Sloane Specs

I have been a longtime fan of homegrown optical shop Baobab Eyewear. Their lightweight frames have become a staple in my wardrobe, and their functional gadget safe lenses help me work with ease. I am delighted that they keep on improving their inventory, and they recently released specs that are both gadget safe and sun adaptive!

I knew that I had to get these, as I am already aware of the quality of Baobab specs. I got myself the Sloane in rose gold, while I got my partner the Mason in black. Both pairs turn into sunnies under UV light, and they are safe to use in front of blue light. I have tried using mine and they just feel weightless! I am really happy with my purchase.

Again, this is not a paid advertisement or a sponsored post. I highly recommend Baobab because they have provided me with affordable optical solutions. For graded specs, visit their website. For non-graded gadget safe specs, you may visit their Shopee page.

Stay safe, everyone!

Things Within My Control

Today, I watched Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio’s vlog episode on forgiveness. She shared some very important thoughts:

  • There are things that you cannot control

  • There are some things that are still within your control

  • God has control over everything

These are timely reminders for me as I am currently working on my temper. I have already trained myself to identify the fine line between triggers and actual manifestations of anger. Yes, there are several things that are upsetting and inconvenient each day, but that does not mean that I should act negatively each time. I can remind myself that there are still things within my control, and that I should focus on those instead.

Life is too short to dwell on upsetting realities. There are still more things to be thankful for than the bad. By focusing on things that are within my control and remembering that God has control over everything in this world, life would be less burdensome and treacherous.

Yeng Constantino’s Latest Single “Kumapit”will Inspire You to Hold on to God during Hard Times

Singer-songwriter Yeng Constantino is back with her newest song titled, “Kumapit.” The single which hopes to reassure Filipinos about the hope found in God amidst the pandemic is hitting the airwaves this Friday, June 11.

 In Kumapit, Yeng sings about how God understands our worries, fears, and even anger during difficult seasons in life. The song is a solid reminder that we are never alone in our battles and that we can always hold on to God.

 

“This song is for people who are struggling with their faith and struggling to see hope. I pray that as they hear this song, they will feel God’s presence even more. There are things in this world that we don’t understand but one thing remains: God is good. And we have to hold on to that,” Yeng said in the vernacular.

 

The OPM icon penned the song by drawing inspiration from the raw feelings she, her loved ones, and other people experienced, revealing that she, too, struggled with anxiety and depression when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country.

 

“I struggled with my mental health during the pandemic. It's my first time to share this, but I undergo therapy for my depression. The pandemic increased my anxiety, sadness, and uncertainty.”

 

In these uncertain times, Yeng rediscovered that she can hold on to God and find hope, comfort, and strength – a beautiful revelation that can be heard in her latest single, Kumapit.

 

“My favorite lyric was ‘Hindi Siya yanig sa iyong galit.’ Sometimes we think that we can never ask God why things happen. God showed to me that He is not like that. He is a good father. So keep asking; God will not shush you. The more you ask, the more He reveals Himself to you,” Yeng shared.

 

The song is released under Star Music, co-produced by CBN Asia’s music arm, Reverb Worship PH

 

CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Valdes Tan said, “Reverb Worship PH has gone into a co-production agreement with Star Music to produce inspirational songs and our newest offering is called Kumapit. I believe that everyone who listens to Kumapit will be blessed by God through its beautiful melody and words of hope and grace.”

 

Pre-save "Kumapit" by Yeng Constantino today and stream the song on June 11, on Spotify, Apple, Deezer, and YouTube. Follow Reverb Worship PH on FacebookInstagram, and YouTube for more updates.

Source: CBN Asia

Spark Your Magic

The pandemic has recently been causing me to feel heavy and desperate for change. I felt the need for a safe space for me to explore my emotions, so I purchased a Spark Your Magic kit by BDJ Planner. This is not a sponsored post, as I am just a happy customer! I received my kit yesterday, and I am very satisfied with my purchase.

