Love Yourself” with Watsons and Bioessence this Christmas

When it comes to health, wellness, and beauty, no one does it better than Watsons Your Personal Store. As one of the leading beauty retailers in the Philippines, its promise of “looking good, feeling great and having fun” is brought to life by its wide selection of exclusive products.

For the holiday season, Watsons took its Christmas theme of “How Do I Love Me?” one step further through its partnership with Bioessence Serenity Spa, a stalwart player in Manila’s beauty industry with a variety of services that make it a one-stop shop for beauty and wellness needs. 


A perfect Christmas pair

This November, Watsons and Bioessence ushers in the holiday season with a very special Christmas offering that combines Watsons’ products with Bioessence’s paraffin wax treatment exclusively for Watsons and Beauty by SM shoppers.

“Watsons’ partnership with Bioessence is something we felt was a perfect fit,” said Vicky Encarnacion, Watsons Department Store Business Unit Head. “This Christmas, Watsons is all about finding ways to ‘love yourself.’ With our product lineup coupled with the paraffin wax treatment of Bioessence, every customer to Watsons and Beauty by SM is sure to have a delightfully indulgent holiday.”

“As an advocate of health, wellness, and beauty, we knew that Watsons was perfectly suited to what Bioessence believes in,” added Yeng Francisco, Marketing Director for Bioessence Serenity Spas. “For the last 14 years, we have grown to 26 outlets nationwide by honing our beauty expertise with beauty products like soaps, anti-ageing, whitening, slimming, essential oils, food supplements and other complementary items. By partnering with Watsons, we are able to go even further with our offerings by crafting a special paraffin wax treatment that customers can avail of. Our paraffin treatment is exclusive to Watsons for the holiday season and is slated to be one of the most unique activities you can do with your girlfriends this Christmas.”


Indulge yourself this Christmas

Along with paraffin wax, indulgence this season comes in the form of Watsons Exfoliating Body Scrub, Spa Essentials Massage Oils, Body Treats Body Care Range (Body Lotions and Body Soaps), and Glamworks Whiteplus Whitening Range.

Available in Cucumber, Strawberry, Grapefruit, and Peach Mango, Watsons Exfoliating Body Scrub kicks off your Christmas beauty by effectively removing dead skin cells and refreshing your skin. After a bath, Body Treats Body Care Range makes Christmas indulgence a sweet-smelling experience with specially formulated Virgin Coco, Green and Orange Papaya, and Calamansi scented Body Lotion and Body Soap, while Glamworks Whiteplus Whitening Range ensures that your Christmas complexion is kept fair and rosy for every party. These beauty and pamper products are exclusively available at Watsons and Beauty by SM stores.

Tor perfectly round off your Christmas indulgence, shopping for these Watsons’ exclusive products could earn you a FREE hand paraffin treatment plus a 50% discount for any facial at Bioessence Serenity Spa. Complimented by Watsons Exfoliating Body Scrub or Spa Essentials’ specially formulated Massage Oils, your holiday season is set to be your most pampered Christmas yet.

Starting November 27, customers can explore Watsons’ indulgent Christmas offerings at Watsons branches in SM Megamall, Fairview, West Ave, Visayas Ave, Connecticut Greenhills, Greenbelt, Makati Commercial Complex, Binondo, Bellagio Square Malate, Sta. Lucia Cainta, Expressions Building Las Pinas, SM Southmall, SM Bacoor, Lipa Batangas, SM Lucena, SM Marilao, Silayan Center Tarlac, SM Baguio, and Marfori Heights Davao. Free service redemption can also be claimed in participating Beauty by SM Department Stores.

Discover Your Dream Bedroom

A discreet elegance sets apart the Daphne Oseña Paez  line of beddings.  Her well thought-out collections are done in muted tones as green with borders of white, or tone-on-tone embroidery; and cream in a refreshing combination with white.  Design details are minimal with embellishments acting only as subtle accents on an otherwise immaculate surface.  The complete set includes one duvet, one fitted sheet and two pillowcases.

The line will also include understated floral prints that can be mixed and match easily with more solid colors in the future.  The whole line, says Daphne, anchors on the principles of timeless sophistication and low-key styling.

“My line has something in it for fashionable women—women who have a chic sensibility—because it is extremely a fine bedding collection.  It's for people who know and appreciate good quality.  The Daphne Oseña Paez beddings line is where the classic look does not get in the way of being versatile because the pieces work well with different design schemes,” Daphne points out.

Her line is indeed even more appealing as Linens Direct has crafted the pieces whose materials have been sourced from the best traditional weavers in India and Pakistan.  The line is made from 100 percent cotton with thread counts that run from 300 to 600—the ideal for tropical countries like the Philippines.  It was made to offer a comfortable luxury that is felt as well as seen.




The highlight of the event is a peek into the private world of five notable lifestyle celebrities.The celebrities, whose style, fashion and design sensibilities was put into a beautiful display include fashion director and producer Robbie Carmona, popular bag aficionado and blogger Ingrid Chua-Go, Designer and columnist extraordinaire Cecile Zamora Van Straten of Chuvaness.com, ABS-CBN News Executive David Celdran and celebrity make up artist Christ Bansuelo.

                                                                  Daphne Osena Paez

                                                                    Cecile Van Straten
            

        David Celdran

    Crist Bansuelo

 

 Robby Carmona

Ingrid Chua- Go

Linens Direct is synonymous with superior beddings as it is the choice brand by a number of luxury hotels, cruise lines and many other discriminating global clients.  And having created this 'couture' line of beddings with a Filipina fashion plate specifically for the Philippine market is truly inspired.  The collaboration enforces an ideal for real, affordable, luxury living.

