*Chance of a
First Day of School Fears
Lifetime
prepare yourself and your kids
Do you want your family
on the cover of BC?
He Said, She Said
the two sides to their parenting
PHI LI PPI NE S
Lookback:
by hans and marilen montenegro
Beautiful and expecting Kendra
the best choices for your family
Wilkinson
must-buys
the coolest shopping ideas for the family Postpartum Depression:
Pregnant, stylish, and glowing with her hubby Armand and their beach bunnies, Nadia and Sonia
by Cristina Peczon-rodriguez
P120 May-Jun 2011 www.bcmag.ph
Georgia Schulze-del rosario
get over your mommy blues
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INSIDE BC
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10
contents 10
baby and me Pamper yourself and your little one with these health and beauty essentials
14 first-time schooler jitters Find out what to prepare for your child’s big day
18 give it a shot? Know the benefits of having your child vaccinated
50 playing with fire Keep your family safe from mishaps in and around the house with these useful guidelines
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On the Cover: georgia schulze-DEL ROSARIO and FAMILY
57 triple feast Serve up scrumptious family meals from Puck and Batalitrained chef, Jayme Natividad
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www.bcmag.ph
INSIDE BC contents 26 he said, she said Hans and Marilen Montenegro speak out on breastfeeding, shopping, and everything in between
52 clean slate Useful tips for dealing with tough stains on different kinds of fabrics
54 tools of the trade What to gather and know about your own toolbox
64 becoming a new mommy The sacrifices and rewards of being an alternative medicine practitioner turned full-time mommy
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24 don’t let your baby blues get you down Cristina Peczon-Rodriguez shares her PPD experiences and explains the reasons behind this hormonal occurrence
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www.bcmag.ph
Kariz Tanya Favis Editor-in-Chief Martin Favis Creative Director Valerie Anne del Castillo Benjo Billones Associate Editors Mark Cabalang Production Manager & Graphics Artist Mark Francis Carandang Byron Santiago Graphics Artists Jona Mae Conopio Editorial Assistant Contributors Angel Manhilot, Barbara Ambrosio, Byron Velasquez, Carissa Olmilla, Cristina PeczonRodriguez, Diego Jose, Hans Montenegro, Heidi Alletzhauser, Manny Apdal, Marilen Faustino-Montenegro, Mark Sablan, Minnie Francisco-Francia, Neil Garguilo, Pong Niu, RJ Dela Cruz, Rosario Santiago BCMEDIA INC. Kariz Tanya Favis Chairman & President Martin Favis Vice President & Publisher Victor Aliwalas Group Associate Publisher Charina Mitra Finance Manager Jeyme Azarraga-Morallo Advertising Manager Maricel Bancolita Account Manager
BC Philippines is published by BCMedia Inc., Unit 2C Building C Karrivin Plaza, Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City, Philippines. Visit us online at www. bcmag.ph. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. For advertising, subscriptions, back orders or other inquiries, please call 0927.530.5913, 0939.130.0997, 889.6904 or e-mail info@bcmag.ph. Opinions expressed in this publication are that of the writers’ and are not necessarily endorsed by BCMedia Inc. BC Philippines is not responsible for unsolicited samples, products, work, and materials, and submissions are non-returnable. If you wish to submit written work, photographs, artwork, products, samples, other services, etc., please accompany with a self-addressed envelope, postage paid, or a prepaid return label.
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b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
www.bcmag.ph
*Chance of a Lifetime Do you want your family
First Day of School Fears how to prepare yourself and your children
?
He Said, She Said
the two sides to their parenting
P HIL IP P INE S
Kendra
Wilkinson
must-buys
how your family can look even cooler
Postpartum Depression:
Georgia Schulze-del rosario
how to get over your mommy blues
by Cristina Peczon-rodriguez
Pregnant, stylish, and glowing with her hubby Armand and their beach bunnies, Nadia and Sonia
P120 May-Jun 2011 www.bcmag.ph
editor’s note
the best choices for your family
Top left, CLOCKWISE: this could be your family on the next cover of bC!; behind-thescenes with cover models, the del rosario family, and barbara ambrosio (salute to moms) with husband, job; reminiscing my sabina’s first day of kindergarten; a photo i took of kathy ireland and pasadena’s fire fighters with actor, erik estrada of c.h.i.p.s.
BC’s Playdate Cover Contest I really hope to get you as excited as I am about our first-ever cover contest wherein we will give one non-celebrity family a chance for a cover. We call this the “Playdate” cover, because the family chosen will join me and my daughters on the cover of BC Philippines! As far as I know, a magazine promo such as this has never been done in the world, and we will also be introducing this unique concept in the U.S. edition of BC soon. The story will be shot by my better half, Martin Favis, who has photographed Hollywood celebrities such as of Tori Spelling, Kimora Lee, Kelly Rutherford, Scott Baio, etc., so we’ll be in great hands. Alright, here are some details. This cover contest is open to all BC subscribers so please email me your own favorite family photo to info@karizfavis.com. From there, we will choose a few families, and will post their photos on our website and Facebook page. Readers can vote for their favorite photo, and every month, a semi-finalist advances to become a finalist for the top prize. We will be posting more information and updates on bcmag.ph and facebook.com/bcmag.ph as we go along. Apart from the winner getting a Playdate and cover shoot with me and
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on the cover of BC?
Lookback: Beautiful and expecting
by hans and marilen montenegro
b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
my girls, the top 3 finalists will also receive P100,000, P50,000 and P30,000 in prizes from BC. While I will surely be giddy waiting for all your submissions, in the meantime, please enjoy this issue which fronts the gorgeous Georgia Schulze and Armand del Rosario, with their two young ladies. Georgia is absolutely stunning as she waits for their third child to be born. Armand looks every bit the beaming dad, and is as easy on the eyes as his wife. Their daughters’ cuteness endears them to everyone they meet, and they are one of my favorite broods because they are as down-to-earth as they are good-looking. Another glowing mom featured here is Dancing with the Stars contestant Kendra Wilkinson (who gained notoriety in the US as an ex-Playboy Playmate—funny how that rhymes with our contest, coincidentally). I hope all of you expectant mothers will be just as proud to show off your bump, because all pregnant women are beautiful. I’m also extremely pleased to share with you my interview with supermodel and mogul Kathy Ireland, who started her empire selling socks that carried her name in K-Mart. Kathy is one of the kindest, most interesting people I’ve ever met, and it’s not only because
of her business acumen, but for her positivity and spirit. The lovely Montenegros also offer a light two-side take on parenting, as we launch another fun column in BC called “He Said, She Said.” It’s funny to note how different and alike men and women are when it comes to child-rearing. Also, the ever-insightful Cristina Peczon-Rodriguez shares with us her heartwarming tale of overcoming PPD. We’ve also selected fashion and beauty wishlists for everyone in the family, so I hope you get some ideas when you hit the stores. By the way, congratulations to our new batch of learners as school starts in June! I myself will have two schoolchildren for the first time, so I don’t know what to do with the extra hours without both my girls. I guess I’ll just use it to work out then—ha! Who am I kidding? Anyway, I miss them already as I type this. Sigh. This issue is packed, so I won’t keep you any longer. Thank you very much for grabbing a copy.
P.S. I decided to use my first name, since that’s what I’m known for in the U.S., where BC Magazine started. You can also find me on facebook.com/karizfavis www.bcmag.ph
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Rose Centifolia Petals Eau de Toilette by DURANCE, P995, Beauty Bar
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ar en
If you don’t have a lot of time for a skin regimen, remember to do these three things––cleanse, moisturize, and always remove all traces of make-up before calling it a night
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bc report
Brow & Liner Kit by THE BODY SHOP, P995
Nature’s Minerals Foundation SPF 25 by THE BODY SHOP, P 1,695
Starlight Natural Spray 60mL by AIGNER, P1,943.55, Rustan’s
Resilience Lift Extreme Ultra Firming Creme SPF 15 by ESTEE LAUDER, P4,600, Rustan’s
Lipstick in Tropical Coral by STUDIO MAKEUP, P795, Beauty Bar
Face & It Moisture Lipstick OR201 by THE FACE SHOP, P595
Baked Triple Color in 02 Gold Brown by THE FACE SHOP, P545
Creme Eclat Caviar Nacre by LA PRAIRIE, P21,500 per set, Rustan’s
Suntan SPF-4 lotion by COPPERTONE, P369.25
baby and me
Create the perfect bonding moment with your child with these essentials, and help keep your skin luminous with these beauty buys
+ IMMUNITY...culinary masterpieces...tips from moms...new gadgets...
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www.bcmag.ph
Y
GROOMING
A
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bc report BE
Baby Conditioning Shampoo by JOHNSON & JOHNSON, P95.25
Gentle Skin Cleanser by Cetaphil, P560
Baby Bee Buttermilk Bath Soak by BURT’S BEEs, P1,200, Beauty Bar
Jar of Hope First Aid Gel by INDIGO BABY, P500, Shop Familia
Borage Dry Skin Therapy Children’s Lotion by SHIKAI, P875, Beauty Bar
Oilatum soap for dry, sensitive skin by STIEFEL, P157
*These products can be shared with your baby as these are mild enough for kids, but does the job for you with the same efficiency
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Soothing Body Wash by NOODLE & BOO, P810
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Getting your child ready to go off to preschool W o r d s by M i n n i e F r a n c i s co - F r a n c i a GRA P HICS B Y M A R K C A R A N D A N G
y daughter Ella, now 8, officially went to school at a bit over 2 years old. I say officially because before that, we’ve been to various other classes including several semesters at The Little Gym. The difference, of course, is that I wouldn’t be in the classroom with her anymore, so I was a bit apprehensive. I have already brought her to the school before classes started and she has met her new teachers, so at least the environment was already familiar to her. I remember that she was a bit shy and hesitant to go in alone, but the teachers were really nice and made her feel at ease, so her first day was more of a big deal for me than for her. I’ve been through the same drill more recently with my son Benjamin, now 4. He started school even younger—a toddlers’ class when he was just a year and half. Having a more sociable and outgoing personality made it easier for my son to adjust to the new setting, and each year, his first days in school were really just a goodbye kiss from me, and he’s off to his classroom. But there were also days, especially when he was younger, when he would be clingy and it would take some time before he settles down with his teachers. Some parents make a big deal of their kid’s first day, taking pictures, hovering, and generally making a fuss. Personally, I think it’s a big milestone, but I try not to put much pressure on my kids before
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the big day comes. Every year, my kids and I still go through some anxiety at the start of school, but it gets easier as they grow up. Let me share with you some things I’ve learned about easing your little one into preschool: Is he ready?
Age 3 is a good time for a child to start school. They would be more emotionally ready and would most likely be able to handle physical tasks, like following directions or carrying a lunch box. Most preschool programs also start admitting children at this age. If you want to enroll your toddler at an earlier age, you will have to look for one with a toddlers’ class. I think that parents would be the best judge of your toddler’s school readiness, but if you have any concerns, you can discuss this with your pediatrician and the preschool director. Your doctor should be able to give you a green light in terms of his physical readiness, as well as update your child’s vaccination records. Most preschools also assess each student before enrollment, so you can use this opportunity to meet and discuss your concerns with his future teachers and administrator. Being toilet-trained is generally not a requirement for a child to start school. Simply tell the teachers your child’s potty-training progress, www.bcmag.ph
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Teacher Giselle lists down some things parents can do to ease the anxiety your child may have in the beginning:
1. Give your child a positive picture of school.
4. Assure him that a significant other will be
Project a fun, loving and secure image of the school and its teachers.
there to pick him up everyday.
2. On the first day of classes, you may bring
5. At home, talk to him about his feelings and
your child inside the classroom to show him his cubby hole for his bag. Once you’ve done that, kindly say your proper goodbyes and leave the room.
assure him of your love and support. 6. Trust that the teachers are there to help your
child overcome his separation anxiety.
3. On the succeeding days, please do your
goodbyes just before your child enters his room. Never sneak out of the room.
7. Remember that this is just a phase. Things
will definitely get better!
And, I assure you, it does get better. You’ll be surprised that in a few days, your child will already be adjusted to the routine of going to school. BACKPACK BASICS
TOWEL
so they will know how to help with his bathroom routine. My daughter wasn’t toilet trained when she started preschool, but her teachers patiently encouraged her to start removing her pull-up diapers in class. In just a few months, she was able to stay in school without her nappies. First-day jitters
EXTRA SHIRT
WATER BOTTLE
LUNCH BAG
WIPES
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Whether it’s his very first time to start school or not, the beginning of the academic year is always an important and critical moment for your little one. In a letter that she gives out before every academic year starts, Teacher Giselle Elgincolin, Director of the Creative Explorers School for Children, encourages parents to realize that this time is an imposed separation for their offspring. It is a time for a kid to say goodbye to his familiar world and venture into a new environment. “Some children may bravely welcome this and head for their classrooms with no fuss. Most kids though cling to their parents or their caregivers as they are anxious of being left alone with strangers,” she explains. What I think helped my kids was talking to them about what to expect on the big day. We have books like “Little Hippo’s New School” and “Off to School with Periwinkle and Blue” that walks kids through a typical day in school. We read
b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
the stories and we discussed things like having a special cubby for their things in school and what the names of their new teachers will be. On the day itself, I also tried to build their confidence and excitement by letting them decide what to wear and what food they want inside their lunchbox. What’s important is to help them feel good about themselves on their special day. Getting into the routine
Starting school does not only affect your little one but involves your whole household routine as well. Who will be taking your kid to and from school? Will you or your driver be available? Is there a bus service or carpool that you can arrange for your child and yaya to take? Before you enroll your child in a class, take time to see if the schedule is convenient for everybody. Is he a morning person who is most active during the hours before lunch? Can you adjust his bedtime so that he will be able to wake up earlier for school? These are all things you should be considering as you realize that your household’s schedule will be revolving around his school routine. School Bag
Another thing to prepare for is your child’s school bag. Will his schedule require him to eat lunch there? If he prefers to eat rice and a viand,
you will have to prepare a nutritious meal for his lunchbox. Whether it’s a full meal or simple snacks, you can train your yaya to do this if she’s capable. You can discuss with the nanny the menu for the week, and then check the night before if she’s ready for the next day in terms of ingredients. Another tip: if your child will be eating items like fried chicken or spaghetti, be sure to slice these into bite-size bits. This makes it easier for him to spoon out his food and saves time for his teachers. Aside from his baon, other items that you should have in your child’s bag are: his water bottle, an extra set of clothes (including underwear), and a small towel. I also put in packs of tissue and wipes in there because my son tends to be little obsessive about his cleanliness. Toys from home are a no-no because it disrupts your child’s and other kids’ attention in class. My son has to have his toy cars with him when going to school but I’ve taught him to leave it in the car or in his yaya’s bag before he goes inside the classroom. Separation anxiety
Ready now to take your kid to school? One last tip: don’t get too stressed if your toddler cries or throws a fit at the classroom door. Don’t get angry at him and scold him for acting like a baby. Don’t blame yourself nor your parenting style either. It’s normal—and scenes like these play out in schools every start of the year. You may also feel a little sad because your little one is taking a step into the bigger world. Take heart though, and put on a cheery, confident attitude for your precious one on his big day. Teacher Giselle puts it nicely: “Separation anxiety is a normal behavior and is to be expected at the start of school. Most kids need to go through that stage in order for them to move forward as independent learners. The school opening then, although marked by separation anxiety, is an opportunity for growth both for the parents and the child.” bc www.bcmag.ph
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The discovery and development of vaccines over the past century have changed the way we ensure our children’s early years. Learn how this process could serve as a smarter choice for today’s parents W OR D S by r o s a r i o s a n t i ago a dd i t i o n a l t e x t by v a l e r i e a n n e d e l ca s t i l l o
’s difficult not to be swayed by the hard-hitting facts that numerous studies have yielded about the benefits of vaccines. In over half a decade, the number of cases of various diseases have gone down by as much as 90% (or more), thanks to the proliferation of various vaccines developed and implemented throughout the early part of the 20th century. So what is the process of getting vaccinated, and how does it protect our children from diseases?
