This summer heat keeps my family indoors most of the time. As a Mom, I always see to it that my kids, ages 7, 10, and 11, will spend quality time inside our home. My youngest, in particular, is currently undergoing Occupational Therapy thus I keep her busy by letting her play with the Montessori-inspired toys that would address her impulsive behavior. My eldest daughter loves to sketch and paint thus I provided her with coloring materials and a sketchpad. She's into digital as well using the painting app. My eldest son, on the other hand, is into mobile games. However, I don't like the games that he's playing. He used to build using his favorite Lego toys but right now, as he age, he doesn't want to play with them anymore. As a teacher, I am fully aware that there are games that could be addicting to young minds and I don't want it to happen to him. I am a gamer too thus I love exploring online games that would be entertaining but not detrimental to the mental health of my kids. 

A lot of options!

I've been trying XBox Games but it's expensive, so I explore more for free games then I stumbled upon this site that have multiple games and all for FREE! What excited me most is that there are so many options to choose from! And unlike any other free game site, definitely, there are no annoying ads in the game!

In particular, I like their Lego City Adventures Build and Protect game because it is a game by Nickelodeon! (You can actually click the link automatically to try the game). When I showed it to my son he was so excited to try it. Of course, I tried it first before I let him play with it. So far, the game runs smoothly, it was just too tasking to collect the coins. Hope there's only one button to click to collect all the coins generated from the buildings. 

                                                                                Another game that I find amusing is Merge Blocks. You need to strategize your moves or you will run out of space! So far, the Best Score I got is 2760 played within 20 minutes and 52 seconds! There are still other games like Business Simulation Games where you will play as Store Cashier. You should be keen enough in giving the right change. 

I am just so glad that there are developers who initiated these types of games which are educational in nature. Right now, I am letting my son explore the other games. Of course, I need to limit his screen time or he might get hooked on it. For now, I highly recommend that you'll try this site and I could guarantee that you will really have fun. Besides, all the games are free. I also suggest using laptops or desktops for a smoother game time.

Indeed, as a Mom, I need to think of many ideas to keep my kids busy. I made it a point that there's no idle time for them, except during nap time. However, classes will start soon so I need to limit their game time. 

The next idea to explore is online cooking tutorials and perhaps some DIY home hacks!

Have a fruitful school break everyone!

 

Image from google.com

Society today believes that It's okay NOT to be Okay.

If I were to give my two cents on this, I would agree, however, one should understand first the importance of mental health in order to really understand that being NOT okay is, still, okay.

So what is Mental Health? Allow me to break it down below.

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being that often gets overlooked. While physical health is generally given a lot of attention, mental health is often seen as taboo, and people are hesitant to discuss their mental struggles openly. However, mental health is just as crucial as physical health and plays a vital role in determining a person's quality of life.

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we feel, think, and behave in our day-to-day lives. Mental health problems can range from mild anxiety to severe depression and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Therefore, it's crucial to prioritize mental health and take proactive steps to maintain and improve it.

Here are some reasons why mental health is so important:

Mental health affects physical health:

Mental and physical health are interconnected. If you are struggling with mental health issues, it can have an adverse impact on your physical health. For instance, depression and anxiety can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Stress can also lead to headaches, high blood pressure, and other physical health problems. Therefore, taking care of your mental health can help you maintain good physical health.

Mental health impacts productivity:

Mental health issues can have a significant impact on a person's productivity. People with depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems may struggle to focus on tasks, complete them on time, or make decisions. This can affect their work performance and reduce their productivity. Therefore, prioritizing mental health can help improve your focus, decision-making abilities, and overall productivity.

Mental health affects relationships:

Mental health issues can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. People with mental health problems may struggle to communicate effectively or withdraw from social interactions. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and isolation. Prioritizing mental health can help improve communication skills, reduce conflicts, and strengthen relationships.

