the greatest love of all

Let this Easter Season be a reminder of God's grace to mankind. How HE sacrificed HIS only son to save us from our sins. And with this, we are re-born to a new life.

"For God so love the world,that He gave his only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have an eternal life." John 3:16

Happy Easter!

Easter is a time for new hope, new life and new beginnings...

New beginnings as just like this blog. Today marks new domain name. From http://www.jacquisoriano.com to http://www.jacqui-soriano.com hosted by blogspot. Such a pity that I had the domain for four years now, which I accidentally missed to renew it from my domain provider. It was all my fault. But instead of being sad, crying over my lost domain ... I must continue. Continue to provide informative views, share great deals and and all those mommy stories while juggling a career in the corporate world.

And with this, welcome to my blog again .... it's all about interesting conversations over a cup of coffee.

Happy Easter!

on being overweight

My fifteen year old boy badly needs to get in shape. At his age now, aside from being lazy and couch potato, he is also overweight by twelve pounds too. I am afraid that if he continue to eat so much, and with no sports activities at all, I am afraid he'll gain more weight. Worst, his legs might not be able to carry his body weight and might end up wearing acl knee brace for support. Very bad. Hence this summer, I've decided to do something! I enrolled him to a basketball clinic to keep him active, and help burn fats. Wish me luck, hope it works!

game addict

Embarassed to admit, I am PvZ addict. That is, Plants vs Zombies game. Hahaha! Just got hooked last week as the husband showed me how to use his iPad. Yes, I am so pathetic. I don't own any mac gadget at all. And since then, spent most of my nights "mastering" the game. Hahaha! No cheat guides!! Proud to say, was able to finish it in two days, and now ...I am enjoying unlimited play. Tee-hee! How about you, are you addicted to PvZ game too?

weight issues

Now I am more determined to lose those unwanted fats fast! Now that I am on my mid-thirties, I am now more conscious wih all my food intake. I am not only considering investing time and energy on gym classes, or probably drink cupful of diet pills daily, slowly I've realized time to embrace technology if I want to get rid of my excess body fats fast! Probably resort to surgical procedure such as liposuction or cellulite treatments to bring back my pre-pregnancy weight. Though I hate to admit it, one of things I am bothered lately is my ... weight. And this is not good. I must act soon and resolve my weight issues in any possible way. And if by surgical methods way to go ...then, so be it. =)

on cigars

Ever heard of macanudo cigar? I overheard the husband and his Columbian boss talked about cigars last week and I am surprised with his raves about macanudo cigars. As it is known as America's premium cigar with mild and aromatic taste. Not only because of it's exquisite taste and aroma, the cigar is handcrafted in Dominican Republic, using quality ingradients and silky wrappers, hence it was as one of the premium cigars offered in the market today. Not sure if I can buy it online as I am thinking macanudo cigars as a perfect gift for the holiday season, I hope the cigar available locally so I can save on shipping cost. Any store suggestions?

frustrated.

Summer already here and I can't even feel the summer heat yet. Aaargghh... Blame it on the monsoon rains we are currently experiencing and as if not summer at all! And instead of buying flipflops and thong sandals to show off those pretty feet, I think I need to get rain boots for myself. Too bad as I am very much excited to shop for spring/summer collection with floral prints, but I think I need to re-stock my wardrobe with jackets and coats instead. Yay! Really frustrated summer shopper here.

hooked

Yes, I am also hooked on Instagram. Just like everybody else in our twitterlandia. And despite having no iPhone at all, I am lucky since I can use the husband's iPhone so I can post and update my photos using Instagram and montager. Cool apps from iStore. Now I am excited to upgrade my Nokia phne to Apple ... and not because of it's sleek design but ... because of Instagram and cool games like plants vs zombies. tee-hee!

gadget upgrade

Hard to choose eh? I am thinking of upgrading my Nokia E-72 to a different gadget this year. And of course, the endless debate, which phone is better. Blackberry or iPhone?

As I've read to some popular gadget site: The BlackBerry Bold is very well built, and should last as long as you would like it to, barring any kind of abuse on the light weight device. While the iPhone 3G is also built very well, the inside engineering is great, the glass is precision-laser-cut, and it should be able to stand a bit more abuse than that of the BlackBerry. Over-all look, think iPhone classy and sassy to use for a normal corporate girl like me.

