How To Apply for A Postal ID in Paranaque

How to Apply for a Postal ID in Paranaque

Just last week, I decided to apply for a postal ID simply because I needed another government ID to use for identification. Thanks to my brother who previously applied for a postal ID, he gave me a few tips on what to bring before actually going to the postal office to prevent delays.

How to Apply for a Postal ID in Paranaque
Paranaque Central Post Office

Before going to Paranaque Post Office, here's what I submitted and you need to bring: 
  • Very important: Baranggay clearance. I went to our local baranggay office first to apply for a baranggay clearance and they processed it quickly in 10 minutes. I paid P20. This is needed for proof of residency. If you don't have this, they will simply send you home to get one first. 
  • One photocopy and the original NSO copy of your birth certificate
  • One photocopy and the original SSS or Passport or Driver's License. 
  • One photocopy and the Certified True copy of your Marriage Certificate (for married applicants)
  • Filled up application form ( form available on site)
  • Bring 504.00 pesos for the ID fee. 
Make sure you know your SSS/GSIS number, TIN number, and height in cm. because you'll be writing these in the application forms. 

Here's the official poster of the requirements for further clarification:  

How to Apply for a Postal ID in Paranaque
Click the picture for its bigger size


The step-by-step process of the ID application: 

How to Apply for a Postal ID in Paranaque: Directions
Yes, you read it right. The official application fee for the Postal ID is P504
I actually went on a Wednesday and the place was quite relaxed; not much people around the area. There were probably four of us applying for an ID at that time. I think it took me just an hour to finish the whole process; 20 minutes for filling up the 2 forms.


It's been a week since my application and I'm still waiting for my ID to be delivered to my address.  I will update this blog post once I got my ID. 

Thanks for reading!

#FamFirstAtSM : Awesome Summer at SM Supermalls

This summer has been one of the most distinctive and memorable summers I have experienced yet thanks to SM Supermalls. I am also thankful that we have an SM branch just around the corner, the SM BF Paranaque, that we can go to in a blink of an eye.

Our Happiest SM Moment/s

It's really hard to specify which SM moment was our happiest, but allow me to enumerate some awesome highlights we did that made our summer vacation a blast. 



1. The Do-It-Yourself Cake in a Jar Making session in SM BF Paranaque. SM BF Paranaque announced some summer activities they have in store for their customers and one of the those I've attended was their "Do-It-Yourself Cake in a Jar" session, which was specifically for Mother's Day. I also brought my daughter with me thinking it would be a good idea to tag her along. This was the first time we attended a learning session together. I have to say this is one of the most fun and educational sessions I have attended because, first,  I have learned how to make a cake a jar that I can use for either personal use or for event giveaways. Second, my daughter and I both learned something together and had fun while applying what we have learned! 


2. The Johnson's Active Kids Playcation in SM Southmall. My kids and I went to SM Southmall  just a week ago to participate in Johnson's Active Kids Playcation center. The best part is kids can play in this area for FREE, but for a limited time only. Gosh, my kids just can't stop running around and trying out each of the play areas like there's no tomorrow. Well, I guess that's the best part about being a kid. They play like there is indeed no tomorrow - no worries, no responsibilities, just pure, unconditional fun. My son claims this is the best SM summer moment for him so I included this on my list. 


3. Nailaholics Foot Spa date with hubby in SM BF Paranaque. My husband is a very busy man and works during night shifts so he's mostly sleeping during the day. But during our wedding anniversary last May 24, he surprised me by treating me to a foot spa in Nailaholics in SM BF Paranaque, which he never, never, ever does. I was thinking it was probably because it was our 10th year wedding anniversary so he thought of something extraordinary for us. As a woman and as a wife, this is one of my best summer SM moments because it was so relaxing for me like all my stress just gradually disappeared as one of the staff was massaging my foot. Plus, it's also a one-of-a-kind date with my one and only. 

