My Blogging Journey | A Decade of Gratitude and Positivity.

They say Lent is a time for self-renewal and reflection, and today, on a Palm Sunday, as I plop down in my favorite chair with my morning coffee in hand, I started to think about my blogging journey and what life has been like in my nearly-a-decade of blogging. There goes my plan of a quiet Sunday morning doing absolutely nothing. I just had to open my laptop and write this story down.

Truth be told, I actually started blogging in 2005. Back then, my blog was a lot more personal, known only to a few friends and some people that I have met in online forums/communities. As a twenty-something "yuppie" (the term sounds so obsolete, I know), I blogged about frivolous things like what I bought with my last paycheck, where my boyfriend (now husband) took me on a date, or how I went through another mundane day at the office. 

In 2008, I got married, had a baby, and
became a full-time, stay-at-home-mom.

In 2008, I got married, and then gave birth to our son, Yue. This was the year that I stopped working because our company began downsizing at that time, and I was one of the many employees who were "let go". I wasn't bitter about that - in fact, I considered it a blessing at that time because I would be able to focus on my family, especially my newborn son. I became a stay-at-home mom, and in the end, I had to stop blogging as well. As a new mom, I had very little time to sleep, let alone blog. My hands were full with just taking care and looking after our child. 

As Yue grew older and started schooling, I also started to "get back on track" - you know, enjoying my hobbies once again and going out with friends from time to time. One of my good friends encouraged me to start blogging again. She was a blogger herself, and at that time, she was already earning money from her blog. It sounded like a wonderful idea, but making money from blogging was the furthest thing in my mind back then. All I wanted was to reconnect with my greatest passion - writing. And all I needed was an outlet for my "creative" juices - this blog. 

2011 was the year I started this blog. 
Actually, I just wanted to show the world that I celebrated my 30th birthday
with my favorite K-pop group Super Junior as the party theme. Haha.

I started this blog in 2011 with a very simple purpose: I wanted to write about the things I love - makeup, K-pop, food, travel, and of course, my family.  And as I wrote about these things on my blog - my latest shopping haul, a new recipe, our weekend beach trip, Yue's latest milestone - opportunities eventually came in. Brands would send me products to test and review, agencies would invite me to events and product launches, advertisers would sponsor raffles and giveaways that I ran on my blog. I loved it! I especially loved the fact that I was doing what I love to do, right in the comforts of my home. The perks that came with it, I considered them a bonus.   

Blogging opened up a whole new world for me. I met different kinds of people (including MMA fighters and Korean celebrities), went to different places, made new friends... I even appeared in an ad, was interviewed by a newspaper, and got featured in a magazine! Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine for these things to happen. But it did, thanks to my blog. 

Summer 2018, attending a product launch in Seoul.

These days, people would use the term "influencer" to refer to those who are in the same line of work as I am. Honestly, I'm still iffy with calling myself as an influencer. I'd still refer to myself as a blogger, if you understand what I mean. But when strangers would talk to me out of the blue and tell me that they know me from the internet, that they read my blog and find my work fun and interesting, I get all fuzzy inside. You know that feeling when you're a kid and you'd get praised by your teacher or your parents for doing a good job at school? That's the kind of feeling I get. Whenever I'd receive a message on my Facebook fan page or on my Instagram asking for my thoughts on a certain skincare product, or which places to go to in Korea, or even the oven settings to use for a particular recipe, I feel like in this sense, I am an influencer in my own right. 

On that note, blogging also gave me so much to thank for: My husband, who has always been very supportive with whatever it is that I want to do; my son, who has been my inspiration since day one; my friends, who always trust my recommendations whether it's a skincare product, a Korean drama, or a new item on the fastfood menu; my fans and followers who continue to read my blog, support my social media pages, and try out my recipes; and all the brands and agencies whom I have worked with and continue to trust my work. Finally, I'd like to thank that friend (you know who you are!) who gave me that big push to go back to blogging, to pursue my passion, and to never stop writing. I wouldn't be here, and this blog wouldn't be here if not for you. :)

Would you like to be an influencer, too? Sign up with Intellifluence for campaigns and opportunities!

Always Opt For the Most Powerful and Efficient Video Converter.

You do not need to depend on software that has only very limited features. Instead, you should opt for the most powerful and efficient video converter, with extraordinary application features. However, you should be free from your confusions, since it is not easy to find the best software.

These days, software developers are very deeply concentrating on video software and they have been doing their best to help the video professionals. Today, many people are certainly familiar with the Movavi Software developer as this is one of the globally established companies. Millions of people around the world are using the video converting software of Movavi. Several special features are there for the users of the video conversion tool and the users spend no time to complete format conversion, even if the files are very large.

