November 2015 – Touched by An Angel

30Nov 2015

My sofa is my home

by Noemi Lardizabal-Dado ⋅ Leave a Comment

I moved to a more compact and cozy home in 2007 because I anticipated my kids would leave our home one day. Our bedrooms are not as spacious as our old home so I purchased a sofa bed for one of the rooms. It is functional since it serves as a daybed for family members who want to lounge around downstairs instead of their bedroom. Now, if you are in the lookout for sofa beds with comfort, color and style, check out “Innovation” at the Design Pod at SM Megamall. I recently got a tour of the various designs and I marvel at the functionality and design.

Innovation is a Danish furniture company built on top of the proud Danish tradition of furniture design. The company believes that form and function must go hand in hand to create innovative durable designs for everyday use. I took a long at some of their sofa beds. This is my favorite. It has a vintage look. Imagine your sofa as a day bed and bed. As a day bed, you relax, recharge and rejuvenate.

As a bed, you can stretch out, sleep and slumber. That is why Innovation describes it as “my sofa is my home”. Imagine if you own a condominium or town house, you can surely maximize the space with a sofa bed.

There is a mattress that fits your needs. Innovation offers a wide range of mattresses with different preferences such as the kind of mattress and even colors. The Spring Mattress (6-12 cm) is a fusion mattress with 6-12 cm pocket spring surrounded by two layers of breathable, carted cotton on top and one layer of carted cotton underneath a high resilient luxury mattress of high quality and longevity. The other Spring Mattress (13-16 cm_ is a fusion mattress with 13-16 cm pocket spring, which make it an extra soft and comfortable mattress. Then there is the Latex which is a fusion mattress with a 12cm high-resilient latex core surrounded by a layer of breathable, carted cotton. A supple natural mattress of high quality and longevity that adjust to your body.

There are swatches of colors to choose from just so it matches the theme of your home.

There are four mechanisms that suits your lifestyle : click, lift , slide and lift. The sofa bed above uses the click mechanism. It is good to know that the sofabed mechanims are covered with a lifetime warranty. Here are a few more sofa bed styles.

The Curvature Double Sofa Bed is contemporary in style. The Modular version is perfect for your living room or media room, where you need a little extra space to lounge around.

It has a very easy to use mechanism, full steel frame, timber legs, upholstered arm rests and a pocket sprung seat.

This sofa bed can also be ordered as a stand alone 3 seat sofa bed. It can easily sleep three persons.

This is the Tjaze double sofa bed which is compact and easy to use . It is perfect for small spaces.

It converts from a sofa to a bed easily and in only seconds.

Voila a bed!

There are lots of sofas and sofa beds to choose from.

The Puzzle wood is a stylish Nordic inspired sofa bed. The back rest is adjustable between three positions; upright, relaxed and flat.

Innovation Sofabeds has a Holiday Promo. If you purchase an Innovation Premium Sectional Sofa, you will get a FREE 16gb IPAD Mini . A purchase from their Premium Sofa line will get you a a FREE Sony 32? 32R302C LED TV!

You can check out Innovation and their sofa beds, at www.LivingSpace.com.ph .

Contact Information:

Telephone numbers: (+632) 416-0948
Email: [email protected].
Facebook: facebook.com/InnovationHomePH
Instagram: instagram.com/innovationhomeph.

Other showrooms and branches in Metro Manila:

DESIGN POD:

4/F SM Megamall Building A, Mandaluyong City
Tel No: 998-8349/ 0917-5638984
Email Address: [email protected]
INNOVATION Showroom:
G/F SM North Edsa, Interior Zone, North Avenue corner EDSA, QC
Living Space: 2/F LRI Design Plaza, Nicanor Garcia St., Bel Air II, Makati City
Tel. No: 403.1345 / 0917-5638985:

26Nov 2015

Gift idea: This Journal Will Actually Change Someone’s Life

by Noemi Lardizabal-Dado ⋅ 1 Comment

I found the perfect planner for my needs. If you are in the lookout for a 2016 planner, I highly recommend “This Journal Will Actually Change Someone’s Life 2016!” It will not only change someone’s life but yours as well.

This Journal Will Actually Change Someone’s Life 2016 is filled with witty facts, unusual holidays and interesting blurbs, awesome pages with mood charts, quarterly check-ups and tips for self-empowerment. This extraordinary planner also helps change lives all over the world as all proceeds are aimed to fund Lifeline Foundation, an organization whose projects helped many people in need. Take a sneak peek.