I got the Renew Your Inspiration kit which includes a couple of notebooks, a gel pen, a deck of journaling prompt cards, and a downloadable workbook. I already started working on both the deck and the workbook. Both tools were designed to aid in self-expression and psychological first-aid during the pandemic. While this is not a substitute for professional help, it is an effective set of resources for someone like me who is looking for prompts to assist in healing and renewal. I especially appreciate how the prompts ask me to list down my strengths, which I have definitely taken for granted during the quarantine.

If you also want to journal this quarantine and know yourself better, I highly recommend the Spark Your Magic kits! They are afforable, locally-made, and effective.

Stay safe and healthy, dear readers!

Stress Management

I always get asked this question in interviews: “how do you deal with stress?”.

In the past, I would go window-shopping at malls near my office to decompress. But since the pandemic happened, I am both working and living at home. Because I live with my mom who is a senior citizen, it is my duty to avoid contracting the Covid-19 virus and to observe safety measures.

I had to be creative with stress management since I now do everything under one roof.

Here are some ways that I deal with stress, especially with the WFH setup:

  1. Listen to music- I have a work playlist that consists of classical music. This keeps me going while working.

  2. Journaling- Journaling everyday has allowed me to be aligned with myself and better manage my emotions.

  3. Working out every morning- I do an hour of cardio every morning, rain or shine. I used to attend aerodance classes at my local park, but for now, I am happy with jumprope, following Youtube videos, and my air stepper!

  4. Order food delivery- I satisfy my foodie cravings by ordering my favorites from time to time.

Remember that it is possible to manage stress at home. The pandemic is still ongoing so I personally manage my own stress in order to continue thriving during these difficult times.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone!

Sienna Bralette

I just finished this crocheting this Sienna Bralette. The pattern was designed by Monique Salibio a.k.a. @purls_ph and I used indophil yarn from Shopee. I modified the pattern by adding rows, thus turning the bralette into a crop top. I also used a 4.00mm hook instead of the prescribed 3.00mm hook.

I would recommend this pattern if you enjoy the alpine stitch. It is also pretty easy to accomplish, and it can be crocheted while watching Netflix.

Enjoy crocheting!

Not Everyone Will Be Happy for You

Today, I am reflecting on the quote that podcaster and entrepreneur Angely Dub always says on her show, Life in Progress: “not everyone will be happy for you.”

I have experienced this firsthand, when my friends would ask how a company would invite me to an event or offer me an opportunity to collaborate when I do not seem to be qualified. In fact, I had to severe ties with some people who were not supportive of me, especially during the pandemic. My circle may now be smaller, but I must say that I am more stable and at peace without these toxic people in my life.

If you are also dealing with people who constantly pull you down, I suggest that you block them out completely. You must prioritize your mental health. You need to perform psychological first-aid on yourself, so stick to people who lift you up and bring out the best in you!

Next, always ensure that you constantly work on yourself. Make sure that you are always doing your best to have the best life possible for yourself. Compete only against yourself.

Remember that in order to be happy with yourself, you have to be find joy in things that you can do and accomplish. Stop communicating with people who cannot be happy for you. Just be strong for your own self!

World Vision Virtual Community Visit

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Last June 4, we had a Virtual Community Visit to Baseco, Manila with World Vision Philippines. As a World Vision sponsor for the past fourteen years, I appreciated the online tour around Baseco. I felt blessed to be a part of this organization that champions children’s education and community development.

It was heartwarming to know that the children’s education has been uninterrupted during the pandemic, and that the livelihood training for their family members has been continuously thriving. One example was the tailoring shop where Baseco mothers found steady income and employment. Aside from that, World Vision also provided values training, financial literacy, and food assistance.

I look forward to more years of being a World Vision Child Sponsor! To also become a child sponsor, visit the World Vision website to learn more. And to help support World Vision’s blended learning initiatives during the pandemic, please donate via their Shopee page!

Thank you and God bless us all!

John Mayer embraces easy-listening rock with ‘80s Polish on “Last Train Home

John Mayer is back today with a brand new single and music video via Columbia Records entitled Last Train Home.  