Photo credit: Movavi.

International quality video converting tool and benefits for viewers:
- You can purchase the software from the company website and download for your applications.
- Required instructions are there for you and just follow them.
- Create your setting and set your options for conversion.
- When the setting is perfect, just click and start converting your videos.
- If you need, you can go back to the old format, with the same system.

Inter-Convertible Software For Format Conversion With Lightning Speed
I'm sure there are many of you out there who are fond of collecting movies - in Betamax, in VHS, even in Laser Disc. Today, many of them are not with the present formats and you cannot enjoy these films, unless you know how to convert them into your popular video formats.

This is a very simple job for the Movavi video converting tool. The conversion time takes just a few minutes, since the software does the conversion job in an unimaginable speed. If you prefer watching movies in your smartphone, you can also use this software to convert movies for your viewing pleasure. The inter-convertible software has the ability to change the formats very accurately, and as many ways possible.

Photo credit: Movavi.

Edit Videos Before Converting To Other Formats For Best Result
Now, you can upgrade and enhance your videos by editing them, with much accuracy and perfection. There are no complications in editing videos and you need not be an experienced video editing professional to use the software. The Movavi software company has produced the user-friendly video editor and you can edit and increase or reduce sound, with the special sound adjustment system.

The best thing about this video conversion program software? It comes at an affordable price, and you can even buy online from the website, www.movavi.com/videoconvertermac/index.html - one of the most trusted software developing technological company in the world.

Choosing The Frame That's Right For Your Artwork.

The process of choosing a frame for your artwork should be exciting, but it can also be quite difficult. It doesn’t matter if you’re an art collector or artist; you deserve a frame that complements your artwork. As long as the right frame is chosen, it can make your artwork breathtaking.

However, there are endless options to choose from. With such a wide range of options to choose from, there is always the chance that you’ll choose the wrong frame. There are some simple tips that you can follow and use to make sure you choose a winning frame for your artwork.

Photo credit: View Art Better.

Pay For Framing Service
You can buy a number of premade framing options, which are available through framing services. In most cases, these are good solutions. The only issue with premade framing is that it can require you to make some compromise. You can pay for bespoke framing services and get a frame that has the perfect size, texture and color for your artwork.

Obstruction-free Framing
These days, many frames have a lip, which is designed to cover the edge of the artwork. Put simply, all of these types of frames have an obstruction. Most people don’t want an obstruction. You want to choose a frame that has a unique profile, so the frame can easily attach to your artwork on the back.

Matching the Message
All artwork has some sort of purpose to serve and has a greater message behind it. If you want to make sure your art serves the right purpose, then you need to match your frame with your message. Style and color are certainly important, but it’s important to view the artwork and frame as one a whole. The frame you choose should do justice for your artwork.

It’s true that premade framing has a place, but you should also consider custom framing options. The Sydney Canvas Company provides bespoke framing services and art materials in Sydney, which will ensure your artwork is in good hands. You can go to www.thesydneycanvascompany.com.au for options.

#GivingIsBeautiful with NeoCell.

NeoCell has launched its annual fall campaign to raise money for Vitamin Angels, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing lifesaving and life-changing vitamins to children and mothers in need. From October 1 through December 31, NeoCell will donate 25 cents to Vitamin Angels for every product that it ships.

Last year, the same campaign raised $192,000 for Vitamin Angels - that's enough money to help more than 770,000 children. Over the past three years, NeoCell has collectively helped more than a million children through its partnership with Vitamin Angels.

Helping children in need.

"Partnering with Vitamin Angels has become a very important part of what we do as a company," said Jessica Mulligan, NeoCell Vice-President of Sales & Marketing. "Seeing the very real difference that NeoCell's contributions are making in the lives of children in need was one of the best experiences of my life."

 Mulligan met some of the children helped by Vitamin Angels by going with the group to observe vitamin distributions in Peru. They provided life-changing multivitamins to children living in villages as high as 14,000 feet, where little food can be grown.

According to Vitamin Angels, 45% of all child deaths worldwide are caused by undernutrition; that's more than a million innocent lives lost. Millions more will never reach their full physical or mental potential. Many of these children can be saved or their lives dramatically changed through improved nutrition. For just a quarter, Vitamin Angels can provide a young child with two doses of vitamin A - all a growing child needs for an entire year.

#GivingisBeautiful.

"Our friends at NeoCell know the true meaning of beauty," said Howard Schiffer, Vitamin Angels founder and president. "Their wholehearted commitment to our cause is helping those children and moms who are most in need to shine."