Seeing the beauty of this perfect combination between Daphne and Linens Direct, another famed home goods provider, SM Homeworld, has chosen to acquire the brand and offer it to its many discriminating clients in and around Metro Manila.  Known for their sensible and quality furnishings, SM Homeworld together with Our Home will be the best new partner in this propagation of easy, comfortable, indulgent living.

Daphne Oseña-Paez for Linens Direct is available at Our Home stores nationwide.

                                                                                                        

CREATE CLASH WITH CLASS WITH THE FASHION PRINTS OF “VIBRANT CHIC”

Harmonizing may seem like the safest way to go in decorating, but with the coming of “Vibrant Chic” the bedroom is up for an exciting makeover. “Vibrant Chic” is the new collection of bed linens and accessories under the Daphne Oseña Paez line of Linens Direct.

Linens Direct is highly-regarded as a trend setting brand since it first came out with a line of bedding accessories of refreshing designs—color combinations that offer new mixes and prints that are exceptional in their originality. It has also become

synonymous with  2009 promises to be the year that will prove that in the world of luxury goods, a struggling economy or a looming global recession will have virtually no impact on goods that are classic and utterly desirable.

 Luxury is no longer a buzz word but a lifestyle choice for most people.  Whether or not economics dictate conscientious purchases, there are those things that are non-negotiable items to live with and are considered perennial must-haves.

The true sign of the times was the move towards “cocooning” or in certain terms, making the best of your own home by making it your one true oasis.  This has become even more relevant now, as ever.  What with consumer goods, traveling and even resort and hotel rates losing their appeal because of skyrocketing costs... Now more than ever, your home should be your only haven.  And your shelter should be filled with no less than affordable luxury items that will comfort you through all of life's demands.

With this in mind, Linens Direct has created a line with no less than Urban Living expert and luxury guru Daphne Osena-Paez.  Known for her fine taste and for having a keen eye for what is stylish yet sensible, Daphne the elegant host and television personality collaborated with the fine linen makers to produce luxurious yet effortless products to complete a unique beddings collection that will not require breaking the bank.
high-quality and impeccable craftsmanship—offering linens with luxurious feel, supreme thread count and handcrafted details.

Consumers with a fashion-forward concept in design, interior experts and professionals prefer Linens Direct because of the brand’s exclusive affiliation with the quality, craftsmanship and design engineering of high-end and designer brands abroad. As such, Linens Direct continues to innovate as it creates newer lines of more groundbreaking designs—one of which is the Daphne Oseña Paez line, which incorporates the “Vibrant Chic” collection.
 And as the collection’s label puts forward, “Vibrant Chic” is an edgy line comprising of stylish prints and patterns, and surprising color palettes that are guaranteed to lend spunk to your bed.

 Daphne Oseña Paez, the icon that inspired the collection bearing her name, exclaims that “Vibrant Chic” reflects the facet of her personality that is spirited and lighthearted. Known for her refined dressing sensibilities which show an inclination to classic styles, refined color mixes and subtle details, Daphne admits she too has an easygoing side.

“I may be known for wearing the classics but I always infuse a bit of quirkiness to my wardrobe. I like adding one bold and striking piece of accessory—like my colorful charm necklaces, or colored shoes or by wearing prints. For me there’s no middle ground. It’s either I go really ultra classic and toned down or go all out with prints and colors. Fashion is fun that way, and I’m glad that with home design we can now have fun as well,” she says.

Daphne admits that the same motivation inspired the “Vibrant Chic” collection of the Daphne Oseña Paez line for Linens Direct. The stylish TV host, writer and producer has come up with a collection of bed linens and accessories characterized by bold, hip prints that conjure exotic locales and urban hubs to add a dash of fashionable flair to any bedroom.

“Now that I’ve introduced the idea of dressing up your bed in good quality and luxurious basics, it’s time to add fashion into the equation. I like the thought of building a wardrobe for your bed. I do it at home for my family, so it’s only natural that the Daphne bed linens would go this direction,” she points out.

The collection includes the following styles: Glamrock, Helsinki, St. Tropez, Retro Squares and Psychedelia. Glamrock is a style luxurious in feel and sleek in design Set against the boldness of black are overlapping white squares that create a bold and vibrant clash of non-colors.

 Nurturing a Scandinavian design concept in mind? The Helsinki set will certainly bring exotic glamour to the bedroom. The sinuous grill pattern expressed in jade provides the graceful printed accent to liven up the bedroom. St. Tropez, on the other hand, translates the call of the seas and the lure of adventure into a bedding motif of clean yet attractive appeal. Waves of blue ropes cut across a sea of white to create a pretty bed pattern.

Retro Square is a throwback to the whimsical geometrical graphics of the sixties. The warmth of yellow provides the vibrant background to concentric squares in white—creating a playful, yet trendy bedding dressing. Psychedelia reflects the bold and daring design mood of the seventies with its oversized hexagon prints bordered in graduated shades of brown. The pattern evokes the organic buzz of a beehive but presents a sleek and audacious bedding design.

“‘Vibrant Chic is a step forward in bedding and linen design because it reflects the current trend interior decorating: Clash and Chic,” informs Daphne. “The prints are generous in proportion and features patterns that are more fashionably up-to-the-minute rather than traditional. What’s pleasurable is that the luxurious feel that made Linens Direct and the Daphne Oseña Paez line so famous are still very much part of the manufacturing process. ‘Vibrant Chic’ is classic in quality and feel, but with a conspicuous edge in terms of design.”

 The idea, she adds, is not to create clutter, but to avoid the dullness of monotonous design schemes and color palettes. “The beauty of this collection is that you can actually use components from each of the sets and combine them using color palette or print as accent to create a bedding scheme that is artistic, subtly coordinated but definitely not contrived. With it you can say goodbye to boring matchy-matchiness and welcome a breath of spontaneity.”

