The Girl Behind the Pen

Raise your hand if there was ever a time in your life where you found yourself searching every store in the mall, browsing through every online shopping platform, racking your brain thinking of the best Valentine gift for boyfriend. Because, not gonna lie, looking for a gift and thinking of ideas for Valentine’s Day for him can be a daunting task! 

Whether you’re looking for your first Valentine gift for boyfriend or your nth, finding the best Valentine's Day gifts for him that’s not too cheesy but also not too over the top is a real challenge!

But fret not 'cause I’ve rounded up all the best Valentine's Day gifts for him that he will surely love! Because they do deserve the appreciation, not just on Valentine's day, but all year round!

1. A New Scent

I mean, who doesn't love burying their face in their partner's shirt and breathing in deeply their scent, right? So be it their signature perfume or a new one that you would love to smell on him, giving a perfume as a Valentine gift for boyfriend is a no brainer! Plus, studies show that smelling a romantic partner’s scent may reduce stress. Sounds pretty weird but amazing, doesn't it?

BVLGARI pour Homme Extrême Eau de Toilette

₱3,700.00 | Available on Rustans

2. A Nice Wrist Watch

You’d think that with the advancement of technology, wrist watches would be a thing of the past. But there’s something about this timeless piece that men are fascinated with. Some guys use this as an investment, some, as an heirloom. While there are others who wear watches because it’s a part of who they are. Regardless of the reason, men’s trend of wearing wrist watches is here to stay, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day gift idea for boyfriend!

Police Taman Brown Leather Watch

₱9,140.00 | Available on Zalora

3. An All-in-One Grooming Kit

A grooming set with all the essentials will make him feel like a gentleman! Upgrade his shaving routine with this rechargeable beard trimmer, hair clipper, and electric shaver in one! No more trips to the barber needed and say yes to that instant clean look! Perfect as a Valentine’s Day gift for him!

BLADE Wahl Lithium Ion All-in-One Beard Trimmer Men’s Grooming Kit

₱3,950.00 | Available on Shopee

4. A Carry All Backpack

This is a perfect and practical Valentine’s Day gift idea for boyfriend, especially for the adventurous ones. Be it for a day hike, a quick weekend trip, or even for his constant visits to the gym, this backpack is a light packer’s best friend!

Herschel Little America Backpack

₱5,990.00 | Available on Shopee

5. An Insulated Tumbler

This is one of the cutest Valentine’s Day gifts for him – perfect reminder as well for him to stay hydrated! Having an insulated tumbler that he can carry wherever he goes is the best Valentine’s gift for him to enjoy his favorite drink, whether it is coffee, tea, water, or sports drink. Because of its double-wall insulation, his drink will be kept piping hot or ice-cold for hours. Oh, and to make his day even brighter and special, you can make your own version of his favorite drink, specially made with love!

Hydro Flask 40 oz Olive 2.0 Wide Mouth

₱2,990.00 | Available on Shopee

6. A Trusty Pair of Slides

Of course, comfort is of utmost importance for guys. And what better Valentine gift for boyfriend than slide sandals? It’s no secret that slides are one of the most comfortable shoes men can buy. No matter what material the soles are, slides provide the ultimate comfort level. But aside from that, the main reason why men like wearing slides is because they’re so convenient and easy to wear. You literally just ‘slide’ them on and go! 

Adidas Adilette Aqua Slides

₱900.00 | Available on Adidas

7. Wireless Headphones

For the music lover or maybe gamer boyfriend, this is the best Valentine’s Day gift for him! Who wouldn’t want a wireless headphone with an exceptional sound quality, extended battery life, smart features and, the best part, has a noise-canceling capability?! Just a warning though, he might not hear you whenever you’re talking to him or worse, when you are nagging. Oooppss! 