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ILLUS T RA T ION by M A R K F R A N C IS C A R A N D A N G
Nearly all of us come out into this world with a full immune system. This means that our cells, glands, bodily fluids, and various organs already had the capacity to fend off viral and bacterial attacks at the time of our birth. Even as helpless infants, we already possessed an immune system that could readily produce antibodies to counter germs, toxins, and organisms that entered our system. Once the invading antigens were destroyed however, those antibodies also vanished. What they did leave behind though, were the cells responsible for
producing the antibodies in the first place. These are called “memory cells,” because they remember the original antigen they fought, and will spring into action anew against future invasions. This built-in system of protection is what we call our immunity. Why then, you might ask, is there a need for vaccines? The answers are simple. While our children are born with a full immune system, this only lasts anywhere from a month to a year, and it is no match for certain diseases against which they do not have maternal www.bcmag.ph
IMMUNITY immunity, or antibodies inherited from us mothers. Measles, mumps, polio, diphtheria, smallpox, and whooping cough are just some of the more common diseases that used to pose the greatest risk to babies, before vaccines were developed against them. On a broader level, immunizing our children also promotes better health for our community, as it decreases the chances of people coming down with infectious diseases, making outbreaks and epidemics also less likely to occur. But just how do vaccines work? In much the same way as our natural immunity does. Vaccines work by introducing a weakened version of a disease-causing bacteria, virus, or germ into the body. This is usually done by injection, although in some cases, it may be administered orally, or even via nasal spray. Once we’ve been vaccinated, we start developing antibodies to fight off the introduced antigens, which, although aren’t strong enough to cause sickness, still have the potency to spur on the production of antibodies to combat them. And here is where vaccine-induced immunity differs from, and is arguably better than natural immunity. Despite the attractive and scientifically proven benefits of vaccinations, however, a number of parents still opt out of the choice for fears that their child may be affected by some adverse effects following the immunization. In 1998, a controversy was spawned by researcher Dr. Andrew Garfield’s study published in the British medical journal The Lancet, which linked the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella) with autism and bowel disease. To this day, a number of parents still decide not to vaccinate their children, or even deviate from the recommended immunization schedule of health authorities, despite the fact that the study has been debunked and officially retracted by the journal’s editors. Nonetheless, the advent of such medical findings has taught us parents to be more inquisitive and meticulous with what we put our children through to ward off illnesses. Besides, it is our utmost responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being, especially in their early years. So whether you choose individual or combination vaccines, experts seem to agree that the important thing is to get them into your children as soon as recommended by the local and global health authorities. Of www.bcmag.ph
course, ultimately, the choice of when to vaccinate, how many vaccines to get, or even whether to do so or not, is yours as a parent, and yours alone. Such guidelines and recommendations are only to help you arrive at an informed decision. If and when you do decide to get your child immunized however, here are some important things to remember: First, don’t get your child vaccinated when he or she is ill, or still recovering from an ailment. When your child is sick, his or her immune system is weak. An immunization shot, which will deliver a load of viral, bacterial, or germ antigens, while significantly diluted, may still be too much for your child’s already compromised system to handle. Wait until he or she has fully recuperated before taking him or her to be vaccinated. In extreme cases where the child has a suppressed immune system due to serious diseases like cancer, leukemia, or AIDS, or as a result of treatments such as steroids, chemotherapy, or radiation, certain live vaccines should not be administered. Second, consider whether your child is allergic to any substances or food items. Take note of your child’s allergies, especially severe ones, and report them to your doctor. This is particularly useful in screening which vaccines the doctor can safely administer, so he or she can avoid those containing the substance(s) to which your child has severe reactions. Part One of The Parent’s Guide to Childhood Immunizations (cdc.gov) cites the example that if your child is severely allergic to eggs, he or she should not receive the flu shot, which contains egg protein. In the same light, inform your doctor of any adverse reactions your child may have had to previous vaccinations. Lastly, don’t forget to ask for an immunization card to ensure you have a complete record of your child’s vaccinations. Finally, should you choose not to get your kids vaccinated, be responsible by keeping informed. Make use of all resources around you, such as print and online literature, resource people like doctors, nurses, and other health practitioners, and even your neighbors and online communities, to learn and discuss the reasons for and against vaccination. Bear in mind that your choice affects not only your child’s health, but your entire family’s and those you will come in contact with. bc
Hepatitis B is one of the world’s most serious chronic diseases. Although available vaccine for Hepatitis B virus will not be able to cure it, it’s still 95% effective in preventing chronic infections from developing. Pneumonia is the leading cause of death among Filipino children. The vaccine for this is suggested for children above 2 years. Additionally, medicinenet.com states that, “Persons vaccinated prior to age 65 should be vaccinated at age 65 if five or more years have passed since the first dose.”
Make use of all resources around you, such as print and online literature, resource people like doctors, nurses, and other health practitioners, and even your neighbors and online communities, to learn and discuss the reasons for and against vaccination. { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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sublime sounds
Check out these savvy audio offerings that will satisfy you and your family’s ear drums and leave you wanting more
Edifier DA5000 Pro Multi-Media System Samson Audio MediaOne 5a
Ideal for video post production, enhancing your kids’ music and gaming experiences, and basically anywhere in your home where great sound is desired, this active monitor system does the job. Whether for personal or professional use, enjoy the solid bass dispersion by Samson Audio MediaOne 5a, due to its 40 watt amplifier and 5-inch woofer. An active studio monitor, it offers premium performance and professional design, with its attractive black satin vinyl finish. It allows connectivity from a sound card, keyboard, or MP3 player. P8,600.78, audiophile.ph
P10,800, audiophile.ph
Samsung BD-C5500
NWZ-W252 Walkman Player
LG MDD62AOU Home Audio
Nothing beats watching movies at home in Blu-ray, where every detail is shockingly clear, which is why these players cost more than your average DVD equipment. One of its best features is that it offers internet@ TV technology, through LAN connectivity, which lets you stream and download apps like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and many more. Its wireless All Share Feature also lets you and your kids enjoy music, movies, and photos straight from your phone or PC. What’s more, it has low power consumption, so you’d get value for your money.
The ideal companion for running or working out, this MP3 player is now with an improved water resistant function, so you wouldn’t have to worry of sudden malfunctions caused by sweat or your water bottle while on the move. It also features ZAPPIN, which enables you to “Zap-in” to preview the chorus of the next track, and Folder Skip that lets you easily search for your favorite songs. You wouldn’t also have to worry about tangled wires with its wearable style. It comes in four chic colors: black, white, pink, and lime green.
Sing your heart out to the tunes of your favorite songs with the MDD62AOU Home Audio. Equipped with the most advanced technology developed by LG, it features 6 Mode EQ, V.S.M, AM/ FM Karaoke Mic Jack and XDSS, this Hi-Fi Audio System creates a sound like no other. It also boasts of clear onscreen lyrics for up to 2,600 songs and more. It has XTS Pro, which lets all the speakers work in harmony for an even, balanced sound. You and your family will never miss a beat with this audio system.
P16,990, samsung.com/ph
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When it comes to astounding sound, this mini-home theater system by Edifier is just the thing to acquire. With a multi-function, wireless remote controller which you can use to adjust tonal options and surround sound right at your fingertips. It has magnetically shielded speaker drivers, which deliver powerful bass into the room. What’s more, with its polyurethane finish, the DA5000 will fit into every home décor.
b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
3,999, sony.com.ph
P 7,990, lg.com/ph
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bc promos
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bc online contests
Check out the winners of BC Magazine’s online contests. Log on to bcmag.ph to join the fun!
BC Family Photo Contest
Nina AcuĂąa - Best Family Photo
Weng Bravo-Centeno
Min Viloria
Jill Ablaza-Tumbaga
Cutest Kid Photo Contest
Maria Isabel Arrieta Cutest Kid
Loreese Genevieve Monasterio
Flynt Ezion Villuan
Cody Sulit
Zoe Dungo
Rocco Martinez
Mommy Pampering Contest
Stroller Giveaway
Frances Lea Honra - Winner
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Submitted by Jacklyn Ferrer
Marissa (submitted by Hazel Casino)
Travis Fermin - Winner
www.bcmag.ph
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don’t let your baby blues get you down... Why do women sometimes feel so sad after one of the most fulfilling moments in our lives? One mom explains the reasons behind PPD W OR D S a n d P HO T OGRA P HS by C RISTIN A P E C Z O N - R O D RI G U E Z i l l u s t r a t i o n by B y r o n HENRY s a n t i ago
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rooke Shields, Courtney Cox-Arquette, and Amanda Peet all openly suffered from postpartum depression or PPD. Even Angelina Jolie was rumored to have had the baby blues after her famous Pitt twins were born. I’d heard of the condition, but never in a million years did I think that I would one day suffer from it as well. Anyone who has ever had the baby blues will agree with me, suffer is the right word. Statistics say that as many as 8 out of 10 women will experience some sort of mood disturbance after pregnancy or “postpartum”. Common “baby blues” feelings are to feel upset, alone, afraid, or even unloving toward their child. Guilt for feeling this way often comes with the territory.
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The day I checked out of the hospital after delivering my second child, a clipboard-carrying nurse came into my room and asked me a few routine questions. Did I feel sad or depressed? Did I feel scared or panicky? How could I feel like anything less than wonderful now that I was finally headed home to the warmth of my own home with an adorable bundle of joy tucked in my arms? But I did feel less than wonderful. As soon as we were home, I was in tears within minutes. Looking back, it wasn’t even over an unbearable situation. Both my toddler and newborn cried for attention at the same time and I panicked. That wasn’t the only instance that first day at home that I cried. No matter how you look at it, having a baby is stressful. It doesn’t www.bcmag.ph
SYMPTOMS OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION
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Difficulty bonding with the child
By definition, baby blues are one’s biological response to a mother’s rapidly changing hormone levels after pregnancy. The weepiness and mood swings that come with baby blues lasts the first week after childbirth. But sometimes, these baby blues turn into postpartum depression.
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Irritability and anger
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Fatigue and loss of appetite
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Anxiety and insomnia www.bcmag.ph
matter if you were ecstatic about the childbirth for the entire nine months of your pregnancy. Delivering a baby puts every mother through an incredibly demanding physical and emotional rollercoaster. After delivery, instead of taking a well-deserved break, a mother pushes herself even further by putting her needs on the back burner in favor of the needs of her newborn. One is overwhelmed with responsibility, exhausted from the lack of sleep, and “me” time is a faint memory—the mommy emotion rollercoaster.
Let’s get this straight. Postpartum depression is NOT a character flaw or a weakness. PPD is just a complication of giving birth. A woman’s body undergoes very rapid hormonal changes throughout both pregnancy and delivery. Immediately after childbirth, there is a huge decrease in one’s estrogen and progesterone levels. On top of that, thyroid levels can also decrease which can also contribute to one’s fatigue and depression. Think of it as the worst PMS you have ever had and multiply it 100 times. For two weeks after my youngest was born, I cried almost as many times as he and my almost 2-year old toddler did. Our evening bedtime rituals grew from 15 minutes to 3 hours—complete with my older one crying by his closed bedroom door calling out for hugs from Mommy. Everytime I picked up the baby, my older son would try to climb into my lap—or a huge meltdown would follow. The jealousy was both very frustrating and heartbreaking for me. I felt helpless and just couldn’t seem to get a grip on myself. I was embarrassed about asking for help, but I pushed myself. One by one, friends and family slowly started to reach out. Even friends I hadn’t spoken to in over 20 years offered a shoulder to lean on, as they too had once suffered from the baby blues. The first step to dealing with PPD is admitting that you have a problem and asking for help. And what an incredible relief it was to know that I was not the only
one who had ever gone through this. More so that many people that I knew were compassionate about it. I very gratefully accepted help, advice and lots of warm hugs where I could get it. Slowly, things got better. We decided to start my toddler in preschool as soon as possible. It would give him time to learn and grow, and give myself precious bonding time with our newborn. Slowly, we started to adjust to our new schedule. My insomnia, constant worrying, and guilt gradually improved. I learned to ask for help when I really needed it. I prepared less complicated meals for the family. I finally accepted that my house did not have to look picture-perfect 24/7. Soon enough, my toddler started to warm up to his baby brother. He asked for him constantly. He wanted to hug him and touch his hands. He wanted to help. He even offered his most favored toys to our newborn. At the same time, my hormone levels must have started to adjust. I took naps when both the boys slept. We took long walks when the weather allowed it and I basked in the fresh air and sunshine. My own routine adjusted— and the daily crying sessions disappeared. I am fortunate enough to have never had my PPD so intense that I needed medication. I still have off days, but they do not outnumber the good ones. Even my OB/GYN said that after childbirth, she was hardpressed to pinpoint whether or not she had full blown PPD or just extended baby blues herself. When you are sleep deprived and overwhelmed, it’s not easy to put your finger on what exactly is going on. She assured me that if I ever felt like the need for medication, it would be possible to do so while breastfeeding, if done in low dosages. A well mother who is able to love and care for her child and herself is more important than avoiding a small dosage of anti-depressants in breastmilk. As I write this, our little one is just about three months old. He giggles and offers the cutest toothless grins every chance he gets. It’s much easier now, especially when I see how loving both he and my 2-year old are with one another. There are still tough days, just as it is in any household that is in the transition of having a new family member. But I can now see the light at the end of the tunnel, and I know it’s full of sunlight radiating from my children’s smiles. It might not seem like that today, but there is always tomorrow. bc { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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Two heads are better than one, but when it comes to parenting, you might find yourself on opposite sides of the coin with your significant other. Check out what husband and wife (and newbie parents) Marilen Faustino and Hans Montenegro have to say about raising their family. Here’s what the interior designer/model and business consulting director/TV host respectively think about what it takes to strike a perfect balance when it comes to their adorable son, Santiago w o r d s B Y h a n s a n d ma r i l e n mo n t e n e g r o i l l u s t r a t i o n by b y r o n h e n r y s a n t i ago
Spare the rod, spoil the child? Hans: If my child thinks twice before knowingly doing something
wrong or something I’ve specifically told him NOT to do because he knows I will break that rod on his ass, then so be it. My only caveat is “Let the punishment fit the crime,” ergo not all offenses merit the “rod.” A firm tone or a dagger stare will get you places as well.
seen with my wife and son so far, I will say breastfeed no less than 3 months if you can, and no more than a year if you must.
Marilen: My parents had this wooden paddle to spank us when
M: I am a big breastfeeding advocate. I say breastfeeding for less
we were kids. I believe in it because it is actually Biblical (Proverbs 13:245). I would do it only when absolutely necessary. Never on a whim, but always planned. Explaining to my children why we have
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to do it, hugging them, and assuring them of our love after.
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Breastfeed until the child refuses, or wean early? H: This is definitely NOT my area of expertise, but from what I’ve
than six months, and mix feeding, is a total waste. Educate yourself, be determined and hire latch consultants if it will mean success. I plan to begin weaning when my baby, Santiago, turns one. www.bcmag.ph
TWO SIDES
Try a pediatrician you personally like, or stick with one who has been with the family for generations? H: If by “generations” you mean the family
pedia is above 60 years old, then I would prefer to either blend tradition with a younger pedia my wife is also comfortable with, or just switch to one of our choice from the get-go.
M: While I believe experience can be the
best teacher, I have issues with someone too old practicing and caring for my child. I mean, what if they can’t see right, or something? So I decided to look for a pediatrician I am comfortable with. If we need to consult with the family pedia because he knows our history, and our baby may have the same condition, I wouldn’t have a problem consulting with him either.
Who’s the funnier parent? H: I would say I am...at least based on the
way I am able to make our son laugh.
M: Hans has nicknames for Santiago.
Bumbajeengbadoo, Bumbo, Sambadoodles, Poopoocheeng, Iago the Wago. I call him sweetheart, sunshine, my baby. I think Hans definitely wins the award for funniest parent. He says all these funny baby babbles, and makes Santiago do weird stuff.
Bathe your baby, or let the yaya do it? H: I will bathe the baby in front of the
yaya, so she sees how I want him bathed. Whenever possible, I love to bathe him because he loves the water, and it’s so much fun to watch him play in the timba...while he still fits in it.
“If my child thinks twice before knowingly doing something wrong or something I've specifically told him NOT to do because he knows I will break that rod on his ass, then so be it. “ bathing him. Top 3 family movies, ever? H: Our son is still too young to enjoy
movies, but he seems to have a preference for Mickey Mouse, so I am looking forward to digging up and watching classic Disney movies with him in the near future. M: Santiago’s favorites at this point are
Mickey Mouse on Playhouse Disney, Pocoyo, and Barney, but he only watches the introductions of each show, where the songs are. He loves educational videos for babies though. When he is older, Hans and I will sit through all the classic cartoon movies with him. It will be fun to be kids again.
Shop for baby on a whim, or only when necessary? H: There are times when spontaneity can
be fun. When we were in Madrid recently, I saw a Mickey Mouse stuffed toy in a cake shop while helping my sister with her wedding cake. I know Santiago loves Mickey and for less than 10 Euro, I knew he was going to love it, so I just bought it. For the most part though, my wife is very practical and I truly appreciate that about her. If you can keep a 90:10 necessity to whim ratio, I think that’s fine. I don’t think any parent can resist buying one or two cute little items for their child from time to time. I know I can’t.