 The Vibrant Chic collection is available exclusively at SM Homeworld (Megamall, Makati, Cebu and Davao). The Classic Daphne Oseña-Paez Line and all the other collections of Linens Direct is available at Our Home stores in V-Mall, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM Fairview, SM Bacoor, SM Cebu, SM San Lazaro, SM Clark and Pampanga.

Gift solutions this Christmas at SM Makati

Last November 16, 2009, SM Department Store Makati officially opened its doors to its recently upgraded beauty section. New and exclusive brands join the roster of all time favorites, making Beauty by SM the perfect shopping destination – all you have to do is pick and purchase.

Upgrade your shopping experience this Christmas


During the holiday rush, beating the crowds can be one of the most daunting experiences for Manila shoppers. Thankfully, the recently revamped beauty section at SM Makati makes shopping easy and hassle-free.

“This holiday season, we have two reasons to celebrate,” said Victoria Encarnacion, Business Unit Director of Beauty by SM. “The first is the opening of our flagship store at SM Makati. At Beauty by SM, we are dedicated to keeping you looking and feeling beautiful and staying true to our promise of providing every customer with nothing but the best shopping experience. This is why we have created a whole new look and incorporated a more spacious design and feel to our beauty section. Another unique element we have is a dedicated Men’s Zone. Armed with a complete roster of personal care products specifically designed for men’s needs, Men’s Zone is a unique offering we have that we are certain will appeal to both men and women this Christmas and beyond.”

“Our second reason to celebrate is our wide range of holiday offerings,” she continued. “Along with revamping our store’s look and feel, we always ensure that our shelves offer nothing but the best cosmetics, fragrances, skincare, personal care, and wellness brands in the country. This year, every shopper who enters Beauty by SM will most certainly find gift ideas for their family and friends. Coupled with the new design of our flagship store, Beauty by SM is the perfect shopping destination this Christmas.”

Gift solutions at Beauty by SM

This Christmas, solutions to all your shopping woes come in an extensive range of Cosmetics, Fragrances, Health, Wellness, and Personal Care brands that make perfect presents for mothers, fathers, friends, and colleagues.

New skincare brands Tri-aktiline and Clinelle join Pond’s, L’ Oreal, and Olay to make Beauty by SM a haven for skincare. All time favorites Watsons Own Label and Exclusives make a mélange of great gift choices when looking for hair, body, and skin care Christmas presents. Sure to put a smile on the faces of sisters and girlfriends are Beauty by SM’s Cosmetics counters full of special treats from Revlon, Lola, and Covergirl, while Fragrance Gift Sets from Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Givenchy, Hugo Boss, and Lacoste make scent-sational, ready-to-give Christmas gifts.

Every customer is invited to join and see for themselves the all-new, all-improved beauty section of SM Makati’s Department Store.

Worldbex and ABS-CBN Team Up for Biggest Christmas Bazaar

It's a true meeting of equals.

ABS-CBN, the Philippines biggest television network and Worldbex Services International, the country's most successful exhibit organizer come together for the first time to present the longest-running and most successful Christmas bazaar in the country – the World Bazaar Festival.

In the World Bazaar Festival, we consider everyone from the organizers, exhibitors to the sponsors – to be part of one family. And it's because we share the common goal of offering Filipino holiday shoppers with the ultimate shopping paradise," says Joseph Ang, Founding Chairman of Worldbex Services International.

And Ang believes that in their 9^th year, a significant dimension has been added to the World Bazaar Festival family. "We're now officially partners with the biggest network in the country, ABS-CBN. You can say that Worldbex Services International, through the World Bazaar Festival is now a certified "kapamilya."
 

Kapamilya Values

Ang shares that part of the proceeds and net of costs of this year's World Bazaar Festival will go to Kapit Bisig sa Ilog Pasig. The project which aims to rehabilitate the moribund 17-kilometer river system, top-bills a partnership between Worldbex Services International and ABS-CBN Network.

"It's no exaggeration to say that World Bazaar is a place where Filipinos can get the best gifts for their family and friends. And this is why it's considered as the grandest and most attended of all Christmas bazaars," notes Ang. "But this year, we've decided to give something back—now we're the ones giving Filipinos a gift for Christmas."

So from December 4-16 at the World Trade Center Manila, participants in the largest Christmas bazaar in the country will not only get the best holiday finds with the over 600 booths, they'll also get the chance to help clean the Pasig River.

Kapamilya Fun

But still at the core of World Bazaar Festival is their thrust of offering Filipino holiday shoppers with the biggest and grandest Christmas bazaar in the country.

"With over 600 exhibitors, thousands of specialty products and more than 20,000 square meters of shopping space, the World Bazaar Festival offers a shopping experience like no other," says Ang.

True enough, World Bazaar Festival has the best assortment of products and merchandise ranging from food, car accessories, fashion jewelry, toys, clothing, foot wear, plastic products and many more that paved way for upscale profits for long-time and first-time exhibitors in the yearly grand Christmas bazaar.

Meanwhile, for those who've had their fill of shopping, other World Bazaar activities such as the Manila Flair Open (Bottle for Supremacy), musical shows, Christmas decor center, Children's playland and a night market will be sure to brighten up the 14-day holiday kapamilya extravaganza.

Kapamilya Stars

Of course, the partnership between ABS-CBN network and World Bazaar Festival will be nothing without the famed Kapamilya stars.

