Self-care is very important to me.

I learned to love myself again after I had undergone huge storms in my life (father got sick, failed marriage). I went back to the basics of taking myself again because I felt ugly and insecure. I bought a new set of clothes and shoes, I went to the salon for a makeover, and I rekindled my relationship with the Lord. Having a renewed relationship with the Lord also helped me to gain a new perspective in life.

Apart from the total makeover, I also surrounded myself with people who would continuously encourage me to be at my best. I was also blessed to be given opportunities to help me regain my confidence and to learn new skills. Moreover, I also attended classes to stimulate my brain.

People would say that I'm one lucky individual, but whenever I would tell them about the challenges I had, they'd say that it's all worth waiting for.

Whatever blessings that I have right now, I always give back all the glory and praises to the Lord Almighty.

Going back to self-care, I always remind myself to take a break once in a while from the hustle and bustle of everyday living. As a single mom, my responsibilities are twice the amount. I need to work harder while I manage homeschooling and family. If I'm physically and emotionally drained, I cannot also provide the same kind of positivity and strength to all my commitments.

At least once a month, I call for a massage. I also treat myself to a delicious meal. I also talk to my trusted friends whenever I feel blue and stressed and I thank them for being good listeners. I need to keep my sanity intact, or else, I will not be able to perform at my best and deliver my tasks.

Moreover, I also use the best skincare products for my skin and face. It also helps me to maintain glowing and fresh skin. I have to be careful with the products that I use on my skin because I have sensitive and oily skin. 

I also have to set an example for my son who is already having breakouts. I need to teach him proper skincare so that he will be able to maintain blemish-free skin.

My skincare story

I had bad skin when I was a teenager. My parents paid for a skincare program so that I would have blemish-free skin. However, even during that time, skincare was already expensive, so we were not able to maintain it after the program. 

Years after, I was introduced to a much-affordable clinic in Sampaloc, Manila. However, the skincare set given to me was too harsh to my skin, so I experienced uneven skin tone and dryness.

When I started working at the bank, I would request my boss to excuse me from work in the afternoon to visit my dermatologist. I would go back to the office with a swollen face from injections and pricking.

I also tried the more affordable skincare centers like Flawless and Let's Face, but I eventually stopped visiting a skincare center because I feel that my skin gets numb from pricking. I also felt that there is no need for me to go to a skincare center since I was able to keep a good skincare routine.

It has been years since I last visited a skincare center. I can't remember my last visit. I think I had facial warts removal?

When I saw my blogger-friend's post about a skincare center in Makati looking for bloggers to promote their services, I raised my hand. Even if the place was a bit far, I'm willing to drive since I won't go to the place regularly. Somehow I got excited about the appointment because it has been years since I stepped my foot inside a skincare center, especially during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

My experience with iSkin Aesthetic Lifestyle

iSkin Aesthetic Lifestyle has two branches: one in Makati (along Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue) and one in BGC. I went to the Makati branch since the consultant that I've talked with was based there. At present, they require appointments as part of the social distancing protocols set by IATF. It is also very important to tell that you're driving going there as there were limited parking spaces.

Wear masks and face shields!

I was asked to fill out an online Health Declaration Form before going to iSkin. 

I was impressed with the lighting of the center. It has white walls and minimalistic interiors. 

While I already knew what kind of skincare treatment I would be getting (Ultrasonic Face Contour and Diamond Peel), I was further reassessed by the consultant. She recommended that I should get an upgrade, to avail of the facial services.

Since I was already there, anyway, I want to maximize my travel going to Makati. I paid extra for the facial services.

Before the session, I was asked to gargle as part of the COVID-19 safety protocols. Compared with the usual skincare centers, iSkin had small rooms for each client. I loved it because it gave me a sense of privacy. It was also well-lit.

I had the facial first before the contouring and diamond peel. I was surprised that the facial wasn't painful at all! iSkin had another machine to suck up the whiteheads, so the pricking was lesser.

The Ultrasonic Face Contour shaped my jawline. I immediately saw the effects after the session, it lifted my jaws. 

After the contour, somehow my jaws were lifted

It was my first time trying Diamond Peel. I wasn't a candidate for a Diamond Peel before because I had active acne. 

Overall, it is refreshing! 

Thank you, iSkin, for the wonderful experience!

The skincare appointment that I had with iSkin made me realize that even if I already had a good skincare routine at home, I still needed to have an appointment at skincare centers to further improve my skin. There are certain things that home skincare products can't do, like removing dead skin, whiteheads, and blackheads. The consultant said that I should have a skincare appointment at least once a month.

I still look fresh when I arrived home, aesthetician said that I should wash my face the following day

Do you also want to have a wonderful skincare experience with iSkin? Join my giveaway!

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There will be TWO WINNERS who will win Ultrasonic Face Contour and Diamond Peel worth Php5,000! Since the prize will only be availed in the Makati branch, make sure that you will find time to go and avail of the services.