It's Definitely #FamFirstatSM

SM BF Paranaque is just #aroundthecorner for us so we're almost always here 
Admit it. Regardless of what the season is, whenever we need something such as an attire to wear, school materials for the kids, a gift for someone, a tie for hubby, or whatever our family needs, we would instantly go to SM and start looking for those things. If one of our kids started feeling blue, we would suggest that we'll take them to SM to make them feel better. That's two obvious reasons why it's #FamFirstatSM. Even if there's no occasion at all, hearing me say, "Tara! SM tayo!" instantly excites my kids. I can get them to take a bath instantly with no fuss and they will get dressed on their own in a flash. That's because it instantly gives them the idea that they're going to have a great time and they're excited to see what's new and what's in store for them at the mall.

Our small hours with the family at SM BF Paranaque 
After going to SM countless of times for so many years, what we really like best in SM Supermalls either as a family or individually is that there is always something in store for each and every one of us. As you walk around the mall, there will be something for daddy such as men's clothes and accessories, gadgets, car accessory stores, hardware stores, etc. For mommy, there are appliances stores, women clothing and apparel, jewelry, salons, and of course, there's the supermarket. For kids, you can expect plenty of indoor playgrounds in SM Supermalls, kiddie events, toy stores, kiddie salons, and more. If you're going as a group or as a family, there are lots of restaurants that offers group meals (with discounts) and movie theaters to choose from inside the SM Supermalls. What's more is that SM always has seasonal events, contests or promos for us to make our SM experience more thrilling and spectacular.

For more updates about SM Supermalls' fun family activities and events, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow its official social media pages on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/smsupermalls), Twitter (https://twitter.com/smsupermalls), and Instagram (https://instagram.com/supermo ms_official/); and get an insider access to all the fun happenings at SM Supermalls nationwide through Viber (http://chats.viber.com/SMsupermalls) and Snapchat. You may share your Super Summer moments inside the SM Supermalls by posting your photos on social media and adding the hashtag #SuperSummerAtSM2017



5 Tips for Adventure Seekers to Charlotte, North Carolina

This post is originally posted by Bram Reusen on May 23, 2017 on Travel.Experience.Live
Charlotte, North Carolina, is conveniently surrounded by a wealth of amazing national parks, scenic drives, and world-class hiking destinations. If you’re staying in Charlotte for an extended period of time, such as a week or more, you’ll definitely want to head out and visit one of these beautiful places.

Below, I’ve listed five absolutely awesome destinations for adventure near Charlotte. Many of them require some driving, which is why I’ve noted that these trips are ideal if you’re using Charlotte as a base during your holiday. Make sure to visit Discovery Place Nature (previously known as the Nature Museum), too, while you’re there. It’s a great introduction to the wildlife and nature in the region. There are several excellent hotels near the museum.


Sunset at Raven's Roost Overlook, Blue Ridge Parkway - Adventure Near Charlotte, North CarolinaOVERLOOK ON THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

5 Destinations for Adventure near Charlotte, North Carolina

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

The most popular of all U.S. national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park receives more than 10 million visitors every year. Situated at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway and along the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, this exceptional park features diverse plant and animal life, historic homesteads, picturesque waterfalls, and great hiking.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

Winding for 469 miles (755 kilometers) along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s greatest drives. It connects Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks and is the most visited unit in the National Park Service system. You can drive a short section of it or spend a few days exploring the Blue Ridge. There are historic sites, panoramic overlooks, and hiking trails.

Mabry Mill, Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia - Adventure Near Charlotte, North CarolinaMABRY MILL, BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY


3. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

A relatively unknown national park, South Carolina’s Congaree National Park lies less than two hours south of Charlotte. It’s a rather small park, ideal for an afternoon visit. Protecting the largest floodplain forest in the Southeast, Congaree is characterized by wetlands, swamps, and woods. Walking the boardwalk and exploring the floodplain in a canoe are the two main things to do there.

4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The furthest destination from Charlotte on this list, Shenandoah National Park lies at the northern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The fastest route will get you there in about 4.5 hours, so this is a destination for an overnight trip. Shenandoah’s star attraction is Skyline Drive, a 105-mile (169-kilometer) mountain road that cuts across the park from south to north. Lined with no fewer than 75 overlooks and numerous trailheads, it’s definitely a recommended thing to do.


