I’ve been with Facial Care for a decade now and over the course of 10 years I have tried most areas. My armpits and arms are hair free. Quite extraordinary for those who remember my arms pre-laser. My legs have a few more treatments to go but the hair is barely noticeable at this point (I sometimes forget to shave). And my upper lip is finished too.

My next project is my bikini line (which to be honest is something that I have put off until now due to the pain). But I have had my first session again after many years and am relieved to find it doesn’t hurt as much as it once did. It still stings but is a small price to pay for your bikini area.

Having been the face for Facial Care’s laser light program I get asked all the time if it really works or is really worth it. My answer is always a resounding “YES YES YES!”.  I would never attach my name to a service or product that I don’t believe in and don’t use.

To be honest, I don’t understand why every female hasn’t undergone laser light in some form or another.  Not having to shave is so liberating. Being hair-free and unselfconscious is such a great gift.

There’s also the time factor. As a mom I barely have any time to myself so not having to shave adds precious minutes for me to do other things (for example to just stand in the shower and enjoy the silence away from the cacophony of my darling children).

Another added benefit is being stubble-free.  When you shave your armpits there are usually bumps from irritation. Or your hair regrowth on your legs leaves you slightly prickly. Because you don’t have to shave anymore it leaves you smooth and silky (definitely a major plus in my book).

There is no better time to start your laserlight hair removal process. It does takes a few sessions over a couple of months but it is permanent! No more hair! There really is nothing better.

There is no better time to start your laserlight hair removal process. It takes a few sessions but it is permanent! No more hair! There really is nothing better.

Call 892-SKIN (7546) for a consultation!

Lifefactory and Para’Kito, in cooperation with Juju Eats and Leung De Leon  Marketing Services, Inc., hosted an intimate mommy affair for the press and bloggers to promote and share practical tips on living a safe and healthy lifestyle. The event was held at the newly opened salad joint, Juju Eats, located at 2297 Chino Roces Avenue, Makati in the afternoon of May 15, 2013.

The event started with an opening remark by David Azanza, owner of Juju Eats and Juju Cleanse and president of Red Herring Distribution Inc., the official distributor of Para’Kito and Lifefactory here in the Philippines. Azanza formally opened the event by introducing himself and how he and his wife, Kat Azanza, came up with the concept of Juju Eats along with the already existing and known brand, Juju Cleanse. He talked about how this branch of his healthy oriented project is important in our society in the present time.

Azanza also introduced their official coffee supplier, Kick-Start, who was represented by Mike Asuncion, president of the Silca Coffee Roasting Company. Mike Asuncion shared his venture in the coffee industry and how he came up with the brand Kick-Start.

After the short discussion, Azanza invited the guests to try their salad meals and beverages. Para’Kito, an all-natural mosquito protection from France, was introduced to the guests by Azanza. He explained how the device works in helping keep the mosquitos away. He also explained the materials used in creating the device to make it more efficient and convenient to carry around especially for people who enjoy outdoor activities.

One of the major speakers during the event was Lifefactory ambassador, Bianca Araneta- Elizalde, who shared her story on growing up in a healthy environment thus being able to practice and exhibit a healthy lifestyle. She explained how we are currently living in a time where we unknowingly absorb toxins every single day with the products that we use. She emphasized that this is something to be taken into action because, as a mother, she is obliged to make sure that her kids grow healthy in a safe environment. She also explained how Lifefactory takes care of that issue by describing the materials of the product and how it helps her advocacy of living a healthy lifestyle.

Alongside with Lifefactory, she inevitably felt the need to talk more about Para’Kito because this mosquito repellant brand backs up her campaign to living safe and healthy. She talked about how dengue is rampant in our country and how we should really be prepared in battling this epidemic with safe and fun/fashionable tools.
The event ended with a raffle facilitated by Azanza. The team raffled off five (5) Juju Eats GCs, three (3) one day Juju Cleanse GCs, two (2) sets of Kick-Start coffee pack, five (5) Para’Kito wristbands, and one (1) Lifefactory 22oz adult bottle.

For more information on Juju Eats, Lifefactory, and Para ‘Kito, visit them on Facebook: Juju Eats, Lifefactory Philippines.