The giveaway will be until March 10th.

Having a pet can genuinely change someone's life.

Research says that dogs have a therapeutic effect on humans. Dogs can be your most excellent and most loyal home companion. Moreover, dogs can also be your protector in times of danger.

There is an ongoing campaign called "adopt, don't shop." I also support this cause to help in preventing the stray dog population in the country. The advocacy also teaches people about responsible pet ownership by having the dog spayed or neutered.

However, there are still people out there who would like to buy a pet. These people have breed specifics and will want to get them as puppies. Besides, some people are also particular in the health history of the dog.

Since many people are interested in getting a purebred, they are also lured by fake and dishonest sellers. Some pose as a seller, showing photos of dogs, and once they have reached a deposit, they will disappear. Some will declare that the dog is in top condition, but once the dog is released, the buyer will find out that the dog does not have complete vaccines and is sick.

Our dog, Bach, is a purebred mini-schnauzer. He is given to us by a friend because they're moving to a condo. She carefully chose the people who will have her dogs because she only wants the best for her beloved pets. My friend didn't ask for anything in return, but she only requested to care for and love the dog.

Our dog is three years old. Bach had a major illness last year that required him to undergo surgery. Now, he is doing fine and has been giving us joy and unconditional love every single day.

Going back, I interviewed two dog breeders to give me a clearer perspective on finding a legitimate dog breeder and avoiding getting scammed.

The first interviewee is Mr Jason King, who owns Das Konigshof, a kennel in Quezon City. He has been breeding mini-schnauzers for ten years. 

The second interviewee is Ms Yvette Heart Calimlim, who owns Luna Cerberus Kennel in Molino 6, Bacoor, Cavite. Yvette has been breeding Alaskan Malamutes (standard and giant sizes) and German Shepherd since 2010.

According to Jason and Yvette, here are the questions that a potential buyer must ask the dog breeder:

1. Ask for the breed standards (specific problems and nuances of the dog breed you wish to own). It is imperative to know if the dog is suited for your lifestyle. 

2. Ask for the breeder's background. The potential buyer must also ask people who can vouch for the breeder's integrity. Requesting information about the breeder is important to ensure that the breeder has a good history of transactions with PCCI (Philippine Canine Club, Inc.), the authority in giving certificates for the purebred dogs. 

3. Ask the puppy's parents (dam and sire) to ensure that the puppy is indeed a purebred. The puppy's parents must have PCCI papers too. Ask for the parents' vaccination records, clinical check-ups, and if the mother is sick during pregnancy.

4. Ask the location of the kennel. The potential buyer must have time to visit the kennel as much as possible to know if the breeding area is clean and well-sanitized. There are many puppy mills with poor living conditions, so it is essential to know if the breeder is not just for the profit but also takes care of the dog's overall health.

5. Ask if the puppies have updated vaccination records before its release. The puppies should receive their first vaccination at 6-8 weeks old. Boosters should be administered at three-week intervals until the puppy is 16 weeks old. Another booster vaccine should be given when the dog turns a year old.

6. Ask if there is a contract to be signed by you and the breeder. The agreement will ensure the legality of the transaction and ensure that the puppy is in good condition upon release. Please note that legit dog breeders DO NOT ASK for a downpayment. 

7. Ask about the rehoming procedures. Puppies can be released to their new families between eight to twelve weeks old. The puppies must be trained because it also causes stress to the dog and the mother.

8. Ask about the PCCI registration of the puppy. The PCCI registration will ensure that the breeder is giving you a legit paper. The buyer can later verify the certificate issued to them by calling/emailing PCCI. Moreover, this is to ensure that the dog is bred ethically and the color is the accepted color by the breed (note: mini-schnauzers have only four accepted colors: white, black, black and silver, and salt and pepper. Dog organizations don't accept Liver-colored schnauzers. Teacup-sized dogs are also below the standard so please do not patronize it).

Yvette mentioned that the puppy must have the core vaccines before releasing it to its new owners. The core vaccines are parvovirus, distemper virus, adenovirus, and hepatitis. The core vaccines are given in two weeks interval, starting at eight weeks old. Jason also mentioned that deworming should also have been done before release. The vaccines administered to the dogs come in combination forms (5-in-1 or 8-in-1).

Both Jason and Yvette encourage potential dog owners to visit the kennel at least once. Visiting the kennel will ensure the potential dog owners that the dogs are well-taken cared of and are living in the highest standards. It is okay to buy dogs even if they are from a faraway place, as long as the potential dog owner is ensured of its well-maintained facility. Jason even added that if a trip is a hassle, then the buyer should rethink its priorities.

Some dog breeders offer stud service. Yvette's kennel provides it, and Jason doesn't. If offering stud service, it is essential to know the dogs' history and the arrangement (usually the owner of the male dog asks for one pup from the litter).