Black bear with cubs, Shenandoah National ParkBLACK BEAR WITH CUBS, SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK

5. Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia

Grayson Highlands State Park lies in the southwestern corner of Virginia, just across the border from North Carolina. Getting there takes about 2.5 hours, so it’s an ideal day trip from Charlotte. What sets this particularly photogenic place in Virginia apart is its mountain meadow landscapes, its herds of wild ponies, and the truly magnificent hiking opportunities.


Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia GRAYSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK, VIRGINIA

Where to Stay in Charlotte?

Charlotte, as the largest city in North Carolina, is home to many great hotels. After your adventurous outing, whether it’s a day or overnight trip, you’ll want to be able to take a nice shower and get a good night’s sleep. Pretty much all districts have a fine selection of accommodations to offer, but consider focusing on the hotels near the Amtrak StationCharlotte Convention Center, or Carolinas Medical Center.
Have You Ever Visited Any of These Amazing Destinations for Adventure near Charlotte?

How to Spend a Weekend in St. Louis

 This post is originally posted by Violeta Loredana on 18 May 2017 on Earth's Attractions

St. Louis is a popular travel destination, and it’s no surprise that you’ll find great attractions for all preferences open all year round. Whether you get here by train and choose a hotel near the St. Louis Amtrak Station or you travel by car or plane, you can easily get to the city’s famous attractions. To help you plan a great visit, listed below are the top things to see in St. Louis during a weekend.

Admire the Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch
Image via Flickr by Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, NPS
One of the most iconic monuments in St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is a must no matter where you stay in St. Louis. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance and prepare for a wonderful view from the top. You’ll see the city on one side and the Mississippi River on the other. Symbolizing the westward expansion of the United States, the Gateway Arch has an interesting history and would be a great start for your weekend in the city.

Explore Forest Park and All Its Great Attractions

Forest Park
Image via Flickr by Keith Yahl
Forest Park is huge, so you should plan your visit here in advance. The park has many free attractions, which make it perfect for all types of travelers. Visitors can enjoy long walks or go to the several museums located inside the park. The the Saint Louis Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum on the Lindell side are great choices for museum lovers.

Take a Brewery Tour

One of the most special things to do in St. Louis is to take a brewery tour. There are many tours available if you plan on visiting both local and internationally famous brands, such as Budweiser. The choice is yours!

Check Out the National Blues Museum

If you stay downtown St. Louis, then you shouldn’t miss the National Blues Museum. The blues have a long and rich history, and this genre influenced several others. Many people listen to blues music daily, so a visit to a museum dedicated to the musical history and the impact of the blues will turn out to be quite an unforgettable experience.

Visit the City Museum

City Museum
Image via Flickr by sawdust_media
Another interesting attraction in St. Louis, the City Museum appeals to children of all ages. Here you’ll find a Toddler Town, an Enchanted Caves expedition, and much more to explore, including “chimneys, salvaged bridges, construction cranes, miles of tile, and even two abandoned planes!” If you booked a hotel near Union Station or if you’re in the area, make sure to visit this museum.
As you can see, there are plenty of places to see and things to do in the city. A weekend trip to St. Louis will give you the chance to see the tip of the iceberg in terms of great things to do, and a short visit will make you want to go back for more. As the city has a wide range of places to stay, you can even find hotels with pools in St. Louis that offer the ideal base from which to explore the city.

Manila Ocean Park and Hotel H2O Experience 2017 (Part 1)

I have been planning to take my family to Manila Ocean Park before the summer ends and to maximize the experience, I booked a 3-day stay at Hotel H2O, a hotel inside Manila Ocean Park, through Metrodeal. I swear, it's way cheaper than booking on the hotel's website. Two nights means two vouchers so that sums up to almost P7,000. 