Hi, Vanessa. Tell us a little bit about yourself, as a mom?

As a mother, I’m just learning as I go along. I’m not a “Tiger Mom” or anything like that. I just want my kids to grow up happy and know that they are loved unconditionally. I truly believe that biggest gift we can give our kids (especially at this young age – I have a 3 year old and 10 month old) is our UNDIVIDED ATTENTION. There is always so much going on, that we forget its the simple joys that make them truly happy.

My Mother in Law recently gave me this book called “CHILDREN LEARN WHAT THEY LIVE” by Dorothy Nolte. It is all you need to know to be a good parent in easy simple terms. Taken from a poem written in the 1950s. Basically its about teaching our kids the right values by being good people ourselves. We need to lead by example. Sounds so simple, but not always easy for sure.

2. Tell us a little about the brand TALA, and you came collaborate with it for STELLA. 

TALA Manila was started by my cousin Mavis Fuentebella about 3 years ago. It was born from a need she felt in the market for easy, classic pieces fit for a fast paced lifestyle. They are a reflection of her own life story and personality.

I ‘ve always been a TALA loyalist and literally lived in Mavis’ dresses during both my pregnancies and while working as PR Manager for Louis Vuitton Philippines. I honestly hate shopping for clothes (hehe!), as I am more of a beauty person. So I would always raid Mavis’ trunk shows and update my wardrobe. I was happy and proud of her when she finally opened up her own shop called UPSTAIRS at Three Salcedo Place (former atalier of Patrice Ramos-Diaz).  

Yes, the whole “Stella by TALA” brand was such a happy accident. I always say God works in mysterious ways. I finally decided to leave corporate life last December 2012 and be a full time mom. But I knew I needed something to keep me busy too as I’ve worked all my life. 

Then one day, Stella was just asking me if she could have dresses like mine because they were “so very very pretty”. These dresses happened to be TALA ones. So I just asked Mavis if she could make some versions for Stella so we could have matching outfits. Then Mavis said “Why don’t we make a kids capsule collection of Tala instead and name it after Stella?”

…Then everything just fell into place.

I found “my project”, Mavis found new inspiration, and Stella got an entire collection named after her! 

Raising a daughter is so much fun but is definitely not easy. I love sharing my beauty stuff with Stella and she loves playing with my clothes and shoes. But it is also challenging, especially now that she is 3 years old and I need to start “disciplining” her. It’s tough because I love her so much but I don’t want her to grow up spoiled or a brat. So far, “the corner” punishment is working!

Stella is extremely strong-willed, too, so I need to be stronger. It has really CHANGED me as a woman as well. I want to be a good role model for her and teach her by example. One important thing I want her to learn from me is the value of hard work. It’s not just about the money. Work gives you self-esteem, direction, and a better appreciation for all your blessings. 

The first collection of Stella were basically the best styles of TALA (and Stella’s favorite dresses of Mama) that we tailored for little girls. Mavis really oversees the design and production side and I take care of Sales & Marketing/PR/Business Development.

That being said, we are inspired by the kids themselves. We want to create pieces they will genuinely love and enjoy.

Well, it’s only been about 5 months but I am so happy and at peace. Am still as busy but now I can control my schedule. My husband and my kids come first always. I basically manage my work schedule around theirs. Being a good wife and mother is my FIRST JOB always. 

Now I also have time to do yoga. This is so important to me as it has truly given me the peace and balance I have been searching for.  Also, spending time with good friends and co-mommies helps me to de-stress as they are going through the same journey I am.

As I said, am just learning as I go along. It’s really a juggling act! When important family stuff come up, I need to prioritize. It’s never perfect but as long as you know what is most important then you are on the right track. 

One tip I learned is to set an hour or two each day which is “unplugged”. Meaning no phones, TV, iPads, etc… Just happy family time with the kids. This is the best and what my husband and I look forward to each day.

I will be organizing private trunk shows with various moms and groups in the coming months. We would also love to do a TALA and STELLA Mom and Me fashion show one day. We’ll see!

To know more about Stella by TALA Manila, visit them on Facebook.