 Embracing retro-pop touchstones with soft rock production that brings to mind the golden years of Toto, the song itself stands out as classic Mayer with an unforgettable guitar riff, a twist of keys, and quotable lyrics. Not to mention, Maren Morris makes a cameo in the track and music video, while both percussionist Lenny Castro (Toto)and keyboardist Greg Phillinganes (Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, Toto) perform, alongside Mayer.

 

Upon its release, “Last Train Home” garnered notable acclaim from music critics. Billboard praised the track for its “slick rock production with an '80s polish,” while Vulturewrote that it’s “80s enough to make Bryan Adams take that first real six-string back to the five-and-dime.”

 

About Sob Rock

 

After teasing its arrival on social media, on billboards, and in print, the GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, guitarist, and producer will unveil his eighth full-length album, Sob Rockin stores and at all DSPs on July 16, 2021. Produced by John Mayer and Don Was, and recorded at Henson Studios in Los Angeles, the album marks Mayer’s first solo offering since 2017’s gold-selling The Search for Everything.  The pre-order/pre-save just went live—HERE. The full tracklist can be found below:

 

Sob Rock Tracklist

Last Train Home

Shouldn’t Matter but It Does

New Light

Why You No Love Me

Wild Blue

Shot in the Dark

I Guess I Just Feel Like

Til the Right One Comes

Carry Me Away

All I Want Is to Be With You

 

In late March, he took to TikTok to play a few bars from “Last Train Home” live, and he generated 1.4 million views in the process. Without warning, Sob Rock ads popped up in subways on both coasts in New York and Los Angeles before billboards lorded over L.A. last month. On Tuesday, he shared the cover art for Sob Rock via his Twitter and spoke with the Wall Street Journal about the single and album.   In classic fashion, Official Zines promoting the album have been mailed to fans who signed up at the official Sob Rock site. The issue notably features an interview between Mayer and producer Don WasSob Rock kicks off a new chapter for John Mayer and pop music. 

 

There’s nobody quite like John Mayer. He has emerged as a GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, celebrated songwriter, and iconic guitar player all at once. The Bridgeport, CT native introduced himself on the quintuple-platinum Room ForSquares in 2001 and has earned three #1 debuts on the Billboard Top 200 with the triple-platinum Heavier Things [2003], double-platinum Battle Studies [2009], and gold Born and Raised [2012]. In addition to selling over 20 million albums worldwide and gathering billions of streams to date, he has garnered seven GRAMMY® Awards, including “Song of the Year” for “Daughters.” In 2015, Dead & Company was founded, with Mayer on lead guitar as well as vocals. Since its formation, the band has completed six tours, playing to 3.4 million fans, and has become a record-breaking stadium act. Most recently, 2017’s The Search for Everything bowed at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 and went gold. He reveals his eighth album, Sob Rock, in 2021. 

 

For more information, check Johnmayer.com and Sobrock.net.

 

Listen: JohnMayer.lnk.to/LTH

Pre-save/pre-order: sobrock.net

 

Last Train Home” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Columbia Records/Sony Music.


Source: Sony Music Philippines

21 Things I Learned (So Far) In 2021

I was in shock when I realized that it is already the middle of the year. It seemed only yesterday that we were celebrating the New Year. Now, we only have six months to go before the year ends!

Before the rest of the year passes us by, allow me to share the twenty-one things I have learned so far in 2021:

  1. Walking is more sustainable than running

  2. A reusable tumbler is the first step towards saving money

  3. It is more fulfilling to save than spend money

  4. Investing in solid gold is wiser than spending on branded costume jewelry

  5. There are valuable life lessons to be learned in The Book of Job

  6. Keeping your blog regularly updated will work wonders in marketing yourself

  7. It is never too late to reinvent yourself

  8. it is never too late to get used to the taste of black coffee

  9. Journaling is a cheap and effective way to solve your own problems

  10. Prayer works when you take action on your hopes and dreams

  11. Discussing red flags early on will help your relationship thrive

  12. Working out in the morning instead of at night will cure insomnia

  13. Most arguments stem from insecurities. Work on yourself everyday

  14. Investing in quality pajamas will allow you to have more productive days at home

  15. Drinking enough water cures most headaches, at least in my case

  16. Driving and commuting while listening to podcasts will allow me to learn something new each day

  17. Journaling prompts only work when you have the willingness to learn

  18. Talking to service providers, and not just treating them as transactional agents, will give you better service

  19. Visit your late loved ones often and regularly reflect on their lives

  20. Take lots of photographs

  21. Always give love a chance

My lessons so far have helped me:

  • Heal from a breakup

  • Give love another chance

  • Begin a new relationship

  • Be productive at home

  • Recover from insomnia

  • Journal everyday

  • Learn more each day

  • Maximize my time

  • Stay fit and healthy

I hope that my simple life lessons have helped you reflect on the past six months and look forward to the next half of the year. We all have areas of improvement to work on, so never get discouraged! Let us all keep on growing, learning, and thriving.

God bless us all!

Your Favorite Superbook SuperGifts are Now Available on Shopee and Lazada!

SuperNews for all Superbook fans!

Wondering where to get awesome Superbook merch? Your favorite Superbook goodies are now just a few clicks away on SuperGifts PH – the official distributor of Superbook items on Shopee and Lazada.

 

You can now get your hands on Superbook’s original DVD collection, coloring books, devotionals, bags, hoodies, and novelty items. You can also send them as gifts to your family and friends! Just visit SuperGifts PH on Shopee or Lazada and check out your desired goodies. 

 

According to CBN Asia’s Chief Operating Officer John Valdes Tan, the faith-based organization has made SuperGifts available on the two e-commerce giants as they are now the “go-to” places for online shoppers. Likewise, the platforms open an opportunity for Superbookfans to support the ministry.

 

“It is now easier for Superbook fans to avail of merchandise and support the ministry. We are also excited to announce that we are producing exclusive Superbookmerchandise that will only be available on the SuperGiftsPH online store,” Tan said.

 

So whether you want to grow in faith, send encouraging gifts to your loved ones, or share God’s love to Filipino children by supporting Superbook, SuperGifts PH is your one-stop shop!

 

Visit SuperGifts PH on Shopee and Lazada and add your favorite Superbook items to your cart. For more information, contact (02) 8663-4700 or 0998-555-3577.

Source: CBN Asia Team – Digital Media Department

Calvin Harris drops future club anthem “By Your Side,” featuring Tom Grennan

LISTEN HERE!

GRAMMY® award-winning, multiplatinum-selling artist and heavyweight producer Calvin Harris has finally dropped his big energy new single, “By Your Side” featuring British pop sensation, Tom Grennan.

 

Released via Columbia Records, this bright and feel-good tune arrives just in time for fun. 

 

With immaculate production and clubland bombast, “By Your Side” delivers another career highlight from Harris. Bedford-born musician Tom Grennan sings atop infectious beats and sticky pop hooks with reassuring words of love and affection. It’s an electronic dance anthem that helps listeners get through the most trying of times.

 

In an Instagram post, Calvin Harris thanked Grennan for joining him on this massive, future chart-topping bop. “Thank you @tom.grennan for blessing this tune with your unbelievable voice! I absolutely love a summer record. You might have noticed this already.”

Grennan also expressed excitement with the release of his collaboration with the acclaimed EDM producer. “Just here thinking BY YOUR SIDE with @calvinharris is out on Friday. My birthday is next week and the sun is out. Life is good and I’m feeling very lucky.”

By Your Side” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Columbia Records and Sony Music.

Source: Sony Music Philippines

First Tourism Group Lands in Israel Kickstarting the Country’s Return of International Travelers

The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) has announced that the first international tourist group to enter Israel in over a year, departed Newark Airport on United Flight 090. Upon the flight's arrival Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Orit Farkash-Hacohen, greeted the group in celebration, kicking off the official return of international tourism to the country.  

 “You are the first organized tourist group to visit Israel in over a year, since in March 2020 Israel shut its doors to tourists, and I am very pleased to be here with you on this momentous occasion, said Farkash-Hacohen. “Israel has overcome COVID, after being the world’s leading country to vaccinate its population, and we are back to normal—restaurants, hotels, concerts, markets, national parks, and sporting venues—everything is now safely open. You are the first of what I am sure will be many tourists and we are all excited to have you here!” 