During the fall campaign, NeoCell products will have special Vitamin Angels neck tags, and display materials are being made available to retailers. People are urged to help spread the word about the campaign through social media by using the hashtags #GivingIsBeautiful and #NeoCellGiving.

NeoCell is a leading manufacturer of nutritional supplements and the #1 collagen brand. The company's Beauty Bursts, Biotin Bursts, Beauty Infusion, Collagen+C Tablets, Super Collagen Powder, Collagen+C Pomegranate Liquid, Collagen Beauty Builder, Keratin Hair Volumizer, Collagen Sport, Resveratrol Antioxidant and other products are designed to improve health, beauty and wellness - naturally. 

Globe Project 1 Phone | A Call for Good.

How many mobile phones have you owned in the past five years? One? Two? Maybe even five or more? Technological changes sure happen at a very rapid pace these days, especially in the field of telecommunications. Continuous popularity of social networking sites, the high demand for mobile browsing, and the availability of very affordable communications gadgets encourage more people to replace or upgrade their mobile phones almost yearly.

With this development, old gadgets often end up abandoned or worse, thrown into the trash together with drained phone batteries and broken chargers. These obsolete and unwanted electronic and electrical devices add up to millions of metric tons of e-waste disposed worldwide every year which cause toxic metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and beryllium to be released into the air and seep into the ground and waterways.

Through the years - some of the old phones that I have owned.

To combat the dumping of e-waste and promote stronger social and environmental practices, leading telecommunications company Globe Telecom is embarking on the biggest and most ambitious mobile recycling program in the Philippines. Dubbed as Project 1 Phone, it is designed to create awareness on proper e-waste disposal and to promote sustainability.

By donating unused, non-working, or damaged phones and tablets, mobile phone batteries, and even personal computers to the campaign, each Filipino would be able to do his share in minimizing not only the environmental impact of e-waste but also counter its harmful effects on health such as skin diseases and possible damage to vital organs and the skeletal system.

#Project1Phone.

Globe also makes it easy for its customers and other stakeholders to participate in the drive by providing donation bins in participating Globe Stores in various parts of the country (for the complete list, please visit the Globe Telecom website www.globe.com.ph/project1phone).

Schools, corporations, local government units, and other private and non-government organizations may also participate in the program by adopting recycle bins. Interested parties may email Globe at bridgecom@globe.com.ph.

All devices and accessories that Globe will gather shall be turned over to TES-AMM, a leading electronics waste recycler which will take responsibility for at end-of-life products to ensure that they are managed responsibly.

TES-AMM will, likewise, work on recovering precious metals and plastics from the recycled gadgets. Globe has committed to build at least 40 school buildings in the province of Aklan and proceeds of Project 1 Phone will be used to add to the said number since hundreds of classrooms are still needed in the area.

Choosing the Best Bathroom Suites.

Bathroom suites are made of various materials and designs to make every nook of your bathroom clutter-free and convenient to use. Each morning you go to the bathroom to brush your teeth and bathe with all the comforts similar to a luxury hotel. It does not matter if your house has the simplest design for as long as you have the best suites for the bathroom; your daily hygiene is well taken care of.

There are many bathroom suites that you can opt for to make your physical regimen easy and comfortable. They can be designed traditionally, contemporary or ultra-modern to suit the architectural design of your home. These bathroom fixtures will satisfy your physical needs every time you use them.

Contemporary bathroom suite.

When you plan to upgrade your bathroom fixtures make sure you have to choose the finest bathroom suite design that is within your budget range. Before purchasing them, you should measure the size of the bathroom and determine where to place the bath tub, toilet, wash basin and the cabinet. Consider the height of the bathroom door so it can accommodate them and not cause inconvenience during delivery and installation. This is a common mistake of some homeowners and before they know it, the bathroom suites of their choice don’t fit in the door.

Oslo Wenge 80cm mirror.

Choosing the right color for your bathroom suites should also be considered to serve its purpose. If you want your bathroom look wider and brighter, choose light colors. Dark colors make your bathroom look elegant and intimate. They give an aura of romance and make the bathroom look smaller than their actual size.

Oslo Walnut Vanity Unit.

Wash basins come in a variety of forms and decide what type you want for your bathroom. You can pick a counter top, hand rinse, under mounted or wash basin that is mounted on a pedestal or a semi-pedestal. Some can be hung on the wall or they are semi-recessed. There are myriads of bathroom vanities, mirrors and cabinets that are available in online stores and their design options are endless.

