Make Time To Be A Dad | Luis Manzano's Thoughts on Fatherhood.

Fatherhood is one of life’s greatest blessings but along with it comes great responsibility, perhaps the greatest in any man's life. It is a role which nobody can really prepare for 100%.

Now a first-time dad, Luis Manzano shares his new journey of being a father to Peanut. Although he is famous for his funny jokes and punchlines (after all, he is a comedian aside from being an actor and TV host), Luis takes his daddy role very seriously.

Photo credit: Luis Manzano on Instagram.

“Being a Dad, it’s truly a surreal feeling," Luis candidly shared. "I don’t think one can ever be prepared on being a parent. It’s easy to say that you’re ready, you’re set, na lahat kayang- kaya, but once na andiyan na talaga, it’s something you work for each day.”

One major adjustment for Luis as a first-time father is having another top priority in life. Before, his wife Jessy and his work are his priorities, but now Luis makes sure to not simply have quality time with Peanut but also quantity of time even if it means he has to sacrifice some other things. Luis’ Daddy duties are mangulit during playtime with Peanut, reading her books, and putting her to sleep sometimes.

When asked what his advice for other first-time Dads is, Luis shared, “There is no one formula on being a dad, each child is different so each one deserves their own brand of fatherhood. A realization for me from my Dad is that its not simply about quality of time. Madami ang nagsasabi na its always about quality not quantity. No, I think quantity is also as important as quality. And of course, be healthy. We want to spend time with our children. Specially, if nabigyan ka ng blessing na medyo may edad ka na. There are so many things we want to do with them. For that, you need to eat right and to get proper rest.”

Luis Manzano for Ajinomoto Crispy Fry.

Dads play an active role in caring for children and it’s essential to keep up their energy levels. That’s why protein is crucial to the diet. It boosts the immune system and helps the body function the way you need it to.

Struggling to prep protein meals due to time constraints? Check out Ajinomoto Crispy Fry® breading mix! It’s so easy to use, just coat and fry, and in no time, you’ll have crispy delicious protein-packed fried chicken or even fried fish.

Being a new parent is truly a challenge, but raising a family is also one of the best jobs out there! Remember Luis’s advice and take the time to get to spend time with your child, play with them, prioritize them, and be there for them no matter what. Do that and you’ll do great. 

Take care of yourself, eat well and live well with the people you love.

Give the gift of healthy and delicious homemade meals this Father’s Day!

Father’s Day is just around the corner and one of the best ways to show your appreciation for your dad is by cooking a delicious and nutritious meal made with lots of love.

“Dads are known to be very hardworking and put their loved ones first before themselves. This is why we, at Ajinomoto, would like to help in putting their health and happiness first this Father’s Day by sharing healthy but delicious recipes that they will surely enjoy,” said Roann Co, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) General Manager of Corporate Planning and Public Relations.

Below are special recipes made healthy and delicious through the use of AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning that helps in reducing sodium without compromising taste. These recipes are part of Ajinomoto’s BawAsin® or Bawasan ang Asin campaign, an effort that encourages consumers to reduce their sodium intake without sacrificing the deliciousness of their meals.

Ajinomoto has created a BawAsin® section in its official website. It provides information that reducing sodium in diet is not difficult or will result to bland food. The site features 100 less sodium creative recipes that help individuals enjoy meals that contain less sodium yet enjoying same deliciousness.

Elevated dining with Creamy Salmon Garlic

Even through home dining, sophistication is possible with this hearty plate of Creamy Salmon Garlic. Rich in protein, salmon helps in muscle building and repair perfect for dads who like to stay active and workout. Not only that, the dish is rich in vitamin D for maintaining good bone density. This recipe works with the elegance of salmon fillet, all-purpose cream, cooking wine, parmesan cheese, spinach, garlic, onions, and AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning. Check out full recipe here: Creamy Salmon Garlic

Comfort with a twist in Chicken in Herb and Mustard

On the other hand, if you want something familiarity with a little bit of a twist, Chicken in Herb and Mustard may just do the trick. It is rich in protein and high in zinc, which helps maintain the heart’s health and the body’s immune system. This dish can be made in as little as 15 minutes too, using ingredients such as chicken, mustard, lemon grass, thyme, and AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning. Full recipe here: Chicken in Herb and Mustard

Super Food for Super Dad with Sautéed Bok Choy and Mushrooms

Finally, if you’d like to prepare a meal as super as your dad then best to play around with a superfood like bok choy. Studies also show that people who eat more cruciferous vegetables like bok choy have a lower risk of developing lung, prostate, and colon cancer. This superfood is then paired with button mushrooms and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Learn the recipe here: Sauteed Bok Choy and Mushrooms

“We, at Ajinomoto, believe that cooking is an expression of love. We hope that these thoughtful recipes help sons, daughters, and even beloved grandchildren to express their admiration to the special men in their lives- their dads and grand dads,” said Co.

