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Popcorn Moments

Here in Bangkok summer officially ended yesterday when heavy rain poured over the metropolis. I was so thankful because after a month of extreme heat, the rain was a refreshing welcome. It was also a momentous day for me as a mother because my eldest daughter, Daniella, (who by turns 23 this month, OMG a wake up call : I am really old!) who lives and works in Manila, arrived to be with us for 2 weeks. Being away from your child, although an adult and lives her own life, is never easy. And even though we often see one another, almost every other month, living apart just sucks.

Songkran1This afternoon, after lazying around alone in my room, trying to enjoy some Me Time , I decided to go down because I heard laughter and smelled the aroma of freshly popped popcorn. And look what I came down to — all my kids— three, complete and happy!

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Baby Blues Clues {A Repost}

I can’t believe how far back I have been blogging—way back  December 2006 .  I just discovered blogging then and my posts were purely personal;  updates of home away from home type of thing.  And since I also just had given birth to my dear Menca, who is now almost six (gosh how time flies), my entries were all about being-a-new-mom all over again.   Here’s one entry that brings back fond  memories; a personal post  every mom can relate to.     Hope you enjoy it:-)

baby blues clues {repost from my first blog , Catwife In Sing} [Read more...]
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Discover Bangkok With Kids {A Must-Have Guide}

Bangkok, believe it or not, is truly a kid’s haven as much as an adult’s— yes, these days, there is so much more to do than just elephant rides!  All it takes is an open mind (and open eyes) for you to discover what the City of Angels has to offer.

This was how Jacci, (known to her friends and family and pronounced Jackie), an expat wife and mother to two preschool children, did it.  Easier said than done, of course, but her perseverance + dedication, to keep her two youngsters occupied and happy, resulted to a wonderful + priceless reward:  A book!   And not just any book, mind you. It’s a book for keeps and I can see it being an ESSENTIAL + MUST HAVE book to all parents living in or wanting to visit Bangkok

…….The title says it all:  Discover Bangkok With Kids …..

*******oh wait,  there are 2 special surprises  at the end of this post, so keep on reading!!!! ******

Packed with practical information from cover to cover, all 230++ pages are reader (parent) friendly. What I love about this book is actually, well, everything!  Okay, let me list them down so you all know what I am talking about (and know why you have to have it!)

  • When I say practical, I really mean practical — it’s divided into 8 chapters of usable information, from navigating, maps, tips, index guides, etc.
  • Colorful images.  Each place or destination has an image or two that’s enticing to see. This will get the kids excited for where they’ll be going next for sure!
  • Easy format and simple layout (Jacci, thank you for this!)  I am so in love with the fact that the author dedicated one page for each destination. Navigating is hard enough, much more if you are with kids.  So, an easy-to-read, simple-to-follow  book is all you need to get from one place to the next!
  • Symbols!  The use of symbols for Navigating and Helpful Info in each page is pure genius.  Seriously, knowing if a place is stroller friendly and or where a diaper’s room is, totally makes traveling with kids a breeze, don’t you agree?
  • Contact Info Box.  Another perfect add-on, and a reason to why this is such an essential guide to have, don’t you think so?
  • Introduction / Jacci’s  message.  The last, but not the least in my list, is the driving force behind the book. I urge you to read why Jacci has decided to selflessly come up with this project.   And I say, it’s about time someone has!  Thanks a million Jacci :-)   Note:  She self published and wrote the book! Now how inspiring is that?  

So beyond the shopping and the eating, Bangkok is definitely a destination for the family.  I just have to say it again:  For those living in the city, or planning to visit, this book is the ultimate, most essential guide, by far, for parents to have in their library— or should I say, as a staple in their bag.

This book has not been officially launched, so I am so honored that Jacci gave me a copy to review.   