Credit: Houses.com

Living in condos has become a trend in the metro. With a small area to work with and live in, most families are interested in creating a hip and functional home. Families with babies and toddlers however, also need to decorate and design rooms with childproofing in mind. With limited space, a condo home is most likely to be a baby’s entire playground. Parents must childproof their home for the safety of their babies and for their peace of mind.

WINDOWS

Install double locks on windows to prevent children from opening and falling out of the window. Also, keep window areas free of furniture that a child can use as a ladder to get to the windowsill. With condo buildings getting taller, windows are danger zones for our little children.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

Cover outlets with readily available childproof plugs from any hardware store. Prevent inquisitive fingers from prying or inserting items into electrical outlets. This childproofing step is essential. Condos are small confined spaces and there is a greater likelihood of electrical outlets being toyed with by our little ones.

DRAWERS and CABINETS

Childproofing drawers and cabinets will keep curious eyes, mouths and hands from getting knives, bug spray and poisonous cleaning aids. Left to their own devices, children explore their environment. Without the benefit of large open spaces, children will look at cabinets, drawers and its items as potential play areas. Keep them out of danger zones, i.e. medicine cabinets, knives drawer and areas where cleansing agents are kept with specially designed childproof locks to deter them completely or at least till they get your attention.

DOORS

Anything that moves on hinges is an area of interest with most toddlers. Prevent fingers and toes from getting pinched by placing doorstoppers to keep doors open. Most young children are easily deterred from playing “close-open” with doors if it is hard to move.

CORNERS

Place soft corner guards on table edges that a teetering child can crash into when they inevitably run around the house out of sheer excitement. The soft corner guards will lessen chances of ugly scratches and painful bruises.

A home is a place where the entire family should feel safe and comfortable in. These 5 childproofing tips for condo homes are some of the guidelines mommies and daddies can use in designing their homes to be a friendlier and safer environment for their babies.

An inspiring story of a mother’s love.

In March, Wilkins launched Alagang Wilkins: Moms Know Best. They received stories that best embodies a mother’s love and care for her family. There was an enormous amount of support from moms nationwide. And that’s no surprise as Wilkins is the most trusted water brand by moms.

The stories gathered serve as a reminder of how unconditional a mother’s love is. You can be inspired by these stories from this link: http://bit.ly/YH4ZrU

More excitingly, Wilkins chose 1 story and turned it into a TVC mini-series. Watch out for it on the Alagang Wilkins Moms Microsite or on this link and see why a mother’s love is truly the best. http://bit.ly/145KnYB

As busy moms, you deserve to be pampered! After all you do to make your kids feel comfortable and cared for, sometimes it’s easy to forget that you need to be taken care of as well!

Facial Care Center understands this, and that’s why they are rewarding one lucky and deserving Glam-O-Mamas reader with a luxurious pampering day package! The lucky winner will receive a package with the following treatments:

1 Firming Facial
1 Lasertone
1 Diamond Peel
1 Skin Tone Re-energizer

Here’s what you need to do:

1. “LIKE” the Glam-O-Mamas Facebook page

2. Subscribe to the Glam-O-Mamas newsletter (Go to the glamomamas.com site, on the top right-hand corner and click “Get our newsletter”)

Image courtesy of [image creator name] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

3. Submit 2-3 lines on why they deserve a day of pampering on the Glam-O-Mama facebook page.

Promo runs until MAY 31st! JOIN NOW.

Makati Shangri-La, Manila celebrates a day fit for queens with special dining offers and treats to celebrate Mom’s special day this May.

Mother’s Day weekend is made even more special at Makati Shangri-La with a range of delectable dining options. Guests may relish quiet afternoons and relax with a view of verdant greens at the Lobby Lounge while enjoying the specially crafted Mother’s Day High Tea for Php 680+++, available in the afternoons of May 1 to 11, 2013. On May 12, families can enjoy a buffet of high tea from 3 to 6:30 p.m. for Php 800+++. It’s a feast as always at Circles Event Café with a Mother’s Day lunch buffet for Php 1,980+++ and dinner buffet for 1,850+++.