Brave the Trails with the Globe Cordillera Challenge 5.

Heads up, biking enthusiasts! Globe has something for you! In partnership with the Cordillera Conservation Trust, Globe Telecom brings you the Globe Cordillera Challenge 5 - a biking event that promises its participants a scenic but grueling 90-kilometer ride from Tublay to Kapangan in Benguet and back.

While the most picturesque among the routes prepared for the challenge since its launch in 2010, this year's trail also involves more technical climbs with total ascent of 3,390 meters and total descent of 3,404 meters. Maximum slope going up and down is 30 percent grade with about 20-25 kms of dirt road going down continuously. Lowest elevation is 522 meters above sea level while the highest elevation is 1,780 meters. 

"Bikers would be able to see some very nice rice terraces. Most people equate the rice terraces to Ifugao but we have it in Benguet as well. There's also a shallow river where they can stop and take a dip. But since it is the Cordillera Challenge, there's an extra element. It will be a bit tricky. There are also more rough roads instead of highways. We want everyone to explore and experience the Cordillera province. It's all about seeing what we have, and seeing why we have to protect all these areas," said JP Alipio, Executive Director of Cordillera Conservation Trust, partner-beneficiary of the event.

As part of Globe Telecom's journey to create a wonderful world, it is also the first time for Globe Business group to take the lead in the Cordillera Challenge 5.

Globe Corporate Social Responsibility OIC Fernando Esguerra (left) and Cordillera Conservation Trust Executive Director JP Alipio (right) encourage bikers to join the Globe Cordillera Challenge 5.

"We believe that it is high time for our corporate clients to join us in our advocacy for environmental sustainability. We want to engage them in addressing their social and environmental impact. What better way to do it than by encouraging them to be part of the Globe Cordillera Challenge which has always enjoyed enormous success in creating environmental awareness among the public," said Nikko Acosta, Head of Globe Enterprise Group.

Scheduled to take place on May 10, 2014, the event will have its first turnaround point at 20 kms from the starting line; this will be composed of purely paved roads. There will be sweeper trucks assigned in specific areas to bring bikers back to the finish line. The bike ride will start at exactly 5:00am at Tublay Municipal Hall and is expected to end there at 4:00pm.

Braving the trails.

The Globe Cordillera Challenge is not a race but a timed event designed for recreational bikers to be able to measure their performance and explore the local environment. It also showcases the ecosystem and culture of the Cordillera region and raises awareness on the need to protect and rebuild the mountains' forest areas.

Interested bikers can register at http://www.globe.i-volunteer.ph/register.
It entails a donation of P1,000 to the Cordillera Conservation Trust. The amount shall be deposited directly to the ff:
BDO Account
Account Name: Tignayan Para Iti Konserbasyon Ti Kordilyera
Account Number: 5180031673

Upon deposit, scanned copy of the deposit slip with the name of the participant shall be emailed to bridgecom@globe.com.ph. An email confirmation will be sent by Globe within 24 hours.

Furnishing a New Home.

Congratulations! You purchased a brand new home. You now have room after room of empty space that can be decorated any way you desire.

If your tastes lead you to fine quality, hand-finished products that are reminiscent of the rich and beautiful wooden pieces of early Americana then you are looking for the craftsmanship of Henkel Harris Furniture.

Henkel Harris is a name that has been around since 1946. It was a business that was started by Carroll and Mary Henkel and John Harris. Their investment of time and craftsmanship in their company earned them a reputation for furniture that was known for its high quality and durability. The company grew and, despite Mary Henkel finding herself the sole proprietor in 1969 - a time when successful female business owners were few and far between, it continues to flourish to this day. Now owned by the Gum family, Henkel Harris Furniture is still an American owned family business with a continuing commitment to beautiful products.

Henkel Harris furniture is more than an investment in room décor, each piece is a highly crafted work of art. They have furniture for every room. For your living room, they have elegant cocktail tables, end tables, and coffee tables. Each table is resting upon either gracefully curving legs reminiscent of Queen Anne or Chippendale styles or the elegant fluted look of the Sheraton or Federal style. They also have beautiful finished credenzas on which you could sit a flat panel television.

Photo credit: Henkel Harris Furniture.

In the dining room, you might be interested in purchasing any of their elegant chairs which feature the aforementioned stylish legs, elegantly patterned quilted seats, and intricately carved backs. The chairs can be placed around large double pedestal dining tables that ensure you will have room for your entire family to celebrate special occasions together. Complete the look with a sideboard, credenza, or stately china cabinet.

Photo credit: Henkel Harris Furniture.