M: I bathed my baby and was very hands-
on until I found a yaya I was confident in. I saw that she loved our son, too. She bathes him now, but I still do it about two to three times a week, because I simply miss
M: Before Santiago was born, I shopped a lot but made sure he needed them. Occasionally, on a whim, but never overboard. It is so hard to resist the sales! bc
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{ may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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Fisher-Price One of the most trusted names in toys for generations, Fisher-Price believes in providing the best products and services in order to make early childhood more fun and enriching. One of the 10 most recognized brands in the world, they offer a wide range of quality toys, books, software, and other products that families have depended on for generations. 371-9978, 732-5141; SM Department Store; Toys “R” Us; Rustans Department Store; Toy Kingdom; Kidz Station Chicco Chicco believes that making babies happy is the most extraordinary job, which is why everything the brand creates has this one specific purpose. They offer numerous products from baby care and hygiene, feeding, to toys and clothing. Chicco believes that baby’s shoes must fit correctly, must be flexible, and allows freedom of movement. The brand offers shoes that are safe and specially designed for each phase of your child’s growth. 732-5141, Available at SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, SM Mall of Asia, Festival Supermall, Kids Zone Glorietta 3, Greenbelt 5 Safety 1st Attributing their success to an unwavering commitment to safety, innovation, and value, Safety 1st is a brand which parents placed their trust for decades. It is the first to develop a comprehensive line of child proofing products, before expanding other juvenile products that are unique, feature-rich, and at affordable prices. Safety 1st offers car seats, strollers, bed rails, bath tubs, booster seats, potties, high chairs, and others. Available at all SM Baby Co., baby stores, and other leading department stores nationwide Florsheim Kids USA Your kids can enjoy fashionable and durable footwear and apparel by Florsheim Kids USA. Parents can choose from an array of adorable shoes for boys and girls that are ideal for any occasion. Available at Greenbelt 5, SM Mall of Asia, Eastwood Mall, Trinoma, The Block SM North Edsa, Robinsons Manila, Jumpstreet, Robinsons Galleria Cetaphil For healthy skin at every age and every stage, Cetaphil is the brand you can count on. Its dermatologist- and pediatrician-recommended cleansers, cleansing bars, and moisturizers are specially formulated to provide gentle and effective skin care, as well as addressing specific skin care concerns of sufferers of atopic dermatitis and eczema. Their products have non-irritating formulas that are appropriate for most skin types. Available in leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide STRIDE RITE Committed to providing the best fitting shoes for children, Stride Rite brings in over 60 years of experience and expertise. Apart from its rich heritage, the brand boasts of bearing the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance to some of their baby shoes. Their collections are created with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of how children walk and grow. Available at Greenbelt 5, 728-3075; Rustan’s Makati; SM Megamall, 914-7106; Trinoma; Shangri-La Plaza b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
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Because motherhood is a lifetime commitment to raise a family with the best of our ability, BC likes to pay tribute to women who make it all happen. We take a closer look at three admirable and hardworking moms who have found the perfect balance between their careers, husbands, and families. Discover what inspires them to be the best moms they could be—all while running a household, pursuing their chosen careers, and being a dedicated wife to their partners
P h o t o g r a p h s by
ma r t i n a n d ka r i z T A NY A fa v i s
s ty l i n g by ka r i z T A NY A fa v i s a n d b e n jo b i l l o n e s w o r d s by v a l e r i e a n n e d e l ca s t i l l o p h o t o g r a p h y a s s i s t a n t b y r o n h e n r y s a n t i ago
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{ may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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barbara sisonambrosio M A K EU P B Y C A RISS A O L M ILL A O F THE B O D Y SH O P
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hether it’s feeding a child’s mind, or healing one’s body, Barbara SisonAmbrosio is the right person to go to for advice. This mother of two has a deep understanding of healing, thanks to her experience as a holistic doctor. Raised by equally dedicated parents, Barbara is a successful alternative medicine practitioner whose simple joys include weekly dates with her husband and bath time with her kids. If you think she looks familiar, it’s because Barbara is also a former model who has graced magazine spreads and runways. Discover what drives this career woman to new heights, while maintaining a close-knit family.
Juliano: Blue striped shirt with orange neckline by PETIT Bateau, Blue denim short pants by Da lil guyS, Fatigue lace up shoes by QUIkSILVER, all from Shop Familia Barbara: Oversized crystal necklace by KOKET, P2,190 . Knitted dress in forest green by DIESEL, stylist’s own . Black heels with stones by KIRA PLASTININA, P5,500
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Describe your years growing up. Who were your major influences?
To me, my childhood was perfect. It was simple, we were happy. We lived in a small neighborhood in Makati at that time, and I remember playing in the streets with my brothers and neighbors. We’d catch dragonflies and play all kinds of street games—piko, tumbang preso, patintero. The only rule my dad gave was to be inside the house before sunset. High school was equally wonderful—memories about it always make me smile. I listened to my parents mostly, and surrounded myself with good friends from school. We had the same values, so we were always spending time together. What was the most admirable thing your mother did for you and your family?
Mama stopped working when my dad started working overseas. She sacrificed being a career woman to be with us. She also takes care of our dad, stands by him—in good, and especially, in bad times. What is a holistic doctor? Why did you decide to become one?
A holistic doctor is one who goes beyond symptomatic treatment when dealing with patients. She considers the person as a whole, with body parts interacting and affecting each other rather than just looking at specific parts. She analyzes one’s physical, nutritional, environmental, emotional, social, spiritual, and lifestyle behaviors. A holistic practitioner employs various modes of healing in addition to conventional drugs and surgery. As a child, I experienced firsthand how this type of healing works. And through the years, I have used several treatments like Detoxification, Homeopathy, Massage, Herbs and others, to heal my children, husband, parents, patients and friends, effectively. What is the driving force behind your career? What inspires you?
My husband, Job, constantly encourages me to pursue my alternative medicine career. My kids give me the energy to overcome difficult situations. Job’s kind words make me a stronger and better person. How did Creative Beginners come about? Is education something you’ve always been passionate about?
Creative Beginners is our pre-school in Greenmeadows, Quezon City. In 2008, Job’s high school friend, Bambi Claravall and his wife Marge, offered us to co-manage this pre-school with them. Since we believe that education is a great equalizer and a force to change society for the better, we accepted their invitation. We feel responsible about giving back to society, and education is a great opportunity to do so. Education empowers us to strive for a better life, to make our dreams come true. What is AMSIS Farms?
AMSIS Farms is a company that my husband and I started for the purpose of growing organic vegetables and fruits. Last year, we started the 2,400-square meter farm in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, (which has now expanded to one hectare) as a hobby and place where we could bring our kids to pick fresh vegetables. Since there is a growing market for organic products, we decided to expand the farm and make it into a full-fledged business.
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What do you sell, and where?
We sell 100% organic produce like lettuce, salad and table tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, watermelon, and various herbs and spices like basil, coriander. We can be found every Saturdays and Sundays from 7 AM to 2 PM at the Mercato Centrale Weekend Market in The Fort. We also supply restaurants in Makati, and soon our produce will be found in major supermarkets. What is the secret behind the success of your marriage?
I’m lucky I ended up with someone like Job. He is the low-key, patient, steady type. I am the emotional, drama queen! We also trust each other. We allow each other to have activities of our own. How do you make time for yourselves as husband and wife?
We have movie nights once a week. We also travel without the kids. Who do you look up to when it comes to parenting?
My mom and dad. What is your favorite mommy duty?
Giving each of my children a bath. I love massaging them, and playing with them in the water. They love it as well, it’s such an enjoyable time for us. What is the most important lesson you’d like to teach your children?
To love their Nana and Dada forever!
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M A K EU P B Y P O N G NI U F O R M A C C O S M ETI C S HAIR B Y R J d e l a C r uz P HO T O g r a p h Y ASSIS T AN T B YR O N HENRY S A NTI A G O
ne’s journey through parenthood is not always a smooth ride, and this mom has proven that no matter what obstacles lay ahead, she’s ready to face them with an unwavering faith and style. Karrots Zaragoza-Nazareno, Creative Director behind the very chic Anthology Shoes, has shown us that she’s one tough cookie, but to her darlings Santino and Luca, she’s a very b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
devoted mother. In the last issue of BC, Karrots shared how her younger son, Luca, had been diagnosed with entry-level diagnosis of Global Developmental Delay, which meant that he was categorized as having autism. This didn’t break down Karrots’ fervent spirit, however, as she continues on her journey, balancing her life as the “Shoe Fairy Godmother” of Anthology, and the loving mom to her two precious boys. www.bcmag.ph
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(Previous page) Santino: Green checkered polo by CIAO MARCO, P1,750, Shop Familia . Izzy denim pants by PERIWINKLE JR., P995 . Black and Yellow sneakers by FLORSHEIM KIDS, P999.75 Karrots: Clyde nude dress used as top by OLIVIA&FIFTH, P1,550 . Wide leg pants in mustard by ICONIQUE, P1,050 Luca: Blue sweater by CIAO MARCO, P2,200, Shop Familia . Khaki pants by PERIWINKLE JR., P945 (Right) Karrots: Black dress with silver studs, P3,900, Tattered denim vest, P1,450, both by KIRA PLASTININA
Fondest memory of your childhood?
I spent a great deal of my childhood inside a giant pail in my cousin’s bathroom. Ina was my constant companion and “Ate” figure during my growing years. All my good habits are attributed to her. How did you get into the merchandising business?
Funny that my background really is Interior Design. I’ve forgotten all lessons in ergonomic floor planning, but am still very much using the many principles I’ve learned in what I do today. From furniture, I gravitated to graphic and product design. What do you do for Anthology?
I am the Shoe Fairy Godmother, otherwise known as Creative Director. I think up campaigns and collections. I am the marketing arm, I am also 1/3 of the design team that sees through product development. Three most important people who have influenced your success as a businesswoman?
That you cannot do it alone, even if many times you feel that you are. Autism is not a solo sport. I’d like to believe that it was designed by God to bring people together...if not created by man to drive us to the far reaches of insanity. What resources would you suggest for parents whose child may have been diagnosed with autism?
There is a wealth of knowledge on the internet. After you’ve learned all you could, the next step is to find the funds for the therapy you need to pursue. Never stop knocking on doors, never stop trying, and never ever lose your sense of humor. How do you and your husband take a break from parenting?
The H likes to hang out with his friends to be his old ‘90s self. I have TRX, Bikram, and home-service manicures. How do you reward your children for a job well done?
My former business partner, who believed in the infinite capabilities of a regular old housewife. My former boss who hated my guts. My current boss who listens to what I say.
We go out for junk food! We put Luca on the GFCF diet for two solid years, after which, we reclaimed precious family time over burgers, donuts, and fries. Junk food really is good for the soul.
What is it like raising two boys and being the only woman in the house?
What’s your favorite moment of the day?
Being a queen is fun! I still have to pick up laundry though, despite the presence of four very large hampers. Boys are incredibly affectionate, even if they sometimes appear hard of hearing when asked to do something.
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Raising a child diagnosed with autism is challenging. What have you learned about yourself and your family through this experience?
b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
When doing the final dead man’s pose (Savasana) in Bikram. It signifies the end of a hot and hellish experience and the beginning of the rest of the day. I like to stress my mind and body out first thing in the morning, so all that follows is just sunshine, love, and more favorite moments. bc www.bcmag.ph
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chabs tan-chipeco M A K EU P B Y P O N G NI U F O R M A C C O S M ETI C S HAIR B Y R J d e l a C r uz P HO T O g r a p h Y ASSIS T AN T B YR O N HENRY S A NTI A G O SHO T ON LOCA T ION A T E A ST W O O D RI C H M O N D E H O TEL
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t’s not easy being a sales director for one of Eastwood City’s newest burgeoning hotels, especially while trying to raise her two adorable children, Iñigo and Jia. We can only imagine the stress that comes with it, but Chabs Tan-Chipeco has learned to manage her time and expectations. This hardworking woman lets us in on sensible tips on how to raise a family without compromising one’s career.
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Describe your years growing up. What was the most meaningful or memorable thing your mother did for you?
I actually grew up with my grandparents while maintaining a close relationship with my dad and mom. Growing up with practically four parents, I felt I had everything! We were purposely raised the old-fashioned way—in a simple and domesticated environment—no helpers, no yayas and no drivers, so we pretty much learned how to do anything—even wash our cars!. Everything was self-served, we were not raised to be spoiled señoritas. This has really paid-off. It made it easier for us to survive. How has your family influenced your career?
For me, financial gratification only comes second to the fulfillment you get from a chosen career. It molds you into becoming a better person, and ultimately a better mother. My family simply inspires me to want to be a better person. How tough is your job at the hotel?
It’s challenging. As Director of Sales, I am responsible for rooms and banquet revenues of the hotel. Since Eastwood Richmonde Hotel is fairly new, I have to likewise ensure that the market is aware of our www.bcmag.ph
Jia: Blue floral dress by BABY FASHIONISTAS, P1,199 Chabs: Dress in black, white, and purple geometric prints by Diane Von Furstenberg, stylist’s own . Air Delfina wedge by COLE HAAN, P12,800 Inigo: Yellow Nicolas long sleeved shirt by PERIWINKLE JR., P625 . Blue Andrew shirt by FLORSHEIM KIDS, P699.75 . Jaypee long pants by PERIWINKLE JR., P895 . Dark brown coffee shoes by FLORSHEIM KIDS, P1,099.75 On background: Squishy lion pillow, P650, Squishy cow pillow, P520, Printed metal lunch box, P2,210, Toy elephant, P450, Toy bunny, P450, Blue circle lunch tote, P1,200, Pink/brown polka dots pot cover, P255, all from PAPERTRAIL
existence. Yes, you can say it is quite tough, but when budgets are met, it can be as equally rewarding. How has motherhood changed you as a wife and daughter?
As a wife, I learned that it is not healthy to have a whole lot of expectations, most especially when it comes to parenting. Moms really do tend to do most of the work, I guess that’s how we are built. As a daughter, of course I appreciate my mom and grandmother more, all the sacrifices that comes with motherhood, I saw in them and I see in me now. There was nothing that they wouldn’t do for us then, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for my kids now. I also realized that parents—most especially when they get older—need their kids as much as kids need their parents. As a parent, what would you wish you were better at?
I had my son, Iñigo at the age of 32, and Jia at 34. At this age, I guess you can say that it can sometimes be a challenge to remain patient during trying times. There are times when I wish that I had them when I was younger, that way I can be better at being their playmate. I just feel that I could be more fun that way. How do you and your husband split parenting duties?
Joey is a businessman, so he stays home longer to watch over the kids, and makes sure they are okay during the day. He’s practically their Papa and Mama when I’m at work. He plays the bad cop at times when the kids need to be put in their place. Child-rearing tips you learned from your own mother?
Take a deep breath, close your eyes and count to 10. Always remind yourself who the adult and who the kid is. Never underestimate your children, at the same time, savor their innocence and youth—they grow-up very fast! Make it a point to hug, kiss, and say “I love you” as often as possible. Don’t play favorites regardless of age, gender, and achievements. That way, they grow up loving each other instead www.bcmag.ph
of competing against one another. Act the way you would want your kids to act. Teach them to love the simple things in life. This is the key to happiness! Little things that your kids do that make the biggest impact on you?
I stopped working for a long time, and one of my biggest fears was that when I would start working again, my kids would not be as close to me as they are now. Now that I’m back at work, it’s actually the opposite, I feel they love me even more! They say “I love you so much mama,” and hug and kiss me, every chance they get. It feels great to be loved by them, and even greater to know that they are capable of so much love at such a young age. The last thing I want is for them to grow up dense and indifferent. Favorite weekend activities with the family?
We go to the mall every weekend, to go to the play area, to watch the fireworks and the sunset, have dinner and ice cream or to simply make pasyal. We watch TV together, have our siesta together, and go to church. Any activity is a treat as long as we do it as a family. At a young age, my kids appreciate that. They’re “mababaw,” and I honestly like it that way. Any funny stories about your kids?