A specially created four-course menu is available for dinner at Red on Mother’s Day at Php 2,500+++ per person, while Inagiku offers an authentic Japanese utage spread for lunch at Php 1,980+++ and dinner at Php 2,500+++ on May 12. Families may enjoy Premium Dim Sum Plus at Shang Palace for only Php 1,388+++ featuring unlimited dim sum, appetizer, soup, and dessert, plus a choice of main course. Special set menus are also available, all good for 10 persons.

For a sweet treat, moms will surely enjoy the specially designed Mother’s Day emoti-cakes, and the Mother’s Day hamper packages available from May 1 to 12, 2013 at Php 4,000 nett, inclusive of lunch buffet for two persons at Circles Event Café, assorted cookies, a praline box of 12 and a bottle of Wolf Blass Chardonnay, available at Sinfully Circles in Circles Event Café, and Sinfully by Makati Shangri-La at Greenbelt 5.

For restaurant inquiries and reservations, please call the Restaurant Reservations and Information Centre at 840 0884 or e-mail rric.slm@shangri-la.com.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and/or manages 78 hotels under the Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 32,000.  Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services.  Shangri-La hotels are located in Australia, Canada, mainland China, Fiji, France, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Maldives, the Philippines, Singapore, the Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates.  The group has a substantial development pipeline with upcoming projects in mainland China, India, Malaysia, Mongolia, the Philippines, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkey and the United Kingdom.  For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com.

Ever had one of “those” days where everything and everyone seem to be conspiring to make your life that extra bit difficult. Not intentionally mind you, it just comes to pass that way. The kind of day that makes you want to dunk your head in a bucket of water and scream until you feel better?  I’ve been having quite a number of “those” days recently because I’m overloaded with work and two kids (one of  them being my energetic, rambunctious 3 year old son). A mommy meltdown has been brewing.

The one word that I associate with myself at the moment is exhaustion. I’m drained from work, fatigued from not sleeping well or long (my baby still wakes up for a feed at that magical hour of 3am) and shattered from dealing with my “spirited”  toddler. “Spirited”…That is the way people describe him. Or “Alpha male”, “hyper” and perhaps “terror” may have been mumbled under some people’s breath.

My “spirited” little man. Photo by Stork Studio

If I am completely honest though my main source of stress is coming from dealing (or coping) with my darling toddler. I am assured this is all healthy, normal behavior…the hitting, the tantrums, the defiance.  The terrible twos have got nothing on the terrorizing threes! I thought once we made it through the twos, we would be able to enjoy a little break. However we slammed straight into this rebellious stage, which seems even more challenging, without being able to catch our breath.

CASE IN POINT

Yesterday I thought it would be a lovely family outing to go to Balik Bukid and enjoy a day out there with my two boys. My husband is in Hong Kong at the moment so I wanted to do some activities my toddler would really enjoy. Boy, the day couldn’t have gone worse. The ingredients were all there for a disaster, I just didn’t think it through properly.

1)   We were late in getting there, which resulted in my toddler falling asleep on the way to Santa Elena. This was already a red flag because when roused early from a nap, my son has his horns out.

2)   The scorching day couldn’t have been any hotter

3)   My toddler refused to eat

As soon as we arrived and had to wake Kieran up we were rewarded with yelling and hitting. Oh joy. I should have cut my losses there and bolted back to the seclusion of my house, but we soldiered on (for another 2 hours). He didn’t stop whimpering, screaming or crying the entire time we were there (save for the parts where we put him on the horse, in the sandpit, on the zip line and in the boat-where I had to row him around for 15 minutes in the sun).

On top of that my 6 month old was uncomfortable in the heat (which had him crying for the most part too). The carrier was too hot for him so one of us had to carry him at all times and when I tried to feed him (we were both drenched in sweat) he couldn’t get comfortable and a fan kept blowing up my breastfeeding cover which resulted in hysterics.

I apologize to anyone who may have seen me as I was in the throes of an internal mommy meltdown while trying to keep it together publicly. Balik Bukid founder Hindy Tantoco jokingly told me I needed to write about this: the BTS (Behind the Scenes-the reality of mommyhood). I told her I already had the article written in my head!

