Life Lately

I missed to write daily accounts of what's up this week so I'm just gonna share what's happening to me so far. Errr... Wala naman hahaha. Nothing interesting. I finally got a desk for our room, something I've been wanting to buy for months but can't 'cos it was out of stock for a while lol. Spotted it at Landmark this weekend, and finally took it home.

Can I just say. This table is rare. Nobody makes tables that are 90cm long. Like what heck right? Desks are either 80, 100 or 120cm long. But well, this little corner in our room is exactly 93cm wide so an 80cm table would look awkward. So yeyyy for finally getting the perfect sized desk!

It actually opens up to a dining table too. The tabletop is folded and there's a swivel mechanism underneath that allows it to transform. Cool. Didn't need that feature though but could be useful someday! :D

Next project, a headboard! So I can read on the bed lol

Monday was a holiday in light of the elections. Didn't vote. I've never voted actually. Whatever love I have for this country is easily trumped by life's smallest inconveniences. Too far, too hot, no parking, voter's reg is a hassle (hope there's an online portal for this), I could generate a hundred excuses just to avoid participating in the elections. I call it privilege. I'd rather chill at home than exercise my right to suffer suffrage. Our ballots are only going to get sabotaged anyway. And they did, right? Doesn't mean I don't get to have opinions on matters of state though. I didn't research enough to bet on anyone, I thought I liked some candidates from Otso Diretso but when I answered a quiz about key issues that mattered to me, none of them was a match. Hmm...

Anyway. Let's leave it.

How To Mix and Match Pizza With Sides

Image by Igor Ovsyannykov from Pixabay

You probably know exactly what pizza you want to order when you ask your friends, “Where are pizza locations near me we can order from?” A tasty pizza can turn a good night into a great one. However, depending on the size of your party, you may need more than pizza to keep everyone happy. After saving money on the cheapest pizza specials available, you can end up with more money in your pocket to spend on the perfect size.

For the Health-Conscious

Pizza naturally comes with a lot of calories. If you want a healthy side to even things out, then you should order a chicken Caesar salad with your meal. It comes with crisp Romaine lettuce along with all-white meat chicken. It comes topped with a creamy Caesar dressing and shredded cheese, making this one salad you will have no problem getting down.

For the Game Day

Pizza and buffalo wings are a tradition as old as the Super Bowl. Bone-in wings are covered in a delectable buffalo sauce and baked to perfection. They pair incredibly well with a Philly Cheesesteak pizza. You can search online for “philly cheesesteak pizza near me” to find a local restaurant that will give you the perfect meal for the perfect game.

For the Party Animals

When a party is in full swing, you need food people can grab and take with them easily around the room when they want to mingle. Garlic knots fit the bill perfectly. People can grab a plate and get a slice of pizza and a couple of tasty garlic knots. They are made out of fresh dough and covered in a delicious garlic parmesan seasoning. It is the perfect way to take your party to the next level.

Everyone’s taste is different. You can mix and match to your liking to find the perfect combination you will want to order time and time again. Give it a whirl by ordering pizza with a side today.

Week in review

Monday

There are days when I feel so excited to go to work and do my job but when my boss isn't around I just tend to be more uhmmm lenient lol sssshhhh. It's true that when the cat's away the mouse will play. Not saying my boss is strict though, more like his presence errr encourages me to appear to work hard HAHAHA. Charot.

But hey, I accomplished something today. I'm finally 70% in this Holiday Staff Assignment page I'm working on in PHP. Next step is adding data validation. I might sayyyy, this task was pretty challenging. Duh, everything dev related is challenging to a QA (in my mind: what's happening to my career???).

So I have a table with checkboxes and input fields and on submit I need to collect the values from all the rows where the checkbox is checked and run an update query. The ideal approach (at least for me) is to grab the row values on checkbox check, and attach it to the value of the checkbox. That way, upon submit I could just get one list and everything I need would be there. But thennn, I'm trying to avoid onchange functions because I think it isn't too neat and I'm reserving the method for validation where it's more apt? Errrr.

Anyway, I managed to "cheat" my way into it by processing 2 lists and matching them together. Not the most elegant approach but hey, it can't go wrong.

Another thing I accomplished today was a logo project for one of my colleagues hahahaha. After retiring from writing on the sides, I badly needed more gigs. Right now I only have 2 logos, 1 invite, and one blog post. Man I need to keep myself busy.

Here's a reject, by the way:

Tuesday

Oh this day was busy. I had 2 RPA meetings. I didn't mean to be productive today but heck you know when there's a programming logic bugging your mind and you can't stop thinking about it? It's eating up my me time --- which starts by the time my boss leaves until the end of my shift hahahaha. Charot.

Here's another reject. Oooh I like it that my collection of "Drafts that didn't make it" is growing!