About a month ago, when the lights were out and we were about to go to bed, Jia says, “Mama, when you’re at work I feel sad, but when you’re home I feel happy. I will give you my play money and ask money from papa, yaya, auntie and lola so I can put it in the piggy bank and give it to you, so you can throw them in the fountain! I want you to stop working na.” Iñigo then replies: “No, I want mama to work so she will be happy, and will not get old right away.” It’s funny how a two-year age gap can make such a big difference to their perception of things. bc { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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GIFT GUIDE
An array of amazing finds for the cool and chic mom P HO T OGRA P H s B Y B EN J O B ILL O NES a n d B YR O N HENRY S A NTI A G O
FIRMA JEWELLED ABACA PILLOW WITH TASSEL Three-toned pillow with exotic accents P3,000
KOKET NECKLACE WITH GOLD STRANDS AND BLACK STONES Multi-strand necklace featuring a mix of gold chains, crystals, and stones P2,900
FOR ME SILK TOP WITH RUFFLES A short-sleeved, breezy blouse, crosses-over from casual lunch dates to dinners P1,250
SHISEIDO LUMINIZING SATIN FACE COLOR IN ORCHID Dermatologist tested and provides all-day True Color and silky-smooth finish Price available upon request
CHICK FLICK CHANEL PUMPS Cap toe pumps with 3.5 inch heels P1,180
ACCESSORIZE LADY TURNLOCK BAG Stylish tan colored shoulder bag with buckle side details, turnlock fastening, and inner zip pocket P2,650
SWIM MEDIUM BOW HAT Wide-brimmed straw hat with black bow trimming P595
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ADORA ASSORTED AROMATIC CANDLES In sweet almond and blood orange, white sevrona peach, and green pepper coriander candles P1,850
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ACCESSORIZE STATEMENT AMALFI BUTTERFLY NECKLACE Burnt gold butterfly pendant with lobster clasp and extender P750
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KIRA PLASTININA OVERSIZED COAT IN BEIGE Stylish coverup with bell sleeves and waist band P5,350
LASSIG GLAM GLOBAL BAG Stylish, eco-friendly, and PVC-free bag for moms on-the-go P4,950
SHISEIDO WHITE LUCENT MOISTURIZING GEL A lightweight gel moisturizer that works on skin during its regeneration phase at night to repair skin damaged by daily UV exposure Price available upon request
KIEHL’S ACAI DAMAGE CORRECTING MOISTURIZER This antioxidant-enriched, non-greasy moisturizer helps skin repair the visible effects of oxidative environmental stress while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and loss of elasticity P 3,100
ACCESSORIZE STRAW TRILBY WITH PRINTED BAND HAT Woven straw hat with oriental band detail P1,350
PHILIPS AVENT COMBINED STEAMER AND BLENDER Prepares baby food for every stage of weaning, and helps preserve nutrients and texture of ingredients P9,999.75 KIRA PLASTININA PUMPS IN TANGERINE Perfect for date nights and dressing up casual outfits P3,280
HELLO BABY! BABY BOOK A keepsake journal for baby’s first year P900, Papertrail
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LUCAS JACK WHITE WITH GOLD BLUE STONE RING Classic cocktail ring perfect for special occasions P4,200, AC+632
AVENT URBAN BAG Choice of two zip-on flaps, with adjustable shoulder strap for optimum carrying comfort, and easy-close magnetic fastening P4,699.75
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GIFT GUIDE
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dad’s wishlist
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A mix of awesome must-haves for the stylish dad P HO T OGRA P H s B Y B EN J O B ILL O NES a n d B YR O N HENRY S A NTI A G O
MASSIMO DUTTI LEATHER BELT WITH VARIOUS TEXTURES Flexible waist strap with faux animal texture and braided tail Price available upon request
VIKTOR DENZEL BIKER LEATHER JACKET Bring out the rocker vibe in you with this classic leather jacket P10,000
MUNDO FAUX SUEDE BOOTS IN BEIGE High cut lace up pair of shoes with wooden outsole P3,550
COLLEZIONE C2 RED COLLARED POLO SHIRT Multicolored top for a sporty and casual look P680 SAMSUNG GALAXY SL Android powered smartphone with multi-touch screen feature P22,890
MASSIMO DUTTI CLASSIC LEATHER WALLET Basic accessory for men with multicolored card pockets inside Price available upon request
AVENT THERMA BAG Unique and functional bag for mom and dad, with special lining that keeps hot water warm or cold baby drinks for up to four hours P1,269.75
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ZO SKIN HEALTH EXFOLIATING POLISH BY ZEIN OBAGI, MD Rich in natural magnesium crystals for skin renewal and providing powerful anti-oxidant protection Price available upon request
www.bcmag.ph
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the formula of milk
Aside from being the best source of calcium, it has vitamins A and B, magnesium, protein, and zinc, making it the best wholesome supplement for kids p h o t o g r a p h by B EN J O B ILL O NES
Breastfeeding is ultimately the best way to give your child the balanced nutrients for him to grow strong and bright. However, not all mothers can breastfeed— some of us simply can’t produce enough milk, need to go back to work full time, have no access to a good breast pump, or may have certain health conditions (such as mastitis, HIV, active tuberculosis and other severe illnesses that prohibit nursing). We turn to the next best thing for our baby’s nourishment—formula milk.
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www.bcmag.ph
NUTrITION
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Tips on How to Choose Formula Milk
hile breastfeeding is still the optimal recommended feeding option for newborns up to two years, formula milk is also a vital source of nutrients for your child. You may have different reasons for not breastfeeding, such as poor milk supply, going back to work full-time, no access to a good breast pump, etc—which is why moms opt for formula milk. There's a wide array of formula milk in the market today, but consider these guidelines before purchasing for your child. 1. Consult your pediatrician for any dietary or health constraints. Some infants develop allergies from certain milk products. Ask your doctor for advice if your child is showing signs of allergic reactions, such as vomiting, wheezing, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, etc. 2. Check the label for nutrition information. Make sure there is a right proportion of carbohydrates, protein, and fat for the best nutrition for your child. Some milk formulas contain fatty acids like docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA), which aid in the development of the brain, and are also naturally found in breastmilk. Ask your pedia for advice on what types of vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients are best for your child's full development. 3. Make sure that the formula milk you are giving your child is age appropriate. There are brands that provide a series of growing up milk that cater to the nutritional needs of various age brackets.
most R E C O M M E N ded by mothers
NIDO 1+, P584.50 for 1.4kg, SM Hypermarket
PROMIL MILK SUPPLEMENT FOR 6 TO 12 MONTHS, P753 for 900g, Watson’s
S-26 GOLD FOR INFANTS 0 TO 6 MONTHS, P974 for 900g, Mercury Drug
Contains Prebio¹, which is a unique mix of carbohydrates to improve your child’s digestive system.
Specially formulated with the right balance of essential nutrients, such as vitamin A, D, and C, zinc, proteins, and carbohydrates for your child’s early years.
Fortified with iron, S-26 Gold supports proper motor skill and visual development through its arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are essential fatty acids.
BC moms speak My kids have been on Promil since I stopped breastfeeding. They are healthy, active and smart––I somehow associate that with their milk, so I don’t dare switch, though there are cheaper brands in the market. ––Marissa Mesa Sanchez Since I had a hard time producing breastmilk, I made sure that both my babies would still have the best milk formula. That is why I gave them Similac during the first 6 months, and Gain for the succeeding years. And the result is amazing, both of them grew up healthy and brainy! ––Josephine Bahala I had bountiful milk, but time came I needed to shift them to formula milk, so I gave them Promil. Then I shifted to Gain, which made them both such healthy and smart kids. ––Ineng Estrella My baby stopped breastfeeding after 5 1/2 months, ‘cause my supply decreased. This was 3 months after I went back to work. My pedia told me to get either Enfalac or S26 Gold. I chose the latter, and was glad I did. My baby is so strong and healthy! He’s drinking the next stage now, Promil Gold, and I’m so happy he still likes it. ––Julie Maronilla-Manas When I decided to mix-feed my son at 1 year and 8 months, I chose NAN HW. Now he’s 2.3, he’s taking Promil. He’s been very healthy, active, and smart ever since, and I feel that the benefits of breastfeeding him for almost 2 years was extended by NAN HW, and now Promil. ––Angg Llamanzares My son is on Enfagrow A+, and he loves it so much. My baby has been very active and smart since birth. ––Me-an Fadre-Galuza NAN HW. My baby pedia advised this for my son. When he was born, he was given different kind of milk, but he got allergy. That’s why James’ pedia gave NAN HW to him one week after he was born. He was allergic to the other milk. Only NAN HW can stop his allergy. ––BabyRose Tibar Allison
NAN 3 MILK DRINK, P893.50 for 900g, Mercury Drug
GAIN SCHOOL ADVANCE 3+, P665 for 900g, SM Supermarkets
Premium milk drink containing calcium, iron, and zinc, and a special blend of probiotics that help protect your child from harmful bacteria, while promoting a healthy digestive system.
Contains essential vitamins and nutrients that support your child’s growth. It also has an EYE-Q Nutrition System, composed of DHA, Choline, and Taurine to enable better memory function and mental and visual development.
www.bcmag.ph
ENFALAC A+ for infants 0 - 6 months, P1,500 for 900g, Watsons Contains DHA and ARA, which supports your baby’s brain development.
My pedia recommended me Enfalac A+, and at the same time I breastfed her. If my daughter was not contended with my milk, that’s the time I would make her formula milk, and she is one healthy baby. ––Danah Mae Villanueva
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road safety for kids Keeping your little ones safe goes beyond maintaining a hazard-free home, to making sure that your vehicle can get you and your family to your destination, without any troubles
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e childproof our homes to avoid all sorts of accidents that could happen as our kids grow up and become more active. Not surprisingly, we learn early on to take the same amount of care when leaving the house and traveling with our children. Just as we adults should have been practicing buckling up whenever we hit the road, there are equally vital procedures for ensuring our kids’ safety when we bring them along. Keeping our child secure on the road goes beyond purchasing a car seat or other paraphernalia, and placing him in one. Very specific guidelines must be followed, depending on the child’s age. There are four general age brackets that determine the kind of safety harness we should use: infants (0-12 months), toddlers and preschoolers (1-4 years), school-aged kids (5-9 years), and older
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W o r d s by Ro s a r i o Sa n t i ago p h o t o g r a p h by h e i d i a l l e t z h au s e r
children (aged 10-14). INFANT-ONLY SEATS
As a general rule, we should keep our kids in rear-facing safety seats as long as possible (or until they reach the maximum height and weight limits recommended by the manufacturer) because they cradle and support our baby’s head, neck, and torso. At the very least, we should keep them rear-facing until they are a year old and have reached 20 pounds. Infant-only seats are best for our newborns and babies up to 22 to 35 pounds. Convertible and Forwardfacing Seats
As the name implies, convertible seats offer versatility in terms of positioning within our vehicles, and are designed to protect our kids until they are at least 40 pounds. They can be used rear-facing until baby is anywhere between 20-35 pounds, then be
turned to face forward beyond that. Once our child has outgrown his convertible seat in the rear-facing position, we can switch to forward-facing seats equipped with a full harness, which are designed to protect children between 20-40 pounds, or more. Forward-facing seats with full harness are recommended for children up to four years of age, weighing 40-80 pounds. BOOSTER SEATS
For children who are too small to be properly secured with seatbelts, and have outgrown their forward-facing seats, booster seats are recommended. Kids should use these until they are at least 8 years of age, or have grown to around 4 feet and 9 inches tall, the height which normally allows regular automobile seat belts to be fastened snugly enough to restrain a person, and therefore provide adequate protection in the event of an accident. www.bcmag.ph
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“Whether your little one is still using one form of vehicle safety seat or another, or is mature enough to be secured with only the seat belts, all children up to 12 years of age should always ride in the back seat.”
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very important reminder: whether your little one is still using one form of vehicle safety seat or another, or is mature enough to be secured with only the seat belts, all children up to 12 years of age should always ride in the back seat. A major reason for this is to prevent injuries that can be caused by the deployment of front airbags, another vital safety device in vehicles, particularly when used together with seat belts. However, they are designed primarily to protect teenagers and adults from slamming face first onto the dashboard or windshield, or even being ejected through the latter in extreme cases. To children however, the velocity with which front airbags may deploy poses a real threat, particularly to those in rear-facing car seats. For this reason, you should never place a child below the age of 13 in the front seat. Side airbags are more child-friendly, and help keep them from going through side windows or being covered by broken glass during mishaps. In recent years, however, the technology of front airbags have evolved to make them safer for the little ones. Beginning in 2006, many passenger cars have come equipped with special sensors to detect when children or very small adults are in the front seat, and subsequently deploy airbags with minimal or no force at all. Aside from airbags, child locks are also essential to safe car travel. When activated, child locks can ensure that our little passengers don’t manage to unlock their doors and inadvertently open them while the car is in motion. In heading out on the road with your little ones, always keep in mind that ensuring their safety goes beyond providing them various safety paraphernalia, to include the safety of the vehicle you transport them in. According to Tesco Insurance’s guide to buying a family car, most things to consider can be classified into two main categories—safety and practicality. While seat belts, airbags, and child locks have been safety staples for cars over the years, Tesco’s article also mentions that statistically speaking, larger and heavier vehicles have been found to be safer than smaller and lighter ones. Practicality-wise, more sizeable cars also hold the advantage because the most important thing to take into account is space. www.bcmag.ph
Tesco’s guide advocates that a practical family car should have at least four seats, enough room to house various child gear, and adequate storage containers for toys, supplies, food, and other necessities. The more kids you have or are planning to have, the bigger your choice of vehicle should be. If you have one or two children, you can probably get by with a four-door sedan or a sporty wagon. If you have more than two kids, and lead an active lifestyle that includes long trips and activities that require a lot of equipment, then you might do well to invest in bigger models such as SUVs and minivans, which can accommodate seven to eight passengers. David Champion, director of Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Facility in East Haddam, Connecticut assures that, “Finding the right family vehicle doesn’t have to be a difficult, or long, process—if you invest some time to research your options before you go out shopping, so that you know what to look for. Parents need to think about how they’ll be using the vehicle, what type of cargo they intend to carry, and how their needs may change during the years they own the vehicle.” He also stresses the importance of choosing a car with windows easy for the little ones to look out of. “If they can see what’s going on, kids are much happier,” Champion says. “If the back seat is low, they can’t look out the window. And that can trigger boredom and bickering among siblings.” Kristin Varela, “chief mother” at MotherProof. com, which reviews new vehicles specifically for the benefit of moms, offers a similar opinion. “Many auto manufacturers are beginning to know that happy kids in the car equal happy parents or drivers, and also safer drivers,” Varela says. “Storage compartments are frequently built so kids can use them and have access to snacks, games, and other diversions in the car. Entertainment systems are also quite common, again keeping back-seat passengers occupied to contribute to distractionfree driving.” So in choosing which car to buy for your family, just keep in mind the fundamental safety, comfort, and practical features that would provide you and your children a fun, safe, worry-free, and truly enjoyable road traveling experience. bc
SAFETY TIP! SEAT BELTS
To find out if your child is ready to ride a vehicle without a booster seat, you can use the Safety Belt Fit Test from SafeKids.org:
When seated with his back against the car back seat, do his legs bend at the knees at the edge of the seat? When you fasten the lap belt, does it stay low on the hips and high on the thighs? When you secure the shoulder belt, does it lie on the collarbone and shoulder? Can your child remain seated with his back flat against the backrest of the rear seat, without sliding down or slouching; with the lap belt low on the hips, high on the thighs and never on the stomach; and with the shoulder belts across the chest and shoulders and never on the face and neck? If the answer is “yes” to each of the four questions, then your child has passed the Safety Belt Fit Test, and can now ride without a booster seat, secured only using your automobile seat belts. { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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playing with fire We’re knee deep into summer, and along with the excitement that comes with the change of temperature, also comes the increased risk for fire breakouts W o r d s by Va l e r i e A n n e d e l C a s t i l l o AR T & P HO T OGRA P H s B Y M A R K C A B A L A N G A N D B EN J O B ILL O NES
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he hot days are the best time to highlight the importance of practicing general safety measures at home and at the workplace. Nonetheless, caution must be practiced all year round to ensure our family’s safety and security. Last December 2010, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Director General Rolando Bandilla revealed that as much as 8,000 firerelated accidents happen nationwide, every year. Despite the relentless reminders of public service programs and local government units, mishaps still happen. A good way to
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significantly reduce the risk of accidents at home is to educate the household members (including our nannies) of the safety guidelines we must undertake to ensure our family’s protection. As we look forward to hanging out with our dear ones under the warm sun (and possibly dancing to great music and even grilling barbecue under the evening sky), let us all remember that our family and friends’ safety always comes first. Childproofing our homes is a great way to prevent injuries, but even the most unpredictable accidents still occur when children (and ignorant adults) go a little too far into their exploration. www.bcmag.ph
PRE C A U T I O N DEALING WITH BURNS Primary Relief
Burns are serious injuries that must be taken care of immediately. Depending on its severity, there are several ways to apply first aid. For minor ones, expose the affected area to cool (never cold) running water for approximately 15 minutes, or until the pain decreases. Protect it by wrapping in sterile gauze bandage. Administer pain relievers such as ibuprofen. Caution CAUTION
Never apply ice to a burn, or expose the wound to cold water, as the victim may experience hypothermia, the sudden decrease in body temperature. Instead, cover it with clean, moist bandages, and elevate the affected area above heart level. If blisters develop, make sure these are not touched nor scratched, as it can also develop an infection. Do not attempt to sooth them with butter, ointments, or creams, as these may also cause infections. Never remove burnt clothing, as this may further damage the injury. Take caution in handling major wounds, and run to the hospital immediately. Call for Help
If you are unsure of how to treat a burn, call an ambulance or take the victim to the hospital as soon as possible. Always keep emergency numbers by the telephone and in your mobile phone for easy access. Stay Alert
The key to survival is awareness. Every member of the family— including househelp—must be aware of the safety precautions and guidelines in making your home a safer place to live. FIRST AID KIT for burns
clean cloth
gauze
www.bcmag.ph
Little Firestarter Older children are often aware that getting too near fire—whether it’s candles, the stove, oven, or bonfire—is a very dangerous thing to do. But for toddlers who are too young to understand this concept, fires may draw them in like moth to the flame. Children may accidentally set fire at home by playing with matches and lighters, which should be kept well away from their little hands at all times.
prevent mishaps.
If your child sets fires on purpose, you must talk to him or her and set clear ground rules. Keep lighters, matches, and other hazardous materials in a secure storage, away from his reach. If fire-setting has become a habit, speak to your doctor, school counselor, or child psychiatrist for advice on how to stop this behavior immediately. Children who set fire on purpose often do such things to gain attention, or to deal with their inner conflicts. Speak to your child to find out the reason behind such conduct, which must be nipped in the bud to prevent more serious harm to your family.
When cooking, do not use frilly clothing that can easily catch fire. If a pan catches fire, immediately slide a cover over the flames. Have a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen, and make sure that your family and house help know how to operate the device, in case of emergencies.
Caution in the Kitchen Parents and househelp alike must be aware of the possible dangers that the most mundane appliances can cause. For the kitchen, establish a “no kids allowed” area, in which they are not permitted to loiter or play in. You can outline the cooking area—or the general area where stoves, microwaves, ovens, and knives are kept—by placing tape on the floor. Instruct your kids to stay well outside this area, to
Always make sure that gas tanks, electric stoves, ovens, and other cooking devices are turned off after use. Keep knives and other sharp objects in their respective containers, and never leave any utensils lying around the kitchen. Neatly arrange appliance wires using a wire keeper. Keep pot handles facing towards the rear of the stove, as to not cause burns and other injuries.