This new stage is quite fascinating because my little man has found his voice, his opinion, and his personality. Now he is pushing, jumping and hurtling through boundaries as fast as we can set them. It is taxing and magical in equal parts. He is able to turn my heart to mush with one sentence and then can make me want to jump off a cliff with his next.  He’s definitely a charmer who knows how to work everyone around him (especially his mama).

Mama’s boy! Photo by Stork Studio

It has left my husband and I wringing our hands in desperation wondering how on earth to navigate through the stormy toddler waters. How do we adjust our parenting style so that we nurture his sweet, loving, curious and intellectual side while tempering his wild tantrums and id-leading compulsions without stifling his individualism, creativity and personality. Whew, what a conundrum! This parenting gig is a whole lot harder than people let on.

These days I am left physically and mentally tired from our standoffs. I look around at my friends with toddlers and I seem to be alone. No one has the eye bags or the bruises to show for it but me. I know that many of my friends are going through similar challenges (they must be!) but I seem to be in the roughest seas with my darling boy being more disobedient, headstrong, obstinate and physically stronger than any one else’s child.

Over the last few months bringing Kieran out with me riddles me with anxiety. Because I’m always wondering if I will have to deal with the epic tantrum that seems to accompany every situation where he cannot get his way. You can imagine this is more often than not since I don’t want to raise a spoilt brat who is used to getting his way all the time.

It happens everywhere and in front of everybody. I have no vestige of public embarrassment left. The thing that gets me is having to restrain (he’s over 40 lbs. and almost stronger than me at this point) or carry him while he’s thrashing around. Sometimes I physically can’t handle him.  And at the end of them I get a migraine because my blood pressure rises and I’m utterly spent.

We have had tantrums in the supermarket, on the plane, in a bridal shower, and beyond.  You can’t name a place where I haven’t had to deal with my angelic son turning into a little tantrum-throwing monster.  I’m used to the unabashed gawks, upturned eyebrows and the occasional sympathetic smile from strangers. They say the best thing to do is to either ignore the tantrum or deflect your child’s attention. They have obviously never met my child.  Super nanny where are you?

This has left me teetering on the brink of a mommy breakdown quite often, where I want to lock myself in the car for 10 minutes to do some pranayama breathing or simply yell until I feel better or more human. When I hit this point it is usually at the pinnacle of both children screaming at the top of their lungs and nothing I do seems to be able to remedy the situation.  An overwhelming feeling of helplessness and frustration can trigger the Mommy Meltdown.

So, while I don’t have the answers on how to deal with your willful toddlers (suggestions most welcome!) I just want to reiterate how important it is to carve out some time out just for you. No work. No kids. Purely quintessential me-time. It is something I haven’t been doing recently because frankly I haven’t made time for it and I notice that I am really suffering for it.  I’m like most women, I reason with myself that I can’t allot precious minutes to me-time when I could be getting other important things done on my never-ending to-do list. The thing to remember is that me-time needs to be one of your top priorities.

Think of me-time as a reset button. You are able to take some time away (be it an hour for a run, a massage or 30 minutes to watch your favorite show or dinner with your girlfriends) so that you can decompress, de-stress, unwind and feel refreshed and ready to tackle things again with a fresh outlook. You will be amazed at how those few minutes will help revive your worn-out mind and soul and give you a clearer perspective on how to deal with the challenges that present themselves to you (whether it is your children or work)

We don’t just deserve it, we absolutely need it. I believe me-time is a mandatory part of the equation to being a good mother, wife and person because you are able to be a happier, more balanced and SANE version of yourself when you pay attention to your needs as well.

1. Give us a short background of your current city or neighborhood. What do you love most about it?

Our small town (population 4,382 population)  in Aßling is situated about 40 km Southeast of Munich and about 60 km to the Austrian border. After leaving Manila for good, then relocating to Singapore, and finally settling down in Aßling, the drastic change from big cities to life in a small town was, in the beginning, difficult and quite a challenge.  But that was ages ago.