Freespeech publication, the publisher of this awesome planner, noticed how yearly planners affect the lives of people. This is one reason they decided to publish an extraordinary journal that would further change people’s lives. They have been doing so for the past nine years.

This year’s theme is: HAPPINESS REVOLUTION! Look at the inside. The first thing that struck me is what I am thankful for. To be thankful is to be happy. It is great that a planner reminds us to be full of gratitude. That is a nice start to a new year.

There are a lot of features that will help you plan your life such as witty facts, unusual holidays. interesting action blurbs.mood charts.quarterly check-ups, self empowerment tips, expense chart, life changing coupons, bucket list and a lot more to tell! Here is a sample of the expense chart.

You can assess your highs and lows for the week. High and lows are noteworthy- remembering HIGHS to keep spirits up and remembering LOWs to take note of life lessons from those situations. I win BOTH ways. Think about it. Life is like a roller coaster as I experience these high moments and low moments, moments when I feel like I am on top of the world and when I am down. The choice is always mine, whether I want to be frustrated or to enjoy the thrill of the ride.

There are Action blurbs that will move you to get out there and start moving away from your computer or gadgets.

Here is what a whole page looks like.

You can check your mood for the day and the amount of water drank. It is best to take eight glasses a day.

There are fun coupons that allow you to be a home chef for the night or simply do nothing.

Proceeds from this planner go to Lifeline Foundation Support Team, Inc whose initiatives include helping scholars get an excellent education, organizing medical missions, funding surgeries for different patients and a lot more. No wonder this planner is called “This Journal Will Actually Change Someone’s Life 2016”. You have the power to change someone’s life for the better including your own.

You can purchase the planner at Free Speech Publications, Fully Booked branches, PowerBooks , National Bookstore for 775 pesos only. You can choose between the navy blue and rainbow version. I chose the navy blue while I gave my daughter the rainbow version. I am really excited to start planning for 2016.

25Nov 2015

The gifts we give, and what they can mean

by webs ⋅ Leave a Comment

The act of gift giving is seen as an integral part of the Christmas season. However, while we think that giving gifts is just a simple affair, we should also take into account what we give, and what it says about us, the gift givers. More often than not, the context and the gift are intertwined, making a simple gift very touching, or an expensive gift mean nothing at all.

So, what are the different kinds of gifts, and what do they say?

The practical gift

The practical gift is, pardon the term, practically the easiest gift to get for a loved one. All you have to do is keep your eyes and ears open for your loved ones’ complaints, and then figure out what they need – be it that double-size coffee mug for more wake-up juice in the morning, or a nice necktie for the rare occasions that they need to be formal.

However, the problem with practical gifts is that they don’t require much thought, if you think about it. It’s all about a person’s stated or obvious needs. On one end, depending on the gift, it can be seen as being observant of what a person needs in everyday life, but on the other end of the spectrum, it can also mean that it’s the “lazy” gift, particularly if it becomes a habit – like a dad’s perennial pair of socks.

The wistful

Some gifts have, as the saying goes, a hugot factor, a thing that makes it have a meaning that can be taken many ways. It can be a simple wallet that is the person’s old favorite brand, or it can be as lavish as a set of earrings that remind one of the prom where a couple first met. The wistful gift is an invitation to nostalgia – but beware, because it is nostalgic.

Should the times change, or if the reminder is seen in a different light, it can lead to hurt feelings, or soul-searching that can change the direction of relationships for the worse. After all, when you give a gift that is meant to evoke something else, you have to be sure that the evocation will be as the other person will see or feel it, rather than your own take on things.

The whimsical
The whimsical gift is that which has no meaning other than to make the person happy upon the receipt of the gift. It is about as honest and as shallow (if taken the wrong way) as the season will allow. Novelty pranks like a mini-toilet that sprays water, or a drumming monkey doll are just some of the examples of whimsical gifts.

These gifts are not bad per se. After all, they may be the perfect gifts for people who don’t look for anything, or already have everything (subjectively speaking). However, the big issue with whimsical gifts is that they can either be seen as thoughtless (throwaway gifts), or they can be seen as letdowns, if the person was expecting a more meaningful one. After all, not all people will understand or appreciate the moment of giving.

The overblown

Now, gifts that qualify for “overblown” are those that are meant to impress not only the recipient, but others as well. It’s a gift that is perfect for those who like gifts that can impress others with their importance and value, regardless of actual cost (more to the point, regardless of cost in the sense that it’s probably expensive, too).

Overblown gifts are very much appreciated, but it can also mean that there is a strange relationship between the giver and the receiver – namely, that there is a needy, tit-for-tat relationship involved. Before you give a gift guaranteed to impress everyone aside from the receiver, you should think about why you’re giving that gift to the person – and why other people have to be impressed.