Providing special, delicious, healthy, and easy-to-follow recipes are just one of the many ways that Ajinomoto lives its “Eat Well, Live Well” commitment to help people live a fulfilled life with their family and loved ones through nutrition without compromise.

For more nutritious and delicious recipes, visit the Less Sodium Recipes section of Ajinomoto’s Cookmunity website at cookmunitybyajinomoto.com/tag/less-sodium-recipes.

Make food your love language this Father's Day.

The roles of fathers have gone beyond being the sole provider for the family. They are equally important in nurturing the family’s wellbeing by building strong relationships and being actively involved in child care interests and responsibilities. Our fathers literally become our rock, protecting us as much as they can. Some fathers, however, may not be huggers or emotionally attuned to us, but you know they truly care deep down through their unique love language.

We are truly blessed to have fathers and father figures in our lives, who helped mold us to into what we are today. We thus salute the men in our lives on their special day. Of course, nothing beats whipping up something sweet from the heart. Make food your love language with this utterly #Madalicious treat - Cerveza Negra Chocolate Balls, made with Magnolia Devil’s Food Cake Mix combined with Cerveza Negra. It will pleasantly surprise your taste buds too!

Cerveza Negra Chocolate Balls

Ingredients:

1 (550 g) pack MAGNOLIA DEVIL’S FOOD CAKE MIX

3 (50 g each) pc MAGNOLIA BROWN EGGS

1 (330 mL) bottle CERVEZA NEGRA

1 (120 mL) cup coconut oil 

COATING & DÉCOR 

1/2 kg dark chocolate, chopped

100 grams pistachio nuts, chopped

1 (120 g) cup cocoa powder

1 (80 g) cup desiccated coconut

100 grams white chocolate, melted (optional)

Procedure: 

1. Preheat oven to 176.7°C (350 F). Meanwhile, line and grease one (1) 12x16 inch square pan with baking/wax paper. Set aside.

2. In a bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, cerveza negra and oil. Mix until smooth in consistency. Pour into prepared pan.

3. Bake for 25 minutes. Let cool and then crumble cake and form into 1-inch balls.

4. Prepare dark chocolate by melting it for 10-15 seconds in a microwave oven over a high setting.

5. Dip each ball in melted dark chocolate and then roll each ball in pistachio nuts, cocoa powder or desiccated coconut. Drizzle with some melted white chocolate placed in a piping bag, if desired.

Makes 40 pieces. (Yield: 40 pc (30 grams per ball) /4 pc per serving )

 

The Manila Hotel Celebrates Father's Day (plus a month-long promo)!

For all that he has done for us, Dad deserves a treat on his special day. This Father’s Day, raise your glass to the main man in your life with The Manila Hotel’s Father’s Month treats.

Best dad of the modern era goes to Kang Ha Neul (When the Camellia Blooms).

The Home Buffet surprise

For those who prefer to stay at home, you may pull off a grand celebration with The Manila Hotel’s takeout/delivery service and give the ultimate gift for beloved dads—full stomachs and warm hearts. For the month of June, the take home highlight is the Father’s Month Home Buffet that comes in two sets: the Special and Supreme.

The Manila Hotel's Father's Month home buffet promo.

The Father’s Month Home Buffet sets will be offered the entired month of June. Prices of both sets are subject to 12% VAT and 1% local tax. Plus, an order gets you a special “World’s Greatest Dad” shirt to give him as a gift!

You may also choose from the regular Home Buffet sets like Italian, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Chinese, and Halal. To check the full menu, visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph/takeout/.

Club Sandwich Treat at The Lobby Lounge

Sometimes, our quiet company is all dad needs, and at the spacious Lobby Lounge, you can enjoy a whopping Club Sandwich with fries, plus two free drinks for only P800++. The giant club sandwich is perfect for sharing and it comes with a side of fries and some spreads and coleslaw. You can order your choice of drinks from chilled juices, iced tea, soft drinks, or beer. This promo rate with the two free drinks is ongoing until June 30, 2021.

Care for some good ol' Club Sandwich?

Prestige Privilege: Father’s Day at The Champagne Room

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, and no man deserves more loving than your dad. Show him how much you appreciate his hard work by treating him to a great meal on Father’s Day [June 20].