With this in mind, the 14-day event will especially feature a special Celebrity Village where shoppers can interact, meet and even buy items from their favorite stars. The village will feature artists and celebrities from network giant ABS-CBN and a variety of entertaining shows, numbers and booths put up by the hottest local actors and actresses, such as George and Cecil's Judy Ann Santos, Ryan Agoncillo, Gladys Reyes and Christopher Roxas, Umagang Kay Ganda's Rica Peralejo and Donita Rose, ASAP's G-Force Dancers and Sheryn Regis, Pinoy Dream Academy's Cris Pastor and Miguel Mendoza, TV Patrol's Phoemela Baranda and Gretchen Fullido, Wowowee's Mariel Rodriguez, Pinoy Big Brother's Nene Tamayo, Bea Saw, Ruben Gonzaga and Jason Gainza, and Banana Split's Pokwang, among many others.

"It's both a privilege and a challenge for us to be partnering with ABS-CBN," quips Ang. "And we see this partnership as an affirmation that our goal of offering Filipino holiday shoppers with the ultimate shopping paradise is something that's really worth pursuing."

With this in mind, the 14-day event will especially feature a special Celebrity Village where shoppers can interact, meet and even buy items from their favorite stars. The village will feature artists and celebrities from network giant ABS-CBN and a variety of entertaining shows, numbers and booths put up by the hottest local actors and actresses, such Umagang Kay Ganda's Donita Rose andTV Patrol's Phoemela Barranda, among many others.

ABS-CBN, the Philippines biggest television network and Worldbex Services International, the country's most successful exhibit organizer come together for the first time to present the longest-running and most successful Christmas bazaar in the country – the World Bazaar Festival.



Joseph Ang, Founding Chairman of the Worldbex Services International (WSI) shares that part of the proceeds and net of costs of this year's World Bazaar Festival will go to Kapit Bisig sa Ilog Pasig. The project which aims to rehabilitate the moribund 17-kilometer river system, top-bills a partnership between Worldbex Services International and ABS-CBN Network.

Comfort with Style

Ugg boots  (sometimes called uggs) are a style of unisex sheepskin boots lined with wool on the inside and with a tanned outer surface. Ugg boots often have a synthetic sole, although this is not universal. Heights range from around the ankle to above the knee, they are available in a range of different colours as both slip-on and lace-up varieties, and they are produced by a number of manufacturers. The natural insulative properties of sheepskin gives thermostatic properties to the boots: the thick fleecy fibers on the inner part of the boots allow air to circulate and keep the feet at body temperature. This means that ugg boots can be worn without socks even in relatively cold weather.

Ugg  style is believed to have originated in Australia or New Zealand, although the exact date is uncertain – they have been, at different times, identified with pilots in World War I who are said to have worn them for warmth in unpressurized planes, shearers in rural Australia during the 1920s, and surfers and competitive swimmers and who wore them in the 1960s and 1970s for keeping warm while out of the water. In the early 2000s they became a fashion item in the United States, leading to increased global sales.

Ugg boots are traditionally made from sheepskin. The wool is tanned into the leather, and the upper part of the boot is assembled with the fleece on the inside. The soles of the boots are made from rubber, and the stitching is often prominent on the outside of the boot. The fleece draws away moisture, keeping the feet dry and at body temperature.Today they come in a variety of colours, including black, pink, blue, chestnut, fuchsia and so on. Also they are available in both slip-on and lace-up varieties. The height of the boot can range from just above the ankle to, in some cases, over the knee.Prices are very affordable and if you can get really lucky you can avail of an ugg boots sale online

Breaking Dawn The Movie

Have no fear, Twilighters! Rob Pattinson and the rest of the gang will be shooting all four movies to complete the mega-popular series.Twilight fans can now breathe a sigh of relief as The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn has been green-lit by Summit Entertainment!

According to sources, the fourth and final story in Stephanie Meyer’s series will be released in two parts and production will once again take place in Portland, Oregon. In addition a new production company, Sunswept Entertainment, has been brought in for Breaking Dawn, which is due to start shooting in September 2010.

Creator of Sunswept Entertainment, Karen Rosenfelt will produce, Rosenfelt also served as Producer on “Twilight” and “The Twilight Saga: New Moon“. A director has not yet been attached to the project.

According to sources there will likely be heavy censoring of Breaking Dawn’s explicit sex and birth scenes in order to avoid an ‘R’ rating. Although Summit have not confirmed that the film will be shot in two parts, author Stephanie Meyer has stated:

“It would have to be made into multiple movies because it’s hard to imagine it fitting into ninety minutes”.
Fans have recently shown concern over the fate of the movie, which was the only part of the series not to have a confirmed production schedule. The second film in the series, “TheTwilight Saga: New Moon” is now showing in theatres and the third story in the series, “ The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” is currently in production in Vancouver.

Pushcart educator named CNN Hero of the Year

Efren Peñaflorida, who started a "pushcart classroom" in the Philippines to bring education to poor children as an alternative to gang membership, has been named the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year.

CNN's Anderson Cooper revealed Peñaflorida's selection at the conclusion of the third-annual "CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute" at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood on Saturday night.

The gala event, taped before an audience of 3,000 at the Kodak Theatre, premieres on Thanksgiving, November 26, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the global networks of CNN.

The broadcast, which honors the top 10 CNN Heroes of 2009, features performances by Grammy Award-winning artist Carrie Underwood, R&B crooner Maxwell and British pop sensation Leona Lewis.

Peñaflorida, who will receive $100,000 to continue his work with the Dynamic Teen Company, was selected after seven weeks of online voting at CNN.com. More than 2.75 million votes were cast.

"Our planet is filled with heroes, young and old, rich and poor, man, woman of different colors, shapes and sizes. We are one great tapestry," Peñaflorida said upon accepting the honor. "Each person has a hidden hero within, you just have to look inside you and search it in your heart, and be the hero to the next one in need.

"So to each and every person inside in this theater and for those who are watching at home, the hero in you is waiting to be unleashed. Serve, serve well, serve others above yourself and be happy to serve. As I always tell to my co-volunteers ... you are the change that you dream as I am the change that I dream and collectively we are the change that this world needs to be."