Flammable Decors Scented and decorative candles can serve as great accent pieces for your home. However, the use of such must be paired with a strong sense of awareness and responsibility. Don’t allow children to light candles, and never leave them alone in a room with lighted ones. Check the candleholder for sturdiness and durability, and place the candle away from flammable materials such as tablecloths, sofa pillows, books and magazines, etc. Some candles come with a glass container to protect the flame, but regardless of what type of candles you use, make sure that they sit in the middle of a sturdy table or surface, away from pets and children who may pass and knock it down. If you’re leaving a room unattended, blow out the lighted candles. bc
SAFETY AND PREVENTION 1. If the whole family is leaving the house for a long period of time, make sure that appliances are turned off and unplugged, to prevent fire breakouts. Regularly monitor your usage of extension cords, and don’t overuse or overload them. Check for faulty wirings, broken plugs, and bruised cords. Always use the correct wattage for your appliances, and check for those that cause sparks, emit burnt smells, and overheat. 2. Use safety covers for outlets that are not in use, as children might poke them with toys, pens, or other things around the house. If you are not sure about how to install an electrical fixture or use an appliance, seek professional help. It is important to read user manuals thoroughly before using a new or unfamiliar piece of equipment. 3. Smokers in the family should also be aware
of the proper disposal of cigarette remnants. Do not allow them to smoke in bed, and if possible, limit smoking to outdoors or only one section of the house. Cigarette butts should be completely out before throwing into the trashcan. Clean out ashtrays and put them away after use, to avoid being picked up and played with by children. 4. Awareness is key to survival. Teach your children the basics about fire early on—“Do not panic” being the first rule. In case of fire, cover your mouths and noses with a damp piece of cloth, as you make your way to safety. Crawl as low as possible on the ground, as the smoke tends to move upward. Don’t linger inside a burning place, and try to make your way out through fire exits as soon as possible. If you catch fire, do not run. Drop to the ground and roll around to extinguish the flames. { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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These stain-removing tips will do half the job for you W OR D S B y M a r k Sab l a n P HO T OGRA P H B Y B EN J O B ILL O NE s
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hen it comes to soiled garments, there are only two things you should remember: fresh ones are so much easier to remove than old ones, and heat can sometimes set stains permanently. So make sure that every time something spills and you spot a stain that you don’t let it steal the scene—make it disappear, pronto. Here are the usual culprits and some tips on how to deal with them: www.bcmag.ph
st a ins a wa y MARKERS AND PERMANENT INK
CRAYONS
Markers are tricky to remove, but try applying laundry detergent or stain removers on the blot. Rinse and repeat if necessary, and then launder with a liquid bleach and detergent in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Permanent ink is a real toughie, but try blotting the stain with rubbing alcohol, fingernail polish remover, or baking soda mixed with water. Rinse thoroughly before washing and drying.
Tried and true method to make crayon stains vanish: use the dull edge of a bread knife to scrape off excess crayon before soaking the piece in warm water mixed with soap and ½ cup baking soda for 10 minutes. If the stain is stubborn, work soap paste into it, wash, and then rinse. You can also spray WD-40 on both sides of the stain, and let it stand for 5 minutes to loosen the crayon.
BABY FOOD
To remove from white garments, squeeze kalamansi or lemon juice onto the stain, and leave it under the sun to dry. For other garments, just use a spoon to scoop as much of the baby food before gently rubbing a liquid detergent into the stain. Wait for at least 5 minutes before you soak the clothing in cold water for 15 minutes. When the stain has loosened, rub the spot using your thumb and forefinger and then rinse and repeat until the stain is completely gone. CHOCOLATES
For choco stains (no, don’t try to eat them out of the garment), remove as much of it from the clothing and then soak in cold water. Use sponge and cool water to clean the stain. GUM
Sprinkling absorbents like cornmeal, fuller’s earth, or talcum powder will help you get rid of that nasty gum stain. Just apply on the spot and let it stand for around 15 minutes. Brush or vacuum off residue, and then launder as usual. KETCHUP
Don’t let ketchup stains turn you red. Grab a bottle of white vinegar and use it to saturate the stain for a few minutes, and then wash. Borax is also good for removing tomato stains. Put a teaspoon of it into the stain and rub with a soft brush. Run cold water and wash as usual. Rinse thoroughly. PENCIL MARKS
Whether pencil marks are on paper or on your kid’s uniform, all it takes is a soft eraser to make it disappear. Rub the spot with liquid detergent before rinsing and laundering it. www.bcmag.ph
BALLPENS
What’s mighty enough to erase a pen ink stain? Some alcohol-based hairspray. Put absorbent paper under the stain and saturate it with hairspray. Blot and repeat until the ink stain’s gone. You can also use nail polish remover for stubborn ink stains. After rinsing the piece, apply liquid detergent into the spot and let it sit for 5 minutes. Wash in warm water. PAINT
What to do with water-based paint stains? Rinse it in warm water as long as it’s still wet because it’d be terribly hard to remove paint when it has dried up on the fabric. For oil-based ones, however, look at the solvent listed on the label and use it as a thinner. Rinse, pre-treat with detergent or bar soap, rinse again and then launder. WATER-BASED GLUE AND ADHESIVES
Gently rubbing petroleum jelly onto the stain removes the glue from the fabric. To remove the petroleum jelly from the fabric, rub some dishwashing liquid into it and then rinse in hot water. STICKERS
Use a piece of ice cube to freeze the sticker stain, and then scrape as much of the residue as you can. Use baby or cooking oil to blot the stained spot and then scrape the loosened residue using a spoon. Thoroughly rinse the stained area. POOP AND URINE
After using a presoak solution, launder poop-stained cloth diapers using the hottest water safe for fabric, together with the appropriate bleach. Adding liquid bleach to the wash cycle kills bacteria that may contribute to diaper rash. To effectively get rid of urine stains (and smells), just soak the stained clothing in cold water using a detergent or enzyme
presoak product for about half an hour, then launder it in warm water. VOMIT
Be brave and scoop out as much of the vomit before rinsing the cloth with cold water from the back of the stained area. Sponge that area with a mixture of ¼ cup ammonia in 1 cup of warm water and then rinse. Soak with a liquid laundry detergent and warm water for an hour, then rinse and wash according to the directions. MEDICINE AND OINTMENTS
Wash the back of the stained area with some cold water and then rub some dishwashing liquid onto the portion using a clean cloth. Wait for 3 minutes before you rinse it with cold water. Apply liquid laundry detergent to the spot and soak the piece in cold water for around 30 minutes. Wash as usual. For oil-based medicine, scoop the ointment using a spoon so that the fabric won’t get damaged. Sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch onto the stain to absorb oil, and let it stand for around 10 minutes or more. Once it’s absorbed, brush off the baking soda. Rub dishwashing liquid on the spot and wait for 5 minutes before soaking the piece in hot water and dishwashing liquid for 30 minutes. Rinse the back portion of the stain with hot water, remove loosened ointment and wash clothing in safest, hottest water that the fabric will allow. PERSPIRATION MARKS
If your kid loves playing under the heat of the sun, perspiration marks may sometimes be spotted on their clothes. Solution? Sponge the spot with white vinegar and then launder as usual. GRASS
Grass stains on a soccer uniform? Say goodbye to them by using corn syrup. Apply it directly on the spot and rinse. Put some detergent onto the stain, let it sit for a while before rinsing it again and washing the piece as usual. bc Stain Master As soon as the stain is spotted, try to deal with it on the spot so it won’t scar your children’s clothes (nor your bleeding heart) for life. { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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tools of the trade
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Get the lowdown on these handy items that make for easy repairs all over your home w o r d s by v a l e r i e a n n e d e l ca s t i l l o a n d jo n a co n op i o p h o t o g r a p h s by b e n jo b i l l o n e s
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doesn’t always take a man to do the job. Us women can roll up our sleeves and gear up for minor household repairs and maintenance procedures that often require help from plumbers and carpenters. All you need are some gear, which you might already have in your garage.
When handling these items and other dangerous materials, however, make sure that they are utilized and stored properly, away from kids and anyone else who might come across and misuse them. It is best to keep these in locked cabinets, where children can’t play with them. If you’re bringing them out for a project, make sure that someone is watching over the little ones and that they don’t frolic or loiter around the working area, or cause any mishaps. Also explain to them what is going on and make them understand that it is a serious chore for adults only. Save up on manpower costs by investing in these very useful items and learning how to do the more simple tasks such as hanging up a newly purchased painting and changing fixtures. If you don’t have your husband or a carpenter and plumber on call to do some minor touch-ups, these tools can definitely help you DIY. If you decide to outsource the job, however, these functional items can help you double check that they did a good one. Learn more about your trusty toolbox in this quick guide.
All items available at ACE Hardware Stores.
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Round Inspection Mirror by STANLEY, P369.75 This will allow you great visibility in tight spots and corners with its double ball joint and 360° swivel. You can search under the floorboards for termites or peek at the back of your dresser for missing jewelry, or even inspect the underside of your sink to check if your plumber did a tidy job.
Ball Hammer with Genuine Hickory Handle 54-190 12oz/350g by STANLEY, P324.75 This type of hammer has two heads—an ordinary hammerhead in one, and a spherical head on the other, which is used to peen welded or riveted metal materials. Use this to fix up a slight dent on your fender, or even use it as a meat tenderizer—just make sure that it’s clean and your meat is wrapped in plastic.
8” Adjustable Wrench by ACE, P249.75 To keep those pesky leaks from your kitchen sink and bathtub at bay, use this to loosen or tighten various sizes of knots and bolts.
Phillips Screwdriver 0x3in by ACE, P39.75 Specifically designed for driving Phillips screws or gripping them into place, this hand tool is equipped with four slits on its head, making it ideal auto-centering, so you can avoid slips. Use this to install or reinforce door locks and hinges, set up a wall shelf, and take apart stereos, computers, fans, and other electronics for cleaning. Also practical for assembling cribs and strollers.
Long Nose Pliers 200mm/8in by ACE, P219.75 Also perfect for gripping or picking up very small objects and reaching into deep spaces, the long nose pliers are commonly used to cut, bend, and hold wires. You can use this to repair accessories, make handicrafts, and repair electronics, including toys.
Industrial Gloves by CRESTON, P54.75 Protect your hands from dirt and grime while gardening or cleaning your house with these rubberized gloves. Pick up broken glass or any shards using this household staple.
Magnetic Tip Measuring Tape 5m/15ft by ACE, P54.75 Created for easy one-person measuring (no need for someone else to hold the tip while you measure across a space), this can come in handy when you’re moving into a home, to easily measure tight spaces and windows. This flexible device also offers faster measuring of angled areas.
All Purpose Snips 14-556 by STANLEY, P395 This type of shears is great for all sorts of cutting in your home. Use it to cut cloth for drapes or curtains, carpet and linoleum, or even branches in your garden.
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GSB 10 RE Professional Impact Drill by BOSCH, P3,999.75 This extremely compact, 1-speed impact drill provides great power and comfort, since it is also one of the most lightweight in the market. You can assemble your kids’ beds, bunks, and hanging shelves, and install hooks and other handles for flat screen TVs, picture frames, curtain rods, window blinds, etc.
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Beef Tastes Better.
Premium Quality Meats Landmark Supermarket Makati . Trinoma
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on't be afraid to cook” is Chef Jayme's best advice to those who are bracing themselves for kitchen duty. This master chef, who has worked with culinary experts Mario Batali and Wolgang Puck, stays humble despite his enviable career. Nowadays, you can find him shuttling between a number of restaurants he put up with his partners, with locations ranging from the heart of Metro Manila to Baguio and Ilocos—very diverse, much like his menu. For someone who likes to shake up the table, he's pretty firm when it comes to his favorite dish—pasta. “It's just so easy,” he says. “It has never been challenging for me, and it's really fun to cook.” His other advice is using fresh ingredients, because “there's nothing compared to the real thing.” Check out the culinary masterpieces he whipped up for us, and try your version at home.
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Chef’s note: My rule of thumb is 80-100g of raw pasta per person. Once cooked, it almost doubles in weight. I only use boiling salted water in a pot. No oil. Follow the pasta manufacturer’s cooking time.
Spaghetti Pomodoro (Serves 4) Ingredients:
5 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons garlic, cut in slivers 1/4 tsp. red chili flakes (optional) 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half, or Roma tomatoes, diced 1/4 cup Basil leaves, diced or rough chopped 1 kg of original tomato sauce salt and pepper to taste 1 cup Grana Padano cheese, grated Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until lightly brown. Add the tomatoes and chili flakes, and stir. Season with salt and pepper. 2. Add tomato sauce after 3 minutes. Bring to a simmer and add the basil leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning. 3. In another pot where the pasta and sauce can be tossed, add up to 400 to 500 ml of the tomato sauce to the pasta. Toss with the cheese. You can garnish the top with basil.
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Cream Dory in Parchment Chef’s note: You can use watered down chicken stock or fish stock (pinagpakuluan) if you have it.
Sunburst Salad (Serves 4-6) Ingredients:
1 head of Romaine lettuce 1/2 head of red leaf lettuce 1/2 head of green leaf lettuce 2 oranges, peeled and in segments, or canned mandarin oranges 1 apple cored, quartered and thinly sliced 1/2 cup grapes, cut in half 8-10 pieces strawberries cut in quarters 1 kiwi, peeled and dice into cubes
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1. Make sure that the salad is rinsed well and dry. 2. Cut the lettuce lengthwise, then cut crosswise about 3/4 of an inch. 3. Mix in a bowl with the fruits. Season the salad with some salt and freshly ground black pepper before dressing it. Add dressing accordingly. Balsamic Dressing Ingredients:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup white balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon ground mustard 1 pinch salt ground black pepper to taste Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine vinegar and oil using a wire whisk. Add the rest of the ingredients. 2. Adjust seasoning to your preferred taste. www.bcmag.ph
Cream Dory in Parchment (Serves 4) Ingredients:
1/2 kg of dory at 125g of dory per serving, seasoned with salt and pepper 80 grams zucchini, cut in half moon shape and about an eighth of an inch thick 80 grams carrots, cut the same way as the zucchini 40g onions, thinly sliced 1 table spoon thyme
*If parchment paper is not available, aluminum foil can be used.
For the stock (Prepare 3 hours before) Ingredients: 1/2 cup white wine juice of 1 lemon 1 clove garlic, chopped 1 table spoon flat leaf parsley, chopped salt and pepper 1/2 cup broth Instructions:
1. Reduce wine in half. Add all ingredients and bring to a simmer. You can opt to blanch the vegetables for this dish to enhance flavor. 2. Cool down before adding in the fish. Preheat oven 400°F. 3. Cut the parchment or foil about 5”x8”. Line the center of it with equal amounts of the vegetables. 4. Put the seasoned fish in the center. Add 2 tablespoons of the stock making sure that it stays in the parchment. Then garnish fish with the parsley. 5. Seal the ends of the parchment or foil. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Be careful when opening the parchment as the steam may burn you. Best served with rice pilaf. { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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The second installment of the comic parody of the Red Riding Hood fairy tale follows Red Puckett, as she undergoes training to join the mysterious group called the Sisters of the Hood. With the sudden abduction of Hansel and Gretel in the hands of a wicked witch ( Joan Cusack), Red has to put her training on hold and team up with Wolf and his partner Twitchy, to save the day. With the voices of Hayden Panettiere as Red (formerly voiced by Anne Hathaway), and Patrick Warburton as Wolf, as well as Glenn Close reprising her role as Granny Puckett, Hoodwinked Too! is a mix of 3D-cartoon antics, fairy tale fun, and a good dose of pop culture.
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swing into action!
+ bc’s exclusive interview with kathy ireland...entertainment picks...great music...
GET READY FOR THE SUPERHEROES, VILLAINS, AND TRUSTY SIDEKICKS WHOSE PURSUITS WILL MAKE FOR A SWASHBUCKLING ADVENTURE LIKE NO OTHER
Captain America: The First Avenger Watch as comic books come to life with Captain America: The First Avenger, which focuses on the early life of Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), who was pronounced as physically unfit to join the U.S. Army. He then signs up for an experimental research project that turns him into a “Super Soldier.” The Marvel superhero soon teams up with Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and the spy Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell)—who is also Captain America’s love interest in the film—to battle with the HYDRA organization, led by the evil Red Skull (Hugo Weaving). The film also stars big names such as Tommy Lee Jones as Colonel Chester Philipps, and Stanley Tucci as Dr. Erskine.
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X-Men: First Class The prequel to the first three X-Men films and the beginning of a new trilogy, X-Men: First Class shows us the epic origin of the famous saga. Before they became archenemies and took on the names of Professor X and Magneto, Charles Xavier ( James McAvoy) and Erik Lensherr (Michael Fassbender) were the closest of friends, working together and discovering their powers for the first time. While in the process of stopping Armageddon, conflicts of opinion aroused between the two, and an eternal rivalry was created between Magneto’s Brotherhood of Mutants and Professor X’s X-Men.