The Manila Hotel will be reopening the famed Champagne Room for Father’s Day with a special deal for their valued Prestige members - special lunch or dinner set menu for only P2,800 net (the full rate of P3,500 will apply to non-Prestige members).

The Champagne Room reopens for Father's Day.

This special set is specially curated with fathers in mind and includes the following:  Tiger Prawns in Zucchini Ribbon, Clear Duck Cranberry Consommé, Dry Porcini Risotto, Savory Tomato Sorbet, with a choice of Tranche of U.S. Beef Tenderloin Wellington or Oven Roasted Fillet of Chilean Seabass. For dessert, indulge in some luscious Tiramisu Semifreddo with coffee or tea with macarons.

Café Ilang-Ilang Special Father’s Day Menu

If you are still contemplating on where to head out for your special Father’s Day gathering, a wonderful option is definitely to treat your dad on a Sunday dinner at Café Ilang-Ilang where you can enjoy delectable dishes and various decadent desserts.

The Manila Hotel's Lechon is always a crowd favorite.

Whether your dad is inclined towards exploring and having food adventures or is simply happy with plate of his staple meals, Café Ilang-Ilang offers a myriad of thoughtful and modern dining options.

Taste the gastronomic delights have prepared especially for dads, which gives diners a truly unforgettable epicurean experience like Baby Back Ribs with Whiskey Barbecue Sauce from the Churrasco section; Lamb Cutlets Rosemary from the Italian section; Spider Maki (Soft Shell Crabs) from the Japanese section; Saewoo Sil-Gochu (Spicy King Praws) from the Korean section; and so much more!

For more information and table reservations, please call The Manila Hotel's hotline numbers at (02) 85270011 or 0998-9501912. You may also email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com. The Manila Hotel adheres to protocols and guidelines set by the government and the IATF, and can only accept guests from 18 to 65 years of age.

Bespoke Gift Ideas for Father's Day.

More often than not, finding a gift that's thoughtful and unique for the special man in your life can be notoriously challenging. The task is often Herculean that you'll almost always end up buying a necktie, a pair of boxer shorts, or a set of socks because these items are the only things that you can think of.

But contrary to popular belief, men aren't that hard to shop for - especially if you have a deep understanding of what his hobbies and interests are, and pay attention to the things that he like and dislike, for that matter. And with Father's Day fast-approaching, it's now time to rack my brains and come up with interesting surprises for the men in my family. Thankfully, I found a haven of gift options online and they now have me covered in time for Father's Day!

For my husband who works the night shift.
A personalized Frenche press, for men who run on coffee. This cafetiere features a heat resistant borosilicate glass beaker inside a chrome-plated steel frame with a black polycarbonate handle. The coffee pot can be hand-etched with your own words over five lines. Should I have this etched with "I love you forever", or that looks too cheesy to bring to his workplace? Haha!

Personalized cafetiere.

For my comic geek brother.
My brother, now in his early 30's and soon-to-be a father of two (my sister-in-law is currently pregnant with their second child), will forever be like Peter Pan. He's still addicted to video games, watches cartoons, and still into comic books - just like he was when we were kids. This Vintage Comic Clock makes a perfect gift for him, and for those men who will forever be kids-at-heart. The clock's face can be customized with your comic book/superhero of choice.

Vintage comic clock.

For my banker brother-in-law.

Nothing says dapper like a business bag handcrafted from the finest Italian leather. This Calvino business bag, which can be personalized with the recipient's initials, looks smart, simple, yet elegant - exactly the aura that my brother-in-law should exude whenever he's meeting clients or having a business luncheon with his boss.

Leather business bag.

For my father-in-law, and his wine collection.

I can't exactly say that my father-in-law is a wine connoisseur because he hardly drinks wine and other alcoholic beverages. But he does have a wide collection of wines and spirits at home, most of them are gifts from relatives and friends. This beautifully handcrafted wood rack is a stylish way to display his wines, and makes a nice accent to the kitchen in my parents-in-law's home.

Personalized wine rack.

For my grandfather who loved to cook.

And I say loved because it's been almost eighteen years since he passed away. But my grandfather, whom we fondly call 'Lolo Daddy', has never been forgotten, and we'd always remember him for his love for food, his cooking skills, and how much he loved us, his grandchildren. If he were still alive, I'd probably surprise him with this Magnetic Knife Block and have the words 'Best Lolo' ('lolo is the Filipino term for 'grandfather') etched on it.

Personalized Magnetic Knife Block.