In terms of function, the BlackBerry can handle anything that you would normally do from Outlook on your Exchange server, and it is a perfect desktop extension. The BlackBerry is said to be the most secure device in the world for business use. The iPhone needs more testing with its security, the device deployment tools need some work, which leaves the iPhone with more to prove in the business world.

Though it is really hard to choose, as they are equally both functional and beautiful, I guess the bottomline how I plan to use it. As I am more of interested with all the applications that can be loaded to my phone, and as I love music, think the iPhone will be perfect for me. Instant access to iTunes for my favorite songs.

However, the office is more inclined to get Blackberry phones with blackberry case for our sales people. Why? for easy access to emails. As we need to be on field most of the time, coordinating with our support groups via web is much faster and efficient for all of us. The email capabilities are more sophisticated than the iPhone: attachments are easily opened and capable to edit excel and word docs. The QWERTY keyboard on the BlackBerry makes emailing quicker and easier than that of the iPhone touchscreen hence why this is still the phone of choice of our company. And since they will give it for FREE ... why not! =)

Prada-happy

Yes, I am once again Prada-happy! Weeeee!!

My friend from Macau bought me this cute pouch for my kikay accessories and I am so glad she did. It was few thousands cheaper in Macau versus in Manila, and I am glad was able to get good discount. Now I don't need to bring my oh-so colorful pouches whenever I go out ... it's so not corporate. Nyahahaha! But seriously, glad I have nice and respectable kikay kit. Now if I could get another one in red ...tee-hee! =)

new task

Have I shared my new task at work? Other than handling the Carriers and Partners unit, I was given by Management new role in our company. Effective this year, I will be handling the Managed Services wherein aside from offering traditional telecommunications product, my team will be in charge to generate additional revenue for creating non-productized services. These includes Disaster recovery, Call Center Solutions, Physical Security such as CCTV cameras, Co-location facilities and even proving LAN cabling including but not limited to cable covers. Yes, with my new role I am busy as ever creating products, SOPPs, marketing events and even MS product launching. That is a mouthful of task, eh? Now if I can only squeeze some vacation days ...that would be perfect.=)

practical and safe.

Do you have medicine cabinet at home? If none, get one! Believe me, having one installed in your home not only practical but it can definitely save lives. It was one of my non-negotiable item when our house was being constructed. I told our contractor to set up a medicine cabinet at the kid's bathroom that doubles as a vanity mirror so I can use the space to keep first aid kit, for emergency purposes. The cabinet was installed for the last five years, and happy to say ...we haven't used the first aid for emergency purposes. Except for minor burns and scratches, that can be easily covered by bandages. Anyway, aside from storage of first aid kit, it doubles as a place to store kids' medicines, bandages, face cream and even bathroom essentials ...a cabinet for safety and practical use.

finally ...

Cirque du Soleil is coming in Manila! Ohh, so happy and excited!! I've watched O's great presentation at Las Vegas six years ago and I won't ever forget this awesome theatrical experience. It was my first to watch show from Circque du Soleil, and I was mesmerized instantly. I promised will bring my kids next time but I can't afford tickets to Vegas. Hahaha! Anyhow, I am super happy now as this time, they will be here in Manila for one month show at Roxas Boulevard. Now I can bring the entire family! Hmmmm... I hope and pray Cirque's Varekai won't let me down.

on health insurance

I've been bugging my sister since last week to check out Medicare part D plans link I saw from my blogger friend's site. Since my sister is very much well-versed with all the medical jargons as she's a licensed nurse, I asked her to check the package offered by Allsup for my mom. Though my mom still young, at age of fifty-five, and with no major disabilities yet (thank God!), it helps to be prepared at this time. With the increase in medical treatments and hospitalization cost, having a health insurance coverage is a must. In fact, a practical and wise expense to save the individuals for rainy days.

insurance policy change

Would you know where I can find cheap car insurance quotes? I badly need one as our four year old SUV car due for insurance renewal by next month. Our previous agent no longer works with our existing insurance company and I am not happy with the present agent handling my account. She lacks knowledge (and experience!) in handling claim policies and I am not satisfied how she handled my last claim case. Instead of getting a fair deal from the car company, I ended up paying more. Tsk..tsk.. Anyhow, if you have suggestions or recommendations of online insurance calculator or quotes for non-life, let me know.

beach trip

Back from our beach vacation. It was fun and we enjoyed the trip so much! It was first Bora beach trip for my kids, and of course being the OC Mom I am, I want to be perfect for them. Hence, aside from getting them the best accommodations possible at Shangri-la Hotel, I brought them the best beach destination with fine, white sand ... Boracay! Perfect.