The suggestive

Some gifts are meant to be hints for something else. The classic examples, of course, would be nice clothes, underwear, deodorant, soaps, and even combs. Let’s face it; if you want to send a “gentle” signal to someone to improve himself or herself in some way, then a Christmas gift that “nudges” them in that direction is the right way to do it.

This would work, of course, except that in many cases, if it weren’t for the spirit of the season, there would have been a lot of harsh words and arguments already. A “suggestive” gift is about as subtle as a hammer, and it’s made worse by the fact that, well, the family is there – opening gifts is a public social thing.

So what gift do you give?
Gift giving has always been symbolic, and that’s been the strength and weakness of the whole process. The reason for this is that people tend to want to find meaning in the giving of the gift itself, when in fact, it is all about making the person happy – or at least, it should be.

When giving gifts to another, you should always be careful about giving something that might have a meaning in it – indeed, the best gifts are those that are simply what the receiver will like. Yes, you do have to take into account who you are in the person’s life, and what you budget is. But even more important, giving a gift is a process – one where you think, really think about the person and who he or she is. Your gift shouldn’t be overshadowed by the meanings between you and that person. At the purest, a gift should be about the person, and what makes the person happy. It can be as simple as a thank you letter, or it could be as “non-traditional” as a trip outside the city, or a fine dinner at the person’s favorite restaurant. Whatever the case may be, the true gift is the one that has the least symbolic meaning beyond being a gift – an offering of happiness, thankfulness, and faithfulness from one person to another.

Your gift may never be that “pure” in meaning, but if you can make your special someone smile without that person thinking of anything aside from being thankful for the gift and being happy for the season (in all its meanings), then you’ve done well.

Keep on giving!

Photos (from Flickr.com):
– “Gifts? Already”, Kasia
– “A gift”, Kristina Alexanderson
– “Wrapped Gifts Retirement Party 7-8-09 8”, Steven Depolo

Written by Richard Leo Ramos, as originally posted at the Philippine Online Chronicles.

18Nov 2015

IQube , the ultimate toy for learning needs your support

by Noemi Lardizabal-Dado ⋅ Leave a Comment

To bring IQube in the hands of as many children as possible, Tactiles has luanched in Indiegogo campaign where interested parents, individuals and education institutions can purchase the kits at early-bird rates. Click here.

Do you have a “mad scientist” in your household? I remember Oscar, my brother who was probably 10 years old that time. He dismantled the transistor radio and intercom system at home to see how each part worked. Unfortunately, he wasn’t successful in putting it back together. Mom had a fit. Well, she may not have known the impact of a child’s curiosity at that time. In 1980, Oscar dabbled with his TRS-80 computer and learned programming on his own, which resulted in a teaching job two years later. See , there were no schools that taught basic computer skills. One had to actually tinker with technology, learn from it then develop a teaching module.

Parents need not worry now with dismantled gadgets from curious kids. There are new toys that bring science and technology to life. Recently, I attended the launch of IQube, small magnetic cubes that provide a fun and simple way for children to learn advanced concepts in electronics. Tactiles is, the company that manufactures IQube, is one of the startups under the IdeaSpace Foundation. Joshua de la Luna, the CEO of Tactiles revealed that they are launching a crowdfunding drive for its first product in order to make teaching electronics to young kids easier, more fun and more interactive.

Divided into little electronic component squares, kids as young as eight years old can interconnect and rearrange blocks to form simple and complex circuitries, the same way they would create various objects using Lego blocks. IQube is amazing. I played with a few cubes.

The aim of IQube gives kids the grounding and foundation for electronics at a very young age so that they can be ready to tackle these concepts at as they move up in school and be prepared to enter a world where electronics and technology play an increasingly important role.

Crowdfunding campaign

This is where you can help. IQube is not yet available in commercial quantities. To bring IQube in the hands of as many children as possible, Tactiles launched an Indiegogo campaign where interested parents, individuals and education institutions can purchase the kits at early-bird rates.

Users can get the primary kit which includes 8 cubes an over 30 projects for $79; the junior kit with 14 cubes and over 50 projects for $99′ and the Senior kit with 20 cubes and over 100 projects for $129.

The IQube is composed of input cubes, output cubes, connector cubes and component cubes that perform different functions in every electronic circuit, allowing children to grasp complex concepts by breaking them down.

Unlike similar toys, the IQube has a companion IQube app that will be made available to most desktop and mobile devices. Kids can get instructions on how to create circuits for various purposes and learn how a fan works, how a switch controls lights or how a game show buzzer sound among countless other projects.