So forget the socks, ties, and boxers, and get your dad or husband a gift that's meaningful, something that will pique his interest, and is right up his alley. I'm sure you're bound to find one at Gifts Less Ordinary. :)

Deals, steals, discounts, and more at Lazada.com.ph!

For most Filipinos, June usually signifies the start of the school year and the onset of the rainy season in the country. But for Lazada and all the shopaholics out there, the month of June is synonymous to a huge, mid-year madness sale! And here are five of the best reasons why you should shop at Lazada right now.

REASON #1: Sale-lebrate with Lazada this Independence Day.
We all know the parades, the speeches, and the floats during Independence Day but this year, while you’re at your break from work or school, Lazada.com.ph offers you the best deals on the hottest items right now. With offerings as much as 80% discount on more than 30,000 lifestyle and electronics products up for grabs, shopping online will be a breeze and right before you know it; your purchases are already at your doorstep. So why be left behind dreaming over those brand new smartphones or accessories when Lazada makes shopping effortless and risk-free for you?

Home appliances at 75% off!

REASON #2: DDD – Discounts Dedicated for Dads this Father’s Day
Why leave all the heart-warming moments with mom when you can put up a smile on your Dad’s face this Father’s Day? Whether you have a classy dad, a techie one, an adventurous one, or even a sporty one, there’s definitely something for every father out there at the country’s online shopping mall - www.lazada.com.ph. Choose from a wide selection of electronics, outdoor gears, accessories or grooming products right at your fingertips – all at prices which won’t break the bank – so you would still have money left for dinner and drinks with dad! With jaw-dropping discounts as much as 70%, you and your dad will definitely feel appreciated when you shop at the country’s online shopping mall.

Father's Day picks!

REASON #3: Don’t sweat the swipe!
Who says you need credit cards to buy online? Not with Lazada! Buy anything as you please and pay when the items are delivered at your doorstep – in cash! Simply effortless and risk-free all for you.

REASON #4: Wherever you are, we’re there.
No time to go outside to shop? Tired of the swimming aimlessly in a sea of people in the malls? Fret no more, with Lazada’s free nationwide delivery system- for transactions above PhP 1,000, you are sure that no matter where you are, your will receive your purchases right where you want it. Staying abroad? You can still show your loved ones in the Philippines your appreciation by ordering in Lazada and we’ll be sure to send it to them. No fuss, no hassle.

Great beauty buys at pretty prices! 

REASON #5: Don’t Like it? We’ll Take it!
Purchasing from Lazada is not only effortless but also risk-free. When you purchase items with us and you don’t seem to like them anymore or they do not fit you perfectly, simply send them back to us free of charge and we’ll return your money back. Afraid of buying items that you don’t think will fit you? With Lazada.com.ph, you can purchase items one size smaller and one size bigger and you can fit at the comfort of your home and pay for what you want to keep, if it doesn’t fit, feel free to send them back and we’ll handle the rest.

Lazada (www.lazada.com.ph), the Philippines’ largest online shopping mall, is pioneering e-commerce by providing a fast, convenient and secure online shopping experience combined with an extensive product offering in categories ranging from mobiles & tablets and consumer electronics to household goods, toys, fashion and sports equipment. Lazada is continuously striving to offer its customers the best possible shopping experience with multiple payment methods including cash on delivery, extensive warranty commitments and free returns. Lazada mobile applications for Android, iPhone and iPad provide additional convenience to its consumers’ allowing them to shop anywhere, anytime.
For more information, please visit http://www.lazada.com.ph.
For updates on Lazada’s latest innovations, as well as activities, contests and promotions, connect with us via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines)

Join | Little Miss Pepper Designs Father's Day Giveaway!

Since Father's Day is right around the corner, The Rebel Sweetheart has teamed up with Life With Two Boys and several other awesome bloggers to bring you a fantastic Father's Day giveaway!

Thanks to Little Miss Pepper Designs, one lucky guy is going to win a Father's Day prize pack that includes the following: a Sterling Silver Keychain, Hammered Love Sterling Silver Collar Stays, and Love Cuff Links. 

Items are worth a total of $150. Now isn't that sweet?

This giveaway is open to US residents only, ages 18+
Giveaway ends at 11:59pm EST on June 17th.
Enter using the Rafflecopter form below. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. The Rebel Sweetheart is not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Join | Xperience Days Father's Day Giveaway!

It is a perfect time to find what gifts you would like to give to your father. Makobi Scribe is proud to present Father’s Day Gift Ideas Giveaway Event.