 

This first group of tourists consists of 11 American theological students from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, escorted by their professor. The group’s arrival marks the official start of the country’s pilot program and over the next few days and weeks, 19 additional groups from around the world will arrive in Israel. The plan is to increase the number of groups allowed into the country and soon reopen to individual international tourists over the summer.  

 

In the interest of avoiding the spread of COVID-19, all visitors arriving in Israel must be fully vaccinated, have taken a PCR test that proved a negative result, and will be tested for antibodies upon arrival.   

 

“This is just the beginning of the long-awaited return of tourism to Israel – we plan to continue rolling out next steps and advancements in our phased approach over the coming weeks,” said Sammy Yahia, Director for India, and the Philippines. “Israelis are ecstatic and are ready, with open arms, to welcome international visitors back to the country.”

Source: Embassy of Israel, Manila

Finish Line

I recently completed an important project, and it felt fantastic. I celebrated this accomplishment with an ice cold beer. I reflected on my process while working on this project, and I realized that I was able to formulate a system that worked for me. Here it is:

  1. Workout in the morning- Working out in the morning ensures that you are naturally awake and energized. When I still worked out at night, I was sluggish during the day. When I switched my schedule to early morning workouts, I saw a massive improvement in my stamina. I was able to have fresher ideas, and I was excited to work because of all the energy from my cardio workout.

  2. Sleep- I was able to cure my insomnia by working out in the morning. With sufficient sleep, I was able to work on my project for hours on end, without feeling burnout or fatigue.

  3. Write an outline- If you are working on a text-based project such as mine, an outline will serve as your working framework. Set aside time for each part of your outline, then plot your timeframes within your schedule. I kept my deadlines for my project on my planner, and I am happy to share that I was able to finish ahead of schedule.

  4. Reward yourself with your favorite drink- I drank beer for every completed part of my outline. My favorite beverage motivated me to work smarter and finish my project!

My project has been turned over today to a professional for assessment. I look forward to seeing my project in its polished form, and I hope to share it with you soon!

I will surely keep you all posted!

Being Comfortable Without Effort

I just finished reading Being Comfortable Without Effort by Soo-hyun Kim. I am a fan of this author because of her candor and wit. I have also read her other book, I Decided to Live as Me. I have learned practical life and relationship advice from her books and I hope that you will also get to enjoy them!

I have shared excerpts of the book below. To shop Being Comfortable Without Effort, click here.

Quielle

I recently purchased these safety pin earrings from local accessories shop Quielle. I love these handmade stunners because the quality is top notch. The tips of the pins are not sharp, and the stainless steel material is polished to perfection. They are also lightweight enough for all-day wear.

Most of my accessories are from this shop. They do not tarnish, and their sparkle remains the same for a long time. I have been a Quielle customer since 2019! This is not an ad, and I simply want to promote this brand.

For your local accessories fix, be sure to check out Quielle!

Clam Top

I just finished crocheting this Clam Top. I followed the video tutorial by local crochet designer Yarns and Fins. I purchased the gradient yarn from Clover’s Crochet PH. For the top itself, I used a 3.00mm hook. It took me a week to finish this project.

Finishing crochet pattern boosts my confidence and enhances my mood. It helps keep me focused as my crochet time is an opportunity for me to stay away from gadgets. Having a hobby such as crochet is healthy and fulfilling, and I highly recommend it.

Do give it a try by buying a hook, a yarn, and tuning in to a tutorial online! Good luck!

Breakfast Bin

Breakfast Bin is one of my go-to places for a good all-day breakfast. This Maginhawa restaurant has been my venue of choice for countless dates, meetings, and catch-ups with friends. Their price points are budget-friendly, yet their food tastes premium.

I am especially fond of their Toasted Naked Longganisa with Talangka brown rice. It is the perfect match to a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Go ahead and give this a try! I promise you that this rice bowl will remind you of simple, Covid-19-free times.

Enjoy!