Official release to the public will be on July 1, 2012 and will retail for USD16.99.   Jacci also wishes to invite everyone to  the book launch on Saturday,  June 30 at 10:30am at the Neilson Hays Library.   The event coincides with the Library’s story and craft time so the kids can have fun and you can plan your summer outings! :)     Ten percent of the proceeds will go to the Library! For more info on the book, visit www.bangkokwithkids.com

Now for the good part:   Jacci  has offered to give away  TWO FREE COPIES  via my blog, yipee!!  With this 3-simple steps, you can own this ESSENTIAL + MUST HAVE  guide book , personally signed by Jacci herself. 
Step 1:   CLICK  LIKE  :  A Matter of  Taste  Face Book Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/amatteroftastebymiaymarch  (just click on the link) 
Step 2:   CLICK LIKE :  Discover Bangkok With Kids Facebook Fan Page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Discover-Bangkok-with-Kids/293319807421644   (just click on the link) 
Step 3:  Leave a comment  in Discover Bangkok With Kids Facebook Fan Page’s Wall  and tell Jacci Why You Would Love To Have  A Copy Of This Book 
Jacci will read all your comments and will let me know who deserves a copy.  Deadline for comments will close on July 1st (Friday)    I will announce the lucky winners, on my Facebook Page by 5th July 2012 , or as soon as Jacci has informed me who she has chosen…..   
Another good news:  I am extending this giveaway to non-Thailand addresses.  Meaning, international addresses are qualified to join.   a.M.o.T will take care of shipping it to where ever the winner will be:-)   
Woot woot, what are you waiting for?  Just go to the respective pages. All we need are your LIKES and 1 comment.  So how simple is that?   Very.  Let your fingers do the work… and a copy awaits two lucky people….  :-)

(all book images c/o  the author ;  images of the family & Jacci are c/o miaymarch)

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KidsGo! Phuket {A Stylish Travel Guide}

Yay, its summer!— I mean, almost. For us, its still a month or so until school is out and we are officially on vacation. For others though, like back home, summer is on-going or almost about to end.

Here in Thailand, whether its summer or not, Phuket is definitely a top destination spot. Just a skip and stone throw away from Bangkok, by plane that is, Phuket has always been a top of mind place when we want to hit the beach, or do something fun with the family.

Erm, these days, at least, it’s more like what’s-fun-for-the-Spunky is what keeps me preoccupied when we plan a get-away. Especially now that this preschooler is growing up (too fast!), she more or less knows what she wants and she easily gets restless. Which means, I need to research on tons of activities — what to do, what food to eat and where to go…..

Thank goodness Haven Books, the publisher of this almost-a-year-old, super stylish travel guide for kids :: KidsGo! Phuket, sent me a copy. Ha! I think they heard my plea — yippee! Worries over; this will help me prepare a special day-to-day plan that can and will involve the Spunky but befitting to us, adults, too…yipeee!!!

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Here’s the lowdown why a.M.o.T recommends KidsGo! Phuket (or any of its series— see titles below).

1. Easy to bring. Very stylish. Fits Daddy’s, Mommy’s or even big sibling’s bag. Sturdy too. Cover is laminated matte, sans the worry of it getting wet.

2. Very colorful. Lovely and fun illustrations. Friendly fonts for easy reading.

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3. Smartly broken down into important sections.

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4. Suggested places and things to do can accommodate anywhere from toddler to teens — very wise!

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5. Last but not the least, it has a portion where you can jot down notes, and stick memorabilia of your trip— a keepsake section!

Planning that family vaca need not be a chore. It’s all about fun and memories! KidsGo makes it even easier:-) Hurrah, they have seven destinations (including Phuket) to choose from. Time to collect them all! Hong Kong, New York, Phuket, London, Bali, Sydney

KidsGo!  Travel Guides are published by Haven Books.

Here In Bangkok, the KidsGo! titles are available in Kinokuniya and Asia Books.

Again, Thank you Haven Books for sending me the KidsGo! Phuket. Can’t wait to get hold of the other titles:-) Woot! woot! I am eying NY next year with Spunky, oh the family too, of course— perfect!

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Featured :: Best Of Mom/Dad Blogs 2012

A heart felt thank you to Little Steps  who has included a.M.o.T as one of the best parenting blogs for this year!

A second for me (last year was CATwife in BKK)  but a first for the (quite) new lifestyle blog-mag— I am honored and grateful 2x over!

Because like last year,  my little blog-mag project is  handpicked  together with 17 other blogs written & published  by  dedicated parents (like me!) —Thank you Little Steps, you definitely jump started my year with a positive note.

However, I know this is a very late  “thank you” post…apologies, Little Steps (most especially to Amie Hibbard).   When I actually had time to check emails, amidst the wake & funeral arrangements for my dad,  Amie’s news was among the many which I didn’t have the energy and time to reply to.  Yet despite my not complying with the requests she asked for, I still was included in the roster —  I am so honored and appreciate this a lot!  Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Having said all those,  now it’s time to :  Discover, Read, Get lost and Have fun with each and every blog in the list …..here they are….   enjoy and happy reading!