Could have been more perfect if we were able to get diet pills that actually work months in advance. Hahaha, yes, we've tried several diet pills already and it seems that nothing works on us. LOL Blame it on our late night snacks pizza and burger, and those oh-so yummy buffet! Oh well, if we can only find the magic pill ....

on vitamin supplements

Ever heard of hgh supplements? I think I need take one as I am not getting any younger. Some of my friends already taking it, as it helps to reverse the signs of aging and improves physical performance at the same time. They now work longer hours without feeling stressed or over-wroked! And according to them, it also aids in their over-all body wellness, and even a weight loss pill at the same time! The hgh gives essential vitamins, eliminate harmful free radicals with powerful antioxidants, and more. Hmmm...sounds interesting, right. Now I wonder where I can get this supplement online. Any idea?

on losing weight

For the past few days, I've been very busy reading about diet pill reviews. As we are off to another vacation next month, this time with my sales team, I am keen on losing those unwanted fats fast!! Sadly, the South Beach Diet or after-six eating never worked. Blame it on my late lunch-outs! But this time, I am dead serious. Would take my diet plans on the next level ... by getting safe and effective diet pills! Hah, wish this would work on me.

Summer Fun

We are back!! Back from our summer all-FUN trip! We had a blast from our four days and three night stay at Shangri-la Boracay. It was perfect get-away for the family. Kids enjoyed the sun and the sand so much. Great beach weather, cool water, less tourist and more fun, fun, fun under the sun!! Perfect. As we enjoyed our trip so much, we promised to go back soon! Can't wait. =)

diet pills for the husband

Any idea where I can find the best diet pills for men? Yes, I may sound ridiculous but I want to give the husband diet pills as an anniversarry gift next week. Not that I find him really big, but I want him to prepare for our upcoming beach trip at the lovely Boracay Shangri-la Resorts. You see, he gained so much weight from our last summer trip, and I am hoping he'll fit on his old boardshorts again. I don't want to buy new beach outfits, ok! Hahaha! Very bad of me. But seriously, any suggestions diet pills for men?

lovin' his shoes

Can't get enough of Supra shoes!
My little man loves his Supra shoes so much that he's enjoying it to the max. Yes, he enjoys wearing his rubber shoes as it is good and comfortable for walking especially for tots like him. His first Supra was a white sneakers, and now he's enjoying his second pair in blue color. And I am thinking of getting him the Baby Skytops model ...so cool! And he's just one year old! Hahaha! What do you think?

travel fair

Check out the Philippine Travel Expo at SMX Convention Center at Mall of Asia, Pasay City from February 18 to February 20 and get big discounts on airfare and travel package both on local and international travel. Last year, I was able to get good airfare rates for Palawan for my entire sales team and I was hoping I can get better discount this year. This time, for my family as I am thinking of getting nice Hongkong package so I can bring my kids, and enjoy the magical Disneyland. Let's see.

shopping treats

Online shopping, can't get enough of it ... My credit cards took a bad beating last week with all those online shopping sprees I had. I can't resist ... all those promos, free shipping and bargain discounts, who wouldn't be tempted! In preparation for our Boracay trip, bought several summer outfits for the kids and even shopped matching bags to go with my summer outfits. In fact, aside from summer shopping spree, I even purchased boots for our upcoming winter trip in Beijing. Pretty and stylish boots from Gap and Steve Madden at 40% with free shipping, whooaa! Now I am really one happy bargain hunter...let's see if I would still say the same when the credit card bill arrives. LOL

summer here!

Yes, summer came early for our family. Our Valentine's Day spent with the family at Villa Cecilia resort for a day of swimming. Yes, a day filled with fun and laughter, enjoying the company of each family member while eating sumptous lechon. So yummy! It was indeed a perfect pre-summer get-away before we go to our ultimate beach haven trip ... Boracay! Check out the kids photos below...