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones

₱16,499 | Available on Shopee

8. A Matching Belt and Wallet

Belts are indispensable accessories for men. Wearing a belt makes them feel stronger and more confident. It gives them a neat and polite look. And for men, having a belt proves their style. So gifting this set as Valentine's Day gifts for him is a practical and good investment! You’re completely assured that these will always be a part of his ‘fits, be it casual or smart look!

Swiss Polo Men's Gift Set

₱2,290.00 | Available on Zalora

9. A Fancy Flask

For the guy who loves to drink, this is the best Valentine’s gift for him as this is one of the all-time favorite gent’s accessories. Take his liquor game up a notch with this luxury set which includes shot glasses, a foldable bottle opener, and a corkscrew. Expect a man jumping for joy like a kid after receiving his favorite toy. 

HipFlask 4in1 Luxury Set

₱1,550.00 | Available on hipflaskph.com or message them on their Instagram

10. Fun Socks

Colorful fun socks for men have been trending for quite some time now! And it appears that if your guy is among those who are free-spirited enough to experiment with their clothing, then he might just be a genius! Studies show that wearing crazy and unusual socks and showing their creativity and non-conforming attitude through the clothes they wear is often a sign of brilliance and success! Such a cute Valentine's Day gift idea for boyfriend!

Iconic Socks Pizza and Chill Pattern Ankle Socks

₱150.00 | Available on Lazada

Valentine's Day is always a great excuse to dress up and wear the most stylish outfit you've been planning for I-don't-know-how-long. This special day screams hearts and red dresses for Valentine's Day, but in case this is not exactly the Valentine's Day outfit idea you're going for, your friendly little black dress got you girl!

Here are the reasons why you should opt for this classic dress this Happy Hearts Day.

1. It's a classy Valentine's Day outfit

Whether you're planning an intimate dinner for two, a Galentine's party, or just some alone time, the LBD is an obvious choice for Valentine's Day that calls for instant chic. 

2. An LBD is a Valentine's Day dress that makes you look hotter

ICYDK, the color black has a slimming effect. Darker shades help you hide the little weight you've gained the past holidays, thus creating a slimming illusion. But hey, just so you know, you don't have to hide those extra pounds 'cause no matter what, you are beautiful. 

3. It's a Valentine's Day dress that's easy to match with

Black goes with everything so even if you add different colored clothing items to your look, it will still look fabulous.

4. If you're clumsy, your date won't notice

When wearing a little black dress instead of a red dress for Valentine's Day, you wouldn't have to worry about spilling on yourself because black hides the mess so well. However, this doesn't mean that the spots are invisible, it will just be harder to notice so girl, leave the clumsy self at home, 'kay?

5. An LBD is timeless

The little black dress is not just the best Valentine's Day dress but also a wardrobe piece that will outlive any fashion trend. An you know what? I think it's worth investing in a high-quality piece that will last for years. 

What Valentine's Day outfit are you going for this year? Share in the comment box below! :)

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's high time to prepare the perfect date night outfit. So if you still don't have any idea what to wear on the most romantic day of the year or you just need a fresh inspo for February 14, here's a Valentine's Day outfit idea that will definitely make your date swoon!

When it comes to fashion, there are pieces that just make sexy look easy. Among these is the classic no-fail red dress. 

Here I'm wearing an off-shoulder red dress from Shein. What I love about this dress are its intricate details that make this Valentine's Day outfit idea unique. From the sleeves down to its hem, every detail is oh-so-stunning. 

While red is an obvious choice for Valentine's Day, you can still spice it up a bit more. So what I did to make this Valentine's Day outfit idea stand out is style it with a pair of eye-catching white platforms. I'm petite so the extra lift really helps. I think this pair is going to be my new go-to heels since it's very comfortable when worn. Unlike other 5-inch heels, these pair of platforms were made for walking! With this, I don't have to worry about stumbling or tripping in front of my date. 