This record number of nominations is further evidence of the momentum CNN Heroes has built in just a few short years," said Jim Walton, president of CNN Worldwide."Viewers have been engaged by these stories of inspiration and accomplishment beyond our expectations. It is truly an honor to be able to introduce the CNN Heroes to our global audience every year." Again this year, producer/director Joel Gallen served as executive producer of "CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute." Among his credits, Gallen produced telethon events supporting victims of the September 11 terrorist attacks and Hurricane Katrina, winning an Emmy Award and a Peabody Award for "America: A Tribute to Heroes."

Read more about his beginnings here

The Importance of Sleep in Babies

All living creatures need sleep. Sleeping gives people and all living creatures the time for the body to recuperate and regenerate.  Human babies need a full eight hours of sleep and naps in between. The body uses sleep as a way to regenerate cells and refresh the brain and overall aids in the development of our body, mind, and health. During our sleep, the human body can regenerate hair follicles, fingernails, toenails and even the outer covering of the skin. This happens because of the automatic pilot that is built into our bodies. People tend to think that the body

only needs to recharge spent energy on the day's work but in truth the body works the regeneration cycle much faster when the brain does not control much action.Babies therefore need their sleeping time to develop muscles, limbs, and skeletal structure. In order to achieve a good night's sleep for your baby, it is important that your baby have comfortable and inviting bedding. The secret to a good bed is one that feels just right. Beds that are to big may make your little one feel insecure. Your baby's bed should be cozy and offer security for them to get a good night sleep. Selecting the proper bedding should also be a concern. The bedding should be easy to touch and feel cozy. Bedding that is to stiff or even to fluffy decreases your baby's comfort level and therefore reduces his/her sleep time. We would want our babies to enjoy their beds and consider it a place of security.



Try to make your baby's sleeping experience a pleasant one. Bedding should be inviting to the eye. There are so many wonderful patterns and fabrics on the market today that choosing the right bedding should not be to difficult. Remember that your baby needs enough rest to stimulate his/her growth and development and when this is achieved, your baby can reach his full potential.

As a new mom, there is nothing more comforting than watching your baby peacefully drift off to dreamland.

But moms, here is yet another reason your child´s sleep is important. Because after all, sleep is more than just rest for your baby. Did you know that sleep fuels your baby´s growth? Growth requires several hormones to stimulate your baby´s organs, muscles and bones. Key is a protein hormone called the “growth hormone”.

Several factors affect the production of growth hormones, including nutrition, stress and exercise. But in babies, the most important factor is sleep. Although growth hormones are released throughout the day, for babies, the most intense period of release is shortly after the beginning of deep sleep. So moms, the better the quality of your baby´s sleep, the more growth hormones are released!

Moms, did you also know that growth hormones are most hard working in babies?

In fact, in the first year of life, growth hormones are actively working at 3 times the normal rate. So when you encourage good sleep in your baby, you are not only helping your baby establish beneficial lifelong habits, you are also giving her the best start in life!

 Below are some general guidelines as to how many hours of sleep the average child requires at various ages.

If your baby´s sleep pattern is within or close to this general framework, then you can rest easy knowing your baby rests easy.

If not, then don´t worry. There are numerous ways you can help to “sleep-train” your baby to make sure she gets the sleep that she needs. By improving the quality of sleep, your baby will be able to fall asleep faster and experience a significant decrease in night time awakenings.

Set the tone of your bedtime routine with a nice warm bath or even a simple ´punas´ with JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime Bath. The warmth of the water, coupled with your gentle, lathering touch will soothe baby, while giving you a moment of light play. Once you´ve established this as a regular nighttime routine, the bath will signal your baby that she´s on her way to bed. Enjoy the moment... your baby definitely will! Click here to know the best way to bathe your baby.

Turn up some relaxing music and get baby in the mood for a soothing massage. Lay her down on a comfortable flat surface. Spread JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime Baby Lotion on your palms then stroke her with a gentle, downward motion. You can vary your motions by tracing letters of endearments like “I Love You” on her belly. This will not only get your baby ready for sleep, infant massage or Touch Therapy also has clinically proven benefits and has been shown to contribute to healthy weight gain, improve babies´immunity and calm then when they are irritable. Also available to use with JOHNSON´S® Baby Oil. Click here to learn how to give your baby a massage.

Now is the time for some quiet moments with your baby. You may apply JOHNSON´S® Baby Powder before you begin quiet time. This is the perfect moment for you and your baby to share your most intimate moments while you hush her to sleep. Read your baby a bedtime story and let rhyme and rhythm hush her to sleep. You can also spend this quiet time talking softly to your baby, or singing a lullaby. Your voice, familiar to her from birth, will cradle her into dreamland. Click here to learn more about the JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime Range.

Body Combat Marathon Challenge

The desire to stay healthy and fit is well received by most. The problem lies in finding excitement in  exercise routines that will encourage participants to stick with the program. Staying true to its mission of providing innovative fitness programs that adds spice and flair to working out, Fitness First brings the 2009 Body Combat Challenge: Muay Thai Wars.

Now on its fourth year, the 2009 Body Combat Marathon Challenge brings together martial arts enthusiasts who have enjoyed the Body Combat program. The 2009 Body Combat Marathon Challenge is a venue where participants can unleash their inner warrior and  exhibit their best moves, skills and improvised techniques from the  steps they have learned.  Being a non-combat martial arts based fitness program with moves drawn from Karate, Taekwondo, KungFu, kickboxing, Tai Chi, and Muay Thai, Body Combat provides an exhilarating exercise experience that delivers ultra-fast fitness results.