Mental health impacts overall well-being:

Mental health problems can significantly impact a person's overall well-being. People with mental health issues may struggle with low self-esteem, feelings of hopelessness, and reduced quality of life. Taking care of your mental health can help you feel more confident, improve your self-esteem, and lead to a more fulfilling life.

In conclusion, mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being that should be given the same attention as physical health. Taking care of your mental health can improve your physical health, productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize mental health by seeking help when needed, practicing self-care, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being. Remember, it's okay to not be okay, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

Hope this could help! Ciao!

#MentalHealthAwareness

I was contemplating going abroad for greener pastures but somehow I am hesitant about the fact that I will be leaving my 3 kids, most especially my youngest daughter who was diagnosed with ASD. Nevertheless, I am still researching what to do if given such opportunities. So I started with securing a visa and these are what I have digested.

Getting a working visa approved is a crucial step toward achieving your career goals in a foreign country. The process of obtaining a working visa can be complex and time-consuming, but with the right preparation and approach, it can be a smooth and successful process.

Here are some tips on how to increase your chances of getting a working visa approved:

1. Start preparing early

It is crucial to start preparing your visa application as soon as you know that you need one. Visa applications can take several weeks or even months to process, so it is essential to leave enough time for the process. But some friends who were already there say that it took them a year or two to process their visa, especially for those who took their family with them.

2. Research visa requirements

Different countries have different visa requirements, and it is important to be familiar with them before you apply. Check the government website of the country where you want to work and research the types of visas available and the documentation required. I have actually tried the Canada website trying to inquire about their process and believe me it's quite tasking and, well, a little bit complicated.

3. Get an offer of employment

Having a job offer from a reputable employer can vastly improve your chances of getting your working visa approved. Ensure that your potential employer provides you with the necessary documents such as a signed contract or a letter of invitation. Indeed, this was, according to many, the fastest way to get a working visa. One must have an employer!

4. Gather all necessary documents

Make sure you have all the necessary documents in order to avoid any delays or rejections. You will typically be required to provide proof of employment or business opportunity, a valid passport, and often a police clearance certificate. To be sure, secure all the documents you deemed necessary for your application even if it is not stipulated like the NBI clearance, birth certificates, and the like.

5. Follow the application instructions

Make sure that you follow the instructions for the visa application process carefully. Fill out all the forms accurately, attach all necessary documents, and pay the required fees. Double-check before forwarding your papers to your employer or its authorized agency.

6. Be prepared for an interview

Some countries may require an interview as part of the visa application process. If you are required to attend an interview, prepare carefully by researching common questions and practicing your responses. Youtube is the key!

7. Seek expert help

If you are unsure of the application process or have any questions, it is recommended to seek expert help. Consider consulting an immigration lawyer, visa consultant, or embassy representative.

In conclusion, obtaining a working visa can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation and attention to detail, it can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips and being patient, you can increase your chances of getting your visa application approved and fulfilling your career ambitions overseas.

So, for all of us who are still contemplating, let's cross our fingers! For me, I believe that when the time is right, God will make it happen! Amen.

My teaching experience both in the Secondary and Tertiary levels equipped me with the skills to handle distinct characters. I've been teaching for almost 20 years already and yet I reached to a point where I want to have more for what I have rendered.

I want a greener pasture and I doubt if I could achieve it here in my beloved Philippines. 

But then I have so many apprehensions and what-ifs.

What if I won't be successful with my endeavor abroad?

What if I cannot handle much of the pressure that I will be dealing with?

What if I cannot achieve my ultimate goal which is to bring my family with me?

Somehow, my mind kept telling me that I will never know unless I will give it a try, however, my heart told me to stay because my kids are still kids who need me the most.

But when I think about the future, a brighter future- I doubt if I could have it here. I am getting older and I could not lose this opportunity. But then again, the sight of my kids made me think otherwise.

Nevertheless, I am still taking the initial steps to secure my passport. Who knows, If the time is right, my God will make it happen.

Fingers crossed.

Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14th, is a special occasion dedicated to love and affection. While it's commonly associated with romantic relationships, it's also an excellent opportunity to express love in various forms—friendship, family, and self-love. In this article, we'll explore the art of love, emphasizing the importance of meaningful connections that go beyond traditional notions of romance.

Celebrating All Forms of Love:

Valentine's Day is not just for couples; it's a day to celebrate all relationships. Take this opportunity to show appreciation for your friends, family, and even yourself. Send a heartfelt message, spend quality time, or exchange thoughtful gestures to express gratitude and affection.

The Power of Kindness:

Love is not always about grand gestures; small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. On Valentine's Day, consider performing random acts of kindness for strangers or loved ones. It could be as simple as a compliment, a smile, or a helping hand. These gestures create a ripple effect, spreading love and positivity.

Quality Time Matters:

In our fast-paced world, spending quality time with loved ones is a precious gift. Plan activities that foster connection, such as a cozy dinner, a nature walk, or a movie night. Disconnect from digital distractions and focus on being present with those you cherish.

Expressing Gratitude:

Take a moment to reflect on the positive aspects of your relationships. Write a heartfelt letter expressing your gratitude and appreciation for the people in your life. This practice not only strengthens your bonds but also serves as a reminder of the love that surrounds you.

To run a successful business, you need to spend money before you start earning it. 

First and foremost, there is the cost of equipment, software, and training. It's important for your business growth that you invest in these things as early as possible so that when you need them, they're already available at hand. 

You'll also want to have a website built for your company; this can be done by hiring an expert or even doing it yourself using WordPress (which is free). A domain name will help people remember who owns what website when searching online – so make sure it's available! 

Finally, don't forget about marketing! This could mean advertising on Facebook or Twitter; advertising on LinkedIn; or even sending out brochures or flyers around town if necessary! You also have to be able to provide a service worth paying for. If you're looking to make money freelancing, you need to be able to provide a service worth paying for. Once the client has chosen a freelancer, they will want their project done in a timely manner and on budget. It's important that your services are competitively priced; otherwise, clients might choose another provider who offers less expensive services. 

If you're not passionate about what you're doing or don't enjoy what you're doing, then this may not be for you. You have to love your job if you want to make a success of it! If this is the case, then there are plenty of other options out there that will suit your skillset better and allow for greater financial freedom as well. 

A good idea for anyone starting out is to sell other people's products in exchange for a commission. This is called affiliate marketing and is one of the most popular ways to begin. An affiliate marketing program is a way for you to make money by promoting other people's products and services. In exchange, they will pay you a commission when those products or services are sold. You can sign up with an affiliate program on your own website or blog by creating an account with the merchant, who will give you access to their site's e-commerce tools so that you can buy/sell their product directly through them (e.g., Amazon). Once your account is set up, it's time to start making sales! 

You can begin by trying out different freelancing websites, where buyers will post jobs available, and all you have to do is apply with your best bid if interested in the job. This can be a great place to start networking too! Upwork and Freelancer both offer freelance services for hiring workers of all skill levels including designers, developers, copywriters, and more. You will need a valid e-mail address in order to register on either site; once you have registered with one of these sites there are thousands of opportunities waiting for you! Freelancing is a great way to earn money online and build up both your experience and reputation. It’s also an excellent way of getting into the field you want, whether it be writing, marketing, or design. 

One of the best things about freelancing is that you don’t have to live in one place – so if you want more flexibility in where you work or what kind of job opportunities open up then freelancing might be right for you! A lot of people who do freelance work are self-employed; they set their own hours and decide how much they want/need from their business. 

However, there are some downsides too: If something goes wrong with your website due to technical issues then this can seriously affect business sales because customers won't trust any other sites out there either :-(. So although being self-employed means having complete control over all aspects involved (including finances), there are still some risks associated with running an online business which could mean losing customers if something goes wrong unexpectedly." 

Conclusion I hope you found this article useful. If you would like to learn more about how to get started with your own business, please follow this blog for more!