof, fade proof, and friction proof. Amazing, isn't it?



I've tried and tested the durability and usefulness of Stickerkid  labels. Three months have passed and still the labels on Bunso's belongings are still intact. Their integrity stays the same. But how about ordering, purchasing, and shipping?

Stickerkid accepts worldwide ordering and shipping. Just go to www.stickerkid.com and choose from its wide array of designs and packages.

I was contacted by Stickerkid to do this review. I must say that everything was fast and smooth, from customizing the stickers up to processing. I really enjoyed it! I was given an opportunity to try this package with a total of 94 assorted stickers worth $19.95:

The price is reasonable because the labels are very, very durable and multifunctional.

The transaction is quick and easy, I tell you! By the way, Stickerkid accepts payment through PayPal.

In my case, the mail arrived at our doorstep after two weeks without paying additional tax at all! That made me like transacting with Stickerkid more! The stickers were placed in a thick envelope together with a flyer that taught me how to use all labels properly to make them last longer. The company's contact details were also printed there just in case I would have queries or problems which I didn't experience.

Talking about customer care, Stickerkid staff has it!

Getting a love mail from Switzerland hassle-free and tax free is kilig to the bones! Thanks for these personalized iron-on-clothes, shoe, and label stickers, @stickerkid ! I am so excited to use these stickers! My sincerest thanks to Sushma and Luisa for contacting and assisting me! It has been a pleasure doing transaction and collaboration with both of you! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmcollaboration #stickers #stickerkid #irononclothes #personalized #mommybloggersph #certifiedbloggers #momswhoblogph #pinayblogger #swissmade

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 2, 2015 at 4:48pm PST

I highly recommend Stickerkid for all your labeling needs. Satisfaction guaranteed! Promise, you're going to love them too!

I am not praising Stickerkid because the labels that I have are complimentary. I am not compensated to do this review. The company hasn't influenced me in any way to express my thoughts and opinion about how happy I am with Stickerkid! You may read my disclosure policy HERE. 

Good news to all my readers, Stickerkid is giving AAPM readers a 10% discount to any of its products!

To enjoy the discount, just type allaroundpinaymama16 upon checking-out.  This discount code is valid from March 15, 2016 to April 17, 2016. The labels are perfect for your kids or you may give them as gifts, just in time for the upcoming school preparations on June and September.

Enjoy your Stickerkid shopping! You may share with me your Stickerkid experience through the comment box below! God bless and have a great day!

I am passing on the love of books to my children and the benefits are tremendous! Reading is part of their daily routine at an early age. The children's book collection that I've started since my teaching stint in preschool has been paying off. I would never let any Scholastic Sale in the school that I was teaching pass. 

Hubby and Kuya also do the same. Scholastic books are part  of our growing collection of books.

On December 22, second to the last day of The Big Christmas Blowout Scholastic Warehouse Sale 2015, my family headed straight to the venue early in the morning to avoid the rush and hassle since it was Holiday Season. 

If you're still doing your last minute Christmas shopping, you may visit #scholasticwarehousesale2015 until December 23. It's nice to give children gifts of reading! I will share with you what transpired on our visit on my blog soon! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmfavorites #scholasticph #scholasticph #grolier #mommybloggersphilippines #mommybloggersph #certifiedbloggers #pinayblogger #momswhoblogph

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 21, 2015 at 2:09am PST

We made sure to bring our own drinks, snacks, extra shirts, toiletries, eco bags, and extra cash. According to the blogs that I read, the warehouse was situated in a place that there was no nearby cafeteria or sari-sari store, no air conditioning units, and would require hand-washing afterwards especially that I would be bringing my kids with me. I had to be prepared.

This kid is interested in bringing home #scholastic books and the company van! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmkids #aapmfavorites #allaroundpinaymamarecommends #scholasticwarehousesale2015 #scholasticwarehousesale #mommybloggersphilippines #mommybloggersph #books

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 21, 2015 at 1:46am PST

We arrived at 10:00 AM and unlike other warehouse sale events, the place was not so crowded and it was so easy for us to roam around and look for books that we would like to purchase.

There were wide array of books from different genres carried by Scholastic Inc. like Geronimo Stilton, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Harry Potter, Hunter Games, and Twilight. Most of the books of best selling authors were on sale at low, low price--- Eric Carle, Norman Bridwell, J.K. Rowling, Roald Dahl, etc. For a children's book fanatic like me, the place felt like heaven!

It feels like heaven at #scholasticwarehousesale! You may visit until December 23, 2015 from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Grolier Scholastic Warehouse, C. Raymundo Street, Pasig City! #allaroundpinaymama #allaroundpinaymamarecommends #scholasticwarehousesale2015 #scholasticasia #scholasticph #grolier #books #childrensbooks #bookworm #mommybloggersphilippines #mommybloggersph #momswhoblogph #certifiedbloggers #instadaily #instacolor

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 21, 2015 at 1:25am PST

These were the books and other instructional materials that we purchased at discounted prices.