Wednesday

I got up pretty early so I had enough time for coffee. Oh I love coffee mornings. Moreso the fact that the time it takes for me to finish taking a bath is enough time for my coffee to brew and cool down a bit. Now I'm looking forward to more mornings like this.

I cooked butter tikka masala and bought naan from Queens. I really really love Indian cuisine (particularly masala, lassi, and samosa) but I don't like how long the smell lingers in our kitchen, our living, on our couch, AND IN MY MOUTH haha yesss even after brushing! I even feel like I'm giving off a scent as well HAHA.

Anywayyy. We played badminton today! It's pretty much my only source of sweat this week. I need to do this regularly!

Thursday

Cooked pork giniling today and I love it! Of course I wasn't able to cut down on rice, but well, I've been off track in pursuing a no rice lifestyle for so long so I don't care anymore! Hahaha

Today we had a short town hall with our regional chiefs, and one of them mentioned about the new building we're transferring to in two years time. I'm so excited! We're moving to Ayala Triangle Tower Two, which will also house the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The project is being developed by Ayala Land, of course, and the gorgeous building is designed by SOM. Here's thread from Skyscrapercity.

I'm sooooo looking forward to the new building I might actually stay until we move out! Not that I have plans on leaving lol.

Friday

I AM SO BLOATEEEED!!! Super lamon ako today! My husband got me kare kare with lechon kawali this morning before going to sleep, then I ate burger, pizza, and chicken at work. Also got coffee. I'm not even done digesting and I'm already craving for moooore. I'm just so hungry nowadays. My period's probably coming up.

Updates! I changed my blog layout a biiiiit. Just rearranged and colored a few sections lol

Uhm, what else. I wrote a new entry on my other blog, Surf & Perf. If ever you're working on UIPath and is interested with RPA. Check it outttt.

3 Health Changes To Make As You Reach Middle Age

Looking after your health gets so much harder as you get older. When you’re young, it feels like you can bounce back from anything and you don’t need to worry too much. It’s still important that you try to get into good health habits but you can afford to make a few mistakes along the way. But when you start to hit middle age and your risk of disease begins to increase, it’s so important that you start thinking more seriously about your health. If you don’t, you’ll struggle to manage it when you’re older and you’ll be far more likely to have serious health problems. If you haven’t thought about it much, these are some of the biggest health changes you need to make as you reach middle age.

Photo from Pixabay

Diet And Exercise

Diet and exercise are so important at any age, but when you start to get older, you need to prioritize it. Your risk of things like heart disease and strokes are massively increased and you need to make sure that you’re doing everything that you can to reduce that risk as much as possible. Diet is a good place to start because if you’re eating a lot of fatty foods and sugar, your heart health is really going to suffer. Drinking a lot of alcohol has a big impact too. You need to cut those unhealthy foods out of your diet and replace them with more healthy alternatives.

Exercise is so important for heart health as well and if you’re doing a good amount of cardio on a regular basis, your risk of heart attacks and strokes is massively reduced. Staying active will also help you to keep your joints in good working order so they don’t seize up as you get older. You don’t have to be an athlete, but it’s important that you stay active, even if you’re just walking on a regular basis.

Contraception 

When you’re getting older and you’ve already got a family, you might decide that you’re not going to have any more children. In that case, you might want to consider some form of permanent contraception so you can avoid any accidents. If you have good private medical insurance, the vasectomy cost will be covered, you’ll just have to pay the excess. It’s not expensive but it is worth doing for peace of mind. Having an unplanned child later in life can be really tough so it’s best to be safe.

Get Regular Tests 

When you’re young, there isn’t really much need to go for regular tests on things like your sight or your hearing unless you notice a problem. But as you start to get older, these things will start to go. However, if you can catch the problem early and get some glasses or hearing aids, you can limit the damage and stop the problem from getting worse. If you leave it though, you’re likely to lose your hearing completely and have serious vision problems in later life.

Make these simple health changes as you approach middle age and you’ll be able to manage your health a lot better as you get older.

3 Must-try home decor ideas for summer

Changing seasons are a great opportunity to update the way your home interior looks. Luckily, you don't need a total overhaul to update the way your house looks. Just a few decor tips would do wonders to your currently existing theme. This article will show you 3 must-try summer home decor ideas that will help you achieve a home that's light, airy, and full of sunshiny vibes.

Switch your linens

Photo from Pixabay

A new bed duvet cover can instantly change the way your bedroom looks. It's always a good idea to have spare linens that match each season, that way you don't have to think a lot when it comes to getting new fabric. For your couch you can change the pillow covers. And for your dining, you can change your place mats, table cloth, or even table runners. Check out VeeYoo tablecloth factory for amazing options. Don't forget to consider the weather as well and go for fresh and light fabrics like cotton and linen, and look for patterns that are cool to the eyes like blue and aqua. 