This town that I now love and call home is not only serene and peaceful, it also provides basic family necessities, considering it’s small size and population: there’s a bake shop, a butcher, a flower shop, a pharmacy, a book shop, a post office, a town hall, a supermarket, an Italian restaurant, a cafe and bar, a pizzeria, an ice cream parlor, a church, a public school, 3 kindergartens,  2 dentists, 2 doctors,  2 banks, and 3 hair salons!  Not to mention a gas station coming soon in a year or two!  And to satisfy that ”shopping fix”, besides Munich, one can make a quick trip to Rosenheim and if time permits, to the outlet stores in Ingolstadt Village and Salzburg Outlet.

2.  Are there many family friendly venues / activities ? 

Besides the two public playgrounds and miniature steam-train park, there are a handful of bike trails and walking paths found all around town, as Aßling is surrounded with endless fields of green.  There are lakes, seas, wildlife parks or adventure parks, and children’s petting zoos nearby.  Museums, theaters, and event halls which host educational exhibits for young and old alike, are also found in the surrounding bigger cities and towns.

 3.  What is the best thing about being a Mom In Bayern ? 

I may not live close to Munich, Bayern’s capital and the third largest city in Germany, but when the need for the hustle and bustle of city life arises, it is accessible and  comfortably reached by train or car from Aßling within 30-40 minutes.  An advantage of living in our small town is also the feeling of familiarity and security it provides for me and my family.  I am also happy and content to know that my children grow up in a hazard and stress-free environment, as compared to the hectic and fast-paced life in big cities.

4.  What is the worst thing about being a Mom In Bayern ? 

Although Aßling covers most of the essentials, I feel there are limited attractions and activities available in town, down to the food choices.  Therefore being mobile and having a car is a definite plus, if not a must,  if you live in this area.

5.  Do you get any alone time ? How do you unwind ? 

I believe that alone time is important for all moms, whether she’s an up-and-coming carreer woman or a stay-at-home mom.  Alone time for me means meeting up with my girlfriends for shopping, movies, dinner or just to catch up on each other’s lives.

I also make it a point to go with friends on monthly trips to explore new places together.  Since my kids (12 and 13 years old) may already be left home alone (and thank God for Grandparents who are always willing to watch out for them), the hubby and I have the opportunity to spend time together or have the time to go see our friends.

6.  What is it like to be a Filipina mom raising children in Germany ? 

I am in a unique position. Through the years I learned to select positive German traits and impart these to my children, but neverthless instill in them the same values and beliefs which I was brought up with.

It was only natural that our children grow up in a bilingual and bicultural home.  This arrangement suits everyone perfectly as we all learn from one another in the process.  Tagalog, unfortunately, is not spoken at home.  I was very busy and ambitious learning the German language in the beginning, besides speaking only in English to my husband and the kids, that I have forgotten and actually neglected to speak my native tounge.   I must say though that a few Tagalog phrases have become staples in my daily dialogues with the family such as; “sandali lang”, “ano ba?!”, “hay nako”, ”oo na nga!”, or “hindi pwede!”.  And the best is,  they understand it all!

7.  Please give us a couple of Weekend In Bayern ideas, for families that plan to come on holiday. 

Bayern or Bavaria is one of the most popular and most scenic travel destinations in Germany. Where to go: 

1. Munich- capital of Bayern and gateway to the Alps; offers first class museums and traditional German architecture and is home to the world-famous Oktoberfest.
2. Oktoberfest- world’s largest fair;  visited by over 6 million people from all over the world to drink beer, eat hearty food, admire traditional costumes (Tracht), and join together in song.
3. Nuremberg (Nürnberg)- 950 years old and is Bayern’s second largest city and home to the Imperial Castle, which was the residence of Germany’s Kaiser and kings;  hosts one of the country’s best Christmas markets (Christkindlmarkt).
4. Neuschwanstein Castle- nestled in the Bavarian Alps and designed by King Ludwig II;  world’s most famous Castle and believed to be Walt Disney’s inspiration for Disneyland.
5. Bavarian Alps- runs along the border between Germany and Austria and is home to Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze;  premier holiday destination for walking, hiking, mountain biking, or skiing.
6. Romantic Road- a 261-mile long scenic drive through Bayern, leading you from the Franconia wine country to the foothills of the German Alps.
7. Dachau Concentration Camp- one of the first concentration camps in Nazi Germany;   visitors follow the “path of the prisoner” where you will see the original prisoner baths, barracks, courtyards, and the crematorium, as well as an extensive exhibit.
8. Bavarian Forest- runs along the Czech border and is the first national park in Germany;  largest continuous wooded area in the country, with glacial lakes and mountains;  here you also find the scenic Glass Route, where you can explore the traditional art of glass making