1. Choose a piece that will both make you look and feel beautiful. Decide which piece of your outfit would you like to get attention on.
2. Pair your Valentine's Day outfit idea with the perfect shoes. If you want to look sexier, go for sleek strappy heeled-sandals; if you want to look preppy and cute, go for a pair of doll shoes or sneakers.
3. Wear the right accessories. Since you're already wearing a striking color, keep your accessories at a minimum so your Valentine's Day outfit won't be a sore to the eyes. 
4. Lastly, wear your best smile and confidence. These are the two most important things that will make your Valentine's Day outfit idea a win!

Let's face it, acne sucks! And treating it is a lot more challenging than defining your relationship with the guy that keeps you up all night (oops!). Luckily, I may just have the right product you actually need to stop that pesky pimples from breaking out. 

Believe me when I say I'm not someone who's into skin care because I'm too lazy to do those day and night routines and secondly (and obviously), it's expensive. I used to rely only on soap and toner to clean my face at night but when these zits popped out all over my face, I panicked. 

November 30 vs. December 11

The skin care newb in me went almost crazy because it seemed like nothing is ever working on my face. From the rejuvenating set to the pink drying lotion, I've already tried a lot of products. 

Fortunately, Dr. S. Wong sent me their sulfur soap set meant to treat acne. Now I know this sounds sponsored (because it is) but trust me, these products helped my facial acne subside. Besides, I won't recommend products unless they are backed up by science and of course, experience. Thanks to Dr. S Wong's Sulfur Soap, I no longer have to search "how to treat acne."

What is Dr. S. Wong's Sulfur Soap?

Dr. S. Wong’s Sulfur Soap with Moisturizer is germicide, fungicide and parasiticide. It helps treat acne, pimples and other skin infections with its sulfur content. 

Using it long term makes dark spots lighter (as seen in the photo) and scar fade because it helps exfoliate the skin. It has added aloe vera extracts to keep the skin moisturized and comes with a refreshing citrus scent.

Benefits of Dr. Wong's Sulfur Soap With Moisturizer: What it promises

• Kills pimples-causing germs
• Draws out excess oil
• Exfoliates the skin
• Unclogs pores
• Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic

Dr. Wong's Sulfur Soap With Moisturizer Ingredients

• Sulfur
• Essence
• Aloe Vera Extract
• Sodium Lactate

Directions for use to treat acne

For better results in treating acne, bath with warm water, then soap thoroughly. Allow soap to stay on skin for 2-3 minutes before rinsing off. Pat dry with a towel and do not wipe. Do not apply to wounds. Avoid contact with eyes. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

We all have that one favorite place that we always find ourselves coming back to—in my case, it's CASA San Miguel in Zambales.

If you haven't read my previous post about CASA San Miguel yet, it serves as the home of the world renowned violinist Coke Bolipata, and a community center that includes a school for the arts and music, art gallery and museum, cafe and a bed and breakfast facility. CASA also means two things: first is home, and the other is Center for the Arts in San Miguel.

Read also: CASA San Miguel: Home Away from Home

From family retreat house to community center

Hospitality at its finest

In the words of New York Times food critic Tejal Rao, "hospitality is both invisible and formidable — it surrounds you. You can find it at a rest stop on the highway, and miss it at the host stand of a fine-dining restaurant. You feel its presence, or you don’t."

Sitting under a tree with the fresh air brushing my hair, I blissfully indulged myself in some of CASA San Miguel Zambales' best-sellers, a mix of both my favorites and new ones I haven't tried. Blissfully because it was as if I was the only person in the place. The staff was making me feel comfortable from the moment I stepped into their gate to the time I went out. And this didn't even happen for the first time. When I went there in 2019, they have already impressed me.

It was the afternoon of December 12. I didn't even tell them it was my birthday that day. So I was really surprised that they remembered my special day. I thought it was going to be just another brunch day out, but my 27th birthday turned out a lot more special than I anticipated it would be, thanks to CASA San Miguel Zambales.

At CASA, I felt cared for and this is something only a few establishments have made me feel. I wouldn't mind driving 4 to 6 hours again just to get a bite of their pizza. 