“Fitness First is dedicated to motivating people not just to improve their overall health by providing them with top of the line equipment and exciting group exercises. By bringing annual competitions like the 2009 Body Combat Marathon, provide people a venue where they can showcase their skills and improve their health,” said Mark Ellis, Country Manager, Fitness First Philippines “Body Combat is an empowering cardio workout where participants are completely unleashed. With driving music and inspiring, world-class Fitness First trainers, we assure participants of meeting their fitness goals and having fun at the same time,” adds Ellis

Every year, Fitness First ensures that each Body Combat marathon will be more challenging and difficult than the last. This year, the Body Combat marathon challenge focuses on Muay Thai, bringing the best of the best from different clubs to face-off their best moves and skews.  Eighteen of the most difficult Muay Thai tracks will be featured, upping the level of difficulty as the Muay Thai tracks are considered the height of the exercise in a Body Combat track.

Teams from all 18 Fitness First clubs nationwide competed to make it to the finals. Categories include individual, tribe and club. The individual category will focus on form, endurance and power while the tribe category on form, power and creativity.  The best club category will be determined from the combined scores of the individual and tribe categories. Participants are a mix of Fitness First members and non-club members who registered at a Fitness First club.

Out of the hundreds who vied for the top slot in a two-week elimination round last October, only the best 12 members were selected to represent their chosen club.  From the twelve, they will be divided into two categories – the individual and tribe. The four hour final marathon challenge night however will require the teams to inject artistry, originality, creativity, and fitness magic in their delivery and execution of the Body Combat tracks without veering away from the basics that comprise the essence of Body Combat.

The marathon will be paneled and judged by a roster of several sports and martial art aficionados, - A Les Mills certified International Body Jam Trainor; Arnold Warren, the Senior Group Exercise Manager; Leonard Velez and Michael Abacan, Certified Les Mills Body Combat,Pump and Balance Instructor and a Full time International Chef Kerwin Go, Designer and Official Main Event Designer, Stylist Alecs Porras who is also a Body Combat/RPM Enthusiast, A group from Elorde Boxing and Muay Thai Federation Champions composed of Alfredo Tenaja Jr, Jerson Palaci Estoro, Alfe Jay Tenaja, Dwan Abantao, Francis Caldeza, Bernard Alvarez, Francis Benito and Miss Cucuy Elorde.

 Winners of the Body Combat Marathon Challenge: Muay Thai wars will be awarded the following.  For individual category, winners will get 10k worth of Nike products, 5K worth of Crocs, 5K worth of Amazing Touch Skine Service, 5K worth of Rescuederm Services,  1 Silverworks necklace, and   products from Powerade,  SanMarino, Whealth, Nesvita, Greenstone , Nova, and Gardenia

For Best Tribe, 20k worth of Nike products, 7K worth of Crocs, 7K worth of Amazing Touch Skine Service, 7K worth of Rescuederm Services,  7 Silverworks necklaces, and   products from Powerade,  SanMarino, Whealth, Nesvita, Greenstone , Nova, and Gardenia.

And for the Best Club category,  winners will get 50K worth of Nike Products, 15K worth of Crocs, 10K worth of Amazing Touch Skin Services,  10K worth of  Rescuderm Services, 13 Glass Trophies from Pacific Glass, 13 Silverworks Necklaces, and   products from Powerade,  SanMarino, Whealth, Nesvita, Greenstone , Nova, and Gardenia.

For more information log on to www.fitnessfirst.com.ph

TV Time

One thing that is lacking here in the Philippines is lack of variety for satellite television providers. Unlike in the US.I miss the options of watching Foodnetwork or HGTV in the morning. I miss eating my lunch while watching Game Show network or HBO On Demand shows.In short I miss my Direct Satellite TV subscription.

My inlaws are going to the United States for a vacation and they are also thinking of permanently relocating there to be with their son in the near future. I keep telling them about DirectTV  and how it is different from other providers that they can choose from. I'm excited for them because once they start I know that they will really love the Satellite Directv experience. Since they are both big television watchers like me.

They will really like Direct TV Satellite because they have great rates, discounts and promotions. I'm sure that they will enjoy the DirectTV promotions because they  will receive them a great rates because the competition is really very stiff. Everyone wants to grab a piece of the pie. The real winner will always be the consumer.

The Big Blue exhibit in Manila

National Geographic Channel, in partnership with Ayala Malls and The Mind Museum, unveiled a life-size sculpture of the world’s biggest baby blue whale in Manila. This is the last stop of the Asian tour that aims to further public understanding of blue whales. Blue whales are the largest creature to ever inhabit the earth. Bigger than the greatest dinosaurs, they weigh up to 200 tons and extend up to 30 meters.  

The Big Blue Exhibition will take visitors into the world of the magnificent blue whales. The sophisticated sculpture will be the highlight of the event. It is a life-like rendering of a nine-meter long, two-month old, female blue whale that was created by a team of professional model makers in Australia. 

The exhibition also includes expert sharing sessions, conservation and education activities, and a feature writing competition. It features never-before-seen footages from National Geographic’s groundbreaking documentary,

The Big Blue Exhibition will run in five different venues on the following dates:  Glorietta 5, November 17-26; Trinoma Mall, November 28-December 11; Alabang Town Center, January 4-17; Market! Market!, January 18-February 2; and Greenbelt Mall, February 3-17

“The National Geographic Channel is delighted to launch Asia’s first Blue Whale Exhibition in Manila, in partnership with Ayala Malls and the Mind Museum. We hope that this inspiring encounter with this majestic creature will spark imaginations and further interest in marine conservation and how oceans relates closely to the well-being of humans,” said Sonia Jackson, senior vice president for marketing and general manager for Hong Kong and the Philippines of Fox International Channel, the mother company of National Geographic Channel.