Bedrooms are not immune to the Henkel Harris furniture treatment. Storage can be provided with a selection of bedside chests. Rest your reading materials on beautiful night stands. Stretch out on a stylish king or queen-sized bed. Their four-poster beds just invite you to adorn them with soft canopies, allowing you the feeling of extravagance and privacy like royalty of old. If your bedroom is large enough, adding a beautiful connoisseur cabinet is a stylish way to show off that special collection that is near and dear to your heart.

Photo credit: Henkel Harris Furniture.

However you choose to decorate your new house, Henkel Harris furniture is sure to have a few pieces of beautiful furnishings, each piece carefully crafted and stunningly finished. This line can be found at Boyles Furniture and Rugs, with showroom locations in North Carolina and Connecticut, as well an engaging website.

5 Great Jewels For Engagement Rings.

Ready to pop the question? Not sure which ring is the right one for your special lady? Here are five gems that make unforgettable engagement rings.

1. Sapphires
Popularized by Princess Diana and other royal brides, sapphires create breathtaking pieces of jewelry, especially if they're cut with white gold or glittering diamonds. Your intended won't be able to turn down a sapphire ring.

Princess Diana's famous sapphire ring.

2. Rubies
Long considered the jewel of love and passion, rubies are a popular centerpiece for engagement rings. Their history makes them a fitting choice; their blood-red beauty makes them a gorgeous one.

3. Diamonds
Diamonds are a girl's best friend. Diamonds are forever. You've heard all the cliches, but their legendary status is valid: No woman will ever say no to a diamond engagement ring.

4. Emeralds
Emeralds have become a hot item in recent years, but their prevalence can actually be traced all the way back to Edward VIII, who addicted his throne to marry the woman he loved. He gave the lucky lady an emerald ring with a personalized inscription. Swoon!

Photo credit: Faycullen

5. Moissanite
Moissanite is a more affordable alternative to diamonds, so if you're trying to shop discount engagement rings, this is the rock for you. Strong and pure, it offers all the shine of a thousand-dollar piece but for a fraction of the cost.

While there are countless gems in the world, these are a few of the most popular for engagement rings. Remember, at the end of the day, it isn't about the size of the stone. It's about the love in your heart.

The Lowdown on Diamond Trade.

Diamonds are one of the most precious and rare resources on the planet. They can be worth up to millions of dollars for just one small rock. Due to their scarcity, there is always a market for those who are looking to sell their diamonds or trade them for cash or other valuables.

Photo credit: Rapgenius

When you look for someone to trade with or sell your diamonds to, you need to make sure that you are working with someone who is ethical. There are many traders and buyers out there who are not going to give you the best price for your goods. Instead, they are trying to convince you that your diamonds are not worth as much as you know that they are in an attempt to increase their own profit margin.

While there is nothing wrong with making a profit, both parties should be able to make a deal that is fair and meets their needs. If you are looking for a company that will give you a great deal whether you are buying or selling diamonds, you can go to sites such as DiamondExchangeUSA.com. While there, you will find exactly what you want for the right price if you are buying and a platform to sell your diamonds if that is what you want or need to do.

Could happiness be just the thing to put a spring in the elderly’s step?

If you ask anyone of any age what they really want from life, the answer is likely to be 'happiness'.

And it seems that many Brits are well on their way to achieving this blissful state with recent research from the Office for National Statistics revealing that the average Brit rated their life satisfaction at 7.3 out of 10. This puts Britain in eighth place as the happiest place to live in the ranking of 27 countries in the European Union and also places it ahead of countries such as France, Germany and Italy.

Oxford Street in London.

The state of happiness is associated with a number of benefits for overall health and well-being, including helping to guard against conditions such as heart disease.

And the good news is that the benefits that happiness can provide aren’t limited to one particular age group. In fact scientists believe that being happy could be the key to staying healthy in your latter years.

Researchers at the University College of London have found that those people that enjoy life end up being happier and more physically active when they get older. Conversely those who were unhappy were at risk of a whole host of health and mobility issues. This group were also twice as likely to end up suffering more serious conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes and arthritis.

The study of 3,200 people over the age of 60 found that happy pensioners didn’t have as much trouble carrying out daily tasks, such as getting out of bed, getting dressed or showering. The researchers also found that people that are happier throughout their lives do not decline in physical function as quickly.

Reaching later life
The research offers a ray of hope to those who are looking to take a proactive approach to their health as they age, and indicates that just having a real zest for life could put a spring your step as you enter your twilight years.

Whether you are 15 or 50 years old, it’s never too late to start making changes. Doing something different, such as joining a club, starting a new sport or travelling more could all have a huge impact on your quality of life later on.