Samantha and Migo -- testing their newly bought swimsuits!

Migo enjoying his swim so much ...

beach haven

11 more days to go and we are off to the beach heaven ... Boracay! Yes, after months of planning, will soon be bound for a little rest and relaxation at the beautiful Shangri-la Resort together with the kids. Four days of total bliss under the sun, nothing to worry..just simply enjoying the beach an the sand. It will be a first to my little girl Samantha, and Migo's first beach trip and I am really excited for them. In fact, I already bought their swim outfits months ago, enough to cover our four days stay under the sun. Hahaha! And as for me, yes I am doing some preparations too, bought nice swimsuit to hide those unwanted bulges, even had the best diet pill, like adapexin-p to lose those fats. I jut hope it is a miracle drug as I want those fats off, fast!

Banane-fever!

Yes, I am hooked...on Banane-fever! LOL

My twitter friends can't resist this new eco-friendly wannabe Hermes bag from Taipei. Driving all the girls in town to own one. Of course, if we can't have the ultimate IT bag, will settle on the next best thing ...the Banane! Price-friendly too. Laaavveett!

And here she is -- the reveal. Banane in Summer Orange color on her way to work ... Perfect summer IT bag. don't you think so? =)

dream travel

Paris. My ultimate dream travel. I always tell my friends eversince I was a kid, I've been dreaming to climb the Eiffel Tower, shop and slurge at Rue Cambon, visit the famous Louvres museum and just have cappucino at one of the al fresco dining at Champs Elysee. Yes, my Paris itnerary already carved in my mind since I was a kid. Just waiting for my dream to become a reality.

Dream that I almost had it...

Last week, several airlines offering good rates for Paris trip. Air Asia, Etihad and even Singapore Airlines offering less than $1,000 round-trip airfare to Paris. Almost grabbed the promo,as I am thinking of drafting personal loans from our local bank to fund the travel. Unfortunately, the husband said no. He has other priorities in mind and travel is the last thing on his plate now. He declined my offer and told me just to wait for the right time. He told me not to force it, as we cannot afford it for now. Probably on our tenth year anniversary, as he wanted our travel to be perfect, with no loans or debt to pay after the trip. Will just simply enjoy fruits of our labor, when the time is right. Of course I heeded his advise.

And Paris ... will always be on my mind. My dream travel.

another upgrade.

Another upgrade? Why not.

The husband is seriously considering changing our present Samsung HDTV LCD to the new Samsung LED. Yes, very sleek and stylish and we fell inlove with it's beauty immediately. The all new Samsung LED Backlighting Technology that delivers breakthrough picture quality, with ultra slim 1.2” design and use 40% less power. Who wouldn't love it! With mega contrast ratios and advanced internet connectivity features, these are Samsung’s best TVs ever and we can't wait to have one in our home. I just hope our local store will be flexible on a friendly payment scheme. Probably 12-months deferred payment at 0% interest ...that would be almost perfect, don't you think so?

gift token idea

If you are looking for the best cigars in town, do check out famoussite.com, the husband was able to purchase good quality Davidoff cigars and gave it as a gift for his Cuban boss last Christmas. He got it I think on a discounted price for pack 0f 50 cigars. As Davidoff cigars finest luxury cigars from Geneve, Switzerland, giving it as a present was a great choice especially for his boos with discriminating taste. Another gift token idea for the smokers, eh? =)

cam upgrade

Yes, I believe I am ready for camera upgrade. My last camera buy was year 2005 with Sony Cybershot DSC-W55 at 7.2MP with 2.5in screen, purchased in Hongkong for about $250. Then two years after, the husband gave me a new camera with panoramic sweep and touch features. The Sony DSC-TX1 with 10.2MP in blue color. It was given to me as a gift. So, technically my last camera purchase was six years ago with my old cybershot point and shoot camera. Tee-hee!