Super For parents who are looking for a dose of dark, dramatic comedy, check out Super, director James Gunn’s definitive take on superheroes, which is subversive to the core. Average Joe, Frank (Rainn Wilson) assumes a pseudosuperhero alter ego after seeing his wife (Liv Tyler) be charmed by a glamorous drug dealer (Kevin Bacon). Although lacking of super powers, Frank became the wrench-swinging Crimson Bolt. With his trusty and slightly psychopathic teen sidekick Boltie (Ellen Page), the unlikely duo proceeds to combat crime and tries to go after the drug dealer who attempted to destroy Frank’s marriage. www.bcmag.ph
unwind
FINE TUNES During those dreary days, turn your feelings into a more positive direction with these feel-good tunes “21st Century Girl” by Willow Smith Willow Smith follows-up her ground-breaking hit, “Whip My Hair,” with another energetic pop track. The 10-year old continues to sing about edgy themes like having no restrictions and living it up. “Who Says” by Selena Gomez Teen star Selena Gomez (who’s reportedly pop star Justin Bieber’s flame) is back with a brand new single. The song showcases simple, straightforward lyrics that send a shout-out to all to believe in yourself— even if some may think otherwise—in a catchy, radio-friendly melody. “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga Stefani Germanotta, more known as Lady Gaga, dishes out another instant-dance anthem. Singing of loving one’s self whatever your circumstances are, she displays her signature flamboyant character. Parents, be advised that the song’s video is not suitable for younger kids. “This Is Love” by The Script An honest song about love found in so many places, Irish alternative rock band, The Script, offers this beautiful track that reminds us that we may crash and burn sometimes, but love is worth the pain.
“Rolling in the Deep” by Adele From English singer-songwriter Adele’s second album, 21, comes this lead single. The catchy song gained critical (and now, mass) acclaim for the singer’s powerful dark-blues vocals and haunting lyrics.
“Aftermath” by Adam Lambert American Idol season 8 first runnerup, Adam Lambert, veers away from his usual upbeat and electro-pop rock songs with this latest single. Listen to this track when you’re feeling down, and remember, “you’ll be alright in the aftermath.”
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YOUTUBE MUST-SEES Check out these heartwarming father-child videos that will make you laugh and go ‘aww.’ Baby Laughing Hysterically at Ripping Paper Take a cue from this dad who made the best out of a bad situation, as he ripped a job rejection letter to make his 8-month old baby, Micah, laugh.
Daddy- Daughter Duet Check out musician and dad Jorge Narvaez perform a touching cover of the Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros song “Home.” The proud single father, who is working his way through college, shares that this is just his way of spending time with his kids.
APP FREEBIES Got a backseat full of kids with you? Keep them busy with these fun downloads.
Color Car Mania Keep your kids interested during long car rides with this latest app. The goal is to find cars of certain colors; specific types of colors are worth different points. When a player spots a car of a certain color, they call out its color. Players can also have fun choosing their character images.
Animal Coloring for Kids Lite Boost your child’s creativity by letting them fill in cute animal illustrations with color, using their own fingers! Ideal for ages 3 to 10, it features simple and easy-to-use interface, 18 color palettes, eraser functions, and saving variations. You can even set your kid’s finished work as a wallpaper. Paper Toss: World Tour HD Tagged as “the best casual game,” Paper Toss is now available on the iPad, with 10 exotic levels, higher resolution graphics, outstanding flick controls, and more animated paper. So grab your metal trash bin, and enjoy this simple and addictive game with your kids.
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momdelpreneur From supermodel to mom to mogul billionaire (plus actress, author, and several others in between), Kathy Ireland shares tips on how to balance work and family, and stresses the importance of asking for help—plus, she spills the secret to having a lucrative business I n t e r v i e w by ka r i z T A NY A F a v i s a n d N e i l G a r gu i l o B o o k s i g n i n g p h o t o s by ka r i z T A NY A fa v i s
What would you say the biggest reward is of being a mother?
Oh gosh—just looking into the eyes of my children. It’s the love that I receive from them, and the love that I see them give others. When I see them just making good choices on their own and just kind of soaring, that’s really exciting. You have three children. What lessons have you learned about parenting each child?
Each child is so unique. What works for one child doesn’t necessarily work with another. I’ve learned that it’s so important to really focus and listen to them, and take action on what you’re hearing. Your company, Kathy Ireland Worldwide, is one of the biggest licensors in the world. How do you manage your time between that and parenting?
It’s a daily challenge, I can tell you that. I work with an amazing team. Sometimes as women we don’t ask for help. We try to do
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everything ourselves, and it’s not a good idea. We can get so much more done with a team, focus on our strengths, and get a team to help us in other areas. I didn’t learn until I was 40 that, “No” is a complete sentence, and “No, thank you,” is better. But as women we feel guilty, we want to do everything, because there are so many good things to do and we want to do it. Oftentimes, we’ve got to say no to good things if we want to do great things. I believe in figuring out your priorities and putting boundaries in place to honor them. When you first started your company, did you ever think it would break the one billion dollar mark, and even have annual sales of about $1.4 billion?
I didn’t think of it in terms of the money, because money is not the motivator. When you do the work right and with integrity, the money comes. Who among your kids is most likely to go the same career direction? www.bcmag.ph
O F F T H E S H EL F
giving her reader a hug
One of kathy’s causes, oneforjasmina.com a visit from HER good friend, former CHIPS star erik estrada, completed the event
My 10-year old daughter, Lily, is currently very interested in design. She’s got a great eye. We’ll be shopping and she’ll see a pair of shoes, then she’ll be sketching and coming up with designs. Our son, who’s 14, it changes a lot, but he’s really great with the camera. And our youngest, her brother and sister say she’s going to be a terrorist when she grows up (laughs). She’s so clever and bright. She makes me proud. Why did you decide to publish a book called, “Real Solutions for Busy Moms: Your Guide to Success & Sanity?”
I wrote it because I had a lot of problems, and I needed a lot of solutions. It’s really tough being a mom today, more than ever. And when I became one, I learned very quickly that the things that I took for granted, like taking a shower, became a huge luxury. We started around 1993, when I was pregnant with my first child, with a pair of socks. Our mission really is “finding solutions for families, especially busy moms.” Families embrace our brand, so with every product we make, we address our four promises: safety, fashion, quality, and value. The book talks about that, and more. There is a certain spirituality about you. Have you always been this way?
I became a Christian when I was 18. Without Him, I’d make a really big mess of my life. What is the best piece of advice you can give to www.bcmag.ph
the book signing at vroman’s in pasadena, CA
entrepreneurs who are trying to raise children?
When you get on an airplane, the flight attendant says [in case of an emergency] to put on your own oxygen mask so you can help others around you. As moms, we’re such nurturers, we’re taking care of everybody else—but when we say that family is our priority, we gotta remember that we are a member of that family too. For entrepreneurs, you’re gonna be pushed and pulled from every direction, so protect the time with your kids. Lastly, with everything going on in your life, how do you maintain your looks?
Thank you, you are very kind. There was a picture in People Magazine that my son took. He showed it to me and was kinda chuckling a little bit, and my daughter said, “Mom, you look pregnant.” It was not so much the physical appearance, because beautiful people come in all shapes and sizes, color or age, and there was no shame in the weight gain—which was gradual, maybe a pound a year for the last 25 years—and I intentionally built a business that would have nothing to do with my appearance. Health is my motivator. It was more about making healthy choices, and my business partner called me out on that—I was drinking coffee, eating cookies, and I got worried about heart diseases, which is the number 1 killer for women in America, and that an extra 25 lbs can take 10 years off your life. I plan on living to be 102, 120, whatever I’m blessed with—and I want to be able to dance at my great grandkids’ wedding. bc
Excerpts from the book PROBLEM: In the next five years I'll be sending three kids to college, and I don't know how we're going to pay for it all. What if this completely wipes out our retirement savings? SOLUTION: Stay committed to your future. PROBLEM: I can't stand the look of our home––it leaves me discouraged and just feels wrong. I want to change everything but don't know where to start. How can I do this with a tiny budget? SOLUTION: Make big changes with a few simple steps. { may-jun 2011 } b c PHILIPPINES
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becoming a first time mommy It was during my days as a medical intern when I experienced motherhood. My experience was more vicarious, since I didn’t actually give birth. I was at the receiving end, catching the newborn W OR D S by B A R B A R A A M B R O SI O
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medical school terms, being assigned to a particular part of a hospital is called a “rotation,” while doing the actual medical work is called “duty”. So from the Delivery Room, I would then be “rotated” to the Nursery Room to monitor and check up on all those babies. Just like a new mother, I was enormously sleep-deprived doing my “duty” to ensure that all were normal. Despite the lack of sleep, I enjoyed that particular part of medical school. Five years later, I became a mother to my son, and three years after, I gave birth to my daughter. Caring for my own babies brought me back to my rotations at the Nursery Room. But my duty does not end after my shift. Being a new mother is a 24/7 shift, without a day off, for life…well, I guess until they are adolescents and do not want to have anything to do with you (drive a stake through my heart, please!).
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“Being a new mother is a 24/7 shift, without a day off, for life.”
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The newborn period (first 28 days of life) is my favorite. Their skin is so soft and velvety. The scent of their mouths—oh so delightfully intoxicating. At this stage, they basically need to be fed, cuddled and changed—and when you leave them in their beds, they stay exactly where you left them. As they get older, try to ensure that every minute of their lives is spent learning and enjoying. There is story-telling, arts and craft activities, board games, puzzles, Lego, golf, soccer, swimming, bicycle rides, kite-flying, playground time, bath time, and birthday parties. Now, I am like this mother alien—a happy, beaming, cheerful fourlegged creature with octopus arms and eyes at the front and back of my head. Someone once told me that the ball and chain joke is half true once I get married and have children. It certainly is, but in the most wonderful and satisfying way. My nights out bar hopping have been replaced by bedtime story telling and tucking my little ones in. Quality time, simple dinner or movie dates with my husband, Job, replaced sudden out of town trips with friends. Now you’re probably asking where I get my time to be a doctor. I am in what you would call “private practice”…literally. I am currently treating just family and close friends. Having children changed my attitude towards my chosen career. I find it difficult to entrust the care of my children to anyone, especially in their delicate growing years. So I decided to put that part of my life on hold to be with them full time. Indeed I am very blessed to have a husband who supports me and allows me to do so.
But despite my mommy duties, I am also taking a course in homeopathic medicine, which is a form of alternative medicine. I have been using Homeopathic remedies since I was in high school, with remarkable results. At present, I use it together with various herbs to treat illnesses of my children. It works wonders and is gentle for their little sensitive bodies. I believe that the body is actually capable of healing itself if only it was given the chance. Alternative therapies and holistic methods of healing are not so widely accepted yet in the Philippines. At the moment, such unconventional practice is received with the least enthusiasm. Most of the time, I encounter resistance and outright ridicule whenever I employ treatments like Homeopathy, medicinal herbs, or detoxification. No one seems to believe it. A vast majority is still accustomed to symptomatic instant relief. The underlying cause of illness is often overlooked and left untreated resulting in recurrent conditions. Despite such opposition, I am a firm believer that holistic medicine empowers the individual to make decisions about their health and well-being. It is an ongoing process. It is a lifestyle choice with the ultimate goal of your body functioning in the best possible way. With the constant encouragement of my husband, I am halfway through my Homeopathy Course. When I finish, I will hopefully be able to convince my children to adopt a healthier lifestyle and more importantly, convince people of the benefits of using natural methods of healing. bc
BC Magazine Survey: What are your must-buys for newborn babies? 1 . Diapers (Pampers), Cetaphil moisturizing lotion, Johnson’s Baby Shampoo and Cetaphil soap, Pampers Baby Wipes. -Naomi Ellie Eusebio
2 . Graco Crib, Graco Stroller, MamyPoko Diapers, Chicco Sterilizer, Lander Shampoo, Cetaphil Skin Cleansers and Cetaphil Lotions, Dove Soap Unscented. -Maybel Mallari
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3 . Avent Bottle Warmer for pumped breastmilk (refrigerated). -Nizzy Guerrero-Santos
4 . Baby wipes (Pigeon), diaper (Drypers), baby liquid soap (Lactacyd), Johnson’s Baby Shampoo and feeding bottle (Avent). -April Ferrer-Obial
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6 . Sebamed Baby Wash, Avent Feeding Bottle (for less colic), Pampers Baby Wipes - sensitive and diapers. If not breastfed, NAN HA milk formula. -Rax Llur
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5 . Milk, bottles, sterilized water (Dr. Edwards), sterilizer, diapers, alcohol, baby oil, feeding cloth, bib, mild soap (like Oilatum and Lactacyd), mittens, socks, infant shirt, cotton or baby wipes. -Rose Fermin Briones
7 . Diapers (Drypers), feeding bottles (Farlin), S26 (if not breastfeed), baby wipes (Farlin), soap (Dove plain), baby oil, thermometer, mittens, socks, bib. -Loren Angela Cruz
8 . For diapers, Prokids. For bath products, Nivea Head to Toe Wash and Nivea Oil. -Vann Quitoriano Carbayar
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P HO T OGRA P HS B Y ma r t i n a n d ka r i z T A NY A F A VIS S T Y LING B Y ka r i z T A NY A F A VIS w o r d s B Y v a l e r i e a n n e d e l ca s t i l l o P HO T OGRA P H Y ASSIS T AN T M A R K C A B A L A N G S T Y LING ASSIS T AN T B EN J O B ILL O NES M A K E - U P B Y C A RISS A O L M ILL A O F THE B O D Y SH O P HAIR B Y M A NNY A P D A L s h o t o n l o c a t i o n a t t h e s pa r k h ou s e i n pu n t a fu e go
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Summer is at its peak, and we're heating it up with this gorgeous family of four— going on five. It isn’t hard to see why we can’t get our eyes off this exquisite family, who are the perfect models for this season’s issue of BC. The Del Rosario brood is warm, fun, and easygoing—much like the feel you get when you’re in the middle of summer. Speaking of summer, this location in Punta Fuego was just the perfect backdrop for this family, which was thankfully a short drive from the beach-loving couple’s ancestral home in Tali Beach where they were staying for the weekend at the time. It seems like Batangas holds a special spot in the hearts of this family. In 2007, Georgia and Armand wed in Caleruega (also in Nasugbu) with a Spanish-themed ceremony set in sunset hues—probably symbolic of the end of their lives as single individuals, and the beginning of their “forever” together. Their eldest daughter, Nadia, played a special part in the wedding by bearing the rings that would bind the then-newlyweds. Four years and another adorable daughter later, we see Georgia blooming with one on the way—adding to their already attractive lineup. Although Georgia rose to fame as one of the country’s cherubic-faced models with the best bodies, she’s also made a name for herself as a writer and most of all, a wedding planner. When she’s not modeling or planning someone’s special day, Georgia keeps herself busy in the kitchen. In fact, she even brought some homemade goodies that we had the pleasure of sampling at the shoot. Armand, on the other hand, is not only a headturner himself—he is also the cofounder of HCA Institute, a special training center “dedicated to helping improve the delivery of patient care in the healthcare industry” through extensive training and high-standard curriculum. He was also a former Philippine national football team midfielder, whose interest in the sport (which has taught him the values of hardwork and dedication) have led him to put up the Philippine Youth Soccer Organization— which has helped raise funds for the Azkals, of which Armand’s younger brother (and look-alike, Anton) is part of. The couple’s first daughter, Nadia, is as stunning as her mother, with her infectious smile, olive skin, and pleasant attitude. Little Sonia, whose calls for her “Ate Nadia!” melts you on the spot, is a darling ball of energy who easily grins at the sight of her parents. Discover how the Del Rosario family fits right into our modern and picturesque location in this special getaway with BC. www.bcmag.ph
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Armand: White long sleeved polo by MUNDO, P1,690 . Navy above-the-knee short pants by COLLEZIONE C2, P1,999.75 . Flip flops by HAVAIANAS, stylist’s own Nadia: Althea dress by FLORSHEIM KIDS, P1,199.75 . Navy rubber shoes by KEDS, P1,087.50 Georgia: Printed bikini top in blue by STELLA COVE . Blue green harem pants by H&M, P1,014, stylist’s own . Air Delfina with back zip by COLE HAAN, P12,800 . Gold cuff, P580, Assorted bangles, P479, Gold bead bracelet, P379, Gold bangles, P479, Red cocktail ring, P429, all by PARFOIS On background: Fruit Factory by let’s cook, P1,499.75 Swim ball P89.75 , Swim ring P99.75 both by barbie
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Georgia Schulze-del Rosario You come from the famous Revilla clan of beauties. How was it like growing up surrounded by all that?
Growing up, we were aware that our grandmother, moms and titas were beauty icons but it was never a main topic during family get-togethers. We all genuinely like each other's company. We love being together, and so our focus was always having a good time rather than worrying about how we looked or compared to each other. Even when some of the cousins began modeling or becoming celebrities, we all supported one another and still do today. We are all still a very tight-knit group and see each other fairly often. Your grandfather, actor Armando Goyena, recently passed away. What are your fondest memories of him?
Both my grandfather and grandmother left us with so many memories. Ask any cousin and they will tell you that they were there for every birthday party, graduation, and holiday. It is sad that none of them made it to any of our weddings, but there is no doubt that they would not have missed it if the circumstances were different. I loved my lolo’s stories, he had a very animated way of telling them. My fondest memory of him was during my grandmother's funeral when I asked him, "Lolo, are you okay?" He answered quite simply "No, but I will be," which was shocking because he never showed us a weak side. I guess I love this memory because it was then that I realized what true love was, and I was proud that my grandparents were able to share that during their time here. How did you get into modeling? Was it something that you’ve wanted since you were young?