Implementing even the smallest of changes whether you are in your 60s, 70s or 80s, such as those outlined by Action for Happiness, could all contribute to a happier, healthier new you – whatever your age. 

Homelift.

Increasing the amount of physical activity you do, as well as enjoying everything that life has to bring could have untold benefits for your well-being. Mobility aids such as home lifts from Stannah, could also help to ensure that you still have the energy to remain active and are able to move around your home freely. 

Ultimately, maintaining a positive attitude, making small changes to your lifestyle and getting the right support for your needs could all help to set you on the path to happiness and independence as you age. You never know, 60 could indeed be the new 30!

Making Moving Less Stressful for Children.

Moving house can be a stressful time for many parents, especially for those with young children. Prior to making a move, it’s important to consider a few key factors.

Wait until the end of the year.
For one, if your child is already enrolled in the local school, prior to packing up and relocating, it may be wise to wait until the end of the year, or at least, until the end of the term. Certain schools will teach subjects in a different way and also at a different speed. If you register your kids at a different institute half way through the year, they may fall behind in their studies.

Why moving house can be stressful for a child.
Although deciding to relocate poses a big upheaval for the entire family, both adults and children will experience different emotions. Adults will often only focus on the practical aspects of the move, whilst children will pay more attention to the losses caused. They may be moving away from a best friend, a school they enjoy or the bedroom they love. It’s important to help your child through this situation and a good way to do this is to make them a big part of the move. When visiting new properties, allow them to have a say and show them that you value their opinions.

Move somewhere family friendly. 
You may be moving due to a new career opening, or alternatively because of what the location has to offer. Whatever the reason for your move, it’s important to do your research beforehand.

Photo credit: o5

It’s always worth checking out the local information directories on sites like Netmums, which have extensive lists of family-friendly restaurants and day trip locations which are recommended by local mums. For instance, the North Lincs page is packed full of everything you could need, from recommended toddler groups to the best local softplay locations. This is a great first stop to decide if you’re suited to a home in the area such as a Linden Homes property for sale in Lincoln.

Familiarize them with the area first. 
It’s not new news that moving house can be stressful or even traumatic for children if not handled correctly. Instead of feeling daunted or worried about an unknown new place, introduce day trips to familiarise them with the area beforehand. Being told you’re moving to a place you know and love is a lot less scary for a child than somewhere that’s strange and unfamiliar. Emphasis on the positives are incredibly effective, and encouraging your little ones to think of what they’ve got to look forward to rather than the place they’re leaving behind should help keep the smiles on their faces.

Globe Telecom to step up drive vs signal interference in 2014.

If you own a signal booster at home, or knows someone who owns one, better be warned. Such devices are illegal, and the use, sale, and possession of them are prohibited by law.

“While illegal signal boosters may enhance wireless coverage in a particular area, such devices, when improperly designed or installed, will cause interference with mobile networks and thus will impede communication services, including emergency calls in the community. This is why the company is determined in addressing this issue by eliminating the sale and use of illegal repeaters and provide better customer experience,” said Atty. Froilan Castelo, Globe General Counsel and Head of Corporate and Legal Services Group.

Looks familiar?

Globe Telecom said it will step up its campaign this year to address the unscrupulous sale and use of illegal repeaters or signal boosters that cause network interference resulting in mobile phone subscribers to experience dropped calls, garbled lines, and weak signal.

The campaign against signal interference began in 2011 following growing evidence of proliferation of the use of illegal repeaters or signal boosters. Such illegal devices are not coordinated with mobile telecommunications providers or with government regulators. Illegal repeaters come in the form of indoor or outdoor antennas and wireless adapters which boost network signal by hogging bandwidth from a legitimate network infrastructure. As per monitoring by the company, cases of signal interference are being reported particularly in metropolitan areas of Manila, Cebu and Davao.

The proliferation of signal interference has, in fact, prompted the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to issue Memorandum Order 01-02-2013, prohibiting the sale, purchase, importation, possession or use of signal boosters operating on the 800 megahertz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz frequency bands without the approval of the regulatory agency. Violation could entail penalties and even imprisonment. 

Globe Telecom’s drive against signal interference now includes the uncoordinated use of high-intensity radio frequency identification (RFID), a wireless non-contact use of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data, for the purposes of automatically identifying and tracking tags attached to objects., such as those used in upscale villages for security purposes.

Following unrelenting drive last year, the company uncovered and resolved 15 cases involving the use and sale of illegal repeaters or signal boosters. In these cases, the devices were confiscated by the NTC.