“Once they learn the fundamentals, they are only limited by what their imagination can conceive,” de la Llana says. The Tactiles team are passionate about bringing the fun and interactive technology to as much children here and around the world to help elevate the level of science and electronics education in many countries, including the Philippines.

Let’s start them young and develop their critical thinking and skills needed for the changing global landscape focused on electronics and technology. We want our kids to be prepared to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.

Support IQube by participating in the Indiegogo campaign .

To Know ore about IQube and Tactiles, visit tactiles.io.

16Nov 2015

Overcoming SADness

by webs ⋅ Leave a Comment

Written by Excel Dyquiangco as originally posted at the Philippine Online Chronicles

The emotions and attitude of people sometimes get affected by the weather. When it’s bright and sunny, our spirits are lifted. On the other hand, when it’s dark and gloomy, as it is usually during the rainy season, feelings of sadness and negativity often creep in. This condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a depression that is connected with the changing seasons. In some worse cases, SAD, when not treated properly, could even lead to suicidal thoughts and death.

So what to do to overcome loneliness that can lead to SAD and depression?

Try light therapy. When it is dark and cloudy outside and there’s no hint of sunlight, create some light using Light Therapy Boxes. This kind of lighting is brighter than regular light bulbs and produces light in different wave lengths. Staying around the light boxes for thirty minutes can help can suppress your melatonin, a hormone that controls our moods. Change your bulbs to “full spectrum” bulbs” that imitate the full effects of sunlight.

Use a dawn stimulator. Dawn stimulators are regular alarms clocks. But instead of beeping or other noises, they produce a light that slowly increases in intensity, simulating the rays of the sun. There are different varieties of dawn stimulators. Choose one with a full-spectrum light because its lighting effect is close to natural sunlight.

Follow a workout routine. Working out daily even for just 30 minutes releases a “happy” hormone that recharges and makes us upbeat the entire day. The effects of a good workout are long-lasting and will benefit your metabolism and over-all health.

Go out into the sun. When the sun is out, make the most of it and take your early morning walk or run. The warmth of the morning sun can bring our energy back and revitalize your mood.

Have a regular schedule. People with SAD often have trouble sleeping and waking up in the morning. To counteract this effect, follow a regular schedule or routine to regulate your body clock which can help you sleep.

Keep your home bright and cheerful. Put in a few lights and lamps inside your to make it bright and radiant. Having ample indoor lightning can bring them out of the gloomy-weather doldrums, including, depression and SAD.

Treat yourself. There are days when the rains seem endless – and some days when it’s just a drizzle. Whether the rain lasts for hours or days, make sure you still treat yourself. Spend quality time with family and friends. Play board games. Indulge in a movie marathon and watch all your favourite shows.

Relax. Relax by reading a good book or listening to soft music. You can also contemplate and pray. Do everything that would make you calm.

Be sociable. Make sure to connect with your friends. Meet up for coffee or an afternoon of catching up. If you can’t meet them physically, stay in touch with them online through your social media networks.

Visit a doctor. SAD is not to be taken lightly and should be addressed by a health professional if needed. If you feel like you need to see a doctor who can help you deal with your condition, go ahead.

10Nov 2015

Enjoying Recovery

by Noemi Lardizabal-Dado ⋅ 10 Comments

I am listening to this seventies music , Friends of Distinction “Great Day”. I turn to my husband and sing the song “Aint it a great day? Could it be better?” I love that 70’s music.

What a journey Butch and I have gone through! For some of you who know the inside story of our journey, it is a miracle that Butch and I have this second wind in marriage. We are enjoying this new life together. It’s been a wonderful journey yet we are constantly working on our recovery. As individuals, we are constantly evolving and changing.

Recovery is universal and applies to any crisis in life.

The road to recovery is often times hard and rocky. Sometimes we climb mountains. Sometimes we slide down the hill. Sometimes we take a breather.

Sometimes we grope our way through the darkness. There are times we get blinded by the sunlight. Often, many may walk the same road with us; sometimes we are alone.

Ever changing, interesting, and leading to someplace good or even better.

What a journey!

I continue to sing to my husband

Whatever we do dear,
There’s one thing that’s for sure
That nothing could be better
Than just being together.

He gives a goofy smile as if embarassed by my serenade. “we need to have a change of scenery.” and makes plans for a trip which might not materialize but it’s the romantic thought that counts right now.

I relax and enjoy this moment. I know I am right where I need to be on my journey.

Monthly Archives: November 2015