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“I want my children to remember the importance of family and always keep a special place in their hearts for their siblings—as I do mine and Armand does his. As individuals, I would like for them to always try their best. In Armand’s case, he would like for them to always strive for excellence.”
Nadia: Green bikini with sequins by SUBMARINE, stylist’s own . Pink pettiskirt by BABY FASHIONISTAS, P1,450 Georgia: Polka dot bikini by All seasons, P675, 0922.832.4745 Sonia: Pink bikini with heart prints by HULA STAR, hulastarswim.com Armand: Yellow shorts by DIESEL, stylist’s own
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When I was young, yes, I wanted to model because I loved putting on make-up, dressing up, and having my photos taken. I started when I was around 16. It was expected because my two older sisters were already doing it, and at that time their agents needed younger talents too. Luckily, being in front of the camera came naturally for me, so at a very young age, even though I was working, I was really enjoying it. I also loved the slight independence it gave me, because I was earning my own money. Though now it has become more of a job and less exciting, I still love being made-up and having nice photos. What is the most exciting and most difficult part of your job as a wedding planner?
I love being a part of someone's special day. I may not be saving lives, but to be in a position wherein you can help give someone something that they have wanted, and in many cases dreamed of for a long time, makes it so special. There are difficulties though, and I won't deny that it can be stressful at times. It is also quite humbling because though I've had great experiences with all my clients, I have had to deal with people— relatives or guests—who look down on you because they feel like you are working for them. But I guess those instances strengthen your character and allow you to be the bigger person. Recall the moment you met Armand. What was your first impression of him?
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this gorgeous guy, and in such a short time, I felt a deep connection with him. I guess the rest is history because three little ones later, I still have the same schoolgirl crush on my husband. Any favorite memories from your wedding day?
I would go back to that day in a heartbeat. I can't pick a favorite... the whole day was perfect. To see all the people I cared about in one place celebrating with us made it all the more special. Which child takes after you and which one takes after Armand?
Both of them have a bit of each of us. Nadia has the calm and serene character of her dad, but she also got his stubbornness. From me, she got her ultra femininity and sweet demeanor. She talks and even makes the same facial expressions as me, which I love because though she has a lot of her father's deep facial features, she's definitely a mini-me. Sonia, no doubt, has my strong personality and the willingness to get what she wants. She's too cute, now anytime she wants something she states, “I need this!” The sweetness she possesses is from her dad, it is not necessarily in the way she carries herself but in the way she hugs and kisses you at random moments. They are both such great girls. Even if they have character, Armand and I truly feel that they are our good karma in life and are the greatest blessings that we have been given.
Oh wow, where do I begin? At the risk of sounding quite shallow, I will admit that it was How do you enjoy your his looks that got me. There is pregnancy? How is this a song on my iPod with lyrics different from the first two? “those lips and your brown eyes I definitely enjoy pregnancy and your sexy hair...” which because of the eating. I can eat always brings me back to the anything I want and not feel . Nadia: Bunny sequined mask by ACCESSORIZE, P460 Green floral dress by moment I first saw him. He guilty or worry about gaining. BABY FASHIONISTAS, P1,199 . Painted flats by LITTLE MARC JACOBS, stylist’s own Armand: Blue long sleeved sweater with pocket by MUNDO, P990 . Grey was the older brother of some I am also lucky because my all over pleated shorts by COLLEZIONE C2, P1,610 . White lace up sneakers friends of mine, so I didn't think pregnancies have all been quite by MUNDO, P1,650 On background: Kids mini backpack pink mushroom by anything of it but a schoolgirl easy. My body was made for . LÄSSIG, P1,550 Fashionista Swapin’ Styles Doll by BARBIE, P1,499.75 crush—literally because I was a this. It is one of the things freshman in college and he was God has blessed me with. Even just about to graduate. Then a few months later during a holiday getting back into shape is not a struggle. So far, all my pregnancies trip to Boracay, I spent time talking to him and thought that he have been similar, with just a few differences. was so different from his younger brothers. He was unassuming and so sweet. He was also quite intellectual. A few nights later was What is the best thing about being a mom to two girls? New Year’s eve, and he was the first person to give me a big bear I love having two girls. I love everything from dressing them up, hug, and at that moment it was as if something clicked inside me, I to hearing their stories, to watching them come into their own. just knew that that would not be the last time. I was so attracted to With my 6-year old, seeing how she fits in school and work in her www.bcmag.ph
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Armand: Navy and white striped long sleeves by MUNDO, P990 Sonia: Pink long-sleeved shirt by JUICY COUTURE, P850 . Polka dot skirt by M2 MICRO ME, both stylist’s own . Red mary janes by NATURINO, P2,125 Nadia: White Dress Edition by BARBIE, P1,399.75 Georgia: Orange dress with button details by DIESEL, stylist’s own . Gold cuff by PARFOIS, P580 On background: Gourmet Chef Cookare, P1,390 . Rise n’ Shine Toaster, P950, both by EDUCO, all from Hobbes and Landes
dance classes, listening to her conversations with her peers and just talking to her is amusing. She is such an interesting person. With the 2-year old, I feel like she is growing and changing every day. She is now putting sentences together, and the things she says are so funny! I love watching her pick out her clothes—which in her OWN words always have to be “SEXY”—choosing what toys to play with, or even which characters she loves. She is truly a joy. Aside from individually though, I love to watch their dynamic. Nadia is the best big sister, so mature but a little too loving. She lets the little one get away with EVERYTHING. Sonia, on the other hand, copies everything Nadia does and wants everything she has. I feel truly blessed and quite lucky to have two girls. What is the most important thing you want your kids to remember as they grow up?
To love each other and always remain close. I want my children to remember the importance of family and always keep a special place in their hearts for their siblings—as I do mine and Armand does his. As individuals, I would like for them to always try their best. In Armand's case, he would like for them to always strive for excellence. We differ there but in the end, each child has a different personality and we believe that they will have to find their own way with just the help of our guidance. I want each of my children to be responsible members of society and do what is right by others because they want to and not just for the benefits it might bestow. Lastly, I want all my children to grow up as happy human beings who believe in a higher power and live with a good moral sense. Describe your parenting style. Who do you look to for advice?
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I am not the biggest disciplinarian, but I can be when the situation calls for it. I am quite relaxed and I let them run free without worrying too much that they might hurt themselves. I can contradict myself at times though, because though I am carefree, when they do get hurt or sick, I become incredibly nervous and question everything. Armand usually has to calm me down and is always the voice of reason in those situations. Because I have girls, I do feel that I am also a friend to them and hope that we can always remain close like that without compromising the respect factor that each child should give their parents. I try to live my life in a way wherein the respect comes naturally to them, rather than me having to force it. For now, it has worked out but I do hope that it can continue on in the dreaded teenage years and beyond. They deserve for me to be the best that I can be, mediocrity is simply not an option.
Armand del Rosario What was your ultimate dream while you were growing up?
Well as a kid growing up in California, sports was a big part of my life. What I wanted was to be changed like the wind. I wanted to be the next Pele, then the next Joe Montana, and even the next Ken Griffey Jr. Then as you get older, your dreams change from sports star to being a successful person, and add to that you dream of a close knit family, and of being a good father and husband. It’s a transformation as you get older. How did you discover your passion for sports? Soccer, in particular?
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Growing up, sports was a big part of family life. My older cousins would play tackle football in the park, my Titos would come over on Sundays and watch Sunday football in the house. Then as early as 6 years old, we were put into sports...first soccer, then baseball. I just excelled in all the sports I played. There’s something about the teamwork and competition that drives me, and I have to say without all the sports I played growing up, I don’t think I would be the same person I am today. Can you tell us more about your work at the HCA Institute?
Georgia: Gold dangling earrings, P479, Three-stone ring, P379, both by PARFOIS . Gold beaded bangle by KOKET, P1,900 . Floral maxi dress by PROMOD, P3,495 . Air Jasmine gladiators by COLE HAAN, P12,100
Long story short, I met a Fil-Am nurse working in L.A. She had a course that was supposed to help Filipino nurses excel in nursing once they got to the States. Schools loved the program, so four years ago, I drafted a business plan, showed it to my cousin, and from that day on we put up Healthcare Advantage Institute. HCAI is a virtual skills laboratory that trains healthcare skills in a real life setting. So we have mannequins and all the medical equipment you can think of. [It] helps these people become confident in themselves and become globally competitive once they start looking for jobs. We have a partnership with UCLA in the States, and we have recently been accredited by the Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC). I’m the only non-nurse or doctor in my company. I take care of the business development and let all my knowledgeable and experienced employees take care of the important work. Biggest accomplishment so far?
Three biggest accomplishments. One: becoming a dad. Two: marrying the mother of my child and enjoying a great and loving relationship. Lastly: I’ve been lucky enough to be semi-successful with most of the companies I have started. I just pray that the success I’ve experienced continues to grow, and that I can do this while raising my children properly and at the same time, keeping the love of my life happy! How has fatherhood changed your perspective in life?
I have always wanted to be a father. It came earlier than expected,
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Armand: Dark blue long sleeves by HELMUT LANG and Grey pants by BEN SHERMAN, both stylist’s own . Flip-flops with black straps by HAVAIANAS Nadia: Yellow top by RIGHT BANK BABIES, P2,550, Khaki shorts with suspenders by DIESEL KID, P1,566, Lolly pop boots by AIGLE, P1,836, all from Shop Familia On background: I Can Be Chef doll by BARBIE, P999.75 . Gourmet Chef Cookware, P1,390, Rise n’ Shine, P950, both from HOBBES AND LANDES . Glam Urban bag in Lavender by LÄSSIG, P4,350
but when I saw Nadia, my life changed forever! The sense of responsibility and having to take care of your own child just dawns on you, and it actually put life into perspective for me. I was dabbling in stuff and playing a lot of soccer, but once Nadia was born, I got the kick in the rear that I needed to get me to ensure that I was able to take care of my family. Everything I do is for my family...for my children! The challenge now is balancing work, recreation—for stress relief—and family.
up earlier than Georgia, so on weekends, I take them to Pancake House and maybe sometimes to the Fort, and we have breakfast together. While it’s fun to do things as a complete family, my wife is with the kids a lot more, so they have a stronger bond with her. So the little getaways I have alone with my kids is really special to me. Just me and my two girls—those are the special moments that sometimes I wish I did more often.
What is your favorite activity with the girls?
You grew up in the US. What are the pros and cons of raising children here and abroad?
Every so often I take my girls on a date. Nadia, Sonia, and I wake
Independence! Here, you have nannies and a driver—so out
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“It’s about consistency in our beliefs and showing them the proper way to handle themselves in any situation. So don’t wait until you’re ready to explode. Correct them when you have to, and praise them when you see them do something good.”
here life is much easier, but it’s spoiled! You’re obviously more independent if you grow up in the States. You don’t have the luxuries here, which means you’re basically with your child 24/7, which is both good and bad. Out here, I love the fact that my wife and I can go on dates once or twice a week. We need our alone time as a couple. In the States, without a regular and trusted nanny, you can get tired with your everyday duties and not want to go out at the end of the day. Over there, your children learn to take care of themselves at a younger age. Maybe that’s the reason most people in the States look older than the average Filipino. They’re stressed out at a younger age. (Laughs) Realistically, there are more family things to do in the States that you can’t do here—hiking, camping, biking in a non-polluted environment, well-kept parks, it’s more sports friendly for younger kids, etc. It’s a trade off. If I mentioned all the pros and cons, we can go on forever. End of the day, I choose the Philippines for two reasons—family: most of my family and Georgia’s family are now located here—and finances: $1 goes a longer way out here than in the States, and if you have a good business or have the fortune of having well placed connections, you can thrive in any business venture in this country. What is your parenting style?
My wife has a very soft heart when it comes to the kids, so I’m seen more as the disciplinarian. I like to talk to my children eye to eye. I tell them when they do something wrong and why it’s wrong. I want them to know that if it’s done to them, how would they feel? But when I scold them it’s not out of anger but out of wanting them to know what’s right and wrong. There’s a difference there, and that can be lost on some parents. They may take all the naughty things the children do all day, but some parents, the moment you catch them at a bad time, they just explode. For me it’s about consistency in our beliefs and showing them the proper way to handle themselves in any situation. So don’t wait until you’re ready to explode. Correct them when you have to, and praise them when you see them do something good. You talk to your kids in Spanish. What are the benefits of teaching them multiple languages at a young age?
My parents spoke to me in Spanish. Right now, my Spanish is nowhere close to as good as there’s but I can understand most of it. It has basically stayed with me until now. I hate to use my two daughters as examples, but for the first two years of Nadia’s life, Georgia and I weren’t married yet. So I couldn’t practice Spanish with her as much. Now, Sonia knows just as much, if not more than Nadia. So retention and repetition is good, plus the fact that they’re like sponges at this young age! I’ve travelled around a lot, and aside from English and Mandarin, I believe Spanish is the next largest population in terms of the number of countries and people communicating in that language. In a time when the world is getting smaller, in the sense of Internet and international companies, it’s always an added advantage to know more languages. So it can’t hurt to know a little bit of Spanish. Are you prepared to take on the diapers again once the baby arrives?
Oh yeah, I still do it now for Sonia. It’s never been a problem. I was 12 when I changed my baby brother’s diapers on a daily basis, so I guess it’s just been a part of my life. I’m excited and can’t wait for our third—and potentially last—member of our family. And were doing it the old fashioned way—no ultra sound to see what the sex is. So it’s a nice surprise on the day she gives birth! bc
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Georgia: White bangle wiwth glass details by KOKET, P1,820 . Armand: Grey and white long-sleeved polo by MUNDO, P590 . Classic black pants by Ben SHERMAN, Brown leather loafers by ZARA, both stylist’s own Nadia: Floral purple dress by BABY FASHIONISTAS, P1,199 . Black mary janes with bow by VINCENT, Shop Familia Sonia: Lucinda dress by KNUCKLEHEADS, P850, Shop Familia . Rust mary jane shoes with flower on closure by FLORSHEIM KIDS, P1,299.75 (Opposite page, on Sonia) Gold sequined with matte outsole by FLORSHEIM KIDS, P1,499.75 (On background) Swim balls by CINDY STAR, P89.75
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HOME ALONE [ in Asia! ]
What happens when children are left to fend for themselves? In honor of the much-loved family movie, here’s our version of the happy mayhem 80
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“This is my house, I have to defend it.”
P HO T OGRA P HS B Y ma r t i n A N D ka r i z T A NY A F A VIS w o r d s a n d S T Y LING B Y ka r i z T A NY A F A VIS p h o t o g r a p h y a s s i s t a n t ma r k caba l a n g S T Y LING a s s i s t a n t B EN J O B ILL O NES
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(Top left, clockwise) Sabina: Striped dress in black and white with red ribbon by THE RAMP, P795 . Shimmer MJ shoes by STRIDE RITE, P1,650 Juliano: Long-sleeved sweater in navy by DIESEL KID, Shop Familia Juamee: Printed shirt in blue by REEF, P995 (Opposite page) Lucia: Printed dress with ruffles by BABY FASHIONISTAS, P1,199 . Glittered Mary Janes in pink by keds, P2,250, Stride Rite stores Maxine: Floral and navy blue dress by BABY FASHIONISTAS, P1,199 Tony: Black printed shirt by REEF, P995 . Blue hoodie with yellow cuffs by MINI SHATSU, stylist’s own . Moss green shorts by THE RAMP, P795 Vince: Plaid hooded jacket by quiksilver, stylist’s own . Orange shirt with beach print by REEF, P1,095 . Brown corduroy shorts by DA LIL GUYs, Shop Familia
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“Bless this highly nutritious microwavable macaroni and cheese dinner and the people who sold it on sale. Amen.” bc
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(Top left, clockwise) Sabina: Maxi halter dress in zebra print with fuchsia belt by BABY FASHIONISTAS, P1,199 Lucia: Orange printed swimsuit by BAMBINO MIO, stylist’s own Juliano: Red and blue checked polo by CIAO MARCO, P1,750, Shop Familia . Black leather boots by CAMper, stylist’s own (Opposite page) Tony: Long-sleeved gingham polo in blue by CIAO MARCO, P1,750, Shop Familia . Black leather boots by CAMper, stylist’s own Vince: Rocker hooded jacket by BONAFIDE CRAFTWORKS . White organic shirt with collar, Cotton red short pants, both by KATE QUINN organics Maxine: Pearl ribbon in pink by BABY FASHIONISTAS, P375 . Picnic gingham bikini by HULA STAR . Lolly Pop boots in red by AIGLE, P1,836, Shop Familia On background: Lace up shoes in blue by FLORSHEIM, P1,499.75 . Assorted stuffed toys (fruits, car, soccer ball) and printed pails from PAPERTRAIL . Inflatable beach ball by BARBIE, P89.75 . My Orange Laptop by VTECH, P1,999.75 . Drum Set, P1,799.75 . Guitar-Bullet, P1,999.75 both by PAPER JAMZ
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bc events
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Glimpses of affairs to remember, with the launch of the newest spots and trends
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Located at Bonifacio High Street, Seventh High owner Jose Haresco was delighted by the immense crowd of party-goers who graced the event, which included personalities such as Congressman J.V. Ejercito of San Juan, Congressman Toby Tiangco of Navotas, model and TV host Bianca Valerio, Karen Pamintuan, Amazing Race Asia finalists Richard Herrera and Richard Hardin, TV personality Bubbles Paraiso, and many more. 1 Discotech 2 Lito Trinidad, Jose Haresco, and James Yap 3 Nards Cruz and Liza Carreon 4 Geneva Cruz 5 Borgy Manotoc and Georgina Wilson 6 Bacon Austria 7 Nico Salva 8 Jayson Ramirez 9 Ambet Nabus 10 James Younghusband and Fiona Faulkner 11 Gary Valenciano and Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano 12 Gab Valenciano 13 Lazyjaze 14 Butch Raquel and Atty. Carol Sabio 15 Azkal’s Anton del Rosario and Leticia Meriguit
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b c PHILIPPINES { may-jun 2011 }
1 President of Cole Haan and Somnio Philippines, Edwin Ngo with Melissa and Renzo De Leon 2 Dr. Det Dizon, Dr. Carol, Dr. Jojo Villa, Dr. Pie 3 Dr. Homer Tiangco and Dr. June Anne Rosales 4 Dr. Joan Chan and Dr. Robert Chan 5 Rina Reyes and Baby O’ Brien 6 Dynes Dignadice and Cesar Valmadrid 7 Tri-athlete Gab Allen Santiago and Somnio’s Danny Orr 8 GMA 7’s Nelson Canlas 9 Vince and Patricia Hizon 10 Mini Cooper’s Ian Belleza and Susan San Pascual 11 Tirso Cruz III 12 Dr. Nars Fernandez and Dr. Ernie Nepomuceno 13 Dynes Dignadice and the Talk ‘N Text Team 14 Bodie and Lyn Cruz
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Bringing Entertainment to New Heights March 4 saw the gathering of Manila’s finest, to celebrate the launch of one of today’s newest and hottest entertainment venues. Opening with tasty cocktails in The Lounge, The Boutique club featured a performance by Geneva Cruz. The Club Room also featured first-time DJ Gab Valenciano, followed by DJ Kristian Hernandez. DJ Euric also opened the set for Discotech, who wowed the crowd in The Main Club in their first live performance in Manila.