For 2011, I am thinking of getting not a SLR cam but a little lighter than this ... in terms of weight and price! LOL Yes, I am not an avid fan of SLRs, as I find it to expensive, bulky and techie for me. I just want to get a nice camera that will provide sharp and nice photos. Yes, I am easy to please customer. Hahaha! Thus, as recommended by my camera enthusiasts friends, will be buying Panasonic Lumix 5. With 10.1 MP digital camera, 3.0in screen. And the best part, it delivers good picture quality at par with SLR with less fuss at $399.00. Not bad eh. Now I am thinking if I should get black or white ... what do you think?

time zone work problems

Lately, the husband has trouble in sleeping. With him being assigned with Asia market, while his head office in West Coast ... coordination correspondences really hard. And with his line of work now, he's almost 24/7 online with the global time difference. Thus, his sleeping patterns already eratic. It took him months to adjust with this kind of time zone work differences. Thanks to sleep aids he was able to cope and have a good rest. He's usually sleep most of the morning, and wide-awake by night time. Time differences no more. He can deal both worlds in his own time ...and still get enough rest =)

acne problem

Happy to say for the past months my fifteen year old son is now acne-free! No more trial and error medications to eliminate those unwanted zits. Finally, after searching for the best acne treatment, found medication that is effective and to his liking. No harsh chemicals used, safe and effective. Even recommended by experts -- acne prone people like my son. It is indeed good reviews. If interested to know more about acne solutions or treatments, click here.

birthday gift

Would you know where I can find Mechanix gloves? The husband is looking for one but not for his personal use, but as a birthday gift to his Japanese boss. As his boss very active in car racing, and loves to tinker on machines, he wanted to give him the mechanix wear original glove as a token. Hard to find, but definitely the best all-around glove providing control and protection to the user. Cool gift, eh? Now if I can only look for this glove here in Manila ...

All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten

This is a nice read.

I saw this from my daughter (now in Kindergarten) school paper and I find it really true to it's word. No matter how old you are, when you go out in the world, these golden rules applies. This is very apt in our everyday living. And as a leader of our company, must practice this mantra.

All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten
by Robert Fulghum

Most of what I really need
To know about how to live
And what to do and how to be
I learned in kindergarten.
Wisdom was not at the top
Of the graduate school mountain,
But there in the sandpile at Sunday school.

These are the things I learned:

Share everything.
Play fair.
Don't hit people.
Put things back where you found them.
Clean up your own mess.
Don't take things that aren't yours.
Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Flush.
Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.
Live a balanced life -
Learn some and think some
And draw and paint and sing and dance
And play and work everyday some.
Take a nap every afternoon.
When you go out into the world,
Watch out for traffic,
Hold hands and stick together.
Be aware of wonder.

wedding plans

This coming December 2011, we will have another wedding in the family. This time, it will be from the husband's side. His cousin will finally tie the knot at Pasig Cathedral by December ... just in time with the holiday season. Great, another December wedding in the family. As the groom is based in UAE, and will be away for his wedding preparations, he requested that I will be in charge with all the wedding essentials. From invites, venue, food, the brides' gown and bridesmaid dresses ... everything! Now I am excited! As I will be busy again with wedding project. And I simply love happy celebrations!

camera hunt

Any reviews you can share on samsung cameras? I am not familiar yet with Samsung cameras as much as I am very much familiar with their mobile phones and LCD TVs. But, lately I heard that Samsung cameras doing well in the market. I am interested to get digital camera for my son as for his upcoming birthday, and so far I've been reading good reviews about Samsung, Canon and Sony point and shoot cameras and I am torn! I need camera with 10+ mega pixel that will provide sharp, good quality photos, simple to use and affordable. Any reco best value camera to purchase?

Thank you 2010 ... Welcome 2011!

Thank you 2010 for all the blessings!

You've been amazingly good to us ...

And praying 2011 to be even better year for our family.

Happy New Year, dear friends!!

health care jobs

Any idea where I can find jobs in health care? My sister, who is US bound in a few months is looking for jobs that would be aligned in her chosen field, nursing. But while waiting for her working visa, she's looking for filler jobs that would provide her extensive training in the health care service industry. Ay suggestions?

new baby in the family

Hooray for my sister! Finally, after nine year she gave birth to a beautiful baby girl during the holiday season. Her name, Secret Dannica. Yes, my sister has this knack of naming her kids with funny names. Hahaha! Anyway, as I am helping her plan the baptism party, I am now in full charge of her party preparations. This includes baptismal venue, catering, food and even to the mintue details of baby thank you cards. Of course the party animal like me once again excited for party planning. And as a start, allow me to share photo of my new niece ... baby Secret Dannica.