I consider this as one of my best book hauls last year. As I always say, I never think twice in buying books and educational materials despite being frugal.

We bought these including four children's books and a box of flashcards that we gave as gifts  for a total of Php1,647.75 . We were able to buy books for as low as Php20.00 (Original prices ranged from Php120.00 to 230.00). When we computed the original prices, the total was Php2,855.00. WE SAVED Php1,207.25! Wow na wow, 'di ba?

Guess what? Scholastic Philippines was so generous to us and the staff gave us these. We felt so spoiled and loved!

I'm so spoiled! Thanks again for the love, @scholasticinc Philippines! #allaroundpinaymama #allaroundpinaymamarecommends #aapmbestreads #scholasticwarehousesale2015 #scholasticwarehousesale #scholasticph #scholastic #groliern #geronimostilton #mockingjay #ericcarle #manners #tomiedepaola #normanbridwell #cliffordthebigreddog #flatlay #mommybloggersphilippines #mommybloggersph

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 21, 2015 at 7:11pm PST

Going to Pasig from our place was so tiring but hauling discounted books and other educational materials at a fraction of a price was all worth it!

Hardbound #harrypotter, #mockingjay and #twilight at 50% OFF! #winner #aapmtipidfinds #aapmpracticalgifts #allaroundpinaymama #scholasticwarehousesale #scholasticwarehousesale2015 #mommybloggersphilippines #mommybloggersph #bookworm #books #scholasticph #scholasticasia #scholastic

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 21, 2015 at 1:36am PST

Experiencing another great Scholastic Warehouse Sale makes me more excited to go to the next!

Have you been to The Big Christmas Blowout Scholastic Sale 2015? What did you get? I am so excited to know. I-chika mo naman sa akin.

Manila Children's Festival 2015 was one of my most memorable events last year. Not only that I was able to support an event that promoted the advocacy that I was promoting for which was "teaching kids the love of reading" but also it was the first time that I became one of its blogger partners. I was also tasked to conduct one activity for kids during the event.

Only one hour left before Manila Children's Festival 2015 ends! If you happen to be near or inside SM Megamall, don't hesitate to drop by because there are lots and lots of great book selections for kids, parents, and the young at heart. It's located at 5th floor, Mega B, Megatrade Hall 3. #allaroundpinaymama #aapmevents #aapmcollaboration #MCF2015 #manilachildrensfestival #mommybloggersph #certifiedbloggers #momswhoblogph

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 13, 2015 at 3:07am PST

For months I helped PrimeAsia, Inc. in the online promotion of the event and I was happy to see the positive responses of friends and loved ones that they would visit the festival to support the event and I as well. 

Since my family and I were indisposed for the whole month of November, I immediately called Miss Marites and declined the invitation of conducting an activity for kids which I found regretful. It was my chance to teach a group of kids again, an activity which I truly missed. I felt relieved when Miss Marites understood my predicament. I promised her that I would definitely be there on the last day.

December 13 came and I arrived at exactly 4:00 PM. It was better late than never! It might be a very short visit but I maximized and enjoyed my two hour stay at #MCF2015!

Let me give you a gallery of the things that I loved in the event aside from the warm welcome that I received PrimeTrade Asia, Inc. staff.

I saw friends from one of my favorite publishing house, Phoenix Early Learning Systems, Inc., Miss Dhang and Sir Ed. They showcased unique educational toys and books for kids including my highly recommended, Discover English with Ben & Bella.

One of my well-loved publishing houses, Phoenix Early Learning Services, Inc. exhibits and sells the educational book that teaches the love of learning the English language, Ben and Bella, at Manila Children's Festival 2015. It's happening right at 5th Floor, Mega B, Megatrade Hall 3. It's still an hour to go before it closes. #allaroundpinaymama #aapmevents #aapmcollaboration #childrensbooks #books #bookworm #MCF2015 #manilachildrensfestival #mommybloggersph #momswhoblogph #certifiedbloggers

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 13, 2015 at 3:15am PST

Gymboree had a small but strategic play area for very young children and highlighted its curriculum and various educational materials.

Jump, Bounce, & Play built a gigantic inflatable school bus where kids could slide and jump around with their hearts' delight.

Fun art activities were facilitated by Faber-Castell.

Kids and adults enjoyed the fun activities at Manila Children's Festival 2015. This coloring wall by Faber- Castell was a big hit! #allaroundpinaymama #aapmevents #aapmcollaboration #MCF2015 #manilachildrensfestival #fabercastell #coloring #mommybloggersph #momswhoblog

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 13, 2015 at 3:41am PST

Around the World with the Googely Gooeys coloring book launch by Miss Tippy Go transpired.

Well-known publishing houses exhibited and sold their books at discounted prices.

Eric Carle!!!! Happy me! @nbsalert booth #allaroundpinaymama #aapmfavorites #MCF2015 #manilachildrensfestival #mommybloggersph #childrensbook #book #bookworm #ericcarle

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 13, 2015 at 3:35am PST

I had a fruitful conversation with Sir Benjie, the accommodating and credible staff of Grolier International, Inc.