Both Jason and Yvette also encourages potential dog buyers to get a puppy with PCCI papers. Check with PCCI if the document is legit by going to their office in Quezon City or emailing them at info@pcci.org.ph. The PCCI papers serve as a record of the dog's history and identity. The PCCI paper also proves the dog's identification should it needs to travel to another country. 

All dogs are cute and adorable, but Jason and Yvette encourage everyone to do their research before buying a dog. There are dog breeds that are not compatible with their lifestyle; thus, they dislike the dog. Potential dog owners should ask themselves if they want a low, medium, or high maintenance dogs, their purpose of owning a dog, or if the dog breed is fine with children. Jason reminds potential dog owners that dog ownership requires time and money, so if the individual is short of any of the two, it is better not to get a dog at all. 

In closing, Yvette leaves some tips to first-time dog owners.

• Ask yourself, why do you want a dog? Yvette treats her dogs as her babies because it provides a therapeutic effect for her. 
• Know your budget. Price of purebred dogs may vary, depending on the quality. 
• Do your research. All dogs are cute, but some dog breeds have characteristics that may not suit your lifestyle. It is better to read, read, read!
• Prepare your family, house, and kids. Dogs are part of the family. It is only ideal that the whole family is ready to take care of the dog. 
• Choose the right food for the dogs and vitamins. Read the label. Not all expensive dog food is good for the dog. Ask around dog owners too on what food they usually feed their dogs.
• Always make sure your puppies or dog will be check by a veterinarian nearby. Choose the veterinarian that has a good reputation and good facilities. It is preferable to go to a nearby clinic, so for emergency purposes. 
• Know your dog's needs. Be sensitive if your dog is sick or needs medical attention. As much as possible, DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE. Do not waste time in asking on social media. Bring the dog to the vet immediately. 
• Be ready for setbacks. Like humans, they get sick, and they have a shorter life span. Be prepared for these events.
• Relax and have fun with your dog. Dogs are not there to bark to strangers and to guard the house. Dogs can be your playmate too! Have time to play with them and to stroke their fur.
• Take care of them as if they are part of your family - feed them right, have the dog groom and dogs love cuddling.
• Be a responsible owner. Abusive dog owners can be sued. Animals are protected by RA8485 (Animal Welfare Act). 

• Tuberculosis
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis
• Poliomyelitis
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella or German measles
• Hepatitis-B
• H. Influenza type B (HIB)

As you all know, Kib and I like doing things together, from doing house chores to gardening, to cooking, to swimming, to shopping, and a whole lot more. I really wanted to build a strong relationship with my son, that I why I always try to find time in doing the things that he loves, and at the same time, to teach him valuable life lessons. 

I have an appreciation for art. I admire people who have a talent for creating paintings and sculptures. Even if I do not understand the story behind each artwork, I admire the strokes and techniques used in creating a masterpiece.

I also want my son to have an appreciation for art. Kib and I go to art museums so that he will see different works of art and be familiarized with popular Filipino artists. I feel happy whenever Kib takes the time to read the story behind each work of art and to look at each masterpiece with scrutiny.

Kib had expressed his desire to learn how to paint in the past. However, I did not find the time to look for an art class near our home. I was too busy at work, but to keep his burning passion for art, I bought him a lot of art materials that he can use for doodling and copying images that he likes to draw.

Last year during the height of the community quarantine due to COVID-19, I saw my co-blogger May Palacpac of Fully Housewifed leading art classes for young kids. She posted photos of the images that the kids made. I asked if Kib can join the classes, and I was so happy that she said yes. Kib was so excited to join the classes too.

I immediately checked if we have the basic watercolor art necessities: watercolor paper, brush, and watercolor set. It's a good thing that I was able to keep some of it and ran to the nearest National Bookstore branch to buy more.

At first, I was just watching Kib while he's having his classes. Two weeks after, I asked May if I can also join the classes and she happily said yes!

I bought my own watercolor art set so that Kib and I won't share it. 

Eventually, a mommy group of watercolor enthusiasts also invited me to be part of their group! I've learned a lot from them, like the techniques and the kind of materials I needed so that I would be able to come up with nice artwork. 

Moreover, a highschool classmate also supported me by giving me some materials for scrapbooking which I can incorporate in my artworks.

I love the support that I'm getting from my family and friends!

Watercolor art has become a bonding moment between me and my son. We do watercolor art practice during our free time. 

Since Kib and I had already made a lot of watercolor art, I decided to compile all of them on Instagram, momandsonwatercolorhobbyists.

I started to be busy by September, so I only did watercolor art practice during Kib's classes. When May said that she has to stop teaching watercolor art in October, our watercolor practice also came to a halt. 

Despite not having time to do watercolor art these days does not mean that I am putting off watercolor art in our lives.

As I write this blog, I suddenly miss doing watercolor art sessions with Kib. I asked him if we can do this at least twice a month as our bonding moment. I'm so glad that he said yes. I think I need time for a time-out.

What about you, what is your bonding moment with your children?