CASA San Miguel Zambales

So now, I will be listing all the details you need to know about CASA and some of my food recommendations. 

Address: Evangelista St., Brgy. San Miguel 2206 San Antonio, Zambales

Budget for meals: PHP 1,000 for two

Food: 8.5/10

Overall look: 8/10

Hospitality: 11/10

Is CASA San Miguel Zambales open now? Yes they are open

Kids allowed? Yes!

Contact information: info@casasanmiguel.org | (+632) 8551 1003

Food we tried at CASA San Miguel

If you want to know my experience with their other food offerings, read this: CASA San Miguel: Home Away from Home

During COVID-19 pandemic, the world discovered that social media is a great way for us to stay connected even while physically separated. Basically, social media has become our escape from the struggles and stress that the pandemic brought.

There are social media platforms that allow you send connect and reconnect with people; platforms that let you show your creativity through photos and videos. We all do this for fun but what if you earn cash just by posting and engaging with your followers on social media? 

This is what Ohaiii is all about. Ohaiii is the newest social media platform that lets models and influencers create, share and earn from their content.

"The pandemic marked a major turning point of the digital communities worldwide and for our society in general. Along with heightening of uncertainties brought by COVID-19, people's lifestyle, livelihood, and social systems as a whole, underwent major changes. Through these changes, we have appreciated the great power and value of digital technology. These digitally spurred social changes shall be the rock in which Ohaiii was built," says Andrea Delgado, CEO & Founder of Ohaiii. 

How can you earn on Ohaiii?

There are several ways to earn through Ohaiii platform: 

• via subscription  
• via Live Stream 
• via Photo and Video Uploads 
• via Video Request through Direct message

After Lockdown Fashion Show

Another event that took place during the Ohaiii web app launching was the After Lockdown Fashion Show. The show aims to jumpstart the fashion industry through the Philippine Fashion Shift (PFS) which is a sub-branch of Ohaiii. PFS promotes the creations of young local designers. 

Groups of models did their own catwalks at Pasig Revolving Tower wearing the masterpieces of various talented Filipino designers. The designers that have showcased their creations were Paula Villasper, Lyka Ann Chan Racuya, Mercy Asuncion, Franz Uy, Elsie Delos Reyes, Winchelle Castro, Angel Esteban, Chris T Ian, Norman Acuba Designs, and Russ Cuevas.

From the kawaii and colorful anime-like dresses to the classy glamorous gowns fit for balls, Ohaiii presented the designers' works successfully. There were also fashion pieces that promotes the traditional Filipino fabrics and clothing, and some that even featured paintings on dresss similar to Vincent van Gogh's arts. Through the PFS, the budding and known designs were introduced to a larger market. 

If you are a model or an influencer and you are interested in being part of the Ohaiii community, you can send them a message.

Website: ohaiii.com

Email: ohaiiiofficial@gmail.com

Facebook: @ohaiiiofficial Instagram: @ohaiiiofficial

Mobile: 09273059127

Apart from great food, what makes a dining experience oh-so-perfect is a kick ass view! Wyndell's Al Fresco in Tanay, Rizal gives you just that. 

Before you enter this Tanay restaurant's premises, you will be welcomed by a quaint cafe with a rooftop dining area. If you're coming from a long descent and you just want to take a quick break, there you can sip a hot coffee while enjoying the cool breeze of Tanay.

Wyndell's Al Fresco is not like any other restaurants in Tanay you'd see because it's separated into three sections: cafe, samgyupsal area, and the main dining area. So upon entering the restaurant, you'd see a rustic dining area on your left perfect for a romantic date. Just a few steps down and you'll see their samgyupsal area. But if you want to enjoy a full-blown Wyndell's experience, take the best spot in the main dining area with mountains and trees as your backdrop. Trust me when I say the view is overwhelmingly beautiful, especially during sunset. If you arrive around 5pm, the sun will touch your skin, giving you an instant glow or a warm filter for a photo op. 