I was so impressed with how this guy, Mr. Benjie, demonstrated the different unique educational books from Grolier. He was so convincing na tipong mapapabili ka talaga given that the books were good naman talaga. I was so happy to meet him. #allaroundpinaymama #aapmcollaboration #aapmevents #mommybloggersph #momswhoblogph #certifiedbloggers #grolier #MCF2015 #manilachildrensfestival

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 13, 2015 at 3:27am PST

I am the type of person who finds books irresistible. Do you want to know what I purchased? I got books from WS Publishing/Learning is Fun and Lampara for the kiddos, Papa, and myself.

I got these amazing books from @learningisfunph booth at Manila Children's Festival 2015 last Sunday! They could instill the love of God and family to Bunso and good parenting to me and Papa. Nice! #allaroundpinaymama #allaroundpinaymamarecommends #childrensbook #bookworm #books #parentingbook #mommybloggersph #mommybloggersphilippines #MCF2015 #manilachildrensfestival #wspublishing #learningisfunph #aapmpracticalgifts

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Dec 19, 2015 at 7:52pm PST

I saved Php20 to Php30 on each children's book. Wagi, 'di ba?

I had a great time reuniting with old friends, meeting new ones, being exposed to unique educational materials, and learning from the experts. I am looking forward to the next Manila Children's Festival!

Did you visit MCF2015? What is your kuwento? Sana nagkita tayo!

Last year, I chose GRATEFUL as my #OneWord. This year, the best word that I think of is BALANCE.

There were unexpected, both good and bad moments in my personal and family life last year. Blessings poured most especially in my stint as a mom blogger. I felt truly blessed because those opportunities were so overwhelming for a simple, non-famous blogger that I was. What made me more happy was the fact that I was able to extend my blessings to my loved ones and readers.

I spent blogging late at night just to catch up on my commitments. I felt great doing it! It was my breather. Piles of mom and biz duties drained me. Finding time to sleep and rest longer was not an option for me. All I wanted to do was to fulfill my blogger duties and enjoy the fruits of my labor.

Being a public person gave me more opportunities to meet people. I became too friendly not knowing that my openness and friendliness could lead me to deceiving, jealous, manipulative, and "evil" people, so to speak.

Before 2015 ended, due to stress and other factors, my family's health became very, very unstable. Hubby and I didn't have anybody to depend on so we had to take care of our sick kids despite being ill too. 

Thank You, Lord, for healing my kids through their caring doctors and nurses. Thank You for giving our family strength. We love You, Lord. Thank You. Thank You. #allaroundpinaymama #hospital #instadaily #healing #nokialumia630

A photo posted by SJ Valdez (@allaroundpinaymama) on Nov 21, 2015 at 2:40pm PST

As a mom, I had to be strong. I was in denial. I didn't listen to my body. I had to keep moving forward and do my duties for the welfare of my family.

Everything was affected--- our work, business, and kids' studies. Our recovery was slow. The primary reason was we abused ourselves through focusing on our goals. We failed to pause for a while, breathe, and relax.

Our stay in the hospital for almost a month last November (This was the month when I was hosting the Domex Giveaway. It was so stressful because I couldn't be online most of the time.), the hospitalization of Kuya during Christmas day up to the 27th, and my admission in the Emergency Room after New Year and being sick for a week, made me realize so many things and they were rooted in always finding BALANCE in everything. Our family started DOING THE THINGS THAT WERE ESSENTIAL at the moment. We became closer to one another and most especially to the Almighty.

Let me summarize my realizations through these quotes:

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." 

- Mahatma Gandhi

"So many people spend their health gaining wealth, and then an hour to spend their wealth to regain their health."

 - A.J. Rebmarteri

"Life is about balance. Be kind but don't let people abuse you. Trust, but don't be deceived. Be content. But never stop improving yourself."

 - Unknown

"Life is like riding a bicycle, to keep your balance you must keep moving forward." 

                                                               - Albert Einstein

Aside from my realizations, I truly appreciate the love, prayers, support, and understanding that YOU, my dear buddies, loved ones, readers, co-bloggers, and PR friends, have shown our family. Marami na akong utang sa inyo. Honestly, I find it difficult to start blogging again because until now I am still picking up the pieces. Napagod ako ng todo. My friends would tell me, "Girl, pumayat ka!" Sino ba naman ang hindi papayat sa pinagdaanan ng family ko? All I could say was, "This is definitely the fastest way to get slim but definitely not the safest!"

But here I am, typing my very first blog post for 2016. It's all because I'm doing one of the things that I love to do not just for myself but for you too. Maraming salamat sa suporta. This year, rest assured that I'm still going to blog and collaborate with companies and advertisers but I'm going to slow down a bit for the sake of my family and WAHM life.

I'm back... with more surprises in the coming days. Promise!