Earlier, I promised to give my dear readers something special for them and the significant men in their lives. Here it is - an Xperience Days gift certificate worth $50, which can be used on one of the many unique experience gifts that they offer.

What is Xperience Days?

Xperience Days is a one stop shop for the country’s most exciting experience gift certificates and unique gifts, which are suitable for all occasions. With thousands of unique experiences in every corner of the country, from Trapeze lessons in New York to cookery classes in Boston - and everything in between; there is a unique gift idea to make every birthday, Christmas, wedding or anniversary that bit more special for your friends and most loved ones. So whether you’re looking for the perfect birthday gift for a man who has everything, a Christmas gift for your mother or an anniversary gift for your wife; Xperience Days has the choice and quality to ensure anything bought with the XD stamp of approval is a uniquely memorable gift that they will cherish forever. And with the stream of new and exciting activities being added all the time - even the most adventurous of individuals will find a new experience to enjoy.

How are gifts sent?

Once you have filtered through the vast choice and decided upon the perfect experience gift, your XD gift certificate will be shipped in a stylish presentation pack which can be redeemed as and when they wish. Our gift certificates carry no expiration date, and can be exchanged for free – what more could you ask from a gift certificate?

What's an 'experience gift'?

An experience gift allows those lucky recipients to enhance their skills repertoire and experience resume with an activity they may have been oblivious to – sparking a new love of activities and creating the memories that will stay with them for ever. So next time you are looking for the perfect present - make it an experience gift from Xperience Days.

Ready for a great Xperience? Enter this giveaway via the Rafflecopter below. 
Remember, you need not do all of the tasks listed, but by doing so, you earn more entries and thereby increase your chances of winning.
This event will run from June 10 until June 18, open to US/Can only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Once you're done, please take time to visit my fellow bloggers who are participating in this event, too. They've also prepared gift ideas that will make Father's Day truly memorable for you and your family.

Xperience Days | Gifts Like No Other

My husband and I have been together for almost a decade. And in this long period of time, I can still say that buying gifts for him can be a tad difficult. More often than not, I'd just end up giving him a shirt, a pair of shoes, or a bottle of perfume. My gifts have become so predictable that he can actually judge what's coming his way, just by looking at the gift box.

Of course, I would love to break this routine and get him unique gifts instead. Not the usual clothes or shoes that anyone can easily buy at the mall or order online. And definitely not 'predictable' like the gifts I used to give him.

Father's Day isn't until next Sunday, but this early I'd like to get him that one unique gift. Something like a food and culture walking tour. Or perhaps a sunset schooner sail. Or something more action-packed like an off-road ATV adventure, a NASCAR driving experience, or even flying lessons aboard a Cessna! If only both of us are in the US, I could have booked one of these through Xperience Days outright and treat him to one of those gift ideas. Maybe even all of them, since I'm quite generous.

And speaking of generosity, I have something special for you and that significant man in your life coming up in a few hours. Be ready for it! :)

Win a Gift Box for Dad!

Welcome to The Father's Day Gift Box Giveaway!

Jenn's Blah Blah Blog and WoW Gift Boxes have teamed up with The Rebel Sweetheart to bring one lucky person to win an awesome prize!

It may seem a bit early, but we want to make sure you get the best prizes possible in time for Father's Day.


Have you heard about Gift Boxes? 
They are on a mission to make sure you have the sweetest gift's you need for those special occasions, like Father's Day! They offer unique WOW Gift Boxes for every occasion! Gift Boxes also offers Wine Gift Baskets, Spa Experience Baskets, Care Packages, Chocolate and your Favorite Drinks at very affordable prices! Gift Boxes start as low as $29.99, it's the sweetest deal around! One lucky reader will win The Smoothest Soda & Sweetest Treats Loaded Gift Box! Kit Includes

• Dr. Pepper 16.9 oz
• Diet Dr. Pepper 16.9 oz
• Dr. Pepper Cherry 12 oz
• Diet Dr. Pepper 12 oz
• Dr. Pepper Ten 12 oz
• Dr. Pepper Cherry Dessert Topper
• Dr. Pepper Sweet and Kickin BBQ 18 oz
• Gourmet Butter Toffee Popcorn
• Claeys Kettle Fresh Fudge Gold Boxes
• 2 Mrs. Fields Gourmet Rainbow Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Hand Written Greeting Card

Looks perfect for Father's Day, right?
All you have to do to enter is complete the Rafflecopter form below! Remember the more you complete the better chances you have in winning this wonderful prize!
Giveaway will run from June 7, 2012 - June 18, 2012. Open to US residents only. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or another winner will be chosen.

  a Rafflecopter giveaway