Rawthentic Foods

Hong Kong, China SAR

Since her son’s birth, this passionate raw food chef has been on a quest to create ridiculously delicious recipes to feed her family and other families using the very best nutrient dense food that mother-nature and this planet has to offer!

Blog focus:  The site offers a ‘one stop shop’ for raw food education.
Where to find it: Rawthentic Food, www.rawthenticfood.com
GLAMOMAMAS
The Philippines & Regional

Many diverse career hats have adorned this Glamomama’s head from model and television host, to swimwear retailer, to events company owner. Of course, the common thread between any of these past occupations and her current status as the C.E.O. of Glam-O-Mamas is her all-consuming passion.

Blog focus:  The site was conceived to be a place for answers on motherhood’s perplexities as well as to connect mums together in an online community of sharing and well, let’s be honest compassion!
Where to find it:  Glamomamas, www.glamomamas.com
BABY LOVES TO TRAVEL
Dubai, UAE and Global

Based in Dubai, this stay at home mum to 2 very young kids, aged 2.5 years and 10 months is all about travel. Just when you thought travel would be something that would take a back seat with kids on board – think again!

Blog focus: The blog is all about the trials and tribulations of travelling with young kids. She aims to offer mums and dads helpful travel tips, advice on good destinations and product reviews, as well as recommendations on activities for kids in all the places they visit.
Where to find it: Baby Loves To Travel, www.babylovestotravel.com
LITTLE NOMADS
Australia – Daddy Blogger

James is typical Australian dad, with a passion for family travel. James founded and built Little Nomads, his family travel blog, to share and build on his own experiences of travelling with his children Mr 6 and Miss 3.

Blog focus:  Little Nomads is a family holiday and family destination site, providing parents with useful tips and advice on finding the best family holiday, vacations and destinations for your next family holiday with the kids.
Where to find it:  Little Nomads, www.littlenomads.com
BBBabyBundles
Hong Kong, China SAR

Bahar has been living and working in Hong Kong for the past 8 years in Investment Banking. As a mother of two toddlers the only way she manages to juggle work, kids and a husband is to run a tight ship…routines all round and a healthy balance of getting it right and learning from when she gets it wrong.

Blog focus: It is less about how her day went and more informative and packed with advice and top tips – ALWAYS with reference to her own experience with two toddlers.
Where to find it: BBBabyBundles, bbbabybundles.blogspot.com

Our Everyday Things

Singapore

A Mom of three who loves photography and who is grateful that today’s internet technology makes it possible for her to connect, encourage (and be encouraged!), inspire others around the world and share how life with children – although its full of ups and downs – is indeed beautiful!

Blog focus: From parenting issues and tips to activity ideas, places to visit with children and other everyday things in life that she finds inspirational.
Where to find it: Our Everyday Things, www.oureverydaythings.com
The Savvy Mummy
Singapore

A Singaporean mummy with a passion for blogging. As babies do not come with an instruction manual, she is enjoying learning and sharing everything that that she can.

Blog focus: Tips for first time new mummies, reviews of products by a mummy for mummies, anecdotes about her adventures as a mummy.
Where to find it: The Savvy Mummy, www.thesavvymummy.com
Mummy in a Strange Land
Hong Kong, China SAR

Writing this blog allows this mommy blogger to combine her two greatest passions: writing and family.

Blog focus:

A Mummy in a Strange Land is about personal experiences and observations as a mum living as an expat in Hong Kong. With the arrival of her little boy, she found herself rediscovering this amazing city and wanted to share her experiences with others.  Where to find it:  A Mummy in a Strange Land, www.typhoonsandtantrums.blogspot.com

Motherinc.org
Singapore

Daphne is a media executive turned stay-home-mom to two toddlers and is absolutely loving it.

Blog focus:

A humorous take on parenting. It has also become a network of parents engaging in community work (see posts on Happee Day). Daphne is the winner of the Best Parenting Blog at the Singapore Blog Awards 2011. Where to find it:  Motherinc.org, www.motherinc.org

MAMAPUMPKIN
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Mamapumpkin started as a lonely Stay-At-Home-Mom who needed an outlet to vent her daily ponderings of, “Why is my kid so difficult?” After retiring from the exhilarating corporate world and snazzy London architectural life, motherhood was no walk in the park – it was tougher than training for the IronMan triathlon!!