Somnio: Running Towards Dreams Somnio, a U.S. brand of custom-fitted shoes dedicated to building functional footwear that will accommodate every individual’s needs, successfully launched in Manila last March 23 at the Katzer Restaurant. Headed by Dra. Jojo Villa of the Philippine Academy of Rehab Medicine, the event was well-attended by select guests, including Dr. Edgardo Uyehara, Dr. Hilarion Angeles, Dr. Ronaro Calma, Dra. Melissa Mercado from Makati Medical Center, and Dra. Diana Sarmiento from Asian Hospital. Attendants were treated to a presentation by Somnio’s product manager, Danny Orr, who also did a 5-minute shoe fitting for the guests. Celebrities, members of the press and media, as well as members of the Talk ‘N Text basketball team took off their shoes to do the gait analysis and received their own pair. The brand also pledged to send a child to school for every sale of the shoe, living up to its Latin name, meaning “one dream.” Somnio is distributed by Mr. Edwin Ngo, President of Cole Haan Philippines, who also distributes GBX Shoes.
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bc directory FASHION (Kids)
BABY FASHIONISTAS babyfashionistas.multiply.com; 714-3725; Eastwood Mall; SM North Edsa; Alabang Town Center . BARBIE richwell.net; SM Megamall; Trinoma, 901-3221; SM Mall of Asia, 556-0687 . bonafide craftworks bonafidecraftworks.com . camper camper.com . ciao marco ciaomarco.com; FLORSHEIM KIDS florsheimkids.multiply.com; Eastwood Mall; Greenbelt 5, 729-0055 . hula star hulastarswim.com . kate quinn organics katequinnorganics.com . PERIWINKLE myperiwinkle.com; 922-6336/37, Robinson’s Galleria; SM Megamall; Shangri-La Plaza; Glorietta Kids Zone . REEF G-Force Bonifacio High Street, G-Force Trinoma, Ti02 Greenbelt 3, Olympic World Alabang Town Center . stella cove stellacove. com . STRIDE RITE Greenbelt 5, 728-3075; Rustan’s Makati; SM Megamall, 914-7106; Trinoma; Shangri-La Plaza . SHOP FAMILIA shopfamilia.com.ph, Ground Floor La’O Centre Building 1000 Arnaiz Ave. cor. Makati Ave., San Lorenzo Village, Makati City
(Adults)
7 FOR ALL MANKIND Greenbelt 5 and Powerplant Mall, Rockwell . AC+632 Greenbelt 5 . ACCESSORIZE Robinson’s Galleria, Greenbelt 5 . CHICKFLICK chickflickcollection.multiply.com . COLE HAAN Powerplant Mall, Rockwell, 898-0946; Rustan’s Makati, 813-3739; Glorietta 4, 815-2157; Shangri-La Plaza, 633-2847 . DIANE VON FURSTENBERG Rustan’s Makati . FOR ME SM Megamall, 687-7045; Glorietta 3, 815-4191; Trinoma, 901-3679; Alabang Town Center, 659-2416 . HAVAIANAS All Flip Flops Bonifacio High Street, Glorietta 4; Greenbelt 5 . ICONIQUE Graxie, Powerplant Mall, Rockwell . KIRA PLASTININA SM Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza Mall . KOKET Greenbelt 5, Powerplant Mall . LASSIG BAGS 395-5124; Rustan’s; Babyland; Chicco; Ollie&Co.; Baby&Beyond; Toy Town . MARLBORO CLASSICS Greenbelt 5 . MASSIMO DUTTI Greenbelt 5 . MUNDO The Ramp, Crossings, Shangri-La Plaza . OLIVIA AND FIFTH The Ramp, Shangri-la Plaza Mall and Trinoma . PARFOIS Glorietta 4, SM Megamall . PROMOD Trinoma; Shangri-la Plaza Mall, Greenbelt 5 . SWIM Nothing But H20 Stores, Powerplant Mall, Rockwell . VIKTOR Trinoma, Podium, Greenbelt 5
HEALTH AND BEAUTY BEAUTY BAR Robinson’s Galleria; Greenbelt 5 . CETAPHIL 470-8000, cetaphil. com . COPPERTONE 885-0700 to 29; Available at all leading supermarkets . DOVE Available at all leading supermarkets . GSK SYNFLORIX 8920761; 2266 Chino Roces Ave. Makati City Philippines 1231 . JOHNSON & JOHNSON 824-7901; Available at all leading supermarkets and drugstores . KERASTASE Available at all leading salons, beauty and grooming stores . KIEHL’S SM Mall of Asia, Greenbelt 5 . KISS MY FACE kissmyfacewebstore.com . LA PRAIRIE Rustan’s The Beauty Source . NIVEA nivea.ph, 637-0469; Available at all leading supermarkets . NOODLE AND BOO noodleandboo.com . OILATUM 892-0761; Available at all leading supermarkets . SHISEIDO Rustan’s The Beauty Source . THE BODY SHOP thebodyshop.com.ph; Glorietta 3; Greenbelt 5; SM Megamall; Robinson’s Galleria . THE FACE SHOP Glorietta 3, Greenbelt 3, SM Megamall . ZO SKIN HEALTH Rustan’s The Beauty Source
LIFESTYLE ACE HARDWARE acehardware.ph; SM North Edsa, 928-4926, SM Megamall; SM Makati . AUDIOPHILE 559-7440; Makati Cinema Square Square; Robinson’s Pioneer; SM Mall of Asia . CINDY STAR richwell.net; Available at all leading toy stores . CHICCO 732-5141, Available at SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, SM Mall of Asia, Festival Supermall, Kids Zone Glorietta 3, Greenbelt . EASTWOOD RICHMONDE HOTEL 570-7777 . FIRMA Greenbelt 3 . FISHER-PRICE 371-9978, 732-5141, SM Department Store, Toys “R” Us, Rustan’s Department Store, Toy Kingdom, Kidz Station . HOBBES AND LANDES Greenbelt 5, Shangri-La Plaza . PAPER JAMZ richwell.net; Available at all leading toy stores . PAPERTRAIL papertrail.vpweb.com, 201 LaO’ Centre Building, 1000 Arnaiz St., San Lorenzo Village, Makati . PHILIPS AVENT 6679000; Baby Company stores nationwide . SAMSUNG Glorietta 3, SM Megamall . VTECH richwell.net; Available at all leading toy stores www.bcmag.ph
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Philips AVENT AVENT has been designing and manufacturing products since 1984, and has continued to produce innovative solutions that make caring and feeding babies easier. The brand assures its consumers with superior and quality products, which include breast pumps, breast milk storage, pacifiers, teethers, nursing bags, and many more. 667-9000; Baby Company stores nationwide Medela Moms More than just being the only exclusive, authorized distributor and service center of Medela Philippines, Medela Moms, Inc. is a great community where moms can converge to discuss and share their breastfeeding experiences. With every purchase of a Medela breastpump from Medela Moms, Inc., moms are entitled to the perks and benefits of their loyalty program. You can choose from an array of high-quality pumps, including the Freestyle, which is especially designed to adapt to the active lifestyle of today’s mothers, as it is mobile and flexible. If you’re on a budget, you can also opt for the light and handy Harmony, the only manual pump in the market that features the advanced two-phase expression technology, which expresses more milk in less time. medelamoms.multiply.com FOR ME A brand that stresses on the importance of having flattering clothes that will fit gracefully on every woman’s body, For Me is set on changing the standards by which women are judged. With a tagline, “Personally Shaped ForMe,” the brand carefully fuses different fabrics, cuts, colors, lines, patterns, and details to cater to four body types: hourglass, inverted triangle, rectangle, and triangle, providing classic pieces that are feminine and ladylike to real women on-the-go. forme.com.ph for stores CATHY VALENCIA One of the country’s leading skin and aesthetic clinic, Cathy Valencia Skin and Body Center offers products and services that have been tried and tested by their wide array of satisfied clients, which include celebrities, socialites, and professionals. Using the latest American and Japanese breakthroughs in cosmetic skin care, the center specializes on body peeling, which is recommended for skin whitening, as well as facials, hair removal, bust and nose lift, and eyebag removal, among others. cathyvalencia.com Shimmian Manila Surgicenter With over 15 years of expertise in crafting the ideal nasal profile for Asians, Shimmian Manila Surgicenter is the Philippines’ first clinic to offer reconstructive rhinoplasty using GORE-TEX implant, as well as being the first aesthetic center to specialize in advanced rhinoplasty. They also offer other cosmetic services such as cheek and breast augmentation, facelift, cellulite treatment, laser vein treatment, pore reduction, and many more. shimmianmanila.com GYMBOREE The global leader in classes for kids, Gymboree Play & Music has been fostering creativity and confidence in children ages 0-5 for over 30 years. They offer ageappropriate activities and classes, such as art, music, and sports, which help develop the physical, cognitive, and social skills of children as they play. Their programs are also recognized for encouraging the importance of parent involvement and participation in each child’s development. gymboree-ph.com for locations.
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“My number one craving is waffles with peanut butter, bananas and syrup. I also eat a lot of cereal and that white cheddar popcorn. Another funny thing is that I never ate pickles before I was pregnant, and now I’m addicted to them!”
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W o r d s b y K a r i z T A NY A F a v i s P h o t o g r a p h s by J S Q ua r e d p h o t og r ap h y
Yes, she was a Playboy Bunny and was once one of Hugh Hefner’s three favorite girlfriends on the show, The Girls Next Door,which followed their life inside the famed “Mansion.” But after her marriage to NFL player Hank Baskett, Kendra Wilkinson’s road took a different turn. She now finds herself a third of the family she built with Hank and their baby boy, Hank Randall IV—who was born via C-section, and turns 2 in December. Despite her son keeping her on her toes, Kendra recently made waves as one of the favorite celebrities on Dancing with the Stars, before she was eliminated just weeks before the finale. Let’s look back on BC’s exclusive interview with this ‘mom next door.’
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P R E G NA N C Y C L O S E - U P I actually did! I’ve had on my MySpace for years that I wanted to get married and have kids at 24 years old, and here I am. The stars lined up, and I have the perfect husband who will be the perfect father. If you keep something you want in your heart and mind, it’s amazing what can happen. I got all the craziness out of my system, and now I’m ready to have fun in a whole new different way. What’s the sweetest thing your husband did for you during your pregnancy?
It’s the little things that amaze me. Everyday is something new with Hank. He always knows what to say and do to make me feel special. He’s always 10 steps ahead of me making sure I’m okay. If we go grocery shopping he drops me off at the front so I don’t have to walk. He always opens the door for me. When he’s at practice he always calls to check in on me and make sure I’m okay. He also rubs lotion on my belly and makes sure I’m comfortable, which is sweet. He makes sure I never have to go without. He’s my better half. Hank just moved to another team, and you’re supposed to relocate. How are you dealing with all these changes?
Well, we just moved into another new house. It is what it is, so I want to save my stress for things I can control. The hardest part was when he found out what team he was going to and that he had to go right away, so I was alone in Philly for a little, which was scary. But as long as I’m with Hank, I don’t care where I am. You’re due on Christmas! Do you have plans on how you will be spending the holidays with the arrival of your son?
In a nutshell: what was it like transitioning from Hugh Hefner’s girlfriend, to marrying football star, Hank Baskett—and expect your first child together?
It’s been a crazy but very great year. I never thought I would get married and have a baby the same year I moved out of the Mansion, but it’s something I’ve always wanted. I always wanted to be a young mom and a wife, and I’m so happy I found the best man in the world for me. I have a great support system so that always helps. I’ve been moving for over a year straight now, so it’s been a little crazy. This is what I always wanted, I just never thought it would all be in one year. Did you think your life would take this course?
Well, there will be three stockings now! We actually just bought a little Santa onesie. It’s perfect timing! This is really bringing a lot of the family together this year. We have a little gift coming this year that seems like a gift for everyone. We were actually just talking about how every year we want to get a new ornament for our son. We also thought it would be cute to have a train in the living room. We just have to figure out the whole birthday vs. Christmas present thing! Is it true that Hugh Hefner will be the baby’s godfather?
Hef is not going to be the godfather but he is a close friend of the family, so he will definitely be involved in my son’s life. We read that you came up with a playlist for your honeymoon. Have you made a playlist for the baby?
We don’t have a playlist set yet but there are so many songs that
We found out what kendra’s been up to on her blog, kendrawilkinson.celebuzz.com: Despite being part of the 12th season of DWTS, Kendra finds the time to hang out with her main men, take baby Hank to the park, and teach him how to play the piano
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During the third and final season of her reality series Kendra, she published a memoir titled Sliding Into Home, which chronicles her journey as a troubled teen into a successful model—and now, a wife and mother to her two precious boys
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“If you keep something you want in your heart and mind, it’s amazing what can happen. I got all the craziness out of my system, and now I’m ready to have fun in a whole new different way.”
remind us of my pregnancy, and our son. Certain songs that played at different times throughout the pregnancy remind us of different stages. The song “(You’re) Having My Baby” by Paul Anka is the cheesiest song ever, but it makes us laugh every time! What’s been the sweetest and hardest part about being pregnant?
I get to be lazy, lounge around in sweats, and eat whatever I want— without feeling guilty! The most challenging thing so far has been the back pain. Any unusual food cravings?
My number one craving is waffles with peanut butter, bananas and syrup. I also eat a lot of cereal and that white cheddar popcorn. Another funny thing is that I never ate pickles before I was pregnant, and now I’m addicted to them! What are your favorite maternity outfits?
A Pea in the Pod has amazing clothes that fit me through every stage of my pregnancy. Target is also good. I have these sweatpants from there that are amazing.
What are three life lessons you will teach your son early?
What baby items did you enjoy shopping for the most?
I think I’m most nervous about dealing with a temper tantrum in public. Like if he cries on an airplane. I don’t want to be that person!
We definitely enjoyed the clothes shopping! Clothes are so fun because you feel like you can actually see him in the clothes. With some of the clothes we said, “No, that doesn’t look like him,” like we know him already! We love the Bellini cribs too. What kinds of clothes will you be dressing up your son in?
Hank has a Nike deal so we loved getting all the Nike gear for him! What’s one mother-and-son bonding moment that you can’t wait to experience?
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matter what he wants to do. Sharing, respect, and to always be himself. What mommy duty are you most nervous about?
Who do you look up to when it comes to parenting?
Of course, my mom, and my friend, Tiffany Fallon. She was 2006 Playmate of the Year. She is an amazing role model and an overall great person and mother. After giving birth, is there something that you will miss or not miss about being pregnant?
The first moment he’s in my arms, when I get to hold him and look at him. When I finally get to meet him.
I’ll miss the one-on-one bonding moments with our son, like feeling him move and kick. I feel selfish right now because I have him all to myself, but I’ll really enjoy the time we’ll share together.
What career would you want your boy to have?
Should we expect another baby soon?
Whatever he wants to be. Hank is an athlete but we don’t want our son to feel like he has to be one as well. We will stand behind him no
You know, it’s up in the air with that. I want to have a lot of time with my son. It just depends on fate, so we’ll see what happens. bc
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