Globe Telecom launches Anti Text Spam Campaign.

"Pre-selling condo in Global City, Taguig! We offer no DP, 0% interest!"
"Interested in getting a cash loan? Get as much as 500K, no collateral, no cash out easy approval!"
"Congratulations, your sim number won Php 1M! Call this number to claim your prize."

I only like spam if it comes from a can. :)

Sounds familiar? These are but one of the many text messages that I've encountered throughout the years. They're spam messages - unsolicited, come from unfamiliar numbers, and often times annoying.

Is there a way to avoid receiving spam messages like these? Apparently, there is.

Globe Telecom launched a campaign to address continuing proliferation of unsolicited promotional materials sent through short messaging service or text messages, commonly known as text spams, which many subscribers find to be annoying and bothersome.

"To help reduce, if not eliminate, text spams, the telecommunications provider has put in place several channels through which subscribers can report text spams", said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Head of Corporate Communications.

Subscribers may report via the Globe website through Talk2Globe Chat (http://chat.globe.com.ph); send a message through Globe Contact Form (http://globe.com.ph/talk2Globenow) and by tweeting @Talk2GLOBE on Twitter. Subscribers can put in the number, the exact message, and the time and date the text spam was received. "Numbers that are reported to be source of text spams are first sent warnings and those that are persistent source of text spams are deactivated from the service", Crisanto said.

How to block spam messages on your Android device.

While the company takes utmost care in safeguarding data, records and documents gathered in the process of conducting business, subscribers should also take caution in writing down any personal information including mobile phone numbers. “Anyone who has access to numbers can create a database. Collection of numbers can come from registration to events and websites, prepaid loading from sari-sari stores, to text validation of mobile apps, and more. Major sources can be mobile marketing companies, app and web developers, load merchants, private and public establishments as well as through mobile generator programs,” she said.

Globe Telecom also disputes an online report that telcos sell customer numbers to database marketing companies. “Our valued subscribers can rest assured that we treat customer numbers with utmost confidentiality in line with the company’s security policy,” Crisanto emphasized. “We are aware and take note that spam text messages continue to cause inconvenience to many of our subscribers We want to assure our customers that we are committed in our drive against text spams,” she added.

How to block spam messages on your iPhone.

Many subscribers complain of getting an average of 5 to 10 text spams a day. Spam messages are usually sent by prepaid numbers as they are untraceable and are easily disposable. Spammers also don’t need to specific numbers to send spam messages to as they make use of USB GSM modems and they spam number ranges.

The National Telecommunications Commission had previously issued a memorandum circular prohibiting any unauthorized broadcast messaging services. The memorandum provides that any individual or business entity who wants to send broadcast messages needs to register first with the NTC for authorization. Legitimate text blasts approved by the regulating agency are properly identified and do not carry 11-digit numbers.

Occasional Furniture for the Modern Home.

Occasional furniture is often considered dated, which is why so many modern households avoid buying this style of furniture. However, if you take the time to shop around, there are many modern pieces that will look excellent. This style of furniture is often smaller, and can be used to accessories a room.

You should choose pieces of occasional furniture that can be moved easily, and used when needed in each room. These items are typically coffee tables, and side tables that can be used when extra guests arrive. Choosing the right piece is essential, and can make a massive difference to the way the room feels, and if you choose badly the item will look out of place.

Tray Table.

Every item of occasional furniture that you choose should enhance the style of the room, and change a standard room to a magnificent area. Therefore, choosing the best store is essential and is why more people are choosing high end furniture. Online stores such as French Connection are ideal as they provide choice and style at an affordable price.

The occasional furniture is modern, stylish and will look incredible in every home, regardless of age. Alongside coffee tables, you may want to consider ottomans, rocking chairs, and wine racks, which can help your room to look amazing. Regardless of the items that you want in the room, they must be high quality. 

Rocking chairs and ottomans may seem old fashioned, but in the correct setting they will look brilliant, and often in contrast to a modern sleek appearance. If possible choose pieces of furniture that have dual functions such as an ottoman for sitting and storage. You and your home will benefit from these multi functional pieces of occasional furniture.

Side tables have become more fashionable, and people are realising that they are a perfect addition to every home. Whether you want to use the table for places decorative items on or practically at the end of a sofa, they are one of the best pieces to choose. You need to ensure that every item is functional and looks excellent.

Shopping for furniture should be fun, and there are so many different places that you can shop in that the choice is overwhelming. However, shopping online has become a popular choice as you can choose the occasional furniture from the comfort of your home. Once the items are ordered, you can sit back and wait for them to be delivered.