The Ayala Malls, led by Ayala Group senior vice president Marivic Anonuevo, is committed to support the National Geographic’s efforts to encourage Filipinos to care for this beautiful creature and raise awareness of marine conservation in the Philippines.

Learn from the expert

National Geographic and The Mind Museum have invited local marine mammal scientist Dr. Arnel Andrew Yaptinchay to host special sharing sessions to inspire students and visitors of the Big Blue Exhibition. 

Dr. Yaptinchay is one of the volunteer scientists providing advice on some exhibits for the museum. He is involved in conservation initiatives on threatened marine species such as the whale shark, cetaceans, and dugong in the Philippines. Dr. Yaptinchay has once served as director for the Species Conservation Program of World Wide Fund-Philippines. He will share his experiences with local audiences and answer questions.

Showing on National Geographic Channel 18 November at 7 pm, 21 November at 11 am, and 22 November at 8 pm, the two-hour Big Blue special is the first documentary to uncover the mysteries of the blue whale.

The special features never-before-seen moments in the life of blue whales, with stunning first-time footage of a blue whale calf and its mother and amazing shots of an adult blue whale singing.  

Audiences will also get a unique whale’s view through an advanced technology developed by National Geographic called CRITTERCAM®, which allows unprecedented access into the animal kingdom without human interference.

This state-of-the-art research device was attached to a blue whale’s back to record footages of the animal as it travels deep into the ocean to allow scientists to study its behaviors.

For more information about the Big Blue Multimedia Exhibition and the Big Blue documentary, please visit http://www.ngcasia.com/programmes/blue-whale  

 

Abot Tanaw

INTERNATIONAL boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has been known to unite Filipinos. And as his coming fight inches even closer, he is once again bringing Filipinos here and abroad together. This is exactly why he has decided to support and become a member of Abot Tanaw, a video conferencing service facility aimed at bridging the literal gaps between Filipino families free of charge, both here in the country or abroad.

Abot Tanaw is a facility that offers voice and video calling services to Filipinos abroad, in the provinces and their families.

Just like Pacquiao, Abot Tanaw also seeks to unite Filipinos through its free video conferencing services for OFWs, local migrants and their families.

“We Filipinos are very close to our families and loved ones. We always think about them when we are far from them. So when we miss them, we always look for a way to talk to each other more often. Kailangan natin silang makita kahit sandali,” Manny said.

Manny is happy that Abot Tanaw is now available to Filipinos saying he hopes “that more will actually take advantage of the opportunity being given to them especially because it is free.”

The boxing ring icon has been a mainstay in various international “most influential persons” lists. Pacquiao is now Abot Tanaw’s standard-bearer in providing free and available communications for Pinoys in Metro Manila, the provinces as well as abroad.

“Our international pound for pound champion Manny Pacquiao has always been a great role model for the country. He has greatly contributed to uniting the Filipinos and that is what Abot Tanaw is all about. And we are really glad that he has shown great interest in our concept and efforts of putting a high regard for our modern day heroes, for in effect he is a hero to our nation’s pride,” says Abot Tanaw CEO Kim Go.

High-tech Communication

Though Abot Tanaw is pretty new since its soft launch last June, it has been in the forefront of providing free telecommunications and video-conferencing services to Pinoys here with their families overseas. Just recently, it started offering its services to local migrants. So Manila-based workers can also access Abot Tanaw’s services to get in touch with their relatives and families in the provinces.

Abot Tanaw’s system utilizes Web-based technologies to provide free communication access for families, without the need for expensive mobile and Internet subscriptions and investments in hardware. The service provides seamless video conferencing and Web-enabled phone transmission powered by PLDT for quality connection. Unlike voice and video applications over the Web, Abot Tanaw utilizes a highly advanced system with clear videos and crisp audio.

“We at Abot Tanaw want to provide a service platform of communication to cater to the needs of our OFWs and local migrant workers to connect with their loved ones in support of our advocacy to serve them,” says Go. “We’ve equipped our business with advanced technology to bridge this gap and we’ve offered our services for free.”

Local and International Hubs

Following a series of launch events, operational Abot Tanaw service hubs are located in SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, SM Cebu, SM Pampanga and SM Davao and the NAIA Terminal I OFW Lounge.

With two international Abot Tanaw service hubs now operational, the Hongkong hub located above the Philippine Consulate General office in United Center, Admiralty, Hongkong.

Aside from Asia and Europe, local municipalities are also being eyed as the sites of more Abot Tanaw service hubs.

With this much to offer and no cost, Manny can only encourage all Filipinos, “Mag-miyembro na! Tawag at mag-abot-abot na!”

Emerge as a Winner Join MTV Merge

Are you a Filipino living in the Philippines who has a great singing voice? Do you think you have what it takes to make it and be a star? well you might just be the one that they're looking for check out MTV Emerge

MTV Emerge is a platform for unsigned music talent in the Philippines to showcase their talen for a shot at stardom. The grand prize being a chance to win a one-year recording contract with Jeepney Music. To work with the best in the industry

Here is the list of my top 5 Choices on MTV Emerge.

1. JC Sacramento feat A-M-B-I-T-O – SuperGirl

2.LDP feat Datu and Josef Amarra of Beatbox Philippines
What If

3.DRP – Telepono

4.JRuss And Just Hush – Drop It Down Low

5.Greedy & ANDEZ – Makes Me Love You

If you don't like my TOP 5 Picks then you can make your own selection.Visit MTV Emerge to do that you can also view all the entries there. I highly encourage you to vote for entries- Please support unsigned Filipino music talents. We have a lot of great talents just waiting to be discovered.

This An MTV Jeepney Music, and Department of Tourism collaboration . MTV Emerge not only aims to hunt for the hottest unsigned music talent from all genres of music (indie, rock, hip-hop, R&B, metal, solo artists, DJs, etc), it is also an online music community where new music from the Philippines can be discovered.