I also bought the 10-in-1 attractions for Manila Ocean Park which costs P799 each which I thought was a good deal. The deal includes the following:
  • Oceanarium
  • Trails to Antarctica
  • Jellies Exhibit
  • Penguin Talk Show
  • Birds of Prey Kingdom
  • Sea Lion Show
  • Sharks & rays Dry Encounter
  • All-Star Bird Show
  • Symphony Evening Show
  • Amazing Stories of Yexel's Museum
    So last Sunday, we went to Manila Ocean Park and checked in at Hotel H2O. We checked in at the hotel first to settle in our luggage and stuff. You may also check out my first review of Hotel H2O back in 2010 here

Clearascar: The Scar Solution in a Tube

Scars can affect a person's self-confidence negatively. I remember when I was in high school, I had an awful scar on my leg and my seatmate would really stare at it that made me feel uncomfortable and self-conscious.  Advances in technology have thankfully made it possible for scars to be removed with little to no trace.  However, the best scar treatments available could be prohibitively expensive and would require a visit to a surgical clinic. 


No need to worry about expensive treatments because now there’s Clearascar Scar Gel! The product contains 100% silicone, clinically proven effective in lightening, softening, and flattening the appearance of scars in as little as 8 weeks with twice (2x) a day application.  It can be used on all types of scars caused by burns, cuts, surgeries, injuries, etc. and works best on elevated ones such as Hypertrophic scars and Keloids.   Hypertrophic are the red and raised scars usually caused by burns, surgeries, injuries, and wounds.  According to the update on Scar Management Guidelines for Treating Asian Patients, “Silicone Gel and Topical Silicone therapy will most likely continue to be the preferred first line treatment for hypertrophic scars due to its availability, price, ease of application, lack of serious adverse effects and relative efficacy.”

Most visible results can be seen once Clearascar is applied on immature scars the earliest possible time. 


How to use Clearascar:

  • Begin using Clearascar once the wound has completely closed
  • Make sure the affected skin is clean and dry
  • Clearascar can be used as early as 5-7 days post surgery to prevent worsening of the scars
  • Apply a thin layer of Clearascar on the affected area 1-2 times every day
  • Do not massage the gel on the wound
  • Allow to completely dry (approximately 2-3 minutes)
  •  Use continuously for a minimum of 3 months, or until you no longer see an improvement in your scar



Try Clearascar now!  Order online: www.clearascar.com.ph
Also available in all leading drugstores nationwide for as low as Php 418.95 (6g tube) and Php 761.20 (15g tube) based on SRP.
*Mercury Drugstore, Watsons, South Star Drug, Rose Pharmacy etc.
For more information, you can also visit:
Website: http://www.clearascar.com.ph/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClearAscarPH

Summer Time is Playcation Time!

Summer Time is Playcation Time!

Johnson's shares how longer active play enhances a child's overall development


It's summer time once again and this only means one thing for kids - more playtime! Moms might be hesitant to prolong their kids playing outdoors due to sweat and malodor, but this summer, these can be the least of mom's worries as Johnson's invites moms (even dads!) and kids to go out, be more active, and bond over their very own playcation!

"It is true - hindi lang laro ang laro. Johnson's is a believer of playtime because of the multiple benefits it gives kids. More playtime has been proven to contribute to the overall development of kids as they become more resilient, socially intelligent, confident, and physically strong," shared Bessie Campillo Johson's Franchise Marketing Manager. "As a way for us to demonstrate our support for playtime, we are launching the Johnson's Active Kids Playcation campaign - encouraging parents to spend more time with their kids through active playtime."

Johnson's places a focus on active play to ignite their imagination, develop their social skills and process emotions, and become more resilient and confident because of the strong bond they develop with their parents during playtime. 

As an avenue for more imaginative play , Johnson's has built an Active Kids Playcation playground equipped to further imaginative and active play among kids. The Johnson's Active Kids Playcation playground consists of different play pods such as:


Imagine & Seek where children use their imagination and thinking skills to replicate an image using just rubber mats; 


Fireball Away challenges a child's balance, agility, and cognitive skills by dodging "fireballs" to get to the other end of the platform without falling;



Dragon Maze fuels a child's sense of motivation to win by collecting all hidden items within a specific amount of time;


Little Builder's City encourages the use of imagination and creativity by allowing children to design and build their own fortresses.