Blog focus:  The site journals key developments of her evolution as a woman and mother, her parenting style with kids and their lives as a result of it, peppered with random anything-ness from eating diaper rash cream by accident to amazing travel stories, heartwarming tales that pull at your heart strings, to getting arrested and how to kill a mannequin.
Where to find it:  Mamapumpkin, www.mamapumpkin.com
CHILDHOOD 101
Australia

With many years experience teaching preschool, early primary and directing a child care centre, this mum blogger thought being a parent would be a breeze but quickly learned that the practicalities of parenting are very different to the theories!

Blog focus:  Childhood! It really is a place for sharing the everyday trials and tribulations of being a parent in this modern day world.
Where to find it:  Childhood 101, http://childhood101.com
PLANNING WITH KIDS
Melbourne, Australia

Nicole Avery has a Bachelor of Business (Finance) and worked in Performance and Project Management for Australia’s largest telecommunications company prior to having children. It was skills learnt in these roles that she likes to transfer to the home to help keep her family of five children in a state of organized chaos.

Blog focus:  The blog focuses on spending time planning and preparing in advance so that when family life sends you all sorts of chaos, you are in a better position to cope with it. Planning With Kids has a weekly recipe, list post and planning ideas to help make life with a family just that little bit easier.
Where to find it:  Planning with Kids, planningwithkids.com
THE ROCK MOM
Hong Kong, China SAR

She has had several former lives, but the most notable experiences have been: (1) Film school in LA (2) Filming a documentary in Anhui province (3) Working 4:30am shifts at CNN International (4) Bringing two lovely daughters into this world.

Blog focus:  Music, music, music and motherhood with a little Gwenyth Paltrow thrown in – she sings, she acts, she fist-bumps Glee kids.
Where to find it:  The Rock Mom, www.therockmom.wordpress.com
WIFELY STEPS
The Philippines

A 30-something career woman who loves to take pictures of two things: her baby and food.

Blog focus: The blog focuses on relationships — whether parenting or marriage, food, wellness, and the little joys that make everyday great.
Where to find it:  Wifely Steps, www.wifelysteps.com
EDUNLOADED
Singapore – Daddy Blogger

Besides a full time job working with youths, he has had the privilege to be a father to 3 lovely children. The children are a big part of him and that is why he loves talking and writing about them.

Blog focus:

To share the adventures of the 3 kids, and to let everyone know that Parenting can be fun! The blog features places to go and fun activities that one can do with their loved ones.

Where to find it: Edunloaded, www.edunloaded.com
The J Babies
Singapore

A full-time working mum with two adorable pre-school girls and a doting childhood sweetheart-turned-hubby.

Blog focus:  She blogs about the everyday lives of her two children, and the ups & downs of a working mum.
Where to find it:  The J Babies, www.jbabiesinthedaisies.com
NUTRITIOUS N’ DELICIOUS
Hong Kong, China SAR

Karin is a medical nutritionist, wife, mama and business owner of Nutritious N’ Delicious. She has a passion for nutrition and the power of food – especially as it pertains to disease prevention.

Blog focus:  Nutritious N’ Delicious aims is to raise awareness, ask questions and to bring to light the importance of natural, simple, organic and nourishing foods. It includes food ideas, recipes, debates about nutrition topics and lots of helpful, easy tips for incorporating healthy nutrition into your life.
Where to find it:  Nutritious N’ Delicious, nutritiousndelicious.com
DADDY NIVLEK
Singapore – Daddy Blogger

Daddy NiViek is a first time daddy to a cheeky little boy. As a dad, he gives an alternative view (as compared to mummy blogs) on daily issues, concerns and happenings on parenting.

Blog focus: Basically on life as a daddy in Singapore. He writes primarily on experience from a father’s point of view of bringing a kid up, and not forgetting the fun things that his family did to share with readers. Other than parenting topics, he occasionally pens some words on his obsession with gadgets.
Where to find it:  Daddy NiVleK, daddy.nivlek.per.sg
Little Steps is a free email newsletter and website devoted to delivering the inside scoop on what to do, buy, and discover in Hong Kong and beyond. We scout, we taste and we shop to find the most hip and happening for parents and their kids.  Check them out here. 

 

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