Participants from any music genre are encouraged to register and upload their profiles, photos and original music on the MTV Emerge site during the contest submission period. All entries will go through a public voting process. After which, a total of seven grand winners will be selected from the top entries on November 20 by a panel of judges including Apl.de.Ap, founder of Jeepney Music and Black Eyed Peas member.

The seven grand winners of MTV Emerge will win a one-year recording contract with Jeepney Music and mentorship under Apl.de.Ap. The contract includes artist management and promotion, digital distribution of 3 – 6 songs and a strategic marketing plan for the signed artists to break into both the Philippines and international markets.

The winners will also be invited and introduced by Apl.de.Ap at the live showcase event on November 27.

Havaianas Unveils Newest Fashion Must-Hav

Genetics has gone beyond science and has found its way into fashion.

Havaianas, the world’s best rubber flip-flops, now shares its DNA to the newest addition to their family.

“True to the innovative characteristic of the brand, we are introducing a new line of bags that carry the same elements as the Havaianas flip-flops,” says Anne Gonzalez, Managing Director for Terry S.A., Inc., the exclusive distributor of Havaianas in the Philippines.

With the same sense of functional style, these new fashion statements from Havaianas showcase the basic features that define the chic brand. Aside from using the same rainbow of colors as the flip-flops’ palette, the different bag styles are subtly ingrained with distinct Havaianas elements: the rice pattern on the soles and the Greek pattern on the straps are integrated into different details of all the bag styles. Reinforcing the bag’s durability are familiar rubber elements that provide sturdy yet stylish bases, straps and locks. The round rubber buttons used to keep the flip-flops’ soles and straps together can also be found detailing the bags, locking-in the Havaianas DNA.

“The original design elements of our flip-flops are stylishly transposed to this latest must-Hav. This new collection has been meticulously designed with the same originality, creativity and style that are inherent to the brand,” says Gonzalez.

Havaianas Mega

Similar to flip-flops, an understated handbag such as the Havaianas Mega can be the most versatile item in your bag wardrobe, adding a punch of color to any outfit. Havaianas Mega comes in two orientations, with the vertical Havaianas Mega NS currently available in Navy Blue and Black, and the horizontal Havaianas Mega LO currently available in Light Green and Red. Through careful attention to detail, the solid hues of Havaianas Mega underscore flexibility without compromising fashion or style.

Havaianas Mega Printed

Havaianas Mega Printed takes the same silhouette of the Havaianas Mega and adds a playful print. With its intricate design of flip-flop flowers, the Havaianas Mega Printed currently comes in Yellow

Gray and Light Blue

Brown. The added print makes the style a perfect option for the multi-faceted modern woman with an eye for style and a need for adaptability.

Havaianas Sack

Nothing beats the functionality of a durable carry-all, and Havaianas takes it a step further with the introduction of the Havaianas Sack — perfect for men and women who prefer a simple, subtle, ever-so-versatile style. Mirroring the variety of color found in the flip-flops, this style is currently available in nine different colors - Black, Brown, Gray, Lawn Green, Light Blue, Navy Blue, Orange, Pink, and Red – and each Sack features a detachable rubber strap that you can mix and match to suit your mood and style.

Havaianas Side

Havaianas takes the basic messenger sling bag to fashionable new heights with the Havaianas Side. This style features a rubber bottom for a sturdy and unique base, while a similar rubber brace keeps the bag cover in place while adding a distinct edge to the style. Available in Black, Brown and Navy Blue, the Havaianas Side is ideal for the dynamic lifestyles of youthful and fashionable individuals who value ease and practicality.

Havaianas Tote

One can’t help but love the simple yet functional construction of the Havaianas flip-flops and now, the Havaianas Tote. By inserting a colorful printed drawstring bag into the traditional tote silhouette, this bag – currently available in Light Blue, Pink, and Yellow - provides a fashionable way to secure your essentials. Add in the internal pockets, and the Havaianas Tote is perfect for every woman whose life is filled to bursting – from the chic career woman with her pens and papers to the stylish mommy with her baby’s bottles and diapers.

Havaianas Zip

The brand’s originality and innovative spirit shines through with the introduction of the cool, new bag concept of the Havaianas Zip. With wide-open sides, and numerous pockets, the Havaianas Zip allows you to conveniently tote items you would normally hand-carry, such as skateboards, yoga mats, jackets—even puppies. Currently available in two sizes and six colors – Black, Navy Blue, Orange, Red, Pink and Yellow - the Havaianas Zip is perfect for diverse girls and guys who are willing to break out of the traditional bag mold.

Bags with Your Personality

With this newest offering, Havaianas does for bags what it did for flip-flops: it offers the fashionable set an alternative that will let them live an active and versatile lifestyle without sacrificing fun, fashion or function.

“Havaianas has always espoused the concept that style should be personal and fashion should allow one to live their vibrant lives without any obstacles,” explains Gonzalez. “Our bags fit into the wearer’s lifestyle. The wearer doesn’t have to change their lifestyle to fit the bag.”

As the Havaianas portfolio grows, its style chromosomes can’t stay in one place. And if its predecessor, the flip-flops, is anything to go by, the new bag collection from Havaianas is set to take the fashion industry by storm.

Carry the Havaianas Lifestyle at www.havaianasphilippines.com/musthavs.

The all-new Havaianas Bag Collection is out now at selected All Flip-Flops stores nationwide: Alabang Town Center, Bonifacio High Street, Glorietta 3, Greenbelt 5, SM Megamall, Ayala Center Cebu, SM City Cebu, SM City Cagayan de Oro, SM City Davao, SM City Iloilo, SM City Lipa, and SM City Naga.