Interesting websites with useful tips for families that plan to come on holiday:

www.germany.travel

www.planetware.com

www.tripadvisor.com

www.virtualtourist.com

www.lonelyplanet.com

www.igougo.com

8.  How have you adopted Bayern as your home. 

I have adopted Bayern as my home by simply accepting and embracing everything it has, and still has, to offer.

The experience of life in the Philippines and now life here in Bayern has shaped me – my train of thought and approach to life.  Although I miss family, friends, and all the conveniences and comforts of the Filipino lifestyle, I still wouldn’t trade in any of these for the simple joys and quiet satisfaction I’ve acquired in Germany.

Also, as an active member of the community and being a native to Aßling, my husband played a big role in helping me adapt fairly well in this town.  And since both my kids were born here, I am the only “foreigner” in the family.  The kids were spared the stress and anxiety of having to leave family and friends behind, for good.  This has made me tougher though, which is essential.  Because moving to another country is not easy – with the new language, different climate, change of food.

But home is where my family is, regardless of what city we are in.  And with the right attitude and positive outlook in life, I would say the battle is already half won.

It’s sweltering here in Manila and most parts of Southeast Asia, especially as summer officially kicks in. Since kids are more likely to get dehydrated than adults, it’s important to make sure they drink enough fluids. Kids will naturally sweat more in the summer months, and at a faster rate, too.

With the temperatures rising, make sure your kids get plenty of liquids during these hot months, not only to keep them hydrated, but so that they will form good hydration habits that’ll continue even after the summer has ended.

1. Make hydration part of their routine. Kids will often forget to take a drink, most likely because they are too busy playing! However, the best way to keep your child hydrated is to make sure he or she drinks healthy beverages at every opportunity. During meal times, offer your child a healthy beverage that compliments her food. Note: When giving your child beverages, avoid sodas and iced teas: Aside from being loaded with empty calories, these drinks often contain caffeine. (Caffeine is a diuretic, which can dehydrate your child thereby increasing fluid loss.)

2. Buffer up on hydration during strenuous days. These days, our kids are busy with summer activities, which could mean more lost fluids through sweat. Make sure these days to add some extra hydration in your child’s routine, especially during breakfast and after strenuous exercise. This is especially important, since a child can lose up to a half-liter of fluid per hour! This is why the American Association of Pediatrics recommends that kids get 5 ounces of water every 20 minutes, for a child weighing an average of 88 pounds.

3. Don’t sweat the small stuff: Drink at every opportunity. When your child says he is thirsty, be is actually already dehydrated. In fact, according to a study by the University of Connecticut, more than half of the children at sports camps (who had easy access to water and sports drinks) were already dehydrated prior to any  encouragement to take in liquids. You have to remind your child to habitually hydrate. You can do this by scheduling hydration breaks, say, every 20 minutes. If your child is playing out in the sun, make sure he gets a beverage break more often (preferably hydrate in the shade, as much as possible).

4. During strenuous activities, opt for sports drinks for your child. Water is, of course, the best liquid for routine hydration. However, according to studies, kids who engage in strenuous activities will routinely prefer flavored beverages to plain water, even drinking up to 90 percent more. Also, sports drinks help replace electrolytes that your child naturally loses from sweating. Of course, limit the intake of these beverages during sports activities, competitions or active in the sun, as these drinks generally high in calories.

5. Take ice in moderation.  While drinking ice water or iced beverages feel super good during hot days, it can be hard for children to process cold drinks in extremely hot weather, due to the extreme temperature differences. Before your child gulps down a fruit smoothie, encourage him to take some liquid at room temperature, and then take small sips of the cold drink of his choice. This will help to also prevent the inevitable brain freeze!

What are your tips for keeping your kids hydrated in summer?