"It is important that we create safe spaces that will encourage children to play and use their imagination. By ensuring that they have this opportunity, experiencing the optimum benefits of play is just at their arms's reach," shared Michael Santiago of Philippine Toy Library, a non-profit organization that transforms idle spaces in communities into fun and educational play areas for the benefit of children who they consider as the reason why they exist.

There's no doubt about the benefits imaginative play can give to a chid's optimum development. That's why parents play an important part during this phase in their child's growth. The parents' role highly affects how the child perceives play so it's crucial for them to provide children with the necessary props to aid in their imaginative play, plus it's a great bonding experience!

Make playtime more enjoyable and worry-free for parents with the Johnson's Baby Active Fresh and Shiny Drops products. Keep your kids smelling fresh despite the summer sweat with the Johnson's Active Fresh Shampoo and Johnson's Baby Active Fresh Bath. Meanwhile, girls can keep their hair shiny as ever despite the heat of the sun with the Johnson's Baby Shiny Drops Shampoo and Conditioner. 

Again, don't keep play at bay this summer! It's time for more playcation! Visit www.facebook.com/JohnsonsBabyPhilippines to know more updates on Johnson's take on play. 

Johnson's Playcation Time is until tomorrow only (May 20) at SM Southmall, Admission is FREE.

Uni-Pak's Mackerel Sisig Recipe + Giveaway!


Mackerel Sisig for Mother's Day? Why not? That's what we served at our home last Sunday for lunch and everyone especially my mom, my brother, my husband, my sisters just loved it. The sisig was gone in just one sitting and they kept asking for more.

Aside from its delicious taste, using mackerel for sisig is good for the heart, too, because mackerel is a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, it doesn't give you that heavy feeling in the tummy so you would feel less guilty after eating it. It's the perfect alternative for pork, which we would often use for sisig. It's also a great dish for the barkada, don't you think?  I guess it's true what they say that hindi basta nakasanayan, the best na 'yan. 


Uni-Pak Mackerel in Natural Oil
We don't just consume any mackerel brand in the market. We choose the Uni-Pak brand because their products are guaranteed fresh from "catch to can" and they contain only the finest ingredients. Uni-Pak is the flagship brand of SLORD Development Corporation that specializes in toll-packing quality canned goods for more than 30 years.  So remember, basta Mackerel, dapat tatak Uni-Pak! 


Mackerel Sisig Recipe

Ingredients: 
  • 1 can of 425g Uni-Pak Mackerel in Natural Oil, drained and flaked
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium-sized onion, minced
  • 1 pc. red chili (siling labuyo), minced
  • Oil or 1/8 stick of butter for frying

    Optional Dressing:
  • 2 pcs. calamansi
  • 1 tbsp. mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

    Procedure: 
  1. In a cooking pan, heat oil or butter
  2. Saute garlic, and onion. 
  3. Put in Uni-Pak Mackerel flakes and red chili. Cook for 3-5 minutes. 
  4. Remove from heat and transfer it to serving plate
  5. Put calamansi, mayonnaise and soy sauce. Mix well. 
-------------------------------------------------
And here's the giveaway! Uni-Pak is very generous to give a Uni-Pak gift pack to one of my lucky readers! Simply enter the contest through the Rafflecopter below and follow the instructions to gain points. Giveaway is open to Philippines residents only and will run until May 29, 2017.




Belo Summer Soccer Cup 2017: My Son's Very First Soccer Tournament

Today is Mother's Day and we spent the day waking up as early as 6 AM to eat a heavy breakfast, get dressed, and then go to Ayala Alabang Village for my son to participate in the Belo Sun Expert Summer Soccer Cup 2017. It's my son's very first time to participate in a soccer tournament so we're all pretty excited. 