When the occasional furniture arrives, you can spend time adjusting where it will go, and decide on the best place in the room. The beauty if these items are that you can move them regularly, and refresh the way that the room looks and feels. There are no rules when it comes to interior design, and you should choose a style that you love.

This article is sponsored by Spreaditfast.

Unwrap Hope | Bamboo and Tattoo Home Broadband give smiles to children of Ormoc.

Ever wondered what your favorite stars and celebrities do during Christmas and the New Year? Here's a peek at how rock icon Bamboo celebrated the holidays.

Tattoo Home Broadband together with celebrated rock icon Bamboo gave the children of Brgy. Tambulilid Elementary School in Ormoc, Leyte plenty of reasons to smile with gifts of toys in time for Christmas.

A fitting finale to a successful run of Bamboo's Christmas concert Believe: Christmas at Home with Bamboo, the concert became the prime vehicle to be able to collect over 2000 toys for the benefit of the kids in the said barangay. After the onslaught of typhoon Yolanda, Tattoo, through Globe Telecom's Bangon Pinoy program, gave its commitment to restore and rebuild 100 homes in Ormoc, in partnership with Gawad Kalinga. And with the holiday season Tattoo chose to give importance to the children of the community who were left most vulnerable after the calamity.

Bamboo’s concert Believe: Christmas at Home with Bamboo held at the Music Museum is part of Tattoo’s #UnwrapHope project with an end goal to give over 2000 kids toys as gifts for Christmas

Everyone who wanted to watch the concert purchased toys in exchange for the tickets. On the other hand, those who simply wanted to share a simple Christmas message posted their video greetings on Instagram with the hashtag #UnwrapHope. Each video post was also equivalent to a toy that Tattoo donated on their behalf. And as a special treat, a creative selection of these videos were compiled and revealed during Bamboo’s concert.

Bamboo together with Tattoo Home Broadband's Jurist Gamban holding some of the stuffed toys that will be given to the children of Brgy. Tambulilid in Ormoc, Leyte.

Following the collection of toys was the gift wrapping activity held at the Globe Tower where employees, Tattoo customers and Bamboo's fans alike helped each other to wrap and put a bow on every single toy. The gifts were sealed with Christmas cards from the kids of Taguig Elementary school.

Bamboo, together with the whole Tattoo team, Tattoo subscribers and fans alike
worked together to wrap over 2000 gifts for the kids.

As Globe Senior Vice President for Broadband Business Gilbert Simpao said, "What better way to end a blessed year right than to give back. We feel very lucky to have this opportunity to make kids happy especially after what happened with typhoon Yolanda. And this is just the beginning as we commit to return in time to rebuild of their homes".

Brand new toys were shipped to Ormoc in time for the gift-giving celebration with Tattoo and Bamboo.

And just like Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, Bamboo and the whole Tattoo team and Globe employee volunteers arrived at the elementary school bearing gifts of joy in the form of truckloads of toys.

"We will forever be thankful that these children welcomed us and allowed us to be a part of their Christmas celebration. But we don't only want to be here just for the holidays. We are here for this community for the long haul and we look forward to making more children happier in the near future," continues Globe Vice President for Tattoo Home Broadband Business Jurist Gamban.

Joining Bamboo, Simpao and Gamban in the recent gift giving was Globe Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications Yoly Crisanto, and Globe Vice President for Nomadic Broadband Business Dong Ronquillo alongside Globe employee volunteers who gave their time and effort for this meaningful cause.

The children gave the Tattoo team a warm welcome and even had a chance to dance with them. Kids received toys from huggable stuffed dolls and building blocks to action figures.

The kids of Brgy. Tambulilid gave the Tattoo team a warm welcome and eagerly waited for their turn to receive a toy.

Tattoo together with Gawad Kalinga are now in the process of preparing in time for the building of the Tattoo-GK village in Brgy. Tambulilid this January. Apart from 100 houses, the village can also count on Tattoo's support with livelihood programs designed for sustainable living. Tattoo was able to raise funding for this project with their donation of 100% of their sales from their sticks and home broadband plans for November and December.

Bamboo and Jurst Gamban handing out the gifts to the children.

Bangon Pinoy is Globe Telecom’s enterprise-wide disaster response initiative that aims to have a unified system for donations, relief efforts, and corporate social responsibility programs across products and services. It is an integrated program that allows communities devastated by calamities to benefit from various efforts geared towards rebuilding and rehabilitation. It was first introduced by Globe in 2009 after typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng wreaked havoc in the country.

For more updates visit www.globe.com.ph/BangonPinoy.