This al fresco dining in Tanay, Rizal offers a wide variety of dishes, catering to those who are always on-the-go, Korean BBQ lovers, and for special celebrations. As for us, we tried some of their sandwiches, pasta, and a pizza. 

Philly Cheesestake (PHP 280)

Not the usual Philly Cheesesteak sandwich that will have you give up at 3rd bite. It's good!

BBQ Burger (PHP 350)

It's small but filling. I loved how the sweet and spicy barbecue sauce matches the sourness of the tomatoes and the double quarter pounder patties that taste just right (not too bland, not too salty).

Gamberi Aglia e Olio Pappardelle (PHP 350)

I never thought I'd like an oil-based pasta at first try! 

Basil Honey Pepperoni Pizza (PHP 350)

For the pizza, I think I expected too much though. I like the consistency but it's too sweet for a pizza, for me.

Although it's a bit pricier than other Tanay, Rizal restaurants, overall, I'm completely satisfied with my dining experience at Wyndell's Al Fresco Tanay. I'll be coming back to try their breakfast menu. Hopefully soon!

If you've ever been here or just planning to visit, let me know in the comment box below your thoughts! :)

Wyndell's Al Fresco

When you are struggling with a pile of credit card debts, car loans, medical bills, or student loans, getting out of debt isn’t that easy. The longer you let it sit, the bigger your debts grow which could make you unable to control it. If you own a small business or are an individual trying to start a business, having people who owe you money can put a serious dent in your finances. There are efficient solutions for tracing debtors that you can utilize in the form of private investigation services, that can assist you in regaining outstanding debts owed to you by others, in order to reduce your own debts. Remember to do your research in these circumstances, and hopefully, you will be able to get back the money you are owed.

On the other hand, the good thing is, there are many ways to get out of debt that will not make you any more miserable—one of those is debt consolidation. This kind of financial strategy will help you decrease it until you’re free from debts.

What is Debt Consolidation?

Designed by pikisuperstar via Freepik

According to Debt.org, debt consolidation is a sensible financial strategy for consumers who are stuck with credit card debt. It can be done with or without a loan. It merges multiple bills into a single debt that is paid off with a consolidation loan or a debt management plan. 

In short, debt consolidation cuts costs by lowering the interest rate on debts and reducing monthly payments. But let me be clear here, debt consolidation does not mean debt elimination. 

This financial strategy reduces the interest rate on your debt and lowers monthly payments, and makes the payment process easier for consumers who are trying to keep up with multiple bills and multiple deadlines from multiple card companies every month.

How does Debt Consolidation work?

NerdWallet says that there are two primary ways to consolidate debt:

1. Get a 0% interest, balance-transfer credit card: With this strategy, you will transfer all your debts onto this card and pay the balance in full during the promotional period. For you to be qualified, you need good or excellent credit.

2. Get a fixed-rate debt consolidation loan: Through this strategy, you will use the money from the loan to pay off your existing debts, then pay back the debt consolidation loan in installments over a set period of time. You can qualify for a loan if you have bad or fair credit. However, borrowers with higher scores will likely qualify for the lowest rates.

Is Debt Consolidation worth it?

There’s no one fixed answer to this question as it actually depends on your needs and your capability of paying your debts. But here are the factors to consider before getting your debts consolidated according to the experts Dave Ramsey and NerdWallet:

• Your monthly debt payments don’t exceed 50% of your monthly gross income.

• Your credit is good enough to qualify for a 0% credit card or lower interest rate you currently have.

• You have a consistent cash flow that covers payments toward your debt.

• There’s no cost to consolidate.

• Your repayment period will not be longer than the one you have now. 

Struggling with debt can really take a toll on your financial, physical and mental health. The one rule of thumb is that, don’t borrow money if you know you can’t afford to pay it within the given term. 

For more details about debt consolidation, visit www.debtconsolidation.com.