Great Food Finds in SM BF Paranaque This Mother's Day Weekend

I went to SM BF Paranaque yesterday to attend the DIY Cake in a Jar event with my daughter. When the event was finished, We came across a mini food bazaar in the event center, so I took pictures for the curious minds of my readers: 

SM BF Paranaque: Mother's Day

#NationalSuperMomsDay at SM BF Paranaque: My DIY Cake in a Jar Making Experience


This afternoon, I was invited to join the SM BF Paranaque's DIY Cake in a Jar event, a special tribute to mothers this mother's day. Cakes in a jar have been popular for quite some time now and I often see them being sold in bazaars. I have always been curious on how to make one of those so I decided to put the mystery to rest and learn how to do it by attending the tutorial.


It’s actually my very first time to attend an event like this so I was a bit nervous and excited at the same time. I was told I could bring my child with me so I brought my 4-year-old daughter. 


All the materials and ingredients needed were already laid out on the table as we sat down. There were two jars in different sizes, plastic spoons, whipped cream, rice crispies, crushed Grahams, edible heart toppers. 

Chef Jae Bermudez from Fluffy Bakes as the speaker
The instructions of Chef Jae were simple as 1-2-3. First, put 2-3 teaspoons of graham powder inside the jar as its base. Second, put just enough whipped cream, then the rice crispies, then the heart toppers. We were also given choco chips and choco syrup as additional toppings.  Lastly, place the white circular paper on top of the jar and then seal the jar with the cover. That's it! Simple, right?

Me and my daughter
Although the instructions were simple, some of us have other methods in mind :D My daughter insisted on mixing the graham and the whipped cream first. Well, who am I stop her from making her own version of cake in a jar :D In the end, it still tastes delicious. 


Yup. She ate her work even before she finished. Ha ha! That's how good it was and it shows how she's really enjoying what she's doing. We're making a mess, but we're loving what we're doing. I'm really glad I brought her to this event.

This is my unfinished cake in a jar.

And these are the finished products! 

These are the finished products (with serving spoons)! 
These cakes in a jar are really easy to make and they would make great gifts or giveaways. A fellow mom even voiced out that it's a great activity for kiddie parties, which I also agree.  


So that summarizes our DIY Cake in a Jar event experience. Thank you, SM BF, for the invitation and making my Mother's Day a unique, fun, and educational one. Plus, my little one enjoyed it, too. It was a great bonding experience for us.I hope you make more events like this in the future. 

There are still lots of events coming your way this Mother's Day at the SM BF Paranaque. Check out the poster below for the schedule: 


Grami Hotel Review

My husband and I needed a place to stay only for a few hours so we decided to stay at Grami Hotel where they offer a 4-hour stay for only P700 from 7 AM to 7 PM. They charge P300 pesos per succeeding hour.  This hotel is just walking distance to SM BF Paranaque so if you have an event to attend to in SM and needed a place to stay for the meantime, this is the perfect hotel for you.
Here are some pictures I took while we're in Grami Hotel: 


The lobby
It's quite small and no one's around since we arrived at around 9AM.
Business Center (Right beside the Reception Area)
Hallway

The Bedroom
They offer clean rooms with some hotel-like amenities. As you would notice in the picture below, you don't have any view in the window because it's covered. 

Their CRT TV (with cable) and their mini bar underneath with drinks and choco bars

Table with mirror and hair blower. Their hair blower is indeed strong
Room Service Menu
We haven't tried their food, but their Korean food menu looks delish!

BATHROOM
They offer clean and quite spacious bathrooms with strong water ( includes a hot and cold shower ). They have shampoo, soap, body cleanser, lotion, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and 2 towels. 


Overall, our stay was pleasant. The hotel staff was professional and courteous, air conditioned rooms were clean and nice, and their rates are reasonable (all major credit cards accepted).

Here's a list of their facilities and services: 

Free WIFI access at the lobby
All rooms with WIFI access except standard budget room
Fully Air Conditioned rooms
Cable Television
Minibar
Room Service
Bell Service
Massage Service
24H CCTV security
Airport Transfer servic
Laundry service



Grami Hotel
Lot 1 Block 7, Dr. A Santos Avenue
Goodwill 3 Subd., Sucat, Paranaque City
Tel. 828-0985 / 828-0459
Email: gramihotel@hotmail.com