Update your table and shelf decor

Photo from Pixabay

Common summer themes are the tropics, the ocean, and the beach and there's no shortage of ideas when it comes to decorating under those themes. Try going for a rustic coastal summer look and get a couple of plants,  wooden crates, and cute lanterns. Also try out this cool and elegant VeeYoo watch box that could sit perfectly on your vanity.

Spice up your outdoor area

Photo from Pixabay

The outdoor area is an incredibly important feature during summer season that you can't miss to update. You will use this area a lot as you invite your friends over for a day of fun and refreshments. It's easy to get a new look for this space. Just switch up your outdoor rugs, change the lights, and update the seat covers. It's amazing how very small and simple changes can instantly give your home a pretty do. For your home decor, kitchen, and dining decor needs, head on to VeeYoo for lots of pretty and affordable options.

Beating The Bloat In Time For Summer

Even the most in-shape of us can suffer from bloating from time to time. Bloating can be uncomfortable, make you feel heavy and affect how your clothes fit. Bloating can be caused by many things, but there are some solutions you can try to reduce bloating and feel great in your own skin. Here are some suggestions for beating the bloat in time for summer.

Photo by Joseph Greve on Unsplash

Pay attention to what makes you bloat

Bloating can be triggered by all kinds of foods. From starchy carbs to certain types of vegetables, you can soon start to recognize which foods are making you bloat. You can take a look at some common foods that trigger bloating and establish some patterns to help you work out what to avoid on the days where bloating isn’t an option.

Cut down on alcohol

Alcohol can cause many adverse effects, and one of them is bloating. Alcohol can cause the typical stomach bloating, but it can also make your face and body bloating as a result of the dehydration it causes. If you think you can cut back on your alcohol intake, consult the Stop Drinking Expert to get some help. Alcohol can lead to weight gain and problem skin, so if you want to look your best, then it doesn’t hurt to cut back.

Make sure you hydrate yourself

Bloating can happen easily when you’re dehydrated. Your body will retain water easily, leading you to feel bloated and uncomfortable. Staying hydrated is the answer, so make sure you drink plenty of water - especially if it’s hot or you’ve been working out. Soda drinks can make bloating worse, so try to avoid carbonated drinks if you’re having a flare-up.

Keep moving

Exercise can help relieve bloating, even if it feels like the last thing you want to do! Regular exercise will help digestion and make sure you keep things ticking over. If you don’t feel like going for a run or doing some cardio while bloated, take a look at some empowering strength training instead. Some exercise will soon have you feeling better and help keep you regular too.

Get checked out

If your bloating is recurrent and causing you pain, you should make an appointment with your doctor. Bloating can be caused by conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other conditions, which can leave sufferers suffering regular, painful bloating. Getting a diagnosis can help you get the treatment you need to manage your condition and soon help you feel better.

Bloating affects most people, and while it can be a misery to deal with, you can learn to manage it with the right approach to your health and well-being. Eat the right foods, get moving and make sure you don’t do anything that exasperates your symptoms. In most cases, bloating will pass quickly, allowing you to enjoy your summer wardrobe while feeling relaxed and comfortable.

Cucina Breakfast Buffet at Marco Polo Hotel Ortigas

Is it worth it to include breakfast in your booking at Marco Polo Hotel Ortigas? Read on to find out!

Here's a pic spam of what to expect at Cucina's breakfast buffet. The restaurant is located at the 24th floor, same as the lobby, and breakfast is served everyday from 6am to 10:30am. During peak days they display an info board of customer density based on the time, to help you manage your expectations. A similar board is provided for pool density as well. Great touch! Now let's look around to see what they offer.

Bread, cheese, and cold cuts

Pancakes and donuts. Plus a toaster for heating sliced bread

Filipino station with daing na bangus, tocino, and adobo. There's also congee, arroz caldo, and champorado (which is yummy!)

Indian station with vegetarian dishes

Classic breakfast options - corned beef, beaked beans, and sausages

Egg station if you want to customize your scrambled eggs

Bacon in 2 consistencies (crispy and medium //more like medium 1 and medium 2 hehe), potato wedges, grilled tomatoes

Chinese noodle station

Juice station - they have guava juice, apple infused water, and orange juice. There are healthier cold pressed options to like mango papaya, beetroot pineapple, and apple cucumber celery. Yum (note sarcasm). If you're looking for coffee and tea, you can request from the servers.

A selection of fruits, yogurts, and salads are also available

There's a cute maki station too and miso soup!

Cereals -- check

An assortment of pastries

And hey, there's taho!

The ambiance of Cucina is very elegant. The servers are attentive, they refill emptying trays fast, and they clear out your plates immediately. The space actually reminds me of Seda Vertis North's Misto.

You'll definitely get your fill dining at Cucina in the morning, but if you're not a breakfast person (like me), go ahead and exclude it in your booking to save money. I know I will in my next stay hehe.